So this update is from the horses mouth so to speak (it is Eileen talking). I am in awe that 48 hrs ago I was on the operating table with people sucking cancer out of my brain. So strange I don't even know how to process the thought. I haven't had any bad pain, just can't seem to get comfy. I have a string of sutures from above my left ear down behind the ear and I don't want to put pressure on them, so it is a bit of positional nightmare to get comfy (unless I am thoroughly looped on meds - which happens).
My care here at UCSF has been amazing! I don't have much to bitch about when it comes to the folks here (and normally I'd find stuff to complain about!). I have seen all sorts of folks, neurologists, neurosurgeons, pharmacists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, Neurosurgery ICU nurses (yes, they're that specialized and I think it makes it better!), social workers, folks to help me figure out how to get on disability while I recover, more nurses, patient care advocates, gurney rollers, MRI techs, food delivery folk, and more. Everyone has been pleasant, helpful and professional (even the poor ICU nurses dealing with my "impulsive neighbor" who kept trying to get up and rip out his IVs were gentle and kind -when I was ready to get up and scold him).
More later....gotta rest. Looks like I might be getting outta here over the weekend sometime...
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Hey, Eileen, great to hear from you directly! (Although we were all delighted and appreciative to get updates from Keith.)It sounds like you are making an amazing recovery. I'm sorry that you had to experience it, but they do amazing surgery these days, don't they? And I am so glad that you joined the trial.... it sounds like you are getting the very best care. Hope you can find a comfortable position soon... don't they have pillows with cut out sections...?
ReplyDeleteTake good care of yourself, and of Keith. It was comforting to all of us in far-away places, as well as for you I am sure, to know that Keith was with you for this harrowing week.
Love,
ann
So glad to hear that you've been getting totally top notch care & service and that you may be heading home this weekend!! Wonder if the physical or occupational therapist could help you figure out some way to get a comfortable position. Special pillows as Ann wonders? massage on those shoulder & back muscles that have been disturbed by the surgery? Hope each day brings some noticeable improvement. love, S&L (& purrs from Nona)
ReplyDeleteHey Eileen,
ReplyDeleteI wanted to let you know that Shelley shared the news about your operation with the staff yesterday. It was actually pretty funny the way it happened. Janet had done a collection for gifts for Randy and Ting and several of us had gotten up to serve a cake in their honor. So we're just starting to pass out this cake on "Celebrate 2008" plates and then Shelley shares the news about your operation. And everyone starts crying! I mean real tears! Everyone! Stan Nakamura! So then Janet, trying not to make this any more awkward for Ting and Randy who are just standing there ridiculously, says, "Okay, and now for cake!" And everyone is looking down at their fucking piece of cake and on this stupid fucking "Celebrate 2008" plates and nobody wants to eat the cake anymore, but they feel like they should for Randy and Ting, so there we all are, shoving this cake in our mouths and... well, it was a very PHS moment. The things you should take away from this: 1) You are very loved by your colleagues, and 2) If you need shopping or meals (on "Celebrate 2008" plates if you wish) or cleaning or... anything done, you have an army behind you at PHS.
Sending you all the best,
Rosie
Hi Eileen,
ReplyDeleteGreat to get the news of you from the source! Glad that you are up to writing on the blog so soon. Sounds like you're getting great service and with a smile as well. If the staff are pleasant, it makes a huge difference. Perhaps you'll miss some of the service but it will be good to get home I'm sure. Hope you can get some comfy nights of rest very soon. We are cheering for you from the Midwest, Ellen ps Wish we were closer so we could drop by to help out here and there, but it sounds like you have an army ready to descend on you at a moments notice.
Hi Eileen! Good to hear from you. I am so happy to hear such a great report. Yes, it is mind-boggling (sorry for that nail-on-chalk board level pun), but darn it, it is! Sounds like you have a veritable army of specialists inside and outside the hospital; that’s great.
ReplyDeleteI hope that you are sprung from the hospital this weekend and that you continue to see such improvement.
Love, Jane
They just don't let me post!!! Just know I am thinking of you TONS!!!! Feel better. Much love to you
ReplyDelete