Beaches and Blood Tests

Hello! Happy Tuesday! I don't have much to update on project baby at this point, just a few blood tests. First off though, should probably update you all on Brian's shingles situation. He seems to be getting better every day! He still has the rash and extra tiny blisters on his back and his side, but most of the pain is gone. After just a few days on the antiviral meds, he was back to his normal self again. We even took Renly to the dog beach in Muskegon on Saturday, but he wanted nothing to do with the waves, so we went for a long walk in Grand Haven instead. The friction did quite a number on Brian's side. Somehow the blisters had popped and then dried to his pants. When he went to take them off that night a good chunk of his skin came off with them. Other than a little missing skin he is doing great!

In IVF world, there isn't too much excitement right now. We went for several blood tests and a urine test this past week.  Brian had 3 tubes of blood drawn, while I had a whopping 9! When they pulled out all of those tubes I jokingly asked if they were taking all my blood...she said only half. This set of tests was for The Fertility Center. They are testing hormone levels along with testing for a number of diseases. The next test we will have is a blood test for RGI, the genetics lab we will be using. They need blood samples from Brian and I to create the probe I spoke about earlier when I explained The process of PGD. Our phone consultation with the genetic counselor at RGI is next Thursday. After that we will be sent kits to send in our blood samples and cheek swabs from some other family members. I am trying to remind myself not to complain about the testing too much. Once RGI starts the process of creating the probe, we will be waiting 4-8 weeks before we can take any more steps towards starting our family. Let the restlessness begin!

On another note, many of you have seen the fundraiser we have set up on Gofundme. In less than a week we are already close to 1/3 of the way to our goal! I have shared a few of Brian's updates on my facebook as he is managing the fundraising page. I have not however taken a chance to thank everyone who has come forward to help us. Whether that help is through financial means, through prayer or just moral support, we appreciate it more than you know.

-Emily