Hospital Stay Update

Joe is still in Strong Memorial Hospital and will likely be released Monday or Tuesday, pending his white cell count and nutritional status. He began the TPN on Thursday and has had his 'vanilla milkshake' nightly since. They're running a 19-hour feeding schedule to be lowered to a 12-hour feeding schedule when he comes home. He's very fatigued but is no longer dehydrated. On Friday Maureen and I took the "TPN feeding" lesson and learned the process of setting up and disconnecting the TPN from his central line. The nurses taught me how to change the dressings and both of us feel comfortable with the processes. On Monday I will get a refresher course and the nurse will train Gina to be another back-up for me.

I can't say enough good things about the nurses on the bone marrow floor - they are all wonderful and he is in good hands. Because his white cell count is very low and continues to plummet they have temporarily taken him off both Sutent and Interferon. This concerns me greatly, however, I have to place my trust in their best judgement. The doctor hopes that tomorrow his cell count will rise so that he can continue treatment. With Easter right around the corner, we are praying for a miracle!

On the positive side, Joe's spirits have seem to be lifting since he's feeing stronger and he truly enjoyed our visit with Barb and Jimmy last night. Gina is home until Wednesday to help me along. Gina, Blake, Tom & Katie all visited this afternoon/evening with Joe and I and we had a small celebration for Jamie's 21st birthday. She is our godchild and very special to us.

Joe is enjoying all of the cards and letters you're all sending and we are most appreciative of the prayers and good thoughts coming his way. The positive energy is there!

Love
Vicki, Gina & Tom