Here are the latest updates on Katie directly from her blog. I am giving you a condensed version, so please click over to read more and receive the prayer points. I really appreciate that I can use my blog to get this information out. At some point, I might just give you the link to the blog, but right now, I feel compelled to get this information out. You all have been so gracious with your comments and letting me know you are praying. I know how much the family appreciates knowing that the Body of Christ is rallying around their sister in need.
Yesterday (Saturday), Katie had a Bone Marrow biopsy done. The results came back NEGATIVE, meaning that it is not in her bone marrow, which is phenomenal news! At the present moment, we have not received many answers that tell us exactly what Katie has and how to treat it, but tomorrow (Monday) they will run the PET scan and get the rest of the biopsy results back that will bring conclusive answers and how to start treatment. Right now, we’re hoping to start treatment on either Monday or Tuesday.
We just received word from Doctor Low that they have an alternate plan to the PIC line. It is called a “Tunneled Access Catheter”.
What is this, one might ask?
A tunneled catheter has a cuff that stimulates tissue growth that will help hold it in place in the body. There are several different types of dialysis catheters. The tunneled catheter is the best choice when access to the vein is needed for long periods of time. It is secure and easy to access. They are more secure and usually work more efficiently than PICCs because of their larger size. The tunnel and cuff on the catheter decrease the risk of catheter infection, allowing these types to remain in place for extended periods of time. This type of catheter has portions that hang outside the skin, and is used by connecting directly to the out side ports of the catheter. The patient does not get stuck directly when the catheter is used. This type of catheter must be protected from getting pulled or getting wet. The skin exit point of a tunneled catheter is remote from the actual vein entry point. This tunneled path also helps reduce the risk of infection.
In a vascular access procedure, a special catheter is inserted inside a major vein (generally in one of the large veins in the neck, arms or legs) with the tip of catheter positioned into a large central vein that terminates near the heart.
Good news!!! NO MORE POKING KATIE! Everyone say “YAY”!
When will this happen?
The Doctors are saying they will perform this procedure either tomorrow or Tuesday.They said Katie doesn’t have to be awake for it so she won’t remember the procedure, which is comforting.
Thank you for continuing to pray! It is so very valuable! Remember to stay anchored in the Word and the Victory of what Jesus accomplished on the cross!
We are thankful and giving Him praise!
Thank you for your continued prayers for our sister in Christ! God is moving. Keep those prayers coming!
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Barbie, these are great news. I was on my way to check her website for an update when I read your post. God is wonderful and I continue to keep her in my prayers.
Thank you Maria so much for your continued prayers.
Great news…thank you so much for the updates!! Katie will continue to be in my prayers!
God is good!!
Thank you friend.