Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Blood Clots and Chemo Update


Much has happened within this past week and a half. Last week Mama thought she had a reaction to the contrast dye used for the CT-scan. Her veins were prominent and blue in her left arm and she thought there was a swollen lymph node in her armpit as well. This caused some discomfort for a few days, but after a while it subsided and, therefore, Mama thought it was improving. However, on October 24th she decided to go in for an appointment to ensure everything was fine before chemo. While there, they discovered two large blood clots, one under her port and another in her basilic vein near her armpit. This caused some concern, especially due to its proximity to her heart. They immediately began daily Fragmin injections into her abdomen and Coumadin doses. She is improving and they have ceased the injections of Fragmin. She will continue with Coumadin as long as her port is in place.

Chemotherapy went as well as to be expected. We left for the hospital around 7:30 this morning. After completing her new daily routine at the Anticoagulation Clinic, we continued onto the Cascade Cancer Center where she eventually started the infusion. We tried to pass the time lightheartedly with board games, cards, jokes, and reading aloud to one another. We left the hospital around 1:30 and at this time Mama was experiencing some dizziness. She has been resting at the home, taking short naps, hydrating, and eating minimal amounts of applesauce and crackers. She is such a champion, and we are so proud of her.

I will further update as time passes. Her next chemo appointment is scheduled for two weeks from today, November 14th.  Thank you all for your prayers and continued support, especially with meals and care packages. Mama feels so surrounded by love. It has truly been a blessing.

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