Well, Detlef has now been in the hospital since Tuesday, January 3, 2012. We're talking 20 days in the hospital! I spent 7 1/2 weeks in the hospital once, and I can tell you that it gets old . . . . . real old. . . . . .
I talked with Karma yesterday, and again today, and we definitely have some updates for all of us who love and care about Detlef, Karma, Juergen, Dietmar, and Jennifer. The question for me is where to begin?
Yesterday, when I talked to Karma she said that Detlef had been allowed to go outside, which was just a wonderful, and exhilarating experience. When you are stuck in the hospital for a long time, being able to breathe the outside air, and see the sunshine, can do a lot for your outlook on life. This was definitely a memorable experience, and made him realize that he wants to have some time at home, even with the risk of infection.
So, the big news today, is that Detlef gets to go home tomorrow for 2 days before he starts his next round of chemo!!!!! Dietmar and Jennifer have turned their basement into a replica of Detlef's apartment, and it is ready to go. Karma also said that there will be a home health nurse coming to give him some pre-chemotherapy fluids, while he is staying at Dietmar and Jennifer's.
Detlef has also decided to move his therapy a little closer to home, at the Rock Creek Center. Doctor Kogel has already talked with an oncologist at that center, and things are ready to go. He does have the option of going back to the hospital where he is currently receiving treatment, if he doesn't feel comfortable at the new hospital. However, Karma said that if he has to have another spinal tap, he is definitely going back to the doctor in Denver, because he was amazing.
Detlef has been receiving a medication called Neupogen, which helps the body increase the body's immune system, and it is working. His immune system is doing better right now, which is why they are going to let him go home for a couple of days. His infection is currently under control as well. Also, according to Karma, going home will help his treatment by boosting his spirits, and make him feel a little more normal again. Chance will be staying at Karma's and Juergen's, but will come to visit while he is home at Dietmar and Jennifer's home.
Another piece of news, is that Detlef is losing his hair. Dr. Kogel let him know that it would happen at about 2-3 weeks after chemo started, and she was right. Karma said that they gave him somewhat of a buzz hair cut recently, but now when he rubs his head, he definitely is losing the rest. Karma said that she has taken a few pictures, but that they are going to take a whole bunch tomorrow when he gets home. I will post them as soon as I get them. I can't wait to see some pictures of Detlef with Chance. I told Karma that Chance did a lot to boost my spirits when I was there, and he isn't even my dog! What a fun, energetic, affectionate lab he is. Just throwing the ball, and having Chance chase it and bring it back should bring some major smiles from Detlef.
Karma wanted everyone to know how much the outpouring of love has impacted everyone, especially Detlef. So many people have sent cards, emails, and notes, that have lifted Detlef's spirits. Keep it up! Detlef loves to get text messages, pictures, e-mails, and letters from everyone. Even if Detlef doesn't text back, or call back, Karma said that he reads everything, and it really boosts his spirits.
We will probably be posting 1-2 times/week and if anything major happens. If anyone has any questions, feel free to e-mail me.
Love to all,
Lisa
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