Hi all..it is late on Wednesday evening and I am having a bit of a problem getting to sleep. Martha and I came home today for a bit to regroup before I return to be with Jen. Randy will go back Friday and I will meet him there..we are hoping to at least say hello before he heads back to work. It felt so odd walking into the house tonight..I look forward to catching up on some things but my heart is with Jen in Dallas.
As Nick said, the Zale clinic seemed to be the right place..we have tried our best to discuss the pros and cons of rehab clinics and although all we have seen or researched are topnotch, we all felt most comfortable, overall, with the Zale Lipsey choice. When Jen will actually transfer is still not certain, but it is sooner rather than later and we are all ready for that day.
This morning, Jen was able to experience an actual shower while in CICU! What a treat for her and as she said, it felt wonderful. This afternoon, she had her graft sight bandages changed which is a painful process, but as usual, she made us proud, and...we were encouraged that the areas looked good and were beginning to heal as hoped.
It seems as if she will be transferring to a medical floor in the next day or two which is a good thing. Although we are all comfortable with CICU and the care there overall, if she is stable enough to find a new home..then, that is what should happen.
While we are gone, I am so relieved that Nick's mom, Marie, will be able to spend more time with Jenny. She is such a great and strong woman and we are all so happy to call her family.
Jill and Shannon will return this weekend and will be able to spend a "girls only" day together..Jenny is looking forward to their trip and appreciates the efforts they have made so very much.
Now that Jen is getting so much stronger, she reads the blogs several times a day and is so grateful for all of your comments and posts and support. She received several cards today..and reads them over and over...we have a special box to keep them in. I can't thank you all enough for the love and time you spend in thinking and praying for her..as I have said so many times, this along with Nick, has helped keep her with us...not to mention her determination.
Walt..I will miss my daily doughnut fix but will see you soon and to Ann and Cecile as well as Don and Bill Matthews..you are so dear..how lucky we are to have you.
More soon...Love, Marilyn
Wednesday
Tuesday
Zale Lipshey
As Jen begins to improve in every area we are eagerly awaiting her move to a rehab facility. Her grafts are healing as they should and her health is getting stronger each day. Her spirits remain incredible with the ongoing support of family and friends.
Today we visited Zale Lipshey Rehab Hospital which is part of UT Southwestern. It was an extremely impressive facility in many ways. Very new, small and personable with a great staff. We felt a real sense of comfort and believe Jen would have a wonderful stay. Hopefully she will be beginning her rehab here in about 10 days.
This is some what of a frustrating time for Jen, being in the same bed and room for almost 11 weeks now. She is ready to move on and start learning the things that will help her to regain her independance again. There will be lots of frustration, tears and satisfaction in the coming weeks and we hope that all of you will share in the process at Zale. The visiting times are very liberal.
Babe we are almost beginning the next phase in this amazing journey, what you have achieved so far has been nothing short of a miracle. If it is at all possible I love you more and more as each day passes, you have shown me more courage than I ever thought possible.
I love you Hottie Biscotti,
Hubby
Today we visited Zale Lipshey Rehab Hospital which is part of UT Southwestern. It was an extremely impressive facility in many ways. Very new, small and personable with a great staff. We felt a real sense of comfort and believe Jen would have a wonderful stay. Hopefully she will be beginning her rehab here in about 10 days.
This is some what of a frustrating time for Jen, being in the same bed and room for almost 11 weeks now. She is ready to move on and start learning the things that will help her to regain her independance again. There will be lots of frustration, tears and satisfaction in the coming weeks and we hope that all of you will share in the process at Zale. The visiting times are very liberal.
Babe we are almost beginning the next phase in this amazing journey, what you have achieved so far has been nothing short of a miracle. If it is at all possible I love you more and more as each day passes, you have shown me more courage than I ever thought possible.
I love you Hottie Biscotti,
Hubby
Sunday
Rainy Sunday Morning
Hello Dear Friends....I can't believe it has been 5 days since we last posted. As I have said before, the days just seem to speed by...I am beginning my 10th week in Dallas and more important, Jen's 10th week in CICU.
She has seemed to do well since the skin grafts. The bandage change on Friday was a bit rough but as usual, Jenny handled it with courage. The plastic surgeon will be looking at the wounds tomorrow and we are hopful that the grafts are "doing their job". She is so ready to move on to rehab and at least we now feel we are truly getting closer to that day.
Speaking of which, Nick, Marie, Martha and I are visiting the Zale Lipshy Inpatient Rehab Unit on Tuesday. This is a smaller facility than Baylor but also located in Dallas and we have been encouraged to tour. It is my feeling that following this, Jen and Nick will make a final decision as to where she will go...but it does look as if either way, we will be staying in Dallas.
Martha came back yesterday and will be here several days. Matt came through Dallas on his way to meet Christy and her family for the long holiday weekend and as usual, he and Jen had a great talk. Margene has spent several days with me and she, Marie and I had quite an adventure trying to find our way back to the hospital from Target and ending up in a downpour in Garland, Texas. LONG story but one that Jen just laughed at...and shook her head.
Jenny has really taken a interest in the blog and looks forward to reading it every morning. Thanks to you all for the notes and words of encouragement. We will write again soon and update you all on the clinic tour.
Marilyn
She has seemed to do well since the skin grafts. The bandage change on Friday was a bit rough but as usual, Jenny handled it with courage. The plastic surgeon will be looking at the wounds tomorrow and we are hopful that the grafts are "doing their job". She is so ready to move on to rehab and at least we now feel we are truly getting closer to that day.
Speaking of which, Nick, Marie, Martha and I are visiting the Zale Lipshy Inpatient Rehab Unit on Tuesday. This is a smaller facility than Baylor but also located in Dallas and we have been encouraged to tour. It is my feeling that following this, Jen and Nick will make a final decision as to where she will go...but it does look as if either way, we will be staying in Dallas.
Martha came back yesterday and will be here several days. Matt came through Dallas on his way to meet Christy and her family for the long holiday weekend and as usual, he and Jen had a great talk. Margene has spent several days with me and she, Marie and I had quite an adventure trying to find our way back to the hospital from Target and ending up in a downpour in Garland, Texas. LONG story but one that Jen just laughed at...and shook her head.
Jenny has really taken a interest in the blog and looks forward to reading it every morning. Thanks to you all for the notes and words of encouragement. We will write again soon and update you all on the clinic tour.
Marilyn
Wednesday
Successful Surgery!
Jen had surgery today to cover up her wounds. It went very well with skin grafts being taken from her thighs to do the trick. One early concern was the possibility of not being able to graft enough skin to cover the wounds and having to do another surgery in a couple of weeks but luckily this is not needed.
In the areas that skin was taken from will remain very sore for a few days and feel very much like a gravel burn you receive when falling from a bike. We have both just finished a milkshake with Jen being very upbeat and relieved that there will be no more grafting. With her outlook being so positive we both felt it important to keep the momentum going.
We are missing each others touch very much. Jen is starting to really enjoy me standing leaning my head on her chest listening to her heart while she rubs my head. I miss this togetherness and so does she but we are getting closer and closer each day.
Babe you have jumped another hurdle with flying colors. You never cease to amaze me with your strength and passion. We are almost there Jen and I cant wait until we are home.
Love forever, Hubby.
In the areas that skin was taken from will remain very sore for a few days and feel very much like a gravel burn you receive when falling from a bike. We have both just finished a milkshake with Jen being very upbeat and relieved that there will be no more grafting. With her outlook being so positive we both felt it important to keep the momentum going.
We are missing each others touch very much. Jen is starting to really enjoy me standing leaning my head on her chest listening to her heart while she rubs my head. I miss this togetherness and so does she but we are getting closer and closer each day.
Babe you have jumped another hurdle with flying colors. You never cease to amaze me with your strength and passion. We are almost there Jen and I cant wait until we are home.
Love forever, Hubby.
Tuesday
From Me to You
Hi everyone, this is Jen! I am with Nick and Ryan in my room and have recruited Ryan to be my secretary (he looks great in his skirt, ha!). I've been able to read the blog every other day and I'm blown away by all the love and support that I've been given. Thank you so much for providing me with the much needed inspiration and positive comments.
I never thought that when I went to the hospital I would end up in the situation that I'm dealing with today. However, I am taking everything day by day and understanding that God chose me for a purpose that is unknown. My spirit remains strong and my desire to live life to the fullest still remains. I know I have a long journey ahead of me but I'm motivated to start rehab and learn some new tricks!
I have learned to drink by myself and read magazines. I am also so happy to be able to go outside in my wheelchair the past few weeks, which is very refreshing after being cooped up in here for more than two months. I should be in here another two or three weeks, and then I'm off into the real world! Love, Jen.
P.S. I will post again soon! :)
I never thought that when I went to the hospital I would end up in the situation that I'm dealing with today. However, I am taking everything day by day and understanding that God chose me for a purpose that is unknown. My spirit remains strong and my desire to live life to the fullest still remains. I know I have a long journey ahead of me but I'm motivated to start rehab and learn some new tricks!
I have learned to drink by myself and read magazines. I am also so happy to be able to go outside in my wheelchair the past few weeks, which is very refreshing after being cooped up in here for more than two months. I should be in here another two or three weeks, and then I'm off into the real world! Love, Jen.
P.S. I will post again soon! :)
Sunday
Holding Pattern
The weekend has been good..we are in a holding pattern of sorts right now. Jen continues to be in ICU but in good spirits overall. She will have another bandage change tomorrow and we are hoping the doctor will be able to schedule the surgery to close later this week. Following this, we will have some weeks of healing and then off to rehab. As you have figured out by now, it is all day to day and very hard to make any definite plans but we keep trying to be patient and "stay in the moment" as the surgeon advised us to do.
Jen had a nice surprise when her friend Brenda Cook (from HS) sent a notebook with the blogs to this point printed...she had caught Randy before he left for Texas on Friday and Jen was very, very pleased. This is so neat and so ironical as Thy..a friend from here had done the same thing and now we both have copies! It was such a thoughtful thing to do and something we will both treasure. (The trick will be to keep printing them off but surely someone can teach me how to do it! :>) She loves to read them and to see all the encouragement that has been sent to her.
Matt and Christy were here this weekend and Randy and Ryan are still here but plan to get back to Wichita..and Ryan to Lawrence..tomorrow. Trina and Stephen Butler, good friends of Jenny and Nick, have offered us their home for a couple of weeks while they are on vacation. What wonderful people they are..She from Australia..and both of whom have been so helpful. They live near Jen and Nick and so this space will really help as we have more people come to visit. As I keep saying, it seems impossible to beleive I have been here since March 23...most of the time it seems like it has been months and then others, it feels like yesterday when Nick phoned to tell me how sick Jenny was.
We had a great evening with Marie and Nick's son Matthew last night..my "boys" jumped with him on the trampoline he received for his 9th birthday and tried to talk Marie and I into joining them but...we rightly refused. Randy cooked for us on the grill and we all shared laughs and stories. Jenny was with us in spirit..Nick left to be with her and show her some of the pictures we took.
As always, thanks to all of you for all you have done. We apprecite every single gesture of kindness and every single prayer and card and gift and call...I again need to thank Connie for the gift of this laptop..as Ryan told me today.."Wow Mom..You are so lucky"...and that I am.
All for now..we need to be to the hospital early..I will check in again soon.
Love, Marilyn
Jen had a nice surprise when her friend Brenda Cook (from HS) sent a notebook with the blogs to this point printed...she had caught Randy before he left for Texas on Friday and Jen was very, very pleased. This is so neat and so ironical as Thy..a friend from here had done the same thing and now we both have copies! It was such a thoughtful thing to do and something we will both treasure. (The trick will be to keep printing them off but surely someone can teach me how to do it! :>) She loves to read them and to see all the encouragement that has been sent to her.
Matt and Christy were here this weekend and Randy and Ryan are still here but plan to get back to Wichita..and Ryan to Lawrence..tomorrow. Trina and Stephen Butler, good friends of Jenny and Nick, have offered us their home for a couple of weeks while they are on vacation. What wonderful people they are..She from Australia..and both of whom have been so helpful. They live near Jen and Nick and so this space will really help as we have more people come to visit. As I keep saying, it seems impossible to beleive I have been here since March 23...most of the time it seems like it has been months and then others, it feels like yesterday when Nick phoned to tell me how sick Jenny was.
We had a great evening with Marie and Nick's son Matthew last night..my "boys" jumped with him on the trampoline he received for his 9th birthday and tried to talk Marie and I into joining them but...we rightly refused. Randy cooked for us on the grill and we all shared laughs and stories. Jenny was with us in spirit..Nick left to be with her and show her some of the pictures we took.
As always, thanks to all of you for all you have done. We apprecite every single gesture of kindness and every single prayer and card and gift and call...I again need to thank Connie for the gift of this laptop..as Ryan told me today.."Wow Mom..You are so lucky"...and that I am.
All for now..we need to be to the hospital early..I will check in again soon.
Love, Marilyn
Friday
Chicago Tour
As Nick said, Chicago was quite a learning experience. We were able to stay with my brother Steve who lives on Lake Shore Drive and only a short 3 block walk to the facility. They had reviewed Jenny's records and are certainly able to help her but did stress the need for a strong support system as she works her way through rehabilitation. We are still talking about options but this will all become more clear in the coming weeks....
It has been so good to have Gaylin here...Jen really had a spa treatment yesterday and as I write this..Gaylin is on her way back to the hospital to see if Jen would like another "rub down". She will then head back to Wichita this afternoon. Randy and Ryan are coming tomorrow as well as Matt...Christy will be too.
I forgot to mention that last Sunday, Randy and Vicki Spence came to the hospital and spent several hours...they are so supportive and it was just what I needed! I know they will be back soon...as well as the rest of the DeVasto's.
Jen was able to read more of the blog yesterday...as well as her cards..and just shakes her head at the love that has come her way. Broadlane people have been amaziing...among other things have given her a portable DVD that she and Nick have enjoyed. Yesterday, Jen received a gift and card signed by people from the Pizza Hut legal department where whe worked several years ago..and was again moved to
tears. And then...when she hears from people on the blog that she hasn't talked to in years it gives her so much strength. Thank you all...over and over again.
It is so nice to have Marie here..she and I have become quite the pair as we try to find our way around Dallas. I know Nick shakes his head as we bumble along but somehow, we get where we need to be.
More later....it is another beautiful day here...lots of sun and hope in the air.
Love, Marilyn
It has been so good to have Gaylin here...Jen really had a spa treatment yesterday and as I write this..Gaylin is on her way back to the hospital to see if Jen would like another "rub down". She will then head back to Wichita this afternoon. Randy and Ryan are coming tomorrow as well as Matt...Christy will be too.
I forgot to mention that last Sunday, Randy and Vicki Spence came to the hospital and spent several hours...they are so supportive and it was just what I needed! I know they will be back soon...as well as the rest of the DeVasto's.
Jen was able to read more of the blog yesterday...as well as her cards..and just shakes her head at the love that has come her way. Broadlane people have been amaziing...among other things have given her a portable DVD that she and Nick have enjoyed. Yesterday, Jen received a gift and card signed by people from the Pizza Hut legal department where whe worked several years ago..and was again moved to
tears. And then...when she hears from people on the blog that she hasn't talked to in years it gives her so much strength. Thank you all...over and over again.
It is so nice to have Marie here..she and I have become quite the pair as we try to find our way around Dallas. I know Nick shakes his head as we bumble along but somehow, we get where we need to be.
More later....it is another beautiful day here...lots of sun and hope in the air.
Love, Marilyn
Thursday
Rehabilitation Tour & Improvements
It has been a crazy week with a visit to Chicago, two bandage changes and Jen making lots of solid improvement. Tuesday we went to Chicago to visit the Rehabilitation Institute which is ranked one of the best in the country. It was a wonderful facility and we learnt many new things in relation to Jens journey of improvement. One recurring theme though, seems to be the importance of family and friends during the rehab process.
It is this theme that has proven to be an amazing factor in Jens recovery thus far and will continue to be so in the coming months as she works towards independence. The bandage changes have also been very good with no infections and good wound recovery. Her outlook is amazing and she really looks to be embracing the many challenges that lie ahead. Each day I see a little more laughter in that beautiful face.
Jen baby you are right, Chicago is a beautiful city and one that we will visit many times together over our lifetime. But the way I feel right now it was a lonely night away from you. I missed you very much, if only one night. I cant wait until we can lie together again.
I love you hottie biscotti, Hubby.
It is this theme that has proven to be an amazing factor in Jens recovery thus far and will continue to be so in the coming months as she works towards independence. The bandage changes have also been very good with no infections and good wound recovery. Her outlook is amazing and she really looks to be embracing the many challenges that lie ahead. Each day I see a little more laughter in that beautiful face.
Jen baby you are right, Chicago is a beautiful city and one that we will visit many times together over our lifetime. But the way I feel right now it was a lonely night away from you. I missed you very much, if only one night. I cant wait until we can lie together again.
I love you hottie biscotti, Hubby.
Monday
Sunny Monday
Good Morning! It is a sunny day in Dallas and we are hoping for a good week.
Jen had a very busy weekend...several of her friends from work dropped by as well as other friends of both Nick and Jen who have been so very loyal and so "there". There were several times when she was either busy in the room or sleeping but when told that someone had made the effort to visit, she would always smile. Thank to all of you who have made the drive to Medical City...it is one place I will look forward to seeing in the rear view mirror one day!
Friday, Doug and Nancy Blackman from Wichita, stopped by and we had a really great visit. The timing was perfect and I think we all felt energized by their kind words. Saturday, Jill and Shannon as well as Pam, Jill's mother came for several hours. The 3 "girls" spent some great time together and Marhta and I enjoyed having lunch with Pam. Jen loved it...wasn't quite strong enough to get a new "look" but enjoyed the massage the girls gave her and all of the wonderful laughs, tears and support. It was hard to see them leave...:>
Mother's Day was celebrated in her room..late in the day. Nick, Matthew, my brother Matt, Marie, Martha, Jen and I shared cards and gifts and love..when she whispered "happy mother's day mom" ..I told her that this time next year..we will be able to look back and see how far we've come! Wish we could just fast forward a bit but we are trying so hard to take each HOUR as it comes.
I again thank you all for the cards and comments on the blog and prayers and friendship..we are looking forward to learning on our trip to Chicago tomorrow..and then to keep exploring other options as we more toward rehab...it just can't come quicly enough. Jen continues to try and keep her calories up and work at PT..lets pray she turns a corner with that this week.
Finally...Glenn and Sharon Ringler came from MD Anderson Saturday evening and spent the night here..after seeing Jen for while. Sharon and Jen both shared some tears and dicussed the shared experience of "chest tubes" but all in all gave each other strength. Sharon will learn her course of treatment today in Houston then head back to Kansas to work on getting well. She is in our prayers...
I will check in on Wednesday after we return...Love, Marilyn
Jen had a very busy weekend...several of her friends from work dropped by as well as other friends of both Nick and Jen who have been so very loyal and so "there". There were several times when she was either busy in the room or sleeping but when told that someone had made the effort to visit, she would always smile. Thank to all of you who have made the drive to Medical City...it is one place I will look forward to seeing in the rear view mirror one day!
Friday, Doug and Nancy Blackman from Wichita, stopped by and we had a really great visit. The timing was perfect and I think we all felt energized by their kind words. Saturday, Jill and Shannon as well as Pam, Jill's mother came for several hours. The 3 "girls" spent some great time together and Marhta and I enjoyed having lunch with Pam. Jen loved it...wasn't quite strong enough to get a new "look" but enjoyed the massage the girls gave her and all of the wonderful laughs, tears and support. It was hard to see them leave...:>
Mother's Day was celebrated in her room..late in the day. Nick, Matthew, my brother Matt, Marie, Martha, Jen and I shared cards and gifts and love..when she whispered "happy mother's day mom" ..I told her that this time next year..we will be able to look back and see how far we've come! Wish we could just fast forward a bit but we are trying so hard to take each HOUR as it comes.
I again thank you all for the cards and comments on the blog and prayers and friendship..we are looking forward to learning on our trip to Chicago tomorrow..and then to keep exploring other options as we more toward rehab...it just can't come quicly enough. Jen continues to try and keep her calories up and work at PT..lets pray she turns a corner with that this week.
Finally...Glenn and Sharon Ringler came from MD Anderson Saturday evening and spent the night here..after seeing Jen for while. Sharon and Jen both shared some tears and dicussed the shared experience of "chest tubes" but all in all gave each other strength. Sharon will learn her course of treatment today in Houston then head back to Kansas to work on getting well. She is in our prayers...
I will check in on Wednesday after we return...Love, Marilyn
Friday
Busy Days
As Jen gets stronger each day so does the intensity of her physical therapy. This is leaving her exhausted in the evenings but as her physical therapist explained it is important that she feels the sense of doing something new towards independence each day. Today she went outside in a wheelchair to enjoy the lovely weather.
Tonight she will get the last of her chest tubes out which is one more notch in ladder of her steady improvement, with most of her internal problems almost conquered.
Our girl has got a very busy weekend install with friends coming in town, mothers day and physical therapy. All of which will make for a happy but tiring weekend.
Baby, its great to see you smile so much, its also been great to see you cry a little and it makes me feel so close when we cry together. Your vision for our future is so positive you are the ultimate wife.
Love Hubby.
Tonight she will get the last of her chest tubes out which is one more notch in ladder of her steady improvement, with most of her internal problems almost conquered.
Our girl has got a very busy weekend install with friends coming in town, mothers day and physical therapy. All of which will make for a happy but tiring weekend.
Baby, its great to see you smile so much, its also been great to see you cry a little and it makes me feel so close when we cry together. Your vision for our future is so positive you are the ultimate wife.
Love Hubby.
Thursday
Thursday Evening
I just returned to the room after taking Marie, Nick's mom, back to Jen and Nick's for the night. She flew in from Australia late last night and we spent the day visiting Jenny together. What a great woman she is..Nick, Jen and Matthew as well as the rest of the family are so glad she was able to come.
Jen had a second surgical procedure today involving the changing of the bandages on her hands and legs..it went well. No infection and the doctor continues to be hopful that he will be able to "close" in about 10 more days. This is a complicated situation but one that we are praing will result in the best outcome for her long term. We pray that God will continue to give the surgeon the skills he will need.
Jen also was able to "loose" the feeding tube today and as long as she can eat enough to keep her calorie count up she won't need it again. It is amazing to see how much energy the simple act of eating can take but she tries hard to take more bites and we are hoping that every day will be easier for her. Don Bennett, a new friend we have met here..brought her a strawberry malt from the Highland Park Pharmacy..a local legend...and she was able to finish half of that. He has been such a wonderful, caring, spiritual person and we all are so blessed that he has made such efforts to help. Another one of those people that was heaven sent...
We still have one chest tube to get rid of and it appears she isn't quite ready to have that removed but once that is done...she will only have a few "tubes" left to shed...down significantly from the 16 Martha and I counted one long night several weeks ago.
We are continuing to investigate rehab facilities...having visited Baylor here. Randy, Nick and I are going to Chicago next Tuesday for the day to visit the Rehab Institue of Chicago and then Nick is going to a facility in Houston. This whole process is somehat overwhelming but as her situation is rare she will need the best facitliy to deal with her long term rehabilition. We are hoping that Baylor in Dallas will be the place she will go because of the support system that is already in place, but feel we need to investigate to be sure. We are all hoping...Jenny most of all..that she will be able to enter this phase soon but feel it will be several weeks down the road.
My sister Martha is returning on Saturday and will be able to stay for 4 days..she has been sorely missed. :>
I hooked up the computer for Jen to read some of the postings that are on the blog and she was almost speechless. I have promised to print everything and put them in a binder so that one day she will be able to read everything start to finish..and really see how many people were walking this journey with her. It will be something she can share with her grandkids someday...something to cherish.
Matt is coming back tomorrow and our dear friends Sharon and Glenn Ringler are coming from MD Anderson in Houston where Sharon has been having tests. She will also be facing a battle and as I said before, can use all of your prayers.
Good nite for now...we will see what tomorrow brings..I send my love and heartfelt thanks to all of you.
Marilyn
Jen had a second surgical procedure today involving the changing of the bandages on her hands and legs..it went well. No infection and the doctor continues to be hopful that he will be able to "close" in about 10 more days. This is a complicated situation but one that we are praing will result in the best outcome for her long term. We pray that God will continue to give the surgeon the skills he will need.
Jen also was able to "loose" the feeding tube today and as long as she can eat enough to keep her calorie count up she won't need it again. It is amazing to see how much energy the simple act of eating can take but she tries hard to take more bites and we are hoping that every day will be easier for her. Don Bennett, a new friend we have met here..brought her a strawberry malt from the Highland Park Pharmacy..a local legend...and she was able to finish half of that. He has been such a wonderful, caring, spiritual person and we all are so blessed that he has made such efforts to help. Another one of those people that was heaven sent...
We still have one chest tube to get rid of and it appears she isn't quite ready to have that removed but once that is done...she will only have a few "tubes" left to shed...down significantly from the 16 Martha and I counted one long night several weeks ago.
We are continuing to investigate rehab facilities...having visited Baylor here. Randy, Nick and I are going to Chicago next Tuesday for the day to visit the Rehab Institue of Chicago and then Nick is going to a facility in Houston. This whole process is somehat overwhelming but as her situation is rare she will need the best facitliy to deal with her long term rehabilition. We are hoping that Baylor in Dallas will be the place she will go because of the support system that is already in place, but feel we need to investigate to be sure. We are all hoping...Jenny most of all..that she will be able to enter this phase soon but feel it will be several weeks down the road.
My sister Martha is returning on Saturday and will be able to stay for 4 days..she has been sorely missed. :>
I hooked up the computer for Jen to read some of the postings that are on the blog and she was almost speechless. I have promised to print everything and put them in a binder so that one day she will be able to read everything start to finish..and really see how many people were walking this journey with her. It will be something she can share with her grandkids someday...something to cherish.
Matt is coming back tomorrow and our dear friends Sharon and Glenn Ringler are coming from MD Anderson in Houston where Sharon has been having tests. She will also be facing a battle and as I said before, can use all of your prayers.
Good nite for now...we will see what tomorrow brings..I send my love and heartfelt thanks to all of you.
Marilyn
Tuesday
Positive Tuesday
Hello all...it is 11 pm and Randy and I are getting ready for bed. We had the most interesting conversation with a lady named Karen Shoutz, from Waconia, MN...outside by the pool at the Residence Inn. She is here with her daughter for a week and when we explained why we were here, she was so kind and so uplifting..gave us lots to think about and encouraged us to keep the faith we have in God. She also told us to be thankful each day for one thing positive that has happened with Jen..and that really spoke to me. God does use people in mysterious ways..Karen is one of those ways.
Today Jenny was able to sit up for a bit longer and ate a bit more. Her spirits were good and she actually watched American Idol with me...and liked the Beat Boxer guy the best! :>
Nick's mom Marie comes in tomorrow and I am sure that will lift all of our spirits! Australia is such a long flight..but we are so appreciative of her being able to come.
Cecile and Ann from Bent Tree visited for a long time and that was so much fun. They have really adopted our family and it is such a comfort to have them near.
Jenny's goal is to be able to sit up long enough on Saturday when Jill and Shannon
come so that Jill can "fix" her hair. What a treat that will be!
Randy has rented a car and will go back to Wichita tomorrow for a bit. He is leaving me our car to I will try and tackle the Dallas traffic until my sister Martha gets here on Saturday..wish me luck..it is brutal!
Good night dear friends..I will fill you in tomorrow..thanks over and over for hanging with us..I just can't wait to print everything for her to read one day..real soon!
Marilyn
Today Jenny was able to sit up for a bit longer and ate a bit more. Her spirits were good and she actually watched American Idol with me...and liked the Beat Boxer guy the best! :>
Nick's mom Marie comes in tomorrow and I am sure that will lift all of our spirits! Australia is such a long flight..but we are so appreciative of her being able to come.
Cecile and Ann from Bent Tree visited for a long time and that was so much fun. They have really adopted our family and it is such a comfort to have them near.
Jenny's goal is to be able to sit up long enough on Saturday when Jill and Shannon
come so that Jill can "fix" her hair. What a treat that will be!
Randy has rented a car and will go back to Wichita tomorrow for a bit. He is leaving me our car to I will try and tackle the Dallas traffic until my sister Martha gets here on Saturday..wish me luck..it is brutal!
Good night dear friends..I will fill you in tomorrow..thanks over and over for hanging with us..I just can't wait to print everything for her to read one day..real soon!
Marilyn
Monday
Matthew's Review
Hello everyone. I'm in Jens room with her while writing this. Dad is helping her enjoy some strawberrt yogurt. She is really on a strawberry kick lately. Nothing wrong with that! Friday, 5/4/07 I was in the room when she had her first meal in six weeks. She would have made a good spokesperson for a chicken salad sandwich, which Dad enjoyed a half of. :) Last night when I got into Dallas I came in to hang out with her and we talked for about an hour before she started to get sleepy. She wanted to hear the cd that uncle Richard got her. I sampled it before she listened to it. It's a meditative soothing disc. Really good stuff. It helped her sleep. Early this morning she woke up and had trouble getting back to sleep. She is in pretty good spirits this morning. She amazes me every second. Just sitting next to her is a very inspiring feeling. I went to Wichita this weekend, friday night and returned Sunday evening. I was with Christy and her family. We said prayers for her and talked about how life can change so quickly. This change has been scary and frustrating yet she and everyone around her will prosper from it. She is really chily so I just had the staff bring her a heated blanket and Jen loved it. Well, I'm signing off for now. I want to thank everyone for the cards and gifts. Jen is so appreciative and wants to tell everyone how much it means to her. Bye for now.....
Bent Tree Fund
A number of people have asked about ways to contribute or start a fund to help Jenny and Nick offset some of the current and future medical expenses. Nick's employer, Bent Tree County Club has one established. To make a donation, checks should be payable to Nick Griffin % Bent Tree Couty Club 5201 Westgrove Drive Dallas, Texas 75248-2026 Att: Linda Moseley Administrative Assistant.
Marilyn
Marilyn
Sunday
Sunday Evening
Nick just said it all...I missed the big outing..had just returned to the hotel for a few minutes when they all decided to take a field trip! Wow...what a deal..the nurses were so kind and Jen loved the feeling of fresh air for a bit..we all look forward to trying it again soon.
Margene and Judy left today..so wonderful to have them for a couple of days. Terri and Richard were here too..they brought her some healing music C.D.'s that we are going to try..Jenny has always loved music so much so we are hopful that this will give her some peace. She is going to have another surgery tomorrow to change her dressings again...we are all anticipating that she will be able to stay off the vent during this ordeal...and keep moving forward.
We are all looking forward to the arrival of Nick's mom, Marie, from Australia, on Wednesday. She will be a great help to all of us and I am sure will lift Jenny'spirits.
Many thanks again my friends for all of the love...we have met the most wonderful people here that have all lifted us up and continually rely on our friends from home..what a journey..we know we aren't making it alone.
Goodnite..look so forward to hearing from you all..Love, Marilyn
PS..keep Sharon Ringler in your prayers..she is back in Houston at MD Anderson..and needs us.
Margene and Judy left today..so wonderful to have them for a couple of days. Terri and Richard were here too..they brought her some healing music C.D.'s that we are going to try..Jenny has always loved music so much so we are hopful that this will give her some peace. She is going to have another surgery tomorrow to change her dressings again...we are all anticipating that she will be able to stay off the vent during this ordeal...and keep moving forward.
We are all looking forward to the arrival of Nick's mom, Marie, from Australia, on Wednesday. She will be a great help to all of us and I am sure will lift Jenny'spirits.
Many thanks again my friends for all of the love...we have met the most wonderful people here that have all lifted us up and continually rely on our friends from home..what a journey..we know we aren't making it alone.
Goodnite..look so forward to hearing from you all..Love, Marilyn
PS..keep Sharon Ringler in your prayers..she is back in Houston at MD Anderson..and needs us.
Jen's Field Trip
It was one of the funniest things you will ever see. Jen being wheeled through the parking lot of Medical City while still in bed. She had the opportunity today to get some fresh air and feel the warmth of the sun and the cool of the wind. Thanks to all the nurses for taking Jen on the trip for about 30 mins. Again it was an example of the simple pleasures that make my baby so happy.
She is really enjoying being able to eat solid foods, it seems like yogurt is at the top of her list. She has also had the chance to hear from some of the nurses just how serious things were at the beginning of this whole ordeal. She understands how lucky she is to be still alive and it was her strength and determination that pulled her through. It is these traits that will help us tackle he challenges that lie ahead.
Only a few more weeks in ICU babe then off to Rehab hospital. I know you cant wait to get home and I cant wait to get you home. I cant wait to lie with my head on your chest and listen to your heart beat, its the sound I miss most and one that I will never take for granted again.
Love Hubby.
She is really enjoying being able to eat solid foods, it seems like yogurt is at the top of her list. She has also had the chance to hear from some of the nurses just how serious things were at the beginning of this whole ordeal. She understands how lucky she is to be still alive and it was her strength and determination that pulled her through. It is these traits that will help us tackle he challenges that lie ahead.
Only a few more weeks in ICU babe then off to Rehab hospital. I know you cant wait to get home and I cant wait to get you home. I cant wait to lie with my head on your chest and listen to your heart beat, its the sound I miss most and one that I will never take for granted again.
Love Hubby.
Friday
Strawberry Malt Milkshake!
Jen finally had the opportunity to eat some regular food today. She had a light lunch and finished it off with a milkshake, she looked so happy to have a simple pleasure of life returned to her.
She looked very good today, she is breathing well and voice is getting stronger than ever. At the moment she is having trouble sleeping but hopefully soon she will be able to get a good night of slumber, which she deserves.
Thank you so much to the wonderful people of Broadlane where Jen works for a great card that must of been signed by 100 people. Jen read every single one of the comments and had a huge smile while doing so.
Babe, seeing you in those new pyjamas drinking a strawberry malt milkshake was an awesome sight. You had one of the biggest grins on your face I have ever seen. It makes me so proud seeing you handle what has happened with such heart and courage. You are truly one of a kind and I am the luckiest man alive.
Love Hubby.
.
She looked very good today, she is breathing well and voice is getting stronger than ever. At the moment she is having trouble sleeping but hopefully soon she will be able to get a good night of slumber, which she deserves.
Thank you so much to the wonderful people of Broadlane where Jen works for a great card that must of been signed by 100 people. Jen read every single one of the comments and had a huge smile while doing so.
Babe, seeing you in those new pyjamas drinking a strawberry malt milkshake was an awesome sight. You had one of the biggest grins on your face I have ever seen. It makes me so proud seeing you handle what has happened with such heart and courage. You are truly one of a kind and I am the luckiest man alive.
Love Hubby.
.
Thursday
Thursday Morning
Jenny just returned from having her bandages changed for the first time since surgery. This was considred another surgical procedure but the great news is...she didn't have to be placed back on the ventilator and the doctor reported that all was looking good. He will need to perform this again at least 2 more times next week as she begins to heal.
Dallas had horrible storms last night so Randy and I just stayed put at the Residence Inn and actually went to bed by 11..Nick stayed with Jen and reported that they had a great conversation and were making lots of plans for the years ahead.
Gaylin and her sister Bebe were here for a couple of days and Gaylin gave Jen a massage..which was such a hit Jen made her promise to come back soon for another!
We continue to be overwhelmed with the love and support that have come our way. As I said before one of the doctor's told me that she is in the fight of her life and will need an army to help her win. You, our dear friends and family, are just that. I am always shedding tears when I read the wonderful words of love and encouragement or receive the cards and gifts that have come. My dear freind Connie, (whom many of you know has been with me since we were 13) sent me a laptop so that I could be in touch more often...I am just getting it all hooked up but how nice not to have to wait in line for the computer at the hotel. I will now hopfully be better about keeping everyone updated.
We are looing at at least 3 more weeks in ICU before they will consider moving her to rehab. but..her eyes sparkle now and she can talk to us which is so wonderful. Today the nurse is going to try and put her in a regular nightgown...what a great boost from the hospital one she has been wearing for 6 weeks!
We are continually told she is a miracle..and I KNOW that she is still able to fight like she is becasue of all of the prayers...combined with her own spirit. Please continure to remember her on your prayer lists...as we do you.
Love, Marilyn
PS..she has loved hearing about some of her high school friends writing and sending wishes...can't wait until I can print everything off and she can sit and read them herself..how good that will make her feel.
Dallas had horrible storms last night so Randy and I just stayed put at the Residence Inn and actually went to bed by 11..Nick stayed with Jen and reported that they had a great conversation and were making lots of plans for the years ahead.
Gaylin and her sister Bebe were here for a couple of days and Gaylin gave Jen a massage..which was such a hit Jen made her promise to come back soon for another!
We continue to be overwhelmed with the love and support that have come our way. As I said before one of the doctor's told me that she is in the fight of her life and will need an army to help her win. You, our dear friends and family, are just that. I am always shedding tears when I read the wonderful words of love and encouragement or receive the cards and gifts that have come. My dear freind Connie, (whom many of you know has been with me since we were 13) sent me a laptop so that I could be in touch more often...I am just getting it all hooked up but how nice not to have to wait in line for the computer at the hotel. I will now hopfully be better about keeping everyone updated.
We are looing at at least 3 more weeks in ICU before they will consider moving her to rehab. but..her eyes sparkle now and she can talk to us which is so wonderful. Today the nurse is going to try and put her in a regular nightgown...what a great boost from the hospital one she has been wearing for 6 weeks!
We are continually told she is a miracle..and I KNOW that she is still able to fight like she is becasue of all of the prayers...combined with her own spirit. Please continure to remember her on your prayer lists...as we do you.
Love, Marilyn
PS..she has loved hearing about some of her high school friends writing and sending wishes...can't wait until I can print everything off and she can sit and read them herself..how good that will make her feel.
Wednesday
Talking Once Again
It has been a great 48 hours. Not only has Jen been taken off the ventilator but her time on the oxygen mask has also been reduced to night time only. This will give her a chance to talk to all the visitors she has been getting and also strengthen her voice. Her doctors have said that her kidneys are back to 100% which is also great news.
She is really showing great determination. She was arguing with her nurse on how to improve her CO2 levels which was funny to see. We finally got watch our movie which made her laugh. Reading the blog has also made her very happy so thanks to everyone for the wonderful comments. She also had a chance yesterday to taste sprite, the smile on her face was priceless as she was given a spoonful.
We don't yet have an idea of when Jen will be out of ICU and obviously they are leaning on the conservative side but she is ready to move on and get set for rehab.
Babe, I cant begin to tell you how good it is to hear your voice again and to kiss those beautiful lips. Just seeing you smile gives me a sense of comfort and tells me everything is going to be alright.
Love Hubby.
She is really showing great determination. She was arguing with her nurse on how to improve her CO2 levels which was funny to see. We finally got watch our movie which made her laugh. Reading the blog has also made her very happy so thanks to everyone for the wonderful comments. She also had a chance yesterday to taste sprite, the smile on her face was priceless as she was given a spoonful.
We don't yet have an idea of when Jen will be out of ICU and obviously they are leaning on the conservative side but she is ready to move on and get set for rehab.
Babe, I cant begin to tell you how good it is to hear your voice again and to kiss those beautiful lips. Just seeing you smile gives me a sense of comfort and tells me everything is going to be alright.
Love Hubby.
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