First Rehab and Sticker Shock

Chris was able to start Cardiac Rehab today.   He was on a special sternum restriction, so his main focus was on walking and resting.  They had a heart monitor on him the whole time, and he was glad he wore his hoodie so he could keep the monitor hardware in his pocket.  He did say he was a bit warm in his sweatpants, so he'll plan to wear shorts for future visits.

We stopped at our mailbox on the way home and got our monthly medical summary.   Now, before I show you this number, keep in mind a few things:

• this is for medical only -- no prescriptions
• it's for 1/1 through 4/30 of 2012, so the dialysis catheter outpatient surgery and the open-heart surgery are not included
• this does not include any of his required dental cleanings and dental equipment to be eligible for the transplant
• travel expenses to SLC for the trip in March not included
• nothing over-the-counter, like BenGay, his daily aspirin, or pain relievers like Tylenol
• dialysis room expenses like the special antibacterial soap, paper towels, distilled water not included
• nutritional needs like protein shakes, special bariatric vitamins, etc. not included

Okay, ready?

Jan 1 - April 30, 2012

I expect that May's is going to be astronomical.  That last bullet point reminded me that I need to call Dr. Oakley and schedule Chris' third annual follow-up.  Oh yeah, and salary for a full-time round-the-clock caretaker not included.  ☺