Because so many people want news about Sue, she and I are starting this weblog so that family and friends can know what is going on with a click of the mouse. We will try to update this site frequently.

Sue will go to Barnes-Jewish West Hospital tomorrow morning for some intravenous steroid treatment for her condition. Her neurologist is treating a possible inflammation that is causing all the symptoms--footdrop, paralysis of right hand, partial loss of use of her left hand, and some lack of balance. She expects to be in the hospital only 24 hours or so and will have follow-up treatment at home with home health care.

Lots of people are praying, and many have sent cards, letters, and e-mails of encouragement. Today we went to 10:00 am Mass at Christ the King Church near here with Chris (Sue's son) and his wife Shelly. Chris and Shelly then brought lunch to our house, and we had a delightful time at the meal.

The treatment tomorrow will be the first initiated by Sue's neurologist, Bennett Frank (Yes, in that order). Last week, Tuesday, Dr. Frank did a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), Sue's third during the past month, and the tests on her spinal fluid showed results that prompted him to try this new treatment.

For about four weeks now Sue has been having accupuncture treatments from an oriental doctor, Dr. Ginger, and has been taking herbs that Dr. Ginger recommends. And last week Sue began physical therapy at St. Mary's Rehab Center with a wonderful young P.T. named Shelley.

Sue hasn't been able to work at all since January 22nd, and has only worked sporadically since early December. She is applying for Social Security Disability which we are praying will be temporary, but will, of course, help in the interim. About three weeks ago she got a "DISABLED" placard for the car, and that saves her some grief getting in and out of places.

She sleeps better with the help of Ambien and has shown improvement over the past couple of weeks. Perhaps it is the accupuncture. Perhaps it is the improved rest. Perhaps it is due to all the prayers, well wishes, annointings, and love.

Sue has been staying with Shirley and me since December, except when Denny is able to be in town. In some ways it is like our annual trip to Florida only longer. We have a wonderful time together, and we do eat well! For now our seventh annual winter vacation to Florida is on the backburner.

Oh, one more thing. Last weekend, Scott and his two sons, Brayden and Jalen, came for a five-day visit. Brayden turned one year old on February 12. On Sunday, Sabrina and her family hosted a birthday party and prayer service at their house. We had a wonderful time, all 22 of us. Children, especially grandchildren, are like medicine.