Melissa just wrote an e-mail update... Check back for updates on specific needs
to be posted here if and when they arise.
Hi y'all - just a quick note. Jon's dad has been officially diagnosed with ALS
(for more info, see www.alsa.org). ALS (also called Lou Gehrig's disease) is a
neuromuscular disease that causes the nerve receptors in the body's muscle
tissues to degenerate so that they no longer receive signals from the brain.
Jon's dad was moved back to ICU yesterday afternoon due to breathing
difficulties and is on a ventilator. We don't know the specifics of what the
next step will be in terms of care, but he will most likely have a permanent
breathing tube, feeding tube and have to use a wheelchair. We're hopeful that he
will be able to come home after a few weeks of therapy and treatment, but he
would need permanent home health care. Unfortunately, there is no known cause or
cure for ALS. One positive aspect is that it does not affect brain or cognitive
function nor does it affect heart function.
Jon and I are both so thankful for the kind words and prayers of so many in our
class, everyone's been so encouraging. We ask for continued prayer for Jon's
dad, his mom, his sisters and him as they have some big decisions to make in the
coming weeks and months.
Thanks y'all,
Melissa
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