What a difference a doctor makes...

Boy, was I a crab yesterday! I think my whole family was (is?) afraid of me. But then...

Docs came in this morning (infectious disease doctor, interventional radiologist and floor oncologists) and gave Nick the go ahead to be released today. His drain will remain in for now (although Nick is certain it isn't working) and will have continuous iv antibiotic 24/7 through May 16th. Next came in Dr. Gouw (oh, thank goodness!), with Katie, Grace and Spencer, the clinical trial guy. Trial is ready to take Nick and he signed the consent forms. We are working on pre-testing schedule as I type and Nick will begin treatment next week! I also asked Dr. Gouw what he thought "scalloping of the liver" meant. He smiled and said, "I don't know, I was going to call the radiologist to see what was really on the ct scan. I'll go call right now." He came back 5 minutes later explaining that something is pushing on Nick's liver, making a dent and causing pain, coincidentally where Nick is experiencing in his back right ribs. We all said a collective "ah....." since that appears to be the culprit behind his pain. This is cancer related, not infection related, so will keep a close eye on his pain level. Not sure what it is, but I understand Dr. Gouw so much better; maybe its because he really cares for Nick personally, as well as professionally.

So, I'm off to pack up Nick's room. We should be out of here shortly where Nick can finally be in his own comfy bed. I'll be trying to think of what nice to make for dinner as I try to make amends with my family and genuinely thank them for all their help through this week.

A special thank you to all of those offering prayers and support for Nick's well-being, including the particularly heart-felt prayer for Nick to have beautiful nurses while in the hospital (and he did, as a matter of fact).

With love,
Lori