On The Mend

Today was the first day Ken said he felt good, which the doctor said is as important as any of the test results.

Overall, the news at today's appointment was good. Tuesday's chest x-ray did indeed show that the pneumonia is better. Tuesday's blood work looked good for the most part, but Ken's liver enzymes were elevated again, which is puzzling. The doctor ordered a repeat of blood tests today, to see if anything has changed. She also ordered an ultrasound of Ken's liver and gall bladder to make sure there's nothing abnormal, and that will be done in two weeks.

In the meantime, Ken has been cleared to return to work next Thursday, which is the best possible news. That will give him a few more days to feel good and regain some of his strength and stamina. He still tires more easily than usual but feels stronger every day.

Ken is ready to return to work, and he's needed back on the job. That's never a given in construction. We were relieved when we were told that there's plenty of work and a job would be waiting for him when he was well enough to return.

Neither one of us takes our good fortune for granted.

Ken again looks like himself, thinner but with the old sparkle in his eye. His voice sounds strong and his breathing is normal. He has turned the corner and is indeed on the mend.

I was sure I would know when Ken was on his way back to good health, while I knew there was no guarantee that the day would come. Today was the day, and I am grateful that it arrived.