Thurs, 3 Jul update. Beth was able to meet with most of the docs today and tonight. John has a lot of specialists working with each of the injuries, and theyre working the timing/sequencing of next steps. John is still not responsive. The docs say it will just take time, and nature will need to run its course. The significant injuries just have to work themselves thru. His pain medication has been turned down (but still manageable) to help stimulate him. Some good news. CAT scan did not indicate any brain damage. And, hes able to move his legs and arms. Also, his vitals are great and there doesnt appear to be any internal organ injury. All those broken bones held the innards intact. John sustained significant facial damage—essentially took a really hard hit. He will undergo reconstructive surgery on Sunday. He has a big gash over the forehead, so the docs may have to do most of the work thru the jaw as opposed to being able to work from the forehead down. They also will need to take bone from the skull in order to reconstruct his nose. Apparently theres plenty of extra bone that can be used, so this is not seen as significant. Its estimated to be at least an 8 hr surgery. In order to get him more readied, the hospital will do a tracheotomy tonight and get him on a feeding tube. This, Beth is told, should help bring the swelling down, and they need to start getting additional nutrients into him. The swelling has already somewhat subsided, but hes full of bruise color. The orthopedic surgeon was also in. He plans to place a steel rod in Johns left tibia on Monday. There are still the issues with the shattered ankles, and the doc will be evaluating best approach over next days. In the meantime, the focus is on keeping things clean and minimizing infection. Apparently, though not responsive, John has done some turning and looking as Beth talks and touches him. His eyes have been open. The eye doc was also in tonight. Things not alarming there—think more will be known with recovery. In summary, John is expected to make a recovery, so thats great! Just a question of how much and how long. One day at a time is where they are now. Beth thanks everyone for the thoughts and prayers. Johns brother also. Shes a trooper, but obviously this is pretty exhausting. If youve reached out to her and she hasnt responded, its just because she has a lot going on.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Jul 2014 02:51:06 +0000
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