Sorry for not posting updates since Monday (thanks for the gentle reminder Pamela -- your comment in my email provoked this post and I am glad as I will not remember the details a week from now). I've been living at the ICU. Dad has been busy. For those tuning in late, had a scheduled surgical repair (open repair no less) of an abdominal arotic aneurysm. Complications we have experience this week included:
- Impaired kidney function (very slow to return but returning none the less!),
- Pneumonia, not severe (what do you expect after a week on a ventilator?),
- Heart arrhythmia (that stunk, it is really hard to watch a sleeping person having a heart rate of 140+ bests per minute, because it was AFib they could shock him to get the rhythm back, it eventually worked -- I don't remember how many times he got shocked, I left the room though and watched the heart rate on the monitor)
- Antibiotic induced C-Diff (avoid this if you can, it is nasty but curable)
- Some need for insulin due to sugar issues (typical after major surgery)
- Blood transfusions have been needed, but only 2 I think -- pretty cool that they can recycle your own blood lost during surgery, he bot 2 bonus units on top of this but that's okay.
- A minor MI (who knows when that happened between the surgery, a-fib, shocks, and recovery he slipped a minor heart attack in there somewhere. No major damage apparently).
Lights in the darkness:
- Dad recognized me today.
- Dad told me he loved me too.
- Dad wanted a diet pepsi but settled for the ice chips offered without complaint.
- My older brother and I have become closer through this challenge.
- I'm blessed with a Hubby who supports me so I can be with my dad
- I have had 3 separate meals provided by friends this week -- this is a simple mercy that brings comfort and joy to a tired mom!
- My faith is stronger through the struggles as prayer brings me the comfort and strength I need.
It has been a crazy rough week. Comments and encouragement have given me needed strength. Thank you for the good thoughts and prayers!!!! I am blessed and grateful. Dad is slowly coming back... every day going forward is a bonus. I have also advised everyone close to me that if I EVER have this major of a surgery that I would like HEAVY sedation! I will be sure to tell my dad after all of this that it was I who looked out for his comfort! ;-)
4 comments:
Woohooo!!! SO glad for you. SO glad.
That is SUCH good news! Thanks for letting us know. One day at a time... still sending you all my happy thoughts :)
Cyalayta
Mal :)
wow. It's been a tough row hasn't it.
your words ring positive in my read.
Get well DAD!!!
Wow, sounds like an incredibly difficult week. BUT it also sounds like things are turning around for the better! So glad to hear it, will keep your family in my thoughts.
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