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Back at the Hospital: Awaiting Answers

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Posted on: July 8, 2025, 3:38 PM
By: James Long, Jr.

Late last night, we received a call from the transplant team asking us to bring Amy back to the hospital. Her most recent lab results showed that some of her liver function numbers were not where they should be, and they wanted to take a closer look.

This morning, the team performed a liver biopsy to help determine the cause. The doctors had informed us earlier in this process that hospital readmissions are not uncommon for transplant patients, particularly in the early stages, as medications are adjusted and the body adapts. Even so, it’s difficult to be back in the hospital so soon after discharge.

Amy has also been battling a major headache since yesterday, with very limited relief so far. It’s added to the discomfort of an already long day. Please keep this specific concern in prayer, as it’s wearing on her physically and emotionally.

At this point, the doctors believe it could be one of two things:

  1. ACR (Acute Cellular Rejection) – a common issue in transplant patients that can usually be addressed by adjusting immunosuppressant medications.
  2. Bile Duct Stricture – a narrowing in the bile duct that would require a surgical procedure, possibly as early as tomorrow, if confirmed.

They hope to have results from the biopsy by late this afternoon or early evening, which will determine the course of treatment.

The transplant team has been clear:

  • This is not uncommon.
  • It does not mean the liver graft has failed.
  • And it does not indicate that the liver has been damaged.

They are confident that once the issue is identified, it can be corrected, either with medication or with a procedure.

We are choosing to trust that God remains sovereign over every test, every cell, every doctor’s decision, and every unknown.

Please pray:

  • For clear biopsy results and an accurate diagnosis
  • For wisdom for the transplant team as they plan the next steps
  • For relief from Amy’s persistent headache and physical discomfort
  • That the issue, whether ACR or a bile duct stricture, would be fully and quickly resolved
  • For rest, healing, and trust in this difficult moment
  • Please continue to pray for the recovery of the anonymous donor.

We will keep you updated as soon as we have more information. Thank you for your faithful prayers; they continue to carry us.

With hope in the waiting,
James

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3

Note from James:
As we’ve walked through these intense weeks with Amy’s surgery and recovery, I haven’t been able to post regular content on the site. Thank you for your grace and continued prayers.

If you’re new here and would like to explore more of our ministry, over 1,000 resources are available on this platform, including blog articles, podcasts, and tools to support emotional, relational, and spiritual growth.

If you’re interested in deeper engagement, I’d love to invite you to join our free Navigator-level community at community.jameslongjr.org. For those looking for more focused support through membership or group coaching, you can learn more at jameslongjr.org/signupnow.

Thank you again for being part of this journey with us.

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