This morning, Ron had quite a surprise when I woke him to "unplug" his TPN and flush his PICC line. In honor of our anniversary, I was wearing my wedding gown...yes, I can (barely) still fit into it, although only able to zip it to the waist! The discomfort was definitely worth the smile on his face!
Tonight, I was actually able to go on a real date with my sweet hubby! It's been at least 19 months since we enjoyed a date night. Ron decided he enjoyed last weekends walk on the wild side and so far has had no ill effects; so in celebration of our anniversary, he took me to dinner and a movie. We shared a wonderful meal (as well as appetizer and dessert...really livin' it up!) at The Cheesecake Factory, then on to see the new "Night at the Museum" flick. We were blessed by finding we had a gift certificate to Cheescake Factory that we'd had well over a year and with splitting the entire meal, it was a very affordable night.
Honey, I can't imagine sharing this wild and crazy roller coaster of life with anyone other than you! I praise God for bringing you into my life and for giving you the perseverance to pursue the relationship even when I didn't know what I wanted!
I love you, sweetheart...more than yesterday, less than tomorrow!
Christie
"This is my beloved and this is my friend" Song of Solomon
"I love thee with the breath, smiles, tears of all my life." Elizabeth Barrett Browning
"And if it all falls apart, I will know deep in my heart, the only dream that mattered had come true. In this life, I was loved by you." Colin Raye
"Grow old along with me the best is yet to be." Robert Browning
"If ever two were one, then surely we. If ever man were loved by wife, then thee." Anne Bradstreet
"I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me. I love you for the part of me that you bring out." Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Born to be WILD!!!
What a great weekend it's been!
Friday's golf outing was fabulous for Ron....he came home absolutely exhausted, but with a smile that lasted all day! It was so good for him to be out with his cronies and he did himself proud. He joined them in some chipping and putting and actually putted three birdies for the team. I guess he was feeling so good about his success in putting that he decided to tee it up and play an entire par 3 hole, which he made birdie on! Is that awesome, or what? Who'd-da thunk on his first golf outing in 20 months he'd do so well? But then, what do you expect, he's always one to hit those long odds, whether good or bad!
After spending the afternoon napping, we met up with the family for Mom Nordell's birthday dinner. I felt bad for Ron since we went to our favorite Italian restaurant, La Bistro, where we've celebrated the majority of our anniversaries as well as many other special occasions. He decided to live dangerously and ate quite a bit of my Chicken Jerusalem along with some bread and lobster bisque (he rarely tries to eat and when he does it's typically just a bite of something). After dinner, we went to Mom & Dad's assisted living facility for cake and ice cream in the gazebo, which Ron decided to partake of as well. I was anxious to see how the night would play out, and I'm happy to say there was no middle of the night yakking! Saturday he had to deal with some indigestion issues but jumped right back in and sampled some of the picnic fare and, of course, more dessert! Amazingly, he's tolerated it all pretty well so far, although he has decided to be sensible and get back to protein drinks. This weekend has given us renewed hope that maybe as the healing process continues, he'll find he's able to enjoy a little bit of eating; but in great moderation. It really excites me to think he might be able to enjoy some food while we are vacationing. You never realize how much food is a part of our socialization until you aren't able to participate.
The BBQ/picnic was so much fun! The Atria has a huge gazebo providing plenty of room for all the Nordell's; and the weather was perfect! It rained as we arrived then subsided providing lots of sunshine, as well as a nice breeze, for several hours before beginning again as we were wrapping things up! We enjoyed: lots of yummy food, watching G'ma and Papa play with the Nerf dart guns, competitive games of croquet and Bocce ball and then the hit of the party...the pinata! What a riot watching both G'ma and Papa swinging a bat at a huge candy-filled Nemo, after having been spun around in their wheelchairs. A great time was had by all! I'll send pictures after I get some from others...our camera bit the dust a while back.
I don't know about everyone else, but we've both been really tired today. We did make it to church this morning, but then Ron spent the rest of the day in the recliner dozing off and on through the Byron (as well as the LPGA). And, I confess, I did my share of dozing before tackling grocery shopping and laundry. I'm anticipating it will be a few more days for Ron to be fully recuperated from the festivities; but that's ok! I'm just thrilled he was able to participate as much as he did.
Now, on to wrapping up the last week of school and finalizing anniversary trip!
Still praying believing!
Christie
"What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see!" Hebrews 11:1 NLT
"For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT
Friday's golf outing was fabulous for Ron....he came home absolutely exhausted, but with a smile that lasted all day! It was so good for him to be out with his cronies and he did himself proud. He joined them in some chipping and putting and actually putted three birdies for the team. I guess he was feeling so good about his success in putting that he decided to tee it up and play an entire par 3 hole, which he made birdie on! Is that awesome, or what? Who'd-da thunk on his first golf outing in 20 months he'd do so well? But then, what do you expect, he's always one to hit those long odds, whether good or bad!
After spending the afternoon napping, we met up with the family for Mom Nordell's birthday dinner. I felt bad for Ron since we went to our favorite Italian restaurant, La Bistro, where we've celebrated the majority of our anniversaries as well as many other special occasions. He decided to live dangerously and ate quite a bit of my Chicken Jerusalem along with some bread and lobster bisque (he rarely tries to eat and when he does it's typically just a bite of something). After dinner, we went to Mom & Dad's assisted living facility for cake and ice cream in the gazebo, which Ron decided to partake of as well. I was anxious to see how the night would play out, and I'm happy to say there was no middle of the night yakking! Saturday he had to deal with some indigestion issues but jumped right back in and sampled some of the picnic fare and, of course, more dessert! Amazingly, he's tolerated it all pretty well so far, although he has decided to be sensible and get back to protein drinks. This weekend has given us renewed hope that maybe as the healing process continues, he'll find he's able to enjoy a little bit of eating; but in great moderation. It really excites me to think he might be able to enjoy some food while we are vacationing. You never realize how much food is a part of our socialization until you aren't able to participate.
The BBQ/picnic was so much fun! The Atria has a huge gazebo providing plenty of room for all the Nordell's; and the weather was perfect! It rained as we arrived then subsided providing lots of sunshine, as well as a nice breeze, for several hours before beginning again as we were wrapping things up! We enjoyed: lots of yummy food, watching G'ma and Papa play with the Nerf dart guns, competitive games of croquet and Bocce ball and then the hit of the party...the pinata! What a riot watching both G'ma and Papa swinging a bat at a huge candy-filled Nemo, after having been spun around in their wheelchairs. A great time was had by all! I'll send pictures after I get some from others...our camera bit the dust a while back.
I don't know about everyone else, but we've both been really tired today. We did make it to church this morning, but then Ron spent the rest of the day in the recliner dozing off and on through the Byron (as well as the LPGA). And, I confess, I did my share of dozing before tackling grocery shopping and laundry. I'm anticipating it will be a few more days for Ron to be fully recuperated from the festivities; but that's ok! I'm just thrilled he was able to participate as much as he did.
Now, on to wrapping up the last week of school and finalizing anniversary trip!
Still praying believing!
Christie
"What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see!" Hebrews 11:1 NLT
"For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Almost Summer Break!
Well, up until this month we've been living a pretty simplistic life and it's been great!
But now the school year is winding down and things are a bit crazy! There have been a multitude of activities including: preparing semester exams and getting the office ready to close up for the summer along with making preparations for the beginning of next school year and gathering materials to be worked on over the summer, Mother's Day fun, wedding showers, graduation parties & teas, making plans for a big weekend full of festivities to celebrate Grandma Nordell's 90th birthday (which is tomorrow, May 22) and then let's throw in a double hospital stay for good measure. You know how Ron likes to keep me on my toes! No not a new one; we've just now finally recuperated from the last double whammy at both HEB and Presby. It's taken Ron a good couple of weeks to bounce back, but I think he's finally pretty much back to his pre-hospital stay status. Though I feel I'm meeting myself coming and going!
Add on top of all of this, I decided since our 30th anniversary is this year I wanted to surprise Ron with a celebration trip. Of course, I couldn't totally surprise him since alot of extra preparations have to go into traveling with all his medical supplies but I did want to see if it was even feasible before I let him in on the planning.
First, Dr. A had to be consulted to make sure this was even a reasonable option at this point...his stipulations are we cannot travel outside of the country; and whatever location we choose must be near a major medical facility. He's very supportive of the idea and thinks I can handle the added nursing responsibilities just fine. He also believes it will do Ron alot of good to see we can pull this off alone. Yes, it will just be the two of us and I have to admit after this last little hospital episode I was thinking " am I CRAZY for trying to plan a trip alone with him? What am I thinking?" Dr. A reassured me that we should continue with our plans. I asked if he'd like to take a vacation to the same location just in case....
The other area I needed to investigate before letting Ron in on it was the financial aspect. We have been saving our American Airlines miles for an anniversary trip to Hawaii for ever; but I don't think we'll go there...lack of enough miles being one and the distance kind of makes me nervous, although Dr. A votes we go for it...he believes in realizing your dreams. Me too, but unless he's planning a trip to Hawaii; I'm not sure I'm that brave. And it would be difficult for Ron to be in Hawaii and not be able to golf; we do have to have our priorities straight, now don't we?
Both my Mom and a dear friend have offered some of their miles which will help tremendously. I'm still in the preparation stage but think we'll be able to pull it off. Tentatively, we are planning on San Diego in June. Because of Ron's TPN I've had to look for a place big enough to handle all his medical supplies (which will be shipped there in advance) as well as have a refrigerator to store them in. Also have to take into consideration his limitations physically so wanted to find something that was more than just a hotel but would have a slow-paced activities available for those times when we just needed to hang out there. I've also heard there are many activities to choose from that will be limited energy-friendly. We'll also borrow a wheelchair from Ron's parents so he'll be able to be out and about for longer periods of time. The resort we're looking at is on Mission Bay and all of the rooms are actually cabanas spread throughout a garden and beach area. I believe with the miles we can cover all of our flight and accommodations and I'm still working on the rental car...it's a little complicated with the miles but it looks like it just may all work out! We will actually go to Anaheim for a couple of the days we are in California and meet up with our niece, Julie, and her boys Jonah and Hudson, who live in Greece. They will be vacationing with her Mom and Dad. They have graciously agreed to share their time so we can see them as well.
And even more excitement--Friday morning Ron will be out on the golf course. Our church is holding a tournament and Ron's golf cronies asked if he'd be up to riding along on the back nine. We are all super-excited. He'll go out mid-morning and hopefully last through the end of the round as well as visit with everyone while they eat lunch.
One week to go and then I'm out for the summer...WOOOOO HOOOOO!
Love, Christie
Pics are from our 29th anniversary celebration in Presby paradise; enjoy!
But now the school year is winding down and things are a bit crazy! There have been a multitude of activities including: preparing semester exams and getting the office ready to close up for the summer along with making preparations for the beginning of next school year and gathering materials to be worked on over the summer, Mother's Day fun, wedding showers, graduation parties & teas, making plans for a big weekend full of festivities to celebrate Grandma Nordell's 90th birthday (which is tomorrow, May 22) and then let's throw in a double hospital stay for good measure. You know how Ron likes to keep me on my toes! No not a new one; we've just now finally recuperated from the last double whammy at both HEB and Presby. It's taken Ron a good couple of weeks to bounce back, but I think he's finally pretty much back to his pre-hospital stay status. Though I feel I'm meeting myself coming and going!
Add on top of all of this, I decided since our 30th anniversary is this year I wanted to surprise Ron with a celebration trip. Of course, I couldn't totally surprise him since alot of extra preparations have to go into traveling with all his medical supplies but I did want to see if it was even feasible before I let him in on the planning.
First, Dr. A had to be consulted to make sure this was even a reasonable option at this point...his stipulations are we cannot travel outside of the country; and whatever location we choose must be near a major medical facility. He's very supportive of the idea and thinks I can handle the added nursing responsibilities just fine. He also believes it will do Ron alot of good to see we can pull this off alone. Yes, it will just be the two of us and I have to admit after this last little hospital episode I was thinking " am I CRAZY for trying to plan a trip alone with him? What am I thinking?" Dr. A reassured me that we should continue with our plans. I asked if he'd like to take a vacation to the same location just in case....
The other area I needed to investigate before letting Ron in on it was the financial aspect. We have been saving our American Airlines miles for an anniversary trip to Hawaii for ever; but I don't think we'll go there...lack of enough miles being one and the distance kind of makes me nervous, although Dr. A votes we go for it...he believes in realizing your dreams. Me too, but unless he's planning a trip to Hawaii; I'm not sure I'm that brave. And it would be difficult for Ron to be in Hawaii and not be able to golf; we do have to have our priorities straight, now don't we?
Both my Mom and a dear friend have offered some of their miles which will help tremendously. I'm still in the preparation stage but think we'll be able to pull it off. Tentatively, we are planning on San Diego in June. Because of Ron's TPN I've had to look for a place big enough to handle all his medical supplies (which will be shipped there in advance) as well as have a refrigerator to store them in. Also have to take into consideration his limitations physically so wanted to find something that was more than just a hotel but would have a slow-paced activities available for those times when we just needed to hang out there. I've also heard there are many activities to choose from that will be limited energy-friendly. We'll also borrow a wheelchair from Ron's parents so he'll be able to be out and about for longer periods of time. The resort we're looking at is on Mission Bay and all of the rooms are actually cabanas spread throughout a garden and beach area. I believe with the miles we can cover all of our flight and accommodations and I'm still working on the rental car...it's a little complicated with the miles but it looks like it just may all work out! We will actually go to Anaheim for a couple of the days we are in California and meet up with our niece, Julie, and her boys Jonah and Hudson, who live in Greece. They will be vacationing with her Mom and Dad. They have graciously agreed to share their time so we can see them as well.
And even more excitement--Friday morning Ron will be out on the golf course. Our church is holding a tournament and Ron's golf cronies asked if he'd be up to riding along on the back nine. We are all super-excited. He'll go out mid-morning and hopefully last through the end of the round as well as visit with everyone while they eat lunch.
One week to go and then I'm out for the summer...WOOOOO HOOOOO!
Love, Christie
Pics are from our 29th anniversary celebration in Presby paradise; enjoy!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Dandelions
Random thought God has been speaking to me
Dandelions~~A rite of springtime! Those fun little sprouts that pop up bearing bright yellow flowers along with their fuzzy, cotton-like balls that everyone loves! In childlike fashion, we pick the fuzzy ball; blow the feathery wisps, watching them float through the air while making a wish. But as days pass, those wisps we so happily spread become weed seeds taking root. It begins with just one or two, but if left untended can take over a yard in the blink of an eye.
Sin is similar to these dandelions…fun for a season yet reaps severe consequences in the end. Once sin takes root, it’s hard to get rid of; even when we think we’ve gotten it under control—sprouts continue to pop up; a never-ending battle!
As dandelions take root, they not only take over our own yard, but soon spread to our neighbor’s yard and others nearby. Before we know it, the whole block is a sea of dandelions! The roots begin to kill off the grass we so faithfully planted and nourished; and only those who are on their guard, diligently watching; carefully tending; willing to mar the surface in order to uproot that which is harmful, will withstand the invasion.
In the same way, sin doesn’t affect just the sinner but spreads and impacts those around us. Oh, it seems harmless enough at first but as sin begins to take root; it not only leads to more sin but causes our hearts to harden. Those good crops of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are choked out and replaced with discontent, selfishness, lust, immorality, dishonesty and a myriad of other destructive attitudes.
None of us is immune; we’re all born with this sin nature. And just as hard as it is to get rid of dandelions, we are never totally free of sin. The seeds of sin are tenacious, tending to make their way into hidden crevices. We must continually be on guard, watching for even one seed to take root and sprout, then deal with it immediately; never entertaining the thought that just this one won’t hurt.
Oh, Father, how easily we lose sight of You and become enticed by the world. I know I can’t win this battle on my own but only when I stay firmly rooted in You, allowing You to nourish, water and, yes, even prune. May I diligently allow You to search my heart, point out those things that are displeasing to You, and then be willing to turn from them before they take over my life.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23
Dandelions~~A rite of springtime! Those fun little sprouts that pop up bearing bright yellow flowers along with their fuzzy, cotton-like balls that everyone loves! In childlike fashion, we pick the fuzzy ball; blow the feathery wisps, watching them float through the air while making a wish. But as days pass, those wisps we so happily spread become weed seeds taking root. It begins with just one or two, but if left untended can take over a yard in the blink of an eye.
Sin is similar to these dandelions…fun for a season yet reaps severe consequences in the end. Once sin takes root, it’s hard to get rid of; even when we think we’ve gotten it under control—sprouts continue to pop up; a never-ending battle!
As dandelions take root, they not only take over our own yard, but soon spread to our neighbor’s yard and others nearby. Before we know it, the whole block is a sea of dandelions! The roots begin to kill off the grass we so faithfully planted and nourished; and only those who are on their guard, diligently watching; carefully tending; willing to mar the surface in order to uproot that which is harmful, will withstand the invasion.
In the same way, sin doesn’t affect just the sinner but spreads and impacts those around us. Oh, it seems harmless enough at first but as sin begins to take root; it not only leads to more sin but causes our hearts to harden. Those good crops of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are choked out and replaced with discontent, selfishness, lust, immorality, dishonesty and a myriad of other destructive attitudes.
None of us is immune; we’re all born with this sin nature. And just as hard as it is to get rid of dandelions, we are never totally free of sin. The seeds of sin are tenacious, tending to make their way into hidden crevices. We must continually be on guard, watching for even one seed to take root and sprout, then deal with it immediately; never entertaining the thought that just this one won’t hurt.
Oh, Father, how easily we lose sight of You and become enticed by the world. I know I can’t win this battle on my own but only when I stay firmly rooted in You, allowing You to nourish, water and, yes, even prune. May I diligently allow You to search my heart, point out those things that are displeasing to You, and then be willing to turn from them before they take over my life.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23
Difficult Day
Ron and I are both having a hard time recuperating from this last week. And today, for me, the dam finally broke. I was weepy off and on all afternoon. It seemed all the stuff of the last year (++) came crashing in and I just couldn't keep my emotions in check.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Results are in!
PRAISE GOD WE'RE HOME!!!
MRCP showed no gall stone(s) although it did show bile duct (which leads from liver to intestines) to be enlarged; not unusual for someone who has had their gall bladder removed. This duct also has a small stricture, but not enough to where they feel anything needs to be done about it at this point. Huge relief. The procedure they use for something like this is an ERCP....and we really don't want to go there unless it is absolutely necessary. If you remember, Ron's pancreatitis was ERCP-induced!
Bloodwork looks good with liver numbers continuing to trend downward. Which all adds up to the assumption that he must have had a gall stone that passed on its own. Only Ron!
He continues to be free of chest pain and is feeling pretty good although we are both VERY TIRED and look forward to a quiet evening vegging in front of the TV and sleeping in our own bed!
Speaking of tired~
It's been an unbelievably tiring week and the words to the song below (surprise, surprise...music speaking to me??) really reflected how I felt in the midst of one of those seemingly unending nights. Even though I may at times feel God has forgotten us, I can rest in knowing He is always there!
Scroll to the bottom and click on #20 on my playlist to listen as you read the words.
All That I Can Say
David Crowder Band
Lord I'm tired
So tired from walking
And Lord I'm so alone
And Lord the dark
Is creeping in
Creeping up
To swallow me
I think I'll stop
Rest here a while
Chorus:
And this is all that I can say right now
And this is all that I can give
And this is all that I can say right now
And this is all that I can give, thats my everything
And didn't You see me cry'n?
And didn't You hear me call Your name?
Wasn't it You I gave my heart to?
I wish You'd remember
Where you sat it down
Chorus:
And this is all that I can say right now, I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
This is all that I can say right now [right now], I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
Bridge:
I didn't notice You were standing here
I didn't know that
That was You holding me
I didn't notice You were cry'n too
I didn't know that
That was You washing my feet
And this is all that I can say right now, oh I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
This is all that I can say right now [right now], I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
And this is all that I can say right now, oh I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
yeah thats my everything [2x]
everything........
MRCP showed no gall stone(s) although it did show bile duct (which leads from liver to intestines) to be enlarged; not unusual for someone who has had their gall bladder removed. This duct also has a small stricture, but not enough to where they feel anything needs to be done about it at this point. Huge relief. The procedure they use for something like this is an ERCP....and we really don't want to go there unless it is absolutely necessary. If you remember, Ron's pancreatitis was ERCP-induced!
Bloodwork looks good with liver numbers continuing to trend downward. Which all adds up to the assumption that he must have had a gall stone that passed on its own. Only Ron!
He continues to be free of chest pain and is feeling pretty good although we are both VERY TIRED and look forward to a quiet evening vegging in front of the TV and sleeping in our own bed!
Speaking of tired~
It's been an unbelievably tiring week and the words to the song below (surprise, surprise...music speaking to me??) really reflected how I felt in the midst of one of those seemingly unending nights. Even though I may at times feel God has forgotten us, I can rest in knowing He is always there!
Scroll to the bottom and click on #20 on my playlist to listen as you read the words.
All That I Can Say
David Crowder Band
Lord I'm tired
So tired from walking
And Lord I'm so alone
And Lord the dark
Is creeping in
Creeping up
To swallow me
I think I'll stop
Rest here a while
Chorus:
And this is all that I can say right now
And this is all that I can give
And this is all that I can say right now
And this is all that I can give, thats my everything
And didn't You see me cry'n?
And didn't You hear me call Your name?
Wasn't it You I gave my heart to?
I wish You'd remember
Where you sat it down
Chorus:
And this is all that I can say right now, I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
This is all that I can say right now [right now], I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
Bridge:
I didn't notice You were standing here
I didn't know that
That was You holding me
I didn't notice You were cry'n too
I didn't know that
That was You washing my feet
And this is all that I can say right now, oh I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
This is all that I can say right now [right now], I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
And this is all that I can say right now, oh I know its not much.
But this is all that I can give, yeah thats my everything.
yeah thats my everything [2x]
everything........
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
CT scans, MRCP's and IR, oh my!
It's been a busy day with Interventional Radiology, another CT scan and then this evening an MRCP (some kind of specialized MRI).
Dr. Coker changed out Ron's PICC line in IR and tried to get a look at object in pulmonary artery with no success, so he sent him down to CT. CT revealed NO SIGNS of foreign object. Dr. Coker's theory is a fibrin sheath from PICC line had dislodged and made it's way into pulmonary artery when they did a forceful push of contrast through PICC Monday night. My best understanding is fibrin is a part of the coagulation (clotting) process. It is very common for fibrin to form over the end of PICC line when you have one in long term. He has had fibrin develop with other PICC lines which typically causes PICC not to draw blood even though you can still flush and administer TPN...pushing things through works but not pulling out. Assumption is since this is not a foreign body but something his own body developed it should dissolve on it's own and not cause any further problems. Confusing to me, but whatever! The important thing is, whatever was there, is now gone!
MRCP was done too late to get results tonight. If there shows to be no gall stone, we should go home Thursday. If it shows he does indeed have gall stone; he won't go home until docs figure out what the next step is.
Ron has been chest pain free all day! That along with the decreased enzyme levels show a good probability that he has or had a gall stone (that may have passed on its own) and not another case of pancreatitis! Crazy isn't it....leave it to my hubby to hit those long odds! Again, we'll know more tomorrow.
And as Mistie reminded us today in her encouraging e-mail:
"HE still moves stones.... we're trusting HIM with you for the 'moving' of these"
Thanks, Mistie!
Time to say goodnight and head up to my room to get some much needed sleep...Dr. A is typically in Rockwall Thursdays but will be coming by to check on Ron before heading over there so I need to be back down here by 7AM, UGH!!! Although I know I can't complain...I'm so thankful I'm not having to drive back and forth from home, and that I don't have to sleep on a cot in Ron's room tonight but I have a nice quiet room where I can get uninterrupted sleep (which is more than I can say for poor Ron!) And guess what? It 's my old familiar room again! GOD IS GOOD; not only does He provide for my needs, but goes above and beyond to bring added comfort and less stress!
Love, Christie
Dr. Coker changed out Ron's PICC line in IR and tried to get a look at object in pulmonary artery with no success, so he sent him down to CT. CT revealed NO SIGNS of foreign object. Dr. Coker's theory is a fibrin sheath from PICC line had dislodged and made it's way into pulmonary artery when they did a forceful push of contrast through PICC Monday night. My best understanding is fibrin is a part of the coagulation (clotting) process. It is very common for fibrin to form over the end of PICC line when you have one in long term. He has had fibrin develop with other PICC lines which typically causes PICC not to draw blood even though you can still flush and administer TPN...pushing things through works but not pulling out. Assumption is since this is not a foreign body but something his own body developed it should dissolve on it's own and not cause any further problems. Confusing to me, but whatever! The important thing is, whatever was there, is now gone!
MRCP was done too late to get results tonight. If there shows to be no gall stone, we should go home Thursday. If it shows he does indeed have gall stone; he won't go home until docs figure out what the next step is.
Ron has been chest pain free all day! That along with the decreased enzyme levels show a good probability that he has or had a gall stone (that may have passed on its own) and not another case of pancreatitis! Crazy isn't it....leave it to my hubby to hit those long odds! Again, we'll know more tomorrow.
And as Mistie reminded us today in her encouraging e-mail:
"HE still moves stones.... we're trusting HIM with you for the 'moving' of these"
Thanks, Mistie!
Time to say goodnight and head up to my room to get some much needed sleep...Dr. A is typically in Rockwall Thursdays but will be coming by to check on Ron before heading over there so I need to be back down here by 7AM, UGH!!! Although I know I can't complain...I'm so thankful I'm not having to drive back and forth from home, and that I don't have to sleep on a cot in Ron's room tonight but I have a nice quiet room where I can get uninterrupted sleep (which is more than I can say for poor Ron!) And guess what? It 's my old familiar room again! GOD IS GOOD; not only does He provide for my needs, but goes above and beyond to bring added comfort and less stress!
Love, Christie
Held
Good morning~
Much better night...even though there were many interruptions for blood work, vitals, etc at least we were in a semi-quiet private room being cared for by people we know and love, who are familiar with all of Ron's history. Ron is still sleeping and I slept in between interruptions on a cot in his room. Not complaining, very thankful I was able to lay down and stretch out instead of spending another night sitting up in a straight back chair! I confess, though, I'm really looking forward to having a room at Hotel Presby tonight where I can get some much needed, uninterrupted sleep!
Some good news to report! Labs from early this morning look much better with lipase normal and liver enzyme trending down; and the chest pain has subsided!!! Praise God!. This downward trend in labs, along with the absence of chest pain and the sudden violent yakking episode he had Monday, may indicate he passed a gall stone.
Now, priority is to figure out what the "thing" is in the Pulmonary artery, which will be addressed in IR by Dr. Coker, with the hopes of removing it. The theory is it could be a piece of the PICC line or some other catheter used in one of his many procedures over the last few months that has broken off. My understanding is this would be done in a manner similar to an angiogram where they would go in through artery and "fish it out"; as long as it has not become embedded in the arterial wall in which case they would leave it alone and pray it doesn't become infected or develop into some other problem sometime down the road..
Once that is taken care of a more sophisticated MRI will be scheduled to look at duct to see if there is any sludge or evidence of gall stones. If there is, that will have to be addressed in some way (not sure how as yet) in hopes of avoiding another scary episode.
Thank you for praying on our behalf; your words of encouragement and assurance of prayer is balm to this weary soul!
Will keep you posted.
Christie
Below is a great song by Natalie Grant that has been running through my mind and heart the last couple of days. Read the words as you listen~~you'll need to copy and paste the web address, for some reason I can't get it to link directly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-hJ87ApWtw&feature=related
Held
Two months is too little
They let him go
They had no sudden healing
To think that providence
Would take a child from his mother
While she prays, is appalling
Who told us we'd be rescued
What has changed and
Why should we be saved from nightmares
We're asking why this happens to us
Who have died to live, it's unfair
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This hand is bitterness
We want to taste it and
Let the hatred numb our sorrows
The wise hand opens slowly
To lilies of the valley and tomorrow
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
If hope is born of suffering
If this is only the beginning
Can we not wait, for one hour
Watching for our savior
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
We'd be held
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This is what it means to be held
Much better night...even though there were many interruptions for blood work, vitals, etc at least we were in a semi-quiet private room being cared for by people we know and love, who are familiar with all of Ron's history. Ron is still sleeping and I slept in between interruptions on a cot in his room. Not complaining, very thankful I was able to lay down and stretch out instead of spending another night sitting up in a straight back chair! I confess, though, I'm really looking forward to having a room at Hotel Presby tonight where I can get some much needed, uninterrupted sleep!
Some good news to report! Labs from early this morning look much better with lipase normal and liver enzyme trending down; and the chest pain has subsided!!! Praise God!. This downward trend in labs, along with the absence of chest pain and the sudden violent yakking episode he had Monday, may indicate he passed a gall stone.
Now, priority is to figure out what the "thing" is in the Pulmonary artery, which will be addressed in IR by Dr. Coker, with the hopes of removing it. The theory is it could be a piece of the PICC line or some other catheter used in one of his many procedures over the last few months that has broken off. My understanding is this would be done in a manner similar to an angiogram where they would go in through artery and "fish it out"; as long as it has not become embedded in the arterial wall in which case they would leave it alone and pray it doesn't become infected or develop into some other problem sometime down the road..
Once that is taken care of a more sophisticated MRI will be scheduled to look at duct to see if there is any sludge or evidence of gall stones. If there is, that will have to be addressed in some way (not sure how as yet) in hopes of avoiding another scary episode.
Thank you for praying on our behalf; your words of encouragement and assurance of prayer is balm to this weary soul!
Will keep you posted.
Christie
Below is a great song by Natalie Grant that has been running through my mind and heart the last couple of days. Read the words as you listen~~you'll need to copy and paste the web address, for some reason I can't get it to link directly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-hJ87ApWtw&feature=related
Held
Two months is too little
They let him go
They had no sudden healing
To think that providence
Would take a child from his mother
While she prays, is appalling
Who told us we'd be rescued
What has changed and
Why should we be saved from nightmares
We're asking why this happens to us
Who have died to live, it's unfair
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This hand is bitterness
We want to taste it and
Let the hatred numb our sorrows
The wise hand opens slowly
To lilies of the valley and tomorrow
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
If hope is born of suffering
If this is only the beginning
Can we not wait, for one hour
Watching for our savior
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
We'd be held
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This is what it means to be held
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
...just a setting on the dryer
Such a long day it's been! Ron arrived by ambulance transport to Presbyterian around 1PM. I got here about 5 minutes later even though I left before the ambulance! It was very comforting to settle in to his room on 6West.
He was seen by Dr. Arslanlar as well as Janelle (physician assistant) shortly after arrival. And so the testing begins, or I guess continues.
Heart doesn't seem to be the problem. EKG, chest xray, echo and enzyme levels all look ok.
A couple of things are standing out:
When they did the CT last night of his chest they found he has a foreign body in his right pulmonary artery. No one has a clue as to what it is or how it got there. Tomorrow, Dr. A and Interventional Radiologists will go over CT images from HEB and compare with last one he had here (December 2008). Dr. A looked at report from CT in December which shows no indication of anything in the pulmonary artery at that time.
What does this mean? Don't know yet. So far, it does not seem to be impeding blood flow. They will have to study more closely to determine if it is lodged into the arterial wall; if it is it would do more harm than good to try to remove.
Interesting finding, but this has nothing to do with his chest pain! Yep, he continues to have pain, although higher dose of morphine is finally getting it a little more manageable.
Other findings come from his bloodwork. His liver function is suddenly climbing. He had his regularly scheduled home health visit Monday and bloodwork was normal; then his first set of labs in the ER last night at 8PM were normal; but each of the three he has had today show it is climbing. What causes liver function to climb so quickly? Medications, infection, gall stones. Gall stones? Yes, gall stones! But how can you have gall stones if you don't have a gall bladder? Dr. A said less than 10% of people (sound like anyone we know?) develop gall stones in the bile duct that is left after the gall bladder has been removed. They checked duct by sonogram today with no sign of gall stones but the duct is enlarged. Hmmm.
Pancreatic enzymes were also considerably elevated on this mornings bloodwork (after both yesterday being normal); meaning he may be dealing with another case of pancreatitis...which scares the pooey out of us! We are trying to keep in mind most cases of pancreatitis do not reach the level his did previously. We were glad to hear tonight's labs showed lipase (one of the pancreatic enzymes) was down but liver numbers continue to climb. (Liver numbers can also mean pancreatitis).
Thanks for praying...I know I've said it before but we would not be able to handle this without your faithful prayers lifting us to the Father; and His grace in answering and holding us close.
Much love,
Christie
Ponderings:
As I was quickly gathering stuff for yet another emergency hospital stay, I surveyed the mess of medical supplies, clothing, remnants of wedding stuff (yes, I know, it’s been almost 6 months since the wedding but give a girl a break, life is busy!), and all other kinds of paraphernalia cluttering up our bedroom. I began asking “Lord, when will our lives be back to normal?” He gently replied, “Who’s to say this isn’t normal?”
John 16:33 says, ”Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world!”
You see, in my mind “normal” is a routine, orderly, carefree life where a husband and wife work together to establish and take care of their family and home; are active in church, go out to eat and movies, travel, spend time with friends….you get the picture. However, I was reminded God doesn’t call us to live a normal, or better yet, conforming life. In fact Romans 12:2 says ”Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Too often conformity becomes synonymous with lukewarm. In a sermon from Revelation 3:15-16 where God tells the church at Laodicea He wishes they were either hot or cold; a pastor friend of ours related it this way: A hot beverage is soothing, comforting; while a cold beverage is quenching, refreshing. But a lukewarm beverage is none of these; in fact it is so unappealing, God says He would spit it out of His mouth!
Wait a minute! If routine leads to conformity which leads to lukewarm….I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be known as something only fit to be spat out!
Father, if it were up to me, I’d stay safe, secure and “comfortable” in my “normal” life, but Your plans and thoughts are way beyond mine. Thank you for taking me out of my comfort zone and “transforming” me! I confess I’m often kicking and screaming the whole way, but when I take my eyes off myself, I see Your plan is perfect and Your path is right. Even if it comes at the expense of my desire for “normalcy”, Father, I submit myself to You; have your will and way. And may I live in a way that soothes, comforts, quenches and brings refreshment to others; all the while giving glory to You.
As we say around here “normal is just a setting on the dryer!”
He was seen by Dr. Arslanlar as well as Janelle (physician assistant) shortly after arrival. And so the testing begins, or I guess continues.
Heart doesn't seem to be the problem. EKG, chest xray, echo and enzyme levels all look ok.
A couple of things are standing out:
When they did the CT last night of his chest they found he has a foreign body in his right pulmonary artery. No one has a clue as to what it is or how it got there. Tomorrow, Dr. A and Interventional Radiologists will go over CT images from HEB and compare with last one he had here (December 2008). Dr. A looked at report from CT in December which shows no indication of anything in the pulmonary artery at that time.
What does this mean? Don't know yet. So far, it does not seem to be impeding blood flow. They will have to study more closely to determine if it is lodged into the arterial wall; if it is it would do more harm than good to try to remove.
Interesting finding, but this has nothing to do with his chest pain! Yep, he continues to have pain, although higher dose of morphine is finally getting it a little more manageable.
Other findings come from his bloodwork. His liver function is suddenly climbing. He had his regularly scheduled home health visit Monday and bloodwork was normal; then his first set of labs in the ER last night at 8PM were normal; but each of the three he has had today show it is climbing. What causes liver function to climb so quickly? Medications, infection, gall stones. Gall stones? Yes, gall stones! But how can you have gall stones if you don't have a gall bladder? Dr. A said less than 10% of people (sound like anyone we know?) develop gall stones in the bile duct that is left after the gall bladder has been removed. They checked duct by sonogram today with no sign of gall stones but the duct is enlarged. Hmmm.
Pancreatic enzymes were also considerably elevated on this mornings bloodwork (after both yesterday being normal); meaning he may be dealing with another case of pancreatitis...which scares the pooey out of us! We are trying to keep in mind most cases of pancreatitis do not reach the level his did previously. We were glad to hear tonight's labs showed lipase (one of the pancreatic enzymes) was down but liver numbers continue to climb. (Liver numbers can also mean pancreatitis).
Thanks for praying...I know I've said it before but we would not be able to handle this without your faithful prayers lifting us to the Father; and His grace in answering and holding us close.
Much love,
Christie
Ponderings:
As I was quickly gathering stuff for yet another emergency hospital stay, I surveyed the mess of medical supplies, clothing, remnants of wedding stuff (yes, I know, it’s been almost 6 months since the wedding but give a girl a break, life is busy!), and all other kinds of paraphernalia cluttering up our bedroom. I began asking “Lord, when will our lives be back to normal?” He gently replied, “Who’s to say this isn’t normal?”
John 16:33 says, ”Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world!”
You see, in my mind “normal” is a routine, orderly, carefree life where a husband and wife work together to establish and take care of their family and home; are active in church, go out to eat and movies, travel, spend time with friends….you get the picture. However, I was reminded God doesn’t call us to live a normal, or better yet, conforming life. In fact Romans 12:2 says ”Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Too often conformity becomes synonymous with lukewarm. In a sermon from Revelation 3:15-16 where God tells the church at Laodicea He wishes they were either hot or cold; a pastor friend of ours related it this way: A hot beverage is soothing, comforting; while a cold beverage is quenching, refreshing. But a lukewarm beverage is none of these; in fact it is so unappealing, God says He would spit it out of His mouth!
Wait a minute! If routine leads to conformity which leads to lukewarm….I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be known as something only fit to be spat out!
Father, if it were up to me, I’d stay safe, secure and “comfortable” in my “normal” life, but Your plans and thoughts are way beyond mine. Thank you for taking me out of my comfort zone and “transforming” me! I confess I’m often kicking and screaming the whole way, but when I take my eyes off myself, I see Your plan is perfect and Your path is right. Even if it comes at the expense of my desire for “normalcy”, Father, I submit myself to You; have your will and way. And may I live in a way that soothes, comforts, quenches and brings refreshment to others; all the while giving glory to You.
As we say around here “normal is just a setting on the dryer!”
Oh What A Night!!!
What am I going to do with my sweet hubby??? I keep telling him I'm getting too old to pull these ER all-nighters but he's got a mind of his own!
Monday afternoon, Ron tells me "I don't want to alarm you, but" ....now, is it just me, or does your heart go into overdrive when you hear that??? He then informed me he had been having pain in his chest since Sunday afternoon...yes, Sunday afternoon!
Long story short, we ended up at our family healthcare after hours clinic. Doc there felt he needed more extensive testing which they couldn't accomodate and asked what our hospital preference would be. When I said Presbyterian Dallas, I was informed we needed something closer; if need be he could be transferred after diagnostics were complete. After a very long night filled with EKG, chest xray, multiple blood tests, chest CT, iv fluids and several rounds of morphine; he was still having pain. Tests were inconclusive so they decided to keep him overnight for observation (finally got into a room at 7AM). Doctors here conferred with docs at Presbyterian and decision has been made to transfer him to Presby. So, we are in that process now.
I'll update more as I can!
Please pray for definitive answers along with peace and rest!
Much love,
Christie
Monday afternoon, Ron tells me "I don't want to alarm you, but" ....now, is it just me, or does your heart go into overdrive when you hear that??? He then informed me he had been having pain in his chest since Sunday afternoon...yes, Sunday afternoon!
Long story short, we ended up at our family healthcare after hours clinic. Doc there felt he needed more extensive testing which they couldn't accomodate and asked what our hospital preference would be. When I said Presbyterian Dallas, I was informed we needed something closer; if need be he could be transferred after diagnostics were complete. After a very long night filled with EKG, chest xray, multiple blood tests, chest CT, iv fluids and several rounds of morphine; he was still having pain. Tests were inconclusive so they decided to keep him overnight for observation (finally got into a room at 7AM). Doctors here conferred with docs at Presbyterian and decision has been made to transfer him to Presby. So, we are in that process now.
I'll update more as I can!
Please pray for definitive answers along with peace and rest!
Much love,
Christie
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