Back in the 513

Yes, it's true. Mike is back in Cincinnati - much to his, Becka's and the dogs' happiness. The Durkees went to NH for Becka's grandmother's funeral, Becka flew back to Cincy, and Mike went to Cleveland 2 weeks later to do his uncle's funeral. The service went well, and Mike was honored to speak. Although it was a long day, and Mike was wiped out after, it was very important to him to be there and speak well of his uncle. Thank you for your prayers concerning the service.

Now that Mike is back in Cincinnati, he has some appointments coming up. He sees his primary care this week. The doctor will order a few more tests and hopefully increase seizure medication. Up to this point, Mike's organs have handled the amount of medication he is on, and seizure levels are not yet up to therapeutic levels. The hope is a new prescription for the headaches as well. There is one class of medication that has not been tried. Headaches remain the same - some days are worse than others. After Thanksgiving, Mike is scheduled to see a homeopathic dr who will run his own tests. Mike has started an elimination diet - cutting out all (or most) preservatives and coloring - trying to eat all natural food. The Durkees are big fans of Trader Joe's ginger snaps! As traditional medicine has offered little relief, the Durkees are looking into natural remedies as well.
Mike is glad to be back in Cincy. One of the things he was involved in before traveling to NH was coaching high school boys' basketball. It was a small commitment and Mike was enjoying it. He is concerned with his ability to be consistently involved due to his health. Prayer is appreciated that Mike would be able to coach those three days a week and be consistent in his involvement. It would be so good for him on so many levels.

For now, the Durkees are learning many lessons, feeling restored in new ways, thankful for friends to walk through life with, and happy to be together again. In two and a half weeks they will travel to MI to be with Becka's whole family (immediate and extended) for Thanksgiving.

Blessings, friends.