Well, I'm sad to report Mark has had a rough New Year so far. We thought over the weekend he was suffering from the expected chemo side effects, as they were similar to prior times, but more severe. Knowing he had entered last Wednesday's chemo at his weakest so far, we had expected a longer bounce back. But yesterday morning after he finished radiation #33, he didn't have the strength to walk out of the treatment center. They immediately checked him into the hospital, and his blood pressure was severely high and his heart rate severely low. They ran many tests, and started the IV's flowing.
Besides his chemo side effects (nausea, dizziness, weakness, ringing in the ears), he was severely dehydrated, and his kidney function was very poor.
They stabilized him, and kept him overnight. Thankfully, by this morning our warrior was bouncing back. After more tests today, his kidney function has improved, and they released him home late afternoon. Tomorrow and Friday he goes back for the final 2 radiation treatments. Our only job right now is to save his kidneys and continue to cleanse them from the chemo, by keeping him hydrated and nourished. Eating orally is over for now, so all nourishment and most liquids will have to be thru the stomach tube.
Please keep the positive thoughts and prayers coming his way. He needs them now more than ever. Thank you Team Mark, for giving him the strength and purpose he needs. Love, Perry