Kath is in a semi private room and is resting as comfortable as possible. She has no fever now and the antibiotics seem to be working. Everyone was very attentive to her needs. As she has not been able to sleep on her back for over a month now, they brought her a selection of sleeper chairs to try out. It felt like we were in the Lazy Boy showroom floor. “how about this one? No? Let’s try this. Perhaps it’s better. What about this model?” They really want to help make her comfortable as possible.
Same with the pain meds. Usually the hydromorphone is the first line of heavy pain killer, but it wasn’t cutting it. But even worse, the side effects were quite extreme. Heavy sedation as well as other things like twitching and anxiety. So back to fentanyl, but in higher doses. Much better. It’s providing about the same or better pain relief, but it’s far, far less impactful on her consciousness which is nice for me.
People see pain and pain relief very differently and the staff here are wonderfully cognizant of it. Some people actually want the suffering for religious or philosophical reasons as they feel it brings them closer to their god(s). We are not those people. More importantly, its Kathleen’s choice how she deals with pain, not those around her. Obviously we both would like pain relief without the mental impairment, but the choice is not clear headed Kathleen in pain vs cloudy headed Kathleen not in pain. The choices are a) utter agony with Kathleen completely closed down to the world surrounded by the worst imaginable pain vs b) some impairment with pain control. Seriously, some people think a) is better.
Not sure when she will be getting out. The one doctor we spoke with today implied another bone scan is to come Tuesday or Wednesday. The MRI didn’t really show much other than disc degeneration in the lower back, but the amount of pain indicates something else. If it were a tumor they could zap it with radiation like they did in her shoulder/neck area. But they don’t know where it is or if it that. Either way, have to get to the bottom of it
—Mike 
in the cancer bubble 
Sending you both hugs and hopes for pain relief. Truly, the two of you are amazing in how you are handling this and how you support each other. Thinking of you this week as you go through this hospital stay.
Hi Kathleen and Mike,
I really wish you a pain-free night and hope that you are finding some kind of comfort away from that pain. You are both so very open, honest and incredible as you go through this journey and I just wish the utmost best for you with lots of warm thoughts and hugs your way. You are always close in our thoughts.
hugs to you,
Stacee and Isobel
Dear Mike and Kathleen,
Amazingly tailored care at the hospital re lazy boy showroom, pain relief options. Wonderful that Kathleen’s preferences in care are at the centre of decision making. Truly a progressive society. A relief to know that she is being well taken care of around the clock.
Love Judy
Dear Kathleen and Mike
We hope you had a more comfortable sleep . Also hoping the doctors can get to the source of this terrible pain very soon. Good news too that the antibiotics are working.
It’s snowing again this am, but coming straight down, for a change 🙂 but sun is predicted for Elaine’s trip back tomorrow. You are always in our thoughts, and hoping you can feel our positive vibes every day! Hugs, Colleen and Terry
Dear Kathleen and Mike. Hoping today is a better day for you both. Sending love and hugs to you both. Fran
Mike,
When my mom was dealing with Lymphoma cancer she was a total martyr and was always in pain. It was horrible to see and upsetting to us. Plus, it also puts stress on your body fighting through the pain.
Thrilled to hear the infection is going away and hope she’s feeling more comfortable. Kathleen looks great. Hope she’s found a comfy sleeping chair and is able to rest. Pain is also tiring.
Much love,
mo
Kathleen and Mike. I hope that both of you got some rest last night and that today Kathleen’s pain is under control. Big hugs to you both.