Edema and Laryngitis

Well after two ultrasounds, one by the transplant team and the other by his Primary Care Physician (PCP) - Ron does not have a blood clot in his left leg.  The swelling has continued for numerous weeks.  They did prescribe support hose (I know, it's creates a funny picture in my head).

The transplant team doesn't believe it has anything to do with his transplant; but I have read one of the odd side effects of his anti-rejection drugs is swelling (edema).  Since Ron had neurological issues present when placed on both Prograf and Cyclosporine - Rappamune is his only choice.  His blood levels are great and we certainly don't want to risk a rejection.

The transplant coordinator, Caroline, suggested Ron may have venous insufficiency; laymens explanation - blood goes through the valves to his foot - the blood gets stuck - and its unable to get back to the heart (the support hose will help with circulation).  Of course, I'm worried about a blood clot forming - but was told its not likely to happen.  I'm not sure that's enough reassurance for me.
 
Yesterday morning Ron awoke with 'no voice'; he felt fine, just couldn't talk (raspy).  This morning Ron told me he doesn't feel well - so he'll call for an appointment with his PCP.  We certainly don't want a simple laryngitis to turn into a visit to the hospital.  The anti-rejection drugs suppress the immune system.
If Ron does need antibiotics - the prescription must be cleared by the transplant team.

It's been an amazing journey - we are blessed.

A good use of a calendar

Calendars are great - every doctor appointment - added to the calendar (you can only imagine what our calendar looks like).

Tonight we were sitting talking about a doctor appointment I have scheduled tomorrow...........and Ron said, "Hey, I wonder when my PET scan appointment is?"........I joked and said, "Gosh, I hope you didn't miss it?" 

He checked THE CALENDAR - his PET scan is scheduled for TOMORROW @ 8:00am in Marietta (all the way across town in Atlanta rush hour traffic).

When Ron experienced pain 13 days after transplant - an MRI showed a bile duct leak and a mass on his lung.  A few days after the duct repair surgery; a biopsy showed a benign mass.  Due to all the anti-rejection drugs he's on - IF there's a  'seed' of cancer anywhere in his body - it will "sprout like flowers in the springtime" Dr. Johnson told us...............so, Ron is having a PET scan to verify there are NO OTHER growths in or on his lungs.  We'll get the results next Tuesday.

Thinking positive thoughts!