Irving (for those who knew him from college days) continues to be on track with his post-transplant recovery. By time I got in to see him, he had eaten a real, non-liquid lunch (including previously forbidden melon when in kidney failure), and taken a walk the entire length of the 2-winged ICU department. He was back in his chair when I arrived, complaining of being tired. "I have a new heart so I shouldn't be tired". I explained the rest of his body has taken quite a beating with surgery and tons of drugs, not to mention he has done very little walking in recent days. We were told that Day 2 is considered one of the most difficult, since the pain and activity levels are higher, and the pain meds are being decreased. Everyone promised Day 3 (Friday) would be much better.
Part of the recovery process involves him blowing in and out on a plastic device
(familiar to anyone who's had surgery). This is taking place every 4 hours, round the clock, so he is not feeling rested yet - who would?
He had fewer visitors today which worked out well - enough to keep him entertained but not wearing him out. A few close friends and family each day will make him very happy. Turns out I brought the wrong book today, but I don't think he had the energy to read yet!
Tomorrow I hear we get to start our training for his life as a transplant recipient: there is a binder of information about what we both need to know about all the new medication and how to keep his very suppressed immune system safe from infections. I think tomorrow we will be able to handle that.....would not have any sooner, and those experts at UCSF know that!
We are still in a state of amazed disbelief that this transplant has actually happened. I'm sure we will never take it for granted. Life was getting very difficult, and it will take us a while to realize all the experiences that will once again be available to us. I think every day will be Thanksgiving from here on!
It is race week, What did you expect? I say Bob won this one!!!
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