Because We Love Her

May 5th, 2011

May 5th, 2011 Posted in Daily News Post

Well, yesterday we went to the swallow doctor. His news wasn’t what any of us wanted to hear, especially Chloe. Although it wasn’t terrible news it wasn’t what we expected. Chloe isn’t swallowing. This could mean she has antibodies that act against the botox, or, it could be that it just needs to be done again. He’s seen the same procedure produce different results a number of times.

Next on the docket is another swallow test to see what IS working. That will happen Friday. Then on Wednesday we will have her in for the next MRI to confirm there is no tumor anymore. Results will be on next Friday. Then it will be up to a couple doctors to decide what to do about her swallowing.

The big blockade is the bipap machine. This forces air into her at night because her lungs forget to fill up with air when she is asleep. The trouble is it also forces air into her stomach, causing nausea. This would be even worse if we get the top of the esophagus to open up. We really need it to come back on its own.

A big surprise to me was that the brain stem doesn’t control the esophagus. It has its own nervous system. He gave the example that if there was an esophagus on the table it would work just as it’s supposed to all on its own. Crazy. So, my big question is why then is it a problem since the stroke? If the nerves in the brain have nothing to do with the esophagus, why isn’t it working? I didn’t think of that during the appointment.

Chloe wasn’t in the best of moods after hearing all this news. She is so disappointed. We all are, but she tops the list. Even though she bounces back quickly it’s a shame she has to in the first place.

With Mother’s Day coming up I can only think of how Dana deserves Mother of the Century! She has been the rock through all of this and the river that has poured over her has taken its toll. I do what I can but it never feels to me that it’s anywhere near enough.

We’ll keep you posted. With my new job I’m trying to adjust my schedule to include everything, including the blog. Thanks for understanding when there are gaps in publishing.

Be well,
Ron

  1. One Response to “May 5th, 2011”

  2. By ronhorton on May 6, 2011

    Just a follow-up. Chloe had a swallow test today and, although she was able to get the food further back, it still can’t get past the closed tube. Next up, repeat the botox with a special instrument that will guarantee correct placement. Don’t ask me why this wasn’t used the first time!

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