Good Morning. Well, not really. Bethany experienced her worst night yet. This morning hasn't been any better. I thought I would give a quick update to encourage everyone to continue to pray for her comfort and healing.
After a very good day yesterday, the day wound down, and she was in a lot of pain. We tried everything to make her even remotely comfortable. We ordered a new air mattress, pumped it, deflated it, pumped it some more....yada yada yada, until we thought we had it just right. That, in and of itself, was quite the undertaking. Having to life Bethany, who is in excruciating pain, is not a task for the weak of heart. She moaned and groaned, with an occasional scream of pain, while we were attempting to make her more comfortable. Her hips are very painful. She has lost so much weight, that her bones are sticking out and after 16+ days of lying flat in bed, it has become painful. Combine that with the two incisions in her back, the two drains, the pic line in her chest, the seven or so IV's, the foley catheter, the heart monitors, the pulse ox, the constant finger pricks of her blood sugar, blood draws, etc., she is holding up quite well. I know that I couldn't do it. Just put me down for the count.
I wrote yesterday about how her boyfriend, Nate, has been admitted into the hospital with meningitis. Well, Bethany is extremely distressed over that. I mentioned it to her surgeon this morning, and he was very surprised and is currently researching everything to find out if there is any connection between Bethany and Nate's conditions. We just called the surgeon, and he sent his nurse in to check on Bethany's pain management. We know that Dr. Healy would like to minimize her pain as much as possible.
Bethany has been literally screaming in pain all morning and is constantly crying, "I can't do this any more. Mom, help me." Yikes. So, they had increased her pain meds last night by administering dilatin. When the nurse asked Bethany if she wanted more, Bethany said, 'no,' because she was afraid and basically incoherent. So, the nurse resumed the morphine, which has begun to diminish it's effects on Bethany. Thus, this morning, the pain has reached an uncontrollable level. I remembered, that prior to Bethany's second surgery on Monday, the pre-surg doctor administered fentinol to Bethany and it basically knocked her out. So, I asked about it. Chris said that we would allow Bethany to have fentinol, which is even a bit stronger than dilatin.
In the interim, Bethany has been writhing in pain. As I am writing, she is receiving her dosage of fentinol. She has immediately calmed down. I am praying that she will continue to sleep all day.
Considering Bethany's condition, we are keeping with the policy of NO VISITORS TODAY please, except immediate family and Pastors. The doctor just took another spinal fluid sample to check for any bacteria, etc., and to see just what is causing so much pain. We know that the meningitis causes extreme pain, but because she has been on so many antibiotics for days.
For lack of sleep and rest, I have developed congestion and cold symptoms and an ear ache. My doctor is planning on calling me in a prescription. I am also going home, in a minute, to get an hour of sleep and a shower, and then return. Aunt Bonnie is going to take Joy to dinner and a movie, while Bethany and I chill. Chris will be coming up shortly (once I call him from waking up from my nap), as he has taken the day off. Woo Hoo! I could definitely use his strong shoulders today.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers. I haven't spell checked this. Too tired. Please forgive me. ha.
Love to all, Shari, Bonnie and Bethany
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
And so another day is ending and another night is beginning...
What a difference a day can make. Thank God! Although Bethany was in a lot of pain during the evening, it was able to be managed with an hourly dosage of morphine. Again, thank God for nurse, who was not only sweet, but whispered, took great care in not turning on unnecessary lights, and who was so willing to administer the pain medication without Bethany having to officially request any.
It was another very early morning, as Dr. McMaster, Dr. Healy's resident, arrived at 4:30am for a quick assessment. He said that everything seemed to be on schedule, and that Bethany should definitely start feeling the positive effects of all of the antibiotics being pumped into her body. She also began receiving 24/7 nutrition supplements, as she has been unable to eat, and has drank less than 1 ltr in 2 days.
Dr. Healy arrived around 6:30am with similar comments. He said the two drains were working perfectly, re-explained yesterday's surgical procedure. He seemed very optimistic and said that the meningitis is what is causing her so much pain and discomfort.
When Bethany awoke, she was in good spirits; she was, and is, still in a lot of pain, finding it difficult (at best) to move or shift positions and just generally painful to lay in bed flat. Her hips have been giving her excessive pain, as has her head, and back. I just spoke to my brother, Don, and his wife, Denise, who mentioned that hospitals have special air mattresses that you may request for such body pains. Done. I immediately requested one for Bethany, and we are merely waiting for it arrive.
Bethany has felt 1000% better today; she has been talking, texting, texting, and texting. After about 30 minutes of that, she collapses into a sound sleep. And then repeat.
When the Infectious Disease doctor arrived late morning, he said that Bethany would continue to be on antibiotics, through the pic line, for up to 6 months. He said that she looked good and that the plan was to continue pumping antibiotics into her, along with the nutrition and pain medicine, for about 3 days and then see her status. They are testing her blood sugar every 6 hours, with a finger prick, and endlessly monitoring her vitals. This is all very good.
Bethany's Aunt Bonnie, arrived from Texas last night (per Bethany's request), and has been a pleasant distraction and help. When Joe arrived to relieve me, Bon and I went home, refreshed, picked up some food and returned. Upon our return, we were met with some rather distressing news. Bethany's boyfriend, Nate, was just admitted into St. Vincent's Hospital, with meningitis. What? We were told that Bethany's bacterial meningitis was NOT contagious. Who knew?
I immediately went to his room, donned the mandatory (albeit fashionable) face mask, and began asking questions. By happenstance, I ran into her Neuro resident, Dr. McMaster, who just happened to be sitting at the desk outside of Nate's room. I mentioned that Nate's was Bethany's boyfriend, and he said that that concerned him. The infectious disease doctor said that Nate was contagious and blah, blah, blah.
Anyway,I just returned from Nate's room, two hours after my initial visit, and was informed that not only is Nate not contagious, but his meningitis is purely coincidental; it was possibly contracted when he was sick last week. The doctors are still doing cultures to determine the exact strain of meningitis, but they have totally ruled out bacterial. Thank God. Joy had decided not to come visit Bethany today just in case she had incorrectly been deemed non-contagious. I guess she could have come after all. We've basically had a lock down on visitation, with only immediate family (and boyfriends and Aunt Bonnie) allowed.
Bethany is quietly resting again; notice I didn't say, 'comfortably resting.' That is because she is having a difficult time getting comfortable due to the IV cords, the PIC cords, the heart monitor cords, blood pressure cuff, foley catheter and the pulse ox on her toe. However, 4 mg of morphine, about 30 minutes ago, really did the trick. I would love to have something to help me sleep throughout the entire evening, as I am really tired. I have caught a minor cold, but it's definitely taking its course on my body (mainly on my nose--achoo!)
Now that Bethany is seemingly through the worst of it all, I will explain a little more about yesterday, as Bonnie and I just revealed to Bethany.
•••There was a sudden rush yesterday to get Bethany into surgery. What was supposed to be a 20 minute surgery, lasted much, much longer. After an hour in recovery, they moved her to a room, just to have her still under the anesthetic for another three or more hours. I noticed a flurry of doctors and nurses streaming through her room throughout the early afternoon, a lot of medical whispering and just a general, over all, depressing attitude.
As I am not one to panic amount anything, least of all medical issues, I kept my mental commenting to myself. Today, after Bonnie and I had prayed together, we were discussing yesterday and she mentioned that yesterday she had felt, in her Spirit, that Bethany was at death's door. I said that I definitely felt like the angel of death had been very near, and she confirmed that our sister, Debbie, had felt the same way--along with a few of my nieces. We talked about how many hundreds, if not thousands, of people have been praying for Bethany, and we wondered just what may have happened had they not been lifting Bethany up to her Heavenly Father, casting out the enemy of her behalf and praying and fasting. I know that the enemy has no place in Bethany's life and I will not allow him to even take up a miniscule amount of space in her heart or life. Having said that.....Amen!
Thank you, again, for lifting her up and continuing to pray. She is, obviously, going to have a long road ahead of her, but she will not only make it, she will thrive. With her determination, dedication and courage, she will continue to surprise everyone.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's mental and physical health, my mom's health, Jonathan's safety this week while he is in Jamaica, and Nate's health. God is definitely bigger than any of these things.
It was another very early morning, as Dr. McMaster, Dr. Healy's resident, arrived at 4:30am for a quick assessment. He said that everything seemed to be on schedule, and that Bethany should definitely start feeling the positive effects of all of the antibiotics being pumped into her body. She also began receiving 24/7 nutrition supplements, as she has been unable to eat, and has drank less than 1 ltr in 2 days.
Dr. Healy arrived around 6:30am with similar comments. He said the two drains were working perfectly, re-explained yesterday's surgical procedure. He seemed very optimistic and said that the meningitis is what is causing her so much pain and discomfort.
When Bethany awoke, she was in good spirits; she was, and is, still in a lot of pain, finding it difficult (at best) to move or shift positions and just generally painful to lay in bed flat. Her hips have been giving her excessive pain, as has her head, and back. I just spoke to my brother, Don, and his wife, Denise, who mentioned that hospitals have special air mattresses that you may request for such body pains. Done. I immediately requested one for Bethany, and we are merely waiting for it arrive.
Bethany has felt 1000% better today; she has been talking, texting, texting, and texting. After about 30 minutes of that, she collapses into a sound sleep. And then repeat.
When the Infectious Disease doctor arrived late morning, he said that Bethany would continue to be on antibiotics, through the pic line, for up to 6 months. He said that she looked good and that the plan was to continue pumping antibiotics into her, along with the nutrition and pain medicine, for about 3 days and then see her status. They are testing her blood sugar every 6 hours, with a finger prick, and endlessly monitoring her vitals. This is all very good.
Bethany's Aunt Bonnie, arrived from Texas last night (per Bethany's request), and has been a pleasant distraction and help. When Joe arrived to relieve me, Bon and I went home, refreshed, picked up some food and returned. Upon our return, we were met with some rather distressing news. Bethany's boyfriend, Nate, was just admitted into St. Vincent's Hospital, with meningitis. What? We were told that Bethany's bacterial meningitis was NOT contagious. Who knew?
I immediately went to his room, donned the mandatory (albeit fashionable) face mask, and began asking questions. By happenstance, I ran into her Neuro resident, Dr. McMaster, who just happened to be sitting at the desk outside of Nate's room. I mentioned that Nate's was Bethany's boyfriend, and he said that that concerned him. The infectious disease doctor said that Nate was contagious and blah, blah, blah.
Anyway,I just returned from Nate's room, two hours after my initial visit, and was informed that not only is Nate not contagious, but his meningitis is purely coincidental; it was possibly contracted when he was sick last week. The doctors are still doing cultures to determine the exact strain of meningitis, but they have totally ruled out bacterial. Thank God. Joy had decided not to come visit Bethany today just in case she had incorrectly been deemed non-contagious. I guess she could have come after all. We've basically had a lock down on visitation, with only immediate family (and boyfriends and Aunt Bonnie) allowed.
Bethany is quietly resting again; notice I didn't say, 'comfortably resting.' That is because she is having a difficult time getting comfortable due to the IV cords, the PIC cords, the heart monitor cords, blood pressure cuff, foley catheter and the pulse ox on her toe. However, 4 mg of morphine, about 30 minutes ago, really did the trick. I would love to have something to help me sleep throughout the entire evening, as I am really tired. I have caught a minor cold, but it's definitely taking its course on my body (mainly on my nose--achoo!)
Now that Bethany is seemingly through the worst of it all, I will explain a little more about yesterday, as Bonnie and I just revealed to Bethany.
•••There was a sudden rush yesterday to get Bethany into surgery. What was supposed to be a 20 minute surgery, lasted much, much longer. After an hour in recovery, they moved her to a room, just to have her still under the anesthetic for another three or more hours. I noticed a flurry of doctors and nurses streaming through her room throughout the early afternoon, a lot of medical whispering and just a general, over all, depressing attitude.
As I am not one to panic amount anything, least of all medical issues, I kept my mental commenting to myself. Today, after Bonnie and I had prayed together, we were discussing yesterday and she mentioned that yesterday she had felt, in her Spirit, that Bethany was at death's door. I said that I definitely felt like the angel of death had been very near, and she confirmed that our sister, Debbie, had felt the same way--along with a few of my nieces. We talked about how many hundreds, if not thousands, of people have been praying for Bethany, and we wondered just what may have happened had they not been lifting Bethany up to her Heavenly Father, casting out the enemy of her behalf and praying and fasting. I know that the enemy has no place in Bethany's life and I will not allow him to even take up a miniscule amount of space in her heart or life. Having said that.....Amen!
Thank you, again, for lifting her up and continuing to pray. She is, obviously, going to have a long road ahead of her, but she will not only make it, she will thrive. With her determination, dedication and courage, she will continue to surprise everyone.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's mental and physical health, my mom's health, Jonathan's safety this week while he is in Jamaica, and Nate's health. God is definitely bigger than any of these things.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
We don't know what the future holds, but we know Who holds the future...
If someone would have told me what today was going to be like before my feet hit the floor this morning, I never would have rolled out of that hospital reclining chair. Geesh! This may sound rather analytical, but the only way I will be able to explain everything that has happened is to give you the play by play--Tim Tebow style (i.e. with the Lord all the way)
Bethany was having an extremely rough evening, which in turn, means that I was having one, too. Ha. Thank God, Thank God, Thank God, that we had a nurse named, Missy, who is used to working in Pallative Care. Thus, she's more than willing to dispense medication to alleviate or reduce a patient's pain. Missy saw the excruciating pain that Bethany was in and said she would call the Neuro resident and ask to increase Bethany's pain meds. Currently, Bethany was on 2mg morphine (IV) every 4 hours, and 2 percocet (pills) every 4 hours. The percocet/pills barely work on Bethany and the morphine wore off after 1.5 to 2 hours. Ugggh. This is the same problem she has always had with her medications but no one ever seemed to want to change anything.
Missy returned to our room saying that the Neuro resident will be busy for a few hours, and that she was just going to begin giving Bethany 4mg morphine (IV) every hour. Yes, every hour. What a miracle from God. That totally helped Bethany receive a decent nights sleep because she began the morphine around 2:00 am, and we were up for the day at 4:30 am. Two hours of sleep is still two hours of sleep.
Our surgeon, Dr. Healy's, resident, Dr. McMaster came into our room at 4:30am, and after looking at Bethany's incision, he noted that it really wasn't leaking much. That's the good news. Whew! Awesome! Yeah! Then, Dr. Healy, and his team, including Dr. McMaster came to the room about 6:20am, looked at her incision, and it was totally different. It was back to being all red and puffy, with green and yellow pus, and it was now totally open. OMG. NOT good news at all! He said that he would have to re-operate immediately.
Sure enough, they transported Bethany to surgery within 15 minutes, and Pastor Tim, Joe and Lori, Aunt Jodi, myself and Chris, saw her off. Poor thing. She had been screaming in pain every time the rolling bed hit a bump in the linoleum. Afterwards, Dr. Healy explained that he re-opened the incision and d-breeded of the infection. He also made another incision and implanted two drains into her spinal column. Now, it would be time to wait to see how her infection healed and then to deal with the actual spinal surgery and potential brain shunt. Wow. That was a lot to swallow.
So, they wheeled Bethany into her room--not into ICU because Dr. Healy thought it would be better attention if they kept her in the same room in the Neuro unit. She was totally out of it--seemingly comatose. Then....we learned that Bethany definitely has bacterial meningitis. Wow! And....it's full blown. It is throughout her entire body, beginning in her spinal column and spreading throughout her tissues. The infectious disease team said that it is not the contagious strain, and she will not need to be quarantined. Thank God.
They did, however, have to insert a pic line. They put it in her chest with a line leading down through her tummy. It is for nutritional purposes, as well as antibiotics, and will need to remain there for approximately 3-6 months, as her body will continually need the antibiotics to fight the meningitis. Administering the antibiotics, pain meds and nutrition through the current IV is not as safe, and the pic line is much better (or so I've been told.)
Joe and Lori stayed at the hospital to speak some more with the Infectious Disease team, while Joy and I met on campus and did the very depressing job of moving Bethany out of her dorm. We sooooo did not want to have to do that because we really wanted Bethany to be able to attend her second semester in college. Unfortunately, she will be taking a medical leave of absence from school. Thank God, she didn't choose to attend Michigan Tech--about 13 hours up north in the UP.
Bethany finally fell asleep at 8:10pm, after a TON of pain and moaning, just to have a nurse enter, 10 minutes ago, and force her awake for some 'medication.' I asked her to please wait a bit, but NO, she had to wake her. Fine. Believe it or not, she actually woke her to take some colaise. Seriously? She woke her to take a stool softener? What is she? Nuts? When Bethany started screaming in pain and crying and moaning, I quietly gave the nurse a piece of my mind. Then, when she turned on all 8 lights in the room, I had to leave the room before I became physically violent. OMG. OMG. Will someone please make her take a course in 'Patient Consideration 101?' Thank God, she is only our nurse for 30 minutes.
In the past 15 days, we have yet to have the same nurse twice--except for the first and second day--first shift. This makes Bethany's life all the more difficult, as each nurse has to be schooled in her history, etc. Invariably, each nurse asks her to sit up, etc. Geesh! Read the chart please. OK, I realize my nerves are getting a bit racked, but this is ridiculous. Ok. Time to calm down.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's healing. This has been, by far, the worst case scenario, but again, God is good. All the time. As Jr. Asparagus and Bob the Tomato would say,
I look forward to the day when Bethany is able to speak before the masses and tell her testimony of God's goodness, of what it's like to be an 'overcomer' despite unspeakable odds, and what it's like to walk hand in hand with the One Who created her. Although this is tremendously difficult to witness, I know that Bethany's pain will eventually serve a purpose. I know that God has something in store for her during the next few months, because He has allowed her to stay in the hospital and miss school--one of the many loves of her life. Only time will tell.....
Please listen to this song and think of Bethany's situation,
Love, Shari and Bethany
Bethany was having an extremely rough evening, which in turn, means that I was having one, too. Ha. Thank God, Thank God, Thank God, that we had a nurse named, Missy, who is used to working in Pallative Care. Thus, she's more than willing to dispense medication to alleviate or reduce a patient's pain. Missy saw the excruciating pain that Bethany was in and said she would call the Neuro resident and ask to increase Bethany's pain meds. Currently, Bethany was on 2mg morphine (IV) every 4 hours, and 2 percocet (pills) every 4 hours. The percocet/pills barely work on Bethany and the morphine wore off after 1.5 to 2 hours. Ugggh. This is the same problem she has always had with her medications but no one ever seemed to want to change anything.
Missy returned to our room saying that the Neuro resident will be busy for a few hours, and that she was just going to begin giving Bethany 4mg morphine (IV) every hour. Yes, every hour. What a miracle from God. That totally helped Bethany receive a decent nights sleep because she began the morphine around 2:00 am, and we were up for the day at 4:30 am. Two hours of sleep is still two hours of sleep.
Our surgeon, Dr. Healy's, resident, Dr. McMaster came into our room at 4:30am, and after looking at Bethany's incision, he noted that it really wasn't leaking much. That's the good news. Whew! Awesome! Yeah! Then, Dr. Healy, and his team, including Dr. McMaster came to the room about 6:20am, looked at her incision, and it was totally different. It was back to being all red and puffy, with green and yellow pus, and it was now totally open. OMG. NOT good news at all! He said that he would have to re-operate immediately.
Sure enough, they transported Bethany to surgery within 15 minutes, and Pastor Tim, Joe and Lori, Aunt Jodi, myself and Chris, saw her off. Poor thing. She had been screaming in pain every time the rolling bed hit a bump in the linoleum. Afterwards, Dr. Healy explained that he re-opened the incision and d-breeded of the infection. He also made another incision and implanted two drains into her spinal column. Now, it would be time to wait to see how her infection healed and then to deal with the actual spinal surgery and potential brain shunt. Wow. That was a lot to swallow.
So, they wheeled Bethany into her room--not into ICU because Dr. Healy thought it would be better attention if they kept her in the same room in the Neuro unit. She was totally out of it--seemingly comatose. Then....we learned that Bethany definitely has bacterial meningitis. Wow! And....it's full blown. It is throughout her entire body, beginning in her spinal column and spreading throughout her tissues. The infectious disease team said that it is not the contagious strain, and she will not need to be quarantined. Thank God.
They did, however, have to insert a pic line. They put it in her chest with a line leading down through her tummy. It is for nutritional purposes, as well as antibiotics, and will need to remain there for approximately 3-6 months, as her body will continually need the antibiotics to fight the meningitis. Administering the antibiotics, pain meds and nutrition through the current IV is not as safe, and the pic line is much better (or so I've been told.)
Joe and Lori stayed at the hospital to speak some more with the Infectious Disease team, while Joy and I met on campus and did the very depressing job of moving Bethany out of her dorm. We sooooo did not want to have to do that because we really wanted Bethany to be able to attend her second semester in college. Unfortunately, she will be taking a medical leave of absence from school. Thank God, she didn't choose to attend Michigan Tech--about 13 hours up north in the UP.
Bethany finally fell asleep at 8:10pm, after a TON of pain and moaning, just to have a nurse enter, 10 minutes ago, and force her awake for some 'medication.' I asked her to please wait a bit, but NO, she had to wake her. Fine. Believe it or not, she actually woke her to take some colaise. Seriously? She woke her to take a stool softener? What is she? Nuts? When Bethany started screaming in pain and crying and moaning, I quietly gave the nurse a piece of my mind. Then, when she turned on all 8 lights in the room, I had to leave the room before I became physically violent. OMG. OMG. Will someone please make her take a course in 'Patient Consideration 101?' Thank God, she is only our nurse for 30 minutes.
In the past 15 days, we have yet to have the same nurse twice--except for the first and second day--first shift. This makes Bethany's life all the more difficult, as each nurse has to be schooled in her history, etc. Invariably, each nurse asks her to sit up, etc. Geesh! Read the chart please. OK, I realize my nerves are getting a bit racked, but this is ridiculous. Ok. Time to calm down.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's healing. This has been, by far, the worst case scenario, but again, God is good. All the time. As Jr. Asparagus and Bob the Tomato would say,
I look forward to the day when Bethany is able to speak before the masses and tell her testimony of God's goodness, of what it's like to be an 'overcomer' despite unspeakable odds, and what it's like to walk hand in hand with the One Who created her. Although this is tremendously difficult to witness, I know that Bethany's pain will eventually serve a purpose. I know that God has something in store for her during the next few months, because He has allowed her to stay in the hospital and miss school--one of the many loves of her life. Only time will tell.....
Please listen to this song and think of Bethany's situation,
Love, Shari and Bethany
Middle of the Night
Well, it's the middle of the night, and Bethany has yet to stop moaning and groaning from pain. Because I was able to get some sleep from 6-10pm, I am wide awake and able to consistently remind the nurse to give her some pain medication every two hours. The nurse will not automatically administer the medication unless Bethany asks for it--or in Bethany's case, moans for it.
My first plan of action is to request stronger pain medication from the surgeon in the morning. Dr. Healy generally does his rounds around 4:30-5:30 am, so hopefully, Bethany will make it through the next 4-5 hours without too much agony. It's very distressing to watch her and hear her. When I came back (from napping at home), Bethany asked that I change her dressing. It hadn't been changed since I had left (geesh), and it was soaked. As were her sheets, blankets, etc., all with the yucky, yellow and green pus that was exuding from her incision. Her incision looked much, much worse, swollen and red and just plain yucky.
So, rather than wait for a nurse, I donned the gloves, etc, and changed it myself. I have been doing that all along. Unbeknownst to me, our current nurse did not care to have me assist; she was, however, very polite about it.
I definitely don't want anyone changing it in the middle of the night because it can be very intrusive when the patient has a spinal headache. Speaking of which, Bethany and I totally agree that the majority of people working on this floor and in the ICU, haven't a clue just what a spinal headache. If they did, then we would hope they would not be talking in such loud tones, etc. It's as if the entire hospital staff, sans Dr. Healy and his residents, think we are deaf.
I am constantly whispering, so much that even when I am in the cafeteria or talking on the phone in the lobby, the person on the receiving end is always saying they cannot hear me because I am whispering. I figure that if I constantly whisper, the nurses will get a clue. Not! The nurse that we have this evening, Missy, is totally awesome, in every way. Extremely helpful, kind, courteous, pro-active and.........drum roll please......she whispers. Woo Hoo!
Well, there is a slight lull in her moaning. She received 4mg IV of morphine about an 90 minutes ago and two percocet about 10 minutes ago. I think that, together, they are kicking in. If she can finally get some sleep, she will definitely feel better in the morning, and Dr. Healy can, and will, hopefully, adjust her medications. I thoroughly trust him, as does Bethany, and so 'whatever he says, we know is correct.'
Joe has decided, that in order to assist me in caring for Bethany, that he will request 1/2 days off this week. Meaning he will work from 7am-11am, and then come to the hospital so that I may either sleep, go to work, go home, whatever. Just to get a break though. When he arrived earlier today, I was waiting for Dr. Healy to come speak with us. So I waited a couple of hours. It's rather unusual to see him in the afternoon, but his resident said he would probably be around. Thus, I waited a few hours before I went home for a nap.
Of course, the moment I enter the house, Joe calls my cell. I answer it with, 'Is Dr. Healy there?' Nope. He wasn't. But I was pleasantly surprised that Jo Campbell, the Director of Student Affairs, Residence Life, at the University of Toledo, was at the hospital visiting Bethany. How sweet was that? Ms Campbell and I spoke a while, and she offered to do anything that needed to be done in order to make this experience less stressful on our family and on Bethany. Wow! Not that I didn't already love UT, but come on. That just sealed the deal.
She said that she would take care of Bethany's dorm, and that we wouldn't be charged this term at all for her dorm. She said to just make her aware of who and when someone would be coming to remove Bethany's belongings, but that there wasn't any major rush. I told her that Joy and I will go tomorrow after noon, after Joy's classes, and do that. She also said that she would help with anything we needed. I told her that I may need help with the 'Medical Leave of Absence,' form, and she said, 'no problem.' My plan is to go to campus tomorrow, and get her forms signed and turned in, so that Bethany will not only retain her full scholarships, but also be withdrawn prior to the 100% full refund deadline. Whew! What a relief.
Although having to take the medical leave of absence for the Spring, 2012, semester is not what Bethany had ever wanted to do, she is OK with it now. It's all become a matter of perspective, and we totally realize that. Her adviser, Wiona Porath, has been awesome and extremely helpful. We definitely love the Engineering Department at the University. So kind and helpful.
Well, I had better sign off. Just thought I would update everyone on Bethany's state, considering I may want to sleep in after being up all night, and I won't be updating this page until early afternoon. Ha. That's me, always thinking ahead.
Thanks again, for all of your prayers offered up on Bethany's behalf. They are truly appreciated. We know that, 'the effectual fervant prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'
Blessings, peace and joy, Shari, Bethany and family
PS: Please don't forget to continue to lift my mother up in prayer. She has extreme swelling in her legs, and it is very painful. And also, Jonathan, is working in Jamaica with a team from our church. For his safety, and that he will be able to touch many lives for the Kingdom.
My first plan of action is to request stronger pain medication from the surgeon in the morning. Dr. Healy generally does his rounds around 4:30-5:30 am, so hopefully, Bethany will make it through the next 4-5 hours without too much agony. It's very distressing to watch her and hear her. When I came back (from napping at home), Bethany asked that I change her dressing. It hadn't been changed since I had left (geesh), and it was soaked. As were her sheets, blankets, etc., all with the yucky, yellow and green pus that was exuding from her incision. Her incision looked much, much worse, swollen and red and just plain yucky.
So, rather than wait for a nurse, I donned the gloves, etc, and changed it myself. I have been doing that all along. Unbeknownst to me, our current nurse did not care to have me assist; she was, however, very polite about it.
I definitely don't want anyone changing it in the middle of the night because it can be very intrusive when the patient has a spinal headache. Speaking of which, Bethany and I totally agree that the majority of people working on this floor and in the ICU, haven't a clue just what a spinal headache. If they did, then we would hope they would not be talking in such loud tones, etc. It's as if the entire hospital staff, sans Dr. Healy and his residents, think we are deaf.
I am constantly whispering, so much that even when I am in the cafeteria or talking on the phone in the lobby, the person on the receiving end is always saying they cannot hear me because I am whispering. I figure that if I constantly whisper, the nurses will get a clue. Not! The nurse that we have this evening, Missy, is totally awesome, in every way. Extremely helpful, kind, courteous, pro-active and.........drum roll please......she whispers. Woo Hoo!
Well, there is a slight lull in her moaning. She received 4mg IV of morphine about an 90 minutes ago and two percocet about 10 minutes ago. I think that, together, they are kicking in. If she can finally get some sleep, she will definitely feel better in the morning, and Dr. Healy can, and will, hopefully, adjust her medications. I thoroughly trust him, as does Bethany, and so 'whatever he says, we know is correct.'
Joe has decided, that in order to assist me in caring for Bethany, that he will request 1/2 days off this week. Meaning he will work from 7am-11am, and then come to the hospital so that I may either sleep, go to work, go home, whatever. Just to get a break though. When he arrived earlier today, I was waiting for Dr. Healy to come speak with us. So I waited a couple of hours. It's rather unusual to see him in the afternoon, but his resident said he would probably be around. Thus, I waited a few hours before I went home for a nap.
Of course, the moment I enter the house, Joe calls my cell. I answer it with, 'Is Dr. Healy there?' Nope. He wasn't. But I was pleasantly surprised that Jo Campbell, the Director of Student Affairs, Residence Life, at the University of Toledo, was at the hospital visiting Bethany. How sweet was that? Ms Campbell and I spoke a while, and she offered to do anything that needed to be done in order to make this experience less stressful on our family and on Bethany. Wow! Not that I didn't already love UT, but come on. That just sealed the deal.
She said that she would take care of Bethany's dorm, and that we wouldn't be charged this term at all for her dorm. She said to just make her aware of who and when someone would be coming to remove Bethany's belongings, but that there wasn't any major rush. I told her that Joy and I will go tomorrow after noon, after Joy's classes, and do that. She also said that she would help with anything we needed. I told her that I may need help with the 'Medical Leave of Absence,' form, and she said, 'no problem.' My plan is to go to campus tomorrow, and get her forms signed and turned in, so that Bethany will not only retain her full scholarships, but also be withdrawn prior to the 100% full refund deadline. Whew! What a relief.
Although having to take the medical leave of absence for the Spring, 2012, semester is not what Bethany had ever wanted to do, she is OK with it now. It's all become a matter of perspective, and we totally realize that. Her adviser, Wiona Porath, has been awesome and extremely helpful. We definitely love the Engineering Department at the University. So kind and helpful.
Well, I had better sign off. Just thought I would update everyone on Bethany's state, considering I may want to sleep in after being up all night, and I won't be updating this page until early afternoon. Ha. That's me, always thinking ahead.
Thanks again, for all of your prayers offered up on Bethany's behalf. They are truly appreciated. We know that, 'the effectual fervant prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'
Blessings, peace and joy, Shari, Bethany and family
PS: Please don't forget to continue to lift my mother up in prayer. She has extreme swelling in her legs, and it is very painful. And also, Jonathan, is working in Jamaica with a team from our church. For his safety, and that he will be able to touch many lives for the Kingdom.
Monday, January 9, 2012
More Prayers Please
Good Morning. Well, it isn't really, but that's kind of what I am used to saying. It's been an excruciatingly long 24 hours, but we are muddling through. Bethany was up all night moaning and crying in pain. I kept vigil, replacing her hot compresses every 5 minutes or so (never realized just how much I can crave sleep - except when I had a newborn). She's on IV's, Foley catheter, Morphine and Percocet, Bactrim, Vesicare, Flexeril (however, they have administered it for 12 hours-sigh-and Zofran. She is constantly nauseous, therefore, she hasn't eaten in 36 hours.
To top everything off, the doctor(s) came in this morning, and after viewing her incision, they said that it didn't look good. The incision is red and has pus leaking from it. Definitely not good. They took a large sample, and have determined Bethany to have Bacterial Meningitis. YUCK! This explains the pain throughout her entire body. The plan is to get her on some antibiotics (still waiting on Pharmacy for the IV drip), put her on some steroids, have a consult with an infectious disease doctor, and give it a few days. I'm sure the doctor will tell me more later when he comes in. He is currently doing surgery at St. Lukes, and will be in this afternoon.
As for the brain shunt, it is on hold until this infection is resolved, and Bethany is healed. Grrrr. I know Bethany is totally stressing about school (Spring, 2012, classes resume today), her dorm (if she needs a Medical leave from school, she needs to move out ASAP in order to receive a refund), my time off of work (I only have two more days sick time because I used all of my sick time when I was sick in 2010), and all of the noise.
Well, although I hate to be the bearer of bad news, it is what it is. I know that God is bigger than all of this; bigger than bacterial meningitis, bigger than a shunt, bigger than a spinal cord tether, bigger than the boogie man, and He is bigger than you and me. I know that He is molding and shaping Bethany, throughout all of this, to become the Woman of God that He has destined her to become. She will have such an awesome testimony, and I can't wait to hear her deliver it in front of crowds of disabled and/or disadvantaged children and adults. She is a working miracle, and yet still a 'work in progress,' as we all are.
Bethany is FINALLY sleeping. Thank God! Considering she's been up all night, this is a very good thing. Thank you for continuing to pray for her health, mental state, pain level, appetite, and comfort. We love you all.
Blessings and peace, yours sisters in Christ, Shari and Bethany Rose
To top everything off, the doctor(s) came in this morning, and after viewing her incision, they said that it didn't look good. The incision is red and has pus leaking from it. Definitely not good. They took a large sample, and have determined Bethany to have Bacterial Meningitis. YUCK! This explains the pain throughout her entire body. The plan is to get her on some antibiotics (still waiting on Pharmacy for the IV drip), put her on some steroids, have a consult with an infectious disease doctor, and give it a few days. I'm sure the doctor will tell me more later when he comes in. He is currently doing surgery at St. Lukes, and will be in this afternoon.
As for the brain shunt, it is on hold until this infection is resolved, and Bethany is healed. Grrrr. I know Bethany is totally stressing about school (Spring, 2012, classes resume today), her dorm (if she needs a Medical leave from school, she needs to move out ASAP in order to receive a refund), my time off of work (I only have two more days sick time because I used all of my sick time when I was sick in 2010), and all of the noise.
Well, although I hate to be the bearer of bad news, it is what it is. I know that God is bigger than all of this; bigger than bacterial meningitis, bigger than a shunt, bigger than a spinal cord tether, bigger than the boogie man, and He is bigger than you and me. I know that He is molding and shaping Bethany, throughout all of this, to become the Woman of God that He has destined her to become. She will have such an awesome testimony, and I can't wait to hear her deliver it in front of crowds of disabled and/or disadvantaged children and adults. She is a working miracle, and yet still a 'work in progress,' as we all are.
Bethany is FINALLY sleeping. Thank God! Considering she's been up all night, this is a very good thing. Thank you for continuing to pray for her health, mental state, pain level, appetite, and comfort. We love you all.
Blessings and peace, yours sisters in Christ, Shari and Bethany Rose
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Very Unfortunate News :(
As much as I hate to write this, Bethany's incision has sprung a huge leak and has caused her excruciating pain ALL afternoon. She has been moaning non-stop, with intermittent screaming, with stabbing pains. She has a cold pack around her neck (she said, 'it feels as if it is breaking,' a heating pad on her head, MAJOR morphine, percocet, flexeril, IV fluids, and everything else. She has not eaten a thing today, and is totally depressed, virtually comatose. So very sad.
Although this isn't the best news, the good news is that Bethany serves an Awesome God; One that knows her joy and sadness, pain and health, dreams and desires. He is the One that can and will heal her; restore her sorrow to gladness. She, herself, realizes that Joy comes in the Morning. We just need 'her morning' to arrive NOW.
Again, thank you for continuing to pray for her comfort (mentally and physically); today has been such a horrific turn for the worse; and for her healing.
Love, Shari and Bethany
Although this isn't the best news, the good news is that Bethany serves an Awesome God; One that knows her joy and sadness, pain and health, dreams and desires. He is the One that can and will heal her; restore her sorrow to gladness. She, herself, realizes that Joy comes in the Morning. We just need 'her morning' to arrive NOW.
Again, thank you for continuing to pray for her comfort (mentally and physically); today has been such a horrific turn for the worse; and for her healing.
Love, Shari and Bethany
Wow! How quickly the tide shifts-both the ebb and the flow
Well, to say that today has been dramatic, doesn't even begin to describe it. All day yesterday, Bethany leaked CSF so much that her bandages needed to be changed every 45 minutes or sooner. Sometimes, every 10 minutes. Thus, we have been resigned to having the shunt implanted in her brain tomorrow morning. We received a new nurse last night, a male named Jarin, 6 months out of nursing school, UTMC, and a great nurse. He kept changing her bandages, when I really didn't mind.
When Dr. Healy arrived early this morning, he asked when the last bandages had been changed, and Jarin said 1:00 am. It was about 6:00 am, and they were completely dry. Praise God! Dr. Healy said that Bethany could go home either today or tomorrow, and that it didn't look as if the shunt would be necessary. YES. Thank you so much, everyone, for your prayers. Bethany decided that, given the fact that she would have to stand to leave, be upright in the van, walk into the house, and such, that she would stay another day, just to ensure her wound as healed. I totally supported that idea.
So, we returned to slumber, while quietly rejoicing. I awoke around 10:00 am, and checked her bandages, and she was still dry. Thank God! Bethany had slept through breakfast, and still wasn't hungry. I went to the lobby to call my mom, Bonnie and Chris with the good news, when I was interrupted with a call from Bethany. She was hysterical. I knew that she was leaking---I could just tell by her hysteria. So I ran to her room.
Thank God, I was wrong. Bethany was dry, but she was in extreme pain. Her hips, legs, neck, head, etc, everything but her toes, were in excruciating pain. I tried to comfort her, but to no avail. Literally, three hours later, she is still moaning and groaning, but settling down a bit. She as vomited numerous times, hasn't eaten a thing all day, and is still in constant pain, despite morphine and percocet and flexiril. It's so sad to watch her. She has warm compresses, and everything else, but is still in constant pain. I am so glad that we had decided to stay another day.
Here's a picture of 4 nurses attempting to insert an IV in Bethany's arm, so that she may have some additional morphine and zofran (anti-nausea med).
Please pray for complete comfort and healing for Bethany; that he wound continues to remain dry and that there isn't any need for any shunt to be implanted. Thank you.
Blessings, Shari and Bethany
When Dr. Healy arrived early this morning, he asked when the last bandages had been changed, and Jarin said 1:00 am. It was about 6:00 am, and they were completely dry. Praise God! Dr. Healy said that Bethany could go home either today or tomorrow, and that it didn't look as if the shunt would be necessary. YES. Thank you so much, everyone, for your prayers. Bethany decided that, given the fact that she would have to stand to leave, be upright in the van, walk into the house, and such, that she would stay another day, just to ensure her wound as healed. I totally supported that idea.
So, we returned to slumber, while quietly rejoicing. I awoke around 10:00 am, and checked her bandages, and she was still dry. Thank God! Bethany had slept through breakfast, and still wasn't hungry. I went to the lobby to call my mom, Bonnie and Chris with the good news, when I was interrupted with a call from Bethany. She was hysterical. I knew that she was leaking---I could just tell by her hysteria. So I ran to her room.
Thank God, I was wrong. Bethany was dry, but she was in extreme pain. Her hips, legs, neck, head, etc, everything but her toes, were in excruciating pain. I tried to comfort her, but to no avail. Literally, three hours later, she is still moaning and groaning, but settling down a bit. She as vomited numerous times, hasn't eaten a thing all day, and is still in constant pain, despite morphine and percocet and flexiril. It's so sad to watch her. She has warm compresses, and everything else, but is still in constant pain. I am so glad that we had decided to stay another day.
Here's a picture of 4 nurses attempting to insert an IV in Bethany's arm, so that she may have some additional morphine and zofran (anti-nausea med).
Please pray for complete comfort and healing for Bethany; that he wound continues to remain dry and that there isn't any need for any shunt to be implanted. Thank you.
Blessings, Shari and Bethany
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Another Day, Another Staple
Well, today we awoke to Dr. Healy, his nurse and his residents, entering our room at 5:30-6:00 a.m. Bonnie and I immediately shot up in the dark in an attempt to appear wide awake an conscious. After turning on the extremely bright overhead light to view Bethany's incision, he asked if we would allow him to put in two staples. He suggested we wait a bit and hope and pray that it heals. What an answer to prayer. This is awesome and we were ecstatic.
So, 10 minutes later, Dr. McMaster, Dr. Healy's resident, came in and gave Bethany a local anesthetic and then added two staples. Wow! So simple and pain free. I mentioned that I really liked his style, as he decided to inject her with a local anesthetic, whereas the previous resident did not. My boyfriend, Chris, arrived early this morning, and as we were walking to the elevator to go to the cafeteria for a mocha, we ran into Dr. Healy's nurse, Holly. She was very happy for Bethany and said that this compromise with help Bethany. I asked just how long the doctor planned on giving the incision time to heal, and she said, 'just until tomorrow afternoon.' Yikes. That's not much time.
It would seem almost incredulous, but then again, I serve an incredulous God and He is definitely in the 'incredible' making business. Goodness, we have witnessed this time and time again. So, we need to pray that Bethany's wound site heals by tomorrow afternoon, otherwise, they will shave her head tomorrow night in preparation for her early morning surgery.
I just got Bethany to wake up; she had been awake most of the evening. She is feeling well, watching a little TV (on low volume), and eating lunch while waiting for her boyfriend, Nate, to arrive. Bethany asked me last night if Nate could come up this afternoon, for a few hours, and sit with her. "No offense, Mom," she added. "But you can go home." Ha ha. None taken. I am actually looking forward to going home and walking the dogs at Pearson Park--the dogs and myself could use some exercise.
Thank you so much for your prayers of support and encouragement to both me and Bethany. They are greatly appreciated. Please pray that her incision site totally heals by tomorrow afternoon. Also, please pray for Jonathan's safety as he is in Jamaica for 8 days.
Blessings, Shari (and Bethany)
So, 10 minutes later, Dr. McMaster, Dr. Healy's resident, came in and gave Bethany a local anesthetic and then added two staples. Wow! So simple and pain free. I mentioned that I really liked his style, as he decided to inject her with a local anesthetic, whereas the previous resident did not. My boyfriend, Chris, arrived early this morning, and as we were walking to the elevator to go to the cafeteria for a mocha, we ran into Dr. Healy's nurse, Holly. She was very happy for Bethany and said that this compromise with help Bethany. I asked just how long the doctor planned on giving the incision time to heal, and she said, 'just until tomorrow afternoon.' Yikes. That's not much time.
It would seem almost incredulous, but then again, I serve an incredulous God and He is definitely in the 'incredible' making business. Goodness, we have witnessed this time and time again. So, we need to pray that Bethany's wound site heals by tomorrow afternoon, otherwise, they will shave her head tomorrow night in preparation for her early morning surgery.
I just got Bethany to wake up; she had been awake most of the evening. She is feeling well, watching a little TV (on low volume), and eating lunch while waiting for her boyfriend, Nate, to arrive. Bethany asked me last night if Nate could come up this afternoon, for a few hours, and sit with her. "No offense, Mom," she added. "But you can go home." Ha ha. None taken. I am actually looking forward to going home and walking the dogs at Pearson Park--the dogs and myself could use some exercise.
Thank you so much for your prayers of support and encouragement to both me and Bethany. They are greatly appreciated. Please pray that her incision site totally heals by tomorrow afternoon. Also, please pray for Jonathan's safety as he is in Jamaica for 8 days.
Blessings, Shari (and Bethany)
Friday, January 6, 2012
Well, it's another weekend, and life goes on....
Good evening,
Well, today hasn't gone quite as planned. But then again, yesterday didn't either. If you have read my prior post, you'll remember that, although Bethany had been discharged from St. Vincent's Neuro unit yesterday, she had a major CSF (spinal fluid) leak and had to be re-admitted through the ER last night--merely 5 or so hours after her initial discharge. Although frustrated and sad, Bethany and I were both confident that she only needed two additional staples and then she would be able to return home today.
Well.....we were wrong. After sleeping on the hard, hospital floor in Bethany's new room last night, I awoke to find Dr. Healy entering the room at 6:00 am. He greeted Bethany with the news that she would quite possibly need a shunt. Wow. None of us (Bonnie, Bethany or me) saw that coming. Hmmm. Let's see, on one hand, we think two staples and au revoir, and on the other hand, shave 1/2 of her head of beautiful, blonde hair, implant a device through her brain, through her abdomen and monitor it for a lifetime. Decisions, decisions.
Bethany immediately said she did not want the shunt. I was definitely on board with her decision, however, we weren't sure what our other options were either. I looked up some videos on YouTube, (NEVER do that. I repeat, never get medical information from YouTube) read some information on google, and prayed and prayed. Bonnie and prayed with Bethany that she would hear and know a direct answer from the One who ultimately created her and knows her innermost being. We also prayed that she would continue to hear from her Creator and that we would hear the confirmation, as well.
Bethany had a CT scan this morning that showed that her ventricles are extremely small and that Dr. Healy would need to use a computer to guide him with the shunt. After asking numerous questions of Dr. Healy's resident, Chris, we decided to lay low for the weekend, and see how things progress. If we want the shunt on Sunday evening, Dr. Healy will implant it on Monday. He also offered to implant it on Saturday or Sunday--whichever she prefers.
So....as it stands, we have been transferred back to the Neuro unit, into a private room, across from one of the many nurses stations. Bethany is just going to wait out the weekend, read magazines, peruse the internet, order room service, and bide her time until Monday. Thus, I will, too.
I did, however, run home today to see Jonathan off to head to DTW for a flight to Jamaica tomorrow morning. I have really missed seeing him these past ten days, so it was nice to even spend just an hour with him. After he left for Jamaica, I took a nap (considering I didn't get but 2.5 hours of sleep last night, and even that, was on a very hard floor. Bethany, Bonnie and I are just planning on watching a little TV and reading magazines from the area lobbies. ha ha. Bethany is still on percocet and can't wait until her next dosage, although her headaches are not nearly as bad as they have been. Woo Hoo!
Thanks again for all of your prayers. Please continue to pray that we are all able to make a God driven decision regarding her medical care.
Blessings, peace and much joy, Shari and Bethany
Well, today hasn't gone quite as planned. But then again, yesterday didn't either. If you have read my prior post, you'll remember that, although Bethany had been discharged from St. Vincent's Neuro unit yesterday, she had a major CSF (spinal fluid) leak and had to be re-admitted through the ER last night--merely 5 or so hours after her initial discharge. Although frustrated and sad, Bethany and I were both confident that she only needed two additional staples and then she would be able to return home today.
Well.....we were wrong. After sleeping on the hard, hospital floor in Bethany's new room last night, I awoke to find Dr. Healy entering the room at 6:00 am. He greeted Bethany with the news that she would quite possibly need a shunt. Wow. None of us (Bonnie, Bethany or me) saw that coming. Hmmm. Let's see, on one hand, we think two staples and au revoir, and on the other hand, shave 1/2 of her head of beautiful, blonde hair, implant a device through her brain, through her abdomen and monitor it for a lifetime. Decisions, decisions.
Bethany immediately said she did not want the shunt. I was definitely on board with her decision, however, we weren't sure what our other options were either. I looked up some videos on YouTube, (NEVER do that. I repeat, never get medical information from YouTube) read some information on google, and prayed and prayed. Bonnie and prayed with Bethany that she would hear and know a direct answer from the One who ultimately created her and knows her innermost being. We also prayed that she would continue to hear from her Creator and that we would hear the confirmation, as well.
Bethany had a CT scan this morning that showed that her ventricles are extremely small and that Dr. Healy would need to use a computer to guide him with the shunt. After asking numerous questions of Dr. Healy's resident, Chris, we decided to lay low for the weekend, and see how things progress. If we want the shunt on Sunday evening, Dr. Healy will implant it on Monday. He also offered to implant it on Saturday or Sunday--whichever she prefers.
So....as it stands, we have been transferred back to the Neuro unit, into a private room, across from one of the many nurses stations. Bethany is just going to wait out the weekend, read magazines, peruse the internet, order room service, and bide her time until Monday. Thus, I will, too.
I did, however, run home today to see Jonathan off to head to DTW for a flight to Jamaica tomorrow morning. I have really missed seeing him these past ten days, so it was nice to even spend just an hour with him. After he left for Jamaica, I took a nap (considering I didn't get but 2.5 hours of sleep last night, and even that, was on a very hard floor. Bethany, Bonnie and I are just planning on watching a little TV and reading magazines from the area lobbies. ha ha. Bethany is still on percocet and can't wait until her next dosage, although her headaches are not nearly as bad as they have been. Woo Hoo!
Thanks again for all of your prayers. Please continue to pray that we are all able to make a God driven decision regarding her medical care.
Blessings, peace and much joy, Shari and Bethany
OK....Well today, an even STRANGER thing happened.....
Good early morning,
Today began early and happy; Both Bethany and I had slept well, and we were confident that she was going to be discharged today. We also knew just what a miracle the Lord has performed in her life that has allowed her to be discharged after only ten days in the hospital. Whew!
So, we ordered breakfast, watched a few youtube videos, packed and was discharged around noon. I should have known today wasn't going to go as planned when I went to the parking garage to start my van, and they the battery was dead. Totally dead. Hmmm. I called Bethany, who was waiting in a wheelchair by the lobby front door, and told her I was going to be late, and to just 'hang tight.' I would be there after I get the battery jumped. Then I called Security. By 12:30, Bethany and I were on the road again. As the song says, we just couldn't wait to be 'on the road again.' ha
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Bethany has had a throbbing toothache, so our dentist, Dr. Jardin, said that we could come to his office, and he would check Bethany's tooth out, any day, any time. So, we did. After getting gasoline at Costco, we headed the dentist's office. Dr. Jardin worked on Bethany during his lunch hour, and asked us to call him tomorrow. It was a little difficult to diagnose because Bethany was on percocet and morphine, and thus, he couldn't really tell just how much pain she was in. And we were off again.
We stopped at Petco to get Domino and Koda a couple of dog bones so they wouldn't attack us when we got home. They would just semi-attack us, and they be totally distracted by the bones. BTW: Our strategy worked. :)
We pulled through Kroger and dropped off all of her prescriptions, and then through Micky D's to get Joy a sweet tea, and surprised Joy at work with Bethany bearing gifts of tea and crumpets.
Ok....maybe not the crumpets. But we did have the tea. We joked for a bit, and then I took Bethany home by 2:20. I emptied the van and carried in all of the stuff we had accumulated in the hospital, played with the dogs and then ran some errands. I picked up the scripts at Kroger and went to the meat market. I was going to cook a large dinner for everyone celebrating Bethany's homecoming and Jonathan's trip to Jamaica in the morning.
Moving right along, I parked in the driveway, and before I even entered the house, I took down the Christmas decorations on the front porch, the bushes and the lawn and laid them in the garage, returned the empty garbage cans to the side of the house from the curb, and talked to a few neighbors.
I then put both dogs in the van and drove them to a friend's house so they could run in her very large yard. After about 30 minutes, I returned home to a pleasant surprise. A high school friend of Bethany, and her mom and brother, had stopped by for a visit. We chatted for a little bit, all the while, Bethany was resting on her bed. She had been doing crossword puzzles, and stopped to chat.
After our friends left, I cleaned the kitchen, dusted and swept, delivered a few Christmas gifts to the neighbors, and went inside to make some phone calls. I was on the phone with a colleague from work when Bethany called me from the restroom. I hung up the phone immediately and ran to her. I recognized the tone of her voice and was positive what it meant. Unfortunately, I was correct. Bethany had been holding a drenched towel to her back and it was soaked with CSF (spinal fluid). I removed the towel and it just totally squirted out, full force, like a fountain. I immediately covered it and laid her down before her spinal headache would get worse.
I'll spare you the boring details of calling the hospital, calling the neurosurgeon, returning the ER, waiting a few hours, getting readmitted and such. I had really been looking forward to spending the evening at home with Jonathan, as he is leaving tomorrow on a nine day missions trip to Jamaica, and I haven't really seen him in the past ten days. We had planned on packing, getting his necessities, ensuring he has his money, passport, etc... Well, that didn't totally happen.
After searching 20 minutes for my keys, I ended up borrowing Joe's van, and rushed Bethany to the ER. Joe and Jonathan found my keys and Joe met me at the ER about 20 minutes later.
The ER doctors had been waiting for us, and immediately found us a room. After Bethany was settled in the ER, I returned to finish with Jonathan and to take a shower. Jonathan and I were able to ensure he was nearly finished packing, had his money, passport, deodorant, etc. (all those necessities), and then I ran to Wal-Mart for his allergy medicine, yada yada yada. I felt really bad leaving him home alone while I skirted off to the ER.
My sister, Bonnie, had flown in from Dallas this morning, to be with my mom while she had a cardio inversion and some additional heart tests at Beaumont Hospital in Detroit. Thus, while I had been running around like a chicken with my head cut off, Bonnie was traveling from Detroit to Toledo, and surprised everyone at the hospital. I didn't know that she would end up staying the night with Bethany and I.
Bethany was admitted to the third floor--a very far cry from the 5th floor neurosurgical wing. Wow! That wing had been renovated, whereas this wing had not. I found her, Joe and Bonnie in a very small semi-private room. Semi-private is really just another term for, 'you have to share your room with another sick person, pray you don't catch anything, and that you don't have to listen to their music or TV when you have a spinal headache.' The first thing I noticed was there weren't any chairs, because the room was so small. Yikes.
Bonnie and I convinced Joe to ask a nurse for a recliner so that I could spend the night with Bethany. Believe me, she wasn't going to stay alone. The nurse immediately said that we could have a private room, especially considering Bethany couldn't handle any noise. Whew. That was easy. After about 30 minutes, we were transferred to a HUGE, private room-complete with a stove, kitchen, bathroom, bells and whistles. It may not have been remodeled, but it was definitely large enough for 10 recliner chairs. Unfortunately, there were not any recliners. It had two tables and four chairs, but none of them reclined.
Hmmm. Bethany settled in quickly, and I had already given her two percocet (stashed in my purse) because the doctor hadn't actually ordered them into the system yet, and she was due to receive them. They immediately took effect, and before long, Bethany, Bonnie and I were looking at her pictures on her laptop, watching more youtube and godvine videos and just laughing and conversing--rather quietly, I may add.
Although Bethany shed some tears of frustration and headache, even she believes that she will be discharged tomorrow. This may be reminiscient of her prior surgeries, however, this is much better. Her incision is leaking, however, it is only leaking near the top. When Bethany had her drain removed a few days ago, the doctor took his staple gun (definitely looked like one from Home Depot, only it wasn't orange and I assume it was sterile), and added two staples. Without any anesthetic, if I may say so myself. I nearly fainted watching it. Well, another doctor removed all twenty staples the following morning, thus the area underneath the added two staples, had very little time to heal.
We think that this is just a matter of sealing that area. We are waiting to hear what her Neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, says in the morning. Hopefully, he will use the medical glue and not the staple gun thing this time, and we'll be outta here before noon. I really want to see Jonathan before he leaves for Jamaica. I have a major doctor appt tomorrow at 11:00 at UTMC, yada yada yada.
The bottom line is this: The Lord is working everything out; this is merely a glitch in the entire scheme of things. Bethany is going to be fine. It's unfortunate, but she'll have one less day to recuperate before classes begin on Monday. It's been such a blessing to have Aunt Bonnie here for the evening. She will be catching an early morning flight to Dallas and we have been able to catch up with her on a lot of things. We are anxious to learn how the Lord is going to use this time. I have already seen Bethany's heroism, kindness and patience shine throughout this entire experience.
In the ten days since her surgery, she has yet to complain or say an unkind or mean word to anyone. She has been cheery when she had every right to be sad, and has put on a face of heroism in the face of adversity. I am so very proud of her, and she is setting such a high standard for patients at this hospital. We have yet to meet anyone who hasn't commented on her pleasant demeanor, especially considering everything she has been through.
Blessings and peace to each and every one of you. Again, please don't forget to pray for my mom. Her cardio-inversion was not successful, and she will be having a cat scan of her heart tomorrow. Thanks.
Today began early and happy; Both Bethany and I had slept well, and we were confident that she was going to be discharged today. We also knew just what a miracle the Lord has performed in her life that has allowed her to be discharged after only ten days in the hospital. Whew!
So, we ordered breakfast, watched a few youtube videos, packed and was discharged around noon. I should have known today wasn't going to go as planned when I went to the parking garage to start my van, and they the battery was dead. Totally dead. Hmmm. I called Bethany, who was waiting in a wheelchair by the lobby front door, and told her I was going to be late, and to just 'hang tight.' I would be there after I get the battery jumped. Then I called Security. By 12:30, Bethany and I were on the road again. As the song says, we just couldn't wait to be 'on the road again.' ha
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Bethany has had a throbbing toothache, so our dentist, Dr. Jardin, said that we could come to his office, and he would check Bethany's tooth out, any day, any time. So, we did. After getting gasoline at Costco, we headed the dentist's office. Dr. Jardin worked on Bethany during his lunch hour, and asked us to call him tomorrow. It was a little difficult to diagnose because Bethany was on percocet and morphine, and thus, he couldn't really tell just how much pain she was in. And we were off again.
We stopped at Petco to get Domino and Koda a couple of dog bones so they wouldn't attack us when we got home. They would just semi-attack us, and they be totally distracted by the bones. BTW: Our strategy worked. :)
We pulled through Kroger and dropped off all of her prescriptions, and then through Micky D's to get Joy a sweet tea, and surprised Joy at work with Bethany bearing gifts of tea and crumpets.
Ok....maybe not the crumpets. But we did have the tea. We joked for a bit, and then I took Bethany home by 2:20. I emptied the van and carried in all of the stuff we had accumulated in the hospital, played with the dogs and then ran some errands. I picked up the scripts at Kroger and went to the meat market. I was going to cook a large dinner for everyone celebrating Bethany's homecoming and Jonathan's trip to Jamaica in the morning.
Moving right along, I parked in the driveway, and before I even entered the house, I took down the Christmas decorations on the front porch, the bushes and the lawn and laid them in the garage, returned the empty garbage cans to the side of the house from the curb, and talked to a few neighbors.
I then put both dogs in the van and drove them to a friend's house so they could run in her very large yard. After about 30 minutes, I returned home to a pleasant surprise. A high school friend of Bethany, and her mom and brother, had stopped by for a visit. We chatted for a little bit, all the while, Bethany was resting on her bed. She had been doing crossword puzzles, and stopped to chat.
After our friends left, I cleaned the kitchen, dusted and swept, delivered a few Christmas gifts to the neighbors, and went inside to make some phone calls. I was on the phone with a colleague from work when Bethany called me from the restroom. I hung up the phone immediately and ran to her. I recognized the tone of her voice and was positive what it meant. Unfortunately, I was correct. Bethany had been holding a drenched towel to her back and it was soaked with CSF (spinal fluid). I removed the towel and it just totally squirted out, full force, like a fountain. I immediately covered it and laid her down before her spinal headache would get worse.
I'll spare you the boring details of calling the hospital, calling the neurosurgeon, returning the ER, waiting a few hours, getting readmitted and such. I had really been looking forward to spending the evening at home with Jonathan, as he is leaving tomorrow on a nine day missions trip to Jamaica, and I haven't really seen him in the past ten days. We had planned on packing, getting his necessities, ensuring he has his money, passport, etc... Well, that didn't totally happen.
After searching 20 minutes for my keys, I ended up borrowing Joe's van, and rushed Bethany to the ER. Joe and Jonathan found my keys and Joe met me at the ER about 20 minutes later.
The ER doctors had been waiting for us, and immediately found us a room. After Bethany was settled in the ER, I returned to finish with Jonathan and to take a shower. Jonathan and I were able to ensure he was nearly finished packing, had his money, passport, deodorant, etc. (all those necessities), and then I ran to Wal-Mart for his allergy medicine, yada yada yada. I felt really bad leaving him home alone while I skirted off to the ER.
My sister, Bonnie, had flown in from Dallas this morning, to be with my mom while she had a cardio inversion and some additional heart tests at Beaumont Hospital in Detroit. Thus, while I had been running around like a chicken with my head cut off, Bonnie was traveling from Detroit to Toledo, and surprised everyone at the hospital. I didn't know that she would end up staying the night with Bethany and I.
Bethany was admitted to the third floor--a very far cry from the 5th floor neurosurgical wing. Wow! That wing had been renovated, whereas this wing had not. I found her, Joe and Bonnie in a very small semi-private room. Semi-private is really just another term for, 'you have to share your room with another sick person, pray you don't catch anything, and that you don't have to listen to their music or TV when you have a spinal headache.' The first thing I noticed was there weren't any chairs, because the room was so small. Yikes.
Bonnie and I convinced Joe to ask a nurse for a recliner so that I could spend the night with Bethany. Believe me, she wasn't going to stay alone. The nurse immediately said that we could have a private room, especially considering Bethany couldn't handle any noise. Whew. That was easy. After about 30 minutes, we were transferred to a HUGE, private room-complete with a stove, kitchen, bathroom, bells and whistles. It may not have been remodeled, but it was definitely large enough for 10 recliner chairs. Unfortunately, there were not any recliners. It had two tables and four chairs, but none of them reclined.
Hmmm. Bethany settled in quickly, and I had already given her two percocet (stashed in my purse) because the doctor hadn't actually ordered them into the system yet, and she was due to receive them. They immediately took effect, and before long, Bethany, Bonnie and I were looking at her pictures on her laptop, watching more youtube and godvine videos and just laughing and conversing--rather quietly, I may add.
Although Bethany shed some tears of frustration and headache, even she believes that she will be discharged tomorrow. This may be reminiscient of her prior surgeries, however, this is much better. Her incision is leaking, however, it is only leaking near the top. When Bethany had her drain removed a few days ago, the doctor took his staple gun (definitely looked like one from Home Depot, only it wasn't orange and I assume it was sterile), and added two staples. Without any anesthetic, if I may say so myself. I nearly fainted watching it. Well, another doctor removed all twenty staples the following morning, thus the area underneath the added two staples, had very little time to heal.
We think that this is just a matter of sealing that area. We are waiting to hear what her Neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, says in the morning. Hopefully, he will use the medical glue and not the staple gun thing this time, and we'll be outta here before noon. I really want to see Jonathan before he leaves for Jamaica. I have a major doctor appt tomorrow at 11:00 at UTMC, yada yada yada.
The bottom line is this: The Lord is working everything out; this is merely a glitch in the entire scheme of things. Bethany is going to be fine. It's unfortunate, but she'll have one less day to recuperate before classes begin on Monday. It's been such a blessing to have Aunt Bonnie here for the evening. She will be catching an early morning flight to Dallas and we have been able to catch up with her on a lot of things. We are anxious to learn how the Lord is going to use this time. I have already seen Bethany's heroism, kindness and patience shine throughout this entire experience.
In the ten days since her surgery, she has yet to complain or say an unkind or mean word to anyone. She has been cheery when she had every right to be sad, and has put on a face of heroism in the face of adversity. I am so very proud of her, and she is setting such a high standard for patients at this hospital. We have yet to meet anyone who hasn't commented on her pleasant demeanor, especially considering everything she has been through.
Blessings and peace to each and every one of you. Again, please don't forget to pray for my mom. Her cardio-inversion was not successful, and she will be having a cat scan of her heart tomorrow. Thanks.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Stranger things have happened....
It's been 8 days since Bethany's surgery, and the Lord has tremendously blessed her with greater health. We are so very grateful for everyone's prayers and for the staff at St. Vincent's and our Surgeon, Dr. Michael Healy. Unfortunately, Bethany has taken a slight turn for the worse, and will not be going home today. It's not the end of the world, just a detour. Anything beats the three and a half months she spent the last time in ICU. It's all a matter of perspective, and in the entire scheme of things, 9 days isn't anything compared to over 100 days.
Bethany had an excellent day yesterday, and she actually walked around a bit with her boyfriend, Nate. They went to the gift shop and around the floor. Her incision did not leak at all. It hasn't since the day Dr. Healy implanted the drain. Woo Hoo! Bethany had some visitors in the afternoon--mostly family--and by the time everyone left, she was exhausted. They left around 8pm and she slept solidly until about midnight. Then.....she was in pain.
She was able to get up and use the restroom, however, standing gives her a tremendous headache. The pain medication gives her blurry vision, as well. When she stood, her entire back on down through her legs, went very tingly and weak. The upper part of her incision felt compressed and as though it were compressing her entire back and back side. Hmmmm. To top it off, Bethany has an extreme toothache. I have been in contact with her dentist who is willing to see her anytime; unfortunately, she's still in the hospital. We will be stopping by the dentist's office on the way home from the hospital-whenever that is. Our dentist, Dr. Jardin, said that he would even come in the office after hours or on the weekend for Bethany. Ah...Bethany is definitely loved.
This morning, Dr. Healy's Resident, Holly, removed all 20 of Bethany's staples from her incision, and she hasn't leaked at all. She then said that Bethany is allowed to go home today, but it's probably not the best idea--given her pain level. She said that Bethany needs to lay low for a few weeks. When I mentioned that she begins her Bio-Engineering class load of 20 hours next Monday, she gasped. Subsequently, Bethany has withdrawn from her 3 hour chemistry lab--she knows she won't be able to stand that long--even on a good day. The doctor said for her to 'play it by ear,' and to just take it easy. He is writing her a script to take to the DMV to attain a temporary Medical Handicap parking pass. Thank God! As most know, parking on campus is at a premium, and as a freshman, Bethany gets last dibs. She already has an extremely difficult time walking from class to class and carrying her books, let alone now that she is recovering from surgery. Nonetheless, we'll get her the pass as soon as we are discharged.
Bethany has needed her pain medication before it's been due today, and she is sleeping rather soundly at the moment. I have ordered lunch for her, but I doubt she is going to eat much. Yesterday, she ate some, but today, she hasn't eaten much at all. She ordered a bagel, but never touched it. The nurse convinced her to drink some coffee, saying that the caffeine may help her headache. And it did... I've ordered a grilled chicken sandwich, relish plate, steamed rice and gravy, milk and a cookie. We'll see what she eats.
I will keep everyone posted as the day and evening progress. For the moment, I am enjoying the down time, with Bethany sleeping.
Be blessed and thank you, Love, Shari and Bethany
Bethany had an excellent day yesterday, and she actually walked around a bit with her boyfriend, Nate. They went to the gift shop and around the floor. Her incision did not leak at all. It hasn't since the day Dr. Healy implanted the drain. Woo Hoo! Bethany had some visitors in the afternoon--mostly family--and by the time everyone left, she was exhausted. They left around 8pm and she slept solidly until about midnight. Then.....she was in pain.
She was able to get up and use the restroom, however, standing gives her a tremendous headache. The pain medication gives her blurry vision, as well. When she stood, her entire back on down through her legs, went very tingly and weak. The upper part of her incision felt compressed and as though it were compressing her entire back and back side. Hmmmm. To top it off, Bethany has an extreme toothache. I have been in contact with her dentist who is willing to see her anytime; unfortunately, she's still in the hospital. We will be stopping by the dentist's office on the way home from the hospital-whenever that is. Our dentist, Dr. Jardin, said that he would even come in the office after hours or on the weekend for Bethany. Ah...Bethany is definitely loved.
This morning, Dr. Healy's Resident, Holly, removed all 20 of Bethany's staples from her incision, and she hasn't leaked at all. She then said that Bethany is allowed to go home today, but it's probably not the best idea--given her pain level. She said that Bethany needs to lay low for a few weeks. When I mentioned that she begins her Bio-Engineering class load of 20 hours next Monday, she gasped. Subsequently, Bethany has withdrawn from her 3 hour chemistry lab--she knows she won't be able to stand that long--even on a good day. The doctor said for her to 'play it by ear,' and to just take it easy. He is writing her a script to take to the DMV to attain a temporary Medical Handicap parking pass. Thank God! As most know, parking on campus is at a premium, and as a freshman, Bethany gets last dibs. She already has an extremely difficult time walking from class to class and carrying her books, let alone now that she is recovering from surgery. Nonetheless, we'll get her the pass as soon as we are discharged.
Bethany has needed her pain medication before it's been due today, and she is sleeping rather soundly at the moment. I have ordered lunch for her, but I doubt she is going to eat much. Yesterday, she ate some, but today, she hasn't eaten much at all. She ordered a bagel, but never touched it. The nurse convinced her to drink some coffee, saying that the caffeine may help her headache. And it did... I've ordered a grilled chicken sandwich, relish plate, steamed rice and gravy, milk and a cookie. We'll see what she eats.
I will keep everyone posted as the day and evening progress. For the moment, I am enjoying the down time, with Bethany sleeping.
Be blessed and thank you, Love, Shari and Bethany
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
We're Moving on Up......
Well,Bethany had a very good day yesterday and a good evening, too. She had her drain removed and.......there hasn't been any sign of leaking in about 24 hours. Woo-Hoo! Given her history, that's NOTHING short of a miracle. She was able to sit up (after a few hours) for a few minutes and then lay back down. She also got up to use the restroom twice and was pretty animated. She definitely is worn out easily and has constant and persistent headaches. As of last night, she no longer takes morphine, rather it is just percocet. This is odd, in and of itself, as pills have yet to do much for her. They are, however, OK at this time.
After visitors left last night, Bethany was really tired and wanted to sleep. She was having a difficult time. Around 11:15pm, a nurse came in and said that we would be moving to the main floor and out of ICU, uh......now. What? 11:15pm at night? It may as well have been 3:00 am, because we were both exhausted. Nonetheless, we were and are extremely happy, and feel extremely blessed, that she is well enough to be moved. Thus, the piling on of accumulated stuff and huffing it down the hallways to our new room. The moving of her bed caused her to have a bad headache, thus, she immediately wanted to sleep. Who wouldn't at that hour, anyway?
It took me a while to get settled in the new room, moving the chairs around, finding the things that I tossed about in a hurried effort to leave the ICU. Once, I was settled, we slept. I asked the nurse to please wake Bethany to take her meds so that she doesn't wake up in a lot of pain, and she did.
Bethany slept while her Neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, assessed her early this morning. Her wound is still dry (Praise God!), and he said that as soon as she was up and walking, eating and functioning, it's 'so long.' Yeah! Believe it or not, we were slightly concerned that the hospital may boot her out today, but they didn't. Bethany would like to have at least one more day here recuperating. Hallelujah!
Who would have ever thought that we would be wondering if they will discharge her before we are ready? Ha. God really does have a sense of humor.
The Physical Therapist came this morning, and Bethany passed everything with flying colors. Then breakfast came. Together, those two things totally wiped her out, and she is peacefully resting now. Whew!
I can't even begin to tell you how much we have both appreciated your prayers to Jesus. We know that it is because of them that she is doing so well and that she will, most likely, be heading home tomorrow. She begins school on Monday, January 9, so it will be nice for her to have a few days at home before classes actually start. She is planning on living at home for a couple of weeks, and then moving into her dorm in Crossings. She has actually mentioned numerous times that she is considering taking the next semester off, but I don't really think that is 'on the table' any longer. We will just have to wait and see how she feels.
Well, I better be signing off. I think I am going to nap, too. Long days and nights around here. Looking forward to the normalcy of home and hearth.
God Bless You, Shari and Bethany
After visitors left last night, Bethany was really tired and wanted to sleep. She was having a difficult time. Around 11:15pm, a nurse came in and said that we would be moving to the main floor and out of ICU, uh......now. What? 11:15pm at night? It may as well have been 3:00 am, because we were both exhausted. Nonetheless, we were and are extremely happy, and feel extremely blessed, that she is well enough to be moved. Thus, the piling on of accumulated stuff and huffing it down the hallways to our new room. The moving of her bed caused her to have a bad headache, thus, she immediately wanted to sleep. Who wouldn't at that hour, anyway?
It took me a while to get settled in the new room, moving the chairs around, finding the things that I tossed about in a hurried effort to leave the ICU. Once, I was settled, we slept. I asked the nurse to please wake Bethany to take her meds so that she doesn't wake up in a lot of pain, and she did.
Bethany slept while her Neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, assessed her early this morning. Her wound is still dry (Praise God!), and he said that as soon as she was up and walking, eating and functioning, it's 'so long.' Yeah! Believe it or not, we were slightly concerned that the hospital may boot her out today, but they didn't. Bethany would like to have at least one more day here recuperating. Hallelujah!
Who would have ever thought that we would be wondering if they will discharge her before we are ready? Ha. God really does have a sense of humor.
The Physical Therapist came this morning, and Bethany passed everything with flying colors. Then breakfast came. Together, those two things totally wiped her out, and she is peacefully resting now. Whew!
I can't even begin to tell you how much we have both appreciated your prayers to Jesus. We know that it is because of them that she is doing so well and that she will, most likely, be heading home tomorrow. She begins school on Monday, January 9, so it will be nice for her to have a few days at home before classes actually start. She is planning on living at home for a couple of weeks, and then moving into her dorm in Crossings. She has actually mentioned numerous times that she is considering taking the next semester off, but I don't really think that is 'on the table' any longer. We will just have to wait and see how she feels.
Well, I better be signing off. I think I am going to nap, too. Long days and nights around here. Looking forward to the normalcy of home and hearth.
God Bless You, Shari and Bethany
Monday, January 2, 2012
Thank God for Rest for the Weary
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Amen!
After an extremely long NYE night, Bethany had a very long day, too. She was in a lot of pain--headaches, back aches, nausea, etc. We did the best we could to comfort her, warm and cold compresses, pain medications, massages, etc, but they provided little relief. Around 3pm, I took a break and left Joe with Bethany for a couple hours while Chris and I went home and did some laundry and watched a movie together. We also ate lunch in the cafeteria and did some catching up. That was extremely refreshing and yet sad when Chris had to leave to go work a 24 hour shift. sigh
When we returned to the hospital, I leaned over to kiss Bethany and she whispered that there were too many people in the room. So....I had to be a meanie and ask most everyone to leave. They were so sweet and had totally been whispering, but sometimes it can just be hard to have some visitors when you want to sleep and even whispering is painful for her. I can't even read a book because the turning of the pages is too loud. And....flushing the toilet, well, that's totally out of the question. ha.
After everyone left, we got a new nurse--Michelle. Wow, was she ever a God-send. She told me that she has only been a nurse for less than a year (even though she's in her 50's), and that she was still learning. She was very sweet and helpful. She was practically the only nurse to whisper entirely while in Bethany's room, although our morning nurse, Bridget, does too, and is just as sweet and helpful. She said that she had noticed that a sleeping aid had been ordered for her, however, she also said she noticed that none had ever been offered to Bethany.
Wow! Both of us jumped at that, and she immediately gave one to Bethany, along with a morphine shot. I mentioned that some nursing friends of mine had posted on FB that 12 mg of morphine is a huge amount and that they wouldn't even give that to a horse; I had also wondered that if that was true, then why wasn't Bethany on any monitors? She said that she wondered the same thing so she hooked her up to monitors (much to Bethany's dismay). Then, she returned about 30 minutes later to say that she was doing some research and realized that Bethany's morphine dosage is normal for someone her size, age and surgical wounds. Bethany gets 10 mg IM (meaning intra muscular), and that makes all the difference.
Anyway, Bethany was able to sleep peacefully practically all night. She awoke for meds and such, but still was very sleepy. Thank God! And....when Bethany sleeps, I sleep. Also, because her body was so relaxed, her spinal fluid leaked a minimal 100 ml. That's so awesome that the dr. decided to clamp her drain this morning for hour hours. He recently removed the drain entirely.
Bethany has been having an excellent, quiet morning, has eaten a little bit and is feeling much better. She is still in a lot of pain, but a different kind of pain. Her head is still pounding, and the dr would like to see if she can get up today. She is currently waiting for some pain medication, and then the plan is to wait about 30 minutes and then sit up for a bit. If all goes well, then maybe eat a bit while she gets washed up and sheets changed, etc. Bethany is understandably nervous about doing all this, because once she gets a headache, it takes a long time for it to pass.
Thanks for all of your prayers of support and encouragement, strength and healing. We totally appreciate it, and the Lord has definitely been constant and active in Bethany's surgery and recovery.
On another note, please pray for my mom; I was just notified this morning, that she was taken to the ER at Detroit's Beaumont Hospital for pleurisy. As it turns out, she doesn't have pleurisy, but rather a rapid, irregular heartbeat. She has been admitted. I have spoken with her, and she sounds well, however, she has yet to see a doctor, and the hospital staff is puzzled as to why she is experiencing this.
Thanks so much, Love, Shari and Bethany Rose
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Amen!
After an extremely long NYE night, Bethany had a very long day, too. She was in a lot of pain--headaches, back aches, nausea, etc. We did the best we could to comfort her, warm and cold compresses, pain medications, massages, etc, but they provided little relief. Around 3pm, I took a break and left Joe with Bethany for a couple hours while Chris and I went home and did some laundry and watched a movie together. We also ate lunch in the cafeteria and did some catching up. That was extremely refreshing and yet sad when Chris had to leave to go work a 24 hour shift. sigh
When we returned to the hospital, I leaned over to kiss Bethany and she whispered that there were too many people in the room. So....I had to be a meanie and ask most everyone to leave. They were so sweet and had totally been whispering, but sometimes it can just be hard to have some visitors when you want to sleep and even whispering is painful for her. I can't even read a book because the turning of the pages is too loud. And....flushing the toilet, well, that's totally out of the question. ha.
After everyone left, we got a new nurse--Michelle. Wow, was she ever a God-send. She told me that she has only been a nurse for less than a year (even though she's in her 50's), and that she was still learning. She was very sweet and helpful. She was practically the only nurse to whisper entirely while in Bethany's room, although our morning nurse, Bridget, does too, and is just as sweet and helpful. She said that she had noticed that a sleeping aid had been ordered for her, however, she also said she noticed that none had ever been offered to Bethany.
Wow! Both of us jumped at that, and she immediately gave one to Bethany, along with a morphine shot. I mentioned that some nursing friends of mine had posted on FB that 12 mg of morphine is a huge amount and that they wouldn't even give that to a horse; I had also wondered that if that was true, then why wasn't Bethany on any monitors? She said that she wondered the same thing so she hooked her up to monitors (much to Bethany's dismay). Then, she returned about 30 minutes later to say that she was doing some research and realized that Bethany's morphine dosage is normal for someone her size, age and surgical wounds. Bethany gets 10 mg IM (meaning intra muscular), and that makes all the difference.
Anyway, Bethany was able to sleep peacefully practically all night. She awoke for meds and such, but still was very sleepy. Thank God! And....when Bethany sleeps, I sleep. Also, because her body was so relaxed, her spinal fluid leaked a minimal 100 ml. That's so awesome that the dr. decided to clamp her drain this morning for hour hours. He recently removed the drain entirely.
Bethany has been having an excellent, quiet morning, has eaten a little bit and is feeling much better. She is still in a lot of pain, but a different kind of pain. Her head is still pounding, and the dr would like to see if she can get up today. She is currently waiting for some pain medication, and then the plan is to wait about 30 minutes and then sit up for a bit. If all goes well, then maybe eat a bit while she gets washed up and sheets changed, etc. Bethany is understandably nervous about doing all this, because once she gets a headache, it takes a long time for it to pass.
Thanks for all of your prayers of support and encouragement, strength and healing. We totally appreciate it, and the Lord has definitely been constant and active in Bethany's surgery and recovery.
On another note, please pray for my mom; I was just notified this morning, that she was taken to the ER at Detroit's Beaumont Hospital for pleurisy. As it turns out, she doesn't have pleurisy, but rather a rapid, irregular heartbeat. She has been admitted. I have spoken with her, and she sounds well, however, she has yet to see a doctor, and the hospital staff is puzzled as to why she is experiencing this.
Thanks so much, Love, Shari and Bethany Rose
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Out with 2011 and In with 2012
Good morning,
Yesterday was extremely rough for Bethany. She moaned from pain virtually all day. She had a good hour or so around noon, but it was virtually downhill after that. I couldn't figure out just why she was in so much pain, especially considering the Doctor had upped her medication dosage.
We had 4 nurses throughout the day--definitely 3 too many. In the evening, when Bethany still hadn't been relieved of pain, and the staff didn't seem to enjoy me questioning it, I realized that instead of increasing her morphine dosage from 10mg to 12mg (for an increase of 2mg), they decreased it 8 mg (down from 10mg to 2mg. When I tried to explain to the nurse that it should have been increased and NOT decreased, she wouldn't hear any of it. I asked her to please read Bethany's chart, as I knew the morning nurse had written it in before she left. Well, with her distinct disapproval, she did and realized the error. She was then extremely apologetic. Sigh.
Then...a few hours later, the same thing happened; the nurse came in with only 2mg. Geesh! What's up with that? Thank God our evening nurse is really, really nice and thoughtful.
The doctor's resident just left; while he was here, I mentioned the mix-up, and the nurse tried to gloss it over. I was very clear and asked him to please mark the chart for 12mg, not just an increase of 2mg. He said he would.
Unfortunately, Bethany has been virtually unable to eat. Because of that, her stomach is in constant pain. Every time she attempts to eat, she gets sick. She has been laying flat since Tuesday, and that is taking its toll on her hips and back. That, along with her constant headaches and stomach pain, is making for some real misery.
Bethany's output of spinal fluid was again increased to 660ml this morning. It should be decreasing and not increasing. The resident said that we shouldn't worry about it. The plan is to get her to eat something today, thus alleviating some of her pain, and then clamp her drain tomorrow, and see how she does. Bethany is acutely aware that her classes at UT begin in a week, and I know she is worried that she won't be home in time.
Please continue to pray:
•that she has relief from her constant pain;
•that she has an appetite and is able to eat something without making her sick;
•that she is comforted and is able to sleep soundly;
•that she heals entirely and is able to resume classes on January 9.
Thank you so very much and May God bless you this New Year.
Yesterday was extremely rough for Bethany. She moaned from pain virtually all day. She had a good hour or so around noon, but it was virtually downhill after that. I couldn't figure out just why she was in so much pain, especially considering the Doctor had upped her medication dosage.
We had 4 nurses throughout the day--definitely 3 too many. In the evening, when Bethany still hadn't been relieved of pain, and the staff didn't seem to enjoy me questioning it, I realized that instead of increasing her morphine dosage from 10mg to 12mg (for an increase of 2mg), they decreased it 8 mg (down from 10mg to 2mg. When I tried to explain to the nurse that it should have been increased and NOT decreased, she wouldn't hear any of it. I asked her to please read Bethany's chart, as I knew the morning nurse had written it in before she left. Well, with her distinct disapproval, she did and realized the error. She was then extremely apologetic. Sigh.
Then...a few hours later, the same thing happened; the nurse came in with only 2mg. Geesh! What's up with that? Thank God our evening nurse is really, really nice and thoughtful.
The doctor's resident just left; while he was here, I mentioned the mix-up, and the nurse tried to gloss it over. I was very clear and asked him to please mark the chart for 12mg, not just an increase of 2mg. He said he would.
Unfortunately, Bethany has been virtually unable to eat. Because of that, her stomach is in constant pain. Every time she attempts to eat, she gets sick. She has been laying flat since Tuesday, and that is taking its toll on her hips and back. That, along with her constant headaches and stomach pain, is making for some real misery.
Bethany's output of spinal fluid was again increased to 660ml this morning. It should be decreasing and not increasing. The resident said that we shouldn't worry about it. The plan is to get her to eat something today, thus alleviating some of her pain, and then clamp her drain tomorrow, and see how she does. Bethany is acutely aware that her classes at UT begin in a week, and I know she is worried that she won't be home in time.
Please continue to pray:
•that she has relief from her constant pain;
•that she has an appetite and is able to eat something without making her sick;
•that she is comforted and is able to sleep soundly;
•that she heals entirely and is able to resume classes on January 9.
Thank you so very much and May God bless you this New Year.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
And life goes on...
Good morning. Bethany had a decent night, but an extremely painful morning. She was able to sleep on and off all night, but the pain really set in this morning. What part of ICU don't people get? It seems like EVERYONE in this place likes to speak really loudly--no such thing as whispering. OK--Dr. Healy and his entire staff whisper--probably because they know what spinal headaches and pains are all about. Anyway, enough ranting.
Again, percocet and morphine can only do so much; pills have almost always had minimal effect on Bethany, and I think that why the morphine shot works best. Unfortunately, they are by request only, and only 4 hours. Because she may fall in and out of sleep, it is had to gauge just when she should have them until it's too late. The morning doctor said that Bethany's dosage may be increased because the current dosage didn't seem to be working. So....they gave her a shot around 6:30 am, and that seemed to help. The shot, however, was only for the increased amount of 2mg, and not the original 10mg. We didn't know that, and wondered why she was in so much pain.
Anyway, shift changes bring new nurses and new rules and regulations and new explanations of everything. Thus, Bethany had to wait four hours until she was able to receive her 10mg dose. Nonetheless, she received it and is resting now. She is still restless, but in much less pain.
Bethany has yet to eat virtually anything, so all of the pills and meds are irritating her stomach. She is hungry but can't keep anything down. I have been feeding her ice chips and a few bites of a pancake, but that's about it.
Yesterday morning, Dr. Healy had her drain moved to bed level, so that it would be resting on top of her bed, thus causing the drain to drain more slowly and minimizing her headaches and hip pain. Well, that didn't work. It is still on her bed, but instead of draining 550ml (already a lot in a 24 hour period), she drained 650ml. Geesh! Still can't figure that one out. The Doctor said that she is fine and is on schedule for this type of surgery.
Bethany's hips, head, upper back (shoulders/neck), lower back, and legs all hurt--in that order, and they seem to always be hurting. It's just a matter of the medication making them hurt less. She has been such a trouper, so polite to everyone--even when they are talking very loudly, or very late with medications, or stabbing her three times to insert yet another IV. Again, she's a trouper and a true joy to be around. I'm so glad that I have been able to spend this time with her.
Prayer concerns: Freedom from pain everywhere within her body; that the doctors will give her medication that works well; that she is able/wanting to eat and that she keeps things down without nausea; that she continues to heal on pace; that she has total and complete healing of her spine and related issues, and that she has the peace and comfort of Our Lord.
Thank you very much for your prayers of love and encouragement and hope.
Again, percocet and morphine can only do so much; pills have almost always had minimal effect on Bethany, and I think that why the morphine shot works best. Unfortunately, they are by request only, and only 4 hours. Because she may fall in and out of sleep, it is had to gauge just when she should have them until it's too late. The morning doctor said that Bethany's dosage may be increased because the current dosage didn't seem to be working. So....they gave her a shot around 6:30 am, and that seemed to help. The shot, however, was only for the increased amount of 2mg, and not the original 10mg. We didn't know that, and wondered why she was in so much pain.
Anyway, shift changes bring new nurses and new rules and regulations and new explanations of everything. Thus, Bethany had to wait four hours until she was able to receive her 10mg dose. Nonetheless, she received it and is resting now. She is still restless, but in much less pain.
Bethany has yet to eat virtually anything, so all of the pills and meds are irritating her stomach. She is hungry but can't keep anything down. I have been feeding her ice chips and a few bites of a pancake, but that's about it.
Yesterday morning, Dr. Healy had her drain moved to bed level, so that it would be resting on top of her bed, thus causing the drain to drain more slowly and minimizing her headaches and hip pain. Well, that didn't work. It is still on her bed, but instead of draining 550ml (already a lot in a 24 hour period), she drained 650ml. Geesh! Still can't figure that one out. The Doctor said that she is fine and is on schedule for this type of surgery.
Bethany's hips, head, upper back (shoulders/neck), lower back, and legs all hurt--in that order, and they seem to always be hurting. It's just a matter of the medication making them hurt less. She has been such a trouper, so polite to everyone--even when they are talking very loudly, or very late with medications, or stabbing her three times to insert yet another IV. Again, she's a trouper and a true joy to be around. I'm so glad that I have been able to spend this time with her.
Prayer concerns: Freedom from pain everywhere within her body; that the doctors will give her medication that works well; that she is able/wanting to eat and that she keeps things down without nausea; that she continues to heal on pace; that she has total and complete healing of her spine and related issues, and that she has the peace and comfort of Our Lord.
Thank you very much for your prayers of love and encouragement and hope.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Unfortunately, no change for the better.......YET!
Bethany has had an extremely rough day; she is still moaning and quietly sobbing in her sleep. She was given pain meds 45 minutes ago, but because she is acquiring a resistance to them, they provide little pain relief. I set up two heating pads for her, and at her request, I just removed them because they made her too warm. She is trying to postpone her morphine shot for another hour; she realizes that if she has it now, it may be about 3 hours before any additional pain medication. I really wish the neurosurgeon would prescribe something stronger for her pain.
Bethany has had her IV released; she is only hooked up for a 15 minute stint of antibiotics every few hours. She still has her catheter and her vitals are taken only every 4 hours. The drain is still on her bed--level and is draining; it is currently up to 400 since this morning. She has yet to eat anything today, other than two bites of mashed potatoes. OK. Maybe three bites. Joy brought her up a Wendy's frosty, but I don't think she tried any. I bought her a Dew (at the nurse's request for caffeine to alleviate her headache temporarily), but she only took one sip. She hates soda pop.
Since I began typing, she just changed her mind and requested a morphine shot (at my suggestion). Her moaning is getting louder and louder--so very sad. Just because the calendar says someone is 18 1/2 years old and is technically an adult, doesn't mean they can tolerate this kind of pain.
I know that Bethany's frame of mind is changing. This episode is entirely reminiscent of her last surgeries, and that is frightening. When she has totally awakened today,for brief periods of time, she has had blurred vision and hasn't felt like communicating at all. Almost catatonic, if you ask me. I think it's because of her lack of appetite; thus, she has an empty stomach whenever she swallows the pills or takes the shots. Hmmmm. Food makes her nauseous. For that, she is taking Zofran. Along with her pain meds, she is taking a host of additional medications.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers; I know they are working. Bethany will be healed and home soon enough; it's just the interim that is unfortunate. "By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see. Acts 3:15-17" Amen.
Blessings and peace to each and every one of you and yours.
Bethany has had her IV released; she is only hooked up for a 15 minute stint of antibiotics every few hours. She still has her catheter and her vitals are taken only every 4 hours. The drain is still on her bed--level and is draining; it is currently up to 400 since this morning. She has yet to eat anything today, other than two bites of mashed potatoes. OK. Maybe three bites. Joy brought her up a Wendy's frosty, but I don't think she tried any. I bought her a Dew (at the nurse's request for caffeine to alleviate her headache temporarily), but she only took one sip. She hates soda pop.
Since I began typing, she just changed her mind and requested a morphine shot (at my suggestion). Her moaning is getting louder and louder--so very sad. Just because the calendar says someone is 18 1/2 years old and is technically an adult, doesn't mean they can tolerate this kind of pain.
I know that Bethany's frame of mind is changing. This episode is entirely reminiscent of her last surgeries, and that is frightening. When she has totally awakened today,for brief periods of time, she has had blurred vision and hasn't felt like communicating at all. Almost catatonic, if you ask me. I think it's because of her lack of appetite; thus, she has an empty stomach whenever she swallows the pills or takes the shots. Hmmmm. Food makes her nauseous. For that, she is taking Zofran. Along with her pain meds, she is taking a host of additional medications.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers; I know they are working. Bethany will be healed and home soon enough; it's just the interim that is unfortunate. "By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see. Acts 3:15-17" Amen.
Blessings and peace to each and every one of you and yours.
Finally, a snippet of rest.
Well, it's 1 in the afternoon, and Bethany has finally found some rest. She is still moaning in her sleep, but she is sleeping nonetheless. Thank God! She has developed such a resistance to Percocet and Morphine that nothing seems to be really helping her. Joy brought up a heating pad for her lower back; the hospital supplied a moisture heating machine for her upper back; she has warm, wet towels on her shoulders and neck, and her hips and headache have yet to find relief.
Bethany hasn't eaten anything today, and she drank about 1 TB of milk and brought it right back up. I've ordered mashed potatoes, Gatorade and a bagel for her, but she finally is resting, and I am not about to awaken her. Timing is absolutely everything around here. Please pray that she is able to eat something--anything, as I think that may help her headache and nausea. Thank God for medications.
Nate just left, and I guess I'm gonna watch, "The Help," all by myself. Ha ha. I'm enjoying the quiet alone with my little princess. She is such a warrior princess and trouper. I am so very proud of her.
Thank you, Jesus, for Bethany Rose. For being her All in All, her Jehovah, her Healer, her Comforter, her Beginning and her Ending, her Peace and her Rest, her Hope and Her Love. Amen.
Bethany hasn't eaten anything today, and she drank about 1 TB of milk and brought it right back up. I've ordered mashed potatoes, Gatorade and a bagel for her, but she finally is resting, and I am not about to awaken her. Timing is absolutely everything around here. Please pray that she is able to eat something--anything, as I think that may help her headache and nausea. Thank God for medications.
Nate just left, and I guess I'm gonna watch, "The Help," all by myself. Ha ha. I'm enjoying the quiet alone with my little princess. She is such a warrior princess and trouper. I am so very proud of her.
Thank you, Jesus, for Bethany Rose. For being her All in All, her Jehovah, her Healer, her Comforter, her Beginning and her Ending, her Peace and her Rest, her Hope and Her Love. Amen.
We pray this isn't a foreshadowing of things to come
Good Morning. Well, let's suffice it to say that it's been a rough night for Bethany. She's been in an extreme amount of pain; she's sad because this is very reminiscent of her past surgeries--pain, feel exceptionally well, extreme pain...She is currently taking percocet pills every four hours and 10 mg of morphine every four hours (percocet at noon, morphine at 2, percocet at 4, morphine at 6), however, they are NOT working anymore.
Bethany virtually slept from the moment her visitors left at 8:00 pm or so, until 6:00 am, however, she awoke every hour or so in extreme pain. She has been moaning all night and morning, and said that she foresees this as being an extremely bad day. I know that we both trust in Jesus to deliver her from this. His strength is sufficient for her, however, she needs a miraculous revelation in her body.
"I trust in Jesus, my Great Deliverer, my Strong Defender, the Son of God.
I trust in Jesus, Blessed Redeemer, my Lord forever, the Holy One."
Saints, I ask for prayer for Bethany's strength and comfort at this time. That she is able to find rest for her weak body and is pain free; that her spirit is lifted and she is able to find sweet sleep. Thank you.
I must sign off because the keyboard tapping (virtually silent) is too loud for her.
Bethany virtually slept from the moment her visitors left at 8:00 pm or so, until 6:00 am, however, she awoke every hour or so in extreme pain. She has been moaning all night and morning, and said that she foresees this as being an extremely bad day. I know that we both trust in Jesus to deliver her from this. His strength is sufficient for her, however, she needs a miraculous revelation in her body.
"I trust in Jesus, my Great Deliverer, my Strong Defender, the Son of God.
I trust in Jesus, Blessed Redeemer, my Lord forever, the Holy One."
Saints, I ask for prayer for Bethany's strength and comfort at this time. That she is able to find rest for her weak body and is pain free; that her spirit is lifted and she is able to find sweet sleep. Thank you.
I must sign off because the keyboard tapping (virtually silent) is too loud for her.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Sleep. It's all we've been doing lately.....
Good Morning. I'm sorry it has taken me a day to update everyone. Yesterday was exhausting, and we've been recuperating ever since. Bethany had been in a lot of pain, and the doctor decided she could have percocet. Thus, it relieved her pain, and she felt rather animated for quite a while.
Bethany's boyfriend, Nate, arrived around 10 am, and hung out with us the majority of the day. Bethany had really missed him, and this was nice. Nate, however, brings out the animation in Bethany, and she refused to attempt sleep. Then, some additional visitors came and so did the exhaustion. As it stood, Bethany overdid herself and was totally exhausted and in a lot of pain. She was able to take some pain meds, and then sleep on and off for about 10 hours--which is excellent.
Over the years, Bethany has found that pain pills have not been very effective for her, so she prefers shots or fluids. She has also found out, much to her dismay, that Vicoden and Percocet do not work very well for her. So, Dr. Healy just switched her to Tylenol 3 and Morphene. She takes Tylenol 3 every 4 hours, and Morphene (shot) as needed, usually every 4 hours, as well. So, at noon would be Morphene, 2pm is Tylenol 3, 4pm is Morphene, and 6pm is Tylenol 3, and so on.
I think the Tylenol 3 is helping her to sleep, which is a really good thing because sleeping helps her body to heal. She leaked another 550 ml of spinal fluid, yesterday, however, it was mostly clear. Before it had been extremely bloody. It is still a LOT of csf to leak, so Dr. Healy has moved her csf bag so that it is level with her bed. The higher it is, the less draining occurs. Draining is a good thing, just not too much of it.
Bethany has been eating a little bit here and there. Her breakfast came and because she slept through it, it went, too. It was too cold to eat, so we'll order more later when she is awake more. She had a little bit of stir fry for lunch, and some soup for dinner.
Prayer concerns: Bethany's hips are really, really sore, as are her neck and shoulders. She must remain totally flat through Saturday, and this, along with her csf leak, causes her hips and neck and shoulders to be distressed. Hopefully, the raising of the csf bag will help alleviate some of her pain.
Please pray that her hips, shoulders and neck are relieved of pain; that she continues to heal quickly, and we continue to have excellent nurses--as we have.
On behalf of Bethany and myself, we thank you tremendously for your prayers on her behalf.
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17
Bethany's boyfriend, Nate, arrived around 10 am, and hung out with us the majority of the day. Bethany had really missed him, and this was nice. Nate, however, brings out the animation in Bethany, and she refused to attempt sleep. Then, some additional visitors came and so did the exhaustion. As it stood, Bethany overdid herself and was totally exhausted and in a lot of pain. She was able to take some pain meds, and then sleep on and off for about 10 hours--which is excellent.
Over the years, Bethany has found that pain pills have not been very effective for her, so she prefers shots or fluids. She has also found out, much to her dismay, that Vicoden and Percocet do not work very well for her. So, Dr. Healy just switched her to Tylenol 3 and Morphene. She takes Tylenol 3 every 4 hours, and Morphene (shot) as needed, usually every 4 hours, as well. So, at noon would be Morphene, 2pm is Tylenol 3, 4pm is Morphene, and 6pm is Tylenol 3, and so on.
I think the Tylenol 3 is helping her to sleep, which is a really good thing because sleeping helps her body to heal. She leaked another 550 ml of spinal fluid, yesterday, however, it was mostly clear. Before it had been extremely bloody. It is still a LOT of csf to leak, so Dr. Healy has moved her csf bag so that it is level with her bed. The higher it is, the less draining occurs. Draining is a good thing, just not too much of it.
Bethany has been eating a little bit here and there. Her breakfast came and because she slept through it, it went, too. It was too cold to eat, so we'll order more later when she is awake more. She had a little bit of stir fry for lunch, and some soup for dinner.
Prayer concerns: Bethany's hips are really, really sore, as are her neck and shoulders. She must remain totally flat through Saturday, and this, along with her csf leak, causes her hips and neck and shoulders to be distressed. Hopefully, the raising of the csf bag will help alleviate some of her pain.
Please pray that her hips, shoulders and neck are relieved of pain; that she continues to heal quickly, and we continue to have excellent nurses--as we have.
On behalf of Bethany and myself, we thank you tremendously for your prayers on her behalf.
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
It's another day...
Well, let's suffice it to say, 'It was a rather long night.' Bethany is doing well and can receive a morphine shot every three hours, upon request. Yup, she's requesting them. That, along with Zofran (for nausea). Both seem to be doing their job and allowing her some sleep, albeit fitful. She has had a LOT of neck and upper body pain, along with her lower back and head, however, her upper body/neck/shoulders and headaches seem to be being the brunt of her surgery. Hot compresses seem to help a lot, along with a cold, damp washcloth on her forehead.
Bethany fell asleep around 11pm, and I stayed up and watched 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,' on Hulu, till around midnight. Thus, when Bethany woke up (for the upcoming day), I was a tad tired. She was having extreme headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and nausea. Her catheter and IV's were hurting, etc. Again, another morphine shot and some Zofran and a steroid, too.
Her neurosurgeon's assistant arrived around 5 am to assess her recovery and surgical site. Then, the neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, arrived shortly thereafter. Dr. Healy surmised that Bethany has been leaking an excessive amount of csf (spinal fluid), so she will need to lay flat for the next 4.5 to 5 days. Her body makes 500 ml of csf daily, and she leaked over 550 ml yesterday. My lowering her body level, the drainage should decrease. No problem there. Dr. Healy has reminded us (not that he needed to because we were acutely aware)of the complications of Bethany's last two surgeries; she leaked an excessive amount of csf for months. So.....no problem whatsoever laying on her back for awhile.
As of this morning, Bethany had yet to keep any fluids or solids down, except for one cherry flavored starburst. I guess she just needed a tiny sugar fix. Bethany was, however, able to keep down a slice of bacon, a pancake and some chocolate milk this morning. This means, the staff will be able to give her a percocet--which will last longer than morphine and it isn't a shot--it's a pill. Woo Hoo!
Bethany, even though she has a headache, is listening to her MP3 player, while doing a crossword puzzle. Hmmm. Well, best be ending this. It's time for more pain meds and a linen change.
Thanks to everyone for their prayers to our Most Heavenly Father on Bethany's behalf. Please continue to pray for a quick and total recovery, and for peace and comfort for Bethany. Blessings to all.
Bethany fell asleep around 11pm, and I stayed up and watched 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,' on Hulu, till around midnight. Thus, when Bethany woke up (for the upcoming day), I was a tad tired. She was having extreme headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and nausea. Her catheter and IV's were hurting, etc. Again, another morphine shot and some Zofran and a steroid, too.
Her neurosurgeon's assistant arrived around 5 am to assess her recovery and surgical site. Then, the neurosurgeon, Dr. Healy, arrived shortly thereafter. Dr. Healy surmised that Bethany has been leaking an excessive amount of csf (spinal fluid), so she will need to lay flat for the next 4.5 to 5 days. Her body makes 500 ml of csf daily, and she leaked over 550 ml yesterday. My lowering her body level, the drainage should decrease. No problem there. Dr. Healy has reminded us (not that he needed to because we were acutely aware)of the complications of Bethany's last two surgeries; she leaked an excessive amount of csf for months. So.....no problem whatsoever laying on her back for awhile.
As of this morning, Bethany had yet to keep any fluids or solids down, except for one cherry flavored starburst. I guess she just needed a tiny sugar fix. Bethany was, however, able to keep down a slice of bacon, a pancake and some chocolate milk this morning. This means, the staff will be able to give her a percocet--which will last longer than morphine and it isn't a shot--it's a pill. Woo Hoo!
Bethany, even though she has a headache, is listening to her MP3 player, while doing a crossword puzzle. Hmmm. Well, best be ending this. It's time for more pain meds and a linen change.
Thanks to everyone for their prayers to our Most Heavenly Father on Bethany's behalf. Please continue to pray for a quick and total recovery, and for peace and comfort for Bethany. Blessings to all.
Nighttime is the time to sleep........
Well, it's midnight, and Bethany is finally getting some relief that is allowing her to sleep. It's taken Morphene, Steroids, Zofran, hot compresses on her neck and shoulders, and cold compresses (changed every 10 minutes for the past two hours) on her forehead, in order for her to be comfortable enough to actually sleep.
This is a girl that has had MAJOR spinal cord surgery, has a drain that is catching her spinal fluid as it leaks, has a catheter, full leg cuff compressions, IV's, cords everywhere, and hasn't complained even once. Not even one time. She has a huge tolerence for pain and uncomfortableness. That's just her--go with the flow.
I am so very proud of her, and I praise God daily for my Bethany Rose; for her compassion and determination, her fighting spirit and courage. She reminds me of Deborah in the Bible--strong, fierce, Godly, determined, and focused. May Bethany be an example for us all.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's complete healing and restoration of her body. Thank you, Saints.
This is a girl that has had MAJOR spinal cord surgery, has a drain that is catching her spinal fluid as it leaks, has a catheter, full leg cuff compressions, IV's, cords everywhere, and hasn't complained even once. Not even one time. She has a huge tolerence for pain and uncomfortableness. That's just her--go with the flow.
I am so very proud of her, and I praise God daily for my Bethany Rose; for her compassion and determination, her fighting spirit and courage. She reminds me of Deborah in the Bible--strong, fierce, Godly, determined, and focused. May Bethany be an example for us all.
Please continue to pray for Bethany's complete healing and restoration of her body. Thank you, Saints.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Another update on Bethany Rose
Well, it's been 9 hours since Bethany's surgery, and minus the spinal headaches and neck/shoulder pain, Bethany is doing miraculously well. She is on morphene shots and ice chips, along with very limited visitation. Bethany is leaking the appropriate amount of spinal cord fluid, thus the headaches. Better to leak it out than to leave it in. We are just praying that it continues as such and that her nausea subsides.
Here's a picture of Nathan feeding Bethany some ice chips. (kind of dark in the room and the picture)
Nathan and I will be spending the night with her and she finds comfort in having us near...ah....especiallyl Nathan.
Thanks again for your prayers. Love to all.
Nathan and I will be spending the night with her and she finds comfort in having us near...ah....especiallyl Nathan.
Thanks again for your prayers. Love to all.
Post surgery
Well, Bethany is officially out of surgery. It was approximately three hours, and the doctor said that she did well. A Major Success--Praise God! He also said that although her spine had re-tethered, and it was larger than before, she has a greater probability of returning home sooner. As a youngster, her dura was very, very small, and now as an adult, she has many additional layers to her dura--thus her CSF (spinal cord fluid) will be less likely to leak.
The best case scenario would be for her to be released in 4-5 days (not a few months like the past two times).
We are all waiting to see her in the ICU. Until then, Saints, please pray that she recovers quickly, isn't nauseated and has little pain.
Thank you so very much!
The best case scenario would be for her to be released in 4-5 days (not a few months like the past two times).
We are all waiting to see her in the ICU. Until then, Saints, please pray that she recovers quickly, isn't nauseated and has little pain.
Thank you so very much!
Bethany is in surgery NOW
My little Bethany is currently in surgery, under the Divine direction of Dr. Michael Healy. We are believing for a miracle and that Bethany will have total and complete healing and restoration to her physical body. We are looking forward to an 'excellent report.' Thank you, Jesus, for blessing your daughter, Bethany Rose.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Words to the Wise (and not so wise)....
What's one of the most powerful gifts that our Creator has bestowed upon us? Words. Yes, words. Those often loud, emotional, letters strewn together, communication tools, called words. It's amazing that God gave us such a gift. After all, he didn't entrust this gift with dogs, cats, monkeys or elephants. He only only entrusted them to man.
The Bible tells us in Proverbs that, "death and life are in the power of the tongue;" that our words are the mirror from which others view us and cast judgement upon us. If you ask me, that's rather scary. To think that my tiny little tongue (compared to an elephant's, it is tiny), could determine my eternal destiny. Wow! They impact our children, friends, relatives, and the world. But some of the most powerful words we speak are the ones that no one hears ... the words we speak to ourselves. We can speak life to ourselves and we can speak death to ourselves. Our minds think about 130 words per minute and our mouths (women) speak about 25,000 words in a day. That's a lot of words! A considerable amount of those words are spoken or thought to ourselves. Most of this self-talk is harmless, such as what will I fix for dinner? or where did I put my hairbrush? I ask myself more questions than the average person does, because I am a tad more forgetful than the average person is. So....from the time my feet hit the floor in the morning, until the time my head hits the pillow in the evening, I'm internally speaking a LOT to myself.
As I ponder the past week, I am wondering just what makes some people feel so confident and others feel so insecure. The only thing I can come up with is words. Some people use them as encouragement and delight. Others use them as weapons of warfare. I just cannot handle being around the people that use them as if they were overseas, fighting a losing battle--they just keep the bullets coming and coming. Geesh! I'm pretty sure that virtually every adult female I have ever encountered has been the victim of verbal bullying. Yep. The kind that smacked her right in the gut; the kind that confirmed every insecurity she ever, even remotely, felt about herself; the kind that left her feeling like the batter who struck out with three runners on bases or the girl who never received those proverbial birthday party invitations. Wow.
Saying, "I'm so fat," "I'm ugly," or "I'm never going to be good enough,"to oneself can be extremely destructive and debilitating. It can lead to such a grave negative self-perception that it leads to emotional chaos. But....it's even worse when someone else is slaying you with their negative words--thus, just confirming the chaos you are feeling. Negative self-perceptions, repeated over a time, will brand themselves into our minds and eventually become our reality. If you repeat a wrong belief or lie enough times, you begin to believe it. "Nobody loves me," "I don't have any friends," or "I'm so ugly" becomes your reality ... even though it is a false reality. You can become stuck in the house of mirrors looking at a distorted reflection of who you really are. Each time we speak a lie about ourselves, to ourselves, we become more and more bound by it. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that, "As a man thinks within himself, so he is." Gosh, that so makes me want to practice saying positive things to myself. I guess Zig Ziglar was really onto something when he tried to involve the country in positive self talk.
When we look into God's mirror, His incredible love letter to us we call the Bible, we discover the truth. God does love you (Colossians 3:12). You have an entire cloud of witnesses cheering for you (Hebrews 12:1). You are God's masterpiece, a work of beautiful art (Ephesians 2:10). You are good enough because Christ lives in you (John14:20). You are a chosen, holy, dearly loved child of God. That's the truth. Let's get out of the house of mirrors and start seeing ourselves as God sees us.
In one of John's letters, he wrote, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth" (3 John 1:4). I believe that God has no greater joy than to know that His children are walking in the truth. When we are walking in the truth, the lies are exposed. We can recognize the lie, reject the lie, and replace the lie with truth. Then, and only then, can we be all that God has created us to be and do all that God has created us to do. We can experience the abundant life that He planned all along.
I believe God has great plans for all of us. His Word promises that He does. "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). But many of us are not experiencing the abundant life because we don't know who we are. We have believed the lies that we are not good enough, unloved, unworthy, and unforgivable. We have been looking in distorted mirrors for far too long. God wants us to look into the only true mirror that will tell us exactly who we are, what we have, and where we are as a child of God -- His Word. It is the key to living the victorious Christian life.
My hope for you is that you are able to uncover the mirror that God has chosen to see you through; that your 'looking glass' becomes so beautiful, because of your reflection of Him, that you can't help but love yourself as the Child of God that He has created you to be. Be blessed as you find the many ways to bless someone with your words today.
The Bible tells us in Proverbs that, "death and life are in the power of the tongue;" that our words are the mirror from which others view us and cast judgement upon us. If you ask me, that's rather scary. To think that my tiny little tongue (compared to an elephant's, it is tiny), could determine my eternal destiny. Wow! They impact our children, friends, relatives, and the world. But some of the most powerful words we speak are the ones that no one hears ... the words we speak to ourselves. We can speak life to ourselves and we can speak death to ourselves. Our minds think about 130 words per minute and our mouths (women) speak about 25,000 words in a day. That's a lot of words! A considerable amount of those words are spoken or thought to ourselves. Most of this self-talk is harmless, such as what will I fix for dinner? or where did I put my hairbrush? I ask myself more questions than the average person does, because I am a tad more forgetful than the average person is. So....from the time my feet hit the floor in the morning, until the time my head hits the pillow in the evening, I'm internally speaking a LOT to myself.
As I ponder the past week, I am wondering just what makes some people feel so confident and others feel so insecure. The only thing I can come up with is words. Some people use them as encouragement and delight. Others use them as weapons of warfare. I just cannot handle being around the people that use them as if they were overseas, fighting a losing battle--they just keep the bullets coming and coming. Geesh! I'm pretty sure that virtually every adult female I have ever encountered has been the victim of verbal bullying. Yep. The kind that smacked her right in the gut; the kind that confirmed every insecurity she ever, even remotely, felt about herself; the kind that left her feeling like the batter who struck out with three runners on bases or the girl who never received those proverbial birthday party invitations. Wow.
Saying, "I'm so fat," "I'm ugly," or "I'm never going to be good enough,"to oneself can be extremely destructive and debilitating. It can lead to such a grave negative self-perception that it leads to emotional chaos. But....it's even worse when someone else is slaying you with their negative words--thus, just confirming the chaos you are feeling. Negative self-perceptions, repeated over a time, will brand themselves into our minds and eventually become our reality. If you repeat a wrong belief or lie enough times, you begin to believe it. "Nobody loves me," "I don't have any friends," or "I'm so ugly" becomes your reality ... even though it is a false reality. You can become stuck in the house of mirrors looking at a distorted reflection of who you really are. Each time we speak a lie about ourselves, to ourselves, we become more and more bound by it. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that, "As a man thinks within himself, so he is." Gosh, that so makes me want to practice saying positive things to myself. I guess Zig Ziglar was really onto something when he tried to involve the country in positive self talk.
When we look into God's mirror, His incredible love letter to us we call the Bible, we discover the truth. God does love you (Colossians 3:12). You have an entire cloud of witnesses cheering for you (Hebrews 12:1). You are God's masterpiece, a work of beautiful art (Ephesians 2:10). You are good enough because Christ lives in you (John14:20). You are a chosen, holy, dearly loved child of God. That's the truth. Let's get out of the house of mirrors and start seeing ourselves as God sees us.
In one of John's letters, he wrote, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth" (3 John 1:4). I believe that God has no greater joy than to know that His children are walking in the truth. When we are walking in the truth, the lies are exposed. We can recognize the lie, reject the lie, and replace the lie with truth. Then, and only then, can we be all that God has created us to be and do all that God has created us to do. We can experience the abundant life that He planned all along.
I believe God has great plans for all of us. His Word promises that He does. "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). But many of us are not experiencing the abundant life because we don't know who we are. We have believed the lies that we are not good enough, unloved, unworthy, and unforgivable. We have been looking in distorted mirrors for far too long. God wants us to look into the only true mirror that will tell us exactly who we are, what we have, and where we are as a child of God -- His Word. It is the key to living the victorious Christian life.
My hope for you is that you are able to uncover the mirror that God has chosen to see you through; that your 'looking glass' becomes so beautiful, because of your reflection of Him, that you can't help but love yourself as the Child of God that He has created you to be. Be blessed as you find the many ways to bless someone with your words today.
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