A long week of tests has come to a close. This will be the first time I leave here without fear of what is to come. As far as the transplant is concerned, my Dr. said my "report card couldn't be any higher". That was great to hear. I won't see them again until next July. Surgically speaking, everything is great.

My neurological tests showed that there was no improvement, but that doesn't surprise or discourage me. They basically just tested my feet and lower legs, and I knew they hadn't improved. They are the furthest away in my nervous system and will be the last to heal. I can definitely see changes in my thighs, I feel stronger, and that is very encouraging. I see this as basically a test of trust, acceptance and patience.

We were fortunate to see several friends while we were here, and we all are going to try to reunite once again for our one year checkups. I am exhausted right now, but feel better than I have in months, and remain firm in my belief in ability to be healed. Love to all, Rick

From Jeanine: Rick has a couple of big tests today. We meet with our liver doctor at the end of the day and we should know by then if his nerves are truly starting to regenerate and "wake up." We think they are. I'm off to buy some needed items for the Gift of Life house. Sister Jane was not shy in the least when I asked her what she wanted. We both really miss staying there, but have now seen all our friends since they too had to be here for their 100 day checks. We talked to a young woman who just had a baby and she was in for her 10 year check. She had a heart and double lung transplant from the same donor and was doing fantastic. The miracles keep happening around here. Let's keep our fingers crossed.

Two days of testing down and two to go. I met with the transplant team yesterday and everything is going well. I get to stop taking 3 of my medications which is great. There were a couple of potential small issues with aspects of the surgery which the surgeon basically said don't worry about it. I've been given the green light to start pushing my exercise and physical activities to their normal levels, but was cautioned to "listen to my body".

The best news was today with the neurologist. Two of them actually worked to confirm their observations, but they both felt and believe that I am showing neurological improvement for the first time in over 2 years. I have wanted to hear and believe that for so long, I just started crying. My feet are not showing much improvement yet, but my thighs were stronger, and parts of my leg that were previously dead to most any sensation, were showing signs of life again. They said that seeing improvement this early is very unusual, but that they were cautiously optimistic. The news was very encouraging to say the least, but it doesn't guarantee how much things will or may come back. For me it was just such a needed boost after all of this time.

They are going to try to objectify my results with some tests Friday morning, and I am hoping the machine proves them right. In the mean time we have had a chance to reconnect with some old friends here and we look forward to getting home Saturday. My love to all, Rick

Well, here we are back at Mayo for my 4 month follow up visit. It is clear and cold here in Rochester. We were not able to get a room at the Gift of Life house this time. We will go over there for a visit this afternoon to see if there is anyone there that we know, and we will also tour their new House which should open next week.

I have 8 different tests today--nothing too intrusive. I am expecting everything to check out well. It seems as though things are going along ok as far as the surgery which is the focus this week. I will use this opportunity to hopefully find out more about my chances for neurological improvement. They will be doing some neurological testing today and tomorrow, so we will see how that goes.

Hope everyone is doing well. Love, Rick