Today began with a trip to the pulmonologist for Steven. After review of his records, lung function testing and examination, the doctor did, indeed, recommend IV antibiotics for Steven to help clear up his lungs. After I shared with the doctor our present situation with Jim, he decided that Steven could receive his treatment on an out-patient basis. A PICC line was put in place and the first dose of antibiotics was given at the office. This evening, we had a visit from a home health care nurse - the same nurse that has taken care of Jim in the past. She trained both Steven and I to give the medication through the PICC line. Steven will receive this IV antibiotic three times a day for two weeks and will continue his regular medication and chest percussion therapy. He will be able to attend school and band. Even though he has a rigorous medication schedule, it will be much easier to continue on with our routine since he can receive all this as an out-patient.
Often the marching band schedule calls for Saturday contests that are held in other cities and require travel. If this were the case, it would be very difficult to administer this medication while on the road. Thankfully, the next two weeks find the Homestead band right here in Fort Wayne. We believe that God's timing is perfect and this was His plan. He has His hand on us every step of the way.
Jim had a good day. He continues to be sore from his bruises and takes medication to ease the pain. He underwent a few more tests today to make sure everything is okay. One test was an EEG. Steven and I stopped in to see Jim at lunchtime and this is what we saw - wires all over his head!
After his testing was completed, he was okayed to return to the Oncology Unit back to the same room he had before. We are hopeful and happy to go back to the boring hospital stay where we just wait for his counts to go up.Thank you for following us as we continue to battle this disease. Thank you for your prayers and support. We are surrounded by so many who are helping us in so many ways. My employer who follows me to the hospital and stands with me while I hear difficult news. Those who drop everything and come when I ask them to pick Kyle up from school or be at my home when he gets off the bus. Those who come and mow our lawn and take care of our leaves and those who provide housecleaning so we don't have to think about those chores. Those who provide meals for us when I haven't even had a chance to think about what we would eat for dinner. You are truely a picture of His arms that are reaching around us to carry us through. We appreciate your love and care for us. Thank you.
3 comments:
Your post is such a blessing! You see the loving hand of your Father even in these very hard times. So glad to see Steven's smile.
I echo your thanks to the many who are supporting you now. If they ever feel tired, they should know, we are praying for their strength too, since we can't be with you in person now.
-Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away. Proverbs 27:10
So glad to hear that you are all doing well! I often think of you and of course ask my mom for updates :) Your family is in my thoughts every day!
These pictures really bring home what you go through every day Marilyn. You have my admiration. Not only do I pray for Jim & Steven, but also that you will have the strength to get through each and every day. And God is answering my prayers.
Even though the picture of Jim with electrodes stuck all over his head looks frightening, Lisa does this every day at work. I know the things the doctors can learn from the tests - they are so helpful in determining treatment. I mean, think of it, would you really ever think a mammogram would be good idea???
I want to extend my thanks to all the friends and neighbors who are providing help to your family. They are unsung heros and a blessing.
Love, Janet
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