Robin Update--Back Home Again --- 04-17-2011

I must apologize for not sending this sooner. Robin is at home and is slowly recovering from her latest bout with drug-resistant bacteria.

I was called on Monday, April 11th, at 1:00 pm and was told that they would be releasing Robin at about 2:00 pm. When I arrived, Connie, Robin's attendant and friend, had everything packed up and ready to go. She left with a load of stuff to drop off at our house on her way home, expecting us to be close behind. By 6:30 pm (I guess that's 2:00 pm in hospital time), we were finally on our way home! It was pretty exciting getting Robin in and out of the car. She had not been on her feet for almost a week, and she was weak from her illness. But Robin was also determined to go home, so we had a few trial attempts in her hospital room before wheeling her out. In the end, she made it!

Robin is getting a dose of IV antibiotics through her port every day for two weeks. Connie handles it during the week, and I get the weekends. The process is not difficult, thanks to the port, and only takes about two hours, most of that is waiting. Robin is slowly getting stronger, though she is not back to where she was before the hospital.

I spoke to Robin's oncologist (Cancer Doctor) about where we go next. He said that, once Robin is finished with her antibiotics, he will discuss a new treatment plan with us. At this point in her disease, Robin seems to be between a rock and a hard place. The chemo treatments that seem to be effective against the cancer also cut down on Robin's immune system. That makes her vulnerable to infections. When she gets sick from the infections, she can't take the chemo, so the cancer advances. Sounds like a vicious circle, unless one of Robin's doctors can break the cycle.

In general, Robin's spirits are still pretty good. I have been reading your cards and emails to her. They definitely help. Margie, a college classmate, has been sending a card or note every day during Lent. Robin can hardly wait for me to check the mailbox! And Friday isn't Friday if there's no card from Pat and John! Thank you!

Please continue to pray for Robin. We pray for you folks every day.

Love,

                  --- Larry, Robin, & John