Oops -- once again I failed to post after my recent doctor's visit --- my apologies. Life just gets crazier and I forget that people are continuing to lift me and my healing up in prayer and so need to keep you posted.
The doctor's visit consisted of four quick x-rays and a consult with Dr. Whitaker. After reviewing the xrays he said that the both the rods and all the screws continue to be right where they need to be -- none of them have shifted at all!! There was slight evidence of bone fusion in the lumbar area of my spine but most of the fusion will happen now between the six and twelve month mark.
As far as any restrictions, I am released from all of them. According to Dr. Whitaker, if it causes pain, don't do it!!! Hmm, does that include any and all housework?!?!?!?!?! HA!!!
My next appointment is at the twelve month mark, then an additional appointment at the two year mark and then I'm released!!!
Would I do it again? I continue to believe that I did this for my future years as a wife, mom, and someday a grandmother. When I reflect back on the entire process, I think the worst part was the three months prior to the surgery --- all the billions and billions of unknowns that kept trying to creep into my mind. Sure, I've lost the ability to bend at the waist, but I continue to forge new ways of doing things. Probably the most irritating moments of my days are when I drop something and i realize I either have to squat down, try to pick it up with my toes, or ask Elgin to help me.
Thanks again for standing with me during this time! Life is so much better when it is shared with others!!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, April 2, 2012
No More Brace!!!
Oops, in the excitement of being given the green light to take off the brace I forgot to update my blog!
Last Wednesday Elgin and I returned to Dr. Whitaker's office for our 11 week and one day check-up (but who's counting?!!). Once again, x-rays were taken and the rods and screws continue to be just where Dr. Whitaker placed them. He asked if I was ready to get rid of the brace and I didn't waste any time thinking about an answer. He said I could either just take it off or I could wean off it. I chose the former --- took it off in the Target parking lot and didn't look back! I did put it back on Saturday morning so I could clean our house --- didn't want to do anything that could potentially harm my back.
I asked the doctor if there was anything I could do to enhance fusion. He responded by saying that I shouldn't take up smoking or develop diabetes. I for sure won't do the former and hopefully I'll continue good eating and exercise habits so I won't develop diabetes.
I obtained a copy of the surgical report several weeks ago. Reading thru the report made me realize once again the magnitude of this surgery. In case you're interested, the screws in the thoracolumbar area are 5.5 x 45 mm, the lumbar spine screws are 6.5 x 45 mm, 7.5 mm screws were put into the sacrum as well as 80 mm x 7.5 screws into the iliac wings.
Today I'm grateful to God for His creation, for the way He created our bodies to heal, and for gifting surgeons like Dr. Whitaker. Please continue to pray for complete fusion all along the 16.5" incision!!
Last Wednesday Elgin and I returned to Dr. Whitaker's office for our 11 week and one day check-up (but who's counting?!!). Once again, x-rays were taken and the rods and screws continue to be just where Dr. Whitaker placed them. He asked if I was ready to get rid of the brace and I didn't waste any time thinking about an answer. He said I could either just take it off or I could wean off it. I chose the former --- took it off in the Target parking lot and didn't look back! I did put it back on Saturday morning so I could clean our house --- didn't want to do anything that could potentially harm my back.
I asked the doctor if there was anything I could do to enhance fusion. He responded by saying that I shouldn't take up smoking or develop diabetes. I for sure won't do the former and hopefully I'll continue good eating and exercise habits so I won't develop diabetes.
I obtained a copy of the surgical report several weeks ago. Reading thru the report made me realize once again the magnitude of this surgery. In case you're interested, the screws in the thoracolumbar area are 5.5 x 45 mm, the lumbar spine screws are 6.5 x 45 mm, 7.5 mm screws were put into the sacrum as well as 80 mm x 7.5 screws into the iliac wings.
Today I'm grateful to God for His creation, for the way He created our bodies to heal, and for gifting surgeons like Dr. Whitaker. Please continue to pray for complete fusion all along the 16.5" incision!!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
5-week follow-up visit with Dr. Whitaker
Elgin and I were in Wichita today for a follow-up appointment with Dr. Whitaker. X-rays were taken again to verify that the rods and screws were still in place and still doing their job. Basically I was told that most of my restrictions have been lifted --- I can return to work, can use the treadmill, can swim and use the hot tub, and can drive --- all the while continuing to wear my TLSO brace anytime I'm up out of bed. Things I can't do: anything that causes me pain and no BLT's (bending, lifting, and/or twisting). Dr. Whitaker was pleased, he didn't do any cart-wheels, but when Elgin asked if HE could do the cart-wheels, Dr. Whitaker supported that.
We go back for another follow-up appointment in six weeks, at which time I'm hopeful that Dr. Whitaker will allow me to begin weaning myself of wearing the brace. But for now, we are just keeping on keeping on, wearing the brace!
Elgin and I continue to be amazed and thankful for the ease of recovery that I've had. It is a huge answer to our prayers and the prayers of so many of our friends and family. Thanks to each one of you for joining with us in prayer in this venture. As Dr. Whitaker said today, it was a huge surgery, and when I hear him reiterate that fact, I'm just humbled that God has brought me this far.
We go back for another follow-up appointment in six weeks, at which time I'm hopeful that Dr. Whitaker will allow me to begin weaning myself of wearing the brace. But for now, we are just keeping on keeping on, wearing the brace!
Elgin and I continue to be amazed and thankful for the ease of recovery that I've had. It is a huge answer to our prayers and the prayers of so many of our friends and family. Thanks to each one of you for joining with us in prayer in this venture. As Dr. Whitaker said today, it was a huge surgery, and when I hear him reiterate that fact, I'm just humbled that God has brought me this far.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Winter Blessings
When I received the call that a surgery date had been set for January 10, 2012, one of my MANY concerns (aka worries --- let's just be honest) was that the weather would hinder me from going outside to walk. What a huge blessing that, even tho' it's rather chilly, I still have friends that are willing and eager to walk me. We usually walk .9 mile in the morning and 1.6 miles in the afternoon. The other day the weather was quasi-snowy/rainy so I had to walk here in the house --- 29 laps on my "house-track" makes for one mile. I did it, but let's just say it was BORING!!!!
Another blessing in regard to another worry was that I would be bored during recovery as I am used to being out and about, working in the morning, and being around people. The other day, at exactly the four week mark, was the first day that the thought crossed my mind, hmmm, what shall I do today. For me, that is a HUGE answer to prayer, that I have been pretty content healing here at home. Of course, I've been so blessed with lots of visits, cards, and prayers.
Finally, I must say how blessed Elgin and I have been by all the random acts of kindness that people continue to show us. One friend is off on Tues and Thurs so she takes it upon herself to walk me in the mornings --- all this on HER day off. Another neighbor wanted to start exercising so she is my partner for the afternoons. We've had tasty meals delivered here every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights --- next week is the last week of meals and that will be FIVE weeks of meals!!!! Several friends came over last week and cleaned our home and did the laundry. Another friend delivered a latte to me and we just sat and chatted. A nurse friend of mine tells me she is on call for me 24/7. Another friend checks in frequently by phone or text to see if I need anything. I know I've forgotten some but WOW! the body of Christ is just amazing!!! So privileged to be the recepient of all those blessings.
Thought I should try to go off the Lortab that I was on for pain and just use Tylenol --- not successful. Too early to try that. As a friend reminded me yesterday of what I had told her another time "Don't try to be a hero! Use that pain medication!" Another friend told me to pull out my copy of the x-ray with all that hardware in me and remind myself that it's only been four weeks. Okay, got the message --- I'm just trying to cut down on the amount.
Well, that's the latest thoughts that are rumbling around in my head. My next doctor's appointment is Wednesday, Feb. 15 so I'm sure there will be an update posted after that. I'm hoping that Dr. Whitaker will do "cartwheels" over how well I'm doing --- hmmm --- probably not, but I can always wish!!
Another blessing in regard to another worry was that I would be bored during recovery as I am used to being out and about, working in the morning, and being around people. The other day, at exactly the four week mark, was the first day that the thought crossed my mind, hmmm, what shall I do today. For me, that is a HUGE answer to prayer, that I have been pretty content healing here at home. Of course, I've been so blessed with lots of visits, cards, and prayers.
Finally, I must say how blessed Elgin and I have been by all the random acts of kindness that people continue to show us. One friend is off on Tues and Thurs so she takes it upon herself to walk me in the mornings --- all this on HER day off. Another neighbor wanted to start exercising so she is my partner for the afternoons. We've had tasty meals delivered here every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights --- next week is the last week of meals and that will be FIVE weeks of meals!!!! Several friends came over last week and cleaned our home and did the laundry. Another friend delivered a latte to me and we just sat and chatted. A nurse friend of mine tells me she is on call for me 24/7. Another friend checks in frequently by phone or text to see if I need anything. I know I've forgotten some but WOW! the body of Christ is just amazing!!! So privileged to be the recepient of all those blessings.
Thought I should try to go off the Lortab that I was on for pain and just use Tylenol --- not successful. Too early to try that. As a friend reminded me yesterday of what I had told her another time "Don't try to be a hero! Use that pain medication!" Another friend told me to pull out my copy of the x-ray with all that hardware in me and remind myself that it's only been four weeks. Okay, got the message --- I'm just trying to cut down on the amount.
Well, that's the latest thoughts that are rumbling around in my head. My next doctor's appointment is Wednesday, Feb. 15 so I'm sure there will be an update posted after that. I'm hoping that Dr. Whitaker will do "cartwheels" over how well I'm doing --- hmmm --- probably not, but I can always wish!!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Another First
As we've said before, the only way to recover from this type of back surgery is to walk, so each day I try to walk. We've been blessed with such wonderful weather here in Abilene that has allowed me to get outside to do my walking. On top of that, I've been blessed to have friends volunteer to "walk me". My goal is to walk in both the morning and afternoon.
Today was a first --- I put on sox and tennis shoes. Previously, I've been walking in some slip-on shoes. Today I decided it was time to try to put on sox and tied walking shoes. It was kinda challenging as I'm unable to bend at my waist, so I propped one leg up on top of the other, put the sock on, then the shoe. The shoes are tied off-center, but they are tied.
Putting shoes and sox on is just another in an entire list of things that will have to be done in a "new normal" manner. It's amazing how careful I am as I handle things --- sure don't want it to fall to the floor 'cause then I have to kneel down, pick the "whatever" up, and bring myself back up to a standing position.
Nothing bad --- just a new way of doing things!
Today was a first --- I put on sox and tennis shoes. Previously, I've been walking in some slip-on shoes. Today I decided it was time to try to put on sox and tied walking shoes. It was kinda challenging as I'm unable to bend at my waist, so I propped one leg up on top of the other, put the sock on, then the shoe. The shoes are tied off-center, but they are tied.
Putting shoes and sox on is just another in an entire list of things that will have to be done in a "new normal" manner. It's amazing how careful I am as I handle things --- sure don't want it to fall to the floor 'cause then I have to kneel down, pick the "whatever" up, and bring myself back up to a standing position.
Nothing bad --- just a new way of doing things!
Friday, January 27, 2012
Thanks!
Elgin has been such a faithful blog-poster for me during these last several weeks. Today I want to review several ways that I experienced God's presence and His peace during this time.
First, those of you that know me know that I struggle greatly with fear. Facing this surgery seemed like a really big deal and I had many fears going into it. It wouldn't take much of anything and I would be over the edge, consumed with fears and the tears would just start cascading. The day before the surgery a group of sweet friends came together for a breakfast and a time of praying over me. Elgin and I headed to Wichita in the afternoon and met with Dr. Whitaker again so I could get "marked". Following that appointment we checked into our hotel and then tried to find things to do to occupy my mind so I wouldn't dwell on the next day.
The day of the surgery I awoke with such a peace, totally a gift from the Lord. That was truly a peace beyone all human comprehension. We called for Wesley Security to come pick us up at the hotel and deliver us to the hospital. As we got into the Security's vehicle, the driver had previously tuned his radio to a Christian station and I was blessed once again with hearing an old hymn. To this day I don't remember what hymn it was, just remember thinking that that music was another God-thing at 4:45 a.m.!!!
Elgin stayed by my side in the hospital the entire time I was there. He slept on a roll-away bed in my room and was there for anything I needed. Another God-thing!
Today is Elgin's last day of vacation---he used three weeks of his vacation to stay with me and tend to my every need! What a blessing that has been to have him home with me. This last Monday when we went to our first post-op appointment with Dr. Whitaker the nurse commented to me "your husband is so attentive to your every need. You just don't usually see that. How long have you guys been married?" I told her it was 31 years and she said "that is just a miracle. You just don't see that anymore." I'm so grateful to God for blessing me with Elgin and I'm grateful that our relationship to each other can be a testimony to others in this world. Elgin continues to stand by me as my emotions catch up with everything that has happened in these last 2.5 weeks. I am blessed to have a husband that stands by me in that way. Thank you God!!!
Sheree
PS -- I sat down at the piano today and I could still play!!! I'm so grateful for music and the way it quiets my spirit.
PPSS --- A HUGE thanks goes out to my Mom and Dad. They also have walked thru this with me and have given of their time to come to Abilene both last week and this week to do our laundry and ironing.
PPPSSS --- Another HUGE thanks to my sisters, Cindy and Deb, for coming to Abilene yesterday to clean our home. Oh my, it smelled so good and clean after they left.
First, those of you that know me know that I struggle greatly with fear. Facing this surgery seemed like a really big deal and I had many fears going into it. It wouldn't take much of anything and I would be over the edge, consumed with fears and the tears would just start cascading. The day before the surgery a group of sweet friends came together for a breakfast and a time of praying over me. Elgin and I headed to Wichita in the afternoon and met with Dr. Whitaker again so I could get "marked". Following that appointment we checked into our hotel and then tried to find things to do to occupy my mind so I wouldn't dwell on the next day.
The day of the surgery I awoke with such a peace, totally a gift from the Lord. That was truly a peace beyone all human comprehension. We called for Wesley Security to come pick us up at the hotel and deliver us to the hospital. As we got into the Security's vehicle, the driver had previously tuned his radio to a Christian station and I was blessed once again with hearing an old hymn. To this day I don't remember what hymn it was, just remember thinking that that music was another God-thing at 4:45 a.m.!!!
Elgin stayed by my side in the hospital the entire time I was there. He slept on a roll-away bed in my room and was there for anything I needed. Another God-thing!
Today is Elgin's last day of vacation---he used three weeks of his vacation to stay with me and tend to my every need! What a blessing that has been to have him home with me. This last Monday when we went to our first post-op appointment with Dr. Whitaker the nurse commented to me "your husband is so attentive to your every need. You just don't usually see that. How long have you guys been married?" I told her it was 31 years and she said "that is just a miracle. You just don't see that anymore." I'm so grateful to God for blessing me with Elgin and I'm grateful that our relationship to each other can be a testimony to others in this world. Elgin continues to stand by me as my emotions catch up with everything that has happened in these last 2.5 weeks. I am blessed to have a husband that stands by me in that way. Thank you God!!!
Sheree
PS -- I sat down at the piano today and I could still play!!! I'm so grateful for music and the way it quiets my spirit.
PPSS --- A HUGE thanks goes out to my Mom and Dad. They also have walked thru this with me and have given of their time to come to Abilene both last week and this week to do our laundry and ironing.
PPPSSS --- Another HUGE thanks to my sisters, Cindy and Deb, for coming to Abilene yesterday to clean our home. Oh my, it smelled so good and clean after they left.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
X-ray Pictures
Sheree asked me to post these two x-rays taken on Monday. A side view and a front view. The two curvy white lines on the front view are the titanium rods and the white circles on the rods are the screws. Other white dots are part of the brace that Sheree wears. They didn’t want her to remove the brace for the x-ray. The side view shows the 31 screws that attach the rods to her spine. Pretty amazing stuff.
Elgin
Elgin
Monday, January 23, 2012
Back from appointment with Dr. Whitaker
We had a full and good day at Sheree's appointment with Dr. Whitaker in Wichita today. Sheree asked me to post the two x-rays from today, but I am having trouble with the scanned documents. We will keep trying to upload the x-rays in future posts.
Here is the good news:
1. All the bandages from the surgery are now removed and do not need to be replaced. The stitches are on the inside and will not need to be removed either. The incision is healing nicely and does not need any dressing changes.
2. Sheree has been cleared to take a shower. From Sheree's reaction to this, it is a big deal to be able to shower.
3. They were very positive about all the walking that Sheree has done and indicated that this will shorten the recovery time.
4. By the numbers:
Sheree is 2 inches taller than before the surgery. We suspected this when she looked me in the eye when we stood next to each other.
The curviture is stabilized with the lumbar decreased from 55 degrees to 23 degrees and the thoracic decreased from 65 degrees to 50 degrees.
The final titanium count is 31 pins and 2 rods. (How does the name "Titanium Sheree" sound? Kind of catchy, don't you think?)
The length of the incision is 16.5 inches.
The not so good news, but understandable:
1. The treadmill will need to wait. But because of the good weather today, Sheree walked over 3/4 of a mile outside all at one time. Way to go Sheree. Don't know if I will be able to keep up.
2. Driving is not clear yet. Hopefully this will become more clear when we return for her next followup appointment about 3 weeks from now on February 15.
3. The incision is itchy.
So all in all, we are very pleased with the direction things are heading.
As I reflect on Sheree's decision to undergo this surgery, it was certainly a courageous step for her to take since she was not in pain before. But the goal was to partially correct and mainly stabilize her spine so that 20 years from now, she won't say, I wish I had done the surgery sooner. Although there is much work to do for complete recovery, this will seem even better 20 years from now when she will be able to say: I'm glad I did that 20 years ago.
6:00 pm 01-23-2012
Elgin
Here is the good news:
1. All the bandages from the surgery are now removed and do not need to be replaced. The stitches are on the inside and will not need to be removed either. The incision is healing nicely and does not need any dressing changes.
2. Sheree has been cleared to take a shower. From Sheree's reaction to this, it is a big deal to be able to shower.
3. They were very positive about all the walking that Sheree has done and indicated that this will shorten the recovery time.
4. By the numbers:
Sheree is 2 inches taller than before the surgery. We suspected this when she looked me in the eye when we stood next to each other.
The curviture is stabilized with the lumbar decreased from 55 degrees to 23 degrees and the thoracic decreased from 65 degrees to 50 degrees.
The final titanium count is 31 pins and 2 rods. (How does the name "Titanium Sheree" sound? Kind of catchy, don't you think?)
The length of the incision is 16.5 inches.
The not so good news, but understandable:
1. The treadmill will need to wait. But because of the good weather today, Sheree walked over 3/4 of a mile outside all at one time. Way to go Sheree. Don't know if I will be able to keep up.
2. Driving is not clear yet. Hopefully this will become more clear when we return for her next followup appointment about 3 weeks from now on February 15.
3. The incision is itchy.
So all in all, we are very pleased with the direction things are heading.
As I reflect on Sheree's decision to undergo this surgery, it was certainly a courageous step for her to take since she was not in pain before. But the goal was to partially correct and mainly stabilize her spine so that 20 years from now, she won't say, I wish I had done the surgery sooner. Although there is much work to do for complete recovery, this will seem even better 20 years from now when she will be able to say: I'm glad I did that 20 years ago.
6:00 pm 01-23-2012
Elgin
Friday, January 20, 2012
In for the long haul
This morning I was reminded of a story from my high school years. A friend of mine who was out for track was describing how when you run a medium length race in track like the half mile, that for the first few yards, you sprint to start, but then you settle into the pace at less than a sprint because of how long the race is.
That's where we are at now. We have sprinted for 10 days counting from Sheree's surgery on January 10. Now we need to set the pace for the next 12 weeks for Sheree's recovery. Somewhat philosophical, but it seemed relevant.
We go to see Sheree's surgeon in Wichita on Monday, so we will likely not have any more blog posts till we return from that.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
11:20 am 01-20-2012
Elgin
That's where we are at now. We have sprinted for 10 days counting from Sheree's surgery on January 10. Now we need to set the pace for the next 12 weeks for Sheree's recovery. Somewhat philosophical, but it seemed relevant.
We go to see Sheree's surgeon in Wichita on Monday, so we will likely not have any more blog posts till we return from that.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
11:20 am 01-20-2012
Elgin
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
It's My Turn!
Today has been a very good day -- walked 1 mile on my "track" inside our home (boring, but I did it), took a 1.5 hr snooze this afternoon, a friend stopped by just to visit, another friend delivered delightfully good stew and muffins, my mom ironed all of Elgin's shirts this morning, etc. The list could go on and on. I'm so grateful for all the prayers, encouraging blog comments, and just general caring that I've been receiving. I'm not sure what I expected to feel after the surgery, but I'm pretty sure I wasn't expecting to feel this good!!!! Thanks for your prayers!
Sheree
Sheree
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Accuracy check
A number of people have been inquiring about how Sheree is "really" doing. Thinking that maybe we are only telling the good parts or maybe sugar coating Sheree's status.
So here are the bad parts:
1. Sheree wears a brace from her waist to her shoulder blades that is not the most comfortable. It is made of a hard plastic like material and she wears it to bed at night. She can take it off to clean up.
2. Full recovery is expected to take from 8 to 12 weeks.
3. She takes pain medication that helps her to be able to remain active and walk. The medication causes her to sleep during the day in addition to night.
4. For now, she is somewhat confined to the house. She hasn't left home since coming home on Sunday.
5. She is not to take a shower or bath until the bandage is removed which hopefully will be Monday when she has an appointment with Dr. Whitaker.
6. There will be a scar the full length of her back.
So from what we were expecting or not knowing what to expect, we are very pleased that Sheree is:
1. Able to walk over a half mile a day.
2. Able to sleep well at night. The last two nights she got up once each night. (That's as good or better than me, if you know what I mean.)
3. Able to have pain under control with medication. Not pain free, but under control. I always knew that she is one tough lady.
4. Able to visit and communicate. Sometimes she has dreams that seem real to her that are not true from the medication. Of course, I have that sometimes too.
We know that the road ahead may seem long in a few weeks from now and that there will be some days when it is less pleasant than hoped for. But for now, Sheree's condition is better than anticipated for a 7.5 hour surgery with approximately 30 screws in her back.
Here is a picture of Sheree walking earlier today.
8:15 pm 01-17-2012
Elgin
Did I mention that we have been blessed with Sheree's health status with being one week ago that she had surgery?
Wow, doing great
As I look at Sheree, I'm amazed at how well she is doing. The highlights include:
1. She has walked 13 laps today so far wih 10 of them all at one time, and it is early afternoon. (29 laps = one mile) I may have to start walking or risk not being able to keep up with her.
2. She is able to get into and out of bed by herself.
3. While the brace is not comfortable, she is adjusting to it very well.
4. She is up and around attending to things as she is able.
5. Overall, she is doing great.
It's hard to believe that a week ago today at this same time, she was in the middle of a 7.5 hour surgery on her back. Of course, we don't know how long full recovery will take for her to be able to be back at work and about daily activities, but this is certainly more than we expected for one week from surgery.
Sheree's parents are here today and tomorrow to help out. It's great to have their help.
1:20 pm 01-17-2012
Elgin
P.S. Did I mention that Sheree is doing great and beyond our expectations?
1. She has walked 13 laps today so far wih 10 of them all at one time, and it is early afternoon. (29 laps = one mile) I may have to start walking or risk not being able to keep up with her.
2. She is able to get into and out of bed by herself.
3. While the brace is not comfortable, she is adjusting to it very well.
4. She is up and around attending to things as she is able.
5. Overall, she is doing great.
It's hard to believe that a week ago today at this same time, she was in the middle of a 7.5 hour surgery on her back. Of course, we don't know how long full recovery will take for her to be able to be back at work and about daily activities, but this is certainly more than we expected for one week from surgery.
Sheree's parents are here today and tomorrow to help out. It's great to have their help.
1:20 pm 01-17-2012
Elgin
P.S. Did I mention that Sheree is doing great and beyond our expectations?
Monday, January 16, 2012
First morning at home
We went to bed last night at about 10:30 and woke up about 7:45 with only getting up one time during the night. So we both slept well.
Heidi was here till about 12:30 this afternoon helping us get the morning routine down. Still have some bugs to work out, but kind of have an idea of how it will work. (Sheree just came from the bathroom and announced that she went to the bathroom all by herself. So that's a good thing. She felt confident enough to try by herself. Almost sounds like something our kids may have said many years ago.)
Sheree asked me to measure the lap in the house that she will be walking. She is walking now as I am typing. She touches the wall, kind of like basketball players do when they run the lines. For now, 29 laps = one mile. The treadmill is upstaris in the living room and ready to go. She needs to get clearance from Dr. Whitaker before she can use it. Her appointment with Dr. Whitaker is a week from today, January 23. That appointment will be an opportunity to get clearance for a number of things as she recovers.
1:30 pm 01-16-2012
Elgin
P.S. Have I mentioned that we are home? Just wanted to make sure I had not forgotten to say that.
Heidi was here till about 12:30 this afternoon helping us get the morning routine down. Still have some bugs to work out, but kind of have an idea of how it will work. (Sheree just came from the bathroom and announced that she went to the bathroom all by herself. So that's a good thing. She felt confident enough to try by herself. Almost sounds like something our kids may have said many years ago.)
Sheree asked me to measure the lap in the house that she will be walking. She is walking now as I am typing. She touches the wall, kind of like basketball players do when they run the lines. For now, 29 laps = one mile. The treadmill is upstaris in the living room and ready to go. She needs to get clearance from Dr. Whitaker before she can use it. Her appointment with Dr. Whitaker is a week from today, January 23. That appointment will be an opportunity to get clearance for a number of things as she recovers.
1:30 pm 01-16-2012
Elgin
P.S. Have I mentioned that we are home? Just wanted to make sure I had not forgotten to say that.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
We are home Sunday.
We made it home a little before 6:00 p.m. Heidi is with us tonight and part of tomorrow yet, thanks to Martin Luther King Jr. day. I'm home for most of the next two weeks.
So now it's figuring out how and where to go from here. As we were walking into the house, Sheree apologized for not being able to help carry things in. Somewhat laughable, but that's how Sheree is, always there to help.
We celebrated by getting ice cream at Wendy's on the way home. We stopped in Hillsboro to stretch to make the 1.5 hour trip more bearable.
By the numbers:
Sheree walked 2.25 miles while in the hospital including the first day after surgery.
97 mile trip from Wesley Medical Center to home in Abilene.
Sheree is resting now once she determined which chair is the most comfortable.
Thanks to everyone for your prayers. While being discharged from the hospital is a great first step to recovery, I get the feeling that the real work starts now. I am certain that Sheree is up to it. She was a great worker in the hospital.
8:30 pm 01-15-2012
Elgin
So now it's figuring out how and where to go from here. As we were walking into the house, Sheree apologized for not being able to help carry things in. Somewhat laughable, but that's how Sheree is, always there to help.
We celebrated by getting ice cream at Wendy's on the way home. We stopped in Hillsboro to stretch to make the 1.5 hour trip more bearable.
By the numbers:
Sheree walked 2.25 miles while in the hospital including the first day after surgery.
97 mile trip from Wesley Medical Center to home in Abilene.
Sheree is resting now once she determined which chair is the most comfortable.
Thanks to everyone for your prayers. While being discharged from the hospital is a great first step to recovery, I get the feeling that the real work starts now. I am certain that Sheree is up to it. She was a great worker in the hospital.
8:30 pm 01-15-2012
Elgin
Coming home!!!!!!
We are coming home this afternoon. Just found out less than half hour ago.
The drainage was down to 50 ml this morning and is heading in the right direction, so Dr. Whitaker said we could go home.
Instead of walking the circle to nowhere, we will be heading north to Kuney Street in Abilene.
So Dr. Whitaker's initial projection of 5 days was right on.
By the numbers: One more lap after lunch will make it 44 laps or two miles since surgery. But do numbers really matter? We are coming home.
12:30 pm 01-15-2012
Elgin
P.S. Did I mention that we are coming home?
The drainage was down to 50 ml this morning and is heading in the right direction, so Dr. Whitaker said we could go home.
Instead of walking the circle to nowhere, we will be heading north to Kuney Street in Abilene.
So Dr. Whitaker's initial projection of 5 days was right on.
By the numbers: One more lap after lunch will make it 44 laps or two miles since surgery. But do numbers really matter? We are coming home.
12:30 pm 01-15-2012
Elgin
P.S. Did I mention that we are coming home?
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Saturday Night Live
It's Heidi here, reporting in for blog-updating duty.
***Note: the picture captions are not matching up with the pictures...and I can't figure out how to fix it. I challenge you to match the captions to the pictures. Go. :)
What are you doing this Saturday eve? Well, my goodness, things are lively in the 429. Lots 'o treats, flowers, newspapers, walking laps, playing Rummy, and football playing in the background.
Today has been a good, relaxing day. Mom has walked many laps and taken several long naps. Originally, she was to be dismissed today, but after the drainage from her incision site has not lessened, the doctors insisted that she stay one more night (dad will report the numbers later...).
In an effort to explain to you the jazziness of our Saturday night, here are some pics.
This is what our hopping bar looks like:
Can you spot me (Heidi) in this picture?
What about in this picture?
This was our parade route this evening:
And mom rockin' the brace:
As I said, it's been a good day. Mom is generally feeling well. Her back is tight, but her nausea is no more. Dad is well. He could barely keep up with mom thanks to his gimpy foot.
Mom continues to blow our minds with her perseverance and positive attitude. Even in the midst of all that has occurred in her life this weekend, she refuses to get down on herself. What a lady. So thankful she's my mom. Here's to hoping that someday I'm half the woman she is.
PS - dad is pretty cool, too. :)
As promised, here is Elgin's numerical report:
Sheree has walked 15 laps today for a total of 36 laps. (22 laps is a mile) So over 1.5 miles.
Rummary score:
Sheree 45
Heidi 60
Elgin 184
***Note: the picture captions are not matching up with the pictures...and I can't figure out how to fix it. I challenge you to match the captions to the pictures. Go. :)
What are you doing this Saturday eve? Well, my goodness, things are lively in the 429. Lots 'o treats, flowers, newspapers, walking laps, playing Rummy, and football playing in the background.
Today has been a good, relaxing day. Mom has walked many laps and taken several long naps. Originally, she was to be dismissed today, but after the drainage from her incision site has not lessened, the doctors insisted that she stay one more night (dad will report the numbers later...).
In an effort to explain to you the jazziness of our Saturday night, here are some pics.
This is what our hopping bar looks like:
Can you spot me (Heidi) in this picture?
What about in this picture?
This was our parade route this evening:
And mom rockin' the brace:
As I said, it's been a good day. Mom is generally feeling well. Her back is tight, but her nausea is no more. Dad is well. He could barely keep up with mom thanks to his gimpy foot.
Mom continues to blow our minds with her perseverance and positive attitude. Even in the midst of all that has occurred in her life this weekend, she refuses to get down on herself. What a lady. So thankful she's my mom. Here's to hoping that someday I'm half the woman she is.
PS - dad is pretty cool, too. :)
As promised, here is Elgin's numerical report:
Sheree has walked 15 laps today for a total of 36 laps. (22 laps is a mile) So over 1.5 miles.
Rummary score:
Sheree 45
Heidi 60
Elgin 184
Saturday, January 14 update
It looks like Sheree will be at Wesley Medical Center for at least another day. The amount of drainage has not decreased to the level that it needs to before going home. She has been walking regularly and her stability with walking continues to improve. She walks by herself without assistance. It will just take some more time for her body to adjust to the trauma that surgery has brought on her body. They don't seem to be concerned about the drainage, except that they don't want to send her home with the drainage tube and letting it build up inside would give worse results that we would not be prepared to address at home.
So to summarize:
Tuesday - surgery, longer than anticipated, but good outcome.
Wednesday - walked first day after surgery (2 steps forward)
Thursday - light headed and woozy (1 step back)
Friday - walked quite a bit and anticipatee going home tomorrow (2 steps forward)
Saturday - drainage not reduced enough to go home (1 step back)
Sunday - that's tomorrow, so it's time for the 2 steps forward
By the numbers: Number of screws in Sheree's back = approximately 29 to 31. Plan on a more accurate count in future reports.
8:45 am 01-14-2012
Elgin
So to summarize:
Tuesday - surgery, longer than anticipated, but good outcome.
Wednesday - walked first day after surgery (2 steps forward)
Thursday - light headed and woozy (1 step back)
Friday - walked quite a bit and anticipatee going home tomorrow (2 steps forward)
Saturday - drainage not reduced enough to go home (1 step back)
Sunday - that's tomorrow, so it's time for the 2 steps forward
By the numbers: Number of screws in Sheree's back = approximately 29 to 31. Plan on a more accurate count in future reports.
8:45 am 01-14-2012
Elgin
Friday, January 13, 2012
Sheree continues to improve. Not having specific things to say is a sign that she is heading in the right direction. More walking, drinking water, usual pain meds, etc. Discharge continues to point to tomorrow (Saturday).
Heidi came this morning and will be with us for the weekend. Great to have her around. She requests cookies if you come to visit.
By the numbers:
1. 14 equavalent laps of walking completed. (not a goal, but 22 is a mile)
2. 7 is Heidi's favorite number.
3. Today is Friday the 13th. My Dad used to have a number of significant things that occurred on the 13th for him.
4. If discharge occurs tomorrow, that is one day sooner than initially planned.
4:30 pm 01-13-2012
Elgin
Heidi came this morning and will be with us for the weekend. Great to have her around. She requests cookies if you come to visit.
By the numbers:
1. 14 equavalent laps of walking completed. (not a goal, but 22 is a mile)
2. 7 is Heidi's favorite number.
3. Today is Friday the 13th. My Dad used to have a number of significant things that occurred on the 13th for him.
4. If discharge occurs tomorrow, that is one day sooner than initially planned.
4:30 pm 01-13-2012
Elgin
Home is in sight per Dr. Whitaker
Sheree just returned from walking a double lap. She kept missing the turns and walked the full lenght of the unit and back.
They are checking her hemoglobin and are considering medication to address her light headedness. She ate an egg sandwich that didn't meet up to Ronald's standards, but ate most of it. They want her to drink lots of water which has been a habit for many years already.
They are suggesting that she go home today or tomorrow, but it sounds more likely for tomorrow, depending on some outcomes this afternoon.
We are encouraged and taking it one day at a time.
9:45 am 01-13-2012
Elgin
They are checking her hemoglobin and are considering medication to address her light headedness. She ate an egg sandwich that didn't meet up to Ronald's standards, but ate most of it. They want her to drink lots of water which has been a habit for many years already.
They are suggesting that she go home today or tomorrow, but it sounds more likely for tomorrow, depending on some outcomes this afternoon.
We are encouraged and taking it one day at a time.
9:45 am 01-13-2012
Elgin
Thursday, January 12, 2012
By the numbers
I know some of you expect to hear about the numbers from me, so I don't want to disapoint you all.
The floor is square tiles, so it is easy to count tiles and determine the length of the "medium" walking route since a tile is one foot square. It turns out that one "medium" lap is 240 feet and 240 x 22 laps is 5280 feet or one mile. So give Sheree some time to get her mile in. So far she has walked 4 laps, but the week is young yet.
Thanks for all your prayers.
7:30 pm 01-12-2012
Elgin
The floor is square tiles, so it is easy to count tiles and determine the length of the "medium" walking route since a tile is one foot square. It turns out that one "medium" lap is 240 feet and 240 x 22 laps is 5280 feet or one mile. So give Sheree some time to get her mile in. So far she has walked 4 laps, but the week is young yet.
Thanks for all your prayers.
7:30 pm 01-12-2012
Elgin
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