When attempts to wean Jerry off the special JET ventilator failed, the doctors decided that they had to make a definitive diagnosis. This required disconnecting Jerry from the ventilator that was keeping him alive and rushing him to an MRI using only hand-pumping to keep him breathing; the doctors weren’t certain he would survive the trip. Sarah and I waited outside his room for him to come back. When he did, he was still breathing. The nurses and doctors were euphoric. He was quickly hooked back up to his special ventilator and within 20 mins was stablized.
It was discovered through the MRI that he has a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in his lung). This, plus the damage to his lungs caused by pneunomia, has made it impossible for him to breathe on his own.
An ultrasound of his legs revealed more clots, which could potentially travel to his lungs, heart, or brain. Since the standard aggressive anticoagulant treatment carries the risk of more bleeding in his brain, he has been given a run of a mild anticoagulant. If he is stable enough tomorrow (Thurs), he will receive surgery to put a filter in the artery from his leg to prevent clots from travelling to the rest of his body.
The good news is that we have a definitive diagnosis. The doctors and respiratory therapists are working together to find a way to see him through this precarious stage of his recovery without further brain damage.
There is reason for hope. Jerry is in good hands. He is being cared for by people who have proven their expertise and their genuine concern for his well-being.
If any of you are feeling helpless, please remember that your thoughts and prayers are very real and reach Jerry and give him strength. They also provide our family with the support that we need.
Never underestimate the power of mind and spirit.
We know you are with us and we thank you for it,
Linda
Messages from Friends & Family