Debi Pryde 

January 4, 2007

Tom saw his pulmonologist yesterday to review the results of the biopsy, his progress with recovery from surgery, and set the agenda for procedures that will lead up to a transplant. The biopsy report does confirm the IPF diagnosis. All and all, he has done remarkably well recovering and hasn't experienced the great set back we had anticipated. He has been able to recover from surgery so well that his doctor told him he had not declined enough to be put on the transplant list this month. In fact, he's not even bad enough to get a handicapped card so he can park up close! That's certainly good news, though we do know the disease is still progressing and will eventually destroy more and more of his lung capacity. For those of you who understand the significance of pulmonary function tests, they do show degradation in lung function but not to the extent that was expected or that he requires oxygen at rest or is ready for the transplant list. Certainly, we want to postpone the transplant as long as possible since the surgery does trigger a new phase of life that will limit his life expectancy. He will be going in for a new set of pft tests next month which will give us a better idea how fast the disease is progressing. His doctor is also beginning the long series of tests that are required before a person is determined to be a qualified recipient for a transplant. Here's a great website we found that provides some up to date information regarding transplants. We have been encouraged to learn that a lot has changed and improved in the world of lung transplants in recent years making them more available and successful. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/lung-transplant/HB00046

Meanwhile, Tom is looking forward to teaching a college class next semester on Philosophy and getting back to teaching his adult Sunday school class and leading the choir. He's had to cut back leading congregationals and giving trumpet lessons, but wants to continue as long as he can with the wonderful ministry opportunities God has given to him. (Serving God is truly a great joy and privilege!) Tom is now an official retiree and starting to like being home and getting his books and notes organized like he has wanted to do for years but hasn't had time. We did receive our first pension check right on time this month, so we have definitely been launched into a new phase of life! We're learning all the ins and outs of retirement and have been very thankful for the Lord's wonderful provision in giving us folks who have educated us and given us so many helpful hints and resources. We see God's faithfulness to us each day and are amazed with the many ways He reassures of His presence and shepherding care. What a good and gracious God we serve!

We were thrilled that all of our children and grandchildren were with us for over a week during Christmas holidays. Nothing is more fun than watching your children raise their children and enjoying the blessings of happy grandchildren filling the house with laughter and play. We enjoyed the chaos immensely!