Medical Update 5/21/2013

Yesterday’s clinic visit explained:

• I continue to be cancer free and none of the rare 10;17 chromosomal abnormalities are observed.
  
• 96% of my T cells and 100% of my tissue cells come from my donor. In other words, the engraftment is working and my DNA change is nearly complete.
• My steroid induced diabetes is definitely temporary and I can now reduce the steroid to 1/4 original strength.
• My tremors and burning skin problems are also both temporary.
• There is nothing that absolutely prevents our plans for full time ministry in Bolivia, but there are also no guarantees. Everything depends on whether there is relapse, severe Graft Versus Host Disease or any number of other medical problems that could still present themselves in the next two years.
• The schedule to replace all my childhood vaccinations will take 18-24 months; hence the delay for US and international travel.

While I am getting “out of the gates” with a strong physical and spiritual start to this marathon, mentally I continue to be challenged by memory, concentration, and decision making/judgment issues. I keep a memo pad with me to record most thoughts and to-do items as memory often is limited to minutes. Marcia keeps close tabs on me.

We are greatly encouraged by today’s reports, and are content to wait upon the Lord’s timing for our eventual move and also for His season of preparation and service for us while we wait. How immensely merciful God continues to be to us.

Please join us in praying for Pastor Evan and his devoted wife Jill. Evan is in much discomfort as he waits, in the coming hours it seems, to make his transition from this life to His new life with Jesus in heaven. My battles are so very light and not worth mentioning, in comparison to the valley of death this couple is facing. And still, they would join me in praising God in the midst of their pain and sorrow. Such is the power of a real personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Don't be shellfish...