Monday, May 4, 2009

Bump in the road...

Unexpectedly, we update tonight from our old comfy room in the hospital. Maggie is "moderately" dehydrated and we recognized enough of the symptoms to make a phone call late this afternoon and set in motion a trip to the ER, which led to an admission. Ultimately, Maggie's diarrhea continues to be a problem, and it has probably gotten worse the past couple of days (it is definitely having a more substantial effect on her hydration than her regular chronic diarrhea does). Obviously, we are a bit disappointed to be here, but we are pretty convinced by now that it was necessary. She may have an infection on top of her chronic GI problems. We'll find out.

Maggie was not feeling well and she showed quite a few effects of the dehydration. She should be on track now as she's on fluids and was monitored closely while they waited for a few of her vitals to recover. She's resting really well; she slept our whole visit in the ER and has continued ever since. We were happy to see one of our old "float" nurses in the ER tonight--she had treated Maggie up here on the oncology floor several times and we liked knowing that she already knew Maggie and her situation.

We are also fortunate that Dr. French, Maggie's attending oncologist, is on inpatient duty this upcoming week (the 3 doctors rotate). He saw her all last week, so her recent issues and all of her treatment history will be fresh in his mind. We have been told to expect a 2-3 day stay, but maybe it will be more. We'll see what Dr. French says. Her hydration will need to be all the way better and her diarrhea should be managed a bit for them to discharge us. In the meantime, everyone is trying to crack the "diarrhea case" and they seem to have made it a priority for our stay. We'll keep our fingers crossed for progress and clarity.

We visited this floor about a week and a half ago--happy then to be in the position of "visitor," or even "graduate" of the inpatient part of treatment. Now, we're back. This has been a tough reality check for us emotionally. But, it gives us reason to continue to pray for no major problems (especially since Maggie's counts will bottom out sometime this week).

More to come. For tonight, It's time for bed.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry you guys. I'm sure you are emotionally drained. We are praying for you. I'll come by tonight for a visit when Paul gets home (around 6 or so) and I've baked you a cake. See you then. Hugs, Jess

Anonymous said...

I've got goodies for Maggie (including an absolutely amazing diaper rash cream for your doctor's approval), but can't get up there tonight. Will call tomorrow. In the meantime, glad that they're taking this seriously, sorry that you're on in-patient status and praying!

Debbie M.

Free Rein Art Studio said...

praying for you, Maggie and your family. I hope this hospital stay is short and they are able to give Maggie some relief.