In Moments Like These

We have come so far after enduring so many different treatments, the path before us now seems the most difficult and uncertain.

Being subjected to 3 rounds of high dose chemo, the body has weaken and it is now tired. Upon discharge from the ICU on Monday back to the isolation ward, the body was out of critical condition but it still needed close monitoring. The blood pressure was hovering at borderline and the heart rate still fast at 145. His mind and body was trying it's best to fight.

The next 5 days were of close monitoring as doctors kept adjusting medications to keep him afloat. Having an unstable blood pressure and bad water retention, it was difficult to strike a balance as draining fluids causes the pressure to decline. In addition, potassium had to be infused as the body was lacking this essential element (lack of potassium can affect the heart functions) which further caused the body to be laden with more fluids.

The body became too tired in trying to drain the fluids and it started to enter his lungs. With fluids in the lungs, breathing became difficult and the oxygen levels plunged on Friday night. He was immediately rushed down to the ICU and a respirator was required to take over the breathing process to maintain sufficient oxygen in his blood.

Meanwhile, at the ICU, the doctors tried an aggressive approach by using medications and air pressure to force as much fluids possible out of the lungs. At the same time, they had to be careful with the amount of oxygen given as chemo drug, blomeycin, given prior to this treatment had scarred some parts of the lungs. With the breathing tube inserted, he became very restless even in his semi-conscious state and had to be strapped down to prevent accidents of pulling his lines. The dosage of sedation was increased, however, this caused his blood pressure to plunge. The doctors had to strike a fine balance between adequate sedation and maintaining the blood pressure.

The condition is complicated with some bleeding in the stomach, colon and kidneys as his platelets is extremely low. Although donor platelets are being infused, it remains a concern to the doctors as platelets is the blood clotting element of the body. As the doctors suspect pneumonia, a bronco scope was done. Taking no precautions, the doctors have already been using a wide range of antibiotics to counter a wide spectrum of infections, including pneumonia.

Joining our hands in prayer, we are comforted that The Lord is walking with us every minute of this difficult journey and we continue to trust in Him for strength, grace and guidiance.