Hi, Marcia here, guest blogging for Gary. Here’s a bit of an update on the situation.
It’s unfortunate that Gary’s new stomach did not come with an owner’s manual, as eating is a bit more challenging for him this week than it was last. This, of course, is frustrating, especially since there doesn’t seem to be much rhyme nor reason as to which foods work and which foods don’t. For example, things he tolerated well last week have given him trouble this week.
They met with Dr. Tseng today and everyone agreed that the second round of chemo should be postponed until Gary is feeling better. No one seems to be concerned that waiting will be a problem.
He will soon be off the TPN and graduate to tube feeding. It will be a new routine and process to get used to, but hopefully he won’t feel so cold all that time when chilled substances aren’t being pumped into his body.
It goes without saying that this is no fun for either Gary or Anne. We know things will get better, but for now, your continued thoughts, prayers, and positive energy are appreciated. They have both been so touched by everyone’s kind words and deeds.
I suspect we think of the surgery as the hard part but it’s the recovery that’s often toughest. Sending many more prayers and positive thoughts your way!
It’s a long haul, huh, trying to get the new machinery working properly. I hope any incision-like spots are healing nicely at least! I’m wondering why they didn’t have you try just one food at a time – like chicken broth for a week, or apple juice. Then add one food at a time over several weeks. At least that’s what you do with babies whose stomachs are pretty new. Thanks for keeping us all informed. Hopefully there will be a breakthrough with a major improvement soon! Keep the faith!
Hi Gary,
For the past couple of days, whenever I have a minor disruption in my routine, I’ve been thinking about your daily routine and how well you seem to be dealing with it–and I feel ashamed! I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that you will gradually start feeling better, your stomach will begin stretching, and you’ll be able to eat most things–even Hawaiian pizza. I’m sorry that you have to go through this, but I can tell you that, if it was me, I wouldn’t be half as positive and gracious as you’ve been. Ask Linda–she’ll verify that! Hang in there.
Hugo
The surgery is easy, you sleep through it. It is the recovery that makes your life miserable. Thanks for the prayers and positive thoughts, they are greatly appreciated.
The incision areas are healing very nicely. It was nice having a variety of foods, even though some didn’t work as well as others. It’s all trial and error. Eventually we’ll get it right.
Things are getting better. When there is some new medical contraption to figure out at the last minute, or some complication, it becomes difficult to focus on that. But it is true. Things are getting better.