#5

Well, Sr. made it home okay early this evening. Today was a very busy day for Jr., and consents were signed for the traecheotomy and they are also going to insert a feeding tube into his stomach from around his waist, instead of the one he has going into his nose and down to his stomach. So, Lord willing, (and we're praying it be His will), those procedures will be done tomorrow. In spite of the pneumonia, it is a greater risk for problems with the tube down his mouth. He will be on I.V. antibiotics, (which can have their own horrible side effects), so they'll already be treating him for infection. This whole focus is a delicate balance of risk and reward, all focused on saving Jerry's life and giving him the best quality of life down the road.


His oxygen levels were decreased this morning, and his resperations were higher, so they checked and found the PE this morning. It is on the small side, and has not lodged out into the lung tissue, but is in the main Pulmonary artery, (sort of at the bifurcation, for you medical folks out there). It was significant enough to cause symptoms. They have him heavily sedated, and I'm told he looks very peaceful... more than he has since the accident happened. They also have signed consents to insert an IVC filter tonight as soon as possible. That's a metal screen type device placed in the largest vein just below the kidneys that traps any blood clots travelling back from the legs towards the heart and lungs.


So, the good news is, that since he's communicated he wants to fight to get better and come home, he is strong and has determination (some might call it stubbornness) of spirit. But, there is still a long road ahead for the next few weeks. He is still in critical condition, and faces many known and unknown challenges. His vital signs (blood pressure and hrt rate) are stable, which is a blessing.

Thanks again for all the support and prayers. Jr's family is so aware of God's grace with us during this time, and we praise Him for it. Give Him praise for His faithfulness at every opportunity, to everyone you meet.


In Christ, Linda and Jerry Hambleton