Well now it's been a long while since I put out any news- things have been a little hectic around here. My Mom, Nellie Grey, has been in and out of the hospital with a bad valve in her heart; surgery, discharge, re-hospitalization........more than I can or want to remember. She's had a rough day today but again is on the mend. She has her own blog, www.nelliegrey.blogspot.com , which has much more detail. Mom calls it her "blob" and is quite proud of it!
Back to my wife- she is heading back to work tomorrow and looking forward to the challenges. This past weekend we took off for the UP and spent some time counting the steps down to the beach- long walks in one direction or another, then counting the 38 steps back up to the cottage.
It was a great weekend spending time in our special spot and enjoying the progress Connie has made. Last May we were there and Connie struggled to go for walks, couldn't go very far, and slept most the rest of the day afterwards. Not the same this time- we walked once Friday night, once Saturday (it rained in the PM) and again on Sunday. Though she might have got in a nap on the ride home it was very brief if at all!
Connie's walking is getting much better as is her mental clarity. Both seem to be slowest symptoms to respond and it can be hard to see the progress unless it's been a few days since you have seen her. Overall it's been very rewarding summer seeing Connie getting her health back and progress as much as she has.
Creig
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
"The Dingo"
It's been a couple of weeks since our last post and time for an update. Today marks the 4 week anniversary of Connie's surgery.
Connie is still making progress each day. Her speech and mental clarity have improved dramatically in the last few weeks. Vicki walked in tonight and complemented her Mom on how good she sounds.
Last night Hunter, the Wonder Dog, took Connie and I for a 1 mile walk around the block. We had a great time! Hunter has acquired a nickname- The Dingo; a wild dog from another continent.
Sunday, August 3rd was the family reunion on my mother's side of the family tree. The Breault Reunion- which is a really big deal in our family and a great time. We had my sister Marlene as a house guest for the weekend and the three of us agreed not to stay too long so Connie wouldn't get too tired. Well she was the one wanting to stay- pretty amazing considering a few weeks ago where she was at.
Then as we were leaving Alex asked to come and stay- we couldn't say no. He's been here since and keeps things lively. Once in while we toss him a bar of soap and some clean duds- but he helps Connie when she needs it.
Last week Connie took Cody and Alex (The Grandsons) to the Isabella County Fair. I was more than a little anxious but they had a plan and looked out for each other. Though a little tired Gram had a blast. Cody has his permit to drive and I am told he's a good driver- maybe that's what my anxiety was about.........
Tomorrow we travel to Novi for an appointment with the neurologist, Dr. K, for a follow up. Connie has been having difficulty hearing mainly in her right ear. She's also complaining of some confusion, she says a fog, and we'll see what he says...............
Connie's strength is coming back but she has a ways to go. I think because she had silently suffered for so long she lost much of her muscle strength and stamina. Once again both of us are learning to be patient.
Well that's enough for now- The Dingo just chewed through the door of Connie's Jeep! My guess is Connie will notice this one, but that was a secondary goal of going to Mayo............
Creig
Connie is still making progress each day. Her speech and mental clarity have improved dramatically in the last few weeks. Vicki walked in tonight and complemented her Mom on how good she sounds.
Last night Hunter, the Wonder Dog, took Connie and I for a 1 mile walk around the block. We had a great time! Hunter has acquired a nickname- The Dingo; a wild dog from another continent.
Sunday, August 3rd was the family reunion on my mother's side of the family tree. The Breault Reunion- which is a really big deal in our family and a great time. We had my sister Marlene as a house guest for the weekend and the three of us agreed not to stay too long so Connie wouldn't get too tired. Well she was the one wanting to stay- pretty amazing considering a few weeks ago where she was at.
Then as we were leaving Alex asked to come and stay- we couldn't say no. He's been here since and keeps things lively. Once in while we toss him a bar of soap and some clean duds- but he helps Connie when she needs it.
Last week Connie took Cody and Alex (The Grandsons) to the Isabella County Fair. I was more than a little anxious but they had a plan and looked out for each other. Though a little tired Gram had a blast. Cody has his permit to drive and I am told he's a good driver- maybe that's what my anxiety was about.........
Tomorrow we travel to Novi for an appointment with the neurologist, Dr. K, for a follow up. Connie has been having difficulty hearing mainly in her right ear. She's also complaining of some confusion, she says a fog, and we'll see what he says...............
Connie's strength is coming back but she has a ways to go. I think because she had silently suffered for so long she lost much of her muscle strength and stamina. Once again both of us are learning to be patient.
Well that's enough for now- The Dingo just chewed through the door of Connie's Jeep! My guess is Connie will notice this one, but that was a secondary goal of going to Mayo............
Creig
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
14 days and Healing
Connie continues to make progress every day- for her it can't go fast enough. But I see progress every day..........
Connie's Dad is here tonight. He thinks she's coming along "Mighty fine!". Many of the symptoms are subsiding slowly but they are changing. He hasn't seen her since last Wednesday and says she's back!
Connie's energy is increasing and she is able to stay up from 7AM until after 10 PM. Most of the time without a nap!!!!!!!
She's careful yet not to drive but that's saving us a lot......and I see that changing just around the corner! She cooked our dinner tonight and it was great!
I'll keep you posted,
Creig
Connie's Dad is here tonight. He thinks she's coming along "Mighty fine!". Many of the symptoms are subsiding slowly but they are changing. He hasn't seen her since last Wednesday and says she's back!
Connie's energy is increasing and she is able to stay up from 7AM until after 10 PM. Most of the time without a nap!!!!!!!
She's careful yet not to drive but that's saving us a lot......and I see that changing just around the corner! She cooked our dinner tonight and it was great!
I'll keep you posted,
Creig
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Seven Days Post-Op
I have been itching to update what has been going on with Connie but she has been a little nervous. I think she didn't want to jinx anything. Then tonight I saw my sister Sharon's last comment and I could never ignore her request!
Connie has left her cane in the corner since we have been home- no longer needed! Sunday night we were talking about her progress and she got up and demonstrated a "heel-to-toe" walk. It was very impressive given her gait 5 days earlier. Very awesome!
Vicki, Lisa Gail, Connie, and myself were talking also on Sunday about some things going on with Lisa Gail which went back and forth between the girls- and me tossing in my 2 cents on occasion. Connie kept up with this fast paced back and forth- interjecting at times always appropriately. This would not have been possible before the surgery.
I have also been keeping track of the amount of time spent awake during the day. Before the surgery Connie spent the day sleeping most of the time. Sunday she slept until about 11 AM, got up and tried later on two occasions to take a well deserved nap. Once her friend called and the other time her Pa came to visit. We finally went to bed about 11 PM-TWELVE HOURS LATER!
Connie did get a burn on her neck from tape used in surgery and/or something put on her skin. It's looking much better today.
The muscle pain is much better than before the surgery as well but still some pain.
Today, Tuesday July 22nd, Connie had a Doctor appointment in Battle Creek with her general practitioner. He wanted to know what we did to the other lady in to see him- the lady before Mayo. He was most impressed that the cane was nowhere to be seen! The new lady was looking around and laughing!
He said most of what she is going through is expected post-operative and to give it some time. It will get better!
We are both a little concerned how far and how much of normal returns. I said it before- I don't have much patience!
Sharon threatened to call if we didn't update and I wouldn't blame anyone. For now Connie is a little reluctant to talk too much so I will try to put something in every couple of days.
Tomorrow is a big day- Connie's cousin from Colorado is in the area and they are planning a little birthday party for Connie's Pa so I have to shoo her off to bed ..............at 11:25PM!
Life can slow down and ease up for a while, and I will be content to document the healing.
Creig
Connie has left her cane in the corner since we have been home- no longer needed! Sunday night we were talking about her progress and she got up and demonstrated a "heel-to-toe" walk. It was very impressive given her gait 5 days earlier. Very awesome!
Vicki, Lisa Gail, Connie, and myself were talking also on Sunday about some things going on with Lisa Gail which went back and forth between the girls- and me tossing in my 2 cents on occasion. Connie kept up with this fast paced back and forth- interjecting at times always appropriately. This would not have been possible before the surgery.
I have also been keeping track of the amount of time spent awake during the day. Before the surgery Connie spent the day sleeping most of the time. Sunday she slept until about 11 AM, got up and tried later on two occasions to take a well deserved nap. Once her friend called and the other time her Pa came to visit. We finally went to bed about 11 PM-TWELVE HOURS LATER!
Connie did get a burn on her neck from tape used in surgery and/or something put on her skin. It's looking much better today.
The muscle pain is much better than before the surgery as well but still some pain.
Today, Tuesday July 22nd, Connie had a Doctor appointment in Battle Creek with her general practitioner. He wanted to know what we did to the other lady in to see him- the lady before Mayo. He was most impressed that the cane was nowhere to be seen! The new lady was looking around and laughing!
He said most of what she is going through is expected post-operative and to give it some time. It will get better!
We are both a little concerned how far and how much of normal returns. I said it before- I don't have much patience!
Sharon threatened to call if we didn't update and I wouldn't blame anyone. For now Connie is a little reluctant to talk too much so I will try to put something in every couple of days.
Tomorrow is a big day- Connie's cousin from Colorado is in the area and they are planning a little birthday party for Connie's Pa so I have to shoo her off to bed ..............at 11:25PM!
Life can slow down and ease up for a while, and I will be content to document the healing.
Creig
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Connie is HOME!
Wednesday was a long day. Had a couple tests at Mayo that went good and we hit the road at 10:30. We missed the boat and everyone just wanted to be home so we decided to go around the lake. Near Chicago we noticed that Connie developed some hives and was running a temperature. So we kept an eye on it and about an hour later it had risen. We were close to Kalamazoo and decided to stop in to the Hospital to check her out. After about two or three hours they told us that it's fairly normal to be running a slight temp a day after surgery and the hives could be due to heat and stress. We talked to Marlene on the way to Kalamazoo and she arrived at the hospital shortly after we did. It was so great to see her and Zack. It also turned out that Kim had an ambulance run to the hospital and we saw her there too! (Thanks you three-it helped having you there.) We finished our trip home at 3:00am, so it was indeed a very long day. Mike is on his way home today (Thursday). Mom seems to be doing well and Vic, Creig and Mike all think that they have already seen improvements in Connie. Time will tell. Thanks for being there for us!
- Michael
- Michael
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Travel Plans
It's late Tuesday and things are going good. Connie is "waking up" from the meds- in time to go to bed! She is having some pain, 8 on a 10 scale, but isn't too demanding...........
Plans are to hit the two appointments after clearing out of the motel then head east via Chicago. Neither ferry fits our plan so we'll see what Chicago looks like tomorrow afternoon. Mike's car is in Ludington so we'll get him there. The Doc says to stop once an hour to stretch. So this being the day after surgery it's not what we wanted for Connie.
Everyone here is ready to be home as soon as we can get there. Leave the light on for us.
Creig
Plans are to hit the two appointments after clearing out of the motel then head east via Chicago. Neither ferry fits our plan so we'll see what Chicago looks like tomorrow afternoon. Mike's car is in Ludington so we'll get him there. The Doc says to stop once an hour to stretch. So this being the day after surgery it's not what we wanted for Connie.
Everyone here is ready to be home as soon as we can get there. Leave the light on for us.
Creig
5 O'clock Rochester
St Mary's Hospital
Connie really liked this stain glass window and ask that we take a photo. This is where she had her surgery. It is amazing how great the care is here.
-mm
Well we spent a little more time in the hospital than planned. The surgeon wanted to meet with Connie........then got tied up in another job.
So we waited and waited...........Vicki & Michael were released to the hotel. After several hours we headed out after the Doc said she would be a while......and got back to the hotel about 5pm Michigan time.
Connie is a little groggy but starting to get her sense of humor back. My guess is we'll just lay around tonight.
We have two appointments in the morning so I don't know when we might get back to Michigan. We'll keep you "posted"!
Creig
So we waited and waited...........Vicki & Michael were released to the hotel. After several hours we headed out after the Doc said she would be a while......and got back to the hotel about 5pm Michigan time.
Connie is a little groggy but starting to get her sense of humor back. My guess is we'll just lay around tonight.
We have two appointments in the morning so I don't know when we might get back to Michigan. We'll keep you "posted"!
Creig
Connie's Surgery
Connie is in the recovery room right now. She had one parathyroid gland removed. Normal weight is 50mg- hers was 1950mg. Normal size is a grain of rice- hers was the tip of the thumb.
Before surgery her parathyroid hormone was 200- after surgery it was 38. Normal is 10 to 50. The surgeon thought the problem had be ongoing for 10+ years.
After recovery we should all be back in the hotel by mid-afternoon. She will have to go in to the clinic in the morning then and then we'll be heading East!
Creig
Before surgery her parathyroid hormone was 200- after surgery it was 38. Normal is 10 to 50. The surgeon thought the problem had be ongoing for 10+ years.
After recovery we should all be back in the hotel by mid-afternoon. She will have to go in to the clinic in the morning then and then we'll be heading East!
Creig
Monday, July 14, 2008
Mom's scheduled surgery time.
They have just called and we are scheduled to be at the hospital at 5:45am tommorrow. Mom is trying to decide if she wants to eat anything before midnight.
Party Party Party Time
To all my friends in the UP there will be a party at my cabin in a couple of weeks of my return home. Love always your troll Connie
Great News!
We met with the Doctor and Surgeon about two hours ago. Mom was told she does have a growth on her Thyroid but it is NON CANCEROUS. It is very small and nothing needs to be done for it. So because of this news Mom is having surgery tomorrow morning at St. Mary's Hospital here in Minnasota. The surgeon explained that the surgery would go like this.
She will check in.
She will be given an General ansesthesia.
They will cut about 1-2 inches in the base of the neck in the front.
They will take out the parathryoid that is bad and they know which is bad just by viewing its size.
They then wait 10 minutes and then test her blood for the levels and if it stablizes and becomes normal they know they got the one that is bad and then they sew her up and she is sent to recovery.
She will then be in recovery until about 1-3pm in the afternoon and if no problems she will be released to go back to the hotel.
The next morning we get up and she goes back to Mayo has her calicum level checked and then sent home. Yippee, we are all happy and excited that it may be coming to a close. It really can not happen soon enough.
Yes, Rosemary Mike has already been told he better be ware on the ferry ride back.
She will check in.
She will be given an General ansesthesia.
They will cut about 1-2 inches in the base of the neck in the front.
They will take out the parathryoid that is bad and they know which is bad just by viewing its size.
They then wait 10 minutes and then test her blood for the levels and if it stablizes and becomes normal they know they got the one that is bad and then they sew her up and she is sent to recovery.
She will then be in recovery until about 1-3pm in the afternoon and if no problems she will be released to go back to the hotel.
The next morning we get up and she goes back to Mayo has her calicum level checked and then sent home. Yippee, we are all happy and excited that it may be coming to a close. It really can not happen soon enough.
Yes, Rosemary Mike has already been told he better be ware on the ferry ride back.
Thyroid Stuff
We just got back Mayo- they did an ultrasound and a needle biopsy of a thyroid nodule.........in and out in an hour and fifteen minutes.
Now we just relax until the appointment with the surgeon this afternoon. Connie was a little timid about it all but good now.
The hotel is emptying out- two busloads of soccer players from Columbia...........
More later..........
Creig
Now we just relax until the appointment with the surgeon this afternoon. Connie was a little timid about it all but good now.
The hotel is emptying out- two busloads of soccer players from Columbia...........
More later..........
Creig
Sunday, July 13, 2008
At the hotel photos
Vicki didn't want her photo taken. I'm in trouble...
Creig is relaxing and icing his knee.
Connie and Mike are happy to be out of a car!We are here!
Ok we are here we made it all in one piece, crutches, cane and all.
I just want everyone to know mom is making the most of her last days being ill, see Mike and I slaved over 2 hours of Bingo on the SS Badger and could not win nothing not even a hotdog. Then all of a sudden mom appears out of no where with her cane in hand and the announcer runs up to her and gives her one of the bingo rewards. Yep and she wasn't even playing. Mom came to Mike and I bragging and we told her way to go getting sympthy with the cane and she said "No that isn't why he gave it to me which I replied well then it is because your a senior citizen." She laughed and laughed and then asked Mike to go the shop to cash in her reward. She got a nice SS Badger sweatshirt.
Oh and by the way Mike has finally figured out he hasn't even given mom permission to create any new post on her own blog. So he is suppose to do this after I am done telling all the family secretes. So please stay tune for mom's version of her trip here to Minnasota, she promises to post as soon as her son grants her permission.
You should all be here Mom just informed Mike her first appointment is at 8:00am. This is going to be such a fun trip. Take care and we will post again but Maybe again I wouldn't be they are all threatening to take this priviledge away from me. So if you don't hear from me my family has revoked my consitutional right to free speech.
I just want everyone to know mom is making the most of her last days being ill, see Mike and I slaved over 2 hours of Bingo on the SS Badger and could not win nothing not even a hotdog. Then all of a sudden mom appears out of no where with her cane in hand and the announcer runs up to her and gives her one of the bingo rewards. Yep and she wasn't even playing. Mom came to Mike and I bragging and we told her way to go getting sympthy with the cane and she said "No that isn't why he gave it to me which I replied well then it is because your a senior citizen." She laughed and laughed and then asked Mike to go the shop to cash in her reward. She got a nice SS Badger sweatshirt.
Oh and by the way Mike has finally figured out he hasn't even given mom permission to create any new post on her own blog. So he is suppose to do this after I am done telling all the family secretes. So please stay tune for mom's version of her trip here to Minnasota, she promises to post as soon as her son grants her permission.
You should all be here Mom just informed Mike her first appointment is at 8:00am. This is going to be such a fun trip. Take care and we will post again but Maybe again I wouldn't be they are all threatening to take this priviledge away from me. So if you don't hear from me my family has revoked my consitutional right to free speech.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Countdown to Mayo
It is Saturday night and we should packing or packed.............but neither Connie or I have much ambition! I think we just want to get this over!
Connie has had quite a bit of muscle pain and sleeps much of the time. Her mood has been good and is in good spirits.
Her Dad has called as has my Mom and my sister Susan. Connie's sister, Vicki Louise, and her husband Tim stopped over this afternoon and brought Connie a stuffed animal- I think they were afraid we were gonna sneak the pup on the trip. However Lisa Gail's got Hunter the wonder dog this trip.
We'll leave Mt. P about 5AM headed with Vicki to Ludington to meet Michael and get on the boat. We should be at our hotel by 6PM Sunday.
Monday starts out with an ultrasound at 8AM then afternoon meetings with the MSU/U of M surgeon and then a follow up visit with the endocrinologist. Funny 6 weeks ago I could not have spelled endocrinologist!
We'll know the schedule for Tuesday and surgery details Monday afternoon. Our plans are bug out for Michigan Wednesday morning but these are always subject to revision..........
We have many things to be thankful for but especially the love and support everyone has shown. It really means so much to us.
Connie & Creig
Connie has had quite a bit of muscle pain and sleeps much of the time. Her mood has been good and is in good spirits.
Her Dad has called as has my Mom and my sister Susan. Connie's sister, Vicki Louise, and her husband Tim stopped over this afternoon and brought Connie a stuffed animal- I think they were afraid we were gonna sneak the pup on the trip. However Lisa Gail's got Hunter the wonder dog this trip.
We'll leave Mt. P about 5AM headed with Vicki to Ludington to meet Michael and get on the boat. We should be at our hotel by 6PM Sunday.
Monday starts out with an ultrasound at 8AM then afternoon meetings with the MSU/U of M surgeon and then a follow up visit with the endocrinologist. Funny 6 weeks ago I could not have spelled endocrinologist!
We'll know the schedule for Tuesday and surgery details Monday afternoon. Our plans are bug out for Michigan Wednesday morning but these are always subject to revision..........
We have many things to be thankful for but especially the love and support everyone has shown. It really means so much to us.
Connie & Creig
Back to Minnesota
Tomorrow morning mom is heading back to the Minnesota Mayo clinic. Creig, Connie, Vicki and Mike are all going. Vicki and Mike will have driving duty since Creig's knee is healing. We are going to meet at the boat in Ludington at 7:00 a.m. (way too early for me).
We'll let you know Monday night what happened from the testing... Thanks for checking up.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Creig's surgery
Well, I just spoke with Creig and he is home recooperating from his knee surgery. The doctor states he needs to be off it a couple of days and Creig says that if it feels ok he is going to work Thursday. The doctor did tell him that he is not to drive long distances. So he will be a rider on Sunday morning when we leave to go back to Minnasota for Mom surgery.
It appears that Creig, Mike, Me and of course Mom will be making this trip. I am sure we will have to find room for some crutches too.
It appears that Creig, Mike, Me and of course Mom will be making this trip. I am sure we will have to find room for some crutches too.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
missing in action
Ok Ok Ok I am back. I have officially pretty much traveled a big circle, maybe its like 180 degrees as my Son Cody would casually point out to me. After arriving back at home on the 28 at 8:00am, Courtney and I caught two hours of sleep and headed to Harrison for my best friends wedding with Cody and Myron in tow. Then Cody, Courtney and I headed to Houghton so that Cody could attend a MI Tech camp to learn more about Engineering and Campus life. He was selected to go to this camp through his grades and a teacher recommendation. So Cody drove most of the way because frankly I was exhausted. Our plan was to go to the cabin and stay the night but as tired and I was and because we left the wedding early I had Cody drive to Marquette where we stayed at a hotel so that we did not have to get up so early the next morning. I forgot to share that on the boat home from Wisconsin we were unable to get a cabin state room so poor mom and creig slept in a reclining chair in the ships muesuem, Courtney did not care she was so tired she just sprawled out on the floor of the ship and fell asleep. I my self found a bench in a food place and slept there or something like sleep. So we were very very tired.
Well, Cody attended MI Tech and has fallen in love with it. He has talked non stop about it which as we all know is huge for Cody.
Courtney and I stayed at McLain camp ground and had beautiful weather up until the last night where it stormed and stormed bad. My tent collapsed and I slept in the car and then courtney laughted when she found out I used garbage bags to make me a wet suit and went out and fixed the my tent once the wind let up. I don't know but there seems to be a theme to not getting in rest on my last night of being somewhere. We picked Cody up at 4:00pm yesturday and headed straight home. (Tired again so Cody again did most of the driving). We got home at 1:00am.
Creig kept me up dated as much as he could because my cell phone wasn't working well up there and I had no access to a computer.
So the plan from now is to take care of Lisa Gail, Get Creig better and head back to Mayo (I am registering first thing for a state room if I go by boat again it truely is a must).
That is it form me, I will post more later.
Well, Cody attended MI Tech and has fallen in love with it. He has talked non stop about it which as we all know is huge for Cody.
Courtney and I stayed at McLain camp ground and had beautiful weather up until the last night where it stormed and stormed bad. My tent collapsed and I slept in the car and then courtney laughted when she found out I used garbage bags to make me a wet suit and went out and fixed the my tent once the wind let up. I don't know but there seems to be a theme to not getting in rest on my last night of being somewhere. We picked Cody up at 4:00pm yesturday and headed straight home. (Tired again so Cody again did most of the driving). We got home at 1:00am.
Creig kept me up dated as much as he could because my cell phone wasn't working well up there and I had no access to a computer.
So the plan from now is to take care of Lisa Gail, Get Creig better and head back to Mayo (I am registering first thing for a state room if I go by boat again it truely is a must).
That is it form me, I will post more later.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Neuro News
Connie had an EEG yesterday and an EMG today both in Novi. The neurologist, Dr. K, was surprised not to find any nerve impairment. He now is the first Doc who thinks her staggering gait may be a result of the high calcium.
Up to now all the doctors have had one comment- the staggering is not related to the high calcium. So this is good news in two ways.
One is that she has no problems with the nerves in her right leg ( He did discover slight carpel tunnel in her right hand). Second is he thinks the staggering could go away with the surgery to correct the hyperparathyroidism.
So we continue to make progress- getting answers to the tests, ruling out this or that, keeping big oil in the black or green however you see it........
I have started my countdown to Mayo on the 15th. It can't be here quick enough!
Creig
Up to now all the doctors have had one comment- the staggering is not related to the high calcium. So this is good news in two ways.
One is that she has no problems with the nerves in her right leg ( He did discover slight carpel tunnel in her right hand). Second is he thinks the staggering could go away with the surgery to correct the hyperparathyroidism.
So we continue to make progress- getting answers to the tests, ruling out this or that, keeping big oil in the black or green however you see it........
I have started my countdown to Mayo on the 15th. It can't be here quick enough!
Creig
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Plans for July.........
Well I think we all were more than a little disappointed late Friday when we met with the Docs and they said they would not be doing the surgery until July 15th! Our patience was more than stretched..........
This is one day earlier than we could first be seen at a specialist in Grand Rapids; U of M was saying September 9th; so looking back we are way ahead of those dates.
Today and tomorrow Connie has tests ordered by her neurologist in Novi at Providence Hospital. This guys seems very good and he laid out plans for a variety of tests at the first appointment.
Back to Mayo on the 13th- right now we are heading to Rochester on July 13th. Michael is going along............I think he heard about the trip to Mall of America. That should help out as I am having my knee scoped on the 8th to fix some damaged cartilage.
I met Mike and Alex last night after work to pick up the dog. She was still a pup when she went to visit now she looks like a grown up. That and a few bad habits from Mike!
The last week has been quite a blur but two things really stand out to me. One is the quality of medical care my wife has received at Mayo. Second is the love and support we've received from friends and family as Connie has embarked on this journey.
Having this support system in place means a lot to me but really helps Connie. I see it in her every day. Facing what she has been going through, not knowing when or if it will go away have been tough. She's not one to need help- her nature if to help others.......
Lisa Gail has been super through all this- she goes with the flow! Myron and Vicki have been helping her out in many ways and we are very proud of their teamwork together.
So maybe Friday was not such a disappointing day. The Docs confirmed that Connie has primary hyperparathyroidism, it is treatable with minimally invasive surgery, with the surgeon saying 90% of patients having a positive outcome. I just wanted this done sooner but I never have had much patience.
Creig
Oh yeah..........the Doc went to MSU medical school, did an internship at U of M, and then Wisconsin before Mayo. I'm tryin' to get transcripts!
This is one day earlier than we could first be seen at a specialist in Grand Rapids; U of M was saying September 9th; so looking back we are way ahead of those dates.
Today and tomorrow Connie has tests ordered by her neurologist in Novi at Providence Hospital. This guys seems very good and he laid out plans for a variety of tests at the first appointment.
Back to Mayo on the 13th- right now we are heading to Rochester on July 13th. Michael is going along............I think he heard about the trip to Mall of America. That should help out as I am having my knee scoped on the 8th to fix some damaged cartilage.
I met Mike and Alex last night after work to pick up the dog. She was still a pup when she went to visit now she looks like a grown up. That and a few bad habits from Mike!
The last week has been quite a blur but two things really stand out to me. One is the quality of medical care my wife has received at Mayo. Second is the love and support we've received from friends and family as Connie has embarked on this journey.
Having this support system in place means a lot to me but really helps Connie. I see it in her every day. Facing what she has been going through, not knowing when or if it will go away have been tough. She's not one to need help- her nature if to help others.......
Lisa Gail has been super through all this- she goes with the flow! Myron and Vicki have been helping her out in many ways and we are very proud of their teamwork together.
So maybe Friday was not such a disappointing day. The Docs confirmed that Connie has primary hyperparathyroidism, it is treatable with minimally invasive surgery, with the surgeon saying 90% of patients having a positive outcome. I just wanted this done sooner but I never have had much patience.
Creig
Oh yeah..........the Doc went to MSU medical school, did an internship at U of M, and then Wisconsin before Mayo. I'm tryin' to get transcripts!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Day Late Update
This time it's the fault of Michael that the update is many hours late. I was at work when Creig called at 5:30pm Friday. I was at the end of a huge deadline and had to work over a 12 hour shift. I was exhausted when I got home, but I do appologize, I know everyone is looking for this update.
Everyone has arrived home this (Saturday) morning around 8:00am. The doctor told them Friday that they do believe that Connie has Primary Hyper-Parathyroid (PHP), which is what we all thought prior to the trip. The doctors had to run the tests to make sure that PHP was indeed the problem and to make sure it is safe to operate. I think there is one more test to complete when they go back (correct me if I'm wrong).
The plan is to go back there July 14th for that final test and July 15th is when the surgery is scheduled. Right now I would guess that everyone is catching up on sleep. I'm sure they will post more soon.
-Michael
Friday, June 27, 2008
We played a little hooky yesturday Sorry:(
Sorry for not posting yesturday but after all the testing yesturday Mom just wanted to get out of here, so we went to the Mall of America. It was very big but fun, Mom bought a new outfit and other clothes and just like her Grandma, Courtney found some clothes she liked. I of course got some clothes for Cody and Creig got ice cream.
Well enough of the fun stuff. We are up early again this morning and off to do more testing. Today if full of test and meeting with Doctors and Surgens. Our plan is to hear what the Surgen has to say at 4:00pm and then head back to Wisconsin for Courtney and I to catch the ferry back. Mom and Creig will stay over night in Wisconsin and head back here in the morning cause Creig is convienced they are going to tell us they will do surgery Monday.
This place continues to amaze us. The treatment here is A +++++ it is wonderful to be seen within in 10-15 minutes of your appointment greeted with such respect and freindliness it is unreal. All the staff from the surgens down to the janitors are polite and go out of her way to make things nice for you. Mom likes the art work on the wall the scultures in the wide wide hallways and the scenic view of the city from the big windows. It is just fabalous it often makes you forget you are here because someone is sick and needs help. Well, take care and we will post as soon as we know something today.
Well enough of the fun stuff. We are up early again this morning and off to do more testing. Today if full of test and meeting with Doctors and Surgens. Our plan is to hear what the Surgen has to say at 4:00pm and then head back to Wisconsin for Courtney and I to catch the ferry back. Mom and Creig will stay over night in Wisconsin and head back here in the morning cause Creig is convienced they are going to tell us they will do surgery Monday.
This place continues to amaze us. The treatment here is A +++++ it is wonderful to be seen within in 10-15 minutes of your appointment greeted with such respect and freindliness it is unreal. All the staff from the surgens down to the janitors are polite and go out of her way to make things nice for you. Mom likes the art work on the wall the scultures in the wide wide hallways and the scenic view of the city from the big windows. It is just fabalous it often makes you forget you are here because someone is sick and needs help. Well, take care and we will post as soon as we know something today.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Test, Test and more Test
Well.... Today was a long tiring day. Mom went for her appointment and they are all leaning towards the parathyroid disease as we all had figured. The doctors here want her to have about 9 different test. Mom has completed three of those today. They are wanting to check the parathyroid again so that is a test she needs. They all ready did a ekg and a chest x-ray.
Because of the increased calcium in her body they want to check her bone density and kidney's. So we are looking at ultra sounds of the kidneys tomorrow and bone density testing along with peeing in that wonderful cup everytime she feels the need for a 24 hour time period. There will also be some blood work to do. As you can tell by the time frame this is going to be just a tad bit longer than we had anticipated. We meet with the surgen Friday at 4:00pm.
This clinic is very nice and I will be honest with gas at $3.83 and a wonderful medical facility I thought of checking the want ads and moving here. Mom did not wait more than 15 minutes for any of the testing today. Everything is done very fast and the doctors were very knowledgeable about you before they meet with you. They take their time and are able to answer all our questions. It truely is impressive and you just wish this kind of facility would be everywhere in the united states but yep thats the social worker in me. Well that is it for me, I am sure Courntey and Creig will also post more later because I am sure I forgot something.
Because of the increased calcium in her body they want to check her bone density and kidney's. So we are looking at ultra sounds of the kidneys tomorrow and bone density testing along with peeing in that wonderful cup everytime she feels the need for a 24 hour time period. There will also be some blood work to do. As you can tell by the time frame this is going to be just a tad bit longer than we had anticipated. We meet with the surgen Friday at 4:00pm.
This clinic is very nice and I will be honest with gas at $3.83 and a wonderful medical facility I thought of checking the want ads and moving here. Mom did not wait more than 15 minutes for any of the testing today. Everything is done very fast and the doctors were very knowledgeable about you before they meet with you. They take their time and are able to answer all our questions. It truely is impressive and you just wish this kind of facility would be everywhere in the united states but yep thats the social worker in me. Well that is it for me, I am sure Courntey and Creig will also post more later because I am sure I forgot something.
Connie says-
Today's the day.......
First I want to thank God for giving me the great family I have today. Ummmmm.....LOL...... I also cherish the friends I have and the support they have shown.
Your prayers are healing and I am grateful for them.
I am sore today and frankly a little scared for what today brings. I have my initial appointment at 1:45PM Eastern and who knows from there.
Connie
First I want to thank God for giving me the great family I have today. Ummmmm.....LOL...... I also cherish the friends I have and the support they have shown.
Your prayers are healing and I am grateful for them.
I am sore today and frankly a little scared for what today brings. I have my initial appointment at 1:45PM Eastern and who knows from there.
Connie
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Arrival in Rochester
We arrived at the Best Western Soldier's Field about 7PM eastern time. We're all a little road weary and hungry............so we have ordered room service and don't have any other plans.
The boat ride was very nice- warm and flat so it was smooth. We got a "Stateroom" that had two small beds that allowed us to get a little rest. It made the day much easier!
Our food is here and I am outta' here for now!
Creig
The boat ride was very nice- warm and flat so it was smooth. We got a "Stateroom" that had two small beds that allowed us to get a little rest. It made the day much easier!
Our food is here and I am outta' here for now!
Creig
The Joy of Hunter
Hunter is doing great and is having a good time visiting TC. Last night about 9pm Lisa, Alex, Mike, Maggie and Hunter all went down to 4 mile beach and went for a walk. She ran right up to the wave and attacked it. The wave won... I think. She loved running and kicking up sand. Maggie was happy to be there too but stayed away from the action. Hunter is a joy to have and she loves playing in the back yard. It's fun to watch how she and Maggie interact - I saw them playing together for the first time at lunch yesterday.Here is a photo of her this morning having breakfast out on the back porch.
We are off!
It's 5AM Tuesday the 24th and Connie, Vicki, Courtney, and I are excited and heading out the door.
Everyone has pitched in and we certainly appreciate the help and support. We'll keep you updated on what's going on. Alex, take care of my dog!
Creig
Everyone has pitched in and we certainly appreciate the help and support. We'll keep you updated on what's going on. Alex, take care of my dog!
Creig
Good Morning, Here we come!
Well it is 4:30 and as we rub the sleep from our eyes and tie the loose knots of packing we are looking forward to a bright day. In regards to our trip grandma is feeling good, a little tired, but this early we all are.
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Night before we leave
As the sunsets and we zip up our packs we are all ready to set out for our early drive tomorrow morning. We huddled in the drive way for a quick photo together and are now settling down, so we can wake up on time. Grandma wants to "thank all my friends and family for all of their support."
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Starting a Blog for Minnesota Trip
Today is Sunday 6-22-08 at 5:30 and I am setting up this blog to help keep everyone in the loop on the status of my mom's health and the trip to Minnesota. At this point it looks like Connie, Creig, Vicki and Courtney are going.
What the tests indicate so far is that Connie has a problem with her parathyroid. Here is a link to a site that explains what this is and what the doctors do to treat the problem. Here is the link. The trip was planned to Minnesota after we found out there was a 3-4 month wait to have the surgery done in state. The good news is that patients recover very well after surgery, so we are all optimistic.
We will keep you updated with photos and entries...
talk with you soon.
- Michael
talk with you soon.
- Michael
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