ICU update

Not much improvement yet re: Dad's condition - he knows we're here, he's able to open his eyes for really brief periods and he can say words softly. Mentally he knows exactly what's going on when you talk to him, but he's too weak to communicate. His nurse said he was able to swallow some crushed pills and applesauce this morning though, which indicates some positive progress.

After running many more tests, the doctors still feel he has a septic infection. His brain scans still look great as I mentioned in the previous post...but original results testing for blood clots in the legs were incorrect. Initially the tests showed Dad didn't have any clots in his legs, but when they ran a more inclusive test it showed he actually has many blot clots in his legs. They feel this is due to the cancer and the infection. Thankfully he went through with the filter last week, because if not he definitely would not be here right now - at least one of the clots would have made it to his lungs by now. Although his legs look better today, the blood clot issue needs to be resolved because it effects his circulation. We made the decision last night to start him on blood thinners to try to help with the clots. You may remember from past posts, the blood thinners are really dangerous to take in his condition because melanoma has a tendency to bleed and he's at an increased risk with his recent brain procedure. He's being monitored closely for brain bleeds, but so far the blood thinners are helping some with the condition of his legs.

ICU

About the same this AM - Dad was moved to the medical ICU in the CAM building (8th floor). They ruled out blood clots last night and at this point believe its an infection that has gone septic. Consulting with the neurosurgery team this am to see if its ok to do a spinal tap to check for infection around the brain (even though the brain CT looked good). Dad is able to open his eyes some and softly say a couple words but is really weak. Continuing the broad spectrum IV antibiotics for now as the plan. Thanks for the continued payers and support.

In the ER...

Dad had two seizure-like episodes at the rehab facility last night. His blood sugar levels raised even though he didn't eat and his heart rate/BP elevated and he developed a fever. The staff checked him a few times but said his vitals looked ok, however he became really lethargic and by this morning was not responsive. 911 was called and he was admitted to the Barnes ER. Since being admitted, he has been able to very briefly open his eyes and he knows who is in the room and you can tell he is trying to communicate, but he's unable to speak and move much. The doctors are running a bunch of tests and so far we only have the results of the brain CT, which actually looks really good. The area from the procedure even looks decreased since last week..they feel he either has an infection or blood clots. ..they have started him on IV broad spectrum antibiotics in case it's an infection. Hopefully we will have some answers soon...

Working hard..

Day two of rehab - going ok so far. The mornings are more productive because Dad has more energy..he gets really tired by the afternoon/evenings, but he's working hard. No plan as to when he'll get to leave. One day at a time. I visited him last night and he was in some pain but in good spirits. I haven't been able to get there today - Nash is not feeling well from 2 month shots and Canaan started swim lessons for the first time tonight. It's a little difficult for me to visit with the boys not being able to be in the facilities and Nash too young for daycare, but hopefully Dad will be able to come home again soon. Thanks for the continued thoughts and prayers - Dad could really use some extra motivation and positive encouragement this week. Thanks again

Rehab

Rough day yesterday - all the sudden Dad was resisting the transition to the rehab facility. He ended up moving early last night, but he was not happy about it. Fortunately he did have a pretty good night re: pain/pain meds and was able to get some sleep. He's been having more pain in his right arm and leg, which doctors feel is a result of the bedside therapy. The rehab center is going to make him work hard and it will be painful and tiring, but a necessary step to gain some mobility to make things easier at home. It's anticipated he will be at the rehab facility for the next week to 10 days, but all depends on his progress.

He could really use some visitors to help him stay positive and motivated, but he will be tired with the intense therapy, short visits are perfect. His therapy schedule will be changing daily too, so give Mom a call before you visit to make sure he won't be in therapy. She was able to stay after all, so she will be there...

The Rehab Institute of St. Louis
4455 Duncan Avenue
Room 407

Thanks for the continued support - he could really use some extra positive reinforcement this week.

Filter..success

Dad agreed to do the filter procedure yesterday and to our surprise they did it already this morning..on a Sunday?! All went well - he tires easily, but he was in good spirits and laughing again today. He ate his daily snickers blizzard :) and a cheeseburger and fries too!! We are thinking he will move to the rehab facility tomorrow, but there's no definite plan at this point. Thanks for the continued support and prayers.