I had my check-up this morning with the trauma team doctor and he is very pleased with my respiratory progress and overall healing. He's making a few changes to my meds, but basically said he was going to focus his energies on sick people from this point forward. He mentioned something about never wanting to see me in there again, but I'm not quite sure how to take his comments.
The cardiologist has scheduled my stent clean-out for the week of July 4 and it will be done on an outpatient basis in Tyler. The recovery from this point forward will take another 6-8 weeks, but I'm gaining strength with every passing day.
We are bringing this blog to a close as it looks like my health problems are on the mend and one day not too far from now my bike will be fixed and I will off riding it again, trying to keep the rubber down. Rhonda and I would like to thank Tim for creating and maintaing this blog and thank all of you again who were following this blog. Your prayers, kind words of encouragement and support have been more appreciated than you will ever know.
We will be back in Carrollton this weekend and look forward to seeing everyone there soon!
Love & Appreciation,
Phil & Rhonda
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Day 32 - Final Disbursement
I am very pleased to advise that we will be making a final disbursement to Rhonda and Phil in the amount of $480. With this disbursement, I will be closing the beneficiary account.
Thank you again for your support of this very special family.
Thank you again for your support of this very special family.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Day 29 - Discharge +6
It could happen...
This morning, Phil woke early and made a pot of coffee. He went out to the garage for about an hour to tinker on a project he started a couple of months ago. Once that was done, he mowed the yard...using a push mower. Hot and sweaty, he then took a 30 minute swim across the cove and back, stopping only once to rest.
No, none of this happened, but in Phil's mind there is no doubt that he will regain that level of strength and endurance.
He has been religious about his hourly respiratory therapy and pushes himself to improve a little each day. With his clavicle mending, Phil can't do much to work out his upper body. But his leg strength is good, with the walks around the retail stores curtailed only when his ribs and clavicle begin to hurt. He's also returning to his chatty self and I understand he has spoken with many of you over the phone on occasion.
Accidents do happen...and sometimes, just sometimes, so do miracles.
This morning, Phil woke early and made a pot of coffee. He went out to the garage for about an hour to tinker on a project he started a couple of months ago. Once that was done, he mowed the yard...using a push mower. Hot and sweaty, he then took a 30 minute swim across the cove and back, stopping only once to rest.
No, none of this happened, but in Phil's mind there is no doubt that he will regain that level of strength and endurance.
He has been religious about his hourly respiratory therapy and pushes himself to improve a little each day. With his clavicle mending, Phil can't do much to work out his upper body. But his leg strength is good, with the walks around the retail stores curtailed only when his ribs and clavicle begin to hurt. He's also returning to his chatty self and I understand he has spoken with many of you over the phone on occasion.
Accidents do happen...and sometimes, just sometimes, so do miracles.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Day 28 - Discharge +5
Rhonda and Phil seen terrorizing Tyler retail outlets...
A couple of days ago, I mentioned that Phil and Rhonda were planning an excursion to Wal-Mart for indoor walking. When I heard of this outing, I had visions of the joke about all the pranks the (bored) retired gentlemen pulled in a Wal-Mart while shopping with his wife. On Thursday, they stopped at the local Brookshires grocery store for a bar of soap. After pushing a grocery cart up and down each and every isle, they arrived at the check-out counter with....a bar of soap. Local police reports indicate a couple fitting their description also loitered in CVS Pharmacy on Friday. Local residents and business owners have been warned to be on alert and report suspicious activity immediately.
On Friday, Phil met with the cardiologist for a progress check. His EKG and vitals were all fine, but they did make a few adjustments to his meds. No immediate rush on the stent clean-out, but he will probably have that done in 8-10 weeks. The next doctor visit (with the trauma team doctors) is scheduled forTuesday Wednesday.
Best of all, both Phil and Rhonda are in great spirits...thanks to your encouragement.
A couple of days ago, I mentioned that Phil and Rhonda were planning an excursion to Wal-Mart for indoor walking. When I heard of this outing, I had visions of the joke about all the pranks the (bored) retired gentlemen pulled in a Wal-Mart while shopping with his wife. On Thursday, they stopped at the local Brookshires grocery store for a bar of soap. After pushing a grocery cart up and down each and every isle, they arrived at the check-out counter with....a bar of soap. Local police reports indicate a couple fitting their description also loitered in CVS Pharmacy on Friday. Local residents and business owners have been warned to be on alert and report suspicious activity immediately.
On Friday, Phil met with the cardiologist for a progress check. His EKG and vitals were all fine, but they did make a few adjustments to his meds. No immediate rush on the stent clean-out, but he will probably have that done in 8-10 weeks. The next doctor visit (with the trauma team doctors) is scheduled for
Best of all, both Phil and Rhonda are in great spirits...thanks to your encouragement.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thank you from Phil
I just recently realized that for the past few weeks I had a problem. Although I really don’t remember much about what I was going through, nor why I was where I was, I do remember seeing Rhonda’s eyes staring at me and hearing her tell me how much she loved me and that she was there with me to keep me with her. Well, I thought I knew that, so why was she repeating it so often. Maybe she knew something I didn’t.
Well as it turns out I was where I was, in the condition I was in, because I apparently had tried to perform a few “stupid pet tricks” while also trying to ride my bike. Trust me when I tell you that the two don’t mix well together. That’s what had gotten me to where I was and Rhonda staring at me.Fast forward a few days to today and although I still don’t remember much about what has been going on the past few weeks I have come to realize the severity of the situation. But I’m feeling much better today and every day seems to show improvement. So now I wanted to know what’s been going on during my hibernation period. And what I’ve learned about my family and friends has touched me deeper than I ever thought possible. I’ve had a chance to read this blog that Tim put together. Thank you Tim. Posting the updates allowed my family and friends to stay up to date when no one was allowed in to see me. The kind words, the positive attitudes and simply the time spent by all to write the words of care and encouragement has made me stop and remember how special you all are to me. Thank you for the money you sent us to help cover the medical expenses. It is very much appreciated and needed. I don’t know how else to thank you and to tell you how much all this means to me. I can’t wait for the day that we can all get together for a group hug. In the words of the great John Wayne “Life is hard. It’s even harder when you’re stupid.” Well I’m going to try not to do the stupid things in the future, like riding my bike upside down, and hopefully make my life a little less hard. Phil
Well as it turns out I was where I was, in the condition I was in, because I apparently had tried to perform a few “stupid pet tricks” while also trying to ride my bike. Trust me when I tell you that the two don’t mix well together. That’s what had gotten me to where I was and Rhonda staring at me.Fast forward a few days to today and although I still don’t remember much about what has been going on the past few weeks I have come to realize the severity of the situation. But I’m feeling much better today and every day seems to show improvement. So now I wanted to know what’s been going on during my hibernation period. And what I’ve learned about my family and friends has touched me deeper than I ever thought possible. I’ve had a chance to read this blog that Tim put together. Thank you Tim. Posting the updates allowed my family and friends to stay up to date when no one was allowed in to see me. The kind words, the positive attitudes and simply the time spent by all to write the words of care and encouragement has made me stop and remember how special you all are to me. Thank you for the money you sent us to help cover the medical expenses. It is very much appreciated and needed. I don’t know how else to thank you and to tell you how much all this means to me. I can’t wait for the day that we can all get together for a group hug. In the words of the great John Wayne “Life is hard. It’s even harder when you’re stupid.” Well I’m going to try not to do the stupid things in the future, like riding my bike upside down, and hopefully make my life a little less hard. Phil
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Day 26 - Discharge +3
Progress continues. Phil's appetite for solid food is starting to pick-up, with a turkey sandwich being the splurge dejour. He's getting stronger with each passing day and working on building his stamina. Perhaps most remarkable is he is minding Rhonda!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Day 25 - Discharge +2
"Momma, let's go to Wal-Mart!"
After just one day, Phil has "worn-out" his little walking path inside the house, "I've seen all the interesting sights!". Rhonda keeps a close eye on him and, somehow, he talked her into letting him go outside and into the garage just for some new scenery. At last report, they were planning a trip to Wal-Mart later today or tomorrow so that he could walk more in an cooled environment.
The bed adjustments worked great - he slept soundly and uninterrupted. And his tube wounds are healing well, even the trach hole, which was one of the last to be removed. We haven't weighed him yet (can't get him to stand still long enough), but my guess is he's lost 25-30 lbs on the "crash" diet.
Pardon the pun.
After just one day, Phil has "worn-out" his little walking path inside the house, "I've seen all the interesting sights!". Rhonda keeps a close eye on him and, somehow, he talked her into letting him go outside and into the garage just for some new scenery. At last report, they were planning a trip to Wal-Mart later today or tomorrow so that he could walk more in an cooled environment.
The bed adjustments worked great - he slept soundly and uninterrupted. And his tube wounds are healing well, even the trach hole, which was one of the last to be removed. We haven't weighed him yet (can't get him to stand still long enough), but my guess is he's lost 25-30 lbs on the "crash" diet.
Pardon the pun.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Day 24 - Discharge +1
Did you hear the one about...
Phil 's first full day home was spent making the little adjustments that will help the recovery along. We moved a recliner over so that he'd have a few more seating options, adjusted the bed mattress to slightly elevate his head which helps his breathing, and he memorized the daytime TV schedule so that he can time his naps around Oprah and American Chopper - The Series. He's mapped out an indoor walking trail complete with random moguls (the dogs) where he can practice his "old man shuffle". Actually, his stride is pretty strong - slower than normal, but strong.
He's able to laugh now without the excrutiating rib pain and is starting to joke around and tell jokes. And trust me, he could use some new material (hint, time to kick-up the joke emails and comments again). All-in-all, he's off to a great start on a 6-8 week recovery...and determined to do all the right things to make it shorter.
Phil 's first full day home was spent making the little adjustments that will help the recovery along. We moved a recliner over so that he'd have a few more seating options, adjusted the bed mattress to slightly elevate his head which helps his breathing, and he memorized the daytime TV schedule so that he can time his naps around Oprah and American Chopper - The Series. He's mapped out an indoor walking trail complete with random moguls (the dogs) where he can practice his "old man shuffle". Actually, his stride is pretty strong - slower than normal, but strong.
He's able to laugh now without the excrutiating rib pain and is starting to joke around and tell jokes. And trust me, he could use some new material (hint, time to kick-up the joke emails and comments again). All-in-all, he's off to a great start on a 6-8 week recovery...and determined to do all the right things to make it shorter.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Day 23 - 6pm Update
Well, it was fun while it lasted.
One of Phil's wounds began bleeding in the shower this morning and continued to bleed through the gauze pads this afternoon. Rather than guess what was happening, the doctor asked Phil to come back in for further inspection. Appears that when he received one of his shots in the abdomen this morning, they nicked an artery. After receiving a couple of stitches, he was back out the door and on his way home.
He's now resting comfortably and enjoying the quiet of home with Rhonda and the dogs close by his side. No more being awoken to be poked, prodded, and monitored with every move. Then again, no more morphine either!
As promised, we issued the first disbursement check from the benefit fund today to coincide with Phil's release from the hospital. Thanks to your generosity, the certified check was in the amount of $7,000. Here is the card that accompanied the disbursement to Rhonda and Phil on behalf of Phil's Village.
Thank you VERY much for your generous donations and continued support. You have touched this family in ways that cannot be imagined. I'll keep the account open another week or so to catch any donations en-route, then issue a final check and post the update on the blog.
BTW, Phil is beginning to read the blog a little at a time, so let's ramp-up the comments and give him something to chuckle about!!
One of Phil's wounds began bleeding in the shower this morning and continued to bleed through the gauze pads this afternoon. Rather than guess what was happening, the doctor asked Phil to come back in for further inspection. Appears that when he received one of his shots in the abdomen this morning, they nicked an artery. After receiving a couple of stitches, he was back out the door and on his way home.
He's now resting comfortably and enjoying the quiet of home with Rhonda and the dogs close by his side. No more being awoken to be poked, prodded, and monitored with every move. Then again, no more morphine either!
As promised, we issued the first disbursement check from the benefit fund today to coincide with Phil's release from the hospital. Thanks to your generosity, the certified check was in the amount of $7,000. Here is the card that accompanied the disbursement to Rhonda and Phil on behalf of Phil's Village.
Thank you VERY much for your generous donations and continued support. You have touched this family in ways that cannot be imagined. I'll keep the account open another week or so to catch any donations en-route, then issue a final check and post the update on the blog.
BTW, Phil is beginning to read the blog a little at a time, so let's ramp-up the comments and give him something to chuckle about!!
Day 23 - Special Bulletin
Phil has been asked to leave the hospital.
OK, perhaps a little too dramatic, but he was released this morning at 10:43am. The immediate plans are to stay in Tyler for the next week so that he has easy access to the trauma team of doctors who are familiar with his case in the event if he has any problems. He is scheduled for a check-up next Tuesday at which time they will determine when he can return to the DFW area.
Welcome home, my friend. Let the full recovery begin...
OK, perhaps a little too dramatic, but he was released this morning at 10:43am. The immediate plans are to stay in Tyler for the next week so that he has easy access to the trauma team of doctors who are familiar with his case in the event if he has any problems. He is scheduled for a check-up next Tuesday at which time they will determine when he can return to the DFW area.
Welcome home, my friend. Let the full recovery begin...
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Day 22 - 6pm Update
To rehab or not to rehab. That seems to be the question.
Phil has continued to work on his respiratory therapy with vigor. He takes short walks around the hospital wing floor, flirting with the nurses (that's how he scores extra popsicles), and being the social butterfly that is Phil. For the last few days, he's been complaining about the pain in his left shoulder area. They took more X-Rays yesterday and confirmed the clavicle was broken in the accident. No apparent damage to the shoulder. Because of the nature of the break, the recommended treatment is to simply allow the bone to heal on its own.
He's definitely getting closer to being released. This morning, the doctor indicated that if he continues the respiratory progress, he could be released within the next few days. Released as in going home, not going to rehab.
You'd think someone just told a six year-old that he's going to Six Flags over Texas.
Phil has continued to work on his respiratory therapy with vigor. He takes short walks around the hospital wing floor, flirting with the nurses (that's how he scores extra popsicles), and being the social butterfly that is Phil. For the last few days, he's been complaining about the pain in his left shoulder area. They took more X-Rays yesterday and confirmed the clavicle was broken in the accident. No apparent damage to the shoulder. Because of the nature of the break, the recommended treatment is to simply allow the bone to heal on its own.
He's definitely getting closer to being released. This morning, the doctor indicated that if he continues the respiratory progress, he could be released within the next few days. Released as in going home, not going to rehab.
You'd think someone just told a six year-old that he's going to Six Flags over Texas.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
A message from the ICU staff
Phil,
Happy three week anniversary. We're so glad you're out of here!
Signed,
The Nurses in ICU
Happy three week anniversary. We're so glad you're out of here!
Signed,
The Nurses in ICU
Day 21 - 3pm Update
I guess they are planning to let the guy out sometime soon, because they removed the trach this morning!
The chest X-Ray still shows fluids at the bottom of one of his lungs, so the respiratory therapist has Phil doing double duty on several breathing exercises. And he was very clear, "either follow my direction or expect to be back in ICU and on the ventilator." I think he got Phil's attention because his eyes got as big as half dollars and he shook his head side-to-side (like a little kid willing to do ANYTHING not to go to that scary place again). He's been following the instructions and breathing deep ever since!!
The chest X-Ray still shows fluids at the bottom of one of his lungs, so the respiratory therapist has Phil doing double duty on several breathing exercises. And he was very clear, "either follow my direction or expect to be back in ICU and on the ventilator." I think he got Phil's attention because his eyes got as big as half dollars and he shook his head side-to-side (like a little kid willing to do ANYTHING not to go to that scary place again). He's been following the instructions and breathing deep ever since!!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Day 20 - 6pm Update
Feeding tube is out. And Phil is out of ICU!!
Another banner day for Mr. Phillip. He held off taking the pain med last night so that he could see the end of the Mavs game and, boy, was he glad he did! The nurse removed the feeding tube around midnight and after a couple of restless hours, he finally got to sleep. He's handling the clear liquids fine and awoke this morning knowing it was his last in ICU. They transferred him out just after Noon and he's now resting comfortably in a regular hospital room.
Given his ongoing risk of infection with the trach still in place, Rhonda has asked that no visitors come out at this time. After consulting with the doctors, Rhonda and Phil will be deciding the next step in his recovery over the next 3-4 days, including where he goes for any required rehabilitation and physical therapy. The options are Tyler or DFW.
Thank you all for your continued support. Your comments, cards, letters and prayers have made a HUGE difference for this family.
Another banner day for Mr. Phillip. He held off taking the pain med last night so that he could see the end of the Mavs game and, boy, was he glad he did! The nurse removed the feeding tube around midnight and after a couple of restless hours, he finally got to sleep. He's handling the clear liquids fine and awoke this morning knowing it was his last in ICU. They transferred him out just after Noon and he's now resting comfortably in a regular hospital room.
Given his ongoing risk of infection with the trach still in place, Rhonda has asked that no visitors come out at this time. After consulting with the doctors, Rhonda and Phil will be deciding the next step in his recovery over the next 3-4 days, including where he goes for any required rehabilitation and physical therapy. The options are Tyler or DFW.
Thank you all for your continued support. Your comments, cards, letters and prayers have made a HUGE difference for this family.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Day 19 - 6pm Update
It's hard to believe he's been in ICU for 19 DAYS!
Great progress to report today.
Phil is now breathing completely on his own and weaned off the ventilator!!! The catheter is out. The staples are out (both in his head and his stomach). They will be downsizing the trach tube tonight and begin feeding clear liquids. If he can swallow OK, then they will be able to remove the last remaining tube - the feeding tube.
Awesome!!
Great progress to report today.
Phil is now breathing completely on his own and weaned off the ventilator!!! The catheter is out. The staples are out (both in his head and his stomach). They will be downsizing the trach tube tonight and begin feeding clear liquids. If he can swallow OK, then they will be able to remove the last remaining tube - the feeding tube.
Awesome!!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Words of Celebration & Appreciation
Tonight I celebrate what I consider to be a major milestone in Phil's recovery...completely breathing on his own. Who could ever imagine that taking a breath on your own be such a miracle? But that is exactly what it is.
Words can't express my gratitude to all of you for your support throughout this ordeal. First of all, I praise God for Phil's healing. I truly believe that the power of all of your prayers and Phil's will to live is what has pulled him through this. I know that I could not have been able to perservere without the support of our family and friends. He has a long road of recovery but he is cognizant of that fact and ready to work for his wellness.
Several of you have asked if you can come visit Phil yet. My answer is still no since he is still in ICU and still recovering from pneumonia. We don't expect to be in the Tyler area all that much longer, so when he is home and ready to receive your love, I will certainly let you know. In the meantime, the cards and posts to this blog are great support for him.
Thank you again for your love, concern and support. Phil and I look forward to visiting with all of you soon. After all, his voice is back!
Group hug,
Rhonda
Words can't express my gratitude to all of you for your support throughout this ordeal. First of all, I praise God for Phil's healing. I truly believe that the power of all of your prayers and Phil's will to live is what has pulled him through this. I know that I could not have been able to perservere without the support of our family and friends. He has a long road of recovery but he is cognizant of that fact and ready to work for his wellness.
Several of you have asked if you can come visit Phil yet. My answer is still no since he is still in ICU and still recovering from pneumonia. We don't expect to be in the Tyler area all that much longer, so when he is home and ready to receive your love, I will certainly let you know. In the meantime, the cards and posts to this blog are great support for him.
Thank you again for your love, concern and support. Phil and I look forward to visiting with all of you soon. After all, his voice is back!
Group hug,
Rhonda
Day 18 - 6pm Update
He speaks!
When Rhonda walked into the room for the 1pm visitation, she heard a voice in the corner say, "Hello." When she looked up, it was Phil talking! Needless to say, it brought tears (of joy) to her eyes to be able to hear his voice again.
As part of his weaning off the ventilator, they plugged the trach tube which allowed him use of his vocal cords. He continues to walk the hall and was able to do so without the aid of a walker today. As a reward for his progress, they will remove his catheter tomorrow. And if he continues this pace of progress, the doctor indicated Phil could be out of ICU in a couple of days!
On side note, thank you to those who have contributed to the beneficiary fund. The number of contributions continues at a trickle, but those who have done so have been generous. Bless You. If you need the address, click the link above or go the the Need Your Help!! post in the archives. The plan is still to present the check about the time Phil is released from ICU, as the medical bills are starting to arrive. If any donations come in afterwards, we'll cut a supplemental check in a couple of weeks.
When Rhonda walked into the room for the 1pm visitation, she heard a voice in the corner say, "Hello." When she looked up, it was Phil talking! Needless to say, it brought tears (of joy) to her eyes to be able to hear his voice again.
As part of his weaning off the ventilator, they plugged the trach tube which allowed him use of his vocal cords. He continues to walk the hall and was able to do so without the aid of a walker today. As a reward for his progress, they will remove his catheter tomorrow. And if he continues this pace of progress, the doctor indicated Phil could be out of ICU in a couple of days!
On side note, thank you to those who have contributed to the beneficiary fund. The number of contributions continues at a trickle, but those who have done so have been generous. Bless You. If you need the address, click the link above or go the the Need Your Help!! post in the archives. The plan is still to present the check about the time Phil is released from ICU, as the medical bills are starting to arrive. If any donations come in afterwards, we'll cut a supplemental check in a couple of weeks.
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