Not As Expected

The other day Jennifer wrote that she expected to continue our meds at home following the counts check at the clinic. Of course, she should know better than to EXPECT anything ESPECIALLY change. Today's quick visit at the clinic turned into a not-so-quick escapade at the hospital. Ugh.

Hemoglobin Woes:

The bloodwork from Carson's finger prick seemed...well, as the doctor put it, "odd". Carson's hemoglobin was low and it shouldn't be. So we went to plan B - get a sample from his port - but the results from that, an hour and a half later, were actually a little worse than the finger prick.

Why the low hemoglobin? It could be a result of lingering effects from delayed intensification or an unusual reaction to his current medication. They drew some more blood to send out for additional tests.

Because it was late in the day and the weekend was looming, we were given our marching orders: Don't pass go. Head directly to the hospital for a blood transfusion.

Back to our Second Home:

We arrived at the hospital around 4 pm...it was a lot like going to a school reunion. We visited favorite hangouts - the helicopter bridge, play yard, craft room (even though we don't do crafts!). Carson claimed his "hog" and rode around the hallways running people over. We were there over shift change and got to catch up with many of the usual nurses. Nurse Brooke even made Carson a Batman cape out of a disposable gown. Carson wore the cape as he rode the "hog" and it flapped in the wind. He was duly impressed.

The transfusion itself was smooth and we were finally set free a little after 9 pm. I pretty sure that makes this our quickest hospital visit ever. We'll take it!

It was nice to see everyone today. But it's even nicer to have everyone at home tonight.

An Important Reminder:

Every time we visit the hospital we meet other families fighting a similar battle as ours. Some are new acquaintances, some are old. Some seem to have an easier fight, some harder. For one family in particular, the fight has ended. Please keep them all in your prayers.

Paul.