Follow-Up Appointment with the Surgeon

Jeanne, and I, met with Dr. Yamini today. The biopsy report was really good news. The tumor is the lowest grade type of tumor and is benign. Most likely it will not grow. Jeanne will get occasional MRIs to monitor it (to be on the safe side). The doctor believes that the numbness on Jeanne’s right side will disappear, although it could take a couple months. We are praying that it will be sooner! Jeanne has been cleared to work out again, for which she is very grateful. She has to take it easy at first, and if you know Jeanne, that will be difficult 😉.  Thank you for your prayers, concern and support!

Jeanne’s Home!

It is great to see Jeanne getting back to normal. Last night she was moved to a regular hospital room (out of ICU). This meant not being hooked up to the IV, having the surgery cardio monitor removed and being able to wear regular clothes (bye, bye hospital gown). We arrived home today at 12:45pm. Regarding her right side numbness/tingling, her right arm & hand are better but not full strength and her right leg & foot are a little better–but still have a long way to go. Looks like some physical therapy sessions for her.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Jeanne was so encouraged by all your love, concern and prayers. I felt strengthened by your support. 

“Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” Psalms 106:1

Photo before leaving ICU

At home!

Hospital Update

Jeanne is gradually gaining strength. She does not have a headache, and when she stands, her balance is normal. We are so thankful for that!

One problem is that she is feeling numb and tingly on her entire right side. It is good, though, that all her muscles are working. Jeanne had a CT scan earlier today, and the surgeon visited us about 10:45am. The scan did not show anything concerning, however, it did show some swelling in the brain near the incision. Most likely, this is what is causing the numbness/tingling. The consequence of the swelling is that Jeanne has to spend one or two more nights in the hospital. The surgeon cautioned that she might even get a little worse before getting better, but was very optimistic about a full recovery.

Thank you for your past and continued prayers.

Surgery a Success!

Jeanne’s surgery ended shortly after 12:00. I spoke with the surgeon who said, and I quote, “It went great!”. He was able to biopsy the tumor. The tumor did not look concerning, but we will have to wait a week or so for the official test results. He successfully created a channel in tissue at the base of the brain for better fluid flow. As of 1:30, I have not been able to see Jeanne yet. They are waiting for a bed in ICU (just as a precaution). I was told that she is awake, talking and doing well. For myself, I truly felt peace as I waited. The waiting involved praying, walking around, communicating via this blog, text & email, and listening to Andrew Peterson’s album, Resurrection Letters, Vol. 1 (I particularly recommend his song Is He Worthy?).

Jeanne and I are extremely thankful for all of the love, concern and prayers!

Surgery has begun

We arrived at the U of C medical center at 5:20am. Fairly quickly, Jeanne was taken to get her MRI. I then joined her before surgery. I was struck by Jeanne’s sense of peace and cheerful attitude. It was nice to have some time together before the surgery. Her pre-op nurse was a wonderful, praying Christian woman. After Jeanne was taken in for the surgery, the nurse and I shared tears and encouraging words about the beauty of trusting in the Lord. Jeanne’s surgery started just after 7:30 and is scheduled to last until 12:30 (maybe earlier, maybe longer). Thank you for your prayers! As I sit here and type, I am overwhelmed with the thought that hundreds of people are calling out to God on behalf of my precious wife...Honey!

My view from the waiting room:

Jeanne’s Surgery on April 3: Prayer Requests

Jeanne will be having brain surgery on April 3 at the University of Chicago Hospital. During the surgery, there will be a biopsy of her tumor. Next, a small “channel” will be created in brain tissue at the base of the brain. This is to allow for better flow of brain fluid.

PLEASE PRAY

• For the surgeon, Dr. Yamini, and those assisting him
• For success of the biopsy
• For the channel created in the brain tissue to be successful so that Jeanne’s balance is restored and daily headaches cease
• For no negative effects from the anesthesia 
• For health & strength for Jeanne during surgery and recovery