Hi Friends of Euan! I visited Euan this morning and his recovery is going great. When I arrived at the NICU the nurses and doctors explained that at the time he was lightly sedated due to his blood pressure, however they said he was in no pain. Since he was only lightly sedated, and as he was weaned off of the paralytic he began to move (more like wiggle) around on the hospital bed in what I assumed at the time was an attempt to make himself more comfortable. His motor functions are recovering very quickly, which is an excellent sign. The nurses had placed what are basically cloth boxing gloves on his hands to prevent him from pulling at his IV lines and his intubation tube. When I was there he spent the entire time trying to pull them off, but the nurse was doing a great job talking to him and asking him to stop (not going to lie, his nurse is BEAUTIFUL so I think he’s trying to flirt with her by getting her attention). When the doctor returned and checked his motor and cognitive skills he was very responsive. When instructed to give thumbs up, he did so on the first request and using both thumbs, which he then waved up and down. He was also using his left foot to scratch the underside of his right foot. While I was there he was frequently opening and closing his eyes. I told him to smile so I could take a pic to show everyone how quickly he’s recovering. I also told him how everyone is thinking about him and wishing him a quick recovery. When I asked him if he understood what I was saying he responded in the affirmative, although non-verbally. He has a long recovery ahead of him and I know you’re all just as concerned for him as our family is, but take solace in the fact that he’s making great strides and will be back on his feet sooner than I think we’ll be ready for. I know that a lot of you are asking what exactly happened and unfortunately, I can’t answer that at this time for a number of reasons; however what I can tell you is that he is believed to have suffered a seizure resulting in cranial trauma, which in turn resulted in the surgery. I will keep you updated as the facts are uncovered. I also know that a lot of you are asking to visit him and at this time, unfortunately, he is not allowed guests other than immediate family, clergy and legal counsel. I plan on speaking with the folks responsible for this policy and decision and I have a feeling that it will be reversed. Once it is reversed, and once he is well enough to start seeing visitors I will let you know as I know he would love to be surrounded by his friends. He’s resting now which is what’s best for him. Ben Taub’s medical staff are some of the best in the nation who really do focus all of their energy and time on patient recovery and quality of life. When he is allowed visitors, please make sure to thank the doctors and nurses who are attending to him as theyve done an excellent job (I suggest taking them a real cup of coffee). Thanks for all of your support ladies and gentlemen. This is a very hard and stressful time with many more to follow, but in the mean time, I’ll post another update when I visit him next or if his status changes before then. As always, feel free to reach out if you need anything. Best always, Gareth
Posted on: Fri, 03 Oct 2014 18:30:32 +0000