Mark has started another phase of his recovery, the rehab phase. He stood up yesterday at the side of the bed for 5 minutes and we planned to take a few steps this morning. However, he was too weak and had to lay back down. His hemoglobin is 7.8, for you medical types, which is anemic for you non-medical types. Surgeons, in my experience, don't transfuse until there are vital sign changes, so this may not get better for a while. On top of that, the leg is starting to hurt more. He can't put weight on it for a few more days and can't sit in a chair for at least 2 weeks. To get up, he has to roll out of the bed with the help of 3 people.
This is going to be a hard slog. Although Mark is still in good spirits, it is difficult. We were talking this morning about the post from Iptay, about how we can continue to keep our spirits up. Well, the short story is that we take everything day by day and even minute by minute. If you look down the road and all you see is potential for pain and suffering, you will lose it. If you say, "okay, this isn't so bad", or even better: "hey, this is pretty cool" and live in the moment, you can do anything. Mark has a saying that getting cancer is better than winning the lottery. If you get cancer, you know who your friends are. If you win the lottery, you are never sure. If you get cancer, you appreciate every day as a gift. If you win the lottery, you blow your time and money. If you get cancer, you take the time to really focus on your life and what it means. If you win the lottery, you can lose yourself. So, if you look at it that way, we're both very lucky.
Speaking of luck, good luck to Lynda Rock and the cheering team from Charleston in Prague. Mark and I loved it there, the pivo was cheaper than the water. Have a wonderful time and post what happens on this blog, if you can.
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4 comments:
I have to say we have never known two more genuine selfless people.
You have taught us so much about love and life and how to live. Here we should be inspiring you and you are inspiring us!! If there is anything you need, please let us know. We are just a blog away. Lynn and Walt
PS: Due to the risk of clots, I would stay away from the Procrit or Aranesp and opt for the blood.
Mark and Sheila,
Amazing!
We love you and continue to send positive energy your way! xoxoxoxox
Hey, Mark and Sheila. I have been keeping up with the blog daily. Just got home from San Diego last night - nice family visits and, of course, gorgeous weather. Can you publish a physical address where cards can be sent? I am continuing to send prayers and positive thoughts. Love to you both, Cathi
Hi Mark & Sheila,
Amidst all the pain and suffering, you continue to be an inspiration for all with insight, wisdom and wit.
Indeed you know who your friends are.
We are thinking of you, praying for you.
Love to you,
Cindy G. & Lance
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