Merry Christmas!

During a visit from his family yesterday, Jerry received get well wishes from the Richlands Blue Tornados! The entire team signed a get well wish for Jerry. He also received the sweatshirt in the photo as well! He was overjoyed to receive such a special gift from his favorite football team! In addition to this amazing gift, we all got to experience our first "White Christmas" in quite some time. From our hearts to yours, thanks again for the prayers, cards, and love you have sent to all of us.

Team Jerry ALL THE WAY!!!!

Good things keep happening!

Hey folks!

Sorry that I didn't update the blog over the weekend, but I thought I would wait until some events that were scheduled for early this week happened so you could get a full report on the latest with Dad. First and foremost, he is doing well and continues to progress nicely with this rehab. The doctors like what they see and think Dad is on the verge of doing some big things.

Yesterday (Tuesday), the family and Dad had a meeting with the hospital staff to talk about some of the lingering issues that continue to plague the rehab process. A lot of things were discussed and the air seem to be cleared on some misconceptions that we had about them, they had about us, and the overall rehab plan and Dad's care. With something as complex as GBS, it's only normal for both sides of the equation to get frustrated at times and want to "give up" on certain tasks. But we believe yesterday laid the foundation for things to improve and start moving forward again.

The big news, as you can see by the picture, is that Dad sat up on the side of his bed on Monday. This task is now apart of his Physical Therapy plan and will be done 3 times a week (M-W-F), with him actually getting out of bed on the days in between (Tu-Th) and sitting in his hot-rod Harley Davidson wheelchair (thanks for the stickers, cousin Brian). Also, Respiratory Therapy, who is helping to wean him off the vent, is starting to put in a mechanism on this trach each day that will allow Dad to start talking again. Each of these new therapies is very painful and scary for Dad, but he is working through them like a champ with the help and encouragement of Mom, the Family and the hospital staff, and of course, you too via your emails and cards.

The next big thing for Dad, which will probably happen at the beginning of the year, is a move to a new facility. Depending on where Dad is with his therapies will decide which facility he will go to. I am working with his Case Mgr. to get an updated list of these facilities and will try to find one close to Danville, per Dad's request, so we can be near him to help with his rehab. Most likely, Mom will not be able to stay with him like she is now, so this will entail a lot of traveling for her going forward. If anyone has any ideas on facilities or if you've heard of one close to Danville, please email them to us, as we'll take all the help on finding a facility that we can get.

Well, that's it for now. Take care of yourselves and keep those cards and well-wishes coming in. I'll keep updating the blog as Dad's milestones continue. Thanks again for all your love and support. We truly appreciate it!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Humor and Football helps him through it!

Hi everyone!

The past week was a challenge for Dad, as he continues his therapies for ventilation weaning and physical mobility. While the latter is still a "work-in-progress" as far as setting up a program schedule, the vent therapy is continuing to move forward. Each hour that he adds to being off the machine gets him that much closer to being off of it all together. Everyone is hopeful that Dad will be able to complete this feat by the end of the year, but there are no promises.

As with any GBS patients, there are peaks and valleys to the recovery process. While Dad did make some progress this past week, it was even more challenging due to his extenuating circumstances. Of course, just like when you or I work out (hehe... that's funny... the thought of me working out... anyway, I digress), Dad gets tired. His body is having to learn how to work on it's own again and just as one would think, the muscles that he has not used for the past 5 months are now getting a good workout each day. If you couple this issue with the fact that Dad's lungs seem to be in overdrive when it comes to being congested, well, you can just imagine at how tired he feels each day. But he keeps plugging along, because he wants to get out of that bed. I just keep telling him to do like those ol' guys from SNL, where he looks at his muscles and says, "I want to pump YOU UP"!

Lots of people have asked about Mom, and with all things considered, she is doing well. Of course, her stubbornness gets in the way sometimes when she doesn't listen to us about getting enough rest, but that's OK. As I've explained to her, when she's laying there in a bed next to Dad, I'll be able to say "I told you so" just like she use to do to me when I was a teenager. In all seriousness, Mom is really doing a great job with Dad and if it wasn't for her, there would be no recovery. She truly is the backbone of the operation there at the hospital. Along with the nurses and doctors, Mom is helping Dad back from the depths of this GBS hell that has trapped him since the end of June. Without her, I don't know what we'd do!!!

Also, people are starting to ask about Christmas gifts and what they can do to help. Well, as before, we are asking for donations to be mailed to the benefit account (PO Box 2364, Danville, VA 24541). Bills continue to mount and we are attempting to get things in line for some big moves in the near future. Chances are that Dad will be moved to a facility within the next couple of months that will handle his physical therapy once he is off the vent. This will mean that Mom will have to travel to see him, which means added travel expenses. Anything you can send, no matter how much, would be greatly appreciated.

Someone sent a lovely note the other day, talking about how they had read the news article on Dad and Mom; and while they didn't have much, they just wanted to send something. Others have sent cards saying they wish they could send something, but have nothing to give, so they are keeping Dad and Mom in their prayers instead. Please understand that no matter what you do, give money or send words of encouragement, it is your contact with Dad and Mom that matters most. It reminds them that while their predicament is difficult and the road ahead to recovery is long, the love that their friends and family share for them is greater than anything they'll ever know, and that is what will get them through this thing to the end.

On a personal note, Dad is back online with his Facebook account. To encourage his physical therapy recovery, we got him an early Christmas gift, which was a laptop from Walmart to use. It's just something simple that allows him to watch movies and get on the Internet, with the help of a special mouse that I found. So be sure to send him a message if you're on his friends list.

Last but not least, Dad is ecstatic about the fact that the Richlands Blue Tornadoes made it to the state championship game this Saturday after beating Brookville this past weekend. Unfortunately, he's not able to go to the championship game, but he will be able to hear it on his laptop. So everybody join Dad and root for the Blues this Saturday! Go Blues!!!

OK... that's it for now. Team Jerry all the way!!!

Being Thankful!

Hi everyone!

Well, last week was very eventful, in that we had a lot going on with family and friends visiting Dad during the holiday week. He and Mom received visits from Dad's immediate family, as well as other relatives and friends. Of course, the highlight of Dad's weekend was getting to see his granddaughter and showing her all of his new "tricks" since they had last seen each other.

Dad is starting to move more muscles in his arms, which is allowing him to move them from the elbow down in a side-to-side motion. Hopefully, the nerve regeneration will continue through the rest of his arms so he can start to lift them up and down. He is also moving more of his legs and feet, which we also hope will continue to improve.

As far as pain goes, Dad is feeling different kinds of it from time-to-time. One hour, he'll have some discomfort and itching in his feet, then it will move to his arms, and then to his hands. The other day, they got him out of bed and into his hot-rod wheelchair and unlike previous times, he was ready to get back into bed almost as soon as he got out. He was so uncomfortable and achy, but we talked him through it and he stayed in the chair for about 25 minutes.

His ventilator therapy is going well. Dad didn't meet his self-imposed goal of being off the machine by Thanksgiving, but he is not swayed from trying. We feel like the infection that he experienced last week set him back a bit on his therapy, so we're hopeful he'll get back on track soon now that he's over it.

Mom is doing well also. She could probably stand a little time to herself, but convincing her of that is another matter. Mom has stood by Dad's side through everything that has happened in the past 5 months, and I don't see her going anywhere anytime soon. I guess that's what true love is all about.

As far as being thankful, Dad and Mom wanted me to let everyone know that they are very thankful for your thoughts and prayers. Dad loves the cards that you continue to send him, and also the jokes via email. So keep those messages coming, as they are helping to keep his spirits up. Not to mention, he was elated to hear that 1.) the Richlands Blue Tornado football team made it to the state semi-finals and will be playing in nearby Brookville this Saturday (12/4), and 2) that Nick Saban lost to Auburn this past weekend.

OK... that's it for now. Take care and we hope that all of you had a very blessed Thanksgiving holiday.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Maintaining

Hello everyone!

Well, our readership on the blog has probably grown a little by now, thanks to a newspaper article on Dad and Mom that ran in their hometown's newspaper. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find a link to the article online yet. With all due respect to something called the "Possum Philosophy" writer, they're getting way too much online time with some of those articles. But I digress and welcome any and all who have started reading our blog about Jerry and Mary Sue Hawkins. Now, on with the update.

Dad has encountered a few complications this past week. He ran a fever for a few days and the doctors were worried about what it could be, as there was no obvious answers. After some "nudging", we finally talked Dad into being poked one more time by a needle in order to start receiving his medicine intravenously. They also gave him fluids to ensure he was hydrated enough. As of Sunday, Dad was feeling better and the fever had come down.

As for his therapy progress, Dad is still getting out of bed (when he's feeling good) and they are working to get him on what's called a "Trach Collar". Basically, it's something different that they connect to his trach and feeds him oxygen so he can breath on his own without the machine being there to breath for him. In other words, he's truly on his own. It's frightening to him, as Dad still has flashbacks of when he lost his ability to breath in Kansas. The ordeal really shook Dad's core, so he is understandably apprehensive about trying it. But we're trying to encourage him enough to be brave and strong so he can continue progressing towards his goal of being off the breathing machine all together.

Dad' nephew from Maryland came to visit this weekend. He's a big Harley fan and bought Dad a Harley sticker to put on the side of his wheelchair. Should make for an interesting conversation piece if nothing else.

Well, that's it for now. Dad and Mom wanted me to let all of you know that they are very thankful for your kind thoughts and prayers. They are thinking of you and wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Team Jerry all the Way!!!

Going for a Stroll!

Hey folks!

Well, it's only been a week since our last post, but a lot has happened. So let me get right to it.

Dad is really doing well with his recovery. To start with, he talked the medical staff into getting a little more aggressive with his ventilator therapy. This week, not only did they turn Dad's vent down to 6 (breaths per minute), but he also started going a few hours each day without the vent. That's right, he's breathing a little bit on his own each day without the aid of the machine. He started on Wednesday with 1 hour, and by Saturday, he was up to 4 hours. Dad set a goal for himself, and that is to be off the vent by Thanksgiving. It's an aggressive goal, but one we hope he can meet.

Lastly, the medical staff helped Dad get into a specialized wheelchair this past week and wheeled him down the hallway. It's the first time he's been out of the hospital room since they transferred him there back in August. The picture that you see is of him and Mom in the hallway. They took Dad to a big window where he was able to look outside with his own eyes for the first time in 4 months. Needless to say, Dad was overjoyed with the sight of the pretty fall leaves and blue sky. And of course, there wasn't a dry eye to be found on the floor for the rest of the day. Dad has gotten up everyday since Wednesday, and they will be doing the same next week to keep him in a routine. In fact, they might even take him outside for just a little while if the weather warms up enough.

Now, the prognosis is still the same for Dad from a medical standpoint. He's still going to need multiple years of therapy, and he will most likely need an aid for a little while to get around the house until he's back on his feet. But all of this is still a ways down the road, as we still have a long way to go. Dad's nerves are still regenerating, but I can see a little more movement in him each week when we visit. We just have to keep reminding ourselves that the day Dad will leave the hospital and go home is closer than what it use to be.

I know with the holidays coming up that Dad would love to hear from all of you that are keeping up with his progress. So don't forget to drop him a line via card or email when you get the chance. His address is P.O. Box 2364, Danville, VA, 24541, and clink on this link to get to the hospital's website for email. He's in room CRCR #5. Dad and Mom would also like everyone to know that you really mean a lot to them. Truly, they could not have made it this far without your love and support.

OK... that's it for now. Take care of yourselves and thanks for keeping Dad and Mom in your thoughts and prayers.

Team Jerry all the Way!!!

PS - Dad is also very excited by the prospects of RHS doing well in the playoffs. He's still rooting for the home team, even though he's far away. So for Dad, let's all say, "GO BIG BLUE!!!"

A Rather Chilly Day in Lynchburg

Welcome back to waking up in the sunlight and driving home in the dark. It's November- and I'm counting down the days until Spring! It's April updating today. Thought I would share some of the details from our visit with Jerry yesterday.

Jerry is currently maintaining a rate of 8 breaths per minute on the ventilator. He is averaging several breaths a minute on his own. However, as his nerves are regrowing, his muscles waking up, and his lungs realizing they have to help, there is some discomfort involved. He feels like he is smothering. Understandable and we were forewarned about this. I told him it was a mind game and he had to play. He laughed and told me he wasn't good at mind games. Jerry is a fighter, refusing to give up. At times he tends to be a little down in the dumps, but he is the strongest man I have ever seen in so many different ways. In my opinion I think Jerry looked great. Every time I visit I see more movement, more color, and more life back in Jerry. His lips are much easier to read and trust me, he has a lot to say! Since he has been turned down on the ventilator, there is some discussion of putting the valve on his trach so we can hear him talk. Watch for that update! Of course, he spoke one time and Anna Leigh was what he said. It's obvious that he adores our daughter more than anything. Anna Leigh is getting lots of practice in case she wants to be a physical, speech, occupational, or cognitive therapist! Anna Leigh makes him work and he loves it! Anna Leigh also wore her Halloween costume last week and did a "reverse trick-or-treat". She said trick or treat and passed out candy to the nurses. Our "Juliet" had a great time thanking Papa's nurses.

Mary Sue is holding up OK. My incredible Mom and daughter took her out last week to get her hair done. It looks wonderful. Little things like that help boost her spirits. During our visit, we tried a local Italian restaurant (better than hospital food!) and went to WalMart. It is hard for her to leave Jerry, but she did leave him long enough to relax for an hour or so.

Please continue to send cards for Jerry. Anna Leigh reads them to him and he just lights up! We have started decorating his room with them. Keep them coming please! We are so grateful for the prayers, phone calls, and donations you have sent. Jerry is an incredibly lucky person to have people who love him so very much.

TEAM JERRY ALL THE WAY!

What's that Smell!

Hey Gang!

Well, some more good news. It's something little you and me, but it's a big deal for Dad. He sneezed today. That's right... he sneezed. Not only that, but he was also able to sit up in a special chair today for about 40 minutes after being unable to do so for about a week or so. So, just to sum up this past week's events...

- Dad was able to breath on a lower machine setting each day for the last few days, and even asked to be set on a lower setting today.

- Dad took his first swallow this week. This is significant, because it means his neck muscles are starting to reawaken and he'll be able to support his own head more, among other things.

- And today, Dad sneezed, which is just cherry on top of the cake.

We're hopefully that more things will continue to happen this coming week. When I visited him and Mom on Saturday, he was very uncomfortable due to his ongoing GI issue. This issue is what we would like to get back on track with next, but we'll take anything we can get. After all, pickers can't be choosers (hehe). So be sure to send Dad a message to keep encouraging him to get up out of the bed and to congratulate him on all the new things that are going on.

We'll update you again soon when there's more to report.

Team Jerry all the Way!!!

Movin' On Up!

Hey everyone! Got some exciting news from Mom today.

As we've been telling you, the hospital staff is working to wean Dad from his breathing machine. This process has been complicated by Dad's GI issues that resulted in some very uncomfortable bloating. Well, the dam finally broke today in that area of concern (sorry to be so graphic) and things started to happen.

First, Dad asked Mom to flatten-out a sheet that was under him, as the wrinkles feel like boulders under his back. This process usual entails Mom slowly taking her hand and going underneath Dad's back to smooth the sheets out. As he couldn't turn himself over, and she's not strong to do so by herself, this was usually a tedious and painful task for the both of them. Well today, Dad surprised Mom by lifting up his chest a little to help get Mom's hand underneath him. But this isn't the big news for the day! THE BIG NEWS is about Dad's breathing.

When the therapist was working with Dad today, she kept challenging him to go down to a lower setting. You see, he's on 11 right now, which translates to the machine breathing for him 11 times per minute. He's gone down to 9 before and stayed there for 30 minutes, but it really tired him out. Well today, the therapist took him down to 6 just to see what he would do. The machine started beeping, but in a good way. It showed that Dad was assisting the machine and breathing on his own. While the machine stayed at 6, the number of Dad's breaths counted by the machine was between 12-14 reps per minute. This result means that for every breath that the machine gave Dad, he took a breath on his own to match it. Dad sustain this level for 40 minutes with no side effects.

It's great news, because this could be the start of some big progress. But we've been down this road before and know it's too soon yet to count our chicks. So keep those prayers a comin', cause they are working!!!

Well, that's it for now. We'll update you again as soon as we have anything else.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Something to Share

It's April. Surfing the news yesterday, I found this very interesting news article on Yahoo news. Insurance companies really are changing their practices. It's very much a scenario Jerry is living and we are faced with during Todd's open enrollment period. Jerry would want me to share this news story- Read up! Team Jerry all the way!

Employers Looking at Health Insurance Options

Some New Things

Hey folks!

Well, things are looking up for Dad. He was able to do some new things this past week, like turning his feet into each other (touching big toes), and he's beginning to be able to pull his arm in a downward motion. These are all little things in comparison to what he did on Saturday.

They couldn't say with absolute certainty, but it appeared to the nurse and Mom that Dad took a breath on his own. The machine Dad is on is set to give him so many breaths per minute. When they were looking at the machine, the setting went up by 1 breath on its own, which is an indication (typically) that a patient took a breath on his own. So we're hopeful that there is more good news to come soon in this area of Dad's recovery!

The insurance company is supposed to review Dad's case each week to determine if he needs to be moved. Dad had a neurological consult this week and the doctor said Dad is right where he ought to be, which backs what we've been telling the insurance company since last week. The hospital staff and Mom worked with Dad all week long to get him to a point that the insurance company would recognize as an improvement. However, we're realistic and know they will challenge anything we put before them just to get him in a cheaper facility. Of course, we're more worried about the type of care Dad gets, not the cost of it. You know... the way it should be. Being Dad's son, this is the part where he would want me to remind everyone that this is something that "Obamacare" did not fix. Nevertheless, we will not be deterred and will continue to challenge them on everything that we and the medical staff deem as "detrimental" to Dad's recovery.

Please continue to send cards and well-wishing emails to Dad. His mental state is becoming more fragile as this ordeal continues each day. I don't mean that he's going stir crazy, but he's starting to feel like a burden on everyone. Folks, for those of you who know my Dad, you know that he is use to doing a lot on his own. This disease has rendered him helpless and totally dependent on the kindness of others. For any of us, this would be a big pill to swallow, but I think more so for Dad.

Jerry Dale has always been use to playing the part of "protector and provider". Mom and I, for the most part, never had to want for anything we needed. But for the past few years, like most of us, Mom and Dad have not had it easy. This fact, when coupled with everything that is going on now, is a lot for any man, or woman, to take. It is this combination of "body blows" (no pun intended) that is breaking down Dad's mental toughness. So, we need to continue to encourage him and send him thoughts of love and care. If you can't send a card, then send an email via the hospital's website to let him know that you are thinking of him and Mom. Here is the link for the hospital (http://vbh.centrahealth.com/patients-a-visitors/email-a-patient) and Dad's room number is CRCR #5.

As far as visitors go, Dad saw one of his cousins this week who came to visit from North Carolina. His sisters and their families also came to visit throughout the week. If you're up to it, I know he'd love to see anyone that might be traveling in the Lynchburg area. Even if you wanted to make a day-trip of it, the area is nice and it has some really good restaurants too.

OK... I'll update you again once we have more to post. Thanks again for everything that you're doing for Mom and Dad.

Thanks everyone! Team Jerry all the way!!!

It worked!

I'm not sure what or how it happened, but the insurance company approved our appeal for Dad to stay where he is. So thank you for all your help and concern.

Now, we've got to keep Dad motivated to keep improving and working hard on his recovery. So email him or send cards, but be sure to let him know how much you love him and care for him.

I'll let you know more once we meet with the hospital administrators tomorrow to discuss Dad's recovery plan.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Call your Senators and Congressmen!!!

Hey everybody!

A lot has happened over the past week, which is one of the reasons why I haven't updated the blog. We're busy trying to keep the insurance company from shipping Dad to a nursing home for his extended care. I'll get more into that and how you can possibly help in a minute, but let's get to what's most important first.

The latest with Dad's health is good. He is moving more in his extremities, even going so far as to lift one of his knees ever so slightly off the bed today. The ventilator treatment, or what treatment he has received, is working and he's responding well. Dad had a little GI tract issue and bloating late last week, but was able to overcome it once Mom convinced the doctors to back down his feeding amount to allow his system time to "catch up". Our hope is that he continues to improve and they can work with him more on his treatments. Now for how you can help!

We received word late last week that we had a week to find Dad a new facility to go to for his extended treatment. It seems the insurance company, who I am not yet naming for the sake of hoping they do the right thing, has decided that Dad no longer requires the type of care that he is receiving. Therefore, he needs to be transported to a facility that is more "equipped" to handle Dad's case. Who knew that a LTAC (Long Term Acute Care) facility wouldn't be able to handle Dad's care (in case you didn't recognize it, that's my pathetic attempt at sarcasm). So they want Dad to be placed in a nursing home that is able to handle ventilation weaning and care. One problem, there are only 4 in the state of VA. 2 in Alexandria, 1 in Fincastle, and 1 in Duffield. If you look up any of these locations on a map, you'll see that they are nowhere near Dad's family. Not to mention, the level of care is sorely insufficient for Dad's long term care, as they don't provide the attentiveness and/or opportunities for therapy that an LTAC does.

The good thing is that everyone we have talked with so far agrees, except for the insurance company. So we have started a campaign to keep Dad where he is now, enlisting the help of the GBS Foundation, the Bureau of Insurance, and Senator Mark Warner. Tomorrow, we are calling additional politicians to help in this endeavor with the hopes that the more light we shine on the problem will help lead the insurance company to the right decision. Now, I know all of you, the loving, caring family and friends that you are, are asking yourselves, "How can I help Jerry Dale"? Well....

We need everyone we can to call Senator Warner's office and/or your local congressman, both state and federal, and ask them to intervene on Dad's behalf with the insurance company. Now, if you call a federal politician, they'll more than likely use the line that it's a "State matter" and they have no influence over it. If that is the case, be sure to remind them, as I did Mr. Warner's staff today, that it became a federal matter when he voted "YES" for the Healthcare Reform Bill the President Obama and other Democrats passed earlier. This is the type of help we need and if they were for reform then, they need to show it and help us now. If you don't want to give the particulars of what's going on, or if they ask for more than you know, please give them my name and phone number and ask them to call me. I can be reached at work between 8:30 and 5:30 each weekday at 434-791-6314 (direct line). My cell is 434-203-1240.

OK... that's it for now. I hope we're able to get this matter resolved for Dad soon. According to the insurance company, his coverage for the hospital that he is in now ends on 10/20 (Wednesday).

Good luck everyone, and remember... Team Jerry all the way!

Saturday's Visit

Hi Everyone!
It's April updating today. We went to visit Jerry yesterday. He was in decent spirits. He's a bit restless in my opinion. He really wants to get better, but the only true cure now is time. He hasn't been sleeping much at night because of leg cramps. However, the doctor (whom I adored) said that his nerves are regrowing and reattaching and the cramping is a sign of this. I finally expressed my frustration to the doctor over the whole insurance situation. Very kindly and calmly he explained they lose this battle over and over again with insurance companies. Again, I was very frustrated and irritated but at least we have healthcare. I know- I'm always looking for the sunshine in everything! If you know me at all, you know this to be true! The doctor gave us encouraging news concering Jerry. Dr. Johnson had not seen him in quite some time. Dr. Johnson told us Jerry was a different man than when he arrived 2 months ago. He was pleased and just told us to give it time. Jerry is still on 11 BPMs (breaths per minute) on the vent. When asked why he was not being weaned quicker, the doctor said quick is bad. Slow is good- so we will take that explaination! Anna Leigh had fun talking to her Papa. Jerry still has not lost his sense of humor. When Todd was exercising his arms, he lifted Jerry's arm up. It was right next to Todd's head. I told Jerry to reach over and smack Todd's head- and he did! Of course we all had to laugh! Something so silly and minor was quite an accomplishment. Now that Jerry's facial muscles continue to improve, he is much easier to understand. For that- we are very grateful!

Thanks to all the cousins that recently came by! We are so grateful for the companionship and entertainment you provide to Jerry. A cousin brought up the radio broadcast of the Richlands/Tazewell football game.

Jerry is so blessed to have everyone thinking of him. Keep the cards coming. Anna Leigh loves to read them to him!

Team Jerry ALL THE WAY!!

Getting to Work

Hello Everyone!

It seems like every time I open up one of these updates, I'm apologizing for the length of time since the last post. Needless to say, it's been a hectic week and I've had to tend to more pressing issues for Dad and Mom. So I hope you'll understand. OK... and now for the update.

Dad is still doing well, with a few new movements in his arms, hands, legs, feet and head. It's now becoming more clear to everyone that Dad is on the road to recovery, but it's going to be a long and winding road. Luckily, the roller coaster of events has subsided for now. Mom, Dad's personal angel, is showing him all the cards and emails that you continue to send to him and he loves it.

This week, the doctors are trying to work on Dad's ventilation therapy to get him off the trache. For now, he's set to breathe at 12 reps a minute. So they are starting at 10 and hope to have him at 8 by next week. One thing we have to keep in mind is how scary this can be for Dad. He can still remember when they had to intubate him in Topeka. Hopefully, with Mom's calming nature, Dad will be able to handle the stress on his body and mind. Of course, we need to keep encouraging him. So be on the look out for anything jovial that you can send to him about breathing, blowing hard or anything to the liking. I made a joke yesterday about him getting use to being full of hot air again and breathing it on his own for a change. He laughed and it seem to cut the tension.

As for visitors, some North Carolina cousins came by this weekend and they really seem to brighten his day. Dad's sisters and BILs also stopped by to see him, along with some of their family. He even got a visit from one of my high school friends who was passing through to go to our 20 year class reunion back in Richlands. But one person that brought the biggest smile to Dad's face was his Anna Leigh (granddaughter). Of course, "The Drill Sargent" as we call her, had him exercising and moving those extremities. I tell ya, if we could keep her out of school long enough, Dad might be back on his feet sooner rather than later (hehe).

Mom is also doing well and continues to stay by Dad's side, night and day. He's getting more and more restless, wanting to be exercised and moved around a lot more. God bless those nurses, who do as much as they can, but they can't keep up with all the requests. So Mom pitches-in when she can to help out. And of course when Liz (Dad's sister) stops by, he's got to have a foot rub, or two, or three (hehe).

As a side note, my Mother-in-Law, Gaynelle, found a very good book on GBS called Bed Number 10. It's written by Sue Baier, who herself was stricken with GBS back long ago. She describes the trials and tribulations that this condition causes for the patients and their loved ones. It's not in stores, not that we've found yet; but if you're looking for more insight on what Dad is going through, it's a great way of finding out. In fact, all medical students going into long-term care should read this book. But it's a great find for us, as it's letting us understand Dad and his condition just that much more. We're pretty lucky that Gaynelle found it, and even luckier that she's in our lives.

OK... that's it for now. I'll keep you posted on Dad's progression with the vent-therapy. Take care!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Not a bad weekend!

Hi there!

In case you didn't get the hint from the title, Dad had a good weekend! On Friday, his problematic bed was replaced with a new therapeutic bed that also moves him around and helps with protecting the integrity of his skin. When you look at him, Dad looks like he's sitting in a lounge chair that you would expect to see in a Star Trek movie and he's preparing for take off (hehe). But the bed is working proper (so far... knock on wood), which is more than what I can say for the last bed.

Dad's not moving any new body parts, but he is trying. His level of frustration seems to be growing, but that's to be expected. I mean, the man hasn't been able to move much of anything for the past 90+ days. However, to have made it this far and this long, I think he's handled things beyond anything that I could ever deal with.

Everything considered, Dad's spirits are still good, even after our Dolphins lost their game to the Jets last night. Hopefully, those bad feelings will be all better again after the Blue Tornados beat the Bulldogs this weekend in our back home, high school rivalary game of the year. Dad always asks me two things when I go to visit him on the weekends... 1) Where's Anna Leigh and April, and 2) How did Richlands' football team do Friday night? So for Dad, let's all pull for the Blue Tornados this weekend.

OK... that's all for now. Take care and we'll post something again soon.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Keep a Goin'!

Hi Everyone!

Dad appears to be moving right along with the slow and steady progress. His sister, Liz, and mother, Mamaw, went to see him on Friday and reported that he looked a lot better than the last time they had seen him. As a matter of fact, Dad was giving Liz a hard time when she walked in his room door and announced, "I'm back!" She couldn't read his lips at first, but then she figured out that he was saying, "Finally!" Liz said of course Lil' Bro has to give his Big Sis a little grief.

Dad is moving a few more muscles here and there, and was able to turn his hand over the other day. Of course, this stuff comes and goes and then comes back again to stay. But the main point is that new things continue to happen and we've had no set backs (knock on wood).

Just so you know... I haven't mentioned the visitors that Dad has been receiving because I wasn't sure who felt comfortable having their names and/or business on the blog. Everyone has been so gracious and loving, that I was afraid of offending someone or putting them in a bad spot. But someone mentioned it again, so I'm setting up some ground rules. If you would don't mind us posting your visit with Dad to the blog, send us an email and just tell us about your visit with him. This will also give voice to others about Dad instead of everyone just reading what April and I have to say. Also, don't forget that there is a section on this blog that allows you to comment on each of our posts. So don't be afraid to chime in when you want.

To recap some recent visitors, Dad has had numerous cousins to visit him from out of town since he returned to Virginia. Some of them visited him in Roanoke when he was there, and others came by a couple of weeks ago, both of which really cheered Dad and Mom up each time. Last week, his cousins gave Dad a big card that was signed by what I believe is some, if not all, of his cousins. From what I heard, the card had done a lot of traveling just to get signed, not to mention getting sent to Kansas and back. If anyone would like to send me the whole story or post a comment about it, I would love to hear it.

Also, when Dad was first moved to Lynchburg, his nephew, David, came with his wife, Julie, mother, Jeanne (sp?) and stepfather, David, to visit Dad. Now, if anyone knows David (nephew), they know he has a lot of talent for singing and playing the guitar. Although I wasn't lucky enough to be there to hear and see it, I understand that David serenaded Dad with a few blue grass and country tunes. I know it tickled both Dad and Mom, not to mention it probably helped uplift some spirits for a few of the patients in nearby rooms.

Of course, Dad continues to be a popular patient and receive cards on almost a daily basis. They are mostly from family and close friends, with a few long distance get wells every now and again. Be sure to drop him a line when you can by either email on the hospital's webiste or regular mail to let him know that you are thinking of him. He is at Virginia Baptist Hospital, and there website is: http://vbh.centrahealth.com.

OK... that's it for now. We'll update you again real soon. I'm going to put our email address at the end of the post so that everyone has access to send us their stories of visiting Dad. Even if you don't get to visit Dad and would like to share a funny story about Dad rather than posting it as a comment on this blog, send it to us and we'll make sure it gets posted.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Todd & April's email: jthawkins@comcast.net

Moving Right Along

Hey Folks!

Sorry that we haven’t updated the blog that much in the past week, but there’s been a lot going on. So here is the update that everyone has been waiting on…

Dad is still improving and has had no setbacks (Yippie!!!). He is able to open his eyes and slightly move his head to nod yes and no. They are continuing to work on his speech therapy, which helps him to mouth words to let us know what he needs. Of course, we are becoming quick learners of how to read lips. Most days, Dad asks for a lot of leg rubs and exercises. We are hoping that his physical therapy will start to intensify, as they are only getting him out of bed once a day for 2 hours as of now. So we anticipate this part of Dad’s therapy to become more intense in the weeks to come.

Mom is doing well, but she is really tired. She is staying with Dad at the hospital at his request around the clock because of some “issues” that he had with some of the hospital personnel. I won’t get into the details, but there were occurrences in the past weeks where the staff could have been a little more attentive and compassionate than what they were. Needless to say, we are addressing the issue with the Unit Manager and are confident the problems will be resolved. Mostly, though, Mom would like to go back home for a little while just to be in her own house and bed for just a little while to recharge her batteries. Even though she can’t take Dad home with her, I think it’s important for Mom to sleep in her own bed and take a shower in her bathroom. Anyone who has been away from home for an extended period of time knows how good it feels just to walk through your own doorway again.

Some people have asked about Dad’s business, and to put it simply… it is no more. I’m in the process of winding it down and selling everything that remains. With that in mind, if anyone knows of someone who is interested in buying a box trailer (48 foot with good tires), please tell them to get in contact with me, as I’d like to move it quickly. This is the last remaining item from Dad’s business and we need to sell it to pay some of the business’ remaining bills. The truck is gone, as we surrendered it to the manufacturer a few weeks ago.

Also, I want to say “thank you” to everyone who has donated money since we started the benefit account for Dad and Mom. While the bills continue to grow, the contributions you have sent really help to keep things from getting out of hand. For instance, Mom’s medicine bill came the other day and even though she has coverage, the bill was still over $700. It will take a good chunk out of the benefit account to cover it, but at least we can do so and that’s only because of your kindness and generosity. If I could, I would personally hug and thank everyone one of you. But since that’s not logistically possible, just put your hands in the air and we’ll do “air-hugs” (hehe).

OK… that’s it for now. Take care and keep those cards coming for Dad. Now that his eyes are open, Dad loves to read them and look at the funny pictures. Someone sent a “singing” card the other day and it really made him smile. So keep it going, because it’s really helping to remind Dad that people care about him and want him to get better.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Good week!

Hello Everyone!

Hope all is well in your neck of the woods, wherever you might be.

Dad seems to be doing well and continues to get a little stronger each day. As you know, he was finally able to fully open his eyes last week for the first time. I went up to visit with Dad and Mom on Thursday night to watch the first NFL game of the season. It was great and Dad really enjoyed finally being able to watch something instead of just listening to it. Of course, Mom is just tickled to be able to see those big brown eyes again.

As for Dad's progress, it's as slow as a snail, but at least its in the right direction. The doctors tried working on his ventilator therapy last week, but were concerned about what they were seeing with his levels and such. So they delayed further therapy until this week and will continue this pattern until Dad is able to tolerate the treatments.

Dad's physical therapy is going somewhat well. They are getting him out of bed and sitting him up in a special chair for a couple of hours each day. Even though it is uncomfortable for him to sit in this position, Dad has to do it. This therapy helps his body to get use to moving around again, while also giving his backside a much needed rest after laying on it so much for the past few months. Hopefully, his physical therapy will intensify somewhat this week and they will start exercising him more, which he really likes to do.

Finally, the speech therapy is also coming along well. Carla, his speech therapist, who is also from Richlands, is really doing a good job with him. As a matter of fact, Carla thinks Dad will be able to take his first swallow very soon, which would be another big milestone. He is moving his lips and tongue very well now, so we are communicating a bit better with him.

The movement in Dad's hands and feet are still somewhat limited, but this is to be expected. Just like everything else, this too shall take time, patience, and effort. So we just need to keep encouraging Dad to keep at it!

Speaking of which... Dad is now the most popular patient in the hospital. The staff is just amazed by all the cards and the emails that he receives from all of you. But more importantly, it motivates Dad and keeps him and Mom in high spirits. We are so blessed to have all of you in our lives. So keep those emails and cards coming!

OK... that's it for now. We'll update you again as things progress.

Team Jerry all the way!

Turn Your Lights On!

Hey Folks!

Just a quick update... Dad's eyes are FULLY OPEN! It just happended this morning, Day 73. Not only that, but he's moving his neck too!

I'm in the process of getting an update from Mom, but just wanted everyone to know.

Keep those prayers a comin'!

Team Jerry all the way!

Bumpy Road

Hey Gang!

I went to visit Dad Friday night and I can report that he's doing fairly well, all things considered. Except for a few minor issues with some of Dad's therapies, or lack thereof, Mom and I are pleased with the overall care he is receiving; they've just got to work out kinks. Dad is really motivated right now and wants to get things rolling with the therapy treatments. He's constantly asking to be moved and stretched, which is a good sign.

Mom said that he almost swallowed the other day during his speech therapy treatment, which means that he's getting closer to being able to drink something. We've talked with some the medical staff today and plan to talk more on Monday about "upping" Dad's therapy treatments and getting him off the vent ASAP. It seems the more you work with him, the more he responds and progresses. When they do little to no therapy, like the past few days, then he regresses, like he's done for the past few days. But we're on top of it and Mom is trying to fill-in the gaps when she can.

Thanks again for all the warm wishes and cards. According to the hospital staff, Dad is one of the most popular patients there. So keep those cards and emails going to him. In case you don't know, you can use the PO Box for the Benefit account to send cards, or send them to the the hospital. You can also send emails; but if you do, make sure the content is universally friendly. In other words, if you send jokes, make sure they're not racy (hehe). If you have doubts about what you're sending, just send it to me instead and I'll make sure Dad gets it.

OK... that's all for now. Take care!

Team Jerry all the way!

Things are Looking Up!

Hi Everyone!

Dad has done well so far this week. The obstruction is still in place, but there has been no complications from resuming the feeding. The doctors explained that the mixture they are giving Dad is so thin, that the body is probably absorbing it soon after it enters the body. The main thing to tout is that Dad is able to get the nutrients he needs to get stronger, and he'll need all the strength he can muster in the coming months.

The weight loss that Dad was seeking before all this happened has taken place over the past couple of months. He had lost a lot of weight, and then it slowed down when they first started the feedings. But then each time they have had to stop the feedings, Dad starts losing weight again. Fortunately, we have seen it slow down since they resumed the feeding this week. Again, this is to be expected with GBS and/or anyone in this type of condition, so we're not that worried. On the plus side, Dad will be a lean, mean, fightin' machine when he recovers.

Another thing to tout is that Dad has not contracted any infections this week. As most know, someone in this state is more susceptible to infection just because of all the different tubes going in and out of the body. So we're crossing our fingers that the rest of the week will play out the same.

Dad's eyes are still moving and he can raise his eyelids just ever so slightly. He's not able to keep them open for long, but that's OK. The point is... he's doing it. Plus, we're not sure if this is because of the light hurting his eyes or the fact that he's still not strong enough to make it happen. But in either case, Mom is working with him each day, along with the various therapists, to keep him motivated and working on every little thing they can to get him back on his feet.

OK... that's it for now. Take care and enjoy your holiday weekend!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

A little bit of Light at the end of the Tunnel

Sorry for the lack of updates, folks, but a lot has been going on since Thursday. So put on your reading glasses, because we'll be here for a while (LOL).

As you can see from Saturday night’s post, we took Anna Leigh to see her Papa for the first time on Saturday. When we got there, Anna Leigh was a little nervous and wasn’t quite sure what to do. But with her Gammi’s help, Anna Leigh eventually grew comfortable with the situation. By the end of the visit, the sweet granddaughter Dad once knew had turned into his personal trainer/drill sergeant (hehe). Anna Leigh had him exercising and doing all of his “tricks” for a good part of the visit. In fact, she worked her Papa so hard, that he had to take 2 mini-naps during our visit just to recover. But overall, it was a great day, as it seemed to really brighten Dad’s day and we believe Anna Leigh’s visit was the motivating factor in what happened on Sunday.

Sometime during Sunday afternoon, Mom noticed that Dad was trying to open his eyes. The muscles in his face have become more active over the past couple of weeks, but not enough to where he could open his eyes. That was until yesterday when Dad was finally able to open his eyes just enough to see the people in the room. It was a great moment and one that seemed to reinvigorate everyone’s outlook on Dad’s recovery prognosis.

There’s nothing new on the blockage, other than the medical staff is still working to get obstruction moved out of the way. They have restarted the feeding, but at a much slower pace. Dad is receiving nutrients through a TPN, which is an IV feeding, until things return to normal. So be sure to say a little prayer that things “Get Movin'” again real soon.

Mom is in Danville for the next couple of days, trying to recuperate from her stay at the hospital with Dad for the past week. She has stayed with Dad to help translate for the nurses and work with him on his exercises when the therapists aren’t there. It also seems to help motivate Dad and keep him calm. Understandably, I think Dad feels safer and less stressed when Mom is there with him. But all of this takes a lot out of her, as Mom has her own health concerns to deal with. Thankfully, Mom’s “Favorite Son” (a.k.a. Me) is reminding her daily to take her medicines and get a little more rest when she can.

OK… that’s it for now. Please keep Dad and Mom in your prayers, and continue to send the cards and well wishes too. We took the last batch of cards up to the hospital on Saturday and read them to Dad. The funny ones made Dad smile, but all of the cards touched his heart. And for that, we want to say “Thank you!”

We are truly blessed to have such good friends and family. Until next time, take care of yourselves and your loved ones.

A Picture Worth A Thousand Words

Road Work Ahead

When Dad was out on the road, he used to gripe about all the road work that he would encounter from time-to-time that would always delay his getting to somewhere on time. It’s kind of ironic how it must be to him to run into another road block again that is impeding his progress.

For the past couple of days, Dad has experienced bloating and other indescribable issues going on with his feeding tube and intestines. But suffice it to say, things were at a standstill. Finally, the doctors were able to determine yesterday that he as a small obstruction within his intestines that is constricting the flow of material. So they have started removing the feeding tube material from his stomach and restarted the IV feeding until the obstruction is gone.

The good news is that it is not likely to require surgery in order to fix the problem, but that may still be a possibility if things don't get to moving again and soon. The doctors are not sure what caused the obstruction to form, but this is something to be expected with someone in Dad's condition. Mom is staying with Dad and trying to make him has comfortable as possible until the dam breaks again. Truly, this falls under the GBS way of thinking... 3 steps forward, 2 steps back. So while are concerned, we are not worried at this point.

Dad is moving a little more of his facial muscles each day. It's the slight improvements that we will have to cling to from here on out, as confirmed by a neuro-specialist from Roanoke who came to observe Dad yesterday and was very intrigued by his condition. He was also very positive about the prospects of his overall healing process, but made sure that Mom and everyone else knew that Dad's road to full recovery will be very long. His best guess is that about 80% of Dad's nerves are, for the lack of a better description, dead as a byproduct of the GBS effects. However, these nerves are likely to grow back at the rate of about one millimeter per day; hence, the expectation for a long recovery time. So everyone will need to get use to idea of Dad being in the hospital, as that will likely be his home for a long while.

OK... that's it for now. As always, thank you for your continued prayers and support. We are making sure to read all of the get well cards to Dad as they come in. Even if you can't make a donation, please be sure to send a Get Well card just to let him know that you're thinking of him. Your card can be sent to the PO Box we set up for his benefit account. In case you don't remember, its:

P.O. Box 2364
Danville, VA 24541

May God bless and keep all of you!

Team Jerry all the way!!! his progress

Good Weekend

Hey folks!

Dad rested well over the weekend without any major issues. About the biggest problem that he encountered was no one being able to find the channel that the Nascar race was on Saturday night. Other than that, it was pretty uneventful.

The various therapists will start working with Dad today on getting him off the vent, keeping his legs and arms limber, and continue his speech exercises. Mom said that Dad was moving the muscles around his eyes a lot more on Sunday, so we're hopeful this area will be the next breakthrough for him. One of our good friends who had GBS opened his eyes on day 57, and we're fast approaching that milestone for Dad's condition.

Mamaw, Dad's mom, went to see him for the first time on Sunday. It wasn't that she didn't want to see him or he didn't want to see her before now. We decided (and by we, I mean me) that we wanted to get him in better shape before we took his 90 year-old mother to see him. If anyone has ever had a family member in the hospital with a similar condition like Dad’s, then you know what I'm talking about. People see it in the movies or in pictures and think it’s no big deal. But until it's someone that you love in that bed, hooked up to a multitude of machines keeping them alive and looking almost lifeless, no one can describe to you the overwhelming mountain of emotions that explode within you at first sight of see them. The best way I can describe it is that it’s like your heart is constantly tearing apart the entire time you're in the room. It’s a crushing sensation that I wish on no one and that few people can/have handle. But Mamaw, being the 90 year-old superwoman that she is, did great with the experience and is excited about the prospects of Dad getting better soon.

OK… that’s it for now. Take care and we’ll update you soon!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

All's Well... for now!

Hi folks!

Dad is resting well in his new hospital room at VA Baptist in Lynchburg. Mom and I have just been very impressed with how knowledgeable the staff appears to be with GBS. In fact, there are two other GBS patients on the floor with Dad. Their cases are not the same as Dad's but you can see the same devastating toll it has taken on the patients and their families. That seems to be a common theme amongst GBS patients.

Mom came back home with me for the weekend and will go back up to the hospital on Sunday. The staff has found her a room to stay in for the nights that she wants to be there, so she can work with Dad and keep him motivated. So far, all of the staff is very nice and concerned with Dad and his family, and there's even some staff that are from Southwest VA, including one direct from Richlands. She is Dad's Speech Therapist and shows genuine concern and enthusiasm for getting Dad back on his feet.

Dad his working on learning how to swallow again and how to form words with his mouth. He spoke some more on Friday and it was less gargled. Of course, this takes a lot out of him and we don't want to stress his body out. But even after the nurses and therapists leave the room, you can see him over there in bed working on the exercises they taught him. I guess that workout ethic that he used to have when he was weightlifting is starting to kick in again (hehe). Also, I think he wants to open his eyes so he can see his little granddaughter. When he's getting tired or frustrated, all we have to do his say her name and he gets refocused on what he's doing real quick.

Well, that's all for now. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks again for all your support. Someone asked me to post it again, so here is the address for Dad's Benefit Acccount:

P.O. Box 2364
Danville, VA 24541

Take care of yourselves!

Team Jerry all the way!

New Digs

Hi Everyone!

Dad made the transfer to Virginia Baptist Hospital in Lynchburg, VA today to start work on his rehabilitation. The wing where he is located is great. The staff seems to be very knowledgeable about GBS, so there was not much that we had to do in the way of "re-teaching" his nurses on how to handle him.

Mom is staying at the hospital tonight, as they have hospitality rooms for family to spend the night when needed. Of course, they are on a first come basis, so we were lucky enough to get one for her tonight.

No new moves since yesterday, but he was really tired from the transfer. We'll continue to keep you up-to-day on what's happening as things progress. Thanks again for all the support!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Something's Happening Here

On June 28, Todd spoke with his dad, not knowing this would be the last time he was able to speak. This was my mother's birthday. Today, my father celebrated 60 years. 51 days between these two birthdays. Today, early in the afternoon, my father-in-law, our precious Jerry, our beloved Papa, spoke!!!! His first words? Anna Leigh.

We thank God for this miracle. Especially since these were not the only things he said today. He asked for Todd, Mary Sue, and me. He also asked for his trach to be suctioned out and being the Southern gentleman he is, thanked the nurses everytime they did something for him. Jerry still has his trach, but he is able to speak when it is covered.

Team Jerry, Day 51, ALL THE WAY!!!!!

A Little Bit Better

Hey everyone!

Just a quick update... Dad is doing better. The fever is subsiding and he is becoming a little more active. Movement is being seen now in his shoulders and toes, along with fingers and facial muscles. I tell ya... I think we're on the cusp of something big, but I dare not get my hopes up only to have them dashed AGAIN by the villain we know as GBS.

We are in the middle of trying to find a facility that can work on his ventilator and physical therapies. We'll post more on the location and timing of a move when we have it. For now, keep him and Mom in your prayers that they can survive another move and make the necessary adjustments without any problems.

Thanks again for all the support. It may sound redundant, but we couldn't make it through this without you... so thank you!!!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

The Rollercoaster Continues

Hey folks! Well… here is the latest.

So far, Dad is doing OK. He is moving a little more of his facial muscles, but it comes and goes each day. The doctors are trying to figure out why his temperature is going up, as it spiked on Saturday, Sunday and again today. Test results should be in by this afternoon, but this is more than likely another infection involving one of his IV lines.

Mom drove up to Roanoke from Danville by herself for the first time today. She is planning on staying there through the night and coming back tomorrow. The stress of this whole ordeal is understandably weighing on her, but she is trying to get through it the best way she knows how. Everyone is being very supportive and trying to keep her spirits high, but it can be hard to do at times. That's no knock on her, because most would have already faltered. We just try to keep it light as much as possible to remind her of the other side of life, and sometimes that can be hard for her to do.

Speaking of which, in case any of you are wondering why this is happening to Dad, or why something bad might be happening to you, I’d like to talk about something that was shared with us this weekend and kind of puts it in some perspective for me.

GBS is one of those illnesses that just wears down any feeling of normalcy that a patient or their family feels. For Dad, he’s just waiting for his body to “wake-up” and allow him to start the road to recovery. For Mom, GBS has taken someone she has loved for almost all of her life and is holding him hostage right in front of her. Of course, everyone is affected in different ways, but it kind of hit me the other day when we talked to the hospital Chaplin about Dad’s case.

She reminded me of something that Dad use to say, and it was that everyone has a purpose in life. Some are meant to be doctors, or lawyers, but some are meant to just share themselves.

Dad had what some would view as a simple profession… he was a truck driver. But more importantly, he was a friend to all that met him during his travels. For some in life, that’s something too hard for them to ever grasp. There’s no telling how many lives Dad touched during his travels. Even now, lying in a bed motionless and barely able to communicate, Dad is touching all of us that read this blog in some way, shape or form.

So, on behalf of Dad and his subtle words of wisdom bestowed upon me so long ago, what will be your purpose today?

OK… as soon as we have more, we’ll post it to the blog. Thank you for your continued support!

Team Jerry all the way!!!

The Floodgates Be Open!!!

In trying to think of how to give you this very important update in a way that wouldn't make anyone lose their appetite, I decided that there really wasn't an easy way to say it... so here goes... DAD FINALLY POOPED!!! That's right... the dam is breached, the beavers have been washed out, the lake is plum dry... however you want to say it, there's plenty of ways to do so (LOL).

The doctors started his feeding tube again a few days ago; and although he became bloated, it appears that his GI tract is starting to wake up. This is good in the sense that it could be an early indicator of good things to come in the very near future with regard to the rest of his body starting to wake up too. However, having ridden this roller coaster for the past month and a half, I'll wait for the next drop before I get excited about the next climb.

We hope to have more to relay to everyone once Mom and Liz return to Danville today. Take care and keep those prayers a goin'!

Team Jerry all the way!!!!

Nothing New

Hey everyone!

Well, just like the title says, there's nothing new to report. Additional tests have not shown any new developments for Dad. Mom has stayed with us in Danville yesterday and today for some much needed rest. She and Liz are planning on going to see Dad on Thursday, so we'll be able to provide a more accurate report afterwards. Until then, keep praying that this GBS will let loose of Dad and he'll open those big brown eyes of his soon!

We appreciate the donations that continue to come in, as we are using the money to pay for gas during the trips to Roanoke and take care of some of Mom and Dad's personal bills.

Also, we need people to pass the word around that Dad's big truck is for sale and is sitting on the Smokey Mountain Frieghtliner lot in Johnson City, TN. We are trying to sell it and his trailer; so if you know of anyone who might be interested in them, give us a call or post a comment to this blog. The details for the truck are: 2007 Frieghtliner Columbia, 10 Speed, with a Detroit 515, either 357 or 373 rear-ends, and 295K miles on it. The trailer is a 48 ft. box trailer and is good condition.

OK... that's all for now. Take care and we'll update you again real soon!

Team Jerry all the way!

Quiet Day

Nothing new to report today. Jerry received two pints of blood this afternoon. No cause for alarm- he was low on hemoglobin. A good reminder to us all to donate if we are ever able! Sherri, Shannon, Sarah, and Mary Sue went to visit him today. Mary Sue is going to take a much needed day off tomorrow. She has paperwork to attend to and I hopefully can help her. Jerry is smiling at the videos Anna Leigh makes for him. He loves that little girl- and she loves him right back.

Team Jerry all the way!

Something So True

Mary Sue just compared GBS to the circus. You never know exactly what you are going to get! Brilliant!

Team Jerry all the way!

New Tricks

Seems that Jerry has decided to work on his smile! Mary Sue just returned and said he was smiling even more today. He is moving his tongue and is feeling much better. His hemoglobin level is down and he might need a blood transfusion. This is most likely due to the infection he had to fight. All in all, he had a good day! Mary Sue and Sherri are going to Roanoke tomorrow.

Team Jerry all the way!

Stable is Good!

Hi Everyone!

Mom and I just returned from seeing Dad in Roanoake. He is still in ICU, as they want to continue monitoring him and making sure everything is OK. They have determined that he had a slight staff infection in one of his IV lines and that is what caused the fever spike. The IV was changed and Dad is stable and more reactive now.

The doctors feel like he still needs to be moved to a teaching medical facility that has the resources to care for Dad the way that needs to be done. They also feel like Dad's GBS case is so rare that it should be studied. So they have started efforts to find somewhere, like UVA, Duke or Wake Forrest to take him. Even though 2 of the 3 had turned us down when Dad was in KS, the hope is that stronger connections between Lewis-Gale and one of these facilities will help to make it happen this time around.

We'll keep you updated as more information becomes available. Thanks to everyone who have sent or are sending donations to Dad's benefit account. Someone asked me to do it, so I'm posting the address again for the P.O. Box. It is:

Todd Hawkins
P.O. Box 2364
Danville, VA 24541

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Headed to Roanoke

Todd has already left for Roanoke this morning. Jerry's fever had come down last night. Mary Sue said he was having a better night. His CT scan was negative and everything looks good. As soon as Todd gets to Roanoke, I will post another update. As we know with GBS, two steps forward- three steps back. Team Jerry all the way!

Not So Good

Hi folks!

Well, Dad has taken a little turn for the worse. He is back in ICU, or MICD as Lewis-Gale refers to it, because of a few different things. Dad has maintained a high fever since yesterday afternoon and there is no obvious indication as to why. Also, there is no change in his GI condition with the feeding tube. So they have moved him to ICU to monitor these issues closer and to also run more tests to figure out what is going on.

Mom spent the night with Dad last night, and will most likely be there again tonight. Please include in your prayers today that they find out what is going on with Dad soon.

We'll update you more as information comes in.

8/5 Update

Hi everyone! Here’s the latest…

Dad had a procedure done on Tuesday (8/3) to extend the feeding tube further into his digestive tract to help with "waking-up" his gastro-muscles so his body can start to absorb nutrients on it's own and avoid the need for further IV feedings. Unfortunately, there were some complications when the feeding started and as a result, they had to drain the material from Dad's stomach, as well as other material that had undoubtedly been sitting there for an unknown amount of time. Currently, they are in the process of restarting the feeding at a slower rate with the hope that his body will slowly begin to “wake-up” in that area.

Now for some good news… Dad was able to slightly move more of his facial muscles today and was feeling a little more comfortable. Of course, we expect this to all change as the seesaw that is “GBS” continues, but we’re hopeful for the best. He has enjoyed getting different visitors each day and all the cards, as they seem to keep his spirits up. Mom is also doing a little better than when she arrived on Friday with Dad. I honestly thought we would be admitting both of my parents when we got them to the hospital. But she’s resting a lot more than before, and Anna Leigh seems to be helping to keep her spirits up as well.

OK… that’s all for now. We may have some news soon on where Dad will be moved to next for his specialized therapy. As soon as we have that information, we’ll let you know. Thanks again for all your prayers and support, as we truly appreciate it. Until next time, remember…

Team Jerry all the way!!!

A lil' good, a lil' bad...

Hi Folks!

Sorry for the delay in updating the blog, but it’s been quite hectic here and there is a lot going on now that Dad is back in Virginia. So let me cut through the chase and tell you what is going on.

Dad arrived on Friday and was put into MICD (Medical Intensive Care Dept.) for observation. Yesterday, Dad was moved to a “step-down” unit on the third floor and is now in room 348. The explanation for this move is long; so in short, it means that Dad is improving enough to where he doesn’t need the services provided by an ICU-like facility.

Dad’s new caseworker at Lewis-Gale came by to talk about her efforts to find Dad a long-term facility that will help with his tracheotomy and physical therapies. Not sure yet as to where, but we’re hoping for somewhere close. Typically, this type of facility only resides in a large city. We’ll keep you updated as this effort progresses, but the hope is to get him moved to this facility, wherever it is, within the next couple of weeks.

Both the Physical and Speech Therapists came by to visit Dad and were very pleased with what they saw. They said that once the GBS lets loose of Dad, they expect good results for his recovery. The hospitalist was also very pleased with Dad’s condition, and said the good state of his body was nothing short of excellent nursing by the crew in Kansas.

Now for the “not-so-good” stuff…

Dad has developed issues with his gallbladder and liver. It’s believed that this development may be a result of him still needing to be fed by I.V. instead of a feeding tube. So they are trying something different today with his feeding tube to relieve this condition. However, there is no guarantee that this will resolve the problem. So we’ll have to “wait and see”, which is a common answer for GBS patients. Honestly, I think after this is all done that we will be leading a campaign to rename GBS as WSS, the Wait and See Syndrome (hehe).

For those who want to send cards to Dad, please use the same address as the Benefit Account to do so. This will ensure he receives the cards, as Dad may be on the move soon and we would hate for any cards to get lost. They really help to keep him in good spirits, so keep sending them in.

OK… that’s all for now. We’ll continue to update you as more comes along. Thanks to all of you that have sent in donations so far, and for those on the way. We truly appreciate it! Please continue to let everyone know about the Benefit Account and ask them to send what they can.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

Welcome Home Jerry aka Papa!

Jerry is at Lewis Gale and is resting tonight. He was moving a lot tonight, apparently expressing his happiness at being home. The doctors at Lewis Gale are very pleased with his condition. At this time they have limited visitors to a few times a day for only 30 minutes since he is still in ICU. Jerry is exhaling so well his trach tube popped out briefly. The doctors were VERY excited about this new development. Jerry has lost 17 pounds of muscle and weight. Not alarming- the doctors were again very pleased at the condition he is in considering he has not been mobile for 5 weeks.

Again, thank you for all your prayers today. The love of God was certainly felt all over this country today.

Team Jerry all the way!

Eastbound and Down....AND HOME AT LAST!

Jerry landed in Roanoke about 4PM EDT. We are so grateful for all the prayers that were said and are still being said. He is at Lewis Gale. I will update the blog when I have more info. But for now, HE IS HOME where he belongs. Thanks be to God!

Team Jerry all the way!

PS- Please pray for the flight crew's safe return to Indianapolis. These people are volunteers and do this out of the goodness of their Christian hearts. God bless them all!

Up Up and Away

Hi All- It's April today! I am asking for lots and lots of prayers. The plane to pick up our beloved Jerry is about to land in Kansas. From there he will be flown to Roanoke. I am asking for all those who believe in the power of prayer to send prayers for the entire flight crew and my in-laws. We are excited, scared, and nervous to begin this new chapter. Nothing is the same as a month ago, but we know with God's grace this new chapter will be one we can use to inspire others. I feel something powerful will come out of this situation. I am already so grateful to the GBS Foundation for their infomation and encouragement.

Team Jerry all the way! I will update as soon as the plane lands. We need to continue to pray for a safe return flight for the crew headed back to Indianapolis as well.

One More Day

Hi everyone!

Well... the day is almost upon us when Dad and Mom will be arriving in Roanoke. They should arrive sometime between 2:30 to 3pm on Friday, weather permitting and avoiding unforeseeable delays. If you would like, you can track Dad's flight by going to www.flightaware.com and clicking on the the Live Tracking button. Then type in the Tail# box: N910NF. This website tracks the flight from beginning to end.

Dad is feeling a little more discomfort in his abdomen today, so the doctors are doing a few tests to make sure everything is OK. Not to be too graphic, but the man hasn't visited the throne since he got sick, so whoa be-it unto any brave man or woman who breaks that dam (hehe).

OK... this will probably be my last update until I return home unless I can find a public computer in Roanoke with Internet access. Take care and keep those prayers a goin'!

Team Jerry all the way!

Friday, Friday, Friday!!!

Hi gang! This is Todd.

As of the time of this post, Dad is scheduled to be in Roanoake, VA by Friday afternoon (between 2:30 & 3:00pm EST). Since we are having to pay for the flight ourselves (thank you Anthem... NOT!), Mom will also be accompanying him on the plane. So the two of them will back on VA soil by the end of the week. That's the good news.

Folks, I don't feel comfortable doing this, but I've been told that I need to swallow my pride for the sake of my family. So it's like this...

As you can imagine, the cost of the medical flight and ambulance transportation will be substantial, and bills are steadily coming in. It's going to take a while for Dad to get signed up on Disability, and even then, there's an inevitable delay before that will kick-in. So if anyone is interested in donating money for us to use to pay Mom and Dad's mounting bills, please mail the money to the address in the earlier post regarding the Benefit Account. I'm sorry that I can't give you a donation receipt for the sake of a tax deduction, but I know that anyone that is sending money in is not doing it just for that purpose. Any amount, no matter how small, will help and be greatly appreciated. OK... enough of that.

Dad is slowly progressing in his limb movements. He has a little more action in his forearms, legs, lips and chin. Mom says that he's really trying to open his eyes. Hopefully, that will happen soon.

Please pass the word around about Dad and Mom coming back to VA on Friday, as well as the need for donations. And be sure to say an extra prayer on Friday for the flight crew and hospital staff that will be handling Dad's transfer.

God bless all of you!

Team Jerry all the way!

Eastbound and Down

Hi everyone!

We just received confirmation that Dad will be coming back to Virginia by the end of the week, maybe as soon as Wednesday. He will be transported via a Med-Flight service to Roanoke, VA, and will be hospitalized at Lewis-Gale Hospital in Salem. The insurance company denied his claim again for the flight cost, so we will be footing the bill ourselves. But at this point, we’re just happy that Dad is going to be closer to family and friends who can visit him and help with his recovery. Plus, Mom will get to fly with him, which I think will help to keep him calm during the flight.

We’ll let you know his new contact information once we have it. Please keep him and Mom in your thoughts and prayers. And make sure to let everyone know about the benefit account that we mentioned in the last post.

Team Jerry all the way!!!

UPDATE!!!!!

As of 7:35pm EST, Dad is scheduled to be transported to Lewis-Gale in Roanoke on Friday (7/30).

Benefit (Donation) Account for Jerry

We are so appreciative of everyone who continues to ask what they can do to help, or if they can send money to assist with the mounting bills. With that in mind, we have created a Benefit Account at BB&T Bank that will be used to deposit the donations that we receive from everyone. We opened a P.O. Box in Danville that will serve as the main address for receiving donations. The address is:

Todd Hawkins
P.O. Box 2364
Danville, VA 24541

Please make checks payable to the “J. Todd Hawkins Benefit Account”, or the “April C. Hawkins Benefit Account”. New federal regulations prohibited us from setting up the account in someone’s name who is unable to sign the required documentation, so that is why the account is in our names. April and I will be using the money to pay various bills for Mom and Dad, including medical, personal and/or travel expenses.

If you are not able to send any money, then your prayers and thoughts are still welcomed and appreciated. We do not want anyone feeling like they have to give money or giving more money than they should. Please know that the love and support that you have shown us over the past month has warmed our hearts and kept our spirits high, and we thank you for what you have already done and continue to do. Truly, we could not have made it this far without you!

Lastly, as many of you have been kind enough to keep non-computer users informed of Dad’s progress by way of this blog, please spread the word around and let everyone know about the benefit account. As always, you too are in our thoughts and prayers!!!

Team Jerry all the way!

The Latest!

Hey Everyone!

There is still no change in Dad's condition. He rested somewhat well over the weekend, but we're still waiting for things to start moving again... literally.

We're hoping to hear from Lewis-Gale soon about whether or not they will accept Dad as patient. From there, we'll be moving on to Lynchburg and other area hospitals. Hopefully, we'll get him to the East Coast by the first part of August.

Thanks again for all your continued support.

Team Jerry all the way!

Here it is- an update!

Hi everyone! Jerry developed an infection in his PIC line, so they moved it to his other arm and are treating the infection with antibiotics. This is not uncommon, as PIC lines can get infected and have to be moved. The good news is that his lungs are showing clear on the XRay, which means no more pneumonia.

Everyone has been wonderful to all of us. Lots of you continue to ask what you can do to help. Well, we need to get him home and get some bills paid. An anonymous donor is willing to help us if we can raise some funds. I am in the process of setting up a fund at BB&T in Jerry’s name and should have more information to post on the blog later on. The medical bills alone are going to be astronomical, not to mention the day-to-day stuff. If anyone has any creative fundraising ideas, post a comment to the blog, email, or call us when you get the chance. Sorry if you get our voicemail, but we’re finding ourselves on the phone a lot these days. Like everyone, we love him so very much and want to bring him home soon. So get those ideas flowing and let us know what ideas you have! Call us- (434)793-4143. God bless you all.

Team Jerry all the way!

Not So Fast!!!

OK... we had a bed, and now we don't... well... it's more like a maybe, but not for sure... let me explain. It seems that while the doctor at Wake Forest is willing to take on Dad's case, the hospital has to accept him as a patient. Not sure how one doesn't beget the other, but at this point, I could wake up in the morning with my head sown to the carpet and wouldn't be anymore surprised than I am right now(Clark Griswald reference, for those of you wondering). So we're waiting to hear back from the hospital on whether or not they will accept him.

Let's pray that the review board at the hospital is willing to take no Dad's case and says "Yes" really quick.

Team Jerry all the way!

Found a Bed

Hey everyone!

We just received confirmation that Wake Forest will accept Dad as a patient. Now, we have to wait to see if the insurance will approve his med-flight. Mom is very excited and was crying with tears of joy. Hopefully, Dad will be headed East bound soon.

We'll keep you posted! Team Jerry all the way!

HOLY COW!

JERRY IS MOVING HIS LIPS AND HIS CHIN! Thank you God! Now, let's work on opening your eyes Jerry!
Team Jerry all the way!

On Standby

Hi everyone!

Sorry that we didn't update the blog yesterday, but there was really nothing new to report. Plus, we were hoping the doctors would start looking for a place that Dad could be transferred to this week on at the East Coast so we could report some happier news. But for some reason, they have decided to wait until Wednesday to start calling around to the different hospitals. We're sure why they are waiting, but we are pushing them today for an answer on why and hope that our inquiry alone will speed up the process. Now, on to our main concern... Dad.

Jerry Dale hasn't really done anything new over the past few days. He is still able to wiggle his hands and toes, but his strength in those extremities varies each day. Of course, this is all to be expected. The literature on GBS tells us that most patients start to see some minor changes after the initial 3 week period, which ended yesterday. But that's based on normal cases of GBS. Since Dad's case is so severe, we're guessing that it might take a little longer before we see some more improvements. The GBS literature also talks about patients with unique cases taking longer to recover. As I know most of your are saying it in your heads right now, I'll say it out loud... "Leave it up to Jerry Dale to be unique!" (hehe) But to know Dad is to know that that's just how he rolls!

OK... we'll update the blog again when we have more news. Take care and thanks for your continued support!

Hand and Foot Shake

Hey gang!

Well, Dad is doing about the same. He is still moving his hands and feet, but there is no new movement anywhere else on his body. Mom says his spirits are up and the people at the hospital are more optimistic about his recovery. As we understand it, the doctors are starting to coordinate their efforts to get everything ready so Dad can be transported at the earliest possible moment. But first, they have to find him a place to go, then they'll call the insurance to get the flight approved. Let's hope and pray that the insurance company does right by Dad and pays for him to get back home.

Again, if you live in the Southwest VA area, call Congressman Boucher's office and tell him that you would like him to intervene on Dad's behalf with the insurance company (Anthem). He is one of the people who voted for the new Health legislation that was recently passed. So it should stand to reason that he would have some pull to get this thing done the right way and fast. Tell him Team Jerry is watching and if he thought the Tea Party was a thorn in the Dems side, wait until he gets a load of us (hehe).

OK... that's all for now. I know that I keep saying this, but I just can't tell you how much it means to us to see the support that each of you have shown over the past 3 weeks. Know that we love each of you and you and your families are also in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you!

Tomorrow

Don't forget! Todd is having a birthday tomorrow. If you get a chance, please wish him a happy birthday. His phone is 434-203-1240.

Don't Count the Chicks Yet!

Dad has been a little more active over the past few days. It started with his feet and hands, and now he is feeling different sensations in his eyes. Hopefully, this means that we have seen the "peak" of the illness and the ship is turning around. However, we know from the past few weeks not to get our hopes up too high, because there's been just as many valleys as there have been peaks to Dad's condition. So we're cautiously optimistic and not letting it get past that point right now.

We're still working on getting the insurance company to approve transport back to the East coast. Mom and I have talked with them, as well as Congressman Boucher's office, who is "looking into it". If you live in Southwest VA, be sure to do what Mom did and call the congressman and tell him that you are concerned about Dad's situation with the insurance company not approving his medical transport from KS back to VA and you would like to see him intervene on his constituency's behalf.

OK... we'll update everyone again soon! Go Team Jerry!

Quick but AMAZING update

Jerry is moving BOTH hands now! This has not happened in almost 3 weeks. BOTH hands! Todd is actually cautiously happy. We know bad days will happen, but 2 weeks with a lack of positive news is hard. This is good stuff!

Team Jerry all the way!

Pretty Exciting Stuff

Jerry has had three big days in a row. On Monday he was off the vent for 10 minutes. Tuesday he was off the vent for 5 and a half minutes. Yesterday Mary Sue encouraged Jerry to open and close his hand as if waving at Anna Leigh. For the past few days he has not been responding. When asked, he opened and closed his hand! This was something new and wonderful! Later in the day, Mary Sue told his nurse the pressure boots seemed to be bothering him. They took them off and BOOM, 10 minutes later he started communicating with his feet! He told Mary Sue the boots bother him and he won't move his feet with them on. Mary Sue called and told us it was a great day! Even if it's baby steps like answering yes and no questions with his feet, we will take it! It was encouraging to say the least. Todd finally got excited and smiled. It was so nice to see him smile and feeling upbeat. Granted we will have setbacks, but like I told someone at church, I will take the small stuff and build upon it. I will update later when Mary Sue calls. Prayers and thoughts are needed, but a promising 3 days are a start!

Team Jerry all the way!

Quick Post

Mary Sue just called us. She is incredibly appreciative for the emails, cards, etc. you are sending. She said they lift her spirits. Mary Sue firmly believes Jerry is enjoying them as well. Please keep them coming. Send as many as you like.

Team Jerry all the way!

Another Day, Another Day

As time passes, Dad is becoming less and less responsive. But this is to be expected as the GBS effects peak within Dad’s system during what is now the 3rd week. His doctors have conferred with Wake Forest’s Neurology Dept. and they are willing to accept Dad once he is ready to travel. According to Dad’s doctor, he is not stable enough to transport right now due to the time involved in getting him from point A to point B. So they want to give it another week before we consider moving him. Again, this is consistent and expected with the GBS diagnosis.

Mom is starting to tire, as the day-to-day emotional seesaw that she has been on for the past 2 weeks is beginning to wear on her. I would appreciate it if any of you that have the means could send her words of encouragement either via the hospital’s email system or Dad’s cell phone (276-492-6604). Even though she knows it already, she needs to be reminded that we're all behind her and Dad and that things will get better.

Lastly, paying for the plane trip home! Congressman Boucher’s office contacted me today and we talked about Dad’s situation. They will make some calls on our behalf to explain the situation and motivate the insurance company to reconsider their initial denial. But I’m not counting on anything happening, and Dad's case worker reitterated that sentiment to me today. So I am going to look into the possibility of establishing a Fund for Dad at one of his local banks for anyone who wants to donate towards his cause, just in case we have to go-it alone. Lots of people have asked how they can help, and this will be one way they can do so. Once I have more details, I’ll post them to the blog and I’ll need everyone to spread the word to those of you who are reading and keeping others informed.

OK… that’s all for now. I hope to have more later on. Take care of yourselves and keep Dad and Mom in your thoughts and prayers.

No Changes... No Worries

Hello everyone! This is Todd writing.

I spoke with Mom (Mary Sue) this morning and I just got off the phone with Dad's nurse, and there has been no significant change in his condition over the past 24 hours. While Dad has developed a slight case of pneumonia and has become less responsive over the past few days, these are things that were expected to happen, so we are not that worried at this time. He is entering the 3rd week of having this condition, and according to all the literature that we've read, this will hopefully be the last week of deterioration. Supposedly, with most patients, the syndrome starts to subside going into the 4th week and so forth. So let's pray and keep our fingers crossed that it's true.

We are trying to find a hospital to send Dad to in NC or VA for the duration of his hospitalization. Duke does not have an open bed for him, so we're looking at Wake Forest. If that doesn't pan out, then we'll try UVA. If you're wondering why our regional medical facilities are not being considered, it's because of Dad's unique case of GBS and the team of Neurologists needed in order to properly treat and monitor his condition. None of the regional hospitals are equipped for that type of managed care, so we're forced to only consider some of the larger facilities.

OK... we'll update everyone more as information comes in. Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers. They are very appreciated!

Exhausted

After a long night of checking messages and returning phone calls (21 of them), Todd, Anna Leigh and I returned home early this afternoon. There is no new news to report. Absolutely nothing. Todd and I are exhausted- mentally, emotionally, and physically. If you have tried to call tonight, we apologize. He needed a night off from phone calls. He just needed to vegetate, so he went downstairs without his phone. I cannot blame him. He just wants everything to be back to normal. Don't we all?

Anna Leigh and I had Vacation Bible School tonight. It was a welcome distraction! I taught the 4 and 5 year olds- and I was laughing by the end of the night. It felt so much better to laugh than cry.

We love you all. Again, sorry if we missed your call. Todd just needed a few hours to decompress.

Team Jerry all the way!

Not crazy about this roller coaster

Up and down, left and right- these swerves and curves are leaving us feeling quite nauseated. Todd's dad continues to ride the roller coaster that is GBS. I will let him give you more info later but nothing has truly changed. They are all still scratching their heads at times because this GBS is not to true to form in many ways. However, it is in many ways as well. He is moving his foot and hand so we are pleased with that.

We cleaned Jerry's truck out today. It was heartbreaking to say the least. My mom and dad came along for the ride. Blake and Jim showed up and helped. Thank you to my parents and Jerry's brothers for their help. You guys are great! Family is what it is truly about.

I will let Todd update later. He is talking to his mom now and paying bills. We are headed home in the morning because I have to teach vacation bible school at church. I welcome this distraction.

Soon I will order bracelets for everyone to wear until Jerry is home and well! This is part of Anna Leigh's master plan to get her Papa home.

Team Jerry all the way!

April

OH... what a day!

Hi Friends and Family! Well, it's been a roller coaster of a day, but I'll try to keep this to a Reader's Digest size posting.

Dad's condition worsened through the day, so much so that his neurologist wanted to airlift him to KU this afternoon. But in speaking with the doctor, he couldn't name a reason for moving him other than he was tired of scratching his head. So I vetoed the move until Monday to give Dad some time to turn around. After all, we knew he would get worse before he got better and if I'm going to approve him being airlifted to somewhere, then it better be in the direction of the East Coast.

Mom called back shortly after I got off the phone with the neurologist to say that Dad was doing a little better and that she had asked the doctors to do a couple of more things to help Dad with a few of his conditions. Not to go into too much detail, but let's just say the dam needs to break on the south end for some much needed relief, if you know what I mean.

Duke is no longer an option for Dad, because they have no place to put him. More than likely, they didn't want to house someone with this condition. Needless to say, our Blue Devil loyalties are now swaying. I called Wake Forest and got their contact information for Dad's doctor to call and talk about moving him there first thing next week. It's the same distance as Duke from our house, so there's no real downside.

The main thing we need everyone to do is to keep praying for a turnaround, and that we can convince the insurance company that bringing Dad back to the East Coast is a good investment is his future health and their bottom line.

I'll update everyone more as things develop over the weekend. Until then, thanks to everyone for your continued support. And don't forget that Saturday (7/10) is Mom's birthday, so be sure to call her on Dad's cell (276-492-6604) and wish her a HB.