A DIFFERENT Solution

So the medicine that Mom was on to help her absorb more sodium and make her blood pressure go up made her very sick. She was hardly responsive, and started talking about blue horses being fast at the races whenever she was awake enough to talk. So yesterday she embarked on a 3 hour (each way) journey to see another specialist.

The specialist ran some tests and discovered that Mom's body is not absorbing many vital nutrients and minerals (not just sodium). Her condition is serious; they have never seen anyone so deficient and the problem so advanced, but the good news is that it is curable. The most dangerous aspect is potential damage to organs, namely the kidneys, liver, heart, and brain. He is optimistic about a full recovery, depending on how much damage has been done to other organs.

We are all extremely hopeful. This diagnosis seems to fit with diagnoses by other doctors, just more complete. The specialist was able to name some symptoms she was having without her even having to tell him about them.

The biggest obstacle now will be raising the money to pay for her treatments. I know I've mentioned it several times before, but if any of you have the means (or know anyone who might) to help out, please take a look at my dad's art website. The prices have been slashed. He's also willing to do commissions. We are looking into other fundraising ideas as well.

Thank you for all your prayers, love, and thoughts. This journey has been a hard one, but we believe we may finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.

A Solution?

Mom was able to see a neurologist this morning. He came to the conclusion (or opinion) that there's a circulation problem which is causing her brain not to get enough blood. She's been put on medication to raise her blood pressure--yes, that's right, raise. That's just how special she is. We're hopeful that this might be able to help her.

Meanwhile, the rest of the family is sick. All of us, including myself. We've been careful not to pass anything on to Mom, but we've got strep, bad colds, and pneumonia floating around like an old dollar bill. Maybe several. We're all hoping to get better as quickly as possible.

Test Results

We have just received the results of the test done several weeks ago. Everything appears completely normal, even after review by several specialists. Also, it turns out only one of the two ordered tests was done. So it's on to the next things--getting the second MRI done and setting an appointment with a real neurologist (When we tried to see a neurologist before, we were simply brushed off by the PA).

Meanwhile, Mom has been experiencing extreme vertigo, even just lying down. Her headaches have gotten worse, and she is constantly on as much painkiller as we dare give her. We wonder if she's got something else on top of whatever she's got--a flu or cold or something of the sort. We're trying our best to make her comfortable, but we're all exasperated with the medical process and with trying to figure out how to help her get better.

No news yet, but still hopeful

The test results have bit yet come back, but we have a good feeling that this particular trial might be beating an end. Mom has been in high spirits the last few days, thanks at least in part to the many friends who have been able to spend the time to come see her. Even though things haven't changed and in some ways have gotten worse, we all seem to be sending the light at the end of the tunnel. You can expect an update as soon as I hear the results and, hopefully, a prognosis.

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