From Dee's blog - Dee asked me to update you on her condition and plan for treatment at this time. On Wednesday, April 6, the doctors at CTCA near Chicago performed surgery on Dee. They inserted a drain into her abdomen that will remain as long as it is needed to release the fluid buildup that is causing problems with Dee's comfort and pain level. Both she and Dale were then trained on how to use the device at home. This way Dee will not need to go back and forth to the hospital to have help in this area. There is a risk of infection at the site and this would be a major problem should this happen. Mostly because she will have barely any immune system to take care of the infection.

Also, a PET SCAN was ordered and done to detect the progress of the cancer. Dee's doctor was not to encouraging in this area. She said that the liver has started to shut down and that chemo would be the only medical hope that is available. However, in order to have chemo again Dee's platelet count would need to go up drastically. So, Dee and Dale have agreed to starting Dee on steroid treatment. The plan is to shut down the immune system that is breaking down the platelets in her body. She will have weekly blood draws over the next couple of weeks to see if this works. If so, chemo treatment will be started once again. We don't know what turn this illness will decide to take but Dee says she believes God is still working at all sides of the matter.

On another note, Dee had the opportunity to lead a women at CTCA for treatment to the Lord. In Dee's own words, "A women here for treatment with cancer found the Lord this week". We all know why don't we. It is because Dee as so persistent it introducing others to Him even in the mist of her troubles. The greatest gift to others is to give hope to the hopeless and lost. Good for you, Dee!!

Dale and Dee will return home this evening. Dee will be required to stay away from sick persons and to let some things go for the moment. I anticipate that she will be needing lots and lots of rest as well. She hopes to come up with a game plan in order to make this all possibly over the next couple of weeks while on the steroids.