Update - Slow and Steady

The cumulative traumas of recent surgeries along with all the associated medications and chemotherapy have combined to make this a challenging recovery. Harold’s body is taking a beating, but day by day I see subtle improvement. Our strategy is one of patience as Harold makes slow and steady progress. 

Harold is working with a physical therapist to strengthen his left leg and improve his balance. There is an expectation of full recovery as his body gradually heals. Meanwhile he is able to navigate around the house with the help of a walker. Recovery will be slightly interrupted on Tuesday as Harold goes in for another gamma knife surgery.  The tumor removed in the May 2^nd craniotomy was active melanoma. It was growing on a major blood vessel located near at the back of Harold’s head. The surgeon could not cut this important blood supply but was able to cleanly peal the tumor off, leaving no microscopic evidence of melanoma. He will now treat that area with gamma knife as a further precaution against the tumors coming back.

We had debated last week about having Harold come home or having him stay in the hospital for intense rehab. We are very grateful he was able to come home. Despite Harold’s physical challenges we have enjoyed spending time with all our children and grandchildren. We have been the recipients of generous acts of kindness and have enjoyed the company of very dear friends.