The Yo-Yo

They told us from the beginning that Clark’s status would be like a yo-yo. Yesterday we felt like the yo-yo was on its way up and hoped we would soon be holding it tightly in our hands again. Unfortunately, it didn’t make it that high and this morning the yo-yo is almost at the end of its string. First thing we heard when we walked in the door is that there’s a 90% chance that he will get the transplant. They do have time to be choosy on the liver they would accept to make sure it is a good match and in good health. As far as we understand it, if a healthy liver became available they would do the transplant.

They are doing an MRI right now which should take about 1 ½ hrs. This is to get a surgical view of his abdomen and the vasculature of his liver in preparation for transplant. He received two bags of plasma this morning because his liver isn’t producing enough clotting agents. His enzyme levels are lower by about half, but the INR and Pro Time are both up. The liver’s function is to process toxins. When you are in liver failure the body’s level of ammonia is higher which is hard on the brain. As the condition progresses, you become confused and have a slower thought process. This morning they asked Clark to count down from 100 by 9. It took him a little longer to get started but once he figured out the pattern he did fine. They also said his liver isn’t that big yet. Often times the liver will get so big that they look like they’re pregnant.

He said he is in more pain in his lower back today, probably due to the time in bed. The nurse took him for a 10 minute walk this morning and he did great. She encouraged him to take another walk later, maybe even outside. Clark was excited to find new buttons that adjust the bed. Hopefully this will help relieve some of his discomfort. Just before the doctor left his room this morning, he looked at Clark and said, “Things will work out!” Clark said he isn’t scared.

Micah, Clark's nurse, explaining the size of the liver to us after starting another bag of plasma. Kristin and Clark Mom and Clark Huxley has been a big help with watching McLane so we can take turns visiting Clark. He even put him to sleep. Words of encouragement and love from Ryan by cell phone.Clark his way to get an MRI.