On The Road Again

Yesterday we received word that Barnes had a bed available for Greg. Unfortunately, due to a communication snafu, St. John's (here) didn't know anything about a transfer to Barnes. So, because no paperwork was prepared, we lost the bed. However, we just got word a few minutes ago that they have a bed available. We've also been told they want to admit him to ICU there, which is why it took so long to get a bed. (Actually, we've waited longer before, but don't tell them that.) We're waiting for word on the ambulance to transport. Yes, another $3500 ride. I'm looking into the frequent flyer miles.



Medically, things are pretty much up in the air. Greg got whole blood and plateletes yesterday, and today his numbers are the same or lower. None of them stuck. So, he's getting plateletes now, and the last plan we heard was that they'll give him the blood in St. Louis. His kidney function is only a little better, and that's what's really got everyone worried. Dr. Raju told me this morning that, since they've pumped him full of fluids over the past few days, and the kidneys haven't improved, she thinks that its the cancer, not dehyration, that's causing this. So, he's definitely going to the right place.

I'm packed, and Matthew is going to go to the Wherley's. Thanks Kris & Jim! The good thing is, he's very excited (I think it has something to do with their dog. Plus he and Kris made cupcakes the last time he was there.) Eric has plenty of pizza money, so he's set. I pointed out that he could use the money to go to the grocery store and buy healthy food, and he looked at me as if I had just landed here from another planet.

Deb, a nurse here on the floor as well as a good friend (I can't tell you how handy THAT is!) speculates that its possible they may just keep him in St. Louis for the duration -- clear up whatever this is and go straight into the transplant. We will see. In the meantime, we're living minute by minute. I'll keep everyone "posted" as much as I can.

If I don't return your phone calls, please don't be offended. Even with the blog, the amount of time we need to spend on the phone just with the kids, work and keeping our head above water is overwhelming. Please know that we appreciate all the prayers and good wishes. Greg and I check the comments on the blog several times a day, and really appreciate those. You all help us keep our sense of humor, which is more important now than ever before. We can't thank everyone personally, so this is our best vehicle for keeping in touch. We love you all. If you do need to call, please use the cell phone numbers, as the room phones tend to "scream" and wake Greg up if he's trying to sleep. We may not always be able to answer, but we'll try.

Thanks to all for everything!

Love,

Us