Saturday, April 14, 2012




We have a boy sweet boy in town named Zach. He was just diagnosed with leukemia a few weeks ago. He is in Phoenix for chemo treatments right now.

Zach also has autism. He is such a sweet kid. One time, when we were visiting his ward (for a baby blessing for missionary farewell...not sure which)...we sat behind his family and Zach held my hand for part of Sacrament Meeting. How sweet is that?

So, when Brandon and I were at a restaurant today and saw a donation jar with his picture on it...I just had to make a donation. I know from experience that every little bit helps...and although "money is not everything" is sure helps relieve some stress when you are facing not only medical bills but loss of income having to miss work.

Meet Zach HERE!!! ...then tell your friends about it!

(There's an awesome video of him downing a taco in less than a minute!) Like I said...he's a pretty cool kid! :)




~ love ya!~Jen

Monday, April 9, 2012

What's a MELD score?

My dad's testing at Mayo went well last week. His MELD score actually went down...again. A year ago, he was at a 17 or 18. Last time he had testing done, he was at a 15....now he is at an 8.

SO....what is a MELD score anyways!? MELD stand for Model for End-stage Liver Disease. So, basically, they have this formula (click that) that they use to determine your number and that determines where you get placed on the transplant list. The higher your number, the higher you are on the transplant list. Scores range from 6-40.

The doctor told my parents that with liver disease...it is common for your score to go up and down.

My dad had more blood drawn today.....not sure what for.....but hey, they are keeping a close eye on him so that's good right? I read that if you have a MELD score under 10 that you only have to get labs done every year. So, we'll see if that's the case with my dad.

Also! Other good news. My dad's insurance deductible dropped!!! I am just so grateful he has insurance and is getting good health care.

Really...it's such a miracle that he's doing as well as he is. I know it is because of the faith and prayers of family and friends....and strangers too.

Thanks for all of your support! Love ya!

~Jen