Gene and Emily's children have decided to use this blog as a way to send out information to any of you who would like to follow his progress.
Here is a short review of what's happened.
Gene had surgery performed on his upper spine on Friday May 22. On Sunday May 24th he experienced a sudden loss of blood pressure. This apparently caused the surgical site or an area near his surgical site to experience a lack of oxygen profusion. Various medical professionals in the days that have followed have given this several names: a spinal cord stroke, an infarction, spinal shock, an insult to the spinal cord, and a hematoma at the spinal cord.
The result of that "event" has been that Gene was rushed to ICU, placed on a ventilator and a feeding tube. He's still in ICU. His breathing apparatus was changed on Saturday to a tracheotomy and the feeding tube was moved to his stomach, so he no longer has all that awful stuff in his throat. He seems so much better and is in good spirits.
At this point, Gene has very little movement in his arms and legs and his right diaphragm is not moving. However, he is breathing on his own. The ventilator is giving him a higher percentage of oxygen and a bit of pressure, but he is essentially breathing on his own.
Gene is in good spirits. He continues to be strong and courageous.
We ask for your prayers.
We are certainly praying for Uncle Gene. Aunt Emily, you are so strong! Please remember to take care of yourself and get the rest you need.
ReplyDeletePlease let us know when Uncle Gene may need books on tape and other items to keep him occupied. He's probably not ready for that kind of stuff just yet, but we're ready to provide.
We love you all!
David and Cyndi Judge
We are all praying for Uncle Gene.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with ya'll.
Love,Bonnie