Why the Redwood Forest slideshow?

Judy had always loved trees, and in 2008 we spent some time among the California Redwoods. Some of the ingredients in Judy's chemo cocktail were derived from trees (not Redwoods but Yews). We always knew that Judy loved the trees, and the trees got their chance to repay her affection.



Thursday, October 9, 2008

Thursdays are sometimes not so good

Two weeks ago Judy underwent her surgery, and today was a small step backward from the past two days. In a nutshell: Judy's throat hurts like hell--most likely a function of the NG tube that has not been removed yet even though it has been disconnected from the vacuum pump. We're not sure whether the fever that she ran today has been caused by a throat infection, which with all the various antibiotics should most likely not be the case.

The docs are still not discounting the possibility of some internal problem in her abdominal cave. Judy has been scheduled for another CT scan tomorrow morning, and we probably won't see results until noon or so. An earlier scan had shown some fluid around the area where the bowel had been resected, and the scan will show whether this fluid has increased, stayed the same, or diminished. I would assume that Judy will be given some contrast agents to determine whether there is a bowel perforation or not--you may remember that the earlier CT scan did not indicate a perforation. So what's going on? We're bracing ourselves for the worst and are hoping for the best.

Judy's sister in-law, Candace, left this afternoon, and I spent the afternoon and evening after teaching here in the hospital. I rode home after dark, ate something, took care of paperwork, made a few phone calls, grabbed some clothes, and am now back in the hospital. This is a time to stay strong and not get mad at the situation. We had hoped for smooth sailing but have had to contend with choppy seas. So be it. We're going to get over this hump, too.

That's all for tonight as it is almost midnight and I still want to update our German contingent.

Jürgen

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stay strong, little Sparky - you are continually in my prayers.

MichelleL said...

I agree that Thursdays are not so good. Ken was diagnosed on a Thursday and had his big surgery on a Thursday-Argh! But Fridays can be wonderful so hang in there. Those pesky fevers can be a real bother but they will find the source and take care of it. You'll be back out at the playground before you know it! We'll keep praying and you keep resting. Hugs to you,

Michelle

Pamela said...

Judy & Jurgen,

First of all let me say that you both our in my and Lexie's prayers. Prayers for a quick and speedy recovery that will allow you to continue all the joys of life with those who love and care about you.

Secondly, Lex and i really missed seeing you at POP and look forward to when you are able to return to the races.

Also, Jurgen, thank you so much for the blogs. Not only has it kept us informed of Judy's progress but also faith of the Lubbock Hosptial system. When my father was at Convenant a few years back I spent time in the park across the street and remember how soothing it was, especially watching and hearing the children at play.

Again, both of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pamela & Lex

The Rhoads said...

Jurgen,
Thank you so much for the updates! I check them regularly. I wish we were closer! Please give Judy our love and let her know she is on our hearts and minds.
We love you guys!
Erica