Jim and I went to the
doctor yesterday, Oct. 29, 2009. We saw the advanced heart failure group and
the ICD doctors. Jim's fatigue has increased significantly since the end of
September. This has been concerning us and we called the doctors about this.
They could not do anything for us, so we waited until it was time for our
appointment. Both the AHF group and the ICD doc believe that his heart is
hardening (stiffening) more. When this happens blood is not able to come into
the heart adequately. The heart is supposed to relax and pull blood in. If it
is stiff or hard it lacks the ability to do that. The doctors stated that they
need to do another cath. They would have scheduled it but our insurance expired
last month. We can't get anyone to offer us insurance because of our
pre-existing conditions. We have applied for financial assistance through UAB
and hope to hear from them in about a week. Once we receive word from them
(that we will get help) they will schedule the cath. This will allow them to
determine what exactly has changed since April. This will allow them to make a
game plan. Once your heart becomes stiff or hard there is nothing they can do
but transplant. We spoke with a social worker for the first time yesterday. She
was very nice. The doctors have told Jim to get disability. The doctors believe
he won't have a problem being approved, but Jim said he is going to keep on
working/preaching as long as he can.
Among other news,
Cameron our 3 year old son was diagnosed with a mild form of autism last
Friday. He has been having some difficulties for some time. We have been
working with his doctor and special services since May 2009. He will start
special education this coming Monday. He is very slow and doesn't understand
much. He has been taking speech for about 5 weeks and has done great so far. Special
services believe they can intervene early and help him to have a more
"normal" life.
We ask for all of your
prayers daily. We ask you to never cease to lift us up before the throne of
God. We are still faithful to the Lord. Through all of what we have been going
through, God has never left us, nor forsaken us, he pours his blessings upon us
daily. God is soooo good. We often has time that we feel like we can complain
or say why me. But we say why not me. God is working on our whole family. We
are becoming stronger with each passing day. We know that with God all things
are possible and He is our rock and shelter from the storms of this life. May
God help us all to do what he has asked us to do. We love you all and thank you
for your continued support and friendship.
