Frush on the mend

[Frushlorton]

Well, sinceit's me writing and not my wife solicitating assistance in poting the FJR/gear, my surgery went well.

I have had a paralytic left hemi-diaphragam since 96. Over the years it became harder and harder to keep up with military demands. I finnally opt'd for surgery.

After use of a long incision and rib spreader on the left side, the diapphragm was plicated (pleated) to take up slack and keep guts out of chest cavity. They hope to gain as much as 20% more lung capacity (currently 57%).

The military took great care of me at Bethesda Naval Hopspital in MD. My family was given a room at the Fisher House so they could stay close at a low cost. My unit is providing meals and checking on me regularly.

I hope to be able to ride after a couple months of recovery. Maybe, I can author the ride reports I have been putting off.

 

[garyahouse]

I'm not familiar with your story, but We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers and certainly wish you a speedy recovery.

Gary

darksider #44

 

[Frushlorton]

We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers and certainly wish you a speedy recovery.

Gary

darksider #44

Thanks Gary, I appreciate all the prayers and good thoughts. We went for a walk and although I was discouraged at having to turn back early, I realize I am walking and breathing. I'll walk farther and faster tomorrow.

Steve

 

[Bounce]

A friend of mine (and LD Rider), Don Arthur, used to be the head of Bethesda. He always took pride in the care given his charges.

 

[SkooterG]

Glad you are on the mend!

 

[Frushlorton]

A friend of mine (and LD Rider), Don Arthur, used to be the head of Bethesda. He always took pride in the care given his charges.

The care has been first class all the way. I spent 3 days in the ICU then down to the surgical recovery ward. I do not have a complaint. I am hoping to head home this afternoon.

 

[Bounce]

Always good to hear when fellow service members get the red carpet treatment. :clapping:

 

[Frushlorton]

Spoke too soon. Sat I was rushed back to the hospital for a suspected pulmonary embolism. Stafford transfered via ambulance back to Bethesda. It turned out to be fluid in my chest cavity and swelling from the surgery. There was a debate between the Docs on to drain or not drain the fluid. Ultimately my surgeon won.

He said draining would be like poking a skunk, not something you want to do. I have no infection. Sticking a needle in several areas would be a good way to invite an infection.

He also said my level of pain is due to him having both hands in my chest. I will feel like I got my butt kicked for quite some time.

All in all I feel better/stonger today than yesterday and my hope is to improve a little everyday and be good to go for the Breaks camping trip in May.

 

[Intech]

Spoke too soon. Sat I was rushed back to the hospital for a suspected pulmonary embolism. Stafford transfered via ambulance back to Bethesda. It turned out to be fluid in my chest cavity and swelling from the surgery. There was a debate between the Docs on to drain or not drain the fluid. Ultimately my surgeon won.

He said draining would be like poking a skunk, not something you want to do. I have no infection. Sticking a needle in several areas would be a good way to invite an infection.

He also said my level of pain is due to him having both hands in my chest. I will feel like I got my butt kicked for quite some time.

All in all I feel better/stonger today than yesterday and my hope is to improve a little everyday and be good to go for the Breaks camping trip in May.

Minor setback. More positive vibes coming your way so you can keep the May camping trip as the target!