Here is an update on Mike's visit to the Mayo Clinic today. We really covet your prayers in the upcoming decisions!
There is a new medication being tested to stop and reverse Hep C. It is used in conjunction with interferon, a powerful drug similar to chemotherapy. it has a 30 -40% cure rate for Hep C. unlike the 5 - 15% for previous
medications. It still has the brutal side effects and is similar to having the flu 24/7 and then some. However, there is limited testing for Post transplant patients. Currently, it has only been 3 months of testing
with post transplant patients, and there are only 7 in the trial. We do not know their situations, but 4 out of 7 have rid themselves of Hep C. The problem is that Mike will be weaker and sicker than he already is,
and the treatment must last one year. If he does not clear the virus in the first 3 months, it will be deemed that the treatment did not work and he will be removed from the study. Also, he must change the immune
suppressed meds he has taken so long with good results and switch to one compatible with the new medication. This in itself involves getting blood work drawn every day for one month to make sure he can tolerate
the new drug. If he does not tolerate the new immune meds, he cannot take the new hep C medication.
With much to consider, we are painfully aware that Mike's liver is declining and being attacked by Hep C and his quality of life is not good. He at least has hope with the new meds and we are leaning toward going for
the treatment which at least offers hope.
Of course God is our Hope, and we are in the palm of His hand. And we are trusting Him daily to lead and guide and heal Mike on all levels.
Please pray that Mike will make the right decision, that God open the doors he wants open for treatment and Mike would not only tolerate the treatment better than expected, but the he would clear the virus and be
able to live a long and normal life.
Thank you so much for being prayer warriors on Mike's behalf.
God Bless,
Mike, Carolyn and Aaron
