A doctor from the surgical group was in to see dad this morning. He pulled up a chair at the foot of dad's bed and basically resigned to waiting things out another day. Dad gets the feeling that all involved were hoping that he would be going home today. Another doctor from the same group later admitted that his pain level and progress so far has been greater and slower than they had originally anticipated. We all agree that we would rather see him here getting the care he requires than at home and in need of care that would not be immediately accessible.
His blood work looks good today. The JP drain was removed this morning, which leaves the PICC line as the only remaining tube in dad's body. His diet has been advance to soft solids at whatever level he feels he can tolerate. He has been cleared for showers and is encouraged to get up and out of bed several times per day.
As a transitional measure moving forward, an internist of dad's request will be brought into the mix of doctors to assist in his long term recovery plan. Yesterday, dad had asked who exactly was directing all of this activity, to which the answer was, "well, no one really." The internist will provide a broader perspective on how to best address dad's needs from now through complete recovery.
Dad is only now beginning to comprehend the magnitude of what his body has been through. He is seeing that the days ahead will need to be traversed one at a time, and with great patience and care for himself.
Continue to keep him in your prayers as his body fights infection and pain. Pray for wisdom and understanding on behalf of the doctors involved. Pray for mom as she makes this transition alongside of dad. They both express their overwhelming gratitude for all of the support you all have expressed during this time.
So for now, we wait one more day. Dad is better today than yesterday (in some areas) and drastically better than he was one week ago. Time moves steadily forward, and so do we.
To close, dad has made jokes about people wishing him a speedy recovery. He just hopes that he doesn't wreck getting there. :)
Peace and love to you...
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WOW! Great news. Just think, you'll be straddled up on Auntie Anne's Harley before you know it! Ready to rip and roar through the country side with the wind whipping your face. Of course, there is always plan B. You could be riding in a side car at the mercy of Auntie Anne!!! Think you had best be a good patient and not a prickly bear. Give everyone our love. Haven't heard much about LaWonna and Russ. Hope she has all of the help she needs out at the Center and that Russ is feeling better! Just wishin' we weren't so blasted far away. Give Cristian and all of the kids a big hug and Hello. Hey LaVale, have you thought of a title for your first book yet? AND Is there a release date for Uncle Jonas' book? Want to get an autographed copy. So, we'll fly up when it hits the market and stand patiently in line for him to sign. OR Maybe I'll just ship Dicky up for a week or so and ya can tinker on the old cars and toss around some tootie-poopie jokes. Just holler! Kim
ReplyDeleteHi Jonas
ReplyDeleteGlad things are coming along. Remember when you get home does not mean you are completly healed. They will give you guie lines to follow and you know what there will be alot of eyes watching to make sure you listen. We are missing you and your family. Take care
We love you guys.
Harold and Linda
I happened on this blog while surfing around a short time ago. Having cared for my own parents, it was of interest to me. Thought I'd finally leave a comment :-). I'm very glad things seem to be coming along well for him, and I adore his spirit.~Mary
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