Saturday, February Second, Two Thousand and Thirteen

Many of you wonder if I was in the hospital this past week.  Unfortunately, the extra week didn't keep me out of the hospital as hoped, but I think it did help with the length of my stay.  I had a Rituxan treatment on Wednesday as usual and was feeling pretty good.  Late that night I spiked a fever and was admitted to the hospital (imagine that).  They gave me antibiotics and two units of blood overnight.  By Friday, my white blood cell count improved, allowing me to return home.  I receive Rituxan again this upcoming Wednesday.

As of now, my last chemotherapy treatment will be Wednesday, February 13th...thank goodness!!  Of course, I'm sure that another hospital stay will follow, but am definitely looking forward to the upcoming weeks!  I will be happy once this month is over and things get back to (somewhat) normal =)

On a not so positive note, my grandma (Lengle) has been transferred from assisted living to hospice.  This past week she was taken to the hospital for intense chest pain.  X-rays showed severe pneumonia and dehydration.  She also has a bacteria growing in her blood and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).  I was able to visit her at hospice on Wednesday prior to the hospital.  She "came to" upon hearing my voice and we had a good conversation.  My grandma and I are very close and I am truly blessed to have had such an amazing woman in my life for so long.  She never wanted to go to a nursing home.  After 94 years, we take comfort in knowing her wish was granted.

(2/3/13 Update- Grandma passed away Saturday, February 2 at 9:30pm. She was very much at peace)
Picture of Ella and her great grandmother Christmas 2012

I am too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful and too determined to be defeated ~ unknown