The long awaited appointment

I carried my recent chest x-ray into the examination room. A bit nervous because Patrick and I had peeked at the film in the waiting room and my lung cavity appeared different. Bigger? We couldn't tell.

When the doctor looked at it she responded positively because there were no other cavities and she said that the cavity I had is calcifying, filling itself in. This was good news.

She quickly asked about other symptoms and reported that I was no longer anemic, which is good news too. She also said that the meds do supress the adrenal glands, but after I get off of them, they should "snap back." She said that I needed to continue with the meds for another 3 months to complete my year.

So the Lord has been kind to me in this matter. I am very thankful, though I still feel cautious. First, she didn't have my new x-rays electronically yet so she couldn't compare the size of the cavity last September to the size now. And second, for some reason my valley fever fungal titers weren't documented on the last blood test. These can tell if your body is still fighting the valley fever. In September they were 1:16. But now, the space just remained blank on the computer. Through these 2 measures, we could scientifically tell if the valley fever is being wiped out. So, I will email my doctor this next week to see if this evidence is now known.

I've come to learn that valley fever is slippery. So while my doctor was encouraging, it's important to have some hard facts along with the smile. You know what I mean? I remain cautious.

Leaving on a jet plane

Tomorrow, the first of our family--me and 3 children--head back to the states. I can't believe it! Patrick and the other 2 will follow next week as they finish up their responsibilities with a visiting group and get everything in place before our time in the states.

The first few weeks back will be spent with family, doctor's appointments, and regrouping. We look forward to seeing our Arizona friends between July 20 to August 14 and then our Chicago friends between August 20 and September 15. What a treat for us to be able to fellowship with you.

Please don't hesitate to contact us to set up a time to get together.