This morning (Monday Dec. 1) we got up to finish the prep that we needed to do to head to the hospital for a week - including shaving my head - I didn't want to deal with the mess of it coming out naturally, we did not have the proper tools to take care of it last night and our attempt was feeble - so Great Clips it was!
We called the hospital on the way down to let them know that we were on our way and the chipper nurse on the other side said they would be ready for us.
We, with several bags: 2 computers, an xbox, clothes, work stuff for katie, pillows and blankets to make it homey and a digital picture frame (along with many many clemintines, which are Katie's diet during the winter). We kinda looked like we were staying for two weeks instead of just 5.
The room is pretty big, with a couch that folds out for Katie (or whomever wants to come stay) I also checked out the sololrium on the West side of the wing on the 11th Floor. What an amazing view! You can see the Denver Skyline and all the snow capped mountains. Too bad I won't be doing much skiing this year. I will make up for it next year.
I was disappointed that I couldn't get my XBox hooked up to the internet to enjoy more games and features however, due to hospital security (though we are not sure why it is less secure - I would rather move over a few buildings to the Childrens Hospital where they are undoubtedly dialed in to all the games they could possibly want) I suggested that I speak with the IT guru in the hopes of persuading them to change the settings on the wireless routers, but to no avail.
I was prepped for Chemo a little before 2pm - 4 drugs - including liquid benedryl. So when Katie went to get on a conference call, then came back, I was talking to with Tree and slurring my words... ready to Nap it out... I hadn't even had the whole IV of benedryl yet (it came pretty fast!) Then came the chemo... today it is Pacitaxel... which will take 24 hours to empty the I.V.
When I woke up, I was ready for a full meal! So we ordered room service and went down the the cafe to feed Katie while we were waiting for the food to come up. Yes, WE - I was fully mobile and encouraged to get up if I am feeling like it... so I joined Katie downstairs.
The only thing that is annoying now is the tubing in the drip keeps having an alarm that goes off and requires us to call the nurses several times - it is never fixed in just one try - so - things could be much worse but Katie really hates it!
We called the hospital on the way down to let them know that we were on our way and the chipper nurse on the other side said they would be ready for us.
We, with several bags: 2 computers, an xbox, clothes, work stuff for katie, pillows and blankets to make it homey and a digital picture frame (along with many many clemintines, which are Katie's diet during the winter). We kinda looked like we were staying for two weeks instead of just 5.
The room is pretty big, with a couch that folds out for Katie (or whomever wants to come stay) I also checked out the sololrium on the West side of the wing on the 11th Floor. What an amazing view! You can see the Denver Skyline and all the snow capped mountains. Too bad I won't be doing much skiing this year. I will make up for it next year.
I was disappointed that I couldn't get my XBox hooked up to the internet to enjoy more games and features however, due to hospital security (though we are not sure why it is less secure - I would rather move over a few buildings to the Childrens Hospital where they are undoubtedly dialed in to all the games they could possibly want) I suggested that I speak with the IT guru in the hopes of persuading them to change the settings on the wireless routers, but to no avail.
I was prepped for Chemo a little before 2pm - 4 drugs - including liquid benedryl. So when Katie went to get on a conference call, then came back, I was talking to with Tree and slurring my words... ready to Nap it out... I hadn't even had the whole IV of benedryl yet (it came pretty fast!) Then came the chemo... today it is Pacitaxel... which will take 24 hours to empty the I.V.
When I woke up, I was ready for a full meal! So we ordered room service and went down the the cafe to feed Katie while we were waiting for the food to come up. Yes, WE - I was fully mobile and encouraged to get up if I am feeling like it... so I joined Katie downstairs.
The only thing that is annoying now is the tubing in the drip keeps having an alarm that goes off and requires us to call the nurses several times - it is never fixed in just one try - so - things could be much worse but Katie really hates it!
11 comments:
Hi Allen! This news sucks - I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this AGAIN. Best of luck - I'll be cheering for you! Let me know if you need anything!
A-Lee,
You need to write a letter to your congressman regarding the internet access at the hospital. It's unacceptable........
Kevin
Weird, I'm eating a clemintine as I read this- I like that lady of yours! My heart is smiling to know you have this fantastic girl to hold your hand through all of this. Katie, I'm praying that strength and peace will wrap around you so you will in turn, be able to give Allen what he needs-like only you can.
A man without his Xbox.. I shudder at the thought! Lord give Katie strength :)
Oh, and I'm sure once the nurses get to know your silly nature Allen, they will be shipping you over to the Children's Hospital- ;)
Allen, I had no idea you were going through this. My heart goes out to you and your wife, Katie. Hope your hospital stay is short.
Sandi Kaiser Fortune
Allen, sorry to hear and our thoughts are with you. I have your biz stuff and I am doing my best at pitching, we'll talk more. We're hoping for the best for you & Katie. Cheers-
Josh
Allen,
So sorry to hear you are going through this again. Many prayers and good thoughts to you and your wife. I love your spirit. Keep your chin up!
~Lindsay
wow man, had no idea you were in for this.
Hope and heart are with ya!
-Zack
Hey Al,
I can't believe you're going through this again. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Katie. I hope all goes as planned and you're back home relaxing on Saturday. (By the way, I think you should keep your head shaved...very handsome) =)
-dt
Hey, Allen-
Not sure if you remember me, but I went to school with your bros Brian and Russ. So sorry to hear that you are going through this! Cancer sucks! I have been through it once myself and can't even imagine having to deal with this three times.
Sending warm thoughts your way for a speedy recovery and an X-box connection!!
Lynda (Fugitt) Espana
Allen, as I mentioned I had no idea and now I do!...Yes, it sucks and I am sure you are mentally way past this emotion...You will get through it and moving at top speed soon enough!....I know you have a solid support group but I am here man!...
-Frank
Hi Allen,
I think your attitude is GREAT, and that you are fortunate to have friends and a brother with little vanity who are willing to shave theirs heads in solidarity! Blessings to you and Katie, and your whole family, as you make this journey again. Third time is the charm.
Linda Laws
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