Still critical

Laurie Randel here.

Tim called to give me the update for tonight.

Today was an emotional roller coaster for all of them. The medicine that they had given Jennifer for her lungs is helping some, but not as much as they had hoped. They have turned down the ventilator a little more, but she is still reliant on it.

An x-ray taken mid-morning showed that the lower lobe of Jennifer’s right lung had closed. Doctors then ventilated her by bag for 20 minutes and a second x-ray then showed that the right lower lobe had re-opened slightly.

The next 3 to 5 days will offer Jennifer’s lungs the best opportunity to heal. Tim said it’s really a “wait and see” until that point.

Jennifer also developed her third bedsore today which creates a concern regarding risk of infection. The hospital purchased a state of the art bed for Jennifer that totally encloses her and can adjust her position electronically. This will make it much easier for them to turn her from her back to her stomach and is intended to improve her circulation and respiration and to reduce the chance of her developing more bedsores.

The hardest aspect of the new bed for Jennifer’s family is that it totally encloses her with only a viewing window for her eyes. Jennifer continues to be totally sedated, so it won’t be upsetting to her, but it is hard on the family to be physically separated from her in this way. As I understand it, they will be able to open up a panel on either side so that Tim and Mary can rub her back and talk to her, and they will be able to hold her hand.

Tim, Mary, Timmy and Elaine again want to thank everyone for their continued prayers and support. They have been receiving meals from their church and have felt surrounded by love through this ordeal.

Please continue to pray for Jennifer’s lungs to heal completely. Pray that she remain free from infection and any further complications. Pray for strength, endurance, peace, and comfort for Jennifer and her family.

Lovingly,
Laurie Randel

note: the above entry is a copy originally posted on our ‘Caring Bridge’ website.