Twelve days and counting. Doctor's report this morning confirmed that plasma treatments are continuing to have a positive affect on blood count and organ functioning. Kidney functioning and platelet count continue to improve slowly. One area of concern is low hemoglobin which indicates residual toxins still in the blood system. Austin will continue to receive daily plasmapheresis until normal levels are achieved. He had a more restful night with the help of anti anxiety medication and tylenol. He continues to be fearful of eating but as he has success keeping things down, we hope he can relax and try different things.
Our verse for the day is taken from words of encouragement from Roger, Rhonda, and Amanda Yoder. Psalm 62:8 says "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us." When we talked about this verse with Austin he shared appreciation for these words, but also the difficulty of believing them when in the heart of the struggle. We pray that the reality of these words of promise will take root today and in the days to come.
We are excited that Leslie and Tyler will be arriving sometime later today as they are moving back to Marion, IN. Austin is excited to see them. Austin is also open to visitors depending on how he is feeling and his treatment schedule. If wanting to visit, check in with Char by texting 574.312.0801. Thank you for your continued prayers!
Thanks for posting and letting us see your hearts as you trust in the Lord through this hard time. I'm thinking of you and praying for you. Praying for complete healing.
ReplyDeleteRhonda Good
Hey Austin,
ReplyDeleteI am glad to read that things are improving. I am sorry though it has taken a while. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers constantly. Enjoy seeing Tyler and Leslie today!
Love,
Heidi
Austin, we continue to pray for you and your continued healing. I remember finding it challenging to pray for myself during health failure. I definitely relied on family and friends to take care of the prayer for me, maybe it's due to the amount of energy you have to put into survival and healing. You are blessed with many loved ones who are praying for you. Keep fighting!
ReplyDeleteLove, Meg (cousin from the North)
This is really good news Hochstetler family...the entire Lee Heights Community Church family prayed for all of you this morning. I do have to say that Austin is really helping out Rosy who begins some major medical treatments for her MS for the next three days...she has really been stressed about these 3-4 hour infusions she has to sit through each day, but several times the past week she has said, "If Austin is dealing with all he is has to deal with then I can handle the little I have to deal with"...keep fighting Austin!
ReplyDeleteOne of Rosy and my favorite gospel choir songs to play and sing is called "My Help" based on Psalm 121...the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has a nice version of this song...there's some nice You Tube versions of it...
"I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord..."
I will be keeping these words and the rest of Psalm 121 in my heart for Austin (and Rosy)...
God cares...
Cleveland Craig