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Dave’s reply to my morning text sums up this past week. Not only was this week exhausting, it reminded us how very fragile his body and immune system is. He was swimming for his life, and it seemed as if the ship was only drifting further away. We must stay diligent and mindful of how easily infection can make this journey seem like insurmountable waves.

The doctors made rounds this morning and are impressed with how Dave is responding to chemotherapy, antibiotics and medication. The most recent diagnosis revealed a fungal infection in his lung, which was caught very early. We were admitted to the hospital before these symptoms appeared. For some, a fungal infection would be a 4-6 week recovery. For one who has a suppressed immune system, it could take six months to two years. You can imagine our alarm when we heard this news, fearing we would be disqualified for the CAR T-Cell therapy.

Further research revealed that the infection can’t be “active,” which makes a difference in qualification. The medication for treating the fungal infection will prevent this from continuing to be an “active” infection. We are feeling exhilarated that this week’s setbacks did not sink our hopes of receiving CAR T-Cells.

Finally, once the fevers that are now surfacing nightly disappear, Dave will be released to recover at home. Home is now Pete Gross House, which is designed for Fred Hutch and SCCA patients. We are excited that CAR T-Cell therapy may only be postponed for three weeks. Of course, this all depends on his counts recovering, his chest x-rays clearing and infections disappearing.

I know that the Tag Team is just as excited as we are too. As we pause during this Lenten season to remember the suffering Jesus endured, let us not forget that He was walking on water right next to Dave during his swim this week. We felt his presence and trusted in His saving grace.