EMG Test

Last week Kate and I spent the greater part of Wednesday in Pittsburgh getting her EMG (nerve conduction test). It was not a comfortable procedure - electrical shocks via electrodes and needles inserted into various muscle groups and near nerve endings. The procedure told us that chemo had done some nerve damage. Other parts of the test revealed that some of the nerves are trying to recover. The neurologist explained that nerve recovery is an extremely slow process, but that since Kate is young, in her life time she may see some nerve recovery. So it looks as if her gait and balance may improve over extended time, but not rapidly enough to notice. The good thing was the EMG also told us there was no evidence of tumors on the nerve praxis (bundles) projecting out from the spine. Kate will continue taking B12 to correct her B12 deficiency, which also impacts the health of nerves.

Kate returned to school on Sunday. It was wonderful having her at home for the past month. Maggie is busy "surviving" her first experience of high school midterms, but eagerly anticipating the a winter retreat with her youth group this weekend.

Last weekend brought about 10 inches of snow upon us. It was pretty, but it isn't going anywhere fast with temperatures expected to drop into the single digits over the next couple days. Winter is not my favorite time of the year, but like the seasons of the year, the seasons of life bring us new experiences, challenges, uncertainty, times of waiting, and periods of growth and change. Like the seasons of nature, the seasons of life cannot be rushed or slowed. I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:1 that says: "There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven." And so I walk through this season of winter and this season of life mindful that God in his sovereignty has his hand upon the earth as it rotates through the seasons, just as he has his hand upon us and is faithful to provide a way, a purpose and plan for each season of our lives.