Oh, Happy Day!
Saturday, October 11, 2008 at 09:13PM I haven’t shared an update on my dad for almost a week, but I’m thrilled to do it today! We got a call from the hospital this morning, and I got my birthday wish—Dad is no longer intubated. Sterling and I went and visited him tonight. Truly I had to keep from laughing at some of the things he was saying, but it was so good to see him without the hand restraints and that nasty tube in his mouth. He was a breath of fresh air for me!
Just to make you smile, I’ll share some of the things we talked about:
Dad wanted to know where the Ritchie Brothers sales brochure was so he could decide what to buy at the auction.
He wanted to stop the nurse and find out what the plan was for dinner. He was tired of buying all the dinners and wanted a free one!
At one point in the day, he was distraught because of the fire in the hospital.
He mentioned he didn’t get much sleep last night because he was sleeping in the street.
Basically, some of what he talked about made complete sense, but most of his conversations were hysterical and totally crazy! I’m pretty sure the doctor’s orders to lessen his medication is a good thing (smile).
The grafting on Dad’s hands looks excellent, and the staples will be removed during the next dressing change. We found out earlier this week that all of Dad’s fingertips (just below the nail) on his right hand will need to be removed (the word amputated seems too harsh) and at least two of the fingertips on his left hand will also need to be removed. They aren’t sure about the other fingers yet. The doctor is going to operate sometime next week in order to let the grafting really take hold and give those fingers every chance to show new growth.
When Dad learned about his fingertips, he just said that he was 66 years old and didn’t need all those fingers anyway. Maybe that was the drugs talking, but since Dad is the most positive person I know, I think he’ll probably handle things pretty well.
Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes. I appreciate it more than you may know!
Reader Comments (46)
The "positive attitude" gene from your dad obviously got transmitted to you. The positive attitude from both you and your dad (and all of your family) will help so much in his recovery.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!! What a lovely present you received!
Hugs to you and your family.
Love, Melanie Evans
As one who went through my own dad's hospitalization this past spring & summer, I share your joy at the improvements! My dad had back surgery, and due to complications kind of lost his mind for awhile - they found the reason and finally he got better, but boy it was tough going for awhile, especially for my mom. He's home now, back to all his normal tricks and habits!
I'm sure you're dad will continue to improve and get better! Great news!
;-)
Happy Birthday Shelli!
Cheers,
Kelly
Much love,
Kimberly "Deep in Trouble"
I am sure he is proud of you and love the laughs you shared!
I just think it is so refreshing how you share information about your family--the little things even. I love your honesty and your candor. It truly makes you feel as if a friend is telling you something about what is happening in her life. I wish your father the best, and although I don't know Shanna, she seems to be a daughter to be truly proud of! I think it is awesome that she is getting to see some of the world, while doing so much good. Congratulations on one of your biggest successes-raising a daughter in today's world that truly cares about serving others!
Happy belated birthday and MANY more! :c)
I'm so glad your dad is doing better. It was also fun to hear more about your daughter. I wanted to get on a wish you a Happy Birthday on Saturday, but I was in Stampin' Up! meetings all day. You should get a picture of it soon. Brandi is bringing it to you. I hope you had a great birthday. Sound like things were great. Candice
And a very Happy Birthday to you! May your whole birthday month be filled with special days!