The first week of September, the Peruvian doctors returned from a strike, and JP was admitted to the hospital for observation. The doctors ran some more tests on his kidneys, liver, and heart during the time he was there. The doctors observed him for about a week and then he was sent home. The doctors said that because of the strike, there were many waiting for various surgeries. Due to the many waiting, JP was told they wouldn't be able to operate for a few weeks, so he would rest better (and save money) by resting and waiting in the comfort of his own home. JP returned home to wait on September 12th.
At this point, JP was feeling very down and frustrated. One evening when we chatted online, he said he felt that the devil was attacking him. He said it seemed to be one bad thing after another, and the doctors just keep him waiting with no direct answers. However, after my conversation with JP today, he seems to be in much better spirits. He was laughing quite a bit at my not funny statements, and he was much more talkative than he has been the last few times we've chatted. (Maybe it's the drugs he's taking.) Anyways...
Last last week, JP was called and admitted to the hospital again. The doctors have done more tests and discovered that his liver seems to be in normal, working condition. This is a HUGE praise, as at one point they were discussing the possibility of a liver transplant. The doctor said from here forward the timing is all up to JP's decision making. He will undergo more analysis this week with the plan to operate on his kidneys early next week. This operation will help to alleviate the swelling in his hands, feet, face, etc. as well as solve any other problems he is having due to kidney failure. At this point, the doctors believe they can save both kidneys, but there is a slight possibility that only one will survive.
After the kidney surgery, JP will remain in the hospital to heal for approximately two weeks. During this time, the doctors will continue to observe his heart. He will also be prepped for the heart operation. Doctors are hopeful that they will be able to do the heart surgery and close the hole in his heart the last week of October. JP told me today on the phone that the doctors explained to him that because he is young (32 years old) and has led an active lifestyle, he should come out of the surgery and recover quickly.
There will be a Worship Night at Living Gospel Church on Sunday, October 14th at 7pm. We will be taking a love offering to help offset the costs of JP's surgery. We will also have Martin's coupon books for sale; these contain over $80 in coupons, and you only pay $5. If you are interested in either of these events, please let me know!
Please remember JP in your prayers this month. He's got a long month ahead of him, but with an outlook like his, I'm sure things will go just fine. I am so grateful for a God who comforts, heals, and provides. I am also thankful for each of you who are prayer warriors for JP during this difficult time).
God bless you!
