Eliza Update - 2/2 8:30pm

Dear family and friends,

The brains at Duke did not gather today as expected, and the hopes of gleaning more from the MRI were apparently unfounded anyway. It appears instead that the focus will shift to various lab results that should begin to filter in over the next week.

The doctors have successfully induced the coma and plan to begin the waking process starting Sunday night. It will take several days for the coma-inducing medication to fully exit Eliza's precious little body. The exact length of the exodus depends in part on the efficiency of Eliza's liver in processing the medication. Even as the coma lifts, Eliza will remain on seizure medication to wean her gently.

Meanwhile, the lab results (including many blood tests and another spinal tap) could help the doctors to determine if Eliza suffers from any of a number of genetic conditions that might induce seizures. The doctors may also order a follow-up MRI. We were cautioned, wisely, I think, not to join the doctors in speculating on the range of possibilities.

Instead, we will pray. Again, our door will be open tomorrow (Saturday) for prayer from 1-2pm. Our address is 716 Turmeric Lane, Durham, 27713, in case you need to mapquest it. Drop in or pray where you are. Daniele and I have been upheld in miraculous ways through this time. I realized today that it can
only be the work of God's Spirit ministering to our spirits that has prevented any inclination to question his lovingkindness. Thank you for your prayers. Let us enjoy the privilege of invoking Jesus' name together.

Love,
Sam (for Daniele, Luke, and Eliza)

P.S. If another update does not appear for a couple days, don't be surprised. We have been advised to expect a slow-down ourselves.