Update from Steve, Friday, May 30, 9:36 p.m.

Dear Friends,

Latest updates from Marlene tonight:

1. Melissa is still having some fever issues. At 7:00 p.m., her fever rose from 99.1 to 101.3. Her doctors still don't know what's causing the fever.

2. Melissa's whole body was trembling this evening. Her expression looked like she was scared. Her eyes were rotating. Not sure what the trembling means but it's not a seizure.

3. Melissa’s heart rate increased to about 150. This could have been a direct result of the fever and trembling. Nevertheless, the heart beat is still too high.

4. Wednesday, the G-tube was put in. By all observations, it was a success. Melissa looks like she’s gained a little weight. Because of the G-tube, she will be less confined.

5. Melissa has been able to exhibit some facial expressions. She had a painful look as she reacted to blood drawing. Another instance, she expressed frowning when she was being adjusted on the bed. These are good because it implies her ability to have feeling is improving.

6. Depending on the recommendation of the neurosurgeon, Melissa may be transferred to the less critical ICU by next week. Since the NG tube was taken out, her heart beat has been more stabilized.

7. In about 2 weeks, if her neurosurgeon recommends, Melissa may be transferred to a sub-acute
facility to begin some rehab.

8. Melissa still likes family and friends to visit. As she is gaining more strength and awareness, she likes visitors. As always, please keep your visitation duration manageable.

All in all, God has allowed Melissa's condition to either stabilize or improve. We have much to be thankful for. However, we still have much more prayer needs.

Prayer Requests:

1. Melissa’s fever will return to normal.

2. Melissa’s heart rate will return to normal.

3. God will take care of the finances as medical bills are starting to come in. In addition, the future costs of rehab. and care for Melissa. Pray that God will help the family navigate through the insurance maze as well as provide financial resources to enable them to maintain a semblance of normalcy.

Thanks,
Steve