Steve has lived with back pain for many years and managed it as best he could....gradually the pain increased severely and led to many, many injections, procedures, epidurals, etc., over the years. In January after 2 epidurals within a week and no pain relief he had a 'Thunderclap Headache' that led to him being taken by ambulance to hospital. After painful spinal taps and series and series of tests, MRI, rounds of doctors and second opinions, the Neurosurgeon insisted on back surgery.....so we scheduled it, took a little time to relax and recharge, mustered up our courage and took the surgery plunge!
Steve in pre-op.....
Surgery was long, almost 5 hours, and extensive due to lots of muscle that had to be cut and reattached. Recovery was even longer as he developed apnea and would go to sleep and not wake up! The first day I was in the waiting room from 5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and only getting quick updates. It made for a really long and exhausting day, however, not as bad for me as Steve! Luckily I had wonderful family and friends that kept in touch with me during that long lonely day. Lots of offers to come stay with me but I knew I would be stronger by myself.
He was suppose to be up and walking the next day, but the pain was too intense....he was on oxygen and moaning and uncomfortable, disoriented and frustrated....his room was so tiny and noisy (no privates available) and he had 3 different room mates with their own challenges. There never was a chair around so I had to go on a hunt for one, not impressed with the staff, I was convinced he had a UTI and had to force the nurse to test for one (it was positive and he received RX), the night nurse used a pocket knife to trim the tape off his IV, we had a visit from a crazy former prisoner (?) Chaplin and this is suppose to be one of the better hospitals in SD? Like my mom says, 'Hospitals are no place for sick people'.
Day after Day after Day this pain pump was his best friend......
Finally the evening of the 4th day he was able to get out of bed and painfully take a few steps....my heart ached seeing his instability, weekness and determination and I cheered each step he took.....and there were few steps I am sorry to say....
Since he was not progressing as he should have, he had to go to an Acute Rehab or a Nursing Home. To me, Nursing Home was not an option....so I fought the good fight and with help of others, including Dr. Brody, we were able to move him to Rehab....
He had wonderful care, an amazing staff, lots of visitors and was able to go outside and get fresh air.....
Lots of loving messages from the boys and neighborhood kids who also call him 'Gramps'...
He especially enjoyed this little 4 legged furry visitor!
And after all his hard work he was able to come home - Hooray!
He still needs a lot of care and attention but I would rather he be here at home. His brothers and other loved ones can come and go, the neighbors pop in, the boys come by, nice to be surrounded by love and support....oh, and the AWESOME dinners so many have provided - so appreciated!!!
Our Exile days are coming to an end.....which is a good thing! My lists are long and the work is endless but I am grateful and humbled by this entire experience. Thank you all for your love and concern!
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