December 14, 2010

Everyday seems to have it's ups and downs.  Although Pop Pop's numbers have been going up (that is until today), he still has his moments.  For instance we learned the hard way that he does not metabolize nor respond well to Oxycodone. It apparently makes him hallucinate and Dalaudid gives him tremors. Balancing his medications (accounting for their effects on his kidneys and BP) has been a battle, according to his doctor it is because of this his BP has been out of control. Two days ago, Pop Pop developed pneumonia (thankfully the doctors quickly and aggressively treated it, so it is not as bad as it could be) which has put a strain on breathing (a very important function).  Also he has retained an extra liter of fluid. The doctors are trying to eliminate the amount of fluids he receives because his lungs have water.

For the first time in days, Pop Pop's numbers have gone down.  He continues having difficulty breathing without the Oxygen.  The doctor has given him an idea of where he needs to be (physically) prior to being discharged and has again reiterated that he prefers for Pop Pop and Nurse Lucha to stay at the family housing around the corner once he is discharged.

Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau have been at Pop Pop's side daily, I know Mau has been a very big help to them both.  Twice this week Pop Pop has had a sleep over, once with Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau, and the other time with Eduardo.  Everyone has become very familiar with the hospital staff, personally I like the lady who calls Pop Pop "Papi" and Barbara who sets everyone straight (including Nurse Lucha...sending her to go see her doctors too).