Hello Everyone!
Yesterday we went to Cincinnati and I finally got my stitches out...woo-hoo! I feel so much better just from that not to mention I'm getting more and more strength back every day.
I saw the ENT surgeon which includes Dr. McDreamer, so good on the eyes (I'll see the neurosurgeon in 2 weeks) and he said that I am doing great and couldn't believe it had only been 12 days since my surgery (this was after I had to show them my belly scar from where they took out the belly fat to put into my head...that wasn't uncomfortable or anything. How is it that I had four children, no C-sections or even epidurals and now I get a brain tumor, have my ear removed and put back on...which is now sticking out on that side...fat taken from my belly...but not enough to make me look good, actually left a big ole scar right in the middle...and now my eye won't close (read below)? I really am becoming quite the freak show, lol!) He sent me home with some simple exercises for my balance but still no driving or lifting more than 5-10lbs. for a while. He obviously hasn't seen my boys: )!
Okay the issue with my eye...sometimes when the facial nerve has some weakness, the eye on that side will have problems closing...well mine is having that problem. It appears that when I'm sleeping that eye is not staying closed through out the night and causing a lot of pain and dry eye (I'm sure my husband will be watching me sleep now to see if I'm watching him sleep...this whole thing has really gotten weird, huh?) I went to the Cincinnati Eye Institute today and had it examined...so far no real damage but continuous dry eye can cause serious problems on down the road. So, I was sent home with eye gel for nighttime and drops for daytime. Hopefully these will work while that nerve gets stronger and there will be no permanent damage. I go back in 4 weeks to have that looked at again.
Other than my balance, eye issue, some ear spasms and my pride...I feel really, really good! No seriously, I'm so lucky and so grateful for such an awesome recovery. I can't believe tomorrow will only be 2 weeks since my surgery...I really would have never guessed I'd be this far down the recovery road. I know all of your prayers, thoughts, encouragement and wishes have played such a huge part in my rapid recovery. God has heard them all and has obviously listened! THANK YOU...I really can't say enough about all of the support. I hope I can return the favor someday to each of you!
I'm heading to bed...the weekend is around the corner! I'm working hard at not over doing it so wish me luck and I'll write again soon! Thank you all again and much, much love and blessings to all of you!
Jenny
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
One week already!
Hello All,
I just wanted to send an update and let you all know how things are going. Today I've been home a week already and can't believe it.
The weekend was nice having everyone home. I was even able to go to the boys’ basketball games. Unfortunately, it really wore me out...more than I had expected...but regardless it was nice to see them play and get out of the house for an hour or so.
It's funny because I feel so blessed that this whole ordeal has progressed so wonderfully that I sometimes forget that I still have a long road ahead of me. The past few days I have been getting more feeling back in my face and ear area. This is great considering that it was numb for so long but new feeling also means feeling new pain. There are a lot of spasms in my ear and around my jaw and neck. The pulling in the skin behind my ear really is bothersome and I seriously can't wait to get theses stitches out. I go Wednesday to get them removed and that should help with all of the pressure and pulling that I'm feeling. I took some muscle relaxers/spasm pills for it on Sunday and I don’t know what was worse…the pain or the sluggishness I felt ALL day from the pills. I don’t do pills well at all so I won’t be taking those anymore.
I’m anxious to talk to the doctor tomorrow and find out just how well things are going. Today has been a not-so-great day…lots of head pressure, ear spasms and eye dryness/burning. I can do pain and recovery…I just want to make sure it is ALL normal and not something else.
Dan went back to work this week. Poor guy…I’m not sure what wears him out more… being home and doing this work or going to work and worrying about being at home. I’m so lucky that he’s so strong. He keeps me grounded that’s for sure.
My dad is still here and helps us out while Dan is at work (this has been such a blessing). Because I can’t do the steps by myself, I stay on one floor for most of the day. My dad however is working out of our house in the basement and every so often he flies up the steps like Kramer in Seinfeld to see if he’s going to catch me doing something I shouldn't. Glad he didn’t move that fast when I was a teen…who knows what kind of trouble I would have been in, lol!
Overall things are going well and still better than expected! We’re so grateful for all of those helping us out be it prayers, meals, encouragement, cards, flowers etc. etc. It has ALL made this recovery a lot more bearable! We’re so thankful and hope you all know how much you mean to us! We’ll be updating you soon…after the appointment tomorrow!
Blessings to you all,
Jen
I just wanted to send an update and let you all know how things are going. Today I've been home a week already and can't believe it.
The weekend was nice having everyone home. I was even able to go to the boys’ basketball games. Unfortunately, it really wore me out...more than I had expected...but regardless it was nice to see them play and get out of the house for an hour or so.
It's funny because I feel so blessed that this whole ordeal has progressed so wonderfully that I sometimes forget that I still have a long road ahead of me. The past few days I have been getting more feeling back in my face and ear area. This is great considering that it was numb for so long but new feeling also means feeling new pain. There are a lot of spasms in my ear and around my jaw and neck. The pulling in the skin behind my ear really is bothersome and I seriously can't wait to get theses stitches out. I go Wednesday to get them removed and that should help with all of the pressure and pulling that I'm feeling. I took some muscle relaxers/spasm pills for it on Sunday and I don’t know what was worse…the pain or the sluggishness I felt ALL day from the pills. I don’t do pills well at all so I won’t be taking those anymore.
I’m anxious to talk to the doctor tomorrow and find out just how well things are going. Today has been a not-so-great day…lots of head pressure, ear spasms and eye dryness/burning. I can do pain and recovery…I just want to make sure it is ALL normal and not something else.
Dan went back to work this week. Poor guy…I’m not sure what wears him out more… being home and doing this work or going to work and worrying about being at home. I’m so lucky that he’s so strong. He keeps me grounded that’s for sure.
My dad is still here and helps us out while Dan is at work (this has been such a blessing). Because I can’t do the steps by myself, I stay on one floor for most of the day. My dad however is working out of our house in the basement and every so often he flies up the steps like Kramer in Seinfeld to see if he’s going to catch me doing something I shouldn't. Glad he didn’t move that fast when I was a teen…who knows what kind of trouble I would have been in, lol!
Overall things are going well and still better than expected! We’re so grateful for all of those helping us out be it prayers, meals, encouragement, cards, flowers etc. etc. It has ALL made this recovery a lot more bearable! We’re so thankful and hope you all know how much you mean to us! We’ll be updating you soon…after the appointment tomorrow!
Blessings to you all,
Jen
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Another Good Day!
Today was another good day! Two of our boys had basketball games (10am and 4pm) and I was able to go to both...definitely had to have a nap in between though! It felt good to get out of the house, see some people at the church and enjoy the fresh air. I'm pretty tired tonight but over all I feel really good.
Some of our family stayed the evening with us and we did some catching up on "old times" which is always nice. I'd love to go to church for service in the morning...we'll have to see how everything goes. It'll be there next week if we can't but I'm really missing it!
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Good night and God Bless!
Jen
P.S. Thanks for all of the comments on my new picture. Crazy it was only one week after my surgery. Sometimes when I pass a mirror I do a double take b/c I really didn't expect to look "normal" so soon! So Awesome!
Some of our family stayed the evening with us and we did some catching up on "old times" which is always nice. I'd love to go to church for service in the morning...we'll have to see how everything goes. It'll be there next week if we can't but I'm really missing it!
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Good night and God Bless!
Jen
P.S. Thanks for all of the comments on my new picture. Crazy it was only one week after my surgery. Sometimes when I pass a mirror I do a double take b/c I really didn't expect to look "normal" so soon! So Awesome!
Friday, February 19, 2010
It's so easy...
I have cheated on today's blog b/c I feel everyone needs to read my husband's comment to my post yesterday. Since it was in the comments I was affraid someone would miss it and it's too good to miss, lol! Sorry for the repeat. Enjoy!
Love, Jen
Jenny makes this homemaker thing look easier than it actually is.
I started the laundry today. For those that don’t know, Jenny is very protective of her washer and dryer (she even put a laundry “cheat sheet” of instructions above the appliances in the event I were to even think of using them). That’s why I got really nervous when the first load I attempted I received an error code (D4). It appears I broke her washing machine on my very first attempted load. Luckily, I had kept the manuals that provide help in troubleshooting various error codes. It turns out “D4” is a common code for our model. It’s highly technical but luckily I have the technological background to troubleshoot such an issue. It means “DOOR OPEN” (actually D=door open, 4= wait 4 your wife).
Later in the day I had three loads completed, was on my fourth and feeling pretty good. The kids arrived home from school and started on their snacks. Jenny usually makes the boys move right on to their homework and goes through the school backpacks with each of them. I thought, “This is easy, homework can wait. Let’s play in the snow first”. Off we went to play for an hour or so. Upon returning, we ate a great dinner and it was time for their homework. Soon it became apparent to me why Jenny goes through the school bags immediately. It appears Nolan, my second oldest, decided to bring home a “pet” snow ball hidden in his bag. I’m sure she was beautiful in a more solid state. We’ve since named her “puddles”.
The later it gets in the evening, the more reality is setting in. The four now clean loads of laundry, at some point, need to be put away. I guess I just assumed it would take care of itself. After all it had in the past. Whenever I needed a shirt or pants, there they were. I never thought about the work it takes to get them there. She sure does make it look easy. It’s not.
I have to go. Socks don’t match themselves.
Dan
Love, Jen
Jenny makes this homemaker thing look easier than it actually is.
I started the laundry today. For those that don’t know, Jenny is very protective of her washer and dryer (she even put a laundry “cheat sheet” of instructions above the appliances in the event I were to even think of using them). That’s why I got really nervous when the first load I attempted I received an error code (D4). It appears I broke her washing machine on my very first attempted load. Luckily, I had kept the manuals that provide help in troubleshooting various error codes. It turns out “D4” is a common code for our model. It’s highly technical but luckily I have the technological background to troubleshoot such an issue. It means “DOOR OPEN” (actually D=door open, 4= wait 4 your wife).
Later in the day I had three loads completed, was on my fourth and feeling pretty good. The kids arrived home from school and started on their snacks. Jenny usually makes the boys move right on to their homework and goes through the school backpacks with each of them. I thought, “This is easy, homework can wait. Let’s play in the snow first”. Off we went to play for an hour or so. Upon returning, we ate a great dinner and it was time for their homework. Soon it became apparent to me why Jenny goes through the school bags immediately. It appears Nolan, my second oldest, decided to bring home a “pet” snow ball hidden in his bag. I’m sure she was beautiful in a more solid state. We’ve since named her “puddles”.
The later it gets in the evening, the more reality is setting in. The four now clean loads of laundry, at some point, need to be put away. I guess I just assumed it would take care of itself. After all it had in the past. Whenever I needed a shirt or pants, there they were. I never thought about the work it takes to get them there. She sure does make it look easy. It’s not.
I have to go. Socks don’t match themselves.
Dan
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Checking in!
Just when you think more blessings can't possibly come...they do! We got the call today from Dr. Pensak's office stating that my tumor was confirmed to be an acoustic neuroma and completely benign! Praise GOD! We have always felt pretty confident about that but it sure was nice to hear for sure.
The day has been good...I got lots of rest and everyone else did all of my work. That is really new for me but I'm trying to follow rules and allow everyone to help. I am so grateful to have them all helping out because I surely wouldn't be able to do it with them.
So many of you have reached out on my blog and I know I haven't responded to each of you but I've read each and every one of your post. I thank you all so much!!!! The encouragement, support and prayers really keeps me focused and going strong! You all are awesome!
Until tomorrow...good night!
Jen
The day has been good...I got lots of rest and everyone else did all of my work. That is really new for me but I'm trying to follow rules and allow everyone to help. I am so grateful to have them all helping out because I surely wouldn't be able to do it with them.
So many of you have reached out on my blog and I know I haven't responded to each of you but I've read each and every one of your post. I thank you all so much!!!! The encouragement, support and prayers really keeps me focused and going strong! You all are awesome!
Until tomorrow...good night!
Jen
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Home at Last!
Hello everyone...I was able to come home today, thank goodness, and see my wonderful little men. Oh my gosh, I think they've grown since Thursday, lol. The roads were pretty good and it took us a while but we made it safe and sound.
I didn't realize how tired I would get through so after lunch I napped on the couch for a bit (for those of you that know me, I DON'T NAP...so weird but well worth it). Dan ran a few arrands for us and my mom, dad and step father stuck around and hang out with me and watch the boys. Okay so my youngest one, Landon, would not stop touching my head dressing. He would say, "When you gonna take that crazy hat off mommy?" It was to funny, innocent and sweet. After seeing me with for about 30 minuntes or so he was able to go play and not be so preoccupied by it...kids :0)!
I have to share this small story b/c I can't believe what my husband remembers sometimes. I have to take you back to the day that we got the call to see our doctor for the MRI results...Dec. 22. We knew something was wrong b/c I had just had the MRI the morning before so I took my children to a dear friends house, asked Dan if he wanted to meet me at the doctor and started to leave. I had missed a call at home about 30 minutes earlier and decided to make sure it was too important. It was a neurosurgeons office confirming my appointment for Dec. 24th to discuss my MRI. Now I knew something WAS definitely wrong. I dropped the children off w/my friend, whom I was going to have lunch with first but suddendly lost my appetite and called Dan to tell him. He was almost in Tipp (he must of known I was going to need him sooner). I met him the church parking lot and we sat and sat and sat. We had about an hour or more before I was to see my doctor so he says, "You want to eat, walk around, get a coffee...?" I couldn't even think but I had been in Tipp earlier that month to tour the homes and shops for Christmas so I said, "Let's go into this store I told you about and we'll walk around and look at the pottery." That's what we did and he had never been in those shops before so it was fun showing him around (as much fun as one could have at that moment). Anyway, after admiring all of the the sets of pottery, jewelry, collectables etc. we headed out for our appointment where we received our horrible news about my brain tumor (and then not knowing if it was cancer, benign etc.) so it was a pretty crappy day to say the least. Well the point of ALL of this rambling is while Dan was out yesterday he stopped by that shop and got us two new coffee mugs so now we can start our new, happy days tumor free. How cool is that? How does he remember everything? I just love him...he has been such a trooper through all of this...I don't know how I'll ever repay him.
Sorry for the sappy, tomorrow I get this fun, white dressing off of my head...yes!!! I've been trying not to scratch too much under it (Thanks Lynn for the pointers on that) but really it's the pressure on my head that it causes. It really hurts and makes it hard to sleep. So I'm ready, wish me luck tomorrow and as soon as I can get cleaned up and maybe we can post a new picture...if the scare is not too scary.
Love to you all and keep doing God's work...He's awesome and so are you!
Thanks for everything,
Jen
I didn't realize how tired I would get through so after lunch I napped on the couch for a bit (for those of you that know me, I DON'T NAP...so weird but well worth it). Dan ran a few arrands for us and my mom, dad and step father stuck around and hang out with me and watch the boys. Okay so my youngest one, Landon, would not stop touching my head dressing. He would say, "When you gonna take that crazy hat off mommy?" It was to funny, innocent and sweet. After seeing me with for about 30 minuntes or so he was able to go play and not be so preoccupied by it...kids :0)!
I have to share this small story b/c I can't believe what my husband remembers sometimes. I have to take you back to the day that we got the call to see our doctor for the MRI results...Dec. 22. We knew something was wrong b/c I had just had the MRI the morning before so I took my children to a dear friends house, asked Dan if he wanted to meet me at the doctor and started to leave. I had missed a call at home about 30 minutes earlier and decided to make sure it was too important. It was a neurosurgeons office confirming my appointment for Dec. 24th to discuss my MRI. Now I knew something WAS definitely wrong. I dropped the children off w/my friend, whom I was going to have lunch with first but suddendly lost my appetite and called Dan to tell him. He was almost in Tipp (he must of known I was going to need him sooner). I met him the church parking lot and we sat and sat and sat. We had about an hour or more before I was to see my doctor so he says, "You want to eat, walk around, get a coffee...?" I couldn't even think but I had been in Tipp earlier that month to tour the homes and shops for Christmas so I said, "Let's go into this store I told you about and we'll walk around and look at the pottery." That's what we did and he had never been in those shops before so it was fun showing him around (as much fun as one could have at that moment). Anyway, after admiring all of the the sets of pottery, jewelry, collectables etc. we headed out for our appointment where we received our horrible news about my brain tumor (and then not knowing if it was cancer, benign etc.) so it was a pretty crappy day to say the least. Well the point of ALL of this rambling is while Dan was out yesterday he stopped by that shop and got us two new coffee mugs so now we can start our new, happy days tumor free. How cool is that? How does he remember everything? I just love him...he has been such a trooper through all of this...I don't know how I'll ever repay him.
Sorry for the sappy, tomorrow I get this fun, white dressing off of my head...yes!!! I've been trying not to scratch too much under it (Thanks Lynn for the pointers on that) but really it's the pressure on my head that it causes. It really hurts and makes it hard to sleep. So I'm ready, wish me luck tomorrow and as soon as I can get cleaned up and maybe we can post a new picture...if the scare is not too scary.
Love to you all and keep doing God's work...He's awesome and so are you!
Thanks for everything,
Jen
Monday, February 15, 2010
I'm Back!!
Good morning all! Wow what an amazing group of people we have in our lives. You all rock and God heard ALL of those prayers, yippee!
First, before I go any further, I have to give my husband some serious recognition for taking care of my journal. He did a great job...jokes and all! Laughing is the best medicine and if it helped any of you during the waiting I'm sure it was doing the same or more for him. I know it helped me.
He is quite amazing that man of mine. I owe him big. Not only doing an awesome job on the journal, he traveled back in forth, stayed with the kids or at least made sure they were all taking care of and then took care of me. I couldn't ask for a better caregiver, best friend, father to our children and husband. Thank you Dan...you are the best!
As a warning...I'm sure he will sign off of this journal at some point and just know that I have NO control over him and what he might say, lol!
Back to you all...thank you, thank you, thank you for everything. The prayers, the visits, the comments, the support, the meals (I hear my family is being fed very well), the cards and much, much more! You all are the best support group a gal and family could have and I could never express how much you all truly mean to me. You are truly children of God watching over me and my family through his callings and we couldn't be more blessed. Okay I'm starting to cry so I need to move on.
I feel great and I must say, I look pretty darn good even with this head dressing thing on. It is starting to bother me some but I believe I get it off on Wednesday then I'll get to see how much hair is missing : )! Nothing my hair lady can't fix though! They were going to send me home yesterday...I know, I think they've lost their minds but once I mentioned I have 4 wonderful but energetic boys at home they told me to take my time. Don't get my wrong...I can't wait to get home and see them but they're not going to understand quite yet how I'm going to be and I don't want to overdo it and end up back in for something senseless.
Today it is snowing like crazy...I think we're suppose to get 7-10 inches or so in Cincinnati. It looks pretty coming down but I think I'll wait one more day to come home since I'm sure the roads will be messy.
Okay I'm rambling but before I wrap it up I have to personally thank our family. All of our parents and siblings (Dan's side and mine) have been helping us out with the boys so Dan can be with me and that has made this process go even more smoothly. Thank you all so much and I love you all more than you'll ever know.
I'm signing off for now and I thank you all for following this journey and allowing us to share it with you. It means more than you'll ever know.
Love to you all and God Bless (He is the real hero here),
Jen :-)
First, before I go any further, I have to give my husband some serious recognition for taking care of my journal. He did a great job...jokes and all! Laughing is the best medicine and if it helped any of you during the waiting I'm sure it was doing the same or more for him. I know it helped me.
He is quite amazing that man of mine. I owe him big. Not only doing an awesome job on the journal, he traveled back in forth, stayed with the kids or at least made sure they were all taking care of and then took care of me. I couldn't ask for a better caregiver, best friend, father to our children and husband. Thank you Dan...you are the best!
As a warning...I'm sure he will sign off of this journal at some point and just know that I have NO control over him and what he might say, lol!
Back to you all...thank you, thank you, thank you for everything. The prayers, the visits, the comments, the support, the meals (I hear my family is being fed very well), the cards and much, much more! You all are the best support group a gal and family could have and I could never express how much you all truly mean to me. You are truly children of God watching over me and my family through his callings and we couldn't be more blessed. Okay I'm starting to cry so I need to move on.
I feel great and I must say, I look pretty darn good even with this head dressing thing on. It is starting to bother me some but I believe I get it off on Wednesday then I'll get to see how much hair is missing : )! Nothing my hair lady can't fix though! They were going to send me home yesterday...I know, I think they've lost their minds but once I mentioned I have 4 wonderful but energetic boys at home they told me to take my time. Don't get my wrong...I can't wait to get home and see them but they're not going to understand quite yet how I'm going to be and I don't want to overdo it and end up back in for something senseless.
Today it is snowing like crazy...I think we're suppose to get 7-10 inches or so in Cincinnati. It looks pretty coming down but I think I'll wait one more day to come home since I'm sure the roads will be messy.
Okay I'm rambling but before I wrap it up I have to personally thank our family. All of our parents and siblings (Dan's side and mine) have been helping us out with the boys so Dan can be with me and that has made this process go even more smoothly. Thank you all so much and I love you all more than you'll ever know.
I'm signing off for now and I thank you all for following this journey and allowing us to share it with you. It means more than you'll ever know.
Love to you all and God Bless (He is the real hero here),
Jen :-)
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Sunday Night
The progress is amazing. We were able to walk the halls a little bit today. Luckily, Jen had the foresight to pack a robe. So down the hall we hiked in her bright pink robe. With the head gear she had on, she looked like a run-away Energizer Bunny (still going). But unlike the Energizer Bunny, she soon ran out of energy. She’s now back in bed and resting. I’m guessing she’s asleep for the night. I think she was sleeping before 9:00 p.m. on Valentine's night last year too. She's taken "not tonight honey, I have a headache" to whole new level. Show off. Oh well, this year I'll let it slide. It's time for me to head back north before the snow starts to fall here. Until tomorrow…..
Pictures-2
This is a picture from Sunday afternoon. She's out of bed and in the chair. Next up, walking the halls (after we figure out how to close the back of her gown).
Photos
Here are the photos as promised. You may find day one a little unsettling. It shows some facial drop. This photo was taken only two hours after surgery. As you'll notice on day two, the facial drop has gotten better. I can't wait to see what day three brings.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Update 8- Saturday Night
Tonight’s update:
The news continues to be good. Jenny has been moved to the floor, which is nice because now we aren’t bound to the visiting hours of the ICU. She has been up and about a couple of times. Eating a normal diet and able to speak to the kids on the phone. It’s amazing to think just 24 hours ago she was just coming off of her 11 hour surgery. She’s still sporting that “unique” head gear wrap but has an appointment to have it taken off on Wednesday. She looks like a cross between Rocky and Bullwinkle or a deranged unicorn. I am working on posting pictures and a video her dad made. It’s quite good and gives you look at her and shows her spirit. I hope to post it soon. I am taking a computer and her cell phone to her in the morning. She’s anxious to catch up on the blog and read what she’s been missing. I’ll update after tomorrows visit but if the blog tone changes, you’ll know Jenny has taken back piloting the blog, but I’ll say goodbye before I sign off for good.
The news continues to be good. Jenny has been moved to the floor, which is nice because now we aren’t bound to the visiting hours of the ICU. She has been up and about a couple of times. Eating a normal diet and able to speak to the kids on the phone. It’s amazing to think just 24 hours ago she was just coming off of her 11 hour surgery. She’s still sporting that “unique” head gear wrap but has an appointment to have it taken off on Wednesday. She looks like a cross between Rocky and Bullwinkle or a deranged unicorn. I am working on posting pictures and a video her dad made. It’s quite good and gives you look at her and shows her spirit. I hope to post it soon. I am taking a computer and her cell phone to her in the morning. She’s anxious to catch up on the blog and read what she’s been missing. I’ll update after tomorrows visit but if the blog tone changes, you’ll know Jenny has taken back piloting the blog, but I’ll say goodbye before I sign off for good.
Update 7- Saturday
Just finished the 11:00 a.m. visit. The surgeon was just in and he says she looks great. The MRI came back good. They are now looking to find a room to move her to from ICU. The facial weakness seems to be getting better too. Her smile is getting bigger as is her eagerness to get home. She says to tell everyone hello. I’ll post pictures soon. Next visit at 4:00 p.m.
Update 6- Saturday
I’m awake after a “great nights rest” in the NSICU waiting room. It’s amazing what people will discuss openly in front of someone they assume to be sleeping. As bad as you think things are for you at times, someone else always has it much worse. As we continue our prayers for Jenny and her speedy and full recovery, let’s add the gentleman I listened to this morning that is obviously struggling with his wife’s sudden illness. He kept saying, “I don’t want to go home, all I see are her fingerprints”. I don’t know his name and I never saw his face, but I felt his pain.
On a happier note, I spoke to Jen’s nurse earlier today. She had a good night (Jen, not the nurse). No problems. They just ordered her breakfast and she is doing fine. The doctors were just in to visit and said the surgery couldn’t have gone any better. She has an MRI scheduled for this morning to make sure everything looks good internally. After that, they hope to move her to floor soon (hospital talk for a regular room). Currently all rooms are full. She may have to spend another day in ICU, but that’s o.k. as the care she receives here is one on one.
Our next allowed visit is at 11:00 a.m. I’ll update everyone after that.
On a happier note, I spoke to Jen’s nurse earlier today. She had a good night (Jen, not the nurse). No problems. They just ordered her breakfast and she is doing fine. The doctors were just in to visit and said the surgery couldn’t have gone any better. She has an MRI scheduled for this morning to make sure everything looks good internally. After that, they hope to move her to floor soon (hospital talk for a regular room). Currently all rooms are full. She may have to spend another day in ICU, but that’s o.k. as the care she receives here is one on one.
Our next allowed visit is at 11:00 a.m. I’ll update everyone after that.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Update 5
We’ve been back to visit her twice. She looks good and is in great spirits. She’s even feeding herself ice chips. She also keeps apologizing to her nurse, saying “I’m sorry I am so tired. I’d really like to talk to you.” Unfortunately she has no hearing in her left ear, but we knew that was going to be the case. As soon as our youngest son heard this he yelled “yay! Now we can scream around the house again!” She has some facial drop on the left side. The doctor says this should only be temporary. She can now feel things on her left side of her face too. This is an immediate improvement. She is very nauseous, but that is to be expected. She has been a real trooper. She has even let us take pictures and videos of her immediately following to compare “before and after”. I promised her I wouldn’t post them on Face book….but I didn’t promise not to post them on her blog. Nah, I probably shouldn’t.
She told me that when she first woke up and heard voices, she thanked GOD and knew he heard all of your prayers. Thank you. Earlier I walked the hospital in an effort to find the most uncomfortable chair possible to try to make my place of slumber for tonight. Mission accomplished. Goodnight for now.
She told me that when she first woke up and heard voices, she thanked GOD and knew he heard all of your prayers. Thank you. Earlier I walked the hospital in an effort to find the most uncomfortable chair possible to try to make my place of slumber for tonight. Mission accomplished. Goodnight for now.
Update 4
The surgery is complete. She has moved from anesthetic recovery to surgical recovery and now to surgical ICU. We are now waiting in the NICU (neurological intensive care unit) waiting room for word we can go, back and visit. The report from the nurse is “awake, orientating and nauseous with really bad morning breath.” OK, I embellished the morning breathe part. Call it an "educated guess". The nausea part is true and can be expected after a 10+ hour procedure. I’ll update more as we are able to visit with her.
Update 3
The tumor is out. The doctors were able to remove the entire tumor. It was growing on the balance nerve, so that was removed with it. The balance nerve on the opposite side will eventually compensate. They still need to close and they anticipate that will take 2-3 more hours. After that, it’s to ICU for the night.
Update 2
Not much new to update. I guess that’s a good thing. All is moving forward as planned. No complications to this point. I did have a nice surprise. Don Toy, the minister whom married Jen and me, came to the hospital from out of state to sit with us. It was a nice surprise and has really helped pass the time.
Update 1
Surgery day is here.
After 17 minutes of sleep last night, surgery day is finally here. We arrived at the hospital at 5:45 a.m.,and after a quick registration and pre-op, she entered the O.R. at 7:27 a.m. The first incision was made at 8:12 a.m. Our 12 hour adventure has officially begun. I am anxiously waiting in the family waiting room with Jen’s parents (Keith, Karen and Duane). The hospital has obviously done this before. They have a “jumbotron” on the wall that allows families to track the progress of the surgery. There were some humorous moments this morning too, but I’ll let her fill you in on those. Just remember to ask her about doctor “McDreamier”.
After 17 minutes of sleep last night, surgery day is finally here. We arrived at the hospital at 5:45 a.m.,and after a quick registration and pre-op, she entered the O.R. at 7:27 a.m. The first incision was made at 8:12 a.m. Our 12 hour adventure has officially begun. I am anxiously waiting in the family waiting room with Jen’s parents (Keith, Karen and Duane). The hospital has obviously done this before. They have a “jumbotron” on the wall that allows families to track the progress of the surgery. There were some humorous moments this morning too, but I’ll let her fill you in on those. Just remember to ask her about doctor “McDreamier”.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Guest Blogger
Hello Jennifer Haas blog followers. I feel the need to introduce myself to all of you for I am the individual assigned to update her blog as she progresses through surgery in the morning. I feel so “Hollywood”.
I am her husband Dan, the lucky man that has been married to Jenny for 13 years. The way she has dealt with being tested and diagnosed, scheduled and preparing for surgery has been truly amazing to watch. What’s also amazing to me is the lives that she has obviously touched throughout her life. As most of you know, she has never met someone who didn’t soon become her friend. She once thanked a police officer for a speeding ticket and most of the drive thru food clerks and check out lane baggers in Tipp City know her by name. Therefore, I should not be so surprised by the number of people who have reached out to us during this time, but I am. Prayer chains, meals, counseling, groceries, prayers, hugs, phone calls, cards, e-mails, and the list goes on. I cannot thank each of you enough for all that you have done. I wouldn’t know where or who to start thanking.
But I would like to thank one person publicly. THANK YOU to my wife for the last 13 years of helping to continue to raise me. I promise I’ll grow up some day. I wouldn’t be half of the person I am today without her. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think to myself “I can’t imagine my life without her”. THANK YOU to the mother of my children for being such a great mommy. You have been a mom for 11 years, and never called in sick. You amaze me and inspire others. THANK YOU for everything.
You have always been there for everyone else, and now it’s now time for us to be here for you. Go into surgery in the morning knowing that everything will be fine. We’ll all be o.k. and so will you. When you wake up, we’ll be there, and whatever challenge presents, we’ll face it and get through it together. We all love you.
O.K., sorry to the rest of the blog “followers”, I went off script for a moment but thought it needed to be said. As you’ll discover, there will be an easy way to identify who is updating the blog. If the blog has an upbeat tone, Jen is your blogger. If it takes a more mono tone and gets boring or long at times, it’s me.
I don’t want to end my first blog so sappy, so I’ll share a funny story from earlier today. The surgeon’s office called to let us know the balance we’ll owe following the surgery. They then went on to tell us that if we paid it today, we could get a 10% discount. Who knew that surgeons run "today only brain surgery specials”? I would have done it, but I didn’t have my Kroger Plus card.
Until tomorrow..........
I am her husband Dan, the lucky man that has been married to Jenny for 13 years. The way she has dealt with being tested and diagnosed, scheduled and preparing for surgery has been truly amazing to watch. What’s also amazing to me is the lives that she has obviously touched throughout her life. As most of you know, she has never met someone who didn’t soon become her friend. She once thanked a police officer for a speeding ticket and most of the drive thru food clerks and check out lane baggers in Tipp City know her by name. Therefore, I should not be so surprised by the number of people who have reached out to us during this time, but I am. Prayer chains, meals, counseling, groceries, prayers, hugs, phone calls, cards, e-mails, and the list goes on. I cannot thank each of you enough for all that you have done. I wouldn’t know where or who to start thanking.
But I would like to thank one person publicly. THANK YOU to my wife for the last 13 years of helping to continue to raise me. I promise I’ll grow up some day. I wouldn’t be half of the person I am today without her. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think to myself “I can’t imagine my life without her”. THANK YOU to the mother of my children for being such a great mommy. You have been a mom for 11 years, and never called in sick. You amaze me and inspire others. THANK YOU for everything.
You have always been there for everyone else, and now it’s now time for us to be here for you. Go into surgery in the morning knowing that everything will be fine. We’ll all be o.k. and so will you. When you wake up, we’ll be there, and whatever challenge presents, we’ll face it and get through it together. We all love you.
O.K., sorry to the rest of the blog “followers”, I went off script for a moment but thought it needed to be said. As you’ll discover, there will be an easy way to identify who is updating the blog. If the blog has an upbeat tone, Jen is your blogger. If it takes a more mono tone and gets boring or long at times, it’s me.
I don’t want to end my first blog so sappy, so I’ll share a funny story from earlier today. The surgeon’s office called to let us know the balance we’ll owe following the surgery. They then went on to tell us that if we paid it today, we could get a 10% discount. Who knew that surgeons run "today only brain surgery specials”? I would have done it, but I didn’t have my Kroger Plus card.
Until tomorrow..........
Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due!
I haven't written in almost a week! So many wonderful things have happened and tons of amazing people have come into our lives. We are just so BLESSED and THANKFUL! That is the best way I can say it.
I do want to take a minute to give some credit though. While thanking you all for your prayers, emails, calls, cards, food, gifts, flowers...the list goes on and on, I want to take this moment to thank God! He is the one at work here. He is the one keeping me and my family strong. He is the one guiding you all to help us so selflessly. He is the one that will watch over my husband, children and me as we embrace this thing, get rid of it and move on. I am a better person because of this tumor and I'm sure glad I have God on my side to get me through it. He is AWESOME and through Him nothing is impossible. Thank you all for doing His work...I will continue to do the same!
Good Night and God Bless!
Love, Jen
I do want to take a minute to give some credit though. While thanking you all for your prayers, emails, calls, cards, food, gifts, flowers...the list goes on and on, I want to take this moment to thank God! He is the one at work here. He is the one keeping me and my family strong. He is the one guiding you all to help us so selflessly. He is the one that will watch over my husband, children and me as we embrace this thing, get rid of it and move on. I am a better person because of this tumor and I'm sure glad I have God on my side to get me through it. He is AWESOME and through Him nothing is impossible. Thank you all for doing His work...I will continue to do the same!
Good Night and God Bless!
Love, Jen
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Laying of the Hands!
Since I last posted a lot of things have happened...all good, one blessing after another. Each one leaving me filled with more love, amazing support and positive energy.
Wednesday I spent time with my oldest brother (it was his birthday) which we hardly get to do and that was very nice. I got home and had received a box, from my grandmother and aunt that live in Connecticut, filled with tons of new pajamas. They don't want my rear-end showing in the hospital in those gowns...their words, lol!
Thursday was my last mom2mom meeting for a while. It is always so uplifting and the women there are just amazing. They talked about "the touch" and how hugs make children grow and keep adults stable so everyone was hugging each other all morning (I think this just gave them an excuse to do what they normally do anyway). At the end of our meeting that morning they all gathered around me. I was a little confused at first (which it doesn't take much) and I said, "Oh what fun game are we playing now?" and one of the ladies said, "You really have no idea do you?" and she was right...I had no idea what was about to happen. These 20 or so women all said a prayer over me with their hands on me and I couldn't believe the emotion that came over me. I had never had this happen and had only participated once in the hospital with a sick loved one. I stood in the middle with my legs locked straight (which I can't do b/c I will fall over) and all of these women literally held me up (not even knowing they were doing so). I had relaxed and didn't even worry about falling over on to them b/c they were physically there for me to lean on. I've always known, but now I really know, that GOD is there for me and my family to lean on and it could not have been more obvious that morning. I can't thank those women enough for taking me out of my comfort zone and making me feel so loved and supported.
There’s one BIG thing that I don’t always mention that actually means the most and that is ALL of the prayers that people pray. Without prayer we’d be lost…our souls, our minds and our hearts. I may not be able to SEE all of those praying but I sure FEEL them and I can’t thank each and every one of you enough for your spiritual support.
God Bless You All!
Wednesday I spent time with my oldest brother (it was his birthday) which we hardly get to do and that was very nice. I got home and had received a box, from my grandmother and aunt that live in Connecticut, filled with tons of new pajamas. They don't want my rear-end showing in the hospital in those gowns...their words, lol!
Thursday was my last mom2mom meeting for a while. It is always so uplifting and the women there are just amazing. They talked about "the touch" and how hugs make children grow and keep adults stable so everyone was hugging each other all morning (I think this just gave them an excuse to do what they normally do anyway). At the end of our meeting that morning they all gathered around me. I was a little confused at first (which it doesn't take much) and I said, "Oh what fun game are we playing now?" and one of the ladies said, "You really have no idea do you?" and she was right...I had no idea what was about to happen. These 20 or so women all said a prayer over me with their hands on me and I couldn't believe the emotion that came over me. I had never had this happen and had only participated once in the hospital with a sick loved one. I stood in the middle with my legs locked straight (which I can't do b/c I will fall over) and all of these women literally held me up (not even knowing they were doing so). I had relaxed and didn't even worry about falling over on to them b/c they were physically there for me to lean on. I've always known, but now I really know, that GOD is there for me and my family to lean on and it could not have been more obvious that morning. I can't thank those women enough for taking me out of my comfort zone and making me feel so loved and supported.
There’s one BIG thing that I don’t always mention that actually means the most and that is ALL of the prayers that people pray. Without prayer we’d be lost…our souls, our minds and our hearts. I may not be able to SEE all of those praying but I sure FEEL them and I can’t thank each and every one of you enough for your spiritual support.
God Bless You All!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
My Cup Runneth Over!!
My cup runneth over...
I can't begin to explain how humbled we are by every person in our lives; be it GOD, family, friends, neighbors, church, the community and even strangers. The words of encouragement, the meals/goodies prepared or purchased with love, the calls and emails that are so touching, the cards received in the mail with words of everything from emotional support to belly aching laughter...I could keep going and going.
Early yesterday I received a call from Lynn (the unbelievably amazing woman that I spoke about in earlier posts who has gone through what I am about to go through and more) and she mentioned she would like to meet me in person and would tomorrow (today) be okay. Of course...it was more than okay...the fact that she was taking time out of her busy schedule to meet me was a blessing. I think I was glowing the rest of the day just thinking about it. (I'll get back to her later in the post.)
The day went on and around every corner was another blessing of some sort...some big, some small but ALL appreciated. Don't get me wrong...I have been blessed so much in life so it's not like I'm just now being blessed it's just that I'm now taking more time to realize what all is a blessing.
Last night we had a terrific dinner prepared by another amazing neighbor (we’ve gotten one every week and I have one thawing to bake for tonight from one of my loving daycare families) so as I stood in my kitchen thinking about how lucky I am, I had no idea how evident it would become. See on occasion I have a glass of wine with my dinner (especially Italian meals) and it just so happened I had some in the fridge (the box kind with the screw spout). So I baked the provided dinner, sat the table and waited for Dan to get home to have our family dinner. As I started to pour myself a glass of wine I felt so overcome with emotion and gratitude that I didn't realize the glass was almost full. I started to stumble to screw the spout closed and it wouldn't close. The wine starts to over flow EVERYWHERE; on my hand, on the floor, on my feet, on the counter. I started to get upset and thought, "Oh no what a mess and a waste" and finally I got the box over to the sink and realized that all along I was trying to close it the wrong way (blonde moment) and I just started to laugh and then cry and then laugh some more and mumbled to myself (as my children sat in shock to see how I was going to act b/c if they had made this mess I would have been irate) MY CUP RUNNETH OVER...with joy, faith, love, happiness, worry, appreciation, anxiousness and on and on. What a day!!!
This morning I met Lynn...could she be any more amazing? She suggested McDonald's so Landon could play while we talked. She brought photos of herself right after her surgeries, she let me see her hair that's growing back in and where the scars are, she offered to help in any way possible. She doesn't even know me...how cool is that? She let me see a REAL person that has gone through what I'm about to go through and she's GREAT...no problems! I know I will be great too.
This afternoon the door bell rang and there was the UPS guy with a package. As I am typing this I received yet another blessing...dear friends of ours just sent me a beautiful blanket with the inspiring words "warm embrace" throughout it and right in the middle is says "Jenny's Journey". It is just so overwhelming how much people care and I can't thank you all enough!
As I sat to type this today I wondered if I would have much to say...seriously me have nothing to say?!?!?! I know this was long but it really keeps me focused when I journal...you all just pay the price for it, lol!
Thanks again for EVERYTHING you ALL do...it is ALL so appreciated!
Lots of love,
Jenny
I can't begin to explain how humbled we are by every person in our lives; be it GOD, family, friends, neighbors, church, the community and even strangers. The words of encouragement, the meals/goodies prepared or purchased with love, the calls and emails that are so touching, the cards received in the mail with words of everything from emotional support to belly aching laughter...I could keep going and going.
Early yesterday I received a call from Lynn (the unbelievably amazing woman that I spoke about in earlier posts who has gone through what I am about to go through and more) and she mentioned she would like to meet me in person and would tomorrow (today) be okay. Of course...it was more than okay...the fact that she was taking time out of her busy schedule to meet me was a blessing. I think I was glowing the rest of the day just thinking about it. (I'll get back to her later in the post.)
The day went on and around every corner was another blessing of some sort...some big, some small but ALL appreciated. Don't get me wrong...I have been blessed so much in life so it's not like I'm just now being blessed it's just that I'm now taking more time to realize what all is a blessing.
Last night we had a terrific dinner prepared by another amazing neighbor (we’ve gotten one every week and I have one thawing to bake for tonight from one of my loving daycare families) so as I stood in my kitchen thinking about how lucky I am, I had no idea how evident it would become. See on occasion I have a glass of wine with my dinner (especially Italian meals) and it just so happened I had some in the fridge (the box kind with the screw spout). So I baked the provided dinner, sat the table and waited for Dan to get home to have our family dinner. As I started to pour myself a glass of wine I felt so overcome with emotion and gratitude that I didn't realize the glass was almost full. I started to stumble to screw the spout closed and it wouldn't close. The wine starts to over flow EVERYWHERE; on my hand, on the floor, on my feet, on the counter. I started to get upset and thought, "Oh no what a mess and a waste" and finally I got the box over to the sink and realized that all along I was trying to close it the wrong way (blonde moment) and I just started to laugh and then cry and then laugh some more and mumbled to myself (as my children sat in shock to see how I was going to act b/c if they had made this mess I would have been irate) MY CUP RUNNETH OVER...with joy, faith, love, happiness, worry, appreciation, anxiousness and on and on. What a day!!!
This morning I met Lynn...could she be any more amazing? She suggested McDonald's so Landon could play while we talked. She brought photos of herself right after her surgeries, she let me see her hair that's growing back in and where the scars are, she offered to help in any way possible. She doesn't even know me...how cool is that? She let me see a REAL person that has gone through what I'm about to go through and she's GREAT...no problems! I know I will be great too.
This afternoon the door bell rang and there was the UPS guy with a package. As I am typing this I received yet another blessing...dear friends of ours just sent me a beautiful blanket with the inspiring words "warm embrace" throughout it and right in the middle is says "Jenny's Journey". It is just so overwhelming how much people care and I can't thank you all enough!
As I sat to type this today I wondered if I would have much to say...seriously me have nothing to say?!?!?! I know this was long but it really keeps me focused when I journal...you all just pay the price for it, lol!
Thanks again for EVERYTHING you ALL do...it is ALL so appreciated!
Lots of love,
Jenny
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)