Update Oct 12th

The stomach problems persist. Things won't stay down, and the bizarre greenish secretions continue. An external tube to provide nourishment going directly in somewhere below the stomach is being planned. Maybe a jejunostomy for enteral hyperalimentation no less. An NG tube has been used for all stomach feeding and aspirating up till now.
There is still evidence of blood in Jimm's urine, and that is thought to be from the constant use of a catheter. They are taking that out today. There is also blood coming from a drain on his lower right side. With all this leaking it's no wonder that Jimm has been anemic for some time. He was given one unit of blood today.
Lung issues are being addressed by the respiratory therapy folks and he remains on the vent most of the time.

Rehab is being looked at in one of the more comprehensive and aggressive places like Kernan, which is owned by the University of Maryland Medical System. Before going to such a facility, Jimm will have to continue to be stable for a couple more weeks, and make some progress in the gastro and respiratory areas.

Jimm is always dealing with negative feelings but he's been doing some sitting in the chair and actually stood by himself by the side of the bed for a few moments.. a big deal. Also, he recently got a ride down the elevator to the lobby. Reportedly, he was chatting away with his trach collar much of the time.
That had to feel good to him.

aw



.