APPROVED!

This afternoon, a transplant case manager from Blue Cross called and told me she had been assigned our case and had approved a transplant!!!

Dr. Smallfield informed Tom that he was almost certain that Tom would be listed on Monday. 

If there is any bad news it's that Tom was not approved for rehab in Alabama.  The doctors and insurance companies are working to find a rehab bed in Nashville.  Hopefully, one way or another, Tom will be heading back to Nashville tomorrow or Monday. 

Tom will have blood tests every couple of weeks and the doctors will monitor him that way.  We will have our bags packed and sit by the phone and wait for "the call".

When Tom arrived at UAB, his MELD score (how they rank transplant recipients) was 31.  The higher the score, the higher on the list he is placed.  Since he has improved, his MELD score has dropped to 22 so he's not going to be as high on the list.  UAB typically transplants at a MELD score of 23 or above.  I know that all might sound strange but there will be a time when it is Tom's turn.

I think I am still in shock.  I am heading to Birmingham first thing in the morning and will hopefully be able to bring Tom back to Nashville myself at some point.

We are praising the Lord for these answered prayers!