Waiting to Turn the Corner

Finally.

After all these months of saying I would write a little something every few days, I've finally accomplished that goal. It's only been 3 days since my last post. I'm quite proud of myself even if it took me almost a year to accomplish the goal. I can't promise that it will happen again, so we'll have to just enjoy the moment.

Same old same old.

Truthfully, it seems like we've been doing the same thing for the last several weeks. He has some good days and some bad. On good days Ray gets up and walks 2-3 times, spends 2-3 hours in the chair, drinks a little, takes a bite or two of things and participates in a conversation or two. On bad days he refuses to get up and walk, has nausea and usually throws up his oral medications, sleeps most of the time, refuses anything to eat or drink, and pill-taking is a chore.

He has a little problem with confusion at times and on bad days it can be a challenge.

They're still giving him the same medications. He's getting three major anti-fungal IV meds, three major IV anti-biotics, and IV anti-fungals, as well as potassium, magnesium, IgG, tacrolimus (an anti-rejection drug), and other odds and ends drugs through the IV. They have stopped the steroids to help give the white blood cells a chance to help the lungs recover.

His condition seems to be somewhat in limbo at present. As the Dr. put it, we’re waiting for him to turn a corner. We’re waiting for his chest x-ray, nausea, appetite, or confusion to improve so we can know that he is on his way back. Unfortunately they say that in their experience, the longer it takes to turn the corner, the less likely it is for it to happen. But Ray hasn’t given up yet and neither have we. The doctors still say there’s nothing he can’t overcome, but they are concerned there is so much to for him to overcome. We’ve decided to just leave it in Heavenly Father’s hands because it’s all up to Him anyway.

So Meanwhile…

We’re camped out here at LDS Hospital in East 851. I have a window sill filled with fruit and snacks, a laptop computer, and a new tablet with all the movies, books, music, and pictures I need. I have my best friend beside me, and the love and concern of countless neighbors, friends, family and caregivers. I feel surrounded by the love and support of so many. I know we’re not alone on this journey.

May you all feel the love and warmth of those around you as we do. Good night all.