Good evening. After a frustrating 24 hours of back and forth about possible diagnostic procedures of varying invasiveness, the gastroenterologist has changed his recommendation. Peter’s bilirubin levels continue to improve, down to 9.9 from a high of 18.3. (The target is about 1.) Surprised by the last three days’ improvements, rather than a biopsy, he is recommending discharge to a rehab facility. The improvements point away from the likelihood of bile duct obstruction and/or cancer and toward a reaction to medications as the underlying cause of the liver’s temporary, severe loss of function.
Peter is still quite weak and feeling pain from the sores on his back and sometimes following meals. He is still jaundiced. Yet he was on his feet again today.
Please continue in prayer. In so doing you join Chief Johnnie Bobb of the Western Shoshone (right in photo; author at left), Imam Aslam Abdullah, Rabbi Sandy Akselrad and Pastor Adolph Kunen, who are among those who’ve prayed at his bedside. Father Louie Vitale, Mary Lou Anderson and Jim Haber have been constant in daily support of all kinds. A variety of friends from Pace e Bene, Family Promise and the Catholic Worker, and kith and kin from across the nation and around the world have joined the chorus.
If you have not yet read John Dear’s NCR article on Peter’s challenge to Las Vegas churches to teach and practice love of enemy, I highly commend it to you.
My sister Janice flew in from Denver this afternoon. Irene and Joe continue to offer support.
May the healing waves keep rolling in.
-Duane Ediger
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