Operation Irony

Renee got word from the surgeon this morning that she’ll get to extend her stay at least until Monday. The abscess is still draining so he sees no need to go looking at it again today. We got a hint about this yesterday when the gastroenterologist started giving us the list of the weekend doctors.

Renee’s still got three antibiotics flowing in and they’ve identified the culprit. It’s called enterococcus and the doc said that they are working to narrow it further to a particular strain. This will help them combat the bugger. Enterococci are among the most common antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Great going Renee, you couldn’t get a simple infection could you?

They must think that this is the most violent strain called VRE since it has already defied the first round of antibiotics. The irony is that you can only acquire this germ in the hospital. So Renee’s Cleveland Clinic stay results in a Louisville stay. Isn’t it good that the hospitals are sharing the wealth and helping to battle the economic downturn? It is at the patient’s expense but really it’s for the good of the country. For you stockbrokers out there, forget the Dow, S&P, employment rate and housing starts, you only need to follow one indicator, the precious commodity that is Renee.

Anyone who comes to visit be wary. Scrub up before and after entering and leaving the hospital and especially before eating. If you are healthy it is highly unlikely to affect you, but if, like Renee, your immune system is being heavily taxed, you could end up in a bed next to her. So wash your hands! My dance card is already full.