"This is my solemn vow."

...for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish all the days of my life. This is my solemn vow.
September 26, 1970

Lung Function Update

We have traveled to Ann Arbor (University of Michigan Hospitals) on 3 of the last 6 days. These trips were for scheduled appointments to have new eyedrops made from Ron's blood, Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic, blood work, Pulmonary Clinic, and an immunity infusion.
I had the most questions for his pulmonary doctor regarding his CT chest images, managing oxygen, the condition of his lungs, and medications to prevent another pneumonia. The pulmonary function test showed that Ron's lung function has diminished since February when this test was last given. His last pneumonia was in June and involved both lungs. His progressive lung damage is not reversible, so he will not recover enough to come off the oxygen. There are no medication changes because he is already maxed out on the quantity and dosage of medicines that treat his lung issues. (Antiviral, 3 antibiotics, antifungal, albuteral inhaler, Spiriva, Advair, and Singulair) Looking ahead, when Ron has an infection that flares in spite of the medications he takes, then he is hospitalized and given the big gun IV antibiotics. He has been hospitalized for pneumonia 8 times since his transplant. Each pneumonia reoccurrence does more damage, so his health declines with each hospitalization.
We would still like to go "Up North" to see fall colors and go to Virginia for Thanksgiving. The oxygen will be an issue. The pulmonary clinic is working on getting a portable oxygen concentrator for us through our insurance. Ron will have to be tested to see if his inhalations are now strong enough to trigger the puffs of oxygen. I'm still trying to find out if there's a constant flow portable device.
Ron's blood work was good; he always has some abnormalities but nothing was way off. His white cell count was the one most out of normal range, but the immunity infusion should help attack any infection...probably in his lungs. I was concerned with him going back to having an IV for his immunity infusion. (because he no longer has a central line) He said that he didn't even feel them put the IV in, and they had no problem finding a good vein.
Ron's next appointment with Dr. Mag is in December, and his next appointment with Dr. Pendelton (pulmonary) is in January. Hope things can stay status quo. He got his flu shot this week, too.

Happy Birthday Ron!

We have been celebrating Ron's birthday for awhile now. It started with cake and ice cream with Cale's family while we were still in Ohio. It ended today with a quiet day at home at the lake. Ron can feel overwhelmed with too much going on and does enjoy just his quiet, peaceful days. What a beautiful day it was just to spend some time out on the deck!