At about 8:00 Melissa and Mom walked over to visit with Rob. Half hour later Marla and I walked over. When we got their the nurses were re-tapeing his mouth tube. When finished, Rob gave the thumbs up. We talked to him a little bit and then sat down and told him to let us know if he needed anything. So we sat. It was kind of boring - we forgot to bring music or games. Luckily, Rob signaled for us after 5-10 minutes. He wanted a rag from a closet for his mouth.
One of the nurses told us that the ventilator uses warmed air which was probably why Rob always feels so hot. Marla massaged his feet while I held the fan. Rob kept adjusting the bed (the back up and down) which caused his blood pressure to raise a little. Once the nurse told him that we needed to keep his blood pressure down Rob seemed to focus and relax a little more. I would occasionally tell him his blood pressure and that seemed to help give him focus. Rob is very number oriented. We were wishing that Rob's monitors could face him - I think he'd love knowing his inner stats.
When Mom and Melissa were there with Rob they said he asked for dad to come visit him. Marla and I stayed for about an hour and then dad came and took our place. Dad brought over his iPod so he'll probably stay with Rob for a while.
Rob's doing well. You can tell he's annoyed with the breather and all the other cords going this way and that, but he's recovering well and is being patient (especially considering that he's been in there for over a week now. He asked for the time, date, and day of the week while we were there). Marla bought Rob a stuffed kitten and that seems to keep Rob company and keeps his mind off the annoyances.
Melissa, Marin, and I are leaving for home tomorrow. It was kind of a bummer not to be able to play multiplayer games with Rob, but I'm sure we'll have plenty of time when he comes back home.
Landon and Jen are trying to figure out what they're going to do. Looks like they won't be able to go back to New Orleans anytime soon. Landon's waiting to hear from his school. He may be going back to Utah until things get figured out.
8/31/2005
Robs moved to a new room.
Rob is in a new room in ICU. He has a private room and now we have permission to visit him all day except from 6-8AM and 6-8PM. When they moved him we had just come in and Marla said "Hey his breathing tube disconnected!" I was in the room so I reconnected it. It was so scary to see him gasping for breath. I talked to his nurse and the intern and asked why there is only a friction fit connection. They said that is the way it has to be and that there is an alarm if it disconnects. We never heard the alarm. I told them and they tested it and it was working. We don't need that kind of excitement and poor Rob does not need the added stress. I spoke with him and showed him how to reconnect the tube if it came out. He can move his hands pretty well now and he was sitting up a lot during the day. He seems to be tolerating the breathing tube better and we pray with each day that he will get stronger and able to deal with the removal of the tube. The doctor said that they could do a tracheotomy which would allow him to talk and yet they would have control to help his breathing. The pulmunary doctor wants to try staying with the tube and not the trach for another day or two. The trach is not a permanant thing. He would have som neck scares, but with all the other surgery marks he won't mind. We hope he can have the tube removed and that he starts to breath on his own. It will be great to have someone with him all day now that he is in the new room. We also hope that he can get some sleep. It is always so loud and active in the recovery room. I hope his new room is much more quiet.
Jennifer is here with us and that is a real blessing since New Orleans is uninhabitable. Landon and Jen can stay here with us and will have to wait to see what the future will bring. What a blessing that she and Landon were able to be here. If I had been in New Orleans I might have stayed since there have been so many false alarms in the past. What a mess it is there. Our hotel has been filled with evacuees of New Orleans. I hope that the Medical school gets back to operation in a reasonable time.
We get to go back to see Rob tonight and it will be the first time we will not be rushed to spend some time with him. We hope that he is not too tired. It will be great to just sit in the room and watch him rest. We thank you all for your prayers and please continue to remember him in your thoughts and prayers.
Thanks and love, Mike
Jennifer is here with us and that is a real blessing since New Orleans is uninhabitable. Landon and Jen can stay here with us and will have to wait to see what the future will bring. What a blessing that she and Landon were able to be here. If I had been in New Orleans I might have stayed since there have been so many false alarms in the past. What a mess it is there. Our hotel has been filled with evacuees of New Orleans. I hope that the Medical school gets back to operation in a reasonable time.
We get to go back to see Rob tonight and it will be the first time we will not be rushed to spend some time with him. We hope that he is not too tired. It will be great to just sit in the room and watch him rest. We thank you all for your prayers and please continue to remember him in your thoughts and prayers.
Thanks and love, Mike
Sitting!
Sorry for the late update. We went to chinatown right after seeing Rob and just got home from that. We were the only white people there.
This morning Mike went to the store and bought 6 more fans. Rob made a nurse call this morning to say he needed new ones. He was one happy camper when we came with them. Today he was also sitting in a chair. It was nice to see him in something other than his bed. He didn't sleep very well last night, so he was sleepy when we got there. Hopefully he has been able to sleep this afternoon.
When we were eating lunch we received a phone call from the hospital saying that they might be switching Rob upstairs. They would keep the breathing tube in, but we would be able to visit him a lot more. We will found out at 5 to see if that happened.
This morning Mike went to the store and bought 6 more fans. Rob made a nurse call this morning to say he needed new ones. He was one happy camper when we came with them. Today he was also sitting in a chair. It was nice to see him in something other than his bed. He didn't sleep very well last night, so he was sleepy when we got there. Hopefully he has been able to sleep this afternoon.
When we were eating lunch we received a phone call from the hospital saying that they might be switching Rob upstairs. They would keep the breathing tube in, but we would be able to visit him a lot more. We will found out at 5 to see if that happened.
8/30/2005
Getting Stronger
8:15pm visit-Marla, Melissa, Denise, Mike and Marin just came back from the hospital. It is about a 10 minute walk from the hotel. Since it is so hot we try to take the skyways when we can. Anyways, a doctor from Dr. Coselli's team was there to answer our questions. Rob's CT scan showed a bullae which is a small bulging out in one of his lungs. It probably was something he came in with--probably related to Marfan's syndrome and the connective tissue being so stretchy.
I'm not sure why they didn't see it before the surgery--but they probably had to go ahead anyways. The doctors say the ventilator has made the bullae bigger because the air from it is pushing it out. The doctors really want the ventilator tube out too but have to play it extremely safe because when they tried to remove it before his blood pressure goes us so much. He did have some fluid in his lungs that is now cleared out since his heart is pumping better.and improved his circulation. Mike tried giving Rob a pep talk about how scary it was to breathe on his own when they took his pump out in May--to relax and breathe even though he hurts.
Rob really likes the small hand-held fans we brought in--but they've already quit-the batteries not being the problem (They won't allow a fan with a cord in the ICU--too many cords and tubes by his bed already.) We are going to check out some other stores tomorrow. They've told us in many stores they had more fans, "when it was hot." It's 99+ degrees here and humid--they think that it is cool now???? It was funny because Rob tried to replace the batteries himself between the three fans while we were there even though he can's see what he'd doing--he has to keep his head up because ot the tube in his mouth. Also, when Melissa or Marla stopped massaging his feet he'd motion to start up again by wiggling his fingers and pointing to his feet.
Tomorrow they will try again to take the ventilator out--we're praying tomorrow's the day it will work for him. He might get to move to another floor in a day or two where we can visit longer hours. Rob has nodded, "yes" when we've asked him if he'd like that.
I'm not sure why they didn't see it before the surgery--but they probably had to go ahead anyways. The doctors say the ventilator has made the bullae bigger because the air from it is pushing it out. The doctors really want the ventilator tube out too but have to play it extremely safe because when they tried to remove it before his blood pressure goes us so much. He did have some fluid in his lungs that is now cleared out since his heart is pumping better.and improved his circulation. Mike tried giving Rob a pep talk about how scary it was to breathe on his own when they took his pump out in May--to relax and breathe even though he hurts.
Rob really likes the small hand-held fans we brought in--but they've already quit-the batteries not being the problem (They won't allow a fan with a cord in the ICU--too many cords and tubes by his bed already.) We are going to check out some other stores tomorrow. They've told us in many stores they had more fans, "when it was hot." It's 99+ degrees here and humid--they think that it is cool now???? It was funny because Rob tried to replace the batteries himself between the three fans while we were there even though he can's see what he'd doing--he has to keep his head up because ot the tube in his mouth. Also, when Melissa or Marla stopped massaging his feet he'd motion to start up again by wiggling his fingers and pointing to his feet.
Tomorrow they will try again to take the ventilator out--we're praying tomorrow's the day it will work for him. He might get to move to another floor in a day or two where we can visit longer hours. Rob has nodded, "yes" when we've asked him if he'd like that.
More Animated
[By Brian]
5:00pm update. Rob was doing a lot better this time. Marla and I went in first. It was funny because Rob pointed at Marla and gave the thumbs up. We couldn't figure out what he was saying so we just guessed. I said, "Oh, are you saying Marla's looking good?" He shook his head and pointed harder at the fan Marla was holding. Then Marla said, "Are you saying you like this fan?" He nodded his head in acceptance. Marla and I thought the situation was funny - I covered for Rob and said, "but, you do think she's looking good today, right?" I think he nodded yes.
A doctor came in and he asked how we thought he looked. We said he looked better but then said, "it sure would be nice to get that tube out." The doc agreed. And then the doctor continued to say that the CT scans look good. The doctor and nurse talked about some deal where Rob might have a little pocket in his lungs that is making it hard from him to breath on his own. [I couldn't figure out if it's a pocket that is trapping air, or a pocket that is expanding into the lungs.] The doc seemed positive and said we just need a little time and that they would just continue to try taking the tube out until it worked. Other then the tube, the doctor said things were looking really good. While the doctor talked to us Rob looked very alert with eyes wide open. You can tell Rob is paying attention to what's going on with himself.
We asked Rob if he wanted us to talk to him or if he wanted to rest [lately he's wanted rest]. He signaled that he wanted us to talk. Marla and I talked about the Aquarium we all went to today. It was a really nice place that looked a lot like Disney. We told him about the white bangle tiger we saw (he frowned his eyebrows); it was weird that an Aquarium had a tiger, but it was cool anyway.
We continued to talk and Rob then made a signal that he couldn't wait until he got the air-tube out of his mouth so that he could play his PSP (hand-held video game system). Marla and I got a good laugh. It was good to see Rob so animated. His eyes were open and closed - but, more open then I've seen previously.
When Dad went in he said he told him that they could do a tracheotomy so that they could at least get the air-tube out. Rob shook his head and motioned that he didn't care if it took several days until his tube came out - he wants it out, but he's being patient. When the tube does come out he'll get an oxygen mask and will quickly get his own room where we could visit more often [Rob gave the thumbs up when he heard this news].
I told Rob that people are praying for him and he seemed comforted. Thanks everyone.
5:00pm update. Rob was doing a lot better this time. Marla and I went in first. It was funny because Rob pointed at Marla and gave the thumbs up. We couldn't figure out what he was saying so we just guessed. I said, "Oh, are you saying Marla's looking good?" He shook his head and pointed harder at the fan Marla was holding. Then Marla said, "Are you saying you like this fan?" He nodded his head in acceptance. Marla and I thought the situation was funny - I covered for Rob and said, "but, you do think she's looking good today, right?" I think he nodded yes.
A doctor came in and he asked how we thought he looked. We said he looked better but then said, "it sure would be nice to get that tube out." The doc agreed. And then the doctor continued to say that the CT scans look good. The doctor and nurse talked about some deal where Rob might have a little pocket in his lungs that is making it hard from him to breath on his own. [I couldn't figure out if it's a pocket that is trapping air, or a pocket that is expanding into the lungs.] The doc seemed positive and said we just need a little time and that they would just continue to try taking the tube out until it worked. Other then the tube, the doctor said things were looking really good. While the doctor talked to us Rob looked very alert with eyes wide open. You can tell Rob is paying attention to what's going on with himself.
We asked Rob if he wanted us to talk to him or if he wanted to rest [lately he's wanted rest]. He signaled that he wanted us to talk. Marla and I talked about the Aquarium we all went to today. It was a really nice place that looked a lot like Disney. We told him about the white bangle tiger we saw (he frowned his eyebrows); it was weird that an Aquarium had a tiger, but it was cool anyway.
We continued to talk and Rob then made a signal that he couldn't wait until he got the air-tube out of his mouth so that he could play his PSP (hand-held video game system). Marla and I got a good laugh. It was good to see Rob so animated. His eyes were open and closed - but, more open then I've seen previously.
When Dad went in he said he told him that they could do a tracheotomy so that they could at least get the air-tube out. Rob shook his head and motioned that he didn't care if it took several days until his tube came out - he wants it out, but he's being patient. When the tube does come out he'll get an oxygen mask and will quickly get his own room where we could visit more often [Rob gave the thumbs up when he heard this news].
I told Rob that people are praying for him and he seemed comforted. Thanks everyone.
Slow and Steady....
[By Melissa]
(Do you like my subject heading? I got it from Steph & Garrett--I liked the Slow and Steady wins the race comment--I even told Rob that today hoping it would provide some motivation and comfort.)
10:00 visit-Breathing tube still in. They tried this morning to take him off the breather, but he got hypertensive (his blood pressure shot up), so they ordered a CT scan (a more detailed xray of his lungs) to see what might be hindering his breathing on his own. Landon (our personal doctor-in-training) said it could be fluid in his lungs or a collapsed lung, both are relatively easy to correct. This would make sense seeing that Rob wants the tube out so badly, but just can't seem to breathe on his own yet. We're hoping that this can be corrected soon, for Rob is still agitated (and he deserves to be) that he's going through all this. The days seem long for us, so it must seem like an eternity to him. We did find (after 7+ stores of dad hunting around) a handheld battery-operated fan for him to use when he gets hot. He seemed to like that and it even helped lower his blood pressure a bit having Marla by his side fanning him this morning. (What husband wouldn't like that?) So keep your prayers going, they really are helping and we feel comforted from them too. We love you all. Talk to you all again after the 5pm visit.
(Do you like my subject heading? I got it from Steph & Garrett--I liked the Slow and Steady wins the race comment--I even told Rob that today hoping it would provide some motivation and comfort.)
10:00 visit-Breathing tube still in. They tried this morning to take him off the breather, but he got hypertensive (his blood pressure shot up), so they ordered a CT scan (a more detailed xray of his lungs) to see what might be hindering his breathing on his own. Landon (our personal doctor-in-training) said it could be fluid in his lungs or a collapsed lung, both are relatively easy to correct. This would make sense seeing that Rob wants the tube out so badly, but just can't seem to breathe on his own yet. We're hoping that this can be corrected soon, for Rob is still agitated (and he deserves to be) that he's going through all this. The days seem long for us, so it must seem like an eternity to him. We did find (after 7+ stores of dad hunting around) a handheld battery-operated fan for him to use when he gets hot. He seemed to like that and it even helped lower his blood pressure a bit having Marla by his side fanning him this morning. (What husband wouldn't like that?) So keep your prayers going, they really are helping and we feel comforted from them too. We love you all. Talk to you all again after the 5pm visit.
8/29/2005
Still Hot
[By Marla]
8:15 visit- Denise and I went in tonight. Mike went to walmart to find a fan. Mike and Denise went to 7 different stores before we went to the hospital and they didn't find one. So we will be giving Rob his fan tomorrow.
Tonight Rob was very tired. He had been given some medicine around 7 so he was pretty out of it when we saw him. He kissed my finger which was cute since he has the breathing tube in. The nurse said that they are slowly turning down the breathing tube again and maybe tomorrow they will try taking it out. We all know Rob would love that if that can happen.
Thank you for all your comments! We all tell Rob about them and love to see him smile when he hears them.
8:15 visit- Denise and I went in tonight. Mike went to walmart to find a fan. Mike and Denise went to 7 different stores before we went to the hospital and they didn't find one. So we will be giving Rob his fan tomorrow.
Tonight Rob was very tired. He had been given some medicine around 7 so he was pretty out of it when we saw him. He kissed my finger which was cute since he has the breathing tube in. The nurse said that they are slowly turning down the breathing tube again and maybe tomorrow they will try taking it out. We all know Rob would love that if that can happen.
Thank you for all your comments! We all tell Rob about them and love to see him smile when he hears them.
HOT Flashes and flashing
5:00 visit- We came in to a very hot Robbie. He looked uncomfortable and we were able to see all his bandages on his chest and his drainage tubes. He motioned to me (marla) and kept turning his finger in circles and I just didn't understand him, so I handed him paper. He wrote fan, aa, meaning he wanted one of those cheap fans that you can get at disney or something. We had one in Disney and he used it sooo much, so it didn't surprise me that he wanted one. We put cold wash clothes on him to try to help him cool down as well. He is very alert and he reached up and held my hand the whole time visiting. He's just adorable. They said that he is hot from a medication that they gave him earlier today.
They were able to shock his heart back into normal rythmn. So we are all crossing our fingers and praying that it will stay like that. His blood pressure was a little high, but they think that is from being shocked. There is still no news about the breathing tube to come out. There are also no signs of any infections.
Jen and Landon are still here. They watch the news to see if they see any of their personal items floating down the water. So far they haven't found anything. They are not sure when they will be able to go back.
They were able to shock his heart back into normal rythmn. So we are all crossing our fingers and praying that it will stay like that. His blood pressure was a little high, but they think that is from being shocked. There is still no news about the breathing tube to come out. There are also no signs of any infections.
Jen and Landon are still here. They watch the news to see if they see any of their personal items floating down the water. So far they haven't found anything. They are not sure when they will be able to go back.
Patience
11:30am At the 10am visit Rob was sitting up and more awake than we've seen him yet--that was nice. He is so uncomfortable with the ventilator tube still in. He motions for it to be removed--but the drs. are taking it slowly. Certain criteria have to be met before they can do that safely. We wish Rob could speak to let people know what he's feeling.
An Infectious Disease dr. was there so I (Denise) got to ask him lots of questions. He said the culture they took in surgery that showed an infection a few days ago was a contaminant in the OR. Since his chest was open so long it was not a surprise to have that happen. So it was good news that is was nothing in Rob's system originally. He's still on anti-biotics because he has slight fluid in his lungs.
Rob had a kind of tape-like "paddles" attached to his chest so give his heart a small shock to get it to beat in the right rhythm. (This isn't as intense as the heart paddles to start someone's heart if it's stopped.) They were going to sedate him before doing the littlier shock anyways. His heartbeat still has been fast and then slow and back again and the shock should get it back to where it should be.
It has been a bit frustrating to not always have the complete picture. Since we can only go in 2 at a time at 10am, 5pm and 8:15pm for 1/2 hour we ask questions of the nurse--and there are different nurses on each shift. Plus, they're not allowed to give out much info. Then when we get back together it's been hard to get all our facts straight. I mentioned how tough it was to a nurse so she contacted someone and today we got to meet with a social worker. They've been so busy here, she apologized for not having someone get together with us sooner. She will have a doctor or internist get a hold of us today to answer any questions we have.
An Infectious Disease dr. was there so I (Denise) got to ask him lots of questions. He said the culture they took in surgery that showed an infection a few days ago was a contaminant in the OR. Since his chest was open so long it was not a surprise to have that happen. So it was good news that is was nothing in Rob's system originally. He's still on anti-biotics because he has slight fluid in his lungs.
Rob had a kind of tape-like "paddles" attached to his chest so give his heart a small shock to get it to beat in the right rhythm. (This isn't as intense as the heart paddles to start someone's heart if it's stopped.) They were going to sedate him before doing the littlier shock anyways. His heartbeat still has been fast and then slow and back again and the shock should get it back to where it should be.
It has been a bit frustrating to not always have the complete picture. Since we can only go in 2 at a time at 10am, 5pm and 8:15pm for 1/2 hour we ask questions of the nurse--and there are different nurses on each shift. Plus, they're not allowed to give out much info. Then when we get back together it's been hard to get all our facts straight. I mentioned how tough it was to a nurse so she contacted someone and today we got to meet with a social worker. They've been so busy here, she apologized for not having someone get together with us sooner. She will have a doctor or internist get a hold of us today to answer any questions we have.
8/28/2005
Rob is writing notes
9 PM Sunday the 28th.
Not much change. Still trying to get his heart rate under control. He was moved again. Still in intensive care and all his co-patients from last Tuesday have been leaving. It is lonely still being in the same area and not seeing all the other families that you connected with who are there for their loved ones. It is good to see them recovering.
Rob has been writing notes to his nurses and doctors. One of them actually gave a specific instruction to lower his pain medicine to a specific number. It must be very frustrating to hear all the commotion going on around you and not be able to express your feelings clearly. We know that each day the healing process continues even though he is still in such difficulty. We pray for continued strength and stability for Rob. We look forward to each new day and the continued process of recovery.
Thanks again to all of you for your prayers.
Not much change. Still trying to get his heart rate under control. He was moved again. Still in intensive care and all his co-patients from last Tuesday have been leaving. It is lonely still being in the same area and not seeing all the other families that you connected with who are there for their loved ones. It is good to see them recovering.
Rob has been writing notes to his nurses and doctors. One of them actually gave a specific instruction to lower his pain medicine to a specific number. It must be very frustrating to hear all the commotion going on around you and not be able to express your feelings clearly. We know that each day the healing process continues even though he is still in such difficulty. We pray for continued strength and stability for Rob. We look forward to each new day and the continued process of recovery.
Thanks again to all of you for your prayers.
Tough day for Rob
Very difficult visit tonight. Rob had been having a good day when his blood pressure, heart rate and respiration increased dramatically. They said his blood pressure went to 170 and heart rate to 150. They also said his ability to get rid of his carbon dioxide had become very limited. They increased his respirator to maximum and gave him various drugs. At 5 tonight he seemed aware that he had had a real set back. He had written to the nurse that he wanted the phone. We don't know who he planned to call since he cannot speak. We think he was so frustrated that he wanted to call for help. It is difficult to see him with the respirator still in and having this additional challenge. It would be so great for him to speak to his nurses and doctors.
As Brian and Marla were at his bedside the nurse plugged in an external pacemaker using the wires coming out of his chest. They don't think the nurse was paying attention because Rob got a real jolt and his eyes opened wide and he arched up in pain. Marla and Brian told the nurse that he didn't like that. They also took an EKG and a chest Xray during our visit.
It is not unusual to have a set back but they are concerned because they do not know what caused the reaction he had. They told us if he has a good day he may be able to go to another room that would allow longer visits. I think that would be great because he appreciates having his neck massaged by Melissa and his head rubbed by Marla and his feet massaged by anyone.
Please keep Rob, Marla, and the doctors and nurses in your prayers. We feel the strength of all the prayers that have been offered on our behalf, and we all appreciate your comments and support.
As Brian and Marla were at his bedside the nurse plugged in an external pacemaker using the wires coming out of his chest. They don't think the nurse was paying attention because Rob got a real jolt and his eyes opened wide and he arched up in pain. Marla and Brian told the nurse that he didn't like that. They also took an EKG and a chest Xray during our visit.
It is not unusual to have a set back but they are concerned because they do not know what caused the reaction he had. They told us if he has a good day he may be able to go to another room that would allow longer visits. I think that would be great because he appreciates having his neck massaged by Melissa and his head rubbed by Marla and his feet massaged by anyone.
Please keep Rob, Marla, and the doctors and nurses in your prayers. We feel the strength of all the prayers that have been offered on our behalf, and we all appreciate your comments and support.
Still has tube in...
10 am visit: We were hoping to see that Rob had the respirator out, but he didn't. This morning they said they turned off the respirator to see how he would do. At first he was fine, but then he started to breath heavily and freak out. So they did not take it out. He is now using less of the respirator and they are slowly letting him breath on his own. Today was the first day I saw Rob physically point to the tube and point like he wanted it out. One of the nurses said that normally the mind is very awake and ready to have it out, but the lungs aren't.
Other than that.. he was very awake and was able to point and have us do things for him. His neck was really bothering him today, so Melissa massaged it. We told him everyone says hello and how everyone is leaving comments and we can't wait for him to read them all. When we were leaving they said they were going to give him nutrients. So yeah!
Other than that.. he was very awake and was able to point and have us do things for him. His neck was really bothering him today, so Melissa massaged it. We told him everyone says hello and how everyone is leaving comments and we can't wait for him to read them all. When we were leaving they said they were going to give him nutrients. So yeah!
8/27/2005
Sponge bath
8:15 visit- Melissa and I (Marla) went in first. He smiled when he heard us and pointed down to his feet for Melissa to massage them. He, then pointed to his head and moved his hands around for me to massage his head. So now he is taking advantage of us to use our skills! During our visit, he was hot, uncomfortable and more aware of his tubes. He pointed a lot to his stomach and when we asked him if his stomach still hurt he nodded yes, so the nurse added more pain medication. He was moving around a lot more and probably was trying to tell us something. The nurse suctioned out his one of his tubes and then he was a bit better. He should be getting a cool bath tonight and shift positions so his back doesn't hurt as bad.
The nurse told us that the plan was to take the breathing tube out tomorrow morning, so hopefully that will happen. It is very hard to communicate with him and he doesn't look like he likes it much.
The nurse told us that the plan was to take the breathing tube out tomorrow morning, so hopefully that will happen. It is very hard to communicate with him and he doesn't look like he likes it much.
A loud wake up
6:30pm We visited Rob at 5:30 and he seemed so sleepy--Marla spoke to him but no response. So when Melissa and I (Denise) were in visiting we asked the nurse if it was from the extra medication they gave him in the morning when they removed the tube. She said, "Oh no, he's responded to me." She went over and LOUDLY in his face said, "Rob, your family is here, open your eyes so you can see them!" At first we were upset with this gruff-sounding lady but it was nice to had Rob open his eyes. In fact, he motioned a little with his fingers, and good thing Melissa could interpret that he wanted his feet rubbed--he nodded when she asked. Mom and Melissa each had a foot to rub. Jen and Landon then visited and he opened his eyes 4 times. Marla went back in and then he was able to see his sweetie. we were happy that he knew we were there. I guess we have to be louder when we visit so he knows we're there. Landon made it here safely--it's so nice to have him here to explain some medical things that we don't understand.
Melissa, Marin and Brian are staying until Thursday afternoon now instead of Monday. That way when Rob gets in a regular room (maybe Monday or so) they can visit with him. Jen and Landon will be here 'til Wednesday because hurricane Katrina is headed right for New Orleans. That will be nice for Rob, too.
Today the thermometer in the car said the outside temp was 109 degrees!
Melissa, Marin and Brian are staying until Thursday afternoon now instead of Monday. That way when Rob gets in a regular room (maybe Monday or so) they can visit with him. Jen and Landon will be here 'til Wednesday because hurricane Katrina is headed right for New Orleans. That will be nice for Rob, too.
Today the thermometer in the car said the outside temp was 109 degrees!
Removing Balloon Pump
Jen's turn to update!
10:00 AM - We all headed over for the 10 o'clock visit. We weren't allowed to go in immediately because they were removing the heart balloon pump. We returned a while later and got to see him for a few minutes. However, Rob had been sedated to have the pump removed. He didn't respond to us, but the nurse said that Rob was alert this morning. He was getting platelets at the time and he'll start getting nutrition tomorrow. There are mixed reports about when the ventilator will be removed - either tomorrow or in a couple days. They were having a hard time finding another vein because the previous one had collapsed. They were calling in specialist to help. It was sad not to be able to interact with Rob but at least he's progressing.
Dad and I are going to pick up Landon at the airport in a few minutes. We will drive back together. Our original plans were to drive back tomorrow but Hurricane Katrina may be hitting New Orleans on Monday. Maybe we'll get an extended visit.
Next update after 6 PM
10:00 AM - We all headed over for the 10 o'clock visit. We weren't allowed to go in immediately because they were removing the heart balloon pump. We returned a while later and got to see him for a few minutes. However, Rob had been sedated to have the pump removed. He didn't respond to us, but the nurse said that Rob was alert this morning. He was getting platelets at the time and he'll start getting nutrition tomorrow. There are mixed reports about when the ventilator will be removed - either tomorrow or in a couple days. They were having a hard time finding another vein because the previous one had collapsed. They were calling in specialist to help. It was sad not to be able to interact with Rob but at least he's progressing.
Dad and I are going to pick up Landon at the airport in a few minutes. We will drive back together. Our original plans were to drive back tomorrow but Hurricane Katrina may be hitting New Orleans on Monday. Maybe we'll get an extended visit.
Next update after 6 PM
8/26/2005
Guess who? Yes, it's me, Melissa updating you this evening. (I do have to say everyone's been doing such a good job I didn't feel I needed to add anything, but I do want to be part of this family/friends communication.)
Dad, Mom, Marla, Marin & I just walked back from the 8:15pm visiting time. Rob was pretty exhausted and somewhat agitated to be touched tonight. So we gave him our love and said good night. One of Doctor Coselli's residents was there checking in with Rob and said that if he continues to improve the way he's been going then they'll take out the heart (assist) pump tomorrow and anytime after that they'll be able to take out his breathing tube. (And hopefully he'll also get some nutrition tomorrow-through a tube, so far it's just been sugar water.) We'd all love to see that breathing tube out and be able to talk with him. The resident was very impressed at how he looked today compared to right after surgery because he said he had lost a lot of blood (which is a tidbit we didn't get from others).
One thing that amazes me every time we visit is that these Doctors and Surgeons are just people--doing amazing things! I'm sure glad to live in this day and age so we can have our Shrubbie with us! I love that guy so much--I said this after his first heart surgery, but I'll say it again, if physical bodies were measured by spiritual strength, Rob would be a giant--literally!
Keep those comments coming! We read every single one. I'd have to say we have quite a bit of free time with only getting to visit Rob 3 times a day for 1/2 hour a time. Love you all!
Dad, Mom, Marla, Marin & I just walked back from the 8:15pm visiting time. Rob was pretty exhausted and somewhat agitated to be touched tonight. So we gave him our love and said good night. One of Doctor Coselli's residents was there checking in with Rob and said that if he continues to improve the way he's been going then they'll take out the heart (assist) pump tomorrow and anytime after that they'll be able to take out his breathing tube. (And hopefully he'll also get some nutrition tomorrow-through a tube, so far it's just been sugar water.) We'd all love to see that breathing tube out and be able to talk with him. The resident was very impressed at how he looked today compared to right after surgery because he said he had lost a lot of blood (which is a tidbit we didn't get from others).
One thing that amazes me every time we visit is that these Doctors and Surgeons are just people--doing amazing things! I'm sure glad to live in this day and age so we can have our Shrubbie with us! I love that guy so much--I said this after his first heart surgery, but I'll say it again, if physical bodies were measured by spiritual strength, Rob would be a giant--literally!
Keep those comments coming! We read every single one. I'd have to say we have quite a bit of free time with only getting to visit Rob 3 times a day for 1/2 hour a time. Love you all!
Better
[Update From Denise]
7:30pm At the 5:00pm visit things were still good. They took the tape and electrodes off his scalp that were there during the surgery to monitor brain-wave function. For some reason they didn't take them off in the OR. They are kind of painful to remove because of the cement they use and the nurse couldn't figure why they didn't do that there when he was still under. Too many things going on then she guessed. Anyways, we were told they'd have to shave Rob's head in order to get them off. But luckily when the nurse worked on the tape she only had to remove a tiny bit of hair around the electrodes. But the three on his forehead pulled off skin. He did well the nurse said however.
Rob had another echocardiogram this afternoon and although all the nurse could say was it was better than the first one (she said the dr. has to be the one to relate all the info) they were able to remove several machines and tubes. His blood pressure and heart rate are good and his temp still in the normal range. Tomorrow they will try to take him off the heart balloon pump and see how his heart beats on its own. It was doing okay after surgery but the drs. seemed to think it needed to rest after all the trauma and put him on the balloon pump to help out. If the pump is removed tomorrow then they will see about removing the ventilator Sunday or Monday. He'll certainly be happy to get that out. He can somehow mouth a few words and we can read his lips even though he has a couple tubes in his mouth. He is certainly a trooper!!
We will go to the 8:15 visit soon--we just got back from supper and thought we should put in an update in case you were wondering. Denise
7:30pm At the 5:00pm visit things were still good. They took the tape and electrodes off his scalp that were there during the surgery to monitor brain-wave function. For some reason they didn't take them off in the OR. They are kind of painful to remove because of the cement they use and the nurse couldn't figure why they didn't do that there when he was still under. Too many things going on then she guessed. Anyways, we were told they'd have to shave Rob's head in order to get them off. But luckily when the nurse worked on the tape she only had to remove a tiny bit of hair around the electrodes. But the three on his forehead pulled off skin. He did well the nurse said however.
Rob had another echocardiogram this afternoon and although all the nurse could say was it was better than the first one (she said the dr. has to be the one to relate all the info) they were able to remove several machines and tubes. His blood pressure and heart rate are good and his temp still in the normal range. Tomorrow they will try to take him off the heart balloon pump and see how his heart beats on its own. It was doing okay after surgery but the drs. seemed to think it needed to rest after all the trauma and put him on the balloon pump to help out. If the pump is removed tomorrow then they will see about removing the ventilator Sunday or Monday. He'll certainly be happy to get that out. He can somehow mouth a few words and we can read his lips even though he has a couple tubes in his mouth. He is certainly a trooper!!
We will go to the 8:15 visit soon--we just got back from supper and thought we should put in an update in case you were wondering. Denise
Some Movement
Today was a good visit. He opened his eyes a small amount for each of us that came to visit him. When he first saw Marla he wrote "I love you" in her hand. He then continued to write something else but Marla couldn't figure it out. He patted her on the hand as if to show it was okay. Marla told him that she beat Jen and I (Brian) in a new board game we bought and Rob smiled as much as he could (Marla doesn't win games very often so it's exciting when she does [hee hee hee]).
Though he moved slowly, he moved his arms around a little. At one point Jen was rubbing his arm. I told Jen that Marla says Rob doesn't like that. Rob shook his head and Jen quit. We misunderstood what Rob meant because a few seconds later he slowly moved his other hand over and did a rubbing motion. We asked, "Oh, you don't mind?" He shook his head. So Jen went back to rubbing his arm. It was good to see that he could move a little bit.
They weaned him off of all the blood pressure medication over the last 24 hours. His temperature is down to 98.8 degrees - looks like the fever is gone.
I asked Rob if he's been able to sleep well. He shook his head yes.
Though he moved slowly, he moved his arms around a little. At one point Jen was rubbing his arm. I told Jen that Marla says Rob doesn't like that. Rob shook his head and Jen quit. We misunderstood what Rob meant because a few seconds later he slowly moved his other hand over and did a rubbing motion. We asked, "Oh, you don't mind?" He shook his head. So Jen went back to rubbing his arm. It was good to see that he could move a little bit.
They weaned him off of all the blood pressure medication over the last 24 hours. His temperature is down to 98.8 degrees - looks like the fever is gone.
I asked Rob if he's been able to sleep well. He shook his head yes.
8/25/2005
Slow Going
Update on Rob for 8/25 at 9 PM by Rob's Dad
Today was a difficult day for me. Rob is "status quo" but I had hoped for so much more. They have told us that he will be on the respirator for a few more days and that he needs the heart pump for a day or two more to help him gain his strength. I start to expect too much and it is hard on all of us as our expectations are not met. I need to be constantly grateful for what is happening and the great care he is getting.
We are concerned about the infection they diagnosed. They took a sample of tissue from his heart during surgery and cultured it. They are checking various vitals every 10 minutes and will take a more aggressive approach if it is indicated. He had a specialist just for the infection review his case and is now supervising his care in that area.
It is so difficult to see him so tired that he cannot keep his eyes open - but it is exciting to see him respond in the little ways that he does. He is really able to open his eyes when he knows Marla is in the room. Love has such a healing power. We are so grateful to Marla and the great wife and friend she is to Rob. I remember seeing Rob at the office after the first time he saw Marla. He was smiling so much I asked him if he had a piece of candy in his pocket. He said no, and then said, "I just saw the most beautiful girl in the world, and I talked to her!" Right now he cannot talk to her but he can still smile like he's got candy in his pocket (hospital gown).
We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers.
Today was a difficult day for me. Rob is "status quo" but I had hoped for so much more. They have told us that he will be on the respirator for a few more days and that he needs the heart pump for a day or two more to help him gain his strength. I start to expect too much and it is hard on all of us as our expectations are not met. I need to be constantly grateful for what is happening and the great care he is getting.
We are concerned about the infection they diagnosed. They took a sample of tissue from his heart during surgery and cultured it. They are checking various vitals every 10 minutes and will take a more aggressive approach if it is indicated. He had a specialist just for the infection review his case and is now supervising his care in that area.
It is so difficult to see him so tired that he cannot keep his eyes open - but it is exciting to see him respond in the little ways that he does. He is really able to open his eyes when he knows Marla is in the room. Love has such a healing power. We are so grateful to Marla and the great wife and friend she is to Rob. I remember seeing Rob at the office after the first time he saw Marla. He was smiling so much I asked him if he had a piece of candy in his pocket. He said no, and then said, "I just saw the most beautiful girl in the world, and I talked to her!" Right now he cannot talk to her but he can still smile like he's got candy in his pocket (hospital gown).
We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers.
Small Infection
6:00pm-We just returned from seeing Rob at the 5:00 visit. He opened his eyes a couple times and raised his eyebrows when told a new person came in. He has an infection and is running a low-grade temp. He is on anti-biotics and being given more fluids. He been puffy since the surgery so he looks like he's got lots of fluid already but we were told a person can still be dehydrated internally. It is kind of common to get an infection after surgery we understand. The nurse said he had a good day today even though the slight fever. He has been weaned off one of the two blood pressure meds and they'll start weaning him off another before they can remove the balloon pump which is helping his heart pump. He'll probably be in intensive care for a few more days. We'll go back for the 8:15pm visit tonight and see what, if anything, has happened.
By the way, we are at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital (in Houston where it is 99-103 degrees.) There are 700+ acres of hospital buildings and medical universities here. I don't know the address of the hospital but I'll try to get it. Since Rob is in intensive care there is no way for others to phone there. There is for us but it can only be one family member and I am (Denise) the one who calls for updates in the middle of the night. When he does get into a room we'll have to see if he wants the number given out since it could/would interrupt his sleep to have the phone ring.
It has been so nice to read the comments you all have sent. It helps us so much. Rob will be very touched to read them when he's well enough. It is such a blessing to live in America were we can get the healthcare we need for our family. I keep thinking of those in other parts of the world who cannot do that for various reasons--I can't imagine how terrible that would be. We are grateful to be able to be here and so grateful for those in the medical field that can help Rob--it is truly miraculous what is being done for him. Thank you for your prayers--they help more than you can imagine--we love you all.
By the way, we are at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital (in Houston where it is 99-103 degrees.) There are 700+ acres of hospital buildings and medical universities here. I don't know the address of the hospital but I'll try to get it. Since Rob is in intensive care there is no way for others to phone there. There is for us but it can only be one family member and I am (Denise) the one who calls for updates in the middle of the night. When he does get into a room we'll have to see if he wants the number given out since it could/would interrupt his sleep to have the phone ring.
It has been so nice to read the comments you all have sent. It helps us so much. Rob will be very touched to read them when he's well enough. It is such a blessing to live in America were we can get the healthcare we need for our family. I keep thinking of those in other parts of the world who cannot do that for various reasons--I can't imagine how terrible that would be. We are grateful to be able to be here and so grateful for those in the medical field that can help Rob--it is truly miraculous what is being done for him. Thank you for your prayers--they help more than you can imagine--we love you all.
A Little Better
10:15am. Marla and Mom went in first to visit with Rob (well, it’s more like look at him, but that makes it sound like he’s a zoo animal). He opened his eyes a little for Marla. Next dad and I went in. He was doing good. We told him we were there and he nodded his head a little - acknowledging us. He smiled a little too. We told him to take it easy, to relax - so, we didn’t have him open his eyes. I told him that we’ve been updating the website and lots of people are giving him their best. He seems to look a little better today then he did yesterday.
He’s got tape around his head that holds some electrodes in place. He also has some tape around his mouth holding the breathing tube in place. He seemed to not like it very much. Melissa asked if he needed more pain medication but he shook his head no.
Just wanted to thank everybody for adding their comments to the website. It’s been really helpful to us to hear from all of you, to know you’re praying for Rob and for us. We all agree that it’s been very nice to know that you all are thinking about our family and it’s been great to hear how much you are concerned for Rob.
He’s got tape around his head that holds some electrodes in place. He also has some tape around his mouth holding the breathing tube in place. He seemed to not like it very much. Melissa asked if he needed more pain medication but he shook his head no.
Just wanted to thank everybody for adding their comments to the website. It’s been really helpful to us to hear from all of you, to know you’re praying for Rob and for us. We all agree that it’s been very nice to know that you all are thinking about our family and it’s been great to hear how much you are concerned for Rob.
8/24/2005
A post from Marla (Rob's wife =) )
We just came back from the 8:15-8:45 visit. Apparently after we saw him last time, he woke up and was able to respond to his name and open his eyes. They said they sedated him more after that. So when Melissa and I went in, the nurse told Rob to open his eyes and slowly we got to see Rob's pretty blue eyes. He was all teary eyed and the nurse let me wipe off one of his eyes. He looked just so exhausted so he had his eyes closed the rest of the time. He just keeps looking better, so I can't wait to see him tomorrow at 10 am. Thank you for all your prayers and comments. I told him how we're updating the website and he has many people who love him.
Mom's Update
[Update from Rob's Mom]
6:45 pm. We just came back from seeing Rob at the 5:00 visit. Soooooo many hoses--Mike counted 40 tubes going in and out. Marla and Jen went in first and during the visit Rob lifted one of his legs a bit and then his hand--the nurse was really surprised he did that. Then when Marla took his hand he responded by moving his fingers. He is so heavily sedated it was amazing. He is still in critical condition and will stay in the ICU a few more days. The balloon pump they put up through a vein in the groin area helps his heart to pump and so it doesn't have to work as hard. He might need that for a couple days. His coloring is rosier now with that help. They wean him gradually off the respirator over the next couple days--that's good. Right now he's on three different blood pressure medications to help with that. They will see how he does over time using less of that, too. Mike and I went in after Marla and Jen and when the nurse told us he responded to Marla we were in shock. The next visiting time is 8:15pm tonight.
6:45 pm. We just came back from seeing Rob at the 5:00 visit. Soooooo many hoses--Mike counted 40 tubes going in and out. Marla and Jen went in first and during the visit Rob lifted one of his legs a bit and then his hand--the nurse was really surprised he did that. Then when Marla took his hand he responded by moving his fingers. He is so heavily sedated it was amazing. He is still in critical condition and will stay in the ICU a few more days. The balloon pump they put up through a vein in the groin area helps his heart to pump and so it doesn't have to work as hard. He might need that for a couple days. His coloring is rosier now with that help. They wean him gradually off the respirator over the next couple days--that's good. Right now he's on three different blood pressure medications to help with that. They will see how he does over time using less of that, too. Mike and I went in after Marla and Jen and when the nurse told us he responded to Marla we were in shock. The next visiting time is 8:15pm tonight.
Good Luck, Rob
The Allgaier clan made a little video for Rob. [Good Luck, Rob]
Thanks guys! I'll be sure to show him as soon as he's awake.
Thanks guys! I'll be sure to show him as soon as he's awake.
Quick Update
We got a call at around 12:00. They said they were going to put [I can't remember the name] a device inside Rob up in his heart area to help his heart pump for him. It sounds like a routine thing - they will just do it at his bedside, they don't need to do any kind of surgery. It doesn't sound like a big deal. We get to go visit him again at about 5:00pm.
Next Morning
10:00am. Lots of tubes. High-tech machinery. Pretty serious looking. There’s a machine breathing for him. His heart is beating on it’s own. He has a tube down his throat. Tubes in his mouth. Tubes going everywhere. We got to take a look at him this morning. He’s fully sedated. He’s puffy in the checks and his neck looks thick - a little bit of scruff starting to grow (not much, but, then again, he’s not been known to grow facial hair like a wild man). His legs have white high-tech looking socks that adjust pressure - to avoid clotting. He almost looks like a guy getting ready for a Darth Vadar suit (except his face isn’t burnt). It’s a little emotional seeing him. But, things seem to be going well.
We’re gonna try to go out shopping today. Take our minds off things for a short while. All we can do now is wait. It’s good that he’s so sedated right now. They figure it’ll be a day or two longer before he gets off heavy sedation.
We’re gonna try to go out shopping today. Take our minds off things for a short while. All we can do now is wait. It’s good that he’s so sedated right now. They figure it’ll be a day or two longer before he gets off heavy sedation.
Dad's Update
Entry From Rob's Dad
Denise called the hospital at 4AM and got a report that Rob had high blood pressure but that the blood chemistry was looking better. Rob had warmed up to the point that he was providing most of his own body heat.
I called this morning at about 7:30 and was told that his blood chemistry still looks good but that his blood pressure was now low. The surgeon, Dr. Coselli was already in and had ordered an echocardiogram to see if there were any problems in his chest. We will see Rob at 10 and our hearts are filled with hope that all will be fine and that his recovery will proceed as hoped.
I visited a small area in the hospital which is a tribute to the doctors, staff, researchers, and patients of the Heart Institute. there is a precious little glass heart that was crafted of broken pieces. The little statement next to it says, "Life breaks us all and we heal stronger in the broken places." I was very touched by the sentiment because we have all felt a deeper love of life and appreciation for health as we suffer our various challenges in life. I have been so filled with gratitude for all of the wonderful people that have joined us in many special prayers for Rob. We have been comforted by the Lord through so much of this time.
My mind has been filled with the thoughts of the great life that Rob has enjoyed to this point because of so many of you. I remember all the prayers for his other operations. I remember mom and dad caring for him and trying so hard to help him gain weight by feeding him gravy and potatoes, which he loved. I always felt safe for Rob to go out as a young boy with his cousins because I knew no one would mess with him - if they had - Jon and the boys would have made it the last time. I think of the hundreds of times that he ate at the Duncombe's because Mary and Gordon always made him feel so welcome. I draw on the strength of each of you. What a blessing we have had in our lives because of closeness to family. I think now how special it is to have my wife and children here. What a blessing we have to be close and caring and that we are each others' best friends.
My heart is so full as I think of the great blessing Rob has to have Marla in his life. Last night as Marla and I walked back to see him in the recovery room, after she had been at the hospital for fifteen and a half hours straight, she looked at him in the bed with only his head visible and his nose with a tube going down to his stomach, a ventilator coming out of his mouth, his head wrapped with tape to keep all the brain wave sensors in place, and bloody tape across his face to hold the tubes in - with love she said, "look how cute he is." I, too, think he looked cute because we "know Rob." He is a cute, fun, caring young man that is so much in love with his beautiful wife.
Denise and I want to thank all of you again for your prayers and support. We appreciate your continued prayers and thoughts for a great recovery for Rob.
Denise called the hospital at 4AM and got a report that Rob had high blood pressure but that the blood chemistry was looking better. Rob had warmed up to the point that he was providing most of his own body heat.
I called this morning at about 7:30 and was told that his blood chemistry still looks good but that his blood pressure was now low. The surgeon, Dr. Coselli was already in and had ordered an echocardiogram to see if there were any problems in his chest. We will see Rob at 10 and our hearts are filled with hope that all will be fine and that his recovery will proceed as hoped.
I visited a small area in the hospital which is a tribute to the doctors, staff, researchers, and patients of the Heart Institute. there is a precious little glass heart that was crafted of broken pieces. The little statement next to it says, "Life breaks us all and we heal stronger in the broken places." I was very touched by the sentiment because we have all felt a deeper love of life and appreciation for health as we suffer our various challenges in life. I have been so filled with gratitude for all of the wonderful people that have joined us in many special prayers for Rob. We have been comforted by the Lord through so much of this time.
My mind has been filled with the thoughts of the great life that Rob has enjoyed to this point because of so many of you. I remember all the prayers for his other operations. I remember mom and dad caring for him and trying so hard to help him gain weight by feeding him gravy and potatoes, which he loved. I always felt safe for Rob to go out as a young boy with his cousins because I knew no one would mess with him - if they had - Jon and the boys would have made it the last time. I think of the hundreds of times that he ate at the Duncombe's because Mary and Gordon always made him feel so welcome. I draw on the strength of each of you. What a blessing we have had in our lives because of closeness to family. I think now how special it is to have my wife and children here. What a blessing we have to be close and caring and that we are each others' best friends.
My heart is so full as I think of the great blessing Rob has to have Marla in his life. Last night as Marla and I walked back to see him in the recovery room, after she had been at the hospital for fifteen and a half hours straight, she looked at him in the bed with only his head visible and his nose with a tube going down to his stomach, a ventilator coming out of his mouth, his head wrapped with tape to keep all the brain wave sensors in place, and bloody tape across his face to hold the tubes in - with love she said, "look how cute he is." I, too, think he looked cute because we "know Rob." He is a cute, fun, caring young man that is so much in love with his beautiful wife.
Denise and I want to thank all of you again for your prayers and support. We appreciate your continued prayers and thoughts for a great recovery for Rob.
8/23/2005
A Long Day
3:00pm. The nurse came in just a bit ago and said things were going fine. They’ve replaced all that was needed. Now they are monitoring him for a bit before they close him back up. She said that she’d come back around 5’ish to let us know how the close up went. We should be able to see him sometime after that and then again around 8’ish. Visiting hours for him are once every few hours for a half-hour and then only two people can visit at a time. That’s probably a good thing, though, as I’m sure he’ll need his rest. He should be pretty “out-of-it” for the next day or two.
When the nurse came with the update she brought a mechanical valve and some Dacron tubing so we could see what it looks like. The tubing is cloth like - almost like a small horizontally-ribbed sock (sans the foot section). The mechanical valve is made of what looks like black plastic. [They say the valve was made in MN] Two half-circles within a circle. The two half-circles pivot to allow blood to pass through one way but not the other. When the mechanical valve closes you can hear a small click. When he is closed up you will be able to hear the click through a stethoscope.
Melissa said, “Oh, Marla, now you’ll be able to fall asleep on his chest to the sounds of clicking.” We all thought that was cute. Of course, we don’t know if you’ll be able to hear the click without the stethoscope. :)
4:20pm. She said they’re just about to close him up. His heart has been beating on its own for about an hour now. They’re thickening up his blood up a bit cause it thinned out a bit - no big deal. Things are going very well.
6:20pm. A different lady came in and said they are closing him up right now. I thought they’d be done by now. But, maybe the last lady was overly optimistic, or I misunderstood her. Either way, he should be done ASAP. This lady says everything went great. We’ll be able to see him at around 8:00pm. I think we’re waiting around for the surgeon to come down and give us the final update.
We’ve been watching T.V. Seinfield, Everybody Loves Raymond, and we’ve been playing video games. Marin has been a good little trooper. She can’t seem to go as long as us as far as food goes. We’re starting to get hungry. Marla says this is the longest she’ll have been away from the Shrub Dog [Well, she called him Rob] once the recovery period has passed (and not counting the 30 minute visits).
They have internet plug-ins here, but they aren’t working. So, you probably won’t get this update until we drive by the hotel. Hopefully that’s soon, because, like I mentioned above, we’re getting hungry.
7:45pm. The surgeon comes in. [I had a little dinner at the cafe - so I missed his first few words] He says things went well. Says there is still stuff that will have to be worked on later on, but the aortic arch was the most important thing to take care of. Rob is still on a respirator.
They won’t know about brain functionality until tomorrow - or at least not until he wakes up. The platelets in his bloodstream are mostly gone (due to the body cooling) so are they replacing them currently. Because of the lack of platelets his blood isn’t clotting as quick as they were hoping. But things are going well.
8:00pm. Still not closed up completely (I’m guessing those reporting nurses aren’t as clear on what’s going on as we would hope - maybe that’s good, though. Since we originally heard the surgery would take 6-8 hours). As his body warms the bleeding slows. His body was cooled to about 60-70 degrees. The surgery took about fourteen hours. They had him open for about twelve hours.
We might be able to see him in an hour - but he’ll be sleeping (i.e. drugged up).
9:00pm. Dad and Marla went back to see him. They’re still trying to stop a little bleeding. But, they’re getting him all balanced out and fixed up. The goal is to keep him sedated throughout the night.
When the nurse came with the update she brought a mechanical valve and some Dacron tubing so we could see what it looks like. The tubing is cloth like - almost like a small horizontally-ribbed sock (sans the foot section). The mechanical valve is made of what looks like black plastic. [They say the valve was made in MN] Two half-circles within a circle. The two half-circles pivot to allow blood to pass through one way but not the other. When the mechanical valve closes you can hear a small click. When he is closed up you will be able to hear the click through a stethoscope.
Melissa said, “Oh, Marla, now you’ll be able to fall asleep on his chest to the sounds of clicking.” We all thought that was cute. Of course, we don’t know if you’ll be able to hear the click without the stethoscope. :)
4:20pm. She said they’re just about to close him up. His heart has been beating on its own for about an hour now. They’re thickening up his blood up a bit cause it thinned out a bit - no big deal. Things are going very well.
6:20pm. A different lady came in and said they are closing him up right now. I thought they’d be done by now. But, maybe the last lady was overly optimistic, or I misunderstood her. Either way, he should be done ASAP. This lady says everything went great. We’ll be able to see him at around 8:00pm. I think we’re waiting around for the surgeon to come down and give us the final update.
We’ve been watching T.V. Seinfield, Everybody Loves Raymond, and we’ve been playing video games. Marin has been a good little trooper. She can’t seem to go as long as us as far as food goes. We’re starting to get hungry. Marla says this is the longest she’ll have been away from the Shrub Dog [Well, she called him Rob] once the recovery period has passed (and not counting the 30 minute visits).
They have internet plug-ins here, but they aren’t working. So, you probably won’t get this update until we drive by the hotel. Hopefully that’s soon, because, like I mentioned above, we’re getting hungry.
7:45pm. The surgeon comes in. [I had a little dinner at the cafe - so I missed his first few words] He says things went well. Says there is still stuff that will have to be worked on later on, but the aortic arch was the most important thing to take care of. Rob is still on a respirator.
They won’t know about brain functionality until tomorrow - or at least not until he wakes up. The platelets in his bloodstream are mostly gone (due to the body cooling) so are they replacing them currently. Because of the lack of platelets his blood isn’t clotting as quick as they were hoping. But things are going well.
8:00pm. Still not closed up completely (I’m guessing those reporting nurses aren’t as clear on what’s going on as we would hope - maybe that’s good, though. Since we originally heard the surgery would take 6-8 hours). As his body warms the bleeding slows. His body was cooled to about 60-70 degrees. The surgery took about fourteen hours. They had him open for about twelve hours.
We might be able to see him in an hour - but he’ll be sleeping (i.e. drugged up).
9:00pm. Dad and Marla went back to see him. They’re still trying to stop a little bleeding. But, they’re getting him all balanced out and fixed up. The goal is to keep him sedated throughout the night.
Waiting
I was wrong about the weather being nice this morning. At 5:15am it was 87 degrees. Most all windows seem to be fogged over in condensation.
It's 7:20am. We're in a waiting room. Rob is in a room waiting to enter surgery. Marla is with him.
7:30am. Rob is going in. Marla joins us in waiting room. They say they will give us an update at about 10:00am or thereabouts.
Dad is gonna take Melissa, Marin, Jen, and myself back to the hotel so we can rest a bit and get something to eat.
It's 7:20am. We're in a waiting room. Rob is in a room waiting to enter surgery. Marla is with him.
7:30am. Rob is going in. Marla joins us in waiting room. They say they will give us an update at about 10:00am or thereabouts.
Dad is gonna take Melissa, Marin, Jen, and myself back to the hotel so we can rest a bit and get something to eat.
Wake Up
Well, I was wrong on the time. We had to wake at 4:30am. It's 4:50 right now and I'm waiting for everybody to get ready. We'll be leaving shortly. I think everybody had a short night. We went to bed around 10:00pm, but with Benehana's in our stomach's I think we probably wrestled with sleep (at least, I did). I kept having this strange dream where I had to have chest surgery and my toe was messed up. I think Rob and Marla are messing with my mind. [For those of you who don't know, Marla had to have her big daddy toe[nail] removed this last week. Don't tell her I told you. She might get mad.] This will probably be the first and last time that we go outside and find it perfect, temp wise.
We're all confident that things will go well. Rob's surgeon is a machine, we hear, because he does these kinds of surgeries all the time.
We're all confident that things will go well. Rob's surgeon is a machine, we hear, because he does these kinds of surgeries all the time.
8/22/2005
Exam Results
Well, Rob had his exams. He, Marla, and dad are napping now. Mom is too talkative to sleep. Melissa, Marin, Jen & myself slept in a bit and drove around to gather our barrings in this new place.Mom is filling us in on the details of what's going on tomorrow for Rob's surgery.
He goes in at about 4:30am. [I wonder why the doctor likes waking up so early? I can't believe that he'd want to get off work early in the day, because the weather here is much too hot to enjoy!]
Unfortunately (aside from the early surgery), Rob learned that his aortic valve will need to be replaced. Originally he thought he'd only need an aortic aneurysm fixed up. When he had his first big heart surgery, a couple years back, the surgeon was able to stitch things up and that helped out a lot. Since that time, however, the valve has stretched quicker then they thought it would. After this surgery they don't think they'll have to break his sternum again anytime soon [depending on the replacement type].
He has his choice of replacement valves - pig or mechanical. He chose mechanical because they last a lifetime (the tissue option would need to be replaced within the next 10 years or so). The downside to the mechanical, however, is that he'll need to take Coumadin for the rest of his life - which keeps his body from rejecting the replacement. That's not so bad, but the side effect is that if he cuts himself or bleeds it could be an issue because the drug thins his blood - it's an anticoagulant.
Another thing that stinks a little is that the surgery is supposed to take about 6-8 hours. The replacements should only take about an hour, but they have to cool his body much slower then last time and then the warm-up period also needs to take longer.So, I here you get a robo-valve?
Here's what they're gonna do. They slowly cool him down over about an hour or two. Then they open him up (since they are working through scar tissue they need to work a little more slowly and carefully), they break open his ribs, and then they stop his heart. Next they replace his aortic valve. From the valve on through the aortic arch they will cut open the artery and slide in Dacron tubing. There are three large veins that come off from the aortic arch - those three veins will also have Dacron tubing inserted. After this they will start his heart back up. They close him up. Then they warm his body up over two to four hours. Done! [At leat for this time. He has a couple other smaller aneurysms that will require fixing at a later time. But, those don't require the breaking of the sternum - so, those surgeries won't be as intense.]
Rob and I were text messaging (we're in different rooms).
Brian: "So, I hear you get a robo-valve?"
Rob: "I KNOW!!! I will be a bionical shrub!"
We're about to get some dinner. Rob wants to eat at Benihana's. He figures he won't need to take a laxative that way.
8/21/2005
We're in Texas
We landed!
While driving from the Houston airport someone mentioned that Texas looks a lot like Disneyworld. [While there aren't as many palm trees it's true that this southern flora is reminiscent of Florida.] After a split-second Rob said, "Wait... This isn't Disneyworld? What are we doing here?" We all got a good laugh.
We arrived in Houston at about 5:00pm. We meet Jen and Landon at our hotel. We were going to eat at a nearby Pizza Hut (cause Rob said, "If they're gonna be working on my heart I might as well get it all clogged up!"), but they were a delivery place only - no sit down. Luckily there was a Burger King right next door. I think Rob got a chicken sandwich - normally not a bad meal, but since it's Burger King he probably still got his wish. The weather here is crazy - 103 degrees - and really dry. We're about to go on a quick drive-tour of our surrounding area. The hospital complex down here is amazing! Lots of buildings! I think it might be bigger then the Mayo clinic.
[continued]
After our "tour" I realize this is quite a bit bigger then the Mayo clinic. There is a light-rail that drives through the heart of this "mini-city". This is a beautiful place. Lots of buildings. Everything is so clean and well maintained. Things look so new. We drove by St. Luke's heart building - nice looking building.
Outside of the hospital-complex/universities there is a nice park and several museums of various type.
It's 9:30 and everyone is feeling sleepy. Landon leaves at 6 in the morning. It was nice of him to drive out with Jen. He has to get back for a 9:00a report/test. He says he's gonna try to come back next weekend. What a good little dude!
We go to the heart building tomorrow at about 9:30am. I believe Rob is just scheduled for a check-up. I think the operation is planned for Tuesday.
While driving from the Houston airport someone mentioned that Texas looks a lot like Disneyworld. [While there aren't as many palm trees it's true that this southern flora is reminiscent of Florida.] After a split-second Rob said, "Wait... This isn't Disneyworld? What are we doing here?" We all got a good laugh.
We arrived in Houston at about 5:00pm. We meet Jen and Landon at our hotel. We were going to eat at a nearby Pizza Hut (cause Rob said, "If they're gonna be working on my heart I might as well get it all clogged up!"), but they were a delivery place only - no sit down. Luckily there was a Burger King right next door. I think Rob got a chicken sandwich - normally not a bad meal, but since it's Burger King he probably still got his wish. The weather here is crazy - 103 degrees - and really dry. We're about to go on a quick drive-tour of our surrounding area. The hospital complex down here is amazing! Lots of buildings! I think it might be bigger then the Mayo clinic.
[continued]
After our "tour" I realize this is quite a bit bigger then the Mayo clinic. There is a light-rail that drives through the heart of this "mini-city". This is a beautiful place. Lots of buildings. Everything is so clean and well maintained. Things look so new. We drove by St. Luke's heart building - nice looking building.
Outside of the hospital-complex/universities there is a nice park and several museums of various type.
It's 9:30 and everyone is feeling sleepy. Landon leaves at 6 in the morning. It was nice of him to drive out with Jen. He has to get back for a 9:00a report/test. He says he's gonna try to come back next weekend. What a good little dude!
We go to the heart building tomorrow at about 9:30am. I believe Rob is just scheduled for a check-up. I think the operation is planned for Tuesday.
8/17/2005
To Texas We Go
My brother, Rob, is in need of some crazy heart surgery. Because of the complexity of the situation he has been referred to specialists in Texas. Our parents, our sisters, his wife, others, and myself will be going down with him (for support and/or because we won't be able to sleep otherwise). We leave the 21st. And Rob will either be in surgery the 22nd or the 23rd.
Since there are plenty of you that are concerned for his well-being we've agreed to use this website to keep ya'll informed. The next several blogs will be all about the progress of the surgery and his recovery. The blogs will be written by myself and my sister, Melissa. Melissa will probably give you more details then me, cause I'm more interested in playing PSP games with Rob during his recovery.
There may be a lot of comments added to each blog so be sure to read those. Also, feel free to add comments of well wishes (as the updates arrive), as I'm sure the old boy would love to hear from you.
Since there are plenty of you that are concerned for his well-being we've agreed to use this website to keep ya'll informed. The next several blogs will be all about the progress of the surgery and his recovery. The blogs will be written by myself and my sister, Melissa. Melissa will probably give you more details then me, cause I'm more interested in playing PSP games with Rob during his recovery.
There may be a lot of comments added to each blog so be sure to read those. Also, feel free to add comments of well wishes (as the updates arrive), as I'm sure the old boy would love to hear from you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)