Update 4/4/2012

I have been waiting for some good news before posting an update. This morning I m able to do so. Although it is a baby step Gennie is responding more today. The respiatory doctor just left and said things were a little better today. They are going to run some test to see if it will be possible to remove the breathing tube in the next couple of days. Gennie is also much more alert today and reponding to comands. The doctor asked her to squeeze her hand and gennie did it. I showed her pictures of both grand children and the dog and she opened both her eys wide and her heart rate jumped. I swear I asked her if she felt any better today and she nodded her head yes. I am all to familar with the concept two steps forward and one step back. For now I will take joy in the two steps forward and deal with the one back hen it comes. The last few days has been very difficult. Watching her struggle and there being nothing I can do to help if terrible. The reports from doctors have been very guarded and low key. They have preparred me for the worst while telling me to hope for the best. They have a difficult job both in caring for the patient while dealing with the loved one. I try and make it ewasy on them but probably fail sometimes. There has been positive progress whith her kidneys, liver and now lungs. Yesterday they had a goal to meet with the fluid in her lungs and they say they met it. This is why she seems to be doing better. Now that they have the fluid under control the heart doctors may be able to start to deal with her heart issue. It is only operating at about 40%. The entire heart has failed not just one section. This is perplexing and will have to be dealt with. I have been told it may recover some on it's own but may not. The use of drugs to help will be considered after other progress has been made and in conjunction with the BMT doctors. Not to be forgotten about is the BMT itself. Right now we are waiting for engraphment. That is when the new cells start to work within her body. Today is day 6 and that typically happens around day 10 to 14. Her complications have caused some changes in her treatment. Mostly the use of some anti-rejection drugs has had to be modified. I am not sure just what has changed but some things have. I have been told not to worry about these changes as the doctors are well versed in these type of complications. As for me I have been surrounded by my kids, and my brother. The other day many of you helped move my belongings to Richomond and for that I thank you. Gennie's brother and my brother ,Bill, and sister-in-law have been upp to check on me also. My brother, Dave, has been here and still is. My brother, Chuck, hase offered to come anytime I may need him but I have told him I am fine. Last night was the first I was alone and I have to tell you it was difficult. I made the mistake of listening to some old phone messages Gennie had left me. It was difficult to hear her voice. Silly me. My job as caregiver has sort of taken a back seat while these porfessionals do there thing. I will be needed soon enough. There have been small things I can and have been doing to help here however. As always thanks for the thoughts and prayers. I hope everyone is doing well. That's all for now, Bob