Quick update on Jesse.... There are no screws loose, but one screw too tight! Dr. Osgood stopped in to check on it tonight, and said that toughing out the pain is the best bet for now.... Jesse shows considerable improvement in his ankle, hand, and walking -- his walking "stats":
Saturday, 3/27: 3 steps
Sunday, 3/28-Monday, 3/29: 15 total steps
Tuesday, 3/30: 170' total feet
Wednesday, 3/31: 1,000+ feet!
Thursday, 4/1: 2,500+ feet (updated 4/1, 4:30pm)
Statisticians, quick -- how long until Jesse walks a marathon?
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tuesday, March 30th
Not a lot to report today; Jesse walked using a walker with a forearm extension, and he also had an unusual incident with an exploding growth on his face. If you think you're having a bad day, be glad you don't have an exploding growth.... Jesse graciously distributed muffins and cookies to all those who helped with the cleanup. (Matt, bring more muffins and cookies).
Saturday - Monday, March 27-29th
Jesse had a visit from his niece Molly on Friday and again on Saturday. On Saturday, Josh & Eileen (Jesse's brother and sister-in-law, Molly's parents) thought Jesse could share in Molly's first egg-coloring experience....
In Josh & Eileen's defense, bringing the nurses chocolate chip cookies and bringing ziti for Jesse were two very good ideas.
Let's return to the Easter eggs. First, there was a mishap pre-visit with the boiling -- namely, some eggs cracked a wee tiny bit. Then we arrive at the rehab hospital with dye, water cups, vinegar and cracked eggs. Obtaining supplies took some effort, but the process began with Eileen leading the way. All was going well until the camera came out and the decision was made to line-up the eggs and dyes in front of Jesse and Molly for a photo. As you can guess, Molly was able to reach the red dye, pull.... and splat. Eileen suffered the worst damage (red vinegar dye on her jeans) and housekeeping Dave was good-humored about assisting with the clean-up, but Jesse certainly had a Saturday to remember!
On Sunday Jesse had a few more visitors and continued progress (Jesse continues rehab work through the weekends). Sunday evening Chaplain Dave returned from his midwest trip and was able to sit with Jesse for a while; Dave has been very helpful through Jesse's recovery and it was good to see him back in PA!
Monday night Jesse got moved to the window bed and can now control his own heat and air conditioning -- still in the same room for visiting purposes. His Pastor visited earlier in the day and then seven Juniata students piled onto his bed for a visit -- Jesse's half of the room was certainly a bit crowded! Rich, from Jesse's CMA church in Huntingdon also dropped in later in the evening keeping Jesse very busy for the night.
A few updates:
1. Jesse has progressed well through the walking-through-the-parallel-bars. Jesse's next task will be to use crutch-style walkers (neither Jesse nor I have seen this apparatus, so it is difficult to explain) to extend his pacing beyond the length of the parallel bars.
2. Jesse's nurses are encouraging him to get outside when he has friends at the facility. If the weather is cooperative, coordinate with the nurses to help Jesse outside to a patio. There are blankets if the temperature drops, but there are no provisions for wet weather.
3. Jesse has his cell phone, but please limit your calls and texts -- the staff does not want copious calls and texts to interfere with Jesse's recovery or distract him from sleep, so perhaps call or text during visiting hours. If Jesse has a room full of people he will attempt to respond when visiting hours conclude at 8pm, but be aware that Jesse cannot return 20-40 phone calls per night. Be patient!
4. Not every stitch was removed from Jesse's head. Stitches were only removed from his face. If you see Jesse start to scratch his head, near his hairline, yell at him. Bad things happen when you scratch at the stitches in your head.
5. Visitors - as I said before, Jesse is in the same room but has moved to the window bed. Please be patient if Jesse is in OT or PT when you arrive and be respectful of the nurses and Jesse's roommate.
Enjoy Holy Week, get yourself to church, and check back often for further updates!
In Josh & Eileen's defense, bringing the nurses chocolate chip cookies and bringing ziti for Jesse were two very good ideas.
Let's return to the Easter eggs. First, there was a mishap pre-visit with the boiling -- namely, some eggs cracked a wee tiny bit. Then we arrive at the rehab hospital with dye, water cups, vinegar and cracked eggs. Obtaining supplies took some effort, but the process began with Eileen leading the way. All was going well until the camera came out and the decision was made to line-up the eggs and dyes in front of Jesse and Molly for a photo. As you can guess, Molly was able to reach the red dye, pull.... and splat. Eileen suffered the worst damage (red vinegar dye on her jeans) and housekeeping Dave was good-humored about assisting with the clean-up, but Jesse certainly had a Saturday to remember!
On Sunday Jesse had a few more visitors and continued progress (Jesse continues rehab work through the weekends). Sunday evening Chaplain Dave returned from his midwest trip and was able to sit with Jesse for a while; Dave has been very helpful through Jesse's recovery and it was good to see him back in PA!
Monday night Jesse got moved to the window bed and can now control his own heat and air conditioning -- still in the same room for visiting purposes. His Pastor visited earlier in the day and then seven Juniata students piled onto his bed for a visit -- Jesse's half of the room was certainly a bit crowded! Rich, from Jesse's CMA church in Huntingdon also dropped in later in the evening keeping Jesse very busy for the night.
A few updates:
1. Jesse has progressed well through the walking-through-the-parallel-bars. Jesse's next task will be to use crutch-style walkers (neither Jesse nor I have seen this apparatus, so it is difficult to explain) to extend his pacing beyond the length of the parallel bars.
2. Jesse's nurses are encouraging him to get outside when he has friends at the facility. If the weather is cooperative, coordinate with the nurses to help Jesse outside to a patio. There are blankets if the temperature drops, but there are no provisions for wet weather.
3. Jesse has his cell phone, but please limit your calls and texts -- the staff does not want copious calls and texts to interfere with Jesse's recovery or distract him from sleep, so perhaps call or text during visiting hours. If Jesse has a room full of people he will attempt to respond when visiting hours conclude at 8pm, but be aware that Jesse cannot return 20-40 phone calls per night. Be patient!
4. Not every stitch was removed from Jesse's head. Stitches were only removed from his face. If you see Jesse start to scratch his head, near his hairline, yell at him. Bad things happen when you scratch at the stitches in your head.
5. Visitors - as I said before, Jesse is in the same room but has moved to the window bed. Please be patient if Jesse is in OT or PT when you arrive and be respectful of the nurses and Jesse's roommate.
Enjoy Holy Week, get yourself to church, and check back often for further updates!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Friday, March 27th
Jesse had a busy Friday - three (3) occupational therapy (OT) sessions followed a solid night's sleep Thursday night. Josh & Eileen & Molly and two Juniata friends filled the evening's night, starting off Jesse's latest project -- Sea Monkeys! -- courtesy of Jesse's friend Gill with a G. Taco night wasn't a big hit, but Eileen's cookies were.
Jesse had the stitches removed from his face and nose on Friday; he also was able to focus and fully bend his right index finger, so he's still making noticeable improvements! OT involved gripping and riding an exercise bike. He's able to roll over freely in bed (to reach his Swedish Fish).
We're visiting now on Saturday, and Jesse's walking the length of the parallel bars (twice) -- unthrilled with the beef stew for lunch, but Eileen brought ziti to tide him over.
Jesse had the stitches removed from his face and nose on Friday; he also was able to focus and fully bend his right index finger, so he's still making noticeable improvements! OT involved gripping and riding an exercise bike. He's able to roll over freely in bed (to reach his Swedish Fish).
We're visiting now on Saturday, and Jesse's walking the length of the parallel bars (twice) -- unthrilled with the beef stew for lunch, but Eileen brought ziti to tide him over.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Thursday Afternoon
It's been a busy day here in Altoona.... Jesse was up-and-at-'em this morning and had breakfast and read the paper from his ortho chair out in a community room.... Had a busy day of "OT and PT" (occupational therapy and physical therapy) and "transferred" (stood up from the bed, turned, sat in the chair) very well and later even took two steps!
Visitors have rolled through, dropping off some more clothes for Jesse -- shorts, boxers and socks were greatly appreciated and the Hawaiian shirt has moved to a predominant location; I think he'll look best rocking the Hawaiian shirt in the hallways here! Thanks to the early crew, and Matt & Gill with a G have been here since my arrival -- Matt bringing some muffins to further confuse the nursing staff re: Jesse's food intake....
(Jesse hadn't touched his dinner when I arrived, and then INHALED a chicken parmesan sandwich from Sheetz, a strawberry protein shake from Sheetz, dabbled a bit at this salad, then called it quits on dinner with only his salad slightly touched.... And fyi, it wasn't enough salad for Jesse to receive a NFFC point).
Tomorrow is Friday, March 26th, and Jesse needs to have his stitches removed and survive a visit from his 13-month-old niece -- she's so darn cute!
Thanks to the crew that brought Jesse's clothes and photos, etc. -- and thanks to those who have mailed cards!
I will get another update posted tomorrow after Jesse's stitches are out and we'll get a further update from his collective "team" after their weekly team meeting -- for the interim, the warm wishes, prayers, humor, clean socks, photos, cards, strawberry protein smoothies, chicken parmesan and muffins are greatly appreciated!
Visitors have rolled through, dropping off some more clothes for Jesse -- shorts, boxers and socks were greatly appreciated and the Hawaiian shirt has moved to a predominant location; I think he'll look best rocking the Hawaiian shirt in the hallways here! Thanks to the early crew, and Matt & Gill with a G have been here since my arrival -- Matt bringing some muffins to further confuse the nursing staff re: Jesse's food intake....
(Jesse hadn't touched his dinner when I arrived, and then INHALED a chicken parmesan sandwich from Sheetz, a strawberry protein shake from Sheetz, dabbled a bit at this salad, then called it quits on dinner with only his salad slightly touched.... And fyi, it wasn't enough salad for Jesse to receive a NFFC point).
Tomorrow is Friday, March 26th, and Jesse needs to have his stitches removed and survive a visit from his 13-month-old niece -- she's so darn cute!
Thanks to the crew that brought Jesse's clothes and photos, etc. -- and thanks to those who have mailed cards!
I will get another update posted tomorrow after Jesse's stitches are out and we'll get a further update from his collective "team" after their weekly team meeting -- for the interim, the warm wishes, prayers, humor, clean socks, photos, cards, strawberry protein smoothies, chicken parmesan and muffins are greatly appreciated!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wednesday Afternoon
Jesse was able to stand up today; he used parallel bars to help support himself and also stood and "transferred" -- spun himself 90 degrees into a chair -- and is doing well. The rest of the Northridge family (Mom, Nanna, Aunt Cindy) couldn't go 24 hours without breaking the visitation rules and fast-talked their way in around 2:30.... Jesse has some clothes for his recovery courtesy of a Mom-Nanna-Cindy shopping trip....
Jesse's roommate checked out this evening, but another is on his way -- so please continue to be respectful.
Visitors - there are four bunnies on the wall and a t-shirt for visitors to sign. Check the bulletin board for markers. And feel free to bring a snack for Jesse with you (red smoothies from Sheetz are welcome!)
Jesse's roommate checked out this evening, but another is on his way -- so please continue to be respectful.
Visitors - there are four bunnies on the wall and a t-shirt for visitors to sign. Check the bulletin board for markers. And feel free to bring a snack for Jesse with you (red smoothies from Sheetz are welcome!)
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Tuesday Night Recap
Jesse has been transferred out of the Altoona Regional Hospital ICU and into the HealthSouth Rehabilitative Unit in Altoona. Prior to the transfer, Jesse had a very positive day; he was able to sit up in a regular chair, an improvement over requiring the assistance of the Orthopedic chair. At one point Jesse was able to lift his entire right leg off of the bed and was twice able to wiggle his right toes -- signs of very successful progress!
Jesse was moved to HealthSouth via ambulance and now resides in room 101D. He does have a roommate.
Get Well Cards may be sent to Jesse Northridge c/o HealthSouth, 2005 Valley View Blvd, Altoona, PA 16601. You do not need to include a room number.
Visitors to HealthSouth are welcome weekdays 4-8pm and weekends noon-8pm. Please be very respectful of Jesse's roommate. Juniata college students: please consider coordinating your visitation schedules through Chaplain Dave Witkovsky so that Jesse can have a continuous flow of visitors and not single, large slugs.
Jesse was moved to HealthSouth via ambulance and now resides in room 101D. He does have a roommate.
Get Well Cards may be sent to Jesse Northridge c/o HealthSouth, 2005 Valley View Blvd, Altoona, PA 16601. You do not need to include a room number.
Visitors to HealthSouth are welcome weekdays 4-8pm and weekends noon-8pm. Please be very respectful of Jesse's roommate. Juniata college students: please consider coordinating your visitation schedules through Chaplain Dave Witkovsky so that Jesse can have a continuous flow of visitors and not single, large slugs.
Moving Day!
Jesse is moving out of Altoona Regional Hospital's ICU (at this moment!) and headed down the street to Altoona's Healthsouth rehabilitative hospital. More details to follow.....
Tuesday Morning
Jesse did very well yesterday, sitting up more often, working to balance himself while sitting up, feeding himself (left handed), and generally tolerating me with an occaisional smile! We read through a few more emails and he was happy to hear from a professor who granted him extensions through the summer to finish a class. His right hand strength is improving slightly; he can start to push a bit with his fingers but still cannot curl, extend or grip with them. His toe flinched once again, also a good sign.
We spoke with case worker Vicki and the rehab specialist, Dr. Newman, and at lunchtime yesterday the plans to move Jesse to rehab were accelerated.... to the point that I heard this morning that Jesse will be moved today!
The options are primarily Altoona or Mechanicsburg, and there are pros and cons to both - we'll keep you posted! For those of you offering advice to my mom on rehab hospitals, please be sure that any suggested facility have NEUROLOGICAL-based rehab, not simply orthopedic-based rehab. All information and support is appreciated, but please be judicious in your efforts. (Bonus points awarded to anyone who has actually completed neurological rehab!)
Visitors today should be aware that Jesse may be on the move.... Call ahead to the hospital to find out what's going on, where he is, when he's moving.... I will update here as soon as I know as well! If you would like a text, shoot me an email (jeremiahnorthridge@gmail.com) with the number and I will text you once I know. Do NOT flood my mother with phone calls, please. You'll know when we know.
I left the hospital around 5 last evening and Jesse had a few college friends stopping in to see him after that.... His spirits were generally good through the day though the process is certainly a draining one.
Kudos to Rachel Guldin for drawing Jesse's biggest laugh of the day:
It was show-and-tell in class, and the theme was "My Religion." Three students stood up at the front of the class. The first said, "I'm Jewish, and this is my prayer hat." The second student said, "I'm Catholic, and this is my rosary." The third student said, "I'm Lutheran, and this is my casserole."
Keep the prayers, warm wishes and humor coming -- Jesse's progress has continued; "Slow and steady wins the race" remains the mantra for moving forward. Special thanks to all of the doctors, pa's, nurses and staff at the Altoona Regional Hospital, too, for their help and support!
(And special thanks to you, Subway, for being an alternative to the cafeteria....)
We spoke with case worker Vicki and the rehab specialist, Dr. Newman, and at lunchtime yesterday the plans to move Jesse to rehab were accelerated.... to the point that I heard this morning that Jesse will be moved today!
The options are primarily Altoona or Mechanicsburg, and there are pros and cons to both - we'll keep you posted! For those of you offering advice to my mom on rehab hospitals, please be sure that any suggested facility have NEUROLOGICAL-based rehab, not simply orthopedic-based rehab. All information and support is appreciated, but please be judicious in your efforts. (Bonus points awarded to anyone who has actually completed neurological rehab!)
Visitors today should be aware that Jesse may be on the move.... Call ahead to the hospital to find out what's going on, where he is, when he's moving.... I will update here as soon as I know as well! If you would like a text, shoot me an email (jeremiahnorthridge@gmail.com) with the number and I will text you once I know. Do NOT flood my mother with phone calls, please. You'll know when we know.
I left the hospital around 5 last evening and Jesse had a few college friends stopping in to see him after that.... His spirits were generally good through the day though the process is certainly a draining one.
Kudos to Rachel Guldin for drawing Jesse's biggest laugh of the day:
It was show-and-tell in class, and the theme was "My Religion." Three students stood up at the front of the class. The first said, "I'm Jewish, and this is my prayer hat." The second student said, "I'm Catholic, and this is my rosary." The third student said, "I'm Lutheran, and this is my casserole."
Keep the prayers, warm wishes and humor coming -- Jesse's progress has continued; "Slow and steady wins the race" remains the mantra for moving forward. Special thanks to all of the doctors, pa's, nurses and staff at the Altoona Regional Hospital, too, for their help and support!
(And special thanks to you, Subway, for being an alternative to the cafeteria....)
Monday, March 22, 2010
Monday, 12:36pm Update
Another day in Altoona, with a few updates -- first, Jesse was upright in the Ortho chair this morning for breakfast. Being upright in the Ortho chair is far more comfortable than elevating the bed upright. Mom helped him with some breakfast; soggy cereal and some oj went down well before exhaustion set in. Some physical therapy (PT) at 9a.m.
Jesse was able to push a bit with his right foot -- a positive sign of progress. At 10 a.m. the trauma doctors assessed that Jesse is nearly physical capable to be transfered out of ICU and to the rehab hospital.
10:20 was another visit from the surgeon who noted his right hand and leg are a little better, especially the leg, and we saw a flicker in the right toes.
11:20 was Dana with more PT, sitting up in bed and attempting to balance himself. Jesse did well with some support from his left hand, then repositioned back into bed and fed himself lunch.
Mom and I met with patient access and did some paperwork; we contacted the car insurance company (Dad's old company) who were both sad to receive the news but very helpful and encouraged by Jesse's progress.
Dr. Newman of Altoona's rehabilitative clinic met with us to discuss follow-up; rehab for Jesse will likely range from two (2) to eight (8) weeks. Staying in Altoona has advantages (proximity to his surgeons for follow-up) and disadvantages (travel for family) so no decision has been made.
The Altoona Trauma Center has a horrible cafeteria and only one other option: a Subway in the lobby. I'm about 65th in line!
Requests - more humor and jokes emailed; words of encouragement emailed to Jesse; your thoughts and prayers are appreciated.
Jesse was able to push a bit with his right foot -- a positive sign of progress. At 10 a.m. the trauma doctors assessed that Jesse is nearly physical capable to be transfered out of ICU and to the rehab hospital.
10:20 was another visit from the surgeon who noted his right hand and leg are a little better, especially the leg, and we saw a flicker in the right toes.
11:20 was Dana with more PT, sitting up in bed and attempting to balance himself. Jesse did well with some support from his left hand, then repositioned back into bed and fed himself lunch.
Mom and I met with patient access and did some paperwork; we contacted the car insurance company (Dad's old company) who were both sad to receive the news but very helpful and encouraged by Jesse's progress.
Dr. Newman of Altoona's rehabilitative clinic met with us to discuss follow-up; rehab for Jesse will likely range from two (2) to eight (8) weeks. Staying in Altoona has advantages (proximity to his surgeons for follow-up) and disadvantages (travel for family) so no decision has been made.
The Altoona Trauma Center has a horrible cafeteria and only one other option: a Subway in the lobby. I'm about 65th in line!
Requests - more humor and jokes emailed; words of encouragement emailed to Jesse; your thoughts and prayers are appreciated.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Status & Recovery
This is Jere Northridge typing, hoping to extend updates on Jesse's status and recovery to all of those friends, family and community that love and care for Jesse through this difficult time. This blog will be an attempt to relay Jesse's status and accept well wishes for Jesse's recovery that we will share with him.
Thursday, March 18, 11:50pm - Jesse was involved in a single-car motor vehicle accident; he was the only one in the vehicle, and the vehicle sustained heavy damage, possibly flipping during the accident. First-responders secured Jesse and cut away the car to allow access, and Jesse was extricated and air-lifted to the Altoona Trauma Center's Surgical Intensive Care Unit.
Upon initial intake, Jesse was diagnosed with a broken first rib, broken sturnum, right lung pulmonary contusion, and a compression fracture of the c5-c7 vertebrae. Jesse was met at the hospital by David Witkovsky, Juniata's Chaplain; by Lauren Seganos and her roommate Sheena, and by his brother Jere. Jesse was placed in the Surgical Trauma Intensive Care Unit following the intake MRI's, cat scans and xrays.
Friday, March 19, pre-surgery morning - Jesse was evaluated by Trauma P.A. Sheila Burke and further xrays were ordered for his knees, which were very painful and severly cut. Xrays were negative.... PA Burke put Jesse on breathing exercises to combat any potential complications of pneumonia from the Pulmonary Contusion. Jesse was also evaluated by Lori the Speech Patholigist for brain function evaluation following the head trauma and concussion; Jesse's brain was functioning "normally" though he is to be wary of difficulty with concentration and shorter attention spans until the concussion symptoms subside.
Dr. Osgood, the trauma surgeon, evaluated Jesse pre-surgery and advised that Jesse would be placed in a halo brace following surgery to his c5 and c6 vertebrae. The c7 damage was noted to be capable of healing on its own without surgical interference. The surgery also would involve incisions in the front of Jesse's neck, between his collarbones, and that his esophagus and trachea would need to be "moved" to provide access. This effort, combined with the intubation tube, will make Jesse's recovery to the choir and singing an extended effort.
Jesse went in to surgery around 1pm.
Friday, March 19, post-surgery - during surgery the doctors discovered severe bruising along the spinal column. This discovery complicated surgery, and Jesse lost the use of his right arm and leg. The doctors kept the intubation tube in his throat post-surgery and kept Jesse partially sedated to perform a post-op battery of Cat scans, xrays and MRIs. These tests showed the bone graft and titanium plates properly placed and attributed the paralysis to the bruising of the spinal column. Jesse did retain full sensation in his extremities and was placed on high dosages of steroids to combat the bruising/inflamation. Full sensation is an excellent sign for his long-term recovery.
Friday, March 19, 6:30pm - Trauma PA Ginny noted that Jesse was still intubated as the doctors feared a second surgery may be necessary. Jesse was heavily sedated and doctors wanted to remove the tube in order to further evaluate his loss of motor skills. They had to bring Jesse out from sedation enough that he would begin breathing on his own, without the ventilator, a process very frustrating and painful to Jesse. Several evaluations of Jesse's breathing capacity occurred in the following hours, a process difficult to watch as Jesse's pain levels increased with the loss of sedation but had not yet reached a point where his tube could be removed.
During this time, Father Brad (hospital chaplain) assisted our mom with getting a room at the hospitality house, a room at the hospital campus where she could stay while here in Altoona.
At 11:45pm the doctors finally cleared Jesse for his breathing tube removal, but a hang-up with the anesthesiologist on call required Jesse to wait two very painful hours for the offical ok from the anesthesiologist. Jesse's breathing tube was then removed around 1:00 a.m. and he was switched to a mask.
Saturday, March 19, 1:40 a.m. - Jesse was again evaluated by Trauma PA Burke. Burke advised that Jesse would be in Surgical ICU for a few days, likely through Tuesday, before discharge to a rehabilitative facility. Jesse remained very uncomfortable at this time as he could not self-administer pain medications and needed to rely on nursing staff support. Jesse was also advised that his throat was in an unfamiliar position and he should not eat or drink until evaluated by a doctor specializing in swallowing.
Saturday, March 19, start of daylight shift- Jesse was shifted off of a breathing mask and to a nasal canula, and later off of a nasal canula to his own breathing. Further xrays of his chest, knees and right hip to diagnose continued pain were negative. The nurse at the start of the morning shift noted Jesse had improved upper right arm motor skills, which was an excellent sign. Jesse was coherent and talking and beginning to realize his own post-op situation: the halo brace was screwed through his skin and into the skull itself, and causing a great deal of pain. The halo brace itself is made from lightweight carbon fiber materials and is actually not metallic, so it can be worn into an MRI.
Jesse received a swallowing evaluation from Amanda consisting of sipping water, eating applesauce and swallowing a cracker; having successfully passed these tests, Jesse was cleared to eat or drink anything he pleased. Amanda also continued with the cognitive assessment tests and determined that Jesse had the same cognitive abilities pre- and post-op.
Amanda stressed that adequate sleep and proper nutrition will be MANDATORY for Jesse's transition and that his ability to concentrate and a limited attention span may be byproducts of the concussion suffered in the accident.
Saturday, March 19th, 9 a.m. - Two thoughts: first, Jesse was able to flex and move his right quadricep muscles, and yes, this was a very good sign.
Second, there is no pain imaginable that can compare to having the screws in your skull tightened. Jesse's ability to tolerate his current pain levels are amazing.
Saturday, March 19th, mid-day through evening - Jesse continued to receive evluations throughout the day. He breathes 10 breaths into a small plastic machine each hour to reduce the possibility of pneumonia and to assist the recovery from his pulmonary contusion. Jesse also is required to sit up for short periods, a process that shifts the weight of his head onto the bone graft and titanium plates drilled into his surgically repaired vertebrae. Yes, this is also very painful for him. For pain Jesse has been switched to percocetts.
Saturday, March 19th, evening - Jesse was evaluated by Trauma PA Scott, and the primary concerns now include blood clot prevention.... Jesse's pain appeared a bit more tolerable, and we reviewed some emails and facebooks to occupy our time. Your warm wishes and prayers are greatfully appreciated.
Sunday, March 20th, early morning hours - PA Scott is mandating Jesse eat more; Jesse doesn't like dry, crappy hospital food. Nurses noticed better right elbow strength and range of motion, Jesse was able to slightly flex his calf, and Jesse was able to - once- wiggle his toes. Wiggling his toes was an awesome sign, but Jesse has struggled to replicate the feat since.
Sunday, March 20th, daylight hours - falling into a rhythm here with eating, trying to sit up, trying to manage the difficult pain while sitting up.... Jesse was sitting up in an Ortho chair today and noted how the chair had remarkably less pain than sitting up in bed. As the doctors continue to urge him to sit up, we will continue to urge him to use the Ortho chair to limit the pain vs. sitting up in bed.
Jesse continues to be concerned with his options related to school; what is his class status, what does he need to do school-wise over the next week or two; Chaplain Witkovsky, who is also Jesse's class advisor, will spear-head addressing these questions with the professors.
Jesse also needs to be moved this week to a rehabilitative hospital. At this time, we do not know (a) when he will be moved, (b) where he will be moved to, or (c) how long his recovery will be in the next place.
Visiting hours - Jesse is currently in ICU, so there is a 2-person per room visit limit. Visiting hours basically now coincide with Jesse's ability to tolerate the pain and be cognizant, but nursing staff will not allow visitors between 7-8:30 a.m., 3-4:30 p.m., and 7-8:30 p.m. Jesse is in room 837 now, but may soon be switched to the Orthopedic floor (11th floor), and visitation there will be different. Please call ahead to the hospital if you are traveling long distances.
Prayer requests - for Jesse and for his pain and recovery; for the doctors evaluating and treating him here; for a smooth transition to rehab and his continued recovery.... for my mom, torn between two children at home and one here, and for her transition as it requires Family Medical Leave with the school.... for Joey and Jonathan as they adjust - again - to a changing family dynamic.... for me (Jere) as I attempt to balance work with being here with Jesse.... And for the entire community of support that we have! Thank you, all, for your continued prayers.
What we need - Positive visitors.... Humor.... Anything funny to break up the monotony of poking, prodding, stretching and pain. The more gooberish your joke, the better!
I will attempt to further update the blog and encourage Jesse to post his progress over the coming days, weeks and months. Each small step is a good step, and slow-and-steady wins the race.
Thursday, March 18, 11:50pm - Jesse was involved in a single-car motor vehicle accident; he was the only one in the vehicle, and the vehicle sustained heavy damage, possibly flipping during the accident. First-responders secured Jesse and cut away the car to allow access, and Jesse was extricated and air-lifted to the Altoona Trauma Center's Surgical Intensive Care Unit.
Upon initial intake, Jesse was diagnosed with a broken first rib, broken sturnum, right lung pulmonary contusion, and a compression fracture of the c5-c7 vertebrae. Jesse was met at the hospital by David Witkovsky, Juniata's Chaplain; by Lauren Seganos and her roommate Sheena, and by his brother Jere. Jesse was placed in the Surgical Trauma Intensive Care Unit following the intake MRI's, cat scans and xrays.
Friday, March 19, pre-surgery morning - Jesse was evaluated by Trauma P.A. Sheila Burke and further xrays were ordered for his knees, which were very painful and severly cut. Xrays were negative.... PA Burke put Jesse on breathing exercises to combat any potential complications of pneumonia from the Pulmonary Contusion. Jesse was also evaluated by Lori the Speech Patholigist for brain function evaluation following the head trauma and concussion; Jesse's brain was functioning "normally" though he is to be wary of difficulty with concentration and shorter attention spans until the concussion symptoms subside.
Dr. Osgood, the trauma surgeon, evaluated Jesse pre-surgery and advised that Jesse would be placed in a halo brace following surgery to his c5 and c6 vertebrae. The c7 damage was noted to be capable of healing on its own without surgical interference. The surgery also would involve incisions in the front of Jesse's neck, between his collarbones, and that his esophagus and trachea would need to be "moved" to provide access. This effort, combined with the intubation tube, will make Jesse's recovery to the choir and singing an extended effort.
Jesse went in to surgery around 1pm.
Friday, March 19, post-surgery - during surgery the doctors discovered severe bruising along the spinal column. This discovery complicated surgery, and Jesse lost the use of his right arm and leg. The doctors kept the intubation tube in his throat post-surgery and kept Jesse partially sedated to perform a post-op battery of Cat scans, xrays and MRIs. These tests showed the bone graft and titanium plates properly placed and attributed the paralysis to the bruising of the spinal column. Jesse did retain full sensation in his extremities and was placed on high dosages of steroids to combat the bruising/inflamation. Full sensation is an excellent sign for his long-term recovery.
Friday, March 19, 6:30pm - Trauma PA Ginny noted that Jesse was still intubated as the doctors feared a second surgery may be necessary. Jesse was heavily sedated and doctors wanted to remove the tube in order to further evaluate his loss of motor skills. They had to bring Jesse out from sedation enough that he would begin breathing on his own, without the ventilator, a process very frustrating and painful to Jesse. Several evaluations of Jesse's breathing capacity occurred in the following hours, a process difficult to watch as Jesse's pain levels increased with the loss of sedation but had not yet reached a point where his tube could be removed.
During this time, Father Brad (hospital chaplain) assisted our mom with getting a room at the hospitality house, a room at the hospital campus where she could stay while here in Altoona.
At 11:45pm the doctors finally cleared Jesse for his breathing tube removal, but a hang-up with the anesthesiologist on call required Jesse to wait two very painful hours for the offical ok from the anesthesiologist. Jesse's breathing tube was then removed around 1:00 a.m. and he was switched to a mask.
Saturday, March 19, 1:40 a.m. - Jesse was again evaluated by Trauma PA Burke. Burke advised that Jesse would be in Surgical ICU for a few days, likely through Tuesday, before discharge to a rehabilitative facility. Jesse remained very uncomfortable at this time as he could not self-administer pain medications and needed to rely on nursing staff support. Jesse was also advised that his throat was in an unfamiliar position and he should not eat or drink until evaluated by a doctor specializing in swallowing.
Saturday, March 19, start of daylight shift- Jesse was shifted off of a breathing mask and to a nasal canula, and later off of a nasal canula to his own breathing. Further xrays of his chest, knees and right hip to diagnose continued pain were negative. The nurse at the start of the morning shift noted Jesse had improved upper right arm motor skills, which was an excellent sign. Jesse was coherent and talking and beginning to realize his own post-op situation: the halo brace was screwed through his skin and into the skull itself, and causing a great deal of pain. The halo brace itself is made from lightweight carbon fiber materials and is actually not metallic, so it can be worn into an MRI.
Jesse received a swallowing evaluation from Amanda consisting of sipping water, eating applesauce and swallowing a cracker; having successfully passed these tests, Jesse was cleared to eat or drink anything he pleased. Amanda also continued with the cognitive assessment tests and determined that Jesse had the same cognitive abilities pre- and post-op.
Amanda stressed that adequate sleep and proper nutrition will be MANDATORY for Jesse's transition and that his ability to concentrate and a limited attention span may be byproducts of the concussion suffered in the accident.
Saturday, March 19th, 9 a.m. - Two thoughts: first, Jesse was able to flex and move his right quadricep muscles, and yes, this was a very good sign.
Second, there is no pain imaginable that can compare to having the screws in your skull tightened. Jesse's ability to tolerate his current pain levels are amazing.
Saturday, March 19th, mid-day through evening - Jesse continued to receive evluations throughout the day. He breathes 10 breaths into a small plastic machine each hour to reduce the possibility of pneumonia and to assist the recovery from his pulmonary contusion. Jesse also is required to sit up for short periods, a process that shifts the weight of his head onto the bone graft and titanium plates drilled into his surgically repaired vertebrae. Yes, this is also very painful for him. For pain Jesse has been switched to percocetts.
Saturday, March 19th, evening - Jesse was evaluated by Trauma PA Scott, and the primary concerns now include blood clot prevention.... Jesse's pain appeared a bit more tolerable, and we reviewed some emails and facebooks to occupy our time. Your warm wishes and prayers are greatfully appreciated.
Sunday, March 20th, early morning hours - PA Scott is mandating Jesse eat more; Jesse doesn't like dry, crappy hospital food. Nurses noticed better right elbow strength and range of motion, Jesse was able to slightly flex his calf, and Jesse was able to - once- wiggle his toes. Wiggling his toes was an awesome sign, but Jesse has struggled to replicate the feat since.
Sunday, March 20th, daylight hours - falling into a rhythm here with eating, trying to sit up, trying to manage the difficult pain while sitting up.... Jesse was sitting up in an Ortho chair today and noted how the chair had remarkably less pain than sitting up in bed. As the doctors continue to urge him to sit up, we will continue to urge him to use the Ortho chair to limit the pain vs. sitting up in bed.
Jesse continues to be concerned with his options related to school; what is his class status, what does he need to do school-wise over the next week or two; Chaplain Witkovsky, who is also Jesse's class advisor, will spear-head addressing these questions with the professors.
Jesse also needs to be moved this week to a rehabilitative hospital. At this time, we do not know (a) when he will be moved, (b) where he will be moved to, or (c) how long his recovery will be in the next place.
Visiting hours - Jesse is currently in ICU, so there is a 2-person per room visit limit. Visiting hours basically now coincide with Jesse's ability to tolerate the pain and be cognizant, but nursing staff will not allow visitors between 7-8:30 a.m., 3-4:30 p.m., and 7-8:30 p.m. Jesse is in room 837 now, but may soon be switched to the Orthopedic floor (11th floor), and visitation there will be different. Please call ahead to the hospital if you are traveling long distances.
Prayer requests - for Jesse and for his pain and recovery; for the doctors evaluating and treating him here; for a smooth transition to rehab and his continued recovery.... for my mom, torn between two children at home and one here, and for her transition as it requires Family Medical Leave with the school.... for Joey and Jonathan as they adjust - again - to a changing family dynamic.... for me (Jere) as I attempt to balance work with being here with Jesse.... And for the entire community of support that we have! Thank you, all, for your continued prayers.
What we need - Positive visitors.... Humor.... Anything funny to break up the monotony of poking, prodding, stretching and pain. The more gooberish your joke, the better!
I will attempt to further update the blog and encourage Jesse to post his progress over the coming days, weeks and months. Each small step is a good step, and slow-and-steady wins the race.
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