Good afternoon, everyone,
I am very happy to be back on the blog and giving you updates. John had his first of 3 physical therapy appointments this week. He completed his 45-60 minute appointment in 30 minutes. He said, "you can't keep a good man down". This is vintage John Anders. He is beginning to use his left arm a bit more, however, it is still very weak. You can see the difference in his shoulder size, when he stands in the mirror. It is amazing that in such a small amount of time, how our bodies can be affected. His anterior suture line is healing quite well, and his posterior suture line has staples intact. His first follow-up appointment at the University of Maryland spinal/neuro clinic is February 5, @ 1000. We are looking forward to his staples being removed, and the first update on how his fusion is healing. He will have a CT scan, an MRI, and a CT angiogram. They will then compare all of his previous studies to verify improvements, hopefully.
Chris and Amy are back at work. I know that we are all still in shock over such a catastrophic experience, but are trying to get back to some form of normalcy. They both are doing very well in their careers, but I hope there will be some understanding for both of them, because I even find for myself that I am having some difficulty with concentrating.
Marcus is back at school, as well, and he seems to enjoy the structure. He is one of those people who needs the demand of schedule to keep him motivated. He performs well under pressure. He is back to his exercising, and working. These are important milestones in returning to a life of normalcy.
Again, thank you all for your wonderful words of encouragement, love, and prayers. We are receiving meals, desserts, and drink. As you all know, John is my cook, and with him out of commission, we would either be having lasagna, spaghetti, or toasted cheese. I can bake up a storm, but we really need some protein! I hope you all are enjoying your lives with your loved ones, family, and friends. If there is anything we have learned, don't ever wait to tell those you love how you feel. You never know when you may not get the chance, again. We were given a huge reprieve, and believe me, we are all extremely grateful. I just love that man, as I know, many of you do, also.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Good Evening,
Today, I went back to work. I hated leaving John. Our friend, Jim Young, came over to be with John today, which we really both appreciated. They both played softball together on the Goddard Softball league for almost 20 years. Ironically, he was off today, and so was able to come over. We also received lots of food deliveries today. Thanks to Kim and Jim Young, and Becky and Steve Hoyle for their dinner deliveries. John's boss Colleen, and his co-worker Allison, delivered dinner on Friday night. John's and my friend, Kay Elliott, baked a cake for us, yesterday, and Don delivered it to our home. We are very appreciative of all of your kindness and generosity.
Now is the time to try to work, and balance having a spouse at home, just recovering from major surgery. John is doing so incredibly well, but I don't want to do anything that could possibly jeopardize his recovery. It is certainly a balancing act.
All of my co-workers were so kind and welcoming today. They were all so happy that John was doing so well. They just could not get over how lucky John was to survive such a terrible accident. All I can say is that we are so blessed. Your prayers and words of encouragement surely kept us going.
Saturday night, John, Chris, Amy, Marcus and I all discussed what had occurred from our point of view while John was in the hospital. It was so good for all of us to hear how it impacted each and everyone of us. We shared with John some of his comical responses to questions, when he just really wasn't clear headed. I believe it allowed all of us to de-program from the experience. John and I both know how blessed and loved we are by our adult kids. They are our best achievement. Without a doubt.
Today, I went back to work. I hated leaving John. Our friend, Jim Young, came over to be with John today, which we really both appreciated. They both played softball together on the Goddard Softball league for almost 20 years. Ironically, he was off today, and so was able to come over. We also received lots of food deliveries today. Thanks to Kim and Jim Young, and Becky and Steve Hoyle for their dinner deliveries. John's boss Colleen, and his co-worker Allison, delivered dinner on Friday night. John's and my friend, Kay Elliott, baked a cake for us, yesterday, and Don delivered it to our home. We are very appreciative of all of your kindness and generosity.
Now is the time to try to work, and balance having a spouse at home, just recovering from major surgery. John is doing so incredibly well, but I don't want to do anything that could possibly jeopardize his recovery. It is certainly a balancing act.
All of my co-workers were so kind and welcoming today. They were all so happy that John was doing so well. They just could not get over how lucky John was to survive such a terrible accident. All I can say is that we are so blessed. Your prayers and words of encouragement surely kept us going.
Saturday night, John, Chris, Amy, Marcus and I all discussed what had occurred from our point of view while John was in the hospital. It was so good for all of us to hear how it impacted each and everyone of us. We shared with John some of his comical responses to questions, when he just really wasn't clear headed. I believe it allowed all of us to de-program from the experience. John and I both know how blessed and loved we are by our adult kids. They are our best achievement. Without a doubt.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Sunday evening.....the kids have all gone home. John's brother Don and Steve came by this afternoon for a visit. Now, it is just the two of us. I believe we are both ready to get back to our regular life, as much as possible. I am going back to work tomorrow, and John will be by himself. Marcus thought he had one more week before beginning the spring semester, but Catherine reminded him that his first day of school was tomorrow. Needless to say, he had to readjust his whole thinking. He was wanting to spend this week with John while I was at work. He also wanted to try to catch up with his 2 classes, that he had taken incompletes on, ever since the accident. He only had one more week to finish his work. He wants to finish up the requirements of those classes, so that he can get his grades, and stay on schedule with graduating in May. Well, so goes life. I am sure he will accomplish what he needs to do, but it sure would have been nice to have that one more week. I am a little bit nervous about leaving John alone, but I will try, if for even half a day to begin with. He is doing very well, but he is only 9 days out of surgery. Well, he is sleeping now. He has had a full day, and tomorrow is supposed to be a bit warmer, so maybe we can take a short walk outside.
Thank you to all who have written, blogged, left phone messages, sent flowers, cards, gifts, meals, and especially prayers. We will always remember each and every one of you for love and support.
Love,
John and Sheri
Thank you to all who have written, blogged, left phone messages, sent flowers, cards, gifts, meals, and especially prayers. We will always remember each and every one of you for love and support.
Love,
John and Sheri
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Happy Saturday, Everyone,
I hope you are having a great day. We were fortunate to speak with Officer Glenn Rook, today. He was the Maryland Transit Authority Officer, who climbed into the car with John and kept talking with him, during the time when the fire department personnel were trying to determine how to remove the truck from the roof of Marcus' Jeep Cherokee. He was assessing John's medical injuries. He knew very quickly, when John said he had numbness in his left arm, that they were probably dealing with a spinal cord injury. He had previously worked as an EMT, worked at Johns Hopkins as a cardiac care Technician, and then also worked at St. Joseph's Hospital, as an Anesthesia Technician. He has a great deal of Medical background. Once again, I do not believe in coincidence. This young man was on duty, and was able to use his expertise to assist all of the paramedics and firefighters in determining the best course of treatment for John. I believe God brought all of these people together this day, to provide the best care for my husband. I am so happy that John, Marcus and I got to share our appreciation and gratitude with such a fine individual. I believe paramedics, firefighters, and police officers come across horrible situations everyday, and give the best of themselves to perfect strangers, just because that is their calling. When I hear them say, "This is my job", I believe it is their way of being humble. It may be their job, but they give of themselves, in an uncontrolled setting, with minimal consideration to their own safety. On the first day of the blog, I called these men and women, heroes. They absolutely are, without a doubt.
I hope you are having a great day. We were fortunate to speak with Officer Glenn Rook, today. He was the Maryland Transit Authority Officer, who climbed into the car with John and kept talking with him, during the time when the fire department personnel were trying to determine how to remove the truck from the roof of Marcus' Jeep Cherokee. He was assessing John's medical injuries. He knew very quickly, when John said he had numbness in his left arm, that they were probably dealing with a spinal cord injury. He had previously worked as an EMT, worked at Johns Hopkins as a cardiac care Technician, and then also worked at St. Joseph's Hospital, as an Anesthesia Technician. He has a great deal of Medical background. Once again, I do not believe in coincidence. This young man was on duty, and was able to use his expertise to assist all of the paramedics and firefighters in determining the best course of treatment for John. I believe God brought all of these people together this day, to provide the best care for my husband. I am so happy that John, Marcus and I got to share our appreciation and gratitude with such a fine individual. I believe paramedics, firefighters, and police officers come across horrible situations everyday, and give the best of themselves to perfect strangers, just because that is their calling. When I hear them say, "This is my job", I believe it is their way of being humble. It may be their job, but they give of themselves, in an uncontrolled setting, with minimal consideration to their own safety. On the first day of the blog, I called these men and women, heroes. They absolutely are, without a doubt.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
Good Afternoon,
Well, John had his first day of physical therapy today. It went very well. He will only be able to have therapy on his left arm at this time. They cannot work on the neck until the Trauma clinic clears him for therapy. John has feeling, and sensation in his left arm, just minimal movement. When John was discussing with the therapist that he had no movement in the left bicep, the therapist stated, "yet". That was reassuring to John. He accomplished quite a bit of initial exercise today, and in. fact, has homework to do at home. He will begin therapy next week 3 times per week. That is another step in the right direction. We are going through the difficulties of trying to get a copy of the police report. We are working through our insurance company at this time, but it sounds like we need to contact an attorney. That is not the type of people we are, but it seems like that is how the system is set up. Marcus is still paying a car payment on a totaled vehicle. He will need another vehicle to drive as well. Now, all of the paperwork begins. Please understand, I am not complaining. I am so happy that we have John with us, I am pretty good about persistence with paperwork. I have had good experience with my brother, because of all of his special needs. As the saying goes, "the squeeky wheel gets oiled".
I will update more later. Thank you to the Fienup's, who kept us in food yesterday. The breakfast and dinner was great. We have received fruit baskets from John's co-workers at CSC and they are planning food deliveries. THANK YOU, ALL. We are so humbled by your generosity. Amy's grandparents, the Tiptons, sent us a food basket, as well. We are aware. This is the way I look at this....we all get a turn in this life, for sadness and loss. This is just our turn. I am a firm believer in reaching back our hand to help up the next person. This is a true example of paying it forward. Thanks for paying it forward for the Anders family.
Well, John had his first day of physical therapy today. It went very well. He will only be able to have therapy on his left arm at this time. They cannot work on the neck until the Trauma clinic clears him for therapy. John has feeling, and sensation in his left arm, just minimal movement. When John was discussing with the therapist that he had no movement in the left bicep, the therapist stated, "yet". That was reassuring to John. He accomplished quite a bit of initial exercise today, and in. fact, has homework to do at home. He will begin therapy next week 3 times per week. That is another step in the right direction. We are going through the difficulties of trying to get a copy of the police report. We are working through our insurance company at this time, but it sounds like we need to contact an attorney. That is not the type of people we are, but it seems like that is how the system is set up. Marcus is still paying a car payment on a totaled vehicle. He will need another vehicle to drive as well. Now, all of the paperwork begins. Please understand, I am not complaining. I am so happy that we have John with us, I am pretty good about persistence with paperwork. I have had good experience with my brother, because of all of his special needs. As the saying goes, "the squeeky wheel gets oiled".
I will update more later. Thank you to the Fienup's, who kept us in food yesterday. The breakfast and dinner was great. We have received fruit baskets from John's co-workers at CSC and they are planning food deliveries. THANK YOU, ALL. We are so humbled by your generosity. Amy's grandparents, the Tiptons, sent us a food basket, as well. We are aware. This is the way I look at this....we all get a turn in this life, for sadness and loss. This is just our turn. I am a firm believer in reaching back our hand to help up the next person. This is a true example of paying it forward. Thanks for paying it forward for the Anders family.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
T"hursday, January 24, 2008
One week later. What a WEEK!!!
John had a much better night last night. I really understand why we go through different experiences to get us where we are today. When "pain management" training occurred for me, I was thrilled to learn that role in healthcare. My friend, Dr. Colella offered me this role. I initially worked with Dr. Rodrigo Herreros and we set up the PCEA (patient controlled epidural analgesia), program. Like all jobs, the chronic pain service was busier than the PCEA program, so I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Dongzin, (Ben) Hur. Dr. Hur was board certified in anesthesia as well as pain management. Dr. Hur taught me so well. He just had an uncanny ability to understand what patients were going through, by symptoms, and we came up with the pain management "recipe" that was truly patient centered and driven. There was not a standard regimen, but rather patient driven. Dr. Hur just passed on in December after a valant fight with lung cancer. I miss him so, but he taught me well. I learned so much. Here is where I am going with this....John has been having difficulty with his neck pain, specifically, when he is sitting. He felt the pain in the back of his incision. Then I remembered, NSAIDS are for bone pain. NSAIDS are those meds that are motrin, alleve, and ASA. In addition to his pain medicine, the motrin 800 mg has really helped. He was able to sleep in 2-3 hour intervals all night. Even when he was awake, he was only up about 30 minutes, and then was able to go back to sleep. So, an absolutely improved night, and he says the pain is decreasing a little bit everyday. That is great news. If you can sleep at night, you usually are able to face the other obstacles in your day. John is very stoic and strong. I believe it is that Marine Corp experience. He has always been very driven and is working hard on his recovery. He will begin physical therapy tomorrow.
Now, I need to write a little bit about John's siblings. As I mentioned, John's brother Don is 13 months younger, then there is Steve who is 19 months younger than Don, then Jeff, who is 3 1/2 years younger, and then Amy. John was 13 when Amy was born. John always felt responsible for his siblings. They have a unique bond. It seems like whenever something traumatic occurs, they are immediately drawn together. I believe it is because they have experienced a lot of life's hardships together, they rely on one another to get through those experiences. Who would have known that when Don came out to Maryland almost 3 years ago, John would have gone through one of the most life changing experiences of his life? Thank God he was here. These two seem to be able to communicate without using words. They just know what one another feels. Steve and John have been able to re-connect after not seeing one another for a long time. I know it makes John very happy to be with his brother again. Don is the glue that continues to try to keep the family together and worked very hard on getting these two back together. Don is all about family. He believes in family, and I believe that is why he and Kay have forged such a bond, because he needed a family and they welcomed him, with very few conditions. John's brother Jeff lives in St. Louis with his family and we don't get to see them very often, but one of his sons, "Little J", is in the Marine Corp and stationed in North Carolina and we try to keep up with his life, and how he is doing. Then there is Amy. Amy and John are kindred spirits. I have known Amy since she was 4 years old. She was everyones little sister. She is a married woman with teenagers of her own, but she will always be John's baby. John also has siblings when his mother and father divorced and his mom remarried. He has 3 sisters from this family. Then, at the age of 48, John found out he also had 2 more siblings. That makes a grand total of 9 siblings! There are lots of family who love him. Two of his sisters and their mother drove all night to get here to see him for about 5 minutes, before they had to go back to St. Louis. They arrived on Friday night the day of his surgery, but were not able to see him until Monday afternoon, before they had to head back to St. Louis. That is the kind of admiration and love that his family feel for him. Amy and John's mom will be heading out this way, as soon as we give them the go-ahead. John's siblings in Tennessee have kept up with the blog daily, and are very concerned about his progress as well. Simply said, John is well loved by family and friends alike. I think we are all blessed to have him in our life.
John had a much better night last night. I really understand why we go through different experiences to get us where we are today. When "pain management" training occurred for me, I was thrilled to learn that role in healthcare. My friend, Dr. Colella offered me this role. I initially worked with Dr. Rodrigo Herreros and we set up the PCEA (patient controlled epidural analgesia), program. Like all jobs, the chronic pain service was busier than the PCEA program, so I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Dongzin, (Ben) Hur. Dr. Hur was board certified in anesthesia as well as pain management. Dr. Hur taught me so well. He just had an uncanny ability to understand what patients were going through, by symptoms, and we came up with the pain management "recipe" that was truly patient centered and driven. There was not a standard regimen, but rather patient driven. Dr. Hur just passed on in December after a valant fight with lung cancer. I miss him so, but he taught me well. I learned so much. Here is where I am going with this....John has been having difficulty with his neck pain, specifically, when he is sitting. He felt the pain in the back of his incision. Then I remembered, NSAIDS are for bone pain. NSAIDS are those meds that are motrin, alleve, and ASA. In addition to his pain medicine, the motrin 800 mg has really helped. He was able to sleep in 2-3 hour intervals all night. Even when he was awake, he was only up about 30 minutes, and then was able to go back to sleep. So, an absolutely improved night, and he says the pain is decreasing a little bit everyday. That is great news. If you can sleep at night, you usually are able to face the other obstacles in your day. John is very stoic and strong. I believe it is that Marine Corp experience. He has always been very driven and is working hard on his recovery. He will begin physical therapy tomorrow.
Now, I need to write a little bit about John's siblings. As I mentioned, John's brother Don is 13 months younger, then there is Steve who is 19 months younger than Don, then Jeff, who is 3 1/2 years younger, and then Amy. John was 13 when Amy was born. John always felt responsible for his siblings. They have a unique bond. It seems like whenever something traumatic occurs, they are immediately drawn together. I believe it is because they have experienced a lot of life's hardships together, they rely on one another to get through those experiences. Who would have known that when Don came out to Maryland almost 3 years ago, John would have gone through one of the most life changing experiences of his life? Thank God he was here. These two seem to be able to communicate without using words. They just know what one another feels. Steve and John have been able to re-connect after not seeing one another for a long time. I know it makes John very happy to be with his brother again. Don is the glue that continues to try to keep the family together and worked very hard on getting these two back together. Don is all about family. He believes in family, and I believe that is why he and Kay have forged such a bond, because he needed a family and they welcomed him, with very few conditions. John's brother Jeff lives in St. Louis with his family and we don't get to see them very often, but one of his sons, "Little J", is in the Marine Corp and stationed in North Carolina and we try to keep up with his life, and how he is doing. Then there is Amy. Amy and John are kindred spirits. I have known Amy since she was 4 years old. She was everyones little sister. She is a married woman with teenagers of her own, but she will always be John's baby. John also has siblings when his mother and father divorced and his mom remarried. He has 3 sisters from this family. Then, at the age of 48, John found out he also had 2 more siblings. That makes a grand total of 9 siblings! There are lots of family who love him. Two of his sisters and their mother drove all night to get here to see him for about 5 minutes, before they had to go back to St. Louis. They arrived on Friday night the day of his surgery, but were not able to see him until Monday afternoon, before they had to head back to St. Louis. That is the kind of admiration and love that his family feel for him. Amy and John's mom will be heading out this way, as soon as we give them the go-ahead. John's siblings in Tennessee have kept up with the blog daily, and are very concerned about his progress as well. Simply said, John is well loved by family and friends alike. I think we are all blessed to have him in our life.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Afternoon, January 23, 2008
Thank you to our friends and family for dropping off food and liquid refreshment. My neighbor Katie Deutsch @ 301-829-5483 would be happy to receive gifts of food for our family. Our address is 7060 Shadyside Drive, and Katie's is 7070 Shadyside. We are the 2nd home on Shadyside Drive, and they are the 3rd. There are only 5 homes on our street so we have knocked down the chance for error, pretty well. Thanks for the delivery of food and dessert to Marcus' apartment. Marcus' friends have been awesome. The Brown's made a dinner for us, and dessert, and Marcus' fellow employees at Lodge Bar took up a collection to provide us with some great food. That is so generous. It is most appreciated because we have been on a whirlwind, and just having a home cooked meal is one less thing for us to worry about at the end of the day.
I was able to arrange for John to begin physical therapy here in Mount Airy. Marcus plans to stay with his dad until February 3, when he goes back to school. He will work on the weekends, but will help me with John's needs during the week. Chris is extremely busy with a huge project, but will be able to come up on the weekends.
I think it goes without saying that the guys will need therapy to help them cope with such an awful life changing experience. We have contacted a professional, and will begin that endeavor as soon as possible. I will need some help, as well. I have seen it over and over that the care taker takes care of everyone else, and forgets to take care of themselves. I will not make that mistake. My family is too important to me, and we all want to work through this trauma, to come out of this stronger than ever. We don't know why we have to go through these dark days, but we have always been the kind of family that faces our crisis with as much dignity as we can muster. Our faith has also kept us in the warmth of our God's love. I absolutely believe that all of your prayers have enveloped us and held us up when we were having difficulty standing. I am still in shock about this entire life experience.
I have begun reading the beginning blog postings to John. Initially, just seeing the pictures and videos were overwhelming to him. He really did not have any idea of the severity of the wreckage, except that he said he felt entombed. I absolutely had felt the same way, but did not dare breathe those words, because I have been trying to be strong for him. These are the many issues that we will work through in the next days, weeks, and months.
I am torn about continuing this blog because I believe we should all try to get back to some form of normalcy in our lives. I very much enjoy writing this because it has been so therapeutic for me. I believe I will continue for a while, if for no other reason, but to have a record for John after he has recovered.
I forgot to mention, John has joined a research study for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation for spinal cord injuries. The study will last for 2 years. He will be followed in the trauma and spinal cord clinics at University of Maryland for 2 years as well. They will evaluate him @ 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and then as often as they believe he will need to be seen over the course of the remaining 18 months. He will have follow-up CT scans, MRI, and CT angiogram. It is incredible all of the coordination that is in place from our University of Maryland healthcare system. Just to be clear, getting John by air to the Shock Trauma, absolutely saved his spinal cord. I have no doubt. 90 percent of persons with this injury never walk again! We understand how blessed we are. I believe that John has some wonderful work to do before his life is done. I know he will be happy to do whatever God will ask of him. We all will.
I was able to arrange for John to begin physical therapy here in Mount Airy. Marcus plans to stay with his dad until February 3, when he goes back to school. He will work on the weekends, but will help me with John's needs during the week. Chris is extremely busy with a huge project, but will be able to come up on the weekends.
I think it goes without saying that the guys will need therapy to help them cope with such an awful life changing experience. We have contacted a professional, and will begin that endeavor as soon as possible. I will need some help, as well. I have seen it over and over that the care taker takes care of everyone else, and forgets to take care of themselves. I will not make that mistake. My family is too important to me, and we all want to work through this trauma, to come out of this stronger than ever. We don't know why we have to go through these dark days, but we have always been the kind of family that faces our crisis with as much dignity as we can muster. Our faith has also kept us in the warmth of our God's love. I absolutely believe that all of your prayers have enveloped us and held us up when we were having difficulty standing. I am still in shock about this entire life experience.
I have begun reading the beginning blog postings to John. Initially, just seeing the pictures and videos were overwhelming to him. He really did not have any idea of the severity of the wreckage, except that he said he felt entombed. I absolutely had felt the same way, but did not dare breathe those words, because I have been trying to be strong for him. These are the many issues that we will work through in the next days, weeks, and months.
I am torn about continuing this blog because I believe we should all try to get back to some form of normalcy in our lives. I very much enjoy writing this because it has been so therapeutic for me. I believe I will continue for a while, if for no other reason, but to have a record for John after he has recovered.
I forgot to mention, John has joined a research study for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation for spinal cord injuries. The study will last for 2 years. He will be followed in the trauma and spinal cord clinics at University of Maryland for 2 years as well. They will evaluate him @ 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and then as often as they believe he will need to be seen over the course of the remaining 18 months. He will have follow-up CT scans, MRI, and CT angiogram. It is incredible all of the coordination that is in place from our University of Maryland healthcare system. Just to be clear, getting John by air to the Shock Trauma, absolutely saved his spinal cord. I have no doubt. 90 percent of persons with this injury never walk again! We understand how blessed we are. I believe that John has some wonderful work to do before his life is done. I know he will be happy to do whatever God will ask of him. We all will.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Good Morning,
John had a very restless night last night. It is almost like the medication is having the opposite effect on him. He just can't get in a comfortable position. Home beds are not like hospital beds. We don't have an electronic mechanism to elevate his head, so we are piling pillows, although they don't have the firm support he requires. We started out the night in our bed, and then within about 1 hour we went downstairs to our family room where we have 2 couches. I positioned John as best I could but again, he was restless. At about 0230, we were up making some decaf tea, because he wanted something to drink. Everything he drinks is through a straw because of his c-collar. I think we finally went back to sleep at 0330, and were up again with the TV on @ 0530. Thank goodness Ed got up at that time and was watching over him. Ed told John he would help him get a bath, if he wanted to. I thought that was so sweet, and so did John. Ed is such a good heart. I woke up again about 0645, and watched a bit of news with John. He wanted to get a bath, so we were able to accomplish that, and by 0800, he was dressed, hair washed and filling better. Marcus went up to Walmart to get some much needed supplies, and Ed needed a universal remote. Ed loves remotes, like Rainman loved Judge Wapner. Marcus got John some "Sleepy Tyme" tea, and it is finally working. He is sleeping. (Of course it is at 1030.........my baby has his days and nights mixed up.........must get his schedule swithched...) I believe raising babies, prepares you for all of life's adventures. Sleep wil come.
I will write more soon. Thanks for your concerns, prayers, and well wishes.
John had a very restless night last night. It is almost like the medication is having the opposite effect on him. He just can't get in a comfortable position. Home beds are not like hospital beds. We don't have an electronic mechanism to elevate his head, so we are piling pillows, although they don't have the firm support he requires. We started out the night in our bed, and then within about 1 hour we went downstairs to our family room where we have 2 couches. I positioned John as best I could but again, he was restless. At about 0230, we were up making some decaf tea, because he wanted something to drink. Everything he drinks is through a straw because of his c-collar. I think we finally went back to sleep at 0330, and were up again with the TV on @ 0530. Thank goodness Ed got up at that time and was watching over him. Ed told John he would help him get a bath, if he wanted to. I thought that was so sweet, and so did John. Ed is such a good heart. I woke up again about 0645, and watched a bit of news with John. He wanted to get a bath, so we were able to accomplish that, and by 0800, he was dressed, hair washed and filling better. Marcus went up to Walmart to get some much needed supplies, and Ed needed a universal remote. Ed loves remotes, like Rainman loved Judge Wapner. Marcus got John some "Sleepy Tyme" tea, and it is finally working. He is sleeping. (Of course it is at 1030.........my baby has his days and nights mixed up.........must get his schedule swithched...) I believe raising babies, prepares you for all of life's adventures. Sleep wil come.
I will write more soon. Thanks for your concerns, prayers, and well wishes.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Tuesday evening, January 22, 2008
Hello all, from home. Guess who is home???? John Anders, that's who. When I got there today, about 1330, he had been up walking in the halls, and in the stairwells, with his physical therapist. He was up in the chair, eating lunch and watching ESPN. Don't be surprised this is just a normal day for Anders!
He will begin home physical therapist, probably 5 days per week. He has to wear his c-collar for a minimum of 30 days, and most likely 3 months. He has an anterior and posterior fusion, and the c-collar will keep his neck in alignment until his bones calcify around the hardware. This is just absolutely amazing to me. 5 days ago, I thought my life was over the way I knew it. Now today I have my husband back in our home. Chris, Marcus, JP, and Uncle Ed are all here. We are watching Law and Order, and John has finally dozed off to sleep for a while. Our friend, Nick Vitucci, came up to see John today, and was literally floored. He had not wanted to wait until Thursday to see John, so he came up to the hospital today, and John stood up and shook his hand. I thought Nick was going to faint. He was in amazement like we all are.
The spinal/neuro unit staff, physicians, and nurse managers are just outstanding. I just can't say enough about them and their stellar practice. Thank you University of Maryland Shock Trauma Unit. You are the Best!!
He will begin home physical therapist, probably 5 days per week. He has to wear his c-collar for a minimum of 30 days, and most likely 3 months. He has an anterior and posterior fusion, and the c-collar will keep his neck in alignment until his bones calcify around the hardware. This is just absolutely amazing to me. 5 days ago, I thought my life was over the way I knew it. Now today I have my husband back in our home. Chris, Marcus, JP, and Uncle Ed are all here. We are watching Law and Order, and John has finally dozed off to sleep for a while. Our friend, Nick Vitucci, came up to see John today, and was literally floored. He had not wanted to wait until Thursday to see John, so he came up to the hospital today, and John stood up and shook his hand. I thought Nick was going to faint. He was in amazement like we all are.
The spinal/neuro unit staff, physicians, and nurse managers are just outstanding. I just can't say enough about them and their stellar practice. Thank you University of Maryland Shock Trauma Unit. You are the Best!!
Tuesday Morning, January 22, 2008
Good Morning, Everyone,
It is so good to read your postings. I have to mention some friends and family; my friend, Jackie checking e-mails from California while visiting her son , and Rita, who was in Hawaii when this accident occurred. Darren and Stephanie our family in Tennessee, have left us messages that are heartfelt. Tommy Pearson, one of John's oldest buds in College Park, The Carni's our adopted baby family, Nick and Brenda Vitucci our soulmate family members, Bernie and Clyde, our very dearest to our heart family friends, Colleen and Kerry, our newest friends, who have gone through so much recently, just to be a family, My oldest girlfriends Joy, aka tons of fun, and Laura, aka, Loll who have been my best friends since 9th grade. Joe Foley, who spent the entire day with us on Friday, during the surgery, just because he was wanting to be there for John. Kay and Don, who we would have never believed would be a family, but are doing quite well. Don is only 13 months younger than John and has always been a little more adventurous than John, has stepped up into the man his father and brother ALWAYS knew he could be. Now, I would be remiss if I did not mention Jonathan Pometto, aka JP. He has been friends with Marcus since the age of 7, when he was doing stand-up on our deck. He was telling jokes and had a better delivery than most comedians. We have considered Johnny one of our boys for years. He has had some tough days, but has really turned into an incredible young man. He has gone to military academy for high school, graduated from college, and has a full-time job. He and Marcus are roommates now, one of their life long dreams. He was with Marcus and John when the accident occurred. Marcus and JP have such a unique friendship. They started out at about the same height, and now Marcus is 6'4", and JP is a stttrrreeettcchh 5'8". Johnny has the kind of sense of humor that is so quick witted, that he says things before you even realize it. You then hear it again, and just chuckle to yourself. Ironically, JP shared with me that at the scene, Marucs and he were hugging each other, initially the firefighters and paramedics thought they were a "couple", or life partners! I just found this out last night and it made me just belly laugh! I know this isn't exactly what JP, would like to be known for, however, it the midst of all of this tragedy, you have to be able to just find the laughter. It was so absolutely priceless. He is our John Candy and Chris Farley, rolled into one, but, without their "isms". He has kept us going on many levels. Thanks, JP, for being there for us, for so many years, and so many more.
It is so good to read your postings. I have to mention some friends and family; my friend, Jackie checking e-mails from California while visiting her son , and Rita, who was in Hawaii when this accident occurred. Darren and Stephanie our family in Tennessee, have left us messages that are heartfelt. Tommy Pearson, one of John's oldest buds in College Park, The Carni's our adopted baby family, Nick and Brenda Vitucci our soulmate family members, Bernie and Clyde, our very dearest to our heart family friends, Colleen and Kerry, our newest friends, who have gone through so much recently, just to be a family, My oldest girlfriends Joy, aka tons of fun, and Laura, aka, Loll who have been my best friends since 9th grade. Joe Foley, who spent the entire day with us on Friday, during the surgery, just because he was wanting to be there for John. Kay and Don, who we would have never believed would be a family, but are doing quite well. Don is only 13 months younger than John and has always been a little more adventurous than John, has stepped up into the man his father and brother ALWAYS knew he could be. Now, I would be remiss if I did not mention Jonathan Pometto, aka JP. He has been friends with Marcus since the age of 7, when he was doing stand-up on our deck. He was telling jokes and had a better delivery than most comedians. We have considered Johnny one of our boys for years. He has had some tough days, but has really turned into an incredible young man. He has gone to military academy for high school, graduated from college, and has a full-time job. He and Marcus are roommates now, one of their life long dreams. He was with Marcus and John when the accident occurred. Marcus and JP have such a unique friendship. They started out at about the same height, and now Marcus is 6'4", and JP is a stttrrreeettcchh 5'8". Johnny has the kind of sense of humor that is so quick witted, that he says things before you even realize it. You then hear it again, and just chuckle to yourself. Ironically, JP shared with me that at the scene, Marucs and he were hugging each other, initially the firefighters and paramedics thought they were a "couple", or life partners! I just found this out last night and it made me just belly laugh! I know this isn't exactly what JP, would like to be known for, however, it the midst of all of this tragedy, you have to be able to just find the laughter. It was so absolutely priceless. He is our John Candy and Chris Farley, rolled into one, but, without their "isms". He has kept us going on many levels. Thanks, JP, for being there for us, for so many years, and so many more.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Monday, January 21, 2008
Well, all of your prayers and the knowledge of this incredible staff have delivered all of us from the depths of our despair to the ability to comprehend that John may go home in 3 days!!!Here are the updates; I will share a bit of anatomy and physiology with you. Generally we all have 2 carotid arteries and 2 vertebral arteries that supply our brains with blood flow. The post-operative MRI showed that one of the vertebral arteries was not receiving flow. They initially were afraid that the hardware from the fusion could possibly be interfering, but he had no deficits and no neurological changes. The Circle of Willis is perfusing well. Because CT angiogram is such a new diagnostic tool, the doctors are still a bit mystified by the knowledge they obtain from this test. They stated that there have probably been patients who have been walking around postoperatively for years, and these things just took care of themselves. He also did not have a CT angio preop, only post-op. After consultation with the neurosurgeon, angio docs, and intensivist, here is the hypothesis and plan; they believe quite possibly the artery was injured when the fracture occurred @ approximately 0710 Thursday at the time of impact, when C4 was displaced. The displacement was not reduced until 1430 on Thursday afternoon. That would be a little over 7 hours that the artery was denied proper blood flow. The plan is to re-angio him on Wednesday to make sure there is no change. Provided no change, he will have collateral circulation where the injury occurred and people can live with 3 arterial vessels providing blood flow. Again, ANOTHER MIRACLE!!! I cannot take credit for all of this explanation, Dr. Cole, one of the neurosurgical fellows spent a good 25 minutes with me going over all of John's scans, CT's, MRI's, and CT angio. They have computers in every room, and can pull up all of the diagnostics so that family members can actually see the diagnostic pictures. He was able to show me the absolute drill down on the MRI where he had flow (on the right side), and where it wasn't, (on the left side). The angio confirmed that the hardware was not causing the arterial occlusion on the left side. Then in addition, I ran this all by Dr. Catavenis, the CCC intensivist @ PGHC, who confirmed that this could certainly occur. After the discussion with the neurosurgeon, they cleared John to be out of bed, and consulted with physical and occupational therapy.Physical therapy arrived at 1545 and requested a half hour with John. We came back at 1640 and he had been up and ambulated around the entire nurses station. He was stable on his feet. His only weakness is the left bicep, which will require outpatient physical therapy to help strengthen the left bicep. That was the initial area that was so painful to him until his displaced fracture was reduced. His drains have been removed, his IV's are out except for one heparin lock for IV medications, and his foley catheter is out. They are now discussing discharge planning. GET OUT!!!!!!!! I just can't believe it.Every one of ur friends, family and colleagues have been so incredibly supportive. We love you, all. Your prayers have delivered us from this catastrophe.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Well, are you ready for this???? When we arrived today, John had been extubated, (breathing tube removed), and was sitting up in the chair. He is still quite sleepy and not necessarily aware of his surroundings, but he would give us some occassional glimpses of his old self. He pulled his leg up on his thigh, and was sitting just like he likes to sit. He told me he loved me, but then was saying things like, "let's get out of here. I want to go home." I agreed with him. I want to get him home, too, but he certainly is not completely clear headed. This can be due to numerous factors. First of all, he certainly had a closed head injury. That means that his head was hit hard, and things were knocked around in there. That alone takes weeks to months to clear. Secondly, he was under the effect of anesthesia for 12 hours. He has never had surgery before. Thirdly, he has also required quite a bit of sedation and anti-anxiety medication. He doesn't like the sequential devices that he needs on his lower legs. (These are to prevent him from forming blood clots.) We were able to remove them while he was up in the chair, and he was calmer when they were off. He frequently was just dozing off, sleeping. He has numerous lines in him for either intravenous fluids or blood testing. He had a small feeding tube placed yesterday, and was tolerating the feedings today. He is coughing up a lot of thick mucus, which I know is not very appetizing, but just being able to clear his airway, is a great sign. His follow-up MRI was done last evening, and he will be having a CTA (CT angiogram) today because the neurosurgeons want to make sure that there is no hardware near his vertebral artery.
Now, let me just say, I feel like we have been delivered from such an unbearable experience. I cannot even begin to describe the emotions that we have all felt over the past 4 days. I know that we have many more obstacles, but, I feel like we can take a deep breath, for a few minutes.
Love to all. Your prayers have kept us going.
Now, let me just say, I feel like we have been delivered from such an unbearable experience. I cannot even begin to describe the emotions that we have all felt over the past 4 days. I know that we have many more obstacles, but, I feel like we can take a deep breath, for a few minutes.
Love to all. Your prayers have kept us going.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Saturday, 1/19/08, @ 2145
Hello, everyone. I just want to let you know I have heard all of your voice messages on our phones. I just can't possibly call everyone back. I do so appreciate your love and support. I am just tired. Will update more whenever things change. Thank you, all, again. I will never be able to repay you for all that you have meant to my family and me.
Saturday evening, January 19, 2008
Good Evening,
I will write with the bold itallics, because like me most of our friends eyes are getting a bit weaker. Chris and Amy just got back from seeing Dad. He was able to smile a bit, but was really "bucking" the ventilator. He remains restless and agitated. He still has quite a bit of third spacing of fluid. I have a feeling as soon as he starts diurising, he is going to feel better. It is so hard to see the man you have loved and cherished, be in such a helpless situation. I know it is temporary, but, I just wish I could do something to help him feel better. The ironic piece of this situation is that I have done very similar work with patients who have suffered catastrophic injury and trauma. It is overwhelmingly difficult on so many levels. Writing at least helps me work through my immense feelings of not being able to help fix this situation for my sweetheart.
Now, I must write a little bit about my daughter-in-law, Amy Elizabeth Anders. She joined our family two and a half years ago. She has been a blessing to Christopher, and all of us in the family. She is our "closer". She is all about what is right and what is the best way to handle a situation. She has been a stoic support for John, Chris, Marcus, and me, since this awful ordeal began. She was the one who suggested the blog, and then set it up for me, because I know very little about these types of things. She is our spiritual support as well. I don't know what we did to be blessed to have her, but I am so grateful that she loves our son, and our family.
Marcus' very special love is Catherine Beaudry Fienup. Even though they are not engaged, she has become such a positive role in our family, as well. Anybody who can tame Marcus, is definitely a keeper! She also has been with us the entire time, being supportive, providing us with games, and books, puzzles, and silly anecdotes. You can't help but laugh when you hear her laugh. She makes Marcus and our entire family, very happy, and we are blessed to have her as well.
These two very lovely, kind, and bright young women have come into our lives, and we are so fortunate that they are here. Those that know me well, know I always wanted a girl. We could not have asked for any two more perfect for our family. Thank you Amy, and Catherine. We love you.
I will write with the bold itallics, because like me most of our friends eyes are getting a bit weaker. Chris and Amy just got back from seeing Dad. He was able to smile a bit, but was really "bucking" the ventilator. He remains restless and agitated. He still has quite a bit of third spacing of fluid. I have a feeling as soon as he starts diurising, he is going to feel better. It is so hard to see the man you have loved and cherished, be in such a helpless situation. I know it is temporary, but, I just wish I could do something to help him feel better. The ironic piece of this situation is that I have done very similar work with patients who have suffered catastrophic injury and trauma. It is overwhelmingly difficult on so many levels. Writing at least helps me work through my immense feelings of not being able to help fix this situation for my sweetheart.
Now, I must write a little bit about my daughter-in-law, Amy Elizabeth Anders. She joined our family two and a half years ago. She has been a blessing to Christopher, and all of us in the family. She is our "closer". She is all about what is right and what is the best way to handle a situation. She has been a stoic support for John, Chris, Marcus, and me, since this awful ordeal began. She was the one who suggested the blog, and then set it up for me, because I know very little about these types of things. She is our spiritual support as well. I don't know what we did to be blessed to have her, but I am so grateful that she loves our son, and our family.
Marcus' very special love is Catherine Beaudry Fienup. Even though they are not engaged, she has become such a positive role in our family, as well. Anybody who can tame Marcus, is definitely a keeper! She also has been with us the entire time, being supportive, providing us with games, and books, puzzles, and silly anecdotes. You can't help but laugh when you hear her laugh. She makes Marcus and our entire family, very happy, and we are blessed to have her as well.
These two very lovely, kind, and bright young women have come into our lives, and we are so fortunate that they are here. Those that know me well, know I always wanted a girl. We could not have asked for any two more perfect for our family. Thank you Amy, and Catherine. We love you.
Saturday, January 19, 2008, 1500
Hello Everyone,
Thank you again for all your words of comfort and prayers. Marcus, Jonathan, and I went up to see John today. He was in an upright position, with his c-collar on. He is on the ventilator, coughing and a bit agitated. He is requiring Fentanyl IV and a low dose of diprivan. He is also receiving Ativan to assist with his anxiety. He sat bolt upright in the bed, pulling his arms, and moving his legs. His eyes were closed, and occassionally open. He did, at one point, nod his head affirmatively to a question. He is requiring quite a bit of medication for agitation. This is not an unusual event, especially for someone who has had a horrendous traumatic occurrence. His chest x-ray is clear, except for atelectasis in his left lower lung. He is on an APRV ventilator mode, and is tolerating weaning from the settings, but airway pressures are occassionally high so they would like to hold off on extubation at this time. Because of an anterior, and posterior repair to his cervical spine, the doctors are being a bit more conservative on extubation, because of swelling. Again, for my non-clinical family and friends, his neck is swollen, obviously because of surgery to the front and back of his neck, and the airway for breathing is right between those. The staff want to make sure that his swelling to the area will not interfere with his ability to breathe well, without the assistance of the ventilator. He is also to go for a repeat MRI today. His post-operative CT scan that was done last night after surgery showed everything in alignment. The MRI is standard post-operative diagnostics. It is also a good idea for him to remain intubated and well sedated so that the MRI can verify proper alignment of the cervical spine and give more information about the success of the operation.
Chris, Marcus and I are asking that visitors refrain from coming to see him at this time. The Critical Care Area allows immediate family, only. We will keep you updated on when and if visitors are allowed. A lot will depend on how he is doing, and if he wants visitors. We are realizing this will be a long process back to some form of normalcy. If there is something you would like to do, please feel free to drop off meals to either Chris or Marcus. I won't be home very often, so I can ask my neighbor Katie to be your contact for meals. I want to ask her first, before I post her phone number, so please bear with me. I am still at Marcus's today, and will be going to pick up my brother Ed and then heading home to Mount Airy, shortly. Chris and Amy plan to go up and see John this evening. In lieu of meals, please consider donating blood to the Red Cross. John has not requried blood transfusions, however, most trauma patients do, and this would be greatly appreciated by the hospital.
Again, please let me reiterate, I know there is no better place for John to be then at the University of Maryland, Shock Trauma unit. He has received outstanding care from his nurses, physicians, and support staff. They have encouraged the family to call anytime, day or night. They are kind and supportive to every family and patient. I know he is with the best of the best.
Take care, and please continue your prayers. We all feel your support.
Love,
Sheri
Thank you again for all your words of comfort and prayers. Marcus, Jonathan, and I went up to see John today. He was in an upright position, with his c-collar on. He is on the ventilator, coughing and a bit agitated. He is requiring Fentanyl IV and a low dose of diprivan. He is also receiving Ativan to assist with his anxiety. He sat bolt upright in the bed, pulling his arms, and moving his legs. His eyes were closed, and occassionally open. He did, at one point, nod his head affirmatively to a question. He is requiring quite a bit of medication for agitation. This is not an unusual event, especially for someone who has had a horrendous traumatic occurrence. His chest x-ray is clear, except for atelectasis in his left lower lung. He is on an APRV ventilator mode, and is tolerating weaning from the settings, but airway pressures are occassionally high so they would like to hold off on extubation at this time. Because of an anterior, and posterior repair to his cervical spine, the doctors are being a bit more conservative on extubation, because of swelling. Again, for my non-clinical family and friends, his neck is swollen, obviously because of surgery to the front and back of his neck, and the airway for breathing is right between those. The staff want to make sure that his swelling to the area will not interfere with his ability to breathe well, without the assistance of the ventilator. He is also to go for a repeat MRI today. His post-operative CT scan that was done last night after surgery showed everything in alignment. The MRI is standard post-operative diagnostics. It is also a good idea for him to remain intubated and well sedated so that the MRI can verify proper alignment of the cervical spine and give more information about the success of the operation.
Chris, Marcus and I are asking that visitors refrain from coming to see him at this time. The Critical Care Area allows immediate family, only. We will keep you updated on when and if visitors are allowed. A lot will depend on how he is doing, and if he wants visitors. We are realizing this will be a long process back to some form of normalcy. If there is something you would like to do, please feel free to drop off meals to either Chris or Marcus. I won't be home very often, so I can ask my neighbor Katie to be your contact for meals. I want to ask her first, before I post her phone number, so please bear with me. I am still at Marcus's today, and will be going to pick up my brother Ed and then heading home to Mount Airy, shortly. Chris and Amy plan to go up and see John this evening. In lieu of meals, please consider donating blood to the Red Cross. John has not requried blood transfusions, however, most trauma patients do, and this would be greatly appreciated by the hospital.
Again, please let me reiterate, I know there is no better place for John to be then at the University of Maryland, Shock Trauma unit. He has received outstanding care from his nurses, physicians, and support staff. They have encouraged the family to call anytime, day or night. They are kind and supportive to every family and patient. I know he is with the best of the best.
Take care, and please continue your prayers. We all feel your support.
Love,
Sheri
Saturday Morning update
Thank you Dena and Bentley, Darrin and Stephanie for your words of support and comfort. We really appreciate your love and support.
We won't be able to visit John until 12 noon today. We have not heard anything over night which is encouraging. The nurses will call if there are problems, so as they say no news is good news. Finally slept a little last night. The first night Chris and Amy came to our house and stayed with me. Last night, Marcus came home with me to get belongings, and we headed back to his apartment in Towson. I just wanted to be closer to John. Marcus'apartment is only 20 minutes from the hospital. Our little boys have grown into fine, reponsible, honorable young men. John and I could not be more proud. They are watching over me, just like their father reqested. I will post an update as soon as more news becomes available. Please continue to hold John up in your prayers. The staff at the hospital are excellent, and with your love and prayers, I believe John and our family are truly blessed.
We won't be able to visit John until 12 noon today. We have not heard anything over night which is encouraging. The nurses will call if there are problems, so as they say no news is good news. Finally slept a little last night. The first night Chris and Amy came to our house and stayed with me. Last night, Marcus came home with me to get belongings, and we headed back to his apartment in Towson. I just wanted to be closer to John. Marcus'apartment is only 20 minutes from the hospital. Our little boys have grown into fine, reponsible, honorable young men. John and I could not be more proud. They are watching over me, just like their father reqested. I will post an update as soon as more news becomes available. Please continue to hold John up in your prayers. The staff at the hospital are excellent, and with your love and prayers, I believe John and our family are truly blessed.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Post-operative Update
Good evening, everyone. Your prayers and messages of love and concern have been so heartwarming and comforting. John got out of surgery about 1915. Chris, Marcus and I were able to see him, briefly. First of all, the resident who assisted in the surgery, Dr. Mark Igualla, stated that the surgery went very well. He stated that John's spinal column was large. Because of this fact, the dislocation, and the fracture of the cervical vertebrae, were able to not impact on the spinal cord, therefore not causing paralysis. Then he stated, that 90 percent of patients with this injury never walk again. John was monitored during the entire case, and there was never a decrease in the nerve impairment anywhere in his body. Every nerve ending remained intact. John had an anterior and a posterior repair. His face was very edematous and there was a lot of third spacing of fluid. (For my non-clinical friends and family, basically he was very swollen). This is not uncommon, especially when a patient is positioned on his abdomen for about 3 hours of the surgery. He will remain intubated (breathing tube) and on the ventilator over night. He will remain in the Critical Care Area for 24-72 hours. Depending on his lung function, he may be on the ventilator for more than 1 day. As most of us know, John was a smoker for about 30 years, and even though he has quit for about 10 years, they were a bit worried about his lung capacity. While we were in the room, he woke up, and was moving ALL 4 EXTREMITIES!!!!
We were so happy, humble, and overwhelmed. All of your prayers have certainly been heard.
He then began coughing and not really aware of what was going on around him. I tried to comfort him by talking calmly, but the breathing tube causes patients to cough. He then required some analgesia and sedation. We were so happy he was awake, even for a little while. We received a miracle today. Have no doubt. I will update more in the morning.
Thank you for your love and support.
We were so happy, humble, and overwhelmed. All of your prayers have certainly been heard.
He then began coughing and not really aware of what was going on around him. I tried to comfort him by talking calmly, but the breathing tube causes patients to cough. He then required some analgesia and sedation. We were so happy he was awake, even for a little while. We received a miracle today. Have no doubt. I will update more in the morning.
Thank you for your love and support.
Update
It is 1815 and John is still in surgery. He is still doing well, however, haven't received any updates since 1400. Keep praying.
January 18, 2008
John went into surgery about 0800, but the actual incision was not made until about 0930. They are concerned that he may have aspirated either at the scene of the accident, or during the night when he was coughing and vomited. He received a naso-gastric tube to drain his stomach, but his lungs sound “junky”, per his night nurse, Catherine. Jane, the senior manager, introduced herself to us, as John was going down to the OR, and promised us she would keep us informed the entire day. We have seen her at 1045 and 1400 so far. They have finished the anterior portion of the surgery and have just flipped him over to do the posterior aspect. He is “rock solid stable but the lungs are junky”, per Jane. Now we all know that John was also a smoker for several years, however, they are pretty confident he aspirated. Their plan is that he will be placed in Critical Care for a few days, and kept on the ventilator. He will be in an analgesic state, and this will give them the opportunity to really get those lungs cleaned out. I am not really okay with this entire situation, but to be truthful, I am not that surprised. I just don’t like it for my husband. That is all we know for now. I will update as soon as new information becomes available.
Ironically, today while we have been waiting for John to get out of surgery, a man walked by carrying lots of belongings, and gave us words of support. He stated, “I was right where you are, one week ago. These people are wonderful. My wife is going home today.” That was a random act of kindness that absolutely made a difference to me. He just saw our pain on our faces. Thank you, Mr. Hughes, for committing a random act of kindness.
January 17, 2008
January 17, 2008 was supposed to be a great day for John, Marcus and Jonathan (Marcus’ roommate and best friend since the age of 7) because they were flying from
The paramedics had been talking with him the entire time that the firefighters were trying to remove the truck. They had noted that his left arm was numb and cool to touch. They had requested a helicopter and were thinking of taking him by ambulance to
Marcus had been seen in the ER @ shock trauma, and was ruled absolutely okay. Jonathan thought he was fine, but upon x-ray of the right shoulder it was noted he had a separated right shoulder and fractured right scapula. He did not even know he had any injury. That just shows what adrenaline can do for you.
Both boys are doing well, and I cannot even imagine the helpless feeling I would have if my father was trapped with a truck over him, and I could not help. We consider Jonathan one of our boys, too, and I know Marcus was grateful to have Jonathan with him.
I must mention that the people here at Shock Trauma have been Angels. I don’t say this lightly. From the first person who spoke with us at the concierge desk, Marie, to the nurse caring for John, Megan, they have been wonderful. Harold, another nurse, also came to our assistance when Megan was unable to get to the bedside. Everyone has been kind, patient, understanding and supportive. These people do this everyday. You can’t fake this sincerity. They are truly Angels!
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