It was a busy day today - lots of visiting on different shifts as Marika's sister Gyongyi (say that ten times fast) arrived from Montreal. Mum continued to have a bad throat and is having trouble keeping things down. The very kind lady next door continued her words of support, stating that she was the same way a week ago and giving advice how to swallow Jello more painlessly (if such a thing could be possible - they do overdo it in hospitals, no?).
Gyongyi has years of experience in hospitals and set about getting the room wonderfully organized and cleaned. She was showering totally loving care on her sister and it was much appreciated. Lots of Hungarian flowing in the room, too, a nice nostalgic sound for Vicky and me (and maybe for Dad, though the verdict is still out on that one). Mum got more of the spa treatment - nails, eyelashes, and eyebrows. Lips, alas, have to wait until some of the swelling from the treatment goes down.
Mum will be starting a five-treatment series of radiation on Tuesday morning. This will be to focus on lessening the effects of the cells in the cerebro-spinal fluid, hopefully preventing them from latching on to parts of the brain and inhibiting whatever related functions are associated with that area. Fortunately the side effects from the radiation are far more minimal than those from the chemo - the nausea should be well controlled by some medication they will give her, and the tiredness that often goes with this is already present and will likely not be exacerbated. We're all hoping Mum will be back to her lively self once this throat challenge is overcome.
Good news is that her white blood cell count is much higher and that is helping her to heal more quickly. The MRSA is still present but we are waiting for tests that could mean that visitors don't need to wear masks - they will still need to suit up in the super-stylish yellow disposable gowns that we've been sporting.
Mum continues to be thrilled by your comments, and her room is starting to fill up with drawings from kids and cards from friends.
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5 comments:
Dear Marika, I said I would try no more after the last try(5th) but I have to send you love from Jennifer,Erin,Taylor and paul and myself. We're thinking and praying for you always.
Last night we went to hear a North Vancouver group of 4 ladies called "August". They had written all the songs themselves. They were very upbeat and enjoyable. We thought of sending you a disc, I'm sure you would enjoy them.Mark could you let me know if it would be a good idea. With all our love.p,s,j,e,&t
Hi Marika,
How wondereful that Gyongyi is with you. She has so much experience with hospitals. I had a long talk with Katherine. She has been trying to send you a message, but I don't think that she has mastered the technology because i don't see it on the website. There are so many messages--it looks as though all the world were your friends. Did I tell you about my experience at Carleton? The defence went v. well. Deborah Gorham was the internal examiner & Barbara Freeman was on the candidate's committee. We reminisced about you & the SdB institute.
I am sending waves of healing love your way. Can you feel them?
Barbara.
Dear Marika,
Busy days with the 'Madronas'! The show continues to be well received downtown. Many people have come in to see your work. Those who have not been made aware of your blog, we have given them the information.
The Hone and Garden Tour on Sunday at Bonny's house was truely interesting and fun. So many people stopped to chat that I am afraid we didn't make too much progress on what we were painting!!
Yesterday the group met for birthdays and I sent photos to your email address. We MISSED you and saluted you with a glass of wine!! We hang the Goward House show on 25 Sept. which will run for the month until 29 Oct. Artists reception is 5th October. You will need to let us know what paintings we can hang for you!
We are all thinking of you every day and fly to our computers each morning for the latest news! Much love and hugs, Marsha
My Dear Friend Marika,
I have been sending you small messages each day, however being one step away from being a complete ludite the messages I believe were sent to your email address and not on the blog.
I spoke to Mark who is computer literate and doing a great job on the blog to keep us all informed about your progress. He told me the error I was making.
Each day the news sounds better.
It is wonderful that your sister is with you now. It is comforting to your friends to know that you have lots of loving support.
Love you lots Marika.
C.S
dear Marika,
just wanted to write you a quick note to say we are thinking of oyu, and are glad to hear you are somewhat better hope you are getting that scotch you wanted!! we are having a fantastic summer, or as my boss says, a "First Nations Summer", have to be PC you know! Logan is busy! working at Old Town Farm MArket and going to grade 8, he LOVES it!!! of course. Taylor is going to Volunteer at the SPCA, she still loves animals. With Love, Erin. Taylor and Logan
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