While at John and April's reception, I got a call from my mom with the happiest news of the week...David was breating on his own! He had been breathing without the ventilator for 5 hours...which just shocked the nurses and doctors. The previous day, we were told he could be on the vent for up to 2 more weeks. The trach is partially responsible, as there is less obstruction and makes it easier to breathe. The respiratory therapists said they will continue to keep a close eye on his breathing, and may need to reconnect the vent over the next few days if any issues come up. This a huge step in his recovery!
Unfortunately, his leg isn't doing so well. Despite the surgery on Thursday, he continues to experience more muscle death. The enzymes from the muscles are very hard on the kidneys...we don't want his kidneys shutting down from this. There's a fairly strong chance he will need his leg amputated from the knee-down this week. We are praying that his leg will recover, but I personally feel that amputation isn't as scary and dramatic as everyone thinks. It will speed up his whole-body recovery by several months, it will make physical therapy much more effective, he won't have life-long chronic pain issues, and prosthetics are so amazing now that he'll be up on his feet/foot in half the time. We should have some answers on this by Tuesday or Wednesday.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
1 comment:
As the son of an amputee, I have always wanted to follow in my father's footstep. ;)
Do you watch "The Amazing Race"? A couple of seasons ago there was a girl on there who was an amputee who was also a triathlete. It doesn't have to slow one down.
All the best to your dad!
Post a Comment