As usual, Rachel didn’t clear the methotrexate after 72 hours. They checked again this morning and it was still 0.1 when it needs to be less than 0.1. The doctor said that her creatinine level – while still in the normal range – is rising, which is an indicator that her kidneys are “not happy” and recommends that Rachel stay in the hospital for most of today getting more fluids and more of the medicine that helps her kidneys. They rechecked at 4pm and we left the hospital around 6:30pm.

Rachel also has painful rashes on her hands and feet, caused by the methotrexate. They called in a dermatologist to see her today, but there wasn’t much she could do for her. She just recommended using Vaseline and thick socks on her feet. A nurse wrapped her hands in gauze to help protect them a bit; it helped a little.

Rachel was really sad and emotional today, not being able to go home, plus the painful rashes. She’s barely been out of the hospital at all since the middle of March, with the unexpected hospitalization for the mouth sores. It’s really starting to get to her – which is really hard to watch. 😦

One of the nurses and a child life staffer tried to cheer her up by giving her a ride in one of the little wagons for the little kids – Rachel’s so tiny that she fits, no problem.