While we continue to be amazed by the outpouring of love on behalf of our friend Kathi and her riding partner Kathy Hurd, I believe we have not yet scratched the surface of those within our community that wish to assist in one way or another. And I know that many of you have been waiting for this posting, which we hope will give you some more tangible ways to be involved in Kathi's recovery. So here they are:
1. Pray - God hears the prayers of his people and there is no limit to what he can do through them!
2. Give Blood - Blood donations provide life-saving treatments to accident victims, surgery patients, cancer patients and many others in need. Those who want to make a replacement donation of blood on behalf of Kathi, can do so with BloodSource. A donor account has been established on Kathi's behalf. Kathi's donor account number is P916. BloodSource does have an office in Folsom and their hours of operation are M-W (11am-1:15pm; 2:30-6 pm), Thursdays (9am-12:15pm; 1:30-4pm) and Fridays (8:30am-1pm). Their Bloodmobile will also be at Lakeside Church on Sunday morning, July 20th.
3. Assist Financially - While we have no idea what exactly Kathi's financial needs will be at this point, we want to encourage those who wish to help in this way, to give to Lakeside Church's Compassion Fund. Funds given to this account will be used to help financially offset Kathi's needs as well as those within the greater community of Lakeside. Gifts can be sent to Lakeside Church, 745 Oak Avenue Parkway, Folsom, CA 95630.
4. Provide a Meal - We are asking interested people to help in bringing lunch for 3-4 of Kathi's caregivers each day and driving it out to Sutter Roseville Hospital. We would also love to have people stop by around 4pm with coffee for Kathi's support team. If you are interested in being scheduled for this, email marniemcfarlin@lakesidechurch.com.
5. Write a Note - Cards are being collected in the Lakeside Church office and will be read to Kathi and later given to her when it is appropriate. We also encourage you to continue to leave your comments on the blog as well.
Finally, the Hurd family is requesting that instead of flowers, donations be made to Ride for a Reason, one of their favorite charities.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
"Hi!"
OK - so let's not use the word "coma" anymore. I'm just going to tell you what I saw when I entered her room today. BOTH of Kathi's eyes were open and she looked right at me. I asked her to turn her head to look at her other caregiver. She did! Then she turned her head and looked back at me . . . see a pattern here? She was awake most of the time I spent with her - a little restless. I could tell she was tired so I encouraged her to sleep/rest. She fell asleep for a short while, then her eyes popped open. I looked at her and said "Hi!" and she tried to say "Hi" around her breathing tube.
I am so excited at the healing I see taking place. Her fever was down almost a whole degree, and you could see color in her face again. She played with my hand for almost three hours. Sometimes she doesn't follow commands - not sure if she is tired or just being "difficult!" But I'll give her a little grace on that.
Another "milestone" is approaching - Kathi is initiating most of her respirations during waking hours. When she falls asleep, the ventilator takes over. (Breathing machine) This is very significant and we can't wait to see further improvement so that we can say "bye-bye" to that breathing tube!
Unfortunately, Physical Therapy did not happen today, but she is first on their list to get up in a chair tomorrow morning. Her nurse said that she will only be up for about an hour. AN HOUR? Wow! That's a long time if you've been in a "coma" for a week.
Anyway, just want to give you all the latest and greatest of what is happening with Kathi inside the NTICU. Once again the nurses and doctors are singing her praises!
Remembering where we were exactly one week ago today, I personally want to go on record as saying that Kathi is a miracle in action. To God be all the glory!
I am so excited at the healing I see taking place. Her fever was down almost a whole degree, and you could see color in her face again. She played with my hand for almost three hours. Sometimes she doesn't follow commands - not sure if she is tired or just being "difficult!" But I'll give her a little grace on that.
Another "milestone" is approaching - Kathi is initiating most of her respirations during waking hours. When she falls asleep, the ventilator takes over. (Breathing machine) This is very significant and we can't wait to see further improvement so that we can say "bye-bye" to that breathing tube!
Unfortunately, Physical Therapy did not happen today, but she is first on their list to get up in a chair tomorrow morning. Her nurse said that she will only be up for about an hour. AN HOUR? Wow! That's a long time if you've been in a "coma" for a week.
Anyway, just want to give you all the latest and greatest of what is happening with Kathi inside the NTICU. Once again the nurses and doctors are singing her praises!
Remembering where we were exactly one week ago today, I personally want to go on record as saying that Kathi is a miracle in action. To God be all the glory!
Thumbs Up
Exciting news! We received word early this morning that Kathi was responsive to the nurses command and gave a thumbs up to the nurse twice! In response to her movement, the nurse took her arm restraints off and Kathi began to feel and touch her arms and face. Dr. Ridgeway also wants Kathi up in a chair today and as soon as that happens, she will begin with some physical therapy.
It is normal to have set backs in these cases. We haven't seen any yet, so pray that if and when they come, that we wouldn't loose heart and that Kathi would continue to push through.
The family is overwhelmed with emotion! And we are all giving thanks to God for his healing hand!
It is normal to have set backs in these cases. We haven't seen any yet, so pray that if and when they come, that we wouldn't loose heart and that Kathi would continue to push through.
The family is overwhelmed with emotion! And we are all giving thanks to God for his healing hand!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Nuggets of Encouragment
I had an interesting conversation with a friend today. She wanted to know why we continued to classify Kathi as being in a coma when she was opening her eyes. Great question - let me see if I can clarify this.
Coma is the prolonged period of unconsciousness which is an absence of awareness of self and the environment. The normal state MOST of us are in is called Arousal and is the general state of readiness to respond to the environment. Basically, that means you can respond and take care of business. (Selective attention and purposeful responses.) The medical team grades coma on a scale of what a person can and cannot do. Two of the scales are the Glasgow Scale and the Rancho Los Amigos Scale. You can "Google" these yourself to see what they look at to evaluate a patient. Kathi is progressing along in their assessment, but is still officially in a coma. Whew! OK, that being said, let me tell you about today!
Great Day! Kathi was read to today, and during that time opened her eyes and looked right at the person reading to her. She has good movement and strength in her left hand - the right is a little weak and non-responsive. I concur with this - when I went in to see her today, she was much more responsive to my voice. Opened both eyes and followed my movement around the bed. Sometimes she squeezes hands on command . . . and sometimes not. Apparently the doctor on service today could not get her to respond to him. Hmmm . . . she really seems to enjoy her music for short periods of time. Also, Kathi had her ICP (Intracranial Pressure) monitor removed today because her measurements have been so stable. One less tube to her body!
STILL has a fever! Cooling blankets, Tylenol, antibiotics and prayer . . . it's the best treatment plan!
This afternoon, her nurse said that she believed that Kathi was going to do well. Strictly her opinion - but she has worked in that unit for 10 years. It's hard to balance hope and reality, but this was encouraging to hear from someone who has much experience dealing with patients with head trauma. I'm going to hang onto this precious nugget of encouragement.
Update on Kathy Hurd - I spoke to her husband, Gary, today. Kathy had a rough start to her physical therapy and needs our prayers, support and encouragement. She is a strong woman, which is good, because this is TOUGH! The UC Davis Trauma team has been exceptional in taking care of Kathy!
Tomorrow is the "one week" mark - yeah! The Sutter Roseville Neuro Trauma ICU Team is the bomb! You prayer warriors out there - God bless you.
Coma is the prolonged period of unconsciousness which is an absence of awareness of self and the environment. The normal state MOST of us are in is called Arousal and is the general state of readiness to respond to the environment. Basically, that means you can respond and take care of business. (Selective attention and purposeful responses.) The medical team grades coma on a scale of what a person can and cannot do. Two of the scales are the Glasgow Scale and the Rancho Los Amigos Scale. You can "Google" these yourself to see what they look at to evaluate a patient. Kathi is progressing along in their assessment, but is still officially in a coma. Whew! OK, that being said, let me tell you about today!
Great Day! Kathi was read to today, and during that time opened her eyes and looked right at the person reading to her. She has good movement and strength in her left hand - the right is a little weak and non-responsive. I concur with this - when I went in to see her today, she was much more responsive to my voice. Opened both eyes and followed my movement around the bed. Sometimes she squeezes hands on command . . . and sometimes not. Apparently the doctor on service today could not get her to respond to him. Hmmm . . . she really seems to enjoy her music for short periods of time. Also, Kathi had her ICP (Intracranial Pressure) monitor removed today because her measurements have been so stable. One less tube to her body!
STILL has a fever! Cooling blankets, Tylenol, antibiotics and prayer . . . it's the best treatment plan!
This afternoon, her nurse said that she believed that Kathi was going to do well. Strictly her opinion - but she has worked in that unit for 10 years. It's hard to balance hope and reality, but this was encouraging to hear from someone who has much experience dealing with patients with head trauma. I'm going to hang onto this precious nugget of encouragement.
Update on Kathy Hurd - I spoke to her husband, Gary, today. Kathy had a rough start to her physical therapy and needs our prayers, support and encouragement. She is a strong woman, which is good, because this is TOUGH! The UC Davis Trauma team has been exceptional in taking care of Kathy!
Tomorrow is the "one week" mark - yeah! The Sutter Roseville Neuro Trauma ICU Team is the bomb! You prayer warriors out there - God bless you.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Music to her ears . . .
Well, the fever continues to be an issue. They started Kathi on antibiotics today to see if there is any improvement. Once again all her vital signs are stable. They changed her head dressing today, and finished the "special" haircut from last Wednesday - a very special military haircut, aka - buzz. I think she was considering a new hairstyle anyway.
The trauma surgeon suggested and approved an iPod for Kathi to listen to some of her favorite music beginning today. So - we made that happen this evening. Thanks to everyone who hustled to get it done - they actually downloaded music off of her office computer iTunes where she had a large file of her favorite worship songs. So the plan is to give her music stimulation for short periods of time. It could be merely a coincidence, but her blood pressure came down as the music played.
She is still moving her left hand with some purpose - rubbing the sheet covering her. Her arms are restrained to prevent pulling out IV's and tubes, so her ability to move is a little restricted. Her left eye continues to open when people talk to her, or the nurses are bugging her. Actual focusing is not known.
Just a reminder - no visitors are being allowed at this time. Some sweet people dropped by today, but were turned away by the medical staff. Thank you for all your love and prayers.
The trauma surgeon suggested and approved an iPod for Kathi to listen to some of her favorite music beginning today. So - we made that happen this evening. Thanks to everyone who hustled to get it done - they actually downloaded music off of her office computer iTunes where she had a large file of her favorite worship songs. So the plan is to give her music stimulation for short periods of time. It could be merely a coincidence, but her blood pressure came down as the music played.
She is still moving her left hand with some purpose - rubbing the sheet covering her. Her arms are restrained to prevent pulling out IV's and tubes, so her ability to move is a little restricted. Her left eye continues to open when people talk to her, or the nurses are bugging her. Actual focusing is not known.
Just a reminder - no visitors are being allowed at this time. Some sweet people dropped by today, but were turned away by the medical staff. Thank you for all your love and prayers.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Message From Theresa and David
"Words cannot express how grateful we are for all the support, love and words of encouragement from everyone around the world for Kathi. Each day as she gets stronger is a testament to the power of prayer and God's healing hands.
Today was a good day. Kathi was reported by her nurse to be using her fingers in a deliberate way. Theresa watched as Kathi opened her right eye and seemed to follow her movements. Also, she squeezed the hands of some others. While I was holding her hand, she caressed the top of my hand with her thumb. Then she opened her right eye again.
Once again, we need to remember that she is still in a coma, on a ventilator and has a very severe brain injury and we still just don't what is going to happen. But . . . don't you just want to do a "happy dance?"
Areas of concern continue to be the fever she has and the potential of developing pneumonia. Other vital signs are all stable and holding. Thank you for continuing to hold Kathi up in prayer.
It was good to see Kathi's "Bodacious Babes" bicycling group at Lakeside this morning. It was very encouraging to her family. What a precious time of worship we shared together!
We are forever grateful to everyone at Lakeside Church who have welcomed Dave and I into their family. We would also like to thank First Baptist Church of Elk Grove and all of Kathi's friends who have gathered around to lend prayers and support.
Finally, to the Trauma Department at Sutter Roseville -- YOU ROCK!! The doctors and nurses do incredible work and we are so thankful . . . Kathi is in the best hands."
Theresa and David Huff
Kathi's sister and brother-in-law
Today was a good day. Kathi was reported by her nurse to be using her fingers in a deliberate way. Theresa watched as Kathi opened her right eye and seemed to follow her movements. Also, she squeezed the hands of some others. While I was holding her hand, she caressed the top of my hand with her thumb. Then she opened her right eye again.
Once again, we need to remember that she is still in a coma, on a ventilator and has a very severe brain injury and we still just don't what is going to happen. But . . . don't you just want to do a "happy dance?"
Areas of concern continue to be the fever she has and the potential of developing pneumonia. Other vital signs are all stable and holding. Thank you for continuing to hold Kathi up in prayer.
It was good to see Kathi's "Bodacious Babes" bicycling group at Lakeside this morning. It was very encouraging to her family. What a precious time of worship we shared together!
Update on Kathy Hurd
Gary Hurd shared today that Kathy is in good spirits and should begin physical therapy sometime this week. Pray for her in regards to pain control and appetite.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Saturday Salutations
We were not able to meet with the doctor this morning before this blog was posted, but he apparently told Kathi’s nurse that he was surprised at the progress she has made since he saw her on Thursday. He is the doctor who met her in the ER and began her care. And he seems to be pretty realistic and conservative with his words, so this was very encouraging to hear.
We stood by her bed this morning and held her hands and talked to her. As we were talking to her, she tried to open her eyes, but was not successful. But she did turn her head toward our voices on her own. Small, sweet miracles every day – that’s what we want!
She is running a fever and they are worried about her developing pneumonia, but they said it’s pretty common and they are ready for it. The swelling in her face has decreased dramatically, although there is still “road rash.” Her intracranial pressure (the pressure in her brain) has remained very stable.
We have passed the 72-hour mark, which is somewhat of a milestone, too. Visitation is still restricted to family only and will continue at least through this next week. So – we will continue to pray. We know that God loves Kathi more than any of us do, and that He has her in the palm of His hand.
Kathy Hurd, Kathi’s cycling buddy, has had surgery to stabilize some of the fractures in her back and has been moved out of the ICU into a regular room. She is awake, alert and talking with her family. Way to go, Kathy! There are no firm dates for rehab or discharge. Kathy’s husband, Gary, stopped by to check in on Kathi yesterday and it was good to see him. Continue your prayers for them and their children.
Many of you have asked how you can tangibly help and express your love to Kathi and her family during this time. At this time we don't have a lot of answers, but we are suggesting that those who want to make a replacement donation of blood on behalf of Kathi, do so with BloodSource. BloodSource does have an office in Folsom and their hours of operation are M-W (11-1:15;2:30-6), Thursdays (9-12:15; 1:30-4) and Fridays (8:30-1). Their Bloodmobile will also be at Lakeside Church on Sunday morning, July 20th.
We stood by her bed this morning and held her hands and talked to her. As we were talking to her, she tried to open her eyes, but was not successful. But she did turn her head toward our voices on her own. Small, sweet miracles every day – that’s what we want!
She is running a fever and they are worried about her developing pneumonia, but they said it’s pretty common and they are ready for it. The swelling in her face has decreased dramatically, although there is still “road rash.” Her intracranial pressure (the pressure in her brain) has remained very stable.
We have passed the 72-hour mark, which is somewhat of a milestone, too. Visitation is still restricted to family only and will continue at least through this next week. So – we will continue to pray. We know that God loves Kathi more than any of us do, and that He has her in the palm of His hand.
Kathy Hurd, Kathi’s cycling buddy, has had surgery to stabilize some of the fractures in her back and has been moved out of the ICU into a regular room. She is awake, alert and talking with her family. Way to go, Kathy! There are no firm dates for rehab or discharge. Kathy’s husband, Gary, stopped by to check in on Kathi yesterday and it was good to see him. Continue your prayers for them and their children.
Many of you have asked how you can tangibly help and express your love to Kathi and her family during this time. At this time we don't have a lot of answers, but we are suggesting that those who want to make a replacement donation of blood on behalf of Kathi, do so with BloodSource. BloodSource does have an office in Folsom and their hours of operation are M-W (11-1:15;2:30-6), Thursdays (9-12:15; 1:30-4) and Fridays (8:30-1). Their Bloodmobile will also be at Lakeside Church on Sunday morning, July 20th.
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