Extended Hospital Visit

All,

Unfortunately I have to report that Melinda is still in the hospital. While we were optimistic she would return home last week, more complications surfaced. I will do my best to summarize recent events and how we are proceeding.

After receiving many of the blood products and additional meds, they were initially pleased with how she rebounded. However, the abdominal issues returned and the platelet levels plateaued. Following some consultation, they decided to go ahead and perform an upper endoscopy. The result's showed an extremely inflamed duodenum and stomach ulcers(much of the reason for the pain issues).

They are now aggressively treating all of her issues. She is receiving more platelets, meds to relieve/heal the tummy issues, breathing treatments, and she now has a PCA where she can administer her own pain medication when needed. There is some comfort in knowing that they are taking no chances and doing everything they can to make her well enough to return home. As far as when that will be is unknown. We will just pray for continual improvement and comfort for now.

Melinda and I would also like to share some of the good that has occurred over the last week. Our little one's participated in the Mashburn Elementary Talent Show. We were proud enough that they had the courage to perform, but we enjoyed watching them as well. I was able to attend and then showed the videos to Melinda shortly after. Caroline sang "Rolling in the Deep" & Rachel Rose, as the cowgirl, danced to "Born this Way". Here are the links for you viewing pleasure!, just copy and paste into your browser if necessary.

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=FLLXRd0HUzPWx3ROFvowJI6Q

As always, we thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers. Our spirits are high and attitudes positive. We will do our best to keep you posted on the progress she is making.