lions and tigers and trees . . . oh my!

The Durkees just returned from their last vacation for the summer. They spent a week in NH/MA visiting family, friends and former Young Life kids. They had a great time soakin up the sun, sand and quality time with everyone with whom they connected. Mike continues to be seizure free (YAY!!) but the headaches continue. As the Durkees have had trouble sleeping this summer due to headaches and seizures, the lack of sleep wasn't as detrimental due to the fact Becka wasn't working full time. She returns to work Friday and would love prayer to be well rested for the kids' return. This week, Mike will have the bloodwork done to test endocrine levels. On vacation, he also consulted with a family member who specializes in natural treatment of endocrine levels. Mike will discuss some of these options with his endocrinologist at the next appointment. After the bloodwork comes back, an MRI will be done of the pituitary tumor to see if it has grown or is bleeding. You'll remember due to the pain behind Mike's eyes, there was concern the tumor may be changing.

Mike has been having bouts of nauseous and vomiting over the past few weeks. The endocrinologist thinks this may be a result of cortisol levels that are not stabilized in Mike's body. It may also be a result of the intense headaches. On a good note, Mike has been cleared to do a LITTLE driving during the day (b/c seizures have been contained to sleeping for 3 months) with Becka in the car for short distances. He drove twice on vacation and was in his glory! He hasn't driven since October, and the driving this week is a good step toward normalcy. The Durkees continue to ask prayer for the seizures, the headaches, sleep, and upcoming tests. Also, when they returned from vacation they found a tree on their house. The neighbor's tree fell on the house the day before the Durkees returned. Due to its size, it is unclear how much damage it has done. It fell on a good portion of the roof and the air conditioning unit (which is still working in the 100 degree weather - PTL!). The Durkees are thankful to those of you who continue to pray, call, care and do life with them. You are a tangible demonstration of God's love!