Prayers for my grandmother....

[-American-]

Hi gang, my family is going to need prayers. My grandmother who is 83 years old is about to have open heart surgery. For the past year my granmothers doctor told her that she will have to have a valve in her heart replaced. She's been on medication to postpone the surgery but now the time as come.

For the past couple of days her right leg has been swollen. My mother took her to the cardiologist earlier today to check on the leg. I just recieved a phone call from my mother that my grandmother will have to have surgery to replace her bad valve.

One reason my grandmother postponed the surgery was the fact that she didn't want to end up in a nursing home. She feared she would not be able to recover completey, she's been able to live at her house even at the age of 84. Please pray for my grandmother to have a successful surgery and a speedy recovery, she is my last surviving grandparent and I'd like her to be around for many more years.

Thanks to all.

[stoked]

Will do...love those grandmas. We love you God, please be with American's grandma and bless her with a healthy recovery...

[Calibabe]

Hi gang, my family is going to need prayers. My grandmother who is 84 years old is about to have open heart surgery. For the past year my granmothers doctor told her that she will have to have a valve in her heart replaced. She's been on medication to postpone the surgery but now the time as come.

For the past couple of days her right leg has been swollen. My mother took her to the cardiologist earlier today to check on the leg. I just recieved a phone call from my mother that my grandmother will have to have surgery to replace her bad valve.

One reason my grandmother postponed the surgery was the fact that she didn't want to end up in a nursing home. She feared she would not be able to recover completey, she's been able to live at her house even at the age of 84. Please pray for my grandmother to have a successful surgery and a speedy recovery, she is my last surviving grandparent and I'd like her to be around for many more years.

Thanks to all.

American,

What is your grandmother's first name? The reason I ask is I will include her in my rosary tonight. It is always helpful for me to have the first name, not the last, just the first.

I know what you are going through. My grandmother had a problem with her mitral valve. They diagnosed her with "mitral valve prolapse" but her doctor said that because of her age (she was 85) that she didn't need to have anything done at that time. She also did not want to go through surgery because of the same thing, she didn't want to go to a nursing home as she lived by herself in her own home. That is something that is very important to older people. That they remain independent, not dependent. I lost my grandmother in 2006. She had a massive heart attack and thankfully went quickly. Her doctor said she never suffered and went instantly. That was a great comfort to us.

I am sure that you grandmother will be fine. This surgery is quite normal and people do fine afterwards. Like I said, I will include her in my daily rosary until she is home.

God bless you and your family.

[rhet 2]

As a grandma, I'm on her side, both in getting the surgery done and the heart fixed up and staying independent as long as possible.

LORD, hear that? A lovely lady who spent her entire life loving and doing for the kids You entrusted to her care. Her turn for care, now. Wisdom and super smarts for her docs -- and some tenderness and love, to boot. Healing for her body, that the fix should be successful in correcting the age and wear and tear of a lifetime of loving service. Courage and contentment for her soul, total trust in You and in her children to love her as much as she loved them. Acceptance of whatever You decide should be her future, both here and in Your own House. Dedication, patience, and loving endurance for her family that they should all draw close around her to shelter her from the cold winds that blow now that she is aging and approaching the time when she must yield control to others. May those who seek to shelter her be fully sensitive to her soul's needs as well as those of her body, so that love and joy abound in the hearts of the entire family.

In His Name, we ask, for in His Name, we trust. Amen.

[jwil59]

I am praying for Grandma. When is the surgery.

[-American-]

American,

What is your grandmother's first name? The reason I ask is I will include her in my rosary tonight. It is always helpful for me to have the first name, not the last, just the first.

I know what you are going through. My grandmother had a problem with her mitral valve. They diagnosed her with "mitral valve prolapse" but her doctor said that because of her age (she was 85) that she didn't need to have anything done at that time. She also did not want to go through surgery because of the same thing, she didn't want to go to a nursing home as she lived by herself in her own home. That is something that is very important to older people. That they remain independent, not dependent. I lost my grandmother in 2006. She had a massive heart attack and thankfully went quickly. Her doctor said she never suffered and went instantly. That was a great comfort to us.

I am sure that you grandmother will be fine. This surgery is quite normal and people do fine afterwards. Like I said, I will include her in my daily rosary until she is home.

God bless you and your family.

Her first name is Elizabeth, thanks for the prayers folks.:hug:

[-American-]

I am praying for Grandma. When is the surgery.

The surgery may be this weekend. I was told they are attempting to get rid of excess fluid she has. Once the excess fluid is gone they can then operate.

[-American-]

I have also found out she will be having two valves replaced. Her Aorta valve and Mitral valve.

[rhet 2]

I have also found out she will be having two valves replaced. Her Aorta valve and Mitral valve.

Father, Elizabeth needs her physical body strengthened to endure the physical stress of the repairs needed.

And her docs need wisdom in both getting her ready for the stress and then in doing the repairs.

And she, her docs, and her family need patience, endurance, comfort and HOPE, the knowledge that You are there, PERSONALLY running the entire procedure, A to Z.

In the name of Your Son, we ask. amen

[jwil59]

The surgery may be this weekend. I was told they are attempting to get rid of excess fluid she has. Once the excess fluid is gone they can then operate.

Ok I will be praying now and this weekend for the surgery. Keep us updated

[jwil59]

I have also found out she will be having two valves replaced. Her Aorta valve and Mitral valve.

Thanks for this, we like to pray about the details.

[super cool ski instructor]

Hi gang, my family is going to need prayers. My grandmother who is 84 years old is about to have open heart surgery. For the past year my granmothers doctor told her that she will have to have a valve in her heart replaced. She's been on medication to postpone the surgery but now the time as come.

For the past couple of days her right leg has been swollen. My mother took her to the cardiologist earlier today to check on the leg. I just recieved a phone call from my mother that my grandmother will have to have surgery to replace her bad valve.

One reason my grandmother postponed the surgery was the fact that she didn't want to end up in a nursing home. She feared she would not be able to recover completey, she's been able to live at her house even at the age of 84. Please pray for my grandmother to have a successful surgery and a speedy recovery, she is my last surviving grandparent and I'd like her to be around for many more years.

Thanks to all.


You got it, dear :hug:

[Calibabe]

Her first name is Elizabeth, thanks for the prayers folks.:hug:

I will continue to pray for her. Tonight we have "First Friday" at our church and when we are at Mass, I will light a candle for her and include her in my intentions during our rosary.

[-American-]

Thanks gang my family appreciate it. So far nothing new, I visited her last night and she seems to be happy, considering the coming surgery. She loves daytime Soaps, so she was telling me the about the latest happenings with the "Young and the Restless" :)

I really do hope she can survive the surgery and spring back. She's is the sweetest, nicest woman you'll ever come across..(we all say that about are grandmas), but it's true.

[-American-]

Here is the latest, tomorrow she is going to have a Cardiac Catheterization. The cardiologist came in the two days ago and talked about her aorta valve. It's pretty much shot and will be replaced with a pig valve. The surgery will most like be within the next week.

[rhet 2]

Here is the latest, tomorrow she is going to have a Cardiac Catheterization. The cardiologist came in the two days ago and talked about her aorta valve. It's pretty much shot and will be replaced with a pig valve. The surgery will most like be within the next week.

Prayers continue.

LORD, keep this one in your own ever-watchful eye. Please make that cardiologist the smartest, most gifted cardiologist ever seen in all the history of the universe. And let the graft TAKE with minimum disruption and minimum time of stress.

And keep the happiness and peace for hearts and minds flowing free and unrestricted between your throne of grace and this entire family. :pray:

[jwil59]

Here is the latest, tomorrow she is going to have a Cardiac Catheterization. The cardiologist came in the two days ago and talked about her aorta valve. It's pretty much shot and will be replaced with a pig valve. The surgery will most like be within the next week.

OK we are still praying about this. Keep us updated

[-American-]

I just got a phone call from my mom. The catheterization is finished and she did well. According to my mom who talk with the doctor the tests revealed that my grandmother will have to have both her aorta and mitral valve replaced.

The good news is the test revealed my grandmother has arteries that are clean as a whistle, no plack. The other good news is the doctor said my grandmother has a 90% chance of surviving the surgery. Still no word on the exact date of the surgery.

Once again thanks to all who've kept my grandmother in their prayers. You all have a special place in my heart.

[rhet 2]

I just got a phone call from my mom. The catheterization is finished and she did well. According to my mom who talk with the doctor the tests revealed that my grandmother will have to have both her aorta and mitral valve replaced.

The good news is the test revealed my grandmother has arteries that are clean as a whistle, no plack. The other good news is the doctor said my grandmother has a 90% chance of surviving the surgery. Still no word on the exact date of the surgery.

Once again thanks to all who've kept my grandmother in their prayers. You all have a special place in my heart.

YES!

LORD OF LIGHT AND HOPE AND MERCY, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

Tears of deepest gratitude for Your loving care. Oh thank You!

How kind, gracious, merciful, LOVING, TENDER, GENTLE, ever faithful to us YOU are.........

THANK YOU is just not enough.......

[-American-]

Just got word the surgery will be this Friday.

[rhet 2]

Just got word the surgery will be this Friday.

Two more days then.

LORD, are YOU ready?

We are. I hope.

Make those docs super smart and super compassionate and UP ON THE JOB they've got to do.

And make our sweet sister strong to endure the shock and come through it just fine, ready to get the healing done and get back to normal living and doing outside the hospital.

And patience and comfort and hope for all those who love Elizabeth, so that they serve not just our sister but YOU TOO.

[-American-]

Well we've hit a bit of a snag. Yesterday my grandmother was having an xray done. Something to do with the upcoming surgery that was supposed to be today. Ever since she entered the hospital she's been on oxygen. At some point during the xray yesterday, her oxygen was removed. When they finished the xray they hooked her back up to the oxygen, or so they thought.

They didn't realize she wasn't hooked up to her oxygen until her oxygen level dipped down to 52%. Needless to say my family is very upset. The surgery has been postponed because of this, and we do not know when it will happen now. She was weak from having such low oxygen levels. My mother told me that her levels are back up to 92% (that was yesterday). Hopefully the surgery will happen soon. We are taking it one day at a time.

[rhet 2]

Well we've hit a bit of a snag. Yesterday my grandmother was having an xray done. Something to do with the upcoming surgery that was supposed to be today. Ever since she entered the hospital she's been on oxygen. At some point during the xray yesterday, her oxygen was removed. When they finished the xray they hooked her back up to the oxygen, or so they thought.

They didn't realize she wasn't hooked up to her oxygen until her oxygen level dipped down to 52%. Needless to say my family is very upset. The surgery has been postponed because of this, and we do not know when it will happen now. She was weak from having such low oxygen levels. My mother told me that her levels are back up to 92% (that was yesterday). Hopefully the surgery will happen soon. We are taking it one day at a time.

Well, that's not the prayers I was making and not the answer I was hoping for -- but it IS an answer. HIS answer, HIS way -- which is usually a better way than I had in mind, for some reason. ;)

The LORD must have a good reason for delaying the surgery. We trust and we hang in there with you, dear heart.

Keep us updated.

[jwil59]

Well we've hit a bit of a snag. Yesterday my grandmother was having an xray done. Something to do with the upcoming surgery that was supposed to be today. Ever since she entered the hospital she's been on oxygen. At some point during the xray yesterday, her oxygen was removed. When they finished the xray they hooked her back up to the oxygen, or so they thought.

They didn't realize she wasn't hooked up to her oxygen until her oxygen level dipped down to 52%. Needless to say my family is very upset. The surgery has been postponed because of this, and we do not know when it will happen now. She was weak from having such low oxygen levels. My mother told me that her levels are back up to 92% (that was yesterday). Hopefully the surgery will happen soon. We are taking it one day at a time.

Ok then we will just keep praying about this.

Hang tough buddy, God is in control

[-American-]

Well folks it's not looking good. My grandmother is slowly but surely getting worse. My mom called me today and told me that my grandmother is having trouble breathing. She's on a breathing machine now and her oxygen level is currently at 86%. The doctors cannot operate on her until the oxygen level gets higher. The problem is the longer the doctors wait the worse she gets. She needs to get better before she can have the surgery, and it appears now that may not happen.

The nurse who forgot to put her back on oxygen yesterday has been fired. The doctors are fuming mad. Apparently after the xray yesterday she was taken back to her room. The nurse did not hook up the oxygen properly. According to the doctor something wasn't plugged in correctly or the wrong switch was pushed or something. This nurse has jumped around various other hospitals in the past. The doctor did say this incident is not the reason my grandmother is getting worse but it didn't help.

My grandmother said she's tired of it all and has been calling for her husband my grandfather who passed away 10 years ago.

Whatever God's will is we'll accept it. We would like a miracle here and hope she gets her oxygen levels up enough so they can perform the surgery.

[rhet 2]

Well folks it's not looking good. My grandmother is slowly but surely getting worse. My mom called me today and told me that my grandmother is having trouble breathing. She's on a breathing machine now and her oxygen level is currently at 86%. The doctors cannot operate on her until the oxygen level gets higher. The problem is the longer the doctors wait the worse she gets. She needs to get better before she can have the surgery, and it appears now that may not happen.

The nurse who forgot to put her back on oxygen yesterday has been fired. The doctors are fuming mad. Apparently after the xray yesterday she was taken back to her room. The nurse did not hook up the oxygen properly. According to the doctor something wasn't plugged in correctly or the wrong switch was pushed or something. This nurse has jumped around various other hospitals in the past. The doctor did say this incident is not the reason my grandmother is getting worse but it didn't help.

My grandmother said she's tired of it all and has been calling for her husband my grandfather who passed away 10 years ago.

Whatever God's will is we'll accept it. We would like a miracle here and hope she gets her oxygen levels up enough so they can perform the surgery.

Prayers continue, sweet luv. Hang in there and keep trusting. He knows the day of our coming in and our going out -- and has since before He ever made Adam -- and He has already made safe haven for both your grandmother and all her family who love her so much. And in His wisdom and love we will continue to trust.

a hundred million ka-jillion :hug: s all over the place

[jwil59]

Well folks it's not looking good. My grandmother is slowly but surely getting worse. My mom called me today and told me that my grandmother is having trouble breathing. She's on a breathing machine now and her oxygen level is currently at 86%. The doctors cannot operate on her until the oxygen level gets higher. The problem is the longer the doctors wait the worse she gets. She needs to get better before she can have the surgery, and it appears now that may not happen.

The nurse who forgot to put her back on oxygen yesterday has been fired. The doctors are fuming mad. Apparently after the xray yesterday she was taken back to her room. The nurse did not hook up the oxygen properly. According to the doctor something wasn't plugged in correctly or the wrong switch was pushed or something. This nurse has jumped around various other hospitals in the past. The doctor did say this incident is not the reason my grandmother is getting worse but it didn't help.

My grandmother said she's tired of it all and has been calling for her husband my grandfather who passed away 10 years ago.

Whatever God's will is we'll accept it. We would like a miracle here and hope she gets her oxygen levels up enough so they can perform the surgery.

I am sorry to hear things are not improving. I am still praying for you guys

[stoked]

Calling for her husband may be due to delirium which can happen easily when someone her age is in the hospital, it also means she could be pretty close...so tell her you love her and kiss and hug her while you can. I hope she can pull through without suffering but remember God has a place set for her in his house of many rooms.

[-American-]

Well I have some good news to report. I just got back from seeing my grandmother. She's improving, in fact she's much better than yesterday. Her oxygen level (which was 86% yesterday) is now up to 95% today. Her C02 level is around where it should be, she is also alert and talking.

Before I left tonight the nurse came in and checked her blood pressure and lungs. Her blood pressure is around normal and the fluid in her lungs has decreased enough that the nurse did not here any "crackling" like yesterday. My grandma is on some type of breathing machine that is forcing her to breathe correctly.

My uncle (my moms brother) is a respiratory therapist at the hostipal has been making sure his mom (my grandma) gets what she needs. He even said she's getting strong enough that she may not need the breathing machine.

My grandmother is the mother of 8 children, 4 daughters and 4 sons. My mother is the oldest of the 8 kids. With so many kids she has MANY grand kids. I've got about 15 or so cousins on my moms side of the family. I believe with all of us visting her she's rallying.

As it stands now my grandma has to have an oxygen level of 100% and her CO2 level has to be normal. Once that happens she can have the surgery.

We hope she continues to get better so she can once again be eligible for the surgery.

Thanks gang.

[rhet 2]

Well I have some good news to report. I just got back from seeing my grandmother. She's improving, in fact she's much better than yesterday. Her oxygen level (which was 86% yesterday) is now up to 95% today. Her C02 level is around where it should be, she is also alert and talking.

Before I left tonight the nurse came in and checked her blood pressure and lungs. Her blood pressure is around normal and the fluid in her lungs has decreased enough that the nurse did not here any "crackling" like yesterday. My grandma is on some type of breathing machine that is forcing her to breathe correctly.

My uncle (my moms brother) is a respiratory therapist at the hostipal has been making sure his mom (my grandma) gets what she needs. He even said she's getting strong enough that she may not need the breathing machine.

My grandmother is the mother of 8 children, 4 daughters and 4 sons. My mother is the oldest of the 8 kids. With so many kids she has MANY grand kids. I've got about 15 or so cousins on my moms side of the family. I believe with all of us visting her she's rallying.

As it stands now my grandma has to have an oxygen level of 100% and her CO2 level has to be normal. Once that happens she can have the surgery.

We hope she continues to get better so she can once again be eligible for the surgery.

Thanks gang.

Oh, how blessed such a family is! Yes, you kids WOULD give her a "new lease on life" -- great fun, grandkids are. A reason to keep on fighting. :hug:

Thank YOU, Lord, for this wonderful woman and all her kids and grandkids. Such a blessing for the whole earth! Please, continue to strengthen and encourage all of them. Delay her going home to be with YOU for just a tiny bit longer. Please. :pray:

[-American-]

From good news to not so good news. It turns out sometime last night she started having trouble getting her oxygen and CO2 levels corrected.

She's been put on a ventalator because the breathing machine she was on for the past two days (called a "Bi-pap") was no longer working. It turns out she had quite a bit of mucus build up in her throat (do to the "Bi-Pap") not because she's failing. The doctors remove the build up with forcips. If they hadn't removed the buildup my uncle, who's the respiratory therapist, said she probably would have died today.

Her CO2 level was way too high because of it. She also has quite a bit of fluid on the lungs. This is what is preventing her from having the heart surgery she needs. So far since she's been on the ventalator and sedated she better. She's resting more comfortabley and there is still a chance she can improve enough for the surgery. Right now her levels have stablized and are essentially around where they should be. They are hoping the fluid on her lungs will go away on its own without having to drain it. The doctors fear if they attempt to drain it the procedure could bring about an infection.

It's been a wild roller coaster ride and we are taking this on a day by day basis. We are hoping the news is better tomorrow. My family will be talking with the doctors sometime this week hoping to find out what chances my grandmother will have for the surgery.

[jwil59]

I am praying for better news tommoroow. Sorry to hear things are not progressing.

hang tough, we are praying about this

[rhet 2]

I am praying for better news tommoroow. Sorry to hear things are not progressing.

hang tough, we are praying about this

Most definitely! With all love for all of you.

[-American-]

It's been a few days since I last updated. Here is the latest...

My grandmother is still in the ICU, she's been in there since Sunday and is still on the respirator. They are now attempting to ween her off the respirator. She's doing good, and was off the respirator for 6 hours yesterday. We are hoping she will continue to get stronger and be able to get off the respirator soon.

In a way it was a good thing she did not get the valve replacement surgery back on the 8th as it has been revealed she probably would have died from it. She had a cardiac catheterization the day before her surgery and it revealed she also has pulmonary hypertension. So she really wasn't a candidate for the surgery at that time.

She had a chest xray and it has been revealed that her fluid buildup in her chest has gone down. She seems to be improving and according to my uncle who is a respiratory therapist, he believes she can improve enough and be a "true" candidate for the valve surgery.

As it stands now if she does not get the surgery she only has roughly 3 months.

[rhet 2]

It's been a few days since I last updated. Here is the latest...

My grandmother is still in the ICU, she's been in there since Sunday and is still on the respirator. They are now attempting to ween her off the respirator. She's doing good, and was off the respirator for 6 hours yesterday. We are hoping she will continue to get stronger and be able to get off the respirator soon.

In a way it was a good thing she did not get the valve replacement surgery back on the 8th as it has been revealed she probably would have died from it. She had a cardiac catheterization the day before her surgery and it revealed she also has pulmonary hypertension. So she really wasn't a candidate for the surgery at that time.

She had a chest xray and it has been revealed that her fluid buildup in her chest has gone down. She seems to be improving and according to my uncle who is a respiratory therapist, he believes she can improve enough and be a "true" candidate for the valve surgery.

As it stands now if she does not get the surgery she only has roughly 3 months.

I pray for the LORD to extend her time among us. Oxygen IN, LORD, fluid OUT. Please. Spare our sister to her family a few more years, please. :pray:

[jwil59]

It's been a few days since I last updated. Here is the latest...

My grandmother is still in the ICU, she's been in there since Sunday and is still on the respirator. They are now attempting to ween her off the respirator. She's doing good, and was off the respirator for 6 hours yesterday. We are hoping she will continue to get stronger and be able to get off the respirator soon.

In a way it was a good thing she did not get the valve replacement surgery back on the 8th as it has been revealed she probably would have died from it. She had a cardiac catheterization the day before her surgery and it revealed she also has pulmonary hypertension. So she really wasn't a candidate for the surgery at that time.

She had a chest xray and it has been revealed that her fluid buildup in her chest has gone down. She seems to be improving and according to my uncle who is a respiratory therapist, he believes she can improve enough and be a "true" candidate for the valve surgery.

As it stands now if she does not get the surgery she only has roughly 3 months.



Good news about the fluid and possibly getting off the respirator.

I am still parying for her, and your family also.

hang tough, He is in control.

[-American-]

As each day goes by the news continues to get better. Once again my grandmother was off the respirator (with support) for more than six hours today, that's longer than yesterday. According to my uncle who is a respiratory therapist, my grandma will be off the respirator sometime this week. She is looking forward to that day that's for sure. If things continue as they have been she will be in better shape now than she was when she first entered the hospital.

I have been optimistic this entire time and I still believe (and pray) that my grandmother will be considered a candidate for the heart valve surgery.

One thing I have learned about my grandmother over these two and a half weeks. Her willpower is amazing! She continues to surprise us, she's one tough little lady.:cool:

[rhet 2]

As each day goes by the news continues to get better. Once again my grandmother was off the respirator (with support) for more than six hours today, that's longer than yesterday. According to my uncle who is a respiratory therapist, my grandma will be off the respirator sometime this week. She is looking forward to that day that's for sure. If things continue as they have been she will be in better shape now that she was when she first entered the hospital.

I have been optimistic this entire time and I still believe (and pray) that my grandmother will be considered a candidate for the heart valve surgery.

One thing I have learned about my grandmother over these two and a half weeks. Her willpower is amazing! She continues to surprise us, she's one tough little lady.:cool:

Thank the blessed LORD for good news. And, I think at least one of her grandchildren inherited her strength of character. :hug:

[-American-]

Here is an update...

My grandmother wasn't making any progress on the respirator. Which can happen sometimes with the elderly. So this morning she got a tracheotomy in the hopes it will be easier to ween her of the respirator. In fact my uncle the respiratory therapist and the doctor agreed she has a much better and easier chance of being weened with a tracheotomy.

At this time she still is not a candidate for the heart valve surgery. The doctor said she probably never will be but it's not impossible. I still believe she will get her strength back, get weened off the respirator and be a candidate.

So far the majority of my prayers have been anwered...i.e..

1. I prayed for my grandmothers CO2 and Oxygen levels to get where they need to be...(prayer answered)

2. I prayed that her urinary tract infection would vanish...(prayer answered)

3. I prayed the fluid build up in her lungs would diminish and with each new chest x-ray, it has...(prayer anwsered)

4. I prayed that my grandmother would remain determined through this almost month long journey...(prayer answered)

I just hope the Lord will answer the two remaining prayers...

1. For my grandmother to be weened off the respirator

2. For my grandmother to regain her strength and be a candidate for the surgery she needs to save her life.

With four out of the six prayers anwsered so far I have no reason to doubt the last two won't be.

[rhet 2]

Here is an update...

My grandmother wasn't making any progress on the respirator. Which can happen sometimes with the elderly. So this morning she got a tracheotomy in the hopes it will be easier to ween her of the respirator. In fact my uncle the respiratory therapist and the doctor agreed she has a much better and easier chance of being weened with a tracheotomy.

At this time she still is not a candidate for the heart valve surgery. The doctor said she probably never will be but it's not impossible. I still believe she will get her strength back, get weened off the respirator and be a candidate.

So far the majority of my prayers have been anwered...i.e..

1. I prayed for my grandmothers CO2 and Oxygen levels to get where they need to be...(prayer answered)

2. I prayed that her urineary trac infection would vanish...(prayer answered)

3. I prayed the fluid build up in her lungs were diminish and with each new chest x-ray it has...(prayer anwsered)

4. I prayed that my grandmother would remained determined through this almost month long journey...(prayer answered)

I just hope the Lord will answer the two remaining prayers...

1. For my grandmother to be weened off the respirator

2. For my grandmother to regain her strength and be a candidate for the surgery she needs to save her life.

With four out of the six prayers anwsered so far I have no reason to doubt the last two won't be.

He always does answer our prayers. If He doesn't give us what we ask for, He gives us something better in the long run.

It is good to hear she's fighting back. Prayers for getting off the respirator continue. Prayers for the heart valves to either heal naturally or her condition to improve to a point where the transplants can occur. too.

And prayers for a most loyal and loving family, too.

Keep the faith, dear one. He surely will hear and respond to all who put their trust in our LORD and Savior.

:hug:

[jwil59]

Here is an update...

My grandmother wasn't making any progress on the respirator. Which can happen sometimes with the elderly. So this morning she got a tracheotomy in the hopes it will be easier to ween her of the respirator. In fact my uncle the respiratory therapist and the doctor agreed she has a much better and easier chance of being weened with a tracheotomy.

At this time she still is not a candidate for the heart valve surgery. The doctor said she probably never will be but it's not impossible. I still believe she will get her strength back, get weened off the respirator and be a candidate.

So far the majority of my prayers have been anwered...i.e..

1. I prayed for my grandmothers CO2 and Oxygen levels to get where they need to be...(prayer answered)

2. I prayed that her urinary tract infection would vanish...(prayer answered)

3. I prayed the fluid build up in her lungs would diminish and with each new chest x-ray, it has...(prayer anwsered)

4. I prayed that my grandmother would remain determined through this almost month long journey...(prayer answered)

I just hope the Lord will answer the two remaining prayers...

1. For my grandmother to be weened off the respirator

2. For my grandmother to regain her strength and be a candidate for the surgery she needs to save her life.

With four out of the six prayers anwsered so far I have no reason to doubt the last two won't be.

OK then that's how we will pray. Hang tough and keep us updated.

[-American-]

BIG NEWS!!!

My grandmother is going to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore Maryland! My grandma was awake yesterday and rather cheerful. She is doing well with the tracheotomy, and in fact is breathing on her own today as they slowly ween her off the respirator.

My uncle the respiratory therapist, thought it would be a good idea if my grandmother went to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. I just got a call from my mom that my grandma has just been accepted and is essentially waiting for a bed to open up.:clap:

She is going to John's Hopkins for an evaluation to see if she is a candidate for the surgery. Pretty much it's a second opinion, because the surgeons and doctors at the hospital she is currenty in do not believe she is a candidate. That is because they do not have the means like John's Hopkins.

John's Hopkins hospital is top notch when it comes to minimally invasive heart valve replacement. We've come this far and we hope and pray she is considered a candidate by the best doctors at John's Hopkins and has the surgery she needs.

[jwil59]

BIG NEWS!!!

My grandmother is going to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore Maryland! My grandma was awake yesterday and rather cheerful. She is doing well with the tracheotomy, and in fact is breathing on her own today as they slowly ween her off the respirator.

My uncle the respiratory therapist, thought it would be a good idea if my grandmother went to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. I just got a call from my mom that my grandma has just been accepted and is essentially waiting for a bed to open up.:clap:

She is going to John's Hopkins for an evaluation to see if she is a candidate for the surgery. Pretty much it's a second opinion, because the surgeons and doctors at the hospital she is currenty in do not believe she is a candidate. That is because they do not have the means like John's Hopkins.

John's Hopkins hospital is top notch when it comes to minimally invasive heart valve replacement. We've come this far and we hope and pray she is considered a candidate by the best doctors at John's Hopkins and has the surgery she needs.

Good news. We will kepp praying for Grandma. Kepp us updated on this

[super cool ski instructor]

BIG NEWS!!!

My grandmother is going to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore Maryland! My grandma was awake yesterday and rather cheerful. She is doing well with the tracheotomy, and in fact is breathing on her own today as they slowly ween her off the respirator.

My uncle the respiratory therapist, thought it would be a good idea if my grandmother went to John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. I just got a call from my mom that my grandma has just been accepted and is essentially waiting for a bed to open up.:clap:

She is going to John's Hopkins for an evaluation to see if she is a candidate for the surgery. Pretty much it's a second opinion, because the surgeons and doctors at the hospital she is currenty in do not believe she is a candidate. That is because they do not have the means like John's Hopkins.

John's Hopkins hospital is top notch when it comes to minimally invasive heart valve replacement. We've come this far and we hope and pray she is considered a candidate by the best doctors at John's Hopkins and has the surgery she needs.


Wonderful news!!!!!!!

[stoked]

I don't think you could do any better than THAT!!!

[-American-]

My grandmother is currently at John's Hopkins in Baltimore, they called up yesterday and sent a unit to come get her. She left at about 10:20 p.m. from southren Delaware. I got a call this morning that she made out okay and slept through the 2 hour+ drive. I was even told she wasn't using the respirator and was doing quite well.

There won't be any evaluation today, it seems it will be tomorrow. I certainly hope the experts agree she is a candidate for the surgery.

[rhet 2]

My grandmother is currently at John's Hopkins in Baltimore, they called up yesterday and sent a unit to come get her. She left at about 10:20 p.m. from southren Delaware. I got a call this morning that she made out okay and slept through the 2 hour+ drive. I was even told she wasn't using the respirator and was doing quite well.

There won't be any evaluation today, it seems it will be tomorrow. I certainly hope the experts agree she is a candidate for the surgery.

Another Yes from the LORD!

No, they'd wait and let her rest a bit before the eval.

Praying, dear one. Praying.

[jwil59]

My grandmother is currently at John's Hopkins in Baltimore, they called up yesterday and sent a unit to come get her. She left at about 10:20 p.m. from southren Delaware. I got a call this morning that she made out okay and slept through the 2 hour+ drive. I was even told she wasn't using the respirator and was doing quite well.

There won't be any evaluation today, it seems it will be tomorrow. I certainly hope the experts agree she is a candidate for the surgery.


I am praying about the evaluation. Let us know

[-American-]

Here is the latest, the doctors scheduled her surgery for Friday the 29th. I knew they would consider her a candidate. The experts at John's Hopkins seemed to be baffled that the previous hospital did not want to preform the surgery. The other hospital pretty much said...(she's old and her heart is failing, she's not going to make it into the summer). One wonders why they did not recommend the family to John's Hopkins? It was my uncle who kept going and suggested we take her there.

Today we find out they hit a bit of a snag though. My grandmothers belly was getting larger, and she was complaining of a little pain. They did a CAT scan this morning and it turns out she has a partial obstruction in her abdomen.

So that's where she's at now. With this partial obstruction we do not know if the heart surgery will be on for tomorrow or not. I'm getting a bit tired of her getting SO close then another obstacle pops up.

[rhet 2]

Here is the latest, the doctors scheduled her surgery for Friday the 29th. I knew they would consider her a candidate. The experts and John's Hopkins seemed to be baffled and the previous hospital not preforming the surgery. The other hospital she was in pretty much said...(she's old and her heart is failing, she's not going to make it into the summer). One wonders why they did not recommend the family to John's Hopkins? It was my uncle who kept going and suggested we take her there.

Today we find out they hit a bit of a snag though. My grandmothers belly was getting larger, and she was complaining of a little pain. They did a CAT scan this morning and it turns out she has a partial obstruction in her abdomen.

So that's where she's at now. With this partial obstruction we do not know if the heart surgery will be on for tomorrow or not. I'm getting a bit tired of her getting SO close then another obstacle pops up.

Okay. 'Nother specific request of the LORD: dissolve the obstruction and get her into and out of the surgery SAFELY restored to the best possible health given the wear and tear of a long life of serving Him so she can serve Him on this earth a bit longer, loving and being loved in turn.

Prayers continue.

Update when you can, luv. We're with you in heart and mind and bended knee. :hug:

[stoked]

Here is the latest, the doctors scheduled her surgery for Friday the 29th. I knew they would consider her a candidate. The experts at John's Hopkins seemed to be baffled that the previous hospital did not want to preform the surgery. The other hospital pretty much said...(she's old and her heart is failing, she's not going to make it into the summer). One wonders why they did not recommend the family to John's Hopkins? It was my uncle who kept going and suggested we take her there.

Today we find out they hit a bit of a snag though. My grandmothers belly was getting larger, and she was complaining of a little pain. They did a CAT scan this morning and it turns out she has a partial obstruction in her abdomen.

So that's where she's at now. With this partial obstruction we do not know if the heart surgery will be on for tomorrow or not. I'm getting a bit tired of her getting SO close then another obstacle pops up.

I wonder about these hospitals sometimes. I wonder if something happened to one of us just how much they would do to save us. So many in the medical profession don't bother to suggest someone else who 'can' do the job.

Some of the medications they may be giving her could cause constipation. Probably another oversight at the previous hospital. You're in the best hands now.

[-American-]

FANTASTIC NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is the update, the supposed partial blockage in her abdomen had something to do with her feeding tube, which was taken care of. My grandma had her surgery starting this morning. I just got a call from my mom and the surgeons just finished the surgery at 1:30 pm EST. SHE DID EXCELLENT, they replaced the Aorta Valve and they decided not to replace her Mitral Valve because they felt there was no need to as it was not as bad as they thought. They said possibly in the future it would need to be replaced but that could be done with the minimally invasive type of surgery.

Anyways my grandma is doing excellent, and with the new Aorta Valve she has good heart function. I was told she will be at Johns Hopkins for a week before they send her back here to Delaware.

I am so happy, it's been a long exausting roller coaster ride. Two weeks ago (had we listen to the other doctors) we thought we'd be preparing for a funeral. Thank God our prayers were answered...EVERY prayer was answered folks. If you don't believe in miracles read this thread, because my family just experienced one.:mrgreen:

I'd just like to say THANKS to all of you who had my grandma in your prayers.:hug:

I'll continue to keep you all updated about her recovery...THANKS:mrgreen:

[-American-]

I wonder about these hospitals sometimes. I wonder if something happened to one of us just how much they would do to save us. So many in the medical profession don't bother to suggest someone else who 'can' do the job.

Some of the medications they may be giving her could cause constipation. Probably another oversight at the previous hospital. You're in the best hands now.


I agree and I don't know why they would not suggest another hospital, especially Johns Hopkins? The doctor who told us there was no hope seemed to be a pessimistic, glass half empty type of doctor. It almost seemed to be "hospital politics."

A little advice for everyone reading this even if a doctor tells you there is no hope...DO NOT GIVE UP! Seek a second or third opinion because it can save your life.

[stoked]

Yay!!!

[rhet 2]

Oh, yes, LORD, yes! How bountiful and gracious Your eternal and never failing mercies are!

Dancing in sheer joy with tears of happiness streaming!

I'm so EXCITED!

You know what's echoing over and over in my head all of a sudden? That child's song about "There's a joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart...... down in my heart........"

[-American-]

My grandmother continues to do well. She's pretty much out of the woods now as Monday was the third day after surgery. She's very alert and her vital stats are great thanks to the new Aorta valve. She's also doing well being weened off the respirator. If all goes according to plan she will be home maybe early next week.

[itsrea]

My grandmother continues to do well. She's pretty much out of the woods now as Monday was the third day after surgery. She's very alert and her vital stats are great thanks to the new Aorta valve. She's also doing well being weened off the respirator. If all goes according to plan she will be home maybe early next week.I had the frustrating and scary experience of having my son's surgeries delayed time and time after time too - so I know how scary it is... the day before the third from the last was to be performed our surgeon came down with the flu and another doctor was scheduled to take over. When we met him my nine year old son asked the surgeon, "Can you fix my tummy so it's like everyone else's?" The surgeon said no, Shannon, I can't. Your skin won't stretch enough. The next day when we walked into Shannon's room he sprang up on his bed, ripped the surgical bandages off, and yelled LOOK! LOOK!! THEY MADE MY TUMMY LIKE EVERYONE ELSE'S!!! (The nurses on that floor had been with him from his very first surgery when he was 18 months old and were prancing/dancing around, laughing too... not the least bit upset that he had pulled off his bandages.. they said "he's been pulling them back every since the surgeon told him he got his wish".)

The surgeon later told us halfway through the surgery he just KNEW how to do it and it was so simple he couldn't believe none of them had ever thought of it before.

I wrote my aunt that the Lord had performed a miracle by showing the doctors how to make Shannon's tummy like every one else's. My Aunt wrote back that the miracle was that the Lord was FINALLY able to work into place a surgeon that would LISTEN.

Looks like the Lord worked out someone who would listen about your grandmother too!

:) :clap:

Thank you Lord for never giving up and for working into place those who would listen to you.

[super cool ski instructor]

This is wonderful! God is Good! :D

[rhet 2]

This is wonderful! God is Good! :D

Amen! Beyond good! What's that old kid's song, "The LORD is good to us. Yes, that is plain to see. The LORD is good to us."

Wonderful news!

[jwil59]

My grandmother continues to do well. She's pretty much out of the woods now as Monday was the third day after surgery. She's very alert and her vital stats are great thanks to the new Aorta valve. She's also doing well being weened off the respirator. If all goes according to plan she will be home maybe early next week.

Good news, thanks for that wonderfull update.

We will keep praying for Grandmom's continued progress.

[Ron Jon]

My grandmother continues to do well. She's pretty much out of the woods now as Monday was the third day after surgery. She's very alert and her vital stats are great thanks to the new Aorta valve. She's also doing well being weened off the respirator. If all goes according to plan she will be home maybe early next week.I'm very happy to hear of your Grandmother's recovery. :clap: How old is she, if you don't mind me asking?

[-American-]

I'm very happy to hear of your Grandmother's recovery. :clap: How old is she, if you don't mind me asking?

Thanks and my grandmother is 83.

[jwil59]

Thanks and my grandmother is 83.

I remember when I was in college my great grandmother was hospitalized with pnemonia (Sp) at 85 years old. She lived with my grandfather at the time(her son) who was my mom's father. Anyway, she was in the hospital a couple weeks, it was a big struggle and they thought she would die a couple times. My mother brought her home and the first thing she did was grab a broom and wear my ass out cause she said her house was dirty and my PaPa was too old to beat. man was that woman ****ed. Her house stayed immaculate, one could eat off her floors.

I hope and pray grandmom is still progressing

[-American-]

Here is the latest...

Last week my grandmother was fighting off an infection and fever. Thankfully with the help of antibiotics the infection and fever are now gone. She's been sitting up in the chair for a bit and is just about breathing on her own without the respirator. She's on something called a "TP" which as I understand is a way for one to get ween off the respirator. With a "TP" she is essentially breathing on her own. The main obstacle now is to get her strength back up. She'll probably remain at John's Hopkins for another week or two until her strength returns. So far everything is working out.:)

[rhet 2]

Here is the latest...

Last week my grandmother was fighting off an infection and fever. Thankfully with the help of antibiotics the infection and fever are now gone. She's been sitting up in the chair for a bit and is just about breathing on her own without the respirator. She's on something called a "TP" which as I understand is a way for one to get ween off the respirator. With a "TP" she is essentially breathing on her own. The main obstacle now is to get her strength back up. She'll probably remain at John's Hopkins for another week or two until her strength returns. So far everything is working out.:)

A definite yes from the LORD of Lords.

Thank you for the update.

Prayers continue -- and they include a lot of praise for the Almighty who has most surely been working for your grandmother!

[jwil59]

Here is the latest...

Last week my grandmother was fighting off an infection and fever. Thankfully with the help of antibiotics the infection and fever are now gone. She's been sitting up in the chair for a bit and is just about breathing on her own without the respirator. She's on something called a "TP" which as I understand is a way for one to get ween off the respirator. With a "TP" she is essentially breathing on her own. The main obstacle now is to get her strength back up. She'll probably remain at John's Hopkins for another week or two until her strength returns. So far everything is working out.:)

Thanks for that update.

I am praying her strength is restored quickly.

Hang tough buddy, He is still in control

[itsrea]

:dance: Great news American!!! :dance: My prayers will continue as she recovers :)

[-American-]

Another day of good news, she's coming home!!! I just talked to my mom and John's Hopkins called her to tell her my grandmother will be coming home. According to JH her heart function is normal and there is no need for her to stay in the cardiac care unit at John's Hopkins. She'll be coming back here to Delaware at the local hospital.

She still has to be weened of the respirator which could happen soon. Then it's off to rehabilitation to get her strength back.:dance:

[rhet 2]

Another day of good news, she's coming home!!! I just talked to my mom and John's Hopkins called her to tell her my grandmother will be coming home. According to JH her heart function is normal and there is no need for her to stay in the cardiac care unit at John's Hopkins. She'll be coming back here to Delaware at the local hospital.

She still has to be weened of the respirator which could happen soon. Then it's off to rehabilitation to get her strength back.:dance:

YES! All glory praise and honor to Jehovah, King of Kings and LORD of All Life! :dance:

[itsrea]

Another day of good news, she's coming home!!! I just talked to my mom and John's Hopkins called her to tell her my grandmother will be coming home. According to JH her heart function is normal and there is no need for her to stay in the cardiac care unit at John's Hopkins. She'll be coming back here to Delaware at the local hospital.

She still has to be weened of the respirator which could happen soon. Then it's off to rehabilitation to get her strength back.:dance:More Greaaaaaaat news! I bet you'll be so glad to see her!

:dance:

[-American-]

Hi gang, I just wanted to let you know my grandmother is back home in Delaware. She came back 3 days ago. She's in the ICU of our local hospital and she is slowly but surely getting weened off the traceotomy. She has a little ways to go but she's doing fine.

[itsrea]

Hi gang, I just wanted to let you know my grandmother is back home in Delaware. She came back 3 days ago. She's in the ICU of our local hospital and she is slowly but surely getting weened off the traceotomy. She has a little ways to go but she's doing fine.aww -American- that's great news! Are you close enough to get to see her?

[rhet 2]

Hi gang, I just wanted to let you know my grandmother is back home in Delaware. She came back 3 days ago. She's in the ICU of our local hospital and she is slowly but surely getting weened off the traceotomy. She has a little ways to go but she's doing fine.

YES! :clap: and sings songs of praise to the LORD above. Another critical step forward. THANK YOU, LORD! :dance:

[jwil59]

Hi gang, I just wanted to let you know my grandmother is back home in Delaware. She came back 3 days ago. She's in the ICU of our local hospital and she is slowly but surely getting weened off the traceotomy. She has a little ways to go but she's doing fine.

Praise God and thanks for the update. Still in prayer for Grandma

[-American-]

aww -American- that's great news! Are you close enough to get to see her?

Yep, I'm literally 10 minutes from the hospital. It's a little town called Lewes, my other grandparents (who've since past on) used to live right down the street from the hospital for 57 years.

[rhet 2]

Yep, I'm literally 10 minutes from the hospital. It's a little town called Lewes, my other grandparents (who've since past on) used to live right down the street from the hospital for 57 years.

Praise the LORD and pass the healing! Good news, indeed! :hug:

[-American-]

Today my grandmother was sent up to Wilmington to Saint Francis Hospital. She's almost 100% off the ventilator. Saint Francis has a place that specializes in weening people off ventilators. I predicts within a week she'll be off the ventilator permanately. All she'll need now is to get her strength back then she'll be able to go home.

[rhet 2]

Today my grandmother was sent up to Wilmington to Saint Francis Hospital. She's almost 100% off the ventilator. Saint Francis has a place that specializes in weening people off ventilators. I predicts within a week she'll be off the ventilator permanately. All she'll need now is to get her strength back then she'll be able to go home.

LORD give her that strength! :hug:

[jwil59]

Today my grandmother was sent up to Wilmington to Saint Francis Hospital. She's almost 100% off the ventilator. Saint Francis has a place that specializes in weening people off ventilators. I predicts within a week she'll be off the ventilator permanately. All she'll need now is to get her strength back then she'll be able to go home.

We will keep praying for her. Thanks for the update

[-American-]

Hi gang, my grandma is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis Hospital. She is still on the ventilator because she hit a few snags. She has a peg tube (for feeding) and it was causing damage to her stomach. It was also causing her to lose blood. She had to have a small procedure and the problem was fixed. Also her postassium levels were low which caused her to feel tired. As for as I know that has been taken care of as well.

We are essentially waiting for the doctors to give the respiratory therapist the go ahead for weening. She's already on the lowest pressure support and Saint Francis is very aggressive with weening. Once they get started it shouldn't take long.

[rhet 2]

Hi gang, my grandma is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis Hospital. She is still on the ventilator because she hit a few snags. She has a peg tube (for feeding) and it was causing damage to her stomach. It was also causing her to lose blood. She had to have a small procedure and the problem was fixed. Also her postassium levels were low which caused her to feel tired. As for as I know that has been taken care of as well.

We are essentially waiting for the doctors to give the respiratory therapist the go ahead for weening. She's already on the lowest pressure support and Saint Francis is very aggressive with weening. Once they get started it shouldn't take long.

Thank you.

She is NOT forgotten.

Good to know she's holding her own, but I'd sure like to hear she's home and snuggled safe and sound in the arms of her loving family.

:hug:

[jwil59]

Hi gang, my grandma is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis Hospital. She is still on the ventilator because she hit a few snags. She has a peg tube (for feeding) and it was causing damage to her stomach. It was also causing her to lose blood. She had to have a small procedure and the problem was fixed. Also her postassium levels were low which caused her to feel tired. As for as I know that has been taken care of as well.

We are essentially waiting for the doctors to give the respiratory therapist the go ahead for weening. She's already on the lowest pressure support and Saint Francis is very aggressive with weening. Once they get started it shouldn't take long.

I am praying for the weening process

[Semi-Sweet]

Hi gang, my grandma is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis Hospital. She is still on the ventilator because she hit a few snags. She has a peg tube (for feeding) and it was causing damage to her stomach. It was also causing her to lose blood. She had to have a small procedure and the problem was fixed. Also her postassium levels were low which caused her to feel tired. As for as I know that has been taken care of as well.

We are essentially waiting for the doctors to give the respiratory therapist the go ahead for weening. She's already on the lowest pressure support and Saint Francis is very aggressive with weening. Once they get started it shouldn't take long.

Hope you can give us some good news soon American. It sounds as though things are looking good.

May God bless you all. :pray:

[-American-]

Hi gang, here is the latest. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis in Wilmington. So far there is smooth sailing as she's averaging about 20 hours off the vent. I was told today that they are expecting her to be off the ventelator completely either by the end of this week or next week. After she gets off the vent she will be taken to a nursing home to get her strength back, after that she can come home.

[rhet 2]

Hi gang, here is the latest. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis in Wilmington. So far there is smooth sailing as she's averaging about 20 hours off the vent. I was told today that they are expecting her to be off the ventelator completely either by the end of this week or next week. After she gets off the vent she will be taken to a nursing home to get her strength back, after that she can come home.

Good news, indeed.

We have not forgotten, so thank you for the update.

[EmmanuelGoldstein]

Hi gang, here is the latest. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis in Wilmington. So far there is smooth sailing as she's averaging about 20 hours off the vent. I was told today that they are expecting her to be off the ventelator completely either by the end of this week or next week. After she gets off the vent she will be taken to a nursing home to get her strength back, after that she can come home.
That is good news. My prayers are with you.

[jwil59]

Hi gang, here is the latest. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis in Wilmington. So far there is smooth sailing as she's averaging about 20 hours off the vent. I was told today that they are expecting her to be off the ventelator completely either by the end of this week or next week. After she gets off the vent she will be taken to a nursing home to get her strength back, after that she can come home.

Thanks for the update. I am still praying for grandma.

[-American-]

Well gang there is really nothing new. Obvisously my grandmother isn't off the vent yet. See back in April she had minor surgery to correct a problem with her feeding tube. The tube was causing damage to her stomach. That was taken care of but since the surgery her bowels/intestines are pretty sluggish. Since they are sluggish they can't put her back on the feeding tube to give her nurishment. She's getting her nurishment from the I V and they continue to try her out on the feeding tube.

The doctors are saying they need to get her up and moving more, then and only then will her "gut" get up to snuff. Since her intestines/bowels are sluggish they really can't go any farther with the weening off the vent. Simply because she isn't strong enough yet. She is however staying of the vent for a good 16-18 hours a day.

So please pray that my grandmothers "gut" will get to working the way it should. She'll be able to get the nurishment she needs (as well as strength) and the weening can go further.

Thanks gang.

[jwil59]

Well gang there is really nothing new. Obvisously my grandmother isn't off the vent yet. See back in April she had minor surgery to correct a problem with her feeding tube. The tube was causing damage to her stomach. That was taken care of but since the surgery her bowels/intestines are pretty sluggish. Since they are sluggish they can't put her back on the feeding tube to give her nurishment. She's getting her nurishment from the I V and they continue to try her out on the feeding tube.

The doctors are saying they need to get her up and moving more, then and only then will her "gut" get up to snuff. Since her intestines/bowels are sluggish they really can't go any farther with the weening off the vent. Simply because she isn't strong enough yet. She is however staying of the vent for a good 16-18 hours a day.

So please pray that my grandmothers "gut" will get to working the way it should. She'll be able to get the nurishment she needs (as well as strength) and the weening can go further.

Thanks gang.

She is in my prayers for sure

[bayoubill]

-American-, I've been in the forums for a year, but I've only just begun to look at the threads in Overcoming Obstacles.

I'll tell you what I just posted in here to Rhonda: I'm almost ashamed to say that what brought me in here was an OP shown in the Discussion Topics for a thread about a cat (beloved, yes, but still a cat, not a human member of the family).

But now that I'm here, I'm keeping you and your grandmother in my thoughts and wishing y'all the best.

My wife and I are going though a similar ordeal with my 85-year-old father-in-law.

[rhet 2]

Well gang there is really nothing new. Obvisously my grandmother isn't off the vent yet. See back in April she had minor surgery to correct a problem with her feeding tube. The tube was causing damage to her stomach. That was taken care of but since the surgery her bowels/intestines are pretty sluggish. Since they are sluggish they can't put her back on the feeding tube to give her nurishment. She's getting her nurishment from the I V and they continue to try her out on the feeding tube.

The doctors are saying they need to get her up and moving more, then and only then will her "gut" get up to snuff. Since her intestines/bowels are sluggish they really can't go any farther with the weening off the vent. Simply because she isn't strong enough yet. She is however staying of the vent for a good 16-18 hours a day.

So please pray that my grandmothers "gut" will get to working the way it should. She'll be able to get the nurishment she needs (as well as strength) and the weening can go further.

Thanks gang.

You got it, sweet one!

[-American-]

-American-, I've been in the forums for a year, but I've only just begun to look at the threads in Overcoming Obstacles.

I'll tell you what I just posted in here to Rhonda: I'm almost ashamed to say that what brought me in here was an OP shown in the Discussion Topics for a thread about a cat (beloved, yes, but still a cat, not a human member of the family).

But now that I'm here, I'm keeping you and your grandmother in my thoughts and wishing y'all the best.

My wife and I are going though a similar ordeal with my 85-year-old father-in-law.

Thanks:cool: I hope all works out with your father-in-law.

[-American-]

So here is the latest folks. My grandmother is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis. For two weeks she was averaging about 18 hours off the vent. She then hit another snag where for a week she couldn't do any weening. It turns out she had fluid on her lungs again.

The doctor says it's common with people who are in bed for so long. So on Friday they removed a liter of fluid from my grandmothers chest. She recovering and if she can do 18 hours of breathing on her own (with fluid on her lungs). Hopefully with the fluid now gone she'll make leaps and bounds with the weening and get off that vent.

[rhet 2]

So here is the latest folks. My grandmother is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis. For two weeks she was averaging about 18 hours off the vent. She then hit another snag where for a week she couldn't do any weening. It turns out she had fluid on her lungs again.

The doctor says it's common with people who are in bed for so long. So on Friday they removed a liter of fluid from my grandmothers chest. She recovering and if she can do 18 hours of breathing on her own (with fluid on her lungs). Hopefully with the fluid now gone she'll make leaps and bounds with the weening and get off that vent.

I truly pray so, luv.

[jwil59]

So here is the latest folks. My grandmother is still up in Wilmington at Saint Francis. For two weeks she was averaging about 18 hours off the vent. She then hit another snag where for a week she couldn't do any weening. It turns out she had fluid on her lungs again.

The doctor says it's common with people who are in bed for so long. So on Friday they removed a liter of fluid from my grandmothers chest. She recovering and if she can do 18 hours of breathing on her own (with fluid on her lungs). Hopefully with the fluid now gone she'll make leaps and bounds with the weening and get off that vent.

That is what I will pray for. Keep the updates comming

[-American-]

Update......

Well not much of an update. There really hasn't been any changes. After the fluid was removed they didn't continue with the weening. The problem is my grandma's GI problems (Gastrointestinal). As you know on April 16th she had a small procedure to repossion the peg tube. The other one was corroding her stomach and causing problems. According to the doctors when you have surgery it seems your bowels and intestines temporarily shut down. My grandma's problem is that her bowels and intestines haven't really restarted the way the doctors want them too.

So because of her very slugish intestines and bowels they can't feed her through the peg tube. When the do her belly swells up. So she' on an IV and that's how she's getting her nurishment but it's not enough. Since she can't be feed the proper nurishment she needs to gain her strength back, she's too weak to be weened off the ventalator. For weeks now several GI doctors have been scratching their heads trying to figure out what they can do. Nothing seems to be working and we are being told she may have to be feed through her IV for the rest of her life. That and she won't be able to be weened off the vent.

I've been praying to God that if we need to get another opinion from new GI doctors to please let us know. My prayers were answered as a few days later the respiratory therapist sat down and talked to us suggesting we seek another opinion. He told us that from what he's seen the current GI doctors aren't really doing much to fix my grandma's problem. My entire family lives in southren Delaware so we are not able to be up at the hospital but once or twice a week (since it's two hours north in Wilmington.) Thankfully the respiratory therapist is there daily and see's and hears more than we do. So far we are in the works of getting a new set of GI doctors to come in and see what they can do for her.

I do feel optimistic as I have been this entire 4 month period. My prayers have been answered so I feel this one will as well. My family did find something out we didn't know. Back before she had the heart surgery that is...

We didn't realize just how close it was. On the morning of Feb 29th we got word that EMT's from John's Hopkins were on their way to pick her up and take her there. I was there that morning at Beebe Medical Center and spent the entire day with her before she was shipped over to Johns Hopkins. She was spry and telling jokes all day. At around 10:00 that night EMT's from JH came and took her. On the way over she died twice and they had to jolt her back to life.

So far we've been through several miracles....

The first miracle was the fact that (after a month of cardiac experts at Beebe telling us my grandma would be unable to have the heart surgery, and no one would operate on her) Johns Hopkins said they'd take her and see what they could do.

The second miracle was the fact that she survived two near death moments on the way over to Johns Hopkins.

The third miracle was that Johns Hopkins said they could operate on her.

The fourth miracle was that she survived the heart surgery.

So you can see that my family feels God spared her for a reason. If she was going to die she had plenty of moments where that could of happened but did not. What we can't understand is why Saint Francis Hospital can't figure out her GI problem. If they can't she will be bed ridden, stuck breathing on a machine and being fed through and IV for the rest of her life. That's not much of a life so we are asking the following prayer request.

Please pray that we can somehow get in contact with a GI doctor or doctor(s) that can find a way to fix my grandmothers intestinal and bowel problems. After that hurdle is conquered the weening can begin again.

Thank you all.

[jwil59]

Update......

Well not much of an update. There really hasn't been any changes. After the fluid was removed they didn't continue with the weening. The problem is my grandma's GI problems (Gastrointestinal). As you know on April 16th she had a small procedure to repossion the peg tube. The other one was corroding her stomach and causing problems. According to the doctors when you have surgery it seems your bowels and intestines temporarily shut down. My grandma's problem is that her bowels and intestines haven't really restarted the way the doctors want them too.

So because of her very slugish intestines and bowels they can't feed her through the peg tube. When the do her belly swells up. So she' on an IV and that's how she's getting her nurishment but it's not enough. Since she can't be feed the proper nurishment she needs to gain her strength back, she's too weak to be weened off the ventalator. For weeks now several GI doctors have been scratching their heads trying to figure out what they can do. Nothing seems to be working and we are being told she may have to be feed through her IV for the rest of her life. That and she won't be able to be weened off the vent.

I've been praying to God that if we need to get another opinion from new GI doctors to please let us know. My prayers were answered as a few days later the respiratory therapist sat down and talked to us suggesting we seek another opinion. He told us that from what he's seen the current GI doctors aren't really doing much to fix my grandma's problem. My entire family lives in southren Delaware so we are not able to be up at the hospital but once or twice a week (since it's two hours north in Wilmington.) Thankfully the respiratory therapist is there daily and see's and hears more than we do. So far we are in the works of getting a new set of GI doctors to come in and see what they can do for her.

I do feel optimistic as I have been this entire 4 month period. My prayers have been answered so I feel this one will as well. My family did find something out we didn't know. Back before she had the heart surgery that is...

We didn't realize just how close it was. On the morning of Feb 29th we got word that EMT's from John's Hopkins were on their way to pick her up and take her there. I was there that morning at Beebe Medical Center and spent the entire day with her before she was shipped over to Johns Hopkins. She was spry and telling jokes all day. At around 10:00 that night EMT's from JH came and took her. On the way over she died twice and they had to jolt her back to life.

So far we've been through several miracles....

The first miracle was the fact that (after a month of cardiac experts at Beebe telling us my grandma would be unable to have the heart surgery, and no one would operate on her) Johns Hopkins said they'd take her and see what they could do.

The second miracle was the fact that she survived two near death moments on the way over to Johns Hopkins.

The third miracle was that Johns Hopkins said they could operate on her.

The fourth miracle was that she survived the heart surgery.

So you can see that my family feels God spared her for a reason. If she was going to die she had plenty of moments where that could of happened but did not. What we can't understand is why Saint Francis Hospital can't figure out her GI problem. If they can't she will be bed ridden, stuck breathing on a machine and being fed through and IV for the rest of her life. That's not much of a life so we are asking the following prayer request.

Please pray that we can somehow get in contact with a GI doctor or doctor(s) that can find a way to fix my grandmothers intestinal and bowel problems. After that hurdle is conquered the weening can begin again.

Thank you all.

I am praying for the right GI doctor. Hang tough my friend

[rhet 2]

I am praying for the right GI doctor. Hang tough my friend

Second this prayer. Hang in there, American.

[-American-]

I believe it's about time for an update so here is the latest. Currently my grandmother is still up at St. Franicis. They have been so far unsuccesfull in correcting her GI problem. She still has sluggish intestines/bowels which is called "illeus".

We had a long discussion with the doctor yesterday and here is what he told us. In his fifteen years as a doctor he's never seen someone with "illeus" this stubborn. They keep trying to up the feeding to where it should be and she won't accept it. So the doctor has greatly reduced her peg tube feedings down to 10, it should be at 55. He's going to attempt to build up her protein in the hopes that that will correct the illeus. He said that may take weeks or even months.

He said her heart and breathing are great, in fact he told us she's pratically breathing on her own even though she's still on the vent. Her pressure support is at a low 10 on the vent, and he believes she can be weened off the vent. The main thing is to get her strength up.

There is a problem though, St Francis Hospital wants my grandmother out of there. It's a long story but money/medicare is involved. She's been there for over three months now. The big problem is there is no place here in Delaware that will take her. As she is on the vent and being fed with a TP. No facility in Delaware is equipped to handle her. So we were told to take her back to John's Hopkins or some place in Philadelphia to fix her "Illeus" as they are experts in it. My family didn't want to here this as it's hard enough (expensive) to travel up to Northern Delaware from Southern Delaware. With the cost of gas, tolls and food it's hard.

The other problem is that my grandmother has been suffering from bouts of anxiety, and it would help her if we could be there more.

That's the latest folks

[rhet 2]

I believe it's about time for an update so here is the latest. Currently my grandmother is still up at St. Franicis. They have been so far unsuccesfull in correcting her GI problem. She still has sluggish intestines/bowels which is called "illeus".

We had a long discussion with the doctor yesterday and here is what he told us. In his fifteen years as a doctor he's never seen someone with "illeus" this stubborn. They keep trying to up the feeding to where it should be and she won't accept it. So the doctor has greatly reduced her peg tube feedings down to 10, it should be at 55. He's going to attempt to build up her protein in the hopes that that will correct the illeus. He said that may take weeks or even months.

He said her heart and breathing are great, in fact he told us she's pratically breathing on her own even though she's still on the vent. Her pressure support is at a low 10 on the vent, and he believes she can be weened off the vent. The main thing is to get her strength up.

There is a problem though, St Francis Hospital wants my grandmother out of there. It's a long story but money/medicare is involved. She's been there for over three months now. The big problem is there is no place here in Delaware that will take her. As she is on the vent and being fed with a TP. No facility in Delaware is equipped to handle her. So we were told to take her back to John's Hopkins or some place in Philadelphia to fix her "Illeus" as they are experts in it. My family didn't want to here this as it's hard enough (expensive) to travel up to Northern Delaware from Southern Delaware. With the cost of gas, tolls and food it's hard.

The other problem is that my grandmother has been suffering from bouts of anxiety, and it would help her if we could be there more.

That's the latest folks

Ouch! Ouch, ouch, ouch and OUCH!

This is NOT acceptable. Pounding on the LORD's door, I am.

He designed our internal plumbing lines. He can fix this blasted "illeus" too. And He can stuff Medicare, greedy gut profit fixated hospital MANAGERS, AND these stupid asinine insane gasoline price surges right down Satan's nasty hell-bound throat, too.

AND He can fix your lovely grandmother's anxiety.

All at the same time in the blink of an Eternal Ever-Loving Eyelash.

Your grandmother needs to be at home with her family all around her, wrapped in the soft silk of loving arms., not being shoved hither and thither and yon by money-grubbing knuckleheaded CEOs.

And I don't know about the rest of you, but I think that's exactly what I'm going to be nagging the LORD to get.

[jwil59]

I believe it's about time for an update so here is the latest. Currently my grandmother is still up at St. Franicis. They have been so far unsuccesfull in correcting her GI problem. She still has sluggish intestines/bowels which is called "illeus".

We had a long discussion with the doctor yesterday and here is what he told us. In his fifteen years as a doctor he's never seen someone with "illeus" this stubborn. They keep trying to up the feeding to where it should be and she won't accept it. So the doctor has greatly reduced her peg tube feedings down to 10, it should be at 55. He's going to attempt to build up her protein in the hopes that that will correct the illeus. He said that may take weeks or even months.

He said her heart and breathing are great, in fact he told us she's pratically breathing on her own even though she's still on the vent. Her pressure support is at a low 10 on the vent, and he believes she can be weened off the vent. The main thing is to get her strength up.

There is a problem though, St Francis Hospital wants my grandmother out of there. It's a long story but money/medicare is involved. She's been there for over three months now. The big problem is there is no place here in Delaware that will take her. As she is on the vent and being fed with a TP. No facility in Delaware is equipped to handle her. So we were told to take her back to John's Hopkins or some place in Philadelphia to fix her "Illeus" as they are experts in it. My family didn't want to here this as it's hard enough (expensive) to travel up to Northern Delaware from Southern Delaware. With the cost of gas, tolls and food it's hard.

The other problem is that my grandmother has been suffering from bouts of anxiety, and it would help her if we could be there more.

That's the latest folks

Ok buddy I am praying for Grandma. Specifically for that nasty Illeus and that she will land in front of the right doctor who can handle that. I am also praying God will provide a way for yall to be with her.

[-American-]

Hi gang, well we finally feel like we are moving forward. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis, she still has a sluggish gut and is still on the vent.

I was told yesterday that the Doctor wants to operate and remove my grandmother's gallbladder. She's been getting blood infections rather frequently recently. She had a blood infection last week and her temperature was a very high 104. The doctor fears the next infection could kill her. He feels the gallbladder is the culprit for the blood infections as it does appear it's leaking. He also feels the gallbladder is the reason my grandmother has "illeus."

I've read up on gallbladder problems and it can cause "illeus." So the doctor wants to take her gallbladder out ASAP.

Thanks

[rhet 2]

Hi gang, well we finally feel like we are moving forward. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis, she still has a sluggish gut and is still on the vent.

I was told yesterday that the Doctor wants to operate and remove my grandmother's gallbladder. She's been getting blood infections rather frequently recently. She had a blood infection last week and her temperature was a very high 104. The doctor fears the next infection could kill her. He feels the gallbladder is the culprit for the blood infections as it does appear it's leaking. He also feels the gallbladder is the reason my grandmother has "illeus."

I've read up on gallbladder problems and it can cause "illeus." So the doctor wants to take her gallbladder out ASAP.

Thanks

Well, we know more to pray about then.

When will they do the surgery? Let us know, because many of us would like to pray while it's going on.

You hang tough, dear one.

[-American-]

Well, we know more to pray about then.

When will they do the surgery? Let us know, because many of us would like to pray while it's going on.

You hang tough, dear one.

I'll let you all know when this surgery takes place.

Thanks

[jwil59]

Hi gang, well we finally feel like we are moving forward. My grandmother is still up at St. Francis, she still has a sluggish gut and is still on the vent.

I was told yesterday that the Doctor wants to operate and remove my grandmother's gallbladder. She's been getting blood infections rather frequently recently. She had a blood infection last week and her temperature was a very high 104. The doctor fears the next infection could kill her. He feels the gallbladder is the culprit for the blood infections as it does appear it's leaking. He also feels the gallbladder is the reason my grandmother has "illeus."

I've read up on gallbladder problems and it can cause "illeus." So the doctor wants to take her gallbladder out ASAP.

Thanks

Ok thanks for ther update. Still praying for her

[-American-]

Okay here is the latest. The doctors want to avoid my grandmother from having the surgery to remove her gallbladder. They said because of her complicated belly (she has a colostomy and has had several adominal surgeries in the past, as well as having so many children) they'd have to remove her gallbladder the "old fashioned" way. Which means a very invasive surgery, rather than going in with smaller instruments.

So the doctors are going with a less invasive procedure where they will simply put in a tube that will drain the "junk" from her gallbladder. They believe this is the best way to go and draining all the bad stuff out of her gallbladder will stop her blood infections and possibly correct the "illeus."

The procedure is mininmal and will be done by radiology. She also won't be entirely out since it's a rather minor procedure.

The procedure is tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. EST.

We are hoping and praying this procedure will go well. We also hope and pray progress will begin to be made here. We hope this will correct her "illeus" and we pray eventually she'd be weened off the vent and eating like a normal person.

[jwil59]

Okay here is the latest. The doctors want to avoid my grandmother from having the surgery to remove her gallbladder. They said because of her complicated belly (she has a colostomy and has had several adominal surgeries in the past, as well as having so many children) they'd have to remove her gallbladder the "old fashioned" way. Which means a very invasive surgery, rather than going in with smaller instruments.

So the doctors are going with a less invasive procedure where they will simply put in a tube that will drain the "junk" from her gallbladder. They believe this is the best way to go and draining all the bad stuff out of her gallbladder will stop her blood infections and possibly correct the "illeus."

The procedure is mininmal and will be done by radiology. She also won't be entirely out since it's a rather minor procedure.

The procedure is tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. EST.

We are hoping and praying this procedure will go well. We also hope and pray progress will begin to be made here. We hope this will correct her "illeus" and we pray eventually she'd be weened off the vent and eating like a normal person.

I am praying the surgery goes well tommorrow.

[rhet 2]

I am praying the surgery goes well tommorrow.

Beyond doubt we will!

[-American-]

Okay here is an update. The doctor's did not perform the procedure yesterday like they planned. When they took her in the radiology department they couldn't see her gallbladder on X-ray so they aborted. They said her gallbladder wasn't swollen enough to see it. They didn't want to go poking around causing damage.

So now the doctor's are going to perform surgery to remove her gallbladder (which is what they did not want to do but now have too.) They said the surgery would be sometime next week. There are risks involved as with any surgery.

There is also another problem, as I stated in other posts my grandmother has used up her medicare. Right now she's in the "Select Specialties" section of the hospital. She's been in there for 4 months now. So when she goes in for the operation down at the Intensive Care Unit, we have been told she will not be accepted back into the "Select Specialities" care unit.:(

Since she is on a ventalator and a TPN (because of the "illeus"). The TPN is essentially IV feeding instead of the Peg Tube feeding. No other place in Delaware will accept her with a TPN. The reason is you guessed it MONEY, it's expensive. In fact the closet place that would accept someone with a vent and TPN is in Ohio. So after the surgery next week she will be stuck in the ICU of ST. Francis.

If the surgery is successful and it gets rid of these blood infections, and (we hope) it will correct her "illeus" she would not be able to go back up to the "Select Specialities" to be weened off the vent because she ran out of Medicare. For her Medicare to restart she'd have to leave the hospital for 60 days.:rolleyes:

We have been told of a place just a few miles down the road from ST. Francis called "Riverside." It's a nursing home/rehabilitation facility. They take people on vents but DO NOT take people with TPN.

So here is the prayer requests and goals we wish to meet....

1. That my grandmother's gallbladder surgery is a complete success and that she'll survive and recover.

2. That the removal of the gallbladder will correct the "illeus." With the "illeus" corrected she can go back on the Peg Tube feeding.

3. If prayer 1 and 2 are answered she can then be accepted to "Riverside." There they do ween people off vents among other rehabilitation.

[rhet 2]

Okay here is an update. The doctor's did not perform the procedure yesterday like they planned. When they took her in the radiology department they couldn't see her gallbladder on X-ray so they aborted. They said her gallbladder wasn't swollen enough to see it. They didn't want to go poking around causing damage.

So now the doctor's are going to perform surgery to remove her gallbladder (which is what they did not want to do but now have too.) They said the surgery would be sometime next week. There are risks involved as with any surgery.

There is also another problem, as I stated in other posts my grandmother has used up her medicare. Right now she's in the "Select Specialties" section of the hospital. She's been in there for 4 months now. So when she goes in for the operation down at the Intensive Care Unit, we have been told she will not be accepted back into the "Select Specialities" care unit.:(

Since she is on a ventalator and a TPN (because of the "illeus"). The TPN is essentially IV feeding instead of the Peg Tube feeding. No other place in Delaware will accept her with a TPN. The reason is you guessed it MONEY, it's expensive. In fact the closet place that would accept someone with a vent and TPN is in Ohio. So after the surgery next week she will be stuck in the ICU of ST. Francis.

If the surgery is successful and it gets rid of these blood infections, and (we hope) it will correct her "illeus" she would not be able to go back up to the "Select Specialities" to be weened off the vent because she ran out of Medicare. For her Medicare to restart she'd have to leave the hospital for 60 days.:rolleyes:

We have been told of a place just a few miles down the road from ST. Francis called "Riverside." It's a nursing home/rehabilitation facility. They take people on vents but DO NOT take people with TPN.

So here is the prayer requests and goals we wish to meet....

1. That my grandmother's gallbladder surgery is a complete success and that she'll survive and recover.

2. That the removal of the gallbladder will correct the "illeus." With the "illeus" corrected she can go back on the Peg Tube feeding.

3. If prayer 1 and 2 are answered she can then be accepted to "Riverside." There they do ween people off vents among other rehabilitation.

Done, done and done!

Please keep us posted.

[jwil59]

You've got the prayer friend, count on it

hang tough bro, keep us updated

[-American-]

Update, the surgery to remove the gallbladder is tomorrow at around 2:00 p.m. EST.

I'm going to go up with the family to be there.

[jwil59]

Update, the surgery to remove the gallbladder is tomorrow at around 2:00 p.m. EST.

I'm going to go up with the family to be there.

Ok buddy I will be praying as it happens. Lets us know the results as soon as you can

[rhet 2]

Update, the surgery to remove the gallbladder is tomorrow at around 2:00 p.m. EST.

I'm going to go up with the family to be there.

I'm glad you can go up, too.

I'll be in prayer in Texas.

[-American-]

Update, all went well yesterday. The surgery took only 40 minutes and there were absolutely no problems. The doctors were surprised it was so easy. Considering that two weeks before surgery was the last thing they wanted to do. Once again my grandmother shows just how strong she is.

The lower part of her gallbladder was inflamed and they did find a large gallstone. The doctor explained that it was good that they removed it. It was as if it were a smoldering ember. That would flare up and cause problems.

She is currently in the ICU of Saint Francis with a little bit of discomfort. Hopefully she can start making progress again with the gallbladder now out.

Thanks

[rhet 2]

Update, all went well yesterday. The surgery took only 40 minutes and there were absolutely no problems. The doctors were surprised it was so easy. Considering that two weeks before surgery was the last thing they wanted to do. Once again my grandmother shows just how strong she is.

The lower part of her gallbladder was inflamed and they did find a large gallstone. The doctor explained that it was good that they removed it. It was as if it were a smoldering ember. That would flare up and cause problems.

She is currently in the ICU of Saint Francis with a little bit of discomfort. Hopefully she can start making progress again with the gallbladder now out.

Thanks

Thanks be to God!

Please keep us posted. Your grandmother needs her family and her family needs her -- together in their own home. My prayers continue beating in the LORD's ears until He makes this happen.

[jwil59]

Update, all went well yesterday. The surgery took only 40 minutes and there were absolutely no problems. The doctors were surprised it was so easy. Considering that two weeks before surgery was the last thing they wanted to do. Once again my grandmother shows just how strong she is.

The lower part of her gallbladder was inflamed and they did find a large gallstone. The doctor explained that it was good that they removed it. It was as if it were a smoldering ember. That would flare up and cause problems.

She is currently in the ICU of Saint Francis with a little bit of discomfort. Hopefully she can start making progress again with the gallbladder now out.

Thanks

Great news, so we keep praying.

Thanks for that update

[-American-]

Some good news for a change. Yesterday my father and mother went up to Saint Francis for a visit. They talked with the head nurse in the ICU of Saint Francis. According to the nurse my grandma will stay in the ICU until she is weened off the vent. She is currently at a very low pressure support. In other words she is practically breathing on her own and needs just a little bit of help from the machine. According to what the nurse said they have already started the weening. I don't know how long this will take but I hope they are successful in getting my grandma off the vent. It would be such a moral booster.

Also her colostomy bag is filling up, which means her "gut" seems to be starting up. Now we don't know if her "gut" will function at 100% (if that happens she would be able to go back on the Peg Tube feeding) or if it will remain sluggish like it's been for four months now. Hopefully in the next week or so her "illeus" will reverse. It is promising that something seems to be going on with her bowels and intestines.

[rhet 2]

Some good news for a change. Yesterday my father and mother went up to Saint Francis for a visit. They talked with the head nurse in the ICU of Saint Francis. According to the nurse my grandma will stay in the ICU until she is weened off the vent. She is currently at a very low pressure support. In other words she is practically breathing on her own and needs just a little bit of help from the machine. According to what the nurse said they have already started the weening. I don't know how long this will take but I hope they are successful in getting my grandma off the vent. It would be such a moral booster.

Also her colostomy bag is filling up, which means her "gut" seems to be starting up. Now we don't know if her "gut" will function at 100% (if that happens she would be able to go back on the Peg Tube feeding) or if it will remain sluggish like it's been for four months now. Hopefully in the next week or so her "illeus" will reverse. It is promising that something seems to be going on with her bowels and intestines.

Promising indeed!

I PRAY the illeus reverses and her own bowels take over working at full normal capacity.

And pray the need for the vent will end soon so she can be discharged to return to the heart and arms of her loving family, energized and ready to be fully involved again in their lives.

[jwil59]

Some good news for a change. Yesterday my father and mother went up to Saint Francis for a visit. They talked with the head nurse in the ICU of Saint Francis. According to the nurse my grandma will stay in the ICU until she is weened off the vent. She is currently at a very low pressure support. In other words she is practically breathing on her own and needs just a little bit of help from the machine. According to what the nurse said they have already started the weening. I don't know how long this will take but I hope they are successful in getting my grandma off the vent. It would be such a moral booster.

Also her colostomy bag is filling up, which means her "gut" seems to be starting up. Now we don't know if her "gut" will function at 100% (if that happens she would be able to go back on the Peg Tube feeding) or if it will remain sluggish like it's been for four months now. Hopefully in the next week or so her "illeus" will reverse. It is promising that something seems to be going on with her bowels and intestines.

Yes that is good news for sure............

Continued prayers for her

[stoked]

Now my MIL recently had her gall bladder removed (at 82) and she came through like a trooper. The first night was rough but she managed to take a shower the next day. The thing is, that infected thing had been dragging her down for years and she was taking medications that became no longer necessary once it was removed. Good riddance to it!!! Hopefully now your grandma will get a new lease on life enough to get her of the ventillator! I know my MIL is doing so much better for it.

[-American-]

Here is the latest....

My grandmother was taken to Riverside (the nursing home) on Tuesday. She made out fine and is feeling good. They have her on her peg tube feeding and the level doctors have wanted her at since her "illeus" began back in April.

It does seem with the removal of the gallbladder things are moving along. Her cholostomy bag is filling up better than it has in months. Her bowels and intestines don't seem to be as sluggish.

Also the head doctor is going to begin weening off the vent, and seeing how well she does. As well as evaluating her for physical therapy to build up her muscles again.

Lastly the speech therapist came in yesterday and said sometime next week they will perform a test to see how well my grandma can swallow. If she does well they say she'll be allowed to actually eat real food. Somthing more along the lines of apple sauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. If she does well with that maybe even some solid food. That's with the ventalator, hopefully they'll be albe to ween her off.

So that's the latest

[rhet 2]

Here is the latest....

My grandmother was taken to Riverside (the nursing home) on Tuesday. She made out fine and is feeling good. They have her on her peg tube feeding and the level doctors have wanted her at since her "illeus" began back in April.

It does seem with the removal of the gallbladder things are moving along. Her cholostomy bag is filling up better than it has in months. Her bowels and intestines don't seem to be as sluggish.

Also the head doctor is going to begin weening off the vent, and seeing how well she does. As well as evaluating her for physical therapy to build up her muscles again.

Lastly the speech therapist came in yesterday and said sometime next week they will perform a test to see how well my grandma can swallow. If she does well they say she'll be allowed to actually eat real food. Somthing more along the lines of apple sauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. If she does well with that maybe even some solid food. That's with the ventalator, hopefully they'll be albe to ween her off.

So that's the latest

Oh, this is WONDERFUL news. :clap: How much I pray she'll be able to chew and swallow and they can get her weaned from the vent!

[jwil59]

Here is the latest....

My grandmother was taken to Riverside (the nursing home) on Tuesday. She made out fine and is feeling good. They have her on her peg tube feeding and the level doctors have wanted her at since her "illeus" began back in April.

It does seem with the removal of the gallbladder things are moving along. Her cholostomy bag is filling up better than it has in months. Her bowels and intestines don't seem to be as sluggish.

Also the head doctor is going to begin weening off the vent, and seeing how well she does. As well as evaluating her for physical therapy to build up her muscles again.

Lastly the speech therapist came in yesterday and said sometime next week they will perform a test to see how well my grandma can swallow. If she does well they say she'll be allowed to actually eat real food. Somthing more along the lines of apple sauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. If she does well with that maybe even some solid food. That's with the ventalator, hopefully they'll be albe to ween her off.

So that's the latest

Good news. So we keep praying

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Update....

Today is day six of my granmother being fed on the peg tube. She has remained at the level of feeding (the doctors wanted) for six full days. Before her gallbladder removal this wasn't possible. She'd be fed at a much lower level and they would have to stop within a few hours. So it does seem with the removal of the gallbladder that the "illeus" is now gone.:clap:

Of course it's only about a week so we're cautiously optimistic. Also sometime this week she will get a test to determine how her swallowing is. If she swallows as well has she does with ice chips, I see no reason why they can't start her on some soft foods. No word on when they'll start weening off the vent. They would have to get her strength up first and that's what the peg tube feeding is doing.

[rhet 2]

Update....

Today is day six of my granmother being fed on the peg tube. She has remained at the level of feeding (the doctors wanted) for six full days. Before her gallbladder removal this wasn't possible. She'd be fed at a much lower level and they would have to stop within a few hours. So it does seem with the removal of the gallbladder that the "illeus" is now gone.:clap:

Of course it's only about a week so we're cautiously optimistic. Also sometime this week she will get a test to determine how her swallowing is. If she swallows as well has she does with ice chips, I see no reason why they can't start her on some soft foods. No word on when they'll start weening off the vent. They would have to get her strength up first and that's what the peg tube feeding is doing.

Good news, indeed! :clap:

Thank You, Dear LORD. You truly work to preserve our lives and our souls.

Please, continue to watch over and heal this dear lady, to restore her to the heart of her loving family. They need her and want her home so very much, mercy and compassion, healing and strengthening we ask of You in His Holy Name. :pray:

[JenT]

Update....

Today is day six of my granmother being fed on the peg tube. She has remained at the level of feeding (the doctors wanted) for six full days. Before her gallbladder removal this wasn't possible. She'd be fed at a much lower level and they would have to stop within a few hours. So it does seem with the removal of the gallbladder that the "illeus" is now gone.:clap:

Of course it's only about a week so we're cautiously optimistic. Also sometime this week she will get a test to determine how her swallowing is. If she swallows as well has she does with ice chips, I see no reason why they can't start her on some soft foods. No word on when they'll start weening off the vent. They would have to get her strength up first and that's what the peg tube feeding is doing.

CELEBRATE! That rocks! PTL!

But what really touches me is both your and Mal's gentle devotion to your grandmother and for Mal, mom. One of my sons has just left the nest and lol, I know he loves me dearly, maybe too much, but I can't imagine him being as concerned and tender and focused on me...I KNEW I should have made them sign coupons for future visits to the rest home in 40 years for every time I went the extra five miles for them and their friends.

I am really blessed to read these posts of such tenderness and love. Your dedication and self-sacrifice is shining. Will be praying for your grandma and for God's strength and comfort in all you do.

[jwil59]

Update....

Today is day six of my granmother being fed on the peg tube. She has remained at the level of feeding (the doctors wanted) for six full days. Before her gallbladder removal this wasn't possible. She'd be fed at a much lower level and they would have to stop within a few hours. So it does seem with the removal of the gallbladder that the "illeus" is now gone.:clap:

Of course it's only about a week so we're cautiously optimistic. Also sometime this week she will get a test to determine how her swallowing is. If she swallows as well has she does with ice chips, I see no reason why they can't start her on some soft foods. No word on when they'll start weening off the vent. They would have to get her strength up first and that's what the peg tube feeding is doing.

The illeus being gone is great news. praise God.

So we keep praying

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CELEBRATE! That rocks! PTL!

But what really touches me is both your and Mal's gentle devotion to your grandmother and for Mal, mom. One of my sons has just left the nest and lol, I know he loves me dearly, maybe too much, but I can't imagine him being as concerned and tender and focused on me...I KNEW I should have made them sign coupons for future visits to the rest home in 40 years for every time I went the extra five miles for them and their friends.

I am really blessed to read these posts of such tenderness and love. Your dedication and self-sacrifice is shining. Will be praying for your grandma and for God's strength and comfort in all you do.

Thanks JenT, yep I really care about my grandma. She's been through alot in life and especially this year. Her will and patience is trully amazing. She deserves to get better and come home.

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By the way gang my grandmother celebrated her 84 birthday last Wednesday. Hopefully next year she can spend her birthday at home.

Anyways today is day seven of the peg tube feeding. She isn't having any problems so as I said before it does seem the "illeus" is gone. She has never gone this long at the current feeding level of 55 cc's in four months. Back in April when the "illeus" began she couldn't handle 20 cc's without bloating up and vomiting.

[rhet 2]

By the way gang my grandmother celebrated her 84 birthday last Wednesday. Hopefully next year she can spend her birthday at home.

Anyways today is day seven of the peg tube feeding. She isn't having any problems so as I said before it does seem the "illeus" is gone. She has never gone this long at the current feeding level of 55 cc's in four months. Back in April when the "illeus" began she couldn't handle 20 cc's without bloating up and vomiting.

Happy birthday!

84 is a stretch to be very proud of, indeed! :clap:

Good news on the peg.

May she be able to come home soon-soon! :pray:

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More progress has been made. It turns out earlier in the week she had the swallow test and did great. They began feeding her actual food on Tuesday. She's being fed yogurt, pudding, apple sauce, and cranberr juice. If her swalling continues to go well and her swallowing muscles strengthen, the speech therapist says next week they can start her on a three meal a day regime. Of course it will be in puree form but it's a huge leap.

For pratically seven long months she has been getting her food from tubes. It's nice to see her eat actual food for a change. She continues to tolerate her peg tube feeding, and she tolerates the real food she is being given.

The speech therapist is also talking with doctors about the weening off the vent. I'm not sure when but it does appear they will begin soon.

My grandmother has also been receiving physical therapy to strengthen her arms and legs.

So plenty of progress and good news. I hope she can continue with the progress and who knows maybe she'll be home before Christmas.

[rhet 2]

More progress has been made. It turns out earlier in the week she had the swallow test and did great. They began feeding her actual food on Tuesday. She's being fed yogurt, pudding, apple sauce, and cranberr juice. If her swalling continues to go well and her swallowing muscles strengthen, the speech therapist says next week they can start her on a three meal a day regime. Of course it will be in puree form but it's a huge leap.

For pratically seven long months she has been getting her food from tubes. It's nice to see her eat actual food for a change. She continues to tolerate her peg tube feeding, and she tolerates the real food she is being given.

The speech therapist is also talking with doctors about the weening off the vent. I'm not sure when but it does appear they will begin soon.

My grandmother has also been receiving physical therapy to strengthen her arms and legs.

So plenty of progress and good news. I hope she can continue with the progress and who knows maybe she'll be home before Christmas.

Oh, what a joyous gift from the LORD that Christmas would indeed be for your entire family!

I rejoice in such headway, giving thanks for the hope of still more blessing on its way!

:clap:

[jwil59]

More progress has been made. It turns out earlier in the week she had the swallow test and did great. They began feeding her actual food on Tuesday. She's being fed yogurt, pudding, apple sauce, and cranberr juice. If her swalling continues to go well and her swallowing muscles strengthen, the speech therapist says next week they can start her on a three meal a day regime. Of course it will be in puree form but it's a huge leap.

For pratically seven long months she has been getting her food from tubes. It's nice to see her eat actual food for a change. She continues to tolerate her peg tube feeding, and she tolerates the real food she is being given.

The speech therapist is also talking with doctors about the weening off the vent. I'm not sure when but it does appear they will begin soon.

My grandmother has also been receiving physical therapy to strengthen her arms and legs.

So plenty of progress and good news. I hope she can continue with the progress and who knows maybe she'll be home before Christmas.

Good news bro. I am still praying

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First the not so good news.

As it turns out my grandmother's "illeus" is not completely gone. My mom and aunt talked with the doctor yesterday and they were told that last Thursday my grandma's belly became distended, so they temporarily stopped the feeding sometime last Thursday. They restarted on Friday. They also did not feed here the pureed food over the weekend. The doctor did say that the illeus is still a problem.

Of course her "illeus" is not as bad as it was when she was a Saint Francis. Her peg tube feeding has been higher, and has lasted longer than it has since the illeus began. So it does seem as if the removal of the gallbladder has improved the "illeus," it's just not completely gone yet.

The reason we are bummed about this is we were under the impression her illeus was gone. My mother calls the nursing home everyday to see how my grandma is doing. The nurses have told her that she is doing fine and tolerating the feedings. Since my mom is the oldest of her siblings she is the one to receive the info and she passes it along to her brothers and sisters.

We rely on the information the nurses give us as we do not get up there but once or twice a week, (not counting my uncle's and aunts who go up). They told us and my uncle's and aunts she was doing great, and never told us the feeding had to be stopped last Thursday, so we're a bit angry about that.

As far as we know they restarted feeding her the puree food on Monday and she will now be getting breakfast, lunch, and dinner starting today. So that is good news, also they removed her pick line (the IV) and they removed her catheter today as well. She is also going down to the physical therapy room and receving therapy. Not sure what type of physcial therapy she is getting but we were told it's more thorough that what she's been receiving.

Lastly with her belly issue being still an issue the doctor does not want to ween her off the vent. He suggested we talked with the lung doctor to see what she suggests. So next week that's what we'll be doing. We're hoping the lung doctor will decided to ween her off the vent even if the belly issue never resolves.

So that's the latest, her illeus remains but it doesn't seem to be as bad. Maybe with her moving around more and getting plenty of physical therapy it will be gone.

[rhet 2]

First the not so good news.

As it turns out my grandmother's "illeus" is not completely gone. My mom and aunt talked with the doctor yesterday and they were told that last Thursday my grandma's belly became distended, so they temporarily stopped the feeding sometime last Thursday. They restarted on Friday. They also did not feed here the pureed food over the weekend. The doctor did say that the illeus is still a problem.

Of course her "illeus" is not as bad as it was when she was a Saint Francis. Her peg tube feeding has been higher, and has lasted longer than it has since the illeus began. So it does seem as if the removal of the gallbladder has improved the "illeus," it's just not completely gone yet.

The reason we are bummed about this is we were under the impression her illeus was gone. My mother calls the nursing home everyday to see how my grandma is doing. The nurses have told her that she is doing fine and tolerating the feedings. Since my mom is the oldest of her siblings she is the one to receive the info and she passes it along to her brothers and sisters.

We rely on the information the nurses give us as we do not get up there but once or twice a week, (not counting my uncle's and aunts who go up). They told us and my uncle's and aunts she was doing great, and never told us the feeding had to be stopped last Thursday, so we're a bit angry about that.

As far as we know they restarted feeding her the puree food on Monday and she will now be getting breakfast, lunch, and dinner starting today. So that is good news, also they removed her pick line (the IV) and they removed her catheter today as well. She is also going down to the physical therapy room and receving therapy. Not sure what type of physcial therapy she is getting but we were told it's more thorough that what she's been receiving.

Lastly with her belly issue being still an issue the doctor does not want to ween her off the vent. He suggested we talked with the lung doctor to see what she suggests. So next week that's what we'll be doing. We're hoping the lung doctor will decided to ween her off the vent even if the belly issue never resolves.

So that's the latest, her illeus remains but it doesn't seem to be as bad. Maybe with her moving around more and getting plenty of physical therapy it will be gone.

Oh, dear one. I'm so sorry for the set back. But, yes, exercise should indeed help.

I pray it does!

:hug:

[jwil59]

First the not so good news.

As it turns out my grandmother's "illeus" is not completely gone. My mom and aunt talked with the doctor yesterday and they were told that last Thursday my grandma's belly became distended, so they temporarily stopped the feeding sometime last Thursday. They restarted on Friday. They also did not feed here the pureed food over the weekend. The doctor did say that the illeus is still a problem.

Of course her "illeus" is not as bad as it was when she was a Saint Francis. Her peg tube feeding has been higher, and has lasted longer than it has since the illeus began. So it does seem as if the removal of the gallbladder has improved the "illeus," it's just not completely gone yet.

The reason we are bummed about this is we were under the impression her illeus was gone. My mother calls the nursing home everyday to see how my grandma is doing. The nurses have told her that she is doing fine and tolerating the feedings. Since my mom is the oldest of her siblings she is the one to receive the info and she passes it along to her brothers and sisters.

We rely on the information the nurses give us as we do not get up there but once or twice a week, (not counting my uncle's and aunts who go up). They told us and my uncle's and aunts she was doing great, and never told us the feeding had to be stopped last Thursday, so we're a bit angry about that.

As far as we know they restarted feeding her the puree food on Monday and she will now be getting breakfast, lunch, and dinner starting today. So that is good news, also they removed her pick line (the IV) and they removed her catheter today as well. She is also going down to the physical therapy room and receving therapy. Not sure what type of physcial therapy she is getting but we were told it's more thorough that what she's been receiving.

Lastly with her belly issue being still an issue the doctor does not want to ween her off the vent. He suggested we talked with the lung doctor to see what she suggests. So next week that's what we'll be doing. We're hoping the lung doctor will decided to ween her off the vent even if the belly issue never resolves.

So that's the latest, her illeus remains but it doesn't seem to be as bad. Maybe with her moving around more and getting plenty of physical therapy it will be gone.

Just another bump in the road. I am praying for her, and you and your family too

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Small update...

My grandma has now been allowd to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My uncle told me that on Thursday she had ground up chicken, mashed potato's, some type of vegetables, and apple sauce. This is officially her first real meal in 7 long months. Yes the week prior she had yogurts, puddings, and apple sauce, but this was a real meal.

According to my uncle who visted her on Thursday she fed herself which is a sign her strength is returning. She has also been getting physical therapy on a daily basis which is fantastic news. Haven't heard about how her "illeus" is doing but according to my mom who calls up the nursing home daily, she is tolerating the food well.

So maybe soon they'll remove the peg tube and hopefully we can start weening off the vent.

[rhet 2]

Small update...

My grandma has now been allowd to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My uncle told me that on Thursday she had ground up chicken, mashed potato's, some type of vegetables, and apple sauce. This is officially her first real meal in 7 long months. Yes the week prior she had yogurts, puddings, and apple sauce, but this was a real meal.

According to my uncle who visted her on Thursday she fed herself which is a sign her strength is returning. She has also been getting physical therapy on a daily basis which is fantastic news. Haven't heard about how her "illeus" is doing but according to my mom who calls up the nursing home daily, she is tolerating the food well.

So maybe soon they'll remove the peg tube and hopefully we can start weening off the vent.

Oh, thank You, LORD of Lords! Such progress forward to restored hope and normalization for a dear lady and her loving family.

Please please PLEASE continue to move this dear lady back toward ability to return to the heart and hearth of her family.

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Yesterday my mom and her brothers and sisters went up to see my grandma. She is now eating three meals a day (and feeding herself). As far as I know they are no longer feeding her through the peg tube, she is getting her nourishment the old fashioned way.:dance:

The peg tube is still in (just in case). It's now been one full week of having real meals. No problem with the belly so we don't know if the "illeus" is gone. Also my family talked with an assistant of the lung doctor. The assistant sees no reason why my grandmad shouldn't be weened off the vent. So the wheels are in motion, not sure when they'll start but they will at some point. Also she continues to get daily physcial theraphy and is gaining in strength every day.

[jwil59]

Small update...

My grandma has now been allowd to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My uncle told me that on Thursday she had ground up chicken, mashed potato's, some type of vegetables, and apple sauce. This is officially her first real meal in 7 long months. Yes the week prior she had yogurts, puddings, and apple sauce, but this was a real meal.

According to my uncle who visted her on Thursday she fed herself which is a sign her strength is returning. She has also been getting physical therapy on a daily basis which is fantastic news. Haven't heard about how her "illeus" is doing but according to my mom who calls up the nursing home daily, she is tolerating the food well.

So maybe soon they'll remove the peg tube and hopefully we can start weening off the vent.

Praise God for that good report..........

Continued prayer for her

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Slight update....

My grandmother continues to eat her three meals a day (and really enjoys them). Her ventalator setting is at a 6, which is the lowest setting (according to the respiratory therapists including my uncle). Since it is so low that means my grandmother is breathing on her own with very little support.

Two days ago they did a weening trial and she got out of breath after a few hours. The doctor put her back on the vent and is going to have the lung doctor take a look at her. We don't know what plan the lung doctor will have but we hope she's off the vent within the next few weeks or couple of months.

Once she is off the vent she can then be sent down to a southern Delaware nursing home and we can go from there.

[jwil59]

Slight update....

My grandmother continues to eat her three meals a day (and really enjoys them). Her ventalator setting is at a 6, which is the lowest setting (according to the respiratory therapists including my uncle). Since it is so low that means my grandmother is breathing on her own with very little support.

Two days ago they did a weening trial and she got out of breath after a few hours. The doctor put her back on the vent and is going to have the lung doctor take a look at her. We don't know what plan the lung doctor will have but we hope she's off the vent within the next few weeks or couple of months.

Once she is off the vent she can then be sent down to a southern Delaware nursing home and we can go from there.

Ok man thanks for the update. We will be in prayer about her breathing.

hang tough buddy

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Some really good news, my grandmother is being weened as I reply in this thread. For the past few days she is completey off the vent from around 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and doing quite well. Her oxygen levels are perfect and she doesn't seem to be getting winded.

She also continues to eat three meals a day (in puree form) with no problems. So it seems her "illeus" is now gone. She also continues to get daily physical therapy.

It is now only a matter of time before she is weend off. Hopefully they'll start taking her off at night as well. We are keeping our fingers crossed that she'll be weened off within a month.

[rhet 2]

Some really good news, my grandmother is being weened as I reply in this thread. For the past few days she is completey off the vent from around 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and doing quite well. Her oxygen levels are perfect and she doesn't seem to be getting winded.

She also continues to eat three meals a day (in puree form) with no problems. So it seems her "illeus" is now gone. She also continues to get daily physical therapy.

It is now only a matter of time before she is weend off. Hopefully they'll start taking her off at night as well. We are keeping our fingers crossed that she'll be weened off within a month.

Oh, I truly pray they can! :clap:

The LORD is truly gracious and merciful and just packed full of loving kindness, yes, indeed!

[jwil59]

Some really good news, my grandmother is being weened as I reply in this thread. For the past few days she is completey off the vent from around 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and doing quite well. Her oxygen levels are perfect and she doesn't seem to be getting winded.

She also continues to eat three meals a day (in puree form) with no problems. So it seems her "illeus" is now gone. She also continues to get daily physical therapy.

It is now only a matter of time before she is weend off. Hopefully they'll start taking her off at night as well. We are keeping our fingers crossed that she'll be weened off within a month.

Great news...........

I am praying for that weening.

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So I was able to go up and see my grandma yesterday with my mom and aunt. We walked into the room and I noticed immediately that something was missing. Guess what machine my grandma wasn't hooked up too? The Ventalator!!!!!!!!!!

It turns out that on Tuesday they took her off the vent. All day Tuesday and all day yesterday she was off it. She still has her trach collar on and they are in the testing phase to see how well she does with that. They also put on a speaking valve which allows her to speak. She had it on for two hours yesterday and was able to speak, but got tired so they removed it to rest her. Their goal is to have her wear the speaking valve more often to strengthen her vocal cords. After that they'll "cap" off the trach collar. After that they will remove the trach collar all together.

So right now that's the obstacle to overcome. After that we're hoping to bring her down closer to wear we live. After that all she'll need to do is get her muscles strengthened so she can be independent.

The prayers are slowly but surely being answered. Just want to say thanks once again to those who prayed. Coming off the vent was a HUGE hurdle since she's been on it since February.

[jwil59]

So I was able to go up and see my grandma yesterday with my mom and aunt. We walked into the room and I noticed immediately that something was missing. Guess what machine my grandma wasn't hooked up too? The Ventalator!!!!!!!!!!

It turns out that on Tuesday they took her off the vent. All day Tuesday and all day yesterday she was off it. She still has her trach collar on and they are in the testing phase to see how well she does with that. They also put on a speaking valve which allows her to speak. She had it on for two hours yesterday and was able to speak, but got tired so they removed it to rest her. Their goal is to have her wear the speaking valve more often to strengthen her vocal cords. After that they'll "cap" off the trach collar. After that they will remove the trach collar all together.

So right now that's the obstacle to overcome. After that we're hoping to bring her down closer to wear we live. After that all she'll need to do is get her muscles strengthened so she can be independent.

The prayers are slowly but surely being answered. Just want to say thanks once again to those who prayed. Coming off the vent was a HUGE hurdle since she's been on it since February.

Great news. So now we concentrate our prayer on those vocal cords.

[rhet 2]

Great news. So now we concentrate our prayer on those vocal cords.

Great news, indeed. I stand in awe of the LORD's grace and power, love and majesty.

And I join your prayers over those cords and the trachea collar.

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Quick update, my grandmother has been off the vent for over a week now. She did so well with the speaking valve that yesterday they removed the speaking valve and capped the tracheotomy area. She is now breathing like a normal person and speaking like a normal person. From what we've been told if she handles the cap well within the next few days they'll remove the trach collar altogether.

So it's going to happen, I knew this day would come. I believe her trach collar will be removed within a week. It's amazing she's been on the vent for nearly 8 months and she was able to get off it in a short week.

The final hurdle to get over is getting her strength up to a level where she can come home. Currently she can stand and take a few steps but she needs to be stronger. We are already talking about moving her to a rehabilatation center down here in lower Delaware after she gets off the trach.

It will be a welcome thing. Not having to drive almost 2 hours north to visit. She'll be close to home for the final stretch. It really looks like she'll be home by Christmas the way things are going.

Thanks

[rhet 2]

Quick update, my grandmother has been off the vent for over a week now. She did so well with the speaking valve that yesterday they removed the speaking valve and capped the tracheotomy area. She is now breathing like a normal person and speaking like a normal person. From what we've been told if she handles the cap well within the next few days they'll remove the trach collar altogether.

So it's going to happen, I knew this day would come. I believe her trach collar will be removed within a week. It's amazing she's been on the vent for nearly 8 months and she was able to get off it in a short week.

The final hurdle to get over is getting her strength up to a level where she can come home. Currently she can stand and take a few steps but she needs to be stronger. We are already talking about moving her to a rehabilatation center down here in lower Delaware after she gets off the trach.

It will be a welcome thing. Not having to drive almost 2 hours north to visit. She'll be close to home for the final stretch. It really looks like she'll be home by Christmas the way things are going.

Thanks

Oh, Beloved LORD God of Heaven and Earth, be praised for all eternity! :pray:

What GLORIOUS news, dear one! Your news has truly lifted my heart no end. :dance:

[jwil59]

Quick update, my grandmother has been off the vent for over a week now. She did so well with the speaking valve that yesterday they removed the speaking valve and capped the tracheotomy area. She is now breathing like a normal person and speaking like a normal person. From what we've been told if she handles the cap well within the next few days they'll remove the trach collar altogether.

So it's going to happen, I knew this day would come. I believe her trach collar will be removed within a week. It's amazing she's been on the vent for nearly 8 months and she was able to get off it in a short week.

The final hurdle to get over is getting her strength up to a level where she can come home. Currently she can stand and take a few steps but she needs to be stronger. We are already talking about moving her to a rehabilatation center down here in lower Delaware after she gets off the trach.

It will be a welcome thing. Not having to drive almost 2 hours north to visit. She'll be close to home for the final stretch. It really looks like she'll be home by Christmas the way things are going.

Thanks

Great news buddy. I am praying she is home soon

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Update...

She's still doing well, the nursing home she's in is "capping" her every other day. Which means it will take a litte longer to ween her of the trach collar, but she is doing well. She has been off the vent for two weeks now and continues to eat well and get her daily rehabilitation.

Thanks gang

[rhet 2]

Update...

She's still doing well, the nursing home she's in is "capping" her every other day. Which means it will take a litte longer to ween her of the trach collar, but she is doing well. She has been off the vent for two weeks now and continues to eat well and get her daily rehabilitation.

Thanks gang

Two weeks is GREAT progress, considering how severe her injuries were before that.

I thank the LORD Almighty for this update -- and continue to pray she be soon restored to hearth and home.

[jwil59]

Update...

She's still doing well, the nursing home she's in is "capping" her every other day. Which means it will take a litte longer to ween her of the trach collar, but she is doing well. She has been off the vent for two weeks now and continues to eat well and get her daily rehabilitation.

Thanks gang

Good news.....

We will keep praying for her

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Just a quick update....

We received a call this morning that my grandmother was taken to the emergency room at Wilmington Hospital. It seems she had a low heart rate, so they felt it would be wise to take her to the hospital. I don't know much more than that right now. I was told she is smiling and is okay right now.

[JenT]

Just a quick update....

We received a call this morning that my grandmother was taken to the emergency room at Wilmington Hospital. It seems she had a low heart rate, so they felt it would be wise to take her to the hospital. I don't know much more than that right now. I was told she is smiling and is okay right now.

Praying for her American, please keep us posted

[rhet 2]

Praying for her American, please keep us posted

Oh, yes, indeed!

LORD? Immediate intervention required, please.

[jwil59]

Just a quick update....

We received a call this morning that my grandmother was taken to the emergency room at Wilmington Hospital. It seems she had a low heart rate, so they felt it would be wise to take her to the hospital. I don't know much more than that right now. I was told she is smiling and is okay right now.

I am praying for her.......

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Little update...

It seems she's having breathing problems. Last night she had to be suctioned several times, more than usual.

A quick back story...

Back a few months ago she was at St. Francis Hospital's "select specialties," they found fluid on both of her lungs. That was due to the congestive heart failure. That was one of many reasons she was having trouble with the weening. They tapped her right lung and removed alot of fluid. They decided not to tap the left lung though. I don't remember why now.

Anyways she still has fluid on her left lung. We were told because she is mostly in bed. The reason she is suddenly having breathing problems and having problems with the capping, was do to the fluid on her left lung. It appears more fluid has built up on her left lung since the last time they looked.

So doctors and looking at her. I assume they'll tap the left lung a remove that excess fluid.

[JenT]

Little update...

It seems she's having breathing problems. Last night she had to be suctioned several times, more than usual.

A quick back story...

Back a few months ago she was at St. Francis Hospital's "select specialties," they found fluid on both of her lungs. That was due to the congestive heart failure. That was one of many reasons she was having trouble with the weening. They tapped her right lung and removed alot of fluid. They decided not to tap the left lung though. I don't remember why now.

Anyways she still has fluid on her left lung. We were told because she is mostly in bed. The reason she is suddenly having breathing problems and having problems with the capping, was do to the fluid on her left lung. It appears more fluid has built up on her left lung since the last time they looked.

So doctors and looking at her. I assume they'll tap the left lung a remove that excess fluid.

Keeping her in prayer, American, keeping her in prayer. Hang in there

[rhet 2]

Little update...

It seems she's having breathing problems. Last night she had to be suctioned several times, more than usual.

A quick back story...

Back a few months ago she was at St. Francis Hospital's "select specialties," they found fluid on both of her lungs. That was due to the congestive heart failure. That was one of many reasons she was having trouble with the weening. They tapped her right lung and removed alot of fluid. They decided not to tap the left lung though. I don't remember why now.

Anyways she still has fluid on her left lung. We were told because she is mostly in bed. The reason she is suddenly having breathing problems and having problems with the capping, was do to the fluid on her left lung. It appears more fluid has built up on her left lung since the last time they looked.

So doctors and looking at her. I assume they'll tap the left lung a remove that excess fluid.

:pray: LORD, Your own sweet Grace and Mercy we pray. Be with this dear lady and all who love her so very much, for surely she has walked in the Way of the LORD to be as the woman of deep faith described in Prov. 31. Hold her and her entire family close to Your own Heart. :pray:

[jwil59]

:pray: LORD, Your own sweet Grace and Mercy we pray. Be with this dear lady and all who love her so very much, for surely she has walked in the Way of the LORD to be as the woman of deep faith described in Prov. 31. Hold her and her entire family close to Your own Heart. :pray:

Amen............

Bless her heart, this has been a long haul. I am still praying for her

[-American-]

Quick update...

My grandmother is still at the Wilmington Hospital. I received word she will be placed back into the ICU because as it turns out she has Pneumonia. Because of this her heart rate is up so the doctor's have decided to put her back on the ventalator until the Pneumonia is gone.

Not the news we wanted to here, she's 84 years old and we are worried about this Pneumonia.

[rhet 2]

Quick update...

My grandmother is still at the Wilmington Hospital. I received word she will be placed back into the ICU because as it turns out she has Pneumonia. Because of this her heart rate is up so the doctor's have decided to put her back on the ventalator until the Pneumonia is gone.

Not the news we wanted to here, she's 84 years old and we are worried about this Pneumonia.

There is cause for concern.

But, take what comfort you can in knowing that she's in the Best of Hands -- nail-scarred Hands that belongs to the Heart of a MAN who loves her very very much.

I pray He heals and restores her to such a loving family for just a bit longer before He calls her Home to rest and rejoice for all eternity -- and that He give each of you who love her so very much what peace and hope and comfort and joy may be found in this very tired old world of ours.

May the blessings of YHWH, the eternal and everlasting ONE Who is Fountain of our hope shower down upon each and every one of you, beginning with your grandmother.

[JenT]

There is cause for concern.

But, take what comfort you can in knowing that she's in the Best of Hands -- nail-scarred Hands that belongs to the Heart of a MAN who loves her very very much.

I pray He heals and restores her to such a loving family for just a bit longer before He calls her Home to rest and rejoice for all eternity -- and that He give each of you who love her so very much what peace and hope and comfort and joy may be found in this very tired old world of ours.

May the blessings of YHWH, the eternal and everlasting ONE Who is Fountain of our hope shower down upon each and every one of you, beginning with your grandmother.

Amen

[jwil59]

Quick update...

My grandmother is still at the Wilmington Hospital. I received word she will be placed back into the ICU because as it turns out she has Pneumonia. Because of this her heart rate is up so the doctor's have decided to put her back on the ventalator until the Pneumonia is gone.

Not the news we wanted to here, she's 84 years old and we are worried about this Pneumonia.


Bless her heart.

I am still praying for her

[-American-]

Another update, my mom and aunt went up to see my grandam today. The doctor's have determined she has bacterial pneumonia in both lungs. They said it's in the bottom of both lungs. Her heart rate and blood pressure are now normal. Also they have not put her back on the vent. Not sure when or even if they'll do that now.

They are treating her with antibiotics and they want things to start getting better within the next two days. If she doesn't get better over the next two days they'll be very concerned.

My family is obvisously physically and emotionally drained. Ever since January 30th it's been one thing after another. It seems just when she takes two steps forward, she gets knocked back 5 steps.

[jwil59]

Another update, my mom and aunt went up to see my grandam today. The doctor's have determined she has bacterial pneumonia in both lungs. They said it's in the bottom of both lungs. Her heart rate and blood pressure are now normal. Also they have not put her back on the vent. Not sure when or even if they'll do that now.

They are treating her with antibiotics and they want things to start getting better within the next two days. If she doesn't get better over the next two days they'll be very concerned.

My family is obvisously physically and emotionally drained. Ever since January 30th it's been one thing after another. It seems just when she takes two steps forward, she gets knocked back 5 steps.


I am sorry she isn't doing better buddy. I know it has been a long haul for her. Enough already for this grandmom

We are praying hard for her, and you too

[rhet 2]

I am sorry she isn't doing better buddy. I know it has been a long haul for her. Enough already for this grandmom

We are praying hard for her, and you too

It has been a very long ordeal for all of them. :((

I sooooooooo want to see this situation made straight and easy for grandmom and those who love her so dearly!

[JenT]

I am sorry she isn't doing better buddy. I know it has been a long haul for her. Enough already for this grandmom

We are praying hard for her, and you too

awwwwww, prayers going up, for grandmom and for your whole family

[-American-]

Quick update gang...

She's going to have a Bronchoscopy at 3:00 pm EST today. I was told if they find any fluid build up or "hard" mucus they will remove it. Other than that she's diong okay.

[catman]

Will do...love those grandmas. We love you God, please be with American's grandma and bless her with a healthy recovery...

Amen! Let me extend my prayers and best wishes for American's grandmother's speedy and complete recovery. Stay strong and stay in faith my friend.

[-American-]

Update...

Bronchoschopy went well, they took a sample of her mucus to see the best option for treating her pneumonia. She was put back on the vent for a couple of hours after the procedure. Thank God is was short lived as they took her back off the vent soon after.

So now we wait, we wait to see what they plan to do. I'm not hearing any major concern from the doctors concering the pneumonia, so that is good news.

[rhet 2]

Update...

Bronchoschopy went well, they took a sample of her mucus to see the best option for treating her pneumonia. She was put back on the vent for a couple of hours after the procedure. Thank God is was short lived as they took her back off the vent soon after.

So now we wait, we wait to see what they plan to do. I'm not hearing any major concern from the doctors concering the pneumonia, so that is good news.

Well, that's some of our prayers answered with a Yes from the LORD.

We keep nagging on bended knee till she's home with her loving family.

:hug:

[-American-]

Update...

Everything went perfect. They removed all mucus and fluid that was on her lung and in her lungs. They never said whether the Pneumonia was gone or not but I would assume getting rid of all fluid is a good thing.

Remember a few months back at Saint Francis they "tapped" her right lung and removed the fluid on it, but did not do the left lung. Now the fluid on the left lung is gone, which means her capping should go more smoothly.

It looks like she'll be fine.

[rhet 2]

Update...

Everything went perfect. They removed all mucus and fluid that was on her lung and her in her lungs. They never said whether the Pneumonia was gone or not but I would assume getting rid of all fluid is a good thing.

Remember a few months back at Saint Francis they "tapped" her right lung and removed the fluid on it, but did not do the left lung. Now the fluid on the left lung is gone, which means her capping should go more smoothly.

It looks like she'll be fine.

Oh, I am so very glad! :clap:

May the LORD restore her to health soon so she may come home to the arms of her loving family. :pray:

[jwil59]

Update...

Everything went perfect. They removed all mucus and fluid that was on her lung and in her lungs. They never said whether the Pneumonia was gone or not but I would assume getting rid of all fluid is a good thing.

Remember a few months back at Saint Francis they "tapped" her right lung and removed the fluid on it, but did not do the left lung. Now the fluid on the left lung is gone, which means her capping should go more smoothly.

It looks like she'll be fine.

Great news, Continued prayer

[-American-]

They had to put her back on the vent today. Her breathing is to fast and she's working to hard. It's dissapointing but necessary, she can rest while on the vent and allow her body to fight off the pneumonia. Until she gets rid of the pneumonia she'll be on the vent.

[jwil59]

They had to put her back on the vent today. Her breathing is to fast and she's working to hard. It's dissapointing but necessary, she can rest while on the vent and allow her body to fight off the pneumonia. Until she gets rid of the pneumonia she'll be on the vent.

I am praying about the pneumonia

[JenT]

me too, God please comfort and heal this woman that she may enjoy the coming season and many more years with family.

[-American-]

Update...

They did a CAT scan a few days ago. Thank God the results were good. The antibotics are working and the Pneumonia is getting better.

[rhet 2]

Update...

They did a CAT scan a few days ago. Thank God the results were good. The antibotics are working and the Pneumonia is getting better.

Good deal.

:pray: Thank you, LORD. You never let us down.

But now is not the time for complacency. We pray HARDER until she's safe at home with her loving family.

[-American-]

Good news and bad news...

The good news is the Pneumonia continues to get better. They are also looking to bring her back to the nursing home next week.

Now the not so good news, she of course was put on the vent two weeks ago. She was put on to help with her breathing because she was breathing to fast, due to the Pneumonia. They did a swallowing test to see if they could start feeding her the pureed food again while on the vent and she failed.

So now she is on the peg tube feeding again but her body isn't excepting it. She has illeus according to the doctors, most likely because of being put back on the vent. Ventalator's can cause illeus. So essentially it's back to square one

Hopefully she'll pass her next swallowing test and can begin eating pureed food again. That and they'll have to ween her off the vent. Hopefully we can get back to where she was before the Pneumonia....Uggggghhhhhh.

[jwil59]

Ok buddy we just keep praying for her

[rhet 2]

Good news and bad news...

The good news is the Pneumonia continues to get better. They are also looking to bring her back to the nursing home next week.

Now the not so good news, she of course was put on the vent two weeks ago. She was put on to help with her breathing because she was breathing to fast, due to the Pneumonia. They did a swallowing test to see if they could start feeding her the pureed food again while on the vent and she failed.

So now she is on the peg tube feeding again but her body isn't excepting it. She has illeus according to the doctors, most likely because of being put back on the vent. Ventalator's can cause illeus. So essentially it's back to square one

Hopefully she'll pass her next swallowing test and can begin eating pureed food again. That and they'll have to ween her off the vent. Hopefully we can get back to where she was before the Pneumonia....Uggggghhhhhh.

Two steps forward, one step back.

I pray the next two steps forward are HUGE leaps toward getting her home with her family again, such improvement in her physical health that the next step back can't reverse the gains and stop her restoration to the loving care of her family, where hugs are constant and never lacking.

[-American-]

Update....

My grandmother will be heading back to the nursing home tonight. They are also weening her off the vent again. Let's hope this time things work out.

[rhet 2]

Update....

My grandmother will be heading back to the nursing home tonight. They are also weening her off the vent again. Let's hope this time things work out.

Well, that's a step back in the right direction.

I surely pray that this time the progress holds and can't be reversed so easily.

:hug:

[jwil59]

Update....

My grandmother will be heading back to the nursing home tonight. They are also weening her off the vent again. Let's hope this time things work out.

That's good. We will keep praying for her, and you too

[-American-]

Quick update...

My grandmother was taken back to the hospital a couple of days ago. As it turns out she has "illeus" again? That's what they told us, it's really confusing considering she had been eating three meals a day for a couple of months.

So now she's been on the vent for a few weeks, and has been fed through the peg tube. Problem is her stomach does not want to accept the peg tube feeding hence the illeus. It appears it's only the peg tube feeding she rejects. She was doing fine (no illeus) when she was eating the pureed food.

As you know she had to be put back on the vent because she had Pneumonia, well it turns out she may have gotten the Pneumonia because of her eating. They believe it's possible some of the food went down the wrong pipe and eventually Pneumonia formed. The furthest she got was being on the trach collar before Pneumonia formed. They sent her back to the hospital a few days ago because the nursing home is not equipped to treat someone with illeus.

She can't get her strength up (to be weened) because her body won't accept the feedings. That and she can't eat real food because of the vent....sigh.

Honestly I have no idea what the future holds for her. She just can't seem to get a brake. We are right back at the beginning. January 30th is fast approaching and it will be one year when this all started.

[rhet 2]

Quick update...

My grandmother was taken back to the hospital a couple of days ago. As it turns out she has "illeus" again? That's what they told us, it's really confusing considering she had been eating three meals a day for a couple of months.

So now she's been on the vent for a few weeks, and has been fed through the peg tube. Problem is her stomach does not want to accept the peg tube feeding hence the illeus. It appears it's only the peg tube feeding she rejects. She was doing fine (no illeus) when she was eating the pureed food.

As you know she had to be put back on the vent because she had Pneumonia, well it turns out she may have gotten the Pneumonia because of her eating. They believe it's possible some of the food went down the wrong pipe and eventually Pneumonia formed. The furthest she got was being on the trach collar before Pneumonia formed. They sent her back to the hospital a few days ago because the nursing home is not equipped to treat someone with illeus.

She can't get her strength up (to be weened) because her body won't accept the feedings. That and she can't eat real food because of the vent....sigh.

Honestly I have no idea what the future holds for her. She just can't seem to get a brake. We are right back at the beginning. January 30th is fast approaching and it will be one year when this all started.

Well, that sort of does explain why she's been particularly in my mind these past few days.

Just hang in there: where there's breath -- even with a vent -- there's life. And where there's life, there's hope.

And we'll just have to redouble the prayer effort in her behalf, won't we, folks?

[jwil59]

Well, that sort of does explain why she's been particularly in my mind these past few days.

Just hang in there: where there's breath -- even with a vent -- there's life. And where there's life, there's hope.

And we'll just have to redouble the prayer effort in her behalf, won't we, folks?

yes we can!!!! and we will


I am praying about this

[USMCmom]

Quick update...

My grandmother was taken back to the hospital a couple of days ago. As it turns out she has "illeus" again? That's what they told us, it's really confusing considering she had been eating three meals a day for a couple of months.

So now she's been on the vent for a few weeks, and has been fed through the peg tube. Problem is her stomach does not want to accept the peg tube feeding hence the illeus. It appears it's only the peg tube feeding she rejects. She was doing fine (no illeus) when she was eating the pureed food.

As you know she had to be put back on the vent because she had Pneumonia, well it turns out she may have gotten the Pneumonia because of her eating. They believe it's possible some of the food went down the wrong pipe and eventually Pneumonia formed. The furthest she got was being on the trach collar before Pneumonia formed. They sent her back to the hospital a few days ago because the nursing home is not equipped to treat someone with illeus.

She can't get her strength up (to be weened) because her body won't accept the feedings. That and she can't eat real food because of the vent....sigh.

Honestly I have no idea what the future holds for her. She just can't seem to get a brake. We are right back at the beginning. January 30th is fast approaching and it will be one year when this all started.

I pray that your Grandmother will beat this and be back on the mend. Please know that I will keep the both of you in my prayers!
God Bless & Stay Strong....

[-American-]

I've got some news, the doctor has a plan. Okay here is what is going on, they did a test a couple of days ago where they put dye through my grandma's belly. They did this to see how things are moving along in there. Normally it should take 30 minutes for food to move through but in her case it took the dye 4 hours. The doctor believes my grandmother does NOT have illeus (thank God) but adhesions.

This makes sense because during the late summer she was eating three meals a day (in pureed form). From what I've read illeus forms during surgery. That is your bowels/intestines temporarily shut down and then restart a few days or a week after surgery. Seeing that she hadn't had any surgery since early August, and was eating after that surgery just fine, it didn't make sense for illeus to start up again. So that's it it's adhesions that are the problem.

So according the to doctor this Thursday he will perform surgury on my grandmother to remove these adhesions.

With the adhesions gone she won't have anymore sluggish bowels/intestines. That and no more disdended belly, the disdended belly would push down on her make it hard to breathe and in turn making it harder for her to be weened. So it appears there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

[rhet 2]

I've got some news, the doctor has a plan. Okay here is what is going on, they did a test a couple of days ago where they put dye through my grandma's belly. They did this to see how things are moving along in there. Normally it should take 30 minutes for food to move through but in her case it took the dye 4 hours. The doctor believes my grandmother does NOT have illeus (thank God) but adhesions.

This makes sense because during the late summer she was eating three meals a day (in pureed form). From what I've read illeus forms during surgery. That is your bowels/intestines temporarily shut down and then restart a few days or a week after surgery. Seeing that she hadn't had any surgery since early August, and was eating after that surgery just fine, it didn't make sense for illeus to start up again. So that's it it's adhesions that are the problem.

So according the to doctor this Thursday he will perform surgury on my grandmother to remove these adhesions.

With the adhesions gone she won't have anymore sluggish bowels/intestines. That and no more disdended belly, the disdended belly would push down on her make it hard to breathe and in turn making it harder for her to be weened. So it appears there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Our prayers that the doc is right and the surgery successful, then.

Hang tough.

Your family is really getting stretched a lot lately, that's for sure. I pray He see you through the trials and to a bit of peace beside still waters for some time to catch your breaths and rest up before any other tests come your way.

[-American-]

Quick update, the surgery happened yesterday and was successful. My grandmother is resting comfortably, and is doing well. According to the doctors they did the surgery through very small insicions, thank God.

I don't know to much of the details yet. I'd like to know how many adhesions were removed, etc. When I find out I'll let you all know.

Thanks

[rhet 2]

Quick update, the surgery happened yesterday and was successful. My grandmother is resting comfortably, and is doing well. According to the doctors they did the surgery through very small insicions, thank God.

I don't know to much of the details yet. I'd like to know how many adhesions were removed, etc. When I find out I'll let you all know.

Thanks

I thank the LORD for this gracious answer to my prayers. May He continue to shelter and provide for your grandmother and all her children and grandchildren, that they, too, shall give thanks and rejoice before the Throne of Grace and Mercy.

[-American-]

Update...

According to the doctor they removed alot of adhesions. Right now she is in the hospital recovering nicely. They haven't started on the feeding to see how it goes. She's on an IV for right now.

[rhet 2]

Update...

According to the doctor they removed alot of adhesions. Right now she is in the hospital recovering nicely. They haven't started on the feeding to see how it goes. She's on an IV for right now.

May this be the one trick to finally set her back on her own dear feet! :pray:

[jwil59]

Update...

According to the doctor they removed alot of adhesions. Right now she is in the hospital recovering nicely. They haven't started on the feeding to see how it goes. She's on an IV for right now.

I am praying for her buddy.

[-American-]

Okay I've finally got the details...

My grandmother did not have the less invasive surgery as I was told. She had an incision right down her belly, and according to the Doctor they removed alot of adhesions. In fact many of the adhesions were twisting her intestines up. The Doctor is now certain this will correct her belly issue, and she should be on the road to recovery.

I was told she will return to the nursing home sometime next week.

[jwil59]

Okay I've finally got the details...

My grandmother did not have the less invasive surgery as I was told. She had an incision right down her belly, and according to the Doctor they removed alot of adhesions. In fact many of the adhesions were twisting her intestines up. The Doctor is now certain this will correct her belly issue, and she should be on the road to recovery.

I was told she will return to the nursing home sometime next week.

I pray this will indeed solve the problem as they say

[rhet 2]

Okay I've finally got the details...

My grandmother did not have the less invasive surgery as I was told. She had an incision right down her belly, and according to the Doctor they removed alot of adhesions. In fact many of the adhesions were twisting her intestines up. The Doctor is now certain this will correct her belly issue, and she should be on the road to recovery.

I was told she will return to the nursing home sometime next week.


Oh, I pray it does!

[jwil59]

Oh, I pray it does!

Yeah that would be wonderfull to put those problems to bed.

Enough already for this woman

[-American-]

I figured I should give an update. Today I went up to see my grandmother to wish her a Merry Christmas. All in all nothing much has changed. The surgery to remove the adhesions was three weeks ago today.

So far her belly doesn't want to cooperate. Since the surgery three weeks ago she has illeus again. As I said illeus occurs during surgery as your bowels and intestines temporarily shut down. Usually they'll restart within days to a week, but it's been three weeks now.

As it stands she's stuck at Wilmington hospital until something gives. The nursering home she was in cannot reaccept her because she is not on the peg tube feeding, because her illeus. Instead she is getting nutrition through an IV. It's quite depressing really, as no place in our state other than two hospitals can take someone in her current condition.

In about a month the one year mark will be here, one year ago January 30th she went to the ER for her heart. Little did she and all of us know she still wouldn't be home. Hopefully her belly will begin to function the way it should so we can get back to the weening off of the vent. Needless to say the family is emotionally spent.

Our prayers were answered concerning the heart but we don't understand why our prayers are not being answered concerning the belly issue, and the vent. If my grandmother is never meant to come home we feel that it probably would have been best if she had not survived the heart surgery back in February. That would have been better than suffering with setback after setback, three surgeries, several near death moments, being taken to four different hospitals, several infections, five or six blood transfusions, and a whole lot of stress and frustration. We honestly don't understand why nothing is happening.

[rhet 2]

I figured I should give an update. Today I went up to see my grandmother to wish her a Merry Christmas. All in all nothing much has changed. The surgery to remove the adhesions was three weeks ago today.

So far her belly doesn't want to cooperate. Since the surgery three weeks ago she has illeus again. As I said illeus occurs during surgery as your bowels and intestines temporarily shut down. Usually they'll restart within days to a week, but it's been three weeks now.

As it stands she's stuck at Wilmington hospital until something gives. The nursering home she was in cannot reaccept her because she is not on the peg tube feeding, because her illeus. Instead she is getting nutrition through an IV. It's quite depressing really, as no place in our state other than two hospitals can take someone in her current condition.

In about a month the one year mark will be here, one year ago January 30th she went to the ER for her heart. Little did she and all of us know she still wouldn't be home. Hopefully her belly will begin to function the way it should so we can get back to the weening off of the vent. Needless to say the family is emotionally spent.

Our prayers were answered concerning the heart but we don't understand why our prayers are not being answered concerning the belly issue, and the vent. If my grandmother is never meant to come home we feel that it probably would have been best if she had not survived the heart surgery back in February. That would have been better than suffering with setback after setback, three surgeries, several near death moments, being taken to four different hospitals, several infections, five or six blood transfusions, and a whole lot of stress and frustration. We honestly don't understand why nothing is happening.

I don't understand it, either.

Except for this: James chapter 1 -- the LORD teaches us by such tests of our faith -- and often and often, the people being stretched and grown are not just those undergoing such discomfort and unhappiness -- but those watching helpless to stop the suffering of people they love very much.

Just as the Disciples of our LORD were helpless to stop the suffering of the ONE they loved so very much -- and in their helplessness were stretched and challenged and forced to first turn the situation over to the LORD, second to "lie still upon your bed and know that I am God," that is, to turn loose and sit still waiting for the LORD to act according to His own Will and Perfect Plan.

So, too, Job was never told why he endured so much pain -- yet he, too, learned to turn loose and trust in the LORD, to "lie still and know" that the LORD does, most surely, have a perfect plan for your grandmother, for you, and for your entire family.

Which doesn't change the fact that I surely wish He'd deliver you all from this heavy burden. A year is, indeed, a very long time to wait and hope, only to have the hope turn sour again and again and again.

Please do not despair, though. Try for the patience which James says comes from such trials. For in the patient endurance through faith there is much blessing.

And, while I pray for Him to deliver your grandmother, I pray also for Him to strengthen your ability to endure so grievous a test.

:hug:

[USMCmom]

I am praying that this will be resolved...
God Bless & Take Care...

[-American-]

I don't understand it, either.

Except for this: James chapter 1 -- the LORD teaches us by such tests of our faith -- and often and often, the people being stretched and grown are not just those undergoing such discomfort and unhappiness -- but those watching helpless to stop the suffering of people they love very much.

Just as the Disciples of our LORD were helpless to stop the suffering of the ONE they loved so very much -- and in their helplessness were stretched and challenged and forced to first turn the situation over to the LORD, second to "lie still upon your bed and know that I am God," that is, to turn loose and sit still waiting for the LORD to act according to His own Will and Perfect Plan.

So, too, Job was never told why he endured so much pain -- yet he, too, learned to turn loose and trust in the LORD, to "lie still and know" that the LORD does, most surely, have a perfect plan for your grandmother, for you, and for your entire family.

Which doesn't change the fact that I surely wish He'd deliver you all from this heavy burden. A year is, indeed, a very long time to wait and hope, only to have the hope turn sour again and again and again.

Please do not despair, though. Try for the patience which James says comes from such trials. For in the patient endurance through faith there is much blessing.

And, while I pray for Him to deliver your grandmother, I pray also for Him to strengthen your ability to endure so grievous a test.

:hug:

Very good post Rhet, I appreciate it. I was thinking about that chapter in James. I'm keeping my hopes up, and even though we are all spent emotionally and have been disapointed again and again, I'm still optimistic.

[-American-]

I am praying that this will be resolved...
God Bless & Take Care...

Thank you very much USMCmom, I appreciate it.:hug:

[rhet 2]

Very good post Rhet, I appreciate it. I was thinking about that chapter in James. I'm keeping my hopes up, and even though we are all spent emotionally and have been disapointed again and again, I'm still optimistic.

Good deal.

And I pray this test ends soon and pray you can hold on till it does.

Optimism is the only way to go, seeing as how "with God, all things are possible."

[jwil59]

I was hoping to click this thread and see some improvement since I have been busy.

I am praying for you and your grandmother my friend. I defer to Rhet's post.

[USMCmom]

Sending hugs & prayers this new year...
Take care & God Bless...:hug:

[rhet 2]

May 2009 see Grandmother restored to the bosom of her own loving family -- and SOONEST!

:pray:

[-American-]

I do have a bit of good news. They started her on the peg tube feeding again sometime on Tuesday. They had her at a low setting. My Aunt was visiting her that day and said things seemed to be working, as "stuff" was coming out her colostomy. So far she's accepting the feeding.

So it appears things are slowly starting back up again. If she continues with the peg tube feeding they'll send her back to the nursing home. After that we can restart getting her feedings at the normal level, then begin wheening again.

[rhet 2]

I do have a bit of good news. They started her on the peg tube feeding again sometime on Tuesday. They had her at a low setting. My Aunt was visiting her that day and said things seemed to be working, as "stuff" was coming out her colostomy. So far she's accepting the feeding.

So it appears things are slowly starting back up again. If she continues with the peg tube feeding they'll send her back to the nursing home. After that we can restart getting her feedings at the normal level, then begin wheening again.


One teeny tiny seeming step at a time, we CAN walk around the universe! :clap:

[blazer]

Praying for healing! :hug:!

[-American-]

Another small step in the right direction. It has now been three straight days of my grandmother accepting the peg tube feedings. In fact they upped the amount to 20, it was 10 when they started Tuesday.

So we are hoping this progress will continue, with no more setbacks.

[rhet 2]

Another small step in the right direction. It has now been three straight days of my grandmother accepting the peg tube feedings. In fact they upped the amount to 20, it was 10 when they started Tuesday.

So we are hoping this progress will continue, with no more setbacks.

THANK GOD ABOVE!

and keep praying for full recovery!

[-American-]

One more step, the feeding has been upped to 40. I believe they want it at 55 and for it to stay at that level. My mom, dad, and aunt went up to visit her today and spoke with a doctor. The doctor told them that my grandmothers belly is like a barometer. The slightest problem will cause it to temporarily shut down. Even an infection, the doctor told them it's going to be a long journey.

[itsrea]

One more step, the feeding has been upped to 40. I believe they want it at 55 and for it to stay at that level. My mom, dad, and aunt went up to visit her today and spoke with a doctor. The doctor told them that my grandmothers belly is like a barometer. The slightest problem will cause it to temporarily shut down. Even an infection, the doctor told them it's going to be a long journey.Well, a long journey can be shared American - I know you are happy to get it.

:pray:

[crystalclear]

American,
I just now read your post, sorry so late with prayers, but I've been pretty coverd up myself.

But what a fine strong supportive family you all are!! Your grandmother is one strong lady who is apparently fighting for her life because of her love for her family. You don't have 8 children without having a HUGE heart!!

I'll be praying for everyone.

God bless all of you

[crystalclear]

I'd like to add that the prayers in here are so sincere and powerfull!! We've seen God's work through their prayers!

[blazer]

Yes, I am so thankful for the prayers of those in here!

[USMCmom]

One more step, the feeding has been upped to 40. I believe they want it at 55 and for it to stay at that level. My mom, dad, and aunt went up to visit her today and spoke with a doctor. The doctor told them that my grandmothers belly is like a barometer. The slightest problem will cause it to temporarily shut down. Even an infection, the doctor told them it's going to be a long journey.

American that is wonderful news...will keep her in my prayers! And just remember that although it will be a long journey for all of you it will not be a lonely one for we are here.
God Bless:hug:

[rhet 2]

American that is wonderful news...will keep her in my prayers! And just remember that although it will be a long journey for all of you it will not be a lonely one for we are here.
God Bless:hug:

Truth.

Christ never forsakes or abandons us.

How should we then forsake or abandon each other?

I rejoice at such good progress as this and continue to beg the LORD to restore this wonderful lady to the bosom of her family as quickly as can be.

[-American-]

They have had to temporarily stop the feedings. Not sure when they'll restart, probably within the next few days. Last I heard she her feeding was upped to 40.

[Seanachie]

They have had to temporarily stop the feedings. Not sure when they'll restart, probably within the next few days. Last I heard she her feeding was upped to 40.

Hello American,

My prayers are offered 'up' to the Good Lord that he send some Angels to your Grandmother and Her caregivers to get the Lady back to good health. My prayers are also offered 'up' for You and your Family to keep your Faith and trust that God will send hope and healing.

Be well,

Jim

[rhet 2]

Hello American,

My prayers are offered 'up' to the Good Lord that he send some Angels to your Grandmother and Her caregivers to get the Lady back to good health. My prayers are also offered 'up' for You and your Family to keep your Faith and trust that God will send hope and healing.

Be well,

Jim

Yes.

Me, two.

[jwil59]

They have had to temporarily stop the feedings. Not sure when they'll restart, probably within the next few days. Last I heard she her feeding was upped to 40.

I am still praying for her buddy

[USMCmom]

They have had to temporarily stop the feedings. Not sure when they'll restart, probably within the next few days. Last I heard she her feeding was upped to 40.

American-
Am praying that she will start feeling better soon....

[rhet 2]

American-
Am praying that she will start feeling better soon....

Yep.

Motto of the OO Warriors: "We do not EVER give up."

No matter how many rocks Satan throws at us, we don't give up.

Whatever is blocking the peg feedings, that has got to GO AWAY, now, LORD. Please? :pray:

[jwil59]

American-
Am praying that she will start feeling better soon....

Me too

[-American-]

Some positive news...

I decided to go up and see my grandmother. I went up with my aunt, uncle, cousin, and mom. We saw a new doctor today, her name is Dr. Philips. She was very upbeat and postive. She pretty much told us they are doing everything and anything to 'wake up' my grandmothers gut. She was very postive and said they will figure it out.

[rhet 2]

Some positive news...

I decided to go up and see my grandmother. I went up with my aunt, uncle, cousin, and mom. We saw a new doctor today, her name is Dr. Philips. She was very upbeat and postive. She pretty much told us they are doing everything and anything to 'wake up' my grandmothers gut. She was very postive and said they will figure it out.

That's a good thing, for which I thank the LORD of All Mercy.

My prayers continue, dear one.

[jwil59]

Some positive news...

I decided to go up and see my grandmother. I went up with my aunt, uncle, cousin, and mom. We saw a new doctor today, her name is Dr. Philips. She was very upbeat and postive. She pretty much told us they are doing everything and anything to 'wake up' my grandmothers gut. She was very postive and said they will figure it out.

I pray Dr Phillips can resolve this problem. prayers comtinue friend

[USMCmom]

Some positive news...

I decided to go up and see my grandmother. I went up with my aunt, uncle, cousin, and mom. We saw a new doctor today, her name is Dr. Philips. She was very upbeat and postive. She pretty much told us they are doing everything and anything to 'wake up' my grandmothers gut. She was very postive and said they will figure it out.

Am glad to hear Grandma is feeling better...will add her to my prayers!
Take Care & God Bless

[-American-]

Sorry for not updating sooner but there really hasn't been much of a change. Today they are trying a new procedure in hopes that will restart my grandmother's belly. They do admit they are running out of options.

Also they have begun weening her off the vent. Not sure yet how it's going.

Today is the one year mark when this all began.

Thanks gang

[rhet 2]

Sorry for not updating sooner but there really hasn't been much of a change. Today they are trying a new procedure in hopes that will restart my grandmother's belly. They do admit they are running out of options.

Also they have begun weening her off the vent. Not sure yet how it's going.

Today is the one year mark when this all began.

Thanks gang

Oh, dear! So long as that?

But never fear.

Human beings may be out of options -- but the LORD Who owns time itself never is and never will be.

We shall just have to pray still harder, that's all.

[blazer]

:pray:

[jwil59]

Sorry for not updating sooner but there really hasn't been much of a change. Today they are trying a new procedure in hopes that will restart my grandmother's belly. They do admit they are running out of options.

Also they have begun weening her off the vent. Not sure yet how it's going.

Today is the one year mark when this all began.

Thanks gang

One year is a very long time for this child of God to suffer. I am praying for relief very soon. Enough already

[-American-]

Some good news, for the past few days my grandmother has been accepting the peg tube feedings. The procedure they did was to put the tube futher down? Not sure about that but whatever they did it appears to be working for now.

Every day they have increased her feeding levels and the time she is being fed. As of today she went 6 hours straight on the peg tube feeding before they gave her a break.

[rhet 2]

Some good news, for the past few days my grandmother has been accepting the peg tube feedings. The procedure they did was to put the tube futher down? Not sure about that but whatever they did it appears to be working for now.

Every day they have increased her feeding levels and the time she is being fed. As of today she went 6 hours straight on the peg tube feeding before they gave her a break.

Wow!

Progress indeed!

Thank God -- and pass you folks more of the same! :clap:

[-American-]

One step forward three steps back. I just got word my grandmother has pneumonia once again.:mad: The current doctor who has been on for the past few weeks believes she will never get off the vent.

[blazer]

:pray:

[rhet 2]

One step forward three steps back. I just got word my grandmother has pneumonia once again.:mad: The current doctor who has been on for the past few weeks believes she will never get off the vent.

This I am truly sorry to hear.

Discouraging is not an adequate description of what you and your family must feel.

However, there is this: vent or no vent, she is still with you, ready and able to be hugged.

But, we shall redouble our prayers for the LORD to demonstrate how limited the knowledge of even doctors truly is.

In HIS Hands, not in those of a mere doctor, who is only ONE of His tools.

:hug: and :pray:

[jwil59]

I am still praying for your Grandmother. This has been a long haul for this dear soul of a woman.

[-American-]

Folks we really need a miracle here. My family is so frustrated I don't know where to begin. There is a new doctor looking over my grandmother. To make a long story short this new doctor has given up on her as have the nurses it seems.

He has removed the peg tube and will not do anymore testing or x-rays of her belly. He has decided not to attempt weening her off the vent anymore either. My grandmother has been experiencing pain in her belly, one nurse says her intestines are probably dying.

Remember recently they moved her peg tube lower to see if that would work. Through this one year ordeal my grandmother has had problems with the peg tube, including it causing pain in her belly. We do not believe her intestines are shutting down, we believe the pain is from the repositioned peg tube.

My grandmother is being feed through the pick line now. This new doctor gave us all a scare a few days ago telling us he wants to talk with the family about Hospice. The next time any family members will be able to go up to Wilmington to talk with the doctor would be this coming Thursday. The doctor then said he doesn't think my grandmother will make it that far.

So yesterday I and my parents went up to see my grandmother thinking the worse. That wasn't the case at all, my grandmother was fully alert and talking to us (as best she can, since she is on the vent she can only mouth words). She did not appear to be at deaths door as the doctor suggested. She asked about family members, smiled when we joked etc.

Essentially the hospital has had it with her, this happened before at St. Francis when she was in select specialties. They couldn't get her well enough to get her out of the hospital so they gave up on her.

This new doctor wants to talk about Hospice. His plan is to essentially dope her up with morphin and pull the plug on the ventilator letting her die.

We need a miracle here folks. Were between a rock and a hard place. The only nursing home that was equiped to take my grandmother was Riverside nursing home, which is where she was before she got pneumonia back in November. The problem is they will not accept anyone who is being fed through the pick line. She has to be fed through the peg tube in order for her to be back to Riverside.

Other than Riverside only Wilmington hospital and St. Francis hosptial can take her in her current situation. Yet these two hospitals don't want her. It all boils down to this, money. My grandmothers medicare is used up since she's been in the hosptial for to long and it's costing money to keep her there. They don't want to use up anymore money so they want to get rid of her.

We honestly don't know where to turn. It's trully ashame, my grandmother is 100% in her head. She's alert, and able to talk, joke etc. Yet her belly issue will not resolve itself, and we can't seem to find a doctor who can fix her. All she wants to do is go home.

[itsrea]

Folks we really need a miracle here. My family is so frustrated I don't know where to begin. There is a new doctor looking over my grandmother. To make a long story short this new doctor has given up on her as have the nurses it seems.

He has removed the peg tube and will not do anymore testing or x-rays of her belly. He has decided not to attempt weening her off the vent anymore either. My grandmother has been experiencing pain in her belly, one nurse says her intestines are probably dying.

Remember recently they moved her peg tube lower to see if that would work. Through this one year ordeal my grandmother has had problems with the peg tube, including it causing pain in her belly. We do not believe her intestines are shutting down, we believe the pain is from the repositioned peg tube.

My grandmother is being feed through the pick line now. This new doctor gave us all a scare a few days ago telling us he wants to talk with the family about Hospice. The next time any family members will be able to go up to Wilmington to talk with the doctor would be this coming Thursday. The doctor then said he doesn't think my grandmother will make it that far.

So yesterday I and my parents went up to see my grandmother thinking the worse. That wasn't the case at all, my grandmother was fully alert and talking to us (as best she can, since she is on the vent she can only mouth words). She did not appear to be at deaths door as the doctor suggested. She asked about family members, smiled when we joked etc.

Essentially the hospital has had it with her, this happened before at St. Francis when she was in select specialties. They couldn't get her well enough to get her out of the hospital so they gave up on her.

This new doctor wants to talk about Hospice. His plan is to essentially dope her up with morphin and pull the plug on the ventilator letting her die.

We need a miracle here folks. Were between a rock and a hard place. The only nursing home that was equiped to take my grandmother was Riverside nursing home, which is where she was before she got pneumonia back in November. The problem is they will not accept anyone who is being fed through the pick line. She has to be fed through the peg tube in order for her to be back to Riverside.

Other than Riverside only Wilmington hospital and St. Francis hosptial can take her in her current situation. Yet these two hospitals don't want her. It all boils down to this, money. My grandmothers medicare is used up since she's been in the hosptial for to long and it's costing money to keep her there. They don't want to use up anymore money so they want to get rid of her.

We honestly don't know where to turn. It's trully ashame, my grandmother is 100% in her head. She's alert, and able to talk, joke etc. Yet her belly issue will not resolve itself, and we can't seem to find a doctor who can fix her. All she wants to do is go home.My husband came home from the hospital under hospice care fully alert and full of life and jokes and laughter..

If you take her home under hospice care they will supply the bed, the medical staff needed to administer through her pic line, and the advice you need in how to care for her... if she is not ready to die she will be treated kindly and well under hospice care, and if she is she will have the medical care she needs while that happens.. either way she will be where she wants to be, in the care of and surrounded by the family she loves, and happy.. which she is not now.

I know without a doubt that I am sounding harsh, but in old age quality of life HAS to be considered OVER quantity... and her quality of life is not good where she is. So what are your choices? Let her be happy or keep her alive where she is not happy?

MAYBE Hospice is the Lord offering you an out? Pray and see.

[rhet 2]

My husband came home from the hospital under hospice care fully alert and full of life and jokes and laughter..

If you take her home under hospice care they will supply the bed, the medical staff needed to administer through her pic line, and the advice you need in how to care for her... if she is not ready to die she will be treated kindly and well under hospice care, and if she is she will have the medical care she needs while that happens.. either way she will be where she wants to be, in the care of and surrounded by the family she loves, and happy.. which she is not now.

I know without a doubt that I am sounding harsh, but in old age quality of life HAS to be considered OVER quantity... and her quality of life is not good where she is. So what are your choices? Let her be happy or keep her alive where she is not happy?

MAYBE Hospice is the Lord offering you an out? Pray and see.

Wisdom

We had to make some very difficult choices for my mother, too --and I bless the day we brought her home, and bless the hospice care folks who helped us do it.

But each family must decide for themselves how to deal with the crises when they come.

I pray wisdom for her children. Wisdom and enablement to do what is right in the eyes of the LORD Himself.

[stoked]

Yes, hospice is a godsend. You can spend some quality time with her then. Medicare will also pick up if you need someone to sit with her overnight and hospice can send in people during the day as well. The hospice nurses are very helpful during this time.