For those of you who haven’t heard yet, my husband Dion was admitted to hospital yesterday. At around 6:30 am it became apparent that I needed to call an ambulance. Dion had a significant fever and couldn’t move or stand on his own. I tried to help him up, but couldn’t.
The update is this: a viral infection seems to have exacerbated Dion’s Multiple Sclerosis related symptoms. We’ve long known that even a simple cold could wreak havoc on Dion’s system, so he has worked hard to avoid getting one for close to five years. Unfortunately during that time Dion transitioned from relapsing/remitting to secondary progressive MS. This is our first chance at seeing what a cold can do to his current scenario and it hasn’t been pretty. Having said all of this, the medical team is still discerning exactly what is going on.
Dion’s fever is under control, though at times erratic. He was able to transfer to a chair today, but has not fully regained use of his legs. He is tired. Added to the mix is that Dion’s breathing has been laboured due to an elevated diaphragm which is constricting his right lung. We are still waiting to hear a variety of test results. He is understandably frustrated, tired and wanting to get home.
As for me, I am working to be present to Dion’s needs, which includes being his advocate in the hospital. I am admittedly weary and sad, anxious about what this all means more long-term. While my body does not struggle with MS, it carries a portion of its weight. I am able to feel simultaneously strong and weak at times like this. I am not exaggerating when I say that Cate is being a trooper. Pray though that she find space to share what is so easily internalized.
I know many people are eager to know what is going on, so this felt like an appropriate way to spread the news efficiently. Thank you to all who are praying and sending good thoughts. We are aware of this huge cloud of people who surround us with love, longing and hoping for Dion’s healing. Pray that we might have what we need to face each moment, as it comes, with grace and the knowledge of a peace that passes all understanding.
ERINN OXFORD 
Erinn, you all have my love…r
*Rick Tobias * Community Advocate The Yonge Street Mission 306 Gerrard Street East Toronto, ON M5A 2G7
Direct Line: 416-355-3545 Cell: 416-522-1000 YSM: 416-929-9614 Rick’s Blog: ricktobias.com
http://www.ysm.ca
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Right back at you my friend.
Hi Erinn; believe it or not I have next to no contact data for you. Can you send me phones and preferred email….Thanks for the update on Dion. Will he be allowed visitors anytime soon? If he is too tired I get it. Do know you are all in my heart and prayers…
*Rick Tobias * Community Advocate The Yonge Street Mission 306 Gerrard Street East Toronto, ON M5A 2G7
Direct Line: 416-355-3545 Cell: 416-522-1000 YSM: 416-929-9614 Rick’s Blog: ricktobias.com
http://www.ysm.ca
Find us on Facebook or Twitter
My prayers are with you all
Thank you Penny!
Having a spouse with a kidney transplant and raising a child with juvenile diabetes, has taught me that when a chronic illness hits your family, it is a burden. But it is a burden that we learn to carry everyday with Gods help. I myself, have struggled with an undiagnosed illness, for over a year now. The Canadian health care is free basically but it takes absolutely months to see specialists. But I realize when you lose your independence ,even a little, you do feel like a burden. My life has changed but it’s because now God has pulled me closer so I can lean on him. I pray your husband will be renewed. MS is something they will be hopefully ruling out for me. When I’ve had a cold it really knocks me out. But anyway, will say a prayer for you and Dion. And,yes, we need to be our own advocates these days. Just a little extra burden there,too.
Thank you for sharing your story Irma. I will say a prayer for you, your spouse and child just as you are praying for us.
I will be praying for you and the various burdens you and your family face.