Re: to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

[Guest guest]

Gwynne,

Wow, what a trip, good and bad. First of all, I'm so happy you got to go, and enjoy yourself some. I sit here smiling just picturing you living again!!! As for the clots, that's a no no, we'll have none of that. I'm so glad you were smart enough to go to the ER. I'm gonna keep you in my prayers, we want the healthy doing great Gwynne!!

Love you,

Vicky81856

••••••••••••• Original Message •••••••••••••

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppiesLooking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

[Guest guest]

Gwynne,

How wonderful to see your post. I'm sorry that the altitude in Aspen did

a nasty number on you. I've been there and it is truly a gorgeous

place..

You certainly didn't deserve that!!!

Thanks for asking about and Sara. I have posted new pictures of

Sara, and Darah, and and Ilana too.

I even posted one of Mike and Me with the baby.

.. My girls are both perfect!!!!The Baby is beginning to crawl already

...she's not even 6 months yet!

called laughing and yelling at the same time" Mom I need gates

!!! She'll have to

gate off the living room so that Sara won't disappear if

blinks!

Take it easy please...keep listening to that very smart body of yours!

Z fibriotic NSIP/05

Z 64,

fibriotic NSIP/o5/PA

And “mild”

PH/10/07 and Reynaud’s too!!

No, NSIP was not

self-inflicted…I never smoked!

Potter,

reader,carousel lover and MomMom to

Darah

and Sara

“I’m gonna

be iron like a lion in Zion” Bob Marley

Vinca

Minor-periwinkle is my flower

Gwynne Keyland wrote:

Hi Gang,

I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began to

sift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this far

behind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's wedding

in just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.

Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for several

weeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We took

jeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautiful

music, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to an

art and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some delicious

meals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 here

yesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, had

picnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visiting

friend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and is

really enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.

I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the road

since transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.

I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure I

wouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in the

house. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then I

seemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last

2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scared

when they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,

and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said to

get to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, a

CT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found that

I have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but they

aren't too small either.

Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 days

in the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (blood

thinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.

Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and less

likely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds will

dissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is that

obviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm lucky

that I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.

AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I got

home (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer after

my newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once I

got back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)

for which I'm truly grateful.

I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicos

I'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.

At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clotting

is another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.

When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn't

know that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado after

such a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on my

lungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months since

transplant now.

I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right ear

is filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.

The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least one

ear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin and

the bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three times

since getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consuming

medical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejection

medicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)

were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. And

except for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.

I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get back

to rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I lost

a few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.

I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send my

belated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what's

going on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I did

read a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank you

so much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm getting

close to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what's

the status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doing

well across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ring

soon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia and

that it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I

hate

it. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, how

are you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor as

always is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,

I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feel

settled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoy

that perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth is

wilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds and

pots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.

Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.

It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter you

in his gentle embrace.

Hugs and blessings,

Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 at

UTHSC - San Fort Worth, TX

Peonies and poppies

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[Guest guest]

Gwynne

Welcome home to the land of heat and more heat. Glad you enjoyed your

trip up until it turned sour. Glad also you listened to your body. Such

a lesson for all of us. I'm sure once back here and on the thinners

you'll be back to normal in no time. I use to travel to Bogota and found

out some things about elevation I never knew. People would eat big meals

when they landed and end up in ER. Guess I hadn't thought about that

since and the water makes sense. I quite imagine many healthy people

have drops in sats to the low 90's when they first go to the elevations

but don't have oximeters or think of it. Now, 79, I know was scary. But

you got home safely and in spite of temperatures here you're back to

96-98. I've confident this will just be a bump, although only because

you reacted quickly. Just glad to hear from you again and know you're

safe and sound.

>

> Hi Gang,

> I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began to

> sift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this far

> behind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's wedding

> in just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.

>

> Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for several

> weeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We took

> jeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautiful

> music, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to an

> art and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some delicious

> meals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 here

> yesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, had

> picnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visiting

> friend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and is

> really enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.

>

> I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the road

> since transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.

> I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure I

> wouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in the

> house. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then I

> seemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last

> 2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scared

> when they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,

> and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said to

> get to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, a

> CT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found that

> I have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but they

> aren't too small either.

>

> Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 days

> in the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (blood

> thinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.

> Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and less

> likely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds will

> dissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is that

> obviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm lucky

> that I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.

> AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I got

> home (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer after

> my newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once I

> got back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)

> for which I'm truly grateful.

>

> I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicos

> I'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.

> At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clotting

> is another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.

> When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn't

> know that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado after

> such a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on my

> lungs - especially the new " baby " one. It has been 4 months since

> transplant now.

> I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right ear

> is filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.

> The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least one

> ear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin and

> the bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three times

> since getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consuming

> medical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejection

> medicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)

> were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. And

> except for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.

> I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get back

> to rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I lost

> a few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.

>

> I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send my

> belated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what's

> going on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I did

> read a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank you

> so much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm getting

> close to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what's

> the status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doing

> well across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ring

> soon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia and

> that it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I hate

> it. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, how

> are you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor as

> always is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,

> I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feel

> settled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoy

> that perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth is

> wilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds and

> pots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.

>

> Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.

> It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter you

> in his gentle embrace.

>

> Hugs and blessings,

> Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 at

> UTHSC - San Fort Worth, TX

> Peonies and poppies

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Gwynne,

I'm gad to hear you had a great time in Aspen. Sorry to hear about the ordeal with the blood clots. Thanks for asking about the status of my health...were to begin and were to stop....It's like a roller coaster up & down but stable. I have follow-ups with surgeon every 2 months, in mid September he's going to re-evaluate the situation. In July developped a Cellulitis infection on my hand was on IV antibiotics 3 times a day (home care nurses) kept forgetting to come and had to go to ER to receive the med and sometimes it included 2am. There are days now, were I can't handle food so I just stay on liquids or I don't eat at all. My oxygen levels fall below 88% while resting. I'll be speaking with lung dr on Monday morning...since he's away until then.

I have a PICC line, so I can receive IV meds including antibiotics & treatments, IV fluids, blood tests etc...because it takes about 3-4hrs to find a vein on me. A regular home care nurse that comes every Friday to change the dressing and flush the lines.

Thanks again for asking how I'm doing & HugsIrenePF 03/07 Raynaud's Disease 09/07Crohn's Disease 03/95 Asthma 02/92

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit

the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a

clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher

elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building

back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs,

howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

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[Guest guest]

Gwynne, Just popped in to see what was happening before bed... HI YOU.... I am so glad your are home safe and sound. I just hate it that you had your problem and had to stay in the BIG HOUSE at all. I've gotta get to bed. I'm happy.  Love and Prayers, Peggy   IPF  2004,  Florida"Worry looks around, Sorry looks back,  Faith looks up." Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

Hi Gwynne,

It's lovely to see you posting. I'm sorry to hear you've had probs but at least you were wise enough to get them seen to straight away. Apart from that it sounds like you've been having a great time. My very best wishes for Kate's wedding.

Love Ze xx>> Hi Gang,> I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began to> sift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this far> behind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's wedding> in just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.> > Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for several> weeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We took> jeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautiful> music, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to an> art and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some delicious> meals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 here> yesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, had> picnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visiting> friend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and is> really enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.> > I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the road> since transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.> I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure I> wouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in the> house. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then I> seemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last> 2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scared> when they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,> and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said to> get to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, a> CT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found that> I have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but they> aren't too small either.> > Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 days> in the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (blood> thinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.> Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and less> likely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds will> dissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is that> obviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm lucky> that I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.> AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I got> home (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer after> my newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once I> got back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)> for which I'm truly grateful.> > I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicos> I'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.> At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clotting> is another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.> When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn't> know that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado after> such a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on my> lungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months since> transplant now.> I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right ear> is filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.> The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least one> ear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin and> the bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three times> since getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consuming> medical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejection> medicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)> were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. And> except for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.> I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get back> to rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I lost> a few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.> > I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send my> belated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what's> going on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I did> read a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank you> so much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm getting> close to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what's> the status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doing> well across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ring> soon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia and> that it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I hate> it. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, how> are you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor as> always is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,> I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feel> settled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoy> that perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth is> wilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds and> pots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.> > Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.> It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter you> in his gentle embrace.> > Hugs and blessings,> Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 at> UTHSC - San Fort Worth, TX> Peonies and poppies>

[Guest guest]

Gwynne,

What an ordeal you had! That's something I didn't know about altitude either and it's sure good to know. I'm happy that you were able to enjoy the first few weeks of your trip and just glad that you didn't hesitate to get to the hospital when things turned sour.

It's also excellent that your need for supplemental O2 seemed to disappear once you got back to your normal altitude. Hopefully the clots will dissolve quickly and then you can get your ear tended to. Enough is enough!!

We're all just so glad that you're back and you're doing ok now. Stay cool and stay safe!

Beth

Age 48 Fibrotic NSIP 06/06 UCTD 07/08

Change everything. Love and Forgive

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit

the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a

clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher

elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building

back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs,

howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

It is so nice to see you back and posting. Aside from the medical crises, it sounds like you had a lovely time. We missed you. Diane IPF June 07New Brunswick, Canada

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit

the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a

clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher

elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building

back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs,

howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

Now with a new friend-happy design! Try the new Yahoo! Canada Messenger

[Guest guest]

Gwynnie... I was so glad to see a post from you this morning and then I was deflated quickly at your news about the clots, etc.

It is good news though to read that being home is a better elevation for you!

I'm thinking it's the pits to have to step back into the rehab and the 'medical loop' but it seems you are seeing some results already. Gosh, it was so good that you knew what to do even tho' it meant a detour through the big house.

Do you think the tremors are an ongoing thing?

I'm glad you're home Gwynnie!

Love ya.

MamaSher, age 69. IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant...that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

MamaSher I'm quite susprised Gwynnie's docs didn't informed her about clots & mountains. My PF doc changed me from Denver to St. Louis because of the altitude problems. Shame on them!!! Oh! in rehab I walk while watching the ocean surf on the oregon coast, goodness that relaxes me, but sure makes me want to be there. IPF -06-08 KS AKA MO

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit

the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a

clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher

elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building

back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs,

howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

... I'm looking forward to meeting you and your family when you get to the north coast. I'll have a good excuse to drive over....as I've said, it's about an hour/half.

Does your wife feel as strongly about our coast/state as you seem to?

"Come on down!"

MamaSher, age 69. IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

MamaSher Maybe not as strong cause its away from the kids & grandkids. I've mentioned though if we live on the coast, we'd probably see them more!! HA! I love to meet you, you seem like a nice human being and today that can be rare!!! IPF 06-08 KS AKA MO.

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit

the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a

clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher

elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building

back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs,

howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies

[Guest guest]

Thanks . Most people that meet me seem to like me ok. I'm sure we could find "something in common". lol.

Wasn't old Hoagy something? I heard a song of his on the radio just yesterday and stopped doing the dishes and just listened.

MamaSher, age 69. IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

to all from Gwynne: I'm back, after a big scare

Hi Gang,I got back home last Tuesday but only last night began tosift through e-mails... a real challenge when you're this farbehind. I won't be able to read all posts, with Kate's weddingin just one month, but I'll try to hit all the highlights.Aspen, Colorado was beautiful. I had a lovely time for severalweeks, although it was harder to breathe at that altitude. We tookjeep trips, went to the music festival and heard some beautifulmusic, had a blast on July 4th, rode the gondola, went to anart and antiques fair and 2 local markets, ate some deliciousmeals, relished the incredible weather (it was 107 hereyesterday), did some shopping, took some beautiful walks, hadpicnics, and saw lots of amazing flowers everywhere. My visitingfriend wished she could move there! My dad is still there and isreally enjoying himself, which pleases me so much.I hate to have to tell y'all that I've hit the first bump in the roadsince transplant, but it probably isn't even related to transplant.I wasn't on oxygen for the trip - my doctor was soooo sure Iwouldn't need it, even as a backup - and there are stairs in thehouse. My sats were around 88-92 for the first 2 days, then Iseemed to adjust and stay around 94 all the time. But the last2 days my sats started to fall again, and I was REALLY scaredwhen they dropped to 79 after taking a shower. I was panting,and knew something was wrong. I called my doctor who said toget to the ER for evaluation right away. I did and had an x-ray, aCT with contrast, an EKG and an echocardiogram and found thatI have a blot clot on each lung. The clots aren't too big, but theyaren't too small either.Bottom line: the hospital admitted me and I spent the next 4 daysin the big house. They put me on Coumadin and Lovenox (bloodthinners) and found that I also have a clot in my right leg.Fortunately, it's in a superficial vein closer to the skin and lesslikely to travel than one in a deeper vein. Hopefully the meds willdissolve the clots within a couple of months. The good news is thatobviously this could all have been a lot worse, and I know I'm luckythat I listened to my body and got to the hospital when I needed to.AND, even though I was already set up to use oxygen when I gothome (and flew home with cylinders) - talk about a bummer aftermy newfound liberation since April! - I didn't need oxygen once Igot back to our lower altitude. I'm cruising at 96-98 again, :-)for which I'm truly grateful.I'm just pissed off that I didn't know, nor did any of the medicosI'm involved with tell me that high altitudes can cause blood clots.At least that's what the docs there said. Word to the wise, clottingis another reason to drink plenty of water at higher elevations.When you're dehydrated, your blood tends to be thicker. I didn'tknow that. I was practically desperate to get back to Colorado aftersuch a long absence, but not enough to risk blood clots on mylungs - especially the new "baby" one. It has been 4 months sincetransplant now.I was supposed to go back to the ENT this week. My right earis filled with fluid, is very annoying and affects my hearing.The doc was no doubt going to reinsert a tube in at least oneear, but now we can't do that because of the Coumadin andthe bleeding it causes. bah. I've had to go to Dallas three timessince getting home, so I'm definitely back in the time-consumingmedical loop. My tremors are still terrible, but my anti-rejectionmedicine (Prograf) and Prednisone (I'm down to 17.5 mg. daily)were both just lowered, so maybe they'll get a tiny bit better. Andexcept for feeling tired overall, my strength is building back up.I've rested a lot since coming home. But now I've got to get backto rehab and the track. No rest for the weary, right? At least I losta few pounds on the trip - THAT's a first for me.I've thought a lot about you all while I was away and send mybelated birthday hugs and wishes to Sher. I need to know what'sgoing on with Joyce. I hope Jane is doing well in the trial. I didread a post from Vicky - our brave pink lady. May, thank youso much for the touching note you sent me. Bruce, I'm gettingclose to being able to meet for lunch again. Oh boy! Irene, what'sthe status on your health now? and Zena, hope you are doingwell across the miles. Kerry and Tina, I pray for your phones to ringsoon. Jon, I'm really sorry to hear about your aplastic anemia andthat it rules you out for transplant.. .that's a tough break and I hateit. Diane, congratulations on the new little bundle of joy. Babs, howare you AND your daughter doing? Peggy, your sense of humor asalways is shining through. Bless you for that. Beth and Leanne,I hope you are both as well as can be expected. , do you feelsettled into the new home by now? How's ? , enjoythat perfect weather of yours for me, as everyone in Fort Worth iswilting. Most people have simply given up on their flower beds andpots. It's a ridiculous place for a sane person to live in the summer.Steve, you have my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your Vicky.It's hard to believe that it happened so fast. May God shelter youin his gentle embrace.Hugs and blessings,Gwynne 57 Single-lung transplanted for IPF on 4-3-08 atUTHSC - San Fort Worth, TXPeonies and poppies