9-16-2014

Doug had labs last Tuesday at H.O.G.  (Highlands Oncology Group for those that aren't local.)

Today he had an appointment with Dr Travis, his Oncologist.  We haven't seen him in 3 months.  He gave him the abbreviated version of happenings since reversal surgery August 6th.  Doug expressed his frustration about the extremely slow recovery process and how this was "supposed" to be the easy surgery / return to "normal."   Dr Travis explained it like this:

 "You have had 2 major infections within a short amount of time.  You have been on 2 very strong antibiotics during that time.  Your body isn't meant to have to withstand that kind of infection.  20 years ago someone that would have gone thru what you did would not be standing upright (aka deceased.)   So give yourself a break."   Love that man!

Doug has lost 20 lbs since August 6th.  He asked specifically what he's eating and if he is taking anything.  He's on a STRONG probiotic as well as Zinc, Garlic, liquid vitamin B and a high quality multivitamin.  He's also drinking Organo tea.  All good stuff.  :)   Dr Travis said he wants him to do some measurable exercise every day.  He gave him the example if you walk around the block, I want you to do it every day.  As you do each day you will get a little stronger and it should get a little easier.

He was also planning on doing a baseline CT scan the first week of October.  Doug was thinking he would put that off since he's not feeling great.  Dr Travis said no, he wanted to have it done as planned, maybe even especially since he's feeling poorly.  He said it would also help to make sure there is nothing getting caught in the "pocket" area of the anastomosis.  That would not be good.
So he is scheduled for a CT scan on October 2nd and labs and another checkup in 12 weeks.  His labwork shows his Hemoglobin and Hemocrit are both way low.  Which would help explain the lack of energy.   Other numbers are "off" too but more in the line of "to be expected, considering."

Then he looked at me and said "how are YOU?"   I just said "I have hives."   He smiled and said "I can see that."  (My Benedryl was wearing off)  My neck and even some spots on my face were beginning to swell with the hives.  It's not pretty I assure you!  He was so nice, said continue to take Benedryl or Zyrtec which doesn't make you as drowsy.   He said take Oatmeal baths and drink lots and lots of water.  Then he looked at Doug and said, "you are stressing her out, you need to get better."   Awww that was nice of him!  But Doug is trying really really really hard.  :)

That's the latest.  From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU for your continued prayers. 

We continue to Thank God for Doug's complete healing, in Jesus name!

Doug, Jan and Eric