Chicago!

The trip was a nightmare, but it's over and we're here in Chicago. Sophie and I are settled into our little apartment. We are on the 15th floor of a 49 floor building. It is so odd to look out the window and see nothing but skyscrapers. People are friendly here. I've met a young couple on their honeymoon, and a nice lady with two poodles. I'm a 5 minute walk away from the hospital. Most of the buildings in this area have beautiful planters or urns filled with yellow hibiscus, calla lilies, nicotiana, and other tropical plants. I was surprised to see hibiscus in Chicago, but presumably they grow it as an annual. When buildings have a planted curbside strip, it is always enclosed completely by a short, elaborate wrought iron fence. It's a lovely effect, but I wonder why they do it?



Today I met Paula Gozdziak, the nurse coordinator for my transplant. She's very personable and warm, but also organized, and I like her. I spent the day having tests: CT scan, X-ray, and blood tests--they took 16 tubes of blood! I was amused that they also required a pregnancy test. Er, thanks, I suppose that was a compliment of sorts!



Tomorrow will be another day of tests.