Christine’s Caregiver Notes

Thursday Oct. 1, 2009

Melissa picked me up from the airport at 1:30 and we headed back home to her house. Melissa was excited to be out of Cancer Treatment Center, but cautious of increasing back pain. She made a list of errands that needed to be done and we were off. Around 3:30PM she stated that back pain was not subsiding and started to experience abdominal pain as well. We returned home for her to rest, she took temp (100.7) and she took 4mg of Duladid. We left for a Spa appointment at 5:30 and Melissa took another 4mg of Duladid. We returned home at 6 and Melissa decided she wanted to go to CTC b/c the pain meds we not providing relief and also fever. She was admitted approx 7:30pm and Dr. Abbas ordered antibiotics and 8mg of duladid to be administered through port-a-cath, as well as chest and abdominal x-ray. Dr. Abbas came to Melissa’s room at 9:45 and stated that he spoke to radiologist who stated that there may be slight chance of early PNA so he will administer antibiotic. Melissa’s temp has returned to normal, and will be given MiraLax to help decrease abdominal pain due to constipation.

Thoughts of my first day back here? I am so happy to see my best friend. Although her hair is thinning out, and she looks several pounds lighter, she’s still as vibrant and beautiful as she always has been.

Friday Oct. 2, 2009
Melissa was up most of the night on her comp, possibly becoming Nordstrom’s favorite online buyer She got a Benadryl at 6Am and slept until 8. She received Duladid and MiraLax as well as Relastore. We had breakfast then Melissa gave me a tour of the facility, which is very nice. She introduced me to everyone,….and I mean, she really knows everyone. Melissa seems to be the most popular girl here (and for obvious reasons). The alternative medicine Dr. came in and Melissa requested some acupuncture for her pain. We got pedicures and Melissa had her wig trimmed and styled. She asked Dr. He if it was possible for her to start therapy again (which he said yes). She will also be getting another dose of Lovenox? to possibly help preserve her eggs.

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Tags

• Lung Cancer
• Caregiving

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