Two weeks ago, we met with her surgeon for a follow up. He addressed her hearing loss on the surgery side, stating that with a lot of rinsing, her hearing will return. Radiation causes a mucous build up, so salt water/ baking soda rinses will help her hearing return. Additionally, she has sore lips on the inside, which she thinks is probably from the mouth piece that is large and has slightly rough edges. The upper mouth piece is not just a simple denture piece, but is larger on one side like a golf ball to fit into the recently removed sinus cavity. Due to the nature of the surgery, her muscles are tight and not allowing her mouth to extend open to it's normal capacity. Granny has to work a little each day to open her mouth wider each time.
Caring for herself is a full time job. She is supposed to do 6 - 8 nasal/mouth rinses each day, get 3 - 4 Boost drinks, massage her eye, apply lotion to her radiation cheek, arm lifts, and then find time to drink lots of water and maybe eat some meals. She has the G-Tube in her stomach still so that helps her get nutrition while she just doesn't have the energy (or teeth) to eat much. Her instructions from the doctor are to get good rest. Seems like a lot to do and then get rest too; I'd be exhausted with all the instuctions.
So radiation will come to an end here before January is over. She is likely to still feel the effects of the radiation for months to come. It can take a while for the radiation to leave her system, and she can potentially have lifelong effects after radiation, like sensitivity to the sun, for example. Each week the doctors ask her about her eye, as there is still a slight risk while undergoing radiation.
As for Baby Summer, she is handling the trips back and forth to UNC with more ease. Granny continues to sit in the back seat, which seems to help both of them. From the back seat, Granny isn't complaining about my driving, and Summer no longer complains about being stuck in the car for 2 hours. It's a win win. At the hospital, talk has spread about the Baby Summer that comes and smiles each day. She is a delight for everyone and smiles when she sees someone is talking directly to her. She has a way of bringing people together that would otherwise just be in a waiting room listening for their name to be called. The time seems to slip away as each person shares stories of grandchildren, babies, and families. The nurses and staff have all come to know her & delight in her visits.
With so much going on, forgive me, as I failed to send Christmas cards this year. I had hoped to find time to print photos to include with cards, but alas, you can find a couple attached here for your viewing pleasure. I love you all and am grateful to have each of you in my life. Thank you again for your support year after year, connected through family and friends, a strong network of prayers & fun stories. With each passing year, I am even more grateful for all that I have and can share with you all.
Love and Gratitude,
Ruthie
