Friday, March 21, 2008

cirrhosis vs healthy liver


Hi, this was last summer when we took a day trip to Garibaldi, It took everything Bob had to walk the docks but he was so happy. Its funny how we take for granted the little things , like just walking around which in the old days I would have not found very exciting but now since Bobs liver disease I totally appreciate even a half hour walk, we talk about it for months after. It’s these times I realize how compromised he really is. We continue to talk about going again for a night or even just one day...but it never seems like he feels quite good enough. I guess those days are gone. In the beginning of his diagnosis of Cirrhosis, I thought maybe we would be lucky enough and he could get a liver transplant, but with his immediate weight gain he was not a candidate anymore. We have tried everything to get some of the weight off but his body holds on to it like you wouldn’t believe and there is nothing we can do. Some of the weight gain is due to Ascites (fluid in the abdomen) and some is due to other things going on due to his liver disease. I feel like we have done everything that we can so I am comfortable with it all.
I never really knew what all the liver did and now….for all us with a healthy livers, be thankful and make sure you pay attention to your bodies. If something doesn't seem normal…Go to the doctor and ask for blood tests. A lot of time Doctors don't draw blood unless you have a lot of varying symptoms… but it is your right, your insurance, and your bill so ask for blood work! It is so inexpensive and it is absolutely invaluable!

Ok that is my rant for the day. God bless.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hello,
Well just an update for those of you who are here to check on Bob and I. As some of you know Bob is home from his stay in the IMCU from complications with his Liver Disease. He was admitted with Hepatic encephalopathy. His blood ammonia levels were at 309, and his white blood count was at 24.9 So to say the least he was a pretty sick guy. Thank you for all your prayers and he is home now and recovering slowly. Everyday is a slow and steady climb back. Thank you for stopping by. Laura has now fixed the comment but so feel free to leave your thoughts. I am going to try to be more diligent on relaying information on the progress of Bob’s battle with Cirrhosis.
Love to you all Laura

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Comments Feature Test

Hi Everyone,

It has been a long time and I do apologize. Seems there are never enough hours in day, let alone the week!

Some of you notified me about not being able to post to the Liver Help blog. I think I have fixed the issue and am testing the “add a comment” feature with this post.

More later…

The other Laura