Doctor's Report

They did come around while I was still there, I've been busy since then, but here it is...

They are all very encouraged about his liver. His bili went down for the first time since he's been in. It was only about 2 points, but it's a start. The docs were smiling even, which isn't what they were doing a week ago...so I guess they're all excited they cured an old man from a rare cancer attack and get to write about it!!
In all fairness, I do have to appreciate Dr.s Martin and Haslem and their team. They have been willing to talk to us any time, they've been patient with my endless questions, and have shown hope and interest in Dad as a person, not just a patient.

His heart still looks good, so they're hoping with that up to 'speed' it'll help him get better faster.

His kidneys are still a bit of concern, but I believe that's to be expected because of his liver.
He did have more fluid 'output' than 'input' yesterday(that's a no-brainer when you're starving a man of water!!). And they did lift his fluid restrictions, but Dad still knows he can only have a bit of soda today to ensure he gets more tomorrow.
I wonder--if the docs knew that Dad has hydrated on soda for years if they'd let him go at it. His body may know what to do with that better than water (dang Dad, I've been trying to tell him to cut back for years too).
They also said he does need to get as many protiens in his body as he can. It's the protien that helps get the water out of his legs and lungs...and what his liver isn't making...so I think Dad realizes that if he has protien it means more soda. (Seriously, he's been obsessed!)

He was eating a yogurt when I left him this morning. He was also getting platelets (oh, and his platelets haven't been going up like they want them to...our spleen likes to think it needs them all, so it's hoging them right now...he got some yesterday too).

He told the docs he's a little frustrated (at least his admitting it!). I know he's tired of being in the hospital. He also asked them what the next fight was...I reiterated later that this IS the fight.

It is a much easier week knowing Dad is coherent. Still scary...but now I know why the Lord kept trying to tell me it would be okay, even when it seemed like it couldn't be.

Thanks for keeping up on my ramblings. It's a nice release of a bit of stress.
Once again, we love and appreciate all the love and prayers from all of you.