Monday, September 1, 2008

Update From Dad

It's just easier for dad to give me posted updates now since he's there and can give details. So, they may not come as frequently as twice a day. ha ha Here is the latest from yesterday.

It was a day of ups and downs for Linda. The day began with the PEG procedure, which was definitely a “down” from Linda’s perspective – she hates pain and the unknown. But, the procedure went well and by 4:00 PM in the afternoon she was being fed through the PEG. Her medication schedule was interrupted much of the day due to the switch in her feeding tubes, so she had a little more discomfort and pain during the day. Every thing now seems to be in line for a move within the next couple of days, but not home. Her heart doctor wants her to begin a period of in-patient rehabilitation at the rehab center here at the same hospital in Raleigh. This may take up to a couple of weeks depending upon the doctor’s recommendation and Linda’s progress. Of course, over the week-end we were not able to discuss this with her doctor or case workers and since Monday is a holiday, it will be Tuesday before we get some answers to questions about rehab. So, pray for us to have wisdom to make the right decision that will be in Linda’s best interest for recovery.

Up to now, everything surrounding the surgery has gone very well except this throat matter. Her temperature has been normal, her oxygen level is back in the normal range, she is walking and the doctor seems satisfied that her heart surgery was a success. Now the attention is upon getting her voice back to normal and being able to swallow. No one can tell us how long this will take.

Our son, Jon, called and briefly talked with Linda which was an encouragement to her. (Note: Jon has “strayed” over the years and hasn’t maintained close family ties) Her dear friend from our old days in Goldsboro, Susan, came by with some hats for Linda to try on. (Linda is worried about having a “bad hair day.”) Also, Pastor and Mrs. Frasher visited for awhile in the afternoon. She enjoys visitors but it is very difficult to carry on a conversation because of her weak voice plus she still get tired pretty quickly.

We have developed a deeper appreciation for some very special servants – nurses. Over these twelve days at Wake Med, we have been surrounded by some wonderful nurses who have a deep commitment to their profession and a loyal compassion for their patients. Their care has been excellent.

Continue to pray for us. (I know you will.) Some things on the home front and ministry are getting a little behind, but we’ll get caught up when we can. God continues to be so good to us.

Still Looking Up,
Joe

1 comment:

Shannon said...

We're still so glad for the detailed updates you're posting, and we continue to pray. Your dad's perspective is an encouragement! It's wonderful that your mom's heart surgery was so successful, though I know the other issues with her throat are certainly stressful as well.

Love you, Jenn, and happy to have you back!