Ruth Update, June 11, 2008

Dear Friends, Relatives, and Prayer Partners,

 

I thought I had gotten away with it.  I felt really well, considering I had walked three miles in DC heat, but I found out the next day that the piper must be paid.

 

You know I have been having trouble with my feet and toenails.  One of my big toenails was about to fall off, so I wrapped it with gauze and tape so it wouldn't rip off during the walk.  The other big toe was showing some signs of trouble, but I didn't worry so much about it.  I should have.  The next day, it hurt like the dickens when touched.  On Monday I called my new friend, the podiatrist, and found that he had had a cancellation on Tuesday.  In the meantime, I iced it once in a while with a bag of frozen peas, and tried not to wear shoes.  I kept my socks on, of course.  I took Matt with me to my appointment, just in case I would not be able to drive afterwards.

 

The podiatrist said both big toenails need to come off, but, since I was STILL neutropenic, he consulted with my oncologist on the phone.  They apparently agreed that I shouldn't have the toenails taken off while I have a compromised immune system, so I went home with a sore toe and a prescription of antibiotics, with instructions to see him again when I have some white blood cells.  Since he is right across the hall from my oncology clinic, I should be able to do that.  He said I could be a phantom patient.  I am also to soak in Epsom salt solution.

 

I will do you all a favor and not post photos of my toe.  I will not even describe it.  Suffice it to say it is very sore to the touch and quite spectacular-looking.  I will try to post some photos of the Race for the Cure on my blog.  Matt installed a wireless router in our house yesterday, and we are still getting used to it.

 

Please pray for my toe and that I will be protected from infection.

 

Get your mammograms.  Do your self-exams.

 

Love,

 

Ruth

http://ruthsmusings.blogspot.com