Marian and I walked to the hospital today, so I could receive two units of whole blood (or packed red cells) to help bring my hemoglobin levels up once again. We had a nice, if a bit slow walk. Concern over my stability caused Marian to first take my arm and then to hold my hand.
It must have warmed a few hearts (and tickled a few younger ones) to see an older couple tottering along holding hands.
Tomorrow is another "day off" -- a day when I am not scheduled to visit the hospital or the Mayo Clinic (closed). So, we shall sit and wait for the next set of symptoms to show up. The cough syrup with codeine seems to help control the hacking cough caused by the pentamadine treatment on March 10, but I still get some paroxysms that rock my world -- especially at night. It reminded me of waking up to an asthma attack when I was much younger, so I wrote a poem about it that I will also post tonight. It is pretty dark.
On our walk back from the hospital, this evening, I stopped to rest on a seat in the subway system and catch my breath. A family with a small boy was hurrying past, when the little guy tugged his hand loose and walked over to me with a quizzical look on his open face. He pointed directly at my mask (touched it actually) and asked: "Where's your mouth? Where did your mouth go?"
As I tried to explain to the little guy, his embarrassed parents dragged him away. Rather than shout, I just winked, pulled down the mask for a second, and grinned at him. It was worth it for his return smile. I understand Mom and Dad were likely in a hurry, but it was a shame to lose such a teaching moment. I love that kids can be so open with their questions and are not embarrassed by another's need for an assistive device.
Then again, I do resemble a large, un-made bed, wearing a mask. Maybe I frightened them. Too bad, but I'm a friendly frump.
Well, fatigue has once again caught up with me. We received three nice cards today -- a good day at the post office for us. Thanks for the cards, prayers, e-mails (some nice long ones - like letters from home), the good thoughts and your support. I honestly believe I am healing faster because of your great and powerful support.
Thank you so much, and God bless,
Mick