"HARD TIMES"

Wednesday night Rick has begun a fever; still, as of this morning it is managed w Tylenol. He isn't able to sleep well due to continuous diarrhea for 3 days. He has developed a rash covering his upper body. These things reveal *Engraftment syndrome. Very common with transplants, although very hard on Rick. He is trying to find rest and stay comfortable. However, this seems to be physically impossible most of the time. Dr. Nade started him on steroids and antibiotics to control Engraftment syndrome. Drs/nurses are very positive and reassure that this stage will pass. Neuprogen shots continue daily so his white cells are beginning to come back up, sssslowlyyy. He was given whole blood and platelet transfusions yesterday. These will help also.

We continue to pray and trust that the Lord is with us, and especially Rick as he goes through this hard part. I was given a special word from the Lord:

"But now, this is what the LORD says- He who has created you, He who has formed you: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through
the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you
will not be burned. Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because
I love you" Is. 43:1-2,4.

When comfort is temporary and fear tries desperately to enter, it is only by God's promises we find solace. By the power of His unfathomable love and strength we endure.

Deepest gratitude and humility for your unceasing prayers and outpouring of love! Glory to God!

Life & peace in Christ,
Dana

*Engraftment syndrome is a febrile syndrome that occurs in the early neutrophil [white blood cells] recovery phase following stem cell transplantation. It is characterized by noninfectious fever andvarious clinical findings, such as skin rash, diarrhea, pulmonary infiltrates, weight gain and neurological manifestations.