As you all know from our last post, Kristin and Miles had a great trip to Chicago.

The day after getting home to Traverse City, however, she spiked a fever to 105 degrees. Likely the strain of travelling, being exposed to so many people and being off her neupogen - which helps her immune system, but causes severe bone pain - resulted in the illness. 

In addition to the high fever, her oxygen saturations, which should be over 90%, were just over 70%, her heart was racing and she was overall not feeling well. These symptoms would normally land anyone in the hospital for at least a few days.  Part of the benefit of being on hospice is that Kristin does not have to go to the hospital, and health care professionals will come to her. This allows her to stay with family rather than waiting in the ER for care. Unfortunately, it also comes with the condition that she can get antibiotic pills, but she cannot get antibiotics through an IV. It became clear quickly that she had pneumonia. She started the antibiotic pills right away, but her symptoms did not improve immediately. With Mike by her side, her mom went to be with her too. 

Kristin does not have a clear memory of the next 36 hours or so, but does recall waking up to her mom holding her hand. Thankfully, with the oral antibiotics and time, all of her vital signs have improved and she is feeling much better now. She continues to recover at home. Despite this recent setback, she is in good spirits. 

Thank you to all who are able to support the Hayes family in whatever way you can. They are all so extraordinarily grateful for the outpouring of help.