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
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Just say NO.
I spoke to a friend of mine, a well respected heart surgeon, he has confidence in Strong but also advised to let Walt be in one place. Just say no when they want to move him, ie: out of ICU, and do not rush back to St. Mary's.
He needs to really fight in one place with one set of Doc's looking at him for the time being.
For Walt with God's grace to him.
Brian
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!!
Rick - I'm pretty sure that HE heard you, but will surely forgive you because of the awesome job you are doing both with Walt and with keeping us up on the blog. You did have me going for a while with Dr. Lance, then I knew you were refering to Armstrong, and not as in "a boil". Three cheers for Dr. Lance! (or is it three stooges?).
Patty: what great news. There's something about your voice that makes Walt move -years of practice, no doubt! Keep it up!!
Marcia
Post a Comment