We were present for rounds this morning. We learned that a-fib is a common problem with the type of surgery he had but AV block, which is what he now has, is less so. With out the pacer, the ventricles are not contracting. There is still a possibility the heart will get over the shock of what happened yesterday and get back to work properly. We were told they may need to place a pace maker but that decision may be delayed days or weeks.
Michael is now off of O2 and has high O2 sats on room air. He did get up to a chair for about 25 minutes, needed his pain Rx and then had a hard time staying awake. When we are there, he tries not to sleep so we have decided we have to make the visits short. When he is awake, he reminds me of Grandfather Glion Benson and Papa Gordy making jokes (or attempting to) with the nurses. He said to tell Bob his funny bone is still in place. He is highly motivated to get out of bed and is doing everything to move in that direction. He is taking his job of healing very seriously. As Benson noted, his pain is immense and he is amazing in his strength in dealing with it. It hurts to watch him take a breath let alone move to a chair. So far his appetite has been very poor; he has had 2 bites of jello (red) what flavor is that? and 2 bites of apple sauce.
We are passing messages to him that have been added to the blog; the more the better. He needs something else to think about so if you have a thought or story, write it and we will be sure he gets it. Our thanks to everyone for all the help and support. C.
I am deeply impressed by your courage Mike! Like advancing on the enemy after taking a round to the chest! Gonna stop bragging about having that filling done without novocaine now. You are the man. One minute we’re praying in fear, the next you’re up! Ryan says. “Keep your stick on the ice.” We’re not impressed. We are inspired.
Hello, Mike!I am thinking back to my two major surgeries and the recoveries, which seemed to be going slower than I intended, and could not be speeded up by will power and determination on my part. (Like you, I had always had considerable success with those personality traits.) The most useful thing that the nurses told me is, “don’t forget to breathe.” It’s true, when one is making an effort one can find oneself holding one’s breath as part of the concentration (we do that with physical effort like lifting stuff or skiing steep slopes), and it is not a good idea when the task is healing rather than hauling. Donald always says “you’re not that kind of a doctor”, which is true, but I am that kind of a patient. Please do breathe! That is one activity that you can control. You are on the Holy Faith prayer list. Love, Janet
Make sure Mike reads the warranty information on all repairs, in fact he should get an extended warranty, dont want to do this again. Were all thinking of you here, sailng tommorrow, will hoist a cup of the captains in your honor. see you soon Bill
Mike, Happy that the worst is over. Looking for more good news after our next email blackout. Lucille and I are keeping you in our thoughts. Leon
All – we’re thinking of you and praying for Mike’s recovery. We’re eagerly reading all the updates, thank you for those. I’m glad to hear that his funny bone has not been removed, that is good news indeed. Hang in there –
Love
Cam, Christine, Peter, Moira
Hi Mike, So good to get the reports from Benson and Carole. I was surprised about the pacemaker, too. I hope you know what a treat it is for the ICU staff to have a “good” patient. I’m serious. A few trees came down on Herrick road after the wind and rain storm, but all is well at your place.
Take care. Bobbie B
We’ve been thinking about you! We are sending love and many get well wishes your way!! Just take it one day at a time and get some rest. You are an amazing person and we’ve been so fortunate to have you and Carol there for us many times. (…and Gordy – there is nothing quite as nice as Gordy visiting post surgery). Thank you Carol and Benson for doing such a great job!! We are here if you need anything. We can’t wait to see you guys!
Dear Mike and company,
The comments this morning very relieved and hope and prayers continue.
Many knowing looks concerning Mike and understanding the surgery process.
We are sorry about the hurt but so thankful for the success–the future
seems brighter now.
We can make some biscuits but anybody can so get an appetite and eat good
food.
You probably are ready to come about and head into the wind leg, eh?
The trophy is waiting so get ready.
Love
Dad
There is more to heart than flesh and blood. We know this. We see this in your strength and humor. Visualizing all good things coming your way, Lucille
mike,carole,benson
thanks for all the good news, my thoughts and prayers are with you
constantly. my aches & pains are inconsequential in comparison
keep hanging tough. dick