Tuesday, March 31, 2009

On the road, toting toys

The day before yesterday my doctor said they were going to give me a shot of Neupogen to boost my white count because it had fallen a little, from the 4's into the high 3's. He said it was due to medication and not to worry, but just to make sure everything was fine, they were doing a repeat chimerism to confirm the percentage of donor to me. I haven't heard the results yet.

Quick flash of PTSD. What if something's wrong? Low white count has signaled trouble in the past. But this is now. I know the drill: Recognize the fear and let it go. The thought leaves a cloud, but a cloud won't kill you. My white count went back up the next day.

I have several new toys to get stronger and make life easier. Yesterday physical therapy brought a cane. Who knew I'd be happy to get a cane? It makes me steadier when I walk and especially when I do the stairs. The occupational therapist, whom I welcomed after she stopped quizzing me, brought me hand-strengtheners: a squeezing thingie that looks like a cheese grater, and a tub of green "thera-putty" to mush around in various exercises. Makes me think of the old days when we copied cartoons with silly putty. She also pointed out that my walking would improve if I stretched more (I'm very stiff), so I've been doing runner's stretches, leg extensions in the bed and making attempts to touch my toes. We also talked about yoga breathing, which is always helpful.

Two of my nurses from 6A, Myra and Pam, just came down to wish me well. Myra, giver-of-pep talks, gave me one again, joined by Pam: Don't dwell on the dark days, enjoy the present, don't waste time worrying, think of good things ahead. I mentioned that I was concerned that my platelets were taking so long, and Myra said she's had patients get platelet transfusions for a year. They both gave me hugs, said they missed me and asked me to keep in touch. I thanked them for saving my life and for generally taking such good care of me, emotionally and physically.

Buried lead: Tomorrow I get discharged. I'm going to stay at Diane's in nearby Newton for a while because I will need to come to the clinic every other day to have my tank filled. A physical therapist, home health aide and visiting nurse will come to the house.

14 comments:

Wendy S. Harpham, MD said...

Dear Ronni,
I celebrate your imminent move out of the hospital. For all the emotions you might be feeling over the next 72 hours, one thing underscores all: This is a big step in the right direction.

So if over the next few days you get "nothing" done, other than move out of the hospital and keep up with your therapy maneuvers (breathing exercises, hand thingies), it's as if you ran a half-marathon each day.

That you are keeping up your blog at all is pretty astounding and wonderful.

Every Wednesday, I will celebrate your progress by making a new ribbon in your honor to add to the flag of names.
http://tinyurl.com/c2qjvk

with hope, Wendy

Anonymous said...

Hi R,
I feel pretty confident that you will approach your rehab training just the way I've seen you train for a road race ...committed and methodical. There's not too much doubt in my mind that you'll be walking around the pond here before long. That said, there's something to not overdoing it either - just a nice balance which I know you will do well.
Love, Susan

Susan C said...

Hi Ronni, Happy and relieved that you'll be at Diane's and that you'll have visiting staff to ease the transition.

Love, (another) Susan

PJ said...

Love the buried lead/lede!

Although it might seem intimidating to leave your safe nest, it's time to fly. Sounds like you'll be pretty busy, but that will help you get stronger.

I'll try to call,maybe over the weekend.

carolyn and chip said...

Ronni - Your progress has been so inspiring to us. Love the advice your nurses gave you about focusing on the moment -- as you would say, one step at a time. It's a lesson we all need to heed. But it's so darned hard to learn to live in the moment. You're a great teacher. Stay strong. We'll see you soon Love Carolyn and Chip

Howard said...

Great to know you're moving ahead and in the right direction. It's wonderful to see your blog entries happening more often. I hope your transition is a smooth as possible.

Faithful reader,
Howard

Anonymous said...

Ronni - This is such great news! I am so pumped for you!

Anonymous said...

I forgot to say that was me - Patty! LOL

donna said...

So you're leaving the big house! I know the nurses who all love you are going to miss you. This is another step closer to being back. The incredible journey. The miracle girl. Yay!

pam said...

Dearest Ronni,

Happy April... Spring...-- Renewal...Healing....
what a great prelude to Passover...
chez Diane...
Super Sisters....
Gordon-Gals...
keep working with those toys...
xop

Nelle said...

I am so happy for you...a graduation of sorts. I am sure Diane will make it a wonderful stay for you. I am so proud to know someone like you. Each night I whisper a little prayer that your health will continue to improve and your life will once again be full of all that you want in it.
Wishing you all the best,
Nelle

hockeychic said...

Great news and great post! Moving forward. Spring = New beginnings!

Anonymous said...

Dear Ronni,

CONGRATULATIONS!! What a milestone. You are leaving the hospital and you have a cool cane. You are such a fighter and so inspiring. I am hapy that you will be monitored closely and being released to a friend who lives so close to the hospital.

I know with each new stretch and day you will be more limber and make small baby steps. And don't forget, we all fall and step backwards too.

Keep on going!!!
Lea

Jim said...

Ronni,

Pam and Myra are angels, and your discharge is a blessing. Congratulations!

Jim