Hello Family & Friends!
On 10/24/25, Matt had blood drawn for 9 blood tests. Dr. Jha's nurse just called. Most of his results were normal. However, his rs factor number is very elevated. He is now going to be referred to a Rheumatologist to find out if he has Rheumatoid Arthritis.
He also had an echocardiogram done that day. Here are a few of his results:
Technically difficult study. (Who's surprised, it is Matt after all...hahaha)
Left Ventricle:
Left ventricular systolic function is low normal with an ejection fraction of 50%. There is grade 1 (mild) diastolic dysfunction and normal left atrial pressure.
This is not a big concern, right now, but it is something Dr. Jha is going to keep a close eye on.
IU has responded to Dr. Jha's referral and should be calling Matt sometime this week to make appointments to start his medical work-ups for the transplant list.
Matt's condition has been given a name. He has Chronic Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) With Worsening Fibrosis. He is going to start taking a new drug, named OFEV (nintedanib). It has to be mailed to him. It took a long letter from Dr. Jha to get our insurance to cover it. We count this as another blessing. The OFEV won't reduce or eliminate the scar tissue already in Matt's lungs. Hopefully, there will be a decrease in the progression.
One of the most difficult changes Matt is facing right now is that he just got his first pair of glasses, ever. They have progressive lenses, too. I think they make him look quite distinguished. After he kept acting as if it was a horrible thing, I reminded him that he needed to be careful because I have been wearing glasses since Middle School. His mom was four when she got her first pair. Many of you know how it is. Well, except for Isaac. He tried to tell us that he "lost" his $400+ pair of glasses within the first week of having them. It's funny now.
Don't hesitate to reach out and ask questions or just to chat. Please continue to keep Matt in your prayers. This is all a lot for him to take in and work through, mentally and emotionally. I am trying to keep his spirits up and remind him that he is in the right hands now, but we all know how well he listens to me. Lol! We truly appreciate your continued prayers and support.
~Matt & Erin
https://www.caringbridge.org/site/d748b785-b463-11f0-9946-1147d21a3fd1/post/aa514797-b973-402a-a2cb-4eea8655f70d