Hospital News

Well, in the wee hours of Sept 13 Rocky and I traveled downtown to the Northwestern Hospital for his surgery to remove the thyroid gland. With it was a tumor the size of an adult’s thumb to the first knuckle. Tests will inform us soon whether it is cancerous. We think not, but even if it is, the chance that it has spread beyond the cocoon of the thyroid is nil. Still they will take precautions if that is the case. We await news on that as well.

The surgery itself was a little longer than expected – three hours or so. Then into recovery ICU, then into a holding area, then on to his room where they wanted him to stay overnight just in case there were any complications. Rocky is diabetic, nearly his 72^nd birthday and has other minor health issues which could impact this surgery. So he remained overnight.

On Wednesday the 14^th we awoke and awaited examination and consultations. Then we were told Rocky would remain another day to be even more certain of a strong recovery. A lot of waiting in medical environs but then, that is all part of the time for healing, right?

So I went home to shower, get breakfast and see the dog! Also did the laundry, caught up on email, internet, blogging and a nap on a flat bed with my pillow! Finally able to stretch out and then curl up to relieve the back. Man did that feel good! Then Neighbor Pam took me out for a hearty dinner and a little relaxation. Finally bedtime and a very long sleep followed!

On Thursday morning Rocky talked with the doctor and was discharged. He called me, I rearranged doctor appointments and other scheduled matters and jumped in the car headed for Chicago. Got there at 10 am and we were soon off to find the car in the labyrinth. Then out of the garage and onward toward home. All worked out well and we were home by noon.

Now home and reunited with our dog Willow, snuggling in the chair and quieting down to the routine. Pam fixed dinner and brought it to us and joined us in the dining of it! Such a good and faithful friend!

All in all Rocky’s journey through this odyssey has been good. It took overly long to realize he needed this type of surgery but that was our slow take up of his laryngitis meaning more than a temporary silence. With eventual attention the diagnosis was timely, slowed only by rickety health insurance protocols. Once those were over things happened fast and well.

We have no complaints and are happy to be home and ready for the test results. We have faith all will continue to be well.  More when we know more.  Meanwhile, thanks for your prayers and kind thoughts. All have been appreciated!

September 19, 2016