Holding Steady!

We are still at the apartment in Omaha, but have managed to stay out of the hospital so far.  Fred has been running a low grade fever for days, but we keep the team updated and they don’t feel it is high enough to run a blood culture yet. So, we will continue to monitor it.  He has home health care come by 3x a week to draw blood, check the wound and run vitals for the hospital.  We are really lucky that Fred's nurse, Sarah, who works for the company that contracts this service happened to have worked 7 years at Nebraska Med transplant program, but on the pediatric side.  She has a lot of knowledge, experience, compassion and great understanding for what Fred is going through.

Fred is still dealing with a lot of water retention, pain and sleep issues.  We are working toward resolution with some modifications to his meds and scheduled PT three times a week.  His physical therapist has recommended some positions to help relieve the pain and has shown me how to massage his back extensors for myofascial release.  This seems to be helping.

Fred and Carmen chilling on the rooftop patio at our Omaha apartment.

More good news:  my childhood friend, Carmen, drove up from Texas Thursday and arrived last night.  She is staying close by through Sunday night.  Carmen brought Fred a bunch of movies, a book on Triumph motorcycles, veggies from her garden, and some Southern comfort food to help with the appetite.  Best of all, she warmed his heart, moved him to tears, got him to smile [a lot!], and has been a huge comfort and help to me!  Love you Carm!
Speaking of love, I almost forgot a huge shout out to Jeanette!  She has sent the most amazing postcards with little bits of love and inspiration ... daily.  We really look forward to popping by the leasing office for our mail and we love you (and Ricko) to pieces.  A big thank you also for the gifties!  You are too  kind.

Hoping to update you all again, soon.

xo