Update on Rick

Rick is doing ok. He is having a lot of pain. And trying to find the right combination of everything to help manage that pain gets to be frustrating and discouraging at times. Trial and error ... sigh. 

We are waiting on scheduling from Dr. Devinney's office to set the surgery day/time for his rotator cuff and shoulder repair. 
Rick is trying to gently use the shoulder to keep it from "freezing" - but having to work thru the pain and discomfort gets tiring. He wears a sling when he goes out in public mainly to help (1) with reminding others that he has a problem with that shoulder, so don't grab it or slap it; and (2) to remind himself that he has a problem with that shoulder, so don't do too much with it.

His blood pressure has been running better - lower at the doctor's offices than what we expected. Usually it runs higher there than at home, result of "white coat syndrome". 
Still just taking 100 mg of Hydrolazine twice a day for high blood pressure. 

His blood sugar has been higher than what Dr. Arneke wants, not wanting it higher than 150. Probably due to eating (not always the right foods, or right amounts, or right timings ... sigh) and not much exercise. Plus stress plays a larger part in blood sugar numbers than what most realize. 

Dr. Tobin told him that it was ok to walk, but not to be doing any resistance exercises. He said that when the muscles start building up then toxins are released into the body - matter of course. But with Rick's kidneys being at a decreased level of function for flushing out the toxins - he doesn't need more toxins to deal with. Balance ... moderation. Not an "all or nothing". 

He has aches and pains associated with the diabetes, and with the toxins in his body. We know this, and are trying to understand the workings of the body. 

His next appointment with Dr. Tobin is October 29 ... and with Dr. Arneke that afternoon. 

Please remember him in your thoughts and prayers.