In the emergency room he underwent a CAT scan to make sure he had no internal bleeding on his brain. That came back clear. They did another blood test and determined that he needed to be admitted to the hospital immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Upon admission to the hospital, he was diagnosed with ITP(Immune Thrombocytopinia Purpura), an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks and destroys platelet cells that play a role in blood clotting. It is not contagious and can not be passed from one person to another. No specific test can prove that you have this and there is no known cause.
ITP can be acute or chronic meaning it could be a long or short road to full recovery. It is not a life threatening condition unless his level is low and he experienced trauma of some sort.
After the diagnosis, they started the first treatment, a platelet transfusion. He underwent the treatment without any complications or side effects:) Then, they administered corticosteroids to supress the immune system to stop it from killing off the platelets. He was in the hospital for two days, so they could monitor him and make sure his platelets stayed at a safe level. They drew his blood numerous times and determined they were at a safe level to return home. He was sent home on Saturday afternoon with an appointment for Monday morning to check the levels again.
All the while, Dave is the most positive person I know. Thursday night I said to him, "I am sorry you have to go through this Dave." He said, " It will build my empathy." His attitude has taught me so much over the years.
We are happy to report that today was the appointment and they did another test, and although it is not back to normal levels, it is increasing. It is at 54,000. The doctor was optimistic that the steroids are working, so that will be his course of treatment for now. Hopefully that is all that he needs and we will cross any other bridges as we go. For now, we ask for your prayers for a full recovery and strength in the process. We have already learned a lot in this process like don't worry until you have to:) We have felt God's assurance that He has a plan for Dave, even in the midst of a hardship like this.
We have appreciated the support and help from so many people that watched our kids, brought us food, movies and drinks in the hospital, gave advice, words of encouragement and those that prayed from afar!
Dave's Hemotologist that will be helping us through this. We are comforted knowing he is one of the top doctors in his field in our area. Thankful for that! |
2 comments:
Oh wow!!!! Praying for Dave and the entire family during this time. And, having a room on that side is the best because of the view! Take it from this local gal! Love you guys!
Dave is rockin' that gown pretty well :)Glad he is surrounded by great doctors and on the mend--slow and steady wins the race!
Keep us updated!!!
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