Blood level update

I just got off the phone with Hazel -Dr Kohli's secretary. Joe is once again anemic and is in need of another blood transfusion. We have an appointment tomorrow to see Dr Chen, the radiology oncologist, who will determine if he can have radiation on his spine to help alleviate the pain. It's palliative care, not curative.

After that, we'll hop up to the oncology unit and he'll have a blood transfusion at 11:30. This should make him feel better and boost his platelet and red blood cell counts. The next round of chemo is scheduled for Tuesday October 24th in Strong's oncology unit. Hopefully he will fare as well as round one and be in and out in a flash! Dr Kohli is spreading his treatments over 3 weeks vs Dr Amato's protocol at 2 weeks. Since Joe is so anemic, it's best to wait until he's stronger. I am in daily contact with Amato's office though - it's like we're there!

Our home health aides (from Lifetime health and our own) are working out great. The help that we're receiving in the morning before the Lifetime health aide comes is has been wonderful. Kathy not only took great care of Joe, but brought us dinner and a plant! Kath - it put such a smile on my face to see the bright yellow mum in the pumpkin on my front porch. Martha Stewart - move over! Thank you! Harriett has been his morning aide, followed by Phyllis, who is just a God sent.

Joe's been getting a lot of guests this week which has been great. His sister Nanette spent yesterday with him as well as Scott Anderson. Folks from work and reffing are keeping him busy and happy. Bill spent the morning with him and left with a number of jobs - thanks Bill! Thanks to Fran and Silvana for also feeding us this week. Everything is just wonderful.

Will update more tomorrow. Everyone root for the Rangers tonight - in the cold rainy weather - they are sorely in need of a win!!!

Love
Vicki, Gina & Tom