Stem Cell - It's a Go!

Ok, Ok, so I won't be winning the "Blogger of the Year" Award, and I'm certainly not the next Pioneer Woman. My apologies for the 4 month hiatus. If only I had some fantastic recipes or amazing "Do it Yourself" projects to share on a daily basis!

But no time for that. However, things are finally getting exciting as far as Jim's stem cell progress goes! A couple of months ago, we got the results back from Jim's heavy metal tests. Turns out some of his heavy metal levels were high. Mercury and lead to be exact. For the past 8 weeks, Jim has been taking tablets to decrease these levels, and fortunately it worked! Last week, Jim was approved to move forward with the stem cell process. The procedure is scheduled for September 30th and October 1st.

We are very excited and hopeful the stem cell procedure will slow the progression of his ALS. Of course there are no guarantees, but we are always hopeful. As far as how he is doing, Jim is still 100% committed to the Paleo diet, and relies heavily on his faith.  Jim's muscle atrophy in his left arm/hand are pretty significant, and his right arm/hand are showing signs of weakness. His speech is significantly affected as well, and at times can be hard to understand, especially on the phone. Fortunately, he shows no signs of weakness in his legs. Jim is mentally and spiritually stronger than he has ever been, and for that we are very grateful. 

The last four days Jim has enjoyed exploring Utah, Yellowstone and Idaho with his sister Kim and our daughter Colbie. Colbie returned to college in Rexburg, Idaho, and Jim was fortunate to be the one to drive her there.

On September 21st, we will be taking part in a walk benefiting the ALS Guardian Angels foundation.  If you're in the Irvine, CA area on the 21st, stop by and join the Racobs Brigade!

Thank you, as always, to all that have made the stem cell treatment process possible through your support, prayers and donations.  I will let you know how it goes, in the meantime, I will work on coming up with some great "DIY" projects to grace you with. (not really)

"God whispers to us in our pleasures, but He shouts to us in our pain. Pain is God's megaphone."

~ C.S. Lewis




Bryce Canyon, UT

 

Jim and Colbie