MORE INFECTION

My apologies for being so behind in my blogs. I cannot believe the week has just gotten away from me. Monday evening they drained the fluid from Ron's chest and sent it for culture. They then wrapped his chest with two large ace bandages to help redistribute any fluid that may still be there. It is looking very good. So far the cultures are negative. However, the news on his open kidney transplant wound was not very good today. They have found several pockets within the tissue that have "tunneled"...causing it very hard to keep those areas clean and dry. Today they had to go in and dig into each pocket...a total of five. In doing so they have discovered a second infection in the tissue. It has also caused a section of Rons outer skin to be very red and irritated. They immediately started him on a very strong broad spectrum antibiotic. As you can well imagine ...I am very concerned. Concerned with the speed or the lack thereof of how the wound is healing and now dealing with two different types of infection ...now two antibiotics to deal with...one that not only kills off bad bacteria but also the good bacteria. I am worried as to how much of these drugs in combination with his anti-rejection drugs the kidney will be able to tolerate. I am concerned what else Ron may catch with this new antibiotic. Most areas of the wound still look very healthy and healing...but I worry of the set back these infections will have on Ron. He still managed to get all of his exercises in despite how sore he was today. Yesterday ...the physical therapist came in and with proper technique and full physical support...He managed to get Ron to stand straight up...not once ...but three times! It was so awesome to see. It was only for approximately 3 seconds each...but for him to do it three times in a row was an incredible accomplishment. I am trying to stay hopeful that the antibiotics will work quickly so that he does not have to be on them very long. Please keep the prayers coming.....Ron has come so far and we are so grateful for this...but he still has a lot of work cut out for him and new obstacles to overcome. Every day I sit and imagine us driving back to Goodyear and stepping foot in our house as one big happy family...Ron walking on his own...strong and healthy. Having a "normal" life and doing things that most people take for granted. I keep hoping for that day to come very soon. "Lord, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them." Psalm 10:17