Really, when I think I have seen it all in terms of level of care and support, the staff at Grand River Hospital one up themselves. It seemed like half of the hospital was involved to help get Kathleen through her MRI. Nurses, techs, Radiologists, pharmacists, doctors. They got as much pain relief and sedition as safely possible, timed it all as perfectly as possible… Sent additional staff down into the MRI lab to inject more pain meds half way through– all so they could get an image and hopefully get to the bottom of what is causing the pain. If a tumor, irradiate it. If infection (discitus), treat it with specific antibiotics. If physical, they said they would even get an orthopedic surgeon to look at finding temporary pain relief. Wow. Thats all I can say. And of course, delivered with the utmost compassion, care and kindness. I would love to mention everyone’s names, but for privacy reasons I wont here.
And wow! is all I can say to all the emails, pics, videos and cards people have sent. They really do help get us through this difficult road. Each email, note, pic, video, when added to all the other emails, pics, videos and cards combine to a very warming foundation of support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for that. It really brings us a smile that we have such a wonderful community around us. I will include this one particular pic from her service club which I think is ok to post here. 
After all that, a very generous and sweet stylist came and cut Kathleen’s hair, Jess/Jenn. Interesting story around her name.
On the medical front, Kathleen is technically considered to have pneumonia as there is fluid in her lungs right now. Having so much pain medication pushed into her, and then the attending saline to flush the meds, has caused her to accumulate a great deal of fluid throughout her body. Third spacing its called. (I think she is on ‘forth’ if there is such a thing.) She describes her legs as elephant trunks. She refused to allow me to take a picture, so here is an artist’s conception approximating how they look.
As you can see, they are quite large! I still love em. But I think she needs some moisturizer. More meds to deal with it slowly and gently. No results from the MRI yet. We will hopefully get something tomorrow. In the mean time, the pain is definitely down from its high point which is great. But its still to the point where she can only walk a few steps. It was a physically and emotionally exhausting day for her, but its one in the win column… on many fronts.
—Mike 
in the cancer bubble 
we all love elephants ! What a treat to get someone to do Kathleen’s hair. Must have felt great. I’m glad to hear that you were able to complete the MRI and hopefully they can get to the answer of where the pain is coming from. We’re all thinking of you Kathleen. Hope you’re feeling well enough to go home soon!
Yay, thanks for sharing the news. I can’t believe they styled kath’s hair. That is so nice! I have to admit, I’m really impressed with the care she’s been getting. Definitely not how the healthcare system is portrayed in the us press. Mike, your post yesterday broke my heart. So glad today was a better day. I am in awe at how well you write and how open you are with your thoughts and feelings. Thank you so much for that.
Kathleen, keep hanging in there. Hope they get to the bottom of the back pain ASAP and its not too hard to fix. I cant get over how you always look great in the pictures. Love you lots.
Mo
You must feel great having your done. It always make us feel good to freshen up. And as for the elephant legs….don’t they have really great memories and are true and compassionate animals. Yup I think you possess those qualities cuz. You to Mike but I think you now have Ostrich legs and they a quite sexy too. Have a good day. Praying for good results from the MRI. Enjoy the picturesque snow.
Dear Kathleen and Mike, Without a doubt you are getting the care, compassion, expertise and treatment for which you are so deserving. For all you do for others and for all the thoughtfulness and kindness you so freely share with the special people in your life, it is indeed what you are most worthy of receiving. Kathleen, it is wonderful to see the love and support that surrounds you. How special for you to get your hair done … you are always so well put together. From a beautiful snow covered Ottawa, I send lots of love your way and hope that today is a better day for you. ❤
Pleased to hear yesterday nothing striking on the MRI report and that your pain has lessened somewhat. Hopefully your Medical Team can still get to the bottom of its source. And yes, another great pic of you Kathleen, getting a new Do! What a beautiful compliment Mike in your writings to all of your support group there, and it is so comforting to know you both are in such good hands all of the time. Thinking of you all early this first day of the month, a new month with the promise of Spring around the corner. Positive vibes always!
OMG, Love those legs! Love your humour! Love you two! Love from thunder bay, jan