Update January 11th - More facts added during day

It was determined today that Jimm has had a stroke. This is not the kind of news we want to hear. He has clearly been at risk for both stroke and pulmonary embolism during his hospitalization.. thus the insertion of the Greenfield or IVC filter some weeks ago[see Dec 18th and 21st 2007 posts]. At this point it is not clear how bad it was, if it was only one, what all the present effects of it are, and what the long term effects will be. Numerous tests have been done, and more are coming, to answer these questions. Today he had a CT, and earlier an MRI was completed. All we know so far is that the event occurred in the cerebellum. It is being conjectured that Tuesday morning Jimm either aspirated and choked triggering a stroke.. or the stroke triggered the choking.

As of this writing Jimm remains unresponsive. He does open his eyes, and today is following Deborah with them, but is not talking or reacting to commands. A couple days ago we heard that he had moved his toes after being told to do so, but now it's not clear that that ever did happen.

In Jimm's current state he can not be transferred to Hopkins for a second opinion, then return to UMMC.. if he goes there he will have to stay.
The family will be discussing this possible option during the weekend. They are also very upset about not being told things in a timely manner, and when they are told, facts come out in little bits and pieces. A meeting with all concerned staff is likely to be requested.