Okay. Here's the latest update.
In general, we've been very pleased with the MD Anderson experience, considering the circumstances. They provide the best care anywhere. The staff, from doctors, to nurses, to the blue collar staff. However, I almost lost it last night.
I had gone home last night around 8:00 to check on the kids and grandparents. In reality, I was making sure the grandparents had survived the day. But, I checked homework and got on to the kids for their low grades -- a 92 is low, right? After we got the kids to bed, I headed back to the hospital, 45 minutes away on a good day. Arrived around 10:40. Visiting hours end at 10:00, but the patients are allowed 1 overnight guest (which, of course, is me).
Flashback to June, our last foray into the MD Anderson complex....several nights in a row, I arrived after 10:00, even as late as after midnight. On some evenings,the security guards checked my ID, gave me an ID sticker, then sent me on my way. Other times, they just told me to go on up, without checking ID.
Return to present:
I parked at the Mays building, a sister annex to the main building connected by a skyway. It's cheaper and easier access than waiting for valet. However, all the entries from the parking garage to the Mays building were locked- dangit. I had to park valet at the main entrance.
When I walked in, I encountered the security guard and told him I was here to see Jennifer. He asked for the room number and my ID. He then proceeded to walk over to a phone to contact the hospital administrator and inform them of my purpose and to get permission to send me up.
Here's where I almost lost it: they asked me why I was coming in so late. I wanted to reply "Nunya," but I didn't think that would get me very far. So, instead, I said I had to go home to check on the kids and grandparents and I just got back. I did use a sarcastic tone (score one for me). The administrator was going to contact the nurses station and call the guard back with instructions. We waited about 10-15 minutes (him staring at me). She never called. He called back and was finally given the go ahead. Dang, that ticked me off. I don't fault either the guard or the administrator. The guard was doing his job and the administrator was doing hers....I was tired and didn't need the extra drama (insert Oscar Winning Performance here).
Ha! I made everybody read that sob story when I know you really care about how Jennifer's doing.
Here goes:
The endocrinologist came by yesterday and informed Jennifer that her calcium was borderline low (just below normal), and her PTH was in shock, so they'd have to keep a close eye on her to ensure her calcium doesn't drop -- very dangerous if it does. The symptoms we have to watch out for include tingly hands and feet, and numbness around the mouth and lips.
Last night, Jennifer had a couple of episodes of the tinglies, so they started her on a calcium and vitamin D supplement. The tinglies went away shortly thereafter.
We saw the endocrinologist twice today. The first time was a team member (awesome guy with a good personality ---not to take away from the others). He questioned us a bit on the episodes, and told us some general info...most importantly that they will try to get us out today. (Arkansas game here I come). The second visit involved the team lead (great person too). She informed us they will up Jennifer's dosage of calcium and vitamin D. Then we coordinated labs and clinic visits for next week. While at home, if Jennifer gets tingly again, she'll need to popp some heavy duty Tums or Rolaids with calcium. It the tingle doesn't go away in thirty minutes, she should pop some more and get to an emergency room...as quickly as possible. Great :-(
Anyway, it looks like they'll release us today. Now all we have to find out is who has control over this dang drain tube, which isn't holding its suction. If we can get that out, then all will be better. However, I have a feeling it's coming home with us for a day.
We are now waiting on a blood test and a final meeting this afternoon. Will keep you posted.
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