Saturday, April 24, 2010

April 24, 2010

Derek's first two weeks of radiation are over; three weeks to go. His chemo treatment that was supposed to happen last week, was postponed because of the sores that seem to always appear after the 3-day regimen. These sores cause such discomfort for him that we were really hoping they would stay away this time. But come they did. Thanks to his Aunt Jan for giving Derek and Dave a home during these weeks, keeping her home sanitary (it always is), preparing healthy meals, and handling all the other stresses that come with this kind of thing. (Of course, being the Relief Society President gives her plenty of practice--or this will push her over the edge).
The radiation treatments take place at LDS hospital for only five minutes a day, and the chemo is administered at Primary Children's through an IV. So, next week when he does the week long chemo, he will be transported to LDS hospital each day for the radiation, then back again to PCMC. This doubling up of treatments will begin this Wednesday.
The good news is, because they postponed the chemo, Derek's immunity level is high, so he can socialize with friends and family. The sores are also going away, allowing him to eat "real" food, instead of drinking everything. He is in good spirits, and we are all doing well.

4 comments:

  1. Thinking of you, thanks for the update.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks for the update. I have been wondering how things are going.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I'm "over the edge" with joy that we can help! I was sad to see them go this morning. What? Leave for hospital fun without me?!! We'll clean up the place and welcome them back "home" with happy hearts! Derek is a dear and handles all things with humor and grace. He rocks! (And so does Dave, AKA Derek's sidekick.)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Man, Derek is pretty much my hero! I don't know how he does it! I hope things continue to go well and that the sores go away soon!

    ReplyDelete