102 2d

What a fabulous surprise for Linda this morning when Judi poked her head around the corner of the curtain in Linda's room!! Of course, there were tears of surprise and happiness!!! And we had a wonderful day, catching up with Judi and all her stories about her and Peter's adventures in Arizona. We spent the afternoon at Tracy's who whipped up a delicious snack/dinner for us - Linda even had a piece of cheese!! And Judi got us signed up for Skype so now we can talk with her and Peter when they return to Retirement Haven next week. Tracy thought you'd enjoy seeing a photo of us (yes, we were laughing!!).

102 2c

Well, haven't I been remiss at posting! Sorry!! Linda has just been adamant about getting out each day and I think it's done her good to be up and showered and dressed - more like real life (she's just sick of hospital life!!). Her feeding tube become clogged/blocked on Tuesday morning and it was removed so she had a couple of days of being tube-free. However, she wasn't supposed to be eating so she didn't have a whole lot of nutrition going in. She talked the Doc into letting her have the tube out yesterday, too, so when we came to Tracy's to watch The Kids Are All Right, she had a bowl of chicken soup (made by yours truly) and thoroughly enjoyed it. Today we went to a mall and she bought an iPad - she's been talking about getting one since before she went into Foothills in September so I'm thinking this purchase was way overdue. She did have the feeding tube inserted this morning - done by a real doc, not a resident - so it wasn't too much of a 'pain'. Drains are still draining, but lessening considerably!!

Talked to Lucille last night and her cast will be on until close to the end of January, but off before her back-to-back cruising in February. The cast may limit her bowling skills though!

Just in case, I don't get on tomorrow - Hope you all have a great New Year's Celebration and that the coming year is healthy(!!!!!!!) and full of laughter and hugs and chocolate and walks with dogs and butter!!

102 2 b

Lynne and Cath just drove away with Lucille and the pooches - back to Vernon. The roads and weather are good at our end - sure hope they have an 'easy' day on the road. The van was stuffed to the rafters!!

What an interesting and different Christmas this turned out to be! We spent Christmas Eve with Lynne and Cath - lovely salmon dinner!!! Linda had ice chips - she's still NPO - but really enjoyed the company and having the pooches on her lap. Linda's gift from the Team was a CT scan on Christmas morning and once that was done, we were able to bring her to Tracy's where we opened gifts and just had a relaxing afternoon. We had planned to all go to Tracy's Aunt Rose's for dinner, but Linda is always tired out from the Telebrix infusion for the scan and she decided that the hospital was the best place for her - so we took her back late in the afternoon and Lucille and I went to Aunt Rose's for 'turducken' - quite the fowl experience (no pun intended)!!! Tracy's family welcomed us with such kindness - how lucky we were to be a part of their celebration. After a fabulous dinner, Lucille stayed at Rose's to play cards and I went to visit with Linda and we spent the evening remembering PJ. Yesterday, Lucille and I braved the Boxing Day crowds and I found some great deals on new clothes for Linda Marie - she does need a new wardrobe for that slim frame!!

We're still hoping to be home sometime next week - that's what the Team is saying - we're trying to be patient.

102 2a

Happy Christmas Eve to All!!  Thought I'd share a very special Christmas photo of Linda - yes, she certainly does know how to get 'into the spirit' and yes, that is a Christmas tree ball hanging from her feeding tube!! Hope you all laugh lots, eat lots and hug lots during the next few days.

102 1z

So another busy couple of days - we got Linda out to the Farmers Market on Tuesday afternoon, didn't stay too long because Linda's shoulder was hurting. We've become quite paranoid (completely understandable given the circumstances) about any aches or pains. Anyway, multiple tests were done on and about the shoulder and the general consensus was that it was a muscle pull which, over the past couple of days, has become more manageable. Yesterday, we had her out again - this time to a nearby mall for a bit of last minute shopping. The Team is thinking that we'll be coming home sometime around the beginning of January - dependent, of course, on the stomach fistula healing. On other medical fronts, Lucille's lip is back to normal and she didn't develop a black eye!! And she discovered last night she could still play the slots - even with a fractured wrist.

102 1y

Good morning! We've had a busy couple of days. Lucille is looking and sounding much better; of course, she still has the cast on her right arm, but that doesn't stop her from being independent and getting about. Her lip is still a bit swollen, but every day looks better. We're just glad her injuries were 'minor'.  Linda continues to get better - still has some stuff coming out of the drains, but #2 is supposed to be removed today (hardly ever has anything in it) - then only 2 more to go. She is so much stronger now - easily gets out of bed and wanders around the unit on her own - especially when she's unhooked from the 'pole'. And she's enjoying having her Mom here - yesterday, they had a lovely full afternoon visit (while Leagh, [Tracy's client], and I went to see the Narnia movie in 3D. Last night, when I went up to see her, her cousin, Les, came by and regaled us all (even Linda's new roommate) with stories about his and Suzanne's trip to Guatemala. Today, we're guests (although I imagine we'll also be kitchen help!!) at a luncheon here at Tracy's with her family - really looking forward to Tracy's cooking (yum!!!!!) and meeting more of the family. Then, we really are going off to the Farmers Market with Linda this afternoon. Coady and Chicklet are doing just fine - we're amazed at their resiliancy(sp?). And I'm sooo glad to have my 'dog heaters' back in bed with me.

102 1x

Well, the Vernon contingent arrived in Calgary - pulled by 2 tiny reindeer - but the journey was not without incident. You're not going to believe this... Lynne, Cath and Lucille stopped in Revelstoke to take on supplies and walk the dogs, and while Lucille was walking Coady, she slipped on a patch of ice and fell. After lunch, we took her to Foothills spa this afternoon and she has a hairline fracture in her wrist so she's now sporting a Christmasy red cast on her right arm. No other broken bones but she does have a fat lip and a bruise beside her eye and broken glasses. Linda did really well today - was at Tracy's for 3 hours and didn't complain a bit about not being able to eat. We're hoping that feeding tube will be out before Christmas dinner!

102 1w

Another test day - we had hoped to get out to the Farmers' Market but it looks like Linda will be spa-bound. CT scan this afternoon and yes that means the awful Telebrix - something she definitely won't miss once we blow this joint. We are both looking forward sooo much to the visitors coming tomorrow.

102 1v

Linda had a sinogram (sp?) this morning - her first of her stay here. Dye was injected in through her big drain and then the radiologist used the xray to look at the peritoneal cavity and the stomach. We have to wait for Dr T to look at the results before we hear what's going on in there. The silver lining was Linda didn't have to drink the wretched Telebrix!  Then she had a lovely snooze while I waited in line (!#*) for a new parking pass. And then (da-da-da-dum - my version of a drum roll) Linda had her first real shower in 3 months - not that she wasn't getting bathed during that time - but this was in a shower stall with hot water streaming down her body. She said it felt really good. And then we had a lovely, surprise visit from Bill and Micheline. What a great day!!!

Baking #2

So I'm standing in line at Safeway with more baking supplies (butter, almond extract, lemon) when I overhear the most intriguing, eavesdropped sentence of the entire Calgary sojourn:

"And that's how Dorothy met all her husbands."

102 1u

We went off to the Harry Potter movie this afternoon and stayed for almost a couple of hours. Quite a slow movie - we couldn't understand why they chose to include all the whiny parts - Harry, Hermione and Ron being depressed and mopey about not being able to destroy the horcrux - oh well, what do we know!!?? Linda was just happy to be out and about, but was quite tired when we got back to the hospital. Just before we left for our adventure, Dr T came by and reiterated that Linda would be a spa resident until the wretched drains and feeding tube were removed. They're going to start doing tests tomorrow to check on the fistula.
We'll be staying at the spa tomorrow and Thursday, but Friday we're planning to go to the Calgary Farmers' Market - probably the best market I've ever been to.

Our address:  1011 17th Avenue NW
                       Calgary, AB    T2M 0P5

102 1t

Well, wasn't Linda in good spirits today! She wrapped stocking stuffers (for moi!) and talked a lot about what she is going to eat once the feeding tube is removed and we are home in our very own house. She tortures herself by watching the Food Network on tv! Katie (dietitian) gave Linda hope today when she told her that she won't have to do the clear fluids post feeding tube but will advance immediately to mushy food. Dr T and the Team are of the opinion that the fistula is healing (because of the increasing paucity of drain fluid) and have said maybe 2 more weeks - of course, that's what they've been saying since Nov. 15. So we're still taking this day by day. But she does seem much stronger now than at her first discharge on Nov. 12; she climbed the stairs yesterday without huffing or puffing!!

Baking #1

Just made Ricotta Cookies from the Canadian Living Holiday Cookies - yummy! And the icing for them is soooo fluffy and light (I added some lemon zest and juice to citrus it up a bit). Another recommendation - the French Chocolate Bark from Ina's back to basics cookbook. Feels good to be baking!

102 #1s

A lovely day here in Calgary - mild and even some sun! We just returned from our outing to Chapters - Linda scooted around the store in a wheelchair (super exercise for her legs) and made me promise I wouldn't follow her and watch what she bought (LOL). On the medical front - the drains are draining, the feeding tube is feeding and the fentynol is fentynoling - same old, same old.
Great to hear about the shower for Lucas and Cheryl (and Ray, too, I suppose) - Wow - 4 months old - I bet he's a happy baby! Wish we could have been there - any pictures floating around?

102 #1r

Well, it looks like Calgary is going to be 'home' for a while longer. The test yesterday showed that the stomach fistula hasn't healed up yet so the feeding tube stays in. We're focusing on (and thankful) how careful the Docs are being about making sure Linda gets completely better. And knowing that we'll be here - probably over xmas - means we can make some plans for the festive season. First on our list is organizing Lucille's return to Calgary - we're very glad that she wants to be here with us. Tracy (maybe I should say Saint Tracy) and her family have made it clear that we are all welcome at all their celebrations - maybe we'll come home with some new traditions! We're also very excited about the pooches returning to Calgary with Lynne and Cath when they come here - not sure how the Hamilton household will handle not having the girls around! They may be overrun with quail!!

102 1q

Linda had a gastrografen (?) swallow test today - and yes it involves the bane of her life - Telebrix. But it was to see if that wretched fistula in her stomach has healed and we'll hear the results tomorrow. A quiet day here (apart from the test). We'd hoped to maybe have a turn outside in a wheelchair (lovely weather here) but she slept instead. The Docs are still pleased with her progress and she's gaining strength.

102 1p

Yes - feeling better today - hate to credit the neti plunger but it does seem to have helped. We had a great chat with Katie, the dietitian, today - about Linda's post Foothills Resort and Spa needs and diet. We sure will be trying some new styles of eating - lots of small meals which we all know is the best way to consume. And she'll get to eat lots of 'fattening' food to keep her weight stable. (Yeah, says Linda).

Good day today.  Lorraine is feeling much better and even offered to make supper for her and Tracy - perogies and sausage - oh for real food - I still have the feeding tube attached to me - not quite the comfort food I enjoy!  My chest pain was better today and we were able to for a substantial walk - nice to get up and move around.

That's all for now!

Linda

102 #1o

So Linda has progressed to cranberry juice which, hopefully, will show that the fistula is either healed or on the way to being healed - shown by drain and wound manager output (hmm...wonder if that makes sense?). She's in good spirits and feeling good except for the discomfort of that one drain site (which is being alleviated by drugs). She says it feels great to be drinking something - I'm sure she wishes it was eggnog or a 'cold, frosty one' (her exact words). I continue to be annoyed with my sinuses (Stop, I say, stop!!!!). The Team says she can have a pass this week so we'll try to get her out one day to Tracy's for a change of venue.

Hi All,

Lorraine managed to get to visit today at the hospital, but she is still battling her cold.  I am not surprised she caught a cold, she has been so busy taking  care of me and worrying about me.  She went home this afternoon to have a wee rest. 

As for me, my chest pain where  my newest drain was put in continues to bug me, but we tried a dose of codine this afternoon and that seemed to help a fair bit.  Other than that, things are coming along - I hope to get some of my drains out this week and move forward.

I ordered some gifts online from LLBean and Signals (great stores) last week - what a great invention that is!  I just hope they arrive on time.   

That's all for now.  Take care.


Linda

102 #1n

Well, my immune system finally gave in to all the germs floating around. I was home today with a cold - mainly in my sinuses, a bit feverish. So I didn't get to see Linda Marie. Fortunately I left the cell with her yesterday when I left so we were able to chat on the phone a few times. Tracy forced me to use the gross neti nasal plunger thing and it certainly has helped dislodge stuff. Linda said that she's feeling okay - that drain site is still bugging her but they're keeping a close eye on it and she hasn't developed any symptoms of serious infection. She was up for walks today. Tomorrow I'll go to the hospital and wear a mask.

102 #1m

So I got a BIG smile from Linda this afternoon when I came back to the hospital with a new MEC jacket as an early Xmas giftie. She tried it on, modeled it and pronounced it a perfect fit!

The Team was by this morning and were quite happy with what is draining from the Cooks. And they expressed (again) how pleased they are with her quick 'bounce-back'. Still some pain around that 1 drain, but no nausea, no weakness, no temperature.

Hi All.  I am plunking away with my jittery typing looking out my window at the downtown Calgary skyline -it sure looks like a frosty morning, but sunny which is cheery.

My chest pain continues but the docs said if it becomes infected they will put in another drainage tube to clear the infection - not a big deal all in all.  Other than that I am on the mend - still don't when we will be able to leave - day by day.

Lorraine went to a craft sale yesterday with Tracy - right up her alley and she bought a few items.  We  are slowly getting ready for Christmas with buying stocking stuffers and ordering gifts online. 

102 #1l

A good day! Some soreness from that drain they inserted on Tuesday but Linda Marie is being brave and making sure she has the painkiller needed to deal with it. The other drains are putting out minimal amounts so we're hoping that inflammation is subsiding. Still on the feeding tube but the amount going in has been upped to almost maximum so she's getting all the nutrition she needs to heal.

She sure was happy to read all the comments in response to her first blog. It's great to see her back on the computer. That trembling right hand is getting steadier!

102 #1k

Hi Everbody!  Linda G here blogging on..... It's been a journey to be sure but many blessings thrown into the mix as well.  Thanks to each and everyone of you for hanging in there with us - it has meant more to us than you know.  Having good friends and family are  really what life is all about (and a little morphine now and then is good to)!

Lorraine and I have learned to go day by day with all the pokes and prods and that has made it easier to deal with the peaks and valleys of this journey we are on.  Certainly more peaks than valleys - Dr. Temple remains optimistic about my recovery and we are too!

Well that's all from me for now - nice talking to you all. 

Take care,   Linda

102 #1j

Well I think we are back on track. The last two weeks have been hard physically and emotionally and we kind of lost our focus and our trust in what was happening. We both had chats with Dr Temple tonight and he answered our questions and (very importantly) calmed our fears and confusions. Our disappointment about not coming home on the 15th certainly tainted our ability to keep our spirits up but we're now both feeling more positive and we know we need to focus on recovery and strength-building rather than a specific date - Linda's body will be ready to go home when it's ready. 

On the medical front, the tear in the stomach seems to be healing - that's good news. The splenic rupture 2 weeks ago aggravated tissues in the upper left quadrant of her abdominal cavity resulting in some inflammation so tubes have been inserted to drain the inflammation. WBC count has remained in a normal (for Linda) range and her vitals are good. She's getting up and about - walking the halls - and getting stronger. She continues to beat me handily at card games - that's not new!! And has started reading again - John Grisham. And we've decided that she'll start writing on here too - look for words of wisdom from Linda tomorrow!

102 #1i

Well, we ran into a bump in the road on Friday and Linda didn't get to shop her face off. We and the Docs became more concerned as the day progressed about the 'stuff' that was exiting her wound manager on her belly. After more tests and poking, it was determined that there was a small leak in the stomach. Dr Temple called it a 'nuisance' and 'not unexpected' and precisely the reason he had wanted to keep Linda close for the extra couple of weeks. So she's all suited up with an NJ for nutrition / NPO. Last night vitals were stable and her spirits are gradually lifting. I'm sure the game today will be a good distraction!
 
To the WV alumni: the hospital server won't let me access those unbelievably spirited and talented dances you made for Linda (I've seen and chuckled loudly and told her and cursed loudly when I couldn't get them at the hospital) so I'm going to try to download them to the desktop (argghh - I'm not the computer person in our family) so they can be her 'half-time show' during the Grey Cup game.

102 #1h

Good morning from Balmy Calgary. I promised Linda at the beginning of the week that if it warmed up, we'd do the day pass on Friday and hasn't it turned out to be just a lovely, mild day. But we've decided to leave Harry (alas) until next week for two reasons - firstly, it's a 2  1/2 hour movie - long time for Her Ladyship to sit (even for Harry) and secondly, I've been using my spare time to look for and get stocking stuffers and she's feeling the need to start her own Stocking Stuffers shopping - an hour in the Mall will be enough for the first venture out.

More walking yesterday and more eating - things are looking up!

102 #1g

So it's almost a private room - it's a semi without anyone else in there at least until later today - a full 24 hours of privacy - she was sure relishing that yesterday. On the health front, everything seems to be draining the way it should, vitals are good, WBC count keeps trending down. Still eating and having very minimal amounts of nausea.

I made Linda's fav, Almond Oatmeal Shortbread, and a recipe for French Chocolate Bark (from Ina) last night - both are tasty.

102 #1f

The ct scan showed an abscess in Lin's abdominal cavity so she's on a round of antibiotics to kill the beast - also has a couple of drains for draining fluid from the abscess. Good thing we're here. She also had a visit from the infectious diseases team yesterday - now didn't that initially make our hearts plummet? But they will be recommending a course of antibiotics to be taken after Linda is discharged and they just wanted to go over how they will determine the best meds - they sure knew lots about what's happened to her. We've been lobbying for a private room for the end of her stay at the Foothills Resort and Spa - will find out today or tomorrow if we whined enough!

My first batch of shortbread turned out dry and tasteless - argghh! Not enough practice - will try again later today.

102 #1e

Yesterday morning, Dr Temple told Linda that he will be keeping her in the hospital for 2 more weeks - quite a disappointment for her because she was hoping to be home safe and sound early next week. But eventually we both saw the sanity of this - Dr T and his team want to be absolutely sure that everything in that diminutive body of her's is working the way it should be before he releases her to the wide world.  She had a ct scan yesterday to check her abdomen and we'll get results today. Vitals are good and that dreaded nausea is in abeyance. Later this week, she'll get a day pass and we will venture out (in milder temperatures) to get a Harry Potter fix. Patience is the name of the game here. I'm starting my Christmas baking today - partly because Linda is craving some and partly because Tracy did win the initial release date pool. Feels good to have my hands in butter and brown sugar and pecans......

102 #1d

Well, weren't those Roughriders glorious!! I did get to see half of the game because the wonderfully raucous Cher musical movie doesn't start until Wednesday - quelle disappointment! Today will be a busy and tiring day for Linda - the Docs are planning another CT scan (we've lost count of how many she's had) for this morning. Wish they'd invent another way to have a look inside that didn't involve Telebrix. And we should get results from bloodwork done at the end of last week. She's wanting mac and cheese so I'm off to the grocery store to get ingredients - looking forward to cooking.

102 #1c

A good day up here in 102. Linda just beat me handily in a card game called 31 (in all our years together, we've never played this game and I do wonder if she's changing the rules to keep winning - altho I did manage a win at crib earlier this morning!). She had a substantial (for her) lunch of half a turkey sandwich, a piece of cheddar, and some fruit cocktail. And we've finally found a liquid that has some good electrolyte stuff in it and isn't too sweet - Gatorade (I rue my scoffing at those tv ads now). Anyway we're going off for a walk and then she'll don her Roughriders' gear (actually just a green cordoroy jacket) for the big game. I'm going to take a break from football (heresy, I know) and go and see Cher in Burlesque while Linda watches the game - I'm sure she'll have lots of company as nurses and residents keep popping in to see how the eastern final is going.

102 #1b

Hello from frozen Calgary! Must admit I was surprised to hear about snow in Vernon yesterday - it had been lovely to think that 'home' was snow-free and balmy as I drove along these icy roads - hhmmm....have to revise the vision of home now. Linda continues to get stronger (again) - walking, starting to eat, very alert. She is sleeping lots which is good. Yesterday was a bit of a 'down' day for me - one of the nurses suggested that I was having a 'trauma hangover' - so I slept, wept, and whined. This morning (after a full night's sleep - thank god for sleeping pills) I'm feeling much better. Just have to keep reminding myself that we are coming home soon. I got Linda a green cordoroy top to wear tomorrow for the BIG GAME.

102 #1a

Yes she was moved from ICU late this afternoon - up to Unit 102 again. Quite animated this morning - joking with Robert (one of the ICU people) about how the Roughriders were going to best the Stampeders this weekend. Started on fluids again - apple juice, popsicles and then 'begged' for something more substantial at lunch and got some tomato soup (her fav!). Tired this afternoon with frequent naps but still alert when awake. First thing she asked when we got up to 102: Can you order the TV for me? I've never seen her sooo interested in football.

ICU #1c

I'm home for the night - the roads are treacherous - icy and snowy with more snow to come and Linda insisted that I stay safely at home this evening. When I got to ICU this morning, she was sitting up with the respirator gone and looking remarkably perky. The glue seems to have worked on the rupture and her WBC continues to trend down. All vitals are great. In fact, she was moved to the ICU 'overflow' area where they put the comparatively 'well' patients when the unit starts to burst at the seams from incoming. Looks like she'll be moving to the surgical unit floor soon and then we'll restart our countdown for home.

ICU #1b

A quiet day in the ICU - they kept Linda sedated for most of the day but all is well and I did get a hand squeeze late this afternoon. Her vitals are stable and, in fact, her hemoglobin and heart rate are better than they've been in ages. WBC count is down to 12 (from 41 yesterday) so those antibiotics are doing their job. She's on a respirator but only at 30% and the docs are talking about getting her off that very soon. They found a pocket of fluid in the abdomen (on yesterday's CT scan) and inserted a drain to get rid of the fluid. Cailen (tonight's nurse) is sure she'll be awake tomorrow.

ICU # 1a

So that damn splenic artery acted up again today - thank goodness we were already in the hospital (there definitely is someone watching over our Linda). They managed to repair it by filling it up with glue(!!!). Dr Temple was very pleased with how the procedure went. She will be back in ICU for a while to make sure that it sticks (!) and to get rid of the wretched infection in her bladder - the reason we went to the hospital in the first place.  I'm feeling very, very relieved - just couldn't believe we might be in trouble again. Will have a good sleep tonight.

Emergency Room #1

Well, we hit a bump in the road - not literally. Linda woke up last night about 1:45 shivering and feeling very weak and nauseated. So we brought her back to the hospital. She's been admitted and first results indicate some dehydration and perhaps a urinary tract infection - which can be readily fixed say the Docs. Just to be on the safe side, they are also doing a CT scan (argghh - more telebrix). Linda is disappointed of course but we both realize that this is the best place for her to have a bump in the road because they know her history very well. So now we're hoping for a speedy recovery from this blip so we can make another plane reservation. Cath did leave with the loaded up truck and the pooches this am. Will write as I find out more.

Transition #3

We had a quiet day - Linda on the couch watching football (didn't that game go on forever?), me packing up (amazing how much has been accumulated). When Cath gets back from visiting with Chris and Caroline and the boys tonight, we'll load up the truck - Cath's hoping for a very early start - around 5 am. There's a chance we might all arrive in Vernon tomorrow around the same time. We can't say enough 'Thank You's' to Cath for her kindness for doing this for us. And we will be forever grateful to Tracy for opening her home to us. Goodness, we're a lucky pair!

Transition #2

Great day yesterday! Cath arrived safely and came for a visit in the morning - we think we have our plan in place for tomorrow! Then Linda and I went off in the afternoon to a dreadful movie - Morning Glory (why would those actors choose to do such an awful movie - $, we think) - which was Linda's choice. Just stayed at home for the rest of the day. The full day tired her out and she slept for 12 hours. She woke up this am quite hungry and sooo happy to have her regular Shreddies. Linda's looking forward to a football afternoon and of course, she'll be rooting for Saskatchewan.

Linda says: Tomorrow will be an early morning as we have to get to the airport by 8:00 for our flight home. It will be wonderful to touch down in BC.

Transition #1

The move went smoothly - we left the hospital about 11:45 and made our way to Tracy's. Linda managed the stairs with no problem (I think she's getting stronger every day). But what a bundle of supplies we brought with us! Because we're not Alberta residents, we don't qualify for homecare here so I had to learn how to dress her wound (still a small opening in the incision) until we can get back to the wonderful mountainscape of BC. We spent the rest of the day 'at home' - Linda watched TV, I fussed around her, the pooches either sat on the floor in front of her or sat on her lap. This morning we're going to brave the shower; then have a wee rest and then maybe an afternoon movie. We'll see how it all goes. Looking forward to seeing Cath this morning!

Linda is sitting in the living room right now and says 'Hello and thank you for all the wonderful comments and wishes and I am looking forward to writing on the blog and seeing people soon.'

102 #21

Goodness - this is the last blog I'll be writing with Linda in the hospital. Tomorrow I'll bring her to Tracy's for the weekend and then Monday we'll be coming home. I have to tell you that I get weepy whenever I say or write that - just the thought of being in our own home - maybe with a fire in the living room - knowing that Linda is close by and staying close by - it's such a relief - it's all those cliches (weight off the shoulders, breathing deeper, light at the end...) rolled into one. I think we both will feel safe at home. We will need a bit of time to get settled - there are doctor appointments and homecare visits already set up and I imagine our first few days will be busier than we would like - oh, how we want to just stretch out on the couches in front of that fire! But once we are settled, we will be so happy to see people. FYI - Linda has lost a fair amount of weight - in fact, we had a day pass today and this afternoon, went to the Mall so she could get some clothes that actually fit her new body and a charming cap. Our journey is not quite over yet - Yesterday Dr Temple told us he wants Linda to have a precautionary round of chemo which will start in about a month - we don't know yet how long or what drug but we do know it will be in pill form and he has assured us that this is only a precautionary measure - initially that was bit of a shock for us but we sure don't want to go through this again so we'll do it.

We will keep writing on the blog - hopefully Linda will start adding her 2 cents worth once we get home. Writing this thing every day has kept me sane - knowing there were people out there reading and responding and caring has made such a difference during the past two+ months - thank you.

Liz and Tracy won the Linda 'Miracle' Graves Release Date Pool - and it wasn't fixed!!!!!!!

102 #20

Quite the day! The nurse removed the PICC line and the JP drain this morning without incident. Then, Linda got a day pass and didn't we drive out of the hospital parking lot with our medical supplies and a wheelchair at 10:30! She was almost giddy with excitement. When we got to Tracy's house, both Coady and Chicklet were sniffing her and circling her and trying to jump up - we laughed out loud - because it was apparent that both of the pooches knew her. Coady sat on her lap for the longest time just nuzzling her neck and giving her ear kisses. Then this afternoon, we all (L2 & C2) had a nap - can't tell you how wonderful that was - like we were all breathing easier. Anyway we stayed out a bit too late, but didn't get in trouble. Linda was looking pretty tired once we got her tucked into bed and I'm sure she'll have a great sleep tonight.

102 #19

The Cook drain came out today - sooo only one drain left in the belly. And she's practicing stairs and walking like a pro - both in the hospital and outside - very glad she got to experience some glorious Calgary fall weather. I took real clothes in yesterday and she said it felt so good to be wandering around in pants and a sweatshirt!! (although they're frightfully baggy)  Dr Temple (with a grin) asked her this morning - When do you think you should go home? And Linda's response was 'Friday'. And he said - Well that sounds possible. WHEW!!!!! We can hardly believe that we're starting to plan for our escape. We're thinking we'll stay in Calgary at Tracy's for the weekend (just to let her get her land legs) and then fly home on Monday - a week today. Cath (one of our Angels) has volunteered to drive the truck and the pooches home that day. Can you believe this part of the journey is almost over?

102 #18

It was a good thing to take a day off writing on the blog - with the passage of time, I can see that Friday was kind of  like living in and surviving a bad movie rendition of a Stephen King novel. The Resident who came at 7:00 in the morning to tell Linda that she would be released on Monday would be played by some callow youth full of his own mighty wisdom (hmm..no-one is popping into mind - any suggestions?). This sent us both into a bit of a tailspin - ?homecare, drain flushing, RT, incision wound??? Later in the morning, Dr Temple (of course played by George Clooney) reassured us that there were many things to accomplish before she'd be kicked out the front door - 1 drain has to come out and yours truly needs to be trained in the care and flushing of another drain. And the removal of the filter needed to happen - inserted months ago to stop any wretched clots from making their way to the heart and lungs - which he said was a minor procedure - probably 45 minutes. And in reality, it turned out to be a 2 1/2  hour procedure and they couldn't remove the filter (but they say it's okay to be in there). And during the time that Linda was away, I had the audacity to visit the washroom and go to get some lunch - and of course that's when the neurologist (maybe Sigourney Weaver) came to talk to me about the MRI. And just when I was going to go to the Neurology floor and track down the Doc, there was a lockdown - DooWah, DooWah - such loud ringing everywhere, no-one allowed out of the rooms - someone from the Psych Ward had escaped (for sure, John Malkovich!!) and me just praying that wherever Linda was, it wasn't close to the Psych Ward. And then - Wham - Logan (PT - played by Anne Hathaway) came and went thru a whole swack of exercises for Linda's right hand and Jelena (OT- maybe Rachel McAdam) came soon after with suggestions for stuff we'll need when we get home for the bathroom. Then Linda returned, slept for a couple of hours and woke up starving! Ate turkey, scalloped potatoes and felt 'full' - not nauseated (Hurray!!) And then the credits started playing and I went home.  Yesterday was great - worked on stair climbing, lots of walks, ate small meals with minimum of nausea, and did some puzzles - and said she felt quite good.

102 #17

Much better this morning!  Talked with the charge nurse and Dr Temple about the MRI results - both say that there should be an almost complete recovery from the cardiac arrest and subsequent brain damage. It will just take time and, by golly, we have time. We also got some training this am in how to deal with a Cook drain - just in case she still has one when we leave. Dr T. also mentioned the possibility of a couple of days passes next week before we take our final leave of the hospital. Something to look forward to!!

102 #16

Well I was asking for too much - the neurologist arrived and talked to Linda during the 23 minutes I was away from the room this afternoon - and he  told her there was damage on the left side of her brain (DUH!!) and that she may or may not recover all her abilities. No recommendations.  Hmmm...I will find and talk to him tomorrow. Linda is still having nausea and her WBC count has been trending up for the last 2 days so today was a CT scan to check for a possible abcess in the abdomen - maybe behind the stomach. But she did have some scalloped potatoes after the scan and quite enjoyed them.

102 #15

Lots of visiting with Lucille yesterday; walks in the halls; visits to the Garden Deli. Linda's been sooo happy to see her Mom.

The Neurological team arrived  Tuesday afternoon to do an assessment and ordered an MRI which was done yesterday. On Tuesday after the assessment, they said - yes damage is apparent on the right side (meaning left hemisphere) and with speech. Now we're waiting for the results from the MRI and (I hope) a comprehensive list of recommendations for rehab (am I asking for too much??)

Still having some nausea - but we're hoping that will lessen as her stomach continues to recover.

102 #14

A wee update - Dr Temple was by this morning (not to collect his winnings!!!) and said that, if things continue so well, Linda may well be leaving within a 2 week period. So if you want to revise your Linda 'Miracle' Graves Release Date guess, please do so by MIDNIGHT tonight. No changes will be accepted after that.

She had toast with peanut butter, peach yogourt, and apple juice for breakie this am.

102 #13

Quite the day - Linda's gi feeding got blocked somehow during the night and they pulled it out this afternoon and didn't replace it!!!!! We can see her face without anything in the way!! And this afternoon Dr Temple ordered the removal of the pain killer line and saline line so the IV pole is gone. It was almost weird walking down the hall with just Linda - but good weird. She's also eating - apple sauce, yogourt, soup with potatoes and carrots - and just having a wee bit of nausea. She was disappointed, though, that Texas lost the World Series - now she owes Dr Temple $.50.

Special Update: The Linda 'Miracle' Graves Release Date Pool

We're thinking that, given Linda's progress, we will be wending our way home to Vernon sometime in November. So let's have a 'pool' to guess the date. The winner(s) of the pool will receive a box of Christmas baking. To help you with your medical prognostications, here are the particulars about her physical condition as of today (Oct. 31): she has 2 lower abdominal tubes, both still draining; she is off all antibiotics and her temperature has been stable since last Thursday; her incision has healed except for a 1 -inch section which is closing slowly; she can throw her legs out of bed, stand up, and walk down the hall and back to bed (with a bit of huffing); her white blood cell count, hemoglobin and blood sugars are stable/normal. Please indicate the date which you think Linda will walk out the doors of Foothills and into her waiting Ford Exploder. I will keep a master list of all guesses.


So Chris (the nephew) and I went off this afternoon to a party supply store and bought Linda a pump and balloons. She's already given one dog away to a little girl in the cafeteria and has another one ready for Dr Temple when he comes for Rounds tomorrow morning. Great exercise for those hands!!! Thanks, Kim, for the reminder!

102 #12

Yesterday was  a pretty good day - nausea was at a minimum - really only happened when Linda had a wee coughing bout - I think that's progress! And she did manage to down some chicken broth (not home-made tho). She's VERY tired of all the sweet fluids and jello and popsicles - wanting something with a more substantial taste. So I talked her into trying some tea - just weak, gentle green tea. One sip and her face almost collapsed in on itself - she definitely has not acquired a new appreciation for tea. We're still hoping that tomorrow she'll have a tiny bit of real food.

She's had lovely visits with Deb, Sean and Chris - lots of laughing (she sure has maintained her quick wit!!) and chatting. And great to be able to celebrate Chris' birthday here.  And she's really looking forward to see Lucille on Tuesday.

We haven't (obviously) been pushing for a specific timeline for our escape but we are in the midst of our 8th week and so we think this week we'll start the process of asking about stuff we need to know about for when we are home (goodness way tooo many prepositions in that sentence!) Linda's right hand is still trembly and the speech articulation continues to be garbled often - time for the rehab to be organized and started.

Happy Hallowe'en from your Spooks in Calgary!!!  I'm off to buy some treats for the Unit staff and a hat for Linda!

102 #11

So there is NO blockage - so say the GI docs and Dr. Temple after reviewing the xrays and comparing them with last weekend's ct scan. And Linda has not had a single twinge of nausea since yesterday's Great Silver Vomit. So we're hoping that the stomach is starting to remember what it's in there for! Everything else seems to be in working order. Fluids only this weekend, then they'll try bits of food on Monday. What got Linda really excited today was a move - from the bed 4 position in the ward to the bed 3 position - beside the window with a view of the sky and some Rockies in the distance.

102 #10

So the xray didn't happen yesterday, but today. Linda called it a 'comedy of errors' - with silvery fluid to drink, accompanying nausea, computer crashes. Preliminary reports say that there is some kind of obstruction/blockage showing up around the valve between the stomach and intestine (hmm, that would cause some nausea). We won't know all until tomorrow when the Docs have reviewed the xrays and we talk with them.  But the nurse and resident did say that it sounded like this was fixable. We are believing the nurse and resident. Surprisingly - not a whit of nausea this afternoon!! 

Deb, Sean and Chris come tomorrow - Linda's looking forward to seeing them.

102 #9

Okay - good meeting with Dr. Temple this morning. He's wondering about the valve into her stomach - if it's too small and that could cause the nausea. So this afternoon, an x-ray of her stomach will be done and then the GI docs will look at it and if it is too small, it can be fixed with a scope and a balloon to gently enlarge the valve. At least there is a plan - I was despairing because it just seemed like - same old, same old - and that sure wasn't working. Feeling much better (me); Linda - a bit nauseated when I left but snoozy from the gravol. All other vitals are good and she was up and about this morning - we went to the Gift Shop (her first visit) and she bought a wee giftie for her Mom.

ICU #8

Linda is doing really well with her mobility - able to roll out of bed and get up quite easily.

Well today is going to be a track down docs and get answers day. Because of the nausea associated with the protein shakes, they stopped giving that injection thru her feeding tube a few days ago and hoped for a marked decrease in nausea, but the nausea has persisted -even with fluids that earlier didn't cause problems and having gone through all my notes, I'm wondering why they keep sticking to the same plan - introduce some clear fluids, then a bit of food, then watch her become extremely nauseated and throw up. Linda is getting a bit disheartened and just wanting to feel better. We're really missing the nurses and docs in ICU who were willing to answer every question we had - the last few days I've been feeling like I'm 'imposing' on these 10th floor people with my questions. Yes - I'm a bit annoyed.  More to come.

102 #7

Food, glorious food!!!  Linda had tasty morsels yesterday at suppertime - 2 spoonfuls of pureed vegie soup and 1 spoon of applesauce. We're sure hoping this is the beginning of the stomach truly working - it sure has been taking its time deciding what will work in there and what won't. All of her supper stayed down and didn't make Linda feel very nauseated. In fact, we're only battling nausea now after those horrid contrast dyes or when she has her 'protein shake'  (in thru the gi tube) - thank goodness for anti-nausea meds. And is she ever doing well with her walking - gets out of bed without assistance and is usually waiting (sometimes a bit impatiently!) for me to undo and wrap up all the cords and tubes before we head off down the hall or to the bathroom. Still watching that pesky dehiscing gap in her incision but WBC count is good and hemoglobin too - another part of her body just taking its time to heal.

102 #6

I will be soooo glad when they decide to stop with the contrast dyes and ct scans. The difference between yesterday (as I write, I am erasing it from my mind) and today was just amazing - Linda was strong and active and brave and funny today - pushing herself some to walk just a bit farther. Boy, she wants to be well and back in Vernon and looking out her own windows! Lucille has made plans to come/fly in for a few days at the beginning of November - Linda was very pleased to hear this- she misses her Mom. How kind many of you have been to keep in touch with Lucille - big hugs to Sheila and Gladys for your help!!!!  Off now for my evening visit - have a good sleep, each of you!

102 #5

Quite a busy week-end with lots of visitors. Great to see Laurie and Brodie and Kim and Lynne and Cath. Unfortunately not as much visiting yesterday as we'd hoped - bit of trouble with those pesky incision stitches so a ct scan was ordered yesterday and of course the wretched contrast dye causes Linda horrid nausea. BUT wasn't she perky this morning!! Walking (without the walker!) to the bathroom, wanting to go for a coffee (in her wheel chair), and having a wonderful visit with Bob and Jennifer.

102 #4

A busy day - Linda had lots of visitors. Cath and Lynne came for a visit this afternoon and then Kim came and had 2 visits - great to see Linda chuckling at all their shenanigans. We all went down to the deli in the hospital for a 'coffee' (Linda's suggestions) - she's really enjoying getting out and about in her wheel chair. Sure tires her out though. She had her trach tube removed today and has a sterile patch over the wee hole - docs say it will heal without stitches (wow). The physio was by today too and 'suggested' to Linda that she will go home sooner if she is walking a lot every day. But I think we'll go slowly - she did walk (with the walker) to the bathroom for her spa treatment this morning. Tomorrow we'll get her up a couple of times. Dr. Temple came by this morning - in a pumpkin hat - and didn't Linda's eyes light up at that sight! He's pleased with how's she's doing!

I went to Kooza (cirque de soleil) this afternoon with Tracy and Leigh - what a pick-me-up that was - thoroughly exciting and enjoyable!! And I got some stocking stuffers, too!!

102 #3

So all the sutures are gone from her belly and they sewed up  - 6 stitches - a small part of the incision that was 'dehissing' (not wanting to come together and that's your medical terminology lesson for this morning) so she was feeling a bit sore yesterday and did request some pain killers. They also increased the feed tube amount and all went down just fine. And she had clear fluids - juice, popsicle, gingerale - but, oh my goodness, does she want to eat - asks me every day what I had for breakfast, lunch and dinner and then we plan what we'll eat when we get home. She's very accepting of the notion that it will probably be months before she'll be able to 'chow down with gusto' - but she's sure missing the feeling and mushing of texture and flavour in her mouth. And yesterday she walked (with a walker) from her bed to the bathroom for her bath and we went downstairs in the wheelchair and peered outside. Kim comes this weekend, and Laurie and Brodie; Lynne and Cath will also make an appearance. This morning the trach tube comes out - and then there's only 3 tubes remaining.

Have a great weekend!  I'm sure that there are 'burning ears' out there  - we talk about Linda's 'peeps' a lot and wonder where Judi and Peter are and what Liz might be cooking and how incredible that many people have offered to fly here and drive the truck home so that we can fly and get her home quickly and how were parent-teacher interviews (what lovely fleurs!!!).

102 #2

Lots happening today - of course, whole new set of people, new 'rules' (I have to ask permission to get wash clothes!), and many reassurances to the nurses that I won't faint or throw up while watching them change Linda's dressings. So she had a good night - slept well, much less nausea and they did start her feed tube again, slowly increasing the amounts. AND I took her outside in a wheelchair for her first smell of fall air (lovely day here - 17 and sunny). I brought the pooches up to the hospital and brought Coady first to see Linda and damn it all, she was a bit stand-offish - we're wondering if she didn't recognize her 'smell' and of course, there are the tubes coming out of Linda's nose - well, we'll try again tomorrow. Then I brought Chicklet over and she gave Linda kisses on her cheek and wiggled her little bum - that was good!! When I left this afternoon, they were getting ready to take out her plastic sutures and had given Linda some Fentanol (sp) to make her dozy. Going back up soon to meet Lynne G. and we'll have a visit with Linda.

102 #1

What a day! Yes, Linda has moved to the surgical oncology (unit 102) ward. She's in a high observation ward for a couple of days - 2 nurses for 4 patients, then will go to her very own room. The blue dye didn't show up anywhere so there's no leaks in there - good!! Still experiencing some nausea but they're wondering if it could have to do with some small pockets of fluid in the abdomen so they drained them today - and we'll wait and see. The really exciting thing that happened today was they changed her trach to a one that can be capped so she is TALKING!!!!! Sometimes a bit garbled but what a treat to have a real conversation and hear her voice. We called Lucille and all three of us had a good cry on the phone - we were so happy and excited. It was weirdly sad to leave ICU - kind of felt like we were leaving home.

ICU #54

Sorry about the lack of post yesterday - I'm blaming it on the Calgary Municipal election and the fire 3 doors down from Tracy's. Anyway, Linda's nausea continued to increase and so the docs pulled her feeding tube yesterday morning and upped the meds to include Gravol. They wondered about a leakage somewhere in the gi tract but the ct scan didn't show anything. So then they inserted the feeding tube back into the gullet and added plain old blue dye to her feed and will watch to see if any of the 3 drains remaining take on a blue tinge. Completely and utterly off the ventilator - in fact the machine has disappeared from her room!! Still in ICU - but just waiting for a bed to come open in the surgical oncology ward - they're saying today or tomorrow. Finally got to see her walking yesterday - even took a photo which I'll try to post but remember I'm not the techno whiz in the family.

ICU #53

Well - she's making them work for their money! Still having lots of nausea so she's off the wee bits of real food she was getting. They're doing another ct scan this afternoon to check out what might be causing the nausea. Her liver enzymes are up a bit - verging on hepititis so they've taken her off the anti-fungal meds she was on - they evidently play havoc with the liver. It's such a balancing act getting the body's various systems to play fairly! Even with all that, she was up again today walking and (silently) cheering during the first half of the Cal/Sask football game when Sask was winning.

Lovely to see Arlene Lazecki yesterday - she was here for her goddaughter's volleyball tournament and popped in for a wee visit - she made Linda laugh!!

ICU #52

Quite the day! She was walking with support in the hallway this afternoon. They replaced her trach tube and her first words were 'New car?' (in response to the possibility of Kim driving here next weekend). And she had a spoonful of mashed potatoes with turkey gravy for supper.

ICU #51

Well, it may have been snowy and overcast outside but it sure felt like sunshine in Room 3 in ICU this morning. On Rounds - after reviewing her charts, the docs were talking about why would they keep Linda in ICU any longer. There are only minor difficulties (and they're on top of these) and she has been trach cradling with ease since Wednesday morning. Final decision - keep her over the weekend - mainly because weekend transfers can be tricky because of staff shortages.  WHEW!!!! They're also talking about changing the trach to a smaller size which will facilitate some dulcet words/tones issuing forth from her mouth! Dr. Temple has said 3 - 4 weeks upstairs in 102 (the surgical oncology unit) and then it's HOME,  Baby. We are both sooo looking forward to this countdown. Now that we are truly on the edge of the woods, there are some things I can write that will help you understand her status as resident miracle in the ICU. Beginning on that Wednesday (goodness, a month ago), they gave her a 5% chance of survival - 3 days running - of course, we couldn't believe that. And they were pessimistic about saving her stomach after the tear appeared. And they were forthright about the probability of brain damage - yes, there have been some interesting missing pieces - clocks, baseball game rules - but each memory loss has righted itself with time. And it's amazing what has come through in tact - no change whatsoever in her sense of humour or in her will to live.

ICU #50

It is snowing in Calgary.

ICU #49

I was talking to Dr. Temple's resident tonight when I was leaving the hospital and we both agreed that it is almost comforting to be dealing such minor difficulties now. Linda had another tube inserted today - lower right abdomen because of a small abcess, but the tube went in smoothly and started draining away the yucky stuff immediately. I can tell she's getting better by where she is on the Rounds list each morning. A couple of weeks ago, she was always in the top 2, now she's in the bottom 2 to be visited. No physio today - Steph was run off her feet with new patients. Our Armstrong doc even made some noises this afternoon about Linda leaving ICU - she's been off the ventilator since yesterday morning (in fact, the ventilator is turned off!!!) and doing great. Usually they want to see the patient breathing on their own for 48+ hours and we're coming up to that very soon. So maybe this weekend we'll be saying farewell to ICU and the thought of that gave us pause - we have been so fortunate to have these wonderful docs and nurses and RTs and PTs taking care of her and, of course, because of the person she is, many have grown to care for her and stop by just to say Hi or You're looking great (or ask for our email cause they're returning to England). And while we were 'talking' about people we've met here, Kim (the unit clerk) came over with a cell phone, saying there was a call from Saskatoon and it was Tina Allmightyvoice, calling to wish her well and that brought tears to our eyes because it reminded us that we are so blessed to have family and friends who have stood by us throughout the past 6 months, just loving and caring for us. We will never be able to thank you all enough for what you've given us.

ICU #48

Well I got to wash Linda's hair today with the coolest thing - a shower cap (with shampoo and conditioner right in it)  that you pop on her head and then massage all over and then whip it off, towel dry, and she has clean hair. I thought it was quite the invention. I think they're starting to train me for when she goes upstairs. So they've found another pocket of fluids on the other side of her chest so tomorrow another tube goes in to drain it. Dr. Temple (he of the magic hands who got rid of the c.) said a few people do develop these pockets - just the body's way of dealing with all the fluid that's still in there. The infections seem to be under control - her WBC has not gone up - good news!! Steph had her up and about today - more walking and she's talking about getting a tall walker for Linda so she can go farther afield. She's slowly getting stronger. Wonderful visit from Stew and Eleanor this afternoon - both said Linda was looking great (and she truly is - good colour, bright eyes) - and Linda was thrilled to see them.

Yes she had her chicken broth!

ICU #47

So the ct scan showed some fluid in the peritoneal cavity but no abcesses (sp?) which is very good. They've put her on antibiotics for whatever is in there (they told me but I think the medical terminology part of my brain is near capacity!). She had a busy afternoon - what with the scan (always seems to really tire her out plus she has to lay on that hard board) and physio - Steph said that she was up and even MOVING a few steps - all the movement will help with the drainage and settling of the insides. And she was on the trach cradle all day - so she's coming along.

ICU #46

The pleural cavity is still (gently) draining and Linda is taking deep breaths - side still a bit sore but she's being brave! This morning they moved her into one of the isolation rooms (really quite nice, roomier, with real walls that keep out all the noise) because the belly is showing signs of infection (but as I said to her - sweetie, you're in a hospital and what did everyone tell us goes along with hospitals?  *infections*). I get to wear a very stylish yellow gown when I'm in there. Anyway they're doing a ct scan this afternoon to check it out and, no doubt, they'll fix this too. White blood cell count is up a bit but nowhere near its all-time high from a couple of weeks ago. Dr. Temple was in this am and authorized the removal of some of her incision stitches - another step forward. And her only request for today - homemade chicken broth. She is not impressed with the hospital broth - so I'll be cooking tonight!!

ICU #45

I was hoping for another photo opportunity today but it didn't happen. The x-ray and ultrasound yesterday showed quite a large accumulation of fluid around the left lung so the docs inserted a small tube into the area this afternoon and drained about a litre of clear fluid. No wonder she was having trouble taking deep breaths!! We're hoping this will speed up the ventilator weaning process. But she sure was tired and sore after all that and disappointed she had missed her physio session. She'd been promised that she could go outside today and I'd brought the pooches up in the car just in case she got out there. Maybe tomorrow... She also seems to have a wee infection brewing in the belly (some days I think - will this never end?!# - just let me take her home!!!) but the docs are on top of it.  Only had to get ginger ale, a headphone extension cord and lithium batteries for her today - hmmm the requests are slowing down.

Lucille left this morning with Lynne and Cath; tough to see her drive away after all we've held hands through but I know it's important for her to go back to her new life. Hope she wins ALL the bridge hands and bowls at least 250!!!

ICU #44

Yes - that's our Linda (sitting up with the ubiquitous whiteboard) looking for folks to help her escape!!  And yes - she's purposefully looking scared! It was surprisingly easy to get this photo on - maybe we'll post more - first steps...first real food...

So - they've found some more fluid in the pleural cavity and they're wondering if this is causing some kind of pressure on the lungs and hindering the ventilator weaning process. Doing an x-ray and ultrasound this afternoon and from the results, will decide if they need to insert a tube into the cavity to drain the fluid.

Lucille and I are going to Lynne's daughter's (Jen) for Thanksgiving dinner - yum!!

ICU #43

Well - Linda discovered today that her gi system is not quite ready for cherry jello - sure didn't agree with her; she's still doing the apple juice though and they'll try again tomorrow with another popsicle - love the beer popsicle idea - maybe a new summer treat!!  Lots of physio today - sitting and standing again and rocking on her feet; tomorrow they're talking about taking some steps - yippee!! Still not trach cradling all day BUT a very smart young RT figured out that the device on Linda's finger that should be measuring her oxygen level wasn't working right - showing higher reading than was true - so of course she was tiring easily  - and they started to pump a bit more oxygen into her and didn't she perk up (hmmm - kind of like those casinos in Las Vegas). So they'll try for longer tomorrow on the trach cradle.

Two wonderful visits with Lynne and Cath today - know she was happy to hear different voices and hear different stories and see our dear friends. And they delivered TONS of mail which we're slowly going through - our favourite so far - (from Carter) - if you can boss a school, you can boss cancer. She's got it hanging up in her room and has shown the card to all who venture in.

ICU #42

Another great day in ICU!! The Physio, Steph, had Linda sitting up and then (because the girdle came back fixed) had her standing up twice!! Linda said it felt weird and Jill (nurse) said that wasn't surprising as she had been on her back for a month and the remaining organs in her gut needed to settle. And she also got some taste treats - half an orange popsicle and some diluted apple juice - she almost groaned with pleasure at the apple juice! Stayed on the trach cradle until 2:30 in the morning, then came off until 8 and was back on for the most of the day. As the new ICU doc (who's from Armstrong) said - this is not a race and Linda's body will take whatever time it needs to recuperate. Lots of work today with the RT on her lungs - trying to get the lower lobes inflated - she worked hard and was tired after. Only 1 request for her 'slaves' - headphones for the TV.

Linda's looking forward to seeing Lynne and Cath this weekend and Chris (nephew) maybe next weekend.

ICU #41

Lucille and I had a busy day today - Linda (we're calling her the Princess - some in ICU agree with us!) decided she wanted a small TV for her bedside - so off we went to Walmart and found one - then back to the hospital and I hooked it up and got it going - much to Linda's surprise. She also wanted a white board and dry erase markers so we had to get those too. That has turned out to be great exercise for her right hand and she's not so frustrated with trying to get Lucille and me to understand what she's telling us. Quite perky tonight!! Joking with the nurses (on the white board) that she'd sooner have beer than water in her glass. They are letting her drink water - another step forward. And she was sitting up again today. Her binder has gone back to OT for some adjustments and when it's back - Steph (PT) will get her standing up!!  Tonight she's on the trach tube overnight - that will make a 24 hour stint. She has developed a small infection around the trach tube so they exchanged the tube and cleaned all around really well and they've put her on antibiotics again. Wonderful to see her so communicative - even though she can't talk, she still can make folks laugh.

ICU #40

Well Lucille and I are moved - amazing how much we managed to accumulate in a month!! Guess we're both pack rats!

Linda continues to improve - her feeding tube is working well and they've increased the amount going in without her experiencing nausea. They've also clamped the stomach drainage tube so that means the stomach enzymes are going through the gi tract without problems - lots of systems to get kick-started! Her binder (like a girdle) came yesterday and they got her sitting up with legs dangling - first step in getting her mobile. The only problem has been her lack of sleep - her schedule seems to be out of sync - so she's been awake at night and sleeping during the day and the team wants the opposite so yesterday we kept her awake. The lack of sleep has affected her time on the trach cradle - so hopefully today (after a good night's sleep) she'll be back on the cradle for the full 12 - 18 hours. (Hope that all made sense!)

Off to see the medical wonder - more later.

ICU #39

Good morning - sorry about no  posts yesterday - had trouble getting service at the campground.

When we left last night about 10, Linda was still on the trach cradle (14 hours) and they were considering leaving her on it all night (update - yes she was on the cradle for a full 24 hours - pretty tired this morning - Tues.) - quite the feat for the medical wonder. She really wants out of ICU - not because of any disgruntlement with her care, more because it's noisy and busy and I know that she'll feel like she's   really making progress when she moves to the 102 unit upstairs. Dr. Temple was in this am and is not concerned about the discharge coming from her lower incision - thinks it's left-over blood from the bleed-out and other fluids. Cultures are still showing no infection. We're waiting on a binder - kind of like a girdle - from OT so they can start sitting her up - first step in getting her mobile - it will be a slow process after almost a month on her back. She was fiddling with her ipod this morning - right hand is working better!

Great visit with Deb and Sean - Linda had big smiles when she saw them!!

Lucille and I are in the process of packing up the RV - we're moving to Tracy's on Wednesday. They turned the water off here at the campground (#**?!) and Tracy has encouraged us to come early to her home - yes we are lucky!!!!!

ICU #38 (wonder how high we'll go?)

So a bit of a problem overnight - some vomiting - definitely not a good thing and they were wondering if there was some obstruction in the intestines (the feeding tube went thru the stomach and duodenum and into the intestine) - but an x-ray of the intestine showed no blockages (Hurray!!). They removed the feeding tube for the morning - until her nausea had subsided - and mid afternoon started again but less going in - maybe it was too much, too soon (?). She had a lovely long snooze this afternoon and woke up quite perky. Still some bleeding from the lower incision but it's clotting and that (so they tell me) is good. The great news is that Linda continues to bounce back quickly with each small problem and that's what we want to see. Has been on the trach cradle since 8 this am and shows no signs of stress - excellent!! All vital signs are stable and kidneys continue to do their job.

Lynne G. mentioned on the phone this am that some folks may be coming through Calgary next weekend and would like to see Linda. I talked with her about this and she is leaning toward seeing people but won't completely make up her mind until during the week - all depends on how she is feeling. So if you're passing through, give me a call - 250 307 4586 - and I'll let you know. The ICU is kind of particular about people only visiting if accompanied by Lucille or me - rules about family only - that's what we've been told.

We're off to pick up Sean and Deb soon - Linda's looking forward to seeing her much older sister!

ICU #37

Sooo - 10 hours on the trach cradle today! And more hours tomorrow!! Still having a bit of bleeding from the lower incision but gradually lessening. She had some of the staples removed from the thoracic incision and the rest will be removed tomorrow. This morning, George (last week's ICU doc) came with Dr. Viner (this week's) to do the handover and summary of the case - he started with - "And this is our medical wonder." She has quite the reputation! A TV was wheeled in this afternoon and she got to watch some of the Ryder Cup.

Lucille and I had a wee tour with Tracy this afternoon of her favourite food haunts in Calgary - many places to return to!!

ICU #36

Today was a '2 steps forward, 1 step back' day. Last night Linda had some bleeding from her lower incision and required 2 units of blood. Fortunately her vitals remained fairly stable during the mini-bleed and mostly returned to normal during the course of the day. The docs have given her meds for gi tract bleeding and are waiting to see if this works. She was quite disappointed that she couldn't do the trach cradle today - just too weak and tired from last night's ordeal. However tonight she was looking much perkier and Pete (RT) was by to say they'll try all day tomorrow.

Deb phoned tonight to say she and Sean are flying in on Saturday - just for overnight - so she can see her 'baby sister' and maybe concoct an escape plan!! Looking forward to seeing them!

ICU #35

Wow - another busy day for her! She was looking quite tired tonight. They decided to insert an ATV (or is that some kind of dangerous sport vehicle?) line so they can remove all her intravenous lines. The new one is safer and has 3 ports for whatever needs to go into the blood stream. They also did a ct scan this afternoon and found a small pocket of fluid in her abdomen which could just be drainage or could be a small abcess - they're keeping an eye on it. Relieved to hear that they won't have to open her up to get at it - just insert a needle in the abdomen. She's doing well with the feeding line and indicated (we're developing a complicated system of facial expressions and hand gestures as a form of communication) that she could taste it - don't know how - maybe the smell is bringing back gustatory memories!

During our conversation (!) this morning, Linda asked about her thoracic incision (done for the massage of her heart) and so I told her about that Wednesday night - quite a lot for her to take in and she looked, understandably, scared. But she knows she's getting better and maybe now understands why we 'hover'. She also wanted to know when she'll be getting out of ICU so I asked the docs and they said the only thing holding her back from going to the surgical recovery floor upstairs was her breathing. She needs to be on the trach cradle for a full 24 hours - breathing completely on her own - before she can go. That sure spurred her on - today she did 8 hours.

Hasta la vista, amigas y amigos!

ICU #34

Another busy day for Linda. The gi feeding tube was inserted so we'll see now the intestinal tract is working. She was rolling her eyes today when we asked her if she was hungry - obviously would like something to chew on!! They also took out 2 more abdominal drainage tubes and sewed up all the holes from tubes. A bit tired this afternoon from all the activity but still calm and giving us smiles. They're still wondering about the continuing elevated white blood cell count (just sitting at an above normal rate) so they may do another ct scan tomorrow of her belly to make sure there are no abcesses. She was on the trach cradle for 4 hours today - probably more tonight - getting stronger!

ICU #33

A  busy day! Linda had 2 x-rays - one on her chest and they found a spot of pneumonia. We're hoping it won't get worse because she is still on antibiotics. Plus they're hoping to get her sitting up soon. The second x-ray was for the gi tract and things are looking good - no leaks in the esophagus or stomach so in the next few days they'll be inserting a feeding tube to get those intestines really working again. Very alert tonight - took in her ipod so she could listen to some music and she was nodding her head to the music. Talked to Dr. Temple today and he said we're not quite out of the woods yet but on the way. Good news!

Had a tasty dinner at Tracy's tonight and saw our new accommodations - we'll be moving over the Thanksgiving weekend. We're sooo lucky that Tracy is willing to 'put up' with us (and the pooches) for a few  weeks.

Some of you have asked about sending cards - probably the best bet is to send  straight to the hospital Foothills. A couple have arrived there just fine.

ICU #32

Good morning! Lucille and I both had a full night's sleep last night - wow - feels good!

Sorry there was no update yesterday - problems with service at the RV camp and the computer in the ICU waiting room is down. But Linda continues to get better - more strength in that right hand - brushed her teeth yesterday and is helping more more when the nurses turn her. She's also more alert and able to show specifically  where she's hurting. Today Dr Temple will probably make a decision about her incision - whether it can be closed for good. So getting ready to go up for Rounds - more later.

ICU #31

Hello from sunny and warm Calgary - temps hit 25 this afternoon - so wishing we could wheel Linda out for a whiff of fresh air and warm sunshine - but not yet. Hoping the weather holds. So they put a trach cuff on her this morning and she breathed completely on her own for 2 hours - that means the diaphragm is healing! Also she's off fentynol (narcotic) and just getting little boosts when she's feeling pain. So this afternoon I watched her have a real sleep - just calmly breathing, no thrashing about. She's also letting us know when she needs some moisture in her mouth and today took the swab from my hand and found her mouth. Small, glorious steps.

A wonderful surprise visit early this morning from Cheryl (Saskatoon) on her way back from a conference in Banff. She had a wee visit with Linda on her way to the airport. Great to see her and hear news about the 'old' book club.

 Lucille and I are off to the football game this evening - Calgary vs BC. Some of you will know how thrilled I am about this venture.

More tomorrow!

ICU #30

A new trach tube today - not because anything was wrong - just a slightly larger one to make it easier for Linda to breathe. She's still on the meds for her stomach but no more blood from the gastric tube - hurray!! Not so agitated this morning - calmer. Can't tell you how wonderful it was to get a full Linda smile when I walked in this am. The physio was by today with more exercises for the limbs and Linda could do nearly all of them. The last of her pleural cavity tubes was removed today so we're down to the pancreas drainage tube, the stomach tube and 2 or 3 lower abdominal tubes - and of course, an impressive array of intravenous tubes. Change of docs today - very sorry that Atta has moved on to the Children's Hospital - he quite literally saved Linda's life last week - doing CPR with Stephanie - and he's been a source of strength for Lucille and me this past week.

Don't let the bed bugs bite!

ICU #29

Another good day! The docs have been careful to caution us to be aware that sometimes it's 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Well today we had a back step - a bit of bleeding in Linda's stomach but the Team was on it right away. The really gratifying part was that she bounced back really quickly and responded really well to the drugs to stop the bleeding - another whew!! Very alert tonight - I think it's her first evening of being truly awake - pointing to her bags of meds, etc and wanting to know what they were. We know she had other questions but it was hard to figure out what. Of course she can't talk yet because of the trach tube and it may be a few days before that happens. We tried giving her a pencil and paper but her right hand is weak. Tomorrow we'll try with an alphabet board and see if that works. We just don't want her to be frustrated or worried.

Lucille was thrilled with the birthday wishes. A tough day for her but she's a strong lady.

ICU #28

Just quick update - we were in tonight and Barb (nurse) told us Linda had smiled for her!! She's also responding to questions - nodding and shaking her head. Also another pleural cavity tube out tonight. Still in and out of consciousness but making progress. Hopefully tomorrow we'll hear results from ct scan, x-ray and cultures.

Good night - sweet dreams!

ICU #27

I'm sitting in the warm sunshine writing this - lovely change in weather.

A good day! Linda had another of her tubes removed from her pleural cavity - now we're down to just one pleural, one draining the pancreas (still not getting any worse), and the gastric tube - whew! We're at the stage with her consciousness that the Team is watching for signs of neurological damage and we're pretty sure they've ruled out cortical blindness because she is definitely focusing when I say her name and tracking more consistently - hurray!! They also did another chest xray today - don't know results yet. And she was getting ready for a ct scan when I left late this afternoon. The ct scan is to check for any absesses that may be forming in her abdomen and/or peritoneaql cavity - white blood cell count is still up there. But there's more movement - lifting her head, lifting up both arms - and she'll stick out her tongue on command.

A full week since the last catastrophe. I know she'll get better.

ICU #26

Rounds comments - they've decided to put off the ct scan of her abdomen until tomorrow - the creatine in her kidneys is decreasing and they don't want to interfere with that as her kidney function improves - ct scan includes dye through the kidneys which is hard on them. They are also talking about removing 2 of the pleural cavity tubes because there is minimal amounts of fluid coming out - good news! Still some concern about the white blood cell count but they're keeping a close eye out for any symptoms that would indicate new infection. She's holding her own!!!

Thursday is Lucille's 75th birthday - I'm amazed at what great shape she's in. If you want to send some birthday wishes, her email is lupj@shaw.ca.

ICU #26

Just waiting for Rounds. Linda is much more alert this am - lots of hand squeezes and focusing on our faces. Chelsea (nurse) said she has started to nod in response to questions and to track with her eyes - both good signs. There is some concern about the continuing elevated white blood cell count so they cultured her but it will be a couple of days before the results are back. They're also going to do a scan of her belly today to try and rule out any abcesses in there. The Team is taking good care of her.

ICU #25

No news is good news - sorry about the paucity of updates today. I sat in on rounds this am - things are still progressing slowly and Linda is still mending. The Team says she'll probably be in ICU for another week at least but I'm glad she'll continue to have the care she needs there. She's still moving limbs and focusing on faces - Chris stopped in early this am on his way out of town and he was so happy that she looked directly at him. Body chemicals are gradually becoming more stable. They took her off the respirator today to see how she could handle that - she did well and now she's on minimum help - just enough so there is no stress on her recovering system.

Today all that's happened this week kind of caught up with Lucille and me and we went home for an afternoon nap. We were very surprised to wake up very cold - it has been chilly outside here but not in our cozy home. Finally a man with a toolbox came and helped us out - really quite simple but we're neophyte RVers! But we missed having our afternoon visit with our Linda. Just waiting for the shift change now. More tomorrow.

ICU #24

Interesting chats with Christine and Sandi (yesterday's nurses) about what is known about how much patients remember from their stay in the ICU - turns out not much because of the narcotics and sedation but many patients say they remember feeling confused and worried, anxious. So both nurses have been sure to tell Linda where she is and exactly what they're doing to make her better hopefully to alleviate those fears and we have been trying to do  that too .

 Chelsea (new nurse) says Linda had a good night. Will know more once we get up there.

ICU #23

Linda gave a thumbs up to Christine (night nurse) tonight when she asked about pain - more consciousness - good sign! And she's moved all 4 limbs!!

It's been so good to have Linda's nephew, Chris, here. He's been a rock for Lucille.

ICU #22

A  wee update - they inserted the filter in her vein and everything went well. Vitals still stable.

ICU #21

Linda had a good, stable night. Just had a chance to sit in on Rounds - Dr. Ferland (ICU) was pleased with Linda's progress and commented on how she keeps fighting and getting stronger. We still may have some battles - she's at high risk for embolisms but the Team is taking precautions and inserting a filter in a major vein today which will catch any clots that may form. They're starting to wean her off the narcotic for pain slowly and hope for more consciousness during the next day or 2. Every hour that passes without complications brings her closer to wellness.  Thanks for all your prayers, good wishes, and love sent our way. I have been telling Linda about your kind words every day - not sure that she's hearing all I say (that's not new!) but I know she's hearing some of it.

ICU #20

She's still holding her own. All vitals were stable this afternoon. Sandi (today's nurse) was really pleased when she able to get Linda to wiggle her toes (yeah!) and squeeze her hand (double yeah!!). Talked to this am's surgeon - said her stomach looked good, the pancreatitus has not gotten worse and the trach tube went in without a problem. There's still infection but she's on antibiotics and we just have to wait.

A huge surprise this afternoon - I was called to the ICU reception desk because 'a man from Vernon' was calling. Turned out it was Linda's favourite crib partner, Jim Young, and he was in the ICU waiting room! He took a slight (!) detour from Golden where he's visiting - just to see Linda. What a wonderful and kind visit - super to see him and get 'Vernon hugs'.

Dr. Temple (THE surgeon/magician who got rid of the pesky cancer) was in tonight and was pleased to see Linda responsive and glad that they waited to decide about her stomach until this am.

ICU #19

Still haven't talked to the surgeon but she's still holding her own. The Head RN says her numbers (heart, bp,output) are all good. She's still in the woods but every hour that passes with her vitals stable and no more complications is great.  More later.

ICU #18

Linda is back from the OR and looking good. They didn't find any necrosis in/on the stomach so it's still in there (hurray!). They washed her out and sewed her up, put in a trach tube (we're soo glad the respirator is out - she looks more like herself). Heart rate is good, blood pressure good (with NO meds), still producing pee, and the fluids from her abdominal tubes are just pinkish - Whew, relief here. More later.

ICU #17 (arrghh for the last title!)

Our Fighter (maybe a new license plate!) had a pretty good night - no trauma or crises. She's off to the OR at 8 this am. We'll keep you posted.

ICU #15

Small steps - she's still not out of the woods but no trauma or crises today. Heart rate is normal, blood pressure too. She's almost breathing on her own. When I say her name (in a certain tone) she turns her head and opens her eyes - still not focusing on me but ... small steps. Both the surgeon from last night and the head ICU docs came by and were surprised at how well she was doing. The woods doesn't seem quite so dark right now.

ICU #15

We're still hopeful. Some good signs - kidneys are producing (although creatine is higher than normal), lactaid (which I think indicates something to do with organ breakdown) has decreased to a nearly normal level, she is more active when Lucille and I are there talking to her (but still not awake because of sedation). Still not sure when they'll take her to OR but the secretions from the tube from her stomach now looks like bile rather than bloody and the longer they wait, the more chance that the inflammation will subside and maybe they can save it. Lucille and I are not taking calls right now - please understand that it's hard for us to talk now.

ICU #14

Linda is still struggling and the ICU Team has been very straightforward that this is an uphill battle. She goes back to the OR later this afternoon to check that the stitches in her stomach have held. We're still hopeful. Chris (Linda's nephew) is on his way from Brandon. It will be good to see him.

ICU #13

Another tough day. Linda is struggling - on life support. The ICU team say the next 24 hours are critical.

ICU #12

Just talked to Brian (new nurse today) and he says she's holding her own - heart rate, blood pressure, kidney function all still working. We managed to get some sleep and will be going up soon.

ICU #11

Linda is fairly stable now but we're back in the woods for a while. We had a rough night. Last night at about 7:30 she developed a bleed internally and 'bled out' and that caused her heart to stop and blood pressure to plummet. Fortunately Stephanie (nurse) and Atta (3rd year med student) were by Linda's bedside and got The Team there quickly - they performed CPR for 20 minutes while they tried to replenish her blood supply. Once her heart had started up again, they took her to the OR and re-opened her incision - found the splenic artery had torn (maybe because of the pancreatitis) and the surgeon sewed it up. She came through this okay but the surgeon was still worried about whether the stitches would hold and whether there were other compromised arteries, so an angiogram was scheduled. They embolized (clotted) the artery and found no other compromised arteries and she was back in the ICU by about 1:30. The next 72 hours are critical - to tell whether any of her organs were damaged by the heart failure and whether the CPR kept enough oxygen going to the brain. We called Deb and she and Sean drove here arriving at 4. We just got back from the hospital - Linda's heart rate and blood pressure are stable and her kidneys are working and her pupils look okay.  We are so thankful she was still in ICU where help came quickly. Yes - pray for our Linda.

ICU #10

We had many visits with Linda yesterday and each time there was more response from her - small head nods, eyes focused. She is meeting 5 out of 6 components of some scale that I can't remember the name of - the final component is 'appropriate behaviour' (meaning consistently responding to commands) (funny how medical and educational jargon overlaps!!). Talked to Melanie at 5 this am and she said she'd had a good night - a bit agitated but the respirator is sure to be irritating her throat. Still progressing, still getting better, still strong!

Uncle John and Lottie left early this morning, and JPL leave in an hour or so - was wonderful to have them all here and we will miss them all. But we will be fine.

ICU #9

We've just had a visit with Linda and today's nurse, Stephanie, is pleased with her progress. She's breathing on her own (hurray!!), off the blood pressure meds and her bp is stable. She still has a bit of a fever but that's fighting that infection. The Team is trying to wake her up - she's more responsive than yesterday but still not responding to questions (although I'm sure she knows when we are there with her because her heart rate goes up 1 or 2 notches when we hold her hand and speak to her). We're so pleased she's holding her own and getting better!!!!! Liz, Judi and Peter all said she was looking better than they thought she would!!

ICU #8

Linda continues to get stronger. Her vitals - blood pressure, heart rate - are improving every day. The Team is hopeful about removing the respirator tomorrow. First, Linda's sedation needs to be reduced and she needs to be more responsive - responding to questions, squeezing hands. So they started reducing the sedation today - it will be a slow process. But we're so glad that they're taking time to make sure this goes well. She was opening her eyes tonight - wonderful to see!! Still haven't heard about the blood culture but she is still getting the gram positive organism antibiotics and The Team is pleased with how the antibiotics are working. So all in all, a good day!

Judi, Peter, and Liz arrived - wonderful to see them! Both Uncle John and Peter have similar senses of humour and kept us chuckling all through dinner.

ICU #7

Linda's Uncle John (Lucille's bro) and his wife Lottie, have been living next door to us since last Wed - how lucky we are to have them close. They've been feeding us, watching over the pooches and taking them for walks, and just generally being wonderful and kind. Last night they came up to the hospital with us and both thought Linda's colour was good. When I called ICU late last night, we got more good news - heart rate down to 110, they're starting to wean her off the meds that were stabilizing her blood pressure, temp has been constant at 38. Kate (night nurse) said they will be starting to bring her out of the sedation slowly today and also slowly (thank goodness that's the operative word) lessening her dependency on the respirator in the hopes they can remove the tube later today or tomorrow.

Pouring rain here today - cats and dogs!

ICU #7

Linda continues to be stable; she is still on the respirator and they say this will continue until at least tomorrow. Her heart rate has stabilized at about 130 - 134. Blood pressure is being kept constant with meds. She's sedated now and seems to be responding to the antibiotics - at least her temperature hasn't gone up again - they're keeping it at about 38 degrees - needs to be a bit hotter than normal to help fight the infection. Blood cultures come back tomorrow at which point they will be able to (as Kim said this morning) nail the buggers to the wall with the appropriate meds. They're also keeping an eye on her legs - will do some kind of doppler test later today to check for clots.

Lucille and I stayed home this am - did housework (amazing how calming it is to sweep and clean!). I gave the pooches a haircut and took them for a long walk, then helped Lucille with her hair ritual. Feeling better and breathing easier knowing that Linda Marie is holding her own!

Looking forward to seeing Judi and Peter and Liz tomorrow.

Hugs to all from L3

ICU #6

Just spoke with Linda's ICU night nurse. She is stable. Her temp rose during the night and they used a special blanket to help lower it. Heart rate down to the 130's. Still on the respirator. We'll see her this morning and then update.

ICU #5

The ICU team say that Linda is stable now - but we had a roller coaster scary day. Her heart rate became very elevated this morning and the team tried a variety of things to get it down but none worked consistently and they became worried about a heart attack. Then she started to struggle with her breathing - gasping for air even though she's still on a respirator and her oxygen levels were okay. Bloodwork came back showing that she had developed pancreatitus (inflammation of the pancreas - probably from the stripping). Then her temperature went up indicating infection. So they did a chest xray and found a small embolism in the lungs but not big enough to cause the problems. They then did a CT scan. They're sure that there is infection in her abdomen so have started antibiotics but they won't know what specific antibiotic to give until more bloodwork comes back (tomorrow or Monday) indicating the specific kind of infection we're dealing with. So she's sedated now, breathing easier, and her heart rate is slowly lowering. Thank you for all the love and care you've sent - make sure it keeps coming - I know she'll get better.

ICU #4

Just spoke with Susan, today's ICU nurse. She said the notes say Linda had a good night. They will try to remove the respirator today, heart rate is still elevated, but other vitals are good. We'll be going to visit in an hour or so.

ICU #3

Lucille and I went to visit tonight after dinner and Aiofe told us that the ICU doc had spoken with one of the docs from the Tom Baker Center who knows about PMP and he said that a high heart rate is fairly common after these kind of surgeries. It should come down in a couple of days.

ICU #2

Lucille and I had two visits with Linda this morning; each time she looked better and was more lucid. I went back this afternoon and since they didn't kick me out, I stayed for the whole afternoon. Linda still has the respirator in, but she is starting to breath more on her own. Aiofe (today's nurse - her name is Irish) said that there's a good chance it will come out tomorrow. Her blood pressure  is stable. Dehydration can occur after surgery so they are pumping her full of fluid, making her a bit puffy - but that will subside in a few days. The only worry (and Aiofe assured me that they were doing tests to figure out why) is her heart rate which is high. Hopefully it will have come down when we go back tonight. I watched Aiofe change the dressing on her incision - 49 staples - lot more than last time and it's starting to heal.  She's responsive to questions and gave me lots of hand squeezes. No major complications! Keep sending those great balls of healing and love!!

ICU #1

So we finally got home from the ICU about 1/2 an hour ago. Linda ended up in the Recovery Room for longer than was initially thought. We're not sure why. But we did get to talk to Dr. Temple. He said that this was one of the most extensive and difficult surgeries he has performed. Tumours covered all of peritoneal cavity organs - so they had to do a lot of stripping of surfaces - small intestine, diaphragm, pancreas, stomach (he said they were lucky to save it). They also removed the uterus, spleen, and re-sectioned the liver. I can't remember what else - it's in my notes but I think I left them in the truck. She'll be in ICU for 4 - 5 days monitored very closely by a nurse and resident - both Reta (nurse) and Atta (resident) were so kind with us tonight when we finally got to see Linda - patiently explaining all the tubes and bags of medications and machines and assuring us we will see improvements each day - she was still groggy from the anaesthesia and sedation. Time to give Coady a massage - she's missing Linda. More tomorrow.

Great news!!!!!

Dr. Temple called with the best news in the world! They got all the visible tumour; he said it was a difficult and extensive surgery, but Linda has come through it. They're doing the chemo now which should get rid of any cells left in there. We're meeting him at the ICU at 6:00 to hear more. What relief in this trailer!!!!!!!!

Surgery Update #4

Esther just called to say that the docs are nearly done surgery and will soon start with the hour and half of chemo. She's still stable and 'doing well' (hurray!!!). We may be able to see her tonight.

Surgery Update #3

Just had another call from Esther who reported that Linda was stable and 'things are moving along as they should' (her exact words). She couldn't give me any info on removals or re-sections (will have to wait to hear from Dr. Temple), but she did say they hadn't started chemo yet and probably there could be another 3 hours of surgery. Whew.

Surgery Update #2

Esther, the liaison nurse, called to say that Linda was doing well. Surgery began at 9:30 after all the preps were completed.

Surgery Update #1

Well, I'm back in the RV because Foothills has this great system which includes a liaison nurse from the operating room who will phone occasionally during the day with info. Before Linda went into surgery, we talked with Dr. Temple and he said maybe only 3 - 4 weeks - not getting our hopes for early release up quite yet - but that was sure nice to hear. Still hoping I'll get to see her later.

Tomorrow

Linda's surgery is at 7:30 tomorrow morning; we have to be at the hospital at 6:00. Please be patient tomorrow waiting for information. Her surgery is 8 - 9 hours long and I hope to see her before I return to the RV park; so it may be evening before I can post. She's having cytoreductive surgery (removal of some organs, some re-sectioning of others and scraping the tumors off wherever) and then a chemo treatment called HIPEC (hypothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy) - the docs circulate heated chemo through her peritoneal cavity for about 90 minutes to kill any remaining cells. Then it's off to the ICU for a couple of days.

Thanks for all the love and good wishes sent our way - we feel cuddled by their warmth.