Storms with cyclones create chaos, damage and report wind speeds greater than 115 mph and we’re all aware that tornados can cause catastrophic damage.

Living with the disruption of Primary Amyloidosis is sometimes akin to being in the midst of a fierce cyclone or brutish tornado.

• There’s distraction from living an orderly and focused life that enjoys rhythm and momentum
• There’s an emotional pendulum because of the ongoing uncertainty
• There’s obvious physical commotion, pain and discomfort
• There’s confusion at times from the complexity, various people and processes encountered along the way

Sound like the squall of adversity?  It’s definitely a tumultuous journey.

However, it’s reported that the EYE of the STORM is very unlike the swirling activity because in the EYE there is very little wind and rain.  Most cyclones and tornados have a very CLEAR, CALM CENTER.

…. and that’s our challenge …. to live everyday with a clear, calm center, in the EYE of the STORM.

• But is it even possible or merely a pipe dream?
• …. and if it is possible, HOW does one live in the eye?

After the early morning dialysis treatment we drove to UCSF and enjoyed a 90 minute, very productive consultation with Dr. Stephen Gluck.

Here is the “net-net”:

• There is “marginal” kidney function improvement, but not nearly enough to consider dialysis less than three days a week
• We will return to UCSF next Tuesday, December 11, in order to meet with a vascular surgeon who will conduct vein mapping in preparation for a permanent access port in Irene’s arm.  A special type of access, called an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, is placed surgically, in her arm.  Basically it involves joining an artery and a vein together.
• Irene’s phosphorous level is extremely high;  we discussed several strategies and medication adjustments and/or additions to mitigate the risks inherent with a high level in her system
• Because she weighed in at 103 pounds, he wants her to gain weight
• In the next 60-90 days, we will explore the notion of Irene potentially transitioning to hemodialysis from home
• The amyloid blood sample was drawn and we hope to get results on December 17 when we see Dr. Damon
• Dr. Gluck will be sending Dr. Kumar his full report and recommendations.

Irene’s fever broke today; our conclusion is that perhaps the fever was caused by a minor sinus infection.  She’s lethargic but the symptoms appear to be subsiding …. it must be answered prayer!!

It was a long but affirming day; just seeing Dr. Gluck lifted Irene’s spirits!!

Irene and I are endeavoring to live in the “eye of the storm”.  We’re appropriating, by faith, His PEACE …. despite the surrounding chaos.  The emotional pendulum is very real but we get “centered” primarily by five facets ….

• His ever abiding Holy Spirit
• His consistent and never changing Word
• The power of Prayer
• Transparent relationships with our daughters, Jocelyn & JoAnna
• Being surrounded by a caring “community”

And through it all, He promises to give us PEACE ….

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7

I recently told my good friend, Ken Churchill, that, believe it or not, we are truly ALIVE at a new spiritual dimension; that we have a heightened awareness of purpose and LIFE itself …. that God appears to be renewing and illuminating our hearts and minds.  Abraham Moslow would identify the level of our lives at “self actualization” and “self transcendence”.

God is also giving us spiritual boldness to speak with truth and authority.  We sense His transforming work.  It is humbling and inspiring.  The words of scripture literally leap off the page, speaking to us with greater insight and affirmation in deep and profound ways.  Our learning is exponential and we have a peace that passes explanation and understanding.  For all of this we’re grateful …. for He enables …. to His Glory.

With the erupting tempest swirling all around us, we endeavor to live in the eye of the storm.  We also realize that God’s EYE is upon us …. and that He is ever with us.

For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.
2 Chronicles 16:9

If He strengthens, He also enables us to live the abundant and victorious life with a “clear, calm center” …. even when facing the colossal leviathan called Primary Amyloidosis.

Caminando con Fé

Dave