Just Another Day at the (Doctor's) Office

Thursday picked up where Tuesday left off. Every so often there is an element of Keystone Cops to this story. On Tuesday we were told to go to the 4th floor of Weinberg and Dr. Cunningham would examine Faina. Nurse Potter, commented that there wasn't an examination room on 4C, but the assembled doctors apparently thought an empty bed would be available. Well it didn't work out that way and after about 30 minutes of waiting we had to truck downstairs, through the underground corridor into the Outpatient Center and up to the 8th floor. We waited there about 45 minutes before Dr. C. and his entourage arrived and they began the examination.

In the end, they removed a bit more necrotized fascia, identified a bit of intestine poking out, and returned Faina to using two ostomy bags. The upper incision opening will be given time to heal and it is progressing well In answer to one of the more pressing questions, a learned opinion was offered that the fistula is not likely to seal up on its own and that a third surgical procedure will be necessary in about six weeks. We will be visiting Hopkins every Tuesday, and probably Thursdays as well. Our parting gift, we cooled our heels while Faina took on hydration, about two liters, a drop at a time.

Faina is increasingly anxious and frustrated. Mindless waiting, the examination room confusion, and the unanswered questions, are tests of her usually abundant patience. On the other hand she also has plenty of energy and enthusiasm. She is up and alert for hours at a time. Being untethered to pumps or bags most of the day she is up and around, taking regular walks, and finding ways to keep busy.

We wish everyone a Shannah Tovah V'Metuka. A year of health and happiness, blessings and peace.