Mid-Week Check-In

Here is the middle of the week progress report!  With each day there is improvement!  Yesterday evening I finally felt somewhat back to myself.  I could think clearly, move about without getting dizzy, stand/sit for longer periods of time.  Finally, the fever and headaches can be controlled by ibuprofen.  I was relieved to feel more like myself and set a goal to attend as much class as I could today (Wednesday.)  It was a successful goal.  Even though I am a little frustrated being behind my mind welcomed the task again.  I actually was attending class for over a week or more with the parasite at work and what I call "Malaria Mind."  I thought I was struggling with concentration because schooling was intense and tiring.  Really, I was operating with "Malaria Mind" and didn't realize.  Believe me school is still tiring!  But, the parasite had begun its work.  A mean little thing it is!  Today, it was a relief to be able to think and concentrate on the material.  The teachers are kind and assisting to catch me up but I have some work to do!

My body has a few more steps to catch up with my mind.  I made it through class but the later two periods I began to feel the tiredness set in.  As my red blood cells replenish I will gain my strength back.  For now I find rest when I can and begin to get back into the swing of the schedule.  My appetite is increasing.  Even with being several pounds lighter I do not recommend this as a weight loss plan!  Right now I would compare my symptoms to like having mono.  I feel run down and tired.  With the length of time that I had malaria and it being my first time to have it the veterans say that it is normal.  I guarantee you there is nothing normal about malaria!  I continue to take one day at a time and drink lots of water!

How grateful I am for the kind well wishes and prayers of friends, family, and supporters.  It is very difficult to be so sick and far away.  But, thankful for kind words sent by today's technology to help keep you close!  My new friends here at language school were kind to help and bring comfort as well.
I am thankful even through the tears of hardship.

Prayer Points~

• continued strength by increased number of red blood cells
• quick mind to catch up on my studies
• to have patience with my recovery and learning
• no more reoccurring fever    
• The nun whose room is next to me now has malaria, also.  They were able to catch hers sooner and she has already had it once.  They say the recovery should be easier for her.
• Praise and Glory to God for my recovery and protection while being so severely sick