Long day.

Sometimes it seems that Joe's body wants to create a little excitement just to make things more interesting. On Tuesday, Joe's platelet count was 10. He had a platelet transfusion. Yesterday, his platelet count went all the way up to 11! Today it was 9. Joe had another platelet transfusion. His body, after pondering a bit decided that things have been a bit boring. So Joe's body decided to break out into a rash after receiving the transfusion. It started out as a bit of itchiness in the neck area. Then some little bumps near the belly. Soon enough, Joe's whole front and back was bright red. Joe was in agony with the itchiness and burning. Then came some tightness in his chest, and nausea. Fortunately, some benadryl, solumedrol, and ativan fixed Joe up in no time...it also knocked him out. Joe thought he was asleep for about 30 minutes, but it was actually a few hours. There is absolutely no sign of the rash anymore, which is great. Joe got an EKG just in case. It was normal. A whole bunch of cute nurses were popping into the room to make sure that Joe was okay. He was being given the royal treatment. All is well now. Hopefully, Joe's body decides to behave better now. We were only at the hospital for eight and a half hours today.

His WBC is still low, low, low - just 51. Yet, Joe continues to avoid getting any fevers. Praise the Lord! He eats a bit here and there. Just enough to keep him going. And in case you're curious, Joe still has a full head of hair. It is stuck to his head like superglue. We're taking bets as to whether he'll end up losing it or not. Okay, maybe not. I don't want to be accused of encouraging gambling.

Just a friendly reminder, although we are thankful for the gesture, Joe is not able to receive fresh flowers and plants right now. Just knowing that people are loving and praying for Joe is the best gift ever.

Also, a certain day of a certain week, of this month is special. And although I like to acknowledge such things when I'm aware, this time I've been given strict orders not to say anything. So for those readers who know what I'm talking about - I'm not being bad and forgetful. I'm just obeying orders. And for those who haven't the faintest idea what I'm babbling about...that is good, because you're not supposed to. :)

Freedom!

Just wanted to let everyone know that Joe is out of the hospital!!!!! We still have to go back every single day for a month. But Joe is so happy to be out of the room he called his jail cell. According to his doctor, Joe's only on parole...but Joe will take what he can get!

Joe still doesn't feel like himself. I guess in many ways he is a new person now. Mostly he has no appetite (although he did try to tell me he wanted french fries...). This morning it was even tough for him to keep down liquids. According to the doctors an Ativan 30 minutes before meals might help Joe get some food down...although it will make dinner conversation virtually impossible. Also, each morning for as long as necessary Joe will get some IV fluids while in short stay. This way, we know he's not dehydrated.

Joe received even more cards today. He now has a stash of more than 90 cards, courtesy of West Penn and all of the amazing people who sent them. Thank you so very much for all of your love and support!

Day -3

Joe received the sweetest gift yesterday, and here he is posing with it! It is a baby blanket from Evonne, Thomas and Leah. Four years ago, Leah was born premature and had to stay in the NICU for 97 days. When the family was able to finally leave the hospital, this is one of the blankets they received. It has been a symbol of comfort and love for them as they also had an amazing network of people supporting them and praying for them. Now they've passed this blanket onto Joe. Beautiful, don't you think?

Joe was feeling much more nauseated last night. He finally accepted some Ativan, and was able to get his first good night of sleep since being admitted. This morning he was in much better spirits, although he still has a headache. Joe's definitely looking forward to watching some football today and tomorrow though! Also, his hem-onc friend Jay will be stopping by for a visit.