Monday nov 10 -- baltimore update

As some of you may have heard, we have had to change plans about leaving on Wed. Dr. Alexander visited this morning a said they needed to do a CT scan to see what they could determine about the fluid around the lungs. They took Dad about noon -- he wasn't in a great mood because he had to drink that awful tasting contrast junk. Dr. A said to plan to stay a few days extra. They do not want to send him home oxygen dependent. Of course that has meant changing Dr. appts at home and the all important flight. We managed to get most of everything done by phone, but I had to call Pat Lucht for help in changing the flight. She managed to get one out for us Friday morning around 9 am. I did not even ask if we were able to keep the first class status. It doesn't matter if we can just get home.

Dad has been tired all day although we did get up for one short walk down the hall. I think the breathing problem is taking a toll. Dr. A came in at 6pm to give us the results of the CT scan. He said there is a fluid build up around the lungs -- almost serum like. It is not a usual thing after this surgery, and especially for it to go on this long. There is also some fluid in the lower abdominal area, but that should resolve on its on over time. The plan is to go in tomorrow and draw off the fluid around the lungs. That should make him feel a lot better. The will have the fluid analyzed and determine then if any additional treatment is needed. There is a slim possiblity that there is some meso around the lungs. Whatever the problem, Dr. A seems to thinks it can be resolved. We asked him the preverbial question about getting the "95%". He reponded very positively, and actually Dad is recovering just great from the surgery itself. without this fluid issue we would be planning for our trip home with "bells on".
So for now, we are both very tired, and hope that the procedure tomorrow puts him back on track. Pat did tell us that if we need to change the flight again to let her know. I sure hope that won't be necessary.
I am so glad that the hospital changed his room now that he has to stay longer. It is nicer and much quieter, and I can stay if it becomes necessary. We need a few more prayers to get us through the next few days. I will update you all as the news comes in. It is difficult to call all of you in a timely manner, but will do my best.
Love and hugs,
Mom/Sandy