Hospital Stay - Day 7

We are wishing that we could share an update that described an incredible day of progress with lots of good news. Well, it just hasn't happened that way! Since last Saturday night things have been just about the same.

Jodi still has the lumbar drain. This has gone on for three full days now. Unfortunately, the spinal fluid leak continues. Because the leak is still there the doctors just decided to increase the amount of the drain to be more aggressive. It will be more than 10cc's per hour starting tonight, but we don't know the exact amount yet. They want the body to seal over the hole, of course, and want her to be leak free for at least two days before they are willing to let her leave the hospital. We really, really need this to happen so surgery won't be necessary. We continue to pray this will be the case.

An optomolgist examined Jodi's eye today. Because of the malfunctioning eyelid and the concerns with the eye drying out causing damage to the cornea, Jodi is now receiving special eye drops and hourly eye ointments. If these don't solve the problem then the doctor said he would need to suture the eyelid closed to protect the cornea.

One of the big challenges remains the problem of not being able to move. She feels sore all over from laying in basically the same position for seven days now.

The hearing in the right ear is still not there, but the "noise" she has been experiencing is lessened. That helps!

Her facial paralysis continues, yet there is gradual progress in being able to control more and more of her mouth. Right now she can move maybe 70% of it. That's not enough to smile, but it makes it easier to eat. We've been bringing her fresh raspberries, strawberries, blue berries, and black berries. These have been a real treat and a nice break from the hospital food. She also enjoyed some instant peaches and cream oatmeal we fixed for her. That doesn't sound like much, but it was great compared to what the hospital provided for breakfast. Actually, many of the meals have been pretty good and the people here try hard to find things that taste good and that are soft enough for her to chew.

In fact, the doctors, nurses, and aids have been wonderful to help in whatever ways they can. We are grateful for all they are doing.

Jodi continues to be uplifted by your comments on the blog, your calls, and your emails. These truly are the rays of light that shine through the pain, the discomfort, and the long hours. Thank you!

Honestly, as Jodi's Dad I wish I could give all of you a hug to let you know how grateful she is and we are and what a difference you are making! I wish I had a better command of language to describe how much you really have meant to Jodi and all of us. May God bless you!!!