Roller coasters are for amusements parks.
I am unsure how to communicate this recent development but I got a surprise call from Dr. Damon this morning while Irene was in dialysis. He informed me that Irene’s amyloid value (cappa light chain) is at 90 with an underlying ratio that is twice the norm.
Here is the history of Irene’s cappa light chain values:
| June 2007 | 652 (stem cell transplant) |
| July 2007 | 78.5 |
| October 2007 | 33.1 |
| February 2008 | 56.7 |
| March 2008 | 90 |
The telephone call from Dr. Damon was obviously disconcerting. The test results are from the blood draw taken the very day that Dr. Damon pronounced to us that Irene was in remission (see the update dated March 13, 2008). Dr. Damon is recommending another blood test in the next 30-45 days to see if there is a trending and/or pattern to the increased values. After the test results are learned appropriate mitigation measures will be discussed.
Irene’s tender response to this news was simply, “I guess the joy of remission was short-lived, but the Lord is faithful.”
Irene came home from dialysis very fatigued and rested/napped for the balance of the day.
Yes, roller coasters are for amusement parks. But the imagery clearly illustrates the swing of human emotions and one of the many challenges on Irene’s journey of faith.
Thanks for praying and caring.
Caminando con Fé
Dave
Dear Dave and Irene,
I am reminded by your news that we are to continue to pray for victory until complete victory is won. I confess a let down after news of remission. We will hold Irene up in prayer until her kidneys are whole, there is no more foreign protein in her body and she is WELL.
Dave and Irene,
WE are with you both for the long haul…we will renew our prayers concerning this matter and stand with you in courage. God is not on vacation here and He will prove faithful. As we wait for the results of future tests, we will be praying for mercy and LIFE over Irene…
Hugs to you precious, Irene. May God download all the resources and even joy. We are grabbing His hand and moving in to ride that roller coaster with you.
Laura and Dave