Weekend Fun

Quick update from my world:

First, I am fine and am feeling good. Second, my hospital has finally updated its telecommunications systems to allow for reliable and continuous internet access (though the TV lady going room to room)!

I've been in the hospital since Friday afternoon being treated for level 3 rejection.

About two weeks ago, some regular blood work I do to detect possible rejection (called allo mapping) showed that rejection was likely present. I had a biopsy on Thursday morning, which confirmed the highest grade of rejection - level 3. Rejection is not uncommon and I've been very fortunate to avoid it for a long time, but at this level it requires inpatient treatment, which is why I'm here in my old stomping ground.

I was told I'd have three infusions of high dosage steroids Friday, Saturday and today (Sunday) to suppress my immune system and quickly stop it from rejecting my heart. I have tolerated the first two infusions very well, with leg pain being my worst complaint (a wonderful thing!). The third is coming soon and should be no different, so the the plan was to go home this evening.

At the same time, we have been adjusting my oral immunosuppression meds to make sure my body doesn't go back to rejecting the heart once the steroid treatment is complete. For some reason my body is reflecting even lower levels of these meds despite the higher dosages, which has allowed me to maintain my status as the most bizarre and perplexing patient ever.

I hope it's just a temporary fluke but I have to stay another night with higher dosages and see what my blood shows tomorrow. If my levels look right, I will be able to go home tomorrow. If not, the hunt for answers will continue.

The best news of all is that I have shown no signs of reduced heart function, so it doesn't appear the rejection has been present long enough to cause any damage. I'm optimistic that the treatment will be effective and will know for sure after I have another biopsy within the next week.