Tuesday, March 23, 2010

March 23, 2010 - He's Doing OK

Dad's surgery on Tuesday went as the doctors anticipated.
  • He's back in ICU for what's expected to be a short stay. We had been told that he might return to ICU after the surgery depending on how he was able to come off the ventilator post-op, so this was not a surprise.
  • The surgeon spoke to Mom directly after the operation and said that things went well. Among other things, he noted that the calf muscle was healthy and should provide a good platform for healing the surgical wound.
  • The amputation is about 6 inches below the knee.
  • Dad's vital signs are good. Although his blood pressure was low post-op (another reason for the return to ICU), it was coming up nicely through the evening.
  • As you might imagine, he is in pain from the surgery and is taking medication for relief. So far that seems to be working, with the beneficial side effect of letting him sleep.
  • Dad wanted to talk last evening, but through the cloud of pain-killers and without the PMV (speaking valve) we were unable to decipher what he wanted. Frustrating for all.
  • He was more withdrawn in advance of the surgery. Notwithstanding the clinical necessity for the amputation, the reality of the surgical result is sobering. My heart aches for him and I pray that he finds peace.
Thanks for all of your expressions of support, your prayers and your warm wishes. Please continue to pray for Dad's complete healing. Pray for him to have peace of mind with the situation, and pray the same for Mom. They will both need significant strength going forward.
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3 comments:

  1. SherryMarch 24, 2010 at 6:37 AM

    We have been checking every few hours for his update. If anyone can get through this, it is Miles. Dale's and my hearts ache for the whole family, especially Miles. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. When I visited last week, I still saw the twinkle in the eyes and the "just about ready to grin" look on your face, Miles. We all love you so, you have a great family around you, and you can conquer this with your wonderful spirit!

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  2. AnonymousMarch 24, 2010 at 8:18 AM

    Miles, you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We had hoped to visit you, but will give you more time to recover.

    Noodie, if you recall, we had planned a get together here in Virginia in April. We figure Miles will not be ready for such a trek, but we thought you might still like to join us. I spoke with Dave and Judy and they offered to bring you if you would like a few days break. We would love to have you. They will be coming on April 20th and probably return to Elkins on the 23rd. Your room is waiting. I think Miles would be in favor of that. Mike

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  3. Jason AsbellMarch 24, 2010 at 6:11 PM

    Jason Asbell said...

    Miles,

    I hope you know that you, Noodie and the rest of your family are constantly in my thoughts and I hope you are doing well! We miss you greatly and hope to come visit sometime soon. When you are back in Elkins we need to get a drink or six!!! Stay positive my man!

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