“Every storm runs out of rain.” ~ Maya Angelou
the doctor is in
I want you to meet the doctor leading Shero’s incredible care at UK, Dr. Sarah Vick. We met her in the ER — the final ER we went to a week ago today. Boy, did we hit the jackpot the day we met Dr. Vick. We bonded almost immediately because we are both only children, with only our mothers left. Sarah and her team have been Johnny on the spot every day, working tirelessly to find solutions, many times when there really weren’t any, and understanding the value of quality of life over quantity of life. Hitting every roadblock you can imagine, they have not given up. Because of her careful guidance, Shero has gotten the best possible care, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank her enough for that. Today, we finally learned the biopsy results, and they were surprising. Despite all indications of Lymphoma, Shero actually has a type of Leukemia. Ordinarily, this type is very slow-growing and can be treated with tablets as an outpatient. But let’s remember who we’re talking about here: the world’s biggest medical conundrum. The Leukemia in Shero is not slow-growing; just the opposite. The treatment cannot be administered yet because she’s so weak and frail from the pneumonia. The only option, a Hail Mary option if you will, is steroids. We’re hoping the high doses will help her rally enough strength to fight the pneumonia while also slowing the growth of the Leukemia. If she can do that, she stands a chance of regaining enough strength to start the treatment. The family, her minister and his wife, gathered this evening and prayed. They were able to say to her all they needed to say, and because of the steroids already having some effect, she was able to tell each of them she loved them, sometimes more than once, thanks to the drugs. The family also got to meet our beloved Dr. Vick, and for a while this evening, everything was okay. The power of faith is mighty. The power of faith among like minds is even mightier. Shero may not be able to rally, but at least we had an option instead of giving up, and I will always be grateful for that, Dr. Vick, and family.
One response
We couldn’t get up there tonight but hopefully can see her tomorrow. We pray for her to have the strength to overcome this illness and be healthy again soon. If that isn’t the case then we know she will be with Jesus in heaven. I am praying for you and your mom Kopana. As an only child and only my mom left as well I know this is a very difficult time for you sis. Love to you both and praying for you both too.