Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Small Setback

We know that Kathi's journey will be sprinkled with setbacks, and today we had a small one. As I stated yesterday, Kathi had surgery yesterday to replace her bone flap. Today she is still somewhat drowsy and less animated than she has been over the last week. Her left eye is a little bruised and swollen today, most likely from the surgery yesterday. Given all that, her sister wasn't surprised that the doctor decided to keep her another night and repeat a CT scan in the morning before signing off on the transfer to rehab. It is likely she will transfer tomorrow.

On a positive note, she passed her "swallow test" and had her first lunch of thick liquids. If she handles this diet well, at some point she won't need her feeding tube. This is a specific prayer request that she begin to eat and swallow effectively. 

We were able to give her a manicure today. This was not just for "looks," but Kathi tends to scratch at her wounds, and we just wanted to decrease the chances of injury. She slept during part of it (the soaking in warm water) and was a little confused during the trimming of her nails. But we were successful and she was sweet!

Another area of prayer: Theresa and Dave, Kathi's sister and brother-in-law. This is a huge event in their lives. Most people never have to experience what they are going through and the stress is huge. Theresa has been strong, wise and pro-active in dealing with Kathi's accident. Pray for continued strength and discernment as they continue to work through this tragic event. Theresa hopes to return to Washington for a much needed reunion with her husband and daughter after Kathi is settled into the rehab center. As you can imagine, her feelings are very conflicted - wanting to stay and wanting to go. I love this woman very much - please pray for her. 

When Kathi is transferred, we will let you know. God bless you!

13 comments:

K3 said...

Hang in there K4...
Praying fervently for you, Theresa, Dave, Emma and Jack. You all are going to have quite the testimony! The FABS miss you. We know you are tough. Love you! K3

Katie said...

I will be praying for a good scan tomorrow as well as for Kathi's feeding and swallowing situation.... Also praying for Kathi's family- May God give them the Strength and Wisdom and Peace that they need.

T2 said...

Thank you for the continued updates. It helps so much in knowing how to pray for my friend.

Dear K4~
Another day that brings you closer to full recovery. I know the road ahead will take all your strength and courage, but our God will exchange your weariness for his strength and you will make it through!

friend at ernie's said...

My name is Rebecca and I own Ernie's, a breakfast place in Folsom, (707 East Bidwell). Kathi has been a regular at my restaurant. I have been following her recovery. I think about her and pray for her often. I am having a fundraiser for Kathi and her friend Kathy Hurd. It is Sat. July 12th 5pm-8pm at Ernie's. The cost is $10.00 per person at the door. This includes burger, fries and a drink. I am donating 50 percent of all proceeds to the Kathi's. Please help me spread the word. Thank you and God Bless!

friend at ernie's said...

One more thing. There was a post from one of Kathi's friends, Teresa and she mentioned how she had breakfast at Ernie's the other day and thought of her because she knew it was one of Kathi's favorites. I would love to bring Kathi her first breakfast when she is eating solids. Please keep this in mind. It would be an honor!
-Rebecca

Cherie Denna said...

Just a bump along the road of recovery...praying for a clear CT scan and restoration and nourishment for your body Kathi. He is carrying you sister! You know it! Theresa, you probably have not had a moment to get to a quiet place and rest in the Lord's presence...I pray you're able to find that opportunity.

"..The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Galatians 5:6

"The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him — the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD" ~ Isaiah 11:2

May the Lord sustain you and give you peace ~

In His Light ~ Cherie

AmyB said...

"Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord!"
Kathi - I am rejoicing at your continued progress. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that Theresa and the rest of your family may gain renewed strength and stamina to help you through this. I also praise God for the kindness of Rebecca and will do all I can to spread the word about the fundraiser at Ernie's.
Hugs & blessings,
AMY

PJimison said...

Thanks so much for keeping this blog and the updates! It is amazing all God has done in healing so far. It's great to be reminded that He cares for us daily! Keep strong, Kathi. God has great plans for you.

PS - Great idea at Ernie's! We'll try to be there!

4j's said...

Kathi,
With all the progress, prayers and God by your side, a little setback like this seems small in comparison to your amazing strength and recovery. For Theresa and family. I would love to have you over for dinner when you return. I do not know you well but we certainly have a connection and your faith and strength to Kathi is an amazing thing to see.

My family and I will be at Ernie's - bless you for that.

My prayers will be with you, as always my friend as you continue to take one step each day on your way back.

Lots and Love and Blessings,
Johanna

Anonymous said...

I was a classmate of Kathi's at East High School in Bremerton. My family and I will certainly be praying for Kathi and for all of you that are helping her. My cousin lives in Folsom and I'm going to tell her about the fundraiser at Ernie's. God Bless. Kevin Hassett EHS '78

Cindy said...

Thanks for this most recent update. I am praying that the CT went well, and that she has been moved to the rehab. That is fantastic that Kathi passed the swallow test - one step closer to coffee :)
Theresa and Jack - you are in my prayers. Kathi is so lucky to have family to love and care for her, and your love for her is so evident in the way you speak of her. I know it will be hard for you to leave, but she will be well cared for while you go. Kathi would want you to be with Emma and Dave, as she knows how important that is to you.
God Bless all of you for taking such great care of Kathi, and may he continue to work miracles in her healing.
Cindy D

Rodger and Lynne Schmidt Mozambique said...

The Schmidts in Mozambique are still praying for you. We know all too well the pain of not being near family members during trying times, so we will be praying for Kathi's family during this time.

Praying for the most awesome team of physical therapists ever and a great bond between Kathi and her caregivers.

Heather Bystrowski said...

The Bystrowski family is praying daily and we pray for your families strength as they all go down this road with you! And I am so happy to hear about the thicker liquids! That is great!! We love you and thank you again for the updates, we really do look forward to them!