Tube is Out and She is Looking Strong

The doctors have decided to remove Jen from the ventilator. "Her lungs are the best they have looked so far" Dr. Shulkin has said. Although she has been removed from the "tube" she still needs an oxygen mask to keep her lungs inflated to insure that they don't collapse. This will go on for a few days until they are confident she is strong enough without it. Her physical therapy is going well and she loves to do it, which apparently is highly unusual. This enthusiasm is a reflection of Jens great strength and determination.
During her breathing treatment today she had her oxygen mask off for 10 Mins and it was great to hear her talk with some projection in her voice. It was also wonderful to give her a proper kiss for the first time in 6 weeks.
Jen, we are getting there babe. With the courage you have shown so far and the style in which you have done it we will no doubt be stronger from this experience. We have a long life ahead of us with lots to look forward to so I cant wait to get started again.

Love Hubby.

PS. Jen for the first time today started to read the Blog. She smiled from ear to ear as she read a few postings and it will surely help in the recovery process. So thanks to everyone who has contributed and who will continue to contribute during the long road ahead.

Jen Weaning Off the Respirator: Take 2

Jen is beginning to be slowly weaned off the respirator today. I have my fingers crossed that this attempt will prove successful. Its hard work for her and today she was exhausted just trying to breathe on her own. This daily exertion will strengthen her lungs and hopefully lead to the removal of the "tube".

She is in fantastic spirits so much so she wanted to watch that cinematic classic
" Nacho Libre". At least I laughed. Jen was asleep before the trailers had even finished.

As I sit and watch my baby sleep I am overwhelmed with pride that she is my wife. Each breath she takes just reminds me of how lucky I am not only for having found Jen but for also having found such a wonderful family in the Whipples. Both my son Matthew and I are much richer people by having them so involved in our lives. We love you guys and thanks for making Jen-Jen.

Baby, we are getting there. Lets keep fighting, laughing, crying and smiling because very soon we will be hugging each other again.

I love you so much,
Hubby

Friday Afternoon

It is Friday afternoon and we are just taking a small break back at the room. Jenny had "surgery" in her room today to change her bandages and to check how things were looking. Dr. Duffy the plastic surgeon didn't see any infection which was good...and will continue to check on her daily. It appears she may have to return to the operating room next week for another procedure in checking her hands and legs but as we know this is all day to day. Her spirit today when we walked in was amazing..she was trying to talk to us...and we could "get it" mostly around the tube. She smiled and winked at me...looked so beautiful. Little Matthew had asked his 3rd grade class to write her get well cards and we read those to her...they were precious...and she loved them.
Ryan is flying in from Lawrence (KC) tonight and Richard..Randy's brother and his wife Terri are coming tomorrow. The Ringlers are also coming tomorrow for the afternoon and evening before heading to MD Anderson as Sharon has an appointment with a surgion there and can use some of Jenny's prayers. Steve is coming in on Sunday and leaving Monday for a BP meeting in Houston but will have a few hours with her. Our friends Gaylin and BB are coming on Monday for a few days, followed by Judy and Margene later in the week. Kay and Connie are here in spirit and will be here as soon as called upon.

We have an appointment with Baylor Rhab on Monday that Nick has arranged. This is to see what they can offer and to begin the search for Jen when she is able to be discharged.

I check this as often as I can..and the words that are here honestly give all of us the strength to continue on..and help her fight.

Love all of you so much, Randy, Marilyn and Martha

Jens Surgery

Yesterday as most of you know Jen had surgery. The surgery was related to the damage sustained during the original trauma to Jens tissue in her extremeties. For those of you who have seen Jen you could see that her hands and feet did not look good. Meeting with the surgeons days before the surgery it was explained to us that Jen would probably receive an amputation of below the elbow on both arms and somewhere around the knee in both legs. As it turns out the surgeons did a fantastic job and were able to provide a result better than expected, below the knee on both legs and saving the wrist on both hands.

I cant begin to imagine how Jen must feel right now, but she is handling like the amazing human being that she is. I know she is scared, angry, frustrated, frightened and confused. The coming months are going to be tough, no question as we enter rehab hospital and begin getting Jen back on her way to her old self. With the support of family and friends, which has been beyond our wildest dreams Jen will be up and running in no time.

To Jen, you will forever be my sunshine, my candle, my hottie biscotti. Your surgery has not changed Jennifer Griffin. You will always be the same person I fell madly in love with a few years ago. We will share many tears, battle lots of frustration and endure some tough times but we will always do it as a team. You are an amazing wife and I cant wait to get you home.

Love Hubby

Wednesday Evening

I have lost track of the actual date...but I think this is close. Nick will post a note later about her surgery but...she and we made it...another mile stone. I had forgotten in my last post to express our love and appreciation to a special nurse named Alex. She wrote a very heartfelt note this week...a comment to a post that Matthew made..and if you haven't had a chance..Please read. She has been an angel..and when she is with Jenny, I can actually sleep a bit.
Keep praying my dear, dear friends. She is climbing the mountain and is making some progress. Nick is her true partner and we and she are all so blessed that they found one another.

Martha and I are headed back to the hospital in a bit but wanted to check in. Again..we appreciate all that everyone has done and continues to do...Love, Marilyn

Keep On Smiling

First of all, what an inspiration Jennifer is to everyone! Ever since I have known her she has been hardworking, determined, motivated, and such an encouragement to everyone around her. I met Jennifer when I was in the second grade, as well as most of the Whipples. Ryan and I grew up together at school and we always seemed to find ourselves being able to annoy Jennifer and Matt. It’s amazing how much time can fly through the years. I used to think Jen was crazy for the fact she used to let Ryan drive her white Saturn while screaming through their Amarado neighborhood. Little did she know, I was probably the one scared. If you have ever driven with Jen or Ryan….you know exactly what I am talking about. I have so many stories in my head about the experiences through the years. I can only assume if you are reading this message you know what I mean. As I reminisce these events I can only think about one thing and that is her smile. She has such an embracing smile and the only way I know how to describe it is…..contagious. I can only imagine how uplifting it is to see her smile again. Before I take up the rest of the page I want to let the Whipples know that they are in so many prayers right now, there’s no way God could have turned down this chance to expose his abilities. So, we all hope your surgery went well today and we are all thinking about you.
Brandon H
(briefcase)
P.S. Nick…you are an amazing man who has obviously found the girl you used to dream of. Randy, Marilyn, Matt, and Ryan received the best man to take care of their Jennifer. Your family has the blessing of so many people.

My Favorite Big Sis

JEN, WE HAVE PUT YOU ON OUR PRAYER LIST AT CHURCH. GOD DOES AWESOME THINGS WITH OUR LIVES AND HE WILL YOURS TOO. I LOVE YOU AND I WILL BE THINKING ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. HELLO TO THE WHIPPLES AND I WILL CHAT WITH YOU GUYS SOON. YOUR FRIEND, TEX AKA CHRIS GREGG

Tuesday Evening

The doctors decided to put Jenny back on the respirator today to help her breathe easier. She will be going to surgery tomorrow early afternoon for her hands and feet. The doctor expects the surgery to last apporxiamtely 3 hrs...he will share with us his findings/opinions following. We again ask you to pray that God will be with the surgeons and Jenny during this time.

Our family continues to thank you all for the overwhemling love, support and kindness you have shown us.

Marilyn

Monday Update

I'm in the icu waiting room with Nick and Dad. We just heard what sounded like a commercial sized weed eater but realized Dad had fallen asleep on the couch across from us and started snoring. He literally startled himself, woke from the slumber and started laughing. He is exhausted as we all are but it was good to see him smile. Jens health is continuing to improve in minor increments. We've had a few set backs, which is common with such a severe medical situation but nothing that she won't get over and fight through. If you have been here to see Jen and have placed yourself in the waiting room with us, you know what a traumatic time this is and how hostile the infection was. Her Kidneys are functioning pretty well and producing a good amount of urine. She looked at me today and said, "Im peeing right now..then started smiling..." I told her this was the only time it was ok to pee in a bed.." As you all know, she is off of the ventilator which is a big step towards normalcy. I walked into her room last night and saw her looking through the window. I sat down next to her for an hour & a half. I told her that seeing her smile and hearing her voice, although very faint was the best feeling I've ever had. We spent a lot of time with her this morning as well. She looked at us and winked along with a "click click" sound to go with the wink. It was humorous. So, all in all she is staying strong and continuing to fight. Her determination and will to get well is something I have really learned from. I never knew that watching someone in a hospital bed could be the most valuable lesson ever learned. If anyone can come out of a situation such as this and turn it into a positive, it will be her. I love you all and want you to know that your prayers and positive energy are valued at a level I can't explain.

An Incredible 24 Hours

The last 24 hours have been absolutely amazing. Not only has Jen been taken of the ventilator, the tube has also been removed from her mouth. Although her vocal chords are very tender and raw she has the ability to talk a little at a time. Its tough work for her to speak at the moment but it bought me to tears when she could finally say "I love you".

Our girl has also been taken off dialysis because her kidney " just started working again" as one doctor put it. The human body can do amazing things sometimes.

Jen I want you to rest this weekend. Focus on your breathing it is going to be hard work for a few days. Don't talk to much although its tempting and get as much rest as possible.

Also I want to thank the boys at Bent Tree DP, Dean, Jeff and Mikey. Working 15 hour days during the busiest time of year so I can spend a lot of time with Jen. I love you guys and it has meant the world to me.

Love you babe,
Hubby

The Avers

Jenny...We continue to think of you and pray for you. Each new day seems to bring strength and healing and for that we are thankful. I try to keep in touch everyday about your progress and have reunited with Shannon which has been fun and helpful. She loves you so much and wants desperately to be with you. Friends are amazing and wonderful and steadfast, you have been blessed with so many loving friends who care about you. You are being sustained through all the prayers and concerns of so many. Continue to fight Jen, I hope to see you soon to give you and your Mom a great big hug. By the way you have an awesome husband.
Love you,
Pam

Wednesday Afternoon

It is so difficult to believe that this Friday Jenny will have been in CICU for a month...what a nightmare...sometimes it honestly doesn't feel real.

We were hopful that she would be able to get off the ventilator today but she again had a bleed from the colon and had to have two clamps put into the muscle wall to hopfully control the bleed. She was really awake before this however...and was looking forward to being able to talk..as were we all.

As Nick says...slow and steady wins the race but my...it is hard. I check this blog everyday and sometimes several times a day if I can get access to a computer. The words of encouragement are priceless...I read and reread everything each of you has said. I just can't begin to tell you how much it means to find the loving words and to feel supported by all of you. I tell Randy and my sister Martha that someday, somehow, I will find a way to "pay it forward"

Our dear friends Judy Hess and Margene Seals came Sunday and left today..it was hard to let them leave...but it was so wonderful to have them with us. They both went to visit Jenny several times and she smiled and waved at them. Friends of Nicks from his club, Ann, Cecile and Ann's husband Walt come almost daily and they are now our friends too...wonderful, wonderful people I can't wait to introduce my Kansas friends to. Jennifer Moreno, Summer and Cameron, all of Jenny's other work friends as well as their couple freinds, Cynthia, Marty and Lebe have kept us well fed and offer so much support. The whole DeVasto "clan" has made several trips to see us as had Jennifer's friend Holly. The calls from the Ringlers, and Connie are like a "transfusion" which keep me going...and on and on. Shannon Wedge talks to Marthat every single day and Pam and Jill either write or call almost as often. I am sure I am forgetting someone or something but I will think about it and "call you out" tomorrow...I promise.


I am praying that the clamps hold and that we can avoid surgery...the doctor told us that the next 48 hours are crucial so please say a little extra prayer for her over the next two days...she will need to have these clamps hold so that she won't continue to have bleeds from the colon...

I will try to do better about posting...how can I expect you to write if I don't do a better job?

I love you all..Marilyn

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

For the last few days Jen has been very steady. She has had strong improvement with her lungs and we hope to be off the ventilator by the end of the week. She is still on dialysis and we have not seen much change in her kidneys. We are also hopeful that next week they can start doing some work on her hands and feet.
It is great to see her smiling and laughing again. Her spirits are great as she learns from doctors what has been happening to her and the long road of recovery we have ahead.
Jen, we are in this together babe and we are going to get through every challenge with flying colours. I have also promised myself I will never ever miss anything you say again in spite of my terrible hearing. So today I ordered hearing aides so I can make this promise come true.

Love Hubby.

She Has That Jen Look Back!

Jen is starting to really get her colour her humour back. She looks as beautiful as ever. In the coming few days we may hopefully get Jen off the resporator, she is breathing very well on her own. She cant wait to talk and I am sure she will let us know how poorly we have tried to interperate her.
I cant speak highly enough of the doctors and nurses at Medical City Dallas. I have a new appreciation for healthcare professionals, they are truely insperational and magnificent individuals who work tirelessly to save the lives of others. There work with Jen has been unbelievable.
To babe, watching you sleep every night counting your breaths has been both exhausting and scary but I am watching one of the most courages things I will ever see. You are one of a kind babe I love and am inspired by you, you are my angel.

Love Hubby.

Saturday Morning

The docotr told us this morning that the bleeding situation from yesterday has subsided some ...they are going to conitnue to monitor this very closely of course as they don't want to perform surgery...but tell us that they are hopful that she will be able to maintain and the bleeding will control itself. She is very awake today...waved at her Uncle Richard and is trying to talk to us...which is frustrating do to the breathing tube. Again, thanks so much for all of the words of support....more later....Marilyn

Friday Evening

Martha and I have returned from the hospital..left Nick with Jenny and Randy and his brother have gone to meet Ryan who flew in from Lawrence, Kansas and Matt who came in from Abilene. Jenny had another rough day but, she continues to fight..we look so forward to reading all of your kind comments, thoughts and prayers...it helps us to know how many people are thinking and praying for her daily. We will check in again soon...Love, Marilyn and Martha

Thursday Evening

Today has been hard...Jen had a setback...ulcer in her colon that caused bleeding and some surgery...she is now resting and Nick and Randy are with her at the hospital. the doctor tells us this is all a result of the comprimise her body went through from the initial infection. It was so hard to deal with but we continue to fight for and with her. Randy, his brother Richard, Martha, my sister and Nick were there to speak with the doctor following the procedure. we continure to have faith and are thankful for your prayers..Michelle and Brenda, your roses were so pretty and we have them with us in the waiting room on the table we have camped out on. :> thanks again dear friends for everything..she will be so pleased and honored to read and learn about your support. Hope tomorrow is better...Love, marilyn

Wednesday Evening

Hi all...checking in again and seeing all the great words of encouragement. Today was about the same for Jen but she did breathe for about 4 hours without the vent turned all the way on which was good. It is so hard to see the progress in inches but also hard to beleive it will be 3 weeks this Friday. Randy is back today until Sunday...Martha and I are getting to watch little Matthew tonight...reading him Captain Underpants...which is a book series...or rather he is reading to us...brings back memories of having an 8 year old! Nick and Randy are at the hospital.

Thanks over and over for all the prayers, cards, love and support. There are days I don't know if I can go on but, without you, I am sure of it...how blessed I feel to have this wide circle to hold us up.

Shantel, thanks for singing for Jenny...you know how much that means to me...can't wait to hear you in person again soon.

All for now dear friends, say your prayers tonight...Love, Marilyn

Jen Continues to Improve

Jen is continuing to take baby steps in her recovery. She is spending periods of time breathing by herself and will continue to do so as long as she shows continued improvement in this area.
Her responsiveness is also improving as they reduce her sedation and it is great to see her face light up with a smile. Seeing her smile again is one of highlights of my life.
She cant talk of course but my charades training is coming in handy. It took me two hours last night to work out that she was trying to tell me her stomach was itchy. I know she must have been frustrated. But Babe I am doing my best.
All in all the last few days have been very positive and It so amazing that despite all she has gone through she can still maintain her stunning beauty and encouraging spirit.

I love babe,

Hubby.

From Pam Avers

On Behalf Of Pam Avers
Sent: Friday, April 06, 2007
To: Nick and Jen


Hi Jenny,
Bob and I are praying for you and have you in our thoughts
continuously. You are so loved and so many people are wishing you
well. Keep fighting Jenny, I'll write more later.
We love you,
Pam

Thinking and Praying From the Hoskins

Jenn, we are lifting you up in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for healing hands from the doctors as well as our Heavenly Father. Also, many prayers and comforting thoughts to Randy, Marilyn, Matt, Nick and Matthew and the rest of the family. Much love and hugs, Judy, Dennis & Brandon.

Sunday Update

Jen has had another steady night with out much change. It is a challenge to stay patient but as one of the nurses explained "when someone is in ICU progress is not measured in hours and days but in weeks and months". She looks strong and is breathing well.

The support from everyone continues to be beyond our wildest expectations. When Jen comes through the stories about friendship and love will surely be so uplifting it will multiply her rate of recovery tenfold.

To Jen,
I love you babe and I need you, so get well quickly so I can kiss that once again.

Love (candle)

Nick

Update

Hello All....thanks so very much to those of you who have signed in and shared your kind words..Jen had another day of no real change...it is hard for us to see her suffer but we continue to have faith and know that she is fighting hard. As before, thanks so much for the prayers and support...we know we are all blessed.

Marilyn

Wedding Picture

Latest Hospital Update

Our sweet Jenny remains in critical condition but continues to fight hard and we pray that each hour will bring good news. Nick has hung all of her cards on the closet door in her room after he reads them to her and they are so comforting to us all! We can't begin to express the gratitude we feel to all of you who have been there and are helping our family and most of all Jen fight this huge battle. Martha, Randy and I have been working at keeping ourselves and Nick strong...your prayers and love is felt....more later!

Marilyn

Thanks From Nick

As many of you know having loved ones in hospital is a tough situation to deal with. Jen is the love of my life and I know she is going to pull through this displaying the strength, passion and enthusiasm that endeared me to her when we first met.

This blog is a wonderful way of keeping everybody updated on Jens progress and of passing on comments about Jen from people who's life she has touched. When she is on the speedy road to recovery she will enjoy reading this and I am sure it will help in the healing process.

I can't say enough about the overwhelming response from friends and family. As Thoreau once said "The language of friendship is not words but meanings" and this is no more true than the unbelievable support we have received.

And to Jen, for the last 2 years you have been my rock, my inspiration, my life. I love you more than I could possibly ever show. So get well soon so we can continue our wonderful journey together.

Nick.

Jen Ben

My name is Jill Fortner, I went to school with Jen at Maize.... I have known her for a long time and spent a lot of time with her and her family. Jennifers dad Randy was our softball coach and it was the best time ever!!!!! Jennifer was alway the most fun girl to be around, she has so much personality and everyone in school loved her.... Jennifer is in my prayers day and night. I am happy there are so many people hoping and praying for her and her wonderful family.

With all my love, Jill

New and Improved "Get Well Jen" Blog

Less than 48 hours into our humble effort to create a worthy meeting place for friends and family of Nick and Jen, and we've now moved to this handy-dandy new blog. This is hopefully a much more user-friendly way to communicate than the "Google Groups" approach. We'll be uploading photos and encouraging everyone to check in to this site for ongoing updates on Jen's progress, and also to post your own thoughts. We'll do our best to manage the "mechanics" of all this on the back end, but the content that goes here is all up to you, the "Get Well Jen" members.

Anybody can post to this blog, and if you have any trouble or questions on how to use it please email us at stortolani@yahoo.com.

Steve & Cynthia Tortolani