If you’d like to follow the ongoing story, check back every few days. I’ll aim to post a couple of times each week.
What’s the medical scene and how’s the patient doing?
Following the relief of the successful surgery, ‘It went Great,’ we are now settling into the reality of the long and challenging journey to recovery.
We were told that the body reacts to this invasive surgery with many systems shocked and dysregulated. So, here in the ICU, the team is helping him to manage his pain, and getting him moving a bit, while keeping a close eye on blood pressure, blood sugar, kidney function, and respiration.
It’s a busy high-tech scene — like one of those Doctor Shows on TV. The photos below tell the tale.
James is still sleepy and heavily medicated but he communicates the best he can, whispering a few hoarse words through his oxygen mask, and using hand signals. He has not yet asked for his glasses or phone.
He hasn’t had an appetite yet but today he requested a coke! One step at a time.
How am I doing?
Honestly, I don’t remember ever being so tired, or as David would say, “desausted.” I think it’s a combination of the many weeks of anticipation, the adrenalin rush on Wednesday, and the incredible relief that the procedure was successful. In some ways, I’ve been tired for even longer, still recovering from the shock of David’s death, and the many events and jarring losses over the year.
Right now, I’m trying to catch up some sleep and take advantage of some self-care opportunities in between spending time at the hospital. I feel emotionally a bit off-kilter, still a bit on over-drive, and l look forward to settling down and regaining some equilibrium over the next few days.
I’ll post again on Sunday evening.
Thanks again everyone for hanging in with us on the ride!
Love,
Joan-Dianne
10 Responses
Thank you for the update.
The photos of the hospital scene are very familiar – but signs of thorough care with everything under control.
This has been a difficult few weeks and it is good to know that you realize the need for your own care now!
Sending love and prayers your way!
Thank you for these updates. May you rest and regain your equilibrium. May James’s body heal and regain strength quickly. Sending love.
I am so full of love and admiration. I am loving all of what you are giving me. Thank you.
Thank you for the update JD. We are thinking of you and so pleased to hear of the successful progress.
Hang it there, looking forward to the Sunday update.
B, P, M & L
Hi JD
I am so glad to hear that the operation went well. Give my best wishes to James
Hello Joan-Dianne
What a time! So glad that all the bells & whistles of the ICU are working to support James’ comfort and recovery. And, that you’re finding what you need to recharge.
Thanks for your notes & photos.
Holding you in our thoughts.
Ruth & James
We are very happy that all went well.
Where’s the COCA-COLA (IV)?
Holy moly that’s quite an array of monitors! They are definitely keeping a very close eye on James, but also good to hear that you might be able to take a moment or two for yourself now as well. It’s been quite the year and I’m sure letting go of some of that tension is telling the tale of your exhaustion. Best wishes for recoveries for both of you. Thanks for these updates. Hope they aren’t adding a burden to your already busy days.
Love C ❤️❤️
JD,… please take care of yourself. We miss you and James. Wishing you nothing but the best in the days ahead.