There's not too much that's new to report, but I did post a picture of Dave (thank you, Tara) looking rather dapper in his hospital duds. You can see he's looking pretty much like himself with some new body art (in addition to the neck stitches, he's got 30 or so staples running all the way down his belly and then another incision running from the front to the back of his ribcage). Somehow in the pre-op meetings with the surgeon, I missed the fact that they would be sawing through ribs and then rejoining them with titanium. No wonder it hurts to breathe!
Dave graduated from the modified clear liquid diet to the full liquid diet (woo hoo!), which means he can now drink things like milkshakes and lattes (he did miss his coffee and they actually make a decent latte at the hospital). They are still monitoring one of his drainage tubes and if it continues to drain more than they'd like, he may have to go back to the modified clear liquid diet or possibly even back to nothing at all (say it isn't so) to give his body more time to heal before adding food back again.
His discharge is now looking like Friday at the soonest, but that depends on how the eating goes over the next day or two.
Since there wasn't much new to report, I had planned to use some space to thank so many people who have been such an amazing help and so incredibly supportive in so many unexpected ways, but my head is feeling slightly muddy thanks to a large glass of wine that my doctor assures me is good for my stress level and my heart too, so that's on my list for tomorrow.
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6 comments:
That picture is wonderful.
And drink that wine I say, Good for the soul and the heart.
It's so reassuring to see David looking like himself.
Wow! DAVE YOU LOOK GREAT!!! Love the Frankenstein staple scar on the neck. Can you come out for Halloween? Hey, the rest of you, get in line.... I ASKED FIRST!
Shan, thanks for the picture. For those of us who are too far to visit, that is a beautiful sight. I have a much better vision in my head now. (Although the Frankenstein thing is sticking there too.) Shan - Enjoy your glass of wine. At the very least, it will help you sleep better. Hug those kids of yours and tell them we say "HI"!
Cindy
Dave -
We've been following the details on the blog daily and cheering for you as you pass each milestone. The picture is great!you're looking strong.
Keep up the great work and get back home to that beautiful family.
Shannon- Have another glass of wine you've earned it. Another big thanks for keeping everyone in the loop!
Dan & Sandy
Hi Shannon,
It did my heart well to see the picture of Dave looking amazingly like himself. I can't believe everything you have all been through! I wish I was there to bring Dave a milkshake myself, I would also bring you some more wine. Sounds like you really need the break! I will say it again, Dave is so lucky to have you!
Thank you so much for keeping us all informed on all the steps you have been going through. I know it was "one more thing" for you to do when you already had so much on your mind.
I can't wait for your beautiful family to be reunited and for the day when things will once again become normal and boring!
Congratulations doesn't seem like the right word to say here, but you know what I mean. I am just so happy for you and your family to finally have this dark chapter coming to a close.
Please give Dave a gentle hug from me and I look forward to talking to him on the phone soon.
Pam Dion
Hey Shannon, I just left a message on your cell phone but, as a nurse, I'm feelin' a bit freaky about Friday discharge. Don't be intimidated to dig your heels in and say you aren't ready for him to return. Ask about a transition unit so he can get some daily PT/OT and continued nursing and dietary oversite. If they are still talking about discharging him within the next 1-3 days, demand home health care for incision site management and other nursing care. Also watch out for increased redding of the skin, you don't want him getting any skin ulcerations (and that's the job of home health as well). With home health, you might be able to get some respite relief so you can get the kids out and someone can watch over him. Anyway, just a couple of thoughts, most importantly, healthcare providers will respond when family's start acting up and making a scene about getting additional care and/or support. Loved seeing his picture! Tell him hello and we are always available to help. Russ and Jennifer
Dave you look great! Shannon, you crack me up, humor is what keeps us up and going. By the way, am I the only one that sees it or does Dave have a little farmer tan going there on that arm...must be close to a window! Hey keep up the great work, next thing ya know yer home! Cheers,
Jeff & Cryss. Toycen
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