Ryan shows us when he is in pain or discomfort. It’s quite easy for us to identify this. He makes a distinct twisting motion with his entire body, usually with a moan. The good news is, we don’t see this often. Still, if he gets something as simple as a hemorrhoid he’ll let us know something’s up. It’s then up to us to find it.
This is fortunate that he has the capacity to do this. This is a good sign of his recovery.
But, his ability to show us something’s wrong is not enough. As part of his wellness protocol I have a full set of blood labs run routinely every three months. These cover everything, going well beyond the typical blood work that you or I would get at our annual physical exam.
Last week Ryan had blood drawn. It’s always quite unnerving waiting for them. The results were posted online yesterday by his doctor and I went to view them immediately. I am happy to report that, based on these blood lab results, Ryan is generally healthy.
![[burnhamhealthcenter.org]](https://i0.wp.com/ryansrally.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/blood-vials.jpg?resize=174%2C160)
[burnhamhealthcenter.org]
So, it’s back to the ole’ drawing board to figure this one out. It’s different than how we might handle it. For us, we could just eat a heaping’ helping’ of liver and be well on our way to resupplying our iron reserves. It’s not that easy for Ryan. I’ll re-evaluate all other medicines and supplements he takes to see if any interfere. I’ll research if there are (any other) supplements that help its absorption. A good example of what I mean here is calcium is much better absorbed when taken with vitamin D.
Fortunately, this is not a huge problem. His appearance looks normal (skin is nicely pink… not pale), so we’re on top of this early. I just don’t want him feeling sluggish. His alertness is critical to recovery.
Ken,
Was Ryan’s HEMOGLOBIN proportionally low, as well?
(I have for years had a tendency to anemia, and I have learned a few things about how to keep my iron high…)
Thanks!
Gayla, no. It was 14.6; basically as normal as could be.
Thanks for reply, Ken.
The bouquet of pastel-topped test tubes is a nice touch on this beautiful spring day 🙂 So happy to hear that Ryan is doing so well!
While I was reading your post something popped into my head. Not sure if it would work or not but its certainly something you might ask about. What about infant milk with iron? Like Similac or Enfamil through his feeding tube. I’m not sure if that would help bring his levels up while being gentle on his system. I’m not even sure if that would be enough iron to bring his levels up. Just a thought. Prayers still going up for you all.
Charlsie Short, Thank you for the recommendation! I research it and believe it might work better than the iron capsules Ryan currently receives. I added it to Ryan’s Wish List! http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/ref=wish_list
Love reading ryans progress!!
I have used Dr. D for so many people in the past. He helped a friend with lung cancer (never smoked a day in his life) get 3 more months with his family, he helped cure a woman of breast cancer and helped my husband with some odd symptoms he was having. I would give him a jingle and see what he can do for you. http://www.matrixtransformation.com/
Let me add, it won’t constipate a person either 🙂
http://www.florahealth.com/product_categories.cfm?category_id=4&prod_id=87
This stuff works wonders for iron!!
Hi Ken, I will be interested in finding out what might be affecting Ryan’s iron levels. Yet another puzzle for you to figure out and I know you will do it. It is very good to know Ryan is able to indicate when he is in pain. That’s definitely (another) sign of his continuing recovery. Hoping it will warm up enough today that maybe you guys will get some patio time. Too nice out to be in the office all day!
Thinking of you all and praying you will be able to quickly get to the bottom of the iron deficiency. Hoping you have a great day together!!
Love, hugs, positive thoughts and always prayers
Paula
You are an amazing father!
I couldn’t get this to post on email. I do know that Vit. C helps iron absorb. 🙁
Ken, it just so happens that I recently researched iron deficiency (anemia) for someone. Of course, natural foods (Lovejoy’s Get Balanced) are better, because supplements cause constipation, to put it bluntly. Listed below are two of the most informative:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
http://www.anemia.org/professionals/feature-articles/content.php?contentid=306
I know you are a busy man, so this is the least I can do for you. Hope it helps. Thanks for the update. Always here for you. 🙂
Ken, it just so happens that I recently researched iron deficiency (anemia) for someone. Of course, natural foods (Lovejoy’s Get Balanced) are better, because supplements cause constipation, to put it bluntly. Listed below are two of the most informative:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
http://www.anemia.org/professionals/feature-articles/content.php?contentid=306
I know you are a busy man, so this is the least I can do for you. Hope it helps. Thanks for the update. Always here for you. 🙂
Praying all is well !
Ken ,Ryan will get better with all the care and searching you do ,
if something doesn’t seem right .Sending warm and good thoughts to you
love Gail