Walter Update

Over the last week, Walter has continued to improve. Unfortunately, I am experiencing problems with my car and thus have not been able to visit. On Thursday, I spoke with his nurse at St. Elizabeth Medical Center and was pleasantly surprised to hear that my dad was alert, even smiling. The nurse placed the phone up to my dad's ear and let me talk to him. Because of the tracheotomy, he could not respond verbally, however, the nurse said that he was moving his lips in an attempt to communicate with me. God is amazing!

The hospital is going to discharge Walter either this week or next week to a rehabilitation center. Apparently there are only 3 places in this area that provide an on site respiratory specialist. Lucky for us, one of the places is located in my neighborhood. Even better, on Friday I found out that he would be accepted into the facility! Another blessing! This week I will take a tour.

I am simply amazed by where we are today when I think back to the prognosis I received from the doctors just 3 weeks ago. I am thankful for everyone's prayers - I was given more time.

Another Surgical Procedure

My dad had three minor surgical procedures on Wednesday. He received a tracheotomy so the ventilation tubes could be removed from his throat and lungs and connected to the trachea. A feeding tube was inserted to provide better nutrition. And the location of the tube that facilitates dialysis was moved to a different location.

I am excited to report that he is showing signs of improvement. After speaking with both the doctor and nurses responsible for his care at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Walter has been following simple commands. There is now hope for recovery, although it may take months. Prayer and faith works.

We plan to take Muddear over to see him this weekend.

Response to Anonymous

Anonymous said...
"Dear Nikki,I don't know how you do it but you manage to find the funny in the everyday. I admire your spirit. Thanks for sharing."
December 10, 2007 11:56:00 PM EST

Anonymous,

I am a very happy person by nature. I love to laugh...the more often the better. Sometimes it gets me in trouble, because I have been guilty of laughing at inappropriate times. (Ask my husband.)

Seriously, being able to find "the funny" in the everyday is what has enabled me to continue to care for my grandmother and other family members. Especially during difficult times. Sometimes life is hard, but God and laughter help me hurdle over "life's bumps" with ease.

Thanks for your continued support.

"Our mouths are filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy...The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." Psalm 126:2-3

Walter Update

By the way, yesterday I called the hospital and am thankful that I continue to receive good news. The Renal Specialist wants to remove Walter from continuous dialysis and transition him to three days per week. (Really good thing.) In addition, the Respiratory Specialist, wants to transition Walter to a less "demanding" type of ventilation system. (Really, really good thing.) I don't know the true medical term, but my understanding is that the new ventilator will require my dad to use his lungs more and depend less on the machine. They hope to achieve this transition by the weekend. The biggest benefit for the transition is the new ventilator causes significantly less pain and will require less sedation.

The only concern is that the doctors, over the last few days, have been attempting to wean him from the sedation without huge successes. Part of this is due to all of the medical contraptions he is hooked up to and the other part is unknown. The most significant problem is that my dad is not as responsive as they believe he should be. We will know better this weekend, once all of the transitions have taken place.

I plan to take Muddear to see her "baby" within the next few days. Hopefully, he will be able to talk to her. I never expected this level of responsibility when I became my grandmother's caregiver. However, in the span of a few weeks, I find myself caring for Muddear, Phil, and Walter. I am thankful to God for the strength and courage.

The Cat's Out of The Bag

Tuesday night, I talked to Muddear about Walter. She seemed to take the news okay, but I could tell that Muddear was really worried, as any mother would be.

I must admit that I did not tell her exactly how long Walter has been in the hospital nor did I tell her how grave the reports have been. I simply reassured her that the doctors are committed to doing everything possible to help Walter recover.

After talking we prayed and Muddear went to bed.

I am so relieved that I talked to Muddear about Walter. It has been a couple of days since our discussion with no repercussions. I will confirm with the aide.

Daily, I realize that being a caregiver often requires you to make difficult decisions that may significantly impact your loved one. I can only thank God for his wisdom during these times.