Happiness is... no PICC line and a clean preliminary scan report!

We had a long day at the hospital again yesterday, with some unexpected out comes.

We had both the PET CT scan and the CT scan, which make a long day in themselves. As we waited to have routine lab work done, I noticed Ian's PICC line area was enflamed with an angry looking rash and immediately alerted the clinic that we needed someone to look at it.

That kicked things into high gear. In all likelihood it was just a reaction to the dressing adhesive, but there was concern a staff infection might develop. We weren't expecting to meet with any doctors, but ended up seeing three, including the head of the cancer center. They decided they'd better take a quick look at the scans and make sure they were good enough to remove the PICC line, which is how we ended up with it removed and being told that a first look indicates clean scans. Hooray!

Of course, there will be a closer look and other Dr.s to consult. The PET scan wasn't as clear as they would have liked because Ian came down with a nasty cold Monday and there were hot spots in his throat and a lung from that. Nevertheless, we are more hopeful than ever that Ian will not need radiation.

We will have final reports next Monday. And maybe then we can discontinue weekly drives to Stanford! Thank you all so much for your faithfulness to us during this time.

Blessings to all, Natalie

I had told Ian I wouldn't shave while he had the PICC line in his arm. If he was going to have to deal with that I would deal with the itchiness and warmth of a sparse beard. But now that he got out the PICC line I got to shave!

Ian likes me better with the scraggily beard!

Thank you for all your prayers and support!

David