March 2, 2002

Update # 30 

Good Afternoon, 

We enjoyed our first snow day Tuesday when we had four inches of snow.  Jeff and I really enjoyed it since no one had to go to St. Louis!  

We all had a great week doing the last of things with the broviac -- last cap change, last dressing change and last flush.  We all went down to CG by 8:00 A.M.  Jeff got to sign all the papers this time since he is 18.  They were a little backed up in surgery but when it was Jeff's turn, he went into surgery, recovery and back in the room in about an hour.  Just a tiny incision and one stitch.  He felt great with just a little soreness.  He took Tylenol only twice yesterday.  The dressing will come off in about four days.   

Jeff even went to musical rehearsal last night.  Apparently he was flashing his chest to friends who wanted to see no broviac.  When Jeff went to bed last night, he said it felt great not have to wear the undershirt with the tie for the lumens.  

As I mentioned last week, this will be the last update until sometime in April.  The PET Scan is scheduled for Maundy Thursday morning.  Results will take a few days.  The problem will be coordinating appointments on the same day with Dr. Chu and Dr. Roy.  Also the first two weeks of April are the Illinois State Test and I'll have to arrange a time when I can get away from school.  So don't worry if it takes awhile until you hear from us again. 

Seven months ago this day was not yet in sight.  We have been truly blessed with people who have helped to heal Jeff.  Home health comes for their final time on Wednesday to officially discharge Jeff.  We know that all of you were in on this process also.  Please continue your prayers so in April we can hear the word we want from the doctors -- "remission".  And then in 5 years the word -- "cured".  We thank God for all who have touched Jeff.  Have a most glorious and blessed Easter.  Talk to you again sometime in April. 

Love,

Marcia