Early Birthday Gift

Good News Today

With her first visit to her oncologist since she was released from the hospital on Saturday, Rene was nervous about the outcome of her blood work. She was afraid that she would have to come in every day for shots and transfusions for both red and white blood. She got herself worked for nothing because everything was fine and she got one shot for blood work that is needed once a week! Rene was shocked that she didn't need anything thing other than her shot today; "this is an early birthday gift for me", she exclaimed (June 1st is her birthday).

Rubber Chicken-Part II

Mobility and Rene are not two words you can mention together for awhile. Right now she needs me to assist her getting around still. We realized that we own furniture that doesn't aid her one bit! No chairs with arm rests, sofas that are too low to the ground, and thresholds that she cannot navigate to get in and out out the house or shower.

With the aid of a friend, a new ramp was created for our entrance to the garage so we can enter and exit. I have obtained a transport chair; i.e. a wheelchair minus the large wheels that allow her to push herself. She stated that I selected the transport chair to control her; I'll never tell! The occupational therapist that visited her today stated that I have all the right gadgets. The physical therapist will come tomorrow and I hope to learn new tricks from her.

One benefit I am getting from Rene's condition is improved power lifting techniques. Lifting her is like doing my back, legs, and dead lifts workouts. Since I am taking a couple weeks off from the gym, I will be able to lift more when I return to the "5:15 Club"! Rene is amazed that I can do this and her therapist mentioned my technique for lifting is correct; this is like doing two-a-day workouts when preparing for a power lifting event.