I’m sure you’ve seen the movie the Santa Claus Movie! If you have not, watch it. Tim Allen is a dad is transformed into Santa—- each day he wakes up, his appearance is different. His face becomes round, his belly grows, and eventually he actually grows a white beard. All of this happens rather rapidly. That is exactly what is happening to me!! My face is rounding. My belly is bulging. My legs are full of fluid. My little toe feels as though it’s as big as my big toe. My weight blossomed to 187 pounds from a usual weight of 158 pounds!! It keeps going up! That is a remarkable weight gain in just over a week. I don’t have a white beard yet. By Christmas, I will be playing Santa Claus at the local mall. I need to borrow a beard and Santa suit!

They’re doing all they can with the plasmapheresis and the dialysis. The evil protein caused by the Goodpasture syndrome still lingers in my blood. Although it’s diminished, it is still ravishing my body despite other immune suppressants. I have a very encouraging and great Nephrologist, Dr Duriseti, who keeps me positive each day. The hemodialysis unit runs flawlessly the staff there are so dedicated to their patients. We are lucky in that way.

My nursing team remains my protector. Kristie, Rachel, and others try to protect my room from intruders. They do this so I can try to sleep each night. This nursing team with their LNAs remain top notch. When you’re sick, there is nothing better than a great nurse to help and comfort you. I’m very appreciative to them. They are certainly Professionals!

I spend a lot of my idle time talking to many of you. I enjoy answering questions as well. I did begin the book “the Lord of the Rings” as Nick challenged me to read it. Because of the insomnia from the massive steroids, I’m usually sleeping 3 hours a day. I was up at 1:30 last night. Therefore, I was able to get a good start in trying to understand the Hobbit world. Incredible writing, really.

Justine, boys and I thank you for support which has been tremendous. Travel safe and enjoy the holiday.