Update Don, Chris, Daisy

I received this yesterday.

Don had the staples removed from his leg today. He is in a delicate situation. Though there is no infection, the healing process is not what they had hoped for. At this time they have changed up his wound care. In two weeks the trauma surgeon will check on it again. There is a chance that if it does not improve he will need an additional surgery. We are praying to avoid further amputation. 

Therapy is slow going and very simple. They have to avoid bumping the stump until it has healed to prevent any further issues. Don seems to sleep a lot but when he is awake he gives the CNA’s a run for their money! He has been fortunate enough to have very good care. The wing that Don is currently on at Quail Creek, The Cedars, is now dealing with Covid. Patients testing positive are isolated in their rooms. Visitors are required to wear masks. So far Don is testing negative. 

Daisy’s rash is better. They are keeping a very close eye on her and waiting to see how things progress. On Thursday, depending on how it looks, they will begin weening her off of the steroids by 25%. If everything stays as it is between now and Halloween, Daisy is scheduled to have the central line removed at 8AM on Halloween. 

They have received the results of the Chimerism (Daisy’s blood and the donor). Right now Daisy’s blood is 93% donor. The cells that make the blood are 100% donor. However, the immune cells are mostly still hers. The Dr believes that by stopping the ADA injections Daisy’s immune cells will die. It is normal for the numbers to look like this early on. Those immune cells are the ones that take the longest to come in. They will be rechecked every two weeks. Thank you very much for the continued prayers on behalf of both Don and Daisy. 

Please continue to pray for Don, Chris, Daisy, Daisy's parents, and the whole family. 

O Lord God, you are all good and you know our every need. You have promised that you will give strength to the weary and care for the weak. Please help Don and Daisy to draw on your strength when they feel weak, to receive your healing when they feel pain and to know your comfort in the midst of their distress. You are the God of endurance and encouragement. Help all of us to live in perfect harmony with you and glorify you with our thoughts, words and deeds. We ask this in your Holy name, Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

William Arehart

DGK