more tests

Hi friends. Mike went to the endocrinologist yesterday and got the results of his blood work. His levels were all over the place and the endocrinologist put him back on his steroid gel as well as increasing his oral dose of steroids. You'll remember that the steroids are what most closely replaces Mike's body's natural hormone levels. The upside to this is that he may feel better. The downside is that we hoped we could lower the steroids as they have unwanted side effects. The endocrinologist is puzzled as to why Mike's levels are all over the place. It is possible this is a reaction of his body post surgery, but the endo has ordered more tests. She has likened his condition, and the way he feels, to PMS 24/7 . . . . there are so many comments here and it kills me to leave them alone . . . . but I will. Yes, I will.

Mike is headed to the Barrett Cancer Center Friday morning to have a blood test on his hypothalamus. The endo wants to see what this looks like as she is questioning what the trigger is to all of Mike's endocrine issues. It was thought that the pituitary tumor would solve the endocrine issues . . . but there was no tumor and the issues remain. Mike feels worse post surgery. The Cancer Center will look for cancer of the hypothalamus as well as infection or any other ailment that may be affecting this gland's workings which would in turn affect Mike's endocrine system. If I understand it correctly, the hypothalamus sends messages to the pituitary which sends messages to the adrenals - none of which are working well . . . but don't quote me on that.

Please pray for Mike Friday and for the results - we are hopeful that they will shed light on what's going on. Blessings and love to all who have stood by us and loved on us and have been long-suffering through these 3 long years.