Thursday, January 15, 2009

2nd Paracentesis, MRIs, and CTScan Completed

Deb had her paracentesis (abdominal fluid drain) Wednesday morning at 11am at Northside. They drained an amazing 5 litres which was twice the amount from last time. They also did a blood test ahead of time to be sure her levels were ok to handle the procedure. Results showed HGB at 10.6(L), HCT at 36.0(L), Platelet @ 497(H). When I went into the recovery room to get Deb, I could immediately tell that she was very pale in the face as result of the fluid drain. The nurse simply said that she removed as much as she could so Deb would not have to have the procedure for awhile. She sucked her dry!!!!! I then began to wonder if she took into account how weak and frail Deb was going into this procedure. Another lesson learned for next time…. Deb was very light headed when I was taking her to car in her wheelchair and I had to stop a couple times in hospital so she could drink some more water. She did great at home with her Mom Bonnie drinking plenty of fluids to replenish her body and definitely feels much relief in her abdomen. She slept fairly well last night and was able to get up by herself in the night without my help.

Overall, the procedure was a success and hopefully will be a while before this will have to be done again. We now have completed all the planned testing/procedures scheduled thru Dr. Yaffe for January (MRIs, CTScan, Paracentesis) and are still waiting results from MRIs and CTScans. Deb is now in a rebuilding phase for the next several months with our goal to build up her strength, weight, and energy levels.

To all of you,
It is important to us to remind you from time to time how much you have helped Deb maintain her quality of life at home with all the continued calls, cards and of course scrumptious weekly Highlander and Keheley meals! Please know that you all have added much love and care to Deb during her new journey in life. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of the Deb’s extended family. I cannot tell you enough on how much difference your love and care for Deb has been wonderful medicine to keep her strong thru her daily journey.

KTS and love to all,
Rod

We love our bracelets and surprises Paige, Ingrid and Paul. Thank you!

The only thing I hear is the beating of your heart
Faith Hill

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Deb, I will be by on Friday with dinner. I will make you some more soup to help warm up your tummy! You hang in there and keep strong. Your friend, Julia

Tara Mansfield said...

Hi, Deb! I know it's been some time since I've seen you. (The wild & crazy Fur Bus, to be exact!)
Anyway, I just wanted to say hello and tell you that I love'ya! You have always been such an inspiration to me in the classroom. And now, in the midst of your toughest challenge yet, you continue to inspire me with your bravery and courageous spirit.I am so proud of you! I am keeping you and your family close in my heart and will continue to send lots of positive energy and bright, healing light your way. Love you lots!
Tara

Anonymous said...

Hi Debra,
I think about you so much and always ask about you every time I see or hear from anyone at Keheley. I remember all the times you came to me with your caring concerns for your students. Now we are all caring and concerned for you. Stay strong and let the love of your wonderful husband, children, family and friends give you peace.
Love you,
Carolyn Emond

Anonymous said...

Hi Debbie, I got Rod's card today. I'm so sad that I hadn't been in contact in a while and didn't know what you're going through. You know, I love you and I am so sorry for your suffering. I wish I could do something to help, so I'll do the only thing I know to do...
I'll pray.
Love you Friend!
Pam