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Week 2: March 9 - 16
Day 9 – March 09, 2008 / Sunday
Today was rather uneventful.
I got up about about 430am...checked emails, worked on the web, did some yoga. Around 8am Kasie “woke up”, asked what time it, said she was 'achey', and rolled over and went back to sleep...good for her, she can sleep in; there's no PT today...and we've got our trusty DND sign out.
A little before a 11 am there was a quiet little knock...it was actually Marcia checking in on us. We love Marcia and Will, they are both so nice...and it's great, I think, especially for Kasie to have made some friends from “home” - while CA isn't quite home...it's close enough. Poor thing has been homesick.
While out in the hallway, one of the other patients caregivers told me that they had had a 'scary' night last night. After feeling generally 'achey' all day on Saturday (yesterday) at about 3am they had the chills and were shivering so they actually had to call the doctor in. Apparently that can be a reaction to the stem cells and nothing to be overly concerned about, as we have now learned. They gave them an analgesic and their feeling much better and are actually hoping to go out today.
Since Kasie is still sleeping, I plan to get to the grocery market for a few items we need for the room.
Just back in the room for a moment, when the sister who had just seen me in the hallway knocked, ever so lightly on the door with BP cuff in hand. I let her know Kasie was still sleeping...it was just about or a little after 11am. The sister looked a little distressed and said she would call the doctor. Just about that time Kasie did wake up...of course first thing out of her mouth – "are they ignoring the DND sign?", and then "what time is it?". She was still complaining of being achey and fatigued and I told her about the other patients night and the doctor was coming by to check on her. The doctor and sister came by and checked on Kasie and said that sometimes the stem cells do just make you really tired and since she hadn't slept very well the night before, the aches and fatigue were really nothing to be worried about, at this point.
She rolled on down the hall to make her morning visits to our floor mates. Mr. David stopped by and Kasie mentioned she had a headache to him. He called the doctor for her...who gave her an analgesic. After a little more rest, a stem cell injection, checking her emails, a shower and some 'lunch' Kasie was ready, while not roaring, to go out for a spin; she was bored of being couped up.
So about 4pm we had a car and driver pick us up and ... we were initially going to follow Marcia and Will to the Khan Market for a little adventure, perusing and dinner; but since it was Sunday the locals told us most of those shops would be closed. So instead we went to Ansal Mall, this turned out to be an actual mall. This place was 4 stories high. A little confusing in the 1st elevator (lift) ride though when we asked to go to the 2nd floor and ended up on the 3rd. The level we entered on was not 1 – it was 0, so when we wanted to go up to the next level WE thought up 1,plus the 1 were on = 2; nope...up 2 for from 0 actually = 3 in India, go figure. So the mall – seriously a real mall in its own right....but nothing like we're used to in the states....not the big rambling spacious center areas with shops on the sides. The stores only on one side of the atrium hall, with the walkway area about 10 feet across and the other side just a glass wall from floor to roof. A few can only find in India shops...a beautiful saree and suit shop...the fabrics and colors and textures were phenomenal...most were or at least seemed to us to be extremely pricey....but a few were on sale 50% off, for Women's Day. Did you know there is an International Women's Day, March 8 – which apparently has been a thing since 1908 – unofficially, and 1911 – officially....hmm, don't think I ever knew about it...and neither did the others. Anyway, not that I ever intended to actually shop...but now do I not only have my pink jeweled shoes from the other night...I now have an outfit too, ah the Indian fashion diva I am becoming, not! Kasie picked out some beautiful fabric and is planning on having a top made before she leaves – she's got some time to figure out exactly how she wants it. It's actually rather inexpensive in that regard, you buy the fabric and they'll tailor for you...for no additional charge; you can get some for apparently as little as $20 USD. The rest of the stores though...well Bennetton, Apple, Adidas, Levi's, Lee, Guess, you get the picture.
Marcia did find the elephant she was looking for - for Lois, so mission accomplished. Then back into the crazy streets...our driver today – we liked him - not TOO crazy; once he realized you can't take Kasie's chair completely apart he worked out just fine. What is it with these guys and her chair? So off we go...and DID go to Khan Market, and yes most of the shops were closed, but we were actually headed there for dinner. We all went to the “Big Chill” a very eclectic, bohemian little hole in the wall restaurant – Boulder-esque if you will. Old school movie “posters” on the walls and about 10 tables. A little loud, but hello, so is all of India. The menu was a mix of some local faire, Lebanese dishes, pasta dishes and SALADS!, oh and let us not forget Kasies baked potato with sauteed garlic, onions and mushrooms topped with cheese – the girl ate tonight for sure...that and a Penne Pomodore...she was stuffed. A bruschetta with sun-dried tomatoes and an olive tapenade and a Lebanese Fattooush salad did it for me, yum! . Marcia's minestrone soup came with chicken hot dog bits in it, I don;t think she was a super fan of it, but she loved her pear, walnut and blue cheese salad. And finally Will had a Blue Cheese penne which he seemed to wolf down, so must have been good; along with 2 fabulous juices. For dessert – ice cream shakes....Belgium Chocolate and Maple Walnut. Kasie had been craving one since the fiasco with Mickey D's the other night. So the epicureans were stuffed and happy!
Back to Nu Tech Green Park..and time to call it a night...but first a quick check of emails, Kasie's evening rounds; and a trip downstairs for monopoly - denied... the front desk guy...still can't figure out how to spell or even say his name...well a) he 'scares' Kasie; and b) he told her no – she had to play monopoly down there. So back up she comes...no monopoly tonight.
Day 10 - March 10, 2008 / Monday
Well we continue to have issues with the ATM - attempted to JUST get a balance inquiry and wouldn't even let us do that...so we haven't been able to access any money since Saturday...what is going on? This is very frustrating...and so far locally around here we haven't been able to convert any USD to RPS...that's right nogt eve at the bank, go figure. Sending an email to the bank back home to see what's what. Staff at the banks here, well lets just say they're inaccessible. Inaccessible is the word for the day. When asked why she's "homesick" Kasie can't quite put her finger on it...or any one thing, but a lot of it's related to inaccessibility...so here's the general idea of our conversation this morning....cause' unfortunately for her, I don't "get" the "homesick" thing...but I'm trying to understand it and not just kick her butt about it
. So she "outlined" it for me....
I.). We're in a 3rd world country...hello - we're in INDIA. Do people really understand where that is on the map?
A. It's dirty smelly, noisy...
B. It's inaccessible..
1) There are language barriers...(we don't speak Hindi, and they don't all speak English)
2) The streets are non accessible...
3) The public bathrooms are for the most part, non accessible; (and super sketch from anyone's standpoint, let
alone a woman in a wheelchair – can you say hole in the ground?)
4) Vehicles (can you say it with me)...non accessible vehicles; (getting the wheelchair situated takes some doing
for sure...if it even fits...)
5) India is just plain not accessible like home...(um, hello Kasie – you already covered that - it is India!)
Also, she misses Baylee – and for the life of me I can't stop her from trying to feed the strays – bad Kasie, bad – just cause you have had your rabies shots from playing with a bat, doesn't mean it's open playtime with the stray mongrels and monkeys – NO you can't feed them!
She has trouble sleeping – but could it be she's up half the night texting home and downloading music...yes....get some rest girlfriend you need it and deserve it! And now they're having to give you sleeping pills....relax, take a deep breath...home will still be there in May. As Geeta told you, enjoy the experience...you are very lucky to be here!
And that is her big positive – she's getting stem cells....and that continues to excite her.
So off to PT and and an injection this morning....a visit with the patient who's been having the chills...who again had a bad night. Dr. Ashish now told those folks, that maybe it is a touch of a bug...malaria? Hmm, their both on anti-malarial pills...which we're not...and malaria usually takes about 7 days to manifest its symptoms....maybe a reaction to the stem cells? Not sure, so Dr. Ashish told them not to take the pills today, they will give them something else for today, and have some blood work done to see what's going on. Unfortunately with that said...the treatment they were scheduled to have has to be rescheduled until they know the results of the blood tests, so they'llgoing with some alternate means of providing the stem cells today...
Kasie still having a slight headache. We met with Geeta (Dr. Shroff) today and discussed Kasie's progress....her lack of sleep (hence the script now for sleeping pills)...how Kasie should enjoy and embrace India...Geeta even told her to forget about being homesick...she's only here for a short while. She invited her to the other hospital to spend some time with the special needs children that are there receiving stem cell treatment to give her something to do and take her mind off all the poverty stricken kids we see and Kasie naturally wants to "adopt"... along with all the dogs. Geeta explained to her that these children she sees on the streets are very smart and are part of "crime" rings that panhandle for money....someone else mentioned to us earlier...did I mention it?, that some of these kids are actually maimed by there families to be able to go out and beg for money for effectively...sick!
Yoga again this afteroon - after regular PT. Kasie still not a fan, but I think with the encouragment of her PT's also...she realizes that these exercises will also strengthen her core.
After yoga, while Kasie was getting herself together, I went down to the street because we could hear a band. Turned out a few buildings down a wedding was taking place. Didn't get to see it all, but what I could see and hear was very festive indeed.
We then went out to a handicraft market...and saw some local artisan's work. This was the place where Amanda had been mugged it turns out...so we didn't take anything with us. We had no problems.
When we got back, we had dinner and the sisters came by and told Kasie she had an infection...we asked to see the doctor. Turns out that after those unending urine samples last week, they actually did get one turned into the lab and tested it. They just got the results back tonight and they found e coli in her urine....not good. So they put her on anti-biotics for the next 5 days. They said that this is actually quite common here - oh just great, would have been nice to now before hand...anyone want to send some cranberry juice?
Day 11 – March 11, 2008 / Tuesday
Once again Kasie is off to PT...running a little late with the traffic jam in the hallway...the sisters station is right outside our door and she has to stop by for her BP to be taken on her way to PT. She always seems to be in the shower in the mornings when they come by now...so just easier to stop on her way downstairs.
This morning I was trying to catch up on some e-mails and grab a shower. Kasie went down to PT on her own. By the time I got down there, while Shivani was stretching her, out, Kasie had been able to move a toe on her own – YAHOO! Actually 2 different toes on her left foot wiggled...while she didn't feel them do it, she was able to initiate that movement. That is FANTASTIC! The staff around her love Kasie's progress; and so do I.
Also during PT they once again tried to get those calipers squared away...and for some reason that right knee continues to have issues with the caliper and bending. Kasie continues to have the sensation that her knee is not locked out, and it really doesn't look like it times either. It seems to roll in and that is when she seems to have the most issues with standing and balancing. But they think they worked out the kink, so after some more standing and balancing practice between the bars she moved over to the other bars, with the stainless steel base so should could start her walking exercises. This is very exciting for Kasie, she's been waiting for this. The walking exercises consists of a little bit of a shuffle along between the bars. It appears that Kasie is actually making it a little harder on herself by trying to do a little too much by lifting her legs to actually walk...at this point they say she needs to focus on the slide/glide method to get the motion going; because when she actually lifts her leg, her foot will either turn in or out just a bit and then when she places it back down it's not straight. This will come in time...this is really the first day they have tried this. The PT's are all so helpful and positive with Kasie, and truly take their time with her. She wants to take Shivani home with her.
After PT, Kasie was pretty much exhausted so just a quick stop by the injection room for her morning stem cell shot and then up to the room. So I went out on my own to try and rectify our cash flow problem. I finally found another bank that accepted the card, whew. We're still not sure what the problem had actually been since we had made previous withdrawals at few different banks...including the one next door which we then started having all the problems with. In fact on Sunday we had been to 3 different ATMs and had been unable to withdraw or even get a balance inquiry from any of them...but now we're good again. What a relief. We hadn't been able to pay the laundry guy or the guy who fixed Kasie's tire (she had a flat – or slow leak/again) the other night...now we can.
On the way back to Green Park I also stopped at Safdarjang's Tomb. Built by the nawab of Avadh for his father upon his death, it is one of the last examples of Mughal architecture before the fall of the Mughal empire. I also stopped by a market or two. Yes I know....no more shopping. But I was on a mission...and the second one was more of a grocery market; quite large and fairly extensive in fact. And besides, I needed to find some cranberry juice. And low and behold I did. So we're well stocked now with cranberry juice, some ramen, some Toblerone – hmm chocolate, and some fresh fruit and veggies...fabulous.
When I got back Kasie had just gotten down to her afternoon PT. She made through her exercises but you could tell the poor girl was worn out today. Maybe it everything is just catching up finally...and probably a little of the sleeping pill she took last night too. She took it pretty late and I think she's still exhausted from that, not to mention the PT, she worked really hard today. So after PT she grabbed a good long nap until dinner. Only a few interruptions...not too bad once Doctor Pruthi came by and realized she was trying to sleep, things calmed down for a few hours then.
Dinner in tonight...ah a baked potato, our girl was psyched. For some reason she thought she was getting garlic bread....we did get some good rolls...but no garlic bread.
After dinner she had to take her antibiotic which confused her a bit I think, since they had actually given her the tablets yesterday to take...and we just thought she would be taking them on her own....once in the am, once in the pm with her meals. We didn't realize they would come to have her take them since we had them. Anyway, she had her BP checked and then she also got her evening stem cell injection. All is good.
Oh and she fired off a job application....
Day 12 – March 12, 2008 / Wednesday
Just another day in India. Wow what a day so far.
This morning Kasie had PT and her stem cell injection...continuing to build up her core strength, she's doing great.
We spoke with Geeta this morning and discussed Kasie's progress. She continues to be so pleased with Kasie's response to treatment thus far, as are we. “Baby steps” are great steps. Geeta gives Kasie lots of hope, support and strength. While POWERFUL might not be the exact word to describe her, because she's not the corporate powerhouse that goes along with the notion...Geeta is indeed inspiring. I think Geeta's positive attitude is reflected in the way her staff and the patients interact with her. She is so approachable and willing to discuss the goings on of the treatments, it is a pleasure and a relief to us to be able to speak with her so directly and candidly. She really seems to understand what Kasie is going through. She understands that Kasie can be homesick, yet offers suggestions of places go and things to do to allow her to experience India, and hopefully curb some of the 'dread' she might allow herself to feel from time to time. “Mind over matter” for sure according to Geeta, this will help Kasie get the most out of her treatment her; her positive attitude can take her far.
We also spoke with Dr. Ashish this morning. He too is such a pleasant fellow, always has a smile on his face and so bubbly and full of energy. He reads Kasie's blog which just floors me...so he says that unless he reads it here he won't believe it. He won't let her just tell him she's walking and she needs a stem cell booster unless he reads it here..funny guy. He is genuinely interested in Kasie's progress. He also seems delighted with how much she has achieved already....and foresees that because she is progressing so well that perhaps she will be able to have some additional “procedures” while she is here. Those are the extended stem cell injections that more in depth and targeted at the injury sites; not just the IV or IM shots she gets daily, so that of course sparks that glimmer in Kasie and excites her beyond belief. He was very excited when Kasie told him about moving her toes yesterday, an amazing sign in just 7 days of treatments.
And then we were off...headed to the ITO (Income Tax Office?) Bridge, in search of elephants. Yeah right...what's the likelihood of us coming across a random elephant. When we ask about them everyone just seems to think we're kidding...but maybe, just maybe. Well we didn't make it to the ITO....but holy smokes we're in the car and Raj, the driver – who by the way is wonderful and so protective of Kasie it's great; well he tells us there's an elephant. Of course we couldn't see it...but sure enough today's traffic was a little bit more congested perhaps because sure enough we pulled up behind an elephant with a guy riding it in the middle of the road. We passed him and pulled up to the curb to watch this spectacular site. Can you believe it, we went in search of an elephant, and we found one. Raj motioned to the guy with the elephant to come to the curb and he did. What a photo op....Kasie got to see her elephant, in the street....not at a zoo. Of course we considered putting Kasie ON the elephant, but didn't know if it were feasible. So I checked out how this would work, by climbing up on him myself and then he stood up and walked about a little bit....couldn't believe it. What a strange and exhilarating feeling....and yes a little scary too, nothing like a horse that's for sure. How do you drive one of these things? Once I got down Kasie got closer to him and shook his trunk, but decided not to hop up on him. It would have actually been quite a chore to get her up on him since you need to step on his leg, trunk, head and then into the seat. And realistically I don't know how I would have explained losing Kasie in India when the elephant took off down the road. But she was thrilled to have had her elephant experience, as was I. I kept saying "Kasie we saw an elephant," and, she kept saying, "dude, you rode an elephant"...WOW!
Elephant, what elephant...
So then off to the India Gate, a memorial arch about 130 feet high, that has the names of about 90,000 fallen Indian soldiers from WWI and the the third Afghan war in 1919. We then drove down Rajpath (Kingsway) towards Raisana Hill There we could see Sansad Bhavan (Parliament) and the Secretariat buildings that are topped with impressive domes and house many of the governments ministries And then the Rashtrapai Bhavan which is the Presidents house. It is a magnificent palatial residence completed in 1929. It sits behind large wrought iron gates and of course it's not open to the public. From what we could see, it sure appears to be a sprawling complex and so clean and crisp was this whole area that it really is a striking contrast to the rest of India that we have seen so far.
Then we were off again, and Raj – the man, he rocks as Kasie says. He found our girl some wild monkeys to see, no zoo for us today. The monkeys were just sitting along the roadside and climbing fences and trees, picking at trash. They were fairly small in stature...no bigger than Baylee...and there were even baby monkeys....
Next stop Saronji Market...yes, another market....just to peruse...I think us going to the markets is a) a way to get out of the hospital; b) experience the environment from the local level – because in reality some of these markets we go to are truly local in atmosphere and flavor...and we don't see other “tourists”. In fact we rarely see other “tourists” anywhere we go.
Back to Green Park for afternoon PT. Afterwards back to the room for a nap and waiting on yoga.
Sister Anjali stopped by to check Kasie's BP, but she was sleeping...so she'll come back later. I didn't realize it was almost 5pm - we missed yoga tonight....Kasie as you can imagine is SOOOOOOOOO disappointed, not. We also got a bill for her recent medications.
Kasie just got up and sisters Siarmila and Anjali (they're so nice and upbeat all the time and alway apologize if Kasie's sleeping) just stopped by for her BP and to give her evening injection.\
And now we're on our way out for dinner.
Day 12 continued...13 – March 13, 2008 / Thursday...the wee hours
Despite Kasie taking a sleep pill about 9pm tonight/last night...she couldn't sleep; and neither could I. What is going on? We both feel so wired. And there seems to be SO much pollution in the air tonight. The smell of a fire is just permeating into the room; burning both our eyes and noses. We had gotten not just a whiff of it on the way home from the restaurant, but you could actually see, even at night, how thick the pollution seemed to be. It's kind of like looking at a street light when it is foggy....the air just seem and felt so heavy and polluted tonight, perhaps that is it...
Uh, Perry – nice, forget who we are in just a little over a week...we're so disappointed in you
Well since we couldn't sleep, Kasie first had another one of her “cleaning” episodes; probably stemming from the feel that tonight we were just being drenched in the pollution of the city. Yuck, what is that all about? When we were out earlier, for dinner, we had stopped and picked up some bleach/disinfectant and some antibacterial soap....so she went to town on the room. Despite us keeping the room clean; and having it cleaned regularly by staff as well...tonight there is still this fine layer of dirt that just seems to have settled on everything. So our little white tornado was determined to get rid of it.
After she had gotten enough cleaning out of her system, she went wandering for a bit and visited with one our floormates; whom also happened to be up. It just so happened to be the patient with the severe burn. It is apparently really beginning to heal nicely; that's great because we have been so worried about them. She likes talking with this patient because they've made such strides in their progress since being here. Kasie is really excited for them...and what it could mean for her. They, being a quad, and having had relatively no use of their arms...and now being able to get around by wheeling themselves around is amazing progress for sure.
Back to the room she comes...we looked at pictures, listened to music; got the elephant photos on the website, updated her MySpace; did some emails and IM's – and still couldn't sleep.
Becky – Kasie shared your email with me about the homesick thing...and that you reiterated to her that things are still the same at home and everyone will still be there....you hit the nail on the head...(thanks). This IS one of those times when you CAN go home again. I'm sure she “gets it” since you and I, and others too (both from home...and oh say, the DOCTORS here)...are letting her know that her focus needs to be here...on her treatment, on what she has accomplished thus far, on what she wants to accomplish, and what it will take to achieve it; she just needs to accept that wholeheartedly. All the people and things she cares about ARE there for her and will be when she gets back too.
She is so committed to her PT and her treatment....and is so positive about the results she's seeing, it is actually hard to grasp that at the same time she can have these feelings of being homesick. BELIEVE Kasie, BELIEVE! And she so does BELIEVE, that isn't in question whatsoever. And that is what makes her so strong!
Well we finally got to sleep about 2am I think...and this morning we both slept in –til about 730 am in fact. Kasie just got her butt up out of bed and into the shower...and it's already 815am...
Oh and that dirt from last night....well there's a layer of it on the balcony...and the sky this morning really dark and dank. Not that you ever see blue skies in Delhi, at least we haven't...but some days, despite all the pollution in the air do seem more “clear” than others. Today is not one of them....and there is still that heavy smell of fire in the air. I think I have previously mentioned that they burn 'everything' here, haven't I? If not, now you know – they do.
So we'll be on our way to PT in a little bit....
Day 13 – March 13, 2008 / Thursday – the rest of it
So off to PT we go. Kasie's core strength and balance continue to improve everyday. She sits up much straighter and for longer periods of time without having a back rest. And her “cat” and “camel” (which is really “cow” and “cat” according to the yogi) are starting to pay off. When she stands up she is not as swayed back all the time. That curve in her lower back hasn't really gone away, it's just that the muscles in her lower back are becoming stronger and helping her to improve her posture. But if she doesn't quite get her legs locked just right, her hips rotate forward and you can see it...and it's more difficult for her to stand because her balance then shifts forward.
The morning PT sessions are always a good time because there are usually a few other patients down there as well....so note comparing takes place and the camaraderie and support for each other these folks have is fantastic. Everyone is so excited to be here; to know the gains, even if small, that they are each experiencing is a source of encouragement for all.
Shivani, Kasie's main PT is a delight. She and Kasie are giddy together....and Shivani “gets” Kasie which is great. The other PT's are all so friendly and engaging....our daily “Hindi” language lessons are always so entertaining. This morning we learned the meaning of names: Shivani (princess); Deepti (glow); Deepak (lamp); Chavi (? oh my I can't remember what her's meant), but Kasie (of course according to Kasie – sunshine, because she brings sunshine to each of their lives). Lots of laughs ensue as you can imagine. The PT staff are a young bunch and they and Kasie seemed to be enthralled with each other. They get along great and they make sure she is pushing herself.
Kasie is trying to talk Shivani into the two of them getting their noses pierced...oh yeah right...like we'll find a suitable, sanitary place to do that. Shivani told Kasie that she doesn't like them....so maybe getting a nose piercing while in India won't really happen.
Then off for another stem cell injection...depending upon which sister gives the injection to Kasie determines how much it hurts. Today's sister – painful (every time); she just seems to take so long to actually inject all the contents of the syringe, which draws out the process of the cold fluid medium of the stem cells going in. Others, well they just jab her and go....and she doesn't feel it nearly as much; her preferred method of receiving the stems cells for sure; or of course in her hip, where she doesn't feel it at all.
After PT, Kasie returned to the room...and I was off on my own again to pick up some stuff...for us and one of the other patients who couldn't get out today because they were having a procedure. We try not to get too much of anything that's perishable, even though we have a tiny fridge, it is tiny, so doesn't hold much. And we're weening Kasie off the coke and onto juice....so off to get some more. They're little more than juice boxes in size, so they don't last very long...but we keep switching up the flavors...sticking with cranberry juice for sure...but getting others now too. As for my market place adventure for today: some creepy guy started following me; and despite the perception that all Indian people are small in stature, they're not. Anyway, it was like in a movie when someone realizes they're being followed and so they shift where they're walking and weave to see if they are indeed being followed...and then the follower mimics that too...”um, you have got to be kidding me – I don't need this”...so an artful encircling of a rickshaw put him ahead of me....he stopped, looked around stepped into a vendors booth and started 'nervously' looking around; ? for me?, I have no idea really...but when HE saw me now watching him, he took off. First time I've actually felt uncomfortable here; the little scary “monster” kids are just annoying...this was different.
Anyway, that was that....got the goods and back to Green Park.
Oh did I mention that the NTAF check did arrive...so Kasie is all paid up....that's good news. And ATM card working again – must have been glitch with the local machines.
And the job she applied for, well it's NOT here in India...it's back home...her Hindi lessons are not progressing that well!
Afternoon PT: she stood really well ... once they got the calipers squared away that is. I can't quite figure out why they have so much trouble getting them – especially the right one, to work properly. It continues to seem that the the knees buckkle IN them, despite them having locking bars. But this morning I could visually see when she “lost” the lock of her knee and then her weight all shifted forward at her hip and she became knock-kneed, and off balance. This afternoon she was on top of it and was able to stand and do her weight shifting exercises without a hitch. More biking too.
After PT, a return to the room so she could check in on emails. We decided we'd go out for dinner – Kasie - not a curry fan; hello - Indian food in the hospital, um, LOTS of curry. Also a jaunt out is aimed at TRYING to wear her out so she'll sleep better tonight.
So about 530pm we strolled and rolled down Green Park, Green Park Extension and headed to Deer Park and the restaurant Park Balluchi, which we've heard is good. Anyway, it's a probably a little over a mile or so ...hard to tell with all the artful dodging of traffic we have to do to actually make headway – and avoid becoming a statistic; not to mention the little side trips down a street to “see” something. By the time we made it out there and realized a) no street lights for the return; b) the 'tent people' were no one we really wanted to encounter,, especially in the dark on the way back; c) sun was setting....we decided we'd be better off heading back and eating there another day when the return trip might not be be as much a cause for weariness.
So back towards the hospital we went. Once we got back along the Green Park Extension “strip” where we can actually utilize a “sidewalk” we felt more settled since we didn't feel like we'd get run over at any moment. Actually we've been talking about it and that feeling has seriously subsided from when we were first venturing out last week. We're becoming such Delhi-ites...and old hats at navigating around.
We checked out some 'restaurants' but gosh everything seemed a little sketchy...even though it smelled fabulous...not a smell you get often in Delhi. No need for Delhi-Belly though....so we passed on eating out tonight. But we did find a Starbucks – well it's not really a Starbucks....it was Cafe – Coffee Day; and Deepak (PT) had been raving to us about it today...and the cookies; so in we went with the help of 2 guys who carried Kasie up the steps. It was a really nice little cafe, VERY clean, books in the back; and some Indian yuppies. Kasie wanted a chai...but we didn't see it listed....and their list of beverages isn't even half as long as 1 Starbucks board. The guy said they had chai and she needed to pick and then he tried to explain to her that it all came separate....'WHAT?' Well it's not prepared is all. They brought her a cup of hot water, a Masala Garam tea bag, milk and sugar and she had to make it herself. It was pretty good, but could have been a little bit more spicy to her liking....or maybe she could have let the tea bag set a little longer. And the cookies...we got a tin of double chocolate chip cookies – and get this they were veg...no egg...and they were delicious....we chowed down on ½ the tin before we realized it; so much for dinner.
So then back onto the streets to get back to the hospital.
I'm so proud of Kasie. She is really working on keeping her “funk” in check – and she takes all my ribbing about it in stride...she's doing great. Her attitude about being here and her treatment continues to be super positive...and that of course helps.
They delivered dinner - curried chicken for Kasie...nope, not happening. She ate the cucumber, carrot and tomato salad and then had a Cup of Noodles we picked up...but guess what, a local one with TOO much curry in it. Becky, help!
Day 14 - March 14, 2008 / Friday
Just back from morning PT...our girl did FABULOUS walking today...should be able to get that video on the site here shortly (on the video page). I continue to be so proud of her and the progress she is making....you all would be so psyched to see this!
She's worn out though, it's a lot of work to walk with calipers on your legs, and to have to think about each step, and concentrate on your balance, and the movement of your entire leg, and then rely on the bars to hold yourself up. Dr. Shroff was there to check on Kasie...reminded her to take SMALLER steps instead of the longer steps she was attempting. She showed her what she meant; instead of stiff legging a Frankenstein type step it is much more controlled and a shorter gait. The smaller steps make a huge difference; she's able to maintain her balance better so she can actually go much further. After walking within the bars; she also walked with the aid of a walker for the first time since her treatment began. But "exhaustion" set in and they don't want to push Kasie too far so that she won't be able to continue during this afternoons treatment. So works out perfect that her stem cell injection today is by IV drip so she can rest and play a little Mahjong.
Dr. Shroff said we should go down to the PT area a couple times of day, outside of PT, on our own and have Kasie practice walking now that she is really getting it. GREAT! She also really wants her to keep up with the yoga to strengthen her core. And to stop being so "HARD" on herself...you know the throwing herself about into her wheelchair, "ooh sorry leg. And while Dr. Shroff says Kasie's posture is good and is is improving, her mid section still needs to become stronger to assist her in walking and that will come with more PT and yoga...and Dr. Shroff also said more procedures into that region will help for sure.
Her next procedure is scheduled for Monday...she'll have PT in the morning, then we'll go over there for the procedure and will actually spend the night there this time.
I'm still hoping they'll let me in to watch, and maybe even take pictures (?)...we asked Dr. Ashish about it the other day and he said he'd let me know. Let's keep our fingers crossed, I think it would be real interesting to observe. I realize it's ONLY an injection, but since I've had so many of them myself into my spine for pain relief since my accident (um, no not stem cells, but still injections into the spinal column...oh and yeah we had to ask since we're here...stem cells apparently wouldn't help my condition unless I FIRST had surgery - not ready to go there); anyway, observing a similar procedure peaks my interest greatly; plus it's Kasie.
She has a "flat" again...took her tire down to reception to send out AGAIN for air...they said only at night. Can't quite figure that one out, but we're at their mercy on that. Her one tire has the goo in it and holds air great; this one doesn't have the goo...andso with the baja'ing around the streets of India she does it leaks. Actually in our travels last week we did pass a "shop" that had tires...so if I can remember where that was I'll try and get there to get it fixed earlier than later..if not, it'll be tonight. It's not completely flat, just extremely low...so she can still get around.
Oh we have 2 new floormates...they just arrived yesterday. A young guy and I think his brother as his caregiver. They are actually located directly across the hall from us and we share a bathroom wall. So no more late night parties in our room...or maybe more than ever?!
Mr. David just stopped by to check on Kasie...but she's napping...he's getting a complex because when ever he stops by she is napping. He wanted to make sure she is doing well...and see if her expectations are being met with her progress and being here.
Even though we may seem to be a little critical from time to time on the website, emails, MySpace...I'd have to say overall we are both very pleased with her progress thus far, the staff, the treatments and the one procedure to date. Our critical nature is just "us"...and those of you who really know us wouldn't expect anything different. Plus we're in INDIA for g's sake...we are so out of our element and what we're used to for health care, it is often difficult to check that at the door. But no worries...no problem.
Strange news from India - via Colorado...a little girl born in Northern India on Monday has two faces and is being worshiped as a reincarnated god...check this out...photo too...
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,337492,00.html
And now...for the rest of the story....Friday continued....had some 'glitches' in the system Friday....so hence the delay in the continuation of Friday's posting...as well as Saturday and Sunday.
So Kasie was actually so tired Friday afternoon...and lunch came late about 1:45pm, when she's supposed to be headed to afternoon PT...well she asked me to check with Shivani if she could continue to rest, skip afternoon PT and go to yoga at 4pm...Kasie requesting yoga...wow, she MUST be tired. Shivani said that'd be fine since Kasie had done so much earlier today.
Okay, so the staff is on our radar again....don't get me wrong we like them all, they are so sweet and caring, but it can be OVERWHELMING at times for two CO girls who are used to independence. First the feeling, constantly, that we can't be in the room without traffic coming and going...then this afternoon for some reason they wanted to do something with the electricity...stemming from something with the fridge? who knows...but is was right before we were supposed to go to yoga....so they had outlets and wires pulled out all over the room....and after about 20 minutes of no results, and them having left for a bit...we needed to get Kasie to yoga...me too, I needed to relax. And since we can't leave the room with them here...they put 'everything' back, or so we thought.
Off to yoga we went and Kasie got her second wind, so we decided to heat out to Park Baluchi for dinner, at that place we headed to last night but didn't make because we "chickened out" Well tonight...Raj drove us first so we could show him the where, then he went and got Will and Marcia. The restaurant has actually be recognized as being one of the best in Delhi by the tourist board. It has a charming setting, especially by Delhi standards. The food was of course Indian, and while it was good, neither Kasie or I were overly impressed. After dinner Raj took the other two back, and we opted to walk, thinking we'd hit the "Starbucks" again...but once we got there we chose not too. The walk back actually wasn't the scary thing we had envisioned last night. There were in fact street lights (not that we need street lights mind you...afterall how many street lights have you seen in the in the Colorado woods)...so it turned out to be great walk...and the street lights did work...and there was a steady stream of traffic adding headlights to the area where the "tent people" were; so no one jumped out of the shadows at us. Just goes to show how comfortable we've become in our new "little neck of the woods, Delhi"
So we get back, relaxed from dinner and the stroll/roll back....and first the guys at the front desk want $ for a prescription that was dropped of Kasie last night. HELLO, I already paid it this afternoon, plus I paid the OTHER bill for meds as well. Why don't they show that recorded? Then we walk into the room and the floor is flooded and just as we're figuring out where the flood came from...oh hello, the maintenance guys forgot to plug the fridge back in....and it's been about 4hours ...can you say defrosted! This time it wasn't us having fridge issues. So I just plugged it back in; plain and simple. Well then there's a knock on the door, the sisters wanting to check Kasie's BP and give her her evening stem cell injection, etc...oh yes and ask about payment for the meds from last night...well you get the picture. Utter chaos in a span of a few minutes...we're calling for maintenance to come clean up the mess...yes we plugged the fridge back in...it's not broken; only been unplugged, but there seems to have been some confusion on that. Well then maintenance shows up to clean up, or so we thought...then starts tinkering with the fridge....aaugh...drove Kasie so over the top, poor thing was feeling somewhat stressed by all the activity in the room so she split for a bit. Eventually someone did come and mop up the mess; and yes the fridge is working - still plugged in; amazing that it'll work if it's a) plugged in and b) has power to the outlet. I can completely empathize with Kasie on her stress levels...as I was feeling a little frazzled by it it all as well. When Kasie got back she was like"dude, I'm so ready to check into a hotel."
DAY 15 - March 15, 2008 / Saturday
Well the plan hatched yesterday...and with the hotel comment last night; this weekend seemed like the perfect time to get out of dodge for a bit. A little "serenity now" is in order. So after Kasie's morning PT and her stem cell injection the plan is to go to Jaipur in search of adventure and wild tigers. That region, Rajasthan, is supposed to be irrigated valleys on the edge of desert; and at least 2 different places to have a chance to see wild tigers. That'd just be fantastic. So off the to country it is. This isn't just us trapsing around India and blowing off her treatment, on the contrary. You see after her PT on Saturday mornings, Kasie actually has no PT again until Monday. And if she misses any injections, they are are able to play catch up. So with Dr. Shroff, as well as some of the other doctors, and patients encouragment to get out and experience and explore India, we figured we should venture out. Ah, what an opportunity to keep her mind as well as her body busy so we can't keep the "funk" away, and combat any 'homesickness". And having essentially a full day, day and 1/2 to venture a little further from "home," is great. So we're off to Jaipur: in search of tigers, fresh air, and adventure for the weekend.
More to follow...about the weekend's excursion...but here's some photo's to get you started...
On the road to Jaipur...through farmlands...
What in the world? 
Oh, silly us: an International Harvester
sticks, sticks, and more sticks, oh yes, and more sticks...
Does anyone know where I left my camel?
Hi-ho, hi-ho....it's off to work this elephant goes...
and where you might ask, does an elephant work, if not at the circus
...how about the Amber Fort
As if there were any doubt... 
now that's what we need for a pack trip ...
Monkeys abound near and on the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur 
Getting out of Delhi, or Green Park itself did not go off without a hitch. First, after PT while Kasie was showering and getting ready for an overnight trip; I sent Raj out with her “flat” tire to get the leak fixed or if nothing else...her tire inflated. He was also to purchase a SIM card for her Indian cell phone which in theory is supposed to be cheaper and thereby allow her to use it to call locally for transportation when she needs it, etc. Well that didn't turn out to be a quick little mission. There was the issue of actually getting the SIM card without having a photo...mind you we could provide a COPY of her passport and which has her photo...but without a passport size photo we couldn't get one we were told. That was by Raj and hospital staff alike. Who knew to travel with a passport sized photo to get a phone...not us. So finally through some finagling and wheeling and dealing that situation was remedied, since we had already purchased her the phone yesterday...you can't buy them together (phone and SIM card) apparently...at least we couldn't...even with the help of the staff. Ok he finally gets back, missions accomplished....phone to be active with the new card in about to 3 hours and a fully inflated tire. We're ready to rock and roll. Not quite, we still were waiting on some meds for Kasie to arrive...well they finally arrive which is a good thing since the car and driver I arranged for has been sitting, waiting since 1230pm. Okay we're on our way...nope sure enough not...wrong medication if you can believe it. SO, off they go trying to square away the prescription...all prescriptions that begin with the letter “D” are not the same. SO we're STILL waiting and another ½ hour ticks by....all the while the car and driver – still waiting. Finally the correct med arrive; but whoa twice the price as what we paid the other day...what is going on, this can't be right, more money, different brand? WHAT@$&*. Well it turns out this time they actually got her normal dosage of 5mg and a quantity of 10 pills; instead of what they got the other day which was only 2.5mg and 10 pills....thereby the price difference. Her pills from home should arrive Monday, so that should rectify and additional issues pertaining to her meds.
So finally, we really are ready to get out of dodge. It's 2pm and we've got, what we're told is a 3 ½ to 4 hour drive ahead of us. Okay, no problem...we can relax...enjoy the scenery once we get out of Delhi and still arrive before dark and have a little time to check out Jaipur. Well the traffic, have I mentioned how insane this traffic can be – I mean REALLY...it was ludicrous. We sat in several “parking lots” before we actually got out of Delhi itself. We finally made it to Guragon, a suburb I guess you could say...and the traffic started to pick up. About 2 hours out of Delhi, which with the traffic could have actually only been a few miles, we saw our first camel. He was pulling a cart on the opposite side of the road as we whizzed on by...but finally we saw a camel. We both thought – cool.
Our journey took us across some “states” where the driver paid the tolls and we kept going. Finally we left the hustle and bustle and chaos of Delhi behind; well sort of. The road, which still had 8 gillion cars on it...opened up into 'farmland' intermixed with dozens and dozens of small communities which were just as chaotic and even more dirty than Delhi. But we were seeing green...and a blue sky...first we could recollect since we've been in India (2 weeks – everything always gray and overcast with pollution). We were also seeing livestock – not just cows...the sacred beasts that just roam about freely even in downtown Delhi feasting on trash...but now sheep and goats, with herders. So now we knew where all the mutton was coming from in the food – the road; not some “ranch” in the country. All the herding was taking place on the roads it seemed; nothing in the vast “sprawling” tracts. The fields themselves were interspersed with dry barren tracts of land as well. Nothing seemed to be irrigated. Interesting concept to raise livestock on dry barren pieces of land and roadways, when you aren't feeding them; except of course trash. That of course explains the scrawniness of these animals – no veg growing on the pavement, now is there; and not a lot of nutrients in dirt alone or trash for these critters. Just strange...sure doesn't seem like the habitat can support these or any animals for that matter....blah, blah, blah.
So we arrive in Jaipur, just before dark...and it's absolutely FILTHY, it is 100 times worse than what we had seen in Delhi, or on the way. You have got to be kidding...this is it....did we just arrive in the ghetto..oh we must just be going through the bad section.
The traffic was driving even our driver nuts...and I told him where we wanted to go...Bani Park. Well he didn't know where that was; so he stopped (first guy I know who'll actually stops - a bunch of times) to get directions. None of it helped though...he'd never been there before and was pretty much as clueless as we were to where we were going...only had the trusty Lonely Planet guide book with us...which didn't help. Oh throw in feral pigs running around on the open trash piles; random naked kids running around; dirty, no - absolutely FILTHY and disgusting living conditions, piles of rubble and rubbish...just an all out nightmare seemed to be unraveling before us. And then I'm looking out the window as we're at a standstill and I notice a dog lying completely motionless in the road...and I figured he must have been hit by and car and dead. And I was thinking how odd – or more like back home someone usually pulls and animal out of the road when it's been it. Well I guess no one in their right mind would attempt that here with the crazy drivers and sheer volume of traffic. So I was looking out the window and I can't say directly at the dog; but at the scene directly behind – people, dirt, rubbish, pigs, people selling food...all of it and then a bus came up and sure enough if I didn't witness the poor thing get squished and then yuck – a nope wasn't dead. Kasie who had been looking at the other window luckily had heard the yelp and turned to see what happened...nope Kasie don't look...nasty.
So further and further into the pit of despair we went....finally amongst rickshaws, camels, foot traffic, buses, just sheer amounts of people in the road and the mindless maze we had found ourselves in....we're not in Kansas anymore Dorothy...we stopped; yet again to ask for directions..this time I got out with the driver and took my book and map; leaving Kasie locked in the car so no one would steal her.. When we found out where we were and how far we were from Bani Park....not really but OMG the slums...and traffic...could be midnight, or at least another hour before we'd get to the “quaint, palace” we were aiming for that was only like $50/night for both of us, reasonable. It was DARK, we didn't know where we were, nor did our driver, and it was 7pm (uh 5 hours so far...not 3 ½ – 4), so naturally we were once again feeling frustrated and like “lets just get somewhere – somewhere clean – somewhere safe.” So I asked for a different hotel that I recognized from the guide book that SHOULD be really close by according to the guy telling us were we were. So Sure enough we could see it, he pointed to it - the OM Tower, a “Best Western” for ch's sake. Space ship in the midst of all this chaos. Neon light on the pinnacle – Vegas it was not...but what a sight. Whatever – at that point...I was pretty much willing to pay anything...and the guide book actually puts it in that $50 – 60 USD range as well, so okay; we need a place to stay...and let's just go “there” and get this over with, we're tired and cranky after the long day. So in I go to check it out...sure enough a 5 star hotel...14 floors with rooftop pool on 1 building, lounge and rooftop revolving restaurant on the 14th floor....oh god this is going to cost me. But we had arrived...so I didn't really care. So I splurged for us for a real hotel...about $150 USD...but we were going to be able to settle in and leave the hectic streets behind for a few hours....whew! The room, 2 twin beds was absolutely not worth $150...it was a typical budget room by US standards, and no wheelchair access to the bathroom...but we managed that with the desk chair in the door. Oh and we had to rearrange the beds to get Kasie in and out. Dinner was of course up at the Rooftop Revolving restaurant which gave us views of the entire city. We could see some of the sites...and they were noted on the walls at the position they were when you rotated by. The chaotic and hectic streets didn't
appear quite as bad from 14 floors up...but it was also getting later, so maybe that had something to do with it...oh no from a different angle just as congested.
Kasie had baked mac and cheese and fries...I went simple – some mushroom soup and naan. After dinner on the way back down to the room we stopped off on the 9th floor to check out the disco...cause Kasie has really wanted to see an Indian disco. Well it was closed – only open for private parties. So back to the room...we attempted to connect to the internet....neither one of us could get our laptops to connect. Well that's not quite right...we could connect with like one bar of service to the wireless provider, but we couldn't get anywhere past that....so no updates for the day.
I must say...after 2 weeks in India...sleeping on futons and a hard vinyl mattress—even with the air mattress; and the long haul over to Jaipur today; it was absolutely the best $150 I think I've ever spent. The beds were SO comfortable and the sheets were so soft and clean and we both just melted into them, aaah....we even both sighed it at the same time...relief and tranquility were at hand, NOT. Of course, why would it go smoothly...someone apparently was having the loudest conversation ever - just outside our door it seemed. So I opened the door and sure enough the two rooms across from us had a bunch of men flip flopping back and forth between their rooms and talking loudly and they were leaving the doors open, aaugh. All I had to do though was just poke my head out and that was enough...they must have realized how loud and obnoxious they were and they closed there doors and peace and quite ensued...finally.
DAY 16 – March 16, 2008 / Sunday
Up and out of there early – lots to do and see we hoped.
So our driver from yesterday returned to pick us up – a good sign, we brought him some breakfast from our continental breakfast. The streets were relatively empty at 7am...good call.
First off to the Hawa Mahal - a facade palace of a maharaja for his harem...but it didn't really "open" til 10 - and it was 7...so off in search of the elephants at what we thought was going to be like the pens at the stockshow...instead we ended up at Amber Fort – Palace is one of the most majestic hilltop forts in perhaps all of India...and Rajasthan for sure. It was the ultimate seat of Rajput power and opulence in the 16th and 17th centuries. On the way we were passing lots of elephants...got to the fort and we could see lots of elephants going up - and then we could see "white" people on them....turns out they were tours. Hmm, how much, how long, etc...so we pulled and the line was enormous...yeah probably not; but then this guy came up to Kasie's window and said the wait was really only 10-15minutes. Ok that might be doable; but how much? Wow only 550 RPS ($14 USD) for both of us...uh Kasie, do you want to ride and elephant....um, hell yes! Not that there was any doubt! When we got out and they saw Kasie's chair...they carried her to the head of the line. She was able to transfer herself to the elephant since they load the tourists onto them from an elevate platform. It was great fun....”Lucky” was our elephant and the 18 year old elephant owner/driver loved and lived with Lucky at the elephant area. Up at the top we did the sightseeing thing of a sort of self-guided tour that two “security guards” helped get Kasie around all the steps...cause the ramps...way too steep for she and I to finagle on our own...sheesh. Then it turns out that you don't ride the elephant back down...no you take a jeep back down...okay, but they failed to mention this at the bottom and they also failed to mention that it was another 200 RPS for that...so we said hell no; more on principal and some spit and vinegar really that the price. So I pushed/held Kasie back as we went down the road/ramp - no stairs so that was good...but it was so damned steep..but we didn't crash or have any runaway Kasie's on the ride to nowhere, so that was a great thing. And the best part of walking down and getting away from all the panhandlers at the courtyard of the palace was that on the way down, had we taken the jeep we would have missed out on the Indian snake charmer. Awesome, yup a cobra....so had to sit next to him – and check it out...Kasie stayed a little further back. Oh yeah, just a little nerve racking though - after all it was a cobra...and what, isn't their striking distance something like three feet. Sure enough though, the charmer played his flute and the snake swayed and was mesmerized and transfixed on him.
We finally made it back to our driver and started down the road and we were being chased by “Tony” - oh yes...we had our picture taken as we were going up on the elephant....very commercial. “Tony” yelled to us to look for him at the bottom. We weren't interested so we just got back to our car and left....but he saw us and ran us down...holding photos up to Kasie window...and I could see them...and since we really didn't have that kind of photo of us going up we had our driver stop to take a look...and of course we bought em...way cool.
Then we headed out in search of tigers...but since our driver wasn't familiar with the area...never been there before, I'm positive he missed the turn despite me having showed it to him on the map....and him stopping to get the turnoff information, several times. Finally he stopped again when we were way past where I KNEW the turn off had been...but he had kept saying no – this way, this way (on the road to Delhi) he stopped again...and this time he was told yes the turn was back about 80 km (like 50 miles or so)...and these folks, according to him, said that area is closed now...no more tigers...which actually COULD be possible because the book I had said that in like 2005 there had been some poaching incidents and concerns about #'s of tigers remaining. The other place that we had initially thought to go in search of tigers, which would have maybe proved to be more promising had been 100 miles south of Jaipur (this one was between Jaipur & Delhi) and since it took us 5 hours to get to Jaipur on Saturday....we expected the same for a return....and then add on another probably 5 hours for the roundtrip from Jaipur to the park...and then time on a “safari” we realized way too long a day. So, I'm sure we'll end up at the zoo this week.
Anyway, back to Delhi...the weekend was and adventure...and Kasie had a blast. I'm so glad SHE got to ride an elephant.
I can't believe I'm saying this but I'm glad to be back at Green Park. The amount of dirt and grime on us by the time we got back was amazing. I feel like I jumped in a mud bog, got out – layed in the sun and backed the mud, then rolled around in some ash after a fire. Get the picture..,Pig Pen has nothing on us after this jaunt. It was gross. I actually got in the shower with my clothes on to wash them off and just watched the dirt and dust spill onto the tile. Bothh Kasie and I had to shampoo twice to get all the grime out of our hair. Anyway, back to Green Park...talked with Bambi...good for the girl to talk to her mom. And we now have a new working outline...but it's late...so that'll give us something to do the next two days while we're at the other hospital after her procedure tomorrow. We're not sure we'll have internet access over there. We'll be there from midday Monday to midday Tuesday.
Today was rather uneventful.
I got up about about 430am...checked emails, worked on the web, did some yoga. Around 8am Kasie “woke up”, asked what time it, said she was 'achey', and rolled over and went back to sleep...good for her, she can sleep in; there's no PT today...and we've got our trusty DND sign out.
A little before a 11 am there was a quiet little knock...it was actually Marcia checking in on us. We love Marcia and Will, they are both so nice...and it's great, I think, especially for Kasie to have made some friends from “home” - while CA isn't quite home...it's close enough. Poor thing has been homesick.
While out in the hallway, one of the other patients caregivers told me that they had had a 'scary' night last night. After feeling generally 'achey' all day on Saturday (yesterday) at about 3am they had the chills and were shivering so they actually had to call the doctor in. Apparently that can be a reaction to the stem cells and nothing to be overly concerned about, as we have now learned. They gave them an analgesic and their feeling much better and are actually hoping to go out today.
Since Kasie is still sleeping, I plan to get to the grocery market for a few items we need for the room.
Just back in the room for a moment, when the sister who had just seen me in the hallway knocked, ever so lightly on the door with BP cuff in hand. I let her know Kasie was still sleeping...it was just about or a little after 11am. The sister looked a little distressed and said she would call the doctor. Just about that time Kasie did wake up...of course first thing out of her mouth – "are they ignoring the DND sign?", and then "what time is it?". She was still complaining of being achey and fatigued and I told her about the other patients night and the doctor was coming by to check on her. The doctor and sister came by and checked on Kasie and said that sometimes the stem cells do just make you really tired and since she hadn't slept very well the night before, the aches and fatigue were really nothing to be worried about, at this point.
She rolled on down the hall to make her morning visits to our floor mates. Mr. David stopped by and Kasie mentioned she had a headache to him. He called the doctor for her...who gave her an analgesic. After a little more rest, a stem cell injection, checking her emails, a shower and some 'lunch' Kasie was ready, while not roaring, to go out for a spin; she was bored of being couped up.
So about 4pm we had a car and driver pick us up and ... we were initially going to follow Marcia and Will to the Khan Market for a little adventure, perusing and dinner; but since it was Sunday the locals told us most of those shops would be closed. So instead we went to Ansal Mall, this turned out to be an actual mall. This place was 4 stories high. A little confusing in the 1st elevator (lift) ride though when we asked to go to the 2nd floor and ended up on the 3rd. The level we entered on was not 1 – it was 0, so when we wanted to go up to the next level WE thought up 1,plus the 1 were on = 2; nope...up 2 for from 0 actually = 3 in India, go figure. So the mall – seriously a real mall in its own right....but nothing like we're used to in the states....not the big rambling spacious center areas with shops on the sides. The stores only on one side of the atrium hall, with the walkway area about 10 feet across and the other side just a glass wall from floor to roof. A few can only find in India shops...a beautiful saree and suit shop...the fabrics and colors and textures were phenomenal...most were or at least seemed to us to be extremely pricey....but a few were on sale 50% off, for Women's Day. Did you know there is an International Women's Day, March 8 – which apparently has been a thing since 1908 – unofficially, and 1911 – officially....hmm, don't think I ever knew about it...and neither did the others. Anyway, not that I ever intended to actually shop...but now do I not only have my pink jeweled shoes from the other night...I now have an outfit too, ah the Indian fashion diva I am becoming, not! Kasie picked out some beautiful fabric and is planning on having a top made before she leaves – she's got some time to figure out exactly how she wants it. It's actually rather inexpensive in that regard, you buy the fabric and they'll tailor for you...for no additional charge; you can get some for apparently as little as $20 USD. The rest of the stores though...well Bennetton, Apple, Adidas, Levi's, Lee, Guess, you get the picture.
Marcia did find the elephant she was looking for - for Lois, so mission accomplished. Then back into the crazy streets...our driver today – we liked him - not TOO crazy; once he realized you can't take Kasie's chair completely apart he worked out just fine. What is it with these guys and her chair? So off we go...and DID go to Khan Market, and yes most of the shops were closed, but we were actually headed there for dinner. We all went to the “Big Chill” a very eclectic, bohemian little hole in the wall restaurant – Boulder-esque if you will. Old school movie “posters” on the walls and about 10 tables. A little loud, but hello, so is all of India. The menu was a mix of some local faire, Lebanese dishes, pasta dishes and SALADS!, oh and let us not forget Kasies baked potato with sauteed garlic, onions and mushrooms topped with cheese – the girl ate tonight for sure...that and a Penne Pomodore...she was stuffed. A bruschetta with sun-dried tomatoes and an olive tapenade and a Lebanese Fattooush salad did it for me, yum! . Marcia's minestrone soup came with chicken hot dog bits in it, I don;t think she was a super fan of it, but she loved her pear, walnut and blue cheese salad. And finally Will had a Blue Cheese penne which he seemed to wolf down, so must have been good; along with 2 fabulous juices. For dessert – ice cream shakes....Belgium Chocolate and Maple Walnut. Kasie had been craving one since the fiasco with Mickey D's the other night. So the epicureans were stuffed and happy!
Back to Nu Tech Green Park..and time to call it a night...but first a quick check of emails, Kasie's evening rounds; and a trip downstairs for monopoly - denied... the front desk guy...still can't figure out how to spell or even say his name...well a) he 'scares' Kasie; and b) he told her no – she had to play monopoly down there. So back up she comes...no monopoly tonight.
Day 10 - March 10, 2008 / Monday
Well we continue to have issues with the ATM - attempted to JUST get a balance inquiry and wouldn't even let us do that...so we haven't been able to access any money since Saturday...what is going on? This is very frustrating...and so far locally around here we haven't been able to convert any USD to RPS...that's right nogt eve at the bank, go figure. Sending an email to the bank back home to see what's what. Staff at the banks here, well lets just say they're inaccessible. Inaccessible is the word for the day. When asked why she's "homesick" Kasie can't quite put her finger on it...or any one thing, but a lot of it's related to inaccessibility...so here's the general idea of our conversation this morning....cause' unfortunately for her, I don't "get" the "homesick" thing...but I'm trying to understand it and not just kick her butt about it
. So she "outlined" it for me....I.). We're in a 3rd world country...hello - we're in INDIA. Do people really understand where that is on the map?
A. It's dirty smelly, noisy...
B. It's inaccessible..
1) There are language barriers...(we don't speak Hindi, and they don't all speak English)
2) The streets are non accessible...
3) The public bathrooms are for the most part, non accessible; (and super sketch from anyone's standpoint, let
alone a woman in a wheelchair – can you say hole in the ground?)
4) Vehicles (can you say it with me)...non accessible vehicles; (getting the wheelchair situated takes some doing
for sure...if it even fits...)
5) India is just plain not accessible like home...(um, hello Kasie – you already covered that - it is India!)
Also, she misses Baylee – and for the life of me I can't stop her from trying to feed the strays – bad Kasie, bad – just cause you have had your rabies shots from playing with a bat, doesn't mean it's open playtime with the stray mongrels and monkeys – NO you can't feed them!
She has trouble sleeping – but could it be she's up half the night texting home and downloading music...yes....get some rest girlfriend you need it and deserve it! And now they're having to give you sleeping pills....relax, take a deep breath...home will still be there in May. As Geeta told you, enjoy the experience...you are very lucky to be here!
And that is her big positive – she's getting stem cells....and that continues to excite her.
So off to PT and and an injection this morning....a visit with the patient who's been having the chills...who again had a bad night. Dr. Ashish now told those folks, that maybe it is a touch of a bug...malaria? Hmm, their both on anti-malarial pills...which we're not...and malaria usually takes about 7 days to manifest its symptoms....maybe a reaction to the stem cells? Not sure, so Dr. Ashish told them not to take the pills today, they will give them something else for today, and have some blood work done to see what's going on. Unfortunately with that said...the treatment they were scheduled to have has to be rescheduled until they know the results of the blood tests, so they'llgoing with some alternate means of providing the stem cells today...
Kasie still having a slight headache. We met with Geeta (Dr. Shroff) today and discussed Kasie's progress....her lack of sleep (hence the script now for sleeping pills)...how Kasie should enjoy and embrace India...Geeta even told her to forget about being homesick...she's only here for a short while. She invited her to the other hospital to spend some time with the special needs children that are there receiving stem cell treatment to give her something to do and take her mind off all the poverty stricken kids we see and Kasie naturally wants to "adopt"... along with all the dogs. Geeta explained to her that these children she sees on the streets are very smart and are part of "crime" rings that panhandle for money....someone else mentioned to us earlier...did I mention it?, that some of these kids are actually maimed by there families to be able to go out and beg for money for effectively...sick!
Yoga again this afteroon - after regular PT. Kasie still not a fan, but I think with the encouragment of her PT's also...she realizes that these exercises will also strengthen her core.
After yoga, while Kasie was getting herself together, I went down to the street because we could hear a band. Turned out a few buildings down a wedding was taking place. Didn't get to see it all, but what I could see and hear was very festive indeed.
We then went out to a handicraft market...and saw some local artisan's work. This was the place where Amanda had been mugged it turns out...so we didn't take anything with us. We had no problems.
When we got back, we had dinner and the sisters came by and told Kasie she had an infection...we asked to see the doctor. Turns out that after those unending urine samples last week, they actually did get one turned into the lab and tested it. They just got the results back tonight and they found e coli in her urine....not good. So they put her on anti-biotics for the next 5 days. They said that this is actually quite common here - oh just great, would have been nice to now before hand...anyone want to send some cranberry juice?
Day 11 – March 11, 2008 / Tuesday
Once again Kasie is off to PT...running a little late with the traffic jam in the hallway...the sisters station is right outside our door and she has to stop by for her BP to be taken on her way to PT. She always seems to be in the shower in the mornings when they come by now...so just easier to stop on her way downstairs.
This morning I was trying to catch up on some e-mails and grab a shower. Kasie went down to PT on her own. By the time I got down there, while Shivani was stretching her, out, Kasie had been able to move a toe on her own – YAHOO! Actually 2 different toes on her left foot wiggled...while she didn't feel them do it, she was able to initiate that movement. That is FANTASTIC! The staff around her love Kasie's progress; and so do I.
Also during PT they once again tried to get those calipers squared away...and for some reason that right knee continues to have issues with the caliper and bending. Kasie continues to have the sensation that her knee is not locked out, and it really doesn't look like it times either. It seems to roll in and that is when she seems to have the most issues with standing and balancing. But they think they worked out the kink, so after some more standing and balancing practice between the bars she moved over to the other bars, with the stainless steel base so should could start her walking exercises. This is very exciting for Kasie, she's been waiting for this. The walking exercises consists of a little bit of a shuffle along between the bars. It appears that Kasie is actually making it a little harder on herself by trying to do a little too much by lifting her legs to actually walk...at this point they say she needs to focus on the slide/glide method to get the motion going; because when she actually lifts her leg, her foot will either turn in or out just a bit and then when she places it back down it's not straight. This will come in time...this is really the first day they have tried this. The PT's are all so helpful and positive with Kasie, and truly take their time with her. She wants to take Shivani home with her.
After PT, Kasie was pretty much exhausted so just a quick stop by the injection room for her morning stem cell shot and then up to the room. So I went out on my own to try and rectify our cash flow problem. I finally found another bank that accepted the card, whew. We're still not sure what the problem had actually been since we had made previous withdrawals at few different banks...including the one next door which we then started having all the problems with. In fact on Sunday we had been to 3 different ATMs and had been unable to withdraw or even get a balance inquiry from any of them...but now we're good again. What a relief. We hadn't been able to pay the laundry guy or the guy who fixed Kasie's tire (she had a flat – or slow leak/again) the other night...now we can.
On the way back to Green Park I also stopped at Safdarjang's Tomb. Built by the nawab of Avadh for his father upon his death, it is one of the last examples of Mughal architecture before the fall of the Mughal empire. I also stopped by a market or two. Yes I know....no more shopping. But I was on a mission...and the second one was more of a grocery market; quite large and fairly extensive in fact. And besides, I needed to find some cranberry juice. And low and behold I did. So we're well stocked now with cranberry juice, some ramen, some Toblerone – hmm chocolate, and some fresh fruit and veggies...fabulous.
When I got back Kasie had just gotten down to her afternoon PT. She made through her exercises but you could tell the poor girl was worn out today. Maybe it everything is just catching up finally...and probably a little of the sleeping pill she took last night too. She took it pretty late and I think she's still exhausted from that, not to mention the PT, she worked really hard today. So after PT she grabbed a good long nap until dinner. Only a few interruptions...not too bad once Doctor Pruthi came by and realized she was trying to sleep, things calmed down for a few hours then.
Dinner in tonight...ah a baked potato, our girl was psyched. For some reason she thought she was getting garlic bread....we did get some good rolls...but no garlic bread.
After dinner she had to take her antibiotic which confused her a bit I think, since they had actually given her the tablets yesterday to take...and we just thought she would be taking them on her own....once in the am, once in the pm with her meals. We didn't realize they would come to have her take them since we had them. Anyway, she had her BP checked and then she also got her evening stem cell injection. All is good.
Oh and she fired off a job application....
Day 12 – March 12, 2008 / Wednesday
Just another day in India. Wow what a day so far.
This morning Kasie had PT and her stem cell injection...continuing to build up her core strength, she's doing great.
We spoke with Geeta this morning and discussed Kasie's progress. She continues to be so pleased with Kasie's response to treatment thus far, as are we. “Baby steps” are great steps. Geeta gives Kasie lots of hope, support and strength. While POWERFUL might not be the exact word to describe her, because she's not the corporate powerhouse that goes along with the notion...Geeta is indeed inspiring. I think Geeta's positive attitude is reflected in the way her staff and the patients interact with her. She is so approachable and willing to discuss the goings on of the treatments, it is a pleasure and a relief to us to be able to speak with her so directly and candidly. She really seems to understand what Kasie is going through. She understands that Kasie can be homesick, yet offers suggestions of places go and things to do to allow her to experience India, and hopefully curb some of the 'dread' she might allow herself to feel from time to time. “Mind over matter” for sure according to Geeta, this will help Kasie get the most out of her treatment her; her positive attitude can take her far.
We also spoke with Dr. Ashish this morning. He too is such a pleasant fellow, always has a smile on his face and so bubbly and full of energy. He reads Kasie's blog which just floors me...so he says that unless he reads it here he won't believe it. He won't let her just tell him she's walking and she needs a stem cell booster unless he reads it here..funny guy. He is genuinely interested in Kasie's progress. He also seems delighted with how much she has achieved already....and foresees that because she is progressing so well that perhaps she will be able to have some additional “procedures” while she is here. Those are the extended stem cell injections that more in depth and targeted at the injury sites; not just the IV or IM shots she gets daily, so that of course sparks that glimmer in Kasie and excites her beyond belief. He was very excited when Kasie told him about moving her toes yesterday, an amazing sign in just 7 days of treatments.
And then we were off...headed to the ITO (Income Tax Office?) Bridge, in search of elephants. Yeah right...what's the likelihood of us coming across a random elephant. When we ask about them everyone just seems to think we're kidding...but maybe, just maybe. Well we didn't make it to the ITO....but holy smokes we're in the car and Raj, the driver – who by the way is wonderful and so protective of Kasie it's great; well he tells us there's an elephant. Of course we couldn't see it...but sure enough today's traffic was a little bit more congested perhaps because sure enough we pulled up behind an elephant with a guy riding it in the middle of the road. We passed him and pulled up to the curb to watch this spectacular site. Can you believe it, we went in search of an elephant, and we found one. Raj motioned to the guy with the elephant to come to the curb and he did. What a photo op....Kasie got to see her elephant, in the street....not at a zoo. Of course we considered putting Kasie ON the elephant, but didn't know if it were feasible. So I checked out how this would work, by climbing up on him myself and then he stood up and walked about a little bit....couldn't believe it. What a strange and exhilarating feeling....and yes a little scary too, nothing like a horse that's for sure. How do you drive one of these things? Once I got down Kasie got closer to him and shook his trunk, but decided not to hop up on him. It would have actually been quite a chore to get her up on him since you need to step on his leg, trunk, head and then into the seat. And realistically I don't know how I would have explained losing Kasie in India when the elephant took off down the road. But she was thrilled to have had her elephant experience, as was I. I kept saying "Kasie we saw an elephant," and, she kept saying, "dude, you rode an elephant"...WOW!
Elephant, what elephant...
So then off to the India Gate, a memorial arch about 130 feet high, that has the names of about 90,000 fallen Indian soldiers from WWI and the the third Afghan war in 1919. We then drove down Rajpath (Kingsway) towards Raisana Hill There we could see Sansad Bhavan (Parliament) and the Secretariat buildings that are topped with impressive domes and house many of the governments ministries And then the Rashtrapai Bhavan which is the Presidents house. It is a magnificent palatial residence completed in 1929. It sits behind large wrought iron gates and of course it's not open to the public. From what we could see, it sure appears to be a sprawling complex and so clean and crisp was this whole area that it really is a striking contrast to the rest of India that we have seen so far.
Then we were off again, and Raj – the man, he rocks as Kasie says. He found our girl some wild monkeys to see, no zoo for us today. The monkeys were just sitting along the roadside and climbing fences and trees, picking at trash. They were fairly small in stature...no bigger than Baylee...and there were even baby monkeys....
Next stop Saronji Market...yes, another market....just to peruse...I think us going to the markets is a) a way to get out of the hospital; b) experience the environment from the local level – because in reality some of these markets we go to are truly local in atmosphere and flavor...and we don't see other “tourists”. In fact we rarely see other “tourists” anywhere we go.
Back to Green Park for afternoon PT. Afterwards back to the room for a nap and waiting on yoga.
Sister Anjali stopped by to check Kasie's BP, but she was sleeping...so she'll come back later. I didn't realize it was almost 5pm - we missed yoga tonight....Kasie as you can imagine is SOOOOOOOOO disappointed, not. We also got a bill for her recent medications.
Kasie just got up and sisters Siarmila and Anjali (they're so nice and upbeat all the time and alway apologize if Kasie's sleeping) just stopped by for her BP and to give her evening injection.\
And now we're on our way out for dinner.
Day 12 continued...13 – March 13, 2008 / Thursday...the wee hours
Despite Kasie taking a sleep pill about 9pm tonight/last night...she couldn't sleep; and neither could I. What is going on? We both feel so wired. And there seems to be SO much pollution in the air tonight. The smell of a fire is just permeating into the room; burning both our eyes and noses. We had gotten not just a whiff of it on the way home from the restaurant, but you could actually see, even at night, how thick the pollution seemed to be. It's kind of like looking at a street light when it is foggy....the air just seem and felt so heavy and polluted tonight, perhaps that is it...
Uh, Perry – nice, forget who we are in just a little over a week...we're so disappointed in you
Well since we couldn't sleep, Kasie first had another one of her “cleaning” episodes; probably stemming from the feel that tonight we were just being drenched in the pollution of the city. Yuck, what is that all about? When we were out earlier, for dinner, we had stopped and picked up some bleach/disinfectant and some antibacterial soap....so she went to town on the room. Despite us keeping the room clean; and having it cleaned regularly by staff as well...tonight there is still this fine layer of dirt that just seems to have settled on everything. So our little white tornado was determined to get rid of it.
After she had gotten enough cleaning out of her system, she went wandering for a bit and visited with one our floormates; whom also happened to be up. It just so happened to be the patient with the severe burn. It is apparently really beginning to heal nicely; that's great because we have been so worried about them. She likes talking with this patient because they've made such strides in their progress since being here. Kasie is really excited for them...and what it could mean for her. They, being a quad, and having had relatively no use of their arms...and now being able to get around by wheeling themselves around is amazing progress for sure.
Back to the room she comes...we looked at pictures, listened to music; got the elephant photos on the website, updated her MySpace; did some emails and IM's – and still couldn't sleep.
Becky – Kasie shared your email with me about the homesick thing...and that you reiterated to her that things are still the same at home and everyone will still be there....you hit the nail on the head...(thanks). This IS one of those times when you CAN go home again. I'm sure she “gets it” since you and I, and others too (both from home...and oh say, the DOCTORS here)...are letting her know that her focus needs to be here...on her treatment, on what she has accomplished thus far, on what she wants to accomplish, and what it will take to achieve it; she just needs to accept that wholeheartedly. All the people and things she cares about ARE there for her and will be when she gets back too.
She is so committed to her PT and her treatment....and is so positive about the results she's seeing, it is actually hard to grasp that at the same time she can have these feelings of being homesick. BELIEVE Kasie, BELIEVE! And she so does BELIEVE, that isn't in question whatsoever. And that is what makes her so strong!
Well we finally got to sleep about 2am I think...and this morning we both slept in –til about 730 am in fact. Kasie just got her butt up out of bed and into the shower...and it's already 815am...
Oh and that dirt from last night....well there's a layer of it on the balcony...and the sky this morning really dark and dank. Not that you ever see blue skies in Delhi, at least we haven't...but some days, despite all the pollution in the air do seem more “clear” than others. Today is not one of them....and there is still that heavy smell of fire in the air. I think I have previously mentioned that they burn 'everything' here, haven't I? If not, now you know – they do.
So we'll be on our way to PT in a little bit....
Day 13 – March 13, 2008 / Thursday – the rest of it
So off to PT we go. Kasie's core strength and balance continue to improve everyday. She sits up much straighter and for longer periods of time without having a back rest. And her “cat” and “camel” (which is really “cow” and “cat” according to the yogi) are starting to pay off. When she stands up she is not as swayed back all the time. That curve in her lower back hasn't really gone away, it's just that the muscles in her lower back are becoming stronger and helping her to improve her posture. But if she doesn't quite get her legs locked just right, her hips rotate forward and you can see it...and it's more difficult for her to stand because her balance then shifts forward.
The morning PT sessions are always a good time because there are usually a few other patients down there as well....so note comparing takes place and the camaraderie and support for each other these folks have is fantastic. Everyone is so excited to be here; to know the gains, even if small, that they are each experiencing is a source of encouragement for all.
Shivani, Kasie's main PT is a delight. She and Kasie are giddy together....and Shivani “gets” Kasie which is great. The other PT's are all so friendly and engaging....our daily “Hindi” language lessons are always so entertaining. This morning we learned the meaning of names: Shivani (princess); Deepti (glow); Deepak (lamp); Chavi (? oh my I can't remember what her's meant), but Kasie (of course according to Kasie – sunshine, because she brings sunshine to each of their lives). Lots of laughs ensue as you can imagine. The PT staff are a young bunch and they and Kasie seemed to be enthralled with each other. They get along great and they make sure she is pushing herself.
Kasie is trying to talk Shivani into the two of them getting their noses pierced...oh yeah right...like we'll find a suitable, sanitary place to do that. Shivani told Kasie that she doesn't like them....so maybe getting a nose piercing while in India won't really happen.
Then off for another stem cell injection...depending upon which sister gives the injection to Kasie determines how much it hurts. Today's sister – painful (every time); she just seems to take so long to actually inject all the contents of the syringe, which draws out the process of the cold fluid medium of the stem cells going in. Others, well they just jab her and go....and she doesn't feel it nearly as much; her preferred method of receiving the stems cells for sure; or of course in her hip, where she doesn't feel it at all.
After PT, Kasie returned to the room...and I was off on my own again to pick up some stuff...for us and one of the other patients who couldn't get out today because they were having a procedure. We try not to get too much of anything that's perishable, even though we have a tiny fridge, it is tiny, so doesn't hold much. And we're weening Kasie off the coke and onto juice....so off to get some more. They're little more than juice boxes in size, so they don't last very long...but we keep switching up the flavors...sticking with cranberry juice for sure...but getting others now too. As for my market place adventure for today: some creepy guy started following me; and despite the perception that all Indian people are small in stature, they're not. Anyway, it was like in a movie when someone realizes they're being followed and so they shift where they're walking and weave to see if they are indeed being followed...and then the follower mimics that too...”um, you have got to be kidding me – I don't need this”...so an artful encircling of a rickshaw put him ahead of me....he stopped, looked around stepped into a vendors booth and started 'nervously' looking around; ? for me?, I have no idea really...but when HE saw me now watching him, he took off. First time I've actually felt uncomfortable here; the little scary “monster” kids are just annoying...this was different.
Anyway, that was that....got the goods and back to Green Park. Oh did I mention that the NTAF check did arrive...so Kasie is all paid up....that's good news. And ATM card working again – must have been glitch with the local machines.
And the job she applied for, well it's NOT here in India...it's back home...her Hindi lessons are not progressing that well!
Afternoon PT: she stood really well ... once they got the calipers squared away that is. I can't quite figure out why they have so much trouble getting them – especially the right one, to work properly. It continues to seem that the the knees buckkle IN them, despite them having locking bars. But this morning I could visually see when she “lost” the lock of her knee and then her weight all shifted forward at her hip and she became knock-kneed, and off balance. This afternoon she was on top of it and was able to stand and do her weight shifting exercises without a hitch. More biking too.
After PT, a return to the room so she could check in on emails. We decided we'd go out for dinner – Kasie - not a curry fan; hello - Indian food in the hospital, um, LOTS of curry. Also a jaunt out is aimed at TRYING to wear her out so she'll sleep better tonight.
So about 530pm we strolled and rolled down Green Park, Green Park Extension and headed to Deer Park and the restaurant Park Balluchi, which we've heard is good. Anyway, it's a probably a little over a mile or so ...hard to tell with all the artful dodging of traffic we have to do to actually make headway – and avoid becoming a statistic; not to mention the little side trips down a street to “see” something. By the time we made it out there and realized a) no street lights for the return; b) the 'tent people' were no one we really wanted to encounter,, especially in the dark on the way back; c) sun was setting....we decided we'd be better off heading back and eating there another day when the return trip might not be be as much a cause for weariness.
So back towards the hospital we went. Once we got back along the Green Park Extension “strip” where we can actually utilize a “sidewalk” we felt more settled since we didn't feel like we'd get run over at any moment. Actually we've been talking about it and that feeling has seriously subsided from when we were first venturing out last week. We're becoming such Delhi-ites...and old hats at navigating around.
We checked out some 'restaurants' but gosh everything seemed a little sketchy...even though it smelled fabulous...not a smell you get often in Delhi. No need for Delhi-Belly though....so we passed on eating out tonight. But we did find a Starbucks – well it's not really a Starbucks....it was Cafe – Coffee Day; and Deepak (PT) had been raving to us about it today...and the cookies; so in we went with the help of 2 guys who carried Kasie up the steps. It was a really nice little cafe, VERY clean, books in the back; and some Indian yuppies. Kasie wanted a chai...but we didn't see it listed....and their list of beverages isn't even half as long as 1 Starbucks board. The guy said they had chai and she needed to pick and then he tried to explain to her that it all came separate....'WHAT?' Well it's not prepared is all. They brought her a cup of hot water, a Masala Garam tea bag, milk and sugar and she had to make it herself. It was pretty good, but could have been a little bit more spicy to her liking....or maybe she could have let the tea bag set a little longer. And the cookies...we got a tin of double chocolate chip cookies – and get this they were veg...no egg...and they were delicious....we chowed down on ½ the tin before we realized it; so much for dinner.
So then back onto the streets to get back to the hospital.
I'm so proud of Kasie. She is really working on keeping her “funk” in check – and she takes all my ribbing about it in stride...she's doing great. Her attitude about being here and her treatment continues to be super positive...and that of course helps.
They delivered dinner - curried chicken for Kasie...nope, not happening. She ate the cucumber, carrot and tomato salad and then had a Cup of Noodles we picked up...but guess what, a local one with TOO much curry in it. Becky, help!
Day 14 - March 14, 2008 / Friday
Just back from morning PT...our girl did FABULOUS walking today...should be able to get that video on the site here shortly (on the video page). I continue to be so proud of her and the progress she is making....you all would be so psyched to see this!
She's worn out though, it's a lot of work to walk with calipers on your legs, and to have to think about each step, and concentrate on your balance, and the movement of your entire leg, and then rely on the bars to hold yourself up. Dr. Shroff was there to check on Kasie...reminded her to take SMALLER steps instead of the longer steps she was attempting. She showed her what she meant; instead of stiff legging a Frankenstein type step it is much more controlled and a shorter gait. The smaller steps make a huge difference; she's able to maintain her balance better so she can actually go much further. After walking within the bars; she also walked with the aid of a walker for the first time since her treatment began. But "exhaustion" set in and they don't want to push Kasie too far so that she won't be able to continue during this afternoons treatment. So works out perfect that her stem cell injection today is by IV drip so she can rest and play a little Mahjong.
Dr. Shroff said we should go down to the PT area a couple times of day, outside of PT, on our own and have Kasie practice walking now that she is really getting it. GREAT! She also really wants her to keep up with the yoga to strengthen her core. And to stop being so "HARD" on herself...you know the throwing herself about into her wheelchair, "ooh sorry leg. And while Dr. Shroff says Kasie's posture is good and is is improving, her mid section still needs to become stronger to assist her in walking and that will come with more PT and yoga...and Dr. Shroff also said more procedures into that region will help for sure.
Her next procedure is scheduled for Monday...she'll have PT in the morning, then we'll go over there for the procedure and will actually spend the night there this time.
I'm still hoping they'll let me in to watch, and maybe even take pictures (?)...we asked Dr. Ashish about it the other day and he said he'd let me know. Let's keep our fingers crossed, I think it would be real interesting to observe. I realize it's ONLY an injection, but since I've had so many of them myself into my spine for pain relief since my accident (um, no not stem cells, but still injections into the spinal column...oh and yeah we had to ask since we're here...stem cells apparently wouldn't help my condition unless I FIRST had surgery - not ready to go there); anyway, observing a similar procedure peaks my interest greatly; plus it's Kasie.
She has a "flat" again...took her tire down to reception to send out AGAIN for air...they said only at night. Can't quite figure that one out, but we're at their mercy on that. Her one tire has the goo in it and holds air great; this one doesn't have the goo...andso with the baja'ing around the streets of India she does it leaks. Actually in our travels last week we did pass a "shop" that had tires...so if I can remember where that was I'll try and get there to get it fixed earlier than later..if not, it'll be tonight. It's not completely flat, just extremely low...so she can still get around.
Oh we have 2 new floormates...they just arrived yesterday. A young guy and I think his brother as his caregiver. They are actually located directly across the hall from us and we share a bathroom wall. So no more late night parties in our room...or maybe more than ever?!
Mr. David just stopped by to check on Kasie...but she's napping...he's getting a complex because when ever he stops by she is napping. He wanted to make sure she is doing well...and see if her expectations are being met with her progress and being here.
Even though we may seem to be a little critical from time to time on the website, emails, MySpace...I'd have to say overall we are both very pleased with her progress thus far, the staff, the treatments and the one procedure to date. Our critical nature is just "us"...and those of you who really know us wouldn't expect anything different. Plus we're in INDIA for g's sake...we are so out of our element and what we're used to for health care, it is often difficult to check that at the door. But no worries...no problem.
Strange news from India - via Colorado...a little girl born in Northern India on Monday has two faces and is being worshiped as a reincarnated god...check this out...photo too...
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,337492,00.html
And now...for the rest of the story....Friday continued....had some 'glitches' in the system Friday....so hence the delay in the continuation of Friday's posting...as well as Saturday and Sunday.
So Kasie was actually so tired Friday afternoon...and lunch came late about 1:45pm, when she's supposed to be headed to afternoon PT...well she asked me to check with Shivani if she could continue to rest, skip afternoon PT and go to yoga at 4pm...Kasie requesting yoga...wow, she MUST be tired. Shivani said that'd be fine since Kasie had done so much earlier today.
Okay, so the staff is on our radar again....don't get me wrong we like them all, they are so sweet and caring, but it can be OVERWHELMING at times for two CO girls who are used to independence. First the feeling, constantly, that we can't be in the room without traffic coming and going...then this afternoon for some reason they wanted to do something with the electricity...stemming from something with the fridge? who knows...but is was right before we were supposed to go to yoga....so they had outlets and wires pulled out all over the room....and after about 20 minutes of no results, and them having left for a bit...we needed to get Kasie to yoga...me too, I needed to relax. And since we can't leave the room with them here...they put 'everything' back, or so we thought.
Off to yoga we went and Kasie got her second wind, so we decided to heat out to Park Baluchi for dinner, at that place we headed to last night but didn't make because we "chickened out" Well tonight...Raj drove us first so we could show him the where, then he went and got Will and Marcia. The restaurant has actually be recognized as being one of the best in Delhi by the tourist board. It has a charming setting, especially by Delhi standards. The food was of course Indian, and while it was good, neither Kasie or I were overly impressed. After dinner Raj took the other two back, and we opted to walk, thinking we'd hit the "Starbucks" again...but once we got there we chose not too. The walk back actually wasn't the scary thing we had envisioned last night. There were in fact street lights (not that we need street lights mind you...afterall how many street lights have you seen in the in the Colorado woods)...so it turned out to be great walk...and the street lights did work...and there was a steady stream of traffic adding headlights to the area where the "tent people" were; so no one jumped out of the shadows at us. Just goes to show how comfortable we've become in our new "little neck of the woods, Delhi"
So we get back, relaxed from dinner and the stroll/roll back....and first the guys at the front desk want $ for a prescription that was dropped of Kasie last night. HELLO, I already paid it this afternoon, plus I paid the OTHER bill for meds as well. Why don't they show that recorded? Then we walk into the room and the floor is flooded and just as we're figuring out where the flood came from...oh hello, the maintenance guys forgot to plug the fridge back in....and it's been about 4hours ...can you say defrosted! This time it wasn't us having fridge issues. So I just plugged it back in; plain and simple. Well then there's a knock on the door, the sisters wanting to check Kasie's BP and give her her evening stem cell injection, etc...oh yes and ask about payment for the meds from last night...well you get the picture. Utter chaos in a span of a few minutes...we're calling for maintenance to come clean up the mess...yes we plugged the fridge back in...it's not broken; only been unplugged, but there seems to have been some confusion on that. Well then maintenance shows up to clean up, or so we thought...then starts tinkering with the fridge....aaugh...drove Kasie so over the top, poor thing was feeling somewhat stressed by all the activity in the room so she split for a bit. Eventually someone did come and mop up the mess; and yes the fridge is working - still plugged in; amazing that it'll work if it's a) plugged in and b) has power to the outlet. I can completely empathize with Kasie on her stress levels...as I was feeling a little frazzled by it it all as well. When Kasie got back she was like"dude, I'm so ready to check into a hotel."
DAY 15 - March 15, 2008 / Saturday
Well the plan hatched yesterday...and with the hotel comment last night; this weekend seemed like the perfect time to get out of dodge for a bit. A little "serenity now" is in order. So after Kasie's morning PT and her stem cell injection the plan is to go to Jaipur in search of adventure and wild tigers. That region, Rajasthan, is supposed to be irrigated valleys on the edge of desert; and at least 2 different places to have a chance to see wild tigers. That'd just be fantastic. So off the to country it is. This isn't just us trapsing around India and blowing off her treatment, on the contrary. You see after her PT on Saturday mornings, Kasie actually has no PT again until Monday. And if she misses any injections, they are are able to play catch up. So with Dr. Shroff, as well as some of the other doctors, and patients encouragment to get out and experience and explore India, we figured we should venture out. Ah, what an opportunity to keep her mind as well as her body busy so we can't keep the "funk" away, and combat any 'homesickness". And having essentially a full day, day and 1/2 to venture a little further from "home," is great. So we're off to Jaipur: in search of tigers, fresh air, and adventure for the weekend.
More to follow...about the weekend's excursion...but here's some photo's to get you started...
On the road to Jaipur...through farmlands...
What in the world? Oh, silly us: an International Harvester sticks, sticks, and more sticks, oh yes, and more sticks...Does anyone know where I left my camel?
Hi-ho, hi-ho....it's off to work this elephant goes...
and where you might ask, does an elephant work, if not at the circus...how about the Amber Fort
As if there were any doubt... now that's what we need for a pack trip ... Monkeys abound near and on the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur Getting out of Delhi, or Green Park itself did not go off without a hitch. First, after PT while Kasie was showering and getting ready for an overnight trip; I sent Raj out with her “flat” tire to get the leak fixed or if nothing else...her tire inflated. He was also to purchase a SIM card for her Indian cell phone which in theory is supposed to be cheaper and thereby allow her to use it to call locally for transportation when she needs it, etc. Well that didn't turn out to be a quick little mission. There was the issue of actually getting the SIM card without having a photo...mind you we could provide a COPY of her passport and which has her photo...but without a passport size photo we couldn't get one we were told. That was by Raj and hospital staff alike. Who knew to travel with a passport sized photo to get a phone...not us. So finally through some finagling and wheeling and dealing that situation was remedied, since we had already purchased her the phone yesterday...you can't buy them together (phone and SIM card) apparently...at least we couldn't...even with the help of the staff. Ok he finally gets back, missions accomplished....phone to be active with the new card in about to 3 hours and a fully inflated tire. We're ready to rock and roll. Not quite, we still were waiting on some meds for Kasie to arrive...well they finally arrive which is a good thing since the car and driver I arranged for has been sitting, waiting since 1230pm. Okay we're on our way...nope sure enough not...wrong medication if you can believe it. SO, off they go trying to square away the prescription...all prescriptions that begin with the letter “D” are not the same. SO we're STILL waiting and another ½ hour ticks by....all the while the car and driver – still waiting. Finally the correct med arrive; but whoa twice the price as what we paid the other day...what is going on, this can't be right, more money, different brand? WHAT@$&*. Well it turns out this time they actually got her normal dosage of 5mg and a quantity of 10 pills; instead of what they got the other day which was only 2.5mg and 10 pills....thereby the price difference. Her pills from home should arrive Monday, so that should rectify and additional issues pertaining to her meds.
So finally, we really are ready to get out of dodge. It's 2pm and we've got, what we're told is a 3 ½ to 4 hour drive ahead of us. Okay, no problem...we can relax...enjoy the scenery once we get out of Delhi and still arrive before dark and have a little time to check out Jaipur. Well the traffic, have I mentioned how insane this traffic can be – I mean REALLY...it was ludicrous. We sat in several “parking lots” before we actually got out of Delhi itself. We finally made it to Guragon, a suburb I guess you could say...and the traffic started to pick up. About 2 hours out of Delhi, which with the traffic could have actually only been a few miles, we saw our first camel. He was pulling a cart on the opposite side of the road as we whizzed on by...but finally we saw a camel. We both thought – cool.
Our journey took us across some “states” where the driver paid the tolls and we kept going. Finally we left the hustle and bustle and chaos of Delhi behind; well sort of. The road, which still had 8 gillion cars on it...opened up into 'farmland' intermixed with dozens and dozens of small communities which were just as chaotic and even more dirty than Delhi. But we were seeing green...and a blue sky...first we could recollect since we've been in India (2 weeks – everything always gray and overcast with pollution). We were also seeing livestock – not just cows...the sacred beasts that just roam about freely even in downtown Delhi feasting on trash...but now sheep and goats, with herders. So now we knew where all the mutton was coming from in the food – the road; not some “ranch” in the country. All the herding was taking place on the roads it seemed; nothing in the vast “sprawling” tracts. The fields themselves were interspersed with dry barren tracts of land as well. Nothing seemed to be irrigated. Interesting concept to raise livestock on dry barren pieces of land and roadways, when you aren't feeding them; except of course trash. That of course explains the scrawniness of these animals – no veg growing on the pavement, now is there; and not a lot of nutrients in dirt alone or trash for these critters. Just strange...sure doesn't seem like the habitat can support these or any animals for that matter....blah, blah, blah.
So we arrive in Jaipur, just before dark...and it's absolutely FILTHY, it is 100 times worse than what we had seen in Delhi, or on the way. You have got to be kidding...this is it....did we just arrive in the ghetto..oh we must just be going through the bad section.
The traffic was driving even our driver nuts...and I told him where we wanted to go...Bani Park. Well he didn't know where that was; so he stopped (first guy I know who'll actually stops - a bunch of times) to get directions. None of it helped though...he'd never been there before and was pretty much as clueless as we were to where we were going...only had the trusty Lonely Planet guide book with us...which didn't help. Oh throw in feral pigs running around on the open trash piles; random naked kids running around; dirty, no - absolutely FILTHY and disgusting living conditions, piles of rubble and rubbish...just an all out nightmare seemed to be unraveling before us. And then I'm looking out the window as we're at a standstill and I notice a dog lying completely motionless in the road...and I figured he must have been hit by and car and dead. And I was thinking how odd – or more like back home someone usually pulls and animal out of the road when it's been it. Well I guess no one in their right mind would attempt that here with the crazy drivers and sheer volume of traffic. So I was looking out the window and I can't say directly at the dog; but at the scene directly behind – people, dirt, rubbish, pigs, people selling food...all of it and then a bus came up and sure enough if I didn't witness the poor thing get squished and then yuck – a nope wasn't dead. Kasie who had been looking at the other window luckily had heard the yelp and turned to see what happened...nope Kasie don't look...nasty.
So further and further into the pit of despair we went....finally amongst rickshaws, camels, foot traffic, buses, just sheer amounts of people in the road and the mindless maze we had found ourselves in....we're not in Kansas anymore Dorothy...we stopped; yet again to ask for directions..this time I got out with the driver and took my book and map; leaving Kasie locked in the car so no one would steal her.. When we found out where we were and how far we were from Bani Park....not really but OMG the slums...and traffic...could be midnight, or at least another hour before we'd get to the “quaint, palace” we were aiming for that was only like $50/night for both of us, reasonable. It was DARK, we didn't know where we were, nor did our driver, and it was 7pm (uh 5 hours so far...not 3 ½ – 4), so naturally we were once again feeling frustrated and like “lets just get somewhere – somewhere clean – somewhere safe.” So I asked for a different hotel that I recognized from the guide book that SHOULD be really close by according to the guy telling us were we were. So Sure enough we could see it, he pointed to it - the OM Tower, a “Best Western” for ch's sake. Space ship in the midst of all this chaos. Neon light on the pinnacle – Vegas it was not...but what a sight. Whatever – at that point...I was pretty much willing to pay anything...and the guide book actually puts it in that $50 – 60 USD range as well, so okay; we need a place to stay...and let's just go “there” and get this over with, we're tired and cranky after the long day. So in I go to check it out...sure enough a 5 star hotel...14 floors with rooftop pool on 1 building, lounge and rooftop revolving restaurant on the 14th floor....oh god this is going to cost me. But we had arrived...so I didn't really care. So I splurged for us for a real hotel...about $150 USD...but we were going to be able to settle in and leave the hectic streets behind for a few hours....whew! The room, 2 twin beds was absolutely not worth $150...it was a typical budget room by US standards, and no wheelchair access to the bathroom...but we managed that with the desk chair in the door. Oh and we had to rearrange the beds to get Kasie in and out. Dinner was of course up at the Rooftop Revolving restaurant which gave us views of the entire city. We could see some of the sites...and they were noted on the walls at the position they were when you rotated by. The chaotic and hectic streets didn't
appear quite as bad from 14 floors up...but it was also getting later, so maybe that had something to do with it...oh no from a different angle just as congested.
Kasie had baked mac and cheese and fries...I went simple – some mushroom soup and naan. After dinner on the way back down to the room we stopped off on the 9th floor to check out the disco...cause Kasie has really wanted to see an Indian disco. Well it was closed – only open for private parties. So back to the room...we attempted to connect to the internet....neither one of us could get our laptops to connect. Well that's not quite right...we could connect with like one bar of service to the wireless provider, but we couldn't get anywhere past that....so no updates for the day.
I must say...after 2 weeks in India...sleeping on futons and a hard vinyl mattress—even with the air mattress; and the long haul over to Jaipur today; it was absolutely the best $150 I think I've ever spent. The beds were SO comfortable and the sheets were so soft and clean and we both just melted into them, aaah....we even both sighed it at the same time...relief and tranquility were at hand, NOT. Of course, why would it go smoothly...someone apparently was having the loudest conversation ever - just outside our door it seemed. So I opened the door and sure enough the two rooms across from us had a bunch of men flip flopping back and forth between their rooms and talking loudly and they were leaving the doors open, aaugh. All I had to do though was just poke my head out and that was enough...they must have realized how loud and obnoxious they were and they closed there doors and peace and quite ensued...finally.
DAY 16 – March 16, 2008 / Sunday
Up and out of there early – lots to do and see we hoped.
So our driver from yesterday returned to pick us up – a good sign, we brought him some breakfast from our continental breakfast. The streets were relatively empty at 7am...good call.
First off to the Hawa Mahal - a facade palace of a maharaja for his harem...but it didn't really "open" til 10 - and it was 7...so off in search of the elephants at what we thought was going to be like the pens at the stockshow...instead we ended up at Amber Fort – Palace is one of the most majestic hilltop forts in perhaps all of India...and Rajasthan for sure. It was the ultimate seat of Rajput power and opulence in the 16th and 17th centuries. On the way we were passing lots of elephants...got to the fort and we could see lots of elephants going up - and then we could see "white" people on them....turns out they were tours. Hmm, how much, how long, etc...so we pulled and the line was enormous...yeah probably not; but then this guy came up to Kasie's window and said the wait was really only 10-15minutes. Ok that might be doable; but how much? Wow only 550 RPS ($14 USD) for both of us...uh Kasie, do you want to ride and elephant....um, hell yes! Not that there was any doubt! When we got out and they saw Kasie's chair...they carried her to the head of the line. She was able to transfer herself to the elephant since they load the tourists onto them from an elevate platform. It was great fun....”Lucky” was our elephant and the 18 year old elephant owner/driver loved and lived with Lucky at the elephant area. Up at the top we did the sightseeing thing of a sort of self-guided tour that two “security guards” helped get Kasie around all the steps...cause the ramps...way too steep for she and I to finagle on our own...sheesh. Then it turns out that you don't ride the elephant back down...no you take a jeep back down...okay, but they failed to mention this at the bottom and they also failed to mention that it was another 200 RPS for that...so we said hell no; more on principal and some spit and vinegar really that the price. So I pushed/held Kasie back as we went down the road/ramp - no stairs so that was good...but it was so damned steep..but we didn't crash or have any runaway Kasie's on the ride to nowhere, so that was a great thing. And the best part of walking down and getting away from all the panhandlers at the courtyard of the palace was that on the way down, had we taken the jeep we would have missed out on the Indian snake charmer. Awesome, yup a cobra....so had to sit next to him – and check it out...Kasie stayed a little further back. Oh yeah, just a little nerve racking though - after all it was a cobra...and what, isn't their striking distance something like three feet. Sure enough though, the charmer played his flute and the snake swayed and was mesmerized and transfixed on him.
We finally made it back to our driver and started down the road and we were being chased by “Tony” - oh yes...we had our picture taken as we were going up on the elephant....very commercial. “Tony” yelled to us to look for him at the bottom. We weren't interested so we just got back to our car and left....but he saw us and ran us down...holding photos up to Kasie window...and I could see them...and since we really didn't have that kind of photo of us going up we had our driver stop to take a look...and of course we bought em...way cool.
Then we headed out in search of tigers...but since our driver wasn't familiar with the area...never been there before, I'm positive he missed the turn despite me having showed it to him on the map....and him stopping to get the turnoff information, several times. Finally he stopped again when we were way past where I KNEW the turn off had been...but he had kept saying no – this way, this way (on the road to Delhi) he stopped again...and this time he was told yes the turn was back about 80 km (like 50 miles or so)...and these folks, according to him, said that area is closed now...no more tigers...which actually COULD be possible because the book I had said that in like 2005 there had been some poaching incidents and concerns about #'s of tigers remaining. The other place that we had initially thought to go in search of tigers, which would have maybe proved to be more promising had been 100 miles south of Jaipur (this one was between Jaipur & Delhi) and since it took us 5 hours to get to Jaipur on Saturday....we expected the same for a return....and then add on another probably 5 hours for the roundtrip from Jaipur to the park...and then time on a “safari” we realized way too long a day. So, I'm sure we'll end up at the zoo this week.
Anyway, back to Delhi...the weekend was and adventure...and Kasie had a blast. I'm so glad SHE got to ride an elephant.
I can't believe I'm saying this but I'm glad to be back at Green Park. The amount of dirt and grime on us by the time we got back was amazing. I feel like I jumped in a mud bog, got out – layed in the sun and backed the mud, then rolled around in some ash after a fire. Get the picture..,Pig Pen has nothing on us after this jaunt. It was gross. I actually got in the shower with my clothes on to wash them off and just watched the dirt and dust spill onto the tile. Bothh Kasie and I had to shampoo twice to get all the grime out of our hair. Anyway, back to Green Park...talked with Bambi...good for the girl to talk to her mom. And we now have a new working outline...but it's late...so that'll give us something to do the next two days while we're at the other hospital after her procedure tomorrow. We're not sure we'll have internet access over there. We'll be there from midday Monday to midday Tuesday.
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, Mar 18 2008, 4:00 PM EDT
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