Follow Up Visit to Baptist ~ June 9th

We met a very nice neurologist today - Dr. Reynolds.  We both really liked him.  He was trying so hard to find more reasons for Pete's strokes - to either know we are doing what we need to do or to lower his risk even more.

All of his labs were fine - the clotting ones, rheumatology, and others.  Pete asked him why he (Dr. Reynolds) was so intent on looking further.  He said that the high blood pressure should not do all of that damage to his brain - at least he did not think so.  So he wants to rule out other things, so that he does not see Pete again with a worse stroke and worse outcome.  On his MRI, there are many strokes.  They cannot tell if they are weeks or years old, but there are many.  I felt a little scared but thankful at the same time.  The doctor said Pete's activity level and running have probably helped him a lot over the years.  One of my prayers is that he will run again soon.  He wants to.  I timed a road race yesterday and thought that most of us take walking and running for granted.  I know I do.  And I pray he will be back to running soon.

His right side is still weak.  He still overcompensates to do a lot of things, including walking.  A plastic brace has helped his right leg.  Dr. Reynolds was very impressed with his progress and reminded him that he can improve over months and years.  But he has already come a long way in the little time since we left Baptist and thought he would need a ramp into the house.

So he came home with a heart monitor - for 30 days.  Fortunately, the nurse there and the person I talked to after we got home to activate it were both good at explaining it simply.  I am not a nurse.  We got it on him and activated.  If we want to do any other tests after this, he would have another test to look at the back side of his heart.  But right now, this is what he chose.  And I am thankful he agreed.

The doctor also increased one of his meds.

It was a long day with a lot of information given and received.  At times, I was a little frustrated; because Pete is not a good patient.  But God worked out his reluctance to test further.  And Pete agreed to do this.  So I am tired but thankful.

Thanks for all of the prayers.  We are just so thankful for all of you and all you have done.  I still feel like Moses a lot of days - with others holding up my arms in the battle when I am too tired.

We give God all of the glory for the healing that has taken place and the healing that is to come.  We trust Him and His plan for us.  And while this latest trial has come in a line of trials, we know He is right here with us.  We have no doubts.  It's hard, but we cannot imagine what it would be without Him.  We are turning over what is most precious to Him.

Thanks again!

Love,
Wendi

P.S.  He also preached Sunday.  So please feel free to visit our church near Tweetsie if you want to see this miracle in person!  (Middle Fork Baptist Church, Blowing Rock, NC)