Sorry for leaving you all in the air. Lauren is still very sick, but better than yesterday. After her surgery yesterday morning, Dr. S. hoped everything would be ok. He took a vein from Lauren's leg and rebuilt her hepatic artery. She went back to the SICU and was on a ventilator and sedated. At around 5:30 in the early evening, her blood pressure crashed and they thought she was bleeding. They didn't think she would make it to the OR, so luckily Dr. Sonnenday was close by with about 30 other doctors and nurses that sprang into action. They opened her up right in the SICU and repaired an arterial stump that had come loose. They were successful, but we were all sitting at the nurse's station right outside the room watching. I know we were all traumatized and what they show on tv is nothing compared to the feelings you feel when it is your loved one. Even Kristen, who sees trauma all the time, was very upset because it was her sister. Lauren is more stable today, but still very sick. She is on a ventilator and sedated and is also on dialysis to help rid her body of acids. They left her abdomen opened, but packed it and covered it in case of other problems. They will take her to the OR and close her up once she is more stable. The doctors and nurses here are unbelieveable. I hope this helps a little and I'm sorry for not posting sooner.
Love,
-Pam
Pam,
ReplyDeleteYour daughter is a special soul and my prayers are with her. Lauren’s been through too much and so have you and your family. Most important though Lauren is still here! Having a strong support system is key and she’s got the best!
This is a path you didn’t choose to go down, but you are giving Lauren her best chance for life. You’re doing an amazing job under difficult circumstances.
Some people and families can’t handle these types of situations, but others grow stronger, wiser and closer. It will take time and there will be ups and downs, but she’s a fighter and there is hope she will triumph.
I wish I could lift this burden from you, but you have my well wishes and prayers. Hang in there!
Hugs, Cathy and Heather
God bless you Cathy and Heather. You, of all people, know what this feels like. It is very difficult but we are a strong family. Thank you so much for all of your support.
DeleteLove,
-Pam
Heather was a hostess at The Olive Garden when she was first diagnosed with her illness. She looked normal and felt good so people never suspected anything was wrong. One evening a kind, elderly, gentleman customer spoke with Heather and gave her a small gift. He told Heather he sensed something about her and wanted her to have something special he made. It was a small wooden bridge that fits easily in the palm of your hand.
ReplyDeleteInside of the bridge is the bible passage from Isaiah 43:2-3a.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
neither shall the flames kindle upon you.
For I am the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior
This little bridge has been a huge comfort to me over the years. I often tucked it into my purse and took it to doctor appointments and surgeries. The man who gave it to Heather was a stranger, but to me he’s an angel who will never know how much his message meant over the years.
I wanted to share this story in hopes it also brings a measure of comfort to you.
Praying for your sweet Lauren.
Hugs, Cathy and Heather
Still praying! Dave and I were stunned at all you guys went through. You're right it does sound like an episode of Greys Anatomy. I hope today has been a day of marked improvement. Praying you guys are able too get a little rest yourselves. Love,faith, and God's grace upon you all, Lori
ReplyDelete