So after seeing two great and kind physicians here at UPenn the consensus is that the hole I have in my right temporal lobe is located perfectly to cause these "spells" I keep having. I need to get around to using the word seizure as that is what they are. I indeed have a seizure disorder, temporal lobe seizures to be precise, that in turn cause me these annoying symptoms.

It was moving to be in the neurology clinic waiting area and have two friends from Bots show up. they of course had checked about the appointment time and found us jet lagged and scared before we saw Dr. Anderson. They offered much welcomed support and friendly warmth.

I have since had 12 vials of blood and two sets of blood cultures drawn, and on the 23rd will have an EEG and MR scan in the "super coil" that gives better resolution. As it turns out UPenn has two MR scanners, one for the simple plebeian types with garden variety stuff and a more powerful one that has a higher level of resolution for guys like me.

So there it is; I'm some how screwed up in the head. No news to those that know me, just confirmation of long held suspicions expect. I have started Keppra and thus far, all of two doses into it, am not drooling into my soup or the like. And come to think of it, have not had a seizure yet today, so who knows.....

I have two weeks of enforced rest here (talk to Lynne) to see precisely how screwed up I truly am. The thinking is that the hole in my brain is the culprit, and that the lab should be non revealing. Would for that to be the case.

Otherwise I sit here bored and anxious to get back at it. Botswana has become my (our) home. The frigid cold here is annoying and being away from my project chafes. Having the gang here will help; and will keep me in line and behaving.

Thanks to all for your concern and support! I miss you and would love to here from you.

Mike