Noon Update

Karen returned to regular therapy sessions this morning. All tests were negative. There is no concern for any heart related difficulties.

A tentative schedule has been established for next week. Assuming her continued progress, a trip home for a "home evalustion" is scheduled for next Wednesday. Therapists will accompany us home to check on her ability to get in and out of the car, go into and out of the house, get in and out of bed, in and out of a chair, on and off the toilet, in and out of the shower, and in and out of our pool. This sounds very detailed, but given my inability to assist her due to my back problems, the therapy group said that they have to know and view if Karen can do all of them without assistance. If she shows that she can do them, with some slight additional therapy, we will return to the hospital and she will be released next Friday. If she is unable to "pass these tests", further therapy will be required. At that point, all of the possible options will be considered.

Needless to say, we both hope and pray that she will pass this test run. All hospital therapy will be aimed at these functions from now until Wednesday. While sounding easy, these activities are very difficult given the continuing difficulties Karen has with her legs.

Tomorrow, Saturday, Karen will get her evbery-four-week IVIG, which is the infusion of gamma globulin which takes the place of her immune system. She will be unable to do any therapy tomorrow as she is always left with severe headaches when she gets this six hour infusion. Not sure how much therapy she will be able to do on Sunday.

Both of us again want to thank all of our family, relatives, and friends for the support you've given Karen. I give her all the cards, e-mails, prayers, and well wishes you have extended to her. Please continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she is now facing a tough battle in her fight to return to full mobility.

Love, Bill