The Toni Times - 9/24/10

I'm not returning to theological blogging right now, but I am going to use this space to keep Redeemer members and friends aware of Toni's progress. As many of you know, Toni began suffering from symptoms like numbness in her hands and arms some weeks ago. As these symptoms progressed and intensified, she was sent for an MRI. This showed two primary areas of inflammation on her spinal cord. This past Monday she suffered a debilitating attack at home while preparing for a visit to the neurologist, and was transported by ambulance to Seton Med Center here, where she remains hospitalized and undergoing numerous tests, while receiving treatment as well.

What we know so far: while doctors are not certain what Toni is suffering from, preliminary tests indicate that MS, a viral infection, and cancerous tumors do not appear to be the cause of her suffering.

Today - Toni is a little stronger than yesterday, and experiencing less pain in her head and neck - welcome relief indeed. However, new MRI scans show no reduction in the size of the spinal inflammations. Her right leg is experiencing some signs of difficulty now as well, though the great concentration of the problem is her entire left side. She remains very fatigued and sleeps the vast majority of the time. She continues to exhibit problems with speech, as well as almost complete loss of strength to left hand and upper arm. We anticipate receiving a few more test results today from the two spinal taps (lumbar punctures) she has undergone and we will pass these along as we can.

Prayer - for a clear diagnosis and proper course of treatment leading to recovery; that our suffering will be an offering in Christ's service, magnifying him and serving the Gospel; for the comfort of our friends and family who are helping us while also feeling the strain of this challenging season; for Anna especially, as she misses her mom so much.