9-24-2009
Another month has gone by. Fall has arrived and brought the snow with it. We don’t have any on the ground here, but the Mts. sure look pretty. Ron hasn’t seen the snow yet, so we will probably take a ride tomorrow. He said we would even go shopping if that’s what it would take for me to get him out of PEC for a couple of hours. Now that is desperate for Ron to want to go shopping! We ordered some ramps that will help me get his power chair in and out of the back of our car. It will also make it easy for us to go visit family and friends and even go to church. I am really looking forward to that. We still welcome visitors even if it is just a quick visit. Or we could even make arrangements to meet and go out to eat somewhere. Outings are a good thing for Ron. We had a friend that is in the military stationed in NY that came by a couple weeks ago. We went out to eat and had a very nice visit with him. Thanks Jonathan for the visit.
Our family outing to go see the “Lion King” was a good adventure. It was great, and would recommend it to anyone. The big challenge was a trip to the restroom. We are getting pretty good at this. We are starting to find places with “Family Restrooms”.
Last week Thursday a specialist came and put a plastic cast on Ron’s left leg and foot. It dried in a short time and they cut it off to use it as a mold to make some kind of a brace for him to wear. This is to keep him from having the awful pain in his toes and leg when he puts weight on his left side. I pray this will do what it is suppose to do. It may have to be modified several times to get it just right.
I haven’t moved back into Anchorage yet. The Desjardins had a pretty bad accident and everything is on hold for a while until their world is settled down. Please add them to your prayer list. No broken bones, but totaled their nice pickup and fifth wheel trailer. Now is the stress of dealing with Insurance Co.
I know what that is all about, only theirs is worse because it involves other people. The best thing is, it wasn’t their fault. The way it happened saved the lives of the other people in the car behind them.
I continue to ask for your prayers for Ron to continue to gain strength throughout his whole body so he will have enough strength to walk. I also ask for continued healing of his mind.

I am so thankful for all your faithful prayers in our behalf.

8-20-2009

OK, OK, OK! I am way past due for an update on Ron! As usual he keeps me very busy, plus my computer had a little problem. Enough excuses.I feel Ron has gained strength in his left arm and hand. He uses them more especially when something requires 2 hands, like taking the cap off the pop bottle. He is starting to have therapy 5 times a week. We are determined to get his left leg and foot working without all the pain he currently has. Meanwhile he has his power chair to get him around.Ron has been gaining back too many of his pounds he lost, so I stopped bringing him those quarter lb burgers from McDonalds…..my bad. I now treat him with fresh fruit mostly.Ron did meet his summer goal…He attended our Nieces’ wedding July 25th. It was a beautiful wedding for a wonderful couple. She made sure she got a picture taken with her and her favorite Uncle. The wedding was at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge about 2 ½ hour drive from Anchorage. We left around noon, attended the wedding then stayed the night at the Swiss Alaska Inn. That was his first night away from Providence. The big challenge was sleeping in a regular bed! I brought a lot of extra and different kinds of pillows to help him change positions like he is use to doing with a push of a button, only this time I was the button. We finally got him comfortable and got 4 hours sleep without waking up. Then Sunday noon on the way back to Anchorage we stopped at the Susitna Landing where our friends gave us a pot luck picnic. It was great to be there with our friends. Thank you to all that made this happen. Ron had a good time visiting and buzzing around in his power chair. We have had several other day trips out. We went to the movies, Portage Glacier while my Mom and Sister were still here from Oregon, an afternoon trip to Potters Marsh, out several times to eat with family and friends, and the most recent to Wasilla to the Chiropractor. Our next big adventure will be going to see a theoretical production of “The Lion King”. Kelly got us the tickets for Sept. 6th in the afternoon. That should be pretty fun. It really helps Ron to be able to get out for several hours.
Once again I want to thank all of you that have continued to hold up Ron and our family in your prayers. We continue to see God working in our lives.

6-24-2009

Ron continues to gain strength and movement in is left leg. He can pick his left foot up off the floor about 1” while sitting in his wheel chair. We are looking at more therapy time for Ron to try and get his ankle and toes working better. The big news is how we are able to transport Ron from the bed to the wheel chair and from the wheel chair to the car! This transfer disk works like a lazy susan with a post in the middle of it and handle bars on both sides for Ron and the helper to hang onto it. Ron pulls himself up into a standing position then we turn him on this disk and he sits down. He is not able to stand a very long time, but long enough to get him moved from place to place. So far we have only done one transfer from wheel chair to the car and back out again, that was last Friday. Once we get him into the car we take a ride to McDonalds for a take out breakfast. We have done a couple of surprise visits to friends at their work place which has been fun for both of us. On Fathers Day the Dr. took Ron’s feeding tube out! That has been bothering Ron for quite a while. It would get bumped or hung up on his shirt and hurt a lot. After it was all over Ron said, “One step closer to going home”!

Summer is here and we know everyone has been getting busy in their yard work and or gone fishing and camping, but quick visits are still appreciated. If we know your coming for a visit, and it is nice outside, we could get Ron up and be ready to go outside in the courtyard or down to the McKinley Room. That is much better than standing around his bed in that small room.

All the S.S. and Medicaid Long Term Care have been approved. Now I am trying to get paperwork done to get us on a list for some kind of housing that we will need for Ron’s care once we are able to take him home. We still have more improvement to go on Ron’s short term memory. This makes daily living very tough at times for the both of us. We especially ask for your prayers for the Lords healing of Ron’s brain injury.

More changes: Ron’s email address has been changed to: ron@ronsriverboat.com and mine has changed to: marilyn@ronsriverboat.com I am now moved to Eagle River with the Hunt’s. This means more miles to drive for me and those nasty gas prices keep going up. “What’s with that anyway?” I pray this finds all of our family and friends in good health.

Big change so I don't have to pay an extra $10 a month on my cell phone bill....

My email address will change sometime this week. It will no longer be sulanding@mtaonline.net

THE NEW ONE WILL BE marilyn@ronsriverboat.com (all small letters) this will be good until 2012 the same with Ron's email: info@ronsriverboat.com

Sorry for the change but this will help me. Also I have asked Kevin our computer guy to add a photo gallery to our web site so we can still share our fishing and campground pictures with you all. Please share this information with family and friends that I don't have listed here. I just haven't had the time to get to everyone yet. I just hope I can figure out how to save all your email before this address goes down. I have been learning a lot on the computer lately...but I still have a lot to learn.

Love to all,,,Marilyn

5-26-2009
It has been over a month since my last update on Ron. I have been very busy this past month getting myself settled and being with Ron everyday. I am settled for a while, but will be moving again by the middle of June to give back this space to the Desjardins Family coming up from Seattle for several months.

Ron is pretty settled in at PEC. He has good cable TV, DVD player and now a Dell Laptop computer with connection to the internet. I found out that we still have our domain web site and email address until 2012, so our web master Kevin has our web site and Ron’s email: info@ronsriverboat.com back up and running through MTA once again. My email is still: sulanding@mtaonline.com We now also have a new mailing address:

PO Box 870374

Wasilla, AK 99687

So make changes to your address books. If you want to mail something to Ron at PEC,

Ron Wilson

Providence Extended Care

4900 Eagle St. #259 B

Anchorage, AK 99503

Ron’s email should be up and running by this weekend. If you would send emails in a LARGER FONT SIZE that will really help him out. He always had a little trouble seeing his computer at home (I think he really needed trifocals) or glasses just for the computer. With help from friends, I was able to get the settings changed on his computer to make everything larger on his screen. He really enjoys looking at his pictures. If you have some favorites you would like to send him, please do so.

Around May 11th Ron started moving his left leg at the knee! While in bed he started pulling his foot towards his right leg. He is now able to pull it up to his right knee while lying in bed. He hasn’t been able to move it back straight on its own power, but I pray that will all come with time and concentration. Ron’s left arm and hand have a larger range of motion also. Last week he started feeding himself potato chips with his left hand. Today he spent a full hour in physical therapy doing 3 transfers from his wheel chair to the matt (like getting up into the car) then stood and sat down 3 times in the parallel bars, then the Unna step (SP)? This machine works his legs and arms all at the same time. I am so proud of him….he worked hard for a whole hour. He needs strength and Cheer Leaders. He says I am not very encouraging. He was in his chair for a good 2 and a half hours today. Once he ate his ice cream he was out like a light for about 4 hours. Then when he did wake up, I was gone and he thought it was a new day since at 8:15 p.m. it still wasn’t dark yet!

Ron now understands that he does not have a boat being built, and that he will not be guiding this year, but he still doesn’t understand that we no longer live at the Susitna Landing. After living there for 15 years, it is hard for us to think of living somewhere else. I still need to sell his Boulton Power Boat. Please call me if you or anyone you know are interested. Thank you all for your continued Prayers for Ron to get stronger and for his mind to heal.

4-24-2009

MANY THANKS to all of you that came out last weekend and helped with the BIG MOVE. If I counted right without leaving anyone out, 22 friends and family came out and helped me with the big job that was very well done!!! This didn’t count the other 4 people that helped pack during the week before the weekend move. I am back out this weekend trying to pack up the rest of the office and take my computer and any important papers to Anchorage with me. We are closing down our web page at the end of this month, so Ron’s e-mail address: info@ronsriverboat.com will be off line at least until he can use it again. I am still going to try and have an “UP DATE ON RON” with the help of our Web Master Kevin at “PCMD”. Kevin and his Son did such a wonderful job building our web site and also built both our computers to our needs. Kevin has been so wonderful and helpful keeping my updates posted, a big Special (Thank You Kevin) from me and all our faithful Up Date readers! I have had many good comments, but couldn’t have done it without Kevin.

Ron is doing better, he can be so clear about some things, and still very confused about other things….mainly about us and the Landing and how he plans to be guiding this summer…This has been such a large part of his life, he can’t think of us being anywhere but out here. I pray for the day when he is able to think clearly and know what is real. This is being a real hard time for him right now. He is working very hard to be able to go to our nieces wedding July 25th. He has to build up his strength so that he can get himself out of the bed and into his wheelchair and out of his wheelchair and into the car. He will tell you that he can walk all by himself, but in reality he has only walked with the help of 3 therapists surrounding him between the parallel bars and has taken up to 4 steps with his right leg, but that is it as far as the walking goes. He has just very little movement in his left leg, but I am still praying for the miracle of the strength and use of it also, along with the healing of his clear thinking and understanding and ask for your continued prayers also.

I will be pretty busy with Ron once I get completely moved into Anchorage, so the updates will probably be a lot less. Kevin will be helping me with this and we will let you know somehow where to find the new update page once we close down the web site. I leave all that up to Kevin. Our home & business phone number will stay with the Susitna Landing. You can always email me at: sulanding@mtaonline.net

Thank you all again for all the help you have given me here at the Landing, visiting Ron and especially holding our family up in your prayers. I know we couldn’t have gotten through all this up to this point without all your prayers. Now I am asking for your prayers for me as I start my new roll of becoming the “full time care giver” for Ron. This is a tough one for me and also on Ron. Ron has always been the head of the family and our business. We worked side by side everyday for 15 years and I always depended on him for all the decisions. I can honestly tell you I do not like this roll reversal, but with God’s help and your prayers we will get through this also. (Philippians 4:13) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

4-10-2009

Ron is still doing better. He is having a little trouble with “time”. He wanted to get ready for PT 4 1/2 hours early. He didn’t want to be late. Today he called me and said he took 4 steps while in the machine that makes him stand up. This was 4 steps with his right leg, the therapist John helped drag his left leg. The day before he stood for 7 minutes in that machine. I don’t know how long he stood today. For those of you that go to visit... if Ron asks you to help him get out of bed…. DON’T…he still needs a machines to help him do all this transporting. He cannot walk without the assistance of the machine and Therapists. The aids and nurses aren’t even allowed to try and help him until the Therapists say it’s OK. He called me tonight saying that he is getting tired of burgers, so if you want to take him anything, chicken strips is what he is craving now with ranch or honey mustard to dip it in. He may not eat all at one time, but you can have him push his button and have his aid put it in the residents frig for him to have warmed up for another meal. I bought a “New to me” 2002 Buick Rendezvous. I think Ron will be able to get in and out of it with ease once he gets stronger and is able to stand by himself. Just a reminder to all of you that will be able to come out and help with our move, to bring boxes, and if you could drop me an e-mail by Tue the 14th or call by the 14th, I want to make sure I have enough food to feed my helpers a lunch. Thanks and Wishing you all a Happy Easter.

4-2-2009

Ron is doing sooooo much better. Thanks for all the extra prayers. He is over being angry caused by that bad medicine; back more to his old self, likes to tease with the Aids and Nurses. The Dr. came to check on Ron today. No more night tube feedings, no more checking his blood sugar and they were to take out his PIT (iv line) that has been hanging up on his shirt and not being used for over a month now. A lot of good changes. Now if we could get him working hard on his left arm and leg therapy that would be even better. He is been having a lot of pain in his left hip. Dr. told him today that is probably just part of the side effect from the stroke. That is what the (bad medicine) was supposed to help him with.

Sunday is Ron’s 59th Birthday so I am making an extra special trip in along with Kelly and Jace to have Pizza. Then I plan to go back again on my regular Wed. Thur. visits.

Got the Cargo Container delivered today…..still planning on the big 2 packing and storing weekends April 18th & 19th then again April 25th & 26th. Please bring boxes.

3-27-2009
Thanks to good friends willing to help me out, I was able to go see Ron Wed. afternoon until 9:30 am Friday. Ron really needing me with him. I mentioned last week that the Dr. was changing his medicine, well that really put him in a spin of confusion and anger. Not good withdrawal side effects. So to make a long story short, Ron was taken off one med. and put on another, which so far, has helped him calm down his anger, but still can be quite confused at times. I want to thank you all for sticking in there with him with your visits and especially your prayer support for both Ron and me. If you plan to visit in the morning before 10 or so and want to take him something…a Sausage Egg McMuffin with cheese, is always a big hit. If you visit later in the after noon, after 3:30 (That is after his therapy work out) he likes McDonald’s quarter pounder with cheese and small fries. He still needs to loose weight. He now weighs 223 lbs and needs to get down to 185 or less. So far he has lost 59 lbs. If he talks about having a new boat built, or that we are staying at the landing another 12 years or about building our cabin at Trapper Lake….that is just some confusion I hope and pray will get straightened out with time and healing of the brain. I try very hard not to correct him, because I just don’t want to upset him and I’ve been told these are things that aren’t important to try and correct at this time.

PACKING & MOVING: For all of you that have offered to help me pack and get moved…I have finally set some dates for the big pack and move time. I am planning for (April 18th & 19th & April 25th & 26th) if it takes that much time…I guess it all depends on how much help I have. Please tell anyone you think that would like to help just in case they don’t happen to see this update. I plan to get a 40 foot container delivered and ready to fill. I have a few boxes, but am sure I will need a LOT more! I have the house, store, shop and 2 sheds to clean out and pack up. If anyone wants to come during the week and help me sort through and pack up stuff that will be welcome also. This is 15 years of STUFF, I need to weed through and get moved. Please call and let me know if and when you can help. There will be days during the week that I will be gone to see Ron and I want to make sure I am here to help. I feel I should try and have food to feed my helpers, even if it is just a hot dog or something quick and easy. Remember this is going to be during “Break up season”. Plan to wear proper shoes, or boots.
Love and Many Thanks to all of you faithful readers for your continued prayers and help.

3-19-2009

I visited Ron Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. When I arrived Ron was in speech therapy. Right away he wanted to show me his new accomplishment; he was able to touch his right ear with his LEFT hand!!! What a great improvement since last week. While Ron was in therapy, I helped his Aid move him clear to the other end of the building to room 259. For those of you that plan to visit, make sure and get directions to his new room. He said it is quieter there. I think the move made him extra confused, so the Dr is changing his medication again. Please pray extra hard for him to have a clear and understanding mind. Thank you all for your short visits. It has been very obvious to Ron’s care givers that he has a lot of friends.

3-12-2009

Yesterday was a good visit. I arrived in time to help Ron with breakfast. French toast and sausage didn’t look bad. Then I mentioned that I brought a Peanut Butter & Jam sandwich from home using Betty’s home made jam…his eyes lit up and was ready for the sandwich. Ron room mate Richard, went to therapy right after breakfast. That was nice because it gave us time by ourselves, other wise Richard usually has comments and joins in our conversations. Richard is a nice guy, just doesn’t get much company. Ron’s night feedings through the tube has been cut back 20%. That is a good thing. Now he will be hungry and EAT more food. I noticed that his Left leg was having some muscle spasms, so I rubbed both his feet for a while, and then I asked him to wiggle All his toes for me. Praise the Lord I saw just a little twitch in some of his left toes. That was one of the best things I’ve seen in a long time. That is how the left hand started, and yesterday he was moving it at the elbow and shoulder, just a little on the stiff side, but it’s moving. What a great day. He was looking forward to being out here Sat. the 14th for the big ribbon cutting on the “Susitna Valley Winter Trails”, but that would mean him sitting in the wheelchair for over 6 hours. He has rough enough time making it 1 hour in the chair. He really needs a Chiropractor adjustment on his low back. He really appreciates the visits. Just a reminder, if the TV is on that will interfere with his concentration and your visit. It can be turned off while your there, but please remember to turn it back on before you leave. Kelly has his favorite channels on a list on his bulletin board. Kelly got Ron is own cell phone, so if he remembers your phone number…. some of you may be getting calls.

3-5-2009

I had a good couple of days with Ron. Tue evening we had a nice visit and watched TV just like we would at home. He has a pretty nice air bed, almost a double size that sits up and makes it comfortable like a recliner. So I am able to sit with him and snuggle. Ron’s Left hand, wrist and elbow are moving so much better, especially when he really isn’t thinking about it. He has a very good 3 people Therapy team. He has been spending more time in his wheelchair working at holding himself up and building upper body strength and head strength. It does hurt his back if he sits there over an hour or so from his back being broke several times back in the mid 70’s. The Dr. made him an apt. to have x-rays taken on Wed around noon. So we both took a ride with Transcare back to Providence Hospital. After the x-rays were taken I wheeled Ron down to the Cafeteria for our Anniversary Lunch together. Ron had a cheese burger with curly fries and a coke. It was good to see him eat all by himself. That was our big outing. Ron has had some medication changes, so he is being a lot clearer most of the time. He now has a room mate with similar problems. They seem to be about the same age and they pick back and forth at each other. I am still trying to get in at least one day a week. Not sure when I get to go back next week. Ron has been enjoying the 15 minute visits. That seems to be long enough for his attention span before he gets tired. I want to ask that you continue to pray for Ron’s strength and desire to eat real food instead of being fed through the tube. I think he needs easy to chew finger food. I’m rambling…need to get to bed.

2-26-2009

It’s been just a little over 2 months since Ron started this long journey. I am trying my best to get in to see him once a week. I want to take this time to thank all of you that have gone to visit Ron at Providence Extended Care. Ron’s therapy has been coming along very well. They make him WORK very hard for an hour 5 days a week. He is still very weak, but I am still seeing progress every time I visit. He is getting more strength in his left hand and wrist. Then much to my surprise, in his sleep he moves his left arm from his side across and onto his chest! He can’t do that when he is awake and you ask him to do that. There are major things going on in his brain that no one can imagine. I call them miracle. He has had a lot of confusion that can be caused from the stroke, but also caused by some medication he has been taking. We talked with Dr. Butt yesterday. He said he would cut back on one medication and add another that should help Ron to not be so confused. For Ron’s sake I hope it is fast acting! He still thinks we are going to run the Landing. He has had other confusions that some of you have witnessed during your visits. He can be pretty exhausted right after his therapy between 3:30 and 5pm. That may not be the best time to visit, but any other time go ahead and wake him up so he stays on a sleep at night and stay awake during the day. When you visit, there is an orange/brown book there. If you would be so kind as to sign and date it and write something about your visit, that would be great. That would give me something to talk with him about. This will help me to see if he remembers your visit. Or you could put your name on the date of your visit on his Gus Dog calendar. I realized that you can still go to the Providence web site and continue to e-mail to Ron. www.providence.org/alaska/emailpatient.htm under the yellow area where it says Providence Facility, click on the down arrow then click on Providence Extended Care Center. He is in room 131B. I hope I can find someone to watch the place for me March 4th…that is our 39th anniversary. I have talked with so many of you lately, and appreciate knowing your many prayers are still going out there for Ron. The power of prayer is such a wonderful thing. I would also ask for a special prayer for the rest of our family during this overwhelming time trying to get me ready to move away from the Landing. There is so much to do and so much to think about….I know “One Day at a Time”.

2-17-2009

Ron has been at Providence Extended Care now for 12 days.  His therapy sessions are coming along very well.  He gets an hour work out Monday – Friday.  I keep reminding him that the Therapy is his JOB!  Since he is still pretty weak from being so sick and tires easy, it is as he says “A Tough Job”!  I would like to take this time to encourage friends and family to give Ron a 10 or 15 minute visit (as long as you are very healthy).  There are many fragile residents there that don’t need any ones sniffles or flu.  He might be asleep when you arrive….give him a few minutes, he might open his eyes.  If not ask for paper to write a note on or get a paper towel by his sink and write a note.  I ask you to do this because I have returned to the Susitna Landing.  Betty Epps and Colleen Bostwick kept this place running like a top while I was gone.  These two gals are True Alaskan Women!!!  They kept this place running not matter how much snow fell and even when the temp dropped to -43* and the office furnace broke which froze and broke water pipes!  They managed to either fix it themselves or find a way to get it fixed.  I am very proud and thankful for all their extreme help.  Feeling good about where Ron is and the close care and attention he is getting by the Dr. Nurses, Aids and Friends, I am able to get back home and take care of business.  This means, I have come back to close up our business.  After being here for 15 and a half years, Ron and I decided we would have to leave Susitna Landing.  We have had many good times and have made many friends.  We don’t know what the Lord has in mind for us, but we are looking up word and on word for his guidance in our lives.  “One day at a time”.  I plan for us to be moved out of here by May 1st so the new people can move in and take over.  This is going to be a BIG JOB and may call out for a big HELP for all you that have offered….so much STUFF, how does one collect so much.  Much to sale and a whole house hold to store somewhere.  It would be nice if I could put it all in one place.  Then I plan to stay in Anchorage, close to Ron until he is ready and able to come home….where ever that ends up being.  Please continue praying for the Lords healing strength for Ron and guidance for our future. 

2-8-2009

Ron has moved from Providence Hospital to (Providence Extended Care) on Eagle St. just off of International Airport Rd going towards the airport turn right at the Enstar sign. I have moved in with Norm & Annette Desjardins not too far off of 100th st. They have given me free run of their down stairs!!!! I had many offers from many of you…(and may take you up on your offers) if Ron is still in recovery through the summer. But that is a long way off. Ron asked me this morning “Marilyn when do we go Home”? My answer was “as soon as you can walk, feed yourself and go to the bathroom by yourself”. Right now Ron is still getting settled in, trying to get use to the schedule, people and FOOD. Some of the food is pretty tasty, but I think he is having a texture difficulty. Tomorrow is going to be a big day of him. He will be starting his therapy sessions. I told him this is his only job but it is going to be a big one. He still has moments of forgetfulness but for the most part he is starting to be his old joking self and even gives a smile now and then. I’m not sure if he really fully realizes where he is. Now is going to be the time when he really needs to have support and see the faces of his family and friends. You can give him your support with a quick visit. Visiting hours are from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. I could have sent him off with the VA for this therapy he needs, but I wouldn’t have been able to go, and if any of you really know Ron at all (without me) is not in his life plan. (On March 4th we will celebrate our 39th aniv.) Instead of shipping him off by himself I chose for us to stay here in Anchorage together to be close to his immediate family and friends. For all of our family and friends that are not close by, we still appreciate your support in your thoughts and prayers. I do not know yet if they will receive e-mails for patients, but the mailing address is:

(Providence Extended Care Center, 4900 Eagle St. Anchorage, AK 99503) I found this comforting to me: Bible reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-11.

2-2&3-2009

Sorry for the missed day…after the meeting and a good lunch with friend Bev, I had to dash back to my room….many trips to the bathroom later..I am doing much better now. I guess the Monday meeting was a little stressful, but it all went well. We decided that it would be best that Ron stay right here in Alaska instead of the VA flying him off “somewhere” for extended rehab. They wouldn’t pay for me to be with him or go with him. So probably by this weekend or sooner, he will be moving to Providence Extended Care Center. Their address is 4900 Eagle Street, Anchorage 99503. This will be my last Daily report. I will try and post a weekly report. Just not sure what day I will chose yet. I just want to thank all of you that are continuing to pray for us. We are not nearly out of the woods. As soon as Ron moves, I will also move to stay with our friends Norm & Annette Desjardins here in Anchorage. Then I will have to decide what to do next. One thing for sure….life as we knew it will not be the same. It’s been a very long day here in this room by myself. Time for sleeping and ready for a new start.

1-31-2009

This has been a busy last day of the month. Ron has moved rooms twice today! When we left for lunch, I had left Ron on his left side. He decided to play with the bed buttons on the outside of the rail. He found the up and down button and made the whole bed go up… well no one put the IV bar down on the bed after it was moved, so it ran right up into the light on the wall behind the bed and ripped it right off the wall! Just about came down on top of him. So when we came back he was in another room. About 3 hours later his nurse said they were moving him again up to the 5th floor. So once again we packed him up, and up we went. Got him settled in on the 5th Floor / same D elevator / follow 5th North / take first left / Room 548 on the left. As far as I know he will stay on this floor until he leaves the hospital. Ron’s sister goes home very early Sunday morning. It has been a joy and pleasure to have her here to help me ROLL Ron from side to side. Even though Ron has lost about 50 lbs…..he is still a big guy and I love every bit of him. Thanks for the prayers for Ron and our family. Both Kelly and Jace are doing much better.

1-30-2009

Several changes….

1. no more Heparin (iv blood thinner) back to the pill form

2. no more heart monitor

3. no more vapor breathing at night, keeps speaking valve on 24/7

4. drinking thickened juices, eating puddings, and I spoon some water only when Ron is sitting up and very alert. (I have been given permission from the therapist to give all this to Ron)

5. Changed Floors = D – Elevator / 4th Floor / follow 4 North to Room 457 (You will go past the nurse station and continue on way down the hall and on the Right)

Ron is in what they call the 5th floor overflow area. He is much closer to the Therapy Floor where they will be able to work with him better. We are very excited about this move. Ron is starting to use his left hand on his own! Such great improvement! I am ready for the 4th merical….we need that left leg to work and move properly and add a 5th….for the fog to lift and Ron to be able to think clearly. I was figuring the thinking clearly would come naturally, but it would really help him if he was not so confused. I want to thank you all again for being so faithful in your prayers for Ron’s recovery. May God Bless all of you.

1-29-2009

I know these are just baby steps…but 11 left hand squeezes seem like giant steps to me. Ron is doing pretty good about the therapy. He is still having quite a few confused moments. I think for the most part he recognizes people…but it still helps to say your name. He wants to be turned from side to side (quite often) mainly because his back is hurting him so much. They give him a muscle relaxant at night…not sure how good it works. I kissed him good night and prayed with him before I left his side tonight. It sounds like we may have SSI issues which in turn will also give us Medicaid issues. So our main prayer requests are for Ron’s good night sleep and less confusion, and SSI issues….that has to do with Social Security.

1-28-2009

GREAT NEWS!!!  Ron moved his LEFT HAND today after the Occupational Therapist worked on his Left shoulder, down to his elbow then his hand and fingers…then told him to squeeze her hand…..and he did!  (Miracle number 3). I about burst into tears of joy when I saw him move that hand.  He was a little confused today about what year it was and what his current occupation was.  But he did recognize his sister Joetta and said it was about time she got here.  We had a nice visit just before the Therapist came in.  We are still waiting to find out where he will be going for his extended Therapy.  It may not be where we want it but it is about time to move on.  I am still praying for God’s guidance….maybe it’s me holding things up trying to change Gods mind as to where Ron should go…..Pray for MY guidance also.

1-27-2009

Ron is getting worked over a little more each day.  He was up in the chair by 10 for 1 and a half hours then again in the afternoon.  He was pretty exhausted after the lift team came and got him back into bed for the second time.  He was pretty sharp this morning.  A visitor told Ron a joke yesterday about noon, and Ron repeated it this morning to his first visitors.  So the old Ron is still in there…he just tires very quickly.  Still no word from anyone about moving him out of the hospital. Mean while they just keep going with all his therapy.  We are just waiting to see what God has for us next. 

1-26-2009

Boy what a work out Ron had today. All 3 Therapists today. Had him working at holding up his head, counting, resiting the days of the week, using a comb, washing his face, eating more ice chips and applesauce. I even snuck him some tea this morning. He is doing so well, I think they might start him on some soft foods soon…maybe even pudding tomorrow. I still have several people here in the hospital and outside of the hospital working at getting Ron to St. Elias. Maybe more news tomorrow. Thank you all again for your prayers for God’s guidance in Rons recovery.

1-25-2009

Ron was once again ready to go home today…It is very hard to explain why we can’t just get up and go home.  He is very tired of just laying in bed.  His back hurts from just laying there, plus he has broken his back twice back in 76 or 77 so that adds to his pain also.  So far I believe he has been recognizing everyone that’s come to visit.  Visitors help break up his boring day.  The way people are talking, it sounds like they are trying to get him moved out of the hospital.  We still are not sure where or when.  I am praying for the right doors to open for Ron.  He is going to need a lot of strong loving care in the next months to come.

1-24-2009

Another week has passed.  I want to thank everyone that has come to see Ron.  He may not of said much or was asleep…but I think it really helps Ron to know you were there even if he slept through your visit.  I still read him the e-mails, some he remembers who you are; if he looks like there is a question of who you are…I will tell him something about you that help him remember.  So if you are a long lost cousin or old friends, it does help that you say so. There are many people involved in getting Ron moved to St. Elias.  Not only Social Workers, but Dr.’s and Nurses.  Once he is moved I will make sure and find out if there is a way for you to continue to e-mail him.  It will be a different address of course.  The one main thing I noticed today was the vent machine was gone out of his room!  No more assisted breathing!  He really was moving his right arm and leg a lot today.  He kept pulling up his right leg at the knee, said it helped stretch his back.  Such little things that make such a big difference.  Thank you all so much for all your continued prayers…I would like to add Kelly and Jake to the prayer list….they both have been running a fever and sore throats and couldn’t come see Dad and Grandpa.

1-23-2009

If I haven’t miss counted this is the 4th night Ron will sleep without the help of the vent!  He is able to breath in enough oxygen all on his own.  Today was another work hard day.  He had 3 different Therapists come by and work him over.  I am so happy that he is trying very hard, and I can tell he really is working hard at it.  Ron still does not have any movement in his left arm or leg.  To get them to move will be his 3rd and 4th miracle.  We have already seen 1. Ron is alive

2. Ron woke up.   He is doing very well with his new feeding tube called a PEG that goes right into his stomach instead of going through his nose to his stomach.  He looks so much better now.  I had a night out with Ken & Lori tonight.  They took me up a couple of blocks up the street to the Wendy Williams Auditorium to the “Anchorage Folk Festival”.  What a nice time and good music.  Thanks guys….I needed that.

1-22-2009

Ron came through the PEG procedure just fine.  It took 2 hours; he was back in his room by 4:30.  Had an upset stomach for a little bit, but that soon passed and he went to sleep.  So the rest of my evening I did laundry and ate turkey soup.  (Thanks for the soup)  Now we are waiting for a team from St Elias Extended Care to come evaluate Ron to see if his needs fit their program.  The only way VA will pay for his rehab is if he goes to the Seattle VA…..I cannot send Ron off by himself, for who knows how long.  I cannot afford to go down there with him.  So if St. Elias will accept him and the Social Security and Medicaid pay…We will stay in Anchorage until Ron recovers to his fullest….what that will be only God knows for sure.  Our job is to continue to raise Ron up in Prayer, and give him encouragement.  Ron just wouldn’t do well without me and all his family and friends.  Thank you all for what you have done.

1-21-2009

Ron worked like a trooper today.  The Therapist worked him really hard and Ron did his part.  I was really proud of him.  Tomorrow between 10 and 12 they will put in a PEG.  That is a tube directly into his stomach.  Right now he is being fed through a tube that runs down his nose into his stomach.  This one has been pulled out 3 times already and hurts a lot when they have to put it back in.  Plus the one in the nose could cause sinus infections.  At this time Ron is not strong enough to be able to eat enough on his own to nourish his body.  Another one of those things that is easy to put in and easy to take out.  Sounds like they are planning to get him out of here much sooner than I expected.  I still have paper work to get done tonight. All prayers welcome.

1-19-2009

Ron did pretty good today…but had a rough night last night when given too many drugs during the night.  I think they all have to understand that Ron only needs Tylenol for pain.  I already talked to the night nurse about Tylenol only.   Now I need to make sure I talk with a Dr. tomorrow and we have this very clear in and on top of his chart.  Ron only said he had pain once today and that was at 8:30 p.m.  He was ready to get off his back.   One big step forward today….Ron ate apple sauce!  Said it was pretty good.  First solid food since Dec. 22, 08.  The nurse said today the only thing keeping him in PCU was that he is still on Heparin (the IV blood thinner).  He needs his pill like he takes at home, then he can be moved to the 5th floor.  They don’t bother you so much there.  I am praying for Ron to continue to recover and protection in his continued care.

1-18-2009

The day was good:  Ron wanted to go for a ride!  I told him I wasn’t strong enough to push his bed around.  I asked him where he wanted to go…he wanted to go see Vern & Betty.  For those of you who don’t know them, they are like our adopted Dad & Mom.  He is starting to remember people’s names.  When visiting make sure you tell him who you are.  He may already know, but just incase he has forgotten this should make him feel more at ease.  I was given a book called “My Stroke of Insight”.  It’s about a Brain Scientist’s personal journey recovering from her own stroke.  A lot of it is details about the brain and how it works, but it also tells of how she felt, thought, and what helped her to recover from her stroke.  I am a slow reader, but I have already found some helping pointers from the book.  The author is Jill Bolte Taylor Ph.D.

I am a little earlier than at getting the written, but it has been a long but much better day.  I think this is going to be getting a little hard on Ron these next few days because he is becoming more aware and now the work begins!!!!!! I am still praying for God’s will in all of this.

 

1-17-2009

Another better day:  Ron has been having some bad headaches, (Dr. said this is pretty common with stroke patients) and he has been getting some strong pain meds to help him out but at the same time it has been keeping him out…….Today we tried a different approach with lesser medication and he was able to communicate with us much better.  He would still fade away once in a while and take a little nap, but he is still very weak and tires very easy.  So when visiting, we just ask that your visits be short but meaningful.  So far I think he knows everyone that has come to visit as long as he gets a good look at you and you tell him who you are, things connect pretty well.  Ron doesn’t say a lot, and with his noisy air bed it can be hard to hear him.  The Dr. also said that it would take a good year before we really know (what and or how much) Ron will get back from this stroke.  Mean while we are looking forward to another good visiting day tomorrow… unless we wore him out today he might need a recovery day!?!  Thank you for being such a good (Prayer Family and Friends). 

1-16-2009

Good News!  Ron is out of ICU…..he is still on the 2nd floor but you go up the ( D Tower Elevator) and he is in room 275 in PCU.  The nurse’s have his bed rotating from side to side every 10 minutes to help his lungs, keeps his neck moving and keeps him from getting bed sores.  He is looking better every day.  They give him good workouts on his legs and arms keeping them moving and working on strength.  I have noticed him doing a lot more swallowing, which is a big chore especially with the trake still in his throat.  All in all…things are looking good.  On the 28th @ 12:12 a.m. Ron’s sister Joetta is flying in from Lapine, OR.  We are looking forward to her visit.  Praying for Ron’s strength.

1-15-2009

Ron was a lot quieter today.  They didn’t get him up in the chair again, but put his bed in a more sitting position.  He is having a lot of pain in his neck.  He kept getting pain meds just before I arrived to talk with him.  I had more paper work to do…when I got back. They had just given him pain meds.  Then he was close to waking up….its 7 p.m. shift change…I had to leave.  I ate supper, threw in a load of laundry, and got them in the dryer; called his night nurse….she just got done giving him his night pain meds so he could sleep well!  I went over and waited until they changed his bedding, which stirred him a little, but went right back to sleep.  I decided to just talk to him anyway.  So that is where we are tonight.  Tomorrow I have paper work to turn in at Wasilla and an appt. to get something done with my hair…..Then my plans are to be back by his bed side before dark and before shift change.  I Love that Man.

1-14-2009

Today Ron conducted his own fire drill!  He had been working a little harder than normal so Gary (RN) and I had got Ron back onto his back, changing his gown, when his heart rate and oxygen levels dropped a little too low.  So that made about 4 people scramble for about 45 seconds at most. Ron didn’t act like anything unusual was happening.  Dr. ordered up an x-ray just to make sure all was well…and it was.  Probably just a little mucus plug that was suctioned out right away.  Also Dr. McGhan thinks it would be good for Ron to have some company.  Try to keep it to 2 people at a time, and make them short (5-10 minute) meaningful visits.  Those of you that live or work here in Anchorage or closer areas, weekdays would probably be the best for you to come between 9 & 10 a.m. (then the Dr. and staff do rounds between 10 & 11:30).  I usually go to lunch around noon unless I know someone wants to come around that time, and then I will stick around unless I have an appointment.  Other wise maybe those coming form out in the Valley would have a better chance coming on the weekends.  Remember my cell phone is off while I’m in the room with Ron.  If you want to get hold of me the night before you come, best to leave a message on my cell phone, or even call my room number and leave me a message 907-212-4211.  I am usually there after I leave Ron for the night, unless I happen to go out for a meal.  Thanks for being patient and understanding.  Thanks again for all your Loving Prayers.

1-13-2009

Busy paper work day for me and friend Bev.  Ron was off the super vent and on his speaking valve most of the day, while sitting in the big chair.  Early evening Dr. Wingate came by and put a smaller trake in for Ron, so it should make it much easier to breath, which in turn should make it easier to talk with the speaking valve.  He has had several sessions with the swallowing therapist, and they said he has improved today, but not quite ready to make sure what he swallows will go where its suppose to go.  Everything takes so much time.  So the next 2 days, I plan to spend a lot of time trying to communicate with him to make sure he really knows what has happened to him and what his wishes are.  So maybe by next week we will have a better idea about Ron and what he wants.  Until then still no extra visitors until he gives me the go ahead.  I feel this may be a trying time…so I ask for God’s guidance and will for both of us.  Thanks again to all our faithful family and friends for your continued prayers and best wishes.

1-12-2009

Much better day.  Started with Ron being off the vent at 7:15 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.  Larry started him on the speaking valve, asking yes and no questions, with very soft spoken answers at first.  Takes good air to push out answers.  (this was around 11a.m.)  After he was use to trying to talk I asked him if there was anything he wanted to tell me….”I WANT….TO GET OUT OF HERE”.  I thought that was a very good want and I believed he has a good understanding what it will take to do that.  I’m just not sure if he understands where he will be going from here.  That is another bridge to cross when we get to it.  I do not want him to have to leave Alaska, because I know he would not want to leave.  Providence has a nice facility within 20 blocks of the hospital (47th and Cordova St.)Set up for people in his very condition for rehab.  They encourage family help, where I know the VA does not have anything like that here in Alaska.  So now our big Prayer request is that once he is ready to leave the hospital, he won’t have to leave Alaska for rehab.  This is a very big concern for me and I am praying for the Lords guidance to the best place for Ron.

1-11-2009

This was a float day.  Ron worked so hard yesterday, he was pretty tired today. So he had a Sunday Day of Rest.  He was a little frustrated trying to communicate with me today.  I won’t go into detail, but this is one of those days I wasn’t looking forward to.  Please pray for Ron’s speedy recovery!!!!  Kelly and I have meetings coming up and many decisions to make about Ron and my future.  We are blessed to have several good friends helping us try to tackle all these “What to does”.  Once again I ask for you all to hold us up in prayer.

1-10-2009

This was a work hard day for Ron, and what a good job he did.  I was very proud for the full day’s work he did.  He did 6 hours straight of breathing without the vent.  The Resp. Therapist put him on a tube that gave him mist or moisture when he would breathe in to keep his throat from getting dry.  During this time he had Physical Therapy (twice).  During this, with lots of help, he sat at the edge of his bed, moved his head up and down, side to side, then laid down for about and hour’s rest, then with husky guys to help, they put him in a chair that sat him more upright than his bed allows.  This will help his lungs.  With all this work, he wasn’t much company….but that isn’t as important as him working to get stronger.  I know there are a lot of you that would like to stop in and see him, but I think we will hold off for a while longer.  There are certain close ones that are more like close family that would be ok for just a little while, but I think he is really trying to concentrate on building up his strength.  Thank you again for your prayers and understanding.  If you wish to e-mail me here at my room use my e-mail address:  sulanding@mtaonline.net   Marilyn

 

1-9-2009

Much better day, even with the two procedures Ron went through.  They did the TEE (probe down the throat) and found that nasty little germ on his valve.  The Dr. thinks its small enough to just treat with medication……That is my prayer…if meds don’t do it, he is in for another heart surgery to remove the infection and possible replace the valve.  We want the Flush it out with meds.  They also did the CAT scan…won’t know anything about that until tomorrow.  Ron also had a bit of a fever tonight, but has come down some. The therapist was working with Ron today trying to get him to move his head more.  Also told him to star trying to say words and we are supposed to try and read his lips.  We did that a couple of times today.  Yes and no questions help to work the head and neck also.  So We are all just going to get a good nights sleep….maybe sleep in a little (until 7) then start again tomorrow.  Prayers for the miracle drugs to take away all infections….I really appreciate all your Prayers for all of us.

1-8-2009

I was able to talk with the Dr. today.  Tests are showing lack of red blood cells, so Ron was given 2 units of blood today, along with another medication for his kidneys, that aren’t working up to par…plus a little different food than what he was given that goes down to his stomach through a tube through his nose.  He has been getting food that way ever since he’s been in ICU but the new stuff today was to give him a boost, probably more vitamins.  Tomorrow he will have another TEE which is that probe down his throat to look at his heart again.  Then later they are doing a CAT scan form head to hips.  They are still looking to see if the infection is growing a culture on his heart and or valve.  They didn’t see anything the first time, but since he is still running a fever, that infection has either gotten worse, or has a second infection.  So what one test doesn’t show maybe the other one will.  Pray to find the bad bug so they can give him the right medication.  Thank you for all your loving thoughts and special Prayers for Ron and the rest of the family.

1-7-2009

Another slow day.. I am afraid Ron is getting depressed because he can’t communicate with anyone other than to move his head yes or no to what ever we ask him. I am sure he has questions about his condition, but I’m not ready to try and talk about it yet, because I really don’t know myself. He does know that he has a lot of hard work to do to bring himself back, and that it’s going to take a long time, and he is the only one that can do this job. He also knows he has a lot of people praying for him from coast to coast. I read him the e-mails, so he knows. We really need prayers for guidence and strength, and most of all the Lords Will.

1-6-2009

This was a down day….nothing real exciting, rather quiet for the time I was able to spend with Ron.  After yesterdays work out he was pretty wore out all day today.  I had my meeting with the Social Worker today which has us on the right path to getting signed up with Social Security.  I have more paper work to fill out then another appointment Jan 13th.  For the most part Ron is stable but has very little strength.  Dave has re-assured him that this process he has to go through will take quite a long time, but he just needs to take it one day at a time.  I had more papers to track down so I made a late run (thanks to my friend Bev driving me) out to the Landing to gather some important papers and a few more personal items, and of course I had to take some time with the Gus Boy.  He was rather happy to see me, but wasn’t all that upset when I got back in the pickup, because he usually gets a cookie when he goes back in the house.  Thanks for the e-mails…and all your wonderful prayers.

1-5-2009

Where to start?!?  We had a better day of asking and answering yes and no questions.  I tried my best to ask just yes and no questions and Ron did his best to answer with a shake one way or the other.  I had a lot of calls to make which required me to be out of his room a lot, but I was busy gathering paper work.  Kelly and I have to meet with the Hospital Social Worker tomorrow at 1 p.m.  I am very lucky and Happy that Kelly will be there….I just know this would overwhelm me.  I pray Kelly will understand and help me to understand.  Mean while, back to Ron…the repertory therapist took him off the vent today with just a mist of air to keep his throat moist, and let him breath on his own for almost 3 hours.  He did very well for his first time.  Larry (therapist) asked Ron if he was getting tired, Ron shook his head yes, and they put him back on the vent for the rest of the night so he will be fully rested and ready to do physical therapy and more breathing on his own.  I’m sure Ron and I both have a lot of (what if’s and what if not’s) going through our minds…..things we are not saying out loud to each other…but there will be time for that later.  I just ask that you not only pray for Ron’s recovery, but for guidance for the 3 of us as there will be many decisions to make in the near and far future.  Thank you all once again for holding us up in your prayers.

1-4-2009

Another good day.  When the nurse let me in Ron was getting physical therapy, respatory therapy, and the nurse was in and out, busy, busy.  Ron was in & out of sleep, but was able to let me know he was ok by me reading his lips “I’m ok”.  He can also answer yes and no questions by slightly moving his head up and down, or back and forth.  Right hand, Right leg and Right foot move….not a lot but usually if you ask him to.  We have seen movement in the left foot, but not very often, and not if you ask him to move it, and nothing at all in the left hand and arm.  Since the stroke was on the right side of the brain, it will affect his left side.  He is getting his air through the vent machine, but he is making it work most of the time.  They watch his heart rate and assist him if needed.  Ron gave a little wave as we left for supper, and after supper I went back for a quick good night visit and the nurses said he waved to them….up to his old tricks!!  Once again I thank you all for your well wishes and prayers.

1-3-2009

Today more small steps, but what wonderful setps!!! Ron was more awake today than he has been since Christmas Eve. I put his glasses on him….(that really helped) and it seemed like most of the morning was like he was in a haze. I kept getting in his line of sight and talking to him and holding his hand trying to explaine how he had been really sick, and that he was at the Providence Hospital. Then early afternoon I was kissing on him telling him how much I loved and missed him, and I saw a sparkel in his eyes with a very slight smile! Wow what a good feeling, THEN I noticed his right eye closing just a little and I asked if he was trying to wink at me????? And he winked even more. I had to kiss him some more!!! This may not seem like much to some people but it was a big encouragement for me. I realize we have a much longer way to go with a lot of hard work….that’s why I do ask for you to continue with your strong prayers for our whole family and also good health for Kelly & I also. Knowing everyone out there, that read my nightly info, are praying for us is a great comfort. I thank and praise the Lord for everyone of you.

1-2-2009

Today was a better day for the face Ron’s eyes were open much more than ever. Too bad they had to put him to sleep! I was holding his hand and told him that I loved him…..then said if he loved me too to squeeze my hand……that was the strongest squeeze I have felt in a long time!! Then they wheeled him away to get the trake put in. He is really not very strong or up to a lot of visitors at this time…so if you want to lift him up by sending your e-mails I now have the exact address (thanks to friends research) to be able to send Ron incouraging words.

http://www.providence.org/alaska/emailpatient.htm

I am sending this out a little bit earlier than I normaly do, but I just wanted to get this info. Out.

Just saw Ron after having the trake put in....He Looks SO MUCH BETTER!!!!
 
He was still asleep so I won't see him until the morning.  He is going to be pretty tired and
Still pretty weak for awhile, so it will be best if mostly family were to visit him while still in
ICU.  I will make sure and let you all know when he is up to accepting more company.
Ron still has a long way to go to build up strength, so please continue to pray for our
Family including Kelly with her very bad migraine head aches.  Thanks again for all your
Loving Prayers.....Marilyn

1-1-2009

Today wasn’t as good as I hoped it would be. The night nurse gave Ron a sedative in the middle of the night, and what she gave him seems to stay in his system longer…..so he didn’t want to wake up. Needless to say, the venting tube didn’t come out as planned. Dr. McGahn and I had a long talk of prows and cons….and came to the agreement that the tube comes out tomorrow around 1 p.m. and they will put a trake in and pull all that other stuff out of his throat.

About sending e-mails….I finally found the web site address to send e-mails to Ron Wilson.

www.thestatus.com

The hospital will print out the message and deliver it right to his room twice a day. Thank you all again for your many Prayers. Marilyn

12-31-2008

What a busy day…we had one big step forward yesterday then a small step back today.

The daily chest X-ray was showing a white area over 1/3 of his left lung.  They did an ultra sound on the lung and it wasn’t as bad as they thought, so didn’t have to tap into his lung to drain it, because there wasn’t anything to drain.  Dr. McGahn ended up running another probe down into the lung and pulling out what ever was in there and gave him another anti-biotic.

He is resting very peacefully tonight with Nurse Misey on duty.  After all these tests and probing throughout the day, he was still responding to the nurse by squeezing her hand when she asked questions…..she told me the Dr. is still planning to take the breathing tube out tomorrow.  I’m looking forward to Talking with Ron tomorrow.

If anybody would like to send Ron an e-mail, please go to Providence Hospital website, click on Patient Information. From there you can send Ron Wilson an e-mail. They will print it out and bring it to him in his room. This is the best way since I do not have a printer where I am at.

Thanks again for your continued Prayers for both Ron and I. 

HAPPY NEW YEARS

EVERY THINGS FINE IN TWO THOUSAND NINE!

 

12-30-2008

GOOD NEWS:  At noon today I ran my thumb nail on the bottoms of both of Ron’s feet and he moved them both!  His eyes were opening about half way when I asked him to open his eyes, like still in a dreamy sleep.  Then I asked him to wiggle his toes, and he did it……I was stunned.  So a few seconds later I asked him to wiggle his toes again…..and he did it again.  I about jumped out of my skin I was so excited!  That about wore him out so I met our friend Beth for lunch.  As soon as I went back to him after lunch I took his right hand and asked him to squeeze my fingers and he did!  Praise the Lord!

I realize this is a tiny baby step and we have a long way to go.  I ask that you pray for the Lords healing hand and a lot of strength for Ron and anything else you want to pray for! 

Thank you all again for your Prayers and Good Thoughts. 

 

12-29-2008

I saw half of Ron’s eyes for the first time in almost a week!  He still is not fully awake, but they have brought down his blood pressure to 149….beats 230.  They have also taken him off of sedations. 

Back to Ron….another great thing we saw him yawn even with all those tubes in his mouth.  His fever is still pretty high.  His normal temp is 96.8, so when he reads 98.6 he still has a fever.  It would be like us normal people being 100.6.  So for him to feel good enough to wake up, he has to come down from 103 about 7* It would be pretty bad to wake up feeling as bad as he did when he came to the hospital.  So please continue to pray to bring his temp. Down to his normal, so he can feel much better.  I have great hopes that he will be awake enough tomorrow that he will need to have his glasses and see my smiling face.  More info Tue night.

 

12-28-2008

I took Ron to Mat-Su Regional Hospital early evening Sunday with a high fever of 5 days. The emergency Dr’s did a good job of finding a strep G infection in his blood, then shipped him off by ambulance to Providence Hospital, here in
Anchorage. Ron had 2 different kinds of EKG’s and a catscan, and they still couldn’t pin point where his infection settled. Dr. Church asked Dr. Steer (a desease specialist) to check Ron over….after about 10 minutes Dr. Steer told me even though the tests didn’t show it, Ron’s infection was in his heart and on his valve. Since Ron never really came out of the sidation from the 2nd EKG Dr. Steer could tell he had had a stroke and ordered an MRI of his head to see where the stroke effected him. Ron is on a ventelator at this time and still under sidation. When they try to take him off sidation his blood pressure goes up to 230 so they are keeping him under until they can get the blood pressure under control. Also Ron is still having a high fever, and Dr. Steer told me this morning that it is normal for him to have a high fever for one to two weeks. They are also keeping close watch on his lungs.

I want to take this time to THANK everyone for your PRAYERS & GOOD THOUGHTS for both Ron and I, and ask that you please continue. Our very good friend Kevin with PCMD is being so kind to post this daily info on our web site to keep you all posted in hopes that it will keep you all updated and also cut down on phone calls to me, our daughter Kelly and also to Betty at the Su Landing. With me all the calls really use up my cell phone time.
If you want to send me a message you can do that through my e-mail: sulanding@mtaonline.net
I will read them and answer if and when I have time. Thanks for understanding.

Also I am staying at the Hickel House, located behind the Providence Hospital so I can be close to Ron for when he wakes up.

Marilyn