Missing for a while

[Donahoo]

I think I'm jinxing his recovery by posting the good news so if you don't see anything bad, you will know he is better. This morning they removed the tubes draining the area around his heart, and the removal caused one of his lungs to collapse. This filled his chest wall, neck, and face with air. His voice got squeaky when he suddenly blew up like a basketball. The put in another chest tube to remove the air and his lung re-expanded. His cheeks are still puffy and his voice is weak, but he does look a lot better now. He is also not having as much trouble breathing as he was this morning. Plus the stress of the surgery has caused his blood sugars to be elevated and he is being given insulin. The doctor has assured us that he is not diabetic and this will improve as he recovers. I certainly hope so.

Thank you for your continued good wishes. I really need them.

[trucker2000]

My Gosh. I sure hope there's better news today. You both are in my thoughts and prayers.

[Donahoo]

He is a bit better today; breathing easier, still has the tube in his chest. Something they have given him has caused hot flashes, worse than I ever had; and a near panic attack when it happens. We suspect it is the Lortab he is getting for pain, since he has problems with other narcotics and has refused to take anything after two previous orthopedic surgeries. Not possible after this, though - long incisions and tubes everywhere.

[Xjmt]

Does not sound like fun but at least he's feeling a bit better.

[Donahoo]

News keeps getting worse. Ronnie got in trouble during the night and has been placed back on the ventilator. Also since he hasn't eaten in a few days and can't eat now, a feeding tube has been placed. The air in his chest is being drained by two tubes and he is back on the monitor. At this point, I'm not sure whether he is going to recover from this or not.

[brian]

We're with you in mind and spirit, Anne. Hang tough. He needs your strength and optimism.

[Xjmt]

[trucker2000]

I already told you what I needed too, so take a from me too. Call anytime you need to.

[lswot]

we're her for ya!

[Ilana]

Major positive vibes going your way!!!! It's going to be fine!!

[brian]

[Henry J]

We'll keep our fingers and tentacles crossed...

Henry

[Donahoo]

He is better today, they have let him wake up and they are weaning him from the ventilator slowly. He is frustrated by being unable to communicate well with hand gestures, but I feel more optimistic today. Yesterday was the worst day of my life.

You all are a great bunch of people. I'm privileged to know you. I found this on another forum and it is fitting even thought not completely accurate.

Although you are a friend of mine
and letters we exchange,
I wouldn't know you on the street,
and doesn't that seem strange?

You hold a place within my life,
unusual and unique;
We share ideals and special dreams,
and still, we do not speak.

I picture what I think you are,
perhaps you picture me.
An intriguing game for both of us
for someone we can't see.

So for this friendship we possess,
we owe this mail a debt,
Perhaps the charm lies in the fact
that we have never met.

[brian]

[lswot]

Ditto!