Update on Rich

I may have briefly mentioned this a while ago but Rich has low platelets. They were on the very low end of normal prior to his WLS two years ago but have crept downward and stayed there. They aren't in a dangerous zone but there is a bit of concern. Our PCP wasn't overly concerned but our bariatric surgeon wanted Rich to go see a hematologist and follow up on it. He went a couple of weeks ago. The hematologist said that at a count of 50,000 he'd be highly concerned but at Rich's level of 100,000 (normal range of 150,000 to 400,000) it is definitely worth investigating. He did more bloodwork and felt Rich's belly to check for enlarged spleen and didn't feel that and had Rich go for an abdominal ultrasound and they scheduled him for a bone marrow biopsy in their office. That was supposed to be two days ago. Rich went to the appointment and the hematologist apologized to him. He had been away and did get the results of Rich's ultrasound and his spleen is indeed enlarged so there was no need to do the bone marrow biopsy. The enlarged spleen means the platelets are being produced but hanging out there so no need to check the marrow for platelet production. Rich now has to go for a CT scan of his abdomen. He has that scheduled a week from today. I looked up reasons for enlarged spleens and I don't particularly care for the options but I'm not worried til the doctor tells me to be. Could be lots of things. Anyway, that's the update on the not-so-big big guy! Kathy

Geeeee, between you and Rich - you two sure keep those doctor's hoppin' LOL Hope that whatever it is, isn't much at all. Hugs, Laurie

Praying for improved health for Rich, Mary

Kathy, I hope Rich doesn't have anything too serious. Life is so flipping short and unpredictable. I know you guys are doing all you can to be as healthy as possible! Big Hugs to you both, Lori