August 12, 2009

First of all, the family is deeply appreciative of the prayers, support, and continued visits. The response to this blog is very important to Gene and Emily and the children.

Gene is still being fed through a stomach tube. The doctors indicated that his protein counts were not as high as they should have been. So as a response to that and to his weight loss, they are trying a new food formula. If his nutrition can get to optimum levels it will certainly help with his healing in all ways.

Today Gene sat up on the side of the bed for about 17 minutes and the Physical Therapists worked with his feet and legs while Emily rubbed his back with lotion. Bruce came and did some massage on Genes' arms, hands, face, and neck, and said that he would come back tomorrow. The Physical Therapists will work with him so that his massage is most beneficial. The Physical Therapists worked with his legs using the electrodes.

Today Dr. Bryce did another debriding procedure. During the procedure he removed a small piece of tailbone that had been broken. He reported that Gene did really well. His oxygen and pressure were both turned up this time to help him get through the procedure a little more easily, but by bedtime tonight they were able to begin turning it back down. His blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature were all good tonight, but Emily reports that he looks exhausted! It was so supportive that Dr. Carver, their minister, came to Kindred and stayed with Emily while they were doing the procedure.

Prayer requests
Please pray for Gene to have a good response to the debriding procedure so that his pressure wound can begin to heal. Pray for his body to be able to absorb the nutrients he needs, for his respiration to grow stronger, and for his spirit to remain strong. Pray for Emily to have strength and courage.