November 20, 2010

We have had some good news in the last couple days. Mom was discharged from the hospital on Thursday evening. She's been feeling pretty good and has regained some use of her left leg. Her left arm has some sensation, but she's not able to use it. She has had a great appetite since she got home, which I think has made her feel better, as well.

The MRI that was done earlier this week has shown progression of the tumor. The surgical team has decided that due to the size of the tumor, surgery nor gamma knife are viable options. Basically, we're left with chemotherapy for the time being. There is also some swelling on her brain, which may be what has caused the most recent seizure. She's taking steroids for the swelling, and this has an effect on her appetite (increasing it). The initial paralysis in her leg has dissipated and she's able to shuffle to the bathroom and upstairs to bed with assistance. The x-ray that was performed to determine her ability to swallow came back clear and she was cleared to eat and drink. The therapist wanted to limit her diet to soft foods, so we've been trying to accommodate that. She's been able to take her medication by mouth since she was released from the hospital which is also helpful. They had been giving everything via her PICC line which is very time consuming, so we're glad she's able to swallow the pills.

Her spirits continue to be high and we're gearing up for Thanksgiving. Again, we have much to be thankful for. Mom really scared us this week, but she's proven again and again what a fighter she really is. We're fortunate to have another Thanksgiving together as a family. The doctors may have run out of options, but we know that our God is very capable. Continue to remember all of us in your prayers. Happy Thanksgiving!