Thursday, October 20, 2011

GOD IS IN THE TOUGH STUFF

Hi everyone,

I'm here at the treatment center and just wanted to give a quick update on Luis. He was suppose to come home today but things changed when Dr. Vashi came by to visit with us.

If you guys remember on my previous post I mentioned that Luis's J tube was leaking. We didn't bother to address the issue because we still had to deal with the biliary tube. Now that the biliary tube is fixed- and things are working smoothly, the time seemed perfect to bring it up again.

J TUBE ISSUE
 
The surgery for the J tube was back in March, 2011. And although we didn't use it consistently, (as prescribed by the doctor) it managed to wear out and get a hole in it some how. Don't get me wrong, it did help some what.  Especially when he was losing a lot of weight and throwing up- (due from the blockage in his tummy).

The J tubes purpose was to allow him to get all the nutrients he needed so he can continue on getting chemo. But since healing is taking place at all times (in the body), you can be sure your current situation will also improve.               

"If you're one of those people who has an open and positive mindset- then you can expect to have nothing but the best outcome for your situation." "That's an optimist way of life."



BIG DECISION

Dr. Vashi suggested for us to replace the J tube because Luis might still need it during and after chemo. But even those times he really didn't use it. There's actually several boxes of Peptamen cans at our home just sitting there. He's been eating by mouth for a long time now- (and keeping food down too). When I get a chance, I'm going to donate those cans to the treatment center. 

As soon as Dr. Sanchez (his surgeon) left the room, we began chatting. We started thinking about what would be the BEST decision for us. And since the surgery requires the same steps as before (which is to cut him open), we decided to get rid of the tube completely.

The surgery is tomorrow morning and Luis is very happy and optimistic about the whole procedure. The truth is, he's always disliked the tube feeding idea. So getting rid of it will be a blessing. Now, that area on his body can also begin to heal on its own.

Before I say goodbye, I want to acknowledge a very special and sweet house keeper by the name of Erna.

Yesterday she came by Luis's room and gave him a rosary. She said that she gives those out to all her patients. She told him to squeeze it tight and pray.    

Me and Luis were Like, WOW! It's amazing how God works- and uses people and things in your life to let you know that all is well.

The signs are all around us. We just have to open up our minds and pay attention.

Until next time................remain positive and optimistic no matter what challenges you may be facing.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

BACK @ THE TREATMENT CENTER

Hi everyone,

It's been about three weeks since his bile duct surgery and I must say, other than the pain issue (near the wound), he was doing good at home. The only concern was to get his pain under control. But when his nurse came over yesterday to change the bandage, things took a turn on a different direction.

Yesterday, I had to bring him to the treatment center because the pain became worse, right after his nurse left our home. And then he noticed his J tube was leaking also.

His nurse (Bryan) came by yesterday to change the bandage. We thought he must have disturbed the whole wound because right after, the pain worsened. That bandage was really glued to his skin and looked pretty painful as Brian removed it.

So as we're waiting in the hospital room, we realize the bile duct bag had no liquid in it. And soon learned that the biliary tube that was connected to his bile duct had moved from its original location. They kept him over night, and told us he would need to go under again to put the tube back where it should be. At this point his in so much pain that all I can say to him is that he's in good care and God is guiding us in every step. And he's also blessing the hands of the nurses and doctors.

They just called me and told me that everything is okay- and all they had to do is pull the tube out, straighten it, and push it back in. Yes! God is working miracles in my life everyday. And I am grateful.

He's on his way back upstairs, so I will let you guys go. Sending much blessings to you all. :o) 
   

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