Todays post finds me in one of those physical states that I experience far too often. As a surgeon I have the great opportunity (and privilege) to take call at the hospital and be there to care for those who need emergent surgical care! Trust me--I am not an ER physician-- I dont know how those guys do it! As a surgeon I am called by the emergency room to take care of surgical diseases. Anything from appendectomies to cholecystectomies, bowel obstructions or perforations, incarcerated hernias, and most of all to assist with traumatically injured patients. Taking call for 24 hours at a time can leave ones mind and body in a complete state of exhaustion and disarray. This just might be one of those moments. I know Heather and I both have experienced moments of weakness when we feel that we cant go on any more. The emotional roller coaster is almost too much to take. However, the ride always slows down, opportunities for faith and reflection arrive, and we rejuvenate our faith that we have in the Lord and continue down our chosen path in this life! Makenzie continues to experience the fluctuations that come with a severe TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). Her neurologic storming was a little less severe today, which appeared to be expected by the physicians taking care of her in the NCCU. Her periods of wakefulness are slightly less exaggerated due to the fact that they stopped her Ritalin which was being used as a brain stimulant. Its not always easy to watch because the more awake and restless she is, the more interactive she appears. However, as I stated last night, she benefits from the periods of rest and overstimulation is exactly what she DOES NOT need at this point in her hopeful recovery. They remain aggressive with her physical therapy, and the plans for tracheostomy on Monday appear to be in place. Many in the NCCU feel that it is the safest approach for Makenzie in regards to her recovery and I am one of them. Just the word tracheostomy seems to scare many people--let alone the sight of having a breathing tube in the neck. Let me tell you, the weaning options are so much better with the tracheostomy and I know that it will align the stars to give her the best chance for recovery. The last thing she needs is a failed extubation and emergent re-intubation. We remain hopeful that in the coming days she will become more awake and alert. Her physicians are hopeful, and it seems as if EVERYONE in the NCCU is puling for our dear Makenzie. It is difficult to watch, especially when your thoughts are allowed to wander. We are mindful that she is in the Lords hands, prayerful that He will see this MIRACLE come through for us, and thankful for the constant love and support that we receive from everyone around us (both near and far)!! WIth love, Ryan and Heather
Posted on: Sun, 13 Jul 2014 04:22:58 +0000
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