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Randy writes this post. I am going home for the weekend to be with Susie and prepare for a visit from my daughter and her children. They reside in Norway and are in the US for family events. The doctors just made rounds. They sited this morning as the worst point for side effects from the chemo and transplant, and seem to be pleased with Gary’s overall progress. Gary reports no stomach pain and no diarrhea, two of the more common side effects. Severe bone pain is normal, but Gary reports less than severe pain in his legs and ankles. The anticipated fever finally arrived, but it is low. His throat continues to be swollen, and he experienced eight hours of lock-jaw last night. Although this sounds terrible, the doctors are not overly concerned and state it should subside soon. The swollen throat prevents eating. Caloric intake has been stepped up in the IV, as has the narcotics. Gary states his pain levels are higher, but my observation is he is weary of being in pain. Gary has had a shower and says he is willing to walk today. He declined to have his sheets changed yesterday, but sat up in a chair while they were changed today. We await the blood-work for today. Gary’s doctor predicts his cell counts will be at a low for the next three days and his pain level should parallel. He will feel better when his red and white cell counts come back up. I am observing great care for the patient with doctors or nurses constantly in his room on this morning. A chest x-ray is scheduled. Alicia or Patty will post in my absence.
