21st
City of Hope
Justin is checked into a most amazing place — City of Hope Helford Clinical Research Hospital in Duarte, CA. The facilities are incredible and the staff have been very kind. Justin checked in on Monday, March 16th, and began four days of radiation therapy on Tuesday. He endured radiation three times a day for 15 minutes each session with strength. He completed radiation on Friday and had a day of rest today. Tomorrow, Justin will have one day of chemotherapy — an IV drip for three hours or so. So far, Justin feels nauseous from the radiation. He is getting plenty of medication to help with his stomach and fluids to keep him hydrated. He is taking preventative medicine for mouth sores from the radiation. He’s still got hair on his head and face, and has not lost that much weight. His attitude is nothing short of impressive — some moments are better than others, but he is still sweet and funny and charming. Ironically, he keeps me going.
My employers are wonderful and have helped me to get paid family medical leave, so I am here with Justin until the end of his hospital stay in six weeks. We are so grateful that Justin’s mom, Patty, is here with us.
