Hey there friends-
It's been a while so I thought I'd update you with how I am doing. I started my "brain" therapy a few weeks ago. When I first started I would get major headaches but as I've progressed the headaches are calming down. I feel like my mind is a rubber-band that is being stretched. I've been in 3 different types of therapy and will be starting phyiscal therapy for my strength.(I have a wee bit hard time opening bottles, carrying heavy loads, etc). One therapy that I've been in is Speech therapy. This type of therapy really gave me headaches at first! I'm working on my listening and attention skills for when I return to school. I go through many different types of exercises, like: I have to listen for specific words that belong together and then ring a buzzer when they do belong together....it might sound easy but it isn't at all. I've progressed extremely fast and my speech therapist thinks I won't have much longer before he releases me. I still get headaches when I've done to much thinking and other activities.
My 2nd type of therapy is Occupational therapy. We've been working on my typing, writing, and multi-tasking skills. At first I was whizzing through all my quizes and activities. Then, Jessica and I found a weak spot. So we're working on being able to sustain my divided attention. She too thinks that she'll be able to discharge me as well. I started with a Neuropsychologist a week ago. It's been most helpful being able to talk out my different struggles. Dr. N/A is also helping me with releasing my mind so I can sleep. It's been hard for me to be patient with my body and self because I want to get back to my busy routine and schedule. All 3 of my therapists think taking a couple of online courses will really help me and I'll be able to go my own pace.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Things I Remember....tehe:D
It's funny when I talk to different people I remember different things...for the most part I don't remember most of the last month and halfof my life....it's quite strange. Reading to much now gives me a headache, my neck seems to be always stiff. This is what I remember.
1. I did ask for GRAPE soda tons but was satified with orange soda.
2. I don't remember how many times I asked anybody "what happened to me, was i in a car accident."
3. Waking up thinking that reality was a dream.
4. I remember random things at random times, like getting a speeding ticket on the freeway the Sunday before I got sick.
I'm slowly getting better. I appericiate everyones support for my family. With all my love(nad honey bunches of Oats)
-Carolyn-
1. I did ask for GRAPE soda tons but was satified with orange soda.
2. I don't remember how many times I asked anybody "what happened to me, was i in a car accident."
3. Waking up thinking that reality was a dream.
4. I remember random things at random times, like getting a speeding ticket on the freeway the Sunday before I got sick.
I'm slowly getting better. I appericiate everyones support for my family. With all my love(nad honey bunches of Oats)
-Carolyn-
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
How I am doing!
I thought I'd post again. Just to keep everyone updated on me health;) I'm getting better.....I'm still sick and have a hard time breathing. I don't really have any energy and get tired easily. So it's mostly just hanging around the house with my daddy.....some days I watch movies... my dad and I take walks to help me...and we have the same breathing machines so we keep eachother.....breathing....hahaha. My mum gets to hangout with us too....today for my 'walk' today my mom took me to wal-mart. that was fun:D I hope that this post comes out better then my last one....I'm still not very good at many things:D Again thank you for your prayers not just for me but my family:D
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Do I Laugh or Cry? (I can't sleep so I'll Write)
Dear Friends (and you are all dear to me)
Its been a a few days since we posted so here is what happening.
Yesterday morning (Monday) I took Val to the hospital for outpatient procedure to remove the stint from his kidneys and 'blast' the kidney stones again so they can finally pass. The Dr. came out of surgery and said that his oxygen level dropped so low that they were having to give him more oxygen. (Between Carolyn and Val we have learned ALOT about the importance of oxygen levels to the body.) Val ended up being in recovery eight hours and the Dr. decided he should be admitted. Val and I thought it probably was because of his recent lung surgery (they had removed 1/3 of his right lung 3 weeks ago) and that it was just his body responding to this temporary jolting. But then the Dr. said it may be a blood clot. So he is in the hospital again. The Dr. made me laugh as he said I needed to be cloned so I could be at two places at once. Believe me I've felt the same way a good many times. Last night our dear Bishop and another dear Brother went and gave him a blessing and we know all will be well. I plan to pick him up after I get Carolyn to the Provo Hospital for speech and Occupational therapy this morning (Tuesday).
While at the hospital all day with Val, two dear friends took shifts to be with Carolyn while I was gone. Peggy came from 7am to noon and Mary came from noon to 5pm. They took her on 'walks' like they did in the hospital only this time outdoors. They also got her meals and made sure she did her breathing tubes etc. I did not have to worry about her at all as she was in good caring hands. Thank you dear friends.
Twice last week when I had to either take Val to a Dr.s appointment or be away from the hospital for a few hours another two friends stepped in to be there for me. Kathy, a friend of many years from Salt Lake drove down. As she entered Carolyns room she told me that she felt she was on 'sacred ground' like she felt when she entered the temple. It touched me deeply. And Wendy who came another time and was a major help in getting her out of her hospital bed and taking care of her physical needs. Thankyou sweet friends, thankyou. And thankyou to our precious daughters who have been there as a major strength to bouye us up and lift us helping to carry our burdens.
Carolyn is doing so well. She is improving more and more and getting stronger each day. They delivered a hospital bed to the house for her yesterday so that she can sleep at an angle and still be comfortable. After she got home last Friday her bed was brought downstairs thanks to the Talbots. But at night it was too flat (alot of coughing and discomfort) so she ended up sleeping in a recliner. Her neck and head really got twisted in the night. So during the day I would heat up this wonderful rice pack (thanks to the Greiners) and put it around her neck and it helps to relieve the neck discomfort. But now she is in the hospital bed and has slept well tonight. I've gotten up several times to check on her. I know Val is well at the hospital tonight too.
Thank you to the many who have brought meals, sent cards and well wishes. We feel of your love and compassion. My sincere gratitude for you all for your kind hearts and the goodness of your souls. May the Lords choicest blessings be yours. HE is there for all of us.
Nancy
Its been a a few days since we posted so here is what happening.
Yesterday morning (Monday) I took Val to the hospital for outpatient procedure to remove the stint from his kidneys and 'blast' the kidney stones again so they can finally pass. The Dr. came out of surgery and said that his oxygen level dropped so low that they were having to give him more oxygen. (Between Carolyn and Val we have learned ALOT about the importance of oxygen levels to the body.) Val ended up being in recovery eight hours and the Dr. decided he should be admitted. Val and I thought it probably was because of his recent lung surgery (they had removed 1/3 of his right lung 3 weeks ago) and that it was just his body responding to this temporary jolting. But then the Dr. said it may be a blood clot. So he is in the hospital again. The Dr. made me laugh as he said I needed to be cloned so I could be at two places at once. Believe me I've felt the same way a good many times. Last night our dear Bishop and another dear Brother went and gave him a blessing and we know all will be well. I plan to pick him up after I get Carolyn to the Provo Hospital for speech and Occupational therapy this morning (Tuesday).
While at the hospital all day with Val, two dear friends took shifts to be with Carolyn while I was gone. Peggy came from 7am to noon and Mary came from noon to 5pm. They took her on 'walks' like they did in the hospital only this time outdoors. They also got her meals and made sure she did her breathing tubes etc. I did not have to worry about her at all as she was in good caring hands. Thank you dear friends.
Twice last week when I had to either take Val to a Dr.s appointment or be away from the hospital for a few hours another two friends stepped in to be there for me. Kathy, a friend of many years from Salt Lake drove down. As she entered Carolyns room she told me that she felt she was on 'sacred ground' like she felt when she entered the temple. It touched me deeply. And Wendy who came another time and was a major help in getting her out of her hospital bed and taking care of her physical needs. Thankyou sweet friends, thankyou. And thankyou to our precious daughters who have been there as a major strength to bouye us up and lift us helping to carry our burdens.
Carolyn is doing so well. She is improving more and more and getting stronger each day. They delivered a hospital bed to the house for her yesterday so that she can sleep at an angle and still be comfortable. After she got home last Friday her bed was brought downstairs thanks to the Talbots. But at night it was too flat (alot of coughing and discomfort) so she ended up sleeping in a recliner. Her neck and head really got twisted in the night. So during the day I would heat up this wonderful rice pack (thanks to the Greiners) and put it around her neck and it helps to relieve the neck discomfort. But now she is in the hospital bed and has slept well tonight. I've gotten up several times to check on her. I know Val is well at the hospital tonight too.
Thank you to the many who have brought meals, sent cards and well wishes. We feel of your love and compassion. My sincere gratitude for you all for your kind hearts and the goodness of your souls. May the Lords choicest blessings be yours. HE is there for all of us.
Nancy
Monday, November 9, 2009
what's going on...
It's been a few days so I thought I would fill everyone in on what is going on. Carolyn is doing great..."baby steps," but really starting to get her memory back. She is sleeping a little better at night and doing great with her breathing treatments/therapy. I have talked to her a couple times and this last time she seemed to be getting back to her old self. By the end of the conversation she had slowed down and I could tell that it had taken everything out of her.
This morning my Dad had surgery to break up the rest of his kidney stones so that they can start Chemo-therapy in the next couple weeks on the cancer they found 3 weeks ago. Carolyn can not be left alone so a friend came over to stay with her. We are still asking that we have no visitors because of all that is still going on between my Father and Carolyn. Please leave your posts of well wishes as my family loves to read them and it has really lifted Carolyn's spirits. She still doesn't grasp the seriousness of this illness that she has/had.
We were told last week before she left the hospital, that when she was taken to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, that they were giving her a 20% chance of survival. Carolyn beat those odds. We truly believe it is because of all the love and support through the fasting and prayers of so many of you out there. Those we know, and those we don't know. Our family can't begin to thank each and every one of you in this small world! We love you all!
Until next time-
~Ashley
This morning my Dad had surgery to break up the rest of his kidney stones so that they can start Chemo-therapy in the next couple weeks on the cancer they found 3 weeks ago. Carolyn can not be left alone so a friend came over to stay with her. We are still asking that we have no visitors because of all that is still going on between my Father and Carolyn. Please leave your posts of well wishes as my family loves to read them and it has really lifted Carolyn's spirits. She still doesn't grasp the seriousness of this illness that she has/had.
We were told last week before she left the hospital, that when she was taken to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, that they were giving her a 20% chance of survival. Carolyn beat those odds. We truly believe it is because of all the love and support through the fasting and prayers of so many of you out there. Those we know, and those we don't know. Our family can't begin to thank each and every one of you in this small world! We love you all!
Until next time-
~Ashley
Saturday, November 7, 2009
"While I was Sleeping"
To answer a few quesitons before I give DEEPEST gratitiutde for all the prayers and fasting.
1. I "woke" up techincally on Monday....I remember being cold and hearing an Native American guys voice...I seriously thought I was dreaming.
2. I'll have to appologizigze for all the typo, etc....I have to learn re-learn kind of many things over again....like typing on keyboard, walking(earlier this week), the week and to write.....not for good but bring back to remembrance. I couldn't make a phone call on Tuesaday.....I'd just look at the phone and think some how you can get out but i don't know what to push....
3. I don't rememember a thing but telling my mom the night of the Oct 24th that I couldn't breathe.
4. How much she loved her fmaiy back VERY much back.
Technically, I've been home for less then 24 hrs. I spent the week in hospital re-learning how to walk again without assignts and ALWAYS ''nurse'' with all the time....it's called ''one on one''......I've tired reading all the posts, etc..... if any of really good rfiends would tell you first off...''Carolyn doesn't blog" and I don't or didn't. My mom had to show me how to read this.....hehehe.....I don't sleep well at night....and this has been on my mind since my mom and sister, Karen, told me about on Tuesday. It's been a long week for me and I kept asking my what happeneded? Was I in car accident or something.......THANK YOU for the ICU unit I am quite literally a miracle and this I do remember. When my mother came to collect this afternoon. She took me to the ICU for me to re-meet all phyiscal hand in bring home. It was actually quite a scary experience to be there and to see where my family would camp out, etc.....(Ashley totally loving the new nailpolish very classy clour! Hope you left it herer some at mom and dad's)
AND like to thank you each of you all your posts and memories of me, your constent prayers and fasts. I did cry....loads. I'm not the only one out there though....today I met a lady and I think her son or brother....she said to me "hey, I remember you" you werein that room...and then she pointed to ICU room. I told her I was miracle for being alive. I praeyd for her and family and MANY MANY other things too. It's nice to have not thimk "Did ever make a differeence and wonder about my own life like George Bailey(that makes me sound pyscho......) but people do wonderf if you do make a difereence.....and no matter whoare.....YOU DO!!! Not only that but Heavenly Father VERY aware EACH of us personally. He does answer. For eacho gyou have left an imprint on my heart and famileis.
From Val and Nancy:
Carolyn wrote this yesterday after she had been home from the hospital for a few hours. She begins outpatient therapy next week to help with the restoration of her speech and neurological skills. We are told this will take several weeks, but we thought you would enjoy her first attempt of writing a note of thanks to you.
1. I "woke" up techincally on Monday....I remember being cold and hearing an Native American guys voice...I seriously thought I was dreaming.
2. I'll have to appologizigze for all the typo, etc....I have to learn re-learn kind of many things over again....like typing on keyboard, walking(earlier this week), the week and to write.....not for good but bring back to remembrance. I couldn't make a phone call on Tuesaday.....I'd just look at the phone and think some how you can get out but i don't know what to push....
3. I don't rememember a thing but telling my mom the night of the Oct 24th that I couldn't breathe.
4. How much she loved her fmaiy back VERY much back.
Technically, I've been home for less then 24 hrs. I spent the week in hospital re-learning how to walk again without assignts and ALWAYS ''nurse'' with all the time....it's called ''one on one''......I've tired reading all the posts, etc..... if any of really good rfiends would tell you first off...''Carolyn doesn't blog" and I don't or didn't. My mom had to show me how to read this.....hehehe.....I don't sleep well at night....and this has been on my mind since my mom and sister, Karen, told me about on Tuesday. It's been a long week for me and I kept asking my what happeneded? Was I in car accident or something.......THANK YOU for the ICU unit I am quite literally a miracle and this I do remember. When my mother came to collect this afternoon. She took me to the ICU for me to re-meet all phyiscal hand in bring home. It was actually quite a scary experience to be there and to see where my family would camp out, etc.....(Ashley totally loving the new nailpolish very classy clour! Hope you left it herer some at mom and dad's)
AND like to thank you each of you all your posts and memories of me, your constent prayers and fasts. I did cry....loads. I'm not the only one out there though....today I met a lady and I think her son or brother....she said to me "hey, I remember you" you werein that room...and then she pointed to ICU room. I told her I was miracle for being alive. I praeyd for her and family and MANY MANY other things too. It's nice to have not thimk "Did ever make a differeence and wonder about my own life like George Bailey(that makes me sound pyscho......) but people do wonderf if you do make a difereence.....and no matter whoare.....YOU DO!!! Not only that but Heavenly Father VERY aware EACH of us personally. He does answer. For eacho gyou have left an imprint on my heart and famileis.
From Val and Nancy:
Carolyn wrote this yesterday after she had been home from the hospital for a few hours. She begins outpatient therapy next week to help with the restoration of her speech and neurological skills. We are told this will take several weeks, but we thought you would enjoy her first attempt of writing a note of thanks to you.
Friday, November 6, 2009
She's Home! She's Home! She's Home!!!!!
Nancy Here-
Can you believe that! When the Doctor called about 10am and said she was doing great and I could come down and pick her up and bring her home I thought he was joking. I was on my way down to spend the day and evening with her. I had to turn around and go home and get her clothes.
As I drove to the hospital my heart was overflowing with gratitude for all the tender mercies of the Lord to Carolyn and our family. I cannot put into words the glorious feelings of my heart. The humility I feel, the love. I am overwhelmed with gratitude.
At the hospital we got her dressed and all her stuff loaded on a cart and instructions from the nurses. We then went down (her in a wheelchair) to ICU because the ICU Staff asked if when she left she would come say goodbye to them. When we walked through the doors and her nurse of many days Barb saw her she couldn't believe it. She said there was NO Way she could be going home that she only left the ICU on Tuesday. Other nurses who attended her came over, her wonderful Dr. came over and finally Phil. I cried when I saw Phil and they all had tears when they saw her. Carolyn was all smiles and so were they. I cried in gratitude and thanked them profusely for being the instruments in the Lord's hand to save her life. Today was a huge PAYDAY for them. NOT in monetary terms but to see their beautiful patient who was literally on deaths door, healthy enough to go home And they were such an intrical part of it. To see their faces as they looked at Carolyn was an amazing and humbling sight. I only wish I had taken a picture so that I could share it with you. It was one of the most beautifl scenes of my entire life. To see my daughter alive and well with the people who lovingly cared for her as if she were their own daughter. There are not words to describe it. (Here I am sobbing as I'm trying to write this and I can't find a tissue.) Her Dr. pushed her wheelchair over to a Rotobed in one of the ICU rooms who had a patient in it so she could see first hand this lifesaving bed. They briefly told her about it and of their many cares and concerns for her. They told her how they kept the room cold and windows open to help bring down her fever. And many, many other little incidents in her slow progression of getting well. Baby steps, yes babysteps. This is one of the happiest days of my life.
She is tired but is on her laptop reading her blog and the comments. I started her at the beginning. She is now as I write just learning about this great spiritual journey of her life.
The Next Few Weeks
We have emptied out everything in what I call the 'music room' here on the first floor of our house to make it a bedroom for Carolyn for the next few weeks. She is not to climb the stairs to her bedroom for two weeks. She has to be on the first floor. She is to get as much rest as she can.They want her to come back for speech and occupational therapy starting next week. And she has to have someone with her 24/7 for the next two weeks. She walks OK but still is very weak.She remembers yesterday but not before that or while she's been in the comatose state. She does remember me taking her to the American Fork Emergency Room 2 weeks ago, going into the ICU there and the blessing given to her by her brothers in law and that's pretty much it. She had and still has so much medication in her system that the Dr. says it will be awhile before it dissapates from her body. And she still has a cough which is good to get the phlem out of the lungs. She still has to breathe in these devices they sent home with her every two hours. This will help the lungs heal.
But She's Home, Alive and getting better still. We are so grateful to all of you for your faith and prayers for her and in our behalf. We are so grateful to a kind and loving Father, and his Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Redeemer. This is a Glorious Day for us ALL.
Much, Much love to you all - family and all of you dear friends who have read the blog and those who have commented here, on facebook and emails. ALL OF YOU have now become part of our family.
From My heart,
Nancy
Can you believe that! When the Doctor called about 10am and said she was doing great and I could come down and pick her up and bring her home I thought he was joking. I was on my way down to spend the day and evening with her. I had to turn around and go home and get her clothes.
As I drove to the hospital my heart was overflowing with gratitude for all the tender mercies of the Lord to Carolyn and our family. I cannot put into words the glorious feelings of my heart. The humility I feel, the love. I am overwhelmed with gratitude.
At the hospital we got her dressed and all her stuff loaded on a cart and instructions from the nurses. We then went down (her in a wheelchair) to ICU because the ICU Staff asked if when she left she would come say goodbye to them. When we walked through the doors and her nurse of many days Barb saw her she couldn't believe it. She said there was NO Way she could be going home that she only left the ICU on Tuesday. Other nurses who attended her came over, her wonderful Dr. came over and finally Phil. I cried when I saw Phil and they all had tears when they saw her. Carolyn was all smiles and so were they. I cried in gratitude and thanked them profusely for being the instruments in the Lord's hand to save her life. Today was a huge PAYDAY for them. NOT in monetary terms but to see their beautiful patient who was literally on deaths door, healthy enough to go home And they were such an intrical part of it. To see their faces as they looked at Carolyn was an amazing and humbling sight. I only wish I had taken a picture so that I could share it with you. It was one of the most beautifl scenes of my entire life. To see my daughter alive and well with the people who lovingly cared for her as if she were their own daughter. There are not words to describe it. (Here I am sobbing as I'm trying to write this and I can't find a tissue.) Her Dr. pushed her wheelchair over to a Rotobed in one of the ICU rooms who had a patient in it so she could see first hand this lifesaving bed. They briefly told her about it and of their many cares and concerns for her. They told her how they kept the room cold and windows open to help bring down her fever. And many, many other little incidents in her slow progression of getting well. Baby steps, yes babysteps. This is one of the happiest days of my life.
She is tired but is on her laptop reading her blog and the comments. I started her at the beginning. She is now as I write just learning about this great spiritual journey of her life.
The Next Few Weeks
We have emptied out everything in what I call the 'music room' here on the first floor of our house to make it a bedroom for Carolyn for the next few weeks. She is not to climb the stairs to her bedroom for two weeks. She has to be on the first floor. She is to get as much rest as she can.They want her to come back for speech and occupational therapy starting next week. And she has to have someone with her 24/7 for the next two weeks. She walks OK but still is very weak.She remembers yesterday but not before that or while she's been in the comatose state. She does remember me taking her to the American Fork Emergency Room 2 weeks ago, going into the ICU there and the blessing given to her by her brothers in law and that's pretty much it. She had and still has so much medication in her system that the Dr. says it will be awhile before it dissapates from her body. And she still has a cough which is good to get the phlem out of the lungs. She still has to breathe in these devices they sent home with her every two hours. This will help the lungs heal.
But She's Home, Alive and getting better still. We are so grateful to all of you for your faith and prayers for her and in our behalf. We are so grateful to a kind and loving Father, and his Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Redeemer. This is a Glorious Day for us ALL.
Much, Much love to you all - family and all of you dear friends who have read the blog and those who have commented here, on facebook and emails. ALL OF YOU have now become part of our family.
From My heart,
Nancy
Thursday, November 5, 2009
November 5 (Evening) Update
Carolyn continues to get well. Today she walked more and farther. The physical therapists are pushing her to go as far as she can and then a little beyond. She walked about 600 feet today.
She is working with the respiratory therapists on her lung capacity. (However, the pneumonia is still there, but it is slowly disappearing.)
She also continues to recover her memory. Her speech is more coherent and she is far less mixed up.
She is eating a little more (as much as one can when they are eating hospital food!!!!).
I added to more pictures today. You can read what they are. Does she not look really good in the second picture down. The abrasion on the right side of her face is a result of being the roto_bed for those four days.
More tomorrow.
Val (and Nancy)
She is working with the respiratory therapists on her lung capacity. (However, the pneumonia is still there, but it is slowly disappearing.)
She also continues to recover her memory. Her speech is more coherent and she is far less mixed up.
She is eating a little more (as much as one can when they are eating hospital food!!!!).
I added to more pictures today. You can read what they are. Does she not look really good in the second picture down. The abrasion on the right side of her face is a result of being the roto_bed for those four days.
More tomorrow.
Val (and Nancy)
November 5 -- Update
Carolyn continues to improve. She has an IV in her again. This one puts a saline solution into her system so that she will not dehyderate. She continues, with the help of Physical therapist and reablilitation Dr., walk a little more each time they get her up.
Her sister, Karen, helped her with a shower and with washing her hair yesterday. This was a real boost to Carolyn.
When we talked with the nurse this morning we found that she had slept well last night. During the day she is mostly awake although there are times when she gets tired and will doze for a few minutes.
Nancy and I are waiting for the Dr. to call this morning. One of the questions we have relates to how the pneumonia that is still in her lungs is progressing (leaving) her system.
She is still very picky in her eating. This morning she had one half a slice to toast, a half of banana and most of a can of soda. (The soda is baffling, she really drinks it and she never drinks orange or grape--which is what she asked for).
Thanks, again for everything you are doing to help us through this.
Val (and Nancy)
Her sister, Karen, helped her with a shower and with washing her hair yesterday. This was a real boost to Carolyn.
When we talked with the nurse this morning we found that she had slept well last night. During the day she is mostly awake although there are times when she gets tired and will doze for a few minutes.
Nancy and I are waiting for the Dr. to call this morning. One of the questions we have relates to how the pneumonia that is still in her lungs is progressing (leaving) her system.
She is still very picky in her eating. This morning she had one half a slice to toast, a half of banana and most of a can of soda. (The soda is baffling, she really drinks it and she never drinks orange or grape--which is what she asked for).
Thanks, again for everything you are doing to help us through this.
Val (and Nancy)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
She's Awake.....
Since my own family is suffering from H1N1 now, I went to a required district administrative meeting this morning and then decided to come home to take care of the family, but stopped to see Carolyn first.... I haven't seen her since she "woke up."
Every time I have seen her, she has been "asleep." I guess I've become accustomed to this because I wasn't sure what to expect, as it was hard to believe she was alert (relatively speaking) and awake. The first thing she said to me wasn't "hello," but, "You aren't mom...." In my sarcastic way I questioned her, "Really? Who am I?" She actually had to think about it.... It was fun messing with her mind a little, as she is still trying to figure things out, but she doesn't realize how GRATEFUL I am to see her alive and coming around slowly. She is more beautiful now than ever (if that is even possible).
The top 10 ways you KNOW Carolyn is coming around when.....
10. She is bored too death in the hospital and wants to know when she can get out.
9. She is proud that she got her oldest sister to subject herself to listening to Veggietale songs.
8. She realizes she wasn't in a car accident, but was really sick.
7. She laughs at corny jokes and sarcastic comments....including that she didn't know she was on a roto-bed (what my sisters have called, "Disney's $50K ride").
6. She wants "real" food, not hospital food.
5. She remembers how to use a cell phone without even thinking about it.
4. She asks for lotion to moisturize her toes.
3. She asks how many days until the next "Twilight" movie will be in the box office and had she missed the premiere.
2. She is starting to realize that so many people are not only thinking about her, but praying and fasting for her (I don't think that one has quite sank in yet...)
1. She realizes she is ALIVE!!!
Thank you so much for your prayers, fasting, and love. Our family is truly overwhelmed by the Spirit of hope and love we have felt in the last week and a half. God hears and answers prayers...Carolyn is a LIVING example of this!
~Heidi
Every time I have seen her, she has been "asleep." I guess I've become accustomed to this because I wasn't sure what to expect, as it was hard to believe she was alert (relatively speaking) and awake. The first thing she said to me wasn't "hello," but, "You aren't mom...." In my sarcastic way I questioned her, "Really? Who am I?" She actually had to think about it.... It was fun messing with her mind a little, as she is still trying to figure things out, but she doesn't realize how GRATEFUL I am to see her alive and coming around slowly. She is more beautiful now than ever (if that is even possible).
The top 10 ways you KNOW Carolyn is coming around when.....
10. She is bored too death in the hospital and wants to know when she can get out.
9. She is proud that she got her oldest sister to subject herself to listening to Veggietale songs.
8. She realizes she wasn't in a car accident, but was really sick.
7. She laughs at corny jokes and sarcastic comments....including that she didn't know she was on a roto-bed (what my sisters have called, "Disney's $50K ride").
6. She wants "real" food, not hospital food.
5. She remembers how to use a cell phone without even thinking about it.
4. She asks for lotion to moisturize her toes.
3. She asks how many days until the next "Twilight" movie will be in the box office and had she missed the premiere.
2. She is starting to realize that so many people are not only thinking about her, but praying and fasting for her (I don't think that one has quite sank in yet...)
1. She realizes she is ALIVE!!!
Thank you so much for your prayers, fasting, and love. Our family is truly overwhelmed by the Spirit of hope and love we have felt in the last week and a half. God hears and answers prayers...Carolyn is a LIVING example of this!
~Heidi
November 4 Update
AS you know Carolyn has now been moved from the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) to aunit that is called the "Critical Care Unit". I think I called it something else in previous posts. In this unit a nurse has two or three patients instead of one (as in the ICU).
She is now at a point where she does not have tubes in her. In fact, she does not have any intervanous tubes going into her system. When they give her meds they have left the needle in her arm and give her to them through that needle.
Her doctor called us this morning before Nancy left and gave some more information on Carolyn. He said he was going to have a Dr. begin working with her who specializes in rehabilitation. (I did know there was such a specility.) This Dr. will define how she gets her strength and her motor skills back. He was also going to have some kind of a neuro Dr. begin working with her. This Dr. will help her with her memory and other things related to the mind as she continues to come out from under the sedation.
As she comes out from under the sedation some humorous things have happened. She said to her mother: "Please take me to my apartment". Nancy explained that this was not possible. She waited for a few minutes and asked if she could go to her apartment to get some things. Nancy asked her what she wanted from her apartment and she said she wanted some food. Nancy asked her what kind of food. She said "Pizza".
Two nurses took her for a walk yesterday. They went about 8-10 steps and then turned around and took her back to her bed. This is about how much strength that she has.
She is eating normal hospital food now when she will. For lunch yesterday the only thing she wanted was some jello and then she only ate about 2-3 bites. I am sure here taste buds have been effected by the anesthetic and it will be some time before she is really able to taste foods.
Again we appreciate all your prayers in her behalf. We are at a point now where there is going to be long long recovery time while she continues to get her strength and her memory back.
Thanks for everything.
Val (and Nancy)
She is now at a point where she does not have tubes in her. In fact, she does not have any intervanous tubes going into her system. When they give her meds they have left the needle in her arm and give her to them through that needle.
Her doctor called us this morning before Nancy left and gave some more information on Carolyn. He said he was going to have a Dr. begin working with her who specializes in rehabilitation. (I did know there was such a specility.) This Dr. will define how she gets her strength and her motor skills back. He was also going to have some kind of a neuro Dr. begin working with her. This Dr. will help her with her memory and other things related to the mind as she continues to come out from under the sedation.
As she comes out from under the sedation some humorous things have happened. She said to her mother: "Please take me to my apartment". Nancy explained that this was not possible. She waited for a few minutes and asked if she could go to her apartment to get some things. Nancy asked her what she wanted from her apartment and she said she wanted some food. Nancy asked her what kind of food. She said "Pizza".
Two nurses took her for a walk yesterday. They went about 8-10 steps and then turned around and took her back to her bed. This is about how much strength that she has.
She is eating normal hospital food now when she will. For lunch yesterday the only thing she wanted was some jello and then she only ate about 2-3 bites. I am sure here taste buds have been effected by the anesthetic and it will be some time before she is really able to taste foods.
Again we appreciate all your prayers in her behalf. We are at a point now where there is going to be long long recovery time while she continues to get her strength and her memory back.
Thanks for everything.
Val (and Nancy)
She finally got her nails painted!
I’ve been meaning to post this for a couple days now, but have been busy with my own little kiddo’s and Halloween……
Originally started on October 29
I am sitting on the plane heading back to my family after a surreal week of being with Carolyn. I have had so many emotions run through me this week but the emotion that I can’t help but to feel the most is humble.
So, I'm going to start with humorous. Karen and I have wanted Carolyn's little toes to be painted and legs to be shaved since she has first gotten in here. Carolyn has always taken pride in how she looks. Just because she's in the ICU, doesn't mean we should stop caring about that. yesterday during one of her bath's I took advantage and shaved her legs. When I got done I looked at the nurse, then I looked and Carolyn and I said, "Carolyn you now have the smoothest legs on this side of the ICU!" The nurse started laughing and said, "I can guarantee they are the smoothest in the WHOLE ICU!" We just laughed and laughed.
Our Mother went with our father for his appointment as he had tumors removed from his lung a couple weeks ago. They are checking up on him to make sure he is healing well etc. I have had the priviledge of being here alone with carolyn. during that time I took advantage and PAINTED HER TOES!!! They look so beautiful. Now she's ready for the ICU beauty pageant :)
This journey has made me think. Carolyn and I had a rough childhood. We never really got along. Even when she was in High school and I had moved out, things were just really rocky. And then something happened. I remarried and she decided to prepare for a mission. I had never been more proud of her knowing of the decision that she had made to serve our Heavenly Father. My parents would wake up faithfully every Wednesday morning at 3am so that they could get online and catch her as she was having her P-Day and checking her emails. I got pregnant with my sweet little Drew and night became sleepless for me. So I decided I would try to catch her too. It was during that time that I got to know her heart and who she is; one of the most incredible women I know.
I couldn’t wait for the day for her to come home from her mission because I knew that things would be different. A little over a month and a half after she got home she came and stayed with me as I had been having complications with my pregnancy of my 3rd son, Ethan. For two weeks, this sweet sister of mine did everything that I couldn’t do. She did my laundry, made dinner, bathed my kids, cleaned my house and made sure that every need me or my family had was met. She never complained just did it. She showed me what true service was. Carolyn and I had the opportunity to talk and work out all of those years of childhood bickering. More than anything during those weeks that we were together our favorite thing to do was sit and watch old movies and eat bluebell ice cream. These are memories that I will always cherish, because that was when I discovered one of my best friends in the world.
I am so grateful for the prayers that have been given on her behalf and on behalf of our family.
Ashley
Originally started on October 29
I am sitting on the plane heading back to my family after a surreal week of being with Carolyn. I have had so many emotions run through me this week but the emotion that I can’t help but to feel the most is humble.
So, I'm going to start with humorous. Karen and I have wanted Carolyn's little toes to be painted and legs to be shaved since she has first gotten in here. Carolyn has always taken pride in how she looks. Just because she's in the ICU, doesn't mean we should stop caring about that. yesterday during one of her bath's I took advantage and shaved her legs. When I got done I looked at the nurse, then I looked and Carolyn and I said, "Carolyn you now have the smoothest legs on this side of the ICU!" The nurse started laughing and said, "I can guarantee they are the smoothest in the WHOLE ICU!" We just laughed and laughed.
Our Mother went with our father for his appointment as he had tumors removed from his lung a couple weeks ago. They are checking up on him to make sure he is healing well etc. I have had the priviledge of being here alone with carolyn. during that time I took advantage and PAINTED HER TOES!!! They look so beautiful. Now she's ready for the ICU beauty pageant :)
This journey has made me think. Carolyn and I had a rough childhood. We never really got along. Even when she was in High school and I had moved out, things were just really rocky. And then something happened. I remarried and she decided to prepare for a mission. I had never been more proud of her knowing of the decision that she had made to serve our Heavenly Father. My parents would wake up faithfully every Wednesday morning at 3am so that they could get online and catch her as she was having her P-Day and checking her emails. I got pregnant with my sweet little Drew and night became sleepless for me. So I decided I would try to catch her too. It was during that time that I got to know her heart and who she is; one of the most incredible women I know.
I couldn’t wait for the day for her to come home from her mission because I knew that things would be different. A little over a month and a half after she got home she came and stayed with me as I had been having complications with my pregnancy of my 3rd son, Ethan. For two weeks, this sweet sister of mine did everything that I couldn’t do. She did my laundry, made dinner, bathed my kids, cleaned my house and made sure that every need me or my family had was met. She never complained just did it. She showed me what true service was. Carolyn and I had the opportunity to talk and work out all of those years of childhood bickering. More than anything during those weeks that we were together our favorite thing to do was sit and watch old movies and eat bluebell ice cream. These are memories that I will always cherish, because that was when I discovered one of my best friends in the world.
I am so grateful for the prayers that have been given on her behalf and on behalf of our family.
Ashley
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Random Acts of H1N1....
Family & Friends (whom I now consider my family)....
H1N1 seems so random in so many ways...why it affects who it does and not others, I don't quite understand. I am around germy kids all day and yet I have not received the fate of others (and nor do I hope to).... it has truly made me grateful for my blessings.
As I continually receive emails from friends from throughout my life of different religious denomications, I am touched by the incredible faith of so many people, regardless of religion. It has been such a testament that their are truly many people today, who do love and believe in God, who knows each of us so well. People who may not even know Carolyn or my family and yet, they have faith and desire for others to be helped and protected. Watching society, it seems we are constantly reminded by how people act around us that there are so many that don't believe in a God, but I am truly humbled by how many do and are so willing to give of themselves spiritually, whether in the time of another's need or even for the sake of comforting one another.
Shaun (my husband) is progressing... the kids are getting better slowly. We love and thank each of you for your faith and kindness, not just for our little family, but for my beautiful sister, Carolyn. Know that you have touched the lives of each member in our family. We are so VERY grateful for all you do!!!!
Know that each and every one of you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you!
Sincerely,
Heidi
H1N1 seems so random in so many ways...why it affects who it does and not others, I don't quite understand. I am around germy kids all day and yet I have not received the fate of others (and nor do I hope to).... it has truly made me grateful for my blessings.
As I continually receive emails from friends from throughout my life of different religious denomications, I am touched by the incredible faith of so many people, regardless of religion. It has been such a testament that their are truly many people today, who do love and believe in God, who knows each of us so well. People who may not even know Carolyn or my family and yet, they have faith and desire for others to be helped and protected. Watching society, it seems we are constantly reminded by how people act around us that there are so many that don't believe in a God, but I am truly humbled by how many do and are so willing to give of themselves spiritually, whether in the time of another's need or even for the sake of comforting one another.
Shaun (my husband) is progressing... the kids are getting better slowly. We love and thank each of you for your faith and kindness, not just for our little family, but for my beautiful sister, Carolyn. Know that you have touched the lives of each member in our family. We are so VERY grateful for all you do!!!!
Know that each and every one of you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you!
Sincerely,
Heidi
November 3 (Noon), Update
Carolyn is slowly coming out of the coma, although she does not remember very much. She asked her mother and the nurse several times yesterday if she had been in automobile accident. When Nancy explained that she had the flu she can not remember anything about going to emergency or what happened after that.
She did not sleep well last evening. Her nurse told me that she seemed really agitated, confused and frighened. (This is apparently normal behavior as one comes out of a medically induced coma. Her temperature went down and has stayed down for the last two days.
The nurses aids helped her get out of bed yesterday afternoon and held her as she walked four or five steps. This morning they took out the tube that was in her nose (this was a feeding tube). At this point she does not have any tubes going into her body. She sat up and had soft foods for breakfast.
A couple of hours ago she was moved from the intensive care unit to the intermediate care unit (I think that is what they call it.) We have no idea at this point how long she will be in this unit of the hospital nor do we know what they will expect from from her in terms of gaining strength. Also we have no idea what will enable her to be moved from this unit to the rehabilitation unit. I will report more on this as I learn about it.
All are good signs and she continues to make progress. She is still a very sick girl.
Thanks again for your faith and prayers.
Val and Nancy
She did not sleep well last evening. Her nurse told me that she seemed really agitated, confused and frighened. (This is apparently normal behavior as one comes out of a medically induced coma. Her temperature went down and has stayed down for the last two days.
The nurses aids helped her get out of bed yesterday afternoon and held her as she walked four or five steps. This morning they took out the tube that was in her nose (this was a feeding tube). At this point she does not have any tubes going into her body. She sat up and had soft foods for breakfast.
A couple of hours ago she was moved from the intensive care unit to the intermediate care unit (I think that is what they call it.) We have no idea at this point how long she will be in this unit of the hospital nor do we know what they will expect from from her in terms of gaining strength. Also we have no idea what will enable her to be moved from this unit to the rehabilitation unit. I will report more on this as I learn about it.
All are good signs and she continues to make progress. She is still a very sick girl.
Thanks again for your faith and prayers.
Val and Nancy
When It Rains It Pours
Nancy here-
Last night our daughter Heidi called and she had taken Shaun down to ‘Urgent Care.’ He had the chills all day yesterday and stayed home from work. Good thing because he tested positive for the H1N1 flu and is in the contagious stage. Shaun has written several posts here on the blog and was down at the hospital on Halloween Night reading and singing to Carolyn so I could be home with Val to help Val. Shaun is a very kind, gentle giant of a man who truly exemplifies being a desciple of Christ. We are just sick that he has gotten this. We hope and pray that he doesn’t get a secondary infection like pneumonia. We don’t want him in the same state as Carolyn. PLEASE include Shaun in your prayers. I KNOW the Lord hears and answers prayers. I have had a testimony of this since I was a small child. And I KNOW He has heard and answered all of yours and our prayers concerning our precious daughter Carolyn. She has been miracuriously blessed from these prayers. And the hospital staff has literally been an instrument in His hands to help make her well.
There are others who have this dreaded disease with complications. imichael.org has commented on our blog that his father was just put in the rotobed and too is deathly ill. I don’t know who he is but PLEASE pray for this man’s father too. Also there are two more patients in ICU that our on the rotobed. One is a husband to a wonderful lady who we met in the ICU lounge lobby. Debbie was by herself and joined our ‘camp’ the first several days that our whole family was waiting worried sick for Carolyn. Debbie’s husband had been in the rotobed 8 days and then they took him out. Well another week has gone by and he just isn’t making it on his own so they just put him back in it yesterday. They question if he will make it. My heart goes out to Debbie. She doesn’t have the wonderful support system like we have. PLEASE remember him too in your prayers.
As most of our family (accept two at a time in with Carolyn) sat in that special almost sacred ICU lounge those first few days, there were several other families also there fearful for their ICU’ed love ones. We all became instant friends as we shared our stories, fears and hope and empathizing with each other. All praying and hoping beyond hope for positive outcomes. I know the Savior walks the halls of these hospitals giving sustenance to each and every patient and their families for he loves them all as he loves us. How GRATEFUL I am for Him. I once again reiterate my testimony that HE LIVES, yes I KNOW THAT OUR REDEMEER LIVES.
And I say this in his Sacred Name, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Our love and gratitude to you all.
Nancy
Last night our daughter Heidi called and she had taken Shaun down to ‘Urgent Care.’ He had the chills all day yesterday and stayed home from work. Good thing because he tested positive for the H1N1 flu and is in the contagious stage. Shaun has written several posts here on the blog and was down at the hospital on Halloween Night reading and singing to Carolyn so I could be home with Val to help Val. Shaun is a very kind, gentle giant of a man who truly exemplifies being a desciple of Christ. We are just sick that he has gotten this. We hope and pray that he doesn’t get a secondary infection like pneumonia. We don’t want him in the same state as Carolyn. PLEASE include Shaun in your prayers. I KNOW the Lord hears and answers prayers. I have had a testimony of this since I was a small child. And I KNOW He has heard and answered all of yours and our prayers concerning our precious daughter Carolyn. She has been miracuriously blessed from these prayers. And the hospital staff has literally been an instrument in His hands to help make her well.
There are others who have this dreaded disease with complications. imichael.org has commented on our blog that his father was just put in the rotobed and too is deathly ill. I don’t know who he is but PLEASE pray for this man’s father too. Also there are two more patients in ICU that our on the rotobed. One is a husband to a wonderful lady who we met in the ICU lounge lobby. Debbie was by herself and joined our ‘camp’ the first several days that our whole family was waiting worried sick for Carolyn. Debbie’s husband had been in the rotobed 8 days and then they took him out. Well another week has gone by and he just isn’t making it on his own so they just put him back in it yesterday. They question if he will make it. My heart goes out to Debbie. She doesn’t have the wonderful support system like we have. PLEASE remember him too in your prayers.
As most of our family (accept two at a time in with Carolyn) sat in that special almost sacred ICU lounge those first few days, there were several other families also there fearful for their ICU’ed love ones. We all became instant friends as we shared our stories, fears and hope and empathizing with each other. All praying and hoping beyond hope for positive outcomes. I know the Savior walks the halls of these hospitals giving sustenance to each and every patient and their families for he loves them all as he loves us. How GRATEFUL I am for Him. I once again reiterate my testimony that HE LIVES, yes I KNOW THAT OUR REDEMEER LIVES.
And I say this in his Sacred Name, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Our love and gratitude to you all.
Nancy
Monday, November 2, 2009
My afternoon with Carolyn..
It was AMAZING!! Honestly, one of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen.
I walked in & her eyes were open, but close as quickly as they open. SHE HAS SUCH BEAUTIFUL EYES!! I know my dad already mentioned, but she speaks in a VERY quiet whisper & is very difficult to understand when she does get words out, usually just one or two words, but not really sentences. We have had to ask her to repeat herself, over & over again. I can tell she is frustrated. She doesn't know where she is. She will ask & we will tell her, but with in a few minutes she asks us again. She tries to pull out her tubes & we have to gently move her hand away from them. Each time explaining why she needs to leave them alone & not touch them. She does this a lot. She is still heavily medicated.
On one side of her cheek, it looks like some tape removed a bit of the skin & that is healing. When they had her in the special bed, laying on her face, they explained that she would likely have severe bruising because of the pressure. I think with time it will heal nicely.
I told her that she has a blog where her friends & family were watching her progress. I tried to explain that she has had over 8,000 hits on her blog. She whispered, "I don't blog." She didn't understand. We can't WAIT until she's awake & coherent enough to understand the blog & read all of your messages of hope & love. Like a child on Christmas morning, I keep trying to imagine what she will do when she reads them all. You all have given her such gifts in words & prayers.
When she looked at me, some of the time I felt like she was looking in my eyes, other times it was like a glassy haze over her eyes. She dozes in & out, mostly out, but we celebrate the "in" times.
I got to help the nurse wash her hair. They haven't been able to wash it since she was hospitalized 10 days ago....I think she felt A LOT better just from having her hair washed. Although it was really hard to do with her just sitting there, & not in a sink or tub. She was soaked by the time we were done, and very tired.
She asked for some grape soda...I don't know where that came from, but after a swallowing test, they said she could have something to drink by mouth. They only had orange, she ended up only taking 2 tiny sips.
To me, the afternoon was a miracle. She has made so much progress, I am so thankful!
I personally can't thank everyone enough for your fasting & prayers in Carolyn's behalf, but also Mom & Dads. I have seen my parents lifted though your faith. There were several times while I was with Carolyn when she was in her coma, that I felt the angels that attended her. She has not been on this journey alone.
Love & thanks to all,
Karen
I walked in & her eyes were open, but close as quickly as they open. SHE HAS SUCH BEAUTIFUL EYES!! I know my dad already mentioned, but she speaks in a VERY quiet whisper & is very difficult to understand when she does get words out, usually just one or two words, but not really sentences. We have had to ask her to repeat herself, over & over again. I can tell she is frustrated. She doesn't know where she is. She will ask & we will tell her, but with in a few minutes she asks us again. She tries to pull out her tubes & we have to gently move her hand away from them. Each time explaining why she needs to leave them alone & not touch them. She does this a lot. She is still heavily medicated.
On one side of her cheek, it looks like some tape removed a bit of the skin & that is healing. When they had her in the special bed, laying on her face, they explained that she would likely have severe bruising because of the pressure. I think with time it will heal nicely.
I told her that she has a blog where her friends & family were watching her progress. I tried to explain that she has had over 8,000 hits on her blog. She whispered, "I don't blog." She didn't understand. We can't WAIT until she's awake & coherent enough to understand the blog & read all of your messages of hope & love. Like a child on Christmas morning, I keep trying to imagine what she will do when she reads them all. You all have given her such gifts in words & prayers.
When she looked at me, some of the time I felt like she was looking in my eyes, other times it was like a glassy haze over her eyes. She dozes in & out, mostly out, but we celebrate the "in" times.
I got to help the nurse wash her hair. They haven't been able to wash it since she was hospitalized 10 days ago....I think she felt A LOT better just from having her hair washed. Although it was really hard to do with her just sitting there, & not in a sink or tub. She was soaked by the time we were done, and very tired.
She asked for some grape soda...I don't know where that came from, but after a swallowing test, they said she could have something to drink by mouth. They only had orange, she ended up only taking 2 tiny sips.
To me, the afternoon was a miracle. She has made so much progress, I am so thankful!
I personally can't thank everyone enough for your fasting & prayers in Carolyn's behalf, but also Mom & Dads. I have seen my parents lifted though your faith. There were several times while I was with Carolyn when she was in her coma, that I felt the angels that attended her. She has not been on this journey alone.
Love & thanks to all,
Karen
November 2, Update
Today has been a good day. Nancy explained that they took out the tube that was in her throat. She tries to talk but she can only whisper. She does not remember anything that has happened. In fact she will ask us a question and then a few minutes later she will ask the same questions again. This is okay, this is just one of the baby steps. The therapists (two holding her up) had her out of bed today and helped her walk a few steps. We are so excited about the progress she is making.
She will go from the Intensive Care Unit to an Intermediate Care Unit and from there she will be taken to a Rehabilitation Unit. We have been told she will moved to the Intermediate Care Unit in the next few days.
It is interesting that this major progress happened within hours after all who desired had fasted and prayed for her. This is a great testimony to me of the tender mercys of a loving Heavenly Father. I am convinced that to this point (and I am sure we will continue to be) Carolyn, Nancy, myself and our family have been carried on the shoulders of the Savior through the marvelous enabling powers of the atonement. Lastly we are convinced that the hospital staff have been the recipients of the inspiration powers from Heaven.
We love all of you are grateful for all you have done and are doing to bless Carolyn.
Val and Nancy
She will go from the Intensive Care Unit to an Intermediate Care Unit and from there she will be taken to a Rehabilitation Unit. We have been told she will moved to the Intermediate Care Unit in the next few days.
It is interesting that this major progress happened within hours after all who desired had fasted and prayed for her. This is a great testimony to me of the tender mercys of a loving Heavenly Father. I am convinced that to this point (and I am sure we will continue to be) Carolyn, Nancy, myself and our family have been carried on the shoulders of the Savior through the marvelous enabling powers of the atonement. Lastly we are convinced that the hospital staff have been the recipients of the inspiration powers from Heaven.
We love all of you are grateful for all you have done and are doing to bless Carolyn.
Val and Nancy
MAJOR BREAK THROUGH!!!!!
Monday, November 02, 2009 AM
From Nancy
I was just finishing writing this and the nurse called. They JUST REMOVED THE HUGE TUBE DOWN HER THROAT that helped her breathe. When she tries to talk it only comes out as a whisper. The FIRST thing she asked for was some small crushed ice. Her room is no longer considered quarantined so we will not have to put on gowns, gloves and masks.
We appreciate your comments SO MUCH and Carolyn will TREASURE them when she is through all of this. Your comments to her here on this blog mean so much as I read them to her. She is now awake enough to actually listen and understand. And they will mean so much to her when she’s finally well. It’s like you have personally visited without actually being there.
Someone asked if a group could visit Carolyn and unfortunately she is still entirely too sick to have ‘visitors.’ Hopefully soon (in the next few days) she will be out of ICU. She’ll then go into ‘Immediate Care’ but then it will be questionable too. Believe me when she IS ready to have visitors we will let you all know. But it won’t be for awhile. But thank you for your support I know this will mean a lot to Carolyn. Also in ICU only immediate family is allowed and occasionally her Bishop.
Carolyn still has tubes down her throat plus others out her nose plus multiple lines pumping medicine into her arms. They took the huge port out of her neck a few days ago and put them all in her arms.
When Val says she ‘sits up’ it means that the bed is at a slightly higher angle than normal. But it’s not like what the rest of us do normally like sitting up in a chair.
She tries to smile a bit …not like a big huge smile but just a little as these tubes prevent her from moving her lips. And she can slightly turn her head to say no or yes. Her eyes, her beautiful eyes tell it all. The physical therapist comes in twice a day and gets her arms and legs moving a bit. He has her ‘push’ against his hand or arm with her foot or hands and she seems to be doing better at it each day.
Her lungs are still inflamed and full of pneumonia. With that said she’s still slowly improving.
How GRATEFUL we are to you all. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU from our hearts for your prayers, love and concern not only for Carolyn but our family as well. It has meant so much to all of us.
Much, much love to you ALL,
Nancy
From Nancy
I was just finishing writing this and the nurse called. They JUST REMOVED THE HUGE TUBE DOWN HER THROAT that helped her breathe. When she tries to talk it only comes out as a whisper. The FIRST thing she asked for was some small crushed ice. Her room is no longer considered quarantined so we will not have to put on gowns, gloves and masks.
We appreciate your comments SO MUCH and Carolyn will TREASURE them when she is through all of this. Your comments to her here on this blog mean so much as I read them to her. She is now awake enough to actually listen and understand. And they will mean so much to her when she’s finally well. It’s like you have personally visited without actually being there.
Someone asked if a group could visit Carolyn and unfortunately she is still entirely too sick to have ‘visitors.’ Hopefully soon (in the next few days) she will be out of ICU. She’ll then go into ‘Immediate Care’ but then it will be questionable too. Believe me when she IS ready to have visitors we will let you all know. But it won’t be for awhile. But thank you for your support I know this will mean a lot to Carolyn. Also in ICU only immediate family is allowed and occasionally her Bishop.
Carolyn still has tubes down her throat plus others out her nose plus multiple lines pumping medicine into her arms. They took the huge port out of her neck a few days ago and put them all in her arms.
When Val says she ‘sits up’ it means that the bed is at a slightly higher angle than normal. But it’s not like what the rest of us do normally like sitting up in a chair.
She tries to smile a bit …not like a big huge smile but just a little as these tubes prevent her from moving her lips. And she can slightly turn her head to say no or yes. Her eyes, her beautiful eyes tell it all. The physical therapist comes in twice a day and gets her arms and legs moving a bit. He has her ‘push’ against his hand or arm with her foot or hands and she seems to be doing better at it each day.
Her lungs are still inflamed and full of pneumonia. With that said she’s still slowly improving.
How GRATEFUL we are to you all. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU from our hearts for your prayers, love and concern not only for Carolyn but our family as well. It has meant so much to all of us.
Much, much love to you ALL,
Nancy
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Sunday, November 1 Update (Noon)
I apologize for not getting this post up sooner -- I overdid it yesterday myself and I had trouble getting up this morning. This was despite the fact that I fully intended on going to Sacrament Meeting today.
Carolyn is now sitting up more and she is more alert. Her x-rays showed a little improvement. The nurse told me this is the last thing that will begin to improve. Again, I need to be patient. The lab results from her last culture continues to look good. She is still fighting a temperature.
Nancy is at the hospital and Carolyn is sleeping soundly. The nurse gave me some good news and some bad new -- the bad news there are four patients in the Intensive Care Unit that are really sick with the H1N1 flu and Carolyn is the one of them -- the good news is that of the four she is the healthiest.
Val and Nancy
Carolyn is now sitting up more and she is more alert. Her x-rays showed a little improvement. The nurse told me this is the last thing that will begin to improve. Again, I need to be patient. The lab results from her last culture continues to look good. She is still fighting a temperature.
Nancy is at the hospital and Carolyn is sleeping soundly. The nurse gave me some good news and some bad new -- the bad news there are four patients in the Intensive Care Unit that are really sick with the H1N1 flu and Carolyn is the one of them -- the good news is that of the four she is the healthiest.
Val and Nancy
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