Update from Michael - Thursday, 7-24-2008

Dear friends,

Yesterday, Wednesday, July 23, after suffering for two days with a fever of unknown origin, Melissa was once again transferred back to CHOC from HealthBridge. Motrin and Tylenol were ineffectual in reducing the fever and her heart rate was steadily above 150.

A blood culture revealed that her bacterial infection was active again so she is being treated with antibiotics.

Her left brain also began swelling again, so the neurosurgeon adjusted the shunt valve on Wednesday evening.

Thanksgiving:

We do have things to be thankful for, despite all of this:

1. Since July 6, Melissa has been very alert and has smiled a lot.

2. Melissa has been able to hold your hand upon command.

3. She has been able to swallow.

3. Melissa has enjoyed watching comedy movies.

Prayer Requests:

Please continue to pray:

1. for Melissa's total recovery

2. that the shunt adjustment will reduce her brain swelling

3. that we, her family will get enough rest and be able to maintain our energy

4. that Melissa’s faith remains strong

5. that the seizures she has had involving her right hand and leg can be controlled

6. that the surgery to replace her damaged heart valve can be done ASAP

7. that our plan to bring Melissa home in late August can be realized.

In Love,
Michael