Solu-Medrol IV Therapy

We have waited several weeks before letting you know what has been happening to Libby. At the beginning of May, she experienced severe blurring in her left eye accompanied by some pain. She went to see her ophthalmologist, Dr. Barker and was diagnosed with Optic Neuritis. Optic Neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve. A retinal specialist confirmed the diagnosis and informed us that 50-70% of the time, optic neuritis is the first manifestation of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Dr. Barker ordered an MRI which showed good news, no lesions on Libby's brain. Lesions on the brain indicate without equivocation the presence of MS. We were then sent, on June 25th to see Dr. John Foley, a neurologist here in Salt Lake who only sees MS patients. Dr. Foley reviewed Libby's MRI and agreed that lesions were not present. However, the examination showed a definite weakness in her left side and a sensitivity to heat, cold, and pain. These are all symptoms of MS.

Libby was immediately sent to LDS Hospital to receive her first treatment of an IV steroid called Solu-Medrol. This first dose was followed by a second treatment on the 26th. The side effects of the IV infusion therapy were very harsh and have lasted a full week so far. Libby has been in a great deal of pain, but it is starting to go away. She can do more each day and tries to do as much as she can. Dr. Foley said, "I won't say you have MS, but I am not ready to say you don't."
The silver lining in all of this is that the PA who assists Dr. Foley indicated that if this is MS, then the continued treatments will ensure that Libby will be able to go skiing with her grandchildren. This statement filled Libby and I with hope. Libby has a follow up appointment with Dr. Foley on August 6th to see if the infusions helped to quell her "flare up" symptoms and decide on a more definite treatment plan.

We are so thankful for your prayers and concern. The family has always been here for us and we truly appreciate the comfort and support that you provide. Dr. Foley's knowledge and the advanced medicine that is being used to mitigate this possible condition are a blessing as well. Again, thank you for your prayers and love.
Love
Dustin and Libby