Chicago trip

Marty and I flew to Chicago this past week to assist his elderly and much loved mother in various ways. We worked hard, accomplished our intentions, and had some time together to enjoy the neighborhood, as well as precious time with his mother.

The dehydrating conditions of air travel impact Marty quite dramatically. There was also a fair degree of added stress in that the place we stayed afforded very little privacy and many sleep interruptions. Food choices that are most ideal for Marty were also slim.

Marty did quite well, given the above described limitations, while we were in Chicago. Once we returned home, intestinal distress and overall exhaustion hit Marty hard. He is not as diminished in comfort as he has been previously, but still in need of naps, a hot water bottle on his abdomen to sleep, and a generally reduced activity schedule.

At this point, we manage the effects of travel and stress on Marty's condition reasonably well, which is not to suggest that travel is a breeze for him. We learn, constantly, from experience. Our next trip to Chicago will hopefully include more privacy and ease in where we stay so that the stress of travel for him can be minimized.

Marty doing well!

Apologies for long sequence between posts on Marty's behalf! And many thanks to all who have inquired about Marty's health and well-being.

Marty has been doing well for some months now, thank goodness. Although he has some not so great days, he hasn't had any really awful sequences of vomiting and intestinal discomfort. He still needs to have a hot water bottle on his abdomen at night to relieve cramping, and has lots of gurgling and sound effects from his gut during the day that indicate less than ideal digestion. On our days off, he does need a very comprehensive nap. His energy is not at all what it was once was in days before surgery and radiation treatment. But, he has not lost any weight and can eat in a reasonably normal fashion. This is very good news!

We attribute his improved condition to the excellent work of our Osteopathic doctor, and to the good effects of medical marijuana. In addition, his medical team has said that, with time, the digestive system does heal to some extent.

Whatever the helpful ingredients may be, both Marty and I are grateful for being able to live a bit more normally. We still can't plan with confidence given Marty's condition, as his comfort level shifts constantly, but we are both getting more rest, can enjoy daily life together, and are both pleased to be sharing our life without as much distress as in previous months.

Marty continues to be cheerful, optimistic, patient and sweet-natured, as is usual for him. We live a life together of much love and joy, despite all the challenges. We both are grateful for all the interest and concern expressed by family and friends. Thank you!