June 1, 2014

Today is officially day 69 in ICU and it's hard to believe all that has happened in that sort amount of time that has literally felt like forever. There has been heartache, sadness, confusion, frustration, despair and anguish coupled with much joy, elation, happiness, gratitude, humility, faith and hope, all mixed together like some crazy cocktail that ended with a complete miracle.

After 20 days on the official regional transplant list, John had his bilateral lung transplant on Wednesday, May 28th. Surgery proved to be long with some severe complications but John, being the ultimate fighter he is and by the amazing Grace of God, pulled through. The few days since transplant have also proven to be complicated, scary and very critical, however we've had many small victories and doctors are hopeful.

The biggest concerns remaining are brain and kidney functions. He is now slightly responding and reacting to stimuli. He recognizes voices and people and is starting to be able to follow commands. Neurology was called in and the EEG and CT Scan showed no abnormalities so that's a blessing. The kidneys may need dialysis but they are hoping to prevent that by keeping him on fluids that flush toxins. It's really an hour by hour situation where those are concerned but renal team is also hopeful.

We're certainly not out of the woods yet but things are improving. It's a very slow process and there are still many hurdles to jump and he's here, he's alive, he's breathing on his own, he's fever free and he's the absolute strongest and bravest and toughest man I have ever in my life known and he is going to be just fine because God's got this!

Thank you for continued prayers and I'll keep updates coming. And thank you God for answered prayers and your magnificent mercy. And thank you, from the bottom of my heart and with all of my being, to the 56 year old female from West Virginia, who gave my husband life after hers was cut tragically short. God bless you and your family.

May 31, 2014

The email in the post below should be: helpjohnmcelroy@gmail.com - Thanks!

May 31, 2014

John lost a lot of blood during the transplant surgery and he will need a follow up surgery 1 or 2 June. So keep the prayers coming.

On a positive note, his new lungs are working - and he's breathing on his own!!! He's becoming more alert and his spirits are lifted knowing so many people are sending prayers and love to him and also lending support to Kelly.

If you have any questions, please direct them to Aunt Michele at 408.802.2116 or helpjohn@gmail.com rather than trying to reach Kelly, as she is dedicating all her time and energy to being by John's; he is still in critical condition.