Mikesimon's Thread

[mikesimon]

I have been coming here 4 years or so and I don't think I've ever started a thread. But, since I am going through this little drama and so many of you seem interested I thought it would be better to have a place where you can find out what's going on with me. To summarize my situation: I have a transplanted liver I got in June 2000. Recently I have had significant reduction in my FK dose whic ic my primary anti rejection drug. My enzymes started an upward trend aqbout 1 month ago and htis past Friday I had a biopsy. Monday I and my transplant surgeon and a liver pathologist will review the biopsy slides and decide how to treat. It sure looks like rejection and if it is there are 3 possible treatments. 1) FK dose adjustment 2) some kind of mild steroid treatment 3) an intravenous injection of a gram of steroid named Solumedrol(they call this a "blast"). This last option flattens the immune response thereby halting the cellular rejection immediately. I had 2 or 3 of these right after transplantation. Blasts shock the liver and the pancreas and I suspect that my diabetes can partially be attributed to the blasts. So my insulin requirements will increase significantly for a week or so and then hopefully settle down. Well, that's it and I want to thank all of you again for being there. Mike

[mikesimon]

The doctor who did the biopsy said my liver seemed normal. I don't ever ask techs any questions because I was put into a tailspin once by a tech who didn't know what she was talking about - this was during a sonogram. That was about all he said and I wasn't asking. But, if I am in a mild rejection I wouldn't think that the gross architecture would indicate anything at all. We'll see it on the cellular level. Mike

[Pdilly]

I have not talked to you much but you seem to be one strong person.  You always seem positive even in such a precarious situation.  We will pray for you and with your attitude .... you have to be just fine.  Keep us informed.

[dog_lover]

Four years ... wow!  I'll bet you have witnessed and experienced a lot of fear, pain and triumph.  I'm sure you have considered what your words must mean to one of our brothers or sisters who just discovered that they are members of our club.  I think I have been posting now for about three or four weeks and I have received so much more than I have given on these pages I can only imagine how many people you have helped in those four years.  That sounds cliche but cliche's are born of fact.  I, for one would like to thank you for being there for all those people who have just found out they won a big lottery with an uncertain prize.
Take Care with Respect, Dog_Lover

[cuteus]

I have no doubts that Super lucky, resilient, Mikesimon is out to win another challenge!
It does not sound like easy to take treatments, but I believe that you will do whatever you have to  because life is so precious for you, and the survivor always finds a way.
try to have a good weekend and you have access to many friends' numbers, if you need to talk.

[giddyup]

Mike your strong positive attitude is a source of strength for me.I truly hope your days will be healthy and happy. Giddyup

[Snookmiester]

Ha, ha!!!! I was gonna tell you to stay off the motorcycle, but Kenedge already has that covered!!
Stopped by and just wanted to wish you the best. I know that nobody can say anything to put you at ease, as the waiting is ALWAYS the worst part.. i seem to believe from your comments and previous posts that you have the situation under control, and have the utmost respect and confidence in your medical team, so your one up on the situation.. Now, get your mind outta the gutter, and do something special this weekend. Take the wife out to a really nice restaurant, or treat yourself to something you normally wouldn't buy.. I know that usually makes me feel better! You can feel bad next month when the bill comes!! LOL