Big kahuna

The big kahuna, Karl's nephrologist Dr. Schwartz from U-M, called him today. He concurred with the staff at Maui Memorial -- Karl has to stay longer. He explained that it was important to take plenty of time with his kidneys and get the creatinine levels down to more normal levels. It's critical for Karl's health in the future and minimizes the chance of dialysis, which is definitely what they're trying to avoid.

The staff is carefully monitoring Karl's intake of phosphorus and magnesium. He was told both could be deadly if there was too much or too little in his system. With the state his kidneys are in at this time, they are unable to easily filter these elements with ease. Karl's also a bit anemic, which is also due to his kidneys not functioning properly. He is still receiving IV therapy to flush his system. Everyone is confident Karl will have all kidney markers back to normal by the time he is scheduled to leave on Wednesday. He was told he'll need to closely monitor his kidneys for the rest of his life and they will be especially susceptible if he's ill. Drinking plenty of water will be crucial.

In the meantime, social workers have been working with Mom to find a hotel closer to the hospital and get a flight back at a reasonable price. Hopefully Priceline will give them a refund or a credit for the seats that will go unused on Saturday. If anyone knows anyone that can help, please let us know!!

Now for some Karl humor. I asked him if he remembered anything about Saturday and shared some things that happened. He didn't remember. When they were getting ready to head to the clinic that day, Rodney told Karl he needed to put on a fresh shirt. Karl, in his confused and weakened state, reached for the suitcase nearest him. It was Mom's. Karl had put on one of Mom's shirts. As Rodney described it, it was tight and flowery. "If I hadn't stopped him, he probably would have put on a pair of your mom's underwear." We have all had a good laugh over that. Of course Karl has called Rodney a few choice names, which makes us laugh even more.

As I write this, Rodney, Terri and Khol are either sitting at the airport or are on the plane heading for home. Words cannot convey how thankful we are to them. I think the only way we can describe them is that they are angels on earth. May the angels in heaven bless them for their caring generosity and bless you for your prayers and good wishes.

Kerry

P.S. If there's little change over the next few days, I won't be posting, but I'll post something if I have any pertinent news.