Beloved in the Lord, it is with great joy that I can report that the stem cell transplant was successful! Our Lord has heard my cry and yours for mercy. Still there are weeks of recovery ahead of me. The disease has left its marks and some may be permanent. First of all, I am still being treated for a blood clot. Second, the high dose of chemo has left my gastro-intestinal in shambles. I am on anti-nausea medicine to help me keep food down. I also have sores in my mouth and on my tongue. It will be weeks before these organs are healed. Thirdly, twelve hours of my week will dedicated to dialysis because of my renal failure. And, I am still battling low pressure (hypotension). Despite these challenges, I am fortunate to be alive for my family.
One encouragement that I did receive from the UCLA medical staff is that they are looking to refer me to a kidney doctor that specializes in kidney transplants. I can only interpret that to mean that they believe the disease is arrested.
I am at the moment writing to you from the Tiverton House. It is about two blocks from UCLA hospital just off the campus. It has been a great place to rest and I can stay somewhat isolated since I am still immune suppressed. I see the doctor today (April 15th) and hopefully he will release me to go home to Whittier. Once again I am grateful for Nancy, Ryan and my parents, who will be returning to Ft. Wayne, IN next week. I am also grateful to the Lord for all of you who offer your support and prayers. Prayers are being answered for mercy, that our Lord so lovingly grants.
No comments:
Post a Comment