Monday, August 3, 2009

UPDATE-tests reveal

A copy of the email just sent out.

Thanks for praying with us. Summer has been experiencing extreme fatigue, achy joints and headaches for nearly two weeks. At first we thought this was due to an expired thyroid medication loosing its potency. However, after extensive blood tests we found out today that she contracted Brucellosis, a bacterial infection caused by unpasteurized milk. Here is the medical definition from the Mayo Clinic website.

By Mayo Clinic staff

"Brucellosis is a serious bacterial disease that causes fever, joint pain and fatigue. Brucella, the bacteria that cause brucellosis, spread from animals to people, often via unpasteurized milk, cheese and other dairy products.


Also known as Mediterranean fever or undulant fever, brucellosis is uncommon in the United States. Worldwide, brucellosis affects hundreds of thousands of people and animals in Mediterranean countries and other areas each year. The bacteria can spread through the air or through direct contact with infected animals.

Brucellosis can usually be treated successfully with antibiotics. Treatment takes several weeks, however, and relapses are common. Avoiding unpasteurized dairy products and taking precautions when working with animals or in a laboratory can help prevent brucellosis. Animals can be vaccinated against the disease."


Summer will start extensive, six week long, antibiotic therapy. Please pray for complete healing as there is a chance that the illness will reoccur. Also pray for strength as Summer takes care of the children.

11 comments:

Gary and Michelle said...

We will be praying for you.

Michelle

Robin said...

I'm praying!! I guess that answers my question about if its ok to drink raw milk in Uganda!!!! ( they SAY that bacterias placed in raw milk will die while bacterias placed in pastuerized, homogenized milk will thrive....)
Will definitely be bringing those probiotics!!!

Erin said...

oh Summer! We are praying!

Adeye said...

Oh my goodness, friend, I am just getting caught up after a weekend away from the computer. I am soooo sorry you feel so nasty. Ug! Please know that you are in my prayers--trusting that the HEALER will breathe health and healing into every part of your body that needs a touch from Him.
Praying for supernatural energy as you care for your babies. Take things easy, rest and know that you are being prayed for on the other side of the world!

Erin said...

oh Summer! We are praying!

love2bmom said...

Hi Summer:

I am so sorry to hear of this new battle you are up against. I will be PRAYING!!!

Blessings to you as you parent your little ones and asking that HE be your strength day by day, and hour by hour!!

Love you sister,

Carolee

Kelly said...

Praying for you Summer!

Melissa G said...

Hello, i came over from Shonni's blog.

I love "meeting" people in Africa. I grew up in Senegal West Africa. My parents were missionaries. So Africa holds a very special place in my heart.

I'll be praying that this round of antibiotics works and you heal fast.
I know how hard it is to take care of kids when you're sick. So you'll defiantly be in my prayers.

All the pictures of your kids are great. They are adorable!

I really respect the ministry of Far Reaching Ministries. I heard a missionary speak at a church in Florida a couple years ago.

Unknown said...

Praising God you found the answer and can get her treated correctly!

Blessings from another Mom of 7 under 7! I'm blessed with 8!

Prayers will be lifted up for Summer!

Jill

Created For His Glory said...

May you be healed in the name of Jesus Christ!
Love,
K

"Are These Kids All Yours?" said...

Definitely praying!!!!