We're heading home today! The GI physicians assistant came in this morning and confirmed that all the tests were negative and Jon's hematocrit and hemoglobin are on the low end of normal. He ate a full dinner of spaghetti (they were out of lasagna), cottage cheese and fruit last night and a breakfast of Cream of Lumps and pancakes this morning. He is still weak and his stomach distended but his color and demeanor are much improved. We are also awaiting the results of the peripheral blood tests to determine whether the staph infection was from his port or systemic through his blood. If it is from the port he can have oral antibiotics, if it's systemic I will need to give him IV antibiotics. We think we can do this at home now that he has the port.

We will meet with Dr. Chin on Tuesday to see where we go from here. Most likely oral chemo until we can do the Photodynamic therapy. The GP doctor at Auburn also thinks that Jon's distended stomach might be fluid and that there is a possibility that it could be drained. That would make him really happy as it is uncomfortable and limits how much he can eat. He also doesn't like looking like a regular, middle aged guy when he is so used to being "buff" his entire life.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by, called and sent us postive thoughts and prayers. Special thanks to Lori Belinski for assisting with supervising the nurses (dont' ever get sick on a holiday!), bringing me food and coffee, and posting the blog while I was away from the computer.