Stroke Survivor Blog

Thank you for your prayers regarding Steve’s last test. Everything went well with the colonoscopy and he was cleared to start the 3 1/2 yr. clinical trial with the anti-coagulant. On June 8 he received the first dose, but we don’t know if it was Coumadin or the experimental drug, Apixaban. All subsequent EKGs have shown that he is in continual atrial fibrillation, which puts him at an extremely high risk for another stroke from a blood clot caused by the A. Fib. So taking this drug is critical for his longevity. My prayer request is that he will do well on this medication and experience no negative side effects.

We ordered the lift chair with 3-way positioning that will allow him to almost fully recline in a flat position. We got a very good price on it, so it pays to shop around. It will be delivered in two weeks and it can’t come soon enough, because Steve’s shoulder and hand has experienced much wear and tear.

He is scheduled for a stress test on June 19, and the results will determine his future treatment. Some days it seems like he is going backward very quickly, and other days it seems like he’s making progress. The labored breathing caused by the congestive heart failure has stabilized somewhat and is not nearly as bad as it was before he started on Carvedilol, but his blood pressure is still too high. The doctor doesn’t want to increase his BP med too quickly in order to reduce harmful side effects, so I’d rather have him be cautious.

I am encouraged by the changes taking place and feel hopeful. Your prayers mean so much to us and we appreciate you. Thank you for praying for me as well. Many nights my sleep has been interrupted and lately I’ve been experiencing a lot of exhaustion. I am often reminded that “His grace is sufficient for me, and His strength is made perfect in my weakness.” Please continue to pray that I will be strengthened to carry on. Thank you so much.

My love,
Kathy