I don't think Ray will be taking his walks today because he is much too weak this morning. He can barely keep his eyes open & some confusion seems to be setting in. It's all I can do to get him to eat a few bites but I continue to encourage him & he truly does try. He pretty much needs assistance with everything (bathing, dressing, etc.) But at least he isn't just lying in bed. He got dressed & is resting in his recliner while an IV is pumping fluids into him.
Yesterday we noticed that he is beginning to lose his hair, as expected. Today they will be giving him "The Haircut" so that his pillow isn't floating in hair that he might inadvertently breath in. Right now probably the worst for him is the mucositis (mouth sores which reach down into the esophagus too). We are told they will probably get worse yet before they get better but they are doing everything they can to lessen that discomfort.
We expect any day now that the 'engraphtment' will begin. This is when the donated cells start to grow and make new blood cells. This link can explain some of the process better than I can: Click here to read/understand more about Engraphtment
Ray is being a trooper! We may have to get through a few more really tough days & nights before things get better as is usually the case. I'll remain here with him 24/7 though & keep him motivated as best I can. And don't worry about me, I'm handling it ok - really I am. It helps to know that there are so many knowledgeable nurses around all the time should anything happen.
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| Ray's Attitude |
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