A Slow Recovery

Yesterday, Harvey had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Suhag.  When asked how he was feeling, Harvey replied that he supposed he was getting better but the progress was so slow, it was seemingly non-existent.  He went on to say that he was somewhat depressed by the fact that each morning he expected to feel significantly better, but in actuality, could detect no change.  Dr. Suhag was sympathetic, saying that Harvey has been through a lot, particularly in the last several weeks, and, taking into consideration his age, he was really progressing quite well.  He pointed out that the diarrhea was somewhat controlled, there was some weight gain, and no fevers detected.  He also reviewed Harvey’s recent blood tests, saying that all the levels were in normal range, except his proteins.  We would need to work on his nutrition.  Realizing that Harvey was still looking pretty glum, Dr. Suhag likened Yervoy to a Mack Truck hitting him.  The truck was now gone, but Harvey was still left with many broken bones and internal injuries.  It will take time for everything to heal, perhaps four to five weeks.  I had to smile when Harvey reiterated this to the study coordinator and said it would be two to three weeks.  I guess you really do hear what you want to hear.

Before we left the Doctor’s office, Harvey had another blood draw for the study.  I was somewhat concerned since they gave him a blood transfusion less than a week ago, and already he has had two fairly substantial blood draws.  He was a little unsteady after the one yesterday, so we came home right away, and he was asleep on the bed in moments.

I have suggested that Harvey needs to get out of himself a bit and try to be engaged in something he really enjoys.  To that he replied that he enjoys sleeping!  He takes the point though and is going to go to a Rotary Board meeting this afternoon.  We are also planning a short driving trip to Inverness and Santa Rosa, with a stay at the Sheraton Sonoma County in Petaluma which is surrounded by a wonderful marina.  More doctor appointments await us upon our return, but maybe a few days away will give us both a boost.