Today I woke up feeling weary and tired. I took a long hot bath, made breakfast and chatted with Corinne about the signs I need to look for if the treatment becomes too much for Doug or is not working. The doctor told me yesterday that I need to be prepared to make some tough decisions. It is hard for me to know when that time might come and I will know it when it arrive. The doctor did mention that the maximum amount of time Doug can be on the ventilator is 7 to 10 days. We are on day 5. The next step could be a tracheotomy. I dread that thought for him.
And so we left for the hosptal, feeling a bit overwhelmed and sad. When we walked into the room, Fr. David was there, with my nephew Cory and Ralph Shultz. They were present and caring for Doug while I was tired and moving slowly this morning. A little later Ron Pirnie showed up. Then John and the Rev. Jennifer Anttonen came by to check on us. Later in the day Ingrid Sitton came to visit with Christmas cards from the Sunday School. Our friend Sherry Barrett called a little later. Having all this support, lightened the load and I felt better.
The nurses lighten the sedation that Doug has been given and this afternoon many times Doug opened his eyes a little bit. He responded to the nurses when they asked him to blink his eyes twice if he was having pain. He did and he slightly nodded his head. This felt hopeful since it was the first time in 5 days that he has been able to communicate in any way.
And then his primary care doctor, Wendy Segersma came by. I called her yesterday, to make sure she knew what was happening to Doug. Apparently the hospital had never called her. It was good to share his journey with her. Doug has been going to her for 20 years. She told Doug she would pray for him.
Later this evening my niece Nikki and her daughter Taylor made it here from Missoula, Montana. It was good to have them arrive. We met my sister Kate, Corinne, Cory, Nikki and Taylor and we all had dinner together. Fr. David graciously agreed to watch over Doug while we were gone.
Angie, Tom and their kids will be back tomorrow along with Dan and his kids. Dan's brother will arrive on the 27th. The family will be gathered.
I give thanks to Fr. David for spending the entire day with us. He has been such a wonderful friend and pastor.
And so we pray:
Holy, most gracious Lord, each time I get discouraged you send someone to uphold me, to speak peace and to encourage me. I give you thanks. I give thanks for all who are holding the image of health for Doug during these difficult times. I give thanks for the safe travel of family members. Holy Lord, these long days of waiting and hoping are difficult. Be with us now and if it is your will grant Doug healing and peace as we await the day of your coming. Amen.
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