What a difference a day makes. Jen is doing much better. Yesterday afternoon she gave me cause for concern when she really seemed to take a dip, but by the time the doctor came by 20 minutes later she had already bounced back. The doctor thought she was doing well. Apparently the swelling post surgery usually peaks about 3 days afterwards and the doctors expect that she may have peaks and valleys for the next several days.
Jen is also experiencing some side effects from the high doses of steroids she is on. She has some increased irritability and erratic mood swings - which are common from the steroids, although even that seems to be much better today. On a positive side, in spite of the steroids which raise glucose levels a lot, due to Jen's diet, her glucose levels have been remarkably good. Four years ago after Jen's biopsy, the hospital had to constantly chase the steroids with insulin in order to keep her glucose in check. Now, even on massive doses of steroids her levels are great. The nurses are all amazed by it and keep inquiring about her Keto diet.
Jen is walking about with a walker and we are getting her up and about for brief walks throughout the day. Her balance is improving as well as her speech. Jen finally got the bandages removed from her head and everything looks to be healing well. With the bandages off Jen was also finally able to put her glasses back on and see! Last night on Jen's birthday we were able to watch a movie together.
Due to the holiday weekend, she probably won't get transferred to acute rehab until at least Tuesday. Jen is feeling up to having visitors now. We welcome anyone on either Sunday or Monday between 2-8 pm. She is at City of Hope in Duarte. She is in room 4133 in the west wing of the Helford Bldg.
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