IPF

Seems we live in a world of acromyms.  The one dominating our lives includes three simple letters:  IPF.  IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS.   This, of course means that it is of undetermined origin.  Thought I should clear up what Lee being in "the window" means.  My blog yesterday was not accurate.  The window means a "period of time".  This period of time is crucial in IPF.  This time is a period when a decision must be made concerning lung transplant candidacy while the candidate is in very good physical condition and not to wait too long or IPF may quickly get worse and then the candidate will lose the opportunity for a transplant.  So..............that is where we are.  We still need lots of prayer.
Good news !  For the past three days Lee has been able to walk from our condo to the car without using the rolator.  His strength is visible, however his oxygen need is very strong.  He continues to need 30 liters to walk and 7-8 liters on resting.  Taking a shower is becoming easier and he has more independence with that and his oxygen management.
Today I had lunch with other caregivers whose husbands have either had transplants or are waiting like we are.  It was both encouraging and frightening to hear their stories.  Lee and I have a very hard mountain to climb , especially Lee.  He will have to work very hard and endure a great deal of pain for a very long time.  It will be good to see him walk quickly without being tethered to a line of oxygen.  I have observed many post lung transplant patients in the center for Living and they look amazingly well.  My prayer is that I will be able to see Lee like that in the next 6-8 weeks!
More later..........Brenda