July 28 Clinic check-up - sounds good
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
July 28 DOING WELL
Travis had a poor night last night - his back pain kept him awake a lot in the night - so he is very tired. We just got back from the hospital so he is trying to get some sleep now to catch up a bit.
At clinic today the doctor said that Trav is doing well. He did a bit of adjustment with his insulin and suggested Tylenol now to help with his back pain (his kidneys have not liked the Ibuprofen so much the last couple of days). He is quite hopeful that that will take care of it - if not they will try a muscle relaxant. Travis is a bit dehydrated so he going to get an IV this afternoon to re-hydrate him. I believe this is all quite normal for the course.
It is going well in physio and OT - such an important part to the recuperation.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Travis had a poor night last night - his back pain kept him awake a lot in the night - so he is very tired. We just got back from the hospital so he is trying to get some sleep now to catch up a bit.
At clinic today the doctor said that Trav is doing well. He did a bit of adjustment with his insulin and suggested Tylenol now to help with his back pain (his kidneys have not liked the Ibuprofen so much the last couple of days). He is quite hopeful that that will take care of it - if not they will try a muscle relaxant. Travis is a bit dehydrated so he going to get an IV this afternoon to re-hydrate him. I believe this is all quite normal for the course.
It is going well in physio and OT - such an important part to the recuperation.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Monday, July 27, 2009
July 27 BACK TO THE ROUTINE
Today was back to the lab for bloodwork, PFT's, chest x-ray, physio and OT. He was able to notice an improvement on the treadmill today - an encouragement for him (and us of course) - again we're so thankful for the one downstairs here.
Cathie left for Calgary this evening to work for a couple of days. It is so hard for her to leave here but is very thankful we're on this side of transplant - as we all are.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Today was back to the lab for bloodwork, PFT's, chest x-ray, physio and OT. He was able to notice an improvement on the treadmill today - an encouragement for him (and us of course) - again we're so thankful for the one downstairs here.
Cathie left for Calgary this evening to work for a couple of days. It is so hard for her to leave here but is very thankful we're on this side of transplant - as we all are.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Sunday, July 26, 2009
July 27 A DAY OF MORE FIRSTS!
Travis had quite a great day in my opinion. He was up before anyone else and raring to go! It was off to the gym right after breakfast where he did his first 15 min. treadmill without any breaks and some heel raises. Later on it was on to another walk and 2 flights of stairs (another first) without any breaks.
Today was also the first for games - Dominoes and Hearts (which he won).
Supper was the first meal away from 'home' - a great meal at Earls. He even managed to stay up til 10:30 - it's usually been shortly after 9:30.
A great day all around!
Posted by Auntie Terri
Travis had quite a great day in my opinion. He was up before anyone else and raring to go! It was off to the gym right after breakfast where he did his first 15 min. treadmill without any breaks and some heel raises. Later on it was on to another walk and 2 flights of stairs (another first) without any breaks.
Today was also the first for games - Dominoes and Hearts (which he won).
Supper was the first meal away from 'home' - a great meal at Earls. He even managed to stay up til 10:30 - it's usually been shortly after 9:30.
A great day all around!
Posted by Auntie Terri
Saturday, July 25, 2009
July 26 VERY HOT DAY!
We were so thankful for the treadmill downstairs here at the hotel. It was way too hot for Travis to be outside today. He did some walks inside and stairs as well.
Today he is seeming to find it a bit easier to laugh - watching some comedy tonight. We are seeing more of his wit today too.
His Dad & Vicki brought Bill & Judy up for a surprise visit this afternoon. It was good for him to see some new faces!
Am wondering what time he's going to be pushing to go to bed tonight?
Posted by Auntie Terri
We were so thankful for the treadmill downstairs here at the hotel. It was way too hot for Travis to be outside today. He did some walks inside and stairs as well.
Today he is seeming to find it a bit easier to laugh - watching some comedy tonight. We are seeing more of his wit today too.
His Dad & Vicki brought Bill & Judy up for a surprise visit this afternoon. It was good for him to see some new faces!
Am wondering what time he's going to be pushing to go to bed tonight?
Posted by Auntie Terri
July 24 JUST GOOD NEWS
This morning he started out at clinic where they removed the last of his stitches (from his chest drainage tubes). The doctor is pleased with the way everything is going. He discontinued his Lasix and decreased his Prednisone to 20 mg! Hoping this will help with some issues he is having.
He had another good session in physio - OT was not there today.
This afternoon he disappeared to the bathroom for quite awhile. His Dad began to wonder if he was okay but found him slaving away trying to rid himself of that beard (I personally was getting kind of fond of it). When his Mom arrived later in the evening following Uncle Ernie's funeral she shrieked with joy - she was SO glad to see it gone. Am wondering if it may backfire on her though - since surgery his thermostat has changed dramatically. Before, the rest of us were looking for sweaters, blankets, etc. and he was comfortable. Now, even in this heat we need to keep the A/C very moderate or HE's freezing and we're shedding what we can.
Bryan came over tonight - it was so good to see him and a nice change of company for Travis. They just vegged out together - Travis still isn't up to games, commotion or intense conversation.
We can't thank you too often for your prayers and concern.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Tonight he had his first McDonald's burger since surgery - enjoyed that
This morning he started out at clinic where they removed the last of his stitches (from his chest drainage tubes). The doctor is pleased with the way everything is going. He discontinued his Lasix and decreased his Prednisone to 20 mg! Hoping this will help with some issues he is having.
He had another good session in physio - OT was not there today.
This afternoon he disappeared to the bathroom for quite awhile. His Dad began to wonder if he was okay but found him slaving away trying to rid himself of that beard (I personally was getting kind of fond of it). When his Mom arrived later in the evening following Uncle Ernie's funeral she shrieked with joy - she was SO glad to see it gone. Am wondering if it may backfire on her though - since surgery his thermostat has changed dramatically. Before, the rest of us were looking for sweaters, blankets, etc. and he was comfortable. Now, even in this heat we need to keep the A/C very moderate or HE's freezing and we're shedding what we can.
Bryan came over tonight - it was so good to see him and a nice change of company for Travis. They just vegged out together - Travis still isn't up to games, commotion or intense conversation.
We can't thank you too often for your prayers and concern.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Tonight he had his first McDonald's burger since surgery - enjoyed that
Friday, July 24, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
July 23 GETTING INTO A ROUTINE
Today started out with a long wait for blood work to be done (done every Thurs & Mon mornings first thing). One of the key reasons is to track the level of one of the anti-rejection drugs - we need them to get the reading back from it before he will know how much to take tonight and through the weekend. We believe that it is this particular drug that is giving him so much difficulty with tremors ie: very difficult to type, write and even affects his speech - it tires him quite quickly.
He had his PFT's done today and they still are on the rise.
Now to get out and get something for him to try and read. He says all of a sudden there seems to be more hours in the day but then he stopped to think of all the hours of inhaled meds and physio he's not doing anymore! He's watching some TV now but can't concentrate enough to play a game -- soon though we trust. He's anxiously waiting to when he feels good enough to do things WITH that time.
Personal note from Terri: I am so afraid that I have maybe left the wrong impression on a previous blog - I am so sorry. We were just trying to relay how especially difficult that part of the process was. I just want to reaffirm that we are all VERY THANKFUL for the unspeakable, amazing gift that Travis has received from a very giving, generous family in one of the most difficult, painful time of their lives - a chance for a NEW life. It has been a much more difficult journey than Travis had ever imagined it would be but is quite overwhelmed to even take in what it all has meant for many people.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Today started out with a long wait for blood work to be done (done every Thurs & Mon mornings first thing). One of the key reasons is to track the level of one of the anti-rejection drugs - we need them to get the reading back from it before he will know how much to take tonight and through the weekend. We believe that it is this particular drug that is giving him so much difficulty with tremors ie: very difficult to type, write and even affects his speech - it tires him quite quickly.
He had his PFT's done today and they still are on the rise.
Now to get out and get something for him to try and read. He says all of a sudden there seems to be more hours in the day but then he stopped to think of all the hours of inhaled meds and physio he's not doing anymore! He's watching some TV now but can't concentrate enough to play a game -- soon though we trust. He's anxiously waiting to when he feels good enough to do things WITH that time.
Personal note from Terri: I am so afraid that I have maybe left the wrong impression on a previous blog - I am so sorry. We were just trying to relay how especially difficult that part of the process was. I just want to reaffirm that we are all VERY THANKFUL for the unspeakable, amazing gift that Travis has received from a very giving, generous family in one of the most difficult, painful time of their lives - a chance for a NEW life. It has been a much more difficult journey than Travis had ever imagined it would be but is quite overwhelmed to even take in what it all has meant for many people.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
July 22 QUIETER DAY
We're thinking this will be a bit of a catch-up day. It was a very exhausting day yesterday - so very thankful today is not as busy. He is done physio and occupational therapy for today so now he can rest up for quite a busy day again tomorrow. We brought a wheelchair back to the room last night to go back and forth in for a few days - he feels he's going backwards but I don't think so - walking back and forth to hospital plus physio (especially if they won't cut out the treadmill) is just a HUGE step and then he feels like he's hit the wall.
He had a better sleep last night but still very tired when we got back to the room. Maybe this afternoon he will feel like catching up on some of the news from the past 3 1/2 weeks. He is struggling with 'feeling comfortable in my own skin' (quote). He is still very shaky (probably predominantly caused by one of the anti-rejection drugs) and of course he is also dealing with being diabetic and all that entails but he is facing it all extremely bravely and with a great attitude!
I think he is actually 'watching' TV this afternoon for the first time since surgery - it was too difficult to concentrate on other things before.
Thank you for your continued prayers and concern - we know this is just the start of a Different long journey.
Posted by Auntie Terri
We're thinking this will be a bit of a catch-up day. It was a very exhausting day yesterday - so very thankful today is not as busy. He is done physio and occupational therapy for today so now he can rest up for quite a busy day again tomorrow. We brought a wheelchair back to the room last night to go back and forth in for a few days - he feels he's going backwards but I don't think so - walking back and forth to hospital plus physio (especially if they won't cut out the treadmill) is just a HUGE step and then he feels like he's hit the wall.
He had a better sleep last night but still very tired when we got back to the room. Maybe this afternoon he will feel like catching up on some of the news from the past 3 1/2 weeks. He is struggling with 'feeling comfortable in my own skin' (quote). He is still very shaky (probably predominantly caused by one of the anti-rejection drugs) and of course he is also dealing with being diabetic and all that entails but he is facing it all extremely bravely and with a great attitude!
I think he is actually 'watching' TV this afternoon for the first time since surgery - it was too difficult to concentrate on other things before.
Thank you for your continued prayers and concern - we know this is just the start of a Different long journey.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
July 21 BLOOD TRANSFUSION
Today was quite a tough day - first of all this morning we were fumbling around - a very different routine than when he was in hospital! He walked the whole way back to hospital first thing for clinic (he found it quite a long ways but it was supposed to replace the treadmill in physio). The Dr. was very pleased - again said his lungs were clear as a bell and that it is quite normal to need a blood transfusion at this point of the journey.
From there, we went straight to physio and Jennifer put him right onto the treadmill! (His own physio-therapist went on holidays this week). He then did all his other exercises with hardly a break. By the time he was done, he was absolutely exhausted so I ran over to the hotel, picked up the car and drove him back. Then for a sleep!! - he didn't have a very good sleep last night.
Tonight he had to be back for a blood transfusion at 5:00 - we just got back to the suite at 8:00 - I snagged a wheelchair to bring him back and will also use it in the morning to go back.
PERSONAL NOTE FROM TRAVIS via Terri:
Thank you so much for all your kind thoughts. I do so appreciate it. It may be quite awhile yet before I am able to respond myself. Travis
Today was quite a tough day - first of all this morning we were fumbling around - a very different routine than when he was in hospital! He walked the whole way back to hospital first thing for clinic (he found it quite a long ways but it was supposed to replace the treadmill in physio). The Dr. was very pleased - again said his lungs were clear as a bell and that it is quite normal to need a blood transfusion at this point of the journey.
From there, we went straight to physio and Jennifer put him right onto the treadmill! (His own physio-therapist went on holidays this week). He then did all his other exercises with hardly a break. By the time he was done, he was absolutely exhausted so I ran over to the hotel, picked up the car and drove him back. Then for a sleep!! - he didn't have a very good sleep last night.
Tonight he had to be back for a blood transfusion at 5:00 - we just got back to the suite at 8:00 - I snagged a wheelchair to bring him back and will also use it in the morning to go back.
PERSONAL NOTE FROM TRAVIS via Terri:
Thank you so much for all your kind thoughts. I do so appreciate it. It may be quite awhile yet before I am able to respond myself. Travis
Monday, July 20, 2009
MONDAY, JULY 20, 2009 THESE SHOES ARE MADE FOR WALKING
An amazing day! Three weeks and three days ago, Travis entered the U of A Hospital, and into the operating room. Today, he walked out...and all the way to his room at Campus Tower. Cathie, Terri, and Mark made that walk with him.
As you can imagine, there was a full spectrum of emotions - joy, tears, anxiety, hope, amazement, and happiness. The prospects for the future look so great.
In those last moments at the hospital, the nurses spelled out the schedulefor appointments, medications, and general out-patient care. Seems pretty daunting! But, then...Trav has a great team of care-givers working with him.
Cathie flew back to Calgary tonight after seeing Trav settled in. Had a good supper, great spaghetti sent by Colleen from Camrose.
A quote from Terri - "This is like a surreal journey". A quote from Uncle Mark - "Wow! This is amazing!"
Posted by Uncle Mark & Auntie Terri
An amazing day! Three weeks and three days ago, Travis entered the U of A Hospital, and into the operating room. Today, he walked out...and all the way to his room at Campus Tower. Cathie, Terri, and Mark made that walk with him.
As you can imagine, there was a full spectrum of emotions - joy, tears, anxiety, hope, amazement, and happiness. The prospects for the future look so great.
In those last moments at the hospital, the nurses spelled out the schedulefor appointments, medications, and general out-patient care. Seems pretty daunting! But, then...Trav has a great team of care-givers working with him.
Cathie flew back to Calgary tonight after seeing Trav settled in. Had a good supper, great spaghetti sent by Colleen from Camrose.
A quote from Terri - "This is like a surreal journey". A quote from Uncle Mark - "Wow! This is amazing!"
Posted by Uncle Mark & Auntie Terri
Sunday, July 19, 2009
July 19 A SET OF STAIRS
Travis had another good day - quieter on weekends with no meetings, physio, etc. He's still struggling with some back pain but managing it with little or no narcotics. He had a laughing spell today which turned out to be quite painful!
Dr. Lein was in and is still projecting for discharge tomorrow. Travis is still having some issues with his blood sugars - expected I think.
He climbed part of a flight of stairs today - without a pause or break in his stride. All of the Firsts are exciting for us all.
Thank you again for all your prayers and support.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Travis had another good day - quieter on weekends with no meetings, physio, etc. He's still struggling with some back pain but managing it with little or no narcotics. He had a laughing spell today which turned out to be quite painful!
Dr. Lein was in and is still projecting for discharge tomorrow. Travis is still having some issues with his blood sugars - expected I think.
He climbed part of a flight of stairs today - without a pause or break in his stride. All of the Firsts are exciting for us all.
Thank you again for all your prayers and support.
Posted by Auntie Terri
July 18 CLEAR AS A BELL
The Dr. arrived in the morning to see how Travis was doing and to see how he felt about being discharged on Monday. After listening to his lungs he said "They're clear as a bell!" Wow.
He definitely did not have the energy of yesterday (he's thinking it's the caffeine he'd had - a can of diet coke) so had a more restless sleep because of it. As a result he didn't do much exercise. It didn't help when a nurse had forgotten to unlock one of his IV meds at the proper time which resulted in having to be hooked up to his IV buddy a good part of the day (for some reason he did not want to take it anywhere). He did have his first solo shower which of course he was VERY happy about - but he said it does take a fair bit out of him.
The IV Team was called because the nurses have been having trouble administering meds via his picc line - they were wondering if it was partially plugged. End result - his picc line is fine - the nurses just don't know how to properly use it so now it's up to him to instruct them - hopefully they will take it well. He's had about 20 of them over the years and never had an issue with one til now - they use a different brand here unfortunately.
Abour 3/4 hr. before supper he suddenly became very shaky - we suspected his blood sugars. Turned out they were quite high - opposite to what we'd expected but he'd had little exercise. He felt much better soon after getting some insulin.
Hi really misses Daisy (his pug/pom) who's living with Grandma in Ponoka during this time in Edmonton but he's so glad the two of them are such good buddies - he know's she's very well taken care of. He really likes the picture that Vicki took and made into a window hanging for him - Thank you Vicki for all the effort it took to bring that about - it is very special to him.
Cathies friend Donna brought her back up here from Calgary and Grandma for a quick visit tonight - he was VERY glad to see them but it does wear him out quite quickly (he hadn't been able to see Grandma since ICU). We said goodnight at 8:00 and then got some supper after which a terrible storm rolled in - I don't know if that's why I couldn't get the internet to work properly. Anyway, Cathie & I ended up downstairs in the lobby til about 11 pm. (there were numerous other people down there as well cause the building was swaying at the top). It seemed a tornado might be coming through and we figured we might as well be at the bottom of the pile! Or maybe have a chance to run out. We were also nervous about going back in the elevator - THAT we knew we did not want to be stuck in.
NOTE RE PICTURES: If you double click on pictures you get an enlargement
Posted by Auntie Terri
The Dr. arrived in the morning to see how Travis was doing and to see how he felt about being discharged on Monday. After listening to his lungs he said "They're clear as a bell!" Wow.
He definitely did not have the energy of yesterday (he's thinking it's the caffeine he'd had - a can of diet coke) so had a more restless sleep because of it. As a result he didn't do much exercise. It didn't help when a nurse had forgotten to unlock one of his IV meds at the proper time which resulted in having to be hooked up to his IV buddy a good part of the day (for some reason he did not want to take it anywhere). He did have his first solo shower which of course he was VERY happy about - but he said it does take a fair bit out of him.
The IV Team was called because the nurses have been having trouble administering meds via his picc line - they were wondering if it was partially plugged. End result - his picc line is fine - the nurses just don't know how to properly use it so now it's up to him to instruct them - hopefully they will take it well. He's had about 20 of them over the years and never had an issue with one til now - they use a different brand here unfortunately.
Abour 3/4 hr. before supper he suddenly became very shaky - we suspected his blood sugars. Turned out they were quite high - opposite to what we'd expected but he'd had little exercise. He felt much better soon after getting some insulin.
Hi really misses Daisy (his pug/pom) who's living with Grandma in Ponoka during this time in Edmonton but he's so glad the two of them are such good buddies - he know's she's very well taken care of. He really likes the picture that Vicki took and made into a window hanging for him - Thank you Vicki for all the effort it took to bring that about - it is very special to him.
Cathies friend Donna brought her back up here from Calgary and Grandma for a quick visit tonight - he was VERY glad to see them but it does wear him out quite quickly (he hadn't been able to see Grandma since ICU). We said goodnight at 8:00 and then got some supper after which a terrible storm rolled in - I don't know if that's why I couldn't get the internet to work properly. Anyway, Cathie & I ended up downstairs in the lobby til about 11 pm. (there were numerous other people down there as well cause the building was swaying at the top). It seemed a tornado might be coming through and we figured we might as well be at the bottom of the pile! Or maybe have a chance to run out. We were also nervous about going back in the elevator - THAT we knew we did not want to be stuck in.
NOTE RE PICTURES: If you double click on pictures you get an enlargement
Posted by Auntie Terri
Friday, July 17, 2009
July 17 DOWN TO IBUPROFEN!
What a huge blessing - he has been able to handle his pain well enough with Ibuprofen! - no narcotics today and what a difference - way less sleepy and mentally pretty well back to normal.
He thinks his vision is pretty well back to normal as well.
We had a session today with the Diabetic nurse teaching him how to take his blood sugars, to take his insulin and how to figure what he needs and when. He did great - took it all in stride and seemed to retain all the info which I would have thought could be quite overwhelming for someone the first time. He is now administering most of his own drugs, testing his own blood sugars and self-administering his insulin - it's been a huge learning curve this past week! The diabetes is a result of the surgery and some of the drugs he is on. We are hoping that this will correct itself, however most people with CF end up diabetic for life after transplant - another disease that has to be dealt with.
His PFT's were up again today - 48% (they were about 32% before surgery). He is looking and acting like himself again and is looking forward with anticipation. He is walking on his own and at a substantially faster clip than even yesterday. Every day this week has been a miracle!
Again they have added more at physio - he comes back from there exhausted but it's all positive.
There won't be physio or these other meetings happening on the weekend so we are hoping to venture further tomorrow - maybe outside if it's nice and we can find some shade where it's smoke-free. His Mom is coming back tomorrow night - I think she will see quite a change!
Posted by Auntie Terri
What a huge blessing - he has been able to handle his pain well enough with Ibuprofen! - no narcotics today and what a difference - way less sleepy and mentally pretty well back to normal.
He thinks his vision is pretty well back to normal as well.
We had a session today with the Diabetic nurse teaching him how to take his blood sugars, to take his insulin and how to figure what he needs and when. He did great - took it all in stride and seemed to retain all the info which I would have thought could be quite overwhelming for someone the first time. He is now administering most of his own drugs, testing his own blood sugars and self-administering his insulin - it's been a huge learning curve this past week! The diabetes is a result of the surgery and some of the drugs he is on. We are hoping that this will correct itself, however most people with CF end up diabetic for life after transplant - another disease that has to be dealt with.
His PFT's were up again today - 48% (they were about 32% before surgery). He is looking and acting like himself again and is looking forward with anticipation. He is walking on his own and at a substantially faster clip than even yesterday. Every day this week has been a miracle!
Again they have added more at physio - he comes back from there exhausted but it's all positive.
There won't be physio or these other meetings happening on the weekend so we are hoping to venture further tomorrow - maybe outside if it's nice and we can find some shade where it's smoke-free. His Mom is coming back tomorrow night - I think she will see quite a change!
Posted by Auntie Terri
Thursday, July 16, 2009
July 16 DR TALKING DISCHARGE
I found Travis sitting in his chair watching some TV with his Dad this morning looking quite bright. (He had already had a meeting with the Dietician before that). Shortly thereafter Dr. Lein came in and stated that he's looking at discharge on Monday. He also decreased the Prednasone again - Travis has noticed quite an improvement with his eyesight since he's been getting less.
Lunch followed and then it was down to Physio for another hard workout - they push him to his max. He did 10 minutes on the treadmill with less rest periods than yesterday. He's doing great in spite of back pain. Travis took half his 12 hr. pain med this morning so pain meds have been decreased quite a bit last 2-3 days.
We had a meeting with the Transplant Coordinator (Debbie) this afternoon to go over more drug information and some of what will be happening when he comes to join us at our 'new home'. We were both encouraged after our time with her - we felt she was very balanced in regards to quality of life versus living with this new disease (Transplant). As she said, you don't want to go through all of this and then be afraid to do things the rest of your life.
He is definitely getting more comfortable with the whole med thing but there's still a lot more to learn.
As I left from that meeting, Martha (OT) came in for another session with him. He had a chance for a small rest before I went back and then Jackie (transplant counsellor) came in to see him after which we took a walk, supper and then had a GOOD nap. We took one more walk and then it was time to sort 8:30 meds. He was tired but comfortable now when I left. He's looking forward to another good sleep tonight - he thinks he slept about 10 hours last night - best in a VERY long time.
Thank you all again. Things are looking good at this time!
Posted by Auntie Terri
I found Travis sitting in his chair watching some TV with his Dad this morning looking quite bright. (He had already had a meeting with the Dietician before that). Shortly thereafter Dr. Lein came in and stated that he's looking at discharge on Monday. He also decreased the Prednasone again - Travis has noticed quite an improvement with his eyesight since he's been getting less.
Lunch followed and then it was down to Physio for another hard workout - they push him to his max. He did 10 minutes on the treadmill with less rest periods than yesterday. He's doing great in spite of back pain. Travis took half his 12 hr. pain med this morning so pain meds have been decreased quite a bit last 2-3 days.
We had a meeting with the Transplant Coordinator (Debbie) this afternoon to go over more drug information and some of what will be happening when he comes to join us at our 'new home'. We were both encouraged after our time with her - we felt she was very balanced in regards to quality of life versus living with this new disease (Transplant). As she said, you don't want to go through all of this and then be afraid to do things the rest of your life.
He is definitely getting more comfortable with the whole med thing but there's still a lot more to learn.
As I left from that meeting, Martha (OT) came in for another session with him. He had a chance for a small rest before I went back and then Jackie (transplant counsellor) came in to see him after which we took a walk, supper and then had a GOOD nap. We took one more walk and then it was time to sort 8:30 meds. He was tired but comfortable now when I left. He's looking forward to another good sleep tonight - he thinks he slept about 10 hours last night - best in a VERY long time.
Thank you all again. Things are looking good at this time!
Posted by Auntie Terri
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
July15 MOM GOES BACK HOME
For Travis, this has been a day quite similar to about the last two, although he did have his PFT's (Pulmonary Function Test) done today and they are up 10% from before he had his surgery which puts him at about 43% if I remember correctly! This is higher than he's been 'forever'. This will be a baseline test - they usually increase for the first 3-6 months. Travis also understood that they have started dropping the Prednasone - I understood that he's been on the maximum dose up til now. He has lost 10-12 lbs. but fortunately he went in with extra weight just for this reason - he's still ok in that regard and we continue to see an improvement in his appetite. He did say that Physio was pretty brutal today but realistically, that is probably going to be the fact for some time - we're just SOOO thankful that he's in there now - it is absolutely vital to his recovery. We are all so proud of him - to think of all that he's been through(it was BRUTAL) and yet he's continued to push himself and has accomplished so much. Fantastic work Trav!! For those of you that know Travis well, he's so tired by 8:00 pm(or earlier) he would just like to go to bed - a far cry from the 2-4am Pre-surgery. He was resting peacefully when I left tonight.
Today has been really tough on his Mom. She felt she needed to go back to work for a couple of days since he is still in hospital - that was a really difficult thing for her to do and I can hardly believe how bravely she did that - WOW. I'm very impressed with how she is finding the extra strength to do some really positive things ie: going to the gym before visiting hours (I have to confess I had intended to but haven't done it yet). She says 'If Travis can do all he has to do I should be able to do this.' It was hard for me to see her have to go (I can't pretend to know how it must feel to her) but I was thankful her good friend Donna picked her up and took her back and I know her good friends in Calgary will be there for her in whatever way they can. THANK YOU!
Today we also moved for the last time into a very nice 2 bedroom suite right across the street from the hospital which his Dad has provided for us - Thank you Lorne. All of Travis' things are unpacked and awaiting his arrival to his 'new home' - I think he will be very pleased with these accommodations. His computer is even up and running for him (that's what I'm using now).
Again, we cannot begin to say how thankful and appreciative we all are for all your prayers and support in so many different ways.
Posted by Auntie Terri
For Travis, this has been a day quite similar to about the last two, although he did have his PFT's (Pulmonary Function Test) done today and they are up 10% from before he had his surgery which puts him at about 43% if I remember correctly! This is higher than he's been 'forever'. This will be a baseline test - they usually increase for the first 3-6 months. Travis also understood that they have started dropping the Prednasone - I understood that he's been on the maximum dose up til now. He has lost 10-12 lbs. but fortunately he went in with extra weight just for this reason - he's still ok in that regard and we continue to see an improvement in his appetite. He did say that Physio was pretty brutal today but realistically, that is probably going to be the fact for some time - we're just SOOO thankful that he's in there now - it is absolutely vital to his recovery. We are all so proud of him - to think of all that he's been through(it was BRUTAL) and yet he's continued to push himself and has accomplished so much. Fantastic work Trav!! For those of you that know Travis well, he's so tired by 8:00 pm(or earlier) he would just like to go to bed - a far cry from the 2-4am Pre-surgery. He was resting peacefully when I left tonight.
Today has been really tough on his Mom. She felt she needed to go back to work for a couple of days since he is still in hospital - that was a really difficult thing for her to do and I can hardly believe how bravely she did that - WOW. I'm very impressed with how she is finding the extra strength to do some really positive things ie: going to the gym before visiting hours (I have to confess I had intended to but haven't done it yet). She says 'If Travis can do all he has to do I should be able to do this.' It was hard for me to see her have to go (I can't pretend to know how it must feel to her) but I was thankful her good friend Donna picked her up and took her back and I know her good friends in Calgary will be there for her in whatever way they can. THANK YOU!
Today we also moved for the last time into a very nice 2 bedroom suite right across the street from the hospital which his Dad has provided for us - Thank you Lorne. All of Travis' things are unpacked and awaiting his arrival to his 'new home' - I think he will be very pleased with these accommodations. His computer is even up and running for him (that's what I'm using now).
Again, we cannot begin to say how thankful and appreciative we all are for all your prayers and support in so many different ways.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
June 14 AN EVEN BETTER DAY!
Travis had quite a busy day today - appointments with numerous people, a very positive session with Occupational Therapy and a bigger program in physio today (they usually add a bit more each day, up to a point). Dr. Nador, who has mainly been taking care of him since ICU, is now away and Dr. Lein, (1 of 3 transplant Dr's) has taken over his care. He is not so anxious to get him out of hospital and is planning at looking at sometime next week. He feels there are too many meds that he's still on to handle as outpatient. He also has decided not to get the CT scan, at least at this point.
Bryan (cousin) came in after work today and filled Travis in about some big Ultimate Fighting tournament (wrestling I think) that was on this past weekend. It was so good to see Travis so animated and involved in the conversation - we feel another big step. He is also venturing further and further on his walks! Again, he seemed more relaxed tonight but very sleepy. Each night we wonder "what will tomorrow bring?"
Uncle Mark is here tonight so we can post more pictures for you.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Travis had quite a busy day today - appointments with numerous people, a very positive session with Occupational Therapy and a bigger program in physio today (they usually add a bit more each day, up to a point). Dr. Nador, who has mainly been taking care of him since ICU, is now away and Dr. Lein, (1 of 3 transplant Dr's) has taken over his care. He is not so anxious to get him out of hospital and is planning at looking at sometime next week. He feels there are too many meds that he's still on to handle as outpatient. He also has decided not to get the CT scan, at least at this point.
Bryan (cousin) came in after work today and filled Travis in about some big Ultimate Fighting tournament (wrestling I think) that was on this past weekend. It was so good to see Travis so animated and involved in the conversation - we feel another big step. He is also venturing further and further on his walks! Again, he seemed more relaxed tonight but very sleepy. Each night we wonder "what will tomorrow bring?"
Uncle Mark is here tonight so we can post more pictures for you.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Monday, July 13, 2009
JULY 13 ANOTHER DAY AT THE U OF A HOSPITAL
Travis began the day with O2 again but was looking brighter according to his Dad - he usually takes the early shift. The doctor came in and expressed concern regarding his arm with the picc line as it is still swollen. We are still awaiting the CT scan which was to be done on the weekend and there was no talk of discharge day today - we need to just take it a day at a time. They are continuing to try to fine-tune some of his many meds.
He did say today that he is dealing with less pain and we continue to see an increase in his appetite and less confusion. He spent more time in physio today doing the treadmill and other leg exercises. He was very tired afterwards but he did give a smile. OT then spent time doing relaxation and upper body exercises which he appreciated. His Mom & I thought he was more chatty this afternoon and he spent some time imitating/razing us which we took to be a good sign. I felt he was more relaxed when we left tonight.
Thank you all so much for all your support in so many ways. We know there will be more bumps along the way but I thank the Lord for the place he is now versus days ago.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Travis began the day with O2 again but was looking brighter according to his Dad - he usually takes the early shift. The doctor came in and expressed concern regarding his arm with the picc line as it is still swollen. We are still awaiting the CT scan which was to be done on the weekend and there was no talk of discharge day today - we need to just take it a day at a time. They are continuing to try to fine-tune some of his many meds.
He did say today that he is dealing with less pain and we continue to see an increase in his appetite and less confusion. He spent more time in physio today doing the treadmill and other leg exercises. He was very tired afterwards but he did give a smile. OT then spent time doing relaxation and upper body exercises which he appreciated. His Mom & I thought he was more chatty this afternoon and he spent some time imitating/razing us which we took to be a good sign. I felt he was more relaxed when we left tonight.
Thank you all so much for all your support in so many ways. We know there will be more bumps along the way but I thank the Lord for the place he is now versus days ago.
Posted by Auntie Terri
Sunday, July 12, 2009
July 12 THE DAY AFTER THE NIGHT AT HOTEL CALIFORNIA
Today was another good day although a bit lacking in energy - could be due to last night?? He has been noticing more weakness in his legs the last couple of days - affects of the last week with little exercise, I imagine. We are still awaiting the CT scan the doctor wanted done this weekend. His appetite has been improving for the most part - he is still at a safe weight - halleluliah! we don't have to worry about THAT. His Mom and I feel his mood is down from the last couple days. When the Doctor stated today that he hopes to discharge him to an outpatient status the middle of the week, he experienced some anxiety. Not sure how to interpret the anxiety as we thought he would want to run as fast as he could (with or without oxygen) AWAY from Hotel California!!!
Explanation for Hotel California experience Saturday night:
After an episode of confusion, anxiety and severe headache (for which he was given percacet and ativan) his O2 sats were finally taken only to find them very low. He was eventually put back on O2. During this whole episode Terri was frantically searching the whole room on her hands and knees for his own oxymetry machine only to find out today that it was in Cathie's purse the whole time. And in Cathie's own words - where was Cathie at this time??? only she will know... perhaps!
Hope you enjoyed the blog for the day. Without humor how would we survive?
Personal note from Cathie: If I could only learn how to post a comment I would but apparently I AM the retard much as I have denied this to Mark recently. So, I just want you all to know how much I appreciate all the love, support, concern and prayers. It's so great to have such fabulous friends and family. Thanks for the comments - they keep us going. Luv, Cath
PS: Personal note to Colleen G - Fabulous cookies! Should be finished them by midnight. (there are a lot!) Will get to the muffins tomorrow. Judy won't recognize me when I roll off the bus in Calgary if you continue with this venture. You are so generous. Thank you. Why do you have to be such a great cook anyway. Wish us luck, should be done by midnight, getting a little help from my sister, thankfully! Not taking any responsibility for comments in this drugged state of mind (sugar, ativan, sleeping pills) Cathie xo
Posted by Mom & Auntie Terri
Today was another good day although a bit lacking in energy - could be due to last night?? He has been noticing more weakness in his legs the last couple of days - affects of the last week with little exercise, I imagine. We are still awaiting the CT scan the doctor wanted done this weekend. His appetite has been improving for the most part - he is still at a safe weight - halleluliah! we don't have to worry about THAT. His Mom and I feel his mood is down from the last couple days. When the Doctor stated today that he hopes to discharge him to an outpatient status the middle of the week, he experienced some anxiety. Not sure how to interpret the anxiety as we thought he would want to run as fast as he could (with or without oxygen) AWAY from Hotel California!!!
Explanation for Hotel California experience Saturday night:
After an episode of confusion, anxiety and severe headache (for which he was given percacet and ativan) his O2 sats were finally taken only to find them very low. He was eventually put back on O2. During this whole episode Terri was frantically searching the whole room on her hands and knees for his own oxymetry machine only to find out today that it was in Cathie's purse the whole time. And in Cathie's own words - where was Cathie at this time??? only she will know... perhaps!
Hope you enjoyed the blog for the day. Without humor how would we survive?
Personal note from Cathie: If I could only learn how to post a comment I would but apparently I AM the retard much as I have denied this to Mark recently. So, I just want you all to know how much I appreciate all the love, support, concern and prayers. It's so great to have such fabulous friends and family. Thanks for the comments - they keep us going. Luv, Cath
PS: Personal note to Colleen G - Fabulous cookies! Should be finished them by midnight. (there are a lot!) Will get to the muffins tomorrow. Judy won't recognize me when I roll off the bus in Calgary if you continue with this venture. You are so generous. Thank you. Why do you have to be such a great cook anyway. Wish us luck, should be done by midnight, getting a little help from my sister, thankfully! Not taking any responsibility for comments in this drugged state of mind (sugar, ativan, sleeping pills) Cathie xo
Posted by Mom & Auntie Terri
Saturday, July 11, 2009
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