for those who'd like to know

ok here's the latest:

have i mentioned the study at duke in my blog yet? i'd rather not go back thru posts to see, so here's the basic idea...
since it seems that i cannot go back on remicade and risk a possibly fatal reaction even worse than the last one, we've run out of options other than steroids to keep things stable for me.
therefore, i have been given the option to be part of a clinical study at duke for patients with Crohn's who haven't seen remission from other treatments.
the study involves me receiving adult stem cells thru an IV drug known as Prochymal. this is kind of a step down from an actual stem cell transplant, which would entirely reboot my immune system but unfortunately involves rounds of chemo along the way, so i ruled that out as even a possibility (even though it may be the closest possible thing to a cure for Crohn's).
anyway, i hope that gives some idea of what i'll be attempting. i am praying and hoping that this study is effective, especially since i have a 1 in 3 chance of getting the placebo, and therefore getting no treatment at all.
wow, it's been one roller coaster of a year with this stuff.
i'd really appreciate prayers this summer, hoping that this time, we see success.
i'll be seeing my doctor and the nurse involved in the study on monday, and the screening process will begin.
i'll post an update later.

looking forward to being back at my church tomorrow!

and being home in general.