Thursday, October 29, 2009

Please continue to pray

Pain control and other basic needs for Donard is now being managed at home. He is extremely weak, unable to walk, and on continuous oxygen supply. We are grateful for your continued prayers and are trusting God for wisdom, direction, strength, and peace for each day for Donard and for each family member.

Rose Ann for the family

"This I recall to my mind; therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Thy faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:21-23

Sunday, October 11, 2009

October 9th update

It's a little late because we've been at Family Camp all week but here was the latest report.

On Tuesday, October 6, Donard was admitted to Conroe Regional Hospital because of fever and shortness of breath. After being diagnosed and treated for pneumonia, he was released on Thursday night and is home again with oxygen available 24/7. The coronary angiogram that was scheduled for today (Friday) had to be postponed. Progressing cancer in multiple areas remains the primary issue, and the resulting need for increasing pain control is a continual challenge. The decision this week to end his recent employment and focus on his health was difficult for Donard but non-optional.
Until we can relay our gratefulness personally, please know that your faithful prayers and many expressions of love and concern mean more than words can express.
 "This I recall to my mind; therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning;
Great is Thy faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:21-23

Monday, October 5, 2009

Donard continues to experience shortness of breath periodically and is scheduled for a coronary angiogram on Friday, October 9th, at 12:30 p.m. This will proceed if he is free of fever for 48 hours prior. Tylenol for pain and fever relief was eliminated early last week because of skyrocketing liver enzyme levels. He is now using the nighttime prescription pain med 24/7. This prescription will compound other problems, but our primary care physician is attempting to address those as well as the continuing anemia. Even with no Tylenol he seemed to be free of fever for several days but had a low-grade again tonight (Sunday). Donard has missed at least one day for each week on the new job but is determined to endure as long as possible and as long as the employer will tolerate his unpredictable health issues.

Prayers for my mother have been answered! She has recovered from her fall and is able to walk comfortably again.

We continue to be so grateful for your many expressions of love and for your faithful prayers.

Rose Ann for the family