It all started during August of 2013 when Papa contracted a sinus infection. Because of Papa's work, he travels around the world and has a freaky sleep schedule...which didn't allow him the chance to heal. His immune system took a serious blow. He knew even then that something was happening in his body, and for a number of weeks underwent many tests such as MRIs, CAT scans, blood tests etc., none of which revealed anything out of the ordinary.
We don't know how, when, or where he got the E. Coli bacteria, but because of his weak immune system, nothing fought off the bacteria, and it spread. It formed a "vegetation" on one of his heart valves (called endocarditis) and sent infected blood clots through his body, damaging his organs, his heart, and eventually his brain. He was in full sepsis at that point. (sepsis is toxic blood)
The bacteria also ended up in his spine and caused his meningitis. (infection around the brain) The infected clots caused a number of strokes as well.(Poor guy!) All of this happened slowly and sneakily until October 14 when he was taken on his first ambulance ride ever to the American Fork Hospital, being admitted with kidney failure. He was then transported via ambulance to the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo where we discovered the extent of his illness, and has received such miraculous and wonderful care.
That is, in short, the beginning of the story, the rest has been updated through out the blog posts. Thank you for taking the time to read, we do appreciate the support.
The Baer Family
Dear Baer Family ~ Thank you for sharing even as this is the most difficult time. You are loved by so many and sharing your testimony, we are all getting stronger everyday as we pray Mike is as well. All our Love ~ The Boshard's
ReplyDeletepost script..... I am making Francesinha for us all when Mike is home ! Home ! Home !!!!