Day started with blood work at Saint Joe Regional at 8am. Had to wait on labs and plasma so treatment didn't begin until 1pm. Didn't get home until around 4pm. All numbers continue to improve except for platelets and white blood cells. Hemoglobin actually went up on its own without any additional units of blood and Austin's weight went down again which means swelling is subsiding. As you can see, we have really had to learn how to read numbers with some needing to go down and others up as signs of healing.
The plan this week is for daily blood tests at Goshen Hospital and then back to Mishawaka on Thursday. Plasmapheresis on Thursday will depend on numbers, and the doctor's plan is to keep Austin's port in until Monday of next week - with the possibility of taking it out, which will be a day of rejoicing whenever it arrives.
We are all recognizing this week the mental toll for all of us, but especially Austin, who is experiencing increasing discomfort with the port. We are trying to gradually work on a plan that will help keep his spirits as well as his body on the road to healing. Returning to work by this weekend or early next week, with some restrictions, might be the best medicine - along with attending worship, which he was able to do last Sunday for the first time.
Pray that we will be wise in achieving the right balance as we work with Austin to begin adding work and activities back into his life. We also pray that this process will result in a complete victory over the toxins invaded his bloodstream so that there will be no future remission. Your love, faith, and prayers sustain us. Blessings and grace to each of you. ritch
Continuing to pray for you all as this part of the road still feels long. So glad to hear of the healing that is happening! May you all experience encouragement and unfailing hope, enough for each day.
ReplyDeletelove,
julie.
Dear Austin,
ReplyDeleteI am SO glad to hear of your continuing progress. I pray for complete recovery of your body and for your spirits to lift during the waiting. I am not able to imagine how infinitely long the process must seem for you and your family!
Peace and love!
Lois Martin
Hi Austin,
ReplyDeleteWe continue to hold you in our prayers and hearts. We are hoping your tests and procedures go as well as possible. God's grace and healing to you this week.
Peace, Chris
So thankful to hear continued positives! Thinking of you all from my new home in Kansas! May God provide lasting patience and healing to you!
ReplyDeleteLove you all!
Amanda