Did I mention my family also loves a good roller coaster ride?? (Well, except for Linda.) Today was like riding the Griffon at Busch Gardens. We were all prepared to start the high-dose interleukin-2 therapy when Dr Grosh announced that the repeat chest X-ray done yesterday again showed signs of possible pneumonia in the right lower lobe. He immediately ordered another CT of the chest (I just know I am going to glow in the dark soon) and when the results finally came back, the interpretation was a 50% chance that pneumonia was lurking out in that area. In addition, the fluid accumulation around the lung on that side had increased. Due to my persistent low-grade fevers and the chance of pneumonia, the IL-2 therapy was again postponed.The plans are now to proceed with yet another procedure called a thoracentesis (draw off the fluid surrounding the right lower lobe of my lung with a needle passed into the chest cavity). This is currently scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, 3/5/08. Regardless of the results, I will be treated as if I do indeed have pneumonia with a broad-spectrum antibiotic and monitor my response. This means I will NOT start the IL-2 therapy for now, will instead be discharged sometime after the procedure, and return home.
Obviously, we are disappointed in the delay of the treatment that has the greatest chance of inducing some form of remission. I have every confidence in our physician and have of course been praying that the Lord would guide his judgment. As always, our trust is in our great and loving God and we receive this turn of events as a manifestation of His wisdom and watch-care over us. Please continue to pray for a clear resolution to this remaining hurdle on our journey.
Gratefully,
Dan
Addendum (Wednesday, 3/5/08):
Just to add to the "thrill" of this ride, the thoracentesis was cancelled. When they performed an ultrasound to determine how much fluid was there, it was determined to be an insufficient volume to be able to safely tap it. Therefore, I was discharged from the hospital and we have returned home to Norfolk for the time being. I am to monitor my temperature closely as I complete the course of antibiotics, and will return to UVA next Monday 3/10/08 to have a repeat CT of the chest and (hopefully) begin the IL-2 protocol. Again, thanks for your prayers and expressions of love. We love you back.
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will trust in the name of the Lord our God" (Psalm 20:7)
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ReplyDeleteHow frustrating this must be. Praying for a quick resolution and continued wisdom for Dr. Grosh.
ReplyDeleteI'm keeping all of you in my prayers through the highs and lows of the journey that God has planned for you. Know that your testimony continues to bring glory to our Father.
ReplyDelete~Beth (Tab church)
Dearest Doctor Dan,
ReplyDeleteI have been keeping up with your site since I heard the news and just never knew what to write or say. At this point, I realize that it matters not what is in the writing, just that it comes from the heart. You are in inspiration and a kind, caring, giving soul. You provided such comfort to me in my time of ups and downs, and I know you are finding comfort now in your time of need. I pray will all of my heart and soul that you continue to experience this comfort and happiness from your faith, family and friends. I am always thinking of you and I will continue to follow your truly amazing inspiring story of strength, love and courage.
With love,
Janice Frucci
I really don't have the words to express what I am feeling for you and your family right now. I'm just hurting and worried for all of you. Thank you for the great man you are and the example you are of faithfulness and trust in the Savior. I pray that He will carry you through this. We are praying fervently for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI love you!
Melanie (Ogden) Sorensen
Zephaniah 3:17
ReplyDeleteThe LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."
Thank you for your continued ministry to so many through your BLOG. You are greatly loved and appreciated.
Our prayers for you and your family are without ceasing.
The Gainors
Dear Dr. Crabtree, I am conflicted by two different avenues of thought that continue to constantly occupy my mind and heart: the overwhelming sense of grief and sadness since first learning of your diagnosis and the constant prayers to the God of miracles that He would lovingly grant you the miracle of healing. I know you have touched many people's lives, including mine in the short time I have known you. Thank you for the incredible gifts of caring and help that have con-tributed to my wellbeing. I thought they were the reasons I loved you, but I find out now in reading your blog that the real reason is because you, too, are a poet. Who knew! I love your sense of humor and am so moved by your unwaivering faith. I am making a TEMPORARY move to another physician for the timebeing but would delight in returning to your care in the future. My love and my prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Anna Deal
ReplyDeleteOh My Goodness.......your journey must feel like the Griffon times three! To be all set for the Interleukin 11, and then for the thoracentesis and once again be sent home. Your grace under pressure is amazing........and certainly a lesson to all of us how to handle life's problems in a God pleasing way. You are such a man! And doctor! And servant of God. I just have to believe that He will richly bless you and Linda, That is my prayer.
ReplyDelete