Day 5 – Off Isolation

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Hi all – I’m here with Sally at MSK tonight. Nicole went home to see the boys, her first time leaving the hospital since she arrived Monday morning. It is a much needed break for her and know the boys were looking forward to seeing their Mommy. She’ll head to work tomorrow for the day, so I’ll be here with Sally through til the evening and our friend AnnMarie will be with the boys.

Sally was taken off isolation today as the incubation period for her cold is over. It was great to be able to get her out for a walk around the hallway, all of the staff saying hi to their Sally and were so happy to see her. It was the first time in over two months since we last did our laps around the floor. It’s a bit strange, but there is a comfort being here as we spent so much time on this side of the floor over our first two months of treatment. We know and love the inpatient staff, we have the drill down and the menu memorized.

One thing that’s different is most of the patients and families are strangers, although that’s a good thing in ways. I was just thinking how I probably wouldn’t see any of the kids we know well while we’re here. As I was readying Sally’s supplies for the night I found these two pieces of artwork by Scarlett and Cami in the kitchen, two of our our little friends who we saw too much of over on this side of the floor. It brought a smile to my face as Cami has been home with her family for weeks now and Scarlett was able to fly out west to see family for Thanksgiving this week.

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Still, we’d much rather be home. The nurses on this side of the floor always say “We love to see ya, just not over here.” That statement rings more true every time we’re admitted.

So Sally’s counts are still bottomed out,which means she’s stuck here until she starts producing her virus killing neutrophils. Nicole and I are losing hope that it’ll happen before the weekend is out, and are beginning to plan coverage for both Sally and the boys next week when I return to work. She’s also still not herself, I didn’t get one smile tonight and she just wanted to be held and bury her head in my chest.

Just as we were starting to get into a groove, cancer reminds us yet again who is in charge. Please keep Sally in your thoughts and prayers.

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Matt

5 Responses

  1. pat friel
    pat friel November 29, 2013 at 11:37 pm | | Reply

    Matt and Nicole, I have been following your updates from the beginning and I want you to know how much everyone appreciates reading them. Your children are beautiful and my heart aches for all that each of you are going through. I know God’s angels are watching over your sweet baby.

    I am Lauren Murphy’s grandmother and want you to know how much respect she has for you Matt, and if she were well she would be right there helping you and Nicole. Please know that I am thinking of all of you and praying for all of you each day.

  2. Patti Kiley
    Patti Kiley November 30, 2013 at 12:07 am | | Reply

    I am following you closely from Houston as well. You are in my thoughts and prayers. How wonderful to have such united, strong support.. You are an amazing family.
    Patti Kiley, Rick’s Mom

  3. Bob and Karen Hoppe
    Bob and Karen Hoppe November 30, 2013 at 7:54 am | | Reply

    One day at a time, Matt…one day at a time….

  4. Marie
    Marie November 30, 2013 at 8:35 am | | Reply

    Sweet Sally is always in my thoughts and prayers, and forever in my heart. Glad you got to spend time with your Family and remember I’m always here if you need anything. Love to all.xoxo

  5. Donna
    Donna November 30, 2013 at 8:36 am | | Reply

    I will keep Sally in my prayers. I am heading to Sloan this week with my son who returns for a second transplant. I feel your pain in my heart and know how difficult it is to wait for those counts to come back. There is a certain comfort up he able to at least leave the room. Every step is precious.
    Stay strong for Sally. Just being there with her is her best medicine.

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