A Routine Re-Visited

Today was Cathy's first 'post-transplant' clinic visit. We both enjoyed the cruise down to UCLA in the morning - sippin' coffee and listening to oldies. Prior to becoming to sick, Cathy and I used to make clinic days a little extra special by visiting a museum or having a special lunch after clinic. One of our favorite places to have lunch is a little diner in Toluca Lake, near the Warner Bros. and Universal Studios. It is a great place to people watch. I was a little choked-up as we walked into the diner together this afternoon. Cathy was also a little overwhelmed with the moment. The moment became even more special as I watched Cathy completely enjoy her patty melt. I could almost use the word Ecstasy to describe her expressions as her devoured the sandwich. (I guess my cooking this past week has a little ways to go before it compares to this diner's fare). Today alone made the past six months worth while: A warm & sunny So. Cal. day, a pleasant drive (read - no traffic), a good meal, and conversations about absolutely nothing.

Cathy is doing very well. She is tolerating her medication schedule well, her pain is manageable and subsiding, and her appetite is good. She is still dealing with numbness and tingling in her legs and feet. We are in a 'wait-and-see' mode to determine if this is a permanent or temporary condition. The pulmonologist at clinic today has referred Cathy for some additional physical therapy. Both he and the nurses at clinic were surprised to see Cathy walk into clinic today. Next week Cathy's G-tube may be removed and soon after the first of the year she will have the cancers removed.

We return to clinic next Monday - getting back into the routine.