Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Tuesday, September 3

One step forward, two steps back (or maybe three). This morning, Jon became unresponsive and his breathing labored. The neurologist called for an immediate CT scan, which showed that the swelling had increased. They gave him medications to reduce the swelling and decided to send him to Kaiser Redwood City -- the main neurology center. An ambulance ride later, we were in Redwood City talking with a neurologist about our options. He drilled a small hole in Jon's head to insert a pressure monitor. If the medications were not working and the swelling was increasing, he would drill another hole to drain the liquid. If that did not work, he would remove part of the cranium.

Now for the good news: the medications were working!  The pressure on Jon's brain had gone down, so he did not need more surgery. He is totally knocked out and will stay that way for up to a week. With the pressure monitor, they can measure the swelling (as opposed to the continual neuro checks).

We are exhausted, but so relieved that Jon has made it through again. My parents are here with me. Thanks to Renee for our emergency preschool pick up and to our good luck charm (Michael).

8 comments:

  1. Hang in there Liz. We are thinking about you at all times and counting on Jon to pull through this with his amazing strength, endurance, and determination. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help if you need extra hands with anything.

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  2. Sending lots of love and positive thoughts. It sounds like a scary day, but it's so good to hear the medications are working. Hopefully a few days of complete rest are just what Jon needs for the healing process to kick into action. Thank you for the updates, and please let us know if there is anything we can do for you, Jon, or the kids.

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  3. You two are so strong! We so appreciate your updates. Brent & I check for them each day. Sending big hugs again to you, Jon & the kids!!

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  4. You are amazing, Lizzie. We love you guys so much & check for updates every day with bated breath & fingers crossed.... thank you for this. I admire you so much &hope you know how loved you are as a wife, mother, daughter, & friend..... xxxoooo erin & ryon & the mini-me's....

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  5. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hope to see you back soon, Jon. We miss you! Stay strong!
    - VID Team, Philippines

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  6. The brain resting is a good thing, even though it is scary. Don't insist to yourself that you must stay strong for everyone else. It is obvious that you have a huge support group and it makes them FEEL BETTER to be called upon. I love you all more than I can say.

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  7. Thinking about you both nonstop! Hang in there Elizabeth! Love you both!

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  8. Jon and his resilience during this recovery process is a true testament to the strength and support his loving wife and the rest of his family have extended, and I'm in awe of the flowing positivity circulating throughout for our dear friend. Thank you SO MUCH for keeping us updated, with both the good and bad- we'll keep rooting for him, as hard as we can, regardless. Love you guys, we're all here for you.

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