An Anniversary to Forget...

So, it was during this week last year that our life was turned upside down. The actual date isn't until the 25th, but it was the Monday of the last week of school that I was sitting at my desk after a long and tiring day that I received a phone call from the local PA at our clinic. When he told me that he thought my wife was having a possible heart attack, my world stopped turning.

It was within a few short hours that my wife was in the ambulance and on her way to Price. I was running around my house with two wonderful ladies from the ward feeding the baby and gathering up a few things she would need while we went to the hospital for what we expected to be a short stay, if we stayed at all.

The thing I remember the most is that my wife looked me in the eyes and said that she finally felt at peace and that she felt like someone was really listening to her.

From there, our life turned in this:

Days 1-3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28 (No Post)
Day 29


I know, that is a long list of links... It was a long lot of days to live through...

But she did, we made it home safe, and I am grateful for the last year in which we have had to heal and grow as a family.

I am grateful for my wife. She is an amazing lady. Is she still recovering? Yes, and will be for possibly several more years, or for the rest of her life. But, we are trying to take each day as it comes, and enjoy it as best we can.

Later...

Moving Forward

I can't believe that it has been two days since I last wrote. Much has happened.

I have made huge progress in my classroom. I really need to take some pictures to show off my amazingness. However, without the before picture, it wouldn't be as impressive, so whatever. I have tossed out about half a dumpster so far, have set out a huge pile for donation, donated tons of my teacher books to the school's professional library, and have removed multiple pieces of furniture from my room. It really is looking pretty good. I still have a file cabinet to go through and my poster drawers to clean up, but I really think that I have gone through every other cupboard I own. I am working hard to stick to the rule: "If I haven't used it in the past 3 years it is gone". 

In medical related news, we got a bill from the Price ER doctor today, which I promptly paid. After all, he IS the one who figured out what was wrong with my wife. Of course the lady doing the payments charged $1 more than the bill was for. I noticed when I went to my back account and saw the pending charge. I promptly called back and asked why I was charged the extra dollar. She mumbled a bit and then voided the first charge and set up correctly. Hope the billing office doesn't skim on everyone like that. That could make someone a lot of illegal money. I almost let it go through to see what they would say and do, but I didn't want to deal with them later.

I also got a letter from the insurance stating they need "more info" from the hospital before they can process the claim. I was on the phone pronto because I will be danged if I am going to stuck with the quarter million dollar bill from UVRMC. Yes, you read that right. The bill was nearly a quarter million dollars. And THAT was just the hospital bill. I am anxious to see just how much is covered. I hope A LOT!

Today I also received a phone call from the Utah State Office of Education. Normally, that probably wouldn't be a very good thing, but in this case it is pretty neat news. I was informed that my application to be in the UPPAC (Utah Professional Practice Advisory Commission) was accepted. It is a state superintendent appointed position. I will be serving for 3 years in the appointment. I have meetings once a month in Salt Lake and then other meetings as needed for legal hearing for teachers who get in trouble. I will let you know more of the specifics of the job when I get done with my orientation meeting sometime before August 12th. That is my first meeting. While I don't get paid for being on the commission, I do get mileage reimbursement, meals, and lodging. So, what ever. Oh, and they do pay for my sub during the school year as well. I will sure look good on my resume for "someday". So that is pretty exciting news.

Well, we have a BBQ with my parents and the Roberstons here in a few minutes. I am excited. I love BBQ and it will be nice to relax and visit. Hopefully we won't melt in the soggy heat. 

Later...

Day #41- Instant Replay?!?

July 1st. Wow. Where is my summer going? I can't describe how nice it is to be home on this wonderful day. But I wish I was better able to get things done at school I need to do. But I refuse to leave my wife alone still. She is much more important than anything else I have to do.

So, to recap, I had to end that last post last night (June 30th) because we had to head to the ER in Provo. My wife had been feeling ill all day and started to feel achy all over, had a temperature, was restless, and the incision ached. Our home health nurse told us to go immediately to the ER in Provo. So, we put that plan into action pronto.

After I signed off, it was craziness in the house. I quickly made several calls and had people here ready to help with the kids in less than 5 minutes. I also had a friend over to help give a priesthood blessing before we headed out.

It only took three trips back in the house before I thought we had everything we needed. We still didn't (I forgot my computer bag for example), but oh well. We headed out on the two hour drive to the Provo ER. We tried to let everyone know what was going on while we were traveling. Sorry if we left someone out. We were a little pre-occupied.

We arrived at the UVRMC ER around midnight and got her registered and in. I was amazed we didn't even have to wait. I don't know if it was because there wasn't really anyone else there OR if they pulled up her medical chart and decided to admit her pronto. Either way, within 10 minutes of walking through the door, she was in an exam room in her little hospital gown laying in the bed waiting. Talk about NIGHTMARE Deja Vu. Fast forward 20 more minutes and we have an IV, a medical history, and a decision to do a CT Scan with contrast to check for infection in her abdomen.

It was 1:20am when she started drinking the CT liquid. She had to drink a small amount every 10 minutes and then wait an additional 20 minutes before they could take her to the CT Scanning room. I was struggling so hard to stay awake. I kept almost falling off the little chair they had set up for me. It was quite nerve wracking to sit and wait for the doctor to return and present the results. I couldn't decide if the long wait was a sign that they were doing a close inspection from previous CT Scans or if they were making preparations to get her ready for another surgery. Between that and fighting to stay awake it was a VERY long early morning. It was around 4:30am when the doctor came in apologizing for the delay. He said that the radiologist took longer to look at it than he thought.

He told us that there were no visible abscesses. He said that the incisions were looking really good and that the fluid around them was shrinking as well. So that was good.

He presented several scenarios:

1) He could treat her as if she had an infection, but he didn't want to do that because he didn't want to overuse the anti-biotics.

2) He could treat her as if she had a UTI and give her the anti-bitoics for that.

3) He could write the prescription for the UTI anti-biotic and then we could fill it if the culture returns positive.

4) He said that they could do nothing and discharge her. (This was NOT an option for us and we made that clear).

We explained that we lived 2 hours away and wanted the "plan" that would best serve us.

We decided that he would do a culture for the UTI and we would take a prescription for  the anti-biotic and fill it if needed. That seemed to work for all the parties involved.

When we finally left the ER it was 5am. We were exhausted. We knew that we wouldn't make it home safely, although I will admit it was VERY tempting to attempt. We ended up at Mr. Z's house. We didn't hardly move until almost 11am. We got ready for the day and got ready to head home when we were offered lunch and a movie. We decided that we would accept. After returning to Mr. Z's  home, we visited for a bit and then headed out to come home.

We made it home around 7pm and headed right over to my brother's to get my kids. My daughter was at bible school still, so we visited for a bit before heading out to pick her up. With the herd in the van, we returned to our home. AGAIN! Yea.

This evening has been spent simply spending time with my babies.

Oh, I guess I should share that Dr. G called my house this morning. My daughter told him that we had to take my wife back to the hospital. lol. He had also called and left a message on my cell-phone but most of it was static, so I am not sure what happened there. I can't really explain the feelings of having that man on the other end of the phone. I am not going to give a transcript of the call, but I will say that I didn't raise my voice in anger, I didn't feel angry anymore towards him, and I was able to communicate our frustrations and concerns. I could tell he was very sorry, very worried about my wife, and very willing to help in any way possible. He shared many ideas of what he had in mind and we discussed several options. I made it clear to him that we would not be suing him, that we didn't hate him, and that we planned to simply pick up the pieces and move on in our lives. We also told him that we would be finding a new doctor as we felt it would be awkward and there was a trust issue, but that maybe someday in the future we would think about returning to him. I expressed my anger over what his nurse had told my wife and expressed how inappropriate her comment was. I think I was able to share everything that I wanted to share. So, that is that.

It is VERY late and I am VERY tired. Tomorrow is another day with more stories waiting to be discovered and shared. Until then...

Later...

Day #26- Medical Tower, Floor 6

Curse You Day #26. You are toying with my emotions.

Today started with such high hopes! I had spent quite a while last night when I got back to the guest house packing, sorting, and getting everything ready to go home with today.

I did sleep pretty well, and I was up and going by 7:15 this morning. I didn't want to miss Dr. Lichti telling us to pack it up 'cause we are outta here. Well, that isn't exactly how it went down. He came and looked and visited with my wife about her incision. He determined that we would not be going home today. That was a bit of a let down.

We had some visitors today. Greg and Heather Parsons stepped by with their two cute girls and chatted. They also presented us with a rather large amount of money that the girl's basketball team earned from their summer ball camp they hosted and had wanted to donate to us. Then she told us about a fundraiser they are going to do in the park for our family July 18th. We appreciate all the concern, support, love, and help those who are helping out. It sounds like a good many of you.

Other visitor's included our good friends from Springville, Colter and Becky Manning. They brought their three cute kids with them and were so thoughtful to stop and get us Jamba Juice smoothies. Those smoothies were mighty tasty too. Thanks you guys.

Keith Brady also stopped by today. He drove all the way up from Green River to see me. He sat and chatted with my wife and I for quite sometime. He and I ran to dinner at a Korean diner (it was VERY good!), and then we returned to go on a walk with my wife, get ice cream, and then send him off to jet back home (before 4am this time)

It has been a pretty lazy day. It feels very off, but I think that is because my body and brain expected to be sleeping in my very own king sized bed right now...

I best head out. I can't hardly stay awake and I am beyond tired. Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers. We wouldn't be this far along with out them.

Later...

Day #25- Medical Tower, Floor 6

DAY 25

HELLOOOOOOO Day 25!

We embrace you with joy because it means we are now only 1 or 2 days away from leaving! Saturday will be the latest that we will have to stay and we are excited to escape this routine and return to the "normal" chaos of our own little home.

Dr. Lichti came before I was able to get here this morning. He told my wife that there is really nothing else he can do for her at this point. He said that if her incision was to become infected that it would do it on the outside and not the inside, but we don't want to even think about the word 'infected' right now. He also said they will start the process to get her discharged. I am sure that it will be a mountain of paperwork. They need to set up home health and whatever else. However, if it means the front door of this establishment and then my house...BRING IT!

Well, we are off for one of her four doctor ordered walks, so we will be back when she comes in for a landing!

All the Comforts of home...NOT!

That was a fantastic walk. We got to explore the hospital and I was able to show my wife all the places she had heard us talking about, like the parking garage, the grassy area in front of the hospital where the kids played when they were here, the gift shop, Cafe West, and such. She was able to go for quite a while, and I enjoyed being able to show off my wife to the hospital public. :)

After we returned we settled down with our book, The Bishop's Bride and we read almost the entire book. We were doing good until the part at the end about an emergency C-section and then we both lost it. We had to stop reading for a while. Seriously...what is going on with us! It was time for lunch anyways, so I ran up and grabbed something to eat and ate with her in the room while she at her yummy tray of food.

After she ate, we went for the second of the assigned four walks. This time we went to yet another part of the hospital. I even walked her outside and around to the Cafe West entrance. We wandered a bit and returned her to her room. She is getting so good at walking, I almost forget that she has an abdominal wound. Her progress is definitely due to divine intervention. There is no other way that we would be in the wonderful position we are currently in. Believe me. The doctors are still in awe at her rapid recovery.

Flowers from our garden!

When we returned, we were able to finish off the book. We made it to the end without crying- that was a victory! It was a great read. Not too sappy, just a fun, quick read. We were pleasantly surprised (and we shouldn't have been surprised...I forgot I knew) with a visit from Stan and Teri Parsons. Teri came in the room with a big vase of fresh flowers and a quick explanation. These flowers are from our rose bushes and day lilly plants  from home. They were a VERY welcomed sight. We are very appreciative of the time and effort they put into bringing these (and thanks Morgan for helping her get them picked from the yard).

The Parsons stayed and visited for quite a while. It was nice to hear of home, share updates of lives, and laugh. All too soon they needed to get on the road to their next destination. We said goodbye and they headed out.

This took us to dinner time. Again, they forgot my wife's tray. It was almost an hour after dinner time when the door opened and the aide asked if my wife had not wanted her dinner. I told her she was never OFFERED her dinner. Grrrrrrrrr. After I got her settled in with her dinner,  I went down and grabbed some food (you will be proud of me- I have been taking the stairs each time I am alone. Let me tell you...six flights of stairs is A LOT of stairs!) and returned to eat with my wife. She was talking with her sister in PA, and we both had a great visit with her while we dined.

After dinner we went for one last walk for the night. That was our third of four. We didn't make the goal, but three good walks was awesome. This walk found us in the OR and Emergency area of the hospital. We were wandering down a random hall when we both stopped and looked ahead. It was the hallway from some horror movie where it is really long, white, doors all along the wall and no one in sight. We both decided to turn around and find a more inhabited area of the hospital.

After our walk, we settled in for a quiet last evening of reading and updating blogs and journals. We were again surprised to have my cousin Phil, his wife Melissa, and youngest daughter stop by. We were so excited to see them. We truly appreciate the time and effort it took to come and see us. They aren't far away, but when you have a young family, doing anything turns into an "event". So thanks for coming and visiting!

A Pedi from a friend

 Just as they were leaving, Kelly Perry arrived. She had called and told us that she wanted to visit. Since we hope to be leaving tomorrow, we are glad she was able to swing in! She gave my wife a pedicure (well, mostly a pedicure). They talked and talked and and laughed and visited. I chimed in here and there but spent most of the time writing in my daily journal.

I will be glad to have this over. I feel almost like I am now locked into writing everything down each day. I think what started as a way to remember everything has turned into a seemingly mundane task. I don't want to finish and I am getting weary of doing it. Anyways, it won't matter much longer and we will be glad to have such a descriptive record of this event.

I guess I should wrap this up and head back to the guest house. It is 12:36am and I am exhausted. My last night in the guest house. What a blessing that place has been over the past 25 days. Thank you to everyone who provided us with the financial assistance that allowed me to stay so close to my wonderful and now healthy wife.

My challenge to everyone who reads this post is to find the one(s) you love and tell them how much they mean to you and that you love them. Tell them now while you can! It is important to express those feelings frequently because you don't know when that chance will be taken away. Again, thank you for your calls, e-mails, texts, FB posts, and other help. We love you all...

Later...

Day #23- Adult ICU

Twenty-Three Days. Wow.
With it comes another angry day. I think it started when I called the doctors office of the man who assisted in my wife C-section about 7 weeks ago. I had called and asked to speak to their billing department (seeing how I had received his bill for assisting and considering I am a little busy helping my wife I didn't have access to the needed resources to pay it, and honestly, I was angry to even receive the bill) and was told that the billing lady was not in the office and could she call me when she returned. I gave them my cell-phone number and waited.

and waited...

and waited...

Finally the call came in. It went down something like this:

Me: Hello

Her: Is this John Hughes?

Me: Why yes it is.

Her: I am calling from Dr. Brady's office. I was told you had a question about a bill we sent you?

Me: Actually I was calling to tell you that I will not be paying the bill until I can get home. You see, I have been sitting with my wife in the ICU at Utah Valley Regional as a result of the surgery that Dr. XXXXX assisted with.

Her: (Stammering) Umm...ok...I will..uh...put a note on the file....um....stating that what you just said. ok?

Me: That would be great.

Her: Have a nice... (CLICK- I hang up)

Me: (In my head) Why us? I am SO angry about this! (To my wife) We don't have to worry about that bill until we get home.


The rest of the day has been spent waiting and waiting and waiting for them to move my wife to the 6th floor like was discussed at 9am this morning. In fact, the nurse that has been on shift has pretty much ignored my wife all day as they thought she would be moving. That helped me feel less angry, let me tell you.

I guess I am just mad because I should be home with my kids who need me, I should be sitting in my summer professional development classes learning what I need to know to be a better math teacher next year, I need to sort out the left overs of my school year...

Upon inspection you will notice that the last several sentences started with "I". It is pretty selfish, to say the least, and I know that. It just adds to the anger and frustration I already feel.

AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH (breath) HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH...

There. I guess that helped a teeny tiny bit.

Let's turn our discussion to my wife. She has had an amazing day as far as accomplishing things. She has ALL tubes removed from her body, so she is up and down much more often now. The best part, she can get up and down almost all by her self now. The only part she needs help with (and she CAN do it if she has too) is get her feet back on the bed.

We even went for a pretty long walk. We went up by the ICU she started in and then down to the main lobby, around by the gift shop and up the elevators in the Adult ICU waiting room and around the Adult ICU square before coming in for a landing. She also had her last PT session this morning. So she is a PT graduate.

We did have a visitor this afternoon. Scott Roberston stopped in and visited with us for a few minutes. It was nice to see someone from home again. It helps to anchor me a little. I wish I could explain what I am feeling inside right now...

I am not sure I even know what it is, or what is causing it. Honestly, I don't even have the energy to try and figure it out right now. What I think I will do is go on a long walk and just not think about anything. I guess being numb has its advantages.

Maybe when I return and continue this post I will feel much better. Until then...

I did a lap around the hospital block...which is HUGE. I even blocked everything but breathing and walking out of my head. I can't tell you anything I thought about other than distance and how warm it was. Sadly, it didn't help. But, it was nice to be outside.

When I got back I helped my wife get out of bed to use the restroom and then dozed in my chair. My aunt called and asked if they could come and visit. They showed up not to long afterwards. We had a very nice visit. They were very kind and brought our baby girl a new little outfit and a very cute pink giraffe musical toy. For my wife, they brought a night gown and nice robe. It was very thoughtful and we appreciate it very much.

My wife had her dinner and did a good job eating. I was proud of her. She seems to be getting her appetite back slowly but surely.

This evening we have just chilled and watched TV. My 6 year-old did call to ask if he could play his DS, so I was proud of him for asking even though he knows we aren't home. We watched America's Got Talent, which is really just an embarrassment to America for most of the people they put on there. There are a few people with real talent, like the russian bar lady. But Tron guy...really? Or the needle lady that stuck needles through her legs...???

After AGT, we watched The Voice. I really like the format, I am just not really liking most of the contestants songs. You would think that music stars know how to choose songs for their teams, but, sadly it isn't so.

Well, I am going to be heading out to the Guest House in a minute. I am very tired and feeling very depressed. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

I guess I could add that we did NOT get moved to the main floor today. They didn't have any rooms. So we are still in the Adult ICU until one opens up...or I guess we go home. I am hoping for Friday of this week, but am guessing it will be more like Monday of next week. Only time and Dr. Lichti will tell...

Later...

My Current Daily Routine (in Pictures...)

Day #22- Adult ICU (And the Answer Is...)

We'll skip the depressing reflection segment this morning and get right on with the day.

My wife wanted me back early this morning, so I knew I needed to try and get to sleep a little earlier. So much for that. I didn't leave her room until almost 1am, and then I had to go and put away all my clean clothes and remake my bed (I had taken all the sheets and washed them). By the time all was said and done (and I didn't turn on my computer or TV) it was almost 2am again. I guess that is just the time I will be going to bed. I can't seem to beat that time regardless of my best intentions.

When the alarm went off at 6:15am this morning, I didn't hit snooze or anything. I got up, got showered and dressed and headed out. I was here by 7am giving my wife her good morning kiss. She had been able to get two of the six cups down for her CT scan by the time I arrived...I knew my amazing wife could do it.

Taken on 6-13-11. Good to see your smile!

 She got the drinks down and went down to have her CT scan. While she was gone I apparently feel asleep because when they came back her wheel chair hit the door to open it and I about jumped out of my skin. lol.

She went straight into her physical therapy session. She did 6 laps around the Adult-ICU block. I thought she only did four, but I guess I was still sleeping through some of it. After her last lap she settled in and I read out loud to her again. We both cried... again! Seriously, what is up with this book. It is so good, but annoying me because of the high emotion of it all. There was an amazing quote in there though. In the book, a sister's house burns down and she has to let the ward help her. The other sister helping her tells her not to be overwhelmed by all the out pouring of love and support even though it feels like a debt in heaven. She told her that before too long, she will be asked to help someone else and that debt will be repaid. She called it the "economy of heaven".  I thought that was a great way to look at it. Our goal for our family this year was to provide more service. I just didn't think that we would be the one's allowing others to provide it! We thought it would be US doing the service... funny how things can be turned around on you.

I LOVE YOU BABE!!!!

I headed up to lunch while my wife rested. She had said her sisters Cassy and Jennie would be here around noon and I wanted to be done eating. I had just purchased my food and was sitting down when Cassy called and said she was here. I just laughed. I thought it was pretty funny. I told her how to get to the Adult-ICU waiting room and where my wife's room was. I ate my lunch and returned to find Cassy visiting with my wife.

Because her sisters brought their children, they had planned to take turns visiting so one could watch the kids, but my wife was a real trooper and walked out to the waiting room and sat in a wheel chair so she could visit with both of them together. It was nice to sit and visit and enjoy lots of kids being crazy and having fun. In fact, I took the three older kids up to the cafeteria and bought them treats to eat. It was a pleasure to be "Uncle John" for a bit.

Looking SO much better!

My wife got tired after a while and I could tell she needed to return to her room and lay down. So, I helped her get back to the room (Cassy helped as well). We got her settled in and then her sisters decided to go and feed their kids. While they were gone we just resumed chilling. They ended up coming back and Jennie came in to visit for a few minutes. While she was here Dr. Lichti made his rounds. He came in and told us that her scan looked pretty good, that the one little problem was a pocket of air (we can't remember if this is correct) in her incision, but that her abdomen was clean. He also said that her drains could come out. He told us that we (Jennie and I) may want to leave if we get queasy. I really thought about stepping out, but I knew I needed to be there for my wife. She had me hold her hand while they took out all five drains. She said that it didn't hurt, but just felt really, really, weird. I couldn't believe how much tubing she had inside of her. One of the drains was probably 2 feet long INSIDE of her. I thought maybe Dr. Lichti was performing a magic trick.

After all the drains were out, he told us that she would be going to the main floor tomorrow, that he was putting her on solid foods, and that he hoped to have us home by the weekend. That last one floored us a little bit. I guess we will see how it all works out. Her sisters had to leave shortly after Dr. Lichti left.

My wife was getting excited because her baby was going to be in her arms soon. My sister-in-law was waiting out on the patio with her. In fact, I had to run up and hold her while my wife came behind because my niece had a dr. appointment across the street. I enjoyed those few brief moments with my little one. She is so sweet, and beautiful, and perfect. I loved looking at her sweet little face and enjoying having her look back. My wife made it out on to the patio, got sat down, and I had the pleasure of setting her baby in her arms. As my wife talked to her, my little girl simply opened her eyes wide and looked in to my wife's eyes. My wife asked her if she remembered her (that part made my heart break...) and my little one continued to look into her eyes. It was a special moment and I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of it.

She was able to be with, hold, feed, burp, snuggle, talk to, and enjoy her sweet little one for about 2 1/2 hours. It was wonderful to simply sit and let her enjoy it all. While she was with Shlisa and Michaela, I excused myself and went to pay my Guest House bill. Funny story there. I got all the way down to the registrar to pay and realized that I had left the money I needed to pay with in my bag in my wife's room. So, I got some extra exercise (I have started using the stairs...YEA ME!) and came back up to the room, got, what I needed and then back to pay. What should have taken 10 minutes ended up taking almost 30 minutes. But that is okay. I just can't say enough good things about our experience here.

All too soon, it was time to send our little girl back to Green River with Aunt Shlisa, and it was time for my wife to lay down. My wife handled the whole thing really, really well and I was proud of her for that. After we returned to her room, we (the nurse and I) got her settled in and comfortable. I then headed out for dinner with Mr. Z. He treated me to Carrabbas. It was good eats. I also really enjoyed the good conversation and humor. After dinner we went to get frozen yogurt. We also stopped by Seagull Book. I finally broke down and bought Popcorn Bopping.  I have been thinking about this for a couple months. When I shared the link with my wife to see what she thought my 3 year-old LOVED it and wanted her to keep playing them. I hope they like it. I know I love it.

After I returned from my adventure with Mr. Z, I just had time to sit down and talk to my wife for a moment before our good friends Roger and Kelly Perry stopped by. It was so nice to see them again. We hadn't seen Roger for almost 6 years, so it was nice to visit with him. It was also excellent to have Kelly back to visit. It had been a while since we had seen her around. They stayed until around 10:15pm. It was sure a nice time to catch up and share the current updates about my wife, our kids, and their family.

Now they are gone I guess I should end this HUGE posting and head to bed. I am very, very tired. However, I am excited to share the pictures and the good news. I am hoping that before we know it, we will being blogging from home and talking about our kids again.

Have a wonderful night blogland...

Goodnight

(Later...)

Day #21- Adult ICU (The Day of Rest)

Today marks our 21st day here at the hospital.
3 weeks.
21 days.
504 hours.
30,240 minutes.
1,814,400 seconds.
Time that wasn't wasted, per say, because  looking at where we started and where we ended up- we have been very blessed. Sadly, it is just time that could have been spent watching our son play little league, bonding with our seven week old baby that doesn't even know we really exist, enjoying the cool evenings on our front patio with our kids, snuggling on the couch with our babies and watching TV or reading a book.

I know,
I know,
I know.

I can't change what has happened, I can't make it all better, and I most certainly shouldn't continue to harbor the anger and frustration that seems to come and go in waves. I can only hope that in time I will be able to deal with it and move on. I think once we are home and have reestablished some normalcy, I will have a chance to confront and deal with those feelings that I am currently repressing. All that matters right now is that we get my wife home healthy.

Today was a good day. I was pretty late getting to her room. I didn't even get out of bed until 9:00am and it was 9:40am before I was able to kiss her good morning. I had already missed her chest x-rays (which I didn't even know she was having) and her PT session. What a slacker I am...

The nurse did come in shortly after I arrived and let us know that the x-rays looked "pristine". So that was nice. I guess they were checking for pneumonia.  My wife was trying to eat her breakfast when I arrived and did a pretty good job of getting a few bites down of everything they gave her. She is eating more and more food, little by little. This is where patience comes in. Yippeee...NOT.

She actually spent a decent part of the morning dozing off and on. I spent the morning syncing my iPod to my laptop which meant a complete disaster for me, but I got it all worked out. Sometime around noon, we had our weekly sacrament visitors who came and gave us the sacrament and a spiritual thought. I love that. It helps keep us anchored in a little normalcy. After that I simply sat by my wife and held her hand until around 2pm when he PT team arrived and I headed out to wash my laundry and have dinner in Springville with Colter and Becky. Colter also gave me a haircut. It was nice. I went from Grizzly Adams to Mr. Hughes again.

As you can see from this crappy picture my hair is much shorter and hopefully less gray. I can't thank my Springville friends enough for their continued help and support by feeding me and letting me use their laundry room. You two are life savers (cherry flavored, even).

When I returned from dinner and clothes washing, I found my sister Suzette and two of her children visiting with my wife. It was nice to chat with her for a while. When she decided to leave (7pm) I walked her part way out and was pleased to see Aunt Patsy and Uncle Larry heading in. I was able to walk back up the room with them. It wasn't but a few minutes later that my wife's parents arrived to say hello for a while as well. Her parents had come all the way from Green River after dropping off my little herd at home. I know that my wife was very appreciative of them coming all that way to see her. They all left around 9pm and I headed down to the Crap-pa West (Cafe West- that is the name one of the nurses told me. When he said that I laughed pretty hard... the food IS getting a bit old, I must say.) While I was eating, my wife decided to try her regular Boost drink. She actually got the entire bottle down. I was very proud of her.

Tomorrow is a day that should bring lots of answers, and with any luck, no new questions. She is going to have to drink about 6 cups of liquid for her scan. She is anxious about that. They told her if she can't, they will put a tube down her nose and pump it into her stomach. I hope they don't have to do that... blah.

If things look good, they will start removing some, if not all, of her five drains and possibly move us to the main floor (medical tower). This means that our children could come and see their mom. It has been 3 weeks since my wife has touched her children and remembers doing it.

I know that she is improving. I can see it in her face, her attitude, and her conversation. But I also know that in her heart she is aching something fierce for her babies, especially her now 10+ lbs, 7 week old baby that she has missed the last 3 weeks of her life.

It hurts me too.

I wish I could make everything all better, wave a wand and erase this whole experience. Then I stop and think for a minute about all that has happened. I wouldn't wish this on anyone EVER, and I wish with all my heart I had acted like a responsible spouse and took my wife to a doctor that would listen to her.

But, I also stop to think about the events that have taken place since we arrived here and I know that blessings are being earned and given and shared. All I can do is thank my Father in Heaven for all the blessings that have been poured out on my family and those who have reached out to help us.

 I have said it before, and I will say it again here- I know this will change our family forever. I know that my wife and I will feel indebted and almost guilty for all the love and support we hav required of others during this time, for the rest of our mortal lives.

Thanks for all your love and support. I will update you tomorrow as soon as I have any information to share.

Later...

Day #20- Adult ICU (Eat, Drink, and Be Merry...)

Saturday is a special day...it's the day we get ready for....

MORE WAITING! :)

Today has been an interesting day. I woke up at 7:15am and hit snooze on my iPod. Nine minutes later (9 minutes...who thinks these things up...) it went off again. This time I simply turned it off and went back to sleep. I awoke around 8:30am and was showered, dressed, and looking at my wife's gorgeous face by 9:15am.

She informed me that I had already missed her morning PT session...RUDE!:)

That is okay. I was content to pull up my AWESOME (NOT!) recliner and snuggle in for the duration. While I worked on updates, journaling, and playing Words With Friends (of which I have to have my wife help me at times, because I am BAD at that game...and especially Hanging with Friends) and just holding her hand (my favorite activity).

In the early part of the morning, my wife's grandmother called and asked if she could stop by for a visit. We were delighted to have her and her daughter (my wife's Aunt Vicki) stop in for a visit. They also "hijacked" me for lunch (as Grandma put it). We went to Five Guys. Very tasty and fun. It was nice to get to know her aunt and grandma a bit better as well. In fact, after we ate, we went to the new Desert Book store that was just across the way and of course, I spent like WAY TOO MUCH and they didn't spend anything. Of course, they were excellent at helping me find good books that my wife would enjoy, and since I LOVE books, it was an easy sell. 

On the way back, they also stopped at Arctic Circle and bought my wife a chocolate shake. (I got a Snickers one...yum!). They came back up to the room and chatted for a little while longer and then headed home. 

While we waited for 6pm and Colter and Becky to come for a visit, I was able to read her a chapter out of the scriptures since she is like a month behind on her reading. I enjoyed being able to share that time with her. It was peaceful, calming, and uplifting- something we both needed (and still do...).

Next, it was time for my wife's PT session. She wanted to head out to the patio again. Because the staff was behind schedule they told her she couldn't stay very long. We worked it so that they left her with me and went to the next patient, saying they would return after they finished. I can't begin to describe how nice it was to put my arm around my wife's shoulders and let her lay her head on my shoulder. We haven't been able to do anything but hold hands for 3 weeks, so that was wonderful. We both sat and cried together and then laughed at our silliness. Those are the moments that keep me sane and refill my hope that all this really will end one day.

I am pretty sure I fell asleep in there are some point for a bit before they came. We had finished reading and was just listening to the TV for a while. I would wake up and notice that she was sleeping so I would smile and close my eyes again. Our nurse did come in at one point and tell us she had been going over the results of my wife's lab work and was excited to share that all her cultures had not grown anything. Apparently she is free from infection. I hope that is true.

Around 6pm, I got a call saying that it would be a few more minutes before our friends arrived (which is all good because I have done that to them several times...and it isn't like I was going anywhere). They picked me up and we went to Rubio's. Interesting restaurant...I liked it a lot. (Thanks for dinner you two!).

We returned as quickly as we could (including a quick stop at Rite-Aide) and then visited until almost 9:30pm. After they left (I hope your kids were okay...) I pulled out one of the new books I bought today and started reading to her. Silly book is about a man that lost his wife and is supposed to find a new one. We were both crying through it. Not sure what I was thinking on that one...lol. But it is a good story and we are enjoying reading together. (The Bishop's Bride is the title, incase you were wondering that)

That brings our day in for a landing. Another fun-filled day here in Provo, Utah has come to a close. We are excited to get to Monday for her CT scan. I am hoping that once that is done we can get the drains out, move to the main floor (of which many of your are excited for so you can send flowers...but may I suggest that you put that money in a card and send it to her. With all her weight loss she is going to need a new wardrobe and it will mean much more to her to have clothes to wear than flowers to look at for a few days. I hope that didn't sound rude...) and have a more definite timeline of when we can come home.

Again, a shout-out to all of you who are working to help our sweet little family. The kids will be back home tomorrow and with any luck we will be heading home in less than 10 days. And Heather...you are doing way more than you think you are. You are a great friend and we appreciate all you are doing. I would LOVE to see your pictures as well. Thanks for caring...

Well everyone...it is late and it is TIME FOR BED!

Later...

Day #14- ICU (Up and Around)

Today marks the beginning of something new!
My wife was up out of bed today and walking around a little. This is fantastic news in regards to eventually getting home. Way to go babe.

My mom and dad are amazing. They woke up early today and brought my kids up to see me before they left to go with Grandma and Grandpa Millett for a week long stay. The kids  had a lot of fun today. We ate in the cafeteria, played outside on the grass, and had ice cream. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful it was to have almost all my babies around me. In fact the kids got a special treat today. My wife was able to make it to her outside window which is on the second floor. The kids were abel to wave to her and yell up that they loved her. She was able to yell down that she loved them and have a short conversation with a couple of the kids. I loved watching it. I know my wife was feeling a little down because she misses holding all her babies.

This evening we had a friend from Nevada stop by and see us on her way to her 10 day cruise. It has been 6 years since we have seen each other. She used to volunteer in my classroom all the time. It was nice to visit and catch up. I was also able to visit Colter and Becky and wash my laundry and enjoy their company. (Thanks for letting me come over again!).

I know this is a shorter post, but I am exhausted and it is after 2am. Thanks to everyone for your thoughts, love, and prayers. They are felt and really making a difference. I will elaborate on how we are not out of the woods yet later. The nurse gave us some information tonight that might set us back a bit, but I am not worried. I feel at peace when I think about my wife and her recovery. I love you babe! I am SO proud of how well you did with your Physical Therapy today! Keep it up.

Later...

Day #13- ICU- (Tubeless in Provo)

Saturday the 13th...Hmmmm. I could have sworn it was Friday the 13th. I have been in an interesting mood today. Grumpy with a touch of down right snotty. I can't really explain why I feel this way. I was angry at myself, at my wife, at everyone who looked at me...

I think my mind decided that since she was going to be okay, that she was closed, that she was off her tube, that since all the doctors today had very positive outlooks- I think my mind decided that all the worry, frustration, anger, concern, and "why us"-ness melted into one moody day of release. I hope that it mostly came across as annoyed, not flippant or rude. So sorry to those who came to visit today if my attitude and mood was a little off-putting. I really did try hard to repress it. But, at the same time, I am thankful to have let it out and I am ready to move forward.

This has been a very monumental day for my wife. She was able to get clearance from her surgeon, her respiratory therapist, and her ICU doctor to have her breathing tube removed. Her parents arrived just as they were beginning that process and for some reason, the removal of the tube was the beginning of my mood. Anyways, the tube came out and you could see her attitude, her countenance just lighten up. It was a great thing for her. She was also able to get her hair washed and cleaned up.

I enjoyed a nice lunch with a family from Green River (thank you Pettit family). It was nice to see people from home. Makes it seem like we really DID live there and we really DID have a life before all of this. Kristin also stopped by and stayed with my wife for quite a while today. I am very glad she did as well. I love that people care so much about my wife. She is one amazing lady, and needs the love and support right now to make a speedy recovery. My sister was also a trooper today and hung out with me even though I was a bit grouchy. She even took me to dinner. Thanks sis (and family).

The doctors have made it pretty clear that it will depend a lot on how well she responds to therapy as to how fast she gets to go home. So, when we get started in the next day or so, please keep her in your prayers so that she can come home soon. I long for the routine of a "normal" day with a "normal" family (if that is possible).

Well, all seems to be going really well. The nurses are very positive that she should be out of here in the next day or so.

Thanks for all the love and prayers...

Later...

Day #12- ICU (Happy Birthday My Love)

What a glorious day this promises to be. Add to that the fact that it is my sweetheart's birthday today and you have the makin's for one heck of a day.

Happy Birthday Love...You deserve to have the best day ever!

I thought that getting home so late last night would really make it hard to be here early to share her day before her surgery. But, just like every other day, my eyes popped open at 7:15am. I am beginning to wonder if there is some hidden device or perhaps some daily vehicle drives by...I am not sure. Whatever the case, I was awake. I wanted to go back to sleep, but I really wanted to have time with her before her surgery because after it, she wouldn't be as into doing things.

I read her all the e-mails (like 60+ of them...way to go- thanks for your help with that). She really enjoyed hearing your birthday wishes and thoughts. She smiled a lot and cried some. It was awesome. If you want to still send them, please feel free to do so. She truly loves to hear about you and what you are doing. Just have a gab session with her. Anyways, I digress...

After I read her her cards, she wanted to play a card game. Well, I didn't exactly bring any card games with me so I knew this would be my chance to hit the gift shop and get her a present...apparently a card game...lol.

After being gouged and paying WAY too much for UNO (totally worth it for my wife) I got a birthday balloon (which she CAN have balloons as long as there is NO LATEX) and had the Pink Ladies put her game in a bag and add pretty paper..etc. etc. etc. 

When I got back to the room, my aunt and her husband were visiting with my wife. It was nice to see them for a few minutes. After they left, my wife opened her gift and we played UNO. I won't mention here that I lost to her in the one game we were to played. It was actually quite embarrassing. We won't discuss this anymore...moving on.

We received notification that they were on their way up to take her to surgery. So I kissed her and told her I would see her after her surgery and was a new woman---all closed up and "stuff". She half-smiled.

Just a few short minutes later I was sitting in the waiting area by myself. That was new because I have had someone with me for all four of the other operations. Interestingly enough, Melinda Durrant and her parents showed up to visit. That was nice (thanks for the nice gifts) to have someone to talk with. Shortly after they left my wife's mother and one of her sisters arrived. Her aunt also arrived. We waited through to operation. It was about 2 hours long.

Dr. Lichti came out and explained the situation to us. He told us he closed the abdomen, added a graft, and added 5 drains. I watched her wheeled past as he continued to explain all about the surgery.

We waited about 1/2 hour before venturing up to her room. She was in pretty rough shape. It was nice to see her. From there we went to dinner at Apple Bee's (YUMMY) and then returned to have a small birthday party in her room. We had 10 of us in her room at once. I am hoping to do a birthday post tomorrow with pictures of her "stuff" and the wall in it's current state. Anyways, a big banner was hung, gifts were given, and tears were shed. We then gave her a blessing. I was the one who gave the blessing. It was nice to provide that service for me wife. I recorded her family singing to her. That was really neat.

After all of that was done, we all headed to Arctic Circle for ice cream. FINALLY, I got some. I have been wanting it for along time now. 

I have since been sitting here with my wife working on blogging, journaling, and chatting. I just realized that I am spending so much time updating, writing, and journaling that I am missing the actual experience. I won't go off-line completely, and I promise to update often, but I need to focus more time on my wife. So, don't worry if there are less postings...FB updates...or other things. 

We love all of you for your love, support, prayers, thoughts, and other ways of service. 

Here is to one wonderful woman who had a birthday in ICU and is still upbeat and optimistic. That alone shows that she is one her road to recovery. 

Later...

Day #11- ICU

Ah...greetings to day 11 from Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, Utah. It would be easy to be negative and think of all the bad things that we have gone through here. (I know, because I do it pretty often). However, every time that I walk into my wife's room, and see her open those beautiful blue eyes and look at the love she has for me in them...I realize that in reality, all that matters is that she is made well. So...here is to a speedy and healthy recovery.

Today was also a victory because I was able to complete my application for financial assistance from the hospital. The case worker wasn't very optimistic about us qualifying for help, but I did all that I could do.

Allisha had lots of visitors today. My 6th grade teacher came up and visited. We went to lunch and it was really nice to sit and visit with her. Ashley (my wife's sister-in-law) came with her kids to visit as well. Afterwards we went out for a late lunch. It was very tasty and I appreciated seeing and visiting with them. Thanks Ashley for thinking of me.

Then I had a blast with two good friends from Springville...no need to name names, they know who they are. They picked me up at the guest house and we went to the California Pizza Kitchen. Now, THAT place was good eats. Then we came back to the hospital and visited with my wife for a while. We laughed and teased. My wife was even writing notes, giving thumbs up, and giving me "the look".

After everyone left (and my wife had her nightly bath) we put my laptop on the rolling table and my wife Skyped her sister in PA. We talked for over an hour. It was nice to visit and my wife even tried to type her a note. It didn't work out so well, but it was sure fun for her to try.

Next, we watched the two episodes of "The Voice" on my laptop. That was nice to sit and hold her hand. Made me fell like we were back at home sitting on the couch and watching TV. After both episodes, I packed up by stuff and headed back here to the guest house. It is now 2:30am and I am pooped.

We learned that her surgery is tomorrow (now today) afternoon. We don't know the exact time.
We have not heard the official results of her CT scan.
We saw improvement in her spirit and alertness today.
Tomorrow (today) is her birthday (don't forget Mission: Allisha's Birthday).

It really should be a great day. Oh, and I am not J-walking anymore. My dad told me he had a horrible dream that did not end well for me. So now I am walking the block down to the intersection and the block back up the other side. I needed the exercise, so it is all good.

Well, I best get to sleep so I can be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for the day!

Later...

Day #10- ICU

Well, it can't be said that when the Hughes family does something they do it small. I mean, we have always been taught that if you are going to do something, do it big!

Day 10 has dawned bright and beautiful. I am actually very proud of myself. I left earlier than I have since we got here to head back to the Guest House and I was completely OUT by 12:30 am. I slept until 7:20 am when my eyes popped open. I knew I wouldn't be going back to sleep, so I just attacked the day and got ready.

Upon arriving at the Hospital, I found my wife in AWESOME condition. Her fever had broke during the night and she was sleeping. I gently kissed her forehead and said good morning. I can't begin to describe the love, happiness, peace that began to flood into my mind when she opened those beautiful blue eyes and looked at me. From there we had a discussion about when I had left (I had kissed her goodnight, but she was exhausted and been OUT! Yet another reason I left earlier- so she could sleep. It has been nice to have her very alert, writing CLEAR notes, and starting to get a bit feisty.

Dr. Pearce came in and checked her over this morning and talked about her surgery. It is scheduled for 1pm, which I was glad to hear. That means my oldest son will be here to see her when she goes by. He is doing okay, but he really needs to see his mom and dad. I am SO thankful for all the good people around us. Kristin is bringing up my baby girl and my oldest. That means I will have been able to see 4 of the 6. The two little boys were  very cute last night when I was talking to them. My 4 yr old son would talk and talk and talk. He sounded much more grown up than before. My little 2 yr old son didn't really say a whole lot. I hope he hasn't forgotten who is mommy and daddy are...

Yesterday after I blogged (and I was able to slap myself a couple of times and get my mind cleared up), I returned to the room and found her doing okay. Our friend Kelly arrived (I think more to check on me than to see my wife in this case...) and she stayed for quite a while. Iva Wilske, the second grade teacher at my school, stopped by for a visit. She stayed for quite a while too. I am SO thankful these ladies showed up to support my wife and distract me. Iva left and then Kelly stepped out when my wife's parent arrived. It was nice to see them again. They brought her little brother Jordan with them. He just graduated from high school, and it was nice for him and his sister to "visit". During the "You Can't Be In Here Hours" we went to Aunt Roberta and Uncle Keith's house for dinner. It was nice. We ate on their deck and enjoyed the warm-ish evening air.

When we got back to the hospital, Aunt Patsy and Uncle Larry arrived and spent some time visiting with my wife. We were trying not to be a "herd" in the room, so I stayed in the waiting room for most of the time. Before everyone left for the night, we gave my wife a blessing. I anointed and her dad blessed. It was a wonderful blessing and the reason she is doing so well today.

After the blessing, I walked everyone out to the parking garage while the gave my wife her nightly bath. When I returned I visited with my wife, but also enjoyed some quiet time just holding her hands and letting her rest. I think one thing I am really learning is that to let someone know you care you don't have to say anything. I know that sounds really, really dumb and obvious, but again, until it really affects you, you don't understand, not really.

That brings us up to date.

UPDATE: Dr. Lichti just came in for his morning rounds. He explained that it would really most likely be Friday before they close her. They will add drains and may have to use an organic graft (which he explained is pig skin with all the animal properties taken out of it). I sure that may be the source of teasing and laughing at some far future point in our lives...

Her surgery is scheduled for 1pm today, so everyone say a prayer.

I asked what caused all of this and he stated that it was a uterine infection. He wouldn't comment on if it came from the C-Section of just happened ("I have seen these things pop-up out of the blue".) which I think he knew more than he would agree too. But that is okay for now.

I do want to say that my wife LOVED the three e-mails that people had sent. You can send them from HERE. I read them to her and she loved hearing from a few of you. If you get a minute, I would ask that you drop her a note every now and then while she is here. She may not respond to you (at least for a while) but she will enjoy hearing from you and about you.

Also, if you haven't noticed, Face Book is being stupid. So, it and when decides to behave, I can give more of the minute-by-minute updates. For now, this is the update.

Later...

Day #9- ICU

I can't believe that we have been here for NINE days! I have come to not remember what our life was like before all of this! I know I have kids, and I have seen 3 of the 6 in the last 9 days. I miss my babies. Allisha did great yesterday in surgery. She returned and everything looked AWESOME! Then her fever spiked. They have been working to keep it down. It is maintain right now at about 100.9 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) . I have not lost hope...that would be silly. Rather I have grown weary of this routine. However, sulking and whining won't make her better faster (it makes me FEEL better...lol...but is not healthy for a good outlook).

Update from yesterday: Okay, so I was SO tired last night that I thought I could produce a coherent posting, but...ummm...yeah. I should have just deleted that one and started over today. AND, since I was just asked to step out of her room for about 30 minutes while they added a PICC line (an IV line what will go through her arm and up into the chest cavity somewhere), I figured what a prefect time to have an emotional breakdown (after all it has been a few days since my last one...) and then pick myself up and move forward. And it can all done with out my wife knowing anything different.

Her surgery went really well. I as really not anxious about it. I didn't want her to have more abscesses, but knew that it was best to get everything cleaned up pronto, but if that is what it takes to make her whole again, so be it. I know this is going to be a life altering event. I don't know to what extent this will affect our family, but I know it will forever change us. It is amazing how much you take for granted. I have always heard that said, but never really understood it until these last nine days. I also think, that unless you have an experience like this, you WON'T know just how much you take for granted. It really sucks (excuse my language) to have that hand of reality reach up and smack you across the face. On the flip-side, you don't realize how many people are there for you until a situation like this. It has been beyond humbling to have envelopes of money handed to me. I know that I need the help- we really have nothing, but I think about these families that are giving up so much for ME and my family. I think about the kids of their children, their lives, and I feel so guilty about taking the gifts. I know...I know...I know...take it graciously and say thank you. Again, if you have never been there, it is a lot easier to say than do. I tell my wife each time we are given a gift, and she shakes her head and tears run down her cheeks. She closes her eyes and I just hold her hand and cry with her. It is nice to be loved, and hard at the same time. I wish everyone could make her better, I wish I could do something to help her. I feel like I am so helpless sitting there, staring at her, wishing it was different...wishing I could so something useful. I stare at the pictures of our babies and try so hard to keep it all in. I miss them...I love them...and they are suffering because one man wouldn't take the time to listen to a woman who knew she wasn't well, who knew she was sick, and told her to deal with it and see him in two weeks...two weeks she would have been dead. I am SO ANGRY right now at him. How dare he? How dare he treat a patient- MY WIFE- like he did. How can you ignore someone who is asking...crying for help.

Then I realize that I am just as guilty in the sense that I should have taken these matters into my own hands. I should have done something earlier. And the worst part is...I think I wanted to wait a little because I knew we couldn't afford it...She said she was feeling better, but I could see she wasn't getting better. I hate myself for not doing something about it earlier. I also know I can't blame myself, at least not forever. So we pick up the pieces and we move on.

Well...that all just kind of poured out onto the page. Sorry about that.

Today has been an interesting adventure already and it is only 10:44am. I found her with a high fever still left over from last night. They are still doing Tylenol every 4 hours and a cold wash cloth on her head (something that I can actually help with). Dr. Lichti came in and spoke with me. Said everything was wonderful still, fever al little high, but planning on surgery tomorrow (most likely in the afternoon). They are going to do blood cultures and add a new course of a different antibiotic to see if there is an infection that isn't being taken care of.

Hopefully on Friday (her birthday) they will close her and put in her drains. 2-3 more days in ICU, and then moved to a regular room for up to 4 weeks, depending on how everything goes. We haven't found the road to recovery yet...more like we are on the grassy path NEXT to the Forrest trail that leads to the road. (loosely stolen from a friend's comment today).

My wife's parents will be here shortly after 5pm. Just as visiting hours end. So, we will have time to visit and catch up on stuff. A teacher from my school is stopping by for a brief visit as well. I have found that I love to have visitors and I love to be alone. That way I can be a happy person around the visitors, and have my quiet, private time to grieve, be emotional, and pull myself together.

I guess I should head back in now that it has been an hour and I have been out here having my weekly break down (maybe it is something to do with Tuesdays...) but all is going ok for now. Thanks for all the FB comments, prayers, thoughts, calls, texts, and other prayer friendly media.

More coming soon...

Later...

P.S. Here is her wall in her room. Thanks to the amazing ladies who made it possible (and all those who have sent cards and pictures to hang).