On Saturday it became clear that Betsy was continuing to struggle with the blood infection and was dehydrating. She was running a fever, not retaining fluids, and had serious full body chills. After speaking with the on-call oncologist, we decided to go to the ER at Lovelace downtown (around 5:30pm) to receive IV fluids and run blood tests. Betsy's energy was depleted as the evening wore on. Additional tests were run including a CAT scan, chest x-rays and abdominal ultrasound then she was admitted into the hospital around 1am on Sunday.
(From what I gather, blood infections sometimes occur in cancer patients receiving chemo because the body's white blood cells get knocked out by the chemo leaving little defense against infectious agents. The additional tests were run to determine the source of infection, to rule out pneumonia or internal absesses.)
Today Betsy was doing better. She received saline, potassium and antibiotics intravenously. Her appetite returned and she was able to eat some lunch. Radiation treatments are on hold now until Betsy's strength returns and the infection is gone. Betsy is grateful for all the support and messages wishing her a speedy recovery. Please feel free to leave her messages here and they will be relayed to her.
--Irene
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2 comments:
Betsy, I'm glad to hear this morning that you are back home from the hospital. I hope being there did you some good. I know it's been a terrible week for you. Please know that I keep you in my thoughts, as we all do. My best to you. - Greg
Betsy,
I just found out about this site and find it wonderful to keep up on how you are doing. Sounds like you are feeling a little better, but have had a rough time recently. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Let me know if I can do anything to help. Positive thoughts going your way!
Jill Brown
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