May 4th
Today was the second dose of Chemo. Everyone was nervous. I guess, first dose was too quick and unexpected so there was not enough time to think and panic. This time, the anticipation and wait made it lot worse than it actually was. This is the way of life. Our thinking brain generates fear and anxiety which makes things lot worse than they would be if we just accept them.
Anyways, the medicine was half the price outside that at the hospital pharmacy (No surprise there). Ritu arranged all this. It was supposed to be administered through IV in the morning. Dr. Smruti came to check before the chemo and again was very reassuring. She wants Bina to be a lot more mobile and reemphasized that her bones, spine and hips are fine. So, Bina walked around the bed and was in great spirits. We played cards and Bina scolded me for trying to cheat ;) The Chemo was not going to start till afternoon so Shalini and I took off for another mini adventure.
Doolali is a microbrewery ( recommended by my nephews). It was close enough to the hospital that we walked in 93 degree and 85% humidity and survived. The place is for the " rich, trendy and young" people, excellent food and of course beers. They gave Shalini hard time about not having an ID. I had to vouch for her :)
Back to the hospital, Chemo went well. Only half an hour of poison through the IV. Bina is resting. We are all hoping for minimal side effects and another huge step towards recovery. Doctor is ready to release her tomorrow but in a quick family meeting, we all decided to keep her in the hospital for few more days. It is very interesting how things work here ( in all right ways)..1) We as a family can decide to overrule the doctor and request few more days of stay. Since there is no insurance company involved, the hospital a happy to keep us as long as we are willing to pay. 2) As a family, we made a quick and efficient decision and the patient need not agonize about how to arrange for the best care once released from the hospital. Ritu ( Bina's daughter in law) is arranging everything that will be needed when Bina moves to her home. Bina will live with them and will be well taken care of by Sonu and Ritu. I feel very good about the fact that even in long run, Bina will have the physical and mental support of the kids and grand kids. It will be a big change for everyone and I am hoping we can all accept the change with as much compassion as possible.
I am back hone, resting and writing blog, reflecting over the day. Shalini has gone to see Smurf movie with Anaya. A big adventure for both of them ;) and the 4th has been with us all day :)
Morning cleanup at the beach
Bollywood movie star's beach...I took this picture for Frank Louis
Another movie star's home..this is for Frank Louis too
Vegetable vendor below the house window. Renu orders the veges by phone and she brings them upstairs..
Morning beach walk. Many people walk, play, do yoga, exercise and train on Juhu beach.
View from the window at night ( Ansh counts the cars and know what make they are. His favorite is BMW)
Room with a view..
Today was the second dose of Chemo. Everyone was nervous. I guess, first dose was too quick and unexpected so there was not enough time to think and panic. This time, the anticipation and wait made it lot worse than it actually was. This is the way of life. Our thinking brain generates fear and anxiety which makes things lot worse than they would be if we just accept them.
Anyways, the medicine was half the price outside that at the hospital pharmacy (No surprise there). Ritu arranged all this. It was supposed to be administered through IV in the morning. Dr. Smruti came to check before the chemo and again was very reassuring. She wants Bina to be a lot more mobile and reemphasized that her bones, spine and hips are fine. So, Bina walked around the bed and was in great spirits. We played cards and Bina scolded me for trying to cheat ;) The Chemo was not going to start till afternoon so Shalini and I took off for another mini adventure.
Doolali is a microbrewery ( recommended by my nephews). It was close enough to the hospital that we walked in 93 degree and 85% humidity and survived. The place is for the " rich, trendy and young" people, excellent food and of course beers. They gave Shalini hard time about not having an ID. I had to vouch for her :)
Back to the hospital, Chemo went well. Only half an hour of poison through the IV. Bina is resting. We are all hoping for minimal side effects and another huge step towards recovery. Doctor is ready to release her tomorrow but in a quick family meeting, we all decided to keep her in the hospital for few more days. It is very interesting how things work here ( in all right ways)..1) We as a family can decide to overrule the doctor and request few more days of stay. Since there is no insurance company involved, the hospital a happy to keep us as long as we are willing to pay. 2) As a family, we made a quick and efficient decision and the patient need not agonize about how to arrange for the best care once released from the hospital. Ritu ( Bina's daughter in law) is arranging everything that will be needed when Bina moves to her home. Bina will live with them and will be well taken care of by Sonu and Ritu. I feel very good about the fact that even in long run, Bina will have the physical and mental support of the kids and grand kids. It will be a big change for everyone and I am hoping we can all accept the change with as much compassion as possible.
I am back hone, resting and writing blog, reflecting over the day. Shalini has gone to see Smurf movie with Anaya. A big adventure for both of them ;) and the 4th has been with us all day :)
Bollywood movie star's beach...I took this picture for Frank Louis
Another movie star's home..this is for Frank Louis too
Vegetable vendor below the house window. Renu orders the veges by phone and she brings them upstairs..
View from the window at night ( Ansh counts the cars and know what make they are. His favorite is BMW)
Room with a view..
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