September 18th 2008

Jim’s Medical Update

From Melanie

Since my last update, Jim was treated for pneumonia. He is very susceptible now due to his compromised swallowing. He aspirates more and this causes infections in his lungs.

Jim’s right leg is failing so he is being fitted for a brace on Thursday, September 18th. It takes a tremendous amount of energy for him to walk because he has to drag his almost useless left leg and now that the right leg is failing, he is falling more and that is not a good thing. The brace will keep him walking.

Even better is Jim’s custom built, Notre Dame blue, elevating, circle turning, stop on a dime, go 6mph wheelchair is being delivered Friday, September 26th. We are very excited because this will give Jim so much freedom plus conserve what little energy he has. He will be able to go outside, get the mail, visit with neighbors, and maybe even prune his beautiful roses again!

Jim uses a BiPap-AVAPS machine to help him breathe especially when he is lying down. Because the pressure settings are so high, which makes the pressure very strong; Jim has developed a pressure wound on the bridge of his nose. This is very dangerous as any infection would compromise his health so we are going to the hospital once a week for treatment.

I have been searching for months for a new “mask”; one that could withstand the air pressure but not have to be worn so tightly that a sore developed. We tried a new full-face mask last night, it’s not perfect but there are no pressure points and it can handle the air pressure. This seems like a lot of work but the only alternative is for Jim to have a tracheotomy and be placed on a ventilator. This procedure is inevitable but we want to put that off as long as possible and as long as it doesn’t compromise Jim’s health.

I know the above sounds like a lot and, in some respects, it is but Jim is doing well and so am I. My goal is to keep him comfortable and active and so far, he is. Sometimes too active!! but always upbeat and positive.

Love to all………..until my next update,

Melanie