Things are gradually getting better. The staph infection in Alan's blood is now gone, and his kidney functions are almost back to normal. The spinal tap cultures have not revealed anything of concern so far, so we are probably ok on that front, also. No infections related to the brain or spinal fluid. He is getting more lucid. Today for the first time he didn't say anything that showed confusion, but he didn't say much--slept a lot of the day because he had to take pain meds for his head early in the morning. Still having some unexplained temperature issues, up to 101 yesterday. He still has a lot of fluid buildup around the incision site, but a CAT scan yesterday revealed that there isn't a fluid buildup inside his cranium, just externally due to minute degradations in the substance they used to seal the inside part of the incision. According to the surgeon, this will gradually heal, and the leakage will diminish, but it may take a long time. It isn't infected. Alan still complains about all the needle sticks, but he goes along with them grudgingly. The nurse today said that he is feeling better because he is starting to complain more--showing his awareness of things is improving.
Our friends Phyllis and Rolla have helped me out several days this week by taking turns staying with Alan for several hours in the late afternoon and evening, so I'm not under so much stress and can get some things done at home. Charlotte has been here this week doing the night shift, so Susie could go back to Atlanta. Nephew Paul Bliese from Columbia, SC will be here for the night shift for four days, starting on the 17th, I believe. Hopefully, by the 21st, Alan will be well enough to stay alone at night, but we shall see. We have these ups and downs, so I am only cautiously optimistic.
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5 comments:
Encouraging news. I am so glad to hear it.
Hope the improvement, however slow, continues, and accelerates! Very glad things are improving. Hope with the improvements come a concomitant improvement in the temperature fluxuations!
Many thanks for keeping us posted!
Ralph
Rhoda,
I am so glad that Alan is making some progress. I hope that his doctors can figure out the cause of the fever. I'm sure that it is hard for you and him not to get discouraged. I carefully watch your posts and am keeping both of you in my thoughts. Hang in there and when friends can assist you, please let me know what would be helpful.
All the best,
Donna
Dearest Rhoda, keep yourself strong. Take care of yourself. I know what a toll this is on you. I'm glad to hear Alan is past some of the worst of it and I am praying for his healing and recovery and for your resolve and strength to see this all through.
Please tell him I'm thinking of him and the entire family. Let me know when I can do anything. I'm still struggling with CFS but I'm able to get to physical therapy and I'll get over to see you two once he is a bit further along.
Praying for both of you and a speedy touch of Gods hand on Alan.
Dwain
Dear Rhoda, I just this morning learned of Alan's situation via the Meetup site; so sorry you guys are going through this! I went through a somewhat similar ordeal with a parent once (different health problem), so I know how hard it can be on the family. I'm glad things are looking better.
I am too far away to be able to be of help, but I'll be thinking of you; do take good care of yourself!
Best,
Vickie Wolfe
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