January 31st - James has a wound vacuum over his open wounds that removes secretions or blood from those areas to promote healing. One of the wounds now has the femoral artery exposed. A special dressing has been applied over this area. The nurses and doctors will be monitoring this very carefully so the vacuum does not cause hemorrhaging. Thankfully the nurses doing James care are on a one to one basis so they can be very attentive. James blood pressure was a little low today and he had a low fever (99 - 100.3). For a brief moment, Cathy was able to communicate with James ever so slightly. With eyes wide open, he tried to smile and move his lips to talk but the trach won't allow any sound. When Cathy asked him if he was in pain, he shook his head "no". It is so comforting for Cathy to connect with him even in the slightest manner. Thank you Lord, for the little glimmer of our James. Please continue to pray as James is so very sick but keep in mind to measure the size of this obstacle against the size of our mighty God.
January 30th - We met with three of the doctors for a conference to discuss James latest test results and what would be the next mode of treatment. The radioactive cells that were introduced into his blood did not gather in the pelvic cavity which is good news. Because the CT scan indicated an enlarged pelvic area, the doctors took a sample which more than likely indicated VRE (vancomycin resistant enterococci - an infection common to patients with long term hospital care). The antibiotics he is currently on should cover this kind of infection. Basically, we will again be waiting to see how James body reacts to this infection. Again, fever might indicate concern about the pelvic area but fever also could indicate infection in other areas like any one of the lines going into his body. Please continue to pray for the doctors and nurses as they care for James. Remember to pray with thanksgiving for the many blessings we've seen.
January 29th - A new test was done today that made James radioactive (no pregnant ladies allowed in room). This test should show where his white blood cells are gathering which would be an indication of infection. His abdominal CT scan suggest to the doctors a possibility of infection, abscess, collection of fluid, or some tissue damage to an area inside the pelvic cavity. We should know more on that tomorrow afternoon when we have a conference with all five of his major doctors (hopefully all) to discuss James care. Please pray for Gods direction for that time. Thankfully James had no fever today and his blood pressure was good without medication.
January 28th - Although James condition basically did not change today, the infectious disease doctor did not have many encouraging words. He is very concerned about the different infections going on in James body. He said the infections could take his life. There has been increased secretions around the trach as well as another area that he is concerned about so they took cultures and will be watching closely. Thankfully, the cultures in his blood have come back negative. This could be a turning point for James, either for better or quite possibly for worse. Please pray for Gods healing and continue to thank our Lord for His kindness and mercy that has been seen through this all. He has been our very present help in times of trouble.
January 27th - James had a fever last night of 103 but it has come down today to 100. Blood was given this morning as well as medicine to slow down the bleeding from the wounds after surgery. By afternoon this was under control. James seemed to be resting more comfortably after his pain medication was increased. Please do not grow weary from praying or become discouraged as we walk through this long and low valley. Our God has promised He will never leave us or forsake us.
January 26th - Todays surgery was not as expected as the doctors found a much greater area in need of debridement. Surgery lasted five hours instead of the one hour as expected. The doctors were confident they removed all the affected buttocks area but are concerned about a possiblility of another area. The treatment of this would be very difficult. A revision of the amputation was also done. James surgeons will be consulting with other specialists for information on other modes of treatment. We still know that God is in control and has a plan that includes the greatest good for James and all those whose his life has touched. Please, please continue to pray, giving thanks and praise and laying our requests and burdens down before our good and gracious God.
January 25th - Today was a more difficult day as the doctors again informed Cathy that some of the infections are resistant to the present antibiotics being used (this has been an ongoing problem). They are using their last available antibiotic that they know of which may cover his present infection. This antibiotic from the fifties has a potential side effect of kidney problems. Please pray for the effectiveness of this medicine with no complications. Also, there has been another surgery scheduled for tomorrow morning at 7:30 to do some more debridement to the buttocks area. The doctor did say that it should be superficial debridement. James spiked a fever this afternoon. It could be from the dead tissue, from infection or even from the dressing change done the day before. James appeared more uncomfortable today even with doubling his pain medication (morphine). Please pray for his pain to decrease and for only a scarce amount of tissue to be found in need of debridement during surgery.
January 24th - Not much changed today. His central line was changed in radiology. His vitals stayed within normal range (very slight fever). The doctors are discussing doing a CT scan of an area in question. Nothing is scheduled as of now. Thanks for giving blood if you were able. There may be another opportunity in the future. Please continue to pray for the healing process without any further complications.
January 23rd - Basically, James condition has not changed since yesterday. No fever, stable B/P without the aid of medication. His kidneys are improving ever so slowly, but there is improvement. He had dialysis today with two units of blood. The blood drive is on for tomorrow. Anyone who can come would be great! Eat a good meal before you come. Tip: The hospital staff usually come to give blood on their lunch break around 12 - 1 so it can be busier at that time. The quieter time is usually from 2 -4. Remember it is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Please come if you can. Let them know you're there for James.
January 22nd - Today is day 36 since the original surgery. The nurses had to give James quite a bit of fluids and blood to recuperate from the stress and blood loss during surgery. James' blood pressure has been on the low side of normal but this with medications. The nurse has been adjusting the meds up and down to find the least amount of medication with the best possible pressure. He has had only a slight fever today. They are constantly reviewing possible infection sites and the best mode of treatment. Again they are discussing changing his central line (used for dialysis) and his pic line (picc line - peripherally inserted central catheter - used for long term intravenous therapy) to eliminate a potential source of infection. After a discussion with the doctor, we asked the nurse to see how much blood or blood products that James has received. They only had his most recent chart from January 9 to present. He had had approximately 85 pints of blood for these last thirteen days alone. We thought perhaps those that could, would come to Northridge Hospital on Thursday and give blood in James name. They are having a BLOOD DRIVE from 11:00 - 5:00 on January 24th in the Education Auditorium. Please come if you can. Contact Diane for any questions at 714-3227. There is a long road ahead; healing and other various surgeries. James is still critical. Please continue to pray for healing and pray with thanksgiving for all He has done.
January 22nd - James surgery ended up lasting for five and 1/2 hours last night. The doctors were very meticulous to check and recheck the leg tissue to assess the need for the amputation. Their was not enough viable tissue to have a functioning leg so the doctors removed the leg half way down between the knee and the hip. There was one good muscle that they are hoping will give James assistance with the prosthetic. He returned to ICU but his blood pressure was low and they were giving him more blood and fluids to stabilize his pressure. God continues to be so gracious to James and his family with the many wonders He has done. Please pray for the healing of all his wounds, for his kidneys and infections, for his lungs to become strong and be able to breathe on his own as well as for his emotional and spiritual health for when they reduce the sedation and explain his condition to James.
January 21st - At 8:30 p.m. this evening James just went in for surgery. The surgery will last for 3 hours. Please pray for Gods wisdom and guidance to fall upon the surgeons and nurses as they take care of James.
January 20th - James has a slight fever (100.8) and his blood pressure is on the low side of normal. He had dialysis today along with some extra blood. The doctors say James is losing blood and are not sure of the source besides from the drainage of the wounds. This does not seem to worry the doctors. In the best interest of all patients, James surgery will be the last surgery of the day due to his different infections. Surgery is tomorrow afternoon; the time will be specified in the morning. Keep praying for a miracle. The surgeons said they would check the tissue in surgery before they make the final decision of amputation. Whatever Gods will is - We will trust that it is best.
January 19th - James vitals were good today; blood pressure okay without medications and no fever. The chest x-ray showed some haziness but the pulmonary doctor is not overly concerned because James lab values are good. His kidneys continue to show improvement and he did not need dialysis today. His surgery is scheduled for Monday afternoon (We don't know the exact time). The doctors are still discussing the details of the amputation. Pray for their wisdom and for God to guide them in all that they do. If there was ever a time to pray for a miracle, this is it. We know that nothing is impossible with God. No matter what He chooses to do, we will praise His worthy Name!
January 18th - James was in surgery for about four hours. The surgeons were happy to see granulation (a good sign of healing) in the buttocks area. They are very optimistic that this area will heal. They did find that the leg is not viable. Normally dead tissue would be necrotic (dark gray or blackened dead tissue). James muscle looks different than that but what they see visually (consistency) as well as microscopically is not living. They are therefore advising to amputate the leg which would also aid in healing to other areas of concern. Cathy has some peace in this decision knowing that God's grace is always covering James. His condition has been a miracle in that he is still here with us today. Praise God! The amputation will be scheduled in the next few days. Pray fervently on behalf of James and Cathy and also for the wisdom and skill of the doctors.
January 17th - James had a good day with continued stable blood pressure without medication and only a slight fever around 100.6. The doctors have scheduled yet another surgery to remove a smaller amount of dead tissue. It is scheduled for tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.. They are also still very concerned about the infections and will again be replacing his central line to eliminate any infection possibilities at this site. He is still ventilator dependent and remains sedated. Please continue to go before our gracious God asking for healing and strength and opportunity to honor His Name.
January 16th - James' fever dropped below 100 today. His blood pressure is still good, he did not require dialysis today, and his white blood cell count was almost normal. These are all good signs! Praise God! His wound dressings were changed today and observed by the surgeon who determined the need for minor surgery which will happen over the weekend. James continues to fight a variety of bacterial infections so please keep praying for improvement. Even though James is still in critical condition, we can rejoice in that even the smallest improvement is a huge gain. Thanks be to our mighty God.
January 15th - James is still off blood pressure medication but back on dialysis today. He is still running a fever and is on several antibiotics for the various bacterial infections. The doctor is very concerned at the possibilty of James becoming resistant to them as his condition becomes more complex. Pray these medications quickly and thoroughly rid his body of infection.
January 14th - James is recovering from yesterday's long surgery. He is still off of blood pressure medication and did not require dialysis today. Those are good things. However, he is still running a fever and fighting some infections. Please continue to pray.
January 13th - God is so gracious! Today was a favorable day. James was in surgery for approximately six hours. The doctors removed all dead muscle tissue from the buttocks area. A fair amount of blood was lost but that shows improvement in that it indicates a good blood flow to the area. Six pints of blood were given in replacement. The sciatic nerve was viewed and appeared intact for proper nerve function in the future. Because the Iliac vein was tied off in the initial surgery, doctors hoped for a compensation of venous blood to be rerouted through other veins as the bodies natural healing process takes place. The doctors were happy to see this in effect. The inner thigh area of concern was opened and viewed and appears to have viable tissue. Two biopsies were taken from that area to confirm a healthy tissue. Yeast continues to be a problem from continuous antibiotics. Other measures are being given to hopefully eliminate this problem. Skin integrity is always a high concern for bedridden patients. Another surgical procedure was done to reduce any additional causes of skin breakdown. James continues to have secondary infections common to patients in long term hospital care. Medications are being given to treat this as well. The doctors are fearful of him becoming resistant to newer antibiotics and may need to revert back to some medications from the fifties. These should be effective but do have some possible side effects of concern. The doctors say it is truly remarkable that James has survived to this point. We know who is remarkable; our good and gracious God.
January 12th - James will be going in to surgery at 8:00 a.m. Sunday morning. As previously mentioned, the surgeon's will be looking for tissue damage that might be the cause of the fever he?s been fighting. If this area is bad, he will again face the door of a possible amputation of his left leg. Please pray they will find none or very little, and that the door will shut again. They will also be examining previous surgical areas and managing their status. He was off medication for blood pressure for the second day, which is good, but many other factors need to become and remain stable for him to be transferred to USC. While the specialist from USC will not be involved in the surgery, he has been advised and agrees on the necessity and course of action to be taken tomorrow. Please pray for healing for James and wisdom for the doctors.
January 11th - James did not need any blood pressure medication today as it was normalizing. He is still running a fever on average of 102 and that has the doctor perplexed and is not a good sign. His wound nurse, whos job is just to dress and re-dress his wounds, is very pleased with the healing process of the calf and the thigh areas. The doctors are meeting tomorrow morning early to discuss potentially another surgery deep inside his thigh which may be the source of the infection which may be linked to his fever. Our prayers should remain for wisdom for the medical team on James' case, continuation of all of his vitals to stabilizing and Godspeed in his relocation to USC medical center.
One of the two main physicians caring for James continues to be amazed on how strong James' body is in fighting against all of the infections and complications... "this man James, is an enigma".
January 10th - 10:00 p.m. - The doctors did another debridement late this afternoon to remove dead tissue. They were pleased to find a good amount of blood flow to the underlying tissue. They needed to give him an additional four pints of blood for a total of eight pints today. They don't like to have to do so much. His blood pressure dropped very low but has come up again now. His condition continues to be critical with his life on the line.
January 10th - James had a fairly good day. His blood pressure was good but still aided by medication. His temp. was around 101 and other lab values were improved. While being dialyzed, James received four pints of blood in preparation for the debridement which is not yet scheduled. Please continue to pray.
January 9th - It was a long and difficult day today. The doctors had to do a large area of debridement. They also had a conference to discuss James care and the possibility of the specialist coming to Northridge to give his evaluation instead of transporting James all the way to USC. The specialist was gracious to come. He told us that they would accept James as a patient but that he wasn't stable enough for the transport or to do anything at their facility under his present physical condition. James is very sick. Before he can be transported he must be able to maintain a strong blood pressure without the assistance of medication and have only a mild fever. There are many varying factors but pray he would become stable and able to be taken to USC for further treatments. His case is very difficult to manage. Cathy was encouraged to know that this doctor would have done the same treatments and care as his present physicians. Please continue to pray with diligence.
January 8th - Praise God! James lab values were such that he did not need dialysis today. Every victory counts. Also today some of his IV lines were changed to alleviate possible infection from those sites. His fever continues but not as high as yesterday(102). The doctors are basically agreeing that he is not yet ready to be transferred even if they had the okay from the specialist to take the case. Keep praying for James and everything surrounding him. Thank you so much for your diligence.
January 7th - James is still running a high fever (103+). A yeast infection from taking so many antibiotics has developed so a new medication is being added as well as changing his feeding therapy (which is done through a tube from nose to stomach) to something different that does not add to this problem. The doctors are also changing his central line to avoid possibilities of infection at that site. There is no word from the specialist at this time. Please continue to pray for James healing and all the surrounding circumstances. This is one of those areas where we can pray without ceasing. There have been many opportunities for us to encourage and pray with family and friends of other patients in ICU. This is counted as a great joy and privilege. Please pray for those families as well.
January 6th - Dead tissue was removed in James calf, thigh, some muscle and tissue from the buttocks area during a five hour surgery early this morning. The doctors did find viable tissue underneath with a small amount of blood flow. As in many prolonged ventilator dependent patients, a tracheostomy was put in to avoid any tissue damage in that area. During a conference with three of James doctors, Cathy was informed that they would like to have James transferred to another hospital and have his care taken over by a specialist in reconstructive surgery, grafting or amputation if necessary. They are hoping to arrange this at USC (extension) within the next few days. Cathy has developed a trusting relationship with many of the doctors and will be sad to leave their care but is trusting that God will provide just the right team of doctors to care best for James. Please continue to pray for James leg and buttocks area as well as for his kidneys to improve. Pray specifically for the right team of doctors at the right time and the right place. There is talk of decreasing the sedation which will mean explaining to James what has been taking place. Please pray for James emotional, physical and spiritual health in preparation for this time.
January 5th - The doctors have been concerned with an area of James outer buttock where the tissue has some breakdown. They are still not sure if it is a pressure sore from being bed ridden for these twenty days or if it may be an area of breakdown related to the leg. They have scheduled surgery for tomorrow morning at 7:30 to do debridement (scraping away any dead tissue) and also to see how deep it is affecting this muscle. They have also changed the antibiotic he is on since the last one doesn't seem to be working any longer. This new antibiotic has some side effects that may be difficult for James condition but the infection must be stopped and this appears to be the best course of action. James fever has been between 102.8 this a.m. to 101 this afternoon. Please keep him in your daily prayers. Also please pray for all the details of life that continue on around Cathy and her family.
January 5th - Cathy spoke with James nurse this morning and found that James has a high fever today, (102.8). Please pray for knowledge for the doctors and the nurses. They will probably be putting a cooling blanket on him to bring down the fever. As you may know, fever may indicate infection. Pray, pray, pray. They have scheduled the tracheotomy for Monday.
January 4th - The doctors have decided to put in a trachestomy in the next few days. Please pray for the right doctor and the right conditions for this procedure. While doing an intricate dressing change on James leg, they found some gray tissue. They have not decided exactly what or when they will be addressing this. Please, please know that James condition remains critical and we should continue to pray earnestly for him. There is much healing needed. Please lift Cathy and the doctors up in prayer for endurance through this time.
January 3rd - James vitals continue to be stable but the pulmonary doctor decided to hold off on trying to take him off the ventilator at this time. He is having dialysis today and recuperating from yesterdays surgery. Please continue to pray for healing that amazes the doctors.
January 2nd - James was in surgery for approximately 3 hours. The doctors removed some tissue from his leg and were surprised to find improvements in the leg tissue. They will be having a wound nurse specialist coming in to care for his leg. His kidneys also showed some improvement for the first time. The doctors are amazed at the improvement and they don't get it. All Glory to God. Please don't stop praying these are still critical days. Pray for continued healing. Tomorrow they are discussing to see how he would do without the ventilator and they may try discontinuing it. If he doesn't respond well they may do a tracheostomy so not to damage any tissue around the breathing tube. Please pray for a good response. Praise our mighty God.
January 1st - James is going into surgery tomorrow afternoon to remove any dead muscle tissue and change the wound dressings on his leg. Please pray they will find little or no dead muscle tissue and see an overall improvement in his leg.
January 30th - We met with three of the doctors for a conference to discuss James latest test results and what would be the next mode of treatment. The radioactive cells that were introduced into his blood did not gather in the pelvic cavity which is good news. Because the CT scan indicated an enlarged pelvic area, the doctors took a sample which more than likely indicated VRE (vancomycin resistant enterococci - an infection common to patients with long term hospital care). The antibiotics he is currently on should cover this kind of infection. Basically, we will again be waiting to see how James body reacts to this infection. Again, fever might indicate concern about the pelvic area but fever also could indicate infection in other areas like any one of the lines going into his body. Please continue to pray for the doctors and nurses as they care for James. Remember to pray with thanksgiving for the many blessings we've seen.
January 29th - A new test was done today that made James radioactive (no pregnant ladies allowed in room). This test should show where his white blood cells are gathering which would be an indication of infection. His abdominal CT scan suggest to the doctors a possibility of infection, abscess, collection of fluid, or some tissue damage to an area inside the pelvic cavity. We should know more on that tomorrow afternoon when we have a conference with all five of his major doctors (hopefully all) to discuss James care. Please pray for Gods direction for that time. Thankfully James had no fever today and his blood pressure was good without medication.
January 28th - Although James condition basically did not change today, the infectious disease doctor did not have many encouraging words. He is very concerned about the different infections going on in James body. He said the infections could take his life. There has been increased secretions around the trach as well as another area that he is concerned about so they took cultures and will be watching closely. Thankfully, the cultures in his blood have come back negative. This could be a turning point for James, either for better or quite possibly for worse. Please pray for Gods healing and continue to thank our Lord for His kindness and mercy that has been seen through this all. He has been our very present help in times of trouble.
January 27th - James had a fever last night of 103 but it has come down today to 100. Blood was given this morning as well as medicine to slow down the bleeding from the wounds after surgery. By afternoon this was under control. James seemed to be resting more comfortably after his pain medication was increased. Please do not grow weary from praying or become discouraged as we walk through this long and low valley. Our God has promised He will never leave us or forsake us.
January 26th - Todays surgery was not as expected as the doctors found a much greater area in need of debridement. Surgery lasted five hours instead of the one hour as expected. The doctors were confident they removed all the affected buttocks area but are concerned about a possiblility of another area. The treatment of this would be very difficult. A revision of the amputation was also done. James surgeons will be consulting with other specialists for information on other modes of treatment. We still know that God is in control and has a plan that includes the greatest good for James and all those whose his life has touched. Please, please continue to pray, giving thanks and praise and laying our requests and burdens down before our good and gracious God.
January 25th - Today was a more difficult day as the doctors again informed Cathy that some of the infections are resistant to the present antibiotics being used (this has been an ongoing problem). They are using their last available antibiotic that they know of which may cover his present infection. This antibiotic from the fifties has a potential side effect of kidney problems. Please pray for the effectiveness of this medicine with no complications. Also, there has been another surgery scheduled for tomorrow morning at 7:30 to do some more debridement to the buttocks area. The doctor did say that it should be superficial debridement. James spiked a fever this afternoon. It could be from the dead tissue, from infection or even from the dressing change done the day before. James appeared more uncomfortable today even with doubling his pain medication (morphine). Please pray for his pain to decrease and for only a scarce amount of tissue to be found in need of debridement during surgery.
January 24th - Not much changed today. His central line was changed in radiology. His vitals stayed within normal range (very slight fever). The doctors are discussing doing a CT scan of an area in question. Nothing is scheduled as of now. Thanks for giving blood if you were able. There may be another opportunity in the future. Please continue to pray for the healing process without any further complications.
January 23rd - Basically, James condition has not changed since yesterday. No fever, stable B/P without the aid of medication. His kidneys are improving ever so slowly, but there is improvement. He had dialysis today with two units of blood. The blood drive is on for tomorrow. Anyone who can come would be great! Eat a good meal before you come. Tip: The hospital staff usually come to give blood on their lunch break around 12 - 1 so it can be busier at that time. The quieter time is usually from 2 -4. Remember it is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Please come if you can. Let them know you're there for James.
January 22nd - Today is day 36 since the original surgery. The nurses had to give James quite a bit of fluids and blood to recuperate from the stress and blood loss during surgery. James' blood pressure has been on the low side of normal but this with medications. The nurse has been adjusting the meds up and down to find the least amount of medication with the best possible pressure. He has had only a slight fever today. They are constantly reviewing possible infection sites and the best mode of treatment. Again they are discussing changing his central line (used for dialysis) and his pic line (picc line - peripherally inserted central catheter - used for long term intravenous therapy) to eliminate a potential source of infection. After a discussion with the doctor, we asked the nurse to see how much blood or blood products that James has received. They only had his most recent chart from January 9 to present. He had had approximately 85 pints of blood for these last thirteen days alone. We thought perhaps those that could, would come to Northridge Hospital on Thursday and give blood in James name. They are having a BLOOD DRIVE from 11:00 - 5:00 on January 24th in the Education Auditorium. Please come if you can. Contact Diane for any questions at 714-3227. There is a long road ahead; healing and other various surgeries. James is still critical. Please continue to pray for healing and pray with thanksgiving for all He has done.
January 22nd - James surgery ended up lasting for five and 1/2 hours last night. The doctors were very meticulous to check and recheck the leg tissue to assess the need for the amputation. Their was not enough viable tissue to have a functioning leg so the doctors removed the leg half way down between the knee and the hip. There was one good muscle that they are hoping will give James assistance with the prosthetic. He returned to ICU but his blood pressure was low and they were giving him more blood and fluids to stabilize his pressure. God continues to be so gracious to James and his family with the many wonders He has done. Please pray for the healing of all his wounds, for his kidneys and infections, for his lungs to become strong and be able to breathe on his own as well as for his emotional and spiritual health for when they reduce the sedation and explain his condition to James.
January 21st - At 8:30 p.m. this evening James just went in for surgery. The surgery will last for 3 hours. Please pray for Gods wisdom and guidance to fall upon the surgeons and nurses as they take care of James.
January 20th - James has a slight fever (100.8) and his blood pressure is on the low side of normal. He had dialysis today along with some extra blood. The doctors say James is losing blood and are not sure of the source besides from the drainage of the wounds. This does not seem to worry the doctors. In the best interest of all patients, James surgery will be the last surgery of the day due to his different infections. Surgery is tomorrow afternoon; the time will be specified in the morning. Keep praying for a miracle. The surgeons said they would check the tissue in surgery before they make the final decision of amputation. Whatever Gods will is - We will trust that it is best.
January 19th - James vitals were good today; blood pressure okay without medications and no fever. The chest x-ray showed some haziness but the pulmonary doctor is not overly concerned because James lab values are good. His kidneys continue to show improvement and he did not need dialysis today. His surgery is scheduled for Monday afternoon (We don't know the exact time). The doctors are still discussing the details of the amputation. Pray for their wisdom and for God to guide them in all that they do. If there was ever a time to pray for a miracle, this is it. We know that nothing is impossible with God. No matter what He chooses to do, we will praise His worthy Name!
January 18th - James was in surgery for about four hours. The surgeons were happy to see granulation (a good sign of healing) in the buttocks area. They are very optimistic that this area will heal. They did find that the leg is not viable. Normally dead tissue would be necrotic (dark gray or blackened dead tissue). James muscle looks different than that but what they see visually (consistency) as well as microscopically is not living. They are therefore advising to amputate the leg which would also aid in healing to other areas of concern. Cathy has some peace in this decision knowing that God's grace is always covering James. His condition has been a miracle in that he is still here with us today. Praise God! The amputation will be scheduled in the next few days. Pray fervently on behalf of James and Cathy and also for the wisdom and skill of the doctors.
January 17th - James had a good day with continued stable blood pressure without medication and only a slight fever around 100.6. The doctors have scheduled yet another surgery to remove a smaller amount of dead tissue. It is scheduled for tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.. They are also still very concerned about the infections and will again be replacing his central line to eliminate any infection possibilities at this site. He is still ventilator dependent and remains sedated. Please continue to go before our gracious God asking for healing and strength and opportunity to honor His Name.
January 16th - James' fever dropped below 100 today. His blood pressure is still good, he did not require dialysis today, and his white blood cell count was almost normal. These are all good signs! Praise God! His wound dressings were changed today and observed by the surgeon who determined the need for minor surgery which will happen over the weekend. James continues to fight a variety of bacterial infections so please keep praying for improvement. Even though James is still in critical condition, we can rejoice in that even the smallest improvement is a huge gain. Thanks be to our mighty God.
January 15th - James is still off blood pressure medication but back on dialysis today. He is still running a fever and is on several antibiotics for the various bacterial infections. The doctor is very concerned at the possibilty of James becoming resistant to them as his condition becomes more complex. Pray these medications quickly and thoroughly rid his body of infection.
January 14th - James is recovering from yesterday's long surgery. He is still off of blood pressure medication and did not require dialysis today. Those are good things. However, he is still running a fever and fighting some infections. Please continue to pray.
January 13th - God is so gracious! Today was a favorable day. James was in surgery for approximately six hours. The doctors removed all dead muscle tissue from the buttocks area. A fair amount of blood was lost but that shows improvement in that it indicates a good blood flow to the area. Six pints of blood were given in replacement. The sciatic nerve was viewed and appeared intact for proper nerve function in the future. Because the Iliac vein was tied off in the initial surgery, doctors hoped for a compensation of venous blood to be rerouted through other veins as the bodies natural healing process takes place. The doctors were happy to see this in effect. The inner thigh area of concern was opened and viewed and appears to have viable tissue. Two biopsies were taken from that area to confirm a healthy tissue. Yeast continues to be a problem from continuous antibiotics. Other measures are being given to hopefully eliminate this problem. Skin integrity is always a high concern for bedridden patients. Another surgical procedure was done to reduce any additional causes of skin breakdown. James continues to have secondary infections common to patients in long term hospital care. Medications are being given to treat this as well. The doctors are fearful of him becoming resistant to newer antibiotics and may need to revert back to some medications from the fifties. These should be effective but do have some possible side effects of concern. The doctors say it is truly remarkable that James has survived to this point. We know who is remarkable; our good and gracious God.
January 12th - James will be going in to surgery at 8:00 a.m. Sunday morning. As previously mentioned, the surgeon's will be looking for tissue damage that might be the cause of the fever he?s been fighting. If this area is bad, he will again face the door of a possible amputation of his left leg. Please pray they will find none or very little, and that the door will shut again. They will also be examining previous surgical areas and managing their status. He was off medication for blood pressure for the second day, which is good, but many other factors need to become and remain stable for him to be transferred to USC. While the specialist from USC will not be involved in the surgery, he has been advised and agrees on the necessity and course of action to be taken tomorrow. Please pray for healing for James and wisdom for the doctors.
January 11th - James did not need any blood pressure medication today as it was normalizing. He is still running a fever on average of 102 and that has the doctor perplexed and is not a good sign. His wound nurse, whos job is just to dress and re-dress his wounds, is very pleased with the healing process of the calf and the thigh areas. The doctors are meeting tomorrow morning early to discuss potentially another surgery deep inside his thigh which may be the source of the infection which may be linked to his fever. Our prayers should remain for wisdom for the medical team on James' case, continuation of all of his vitals to stabilizing and Godspeed in his relocation to USC medical center.
One of the two main physicians caring for James continues to be amazed on how strong James' body is in fighting against all of the infections and complications... "this man James, is an enigma".
January 10th - 10:00 p.m. - The doctors did another debridement late this afternoon to remove dead tissue. They were pleased to find a good amount of blood flow to the underlying tissue. They needed to give him an additional four pints of blood for a total of eight pints today. They don't like to have to do so much. His blood pressure dropped very low but has come up again now. His condition continues to be critical with his life on the line.
January 10th - James had a fairly good day. His blood pressure was good but still aided by medication. His temp. was around 101 and other lab values were improved. While being dialyzed, James received four pints of blood in preparation for the debridement which is not yet scheduled. Please continue to pray.
January 9th - It was a long and difficult day today. The doctors had to do a large area of debridement. They also had a conference to discuss James care and the possibility of the specialist coming to Northridge to give his evaluation instead of transporting James all the way to USC. The specialist was gracious to come. He told us that they would accept James as a patient but that he wasn't stable enough for the transport or to do anything at their facility under his present physical condition. James is very sick. Before he can be transported he must be able to maintain a strong blood pressure without the assistance of medication and have only a mild fever. There are many varying factors but pray he would become stable and able to be taken to USC for further treatments. His case is very difficult to manage. Cathy was encouraged to know that this doctor would have done the same treatments and care as his present physicians. Please continue to pray with diligence.
January 8th - Praise God! James lab values were such that he did not need dialysis today. Every victory counts. Also today some of his IV lines were changed to alleviate possible infection from those sites. His fever continues but not as high as yesterday(102). The doctors are basically agreeing that he is not yet ready to be transferred even if they had the okay from the specialist to take the case. Keep praying for James and everything surrounding him. Thank you so much for your diligence.
January 7th - James is still running a high fever (103+). A yeast infection from taking so many antibiotics has developed so a new medication is being added as well as changing his feeding therapy (which is done through a tube from nose to stomach) to something different that does not add to this problem. The doctors are also changing his central line to avoid possibilities of infection at that site. There is no word from the specialist at this time. Please continue to pray for James healing and all the surrounding circumstances. This is one of those areas where we can pray without ceasing. There have been many opportunities for us to encourage and pray with family and friends of other patients in ICU. This is counted as a great joy and privilege. Please pray for those families as well.
January 6th - Dead tissue was removed in James calf, thigh, some muscle and tissue from the buttocks area during a five hour surgery early this morning. The doctors did find viable tissue underneath with a small amount of blood flow. As in many prolonged ventilator dependent patients, a tracheostomy was put in to avoid any tissue damage in that area. During a conference with three of James doctors, Cathy was informed that they would like to have James transferred to another hospital and have his care taken over by a specialist in reconstructive surgery, grafting or amputation if necessary. They are hoping to arrange this at USC (extension) within the next few days. Cathy has developed a trusting relationship with many of the doctors and will be sad to leave their care but is trusting that God will provide just the right team of doctors to care best for James. Please continue to pray for James leg and buttocks area as well as for his kidneys to improve. Pray specifically for the right team of doctors at the right time and the right place. There is talk of decreasing the sedation which will mean explaining to James what has been taking place. Please pray for James emotional, physical and spiritual health in preparation for this time.
January 5th - The doctors have been concerned with an area of James outer buttock where the tissue has some breakdown. They are still not sure if it is a pressure sore from being bed ridden for these twenty days or if it may be an area of breakdown related to the leg. They have scheduled surgery for tomorrow morning at 7:30 to do debridement (scraping away any dead tissue) and also to see how deep it is affecting this muscle. They have also changed the antibiotic he is on since the last one doesn't seem to be working any longer. This new antibiotic has some side effects that may be difficult for James condition but the infection must be stopped and this appears to be the best course of action. James fever has been between 102.8 this a.m. to 101 this afternoon. Please keep him in your daily prayers. Also please pray for all the details of life that continue on around Cathy and her family.
January 5th - Cathy spoke with James nurse this morning and found that James has a high fever today, (102.8). Please pray for knowledge for the doctors and the nurses. They will probably be putting a cooling blanket on him to bring down the fever. As you may know, fever may indicate infection. Pray, pray, pray. They have scheduled the tracheotomy for Monday.
January 4th - The doctors have decided to put in a trachestomy in the next few days. Please pray for the right doctor and the right conditions for this procedure. While doing an intricate dressing change on James leg, they found some gray tissue. They have not decided exactly what or when they will be addressing this. Please, please know that James condition remains critical and we should continue to pray earnestly for him. There is much healing needed. Please lift Cathy and the doctors up in prayer for endurance through this time.
January 3rd - James vitals continue to be stable but the pulmonary doctor decided to hold off on trying to take him off the ventilator at this time. He is having dialysis today and recuperating from yesterdays surgery. Please continue to pray for healing that amazes the doctors.
January 2nd - James was in surgery for approximately 3 hours. The doctors removed some tissue from his leg and were surprised to find improvements in the leg tissue. They will be having a wound nurse specialist coming in to care for his leg. His kidneys also showed some improvement for the first time. The doctors are amazed at the improvement and they don't get it. All Glory to God. Please don't stop praying these are still critical days. Pray for continued healing. Tomorrow they are discussing to see how he would do without the ventilator and they may try discontinuing it. If he doesn't respond well they may do a tracheostomy so not to damage any tissue around the breathing tube. Please pray for a good response. Praise our mighty God.
January 1st - James is going into surgery tomorrow afternoon to remove any dead muscle tissue and change the wound dressings on his leg. Please pray they will find little or no dead muscle tissue and see an overall improvement in his leg.
