Went back to the specialist last week to have the gamut of blood tests and chest x-ray examined and decoded to determine what the cause of the swelling was. See my previous posts on the unusual medical problem I had late last year.
The doctor handed me over to a colleague who went through the blood tests — all was fine — white blood cells, cholesterol, no t-b etc. Then we came to the x-ray and with some excitement the doctor tells me it appears I have SARCOIDOSIS! Yeah, if you’re like me I never had heard of it and came home and Googled it.
After telling me that I shouldn’t be worried and calling in the original specialist that I had seen, I found out the source of the amusement. Out of three patients they had seen that morning, I was the second one diagnosed with this disease — Sarcoidosis. Apparently quite rare it is not that unknown especially amongst the genetically inclined (those with an African-American, or Scandinavian, or Germanic, or an Irish ancestry) and while I may have been born in South Africa, I am of English/Scottish/Irish ancestry. And, I later found out, Dad had the same disease when he was in his 30’s — his finally disappeared and has remained in remission.
I go back for a CAT-SCAN next week to confirm the diagnosis but it helps to know now what is going on! My symptoms were quite rare for those with the disease but I am very thankful that I did not have some of the others that are common.
I would appreciate your prayers for health — and to clear my lungs from this disease. I am praying that this does not affect my ability to be a Father, Husband and the work I am doing in the community, including the church planting!
If you’re wondering what it is here are some flicks to help explain.
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