Watch Out!

When one decides to visit Lisa, you don't know what to expect. Ron and I had "feisty" Lisa yesterday. (Urban Dictionary Definition: Excitable, spirited (can sometimes mean irritable or easy to anger) From the German 'fist' which means a small, aggressive and lively dog.) Of course she was happy to see us. Yes, like always, she tried to ignore us, but when I announced I brought her some cards, she was more receptive and clearly thrilled! Ron gave her a squeeze ball. When squeezed, it laughs really obnoxiously. She laughed too. She enjoyed it(at first). She put it in her right hand (to hold it so it wouldn't squeeze), then I squeezed it. WATCH OUT! She QUICKLY grabbed the ball with her left hand and threw it across the room aiming towards Ron and laughed! She loves Ron :)

She is improving everyday! I was fortunate to be present to watch her walk w/assistance on the parallel bars. She really wants it! She wanted to try again, but was quickly tired out. Ron and I were thrilled to see that determination! She is able to sit up with a neck brace pretty comfortably for an hour or longer. When she is sitting up, she is encouraged to eat which also tires her out. Her room is decorated with butterflies, cards, balloons, and flowers that she has graciously received from everyone. It's "The Happy Room" as the nurses call it.

Good luck tomorrow Lisa! I can't wait to hear how many steps you took! Just one step at a time! Just one day at a time!

Just one corner of Lisa's Room....

Sunday

5-30-10
I was on a mission to find Lisa a better pin wheel, I went to Walgreen's they had none so I went to the Dollar store and found just exactly what I was looking for. So I headed up to her room and of course she was sleeping but I woke her up to tell her there were people from the Irving apts. up there to see her, she woke up right away, it was so nice to see her alert, she really enjoys when they come up to visit her. I asked her if she was hungry she said yes. I got her tray ready to eat and she ate a couple of bites then the speech therapist came she sat her in the wheel chair to eat, which is nice to see her sitting up. The speech therapist was making sure she was eating, and making sure she swallowed her food and chewing her food good, she really was doing a good job. She is still on soft food chewing food takes alot of work and makes her tired.
Dad came up to visit her for the 2nd time, he left when I did. I pushed the nurse button and Lisa said she wanted to get ready for bed, they came in and we told her good night and we left.
Just seeing Lisa do simple things like taking a fork to her mouth and eat, takes alot of effort, it makes you appreciate the little things in life, like being able to eat with no effort, putting one foot in front of the other, watching TV, moving every part of your body. It's just amazing how everything works.
I know Lisa will be able to do what once came easy for her, but it's going to take time. One day at a time. She's already doing better each time I see her.
Oh by the way the pin wheel is good for her lungs that's why they like her to have one.

"It'll get better"

I took my kids and Joe to see Lisa on Saturday. She was having a really rough day. She is so sleepy, so lethargic. I tried, really hard not to cry...but I woke up crying and it just wouldn't leave me. I am taking this so much harder than I want to. I want to be strong, I want to be hard core, I want to not hurt. But I am none of that. I want it to be a bad dream. But it isn't. Lisa was supposed to be recuperating at my house and she was intending to go home to her apt on Memorial Day. That will not happen. I am trying really hard to understand, but I can't. It hurts.

I was in the room with her yesterday, just the two of us. I was standing right in front of her so she would not fall forward. I was eye level with her and looked straight into her open eye and said "Lisa, I am so sad" as I started to cry. She had her left arm around me and pulled me closer to hug me and she consoled me and said in the most gentle and reassuring voice, "I know, it'll get better" and I told her I love her.

Yes, I know. I know it will get better, it has to...I know she will walk again, in time. I know she will be strong, and I know she is teaching me...she is teaching me to be strong. I have promised myself that I will not cry in front of her again. She does not need someone, her sister, to feel sorry for her, or for myself. She needs me to encourage and to be there for her, like when we were kids...to hug her for every accomplishment, no matter how small it is. She needs someone who will love her for who she is today, not for what she was last week. She needs me to forgive myself...and I do too.

Visit

Friday, 5-28-10
Parker and I went to see Lisa, I said Hi Lisa and she goes Hi Karen, she said you just missed the Irvin people they just left 1/2 hour ago. She told me all her visitors that she had, so I decided to start a little sign in, so if and when anyone visits we would love if you would sign in on a piece of paper the date, name, time in and out when you came to visit.
Lisa tried to move her right side but could not move it. She does not complain at all that she cant move her R side or see that well, she told me she was tired. Lisa is trying to keep her head straight but it is a struggle. I know how positive we need to be but it's very hard to see Lisa like this, I leave her and cry. I just hope and pray that she will be able to walk and get back work like she wants to and get to her apartment.
I had a phone call from the director of rehab and he said that they have set her target date to for her to get out June 17, I said what if she needed more time he said that they evaluate her weekly that as long as she is improving, if she needs more time they will change accordingly.

I almost forgot to say that I had a visitor today at the store he was a neighbor, Pat M he has not changed except that he has lost over 150 lbs. he has downs and is just so cute. I told him about Lisa, he told Sissa to get better and blew her a kiss, I got it on video and showed Lisa and she said he always does that. He's all about his sounds, he makes sounds like a motorcycle, boat, and many more, Lisa got a kick out of it. He always called dad buckco. Dad would always say whats your name he goes 2 ton and I go what are you know he said 1 ton. Buckco is 2 ton. To bad Dad missed him.

Therapy

I was with Lisa when she was evaluated. The OT came in and gave her a chair bath and then helped her get dressed. Lisa's right side is limp but she tried really hard with her left hand to get dressed. She didn't get mad at all, she was just tired. After that the PT came in and tried to get Lisa to stand up. She is able to stand with assistance. Her right foot/ankle needs a brace so she does not hurt herself. Her foot turns in. I don't think she can feel it. We went down to the gym and we worked on the parallel bars. Lisa is once again, strong on the left and not on the Right. She has a hard time bearing weight.

She looks good, but is not able to hold her head straight up or keep her right eye open for any length of time. She is still on a puree diet but is able to take pills with apple sauce. That is an improvement. I am thinking she needs to be on a soft food diet now, but the speech therapist will determine that. Karen told me that she will change rooms tomorrow. She is not where the action is, and they want to move her closer to the other patients rooms, which are closer to the work out gym.

I know that she is in a better place, I just get irritated that they can't take care of her the way we would, and that they don't know her. That is with anyone you love, but Lisa has her habits and schedules and unless you know her...you don't know.

She had some visitors today!!!! She was excited to tell me that her friends from the Irvin's came to visit.

 She will have therapy on the weekends too, just not as much. She will work on getting herself dressed and getting mobile, be it wheelchair, walker, cane or walking...we hope that her right side will wake up soon.

Cover Girl 1979

Lisa was very fortunate to achieve "Cover Girl" status! The year was 1979! I was 9! She had only just begun! By the time she retired, she set new records and achieved more than anyone could imagine! With this determination, she can only set new records and we truly believe that! Thank You Heather and so many others for helping her and all Special Olympic Athletes reach all that potential!

GO LISA!!!!

We are Back!!

Karen and I went to get Lisa at St Francis this morning, they had her ready to go. We were in that place less than 20 min. and on our way out the door several techs stopped us and hugged us and told us to keep in touch. They fell in love with Lisa. We took her International Gymnast magazine and some other interesting letters and articles about her so they would know how far she had come since she contracted encephalitis.
Everyone who has ever read about her, connect with her in some way and they love her. As we left, we each had tears in our eyes. We have a long, hard road ahead of us...but we will take whatever is given us.

We stopped by the store to see Dad and Carolyn, then to her apt to grab some clothes and shoes. We arrived at Bro-Menn at 12:15. They were waiting for us and were very accommodating. Lisa has a very good group of nurses. The director of Rehab for the hospital personally came out to get her in the wheelchair. He was so good with her and to her. He grabbed her gait belt and helped her out out of the car and sat her in the chair. She is not able to stand or turn on her own. He mentioned how strong she was and told her that she was going to do great!

We wheeled her up to her room and hung out there the rest of the afternoon. The nurses came in and talked to us for awhile, they are getting to know Lisa abit. Lisa is talking alot, she has her opinions. She is not focusing out of her left eye, isn't tracking. Permanent damage??? we don't know right now. They will figure it out. She is in good hands. We are so happy she is here.

Visiting hours are at 4:00 until whenever she is tired...8:00-8:30. She is ready to see other people, let me tell ya! She wants people to come see her, and it would do her good to know how much she is thought of, and not forgotten. She is in room 365.

She has received many cards...so we plastered them all over her room. Let's just say it is very colorful! She will be able to look at them on any 3 walls she can see! With each card given, she has looked intently at each one and when read the contents and the people who sent them, she replies, "that was nice of them" or "that was sweet"

She practiced signing her name today, she did very well. I don't know if she can read though. She was not able to tell us what was on the cover of a notepad...her initial "L".

She is still very sleepy, has her eyes closed alot, but I think the light hurts her eyes. She is not complaining of much. We asked her if she wanted meds for her headache, she not not until 8:00 pm. We finally got her to take something at 4:30. She still has a fever but it comes down after Tylenol.

Tomorrow she will be assessed in speech, OT, and PT. I will be with her to help interpret for the assessors what she could do before and to interpret to Lisa what they mean. I don't think there will be any problems. I am thankful she can talk. That is a plus, and those rehab people have worked with much less than Lisa can do. She will be just fine.

When asked about her arm and how she can't move it she just said, "It will take time" She is right. She is teaching me that it will take time...I need that reassurance.

Lisa's Address

Thanks for praying for Lisa's recovery!

Today is September 14, 2010. Lisa is now at Bro-Menn Hospital.

One step closer

Karen and I are going to go get Lisa today, if all goes as planned. Amy left Lisa late last night.
Amy got there sometime in late afternoon, after the funeral. We taped it as promised for Lisa.
Lisa's fever spiked up again last night and Amy went to told the nurse. Apparently, when Lisa was moved to a different location, she was not given the care that we feel she needed,  so Amy waited until shift change and talked with the new nurse, who was much, much better than the day nurse.

We are SO EXCITED to have her in Bloomington!
Karen talked to the people at the rehab center, they have strict rules:

• no visitors until 4:00 pm each day
• tennis shoes only for Lisa--she likes her sandals
• bring her own pillow, 4 sets of clothing changes, her own blanket
• medicare will pay for the 1st 20 days (I think)

The facility is a 10-20 day facility ONLY! If she needs more, she will have to go to a rehab nursing home.

I talked to Amy on the phone last night and she gave it to Lisa. I talked to her for a few minutes. She is in good spirits. I talked to her about her progress and she just answered my questions. Like pulling teeth, she doesn't offer any information.. I asked her if she knows what happened to her and she answered "no" I told her she "had a stroke...do you know what that is?" the only thing she said is "I will get it back"
She knows, but I pray that she will work as hard as she can and understands how hard she will have to work. Looking at her now, we need a miracle.
I hope that she knows  how much she is loved...not just by her family but by all of you who have shown support and have followed this blog. She has a long, hard road in front of her and in order for her to get back to the life before this surgery, she needs encouragement, more than the average person. Lisa is a hugger. She loves to be hugged and calls us once in awhile to tell us who hugged her that day. She is a joy!

Specific prayer requests:

• the right therapists for Lisa (stern but encouraging)
• Lisa's determination- to get herself better
• Lisa's attitude-she has developed an "I can't and I won't" these past few years
• regain right side control within 20 days
• her eyesight to improve
• God to work his miracles in Lisa, so she will, and everyone will give him all the glory.

I will post more later today. She needs to get out of Peoria now, she needs to get the help she needs, and deserves.

CHEERS!!! Back to Bloomington

Lisa got accepted to be transferred to Bro-Menn Hospital in Bloomington to start Intensive Physical Therapy. We are anticipating transfer by Thursday. I can't really say she is better today. She has a hard time keeping her eyes open and sitting up. Since she has a hard time seeing, she thinks her eyes need to be closed. She told me "When I can see, I will keep my eyes open"! PT is going to have fun with her!

Lisa put me in my place today, letting me know who's the big sister! It was 10:10pm, I called Karen to give her updates and asked Lisa if she wanted to talk to Karen? Lisa asked me "What time is it?" I told her it was a little after 10. She said, "It's time for bed and I can't talk long". She reluctantly spoke to Karen and said "Good Night, I have to recover!" Lisa told me to put her phone away and she will return calls tomorrow.

I'm thankful her memory is still in there! I'm thankful she wants to go home! I'm thankful we are able to be there for her! I'm thankful for everyday we have with her! I'm thankful she will be in Bloomington where she will be able to have her friends and family close by to support her! Most importantly, I'm thankful for answered prayers(keeping her memory)! Please continue to pray for Lisa's recovery. She needs stamina, patience, protection from illness, and a speedy complete recovery!

Processing

Ok, I am home now and am able to process better what the day was like with Lisa.
I will elaborate what I wrote earlier today, and my conversations with Lisa. She is funny. She is mouthy with me with an attitude to boot! Just the way she says things, makes the nurses and therapists laugh out loud.

This morning was hard, hard for me to see. I tried not to cry, but it didn't work. I am sad, so sad to see her so lifeless. I keep thinking that she should be at my house, recovering, getting ready for the weekend and her going back to work in a week or so...but that is not the way it is. She was so tired, and so lathargic. Her right arm is paralyzed, she says she can't feel my touch and then other times she can. She cannot squeeze my hand and she cannot move her arm. It is puffy and swollen from not moving it. The OT came in 2 times to work with her, but she was too sleepy. The PT came in and made her try to move her legs, and her arms, she is very weak. I helped with therapy, encouraged her way more than the PT did, but I knew how much it was helping after I practically did cartwheels! not really. But I was able to touch and encourage with rubs and lots of praise. She had a couple of "mmm's" in there, meaning "I'm doing good!" She worked sooo hard and had so little accomplished, but it was huge. I'll take it!

I went out of the room for a bite to eat and came back to Lisa getting frustrated and yelling, yes, yelling at the nurse for asking the same questions over and over. The nurse had her move her hand and she didn't want to, the nurse was too sweet and was trying not to make her mad. Lisa finally said, "you're hurting me too much and I'M NOT GONNA DO IT!" Seriously, she was mad and that was the end of it, she was done. Ignored both me and the nurse. The nurse kinda laughed, but was kinda hurt by it. She walked away and I stood there and had a talk with Lisa telling her that she needs to listen to the nurses, and answer their silly questions in a nice way so she can get out of there. I also let her know that she needs to eat alot more than she has been so she can get stay strong and get out of here. She said she would.

She made the nurses laugh with her opinions and the way she talks to me. I once found that annoying, but now I find it amusing and I am grateful for it. Dr Ergene came in and told me that he thinks she will come out of it in a few weeks! REALLY??? I hope so, but I am skeptical...stay positive right? I asked about the MRI and was shown the pictures of it...very interesting. It was explained to me that the dark spots are the blood and the big dark spot is where they took out the seizure activity. There is a tiny circle as big as a pea that is on her brain that caused her stroke. It is in a very important part of her brain.  Anyway, it is visible and they believe that she will have 90% recovery. She needs to go to a rehab floor in BroMenn and stay there until she is able to function on her own. They have every confidence in the world that she will be independent again. I was glad I was there, because they made me believe it too. It just does not seem like it right now, today...because I see how hard it is for her to hold her head up.

Lisa was very sleepy but posed  for this picture

What started out as a really rough day for me and for Lisa I think, got better as the day progressed.
Karen and I made the decision to tell Lisa that our step brother, Russ died (the day of Lisa's stroke). I waited til Dad got there and then told Lisa.
K "Lisa, I have some bad news to tell you"
L "What Karla"
K "it is sad news Lisa"
L  "what?" alittle irritated
K "remember when Russ was in the hospital and he was sick?"
L "yes"
K "well, he died" I waited
L "that's too bad"
K "I know, and tomorrow is the funeral, so we will tape it for you so you can watch it"
L "that would be good. thank you"
K "sure!"
About 20 seconds passed and she says to me...
"I hope that doesn't happen to me" she said it kind of sad, kind of asking me...
I looked at her and said, "oh honey, that is not going to happen to you, you are strong and you are going to get better...you need to listen to the therapists and the nurses...You will need to work really, really hard to be able to get back to your apartment and you will need to do the same things you did when when you first learned gymnastics, remember how you had to do things over and over?"
L "Yes, I do"
K " You will have to work super hard and not get mad at people if you can't do something, do you understand?"
L"yes"
K" We won't let you give up Lisa, and we are going to help you...all of us"
L "Ok"

I had tears in my eyes as I was telling her this, she knows, and she understands. She will work hard. And she will succeed. She is Lisa.

Good Day

I got here at 8:20 this morning, I am just now able to get on the internet.
Lisa was not doing well this morning, she was alittle lippy with me, but that is normal. It was hard for her to open her eyes. She had a pint of blood being pumped in to her IV because her levels were down. That is out now. She is stable and is getting stronger.

this is her MRI from last night the dot in the middle, upper left from the curser, is the spot where her stroke occured.

Dr Invergo the resident dr came in to talk to me. She showed me her MRI and let me take a picture of it. It is cool to see the difference in the size of both hemispheres. MRI showed a small little stroke called an ischemic stroke. She has more movement in her R shoulder but not her arm...just yet. She should be in Bloomington in 2 to 3 days.

She was able to kick me, just barely, with her right let and pretty good with her left. She sat up in bed, on the side for about 5 minutes and tried to hold her head up straight, it was hard but she did it. She is spastic in her neck from not being able to move it. She hopes that she will be OK. I assured her that she will be, but she needed to eat and stay strong and have the right attitude. She answered me with "I hope so..." I told her I wasn't going to let her give up, and she said "Ok"


More later, Dad is here and I will need to go...Lisa will be moved to the main floor when a bed is open for tonight...I hope she gets rest, as this will be the first night that we will not be here to spend the night with her, b/c she is in ICU right now.

It's 5 :30 am

I got home about 10:15. Lisa is still in ICU and she was going to her MRI when I left her. She is talking when she "can keep my eyes open...they burn" She is much more responsive than yesterday. She is in there, she is definitely in there. She does not know she had a stroke, when I talked to her. She ate very little. Drank her DP though. She is a fish when it comes to that stuff.
Dad came up and brought 5 cards with him, I unsealed them, and had her get them out of the envelope, which took some time. I read them to her, she can see them and knows colors and looks at the pictures. I read what everyone wrote and how they know her, through her sisters,etc. She LOVES them, to her, cards and hugs show her how much she is loved. Hugs especially are how she accomplished everything she accomplished all those years ago...it is what will help her this time too.

I called Beth, her nurse at 11:35, I couldn't sleep. She told me that she did well in her MRI. She told me that she got concerned about her at 11;00 and called the on-call Dr. Lisa's blood pressure went down again, she put on oxygen, was confused, didn't answer questions appropriately, doesn't know where she is at...the Dr came in and examined her, he thinks she is exhausted, just tired. They put her back on the drip and she was doing better.

I called again at 2:00 and the nurse said she is better. The Dr. explained to her that she could be having sub-clinical seizures, it is when the outside of the body does  not show activity. Sometimes,when the part of the brain that caused the primary seizures is removed, it wakes up another part that was sleeping. That could be happening. OR she is just so tired.

My dear friends, Mary and Lori, came up to sit with me. Lisa was so happy to see them. She took one of their hands a brought it up to her lips and kissed it. She answered their questions. She was ready for her MRI. When I told her that I was going to get some rest, she said, "that is fine" I told her I will be here in the morning. She was fine with that. She wanted to know about the other girls...Mary and Lori. They came up and Lisa kissed them both and thanked them for coming.

I am going back this morning. They are going to move Lisa to Bro-Menn Hospital in Bloomington when she is stable and strong enough to transport. I hope by the end of this week. Please pray for Lisa, if ever there was a time, it is now.
Please pray for God's will.

I love you Lisa!

MRI soon!

I got here about 1:30 or so. Karen was booted out because Lisa got a new roommate. I came when Karen was gone...was called over to the desk to answer some questions about Lisa's medical history from the MRI dept. They are going to do an MRI sometime later today. I am thinking we won't have results until tomorrow because it is getting late and the techs will probably be gone by the time she gets out...we will keep you posted.

I went to find Karen, she was eating in the cafeteria and we sat for a bit...(Karen and) I walked in and saw Lisa laying in bed. She was resting, she had a busy morning seeing so many therapists. She was talking to Karen who asked her to guess who was here, "Karla!" not a question, but a statement. I scooted up to her and talked to her. She answered all my questions and she is still Lisa. I am so thankful she can talk. It is really, really hard though to see that she is not able to move her right side very well and her right side of her face is droopy. That is so hard. On the bright side though...the nurse says that she is doing great! the things she can do are all very encouraging and she is so much better today than yesterday. Yay! I am going back to her in a few minutes, the nurse is going to get her up in the chair for a while so she can eat. She is on a puree' diet right now. She is holding food on her right side.

I will post more when I watch how well she does.

We are feeling your support! Thank you so much.

Recovery

11:30am

Where do I start? We have seen just about everyone this morning. So I'll start in order.

The Occupational Therapist(OT) came for a baseline easements and wanted more history on Lisa. I updated her on her independence before she came in and what she was doing before her surgery. They want her to have OT in the hospital to get back her independence. It's still too early as to how long it will take. Lisa was able to sit up in a chair, and is still sitting! She is slumped over to the left, having a hard time sitting straight up.

OT also asked her to put her sock. Lisa put her left leg up on her Right leg to get the sock on. She had little assistance but knew how to do it. She is having delayed reaction but is able to process what is being asked of her. GO LISA! That is positive! It's going to take a long time to recover, but she just might show us all! She has a history of that!

Dr. Ergene was in and said that she had a stroke. He was puzzled because that normally doesn't happen and that this is a set back for Lisa, he seemed a bit sad.

Dr. Tracy came in, asked her to move her right hand. She cannot move it, but with help she was able to move her shoulder. He thought that was a plus! He said after this type of trauma/stroke that she is doing very good. He is pleased with her recovery this far.

It is noon and Lisa is eating on her own she is doing a good job, it's a bit slow but she's getting it down.

The speech therapist just walked in and is watching her eat and trying to talk to her to see how she is doing, Lisa said "you just have to let your food settle down". She getting back to her old self just a bit slower. Ate 50% of her meal on her own.

She's off to sleep, still sitting up in the chair. She is getting a new roommate soon so I'm sure I'll be out of here. They are just getting her back to bed.

What is a stroke?

Caleb came home from school today and asked me how Aunt Lisa is and "WHAT IS A STROKE"? I couldn't really explain it to him so I said, "Let's GOOGLE it". Here was what we found out.

What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts . Without blood and the oxygen it carries, part of the brain starts to die. The part of the body controlled by the damaged area of the brain can’t work properly. Brain damage can begin within minutes, so
it is important to know the symptoms of stroke and act fast. Quick treatment can help limit damage to the brain and increase the chance of a full recovery. What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a stroke happen quickly. A stroke may cause sudden:
• Numbness, weakness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the
body.
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes. You may have double vision, or things may look dim or
blurry.
• Confusion or trouble understanding.
• Slurred or garbled speech.
• Trouble walking. You may feel unsteady, dizzy, or clumsy.
• Severe headache.

What causes a stroke?
There are two types of stroke:
• An ischemic stroke develops when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. The clot may form in the blood vessel or travel from somewhere else in the blood system. About 8 out of 10 strokes are ischemic (say “iss-KEE-mick”) strokes. They are the most common type of stroke in older adults.
• A hemorrhagic stroke develops when an artery in the brain leaks or bursts. This causes bleeding inside the brain or near the surface of the brain. Hemorrhagic (say “heh-muh-RAHjick”)
strokes are less common but more deadly than ischemic strokes.

Caleb seemed to be satisfied with the semi-technical information google provided. An MRI will be done today to see what kind of stroke Lisa had. They are thinking a hemorrhagic stroke. But don't quote me on that just yet!

5-24-10

9:00 am
Today is Monday, Lisa is still in the Neuro Critical Care Unit, they have strict visiting hours. You can not sleep in her room and the can not be in the room from
4:30 am to 8:30 am
3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
11:00 pm to 12:00 am

We are asked to step out when they need to do special things for Lisa. I talked it over with the sisters last night and saw that she is getting excellent care and decided to not spend the night so we could get some good rest. There is a nurse her her room at all times unless they are getting meds. So I felt comfortable leaving her last night, but felt a little unease since this is the first night we have not been there.

Karla called a 4:30 am and talked to the nurse she said that Lisa was doing better than when she took over at 7:00 pm. She was eating applesauce and they were able to give her meds with that. She was asking for her Dt. Pepsi and talking more.

I walked in at 8:30 I said good morning, I asked her if she knew who I was and she said yes, I asked her who am I she goes Karen. Lisa is more easier to wake up than yesterday and is talking more, the nurse said that her vitals are good and during the night she had a fever but gave her Motrin and that took care of it. Lisa is on a neo drip which they started yesterday when I came in, said that she is needing much less than yesterday. That is for her blood pressure.

They asked me to step out so they could give her a bed bath, that was 10 min. after I was able to get in. Today they are going to give her an MRI, I asked the nurse who will be in there with her she said that she would be, it takes about 1hr to 1 1/2 for that. I was in there when she had one 4-6 months ago. It is very loud and she squeezed my hand the whole time. She did well so I hope she will have no problems today.

Karla said she would be leaving around noon. Then I will go home and pick Dalton up from school it is his 8th B-Day today.

Thank You

I wanted to thank everyone for your thoughts, prayers, and love shown toward us. I am speaking for myself, but know that Amy, Karen and Dad share this with me. We are now at the beginning of a different life for Lisa and for all of us really. We don't know what the future holds, how much time will be needed or what will be needed for that matter. We need to stay positive, but realistic. Lisa is strong, she is one of, if not the most strongest person I know. I have my times, as we all have during this past week, when I just sit and have a pity party for myself. I worry, but that does no good, I think about Lisa's future, but that is futile too. I ask why? and know I shouldn't. I trust that God is protecting Lisa and that is true. I pray for full recovery, and know that sometimes what I think should be, is not what He knows to be the absolute BEST. So, I will continue to wait for His timing...and try to remember in my heart that He is in control...my head already knows...

Thank you again for your sweet notes, and cards to Lisa. She needs your encouragement and so do we.
God Bless
Karla

6:00PM

I come in at 3:00, Amy, Dad and my cousin Cris were downstairs as Amy was getting ready to leave. Had to be out of the room from 3:00-4:00. I came up later and saw Lisa she is sleeping very hard, It's a challenge to get her to respond to questions. I did ask her if she knew my name she said yes I said what is it she goes Karen. They have been keeping an eye on her blood pressure and her temp. When I came in it was 102 so they gave her Motrin for the fever and Tylenol for her pain.
Her Blood presser is low 119/56 so they are giving her med's for that. They are keeping a close eye on that. The nurses keep asking her name and she starting to yell LISA she knows she's in the hospital but says it September.
Tomorrow she will have an MRI they want to see what kind of stroke she possibly had.
We just need to keep praying for our tough little Lisa.

Recovery - First Day After Surgery

9am: Lisa is hanging in there. She has severe facial droop and tounge deviation. She was running a high temperature, meds are keeping it down. She looks and sounds the same as I left her early this morning. She is not saying much. I think she's wondering why she can't move her arm and why her vision is compromised. Hard for her to process. Hard for me too! She's very independant, this will definitely (According to a new study, "definitely" is the most misspelled word in English. Thanks google) not be an easy road for her. We'll be there for her all the way. Nurse's and Dr's are wonderful with her. She is very cooperative. They plan to sit her up in a chair today.

12pm: The Speach Therapist evaluated Lisa. She has a hard time chewing her food and pockets it on her right side. She's very hungry and thirsty, but she needs to learn how to eat again. She's sleeping a lot today and is very lethargic. The nurse is giving her a sponge bath per Lisa's request. She asked to be washed first thing this morning. I'm waiting for Dad to arrive.

Please continue to pray for recovery for Lisa! It's going to be a long process for all!

I Need Get Out of Here

Lisa is comfortable now, finally sleeping. She wants to go home!

Amy: Hi Lisa, how are you?
Lisa: I NEED TO GET UP and GET OUT of here!
Amy: Lisa, you need to get better, you may be here for another week.
Lisa: I CAN'T stay here for another week!
Amy: Can I take a picture of you so you can see why you need to be here!
Lisa: YES
Amy: You may be moved to another room depending how you do today.
Lisa: GOOD!
Amy: Lisa, we will be here with you the whole time.
Lisa: I am resting now!

Lisa has a room-mate as of early this morning. I call him "uber-moaner". Last night we had "nazi-nurse". Just my luck. Uber-moaner is causing her blood pressure to go up and she is not happy. She's glad nazi-nurse is gone! She asked for a radio to drown out his moans.

Waiting Game - Surgery Day

9:30pm: Lisa's face/eye(left-side) are swelling. Her right side does look stronger. She's shifting alot with her left side. They fed her graham crackers and applesauce. She was not chewing properly, the food is pocketing on the right side of her mouth. She is having a hard time swallowing. She gulps instead of sipping. They won't give her anything until the speech therapist comes in tomorrow to evaluate her swallowing and her speech. She asked for pain medicine. The nurse keeps telling her to keep her hands away from her face. Her eyes are shut. She seems to be resting comfortably.

She does feel her feet and her arms. Tomorrow she will have a CT-SCAN as a general post-op baseline. When the swelling goes down (4-5 days), they will do another CT-SCAN to determine the deficit of the stroke.

10pm: Lisa's moved her right leg, not alot, but better! She keeps getting in trouble with the nurse for touching her head. Not saying a word... sneaky girl....

12am: She is lifting her right leg significantly and shifting alot! Not so much her right arm and her mouth droops on the right. Looking stronger! She favors her left side and she is also left handed. I took a picture of her, she said "light". She knew who I was and wouldn't smile for the camera. The art of silence she has mastered. If you stand on her right side, she cannot see due to the "Visual Right Field Cut Deficit". This is most likely permanent. But remember, it is Lisa! I'm kicked out of the room for tonight. I will try to get some sleep!

The nurse wanted to give me a heads up for tomorrow. She will be in alot of pain, the swelling will be significant. She probably won't be able to move her right side at all.

Recovery

Lisa is in ICU Neuro-critical care #24. Her right side is paralyzed at the moment. They suspect a stroke but level of deficit is unknown. A CT-SCAN will show how big the stroke was, location and size. Nurse Katie informed us the stroke will not show up on a CT-SCAN for 24-48 hours after trauma.

Dr. Tracy just came in to check on her. Lisa is able to kick out her right leg, but her arm and face are still weak. He expects her right side to recover at 90%, but it will take some therapy.

He explained she now has a vision deficit in both eyes. A "Visual Right Field Cut Deficit" to be exact. For instance, if you look at an object, she can only see half of the object (the right side). A circle is now a half circle. This probably won't change. But this is something she can get used to.

Just looking at her right now and her right side looks stronger! GO LISA!! Karen asked her if she wanted to sit up, she shook her head no! She wants Dt.Pepsi. It's 5pm

A few minutes have passed... she pushed out her right arm and drank her Pepsi. Her face is still weak.

How to post a comment

Click on the post (like She's Out) click on comment you can leave a message,
beside comment as: there will be a drop down menu you can click anonymous and that should do it.
We get an e-mail saying there is a comment and will relay all the messages to Lisa.
Thank you for all your prayers and thoughts.

She's Out

Dr Tracy just talked to us. Lisa is out of the O.R. She is not awake just yet. He told us that he took about 3.5 inches X 1 inch (thick) on one part(central?) and 1/4 inch (cubed) on her lateral lobe. He did say that she is weak on her right side, which is common from this type of procedure. It is the same affect as if she had a slight stroke. Which is possible (this was one of the risks). She will need to be monitored and if she continues to have problems, she will need to have an MRI in the next few days. If there was a stroke, she will need to stay here several more days. 


We will be able to go see her in an hour or so. The operation took 3 hours. 

Please pray for complete recovery. Dr Tracy was very nice and answered our questions. We will pray that she will recover fully and be able to come home to recover, early next week.

Lisa Surgery

We are in the waiting room, the OR nurse called at 10:35 said everything was going good. They would give a call around noon with an update.
Russ Bell got a lesson from my father, he wanted to see his licence
You take the last 5 number of your IL drivers license.
The fist 2 numbers of your last 5 numbers is the year you were born.
Divide the last 3 numbers by 31 and remainder is the day you were born and the top number is the month OK dad said this is getting confusing my dad is having a hard time explaining.
This is an example:
Last 5 digits is 63078 the first 2 numbers of the last 5 is the year you were born. Take 078 divide that by 31 (which is 1 month) that = 2 with the remainder of 16 take the 2 add 1 month = March 16 1963 so do we have you all confused this is what we are doing. The curve ball is if it were a women you subtract 600 from the last 3 numbers then do your dividing.
All this to get his Birthday when all he had to to is ask me. :) By the way you have to do math the old school way.

We are here

Lisa went into surgery at about 8:45 am. She was ready! We were ready. Dad and Karen arrived here at 6:30. Lisa and I were up at 5:30 and waiting for them to show up. Russ Bell arrived after Lisa went to surgery...The surgery will last 3-4 hours, alittle more intricate than first believed.

Lisa was so cute, we asked her if she needed to go to the bathroom at 6:40 she said "no. I will wait til 7:00" 5 til 7 rolls around and she decides that is close enough to 7 and now she needs to go. LOL!

Lisa was talking to Amy asking her where she was! She will be with her tonight.

I think we finally got it down...at 4:00 this morning Lisa was needing more pain meds, so I came over and tried to explain to her that she can have better medicine than tylenol. She looked at me kinda funny and said "good!" I told her that when her head hurts again, the way it did on Monday and Tuesday, she can have some really strong medicine that will make her head feel better. She said "Ok" I told her to not be afraid to tell the nurses that her head hurts. She said "good."

Dr Tracy will go in and take 2 parts out of her brain; one on the bottom and one at the back of her head. All she cares about is keeping her memory in there. Sweet.

Thank you for all the cards that you have sent Lisa loves to open them and we are taking pictures like crazy up here! They (Karen, Dad and Russ) tell me I need to go to sleep, I am a little on the grouchy side. It was a long night, but I did get about a 4 hour nap in.

It's all good!

It's about 7:15 on Friday night, Lisa ate really well, gave me all of her saltine crackers that she doesn't like. Nurse just took vitals and her blood pressure is up a bit. Hmmm, wonder why? Poor thing, I can tell she is getting nervous. She is not talking much, has her finger up to her chin and has a far away look in her eye. I asked her about it and she said she is nervous as she patted my hand twice. We took a long walk on 2 floors, she is doing well. I am showing a picture of her incision just so you can see what she is enduring. Click on the picture for a larger view.
She was unhooked from all monitors at 2:00 this afternoon. She is done being monitored for seizures, hopefully for the last time.

One of the highlights for Lisa was having some company from the apartments where she lives. They brought her some cards signed by all who work and live there and a large banner that says "Get well soon Lisa" It is colorful and looks awesome in her room. We taped it up and she looks at it often and smiles. Thank you to the Irvin gang for making Lisa feel special. You all are awesome!!!


Her surgery tomorrow is one that the doctors are confident about. The seizures are coming from an area in the brain that is fairly common for seizures to come from. I will show the picture I took in a different post.

Lisa is in bed and trying to sleep right now. She has been sitting up for a few hours and was sleeping when company arrived for about 20 minutes. She is zonked and will sleep really good tonight.

Surgery

Lisa just had a chest x-ray and she is looking good. Nurse Lisa said surgery is on as scheduled!

Lisa is getting worried again. She's mad at me because she does not want to go to anyone's house to recover. I told her all her options, it will be up to her to see where she will end up. I'm guessing Karla's as she will be home working on her garage sale and the kids will be in school so Lisa can rest during the day.

Lisa Surgery

The Dr.'s came in and said that surgery is on for tomorrow at 8:00am they said this is a trama hospital if something happens over the weekend she will get bumped to Monday. Let's hope that everything will go as planned.

Lisa is asking for her Dt. Pepsi she is doing good today her spirits are still up.

Pictures from my cell phone

Top Left, Lisa before Dr. Tracy put the Vegas Nervous Stimulator 1-23-08
Top Middle Lisa and her Pepsi she loves 5-2-07
3rd top 4-4-07 , Top Right Lisa at hotel before VNS 1-22-08
Bottom left, Dalton, Karen and 1/2 of Lisa (oops) at Miller Park watching a play.
Bottom Middle, Lisa and Dr. Tracy drawing on Lisa :) 1-23-08
and then Lisa waiting patiently 1-23-08

Saturday at 8am

Surgery has been scheduled for Saturday 8am.

I talked to Lisa today on the phone... She was wondering where I have been! I got a call first thing from Karla to call her b/c she hasn't heard from me. I have a knack for calling when she is asleep...

Lisa: Hello
Amy: Hi Lisa, what are you doing today?
Lisa: Not much, just taking it easy (too funny, like she has a choice)
Amy: Glad to hear that. Are you getting bored?
Lisa: YES! Are you coming soon?
Amy: YES, I will be there Saturday
Lisa: Been wondering about you
Amy: It's Olivia's recital week, it's crazy here, hair, makeup, ect.
Lisa: Laughs... (I'm sure she remembers growing up going to recitals)
Lisa: I bet, when are you coming?
Amy: I will be there as soon as I can on Saturday!
Lisa: Well I hope so!!!
Amy: Just look for me when you get out of surgery
Lisa: I WILL
Amy: I Love you! Let me know if you need anything
Lisa: Ok.. I Love you too! CLICK....

What a joy it is to talk to Lisa! Nothing has changed, she's inquisitive as ever and happy to here my voice! I love that girl! I was in tears this morning b/c I haven't seen her since the beginning of the week, but I am so excited to spend the night with her on Saturday!

Karen's Memories with Lisa Ann

Some of my fondest memories with Lisa, just warning you I will jump all over the place as I remember, forgive me as I'm not the best writer.

I remember growing up with Lisa you didn't want to make her mad because when she hit you, she hurt you. Lisa is very strong and was not afraid to hit you as hard as she could, but that didn't stop good old Karen who probably was the worst in aging Lisa on. We fought good, one time I was in the basement we had a space heater, well somehow I made Lisa back up and kept backing up until she sat on the heater and ended up with 3rd degree burns on her legs. She was even tough then I don't remember her complain about how bad that must of hurt.

I also remember when we took care of Mom on Tuesday's Dad would go to his auction sale and Lisa, Karla and I went to Miller Park and have a little picnic and eat our Avantis or we would stay home and I would bring home Lasagna and Tortellini from Beningo's, since I'm on a roll with eating, when mom drove, Lisa and Mom for lunch everyday would go to Kipp's and have the same thing, bean soup, corn muffin and cheesecake.

I don't remember the year I'm thinking it was back in 94 give or take 5 years, but Lisa and I took a little trip to Bocca Raton, Fl we went on a air boat ride walked the beach, I do remember when we were on the beach Lisa had a seizure so we didn't stay to long. We went to a park I think it was called Red Reef Park we had a picnic or we thought we would until we had a couple little visitors called Squirrels, they would not leave us alone we had food that they wanted or food Lisa would yell at them to get away we ended up leaving and eating at the hotel. Lisa to this day says she hates squirrels. On the way home I remember I drove home without stopping that would 1255 Miles I googled it, when I got tired I would stop off the shoulder and take a cat nap. Lisa would nap with me then finally we made it to Illinois and I said to Lisa as she said nothing half the way home. I told her she could go to sleep, you don't have to keep me up she goes good and went right to sleep. So in her mind just her staying up with me not saying a word was enough to keep me going. I thought that was so cute.

I also remember for about 2 years or even longer she would call me every night and tell me that Wheel of Fortune was on.

I remember I always fought with Lisa when was little, I guess it was because I was the baby, it was until I got older I appreciated her, when Mom died I knew she needed me even more and that is when I stared taking care of her like my Mom would of wanted me to. She means the world to me and cant imagine what life would be with out Lisa.

A few little quotes she always tells me

I just wanted to tell you
That's good thinking
I just wanted to tell you
Well your my sister
I just wanted to tell you
You hit him for me
I just wanted to tell you
Guys are wierd
OH did I say, I just wanted to tell you

It's about midnight, I'm going to get my cot ready to get some sleep myself I sure hope I didnt bore you to much.

Before Lisa'a 1st Surgery

Amy & Lisa, Lisa & Karla, Lisa & Karen

Lisa Ann

1st picture, Dad and Lisa, 2nd picture is Lisa playing with one of the games Dolores and Karen C. gave to Lisa and the picture of the Brain is the area that her seizures are coming from where you see the numbers. When the Dr. comes in tomorrow I have a few questions for him I will try to explain later so stay tuned.

What started out to be a rough day for Lisa has ended not to bad. Lisa had a good meal, and is doing good with her breathing exercises. Dad came up to see Lisa around 5:45, yes that does mean he closed the store early, he said just a 1/2 hour early. It is a long walk to get to her room so I brought Dad up in a wheel chair. Dad stayed till 8:00 and I'm back up, Lisa got up to use the restroom and then off to bed. The nurse said her lounges sounds clear, it might be a long day waiting for Sat. to get here for Lisa.

Lisa's Picture

Lisa fell asleep, Nurse Candace said around 10:30 Joe grabbed a pencil and started sketching, she said he was very focused, when he was done he just laid it down and never showed anyone.

I think he found his new calling in life, Lisa on the other hand does not like it. She told me to tell Karla to hit him when she sees him. I think its pretty cool.

by Joe Jenkins

Looking Good

Lisa is loving the cards, just a few pictures of Lisa opening her cards and Pastor Steinbeck in the lower right corner, the top left picture is how I left Lisa yesterday she was not looking so good. So when I came in and saw her sitting up in a chair what a blessing. So keep the cards coming and thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers.

Address one more time:

Lisa Taminger

C/O West Side Clothing

1014 W. Washington

Bloomington, IL 61701

It's Karen's turn tonight I relieved Joe around 12:30 he looked excited to see me. Thank you Joe for staying with Lisa, I think she actually enjoyed having you.

Lisa is having a better day today. I walked in she have me a big hug and kiss then another. Then said well you my sister. When I left her yesterday she was in bed and had a hard time staying awake. So it was great to see her in a good mood.

Pastor Steinbeck visited Lisa and read scripture Psalm 121 she told him that she liked to walk he thought that passage was fitting for her.

Lisa is watching TV and is calling people, asking them to visit her already. She just went back to her bed to rest.

Sydney nurse Candace has the same birthday as you.

Have you ever?

Saturday, May 22, 8:00 am. Surgery is tentatively scheduled.

Have you ever wanted something so much that when you didn't get it, or things didn't go as anticipated, or as planned, that you just felt like the whole world is worthless? That is how I felt this morning. When Joe called me to tell me the surgery was called off; I was shocked! This couldn't be happening. I hurried up and called Karen, and Amy and had Karen call our pastor and Dad and I needed to blog about it so others would know and would be able to keep the prayers coming. This was before I walked out the door to take the kids to school and to go to Michele's full day field trip for part of the day. She was happy I could come, but didn't care (didn't show that she cared) if I was there. That is how she is. It's all good.


I remember when Dad was going to have surgery a few years back, for his hip, but they did a heart test first and we were anticipating the results at any minute. When he got the call at home that the surgery was called off, I was with him...why? I have no idea...but he put his hands over his face and would not let a tear fall...but he wanted it to. I remember feeling so incredibly bad for him and I cried for him. He wanted his hip surgery so bad, because he was in such pain.


I have been wanting this for Lisa for a long time. I don't know how much Lisa has wanted this, I never will, but I wanted her to not have seizures, because she doesn't want to have seizures. Mom and Dad didn't want her to have seizures. So once again, God is teaching us something. He and He alone is in total control. Lisa doesn't understand it, I don't understand it, but God does and that is enough.


My favorite scripture verse is from Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding..." God knows whats up, He knows what she can handle and knows what is the very best for her. She is in His hands because He loves her more than we do. So we will wait. We will wait for the spot on her lung to go away and we will pray that everything will happen in God's perfect timing. It always does. It always will.

No Surgery Today, maybe Friday, most likely Saturday!

Karla just called, informed me Dr. Tracy came in and told Lisa (and Joe) if Lisa does really really good doing her breathing exercise every hour on the hour, they can do surgery tomorrow! Most likely it will be on Saturday. Joe told us she is very upset. We are so thankful that Joe is with her (last night and today).  He is very encouraging to her and keeping her spirits up.

If it were one of us (sisters), she would not be as cooperative. When I was there yesterday, she just started using her breathing tube.  Of course she was having a hard time figuring out how the "darn thing" worked.  She kept breathing out instead of in. They now have a pinwheel in the tube, so that made her  very happy.  Ahh... the little things!

By the way, she is sitting up in a chair!  

NO SURGERY TODAY!!!

Joe just called, it is 7:50 am.

He told me that there will be no surgery today. Lisa has a spot on her lung and they think it is pnuemonia, she will need to do breathing exercises every hour, on the hour to hopefully clear it up. She will not have surgery until that is clear. It might be tomorrow but I will keep you posted.

2nd Surgery Today at 2pm

Today is Lisa's 2nd surgery. Dr. Tracy and team will be eliminating two(2) sections of the brain that are causing her seizures. I had to ask "Do they know what they are doing?" I/we are confident and in total support of their expertise. They are of course brain surgeons!

We are nervous and anticipating her outcome.

Your prayers and support are so appreciated and felt! Please send direct prayers for the surgeon and recovery! Also for Lisa to sleep!

Love, Peace, and all understanding to all!

Can I have the remote?

Ok, so Joe is at the hospital with Lisa, he got there mid afternoon. He's been talkin' to the nurses and learning things about Lisa, I'm sure. She ate well, loved those potato chips, downed her diet Pepsi and saved her Rice Krispie treat for later. He has witnessed the usual questions 3 times so far. If he doesn't know her birthday by now, he needs to have brain surgery:) The same goes for todays date and year.
I just got an email from him telling me that she needs pain meds to knock her out  help her sleep and so he can get the remote away from her. LOL! He is just kidding, I think:)

He confirmed with the nurse that her surgery will be at 2:00 on Thursday.

Shift Change

Mr. Jenkins has just arrived it is 3:30 and I will be heading home.  So I'm sure if there is any change he will call Karla and she will be back in charge with the blogging.  It has been fun, I'm glad you bared with me for my fist time blogging.  By the way Lisa is sleeping.
Karen

Lisa Surgery

Lisa's 2nd surgery is set for tomorrow (Thursday) May 20th, 2010 at or around 2:00 pm.

Dr. Tracy will be taking 2 sections of the brain.  One is easy to get to and the other is not.

Surgery will take 2-3 hours, she could go home as early as Friday, possibly Saturday.  We are hoping for Saturday.  I bet she'll go home Thursday night.  OK just kidding.  She will not be able to go home to her own apt. as she hoped for.  Please pray for us, as a family, to figure out the best place for Lisa to recover. 

The time still could change so if anything is different I will update everyone as soon as we find out. Lisa had a good lunch ate about 70% of her food and I'm sure worried where shes going after she leaves the hospital. 

11:00 Am

Hello, Lisa started coming around about 10:30.  She is sitting up in her bed.  Wanted to watch the Price is Right, so I sit down got all comfy cosie then she goes Karen can you turn the TV up, so I go and put her speaker on the right side of her ear so she could hear better, she is watching Who Wants to be a Millionaire I sure do but they didn't ask me :)
Nurse Lisa came in and said they want to put her back on her regular med's and that her surgery will be tomorrow but still needs to get everything in order.  So until then  I'll be talking to you later, Love Karen 

Still Waiting

Lee called Dr. Tracy's nurse to see whats going on, it is time to give Lisa her med's and needed to know if she should give her her seizure med's.  So she is talking to the Doc as soon as I find out I will get back with everyone.

Memories of Lisa...from her dear gymnastics coach

Heather is our very dear friend. She has known Lisa from the beginning, the very beginning. I received this email from Heather on Monday, the day of Lisa's first surgery and shared it with my sisters. We all had tears falling and laughed at the same time. This is a testament of Lisa's influence on others...
It is my privilege to share this. Thank you Heather. You are very dear to our entire family.

Hi Karla,

I just found about the problems for Lisa, and her upcoming surgery from
Chari. I feel so sad and want to share a memory or two. Lisa will always be dear
to me. Your mother was not only a good friend, but often like a sister. We
confided in each other the way sisters do. I remembered the day your mom told
me about Lisa's sickness. We also lived in the same trailer court as Lisa and your
folks. We visited alot, and talked about the messy environment the trailer court
was kept in. I believed that this is how Lisa contracted viral encephalitis
I was shocked, because I was around the same stuff with Kim. I am not sure who left
the trailer court first, but we still kept in touch. I remember the day I called
your mom, and said to her I think it's time Lisa started dance lessons. She became
so quiet and remarked about all Lisa's problems. It took me about a month
or so to convince her that it would not hurt Lisa and maybe could help. If
not it may be just something she and I could do together. It was decided that I
would teach her in my basement where I taught all the other girls and a few boys.
Lisa would have private lessons and I would work with her first to see how she
progressed .After a few lessons in just dancing I could see she wasn't
very interested, so I took her upstairs and we did a couple of things on the carpet,
like the pencil roll, and she could push up to a bridge with my assistance. She
laughed, I think it made her feel different..Before the lesson was over, Kim came
home from school. When she saw what we were doing, she joined us. Lisa was
excited and watched Kim, then she wanted to do the same thing. Lisa wasn't as impressed
when I did them. So, Kim became my assistant and we scheduled Lisa classes
after school so Kim would be home. It was during this time that Lisa learned
the forward roll and a few other simple things. When it came to the head stand,
your dad participated and Lisa was delighted and just had to do what dad did. Then
I remembered your mother told me she did and could still do a cartwheel. So mom
was in charge of that. That was the beginning, and Lisa's hard work led the way.
I began to put skill moves together and she practiced at home of course it had cartwheels
and headstands in it. When I realized she could learn and remember the sequences
I knew we could do it. So, after a year she began two classes, one still
at my home and the other at a dance studio I rented with another teacher down town
at Knights of Columbus Hall. I loved teaching her gymnastics with the other students
and she would even try dance steps, because the girls made her feel good. When Lisa
would not try or pay attention I would be stern with her and the other students
got mad and told me to treat her nicer. I explained to them, that Lisa could do those
things she just didn't think she could. So, we got along and she progressed
even more. Than that studio burned down and I got the one by myself on East street.
From there you know the story because you began dance at the new studio.

Now when Lisa learned her first floor routine.I wanted her to be
in the Special Olympics, but they said she was too young. I remember your
folks and I going to Chicago and attending a type of gymnastics workshop.
I talked with many and so did your mom, I think your dad was there also at
that moment. And they said that they would talk to the Administrators and see
if they would except Lisa because of her skill level which was way above most her
age. At that time I became a volunteer with Special Olympics to coach Lisa and help
others as well. It was nice Karla when you became her coach you were so supportive
of her. Lisa, became a champion when she first started in the Special Olympic
Program. She never complained about anything I asked her to do. She had the right
attitude and worked hard and made herself the champion she became. She deserved
everything that came to her in her competitive world. She earned it!! I am
happy she had the experience and enjoyed her run. A few years after her competition
years were over. I was teaching at The Children's Foundation and for some reason
had my picture in the paper. Lisa talked to me and said it was about time I had
my picture in the paper, because when I was working with her it was she that had
her picture in the paper all the time. When Lisa is your friend, you know you
have a lifetime friend. .I am now volunteering in a Marcfrist program. It is for adults
and I hoped Lisa would be there. It is during her work hours
so she can not make it. Marcfirst use to be called Marc Center. Reason I have
done this. Is my fondness for Lisa and a way to help many of her friends, You see
I always ask them if they know Lisa. Those that have said yes, say what a wonderful
person she is and they wish she could be with us, but she is working. Commitment
is what Lisa is all about. A beautiful soul. One I am privileged to know. Thinking
about Lisa, your whole family, and praying for you and with you. As ever, Heather.

 Heather is part of the reason that Lisa is who she is. She is so humble that she would not agree to that statement. But it is true. Lisa loves her and I cannot imagine the sister I would have today (nor do I want to) if it were not for her.

Good Morning

It is 6:30 Lisa had a good night, she slept all night long and had no seizures, they started her regular med's yesterday, apparently they recorded plenty of activity.  We are waiting for the Dr. to come in and tell us what they think.  It is 7:00 and Lisa breakfast has arrived and looks like she eating well.  I fell asleep around 1:30 and work up at 6:30, I woke up a couple of times but slept very well I had a cot to sleep in so it was nice sleeping.
Karen

12:30 am

It's bedtime, Lisa has been sleeping took some more pain pills and she fast asleep.  I hope I can sleep as good as her, I'll be giving you an update shortly.
Karen

8:00 PM

                                                                                                Karla, Karen, Lisa and Amy

I was sitting in the hallway talking on my phone,  Dr. Ergine walked by and said that he would be talking with Dr. Tracy tomorrow.  It sounds like the second surgery will be on Thursday.  We won't know until tomorrow the exact time and date.
 

We have a new nurse, she just asked Lisa if she wanted any pain medication, Lisa said "not right now"!  She asked her the routine questions, Lisa passed.  The nurse looked at her and said "that must hurt?"  Lisa said "yes" and she asked again "do you want pain meds" and Lisa said yes.  Do you want it now or in 20 min with your other meds. Lisa said "whatever is best" the nurse said "its whats best for you". 

That's our Lisa she doesn't want to bother anyone.  The last time she had pain meds was arouund noon.  Let me tell you, if that was me, I'd be asking for meds every 4 hours!  It's 8:35, I'm getting ready to go downstairs.  Lisa is resting but has to wake up to take her meds.  She's asking for Dt. Pepsi so things are normal here.  

Dad and Lisa 5-16-10

Karen's Round

Hello everyone, 


It's my turn to step in.  I am a novice at blogging, but I'm going to give it a try.  I have some big shoes to fill.  Karla did a great job.  Thank you for all your wonderful information.  

My post started at 3pm.  I walked Dad and Karla out and off they drove.  I hope Karla gets some rest tonight.  Dad and I arrived at  the hospital around 1:30.  Lisa was sleeping soundly!  Karla mentioned she had a couple of major seizures.  Needless to say it was very nice to see her get some rest.  Her appearance has changed quite a bit since I left last night.  Her left side of her face is swollen and she can't open her eye.  

5pm:  She ate a little bit of her sandwich, a couple bites of green beans.  I tried to put some fruit on her fork she pushed that away to get to her rice krispies treat.  She had a hard time staying awake but got a little bit of food in her system before she dosed off. 

I asked Lee, the nurse, if she wanted some of Dad's chocolates, she said she wasn't much of a chocolate girl but she would try it.  Jason across the hall heard chocolate and came running but had to wait cause Lisa had to go potty.  So close, yet so far away!  He waited patiently and took a handful before he went home.  More Ladies came across  and got some candy because Jason said it was great they like the peanut butter balls.  Good choice that's my personal favorite.  

Off to get something to eat, back by 6:30 to watch Wheel of Fortune with Lisa.  Hoping I'll be watching it on my own, she needs to sleep!

Yay!!!!!!

With the seizures that Lisa has been having, the data shows that it is coming from an area that they can get to fairly easy and that she will have her 2nd surgery as early as tomorrow! Woo Hoo!!!! Wednesday! We are thrilled! The nurses and the doctors are pleased with this info too.

We moved her over to to 3406 about 11:15. She was in the next room 3 years ago for her external observation. The staff were eager to get started monitoring her. She is still out of it at this point. Her Mac and Cheese is getting cold...

Dad and Karen are coming over this afternoon. I might be coming again tomorrow. The nurse is telling her that she is in her new room, that her sister is here and that she will get her something for pain.

This surgery; if it works, will be an answered prayer that my mom prayed for as long as she was alive. I pray it will work!

Lisa in 2007-prepping for the external observation

More Data!

As I was moving bags into Lisa's new room on the other side, I came back at 10:30 and walked in on a GTC generalized tonic clonic, or grand mal is the old term. It was 2 minutes in length and it totally wiped her out!!!! I was in there for 15-20 minutes and she is so tired. This is her 5th seizure so far. The nurse was in her new room and is waiting for her, she just needs the orders. Interesting.
She was given more meds, had some adavan and Dr Ergene was called in and looked at her data. He said that it was anterior which is good. He did say though that it spread over her other lobe. She is giving the data they need. I just hope that these are all from one area so it won't be so complicated that they won't do the 2nd surgery...time will tell. Back to you later

Good Data

Lisa has had 3 small seizures. The Resident dr wanted to see the data, but it was not much. There were several residents and a few nurses in the room. I was told by Amber after they left that I was not supposed to be in there. I was supposed to be out of the room during rounds, but she felt it best for Lisa that I be in there and she said that they won't argue with her because there is a reason why she doesn't shoo family off. 

At 5 til 7:00 Jason was already here for his shift and he was anticipating a seizure, he asked Lisa how many fingers he held up, she told him 2 and then asked her how she was doing. She told him "I am fine." which means she is not and is going into a seizure. I told them it was going to be a long one. A couple of nurses came in, I told them as she was coming out of it that she most likely had to go to the bathroom. One of the nurses couldn't believe she didn't have a catheter. Then they told me to leave...it was 7:00, time for staff changes and paper work. 

Dr Tracy came in to the waiting room and found me, he told me that Lisa is doing really good, looks good and that her seizures are looking like they are coming from the bottom part of her brain. He said that was good, because it is easier to extract from that part than other places. He seems like he really likes Lisa, told us yesterday that she doesn't think he is funny.


She hasn't moved yet to her new room, she will get there soon. Will let you know of any other happenin's around here.

We're Moving!

The resident dr just came in...it's 5:00am...He is writing the order for Lisa to be moved to 3406. The charge nurse was asking when she was going to be moved. I don't know when though, they are short staffed. I will update when we move.

It's 3:30 a.m.

I left Lisa to go to the waiting room to take a nap at 11:00 right after she had some tylenol with codeine. The nurse told her it was tylenol with something in it that would last longer. She came back 20 min later to give her another pill. Lisa was glad to have "something that lasts longer" for the pain. I came back about 3:00 am. Lisa just had a tiny seizure but nothing major. Amber came in before I got there and asked her if she wanted more meds. "no" do you need to be readjusted? "no". Thankfully she is watching vitals because she came in at 3:20 and  asked/told her she was going to give her more tylenol with codeine, Lisa looked at her and gave a half nod.

Ronda can't believe how much she is moving herself, Lisa is moving around trying to get comfy. She has slept for 4 hours straight (me too, almost). Her face is really swollen now. She is not able to open her eye. When she gets over to where she will be with the assigned nurse, they will put tea bags on her face to bring down the swelling, instead of ice. Never heard of that one before! She is doing really well.

Christmas 1970 ?

Lisa and I posing for Dad for the Christmas card. This picture was not used, I think Amy was left out and there was no Karen yet. Mom cut our bangs, but I think Lisa cut mine, it is alittle crooked and Mom told me Lisa got a hold of the scissors and used them on me. Yikes!

Dad's Visit

Dad came over after work to visit Lisa, but only had about 20 minutes with her because they do shift changes and visiting hours are over during that time; in other words, they kicked us out. Dad was handing out his caramels and loving it. Jason brought in  a replica of a brain and explained to us what they did. Very cool stuff. Before they kicked us out, Lisa wanted Dad to come over to her. Dad, who isn't much on affection came closer, but Lisa wanted to give him a kiss and he came closer and leaned over and kissed her too. It was cute.

Earlier today, Karen got a call from the Olive Garden and wanted to know if flowers could be sent...not yet. She will be in an area where she needs one on one nursing and monitors and equipment around her. The limit is 2 balloons. When we asked Lisa what kind of flowers she liked she said, "Anything...but I don't like dead ones...I throw those out." There you have it! She is honest, and literal! What a great combination!

My head hurts...

I cannot tell you how proud I am of Lisa! We asked her about 8:40 if her head hurt...of course it does! She said no. At a few minutes before 9:00 she announced that her head hurts. Woo Hoo! Ronda told her thank you for telling her and as she got up to go tell the nurse Lisa said, "I wanted to wait til 9:00 to tell you." Oh my gosh, I thought we were making progress here. 

Ronda asked me why she did that, I replied, "That is how she is, she doesn't want to bother you and she has a set time in her head for things...like wearing long sleeved shirts only after Thanksgiving." She is much like the Dustin Hoffman character in Rain Man.

The nurse came in and asked her if she wanted something, fentinol or tylenol. Well she said tylenol, I assume, because she knows what that is. I asked her if she could give her anything stronger and she can't because that is what Lisa wanted...I told her that Lisa is not one to complain of extreme pain and if she says her head hurts, it is probably more like a migraine...but I don't know. 

I could tell that the nurse was torn and in her head, she has to follow what the patient says. I totally agree and understand. But I also know my sister and if she could give her something stronger, that would be better. 

The nurse read her vitals which showed she was in pain and asked Lisa if she could give her fentinol through her IV, Lisa just looked at her blankly and the nurse was so kind and patient and asked her again and Lisa nodded her head. Amber, (the nurse) told me that she feels better that Lisa told her yes. She explained her reasons and I agreed with her. She was so sweet. I apologized if I made her feel like I was 2nd guessing her and she reassured me that she just met her and that I have known her all my life...we are a team and together we will help her. Within minutes of the medicine, Lisa's vitals went down and the pain was subsiding. YAY! 

FYI: at 11am she was given fentinol which typically lasts 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours and is a fast acting pain reliever. She was not given anything else until I asked the nurse at 6:00 at which she was given tylenol...if it were me? I would be asking for a gun! I'm serious! 

April 2007