Dion’s Story

Site created on October 28, 2020

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Journal entry by Eva Packer

I could quite honestly write a book this morning regarding Dion's recovery.  There have been so many different complications and issues.  Anyone who knows Dion will tell you, he's a very personal man and one that would be mortified with pity or even worry toward him.  He's my warrior and will fight his battles to the best of his ability, on his own.  When anyone tries to ask him about his medical issues, they are always surprised how quickly he can turn the conversation back around to something about them.  So, in many ways he hates this whole thing about his mom sharing his issues, so NO pity, please.  Just your compassion and prayers, please.    Dion came through the transplant surgery extremely well.  His new kidney was working instantly.  But the next morning, Dion's medical team discovered his right leg was paralyzed from the knee down.  Due to the clamps used during surgery, this is not uncommon but he was assigned a physical therapist, and tests were done to determine the exact cause.   Although the paralysis was a little scary, it turned out to be a miracle in disguise.   During the tests for the paralysis issue, they discovered a shadow in his stomach area and upon further investigation, they discovered a frightening and potentially life-threatening infection between the layers of his stomach.  Extremely rare, the diagnosis of this is often overlooked because it is so rare.  Dion has his own team of Infectious disease specialists working to control this constantly by his side.  His room is full of huge bags of antibiotics.  I am sure they are doing everything humanly possible to take care of my son.  I will put a link to some information on this horrible disease below.  Dion is very weak and tired.  And on a lighter note, starving.  He has only had jello and broth for the past few days.  Of course, he makes a joke of it telling his nurse to at least carve the red jello into the shape of a steak.  We have no idea how this part of his hospital stay will proceed.  We can only wait and pray.  We are grateful Amy is with him during visiting hours each day.  Covid is keeping all the rest of us out of the hospital, and this mommy really, REALLY needs to touch and see her son.  I really want to thank everyone for your compassion, concern, and prayers.       (click on the link below for more info)                                                                                               https://www.hindawi.com/journals/crigm/2020/8876125/

                        

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