Change of Scenery

So, in stepping back from the moment to moment, we are encouraged that Kathy is moving in the right direction.  She has outgrown the ICU and right now they moving her onto a new bed and we are heading downstairs to  the TRACK unit.  Trauma/Rehabilitation/....(everything right up her alley).  We've been reassured this will be a more quiet, restful place for her AND she will be able to have more visitors.

She's running a low grade fever and we find ourselves freaking out over every new symptom.  Thank God for all of these fantastic nurses, who are here reminding us of the fantastic progress she has made!

Still the girl who has it all

Ted again. What would I NOT give to go back in time?!? What an Amazing Woman! To have this happen to someone who lives life with the passion Kathy does, can be tragic if we let it be. She is going to bounce back from this, I promise. No way am I going to let her spirit take a hit! Kathy has too many friends, who love who she is, to allow her to forget what she still has. Her life has been brilliant with adventures most watch at the movies. The brilliant part of this show isn't over! If you leave your seat too soon, you'll miss the encore!

Is that light I see?

This is Ted. Actually, so was the last one (frustrating morning). It's weird to look outside and think about how the rest of the world is continuing to go on. Kathy is sleeping right now. She keeps asking if she is going to die or talking like she isn't sure if she is going to make it. (Sometimes it's not a good thing to be in the medical field and know the risk of complications). On a better note; while it's gloomy outside, Kathy's room is brightening up with balloons! AND she had her first real meal - couple swallows each of yogurt, broth, apple juice and a whole grape! First food in three days!  (jello doesn't count)

frustrating morning 10/19

We are not allowed in the room with Kathy while an I.V. is put in that goes up her arm and to her heart. The surgery intentions have been rearranged due to the gravel and dirt deep in her ankle that will need a couple more cleanings before they can set and pin her ankle bones. The focus for Thursday's surgery is cleaning the right ankle some more and starting on rebuilding her left knee. Kathy has had wound vac sponges placed to help with the swelling of her left leg. Lots of swelling. Her hands are so swollen she can barely bend her fingers.

10/19 morning update

Though Kathy slept with minimal interruptions for 4-5 hours; there were still a few new items of concern...

They diagnosed her with; Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia Syndrome.
This is my take on it:  Heparin is a blood thinning agent, given to aide the blood flow in the veins they transplanted and the graph site.  Because it is derived from animals, her body started creating antibodies to fight it off and began dumping off her healthy platelets.  No bueno! Kathy's pain meds were reduced to just oral because her breathing was being affected. It is encouraging that her pain threshhold is getting better though. 

10/18 night review

Kathy was a little slow coming out of anastesia after surgery yesterday and finally came off the ventilator about 8:00pm and had forgotten where and why she was in a hospital.  Not so fun for Ted explaining the severity of her condition to her.  She was very aware and was able to converse and even ate some jello(which she said was delicious!)  She was very concerned about how everyone else was doing:  The boys at home...Me, being at the hospital...who knows about the accident and was worried about being a burden.  Ted read her messages from his phone and told her that he had to erase 150 messages from his phone yesterday and already at that point, there were 87 more.  She has no idea how loved she is! :)

 We had an hour or so of getting ready for bed and it was obvious she was in a much better place with her pain.  We were able to change her bedding, I massaged her upper body and doused her with essential oils.  With braided hair a washed face and brushed teeth she was very ready for sleep...And she ("we") did!