TGIF....It's time for a 3 day week-end. Just got an update on Mark and thought I would let those of you who are following Marks progess in on the latest.
Betty called around 1 a.m. this morning and Mark was at Hermann yet in a bit of pain. As I mentioned yesterday, they said that Mark has an infection and they were going to have to go back in and put a chest tube in to drain it. Mark has been in a lot of pain and sick most of the evening. They found out that he was having a gall bladder attack and they could not do anything about it until his infection was gone.
Well, has everyone is aware of, plans change. This mornig they changed their minds and decided to go on with the gall bladder surgery because it is in such bad shape. So we begin the waiting game.
Here is is about 6:30 p.m. and we still wait....As we have become accustomed to Mark's proceedure has been pushed back. Of course he is in one of the best hospital in Houston but we must all remember that it's also a trauma center. He had been pushed back this morning becasue an emergency has come in. Later today they were in there to pick Mark up and they were call back down for another emergency case, so another push back. Mark is in alot of pain, Betty is very frustrated and patience is supposed to be a virture.
So, here we are now.....waiting, waiting, waiting. I think this is something that we have grown accoustomed to.
Contine to keep Mark and his family in your continued prayers. I have asked Betty to call me when they take him back and also when her is out of surgery. Dad & Mom are there with Betty, keep them too in your thoughts and prayers too. I will update this blog as soon as I get word.
Until later,
Karen
Sister in law
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
A small set back
I just received word from Betty that they are awaiting for the paramedics to come pick Mark up. They are taking him back to Hermann. The pulmonary doctor came in today and discovered that he has a lung infection. He wants Mark moved back to Hermann, so a drain tube can be put back in, they can administer antibiotics and they can get him well. Betty said that Mark did not feel real well last night nor did he fell too well today but he was able to sit up in a chair and was able to move himself a bit more.
Even though this may sound to be a set back, Betty seems to feel that it's just a small one. She feels that the week to 10 days that he will be back at Hermann will be a bit of a healing time and once he's back at TIRR he will be ready to roll.
Thank to all for absolutely everything you have done for this family.
Until I know more,
Karen
sis-in-law
Even though this may sound to be a set back, Betty seems to feel that it's just a small one. She feels that the week to 10 days that he will be back at Hermann will be a bit of a healing time and once he's back at TIRR he will be ready to roll.
Thank to all for absolutely everything you have done for this family.
Until I know more,
Karen
sis-in-law
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Moved to TIRR
Good morning all....just spoke with Betty and she was on her way up to TIRR. Mark did get moved over there and settled in. There is no details on his rehab as of yet but I'm sure as soon as they do the accessment and evaluation we will know their plan for Mark's recovery. Please continue to pray for his healing and recovery.
Love to all, until I know more,
Karen
sis-in-law
Love to all, until I know more,
Karen
sis-in-law
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
I'm Comin Out!!!!
In the words of The Supremes : Im comin out ,I want the world to know-got to let it show!!!!
My Dad is 'comin out' of Memorial Hermann Hospital today! His forty fifth day since the accident.
Everything came back on catscans and xrays as fine after his fall yesterday (and two subsequent falls today!) He tried to get out of the bed during the night while mom was sleeping so they had to put him in a special bed that kept him in it.
However, today, as we speak, he is being transferred to TIRR---- an amazing rehabilitation center - the fourth in the nation -
YAY! O man I was doing a dance in his room today and I am just so overjoyed that he is finally out of the hospital.
When the paramedics that were going to transfer him got there he looked at me and said "Its about time!!!"
Anyway - hope this brief news is a bit of a celebration for all that read it.
For the next three days or so they will be doing lots and lots of evaluations so they can come up with a plan for treatment and rehabilititation. So, we're not ALL better yet - but we're on the road to recovery!
AMEN ! God is GOOOOOD!!
Love you all...
Meg
My Dad is 'comin out' of Memorial Hermann Hospital today! His forty fifth day since the accident.
Everything came back on catscans and xrays as fine after his fall yesterday (and two subsequent falls today!) He tried to get out of the bed during the night while mom was sleeping so they had to put him in a special bed that kept him in it.
However, today, as we speak, he is being transferred to TIRR---- an amazing rehabilitation center - the fourth in the nation -
YAY! O man I was doing a dance in his room today and I am just so overjoyed that he is finally out of the hospital.
When the paramedics that were going to transfer him got there he looked at me and said "Its about time!!!"
Anyway - hope this brief news is a bit of a celebration for all that read it.
For the next three days or so they will be doing lots and lots of evaluations so they can come up with a plan for treatment and rehabilititation. So, we're not ALL better yet - but we're on the road to recovery!
AMEN ! God is GOOOOOD!!
Love you all...
Meg
Monday, August 27, 2007
It's always something...
So I called after class today to check on Dad again, mom said they were "supposed to move him to rehab at five". I asked what she meant by 'supposed to'.
She said she was taking stuff to the car so they could leave this evening, and told the nurses she needed to be gone for like 10 minutes, and told them that he needed to be watched because he was trying to get out of the bed.
When Mom came back from the car, Dad was surrounded by nurses and was bleeding. He had tried to get up from the bed to get to the bathroom and fallen. He had forgotten again that he couldn't get out of the bed. Mom was angry of course and knew she couldn't beat herself up about it. This has been hard for her having to be there taking care of him every second of the day. Sometimes when I come up at night she just looks like she is at her breaking point. Please keep her in your prayers, that she can be comforted, more relaxed and that she is doing everything she possibly can. She desperately needs strength and comfort right now.
Keep loving on her guys. :) I don't care if she gets mad that I wrote all this in here. Anyway, dad had a deep gash above his left eybrow. It required six stitches, and they are doing a CAT scan tonight to double check that the blow to his head didn't cause any further damage, and are going to xray and check on his hip.
All my love
Meg
She said she was taking stuff to the car so they could leave this evening, and told the nurses she needed to be gone for like 10 minutes, and told them that he needed to be watched because he was trying to get out of the bed.
When Mom came back from the car, Dad was surrounded by nurses and was bleeding. He had tried to get up from the bed to get to the bathroom and fallen. He had forgotten again that he couldn't get out of the bed. Mom was angry of course and knew she couldn't beat herself up about it. This has been hard for her having to be there taking care of him every second of the day. Sometimes when I come up at night she just looks like she is at her breaking point. Please keep her in your prayers, that she can be comforted, more relaxed and that she is doing everything she possibly can. She desperately needs strength and comfort right now.
Keep loving on her guys. :) I don't care if she gets mad that I wrote all this in here. Anyway, dad had a deep gash above his left eybrow. It required six stitches, and they are doing a CAT scan tonight to double check that the blow to his head didn't cause any further damage, and are going to xray and check on his hip.
All my love
Meg
Monday, 08/27
Good afternoon all. I know that many of you have been checking the blog all week-end to find out some sort of update and there has been none.
Mark had a pretty good week-end. The only thing that I know right now is that Betty is waiting to talk to the doctor. Betty did tell me over the week-end that Mark is supposed to be moving over the the TIRR unit (rehab). I do not know if that is going to happen today but I will let you know more when I know more.
Thanks for all the prayers, love and concern for Mark's family.
Love to all,
Karen
sis-in-law
Mark had a pretty good week-end. The only thing that I know right now is that Betty is waiting to talk to the doctor. Betty did tell me over the week-end that Mark is supposed to be moving over the the TIRR unit (rehab). I do not know if that is going to happen today but I will let you know more when I know more.
Thanks for all the prayers, love and concern for Mark's family.
Love to all,
Karen
sis-in-law
Friday, August 24, 2007
Movin On Up
Here's some new song lyrics for ya!
"Movin on up... to the east side ... to a deluxe apartment in the skkkkyyyyyy"
Okay so its not to a high rise apartment --- but its the next best thing! His own room! Yippee!
So tomorrow, which marks week 7 since the accident on 7/7/07 --- we feel pretty lucky!
Love you all - thank God its Friday! Thank God for everything!
Love Megan
"Movin on up... to the east side ... to a deluxe apartment in the skkkkyyyyyy"
Okay so its not to a high rise apartment --- but its the next best thing! His own room! Yippee!
So tomorrow, which marks week 7 since the accident on 7/7/07 --- we feel pretty lucky!
Love you all - thank God its Friday! Thank God for everything!
Love Megan
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Mark's Ready
Mark look better today. He was thirsty, and continued to ask for water. I did wet his mouth, but knew that I should follow the doctors advice, to wait until after the swallow test with barium/x-ray to make sure his airway was closing when he ate or drank. Matt visited with his dad today. While I was with Wayman and Sharon (Marks parents) down stairs Mark decided that he did no longer needed his trachea and pulled it out himself!!!!!He also pulled off the tape from the chest tube and a couple other bandages. When Sharon and I walked into the room he had about half the staff around him. They decided that he was fine without it. He was 99% oxygenated and was breathing without any complications. Later he pulled out another IV. He must be getting well!!!
The did the swallow study and he passed. So around 3:pm he got to eat and drink. His sodium level was up some from 120 to 131. I think it should be 135 min. So I gave him Gatorade to drink. I have learned to sleep with my head on Marks bed sitting in a chair. I think he naps better too !!! They are having to restrain Mark while no one is in the room. (so he won't climb out of bed)
Let's pray for Mark to have Patience, so that his mind and body will heal. Also, pray that I will have the patience to deal with not only the doctors, but all the other challenges that have come my way..........It is 2:20am and I am going to say Thank you for all the prayers, love and support...... Thank you God, for healing my best friend and the Love of my Life. Betty
The did the swallow study and he passed. So around 3:pm he got to eat and drink. His sodium level was up some from 120 to 131. I think it should be 135 min. So I gave him Gatorade to drink. I have learned to sleep with my head on Marks bed sitting in a chair. I think he naps better too !!! They are having to restrain Mark while no one is in the room. (so he won't climb out of bed)
Let's pray for Mark to have Patience, so that his mind and body will heal. Also, pray that I will have the patience to deal with not only the doctors, but all the other challenges that have come my way..........It is 2:20am and I am going to say Thank you for all the prayers, love and support...... Thank you God, for healing my best friend and the Love of my Life. Betty
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Another not so good day
Mark drank some grape juice today,then they came into do trachea care and pushed too hard on it and caused him to cough, he continued to cough and grape juice was mixed in with the stuff he was coughing up.....(out of his trachea)..............not good ........they did a swallow study and said everything was fine. I fed him noodle soup and it happened with the soup. So now he has not eaten or drank since breakfast. So he is very weak. His sodium levels are low......not good..... this can cause seizures...... I am not happy with the doctors........ 6 weeks plus is wearing me down. Mark looked good last weekend, even one of the nurses commented how bad he looked and said he looked jaundiced. So we are not out of the woods yet. love to all!!!!! BB
Not Much Change - - - Just healing
Sorry for no posting since Meg's last post on Saturday. I was visiting Mark on Sunday and he sure was tired. I'm sure that it was due to being so active on Saturday then to have the seizure medication on top of that.
I just spoke to Betty and here is the latest information. She told me that not much has changed. As for information on his seizure, they said that it was a small one and that there were no changes in his CT scan. They did start him on seizure medication for prevention.
Yesterday Mark sat up in bed with assistance for the 1st time. Mark keeps wanting to get up and walk. He is very weak and does not have much of an appetite. He is not eating much so Betty is really pushing nutrition to help build some strength.
Betty also told me that he has a small leak in his chest tube that they addressed today but they have made the mention that the chest tube and the trac would possibly be removed within a few days.
On a different note, Betty has mentioned to me on numerous occasions how blessed her family is to have a all the prayer warriors out there. The love and support that many of you have given to her family has been a true blessing. So to that, on Betty's behalf, I thank each of you for being beside her and her family through this.
Until I know more,
Karen
sister-in-law
I just spoke to Betty and here is the latest information. She told me that not much has changed. As for information on his seizure, they said that it was a small one and that there were no changes in his CT scan. They did start him on seizure medication for prevention.
Yesterday Mark sat up in bed with assistance for the 1st time. Mark keeps wanting to get up and walk. He is very weak and does not have much of an appetite. He is not eating much so Betty is really pushing nutrition to help build some strength.
Betty also told me that he has a small leak in his chest tube that they addressed today but they have made the mention that the chest tube and the trac would possibly be removed within a few days.
On a different note, Betty has mentioned to me on numerous occasions how blessed her family is to have a all the prayer warriors out there. The love and support that many of you have given to her family has been a true blessing. So to that, on Betty's behalf, I thank each of you for being beside her and her family through this.
Until I know more,
Karen
sister-in-law
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Quick Update Day 42 (6 weeks)
Hey guys
Well today was a long day for Dad and boy was he tired this evening. Mom had to go to San Marcos to help Tiffaney finish the floor at the trailer and Uncle Scott and Susan Baker went up there to help. She was there all day, so I got up early this morning to get to the hospital. Dad was awake when I got there and wasn't interested in breakfast. He said he wanted to save it for later, but then five minutes later he realized he was hungry and he ate.
After breakfast was stressful to be honest. He kept trying to get out of the bed saying he wanted to walk around and that he needed to get out of bed. Every time I explained he said he HAD to get out of bed. Dedo and Paw Paw got there around lunch time and spent some time with him. He fell asleep and I left for the afternoon. They stayed with him the rest of the day. Dedo (Sharon) said he was upset still. He kept pulling at stuff and trying to get up all day. They finally had to tie him down. He had a seizure this afternoon as well, and they aren't really sure why, but didn't seem overly concerned about it and gave him some anti-seizure medicine.
I got up there at 8 and Dedo and Paw Paw went home. I helped Dad with his dinner and he asked me if I could turn off the light. It was only 845 so he must have worn himself out today with all the talking and trying to get up stuff.
He did the cutest thing this morning while I was there. He said he needed his phone and when I asked why he said to call Mom. So I called her and told her Daddy wanted to talk to her. He said "Hey how are you doin?" to her and told her he just wanted to "touch base" with her and that he loved her. It is so obvious he missed her being there, becuase this was her first day really away while he has been awake. When I left tonight he said "Are you gonna be here in the morning?" I told him that I would and that was all he needed to hear. He smiled and nodded and drifted off to sleep. I told him goodnight and got lots of kisses all day. It was really neat to hear him talk so much, usually when I am there he is too tired and everyone has heard him talk but me.
He said he is ready to go home... so now we will just wait until the doctors are ready too.
Dad's really good friend Arthur came to see Dad today too - which I am sure he was glad to see him.
Love you all and thank you for everything.
All my love
Meg
Well today was a long day for Dad and boy was he tired this evening. Mom had to go to San Marcos to help Tiffaney finish the floor at the trailer and Uncle Scott and Susan Baker went up there to help. She was there all day, so I got up early this morning to get to the hospital. Dad was awake when I got there and wasn't interested in breakfast. He said he wanted to save it for later, but then five minutes later he realized he was hungry and he ate.
After breakfast was stressful to be honest. He kept trying to get out of the bed saying he wanted to walk around and that he needed to get out of bed. Every time I explained he said he HAD to get out of bed. Dedo and Paw Paw got there around lunch time and spent some time with him. He fell asleep and I left for the afternoon. They stayed with him the rest of the day. Dedo (Sharon) said he was upset still. He kept pulling at stuff and trying to get up all day. They finally had to tie him down. He had a seizure this afternoon as well, and they aren't really sure why, but didn't seem overly concerned about it and gave him some anti-seizure medicine.
I got up there at 8 and Dedo and Paw Paw went home. I helped Dad with his dinner and he asked me if I could turn off the light. It was only 845 so he must have worn himself out today with all the talking and trying to get up stuff.
He did the cutest thing this morning while I was there. He said he needed his phone and when I asked why he said to call Mom. So I called her and told her Daddy wanted to talk to her. He said "Hey how are you doin?" to her and told her he just wanted to "touch base" with her and that he loved her. It is so obvious he missed her being there, becuase this was her first day really away while he has been awake. When I left tonight he said "Are you gonna be here in the morning?" I told him that I would and that was all he needed to hear. He smiled and nodded and drifted off to sleep. I told him goodnight and got lots of kisses all day. It was really neat to hear him talk so much, usually when I am there he is too tired and everyone has heard him talk but me.
He said he is ready to go home... so now we will just wait until the doctors are ready too.
Dad's really good friend Arthur came to see Dad today too - which I am sure he was glad to see him.
Love you all and thank you for everything.
All my love
Meg
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Mark's Back!!!!!
Well, for the most part..... it is amazing!!!!! Tonight Mark was putting on his head phones and trying to figure out the IPOD Bruce gave him. Listening to his music has been a real comfort. He also fed himself some of his dinner. He had a hard time getting the food to stay on the fork. His arms are weak, but just the effort...fantastic. He pulled out one of the IV sites while I went to get something to eat. His nurse said he had enough snap to apply pressure to stop the bleeding. He wants to pick all the tape off, all over his body. I think he is a tad bored. He has not gotten the fact that he can not just get out off bed. Karen and Scott talked to him on the phone.....his response were normal. I got more kisses.......Lot's of them. His spark is back..... his color..... and the smile. What a pleasure......I have so much to be thankful for. God is continuing to bless our family. Betty
What a day!
Went to see Dad this evening when Mom picked me up. She told me all about the things he has done today. He ate solid food - chicken rice, green beans, cake, ice cream, and noodles, and ... all sorts of things.
He has nothing going to his IV' sites (3), no tubes in his nose, and no catheter. He looks so good and he seemed really happy today. He seems like he is more aware today.
Dedo said he talked to her today, told her he wanted to "get out of this bed and walk around". She explained that he couldnt and he seemed to understand. He seems so happy not tied down.
When Paw Paw walked in to see Dad today, his face lit up and he smiled so big. When I was in the room with Dedo we were making him laugh. I told him about how I slipped and fell today, and laughed and told him I was just fine though... He smiled and rolled his eyes in agreement about me being so 'graceful'.
I have never seen him smile so much as I did today. Mom said Dad looked up at her this evening and said - how many people know I am here? She smiled and told him ALOT... she then pulled out the big box of cards, and he wanted to read them. He is sitting in the bed right now with his glasses on reading the cards!!! How awesome!
So everything is going good, and we are trying to get him more settled into a routine. It feels good to know he knows who we are, and that he feels comfortable right now. I know some people he hasn't remembered yet, and I am sure they kind of felt discouraged about it. Really though, I just hope they can be patient, give him some time to get settled and continuing to heal. With time and strength his memory will improve. I just don't like to see him frustrated or confused...he doesn't understand why he doesn't remember someone and I am sure that is a little upsetting.
So for now --- major improvements! I just can't believe everything. I am sure I am leaving so much stuff out about how the day went, since I wasn't there for very much of it today. It is so good to see him looking so much better, so much happier, so much more comfortable.
AMEN!! Oh my goodness God is SOOOO GOOD! I hope that I never forget these moments of pure joy that I have right now... that I have an amazing father who is getting better every single day. Progress is coming in leaps and bounds...!!!
All my love,
Meg
He has nothing going to his IV' sites (3), no tubes in his nose, and no catheter. He looks so good and he seemed really happy today. He seems like he is more aware today.
Dedo said he talked to her today, told her he wanted to "get out of this bed and walk around". She explained that he couldnt and he seemed to understand. He seems so happy not tied down.
When Paw Paw walked in to see Dad today, his face lit up and he smiled so big. When I was in the room with Dedo we were making him laugh. I told him about how I slipped and fell today, and laughed and told him I was just fine though... He smiled and rolled his eyes in agreement about me being so 'graceful'.
I have never seen him smile so much as I did today. Mom said Dad looked up at her this evening and said - how many people know I am here? She smiled and told him ALOT... she then pulled out the big box of cards, and he wanted to read them. He is sitting in the bed right now with his glasses on reading the cards!!! How awesome!
So everything is going good, and we are trying to get him more settled into a routine. It feels good to know he knows who we are, and that he feels comfortable right now. I know some people he hasn't remembered yet, and I am sure they kind of felt discouraged about it. Really though, I just hope they can be patient, give him some time to get settled and continuing to heal. With time and strength his memory will improve. I just don't like to see him frustrated or confused...he doesn't understand why he doesn't remember someone and I am sure that is a little upsetting.
So for now --- major improvements! I just can't believe everything. I am sure I am leaving so much stuff out about how the day went, since I wasn't there for very much of it today. It is so good to see him looking so much better, so much happier, so much more comfortable.
AMEN!! Oh my goodness God is SOOOO GOOD! I hope that I never forget these moments of pure joy that I have right now... that I have an amazing father who is getting better every single day. Progress is coming in leaps and bounds...!!!
All my love,
Meg
Morning Update
Good Morning All!!!
Just spoke with Betty and she ask that I give everyone a morning update. So here is a quick run down.
She is up at the hospital with Mark waiting on the doctor for morning rounds. Mark ate breakfast this morning with the exception of the oatmeal and the yogurt (He did not like them). She told me that he has nothing going to his IV's and swallowed pills this morning. The doctors were headed in so she had to let me go.
On a different note, Megan fell this morning down some stairs so she is at the hospital (across the street from Mark) being checked out. I asked Betty if anything was broken and she told me that she did not thinks so but that she was just going to be bruised up. Say a prayer for her.
Until more updates are available, thanks to everyone.
Karen
Just spoke with Betty and she ask that I give everyone a morning update. So here is a quick run down.
She is up at the hospital with Mark waiting on the doctor for morning rounds. Mark ate breakfast this morning with the exception of the oatmeal and the yogurt (He did not like them). She told me that he has nothing going to his IV's and swallowed pills this morning. The doctors were headed in so she had to let me go.
On a different note, Megan fell this morning down some stairs so she is at the hospital (across the street from Mark) being checked out. I asked Betty if anything was broken and she told me that she did not thinks so but that she was just going to be bruised up. Say a prayer for her.
Until more updates are available, thanks to everyone.
Karen
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Progess
Yesterday at around 2:30 the orders were written for Mark to have a clear liquid diet. Of course it wasn't untill I continued to ask,that I found that out. About 10:30 PM I finally was able to get him juice. I waited and they tried to get jello to avail. I left the hospital and go him some Ensure and applesauce. He gobbled it up. Mark had been about 42 hour with out nutrition.
Today Mark is sitting in a bed like chair. He had some soup, yogurt,juice, milk, tea and Ensure. I think he was really hungry!!!! He still is not talking. I think the back of his throat hurts. He is in a lot of pain but does not communicate it to the nurses. He does tell me, by nodding his head. I told him he has to talk so he can tell the nurses what he needs. I'm encouraging him to move his arms. He is very weak. However he is drinking by himself. I asked about his pain medication and had them give him some. He look so good!!! No tubes in his nose....... Hopefully, he will continue to progress and start communicating with the nurses and start talking...... I would just like him to tell me to shut up!!!
Hopefully, he can move to a regular room next week....... Thank you all, for everything. Betty
Today Mark is sitting in a bed like chair. He had some soup, yogurt,juice, milk, tea and Ensure. I think he was really hungry!!!! He still is not talking. I think the back of his throat hurts. He is in a lot of pain but does not communicate it to the nurses. He does tell me, by nodding his head. I told him he has to talk so he can tell the nurses what he needs. I'm encouraging him to move his arms. He is very weak. However he is drinking by himself. I asked about his pain medication and had them give him some. He look so good!!! No tubes in his nose....... Hopefully, he will continue to progress and start communicating with the nurses and start talking...... I would just like him to tell me to shut up!!!
Hopefully, he can move to a regular room next week....... Thank you all, for everything. Betty
Quick Update From Last Night
Hey guys -
Just wanted to post something really quick. I went to the hospital after school yesterday and dad was in xrays most of the day. Uncle Scott came up there and waited to see Dad, only getting to see him about 5 min before visiting hours were over.
Breanna came into town yesterday, and Mom and I were so excited to see her and get to spend time with her! YAY! She was sooo happy to see Dad and was so surprised to see how well he was doing.
Tiff surprised us and also came home yesterday --- so it was nice for all Dad's favorite girls to be there yesterday. He did talk yesterday a very little bit with his new trach piece in. He said "hi" to me after I begged for a while. When I was talking to him and asked him how he was doing he said 'fine' and smiled. He agreed that he was much more comfortable without the traction on his leg. It was obvious that all the pain meds he was on yesterday were making him really tired.
I asked him if he was happy he got to eat the applesauce earlier - to have some food - and he nodded yes :) He seemed to be in good spirits yesterday, despite being tired. They took out his feeding tube, don't know if they will put it back. I wish they wouldn't and would just let him eat but we will see what happens. I asked him if he was hungry and nodded in good agreement.
Uncle Bill (Mom's brother) came to visit last night also, and has been in china for the past three weeks, so he was pleasantly surprised to see how well he was doing. This is my 'hippie' uncle --- and told Dad "I heard you are a democrat now!" because Bill is always ranting about how great democrats are and Dad argues with him about it usually. Dad laughed and smiled really big. He thought that was funny --- he also thought it was funny and laughed when he said that "Hillary Clinton was elected president!" ...
I will write more later if I hear any new news from Mom or the girls at the hospital today.
All my love ----
Meg
Just wanted to post something really quick. I went to the hospital after school yesterday and dad was in xrays most of the day. Uncle Scott came up there and waited to see Dad, only getting to see him about 5 min before visiting hours were over.
Breanna came into town yesterday, and Mom and I were so excited to see her and get to spend time with her! YAY! She was sooo happy to see Dad and was so surprised to see how well he was doing.
Tiff surprised us and also came home yesterday --- so it was nice for all Dad's favorite girls to be there yesterday. He did talk yesterday a very little bit with his new trach piece in. He said "hi" to me after I begged for a while. When I was talking to him and asked him how he was doing he said 'fine' and smiled. He agreed that he was much more comfortable without the traction on his leg. It was obvious that all the pain meds he was on yesterday were making him really tired.
I asked him if he was happy he got to eat the applesauce earlier - to have some food - and he nodded yes :) He seemed to be in good spirits yesterday, despite being tired. They took out his feeding tube, don't know if they will put it back. I wish they wouldn't and would just let him eat but we will see what happens. I asked him if he was hungry and nodded in good agreement.
Uncle Bill (Mom's brother) came to visit last night also, and has been in china for the past three weeks, so he was pleasantly surprised to see how well he was doing. This is my 'hippie' uncle --- and told Dad "I heard you are a democrat now!" because Bill is always ranting about how great democrats are and Dad argues with him about it usually. Dad laughed and smiled really big. He thought that was funny --- he also thought it was funny and laughed when he said that "Hillary Clinton was elected president!" ...
I will write more later if I hear any new news from Mom or the girls at the hospital today.
All my love ----
Meg
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Doctor update
The Doctor said that Mark had a fracture on the left side of his pelvis that has already been healing for the 5 weeks that he has been here. On his right side they had to put 3 plates with 2 screws in each. And 1 was also put in the front to pull the left and the right side together, with four screws. From looking at the X-rays the screws look to be about 1 inch long, about the size of a wood screw. The plates look more like pieces of tape with holes drilled in it,about 1/2 inch apart. I think they said that these were all titanium. Mark did have a large pocket of fluid build up in his pelvic area, they said it did not look infected but they cleaned it all out and will check it for bacteria. Mark, will be able to be lifted to a wheel chair in about 3 days. He will be able to pivot his body using the left leg after 8 weeks after from the original injury. He will have to wait 8 weeks to use his right side. The trachea tube will be down sized today and he will be able to communicate. they will continue to monitor the wound site for a couple days. He still has a chest drain in the left side. I think he is on his way to a speedy recovery. Thank you God, for Dr. Dickson and the skill that he mastered under your guidance.
Thank You, for all the prayers. Love to all, Betty
Thank You, for all the prayers. Love to all, Betty
Monday, August 13, 2007
The final update for the night - Day of Surgery
I wanted to give eveyone a final update for the night.
I just spoke to Betty and she told me that she was able to speak with someone about Mark. She told me that it was not the doctor but that she would be talking to him in the morning. The doctors have a meeting in the morning but they would talk to her and let her know what all they did. She did find out that they put 2 plates on his back side and 1 on the front side of his pelvis. Mark is back in his room and is resting.
Betty said that she was going to her brothers for the night to rest and would return in the morning. Dad & Mom will be meeting with Betty and the doctors as well.
I did speak to Megan this evening. First day of school was "OK", just busy for her and she worried about her Dad. Brea is heading to Houston, so pray for a safe trip home.
Thanks to each and everyone of you for the liftings and prayers.
To each of you, we thank Our Father for the love ones that contine to surround our family with love and prayers.
Karen
as relayed from Betty
I just spoke to Betty and she told me that she was able to speak with someone about Mark. She told me that it was not the doctor but that she would be talking to him in the morning. The doctors have a meeting in the morning but they would talk to her and let her know what all they did. She did find out that they put 2 plates on his back side and 1 on the front side of his pelvis. Mark is back in his room and is resting.
Betty said that she was going to her brothers for the night to rest and would return in the morning. Dad & Mom will be meeting with Betty and the doctors as well.
I did speak to Megan this evening. First day of school was "OK", just busy for her and she worried about her Dad. Brea is heading to Houston, so pray for a safe trip home.
Thanks to each and everyone of you for the liftings and prayers.
To each of you, we thank Our Father for the love ones that contine to surround our family with love and prayers.
Karen
as relayed from Betty
Final update for the night - Day of Surgery
I just wanted to give a final update for the night.
Betty was able to speak with someone tonight but it was not the doctor. She said that the doctor did try to contact her but was unable to. They told her that the put 2 plates in the back side and 1 on the front side of Mark's pelvis. They did not change the trach nor did they remove any tubes as of yet. As of this morning they were going to wait a few days to assure the removal or reduction of tubes and trach.
They did tell Betty that the doctor was going to talk to her in the morning and show her what they did as well as show her the x-rays and discuss in more detail. Mark is back in his room and resting very well.
Betty is heading to her brothers for the night but will be back at the hospital in morning along with Mark's parents. Meg has a full day at school today (she told me that it was busy, hard to focus but she made it through it). Brea is on her way in so pray she has a safe road trip.
Well, this is it for the night. Thanks for all the liftings and direct connects.
Good night and say a blessing for yourselves as well.
Love to all,
Betty & Karen
Betty was able to speak with someone tonight but it was not the doctor. She said that the doctor did try to contact her but was unable to. They told her that the put 2 plates in the back side and 1 on the front side of Mark's pelvis. They did not change the trach nor did they remove any tubes as of yet. As of this morning they were going to wait a few days to assure the removal or reduction of tubes and trach.
They did tell Betty that the doctor was going to talk to her in the morning and show her what they did as well as show her the x-rays and discuss in more detail. Mark is back in his room and resting very well.
Betty is heading to her brothers for the night but will be back at the hospital in morning along with Mark's parents. Meg has a full day at school today (she told me that it was busy, hard to focus but she made it through it). Brea is on her way in so pray she has a safe road trip.
Well, this is it for the night. Thanks for all the liftings and direct connects.
Good night and say a blessing for yourselves as well.
Love to all,
Betty & Karen
Well the color is going to say it all....Betty has picked BLUE cause we are going for the calm.
The time has finally come....Mark is headed in for surgery. We are looking for about 3 to 4 hours.
Remember....Keep it flowing.....Pray that the Master guides the surgical hands.
Love to all and thanks for everything..We will update this blog with comments as we know.
Betty / Karen
The time has finally come....Mark is headed in for surgery. We are looking for about 3 to 4 hours.
Remember....Keep it flowing.....Pray that the Master guides the surgical hands.
Love to all and thanks for everything..We will update this blog with comments as we know.
Betty / Karen
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Sunday Night Update :)
Hey guys! Just wanted to post a quick update. Not a whole whole lot going on. Today Dad was in a better mood than yesterday. Yesterday he was pretty irritable and grouchy. Since my last update, he has pulled out his IV and pulls at his feeding tube and anything else he can pull at.
He seems to be going in and out a bit with his memory - so it is hard to see how much he really remembers until he can tell us. When I got there he looked at me funny like he didn't know me, and then it was like a light bulb went off and he smiled. He smiled a lot more today than yesterday. I hadn't gotten an "I Love You" in a while, but I got one today.
I told him that I have to go to school tomorrow and I was gonna still come visit but that I wouldn't be able to hang out there as much during the day. He nodded his head as if he understood, he may forget who knows.
What I do know is that he has surgery tomorrow --- and part of the sermon today at church was about relevance. God's timing is always perfect. He is never late. He is never early. The problem we have with it is that His timing and our timing usually don't match up. So, with that in mind, I will remember that Dad's surgeries have been postponed for a reason. When it is time, it will happen. So, we are expecting everything to go through just fine tomorrow.
Dad was jammin out to his music today, he seemed to be content with it. He was tappin' his foot and his fingers to the beat. I downloaded a song today called "Lucky Man" --- I like the words to it, and I think my father is definitely a blessed, lucky man.
Here are the lyrics --- if you haven't heard this song - it is by Montgomery Gentry. I really like it.
I have days where I hate my jobThis little town and the whole world tooLast Sunday when my Longhorns lost, Lord it put me in a bad mood I have moments when I curse the rainThen complain when the sun's too hotI look around at what everyone hasAnd I forget about all I've gotBut I know I'm a lucky manGod's given me a pretty fair handGot a house and a piece of landA few dollars in a coffee canMy old trucks still running goodMy ticker's ticking like they say it shouldI got supper in the oven, a good woman's lovingAnd one more day to be my little kid's dadLord, knows I'm a lucky manGot some friends who would be here fastI could call em any time of dayGot a brother who's got my backGot a mama who I swears a saintGot a brand new rod and reelGot a full week off this yearDad had a close call last springIt's a miracle he's still hereBut I know I'm a lucky manGod's given me a pretty fair handGot a house and a piece of landa few dollars in a coffee canMy old trucks still running goodMy ticker's tickin' like they say it shouldI got supper in the ove, good woman's lovingAnd one more day to be my little kid's dadLord, knows I'm a lucky manMy old trucks still running goodMy ticker's ticking like they say it shouldI got supper in the oven, a good woman's lovingAnd even my bad days ain't that badYeah, I'm a lucky manI'm a lucky lucky man
Love you guys....
Thank you for all your continuing support prayers and love.
Meg
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Week 5
Thursday was very frustrating for me, Wayman & Sharon (Mark's Mom & Dad) and I waited all day until 10:30 PM before they cancelled his surgery. They won't downsize his trachea tube ,or remove on of his chest tubes until after the surgery. I know that it's going to be OK. I just want him to be on the fast track to recovery. I guess I'm just a little worn out. Saturday, I finally got them to remove the cervical collar. He was pretty sleepy in the morning, Matt got to visit his daddy. Scott his brother stayed with him in the afternoon while I went home to nap. (I guess I really needed it!!) It's very hard to be patient and be proactive when it comes to dealing with doctors and getting the answers that we need. Mark can finally have ice chips to quench his thirst. He wants to pull off the tape that is holding all the tubes and lines to his body. Me telling him no, did not help. Then he got angry at me. This upset me. We covered his trachea opening for a second so he could talk and the word he spoke was HELP. He still is taking Oxecodone and that is pretty strong stuff, he has built up some tolerance to it obviously because he is so much more alert than when he first started taking it. I guess what Mark needs is something that will relax him without knocking him out, as a matter of fact, I do too!!!!
I know that your prayers are giving me strenght to continue to do what I can for Mark.
I went to look a facility for rehabilitation today and it was just was not what I expected. I will continue to look this next week.
I'm so blessed having all of you checking up on us, taking care of us.
Thank You.....from my heart. God Bless, each and every one of us. Betty
I know that your prayers are giving me strenght to continue to do what I can for Mark.
I went to look a facility for rehabilitation today and it was just was not what I expected. I will continue to look this next week.
I'm so blessed having all of you checking up on us, taking care of us.
Thank You.....from my heart. God Bless, each and every one of us. Betty
Friday, August 10, 2007
Friday Night/Saturday Morning
Today, Saturday, is officially the end of the fifth week here since the accident.
Today was rough for Mom, who was frustrated for good reason. This surgery being postponed again is like a punch in the stomach --- because everything else is waiting on that. They said they will remove the trach and the chest tubes after the pelvis surgery.
The doctor said today he should only be in the hospital about a week after the pelvis surgery, and then they want to transfer him to a rehabilitation facility. This is good news - if we could only follow through with the scheduled surgery.
This going back to school stuff is hard... I know in my heart that Dad would want me to be at school, because it is something that has ALWAYS been important to him. But it truly aches me not being able to be there as much, not being able to try to keep up his spirits, which have definitely been pushed to their limits.
He was very very alert today - especially this afternoon and evening. The nurse came in to change stuff, give him medicine, ect. When she gave him a shot he was mad. It was a new thing to see such a wide eyed face of true pain in his eyes---to be expected with a shot in his abdomen. He yelped "Ow" and gave her a MEAN look --- and a sound actually came out of his throat! He actually spoke!!
So even though it was a cry of pain, it was nice to hear his voice. He is really upset about being in this hospital. REALLY mad. He is resentful I think that he can't get up... and I think he forgets sometimes why he can't leave, why all the tubes, ect. He is pretty miserable, very anxious, bored, just aggravated some of the time. He just makes these expressions like he is so discouraged, and no matter what you say you don't think you can make it better. I told him I know this stinks --- I know this situation isn't fair. He nodded in agreement with me. He is very upset about it all, and him not being able to talk and ask questions --- him being still confused some of the time, doesn't help him with giving him any comfort.
Sometimes, when I ask him questions, he rolls his eyes and says 'whatever'. It really hurts to know that he is so angry. He just doesn't understand completely at all what has happened I think. He just knows he wants out. He was desperately trying to pull all sorts of tubes out today, just being so ready to hop out of that bed. He is uncomfortable and squirms alot. Today mom told him not to pull at the tubes, and he looked at her confused and spoke the word "huh?!" really pretty loud. It was funny and it surprised us, and he was trying to tell me stuff alot of the night but it is really hard to read his lips and he gets frustrated really quickly with it.
He watched MASH tonight on the little DVD player we brought for him. I told him goodnight tonight and mom was still there.
It is like torture to leave him. He looks at you, half sad that you are leaving him, and half resentful that you get to leave and he has to stay. I hate telling him goodbye. Tonight was very emotional for me. I know that with classes officially starting on Monday morning, my time with him will be much more limited than I would like it to be. All my time will be much more limited. I am in class 8-5 every day and then get to study at night. It doesn't make it easy on me, but I will be up there to visit as much as I can.
Bare with me about the blog situation as I transition back to school. I will try my best to write to you all and keep this up to date. Karen has been a great help to me in posting updates when I wasn't able to, and I really appreciate that.
Keep praying, please. Pray for Dad's full recovery. Pray for him to be relaxed, and for him to be able to understand better what is going on and that he should get some comfort in knowing he will heal with time. Pray for my own comfort, that I will be able to balance all that is on my plate right now and still get to spend quality time with Dad. Pray huge prayers for my mom. She is getting weary of this routine, and knowing he wants out of the hospital as much as she does makes her frustrated and impatient. Comfort her, Lord, and help her to get plenty of rest so she can get through these days.
Thank you all so very much. Forgive me as some of my posts may become fewer or shorter, I will try my best to keep up with them. Thank you for the phone calls, emails, sweet cards, and all the visits. If you have time this weekend, come up and see Dad. I think he likes people to come visit, even though he does want to leave. I know he doesn't like being here , so familiar faces and voices may be a real comfort for him. If nothing else, it definitely a comfort for our family.
Today was rough for Mom, who was frustrated for good reason. This surgery being postponed again is like a punch in the stomach --- because everything else is waiting on that. They said they will remove the trach and the chest tubes after the pelvis surgery.
The doctor said today he should only be in the hospital about a week after the pelvis surgery, and then they want to transfer him to a rehabilitation facility. This is good news - if we could only follow through with the scheduled surgery.
This going back to school stuff is hard... I know in my heart that Dad would want me to be at school, because it is something that has ALWAYS been important to him. But it truly aches me not being able to be there as much, not being able to try to keep up his spirits, which have definitely been pushed to their limits.
He was very very alert today - especially this afternoon and evening. The nurse came in to change stuff, give him medicine, ect. When she gave him a shot he was mad. It was a new thing to see such a wide eyed face of true pain in his eyes---to be expected with a shot in his abdomen. He yelped "Ow" and gave her a MEAN look --- and a sound actually came out of his throat! He actually spoke!!
So even though it was a cry of pain, it was nice to hear his voice. He is really upset about being in this hospital. REALLY mad. He is resentful I think that he can't get up... and I think he forgets sometimes why he can't leave, why all the tubes, ect. He is pretty miserable, very anxious, bored, just aggravated some of the time. He just makes these expressions like he is so discouraged, and no matter what you say you don't think you can make it better. I told him I know this stinks --- I know this situation isn't fair. He nodded in agreement with me. He is very upset about it all, and him not being able to talk and ask questions --- him being still confused some of the time, doesn't help him with giving him any comfort.
Sometimes, when I ask him questions, he rolls his eyes and says 'whatever'. It really hurts to know that he is so angry. He just doesn't understand completely at all what has happened I think. He just knows he wants out. He was desperately trying to pull all sorts of tubes out today, just being so ready to hop out of that bed. He is uncomfortable and squirms alot. Today mom told him not to pull at the tubes, and he looked at her confused and spoke the word "huh?!" really pretty loud. It was funny and it surprised us, and he was trying to tell me stuff alot of the night but it is really hard to read his lips and he gets frustrated really quickly with it.
He watched MASH tonight on the little DVD player we brought for him. I told him goodnight tonight and mom was still there.
It is like torture to leave him. He looks at you, half sad that you are leaving him, and half resentful that you get to leave and he has to stay. I hate telling him goodbye. Tonight was very emotional for me. I know that with classes officially starting on Monday morning, my time with him will be much more limited than I would like it to be. All my time will be much more limited. I am in class 8-5 every day and then get to study at night. It doesn't make it easy on me, but I will be up there to visit as much as I can.
Bare with me about the blog situation as I transition back to school. I will try my best to write to you all and keep this up to date. Karen has been a great help to me in posting updates when I wasn't able to, and I really appreciate that.
Keep praying, please. Pray for Dad's full recovery. Pray for him to be relaxed, and for him to be able to understand better what is going on and that he should get some comfort in knowing he will heal with time. Pray for my own comfort, that I will be able to balance all that is on my plate right now and still get to spend quality time with Dad. Pray huge prayers for my mom. She is getting weary of this routine, and knowing he wants out of the hospital as much as she does makes her frustrated and impatient. Comfort her, Lord, and help her to get plenty of rest so she can get through these days.
Thank you all so very much. Forgive me as some of my posts may become fewer or shorter, I will try my best to keep up with them. Thank you for the phone calls, emails, sweet cards, and all the visits. If you have time this weekend, come up and see Dad. I think he likes people to come visit, even though he does want to leave. I know he doesn't like being here , so familiar faces and voices may be a real comfort for him. If nothing else, it definitely a comfort for our family.
The picture I added was from last Thanksgiving of him sleeping in the hammock. He was relaxed and had a full stomach ---so I am gonna think about that content image of him, because in it he is happy (as are most men with a full belly and a nap) and is totally relaxed!
Love you all, God Bless
Love you all, God Bless
Meg
Friday notes.....
Hey all, Karen again. I just wanted to drop in and give some sort of update.
I spoke to Betty a bit ago and she was heading back to their house after taking little Matt to the hospital t0 visit with his dad. She said that Mark was just sleeping alot today. She seemed a bit frustrated with the surgery being post poned until Monay. I know that I would be feeling the same way because here it is another 3 long days to wait. She did tell me that on a better note that she did manage to get them to take off the collar today. We did not talk long cause I could hear the frustration and exahaustion in her voice.
Scott came home shortly after I hung up with her. Scott and I talked and next thing I knew he came into the kitchen telling me that he had just talked to Betty and that he made a deal with her that she was to go to the house to rest (get some sleep) and that he was heading to see his little brother and that he would stay there while both Mark & Betty rested. Betty agreed to this, so pray that she will rest this afternoon.
Scott just called and he is with Mark. Scott said that Mark was awake when he go there.
I'll blog more when I know more.
Until then, keep the prayers and bless you all.
Karen
sister-in-law - Friendswood, TX
I spoke to Betty a bit ago and she was heading back to their house after taking little Matt to the hospital t0 visit with his dad. She said that Mark was just sleeping alot today. She seemed a bit frustrated with the surgery being post poned until Monay. I know that I would be feeling the same way because here it is another 3 long days to wait. She did tell me that on a better note that she did manage to get them to take off the collar today. We did not talk long cause I could hear the frustration and exahaustion in her voice.
Scott came home shortly after I hung up with her. Scott and I talked and next thing I knew he came into the kitchen telling me that he had just talked to Betty and that he made a deal with her that she was to go to the house to rest (get some sleep) and that he was heading to see his little brother and that he would stay there while both Mark & Betty rested. Betty agreed to this, so pray that she will rest this afternoon.
Scott just called and he is with Mark. Scott said that Mark was awake when he go there.
I'll blog more when I know more.
Until then, keep the prayers and bless you all.
Karen
sister-in-law - Friendswood, TX
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Still Waiting
Hey all, this is Karen (Scott's wife). Wanted to a post for today. Well it's Thursday evening and we are still waiting. It's been a long day but there have been some emergency cases come in so Mark has been pushed back again, but I guess the night is still young. You can read the comment blog for yesterday's post to get more of an update, but for those that just look for a new post here it is.
I was able to go in and update the time for Betty so we are not living on Pacific time, we are going Pure Texas time.
Thanks to all for the calls, prayers, love and thoughts. We will post more as we progress.
Keep it flowing..
Karen
I was able to go in and update the time for Betty so we are not living on Pacific time, we are going Pure Texas time.
Thanks to all for the calls, prayers, love and thoughts. We will post more as we progress.
Keep it flowing..
Karen
8/08/2008
19 years ago today a miracle came into our lives.
Breanna Elizabeth Bradley.(Happy Birthday-Brea)
Every day miracles big and small take place.
I rejoice and give praise to God for those miracles.
Love and gratitude to each and every one of you that continues to pray for Mark and our family. Betty
Breanna Elizabeth Bradley.(Happy Birthday-Brea)
Every day miracles big and small take place.
I rejoice and give praise to God for those miracles.
Love and gratitude to each and every one of you that continues to pray for Mark and our family. Betty
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
SURGERY!!! THURSDAY!!
Hey guys!
Wow a lot to write about today. The docs came in today and said they don't want to wait longer for the surgery and are scheduling it for tomorrow. Hopefully this will follow through and all will go fine with that!
Today has been a long day for Dad - but a good day. I knew we were wearing him out when he was yawning at me! I had some school stuff to do today and wasn't there the whole time, but when I came during my lunch break he sure was happy to see me. I said Hey dad! and he mouthed hi to me.. which i am not great at reading lips so I said huh like twice and he had to keep saying it until I finally understood.
A case manager came by today to talk about his rehab --- trying to find a good place to put him and stuff. Dedo (Sharon) and I visited with Dad a long time. She made him laugh when she compared his short haircut on the one side where they had shaved it and it is growing back to the haircut his Dad used to give him as a kid. That made him smile big just thinkin about that.
I was talking to him about if he wanted to hurry up and get back to work... he didn't really respond so then I mentioned well I know you miss playing the domino's at lunch time at least right. He laughed a little at that and nodded... I know that is one thing he loves. I always hear about the guys who lose having to take out the trash. :)
David, Dad's boss at work, came in to see Dad today. He was so so excited about all his progress. He was literally tickled pink when he was talking to me. The enthusiasm in his face and in his words was so real. It felt good to know that he is truly loved so much by his coworkers! WOW! That should really say something. David brought a funny picture of Walter and Doug Cutsinger sitting at work in their blue suits --- with their feet propped up not doing anywork because Dad's not there. It said something about the backlog building up !
When I came back up there after I left the school this evening, I walked in the room and he just opens his eyes a little wider to look at me. I smile at him and say Hey!! and this time instead of just a hi --- he mouthed 'hey babe'... I thought that was so sweet.
It is so funny how much of his personality really shines through randomly sometimes. Today mom was asking him questions --- and he just gives her this whatever look sometimes when he really doesn't care about what she is telling him. When we were leaving at 630 for shift change she asked if he wanted the light off and he shrugged his shoulders and gave this look of - doesn't matter either way...
He played the air drums today in beat with the music. He is so cute --- just makes me smile thinking about it! When I left earlier he gave me another wink when I told him I loved him. Mom fussed again about him never winking at her and always just at me. He just looked at her like "you know I love you don't fuss".
Tiff was there again today, and Steve and Tracy Scannell also came to visit. (These are Mom and Dad's friends from their dutch oven group, and I am very close with them because I have worked with Steve and Tracy in their dental practice). He was sleepy when they went up there, but told me he did open his eyes when they told him Megan was coming back in a minute. Makes me get a warm fuzzy all inside! :)
Anyway so surgery tomorrow it looks like. His WBC count isn't as low as they would like for it to be, but I know they wouldn't move forward with surgery if they didn't think it was safe.
I love you all --- and thanks for all the phone calls, hugs, notes, everything. You all continue to be amazing.
Wow a lot to write about today. The docs came in today and said they don't want to wait longer for the surgery and are scheduling it for tomorrow. Hopefully this will follow through and all will go fine with that!
Today has been a long day for Dad - but a good day. I knew we were wearing him out when he was yawning at me! I had some school stuff to do today and wasn't there the whole time, but when I came during my lunch break he sure was happy to see me. I said Hey dad! and he mouthed hi to me.. which i am not great at reading lips so I said huh like twice and he had to keep saying it until I finally understood.
A case manager came by today to talk about his rehab --- trying to find a good place to put him and stuff. Dedo (Sharon) and I visited with Dad a long time. She made him laugh when she compared his short haircut on the one side where they had shaved it and it is growing back to the haircut his Dad used to give him as a kid. That made him smile big just thinkin about that.
I was talking to him about if he wanted to hurry up and get back to work... he didn't really respond so then I mentioned well I know you miss playing the domino's at lunch time at least right. He laughed a little at that and nodded... I know that is one thing he loves. I always hear about the guys who lose having to take out the trash. :)
David, Dad's boss at work, came in to see Dad today. He was so so excited about all his progress. He was literally tickled pink when he was talking to me. The enthusiasm in his face and in his words was so real. It felt good to know that he is truly loved so much by his coworkers! WOW! That should really say something. David brought a funny picture of Walter and Doug Cutsinger sitting at work in their blue suits --- with their feet propped up not doing anywork because Dad's not there. It said something about the backlog building up !
When I came back up there after I left the school this evening, I walked in the room and he just opens his eyes a little wider to look at me. I smile at him and say Hey!! and this time instead of just a hi --- he mouthed 'hey babe'... I thought that was so sweet.
It is so funny how much of his personality really shines through randomly sometimes. Today mom was asking him questions --- and he just gives her this whatever look sometimes when he really doesn't care about what she is telling him. When we were leaving at 630 for shift change she asked if he wanted the light off and he shrugged his shoulders and gave this look of - doesn't matter either way...
He played the air drums today in beat with the music. He is so cute --- just makes me smile thinking about it! When I left earlier he gave me another wink when I told him I loved him. Mom fussed again about him never winking at her and always just at me. He just looked at her like "you know I love you don't fuss".
Tiff was there again today, and Steve and Tracy Scannell also came to visit. (These are Mom and Dad's friends from their dutch oven group, and I am very close with them because I have worked with Steve and Tracy in their dental practice). He was sleepy when they went up there, but told me he did open his eyes when they told him Megan was coming back in a minute. Makes me get a warm fuzzy all inside! :)
Anyway so surgery tomorrow it looks like. His WBC count isn't as low as they would like for it to be, but I know they wouldn't move forward with surgery if they didn't think it was safe.
I love you all --- and thanks for all the phone calls, hugs, notes, everything. You all continue to be amazing.
I'm walking on cloud 9......I could not be happier.....Please feel welcome to come visit.......remember that from 6:30 -8:00 am and pm the unit is closed. He in bed #9 SIMU Herman Hospital. Park in garage#4 off of McGregor Dr. garage is to the left after you pass the Houston Zoo (coming from 288). I love receiving all the cards. I think Mark was a little overwhelmed that they were all for him. We are still working on the scrap book of pictures...e-mails and copies of the blog , and will we will include all the cards also. Mark cannot have flowers or balloons yet, maybe when he get his own room. I think he also would like his own room so he could watch T. V. ......I teased him tonight about it.....all he has now is to watch all the pretty nurses!!!!
Today, I left the hospital to get Mark's X-rays from his Chiropractor, see if they can use them to compare his neck before the accident. If everything looks OK, they can remove the neck brace. Otherwise the will not remove it until the can do a MRI, and they cannot do that until they remove the pin from his traction, for his pelvic injury.
So until then we wait for his white blood count to come down!!!
Tonight, he drank water from a straw. Amazing, the things we take for granted.
Thank you, God for every breath we take. Bless us all. Betty
Today, I left the hospital to get Mark's X-rays from his Chiropractor, see if they can use them to compare his neck before the accident. If everything looks OK, they can remove the neck brace. Otherwise the will not remove it until the can do a MRI, and they cannot do that until they remove the pin from his traction, for his pelvic injury.
So until then we wait for his white blood count to come down!!!
Tonight, he drank water from a straw. Amazing, the things we take for granted.
Thank you, God for every breath we take. Bless us all. Betty
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
8-7-07
I was just thinking about that date and it made me think of that 8675309 song... anyway - speaking of the date today was officially one month.
I didn't know a week ago we would be this far. Dad was still very responsive today. Greg Turner from Dad's work came to see him today. He was apparently telling mom and dad about how much everyone misses him being gone and that Walter especially needs him back at work... Dad rolled his eyes when Greg mentioned Walter...
So Walter... apparently this is funny!
It was good to see some of his personality in just that little gesture. Tonight when we were up there we said our goodnights and got good night kisses again. What a wonderful thing. I was taking off my gown and telling Dad goodnight again, telling him I love him, trying to walk away even though I didn't want to. So I kept telling him over and over as I was walking. He smiled a little smile and I got another wink!
Yay for a wink. It's like one of those things... it makes me wish I could just carry that little wink in my pocket every day. I would know it was there and could check and see it if I needed to. Just makes me smile all over.
Tiff drove down to San Marcos today and was very happy to see Dad. She is gonna come back in the morning before going back to San marcos tomorrow. Bruce came to visit today too.
Think of the wink and let it make you smile when you read this!!
Love Meg
I didn't know a week ago we would be this far. Dad was still very responsive today. Greg Turner from Dad's work came to see him today. He was apparently telling mom and dad about how much everyone misses him being gone and that Walter especially needs him back at work... Dad rolled his eyes when Greg mentioned Walter...
So Walter... apparently this is funny!
It was good to see some of his personality in just that little gesture. Tonight when we were up there we said our goodnights and got good night kisses again. What a wonderful thing. I was taking off my gown and telling Dad goodnight again, telling him I love him, trying to walk away even though I didn't want to. So I kept telling him over and over as I was walking. He smiled a little smile and I got another wink!
Yay for a wink. It's like one of those things... it makes me wish I could just carry that little wink in my pocket every day. I would know it was there and could check and see it if I needed to. Just makes me smile all over.
Tiff drove down to San Marcos today and was very happy to see Dad. She is gonna come back in the morning before going back to San marcos tomorrow. Bruce came to visit today too.
Think of the wink and let it make you smile when you read this!!
Love Meg
Monday, August 6, 2007
"Sounds like somebody has a case of the Mondays..."
If you have seen the movie Office Space, you know this quote probably all too well.
I can tell you one thing, my Dad did not have a case of the 'Mondays' today. Today was day thirty and let me just tell you what a day it has been. I hope I don't leave anything out!
We had adventures with a Neurotic Nurse today who did everything in her power to keep us out of that room today, and to be a total jerk - no lie. She told me not to talk to him because I was agitating him... I'm not even gonna go on here about how much she aggravated me today because it is over and done with --- lets just put it this way - she was condescending and rude.
Dedo and Paw Paw (Wayman and Sharon) came to see Dad today too. His WBC count is still elevated, but they inserted another chest tube into his lung on the right side and removed one of the two from his left side. He was pretty alert alot of today.
Mom and I fussed and bugged a lot of people looking for a longer bed, to no avail. However, miraculously one appeared later and he is much more comfortable in it. Also, he read a lot of the cards that have come in the mail today. Not sure if he is comprehending or not, but he looks like he is reading the words. I watched his eyes today as he did this, and it looks like the track back and forth as if he were reading - so hopefully he is. He is still doing really good at answering questions and nodding responses.
He can follow commands and today when I brushed his teeth -- he didn't try to bite me! He actually opened his mouth and let me clean them a little better instead of just the fronts of them like usual! When I sprayed the water in to rinse the toothpaste off and to suction it out... that little brat swallowed the water! Mom told me she has been sticking the little sponges they have to clean his mouth with filled with ice water in his mouth and he has been sucking the water out of them. They told us they don't want him to do this yet until they "test" his swallowing capabilities. If he does well, they will take that feeding tube out to let him hopefully eat or drink soon...
I went to a dental school social thing tonight, and when I came back up to the hospital afterwards and walked in the room, he looked so happy to see me. Me and mom would just be talking to him or talking to each other, and he will just reach out and grab your hand because he wants to just hold it. We were taking pictures and notes down and showing them all to him.
I was talking to him and joking around about something, and I am mad that I can't remember what it was, but I made him laugh. I said some smart ass comment and he laughed. He smiled at a couple of other things I said today, but whatever I had said it made him grin and laugh a little. It was such a wonderful thing to see, and me and mom got so excited about it we can't remember what I was saying that was so darned funny.
I also told Dad tonight when Mom was asking him if she could bring anything --- even though there wasn't even really a way for him to answer. I was like, I know Dad, we can wheel your margarita machine in here and get you some margaritas. I thought he hadn't heard me really, but he must of thought about it for a second, but he kinda shrugged his shoulders and arms and made this face like "Hmm, not a bad idea!"... it was really funny.
I was in his room earlier today and just looking at him and talking to him, and he winked at me. It was something he always has done on random occasions is wink at me, especially when I was younger. I was thrown off, and I said with a huge grin, Dad was that a wink!?! and he nodded yes that it was with a tiny grin on his face.
I feel like I am just rambling all these little milestones off that we had today. Man, I know he is still very sick, but he is gonna be fine, I KNOW IT! I am so glad that I know it too because it feels like this weight is off my shoulders, and now I can just enjoy my time with him. It feels like real quality time too.
He also got downgraded tonight out of ICU! O man, that was probably important to some of you and I should have said so earlier --- oh well the people that skimmed over my ramblings will miss this bit of good news. He is now in the Intermediate critical care, which is a step down! Still is on machines and everything, but this is great! So he isn't technically in ICU now, but is still in the SIMU - shock Intermediate medical unit or something like that...
Anyway, I wanted to say the best piece of the day for last. We were getting ready to go, and I was telling dad that I don't like telling him goodnight and that I am sad to leave. I was telling him a hundred times how much I love him and I was trying to lean over the bed (which has higher sides than the old bed he had and I could barely reach him) and was going to give him a kiss on his cheek. He looks up at me leaning over and pursed his lips! I was like WHAT! My Dad wants a real goodnight kiss!! So I had to almost climb over that rail to reach his lips!
Mom was like Ah, what about me can I have a kiss too? and she leaned over and he gave her a goodnight kiss as well.
God is oh so good. I know everyone reading this knows what an amazing man that is up in that hospital ... but he is so more amazing to me than words can describe. He is my Dad... and it just doesn't get much better than that - a daughter's love for her Daddy is like no other. Man I love that man! So So much.
I love you all as well, I was so happy to read all the notes on the comments tonight, to see that everyone else is just as overjoyed as we are about this step toward his recovery! We can do this together, ya there may be a long long road ahead of him, but we are gonna get there!
Thank you everyone who is helping out with little Matthew, thank you to the guys that went to San Marcos last week and took care of business there. Thank you for the encouragement, and phonecalls to check on us and on Dad.
We love you!!! Thank you LORD!!! What amazing blessings continue to pour down!
Love Megan
I can tell you one thing, my Dad did not have a case of the 'Mondays' today. Today was day thirty and let me just tell you what a day it has been. I hope I don't leave anything out!
We had adventures with a Neurotic Nurse today who did everything in her power to keep us out of that room today, and to be a total jerk - no lie. She told me not to talk to him because I was agitating him... I'm not even gonna go on here about how much she aggravated me today because it is over and done with --- lets just put it this way - she was condescending and rude.
Dedo and Paw Paw (Wayman and Sharon) came to see Dad today too. His WBC count is still elevated, but they inserted another chest tube into his lung on the right side and removed one of the two from his left side. He was pretty alert alot of today.
Mom and I fussed and bugged a lot of people looking for a longer bed, to no avail. However, miraculously one appeared later and he is much more comfortable in it. Also, he read a lot of the cards that have come in the mail today. Not sure if he is comprehending or not, but he looks like he is reading the words. I watched his eyes today as he did this, and it looks like the track back and forth as if he were reading - so hopefully he is. He is still doing really good at answering questions and nodding responses.
He can follow commands and today when I brushed his teeth -- he didn't try to bite me! He actually opened his mouth and let me clean them a little better instead of just the fronts of them like usual! When I sprayed the water in to rinse the toothpaste off and to suction it out... that little brat swallowed the water! Mom told me she has been sticking the little sponges they have to clean his mouth with filled with ice water in his mouth and he has been sucking the water out of them. They told us they don't want him to do this yet until they "test" his swallowing capabilities. If he does well, they will take that feeding tube out to let him hopefully eat or drink soon...
I went to a dental school social thing tonight, and when I came back up to the hospital afterwards and walked in the room, he looked so happy to see me. Me and mom would just be talking to him or talking to each other, and he will just reach out and grab your hand because he wants to just hold it. We were taking pictures and notes down and showing them all to him.
I was talking to him and joking around about something, and I am mad that I can't remember what it was, but I made him laugh. I said some smart ass comment and he laughed. He smiled at a couple of other things I said today, but whatever I had said it made him grin and laugh a little. It was such a wonderful thing to see, and me and mom got so excited about it we can't remember what I was saying that was so darned funny.
I also told Dad tonight when Mom was asking him if she could bring anything --- even though there wasn't even really a way for him to answer. I was like, I know Dad, we can wheel your margarita machine in here and get you some margaritas. I thought he hadn't heard me really, but he must of thought about it for a second, but he kinda shrugged his shoulders and arms and made this face like "Hmm, not a bad idea!"... it was really funny.
I was in his room earlier today and just looking at him and talking to him, and he winked at me. It was something he always has done on random occasions is wink at me, especially when I was younger. I was thrown off, and I said with a huge grin, Dad was that a wink!?! and he nodded yes that it was with a tiny grin on his face.
I feel like I am just rambling all these little milestones off that we had today. Man, I know he is still very sick, but he is gonna be fine, I KNOW IT! I am so glad that I know it too because it feels like this weight is off my shoulders, and now I can just enjoy my time with him. It feels like real quality time too.
He also got downgraded tonight out of ICU! O man, that was probably important to some of you and I should have said so earlier --- oh well the people that skimmed over my ramblings will miss this bit of good news. He is now in the Intermediate critical care, which is a step down! Still is on machines and everything, but this is great! So he isn't technically in ICU now, but is still in the SIMU - shock Intermediate medical unit or something like that...
Anyway, I wanted to say the best piece of the day for last. We were getting ready to go, and I was telling dad that I don't like telling him goodnight and that I am sad to leave. I was telling him a hundred times how much I love him and I was trying to lean over the bed (which has higher sides than the old bed he had and I could barely reach him) and was going to give him a kiss on his cheek. He looks up at me leaning over and pursed his lips! I was like WHAT! My Dad wants a real goodnight kiss!! So I had to almost climb over that rail to reach his lips!
Mom was like Ah, what about me can I have a kiss too? and she leaned over and he gave her a goodnight kiss as well.
God is oh so good. I know everyone reading this knows what an amazing man that is up in that hospital ... but he is so more amazing to me than words can describe. He is my Dad... and it just doesn't get much better than that - a daughter's love for her Daddy is like no other. Man I love that man! So So much.
I love you all as well, I was so happy to read all the notes on the comments tonight, to see that everyone else is just as overjoyed as we are about this step toward his recovery! We can do this together, ya there may be a long long road ahead of him, but we are gonna get there!
Thank you everyone who is helping out with little Matthew, thank you to the guys that went to San Marcos last week and took care of business there. Thank you for the encouragement, and phonecalls to check on us and on Dad.
We love you!!! Thank you LORD!!! What amazing blessings continue to pour down!
Love Megan
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Four Words Never Meant So Much...
God is so so good.
What else is there to say? Yah, I could say this is because of the medicine, or yah, he just decided to wake up today.
Nope! The Lord is so so amazing, and I am only beginning to see the wonderful power and healing that He is capable of. I just want to fall to my knees... Thank you Lord, Thank You.
I was so scared, but seeing my father today made me feel like I could do anything, that nothing was impossible. The Lord has His healing hands all over this amazing father that I have... and wouldn't have it any other way.
Thankful doesn't seem to be enough of a word. Grateful doesn't either. I feel just utter awe and bewilderment --- amazed and so so happy inside.
I looked at my Dad tonight, and was just talking away. I said, " Dad, I don't think you know how much I love you. I am so glad you are here, that you are MY Dad. I love you so much." He looked at me and said four words that have never hit me so hard...
"I love you too" ---
Oh my God... what those words did to me. No, no sound came out because his trach is still in, but I can read his lips, and those words were never more distinct. My jaw dropped and I just started to cry a little. I kissed him a hundred times on his face. I told him goodnight tonight and told him I didn't want to leave. Mom told him goodnight and said I love you, and when we were about to leave, he mouthed to her "I love you too".
All this is among all his squirming around in the bed, squeezing our hands , nodding yes and no to all sorts of questions. God is goooooood, oh so good. Thank you Thank you Lord.
Right now, its as nothing else in life matters. It has never been more clear to me than it is at this very moment, that my life is so utterly in His hands, in His power, and not in my own.
I love you all...
Love Meg
What could I possibly add to this but to say that I am truly blessed. Just to have our prayers answered. I was so worried about Megan starting school this week, I wanted to take the burden of worry off of her shoulders. I did not think that we could continue on another week. Mark's got a lot more healing to do. Now I know, that by God's willing hand that we are on the road to recovery.
I LOVE YOU TOO!!!!
Betty
What else is there to say? Yah, I could say this is because of the medicine, or yah, he just decided to wake up today.
Nope! The Lord is so so amazing, and I am only beginning to see the wonderful power and healing that He is capable of. I just want to fall to my knees... Thank you Lord, Thank You.
I was so scared, but seeing my father today made me feel like I could do anything, that nothing was impossible. The Lord has His healing hands all over this amazing father that I have... and wouldn't have it any other way.
Thankful doesn't seem to be enough of a word. Grateful doesn't either. I feel just utter awe and bewilderment --- amazed and so so happy inside.
I looked at my Dad tonight, and was just talking away. I said, " Dad, I don't think you know how much I love you. I am so glad you are here, that you are MY Dad. I love you so much." He looked at me and said four words that have never hit me so hard...
"I love you too" ---
Oh my God... what those words did to me. No, no sound came out because his trach is still in, but I can read his lips, and those words were never more distinct. My jaw dropped and I just started to cry a little. I kissed him a hundred times on his face. I told him goodnight tonight and told him I didn't want to leave. Mom told him goodnight and said I love you, and when we were about to leave, he mouthed to her "I love you too".
All this is among all his squirming around in the bed, squeezing our hands , nodding yes and no to all sorts of questions. God is goooooood, oh so good. Thank you Thank you Lord.
Right now, its as nothing else in life matters. It has never been more clear to me than it is at this very moment, that my life is so utterly in His hands, in His power, and not in my own.
I love you all...
Love Meg
What could I possibly add to this but to say that I am truly blessed. Just to have our prayers answered. I was so worried about Megan starting school this week, I wanted to take the burden of worry off of her shoulders. I did not think that we could continue on another week. Mark's got a lot more healing to do. Now I know, that by God's willing hand that we are on the road to recovery.
I LOVE YOU TOO!!!!
Betty
A simple nod...
OH my God. What an amazing amazing blessed morning!! I was driving home from church and called Mom on my phone, she was at the hospital and told me Dad was much more responsive today and to hurry up here.
He shocked the hell out of me to be honest. I walked in the room and his eyes were open. Mom was talking to him and he was responding. She said the nurses asked him if he was in pain earlier and he nodded his head yes. She called Tiff on her cell phone and Tiff talked to him and he was listening, and told Mom he could hear her.
I was talking to him and trying to keep him awake, because he is obviously tired. He opened his eyes and could look at both of us, today was the first days his eyes have moved side to side like they were. They call this tracking at the hospital, and it is a good sign!
I asked him "Dad, you know I am getting married in December. You are gonna be well enough to walk me down that aisle right? " He looked at me for a second and nodded his head.
That was all I needed. So, I don't have any WBC counts for you or anything else... this is just what I needed today to uplift my spirit, and to remind me that the Lord is working on him in His own time.
Thank you Lord! He is gonna pull Dad through this!! Amazing!!!
Love you all
Love Meg
He shocked the hell out of me to be honest. I walked in the room and his eyes were open. Mom was talking to him and he was responding. She said the nurses asked him if he was in pain earlier and he nodded his head yes. She called Tiff on her cell phone and Tiff talked to him and he was listening, and told Mom he could hear her.
I was talking to him and trying to keep him awake, because he is obviously tired. He opened his eyes and could look at both of us, today was the first days his eyes have moved side to side like they were. They call this tracking at the hospital, and it is a good sign!
I asked him "Dad, you know I am getting married in December. You are gonna be well enough to walk me down that aisle right? " He looked at me for a second and nodded his head.
That was all I needed. So, I don't have any WBC counts for you or anything else... this is just what I needed today to uplift my spirit, and to remind me that the Lord is working on him in His own time.
Thank you Lord! He is gonna pull Dad through this!! Amazing!!!
Love you all
Love Meg
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Day 28
Most of the time I leave all the blog reporting to Meg. Last night I got on the computer, I looked up head trauma. Needless to say, I could not sleep at all. I went to the Hospital at 5am. I was determined to get answers from the Neurologist. Well, they sure don't make promises. His surgeon is Oriental and hard to understand. So we are on to plan B. We have a call into his nurse. Mark has been off of the ventilator all day. They have been using a trek collar that has supplied oxygen, but he has to do all the work himself. This is good. They also took him off of all the Morphine. He is still taking Oxycodone. He has a hard time staying awake. Must be good stuff!! He's still getting breathing treatments. They, still can't find out were the infection is. But with drain tubes coming out of him and all the cuts for all the drains in him. I think we are on the list for Monday (again)for surgery if his White blood cell count stays down. Mark, I think is a little more alert today.
I'm so afraid of the unknown. I try to keep positive. It will be four weeks today. Most of the time I'm OK.
That was written last about 2 am
Now his white blood count is back up to 25. His chest x-ray looks worse, so they did a cat scan on his chest. They said that his right lung looks worse than his left and they may consider inserting a drain into that side.
Thank you all for everything that you do for us.....Keeping Matt, working on the trailer in San Marcus ...everything.....your prayers...Thank you !! Betty
I'm so afraid of the unknown. I try to keep positive. It will be four weeks today. Most of the time I'm OK.
That was written last about 2 am
Now his white blood count is back up to 25. His chest x-ray looks worse, so they did a cat scan on his chest. They said that his right lung looks worse than his left and they may consider inserting a drain into that side.
Thank you all for everything that you do for us.....Keeping Matt, working on the trailer in San Marcus ...everything.....your prayers...Thank you !! Betty
Friday, August 3, 2007
WBC down finally
They said today his WBC went down to 17 from like 21 yesterday. I have a feeling it had to do with that vancomycin they gave him! YAY!
Hopefully this trend will continue.
I will add more when I hear anything else.
Love Meg
Hopefully this trend will continue.
I will add more when I hear anything else.
Love Meg
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Day 26
Well, today has been rather uneventful here at the hospital. Dad's temperature is still up, his WBC went up a bit to 21 today. He is sitting up better in the bed today, and seems to be breathing better this way. I looked at another xray this morning, they said it didn't really show any change.
They decided to broaden the antibiotics again today and put him on vancomycin again. hopefully this will help.
His traction on his leg doesn't seem to be doing anygood at all. Mom pulled the weights off and told the nurse she was a rebel. Mom is a nerd... lol.
Anyway, they called orthopedics and told him that the traction being on there isn't doing good if the bed is too short and he can't keep his leg straight.
He is agitated today. He keeps waking up every minute or so, and then after about 20 seconds, falls back asleep, as if tired from fussing.
I heard a song today that I really needed to hear. It is called If you want me to and it is by Ginney Owens. The lyrics, I posted here, because they moved me to tears.
The pathway is broken
The signs are unclear
I can't find the reason why You led me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I will go through the valley If You want me to
Now I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise
You're not through with me yet
And if all of these trials can make me like You
I will go through the fire If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen'
Cause it leads me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
Only that I'll never go alone
When the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley If You want me to
I love this song. It just makes so much sense right now...
I love you all... thank you so much for the continued messages and notes in both my email box and on this blog.
All of my love. Keep praying!Please!
Love Megan
They decided to broaden the antibiotics again today and put him on vancomycin again. hopefully this will help.
His traction on his leg doesn't seem to be doing anygood at all. Mom pulled the weights off and told the nurse she was a rebel. Mom is a nerd... lol.
Anyway, they called orthopedics and told him that the traction being on there isn't doing good if the bed is too short and he can't keep his leg straight.
He is agitated today. He keeps waking up every minute or so, and then after about 20 seconds, falls back asleep, as if tired from fussing.
I heard a song today that I really needed to hear. It is called If you want me to and it is by Ginney Owens. The lyrics, I posted here, because they moved me to tears.
The pathway is broken
The signs are unclear
I can't find the reason why You led me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I will go through the valley If You want me to
Now I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise
You're not through with me yet
And if all of these trials can make me like You
I will go through the fire If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen'
Cause it leads me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
Only that I'll never go alone
When the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley If You want me to
I love this song. It just makes so much sense right now...
I love you all... thank you so much for the continued messages and notes in both my email box and on this blog.
All of my love. Keep praying!Please!
Love Megan
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Wednesday Update
Not a whole lot of updates today. Dad seemed comfortable today, they decreased his morphine and increased his other pain medicines.
His fever was down today which was good and his WBC count decreased a little bit. They did another xray today which showed no change... not very good.
I will post more when I have more to tell...
Keep the prayers a comin!
Love Megan
His fever was down today which was good and his WBC count decreased a little bit. They did another xray today which showed no change... not very good.
I will post more when I have more to tell...
Keep the prayers a comin!
Love Megan
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