A Liter is a Lot

Yesterday they did a bronchoscope on Alan and drew around a liter of fluid from around his lungs. They didn't put any chest tubes in, which is good, I think. They are running tests on the fluid to see what kind it is. I looked up plueral effusions on the internet and there are 4 different kinds of fluid, I can't explain them but the internet does a good job. There is a little pocket of air they are watching since they drained the fluid. They want to keep him for a few days for osbservation. Wanda, Eddie, and I could tell a big difference in him immediately after they brought him back to the room from draining the fluid. They used a local anesthetic so he was wide awake, talking, and in a great mood.

Anna Kate's pain is less today.

Thank you all for keeping tabs on us and praying for our specific needs as they arise. Judy & Alan

Still Waiting

Alan went back to the hospital about 7p last night. I came home about 10p because they said his procedure wouldn't be until 10a today. My sister Wanda and her husband Eddie are here with me. We all got up at 5a and got to the hospital a little after 7a. They put Alan's procedure off until tomorrow at 1p, because the doctor was backed up today. He will have a bronchioscope and they will remove some fluid and I think put in a chest tube or tubes. They said they did not know how long he would have to stay. I came home early tonight because Wanda and Eddie are cooking a wonderful homecooked dinner for me. It has been awhile since I ate someone else's cooking. I am excited.

Anna Kate's surgeon said her surgery went well but that she would have some pain. He gave her some medicine for pain. I talked to her and her voice was soft, sweet, and a little groggy. When I asked how she felt, she said "I had to take a little nap when I got home, Nana." I said "Surgery is tough." She said "YEP". Please keep praying her through the pain.

Love, Judy

Back to the Hospital

We went to clinic yesterday and saw Dr. Lin, the surgeon who did Alan's transplant. When Alan was in the hospital, he told us that Alan had pleural effusions (fluid) between his lungs and the wall of the chest cavity. They did an xray yesterday, and the effusions are still there. Late this evening or tonight they will call to tell us they have a room ready for us at the hospital, and Alan will be back there for 2 to 3 days. They will put a chest tube (tubes?) in to drain the fluid, and give the lungs room to expand. It is important to do this as soon as possible, otherwise the lungs might not expand as they should. We are trusting God, he has been with us every step of the way.

Wanda, my sister, and her husband are coming to stay with us for a few days. I am grateful.

Please remember Anna Kate as she has her surgery tomorrow.

Thank you. Judy & Alan

Getting Stronger

Alan is getting stronger. I have a cold or sinus infection, and am feeling puny. I am wearing a mask and have the hand disenfectant in every room, so I wash my hands continually. I have been sleeping in the spare bedroom, and until last night he slept on the couch. Last night he slept in the bed. I put his meds in his pill box, but he is remembering to take them on time, check his insulin, and give himself the shots. We tag team the IV, and have it down to a science. He even laid on the bed and did some arm weights today. Determined is a good word for him. It seems like we are taking baby steps, but we gain ground every day.

Sweet dreams, Judy