March 4, 2008

Rhonda Writes -
Eric’s still stable as far as his vital and physiological tests go. The doctors are having trouble with his medications… finding the right one that doesn’t completely sedate him, but makes him comfortable. Eric’s a light weight when it comes to these drugs. Last night he had a fever of 101 which is probably the result of some lingering pneumonia. The plan is to remove the shunt (that’s draining fluid preventing swelling in his brain) in a couple of days. When he’s somewhat sedated, his blood pressure stays very normal. When they wean him from the sedation, he becomes “rowdy” and tries to get up. We’re hoping the tracheotomy will happen by Thursday and swallowing therapy can begin. He still has no gag reflex but some cough reflex. The doctors feel like he’ll regain this it’s just going to take time. I wish therapy could begin so he can work on his strength and just feel better in that bed. I’ve began the OT process again (in my little world, I’ve become a nurse, occupational therapist, master of all things in the ICU) bending and lifting his arms and legs if for no other reason than to give him some comfort. I’ve started massaging his shoulders and legs and what I can reach of his back. I told him yesterday not to get used to this… J The road ahead of us is long with several bends that we can’t see around. It’s frustrating for everyone just not knowing. I know God knows and I’m trusting in Him to bring us all through this. Carol and I are splitting up today. She’s there now with him and I go in at 4:00 for the night shift. Maybe I can get a rise out of him by making him watch “What Not To Wear” or some other chick show on TLC. Keep praying for his body to heal, his patience in that bed and his overall well being. When I know more later today I’ll get another posting out there.