Walt is now in 8.3400 - Respiratory Care ward. Be careful upon entering though, the nurse at the reception desk has a nasty cough...
We stopped in tonight and what a difference! Wide awake, responding with head nods and facial expressions. We asked the nurse to put the speaking tube over the trach hole and he did manage to get out some words. Some understandable, some not. It's really nice to hear his voice, albeit a bit Donald Duck-ish sounding due to the speaking tube (but that's temporary).
Corinne put moisturizer on his hand. Then she asked if it was alright with him . He said "I guess". Better to ask forgiveness after the fact than permission before.
I, on the other hand, am a bit more cautious in my approach because I am sensitive to the fact that Walt is in a delicate state right now recovering from a serious head injury. So I said two words to him in order to guage his reaction to familiar verbal stimulus: "Baseball". "Yankees". His response: "Dammit!". Hmmm, maybe he has been paying attention to the TV the past few weeks after all.
On the physical side of things, for those of us keeping track: No dialysis today (the nurse said his urine output seemed sufficient and his electolyte levels are not as bad as they were last week); BP and HR (90) good; O2 saturation was bouncing around between 96 and 100 while we were there and he is on O2 support (that's the mask over the trach tube only); no fever.
Keep up the momentum Walt!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Weekend
Hi all. I spent Saturday afternoon and evening with my dad and I just wanted to write a quick update.
He is starting to wake up more and stay awake for longer periods. He nodded at me when I asked him questions and even returned the smile I gave him when I came in. I turned some baseball on and he actually seemed to focus on the screen for a couple minutes before looking away. I asked him if he wanted his glasses and he nodded so his nurse put his glasses on for a bit and they didn't seem to bother him.
From what I heard, today (Sunday) was more of the same. He was awake for a bit and he seems to be engaging a little more in his surroundings than he has been. He has also been breathing on his own during the day with oxygen support so that is a very good sign.
As always, visitors are welcome and much appreciated. We are hoping that he will continue to wake up during the day so that he is more entertaining for everyone :)
My parents outside the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland :)
He is starting to wake up more and stay awake for longer periods. He nodded at me when I asked him questions and even returned the smile I gave him when I came in. I turned some baseball on and he actually seemed to focus on the screen for a couple minutes before looking away. I asked him if he wanted his glasses and he nodded so his nurse put his glasses on for a bit and they didn't seem to bother him.
From what I heard, today (Sunday) was more of the same. He was awake for a bit and he seems to be engaging a little more in his surroundings than he has been. He has also been breathing on his own during the day with oxygen support so that is a very good sign.
As always, visitors are welcome and much appreciated. We are hoping that he will continue to wake up during the day so that he is more entertaining for everyone :)
My parents outside the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland :)Thursday, April 26, 2007
Arm Chair General
I read to Walt today. It was an article out of the Arm Chair General magazine that Patty left on the windowsill. I read to him from both sides of the bed, per Patty's suggestion.
He didn't seem much fazed but, then again, neither was I.
For those of you who dare to take a walk on the wild side of life, I encourage you to read a few paragraphs of Arm Chair General to Walter. You may become enlightened, as the subject matter of the articles will either a) make you wish you had persued a Phd in War History or b) assure you that your current job - whatever it is - is far preferable to having your shorts tied in a knot about the nuances of the Strategic Missile Defense system.
However, since Walt does care about such things, reading him this literature is a positive thing to do.
When I see him in the morning, I will give him a test on what we read today.
He didn't seem much fazed but, then again, neither was I.
For those of you who dare to take a walk on the wild side of life, I encourage you to read a few paragraphs of Arm Chair General to Walter. You may become enlightened, as the subject matter of the articles will either a) make you wish you had persued a Phd in War History or b) assure you that your current job - whatever it is - is far preferable to having your shorts tied in a knot about the nuances of the Strategic Missile Defense system.
However, since Walt does care about such things, reading him this literature is a positive thing to do.
When I see him in the morning, I will give him a test on what we read today.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Update and "How To" leave a comment
I saw Walt again this afternoon with Tip and Corinne. Eric, a friend from work dropped by as well. Walt was more awake during our visit and mainly kept trying to scratch his face. Once, he raised his left arm over his head and kept it there - dunno what he was trying to do but it was an impressive effort nonetheless.
He has the trach tube back in now, and he looks more comfortable without that other tube going down his throat and all that tape over his mouth.
If anybody wants to read or post a comment, please do. Here's how:
He has the trach tube back in now, and he looks more comfortable without that other tube going down his throat and all that tape over his mouth.
If anybody wants to read or post a comment, please do. Here's how:
- At the bottom of the window of this (and every) blog post, there's a line of text.
- That line of text tells who posted (i.e. Rick), the time (mountain time it seems) and the number of comments.
- Notice that the number of comments ("2 Comments) is underlined.
- Click it.
- You'll be taken to a new screen. The cursor is automatically placed in a window where you all you need to do is type in your comment.
- When you are finished typing in your comment, you need to identify yourself by clicking one of the buttons below labeled "Google Blogger", "Anonymous", or "Other".
- By clicking "Anonymous", you don't have to sign up for Google (it's free though) nor do you have to become a member of a 12 step program. Just click the orange colored "Publish" button at the bottom and your comment is posted for all to read.
- If you have a Google Blogger account, you click the "Google Blogger" button and sign in with your username/password and click the orange colored "Publish" button.
- If you want to create a Google Blogger account (recommended), click on the link that says Sign up here (after the "No Google Account?) and you'll be taken to a screen that will give you directions for signing up. It takes about a minute. Then proceed to post.
Patty says: I love all of your ideas!!Also, I have left a magazine on the sill called "Armchair General". Walter, as you all know, loves history. Please feel free to read to him (from both sides) when you visit. I will also leave his Discover magazine. Thanks again to all who have visited Walter. It means so much to me and is vital to his getting better. Onward and upward Walter!!!
No News Is...No News
I'm trying to think of something informative, impactful, and witty but my last few visits with Walt have been just the opposite. That's good, given the roller coaster of events the past few weeks.
No new information, really: His vital signs are very good (bp, hr, O2 sat, body temp); The dialysis continues about every other day; he is getting breathing help with the ventilator; he's very mildly sedated because he tends to grab at this tubes when he's awake; and he appears to be very comfortable.
When I visit Walt over the past few days, he is usually deeply asleep, interupted by very brief moments where he opens his eyes and tries to pull on his tubes or reach for the side of the bed. I talk to him, from both sides of the bed (like Patty said), and I tell him things that would normally get his attention, like "the nurse is going to give you a good cleaning up now", just so he can comprehend the situation to his fullest potential, of course.
I have not talked to, nor gone looking for, Dr. Lance. It's not that I don't like him but I personally need a break for all the medical jargon.
No new information, really: His vital signs are very good (bp, hr, O2 sat, body temp); The dialysis continues about every other day; he is getting breathing help with the ventilator; he's very mildly sedated because he tends to grab at this tubes when he's awake; and he appears to be very comfortable.
When I visit Walt over the past few days, he is usually deeply asleep, interupted by very brief moments where he opens his eyes and tries to pull on his tubes or reach for the side of the bed. I talk to him, from both sides of the bed (like Patty said), and I tell him things that would normally get his attention, like "the nurse is going to give you a good cleaning up now", just so he can comprehend the situation to his fullest potential, of course.
I have not talked to, nor gone looking for, Dr. Lance. It's not that I don't like him but I personally need a break for all the medical jargon.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Walt Ready For Some Work
Patty says: Sunday was good. Walter was AWAKE, ALERT AND READY TO GET OUT OF BED. NOW IS THE TIME TO VISIT HIM AND GET HIS BRAIN THINKING AND MOVING. PLEASE VISIT AND TALK TO HIM ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BED (BRAIN WORK). IT IS VITAL TO HIS GETTING BETTER!! IT WILL NOT BE GOOD IF HE GETS NO VISITORS AND NO BRAIN WORK. THANKS TO ALL WHO HAVE COME TO SUPPORT WALTER. WE LOVE Y0U ALL!!
April 22, 2007 6:32 PM
April 22, 2007 6:32 PM
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Saturday
Hi all. I spent the afternoon and evening with my dad. He was very active, his eyes were open much of the time and he was back to nodding and shaking his head. I last saw him on Tuesday when we wasn't awake at all so it was great to see him looking at me again :) He did take a few cat naps while I was there so he seems to be getting some rest too.
He is still in the Medical ICU and they are continuing to monitor his kidneys, his breathing, his antibiotics, etc. They are having a bit of trouble with his blood thinner. He is on Heparin, the blood thinner, to prevent clots from forming and prevent the ones he has from breaking off and moving to other parts of his body. As a result, a cut in his mouth has been bleeding and a spot behind his ear (not related to the original head injury) has been bleeding. Because of the blood thinner, it is harder for his blood to clot. This is "normal" but they are keeping a very close eye on his blood tests/levels. He did get some blood this morning but everything seems to be pretty under control.
Overall, I was happy to see him looking around and he seemed to be pretty aware of things going on around him. He really wanted to get out of the bed but I kept telling him that he has to keep getting better and then he will be able to get out of the bed. Thanks again for the visits and kind comments on here. We appreciate all the love and support :)
He is still in the Medical ICU and they are continuing to monitor his kidneys, his breathing, his antibiotics, etc. They are having a bit of trouble with his blood thinner. He is on Heparin, the blood thinner, to prevent clots from forming and prevent the ones he has from breaking off and moving to other parts of his body. As a result, a cut in his mouth has been bleeding and a spot behind his ear (not related to the original head injury) has been bleeding. Because of the blood thinner, it is harder for his blood to clot. This is "normal" but they are keeping a very close eye on his blood tests/levels. He did get some blood this morning but everything seems to be pretty under control.
Overall, I was happy to see him looking around and he seemed to be pretty aware of things going on around him. He really wanted to get out of the bed but I kept telling him that he has to keep getting better and then he will be able to get out of the bed. Thanks again for the visits and kind comments on here. We appreciate all the love and support :)
Shannon's wedding last summer :)
Friday, April 20, 2007
Wow What A Day!!
Patty says: WOW WHAT A DAY!! my 3:30 wake up call from the hospital was a true nightmare when you have a brain injured husband fighting every day for his life. The doctor said"Your husband has taken a turn for the worse. We are intibating him again but he does have a pulse. I was so scared and hoped with my life that he would survive this latest crisis. By the time we arrived the breathing tube was in and he looked good. The nurse told me today that they took 3 golf size balls of phlegm from him. No wonder he could not breathe! When Brian and I went up after school he looked good and we are back where he was weeks ago. He was VERY RESPONSIVE, MOVING AROUND AND LOOKING AT ME AND MAKING THE CUTEST FACES. He is trying to talk through the tape. What a roller coster ride huh? Hopefully it will be onward and upward. I want to take this time to thank you all for your loving support. We could not get through this without you! Thanks to you all who have sat with him through his dialysis and held his hand when I was not there. Thanks to the President of Walters fan club-John and Co-Presidents-Kelly, Tom and Geno. I love you all!!! You make this ride easier for me. Thanks to my kindergarten friend who has called me every day to see if I was ok-my sweet Joanne, I love you. Thanks to all the wonderful cousins who I love so much and was so lucky to marry into such a wonderful, loving and caring family. I love you all!!! Till tomorrow-Patty
April 20, 2007 4:48 PM
April 20, 2007 4:48 PM
A Better Day
We saw Walt again around 1pm and his eyes are open, arm moving around, and the occasional opening/closing of the mouth. A heck of an improvement since 4am!
He is getting dialysis for 4 hours today. The medical professional consensus is that the "glob" they removed from his airway early this morning was most likely responsible for his labored breathing of the past several days. The "glob" is down in Pathology, where they are trying to determine what the hell it is, but Dr. Lance believes it's most likely hardened secretions: which really means one hell of a booger stuck in his windpipe!
Anyway, Walt's chest x-ray was clear - no sign on pnemonia but they'll continue to treat for that anyway because that treatment seemed to help in the past.
So with a clear windpipe, help from the ventilator and dialysis machine, Walt is resting more comfortably now and seems to be exploring his world once again.
One last note, a priest from Walt's church came up and gave a quick blessing.
He is getting dialysis for 4 hours today. The medical professional consensus is that the "glob" they removed from his airway early this morning was most likely responsible for his labored breathing of the past several days. The "glob" is down in Pathology, where they are trying to determine what the hell it is, but Dr. Lance believes it's most likely hardened secretions: which really means one hell of a booger stuck in his windpipe!
Anyway, Walt's chest x-ray was clear - no sign on pnemonia but they'll continue to treat for that anyway because that treatment seemed to help in the past.
So with a clear windpipe, help from the ventilator and dialysis machine, Walt is resting more comfortably now and seems to be exploring his world once again.
One last note, a priest from Walt's church came up and gave a quick blessing.
A Rough Night
Walt had a tough night. His O2 levels plummeted and they "intubated" him. Patty was called at a little after 3am and the ICU was extremely concerned, to say the least. Patty, Brian, Tippy, Corinne and myself went straight to the hospital and by the time we arrived the ICU staff had Walter stabilized. Thank God he's in the ICU!
So Walt is on the ventilator now, and his breathing seems relaxed - he's not breathing heavily like he's just run down the block. His vitals are good again. They are treating him for pnemonia. He remains asleep. During the intubation procedure, they removed a roughly 1cm diameter hunk of gunk (now there's a medical term to google) from his upper airway. They promptly sent this specimen to the lab for analysis. Will check in on him later today.
Take nothing for granted.
So Walt is on the ventilator now, and his breathing seems relaxed - he's not breathing heavily like he's just run down the block. His vitals are good again. They are treating him for pnemonia. He remains asleep. During the intubation procedure, they removed a roughly 1cm diameter hunk of gunk (now there's a medical term to google) from his upper airway. They promptly sent this specimen to the lab for analysis. Will check in on him later today.
Take nothing for granted.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
From Patty
Patty says:
What a happy, wonderful day!! After days and days of no response from Walter, I walked in and talked to him. He opened one eye and actually lifted his head up. Wow!!! I feel like the happiest person in the world right now!! It will only get better and better for Walter. We all know that this type of injury takes LOTS OF TIME AND PATIENCE. He has had the sacrament "Anointing of the Sick" 3 times. Today was the only time I could actually feel his presence and I know he heard every prayer. It really is a special feeling to have your faith at a time like this. i do not know what I would do without it! We still have a long way to go but we are on the right road. Stop up to see him!! He would love to hear all of your voices!!
April 19, 2007 2:22 PM
What a happy, wonderful day!! After days and days of no response from Walter, I walked in and talked to him. He opened one eye and actually lifted his head up. Wow!!! I feel like the happiest person in the world right now!! It will only get better and better for Walter. We all know that this type of injury takes LOTS OF TIME AND PATIENCE. He has had the sacrament "Anointing of the Sick" 3 times. Today was the only time I could actually feel his presence and I know he heard every prayer. It really is a special feeling to have your faith at a time like this. i do not know what I would do without it! We still have a long way to go but we are on the right road. Stop up to see him!! He would love to hear all of your voices!!
April 19, 2007 2:22 PM
ICU to the Rescue!
Walt was moved to the ICU early this morning because of concerns with his breathing and "inability to manage secretions" (i.e. swallow, clear his throat etc.).
However, with a new unit comes - you guessed it, or read ahead - a new doctor. This doctor; we shall call him "Dr. Lance" as he is an avid cyclist and therefore has a unique interest in this case; had taken care of our beloved patient last week when he was in ICU. Dr. Lance told me that he believes he can get Walt back to where he was before St. Mary's. Dr. Lance said this with conviction and determination, qualities that Dr. Howard and Dr. Fine seemed to lack.
Now this determination and conviction are no substitutes for aggressive and competent care. And our Dr. Lance has wasted no time in putting Walt back on high doses of antibiotics to kill whatever infections he believes are interfering with Walt's compromised neuological system's ability to function. The part of Walt's brain that controls such functions as breathing rythm (and blues) and proper swallowing do not work well when there is infection present. Now, Dr. Lance is not sure exactly what infection is present, but he is treating him for just about anything right now.
I know it sounds like Walt is back to where he was a over a week ago, but there is something profoundly different about Dr. Lance. Maybe that difference is the strand of hope to grab onto here.
Walt did open one eye this morning after Patty cajoled him into it. He also moved his head. So maybe the antibiotics are starting to work. Keep you fingers, toes, and any other anatomical parts you desire, crossed.
A nun was in this morning to set up an annointing of the sick. I wanted to find her so she could meet Patty. I stuck my head out of the room, looked around and muttered "Where the hell is the nun?" I hope nobody heard me. I think I need a rest.
Regards,
Cousin Rick
However, with a new unit comes - you guessed it, or read ahead - a new doctor. This doctor; we shall call him "Dr. Lance" as he is an avid cyclist and therefore has a unique interest in this case; had taken care of our beloved patient last week when he was in ICU. Dr. Lance told me that he believes he can get Walt back to where he was before St. Mary's. Dr. Lance said this with conviction and determination, qualities that Dr. Howard and Dr. Fine seemed to lack.
Now this determination and conviction are no substitutes for aggressive and competent care. And our Dr. Lance has wasted no time in putting Walt back on high doses of antibiotics to kill whatever infections he believes are interfering with Walt's compromised neuological system's ability to function. The part of Walt's brain that controls such functions as breathing rythm (and blues) and proper swallowing do not work well when there is infection present. Now, Dr. Lance is not sure exactly what infection is present, but he is treating him for just about anything right now.
I know it sounds like Walt is back to where he was a over a week ago, but there is something profoundly different about Dr. Lance. Maybe that difference is the strand of hope to grab onto here.
Walt did open one eye this morning after Patty cajoled him into it. He also moved his head. So maybe the antibiotics are starting to work. Keep you fingers, toes, and any other anatomical parts you desire, crossed.
A nun was in this morning to set up an annointing of the sick. I wanted to find her so she could meet Patty. I stuck my head out of the room, looked around and muttered "Where the hell is the nun?" I hope nobody heard me. I think I need a rest.
Regards,
Cousin Rick
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Ain't no easy answers
Walt is the same today as yesterday, pretty much. I was with him for awhile during his dialysis treatment this morning, his breathing was rapid and he has a slight fever but all his vital signs were good said the doctors. They were concerned with his rapid breathing, but since the vitals were good they were satisfied to just keep a close eye on him.
Tip just called me and said the doctors told he and Patty that Walt is suffering from delerium (Google that, all sorts of good stuff) as a result of the brain injury/high fever/infection/whatever. The doctors claim that delirim is not uncommon in brain injury patients, and they told Tip that this condition could last for hours, days, weeks or months. No telling. They just don't know.
I don't know about you but I hate not knowing. I get mad when the damn weatherman is wrong. And I can't stand how they cover their asses when they predict a "partly cloudy with a chance of showers but otherwise sunny" day. If I can learn to accept the weatherman's all-encompassing predictions, then maybe I can make a start on accepting the same from the doctors.
Useful web link of the day: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delirium
The title of this post is borrowed from a song entitled "Easy Answers" and I have no idea who wrote it, so sue me for copyright infringements if you must.
Tip just called me and said the doctors told he and Patty that Walt is suffering from delerium (Google that, all sorts of good stuff) as a result of the brain injury/high fever/infection/whatever. The doctors claim that delirim is not uncommon in brain injury patients, and they told Tip that this condition could last for hours, days, weeks or months. No telling. They just don't know.
I don't know about you but I hate not knowing. I get mad when the damn weatherman is wrong. And I can't stand how they cover their asses when they predict a "partly cloudy with a chance of showers but otherwise sunny" day. If I can learn to accept the weatherman's all-encompassing predictions, then maybe I can make a start on accepting the same from the doctors.
Useful web link of the day: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delirium
The title of this post is borrowed from a song entitled "Easy Answers" and I have no idea who wrote it, so sue me for copyright infringements if you must.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
The Dialysis Analysis
Hi all you Walt wellwishers.
Walt got through his first dialysis well. He was stable enough to go to the dialysis unit and had his first 2 hours of treatment before coming back to the 536 unit. The doctors are pleased with how things are going so far. He will have another vacumn cleaning tomorrow. good riddence to all that gunk!
His breathing is improving slowly as they were able to reduce the amount of oxygen support to 50% today, an especially good sign considering all the stress of today's activities.
Good night Walt, rest up and we will see you tomorrow.
Corinne and all the rest of the Walt Watch Bloggers
Walt got through his first dialysis well. He was stable enough to go to the dialysis unit and had his first 2 hours of treatment before coming back to the 536 unit. The doctors are pleased with how things are going so far. He will have another vacumn cleaning tomorrow. good riddence to all that gunk!
His breathing is improving slowly as they were able to reduce the amount of oxygen support to 50% today, an especially good sign considering all the stress of today's activities.
Good night Walt, rest up and we will see you tomorrow.
Corinne and all the rest of the Walt Watch Bloggers
Preparing for Dialysis
Hi everyone, Walt was taken down to surgery this morning for insertion of his dialysis catheter/line/tube/pipe or whatever-the-hell it's called. I saw him in his room and accompanied him down to the prep unit. He was asleep and shaking quite a bit. The nurse in the surgery prep says the shaking is probably from the combination of brain injury, infection, and renal failure and hopefully once dialysis starts to kick in, he will begin to recover. Hopefully they'll start the dialysis today. He's real sick right now.
The plan is to bring the dialysis machine into his room so they don't have to transport him back and forth to the dialysis unit.
On an encouraging note, I saw the two residents on the floor this morning; the same two from yesterday. Dr. Howard and Dr. Fine(Remember "Dr. Howard, Dr. Fine, Dr. Howard" for you 3 Stooges fans out there). Anyway, under the their capable collective watchful eye, Walt is getting some continuity of care.
What we need now is Dr. Bombay!
Regards,
Cousin Rick
The plan is to bring the dialysis machine into his room so they don't have to transport him back and forth to the dialysis unit.
On an encouraging note, I saw the two residents on the floor this morning; the same two from yesterday. Dr. Howard and Dr. Fine(Remember "Dr. Howard, Dr. Fine, Dr. Howard" for you 3 Stooges fans out there). Anyway, under the their capable collective watchful eye, Walt is getting some continuity of care.
What we need now is Dr. Bombay!
Regards,
Cousin Rick
Monday, April 16, 2007
What a pisser!
Walt is urinating up a storm. The huge doses of Lasix are working, but I don't think they'll let him run at Belmont for awhile. (sorry, Finger Lakes would be more geographically appropriate).
He's still asleep and on maximum O2 support, but his O2 saturation levels are in the upper 90's and BP is great: 140/58. They've narrowed the antibiotics down to just one: to treat Staph/Strep. They appear convinced that the antifungal is of no consequence and that whatever he has/had, it was not meningitis. They still haven't made a decision on dialysis; his bloodwork is coming back with mixed reviews (some trending up, some trending down.)
"They" in the above paragraph refers to two doctors and two nurses who were seeing him for the first time this morning. And none of them can tell us why he is still asleep, other than the fact that he has a brain injury and maybe that has something to do with it. Where's Marcus Welby when you need him?
That's the update from this morning.
He's still asleep and on maximum O2 support, but his O2 saturation levels are in the upper 90's and BP is great: 140/58. They've narrowed the antibiotics down to just one: to treat Staph/Strep. They appear convinced that the antifungal is of no consequence and that whatever he has/had, it was not meningitis. They still haven't made a decision on dialysis; his bloodwork is coming back with mixed reviews (some trending up, some trending down.)
"They" in the above paragraph refers to two doctors and two nurses who were seeing him for the first time this morning. And none of them can tell us why he is still asleep, other than the fact that he has a brain injury and maybe that has something to do with it. Where's Marcus Welby when you need him?
That's the update from this morning.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Too many Indians: No Chief
Just a quick note, today was not an up day. It doesn't seem like there is any one doctor (chief) that is keeping track of the entire picture here. We talked to three doctors today (indians), all of whom were meeting Walt for the first time. And that would be alright, except that there are some issues here...
The kidney failure doesn't seem to be getting any worse (according to the indians), but Walt is on the border of needing dialysis. For now, he is on massive doses of diuretics to get him to make him urinate more. If that doesn't help enough, they will put him on dialysis until his kidneys repair themselves. They'll re-evaluate tomorrow morning as long as all is stable tonight.
One pain-in-the-ass complication is that fluid is building up in his lungs and his blood oxygen level suffers. So they have to aspirate him more frequently than they have been to move out the fluid.
Walt was not awake today, but moved a little bit here and there to try and tug at his tubes.
I was looking forward to posting something really positive for my first time back from my business trip, but I guess that will have to wait.
Keep thinking "clean" thoughts as Walt's kidneys push hard to clear the fluid etc...
Cousin Ricky
The kidney failure doesn't seem to be getting any worse (according to the indians), but Walt is on the border of needing dialysis. For now, he is on massive doses of diuretics to get him to make him urinate more. If that doesn't help enough, they will put him on dialysis until his kidneys repair themselves. They'll re-evaluate tomorrow morning as long as all is stable tonight.
One pain-in-the-ass complication is that fluid is building up in his lungs and his blood oxygen level suffers. So they have to aspirate him more frequently than they have been to move out the fluid.
Walt was not awake today, but moved a little bit here and there to try and tug at his tubes.
I was looking forward to posting something really positive for my first time back from my business trip, but I guess that will have to wait.
Keep thinking "clean" thoughts as Walt's kidneys push hard to clear the fluid etc...
Cousin Ricky
Saturday
Hi all. I saw my dad during the afternoon yesterday. He slept most of the time. Apparently, he has been staying up all night and sleeping during the day. His system is definitely backwards. He did wake up for a few minutes and he said my name and mumbled a few other things. He looked around a bit and then went back to sleep. They would like to try and get him on a normal schedule.
We are still encouraging him to cough to bring up any of the residual stuff that is in his lungs/throat as a result of his breathing tube. They are also keeping an eye on his kidneys because he has had some problems as a result of the infection and low point during the beginning of last week. His skin is still pretty red too but hopefully with less medications, it will start to look normal again.
Again, my dad is on the 5th floor in the wing 3600 and he is in bed 4. Visitors are always welcome. Thank you all for the thoughts, love, prayers and kind comments on here.
My mom's pool boy ;)
We are still encouraging him to cough to bring up any of the residual stuff that is in his lungs/throat as a result of his breathing tube. They are also keeping an eye on his kidneys because he has had some problems as a result of the infection and low point during the beginning of last week. His skin is still pretty red too but hopefully with less medications, it will start to look normal again.
Again, my dad is on the 5th floor in the wing 3600 and he is in bed 4. Visitors are always welcome. Thank you all for the thoughts, love, prayers and kind comments on here.
My mom's pool boy ;)
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Quick update
My dad was moved during the night to the neuro stepdown floor. He is in 536 bed 4. Feel free to stop by and say hi to him! Friendly faces are always welcome. Happy Visiting!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Friday Fun
Good evening! Today was a great day for my dad. His breathing tube was removed and now he is only wearing a mask that gives him a small amount of oxygen but he won't have that for long. His breathing numbers (namely the oxygen in his blood) look great. We have to keep encouraging him to cough because coughing helps loosen the junk in his throat and lungs and will hopefully keep him from getting pneumonia.
He has not had a fever in at least a day which is GREAT! His skin is still red but the rash looks much better and the redness is starting to go away.
He opened his eyes a lot today and talked to us a few times. He is moving around a lot and is nodding and shaking his head as responses to questions. He even gave Tip a little wave when he left today :)
We are still waiting on some tests to try and pin down the source of the infection but the antibiotics they are giving him are definitely helping. Feel free to come by and visit him. He may be switching rooms in the next day or two so you can check in at the front desk to see where he is.
He has not had a fever in at least a day which is GREAT! His skin is still red but the rash looks much better and the redness is starting to go away.
He opened his eyes a lot today and talked to us a few times. He is moving around a lot and is nodding and shaking his head as responses to questions. He even gave Tip a little wave when he left today :)
We are still waiting on some tests to try and pin down the source of the infection but the antibiotics they are giving him are definitely helping. Feel free to come by and visit him. He may be switching rooms in the next day or two so you can check in at the front desk to see where he is.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Note from Patty
This note is from Patty
To our precious family nurse-Linda-Yes, I did ask the doctor about SJS and she said that he does not have it. I just want to comment on how my day went. I have not seen Walter open his eyes or communicate with me since Sunday (one of the 3 days from hell). But today he did open his eyes for me 4 times and nodded yes when I asked him if he was OK. This really puts in perspective when someone asks you "How was your day" Oh this driver maybe cut you off or the line was a little too long in Wegmans and you had to wait. But seeing how Walter's days have been the past month makes us all appreciate life so much more and please treasure every day and kiss the ones you love and tell them you love them so. Because life can change "in an instant" Go Walter GO!!!!!!!!
To our precious family nurse-Linda-Yes, I did ask the doctor about SJS and she said that he does not have it. I just want to comment on how my day went. I have not seen Walter open his eyes or communicate with me since Sunday (one of the 3 days from hell). But today he did open his eyes for me 4 times and nodded yes when I asked him if he was OK. This really puts in perspective when someone asks you "How was your day" Oh this driver maybe cut you off or the line was a little too long in Wegmans and you had to wait. But seeing how Walter's days have been the past month makes us all appreciate life so much more and please treasure every day and kiss the ones you love and tell them you love them so. Because life can change "in an instant" Go Walter GO!!!!!!!!
Walt still fighting strongly
Cousin Tip just called with an Update on Walt today.
Walt is sedated and he is holding steady. They are still waiting for results from tests taken on Tuesday (It takes 72 hours for the results to come in) So hopefully by tomorrow the staff will know what they are dealing with and can give a more targetted treatment.
Walt we are so proud of how strongly you are fighting to come back for Patty, Lindsay, Brian, Tip and the rest of your family and friends that love you so much.
Walt is sedated and he is holding steady. They are still waiting for results from tests taken on Tuesday (It takes 72 hours for the results to come in) So hopefully by tomorrow the staff will know what they are dealing with and can give a more targetted treatment.
Walt we are so proud of how strongly you are fighting to come back for Patty, Lindsay, Brian, Tip and the rest of your family and friends that love you so much.
A Calmer Day
Hi All,
A much better day today.
I saw Walt this evening.
It was such a relief to see him peacefully sleeping after the horror day yesterday.
He is sedated lightly and is still on the ventilator though not breathing as fast. His heart rate was at 100 and he was maintaing his own blood pressure at very good numbers, his Nurse said that he did not have a temperature though he still looks very red, like he has spent too long in the sun.
Keep up the magnificent work Walt.
We all love you.
A much better day today.
I saw Walt this evening.
It was such a relief to see him peacefully sleeping after the horror day yesterday.
He is sedated lightly and is still on the ventilator though not breathing as fast. His heart rate was at 100 and he was maintaing his own blood pressure at very good numbers, his Nurse said that he did not have a temperature though he still looks very red, like he has spent too long in the sun.
Keep up the magnificent work Walt.
We all love you.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Note From Patty
From Patty
I just want to take the time to thank everyone for their love and support at this time. Please feel free to come up to the hospital and see Walter or just hang out. Walter is aware when we talk to him and would love to hear his loved ones voices (friends and family). Please continue to pray for him at this time. He is a fighter and I know we will be cooking those burgers by summer! We love you all!!!!
April 11, 2007 7:30 AM
I just want to take the time to thank everyone for their love and support at this time. Please feel free to come up to the hospital and see Walter or just hang out. Walter is aware when we talk to him and would love to hear his loved ones voices (friends and family). Please continue to pray for him at this time. He is a fighter and I know we will be cooking those burgers by summer! We love you all!!!!
April 11, 2007 7:30 AM
Round 6 to Walter
The 'Boys' at Killington VT Feb 07
11.30 pm
11.30 pm
Hi all.
Patty and I have just left the hospital as Walt has been stable for several hours. He is still on the ventilator but has been able to maintain his blood pressure for several hours without drug support. His heart rate has dropped to 115. He still has a temperature but it is not as extreme as earlier in the day.
Patty and I have just left the hospital as Walt has been stable for several hours. He is still on the ventilator but has been able to maintain his blood pressure for several hours without drug support. His heart rate has dropped to 115. He still has a temperature but it is not as extreme as earlier in the day.
Walt has battled so hard all day and seems to be gaining a little on the infection. Lets send him lots of 'cool' thoughts. Patty and I have been reminding him of how cold it was when we went skiing at Killington this year.
When we left his nurse Nickie was about to give him a shave. Say goodbye to the moustache walt!
Goodnight
Corinne
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Still fighting...
My dad's doctor told us that we (his visitors) do NOT have to worry about meningitis because even if my dad has it, it is NOT the contagious kind so do not worry about that anymore.
The doctors now think it is more likely he does have meningitis because of everything going on. His fevers go up and down but his blood pressure is fairly stable (though it is still low and being supporting by meds though not as many as earlier today). He is getting a TON of meds - pain meds, blood pressure meds, antibiotics, etc. They are bombarding him to try and effectively quash the infection. He is septic and also has a staph infection besides the major infection (which they think may be the non contagious meningitis). There is also a still unidentifiable fungus in his blood. It is a very serious situation and he will be in the hospital for awhile. The doctor told us my dad will likely have to have the infection antibiotics administered to him for 3 weeks.
Basically, he just has to keep fighting and they have to monitor his vital signs every second. He is very critical but we all know how tough he is and how hard he is fighting. He does move and opens his eyes occasionally so we talk to him and make sure he hears that we are there supporting and loving him. I am so proud of him, my daddy :)
Happy belated Easter...This is us on Easter last year.
The doctors now think it is more likely he does have meningitis because of everything going on. His fevers go up and down but his blood pressure is fairly stable (though it is still low and being supporting by meds though not as many as earlier today). He is getting a TON of meds - pain meds, blood pressure meds, antibiotics, etc. They are bombarding him to try and effectively quash the infection. He is septic and also has a staph infection besides the major infection (which they think may be the non contagious meningitis). There is also a still unidentifiable fungus in his blood. It is a very serious situation and he will be in the hospital for awhile. The doctor told us my dad will likely have to have the infection antibiotics administered to him for 3 weeks.
Basically, he just has to keep fighting and they have to monitor his vital signs every second. He is very critical but we all know how tough he is and how hard he is fighting. He does move and opens his eyes occasionally so we talk to him and make sure he hears that we are there supporting and loving him. I am so proud of him, my daddy :)
Happy belated Easter...This is us on Easter last year.
walt is fighting hard
Walter is fighting hard. His temperature is very high still, his blood pressure has come back up a little and his heart rate has dropped from 160 to 130.
We will keep you all posted if there is any change. At the moment keep the prayers flowing.
corinne
We will keep you all posted if there is any change. At the moment keep the prayers flowing.
corinne
New Crisis
9.40 am Patty just called to say that Walt is being taken back to ICU (he was moved to a Ward overnight) His blood pressure has dropped and the Doctor thinks he is in Toxic Shock. This is not good news and very serious.
Patty, Lindsay and Brian are heading to the hospital now. Walt is in the ICU on the 8th floor. Patty has asked me to let everyone know. They will be in the room with Walt or in the waiting room next door. Please come if you would like.
Keep Fighting Walt, we are all fighting with you.
Love Corinne and Rick
Patty, Lindsay and Brian are heading to the hospital now. Walt is in the ICU on the 8th floor. Patty has asked me to let everyone know. They will be in the room with Walt or in the waiting room next door. Please come if you would like.
Keep Fighting Walt, we are all fighting with you.
Love Corinne and Rick
Monday, April 9, 2007
The Roller Coaster Continues.....
Hi All.
For all of you that haven't read the previous post by Lindsay please do.
Now for some better news.....
I sat with Walt this afternoon in the ICU for about an hour. He was sleeping all that time which was great. He needs plenty of that to get his strenght back. He was on the monitors so I could see that his oxygen levels were good. His pulse and heart rate were stable and his blood pressure was good and he was breathing on his own. The nurse said that his temperature was down. all very positive.
The staff think that he will be able to move out of ICU tomorrow to a normal ward, so it looks as if the rollercoaster is on the uphill. Thank goodness.
His nurse was happy to let me into the room this afternoon as long as I wore a mask so that is also a good sign. I will get the tablet tomorrow anyway just to be on the safe side.
I spoke to Patty and Lindsay this evening and they are exhausted after a long frustrating and scary day in Emergency yesterday. They have taken their tablets tonight. It all sounds like just a precaution to me so I am not going to let it prevent me from visiting the Waltmeister.
By the way, the staff at St Mary's gave Walt a moustache (maybe that is why he wanted to leave!) It is very grey, Not a good look Walt.
Love to All
Corinne
For all of you that haven't read the previous post by Lindsay please do.
Now for some better news.....
I sat with Walt this afternoon in the ICU for about an hour. He was sleeping all that time which was great. He needs plenty of that to get his strenght back. He was on the monitors so I could see that his oxygen levels were good. His pulse and heart rate were stable and his blood pressure was good and he was breathing on his own. The nurse said that his temperature was down. all very positive.
The staff think that he will be able to move out of ICU tomorrow to a normal ward, so it looks as if the rollercoaster is on the uphill. Thank goodness.
His nurse was happy to let me into the room this afternoon as long as I wore a mask so that is also a good sign. I will get the tablet tomorrow anyway just to be on the safe side.
I spoke to Patty and Lindsay this evening and they are exhausted after a long frustrating and scary day in Emergency yesterday. They have taken their tablets tonight. It all sounds like just a precaution to me so I am not going to let it prevent me from visiting the Waltmeister.
By the way, the staff at St Mary's gave Walt a moustache (maybe that is why he wanted to leave!) It is very grey, Not a good look Walt.
Love to All
Corinne
Please Read - Important
Hi all. This message applies to those of you who have gone to see my father lately. The doctors are concerned that he may have contracted meningitis. They don't think he has it but he is displaying some of the common symptoms. They have begun to treat him as though he has it. The problem is that they are not going to test him for it because doing so would involve getting brain fluid and they do not want to compromise his brain pressure or anything like that. So - here is where those of you who have visited him lately come in - the doctors have advised that those who have been in close contact with him should contact their primary doctors to get the pill Cipro, a one time dose, that treats meningitis. Meningitis is contagious and can be very serious if contracted and left untreated.
I am sorry for this news because we don't even know if he has it or if any of us could actually contract it but we would rather be safe than sorry. Common symptoms of meningitis are high fever, throwing up, severe headaches, and neck stiffness. I am not a doctor but we have done some research and that is what we came up with. Getting the pill is not a big deal - we just called our doctors and told them about the situation and they called in a prescription for Cipro without bringing us in for an appointment. Cipro is a one time pill and takes care of the situation. Remember, the problem is that he is NOT being tested for it so we won't know if he ever had it. We also don't know where to draw the line in terms of when you last saw him, how close you got to him, etc. You can call my mom and I but we don't really have many answers because we are not doctors. You can contact your doctor or the Medical ICU at Strong at 275-2642. We have spoken with Dr. DeWitt but I am sure he doesn't keep the same schedule everyday so just mention the situation and they should be able to hook you up with the appropriate source.
My dad is already being treated as a precaution so starting tomorrow, it will be safe to see him again. This is a freak thing - not something that is his fault or could even be controlled - but we understand if you have any hesitation in visiting him. Yet, this has been taken care of via medication so it should not be a concern in the future. Thank you for all of your love and support.
I am sorry for this news because we don't even know if he has it or if any of us could actually contract it but we would rather be safe than sorry. Common symptoms of meningitis are high fever, throwing up, severe headaches, and neck stiffness. I am not a doctor but we have done some research and that is what we came up with. Getting the pill is not a big deal - we just called our doctors and told them about the situation and they called in a prescription for Cipro without bringing us in for an appointment. Cipro is a one time pill and takes care of the situation. Remember, the problem is that he is NOT being tested for it so we won't know if he ever had it. We also don't know where to draw the line in terms of when you last saw him, how close you got to him, etc. You can call my mom and I but we don't really have many answers because we are not doctors. You can contact your doctor or the Medical ICU at Strong at 275-2642. We have spoken with Dr. DeWitt but I am sure he doesn't keep the same schedule everyday so just mention the situation and they should be able to hook you up with the appropriate source.
My dad is already being treated as a precaution so starting tomorrow, it will be safe to see him again. This is a freak thing - not something that is his fault or could even be controlled - but we understand if you have any hesitation in visiting him. Yet, this has been taken care of via medication so it should not be a concern in the future. Thank you for all of your love and support.
Quick update
It is 4:30 AM and we just got back from the hospital. My dad is in the Medical ICU for now. When we left, he was stable and he was breathing much better than earlier in the evening. He is having a whole battery of tests to try and get to the bottom of this. For now, it is better if nobody goes to visit him until they pin down what is wrong. Also, since we will be up there with him, it is better not to call the house. We will post more information as we get it.
As everyone at Strong told us, this is a fairly normal setback for a person with his injuries. Thanks for the positive thoughts and comments. We love you all :)
As everyone at Strong told us, this is a fairly normal setback for a person with his injuries. Thanks for the positive thoughts and comments. We love you all :)
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Quick note
My dad is being moved back to Strong today. I guess the people at St. Mary's don't like his fevers or his irregular breathing. They seem to be worried about a possible infection. We don't know which unit he is going to at Strong but he should be back there this afternoon. We don't know anything else but someone will post later when we get more information.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Part 2 of Walter's Adventure - St. Mary's Brain Rehab!
Hi all! My dad was moved to St. Mary's brain rehab on Friday. I got to spend Friday night with him and he was very talkative, though most of what he was saying was not as clear as our interactions on Wednesday. He did call me "Lindsay" several times during the night and we called my mom a few times so he could talk to her. He seemed to respond well to Bennett and I and liked "conversing" with us. He even told us he wanted to call the mayor! Maybe he will have political aspirations after this whole experience ;)
He spent much of the night trying to touch his head and thinking that he was going home. We had to keep explaining to him that he has to keep healing in order to go home but that didn't seem to stick in his brain. He also says his favorite four letter "Walter words" every once in awhile - those of you who live in our neighborhood or have attended family parties or gatherings know what I am talking about ;)
On Saturday, they took the trach out of his throat so he is breathing on his own now. Tonight (Saturday) his breath was raspy because the hole in his throat is not completely closed yet. The procedure also made his voice weaker but this is normal because of the type of procedure. He also got a bed called a Posey Bed that basically zips him in and prevents him from escaping. It looks like a regular bed with a kind of bug net around the top. I asked him if it was comfortable and he nodded :)
He slept more tonight than I normally see him sleep but he did wake up a few times. He had the big white mitts on his hands to keep him from scratching his head and he kept trying to bite them off. He asked us to "open them" and "solve them." It is cute to hear him say things but with a little twist.
He will be doing physical, speech and occupational therapy at St. Mary's. I think his schedule will be different every day and his weekends will be lighter than during the week. He can definitely still have visitors - he is on the 5th floor of St. Mary's on Genesee Street. We try to talk to him like normal and he will often nod or shake his head no or even respond. Just remember if you see him that he is probably experiencing aphasia, a condition where he knows what he wants to say but has a hard time actually getting it out. Aphasia often explains when words are out of order or if he says something that doesn't make sense. The nurses at Strong and St. Mary's have told us that this is normal for patients with brain injuries.
More soon...
He spent much of the night trying to touch his head and thinking that he was going home. We had to keep explaining to him that he has to keep healing in order to go home but that didn't seem to stick in his brain. He also says his favorite four letter "Walter words" every once in awhile - those of you who live in our neighborhood or have attended family parties or gatherings know what I am talking about ;)
On Saturday, they took the trach out of his throat so he is breathing on his own now. Tonight (Saturday) his breath was raspy because the hole in his throat is not completely closed yet. The procedure also made his voice weaker but this is normal because of the type of procedure. He also got a bed called a Posey Bed that basically zips him in and prevents him from escaping. It looks like a regular bed with a kind of bug net around the top. I asked him if it was comfortable and he nodded :)
He slept more tonight than I normally see him sleep but he did wake up a few times. He had the big white mitts on his hands to keep him from scratching his head and he kept trying to bite them off. He asked us to "open them" and "solve them." It is cute to hear him say things but with a little twist.
He will be doing physical, speech and occupational therapy at St. Mary's. I think his schedule will be different every day and his weekends will be lighter than during the week. He can definitely still have visitors - he is on the 5th floor of St. Mary's on Genesee Street. We try to talk to him like normal and he will often nod or shake his head no or even respond. Just remember if you see him that he is probably experiencing aphasia, a condition where he knows what he wants to say but has a hard time actually getting it out. Aphasia often explains when words are out of order or if he says something that doesn't make sense. The nurses at Strong and St. Mary's have told us that this is normal for patients with brain injuries.
More soon...
A "real" Conversation
For those of you who don't know me, this is Bennett, Lindsay's boyfriend. My recent experience last night with Walt was a very good one. After not seeing him in 11 days, I finally made it up to see him after he had been moved to St. Mary's.
What a difference.
The last time I had seen him he was in the ICU barely opening his eyes, so my perspective is skewed slightly, but when I saw him yesterday, he knew who I was. After I had been with him for about 2 hours, he turned to me and looked me right in the eyes and asked me about how if I was "corporate". Knowing that Lindsay has told him this semester about my job search for after graduation, I followed up by asking him if he wanted to know if I had a job yet. To this he nodded his head in a definite fashion. I told him that I had not taken a position yet.
If this was the whole conversation, I would have been very pleased that he remembered that much. Instead, he followed up by asking "What about the talks?". I figured he meant the interviews I have been on recently (I started interviewing in February, so he knew about this before his accident) so I asked him if he meant interviews. Again, he nodded excitedly and looked at me waiting for an answer. I hold him that even though I had gone on interviews, the positions had not been offered yet so I didn't know anything. To this he looked at me and made a face implying some sort of understanding or approval and turned back to Lindsay.
While this may sound like a stretch, I really felt like he was actively interested in what I was saying and understood. More than that, he had the attention span to ask and listen.
This was an up-time, but a good one for me to see.
As we were preparing to leave, Walt noticed Lindsay putting her coat on and said "Ready", as he wanted to come with us. He proceeded to continue to say that he knew it was time to go, and that he wanted to leave, so it was really hard for us to leave while he was still awake.
The hardest thing must have been for Lindsay to hear Walt say "Lindsay" as we walked out. He obviously is ready to go home...
What a difference.
The last time I had seen him he was in the ICU barely opening his eyes, so my perspective is skewed slightly, but when I saw him yesterday, he knew who I was. After I had been with him for about 2 hours, he turned to me and looked me right in the eyes and asked me about how if I was "corporate". Knowing that Lindsay has told him this semester about my job search for after graduation, I followed up by asking him if he wanted to know if I had a job yet. To this he nodded his head in a definite fashion. I told him that I had not taken a position yet.
If this was the whole conversation, I would have been very pleased that he remembered that much. Instead, he followed up by asking "What about the talks?". I figured he meant the interviews I have been on recently (I started interviewing in February, so he knew about this before his accident) so I asked him if he meant interviews. Again, he nodded excitedly and looked at me waiting for an answer. I hold him that even though I had gone on interviews, the positions had not been offered yet so I didn't know anything. To this he looked at me and made a face implying some sort of understanding or approval and turned back to Lindsay.
While this may sound like a stretch, I really felt like he was actively interested in what I was saying and understood. More than that, he had the attention span to ask and listen.
This was an up-time, but a good one for me to see.
As we were preparing to leave, Walt noticed Lindsay putting her coat on and said "Ready", as he wanted to come with us. He proceeded to continue to say that he knew it was time to go, and that he wanted to leave, so it was really hard for us to leave while he was still awake.
The hardest thing must have been for Lindsay to hear Walt say "Lindsay" as we walked out. He obviously is ready to go home...
Friday, April 6, 2007
Note from Patty
Wow! what a crazy visit on Thursday. He is such a jabberjaw and words come and go but he just wants to and keeps talking about coming home. I have them take off the restraints when I am there. For 4 hours he tries to get up and touches his head. For 4 hours I say "No Walter" over and over. He loves to call Lindsay and Brian on the phone. He tries so hard to talk to them and I know when he goes to St. Mary's he will do just great! By the way, today is really Good Friday. Walter will be at St. Mary's by 1:00 today. He can have visitors. The phone no. is 368-3841 if you want to visit. He really needs visitors now to get his brain working. You do not need to call before you go. I gave you the phone no. if you need directions. I think when he gets there he will want to start physical therapy right away. He was definately sick of that bed!!! If you have pictures of things that you have done with Walter please bring them. It will be great for the memory!! All I can say now is Work hard Walter we have got lots of living to do!!!!!
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Wednesday fun continued...
I was so excited to hear about my dad's daytime activities that I decided to drive back and hope to catch a glimpse of the progress on Wednesday night. He definitely pleased me! When I got there, he had been chatting with his friends, Bernie, Dick and John, for nearly two hours! Now, remember, chatting doesn't mean talking about the good old days or anything YET because he doesn't seem to remember who people are from minute to minute but he was answering questions and just making general comments. His progress is awesome! His temperature was also down around normal (which I realized when I went home and used my trusty online Celsius to Fahrenheit converter - why do they use Celsius??)
Though he didn't seem to recognize me at first, he understood my function in his life because he kept asking me to take him home. This insistence went on for a couple hours. He even told me to "go get the transport Lindsay." He was using fairly big words such as immediately and regardless. He seemed fixated on a few words and kept using them over and over. He tried to get out of bed many times and kept pulling off the sensors on his feet, insisting that it was time to go home. We had to keep explaining to him that he wasn't quite ready to go and that he had to stay there for a little while longer to keep healing. At one point, he carefully touched his head where the stitches were and momentarily and fleetingly realizing what happened to him, said "oh God, oh God." But the next moment, he was back to insisting that he be taken home. When we asked him how his head felt, he smartly told us he had a hangover. Classic! :)
While I was there, he said he wanted to talk to my mom and Brian and Uncle Tip. So we called them and he spoke with my mom and Brian and left what was probably a confusing message on Uncle Tip's answering machine. One minute he will remember my name and call me Lindsay and the next minute he seems to struggle to place me This is a little hard but completely understandable considering the severity of his injury. It is amazing that he is off the vent and talking after only 3 weeks so I will take the forgetfulness and remember the nice smile and kiss on the cheek he gave me when I left. It was well worth the drive :)
We all have to remember just to keep telling him that everything is okay and try to talk normal to him. Hopefully some normalcy will get his brain working and maybe things will start coming back to him. The doctors are very happy with his progress and one doctor called my mom this morning to ask who Lindsay was because he kept talking about me. Hopefully he is not mad that I didn't take him home last night ;)
Overall, just don't be surprised or sad if he doesn't seem to remember you. This is all just a part of his recovery and getting him back to himself. We just have to be very patient and helpful because he will need it during his recovery.
Also, my mom and I spoke to the witness earlier in the week. He saw the whole thing happen because he was driving in the lane opposite my dad. He also happened to be a volunteer fireman so that proved to be helpful in the initial minutes after the accident. The witness said that my dad just hit some gravel and his tires instantly flew out from under him and he fell on his left side "like a ton of bricks." He said he had never seen someone go down so hard. So it doesn't appear that he had a medical condition and it seems that the whole thing was just a freak accident. The witness was very happy to hear how well he was doing and mentioned that his helmet, which flew off after the initial hit, saved his life. So this is a message everyone should abide by and share with family and friends - WEAR YOUR HELMET because they absolutely do save lives. (That was my public service announcement for the day...)
A cute picture - two of his favorite things - sleeping and his Santa hat :)
I'll be back up tomorrow through the weekend so I will post soon!
L
Though he didn't seem to recognize me at first, he understood my function in his life because he kept asking me to take him home. This insistence went on for a couple hours. He even told me to "go get the transport Lindsay." He was using fairly big words such as immediately and regardless. He seemed fixated on a few words and kept using them over and over. He tried to get out of bed many times and kept pulling off the sensors on his feet, insisting that it was time to go home. We had to keep explaining to him that he wasn't quite ready to go and that he had to stay there for a little while longer to keep healing. At one point, he carefully touched his head where the stitches were and momentarily and fleetingly realizing what happened to him, said "oh God, oh God." But the next moment, he was back to insisting that he be taken home. When we asked him how his head felt, he smartly told us he had a hangover. Classic! :)
While I was there, he said he wanted to talk to my mom and Brian and Uncle Tip. So we called them and he spoke with my mom and Brian and left what was probably a confusing message on Uncle Tip's answering machine. One minute he will remember my name and call me Lindsay and the next minute he seems to struggle to place me This is a little hard but completely understandable considering the severity of his injury. It is amazing that he is off the vent and talking after only 3 weeks so I will take the forgetfulness and remember the nice smile and kiss on the cheek he gave me when I left. It was well worth the drive :)
We all have to remember just to keep telling him that everything is okay and try to talk normal to him. Hopefully some normalcy will get his brain working and maybe things will start coming back to him. The doctors are very happy with his progress and one doctor called my mom this morning to ask who Lindsay was because he kept talking about me. Hopefully he is not mad that I didn't take him home last night ;)
Overall, just don't be surprised or sad if he doesn't seem to remember you. This is all just a part of his recovery and getting him back to himself. We just have to be very patient and helpful because he will need it during his recovery.
Also, my mom and I spoke to the witness earlier in the week. He saw the whole thing happen because he was driving in the lane opposite my dad. He also happened to be a volunteer fireman so that proved to be helpful in the initial minutes after the accident. The witness said that my dad just hit some gravel and his tires instantly flew out from under him and he fell on his left side "like a ton of bricks." He said he had never seen someone go down so hard. So it doesn't appear that he had a medical condition and it seems that the whole thing was just a freak accident. The witness was very happy to hear how well he was doing and mentioned that his helmet, which flew off after the initial hit, saved his life. So this is a message everyone should abide by and share with family and friends - WEAR YOUR HELMET because they absolutely do save lives. (That was my public service announcement for the day...)
A cute picture - two of his favorite things - sleeping and his Santa hat :)
I'll be back up tomorrow through the weekend so I will post soon!
L
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Note From Patty
Patty says: What a wonderful day!!! It is great to hear that he is breathing on his own and the fever is getting better! He says "Hello" to me on the phone-which is quite a fete considering the last 3 weeks were from hell! He has also said "Hello Brian" on the phone and has jabbered words to Lindsay and smiled when talking to her. It is amazing how delicate life really is and how quickly life can change in an instant. We are so happy to have Walter with us and fighting so hard to get back to us. Each day at St. Mary's will be a challenge but knowing Walter's love of life and family he will come out soon and with flying colors. We will soon be cooking out together and going to Red Wing games. May 5th is Cinco De Mayo which Walter loves to celebrate with Danny and Lori and hopefully he will be home by then!! Go Walter!!!!!
April 4, 2007 3:22 PM
April 4, 2007 3:22 PM
Wednesday is Good news Day!
Hi I am Corinne, Rick's wife and I am blogging while Rick is away.
When I arrived this morning the Dr. that has been looking after Walt's breathing was in talking to Walt telling him how great he was doing and that at this rate he would be able to start Rehab soon. A great way to start the visit.
Walt is breathing on his own without oxygen support. Today his temperature was down a lot and he was much more alert. He was able to talk and even asked me if i had any Advil! He didn't appear to know who I was though.
As I was with him we were able to take the restraints off and he was able to move his arms more comfortably, not being able to was obviously making him very frustrated. He sometimes forgets and pulls at the tubes so he needs someone watching him when they are off.
It was a busy time with visitors today. Tim from school and his wife stopped by. After they left Tippy came in before he started work and then Brian from across the street arrived. We were all there for the day's best news. The Doctor from St Mary's came in to evaluate him for Rehab and he was able to follow her requests to raise his fingers, so he is in. She hoped that if his temperature remained stable he might even be able to go by the end of the week!!! Way to go Walt!
Tippy called Patty to tell her the news and then put the phone to Walt's ear, he held the phone himself and answered her. It was so heartening to see the progress he has made.
As having the restraints off is an important part of his recovery it would be great if we could start a roster of people that could be responsible for being with Walt each day so they can be off. Iam happy to take charge of setting up the schedule. My number is 544 0583. leave a message whith your name and number if I am not home.
All in all a wonderful day to visit.
Love to you Walt. Keep up the great work mate.
Love also to Patty, Lindsay, Brian and Tip
When I arrived this morning the Dr. that has been looking after Walt's breathing was in talking to Walt telling him how great he was doing and that at this rate he would be able to start Rehab soon. A great way to start the visit.
Walt is breathing on his own without oxygen support. Today his temperature was down a lot and he was much more alert. He was able to talk and even asked me if i had any Advil! He didn't appear to know who I was though.
As I was with him we were able to take the restraints off and he was able to move his arms more comfortably, not being able to was obviously making him very frustrated. He sometimes forgets and pulls at the tubes so he needs someone watching him when they are off.
It was a busy time with visitors today. Tim from school and his wife stopped by. After they left Tippy came in before he started work and then Brian from across the street arrived. We were all there for the day's best news. The Doctor from St Mary's came in to evaluate him for Rehab and he was able to follow her requests to raise his fingers, so he is in. She hoped that if his temperature remained stable he might even be able to go by the end of the week!!! Way to go Walt!
Tippy called Patty to tell her the news and then put the phone to Walt's ear, he held the phone himself and answered her. It was so heartening to see the progress he has made.
As having the restraints off is an important part of his recovery it would be great if we could start a roster of people that could be responsible for being with Walt each day so they can be off. Iam happy to take charge of setting up the schedule. My number is 544 0583. leave a message whith your name and number if I am not home.
All in all a wonderful day to visit.
Love to you Walt. Keep up the great work mate.
Love also to Patty, Lindsay, Brian and Tip
Monday, April 2, 2007
Hi all, this will be the last condition update from me for a few days; I will be on a business trip overseas. It's great to see postings from Lindsay. And I know there will be may others.
I have nothing to add to Lindsay's post from yesterday; Walt seems to be about the same as she described. The nurse reported, however, that he had been off the ventilator for just over 24 hours and that they are pleased with his blood gases. I'm not sure they're pleased with his digestive gases nor has anybody ever been :)
Well, I look forward to checking back here every day and seeing his progress.
Keep up the support great support!
I have nothing to add to Lindsay's post from yesterday; Walt seems to be about the same as she described. The nurse reported, however, that he had been off the ventilator for just over 24 hours and that they are pleased with his blood gases. I'm not sure they're pleased with his digestive gases nor has anybody ever been :)
Well, I look forward to checking back here every day and seeing his progress.
Keep up the support great support!
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Head Injuries are no April Fools joke!
Hi all. First, welcome to those of you who are new to The Walt Watch! We can all thank my dad's cousin Rick for this great idea! We will try to update this as much as possible (between work, school, etc. of course so please be patient :) ) Feel free to leave any comments you have or any nice stories or whatever about my dad. But be nice...he will hopefully be reading all of this soon ;)
Yesterday and today were not fun days like Friday was. My dad exhibited more physiological effects of the head injury, namely a high fever and some shaking. Though we have been told these things are "normal" for patients with severe head injuries, it is still pretty sad to see the high fevers come and go despite the efforts to fend them off.
Regardless, he is still fighting his way along and we know he can still hear us, as he sometimes makes faces when we say things or nods his head when we ask him a question. He just needs a lot of rest right now, which makes complete sense. He seems very tired (which can also be due to all of the various medications he is on) so the best thing for him is definitely rest. This must be hard though because every patient in the respiratory unit seems to beep 24 hours a day!
I am sure his neurosurgeon will be in tomorrow morning so if there are any updates, they will be forthcoming. We know head injuries just take time and care and we will give him as much as he needs of both!
L
Yesterday and today were not fun days like Friday was. My dad exhibited more physiological effects of the head injury, namely a high fever and some shaking. Though we have been told these things are "normal" for patients with severe head injuries, it is still pretty sad to see the high fevers come and go despite the efforts to fend them off.
Regardless, he is still fighting his way along and we know he can still hear us, as he sometimes makes faces when we say things or nods his head when we ask him a question. He just needs a lot of rest right now, which makes complete sense. He seems very tired (which can also be due to all of the various medications he is on) so the best thing for him is definitely rest. This must be hard though because every patient in the respiratory unit seems to beep 24 hours a day!
I am sure his neurosurgeon will be in tomorrow morning so if there are any updates, they will be forthcoming. We know head injuries just take time and care and we will give him as much as he needs of both!
L
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