Mick McKellar Update -- Day +62
As expected, I ate too much Easter dinner, so we walked a half-mile or so down to St. Mary's Hospital and back this afternoon. The weather was sunny and 56 degrees, the walk was slow and careful, and we ended the walk on the front porch of the transplant house, rocking in chairs and watching the traffic drive by. Not exactly the Easter Parade, but a most comfortable ending to a nice walk.
Medically, today feels much like yesterday (except for the slight bulge from dinner). We have high hopes that my numbers will behave themselves. My feet and ankles barely fit in any footwear I brought with me, because (the doctor told me) the steroids can make your feet swell. If I lie down with my feet above my heart, the ankles return to normal in few hours. Once I stand up, they swell back up again. Mostly I shovel the mass into my "crop stompers" (winter slip ons) and we just walk anyway -- it seems to help a bit.
Eyebrows
Everyone seems to have noticed that, once again, I have eyebrows! Steroids have a tendency to add some flesh to one's face, and if my face had re-inflated without eyebrows, well -- move over Humpty Dumpty -- here comes the king's egg-head. I know it is vanity, but I like seeing them there.
My face has re-inflated a bit and most of the rash is gone. This is a dangerous time for me, because I could easily overlook some small change that is the harbinger of the next GVHD challenge. I am still becoming and change is normal.
Peace
When we rose this morning, and sun peeked out, I could feel the peace and joy of Easter. Even as Marian left for church (I cannot attend, especially crowded services), part of me went with her to Mass. Everyone was just a bit nicer and more talkative at breakfast and folks seem to be making an effort to smile. Many made plans to spend time with family who traveled to visit or live close enough for a short visit. All seems at peace here at Gift of Life. I swear I have heard fewer sirens and alarms than any day so far.
The brilliant blue sky outside our window hosts cottony galleons and whispy tatters of wondrous white touched with a delicate gold from the setting sun. Passing vehicles sound as if they are trying to be quiet as they roll by. I shall enjoy the peace and quiet tonight, and think kindly of all of you.
Your prayers for us power us on. Your good thoughts and communications bring us bit of home. God bless you all and Happy Easter.
Mick