Recovery: Week One

             Physical therapy was the theme for the week.  The operation resulted in Cindy’s neck being tight and touched a nerve to the muscles around her shoulder causing it to slump forward.   The therapist worked on loosening up her neck and strengthening her shoulder.  So now Cindy has a broomstick and a set of flat stretch bands as her equipment plus a set of eight or so exercises (so far) to do several times a day.   

            BioScrip delivered a 30 day supply of Ensure and accoutrements so we’re set for recovery to proceed at its leisurely pace.  

            It isn’t all recovery all the time; this week was one of our National Symphony Orchestra subscription dates at the Kennedy Center.  The weather was pleasant and we had dinner outside on the rooftop terrace.  Alas, Cindy could only have yogurt.

Radiation Out, Recovery In

            Tuesday was Cindy’s last day of radiation and transitioned to the recovery phase.  However, it will take some time for the tissues in her mouth and throat to recover, so she will continue to get the lion’s share of calories through her stomach tube.  Food by mouth is remains limited to yogurt and the like. 

            She saw the swallow wallah this week.  The nurse’s main concern was aspiration of liquids that could bring on pneumonia.  Yogurt or other gels are good and plain water is fine but OJ isn’t.  Recovery will take six weeks, give or take.  Meanwhile, Cindy isn’t a happy camper at mealtime.