GEORGE NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT!
George Ruehling of Richmond Hill is 52-years old and is seriously ill. He is a loving husband, father, and friend. George has recently battled liver cancer, but has been advised by his team of doctors at Emory University Hospital that a liver transplant is his only hope of survival. Transplants are lifesaving, but very expensive.
Updates (4)
January 17, 2016
In an old Christmas song, Bing Crosby used to croon “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”. Christmas, 2015, had a very special meaning for George & his wife, Sarah. They were home for Christmas! At six weeks post liver transplant, George was doing so well that his doctors gave him a temporary reprieve at his home in Richmond Hill. In the meantime, they have returned to Emory Hospital in Atlanta for another round of tests. George’s blood work was reviewed and a couple of changes made in his medications, which is the usual routine for transplant survivors. They are looking forward to a January 20 appointment with Dr. Ryan Ford, George’s liver transplant physician.
The Ruehlings are overwhelmed and very grateful for all the support from their families and friends, both prayer and financial support. This first battle has been won, but the war continues on. George takes approximately 16-20 pills twice a day and it will be about a year before he can return to work. The prescriptions are vital and necessary for the health of the new liver while fighting any chances of rejection. The medications are very expensive and the family will be appreciative of any financial assistance to purchase them.
George’s extended family has been filled with joy during the Christmas season over the “miracles” that have been a very large part of his recovery. Our gracious and merciful God has been pouring forth His love and the family requests that you continue your prayers for the long journey ahead.
December 9, 2015
George is now five weeks post-transplant and progressing well. He is still recuperating at the Mason House, near Emory Hospital in Atlanta. His wife, Sarah, is with him and has been his primary care-giver during this time. His schedule during November has included three days of reporting to Emory every week for lab work and a consultation with a physician, who reviews his blood workups and makes changes in his meds, if needed. The main focus of the physician’s oversight has been to watch for George’s body’s response to the new liver and to look for any anti-rejection symptoms. So far, his reports have been pretty standard, with a few changes in medications. He is on seventeen different medications on a daily basis. As December has crept in, oversight visits have decreased to two days a week.
He and Sarah have enjoyed being in the Mason House where they have the opportunity to interact with other transplant patients and their families. But, there really is no place like home, and they are patiently waiting for the time when they can go home and have all the blood work done locally. He will still have lots of regular visits to Emory that will involve many hours of travel for routine diagnostic tests in the Clinic. However, they both are looking forward to the time when they can go back to work and insert themselves in the routine of family life in Richmond Hill.
Many thanks to all of George’s friends, family, and supporters. This is a long journey he has started and we will continue to keep you updated.
Photo Galleries (2)
Guestbook
November 8, 2015
George & Sarah, My heart is so happy for the two of you. Great news, George is on the road to recovery and has been blessed with a new liver, and a new chance at life. Please take good care of yourself. Can not wait to see you. Love to this very special family.
Judy Lariscy
November 5, 2015
I went to school with both your parents: your Dad in grammar school and your Mom in high school. My prayer for you is that God continue to hold you in the palms of His Hands.
Mickey Kish
November 1, 2015
We have no doubt our paths crossed this fall for a reason and we are blessed. We are certain God's love surrounds you and your family. Remain strong in your faith and know we continue to keep you in our prayers.
Sid, Anna and Bryce Puckett
