February 28

Could it get any worse? Yes, it could. This will be a short note today. The only time I've left my room is to drag myself to the scale. 191.6 kg. My gout pain is the worst I've felt, but still I can take no medications until the 24-hour urine sample is finished - tomorrow at 8 AM. I am still getting my regular doses of vitamin and Chinese herbs, plus the doctor-professor-prescribed colchicine. The throbbing pain in my foot kept me up most of the night, and today I only can walk to the bathroom with great difficulty. My shower was excruciating but necessary. Rene brought me 2 eggs from breakfast; Li brought me lunch; Xiao Guo has come to visit twice, and on the last visit he loaned me his humidifier.

But despite the relentless assault on my physical being, I am otherwise upbeat and optimistic. I am fortunate I can still walk, even if it is very painful. I've been trying to read and listen to music to help pass the agonizing hours, and I am grateful I can still see and hear. I have been helped greatly in my positive attitude by some supportive messages and another gift of wisdom from Carol and Dr. E.K. Ross. I regret I am unable to sit up for long and respond to the kindness shown to me. I am looking forward to a better tomorrow.