Well, our "best possible news" took a downturn. When we went in to see Tom in ICU, the nurses informed us that his heart will not beat on it's own. It seems to be rather messed up. They currently are providing a mechanical heartbeat for him through temporary pacemaker type wires. When we first went in, it looked pretty scary. Why oh why did I put mascara on this morning, the Mary Kay lady asks?
Then they called a CODE BLUE IN ICU and everyone sprang into action. 5 minutes later,one of the volunteers came out to get a family and headed in our general direction - no biggie. Another woman grabbed her and said, "Was it my daughter?" "No", said the volunteer, "I came for this family", and pointed straight at us. All the blood drained out of us as she came our way... and then passed to a family right behind us. As we resumed breathing, we also breathed a prayer for that family. How very terrifying.
Our second trip in to see him in ICU, he wiggled his fingers at me (Lynne) and squeezed my hand. More tears. The cardiologist said that it looks like he will now be in ICU for at least 3 to 4 days, so those Saturday and Sunday visits will have to be coordinated or held til later. They can't move him until his own ticker takes over, and if that doesn't happen by Saturday, then they will have to do a 2nd procedure and implant some version of a pacemaker.
I'd best sign off for now and get this posted. Please don't stop praying! We appreciate you all so very much!
Hi Lynne, tell everyone to stay away for a while so that Tom and you can rest. Visitors can sap strength so quickly even though they mean well. We can all be there in spirit and touch you with our prayers. We love you.
ReplyDeleteRob and Carol Van Horn