According to a post on his CaringBridge page, former St. Louis Park baseball star Derrick Keller has cytomegalovirus, or CMV.
The virus is in the same family as mononucleosis, and can cause fever, swollen glands and a tired feeling. People with a compromised immune system—like Keller, who underwent chemotherapy to ward off leukemia—may experience more serious illness involving fever, pneumonia and other symptoms.
Here is more from Keller's family via CaringBridge:
Derrick needs some prayers and positive thoughts tonight. He does have the cmv virus in his lungs. He is hooked up to a bipap machine to help him with his breathing. It shoots oxygen up his nose, to his lungs. His lungs need to expand, and this machine is helping. He was having trouble breathing deep this morning.
He just needs to catch a damn break. This is so frustrating I don't know what to do. Linda and I are just going through the motions of life right now. To see DK in that hospital bed in pain, and having to wear that breathing mask, is making us crazy. This will get better, but we pray it will be sooner than later.
Michael Rose
4:44 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012
Some good news posted recently to the CaringBridge page:
"Just a quick note to let you know Derrick has had some improvement, Yeah! They were also quick to say this is day by day and today is better. They are not talking about ICU or dialysis. With the bipap machine Derrick's oxygen is at 100% and his upper lobes are open.
I didn't realize they were collapsing until they said this. The lower lobes are improving but not completely open yet. Maybe this is where your mind only takes in what it can handle.
Thanks again, and please keep praying - maybe God has given us speed dial. Stay well and hug someone."
Sharon
7:08 am on Friday, June 8, 2012
Your family is in my prayers & I pray for Derricks healing & Gods strength for your whole family. My love to you all especially Nick. Sharon Brust