Thursday, July 26, 2012

Day + 1

We are happy to have yesterday behind us and are looking ahead to the positive days!  A new journey and a new chance for Elena's body. We know it will not be easy, but we are thankful for this opportunity.

Last night, Elena worked hard and was able to complete every one of her jobs.  Her strong will and determination never cease to amaze us!  She went to bed tired, but happy. 

Overnight, the power of the chemo, radiation, and transplant took hold of her body.  Elena's pain pump was definitely put to work last night. With each hour, the pain got worse and worse. She suffered mostly from mouth and throat pain due to the mucositis.  It hurts for her to talk and swallow.  She also has developed a small cough from all of stuff getting caught up in her throat.  The mucositis will only get worse in the next week and will remain that way for about a week. 

Elena also started running a slight fever today.  This is not at all unexpected and is being treated in the same way all of her fevers in the past have been.  If this trend of needing additional medications continues, Elena will need a second pole to hold all of her pumps and pouches.  Not to mention a color coded diagram showing the maze of tubing she has guiding all of these things into the proper channels at the proper times.

Another complication tonight is that Elena appears to be retaining fluid. Despite having very little to drink and nothing to eat, Elena has gained weight in the past 24 hours.  Her face and feet are puffy. At this time tonight, there are no plans or explanations for why this is happening. We are praying that this situation will not worsen overnight. These symptoms can be signs of VOD. We are praying that this is not what is happening. Please pray that when we see the BMT team in the morning, we will have a clear picture of what is going on and if this is normal at this time post transplant or not.

Thank you for continuing to hold us up with your prayers!!
Praying tonight for peace in the waiting and complete healing for Elena.

In Him,
The Tates

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."
Psalm 143:8

7 comments:

  1. Praying for Elena

    ReplyDelete
  2. Praying for Elena, too.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Praying that today will hold improvement in all areas and rest and encouragement for Elena.

    ReplyDelete
  4. We are on our knees on your behalf. Calling to a Holy, Loving and Fully Capable God. "I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him and he answered my prayer." We love you!

    ReplyDelete
  5. I'm thinking about you guys while out here! Praying for sweet Lani Lou every day!! Xo, Maggie

    ReplyDelete
  6. Will continue to pray for Elena and you all. The will of the God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you!! Glynn Pilat

    ReplyDelete