The first update on Mike from China

This is the first update email I received from Debbie's brother:

Hi,

Michael had his first IV treatment Friday, at 4:30 p.m. They put a port in his hand around 10 a.m. in preparation, which will be removed this morning. He did great. No itching, burning or headaches which can be common side effects. The process lasted 1 hr. 15 min. and we were in the treatment room with 2 other patients and their families. One from the U.S. and the other from Australia. One down and six to go, except that the remaining treatments will be spinal cord infusions done in the O.R., which has Michael anxious. You know, we rely on our sight for visual commands and understanding. Michael doesn't have that so I've tried to explain everything they will want him to do (get in a fetal position, etc.). He'll be fine, but it's just the unknown leading up to it that makes him apprehensive. Understandably so! Of course, he'll have to lay flat on his back for 6 hrs. after each treatment as well.

He had an EKG and chest x-ray yesterday. For whatever reason, his heart rate was low (51). The doctor (Dr. Lisa) came in with the results and took his pulse 2 more times, both times registering 51. It's so strange because an hour before the EKG, the nurse took his pulse and it was 68 which is what it has been all along. As a precautionary measure, the dr. called in a Cardiologist that will evaluate Michael today. I don't believe there's a problem but I'm certainly glad they are so thorough here!

Many U.S. families here, as well as U.K. and Australia. The stories are amazing. We pray for success for each of them.

I've never been a coffee drinker (can't stand the stuff), but you sure don't need it to wake up here......just take the morning frigid shower!!!!

Accupuncture and electric wave therapy again this afternoon (5 days per week). I really hope it helps Michael's lower spine, and hopefully restors his sense of taste and smell. It sure won't hurt. I told the therapist to give me accupuncture for my back and to lose weight :-) No such luck for me!

LIttle tidbits of information that I didn't know. Like that we'd have to buy our own bath towels and toilet paper!!!! They provided for our first day until our shopping trip, thankfully. Very strange for a hospital.

Just know that we appreciate your support, prayers, positive thoughts and the many donations that have helped make this trip possible. Fundraisers are still being planned, as we have now reached 50%. We appreciate all of our friends, family and those that have reached out to us.

Wednesday afternoon is the first spinal infusion. Send those prayers!

Thanks from China,

Debbie and Michael