In the past I have discussed the FEV1 test which measures the volume of lung capacity. The measure is based on the "expected percentage". Last week Laura had her 2nd test since the transplant and crushed it at 107%. The attending tech was shocked. A really great number that is a direct reflection of her determination. Walking the streets of SF, from the top of Russian Hill to the Top of Coit Tower has paid off.
In a December xray they found a build up of what was possibly water in the lung cavity. After a recent ct scan, the fluid has partially diminished but appears to be a smaller collection of blood. In the coming weeks Laura will go into to radiology and they will remove that fluid. No one seems to be overly worried and rushing to make any appointments which is always a good sign.
The team did complete a bronch this week. This is one of the most significant test because it can identify infections, stages of rejection and numerous other issues. The results this week were mostly good, however they did find mold growing. The mold was actually growing on a sugar based wire that poked through. Some of the wires that were used to close the chest plate and close her up are meant to dissolve and this one poked through. Due to the fact that it is a sugar based wire mold grew out on it. They will continue her on the Ampho drug a while longer to treat this.
The Ampho treatment is 2 hours a day of inhailed medication. This is just one of the many treatments that must happen daily. For those reading this as you approach you first transplant or are about to leave after your first transplant, set your expectation that you have hours of treatments daily. Typically in the morning and the evening. It may seem daunting but you will develop a rhythm. It does limit your time to do anything else so just keep that in mind.
Laura is working to manage her blood sugar as it has been a bit more erratic. Blood sugars, blood pressure, kidney functions and other levels are consistently being monitored and tweaked. As she is on so many drugs there is balancing act that is always in play between her medication and how her body processes those medications.
With all that having happened the doctors gave Laura the green light to go home! After almost 5 months out of the house Laura is now home. Everyone is very very excited Bear, our tiny King Charles Cav first saw Laura and started to growl but after smelling her went absolutely crazy. Running in circles between her legs, jumping up and down. So excited to see her again after such a long period of time.
Thank you all for everything. It was a long haul for everyone. Everyone was emotionally invested and there were some trying times. The road ahead will have issues as the second transplant is always more complicated than the first but we know we have the support needed to push through.
I will continue to provide updates. We are starting the process on establishing a non-profit and will be sure to share the details as they happen. Thank you again. We could not have made it through this without #TeamLaura.
Cheers to all in the New Year!
Love,
The Zs
