February 17, 2018 Hospital Update

Hello everyone! Anthony here... I know it has been awhile since I have posted a blog. Elisa started blogging, and honestly, I was really happy she took over for a bit. I think you, the reader would probably rather hear from her directly with how she is, and how she is feeling.

Some of you are probably aware already, Elisa is in the hospital, and has been for a few days. I'll try to explain, but please realize, the doctors are not sure what's going on, but they are utilizing educated guesses.

Elisa's muscle around the pelvis bone developed fluid within the tissue. There are a few things this fluid can be. Her white blood counts were really high, in the 50's, (normal white blood counts are in the 10's). She has had a low grade fever. Prior to her being admitted into the hospital, her doctor put her on antibiotics, and then steroids. The doctor assumed it was an infection, and hoped the prescribed medicines would do the trick. Unfortunately, they did not work well enough, leading to Elisa's stay in the hospital. The fluid was drained, and they are running tests on it to determine what the fluid is exactly. The doctor who did the procedure said it could be an infection, but it could also be dead tissue from the radiation burst treatments Elisa went through in the beginning. Elisa's white blood counts are dropping, most likely due to the IV antibiotics she's on. We don't know when Elisa will be released, she is having a terrible time with her stomach. She has been very nauseous, and when she has felt hungry, she has thrown up. While we her family have been supportive, truly she has mostly been alone since I have to take care of the kids. Ryan and his girlfriend, Madi, have visited a couple times, and I plan on taking the kids to see her tomorrow.

I have had a few people asked how I'm doing through all this. I'm making it through, although sometimes I'm struggling more than I will even allow myself to admit. I think I just need to keep moving type of thing. I do feel run down, however, we have had great support, especially from our church. My job and bosses have been really good to me and my family. I guess if there's one thing I am experiencing is the feeling of being pulled in every direction all at once.

Speaking about the before mentioned great support... Some good people from our church paid for a new outdoor staircase. The old one was really steep, and is hard for everyone in general. For Elisa is was nearly impossible to get up and down from. Now one of my neighbors said he has "stair envy"! It's much easier now for Elisa and the rest of us to use. To all those who have donated funds, FYI - we now have a new bed for when Elisa gets back from the hospital! Super excited to see if this helps her rest better, and get better sleep at night. Thank you!

Some of you have asked how you can help... here's what you can do...

Everyone: Keep the prayers, good thoughts, and positive energy coming our way.

Everyone: Please keep the positive notes going to Elisa to encourage her.

Ohioans: A couple things here...

1. Babysitting: We have a need for Monday-Friday from about 8-6.

2. Meals: We are currently receiving 3 meals a week. Honestly, it has been tough on this front. I'm considering switching over to asking for Restaurant Gift Cards. If you want to help with this, please let me know.

Everyone (who is able): Financial donations at our Go-Fund-Me account. We're probably heading towards professional assistance with the kids, and more than likely a great deal of the donations will go towards this goal.

Well, it's 11:36 PM. I'm wiped out. Daniel's medical needs have been attended for. Kyle, (our insomniac 16 year old son) is sleeping on the couch! This is great, I guess I'll let him stay there! To part, thank you all! For your support, for reading our blogs, our rants, and keeping up with us. We are grateful, truly grateful, and blessed with all the caring people who have helped us.

Good night, and in case I don't see ya, good morning, good afternoon, and good evening!