August 17, 2012 - 4:00 visit (quick update)

There is a lot that I want to say but I need to get outside with Peter.

First, to all those who have given words of encouragement or provided some small help: Thank you!

I had hoped that the drain would be out by now.  I spoke with the neurosurgeon this morning and he indicated that it would probably come out today but maybe tomorrow.  Her CT scan was still good so there wasn't really any reason to leave it in.  I also spoke with the hospitalist (not entirely sure what that is but she's a nice doctor and easy to work with) and she indicated that once the drain was out Gretchen would probably be moving to her own room.  I had hoped for the milestone of getting the drain out but one more night in ICU would probably be good for Gretchen.

Gretchen continues to go in and out of consciousness.  I asked the nurse if that is from medication or if it is typical for her condition.  It is typical.  On the upside, now that she has had some nutrition via the feeding tube she is sounding much stronger (well...relatively speaking).  Up until last night (Thursday) Gretchen had taken no nutrients, only electrolytes.  The marked improvement between 4:00 yesterday (before any feeding) and today is incredible.  I am praying that the increased strength will allow her to swallow better so she won't need a feeding tube long term.  She did pull her feeding tube out again.  She was awake when they put it back in.  She didn't like it but she helped by swallowing at the right time and even told the nurse she wouldn't hold it against her. 

Before I go outside I want to remind people of a couple things.  First, acknowledge the situation of those who are hurting, even if it is just to say you are praying for the hurting person.  I don't care what the experts say, you are not going to "establish a new normal" right away.  Hurting people don't need "normal" they need to know people care and they don't like to ask for help!  Second, asking "how can I help" is good but in some cases hurting people don't know what they need - surprise them.  We have been surprised with meals or parts of meals and it is such a relief.  I have food and can prepare it but I now understand that a small amount of time required to prepare a meal takes away from the other things that need to be dealt with.  Also, offers to occupy Peter are greatly appreciated.  These things truly show me God's Love through you.  (okay, I started out to write this entire paragraph NOT referring to my specific situation because I don't need help in the sense that we will be clothed and fed but I am truly thankful to those who have helped out and I need to see God's Love through you which is shown when you do ANYTHING (even asking how I am doing because you really want to know) for me.

Spent to long, no time for proofing, please forgive errors.