6/27 Update

This morning, Steve woke up in very good spirits. He was more alert and energetic than these past few days. He was able to converse, albeit with some strain. He even managed to eat a few bites. The big news this morning is that he did manage a bowel movement, thereby producing some sample for diagnostics--hooray! His blood test indicated that his internal hemorrhage has abated somewhat (hemoglobin level at 10.3--a drop of 0.3 in one day, as compared to >1 in the previous days). In fact, he felt so well and uplifted that he actually declared, "I'm leaving the hospital!" However, his pulse rate did not improve, as we had hoped. The occupational therapist came by to help him sit up. Steve managed to sit at the bedside for 10 minutes. However, it was a big challenge.

In the afternoon, Steve did become more lethargic. The cardiologist came and, with EKG and chest X-ray, diagnosed Sinustachycardia (high heart rate with normal rhythm). This means that his heart is normal, but there are unknown causes for the rapid rate. The mystery continues...

Praise: Steve had not asked for any supplemental pain medication today. Also, he was very alert for much of the day.
Prayer requests: Please pray that the doctors will be able to determine the cause of his high heart rate. Pray also for his internal hemorrhage to stop altogether so that there will be no need for endoscopy. Pray for the examinations and consultations tomorrow: gastro-urologist (for the kidney), the gastro-interstinal (for the stomach). Pray for the IVP filter procedure which will prevent a known blood clot in his right thigh from moving into his upper body. Thank you so very much for your love and support.