In true Christmas tradition, we embarked on an early visit to the Inn… that is, the INOVA Fairfax Inn. Ethan woke up early Tuesday morning sick and running a fever. We rushed into the Doctor’s office where we tried various combinations of antibiotics and hydration, before ultimately being admitted late Tuesday afternoon.
The whole day was pretty scary. Besides being neutropenic, lethargic and running a fever, he platelets were at an all-time low and his hemoglobin had fallen below 8.5. When his fever spiked the second time, his doctor quickly administered vancomycin. In their haste to re-gain control of the situation, the vancomycin dripped a bit too fast for his tolerance, causing his head to break out in hives. Everything seemed to go wrong at once. There was a flurry of activity, but that seems to be when they called the hospital for a bed and got the admission papers ready. Ho, Ho, Ho.
By late Tuesday night, Ethan started coming around. He was WIDE awake until very late that evening and then woke up around 3:00 am ready to start his day. He had a ton of special visitors on Wednesday, including his “Auntie” Karen, Fireman Kevin, Nurse Goosey and all of the ladies from Radiation who – in the spirit of the season – came bearing gifts from their pockets (M&Ms from a co-worker, a crazy-haired pen, a Christmas CD, post-its, a dime, a dollar and a big paper clip). They’re a funny bunch!
I also had a nice surprise waiting for me Wednesday morning. Since we didn’t anticipate the admission, Albert packed for both of us and I got out of the shower that morning to find that I was without a comb or a brush. Hmmmm.... I think its safe to say that I pushed the envelope of hair styling possibilities using a plastic fork – and in my sleepless haze forgot to throw it away when I was finished. I can’t exactly say what I found Ethan doing with it later, else his Doctors might find out and I’d be in big trouble...
Ethan was confined to his room on Wednesday, which was a bit tough. We played endless games of hide-and-seek. If anyone’s been to visit us there, you know how many places there are to hide. You can count them on one hand, if not one finger. Yet, he never tired of the game.
By Thursday night, Ethan’s counts had come back up and his blood cultures had never grown, so they discharged us with antibiotics to administer at home as a precaution. He’s done very well since, although insisted that I bring him back to the hospital first thing this morning to see the OWL fireman, who were scheduled to visit. I think he truly enjoys the hospital. We hope to be home for good now.
I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!
Kim.