Hospital Update 4/20/08

April 20, 2008

There has been some positive change in the most recent set of x-rays and the tube feedings have finally been successful (after three days without success). He is still on the ventilator, but stable. However there still isn't a clear reason or consensus on the treatment for this recent crisis. Which is frustrating and scary for all of us. It is a clear reminder that despite all of the amazing medical advances we currently have there are still times when things can't be "fixed" right away. In the age of instant gratification and robots (have I mentioned that there are robots in the hospital that deliver prescriptions...going room to room, up elevators...like the Jetsons)...in a time when things seem so modern and advanced, there is still so much that is unknown. In addition to struggling with the continuing uncertainty, I am also struggling with seeing my dad in such a weak state. I also admit to feeling uncomfortable in the ICU. There are alarms going off all the time. There are procedures that make my dad uncomfortable and that makes me cringe and want to leave the room. None of it feels natural or right to me. It's just not where my dad should be. He should be in the middle of a rice field painting. He should be in middle of Grant Street drawing and dancing the night away. He should be sitting on the porch surrounded by his grandkids, his dogs, and his cats. And that is what he desperately wants so much right now, too. He has a clipboard which he writes messages to us and today he wrote to several of us that he just wants to be back in Louisiana. He has also written several times that he will never take a glass of water for granted again. My dad is a fighter. He has overcome a serious bout with cancer. He has changed his diet and lifestyle dramatically to become cancer free for over fifteen years. He has survived neurosurgery and a car accident that should have left him seriously injured. He is a fighter and he is doing everything he can to win this fight. Keep the prayers and healing thoughts coming. It brings so much comfort to all of us
park it said...

L-
I wish your dad the best care and to be up painting again real soon! My dad just got out of the hospital (after a 2 wk stay)..so he is slloooowly on the mend...things just take a little longer than we all care to wait!
Best wishes
Carol & Kimberly (FCC)

Laurie said...

Lucia,
It's good to hear that there's at least some good news today. And you're right-no matter how advanced we are, there are some things that just defy explanation. Hang in there - I know from experience how hard ICU is on everyone (and agree with you on the alarms not helping matters).

Laurie

Heather said...

I'm glad to hear things are getting a little better, but how frustrating and scary to not know exactly what's going on or how soon he'll be in the clear. I'll keep praying for you and your family. Oh, and happy birthday... so glad our Nook friends were able to step in and help out a little!

Anonymous said...

We're still here, thinking and praying for your whole family. ICU is bad. My son was there (NICU) for 5 weeks. Wish I had words of wisdom for you. I don't. Do what you can to distract yourself, when you can. It's hard to deal with day after day. I'll be praying he gets out soon!

Jan

Laura Myszne said...

A big hug from us. We are thinking of you and your dad.

Tisra said...

Praying for healing, comfort, peace of heart, wisdom, miracles, and family unity.

holly b said...

It's good to get some good news. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.

Ann said...

I am so sorry to hear all this Lucia. I know that your heart is just breaking. But like you said, he is a fighter. I will keep your father and your family in my prayers!!

Unknown said...

still praying for your dad. would love to have the address at the hospital and where you are staying. call me or email the info. next chance you have for communication. love you all, jill and family

Corinne said...

Your little tribute at the end made me teary. I can't believe robots are delivering prescriptions. CRAZY.

Anonymous said...

Camille Banuchi sending regards.
I wanted to let Elemore know he was in my thoughts and prayers.
I got this link yesterday from Jackie and read the email. It brought back my favorite Elemore memories; my student days when we met up at Grant St. and sketched Marcia Ball in between rounds of dancing. And the last time I was with Elemore was in the field, him painting, as I drew him.
I revere him and he has inspired me more than any other teacher... on just "how to be". He's strong, has overcome so much, and I pray his recovery is quick. We all send our love to Elemore (on behalf of former students)

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