Improvement is the name of the game

August 24 was a better day... Rod's temp stabilized at normal. No more fever! The culprit for the infection was found- C-Diff. At 5:00am, the targeted medication for C-Diff, Flagyl, was started. In a day or so, the Flagyl should knock down the infection. And, Rod's WBC count is super high today, fighting this infection.

Dr. Shelton stated that Rod is improving and she is very confident that all will be well soon. Rod was concerned that getting the infection was a big set-back, but she assured him it was not. Almost 100% of BMT patients have some problems or issues afterwards. Dr. Shelton says she is not worried and that Rod's infection will be cleared up in a couple of days and he can be discharged back to the apartment we are all staying at while he recovers.

The staff has been enormously helpful and we feel that Rod is in very good hands. Our favorite nurse has been Kelsey. She is as sweet as can be and just totally delightful.

Tonight, the 3 of us Skyped with Dr. Eva Clark (Rod's oldest daughter), who is in Bolivia conducting a medical research project on the Chagas parasite. Infectious disease is her specialty area. Joan and Sue had never Skyped before, and found it to be a really great way to communicate! Seeing and talking with his daughter LIVE helped cheer up Rod a big bunch.

And, finally, some photos!

First- Rod, Sue, and Joanie taking laps. Notice how skinny Sue is.

Second & third- Dr. Shelton discussing with Rod the progress he is making.

Fourth- Our fav nurse, Kelsey, checking Rod's vitals.

Fifth- Joanie and Rod are tuckered out.