February 20, 2009. Many of you know that Pete has not been well since before Christmas. (This is an abbreviated version.) He had shingles on his right hip and leg that continues to be quite painful. In January, he saw a local MD who treated the shingles and the hip pain. In the following weeks Pete had an elevated calcium and low potassium. The local MD, whom we like very much, was concerned about the calcium level and immediately scheduled a CT scan of the chest abdomen, and pelvis. This was done on February 12th and was read that same afternoon. Long story short, there were multiple enlarged lymph nodes in multiple locations. The local MD said at the time he thought it was likely lymphoma and scheduled a biopsy for the following week. After much discussion with Tim, Pete's myasthenia doctor at UAB, and with Anne and Beth, it was decided to cancel the appt. with local surgeon and seek diagnosis and treatment at Vanderbilt. His myasthenia can complicate a lot of medical choices, etc. Yesterday, Feb. 19th, we returned to local MD who did more blood work and is in the process of making a referral to a surgeon and an oncologist at Vandy. We are still in the waiting mode but as soon as we have more information, I will post it for you. Lymphoma is treatable and so we are hopeful the probable diagnosis of lymphoma is correct.
Pete is in good spirits. His sense of humor is still active even though he is weak. We realize there will be some rough days ahead but know we can walk this path with the prayers of our family and friends. We are grateful for your concern and for your constant prayers. DON'T STOP! God is faithful to hear the prayers of His children. You will be able to leave us messages through the blog and we look forward to those. So, until more is known, will sign off for now. We love you and are already feeling your returned love and prayers.
Myra
