Day 1 Post Op

Cheryl had a good day in the MSI (step down ICU). She was very lucid but tired quickly. We spent several hours just holding hands and she drifted in and out of sleep. A few visitors dropped by and offered encouragement. The staff turned back a beautiful potted plant from Ms. Judy but permitted a wonderful fruit basket from the neighbors in.

Overnight, she received two units of blood due to her hemoglobin dropping to 7. At a midday, she was up to 13.7. Shortly before lunch, a PICC line was inserted to give her nutrition and to simplify injections. This will enable them to go ahead and remove both of her hand IV's. She has been allowed to eat ice and yesterday she ate "the world's best popsicle" ever. This is about the most she will be allowed to have by mouth until the colon resection heals. Her surgical drains are still running clear and urine output is okay. She received immunizations for pneumonia, flu and meningitis because of the splenectomy.

Both the surgical resident and Dr. Burke came by to check on her progress and clarify things for us. We did find out that the removal of the spleen and part of the pancreas was due to them being surrounded by tumors. Neither organ appeared to have tumor involvement but will still be examined by the pathologist.

Dr. Burke again reiterated that Cheryl is extremely healthy except for the cancer she is fighting.

After 5 PM we were called and notified that Cheryl has been moved to the Oncology floor. This is great news since we were originally told that she might be in MSI for up to 48 hours. She is now in room 435. She is allowed reasonable visits in keeping with her energy level. Flowers are permitted on the oncology floor, but of course no outside food or candy for the patient.

Jonas is very excited that kids are allowed up for short visits. Michelle and I will be spend most of the day with her today . We will see if she feels up to or is able to answer phone calls, if so, we will post the number this evening.