4/2/11

Well, we are quickly finding out that there are so many ups and downs with this process.  Kevin and I have spent hours learning what we will need to do to take care of Aly once she is home.  It seems like we will be bringing home a newborn baby.  I think we will also become honorary nursing assistants.  They are starting to gather feeding formulas, medicines, measuring tools, etc.  Yesterday, when I got home there was a message to call to confirm drug deliveries.  The price of one medicine alone is a mortgage payment.  Thank God for health insurance.  
Today, Aly completed her first round (which was 3 doses in the past 3 days) of chemotherapy.  She seems to be doing well as far as not much nausea and was a little more herself today, as she was able to get up a few times and walk around the hospital floor.  They thought she would be able to come home today, but she is having trouble urinating, and they cannot figure out why.  At first they believed it to be the morphine they were giving for pain after her surgery, but after stopping that, she is still having trouble.  The nurses are now saying they'd be surprised if Aly goes home tomorrow either.  Aly's attitude has quickly gone from a sweet polite patient, to an angry one.  She has every right to be angry, and we feel so bad.  Kevin happened to talk with a couple who's child is going through treatments, and they were telling him how chemo really affects the personality.  I guess it messes with the hormones.
I must say thank you to Kevin who has been the one staying at the hospital this time, as I have been coming home and spending time with Tom.  Also, to my mom who has been an amazing help while she's been here.  I know I don't say thank you enough, I'm planning to get better at it really quickly!
I so enjoyed my evening with Tom last night.  We talked a lot and he, on his own, came up with the idea of creating a logo he wants to have put on a golf hat he can wear while golfing this year. (Tom mentioned how Phil Mickelson has a breast cancer ribbon on his hat, to support his wife and mom.)  He would also like to share the logo with others that would be interested.  If anyone knows anyone who would help us do that, it would be awesome.  The most costly piece is usually having the logo digitalized so it can be reproduced/embroidered.
I am amazed at how quickly news spreads.  We've heard from friends all over the world.  It is unbelievably heartwarming that people who have never met Aly are so compassionate and willing to help.  THANK YOU!