It's Ellen's sister, Leslie, posting an update, as I know everyone gets concerned when Ellen doesn't post for a few days. Ellen went for fluids at the infusion center on Mon and Tue to help drive her creatinine level down in preparation for chemo on Wed. Her inability to hold food and fluids down had driven her creatinine level up and they want to see it below a certain level to begin chemo given the existing damage to her right kidney.
The fluids helped somewhat, but they decided an extra night of fluids would help even more, so they admitted her to Northside on Tue afternoon.
The fluids seemed to do the trick, as they were able to begin chemo on Wed. The plan was to do chemo Wed - Fri and release Ellen today. All went well with chemo on Wed and Thu, however the ugly side of the ifosfamide kicked in on Fri and Ellen lost her ability to speak, as has happened on previous cycles. They were able to give her the third dose of the ifosfamide on Fri as planned, which is good, but the additional drugs appear to have kept her in the neurotoxic state for longer than on previous cycles.
They performed a MRI yesterday to confirm there is no brain damage and all came back clear. Yay! We know she is in there and taking everything in, but just can't get things out. The one thing she was able to do today was tell Mom the name of her dog, Ridley, when asked. She also squeezed Mom's hand when she held it, which was awesome. We hope she is turning the corner and will be more conscious and talkative later today. We are also awaiting the results of an EKG, as her heart rate was a little bit elevated this morning.
It is so hard for me to be here in DC getting the updates on Ellen, as I have been with her the past two times she had these reactions and have been able to provide insights and support. One reassuring thing is that these reactions have happened in the past and Ellen has pulled through like a trooper, which I know she will do this time. So, it's wait and see at the moment. I will post more as we know it.
Thank you so much Leslie , I know your having your own things to deal with. You are a trooper as well . Also thank you for talking to me when Ellen couldn't , Every one was having a tough day and your taking the time to catch me up will always mean a lot to me. Chin up muffy hope you do well today and every day that follows -
ReplyDeleteThank you, Leslie, for updating us. Love to you, Jane and Ellen from all the Parkers.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Leslie. I know this is hard on all of you, so we really appreciate your taking the time and energy to update us. Prayers to all of you, including Ridley.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Leslie. You are a wonderful sister.
ReplyDeleteLeslie, ditto what everyone is saying here - you and your family are in my prayers always. Thanks for keeping us up to date.
ReplyDeleteBig hugs to you & Ellen! We're pulling for her. Keep us posted on your delivery Leslie - Ellen said she is so excited to see your baby. She'll pull through for you & your new family, at the least. Thank you for posting. Love & smiles, Kerrin
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update, Leslie. My thoughts are with Ellen all the time, and I know that you are expecting your own life changes, for which I wish the best. Saxon
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update Leslie. Tell Ellen we need to hear some of her snarky comments soon. I hope the nasty side effects wear off quickly. We know she loves her Ridley and family. Sending comfort and prayers. LIVESTRONG. Tamara
ReplyDeleteIt's so good to read your update. I was getting a bit worried not seeing E post and seeing Ridley on neighborhood walks with a strange man. (JK!!) We would love to take a walking shift after school tomorrow and can tell Ridley how we pray for his Mommy and family too. Ellen, God bless you as I know this is hard. Really hope to see you home soon! Love, all Eskews
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