It seems that Kristin gets better with time! Each day I walk in her hospital room her spirits seem brighter and her body appears to be less tense. Amen to that. She's even able to get up out of the bed a little more frequently to venture out a few steps.
Yesterday was a busy day for Kristin. She had a couple of tests done, one including a swallowing test (that one did not go so well), another was an MRI, which did go well. Initially Kristin was thinking she would have a hard time doing the MRI considering she hadn't been able to lay flat since her surgery. However, by the grace of God, she handled it just fine.
Kristin was also busy writing a letter to her mom and sending a few of us text messages. Yes you heard correctly, she may not be able to talk much but it didn't stop her from expressing her love and appreciation. Her letter and text messages were to reassure us all that she loved us and that she was trying hard for all of us to get better. And she was sure to let us know to tell others that as well. So thank you from Kristin to you!
Today is another day of activity for Kristin. She will start speech therapy today, which should be pretty painless. She also will begin swallowing exercises this afternoon, so let's keep our fingers crossed that that goes well. After recovery in the hospital, she will be off to NIH for a week of intense rehab, which will help her get back to normal.
Kristin said something very touching during my last visit with her. When we spoke of all the prayers and support she had during this time, she smiled. She then said "I can feel it. I can feel the prayers". This is amazing and beautiful at the same time. We already know how powerful prayer is, but the fact that our prayers are reaching her in this way........absolutely touching!
Keep up the prayers and support. The updates will continue. It wont be long before Kristin is giving these updates herself.
Blessings!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Progress Continues!
The progress continues. Kristin is moving around much better each day and is looking better as well. She's saying a little more and even able to get up to walk a few feet away. She was even up dancing with the nurses yesterday to test her balance, of course with their assistance. This is no small task considering she just had brain surgery.
Several specialist have come to see her to check on things which include her speech, vision, balance and swallowing ability. Her balance is a little off on the left side and she is seeing double. We teased her by telling her that only means she gets to see twice the beauty in the room. This is all temporary and we are told that this will get back to
normal in time.
Later this evening the hospital will be taking Kristin for a walk around the hospital. She will do this with the assistance of a walker and her nurse. I have already given her instuctions to cover her tush in the back (smile). Though a walk around the hospital floor may be a simple task to many, this is pretty significant for her considering she has been confined to her bed for the past several days. I am confident that this is step in the right direction.
Mentally Kristin continues to be hopeful. However she does often express that she is extremely tired and frustrated. She is still getting little to no sleep and it's almost impossible for her to find comfort in any position that she lays in. She has mentioned that although everyone tells her how well she looks she doesn't feel so well. We all assure her that this will all be a memory and things will be better than ever soon. In spite of that, she still finds room to smile, and ask "how's your day going?".
Her mom has managed to stay strong in spite of her new sleeping arrangements. After telling her she could no longer stay in the room, she was then told that she could. That didn't last long as moms new sleeping arrangements now include a recliner in the hospital lobby area, as the new head nurse has decided that she can no longer stay in the room with Kristin. We hope that this will change once Kristin is moved into another room, as Kristin has found most of her comfort in having her mom by her side through this tough time.
There still has not been a day that has passed that she hasn't heard her 91st Psalms prayer. She likes it most with her big brother Kevin reads it to her. However I have promised her that I will start to read the bible to her, so if anyone has any favorite passages, I'll be sure to share it with her.
Blessings!
Several specialist have come to see her to check on things which include her speech, vision, balance and swallowing ability. Her balance is a little off on the left side and she is seeing double. We teased her by telling her that only means she gets to see twice the beauty in the room. This is all temporary and we are told that this will get back to
normal in time.
Later this evening the hospital will be taking Kristin for a walk around the hospital. She will do this with the assistance of a walker and her nurse. I have already given her instuctions to cover her tush in the back (smile). Though a walk around the hospital floor may be a simple task to many, this is pretty significant for her considering she has been confined to her bed for the past several days. I am confident that this is step in the right direction.
Mentally Kristin continues to be hopeful. However she does often express that she is extremely tired and frustrated. She is still getting little to no sleep and it's almost impossible for her to find comfort in any position that she lays in. She has mentioned that although everyone tells her how well she looks she doesn't feel so well. We all assure her that this will all be a memory and things will be better than ever soon. In spite of that, she still finds room to smile, and ask "how's your day going?".
Her mom has managed to stay strong in spite of her new sleeping arrangements. After telling her she could no longer stay in the room, she was then told that she could. That didn't last long as moms new sleeping arrangements now include a recliner in the hospital lobby area, as the new head nurse has decided that she can no longer stay in the room with Kristin. We hope that this will change once Kristin is moved into another room, as Kristin has found most of her comfort in having her mom by her side through this tough time.
There still has not been a day that has passed that she hasn't heard her 91st Psalms prayer. She likes it most with her big brother Kevin reads it to her. However I have promised her that I will start to read the bible to her, so if anyone has any favorite passages, I'll be sure to share it with her.
Blessings!
Monday, April 27, 2009
This Too Shall Pass
Kristin continues to make progress. She seems to look better every time I see her. However she is still going through the process of healing and it is giving her a bit of a tough time. She continues to grow frustrated, as she can not seem to get comfortable in her hospital bed and she is tired. She is limited to how she can lay, and they have to adjust her position every hour or so.
The pain has become a monster of its own as well. She takes different meds to try and ease the pain, however with the meds there are new issues introduced like severe nausea. She is then faced with deciding which is more important, stopping the pain or stopping the nausea. Typically, she opts for the pain meds and hopes that the anti-nausea meds will work. That's usually a hit or miss.
The great news is that she is able to swallow now. Amen to that! She still has a terrible time with the phlegm that continues to build up in her throat though. Because of this she often gets very little sleep, as she has to constantly clear her throat and use her suction tube to avoid choking.
The family have been increasing our prayers during our visits with her because there are moments where she gets sad. She does however have a talk with God every time she has a rough patch, asking him to please help her. We all know that her sadness is normal but please pray for her strength and her mental well being as well as her physical healing. Kristin knew this would be a hard and long road, but let's pray for her endurance and patience during this time.
Yesterday was my birthday and Kristin was the highlight of my day. I was able to spend a few hours at the hospital with her when me and some of her best friends brought the party to her. She asked about my day and we shared a few stories and laughs with her. It's always good to see her smile, even when she's in the hospital. There was also lots of hand holding with her squeezing tight giving non-verbal displays of love and affection.
She is such a thoughtful and considerate person that she had already brought my birthday present and card before entering the hospital for surgery and left instructions for her mom to have it there waiting for me to open. I even heard she went out in the pouring rain days before her surgery to make sure she was able to pick out my birthday card herself. Her thoughtfulness and warmth absolutely made my day. Kristin has been to the last 8 birthdays I've had and I was not going to miss having her there this year!
Kristin and her mom are now officially attached at the hip. If you see Kristin, her mom is sure to be at her bedside holding her hand and ready to respond to her needs. I know that most moms would do the same, but there's just something special about what her mom has with her. It's a beautiful thing to see. It also makes it a little easier to leave Kristin at times, knowing that she is in such good company. However against hospital policy, the nurses in ICU had been allowing mom to spend the night in the room with Kristin, but unfortunately last night around midnight mom was informed that she could not stay. There was a change in the head nurse on duty and she decided that hospital policy would be upheld, probably because of the fact that there were 4 or 5 other families that were trying to spend the night as well.
This was hard news to deal with, both Kristin and mom were very sad at the new enforcement of the policy, but the family is still very appreciative of the fact that they bent the rules for us for 3 nights and allowed mom to stay. Mom is allowed to stay in the waiting room overnight and come check on Kristin every 15 minutes, staying for 5 minutes each visit, but this is very tiring and also very disruptive to the other patient sharing a room with Kristin. Hopefully Kristin will be moved to another room out of ICU soon so that mom can go back to spending the night. Through all of this we continue to know that this too shall pass.
The family can not thank everyone enough for the prayers and support that continue. It's beautiful to know that people are so caring during this time and have continued, even after the surgery to show concern. Kristin is doing well under the circumstances and we believe it is all of our prayers that have been manifested in Kristins recovery. Please keep up the good work.
Until the next update, be safe and uplifted. Let's continue to use this as an opportunity to look at the big picture, and what really matters in life. There are so many blessings that can come of just Kristins situation alone, that can teach us to look at life differently and love stronger. If we use this situation as a way to be better and do better, then God has already taken something bad and used it for good!
Blessings!
The pain has become a monster of its own as well. She takes different meds to try and ease the pain, however with the meds there are new issues introduced like severe nausea. She is then faced with deciding which is more important, stopping the pain or stopping the nausea. Typically, she opts for the pain meds and hopes that the anti-nausea meds will work. That's usually a hit or miss.
The great news is that she is able to swallow now. Amen to that! She still has a terrible time with the phlegm that continues to build up in her throat though. Because of this she often gets very little sleep, as she has to constantly clear her throat and use her suction tube to avoid choking.
The family have been increasing our prayers during our visits with her because there are moments where she gets sad. She does however have a talk with God every time she has a rough patch, asking him to please help her. We all know that her sadness is normal but please pray for her strength and her mental well being as well as her physical healing. Kristin knew this would be a hard and long road, but let's pray for her endurance and patience during this time.
Yesterday was my birthday and Kristin was the highlight of my day. I was able to spend a few hours at the hospital with her when me and some of her best friends brought the party to her. She asked about my day and we shared a few stories and laughs with her. It's always good to see her smile, even when she's in the hospital. There was also lots of hand holding with her squeezing tight giving non-verbal displays of love and affection.
She is such a thoughtful and considerate person that she had already brought my birthday present and card before entering the hospital for surgery and left instructions for her mom to have it there waiting for me to open. I even heard she went out in the pouring rain days before her surgery to make sure she was able to pick out my birthday card herself. Her thoughtfulness and warmth absolutely made my day. Kristin has been to the last 8 birthdays I've had and I was not going to miss having her there this year!
Kristin and her mom are now officially attached at the hip. If you see Kristin, her mom is sure to be at her bedside holding her hand and ready to respond to her needs. I know that most moms would do the same, but there's just something special about what her mom has with her. It's a beautiful thing to see. It also makes it a little easier to leave Kristin at times, knowing that she is in such good company. However against hospital policy, the nurses in ICU had been allowing mom to spend the night in the room with Kristin, but unfortunately last night around midnight mom was informed that she could not stay. There was a change in the head nurse on duty and she decided that hospital policy would be upheld, probably because of the fact that there were 4 or 5 other families that were trying to spend the night as well.
This was hard news to deal with, both Kristin and mom were very sad at the new enforcement of the policy, but the family is still very appreciative of the fact that they bent the rules for us for 3 nights and allowed mom to stay. Mom is allowed to stay in the waiting room overnight and come check on Kristin every 15 minutes, staying for 5 minutes each visit, but this is very tiring and also very disruptive to the other patient sharing a room with Kristin. Hopefully Kristin will be moved to another room out of ICU soon so that mom can go back to spending the night. Through all of this we continue to know that this too shall pass.
The family can not thank everyone enough for the prayers and support that continue. It's beautiful to know that people are so caring during this time and have continued, even after the surgery to show concern. Kristin is doing well under the circumstances and we believe it is all of our prayers that have been manifested in Kristins recovery. Please keep up the good work.
Until the next update, be safe and uplifted. Let's continue to use this as an opportunity to look at the big picture, and what really matters in life. There are so many blessings that can come of just Kristins situation alone, that can teach us to look at life differently and love stronger. If we use this situation as a way to be better and do better, then God has already taken something bad and used it for good!
Blessings!
Friday, April 24, 2009
The Power of Prayer
Kristin continues to excel in her recovery given the short time period. The prayers are working!!! Today she was able to sit in a recliner chair for about 3 hours. Way to go Kristin! Prior to that, she was given an ultrasound on both legs checking for blood clots and thankfully there were none.
While Kristin is making progress, there a still a few bumps in the road. She has limited swallowing ability but after testing her throat, the doctors did feel a little reflex which means that her nerves are signaling her brain to swallow.
The ENT residents changed her bandages and expressed that everything looked great. She has a small ulcer on her tongue and is still having some difficulty moving her tongue but we still view the glass as half full.
Mom continues to be by her side. Continue to keep her in your prayers as well.
Thank you for the support. Let's continue to be encouraging and a blessing to Kristin and her family.
Stay tuned for more updates. Until then, be safe!
Blessings.
While Kristin is making progress, there a still a few bumps in the road. She has limited swallowing ability but after testing her throat, the doctors did feel a little reflex which means that her nerves are signaling her brain to swallow.
The ENT residents changed her bandages and expressed that everything looked great. She has a small ulcer on her tongue and is still having some difficulty moving her tongue but we still view the glass as half full.
Mom continues to be by her side. Continue to keep her in your prayers as well.
Thank you for the support. Let's continue to be encouraging and a blessing to Kristin and her family.
Stay tuned for more updates. Until then, be safe!
Blessings.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Kristin Is My Hero
6:45pm
Kristin is doing great! I'm at the hospital now and I'm in good spirits after seeing how well she is doing. She is not extremely alert, but she is aware of her family being present. In fact, she opens her eyes periodically to be sure we are still here and will not let her mom out of her sight (smile). She is sitting up on her own, waving a little, and saying a few words (all of which take a bit of effort and are close to a whisper at times). She's still being generous with the "I love you's". We love you too Kristin!
I can tell she is uncomfortable but she looks well under the circumstances. She is smiling and still being her sweet self. She is still so mannerable to the nurses and doctors, saying things like "no thank you" and "yes, please". Her heart is pure and shines through no matter what the situation because that's just who she is.
The doctors and nurses continue to look in after her and all say she is doing very well. She is ahead of the game, which we knew would happen, because we were all praying and believing!
The nurses, who I have met and think they are wonderful as well, have been attentive and friendly. They have her using an incentive spirometer to help prevent pneumonia. Most of us have seen this device before, it's the one you exhale into and then inhale to get the spring to rise up. This helps with keeping the lungs clear. She does not like this device at all, but is managing the task pretty well.
Overall, all is well and we are grateful. Kristin has been told of all the love and support given. Her family has let her know of every person who has commented, emailed or called. This always makes her smile. In fact, I told her I had come back to the lobby to finish this posting for her fan club. She gave us a thumbs up!
Blessings!
Kristin is doing great! I'm at the hospital now and I'm in good spirits after seeing how well she is doing. She is not extremely alert, but she is aware of her family being present. In fact, she opens her eyes periodically to be sure we are still here and will not let her mom out of her sight (smile). She is sitting up on her own, waving a little, and saying a few words (all of which take a bit of effort and are close to a whisper at times). She's still being generous with the "I love you's". We love you too Kristin!
I can tell she is uncomfortable but she looks well under the circumstances. She is smiling and still being her sweet self. She is still so mannerable to the nurses and doctors, saying things like "no thank you" and "yes, please". Her heart is pure and shines through no matter what the situation because that's just who she is.
The doctors and nurses continue to look in after her and all say she is doing very well. She is ahead of the game, which we knew would happen, because we were all praying and believing!
The nurses, who I have met and think they are wonderful as well, have been attentive and friendly. They have her using an incentive spirometer to help prevent pneumonia. Most of us have seen this device before, it's the one you exhale into and then inhale to get the spring to rise up. This helps with keeping the lungs clear. She does not like this device at all, but is managing the task pretty well.
Overall, all is well and we are grateful. Kristin has been told of all the love and support given. Her family has let her know of every person who has commented, emailed or called. This always makes her smile. In fact, I told her I had come back to the lobby to finish this posting for her fan club. She gave us a thumbs up!
Blessings!
The Road To Recovery
11:40 amLast night was another late night at the hospital. Kristin was in the OR until about midnight. From that point the family was not able to lay eyes on our sweet Krissy until after midnight. We weren't really sure what to expect considering the night before was hard. However with Kristin's words of encouragement to not be scared, we all managed to do just fine.
When we arrived in the room to see her last night she was propped up and was pretty out of it. Her big brother Jeremy was able to get in to see her last night, which was great because she had asked about him that morning before surgery. Her other big brother Kevin was sure to read her prayer found in Psalms 91. I watched her as he read the prayer and saw her eyelids move a bit, I knew then that she was listening. As we walked over to say goodnight to her and touch her hand, she opened her eyes. She made direct eye contact and from knowing her, I know that she was saying I love you with her eyes. We didn't stay long because we wanted her to get her rest. Besides, we needed to get mom home because we knew she would be back at the hospital first thing in the morning. And she was. God bless you mom. You've always been so amazing!
As for this morning, she is making PROGRESS. The breathing tube was removed late this morning and she is now breathing on her own. The nurses are giving her oxygen periodically. She has feeling in all extremities and is responding to the nurses directions to things like "wiggle your toes" and so on.
They have her sitting straight up but her head is drooping to the side a bit. Her blood pressure is good, but her heart rate is a little elevated right now. However, mom feels confident in the nurses, Sarah and Mary Beth who she says is "WONDERFUL". Sarah and Mary Beth are described by mom as very nice and informative. Their character and helpfulness are luxuries in times like this and we are thankful to have Kristin in good hands.Kristin is alert and aware and responds to questions with a thumbs up or thumbs down. She is trying to talk but it is not very clear. However she is able to make certain sounds that they are asking her to make.
The family continues to solicit your prayers and well wishes. Thanks again for the overwhelming love and the great energy you all have extended.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
2nd Day of Surgery: Gods Got A Blessing.....
11:11pm
The family has met with the neuro surgeon and it was quite informative. Most of the tumor was removed. The reason for just most and not all is due to the risk involved in removing all of the tumor. The remaining tumor is said to be treatable through radiation.
On a more technical note, Kristin has a chordoma tumor. Chordomas are bone tumors that are rare. This type of tumor is usually benign, but acts very aggressively. It was confirmed that this tumor was very slow growing and had been there for some time. Her spine and blood vessels were pushed to the side, however this occurred gradually.
There are some residual affects of the procedure. The surgeon prepared us that she may experience trouble swallowing, and trouble with the stability of the neck. The neck issues would come from the bone in the skull the doctors removed, which may leave the neck weak. If that does happen, there are things that can be done to correct that. Meanwhile, they will keep her in a collar as a preventative measure.
When asking about the texture of the tumor we learned that it was mostly soft with some very hard areas. In fact there was a moderate amount of bone found in the actual tumor. For more details on the tumor it will be several days before the results get back from the pathology report.
The family has met with the neuro surgeon and it was quite informative. Most of the tumor was removed. The reason for just most and not all is due to the risk involved in removing all of the tumor. The remaining tumor is said to be treatable through radiation.
On a more technical note, Kristin has a chordoma tumor. Chordomas are bone tumors that are rare. This type of tumor is usually benign, but acts very aggressively. It was confirmed that this tumor was very slow growing and had been there for some time. Her spine and blood vessels were pushed to the side, however this occurred gradually.
There are some residual affects of the procedure. The surgeon prepared us that she may experience trouble swallowing, and trouble with the stability of the neck. The neck issues would come from the bone in the skull the doctors removed, which may leave the neck weak. If that does happen, there are things that can be done to correct that. Meanwhile, they will keep her in a collar as a preventative measure.
When asking about the texture of the tumor we learned that it was mostly soft with some very hard areas. In fact there was a moderate amount of bone found in the actual tumor. For more details on the tumor it will be several days before the results get back from the pathology report.
Although we are relieved that the tumor is removed we are not over the hump yet. Kristin still needs your prayers. We want her recovery to go extremely well. We know that God has the last say, so with that we pray that God shower Kristin and this family with favor and saving grace!
Kristin's mom would like to close todays updates with the following verse:Psalm 107:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.
8:30pm
Kristin will be out of surgery soon (not sure what soon means by hospital terms). She continues to be in good condition. Instead of going to recovery, she will head straight to ICU. The good thing about that is, we will be able to head up to see her sooner rather than later. The doctor will come down to meet with us and provide more details on the nature of the tumor and so on. That info will be forth coming in the next update, we think.
Thanks :)
6:30pm
The waiting game continues....there are no major changes. The great news remains that Kristin is still doing good and in stable condition! The doctors are still resecting the tumor as we speak. Both doctors are now in the OR with Kristin and things should be wrapping up in the next couple of hours. We're almost there......
The day time liaison that gives updates is gone for the day. We typically get very detailed updates from her. In her place is another lady who we don't even expect much when she arrives. I think we give her updates. She ends up asking us questions like "what's your daughters name?". She never sounds sure what's going on. However we haven't let that ruffle any feathers on our end. In fact we find humor as she approaches as we know she wont know much and will end up getting an update from us. Bless her heart......
Meanwhile family and friends continue to take good care of us. The calls, emails and comments keep coming. Leigh, has surprised us with a nice spread for dinner. We have now labeled our section in the waiting room the VIP section.
There will be more updates once the surgery is done.
Peace & Blessings!
1:40pm
So here's the latest....the doctors are busy at work and are well into the tumor resecting. Best of all things are going great! The tumor was very deep so it is time consuming but again, things are going well. Right now we are looking at a few more hours before they close things up. Thank you God!
It's only a matter of time that we can all take a sigh of relief that the toughest part is over. I am not turning a blind eye to the fact that the road to recovery will be a challenging one, but I'm not worried about that.....she's a trooper and carries great strength. God clearly has his hand on her life.
Thanks again for the support that continues to reach the family. It is the love and prayers of family and friends that is keeping the family in good spirit under these circumstances. God bless your heart for showing such compassion!
P.U.S.H.
10:20am
There was a very small update. Surgery actually started at 8:50am. No additional drilling was needed, however an extensive set up was required. They had to get equipment and staff in line before starting. She is listed as stable, and they are hoping to begin removing the tumor soon. Although it will take HOURS to remove the tumor, we are looking forward to this being a work in progress! Standby for more updates.
Blessings
8:20am
Good Morning Everyone! Let me start off by thanking The Most High for all of his blessings. The fact that we are alive to see another day is nothing to take lightly or take for granted. I can only hope that this will help us all put things in perspective in spite of our circumstances.
Last night we had the opportunity to visit with Kristin in the Intensive Care Unit. It was emotional, touching and inspiring. I think I speak for all of us that were here that it was great to see her, even if for a short while. It was also difficult. The difficulty was in seeing someone we love so much in such discomfort. She was clearly in pain and much more alert than we expected. She was up and talking to us for quite a bit. They did not give her a lot of pain meds due to a CT scan they planned to do later that night. However she remained a trooper.
In true Kristin fashion she managed to tug on all of our heart strings last night. When we approached the room she must have seen the concern and heaviness in my heart, as she quietly, in almost a whisper said “don’t be scared”. Wow, even in her condition she was her typical compassionate and loving self. While laying there in pain and very limited mobility of even the things we take for granted like the ability to swallow, she asked her brother Kevin “how are you doing Kevy?”. I imagine at that moment he was better, just in feeling her love. She didn't stop there as she continued showing her love by telling her mom to “go home and get some rest”. Thanks Kristin because you were probably the only one who could get her to listen (smile). She was not stingy with the I love you’s either. We love you more Krissy!
We told her about all the people extending concern and prayers, mentioned the beautiful emails and comments left on the blog. She was touched and expressed how sweet that was. I let her know that people were following her progress on the blog and her response was “I want to blog”. This ignited a few chuckles from her brother and me. Yet I’m confident that she will take over this blog in no time.
As we were sitting there exchanging small talk we heard music. After exchanging glances we thought, who is playing music in ICU? Are they trying to set the mood? It was then that we glanced over and noticed her roommate and the roommate’s guest was watching a movie on a portable DVD player. We had a nice laugh out of the idea that only Kristin would get placed in a room with a random person playing a DVD loudly in intensive care.
Before entering the hospital she read a prayer sent by her big cousin found in Psalms 91, everyday. With dedication, her brother read her prayer to her and I watched as she closed her eyes and listened with her heart. I watched as tears streamed down the corners of her eyes, and in knowing her, I believe they were tears of hope and determination.
She has a big day ahead and I’m guessing we are about 45 minutes into surgery (if they are on schedule). This is the day we learn about the nature of the tumor. There will be an update posted as soon as the staff comes with a progress report. Until then, you all know the drill by now P.U.SH. Pray Until Something Happens!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
First Day of Surgery
7:00pm
The last surgeon has come down and told us pretty much the same thing. She is stable and will be heading to recovery. The family will get the chance to see her tonight, however we have already been given the heads up that after being under anesthesia all day, she will be pretty out of it. Even if she is a little responsive, she wont remember much. Maybe now would be a good time to ask her to let me borrow that favorite purple purse of hers (smile).
Right now, mom has a friend (Leigh you're awesome) who has taken some time out to come and chat with mom. It's refreshing to see her smile for a bit.
Today was a challenge, but tomorrow is the real deal. The emails, comments, text and calls have been encouraging to the family. I believe it is doing a great deal for her family, especially her parents. Please keep the words and acts of encouragement coming! You would be surprised the impact your acts of kindness can have on a person.
Kristin's big brother Kevin found a wonderful word to close out with.
Romans 12:12-13
12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Until tomorrow morning- Blessings!
6:00pm
The neuro surgeon has met with us and the good news is that everything was uneventful. This is one time that uneventful is a good thing. No problems or complications! The ENT surgeon is going to finish up some things for today and then they will send her to recovery. After that she will go to ICU for close observation.
Because of the amount of bone removed, she will be in a neck brace to secure the neck for a few more days. The doctors also plan to do a CT scan tonight to be sure they have removed the right amount of bone and so on. The staff also plans to remove the breathing tube tonight.
Day one was all about the prep work. They haven't even seen the tumor yet, and don't know for sure what is in store for tomorrow (as far as the complexity of removing the tumor). The texture of the tumor is important, because the softer it is the better and the easier it will be to remove.
We are still looking at another 3 plus hours before we can lay eyes on her tonight. However she is worth the wait.
When asked by mom if she could stay the night to be by her baby girls side, the doctor advised us all to go home and get some rest tonight. He described tomorrow as an even longer day than today, and mentioned that they may go well past 8 hours. He described this ordeal as a long race, a mini marathon to say the least, and not a sprint. We all hope to get some rest tonight to start our day off bright and early once again at 4:00 am.
Standby for more updates. In the meantime, be safe and allow this situation to remind us to be kind to one another and keep the important people and things in perspective. I'm sure we can all find so much to be grateful for. Especially today.
Blessings
2:56pm
The liaison at the hospital has come with more updates (she has become our favorite face to see around here, because that means updates). The ENT Surgeon and team are currently drilling into the skull further, more specifically, drilling into the mastoid bone. The mastoid process is an inferior extension of the petrous temporal bone of the skull and serves a structural function as an anchor point for the large muscles of the neck.
Today's surgery, which was initially scheduled to be 8 hours will now be about 10 hours. The additional time is due to the additional drilling required by the neuro surgen and his team to reach the tumor tomorrow. They will then close the flap up until day 2. Needless to say it is going to be a long evening. However the liaison has offered a promising word, when stating Kristin is holding up well, vitals are stable and she is making PROGRESS. Thank you God!
Friends and Extended Family: The family and I are touched to receive such encouraging words and thoughts during this time. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
11:30am
The hospital staff have given a great report that Kristin is in good and in stable condition, thank God! One of the surgeons has finished his part of the surgery which is called a craniotomy. A craniotomy is a surgical operation in which part of the skull, called a bone flap, is removed in order to access the brain. The other surgeon is now working on the 2nd part of the procedure for day one.
For those of you who may not know, Day 2 is the big day. That will be the day they go in and remove the actual tumor. This day is especially critical, as we will learn how severe the actual tumor is and how difficult it will be to remove. Keep the prayers, well wishes and good energy coming.
8:16am
Mom has just returned and the word is she is gone to surgery. She came down with a message for everyone letting us know that she loves us! WE LOVE YOU TOO KRISSY! Now we just wait, and trust in Gods ability to work through the doctors and medical staff to get our Krissy better.
Psalms 91: 9-11
9 If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, 10 no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. 11 For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.
7:45am
Its not even 8am yet, and already time seems to be creeping along. We arrived at the hospital around 5:30, where we waited for about 30 minutes, during which Kristin read her prayer in Psalms 91 and exchanged smiles and a few chuckles with family. Around 6am she was lead upstairs to be processed for surgery.
Kristin and mom are now up with the doctors, while the rest of the family waits in the family waiting area. Although the surgery was scheduled to begin at 7:30am, there has been a delay. Apparently the hospital can not locate her CT Scan films, so she is having more done. This is not a complete surprise, considering that one of the hospital residents called last night telling her that the CT Scan films were not in the system. I can't imagine the anxiety Kristin is experiencing, who is just ready to get things moving.
The Associate Pastor of Kristin's parents church arrived around 6:45. He joined Kristin and mom upstairs for a prayer, then joined the rest of us in the waiting room. He plans to be here most of the day, waiting and praying with the family. God bless him for giving his time and kindness. He has been much welcomed company, especially to dad who is in need of comfort right now.
For those of you who know me, I have a front row seat to all the comings and goings of visitors, hospital staff and randoms- and I have already planned their lives! Teehee.
The last surgeon has come down and told us pretty much the same thing. She is stable and will be heading to recovery. The family will get the chance to see her tonight, however we have already been given the heads up that after being under anesthesia all day, she will be pretty out of it. Even if she is a little responsive, she wont remember much. Maybe now would be a good time to ask her to let me borrow that favorite purple purse of hers (smile).
Right now, mom has a friend (Leigh you're awesome) who has taken some time out to come and chat with mom. It's refreshing to see her smile for a bit.
Today was a challenge, but tomorrow is the real deal. The emails, comments, text and calls have been encouraging to the family. I believe it is doing a great deal for her family, especially her parents. Please keep the words and acts of encouragement coming! You would be surprised the impact your acts of kindness can have on a person.
Kristin's big brother Kevin found a wonderful word to close out with.
Romans 12:12-13
12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Until tomorrow morning- Blessings!
6:00pm
The neuro surgeon has met with us and the good news is that everything was uneventful. This is one time that uneventful is a good thing. No problems or complications! The ENT surgeon is going to finish up some things for today and then they will send her to recovery. After that she will go to ICU for close observation.
Because of the amount of bone removed, she will be in a neck brace to secure the neck for a few more days. The doctors also plan to do a CT scan tonight to be sure they have removed the right amount of bone and so on. The staff also plans to remove the breathing tube tonight.
Day one was all about the prep work. They haven't even seen the tumor yet, and don't know for sure what is in store for tomorrow (as far as the complexity of removing the tumor). The texture of the tumor is important, because the softer it is the better and the easier it will be to remove.
We are still looking at another 3 plus hours before we can lay eyes on her tonight. However she is worth the wait.
When asked by mom if she could stay the night to be by her baby girls side, the doctor advised us all to go home and get some rest tonight. He described tomorrow as an even longer day than today, and mentioned that they may go well past 8 hours. He described this ordeal as a long race, a mini marathon to say the least, and not a sprint. We all hope to get some rest tonight to start our day off bright and early once again at 4:00 am.
Standby for more updates. In the meantime, be safe and allow this situation to remind us to be kind to one another and keep the important people and things in perspective. I'm sure we can all find so much to be grateful for. Especially today.
Blessings
2:56pm
The liaison at the hospital has come with more updates (she has become our favorite face to see around here, because that means updates). The ENT Surgeon and team are currently drilling into the skull further, more specifically, drilling into the mastoid bone. The mastoid process is an inferior extension of the petrous temporal bone of the skull and serves a structural function as an anchor point for the large muscles of the neck.
Today's surgery, which was initially scheduled to be 8 hours will now be about 10 hours. The additional time is due to the additional drilling required by the neuro surgen and his team to reach the tumor tomorrow. They will then close the flap up until day 2. Needless to say it is going to be a long evening. However the liaison has offered a promising word, when stating Kristin is holding up well, vitals are stable and she is making PROGRESS. Thank you God!
Friends and Extended Family: The family and I are touched to receive such encouraging words and thoughts during this time. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
11:30am
The hospital staff have given a great report that Kristin is in good and in stable condition, thank God! One of the surgeons has finished his part of the surgery which is called a craniotomy. A craniotomy is a surgical operation in which part of the skull, called a bone flap, is removed in order to access the brain. The other surgeon is now working on the 2nd part of the procedure for day one.
For those of you who may not know, Day 2 is the big day. That will be the day they go in and remove the actual tumor. This day is especially critical, as we will learn how severe the actual tumor is and how difficult it will be to remove. Keep the prayers, well wishes and good energy coming.
8:16am
Mom has just returned and the word is she is gone to surgery. She came down with a message for everyone letting us know that she loves us! WE LOVE YOU TOO KRISSY! Now we just wait, and trust in Gods ability to work through the doctors and medical staff to get our Krissy better.
Psalms 91: 9-11
9 If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, 10 no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. 11 For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.
7:45am
Its not even 8am yet, and already time seems to be creeping along. We arrived at the hospital around 5:30, where we waited for about 30 minutes, during which Kristin read her prayer in Psalms 91 and exchanged smiles and a few chuckles with family. Around 6am she was lead upstairs to be processed for surgery.
Kristin and mom are now up with the doctors, while the rest of the family waits in the family waiting area. Although the surgery was scheduled to begin at 7:30am, there has been a delay. Apparently the hospital can not locate her CT Scan films, so she is having more done. This is not a complete surprise, considering that one of the hospital residents called last night telling her that the CT Scan films were not in the system. I can't imagine the anxiety Kristin is experiencing, who is just ready to get things moving.
The Associate Pastor of Kristin's parents church arrived around 6:45. He joined Kristin and mom upstairs for a prayer, then joined the rest of us in the waiting room. He plans to be here most of the day, waiting and praying with the family. God bless him for giving his time and kindness. He has been much welcomed company, especially to dad who is in need of comfort right now.
For those of you who know me, I have a front row seat to all the comings and goings of visitors, hospital staff and randoms- and I have already planned their lives! Teehee.
Monday, April 20, 2009
The Journey Ahead
As many of you know by now, on March 30th, Kristin was diagnosed with a brain stem tumor. Her surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21st and Wednesday, April 22nd. This news was both shocking and painful to her, her family and myself. Imagine, such a young, beautiful and genuinely good person, being given such news. However, Kristin has maintained her sweet and cheerful attitude throughout. She has been stronger than most could even imagine. She is an amazing young lady!
As many can imagine, this will be a challenging journey for Kristin and her family/friends. The good news is that she is a woman who has a direct connection with God and will be in His care throughout this journey. I can't express enough how powerful prayer is and ask that you all continue to lend your support and prayers to Kristin AND her beautiful family. One of Kristin's favorite prayers is found in Psalms 91, which she reads daily.
This blog will be used to keep everyone updated on her progress during her surgery and recovery. Please feel free to leave comments and questions for Kristin and/or family throughout this time.
Peace & Blessings
As many can imagine, this will be a challenging journey for Kristin and her family/friends. The good news is that she is a woman who has a direct connection with God and will be in His care throughout this journey. I can't express enough how powerful prayer is and ask that you all continue to lend your support and prayers to Kristin AND her beautiful family. One of Kristin's favorite prayers is found in Psalms 91, which she reads daily.
This blog will be used to keep everyone updated on her progress during her surgery and recovery. Please feel free to leave comments and questions for Kristin and/or family throughout this time.
Peace & Blessings
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