About Dave Kingston
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Dave Resting at Home
Dave arrived home from Miami Valley Hospital about 7 pm last night. It was a crazy evening as we coordinated getting Dave, his new equipment, and the family home from the hospital. We also had a late night visit from a nurse to get everything setup.
Today was equally hectic with a series of different nurses and therapists coming by to help get new equipment and procedures established. As part of his post-surgery recovery, Dave has a Vac-Pack that covers the wound, and is on a regimen of antibiotics. The Vac-Pack is an amazing piece of equipment, and it is doing a great job helping Dave to heal.
Dave is sleeping a lot, partly from being exhausted from the surgery, and partly from the new drugs. Today, he was poked and pulled in every direction by the series of visitors, and was finally able to sleep after everyone left for the day.
It's going to take a few days to get the new schedule down pat. We'll let you know as soon as visitors can come by.
Thanks to everyone who sent a birthday card. We had a lot of fun sharing them with Dave while he was in the hospital. Your kindnesses are always appreciated.
Dave arrived home from Miami Valley Hospital about 7 pm last night. It was a crazy evening as we coordinated getting Dave, his new equipment, and the family home from the hospital. We also had a late night visit from a nurse to get everything setup.
Today was equally hectic with a series of different nurses and therapists coming by to help get new equipment and procedures established. As part of his post-surgery recovery, Dave has a Vac-Pack that covers the wound, and is on a regimen of antibiotics. The Vac-Pack is an amazing piece of equipment, and it is doing a great job helping Dave to heal.
Dave is sleeping a lot, partly from being exhausted from the surgery, and partly from the new drugs. Today, he was poked and pulled in every direction by the series of visitors, and was finally able to sleep after everyone left for the day.
It's going to take a few days to get the new schedule down pat. We'll let you know as soon as visitors can come by.
Thanks to everyone who sent a birthday card. We had a lot of fun sharing them with Dave while he was in the hospital. Your kindnesses are always appreciated.
Sunday, June 27, 2004
On the Road to Recovery
I arrived in town last night and went to spend some time with Dave. He is still recovering from his surgery, and is on pain medication. His pressure wound was infected before the surgery, and they are doing a culture to see which antibiotic he needs. We expect the results very soon.
But everything else is going great. They have run a battery of tests, and all of the results are good news. We expect he will stay in the hospital while he continues to recover from the surgery and they assess his infection. But we also expect to hear that he will be coming home in a few days.
Thanks to everyone who sent a card for Dave's birthday. Jan brings them to him every day, and he has enjoyed them.
I arrived in town last night and went to spend some time with Dave. He is still recovering from his surgery, and is on pain medication. His pressure wound was infected before the surgery, and they are doing a culture to see which antibiotic he needs. We expect the results very soon.
But everything else is going great. They have run a battery of tests, and all of the results are good news. We expect he will stay in the hospital while he continues to recover from the surgery and they assess his infection. But we also expect to hear that he will be coming home in a few days.
Thanks to everyone who sent a card for Dave's birthday. Jan brings them to him every day, and he has enjoyed them.
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Dave is in Recovery
I just received an update from Michelle that Dave is currently in the recovery unit. Dr. Fox met with the family and said that he was able to get everything and that Dave came through it all very strong.
Michelle also told me that Dave was in great spirits this morning before he went in.
When I get more information, including an updated discharge date, I'll post it.
I just received an update from Michelle that Dave is currently in the recovery unit. Dr. Fox met with the family and said that he was able to get everything and that Dave came through it all very strong.
Michelle also told me that Dave was in great spirits this morning before he went in.
When I get more information, including an updated discharge date, I'll post it.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Dave Scheduled for Wound Surgery
As you know from previous posts, Dr. Fox had wanted to do surgery on Dave's pressure wound but Dave's other doctors were concerned that he wasn't strong enough. Dr. Fox visited Dave today, and feels that surgery is the only option that is going to heal his wound. Dave has had almost two weeks on a new, high protein food, and is as strong as he will be. So Dr. Fox has scheduled Dave's surgery for tomorrow morning at 9:15 am.
Also, Dave requires around the clock wound care, which was disruptive to his roommates. So yesterday, they moved Dave into a private room, 6616, next to the nurse station.
I'll update you as more information becomes available.
As you know from previous posts, Dr. Fox had wanted to do surgery on Dave's pressure wound but Dave's other doctors were concerned that he wasn't strong enough. Dr. Fox visited Dave today, and feels that surgery is the only option that is going to heal his wound. Dave has had almost two weeks on a new, high protein food, and is as strong as he will be. So Dr. Fox has scheduled Dave's surgery for tomorrow morning at 9:15 am.
Also, Dave requires around the clock wound care, which was disruptive to his roommates. So yesterday, they moved Dave into a private room, 6616, next to the nurse station.
I'll update you as more information becomes available.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Card Shower Request
On Saturday, Dave has a birthday. If you would like to send him a card at home, I'm sure he will appreciate it. And it looks like his best birthday present will be coming home from the hospital. The doctor has ordered his discharge for the end of the week. We'll let you know if this changes.
It's been a slow news week, which means that we've been doing a lot of waiting in between tests and doctor visits. The main test has been the bone scan, which was postponed several times, and finally came be a bit inconclusive. They are going to do another one in the near future to be sure of the results. In the meantime, there is no bad news, which is it's own kind of blessing.
With all of the antibiotics, the change in food, and some pain killers from after his procedure, Dave has slept through most of this week in the hospital.
If you can send a birthday card, Dave's address is:
10 E Routzong Drive
Fairborn, OH 45324
On Saturday, Dave has a birthday. If you would like to send him a card at home, I'm sure he will appreciate it. And it looks like his best birthday present will be coming home from the hospital. The doctor has ordered his discharge for the end of the week. We'll let you know if this changes.
It's been a slow news week, which means that we've been doing a lot of waiting in between tests and doctor visits. The main test has been the bone scan, which was postponed several times, and finally came be a bit inconclusive. They are going to do another one in the near future to be sure of the results. In the meantime, there is no bad news, which is it's own kind of blessing.
With all of the antibiotics, the change in food, and some pain killers from after his procedure, Dave has slept through most of this week in the hospital.
If you can send a birthday card, Dave's address is:
10 E Routzong Drive
Fairborn, OH 45324
Friday, June 18, 2004
Dave's Procedure Went Well
I've not posted any updates because I've been waiting to have more information for you.
On Wednesday evening, Dr. Fox did the procedure on Dave's wound and installed a vac pack to help drain the infection. Dave came through it well, and is on pain medication while it heals.
Today, they are doing a bone scan to see if the infection goes all the way to the bone. The results of this test will really determine what happens next and how long Dave will stay.
We really don't know very much at this point. As soon as we get an update from the doctors, we will let you know.
I've not posted any updates because I've been waiting to have more information for you.
On Wednesday evening, Dr. Fox did the procedure on Dave's wound and installed a vac pack to help drain the infection. Dave came through it well, and is on pain medication while it heals.
Today, they are doing a bone scan to see if the infection goes all the way to the bone. The results of this test will really determine what happens next and how long Dave will stay.
We really don't know very much at this point. As soon as we get an update from the doctors, we will let you know.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Dave Settling in at Miami Valley
This morning, Dave was admitted to Miami Valley. Within minutes of his admission, he was surrounded by an amazing care team. They understand his pressure wound and are doing everything they can to help him to heal. He will be seen by the surgeon tomorrow for a bedside procedure since the surgery has been postponed.
He is in room 6672. I don't have the nursing unit name or a room phone number. Of course, Jan's cell phone can't be used inside the building, so she will be nearly impossible to reach during this time.
Visiting hours are from 11 am to 8 pm, and visitors are welcome. At this time, we expect that he could be in the hospital for 4 days. As always, we'll keep you posted as more information is available.
This morning, Dave was admitted to Miami Valley. Within minutes of his admission, he was surrounded by an amazing care team. They understand his pressure wound and are doing everything they can to help him to heal. He will be seen by the surgeon tomorrow for a bedside procedure since the surgery has been postponed.
He is in room 6672. I don't have the nursing unit name or a room phone number. Of course, Jan's cell phone can't be used inside the building, so she will be nearly impossible to reach during this time.
Visiting hours are from 11 am to 8 pm, and visitors are welcome. At this time, we expect that he could be in the hospital for 4 days. As always, we'll keep you posted as more information is available.
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
Dave Goes to Miami Valley on Wednesday
On Wednesday morning, Dave will be admitted to Miami Valley for a couple of days. While he is there, Dr. Fox will do some work on his wound, but Dave will not have surgery. With the rest of the time, Dave is going through what we are calling the "100,000 mile tune-up." They will see how he is doing and test how his body is adjusting to the higher protein level in his food.
We aren't sure how long he will be staying, and we will update you here as we find out what happens next.
On Wednesday morning, Dave will be admitted to Miami Valley for a couple of days. While he is there, Dr. Fox will do some work on his wound, but Dave will not have surgery. With the rest of the time, Dave is going through what we are calling the "100,000 mile tune-up." They will see how he is doing and test how his body is adjusting to the higher protein level in his food.
We aren't sure how long he will be staying, and we will update you here as we find out what happens next.
Friday, June 11, 2004
Update on Dave's Upcoming Surgery
We haven't said anything more about Dave's surgery this week because the plans have been a moving target. We think now that we have an idea of what is going to happen.
But before I get to that, let me tell you what has happened this week. Dr. Fox, the surgeon, wanted Dave to have a series of three surgeries, outlined in another note. But first, he wanted Dr. Peterangelo, the family physician, to certify that Dave is well enough for the surgery. Dr. Peterangelo declined to do this, saying that he would need more information than he could collect doing a bedside evaluation. For a while, it looked like Dave might be going to Miami Valley a day or so early for a round of testing.
Every physician currently working on Dave has spoken up this week about his opinion on what should happen next. They have all checked in with Dr. Fox. We are grateful to each of them for caring this much and investing the time to get involved with this phase of Dave's care. In addition to Dr. Peterangelo, the other doctors include: Dr. Gilliotte, who was Dave's doctor while he was in rehab at Miami Valley and will see him when he returns for outpatient therapy; Dr. Pilati, who is the wound doctor from the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Center who initially began treating Dave's wound; and Dave's cardiologist, Dr. Rogers.
At this point, it seems that Dave will not have the surgery, but instead will have a bedside wound procedure on Tuesday, and will spend some time at Miami Valley while they make sure that his kidneys and other organs can handle the heavy protein diet and wound program that will help him to heal faster. This is also designed to help Dave gain some strength so that it is clear that he is strong enough for surgery.
All of this is subject to change, but as of Thursday night, this is the plan. Of course, we'll keep you up-to-date.
One last note, in the midst of all of this discussion and strategizing, Dave is in excellent spirits and is starting to get feisty with his care givers. More of his usual personality is starting to shine. We've said this whole time that we can't wait until he starts complaining because then we will know that Dave is back. It's starting to happen... and we couldn't be happier.
We haven't said anything more about Dave's surgery this week because the plans have been a moving target. We think now that we have an idea of what is going to happen.
But before I get to that, let me tell you what has happened this week. Dr. Fox, the surgeon, wanted Dave to have a series of three surgeries, outlined in another note. But first, he wanted Dr. Peterangelo, the family physician, to certify that Dave is well enough for the surgery. Dr. Peterangelo declined to do this, saying that he would need more information than he could collect doing a bedside evaluation. For a while, it looked like Dave might be going to Miami Valley a day or so early for a round of testing.
Every physician currently working on Dave has spoken up this week about his opinion on what should happen next. They have all checked in with Dr. Fox. We are grateful to each of them for caring this much and investing the time to get involved with this phase of Dave's care. In addition to Dr. Peterangelo, the other doctors include: Dr. Gilliotte, who was Dave's doctor while he was in rehab at Miami Valley and will see him when he returns for outpatient therapy; Dr. Pilati, who is the wound doctor from the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Center who initially began treating Dave's wound; and Dave's cardiologist, Dr. Rogers.
At this point, it seems that Dave will not have the surgery, but instead will have a bedside wound procedure on Tuesday, and will spend some time at Miami Valley while they make sure that his kidneys and other organs can handle the heavy protein diet and wound program that will help him to heal faster. This is also designed to help Dave gain some strength so that it is clear that he is strong enough for surgery.
All of this is subject to change, but as of Thursday night, this is the plan. Of course, we'll keep you up-to-date.
One last note, in the midst of all of this discussion and strategizing, Dave is in excellent spirits and is starting to get feisty with his care givers. More of his usual personality is starting to shine. We've said this whole time that we can't wait until he starts complaining because then we will know that Dave is back. It's starting to happen... and we couldn't be happier.
Wednesday, June 09, 2004
Fish Tale Update
As with most life events, there's more to the story I told you yesterday about the missing fish from Dave's pond.
Note: If you haven't read yesterday's post (below), read that before you read this one.
About 4 pm yesterday, Dave's nursing assistant, Phyllis, returned to the house. When Jan told her about the missing fish, she was shocked and wanted to see the pond for herself. While she and Jan were out there, they noticed 4 fish hiding in the crates used for plant ledges.
Later that evening, when Dave Jr. arrived, they went out to see the pond, and this time, the fish came up to the surface. I guess they were more hungry than scared at that point. Happily, Jan fed the remaining fish. We aren't sure how many were in the pond before because they were so hard to count, but we know there were more than 20. And today, it seems that there are between 7 and 10, depending on who is doing the counting.
Michelle called a local pond supplier earlier in the day, and they suspected that raccoons were to blame. Jan put the leaf/bird netting over the pond last night. It might not be enough to keep out the raccoons, but it was all she could do to prevent further fishing in Dave's pond.
As with most life events, there's more to the story I told you yesterday about the missing fish from Dave's pond.
Note: If you haven't read yesterday's post (below), read that before you read this one.
About 4 pm yesterday, Dave's nursing assistant, Phyllis, returned to the house. When Jan told her about the missing fish, she was shocked and wanted to see the pond for herself. While she and Jan were out there, they noticed 4 fish hiding in the crates used for plant ledges.
Later that evening, when Dave Jr. arrived, they went out to see the pond, and this time, the fish came up to the surface. I guess they were more hungry than scared at that point. Happily, Jan fed the remaining fish. We aren't sure how many were in the pond before because they were so hard to count, but we know there were more than 20. And today, it seems that there are between 7 and 10, depending on who is doing the counting.
Michelle called a local pond supplier earlier in the day, and they suspected that raccoons were to blame. Jan put the leaf/bird netting over the pond last night. It might not be enough to keep out the raccoons, but it was all she could do to prevent further fishing in Dave's pond.
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
A True Fish Tale
Most of you know about Dave's fish pond in the backyard. He built this above ground pond about 10 years ago, and it is his greatest pleasure in the yard. He stocked it with goldfish that have grown to gargantuan size, and produced many schools of young over the years. He has given fish to anyone who wants them for their own pond. The pond is also home to many plants, including his favorite lilies with incredible flowers that open a few days and then die.
Dave's morning routine for these years has been to feed the fish at the start of the day. He would stand at the back door, opening and shutting the door, and the fish would respond by rising up to the water's surface, making it roil. He loved feeding the fish.
We used to joke that the biggest of these huge fish could each feed a family of five. No one had ever seen goldfish that were so big. Some of them were all black, others with mottled orange and black. The were amazingly beautiful for goldfish. There were about 20 of them, and they were quite entertaining.
During his illness, Jan has taken over the care of the pond. She's struggled through equipment failures and routine maintenance. She's worried when the water got cloudy. She's changed the filter many times a day through all seasons and in all weather. She's done this because she knows how important the pond is to Dave.
Dave's physical therapist, Doug, has his own pond and talks with Dave about ponds every visit. In fact, Doug greets Dave and then heads out to look at Dave's pond before starting his session. He always reports to Dave about the condition of his pond.
This morning, Jan called me to tell me the most amazing fish story I've ever heard. This morning, when Jan went out to feed the fish and clean the filter, the floating feed ring was laying on the patio, which was unusual. Jan picked it up and set it on the water, and started to open the food container. Only the pond remained silent. No fish poking their mouths to the surface for food.
This was unusual, so Jan took a closer look. Peering into the crystal clear water, Jan couldn't see any fish! And she realizes that someone or something has taken Dave's fish!
In the past, Dave & Jan's backyard has been the hangout for raccoons, and although they haven't been spotted in a while, it's possible that the raccoons took the fish down into the sewer opening in front of their house, and shared them with the families there. Doug had reported that all of his fish were taken from his pond a few weeks back, and he knew that a large bird had taken them. We don't know who is responsible for this theft, but we have had quite a laugh today about this. When Jan told Dave that all of the fish were AWOL, he just shook his head.
Perhaps we should have posted a "No Fishing" sign.
Most of you know about Dave's fish pond in the backyard. He built this above ground pond about 10 years ago, and it is his greatest pleasure in the yard. He stocked it with goldfish that have grown to gargantuan size, and produced many schools of young over the years. He has given fish to anyone who wants them for their own pond. The pond is also home to many plants, including his favorite lilies with incredible flowers that open a few days and then die.
Dave's morning routine for these years has been to feed the fish at the start of the day. He would stand at the back door, opening and shutting the door, and the fish would respond by rising up to the water's surface, making it roil. He loved feeding the fish.
We used to joke that the biggest of these huge fish could each feed a family of five. No one had ever seen goldfish that were so big. Some of them were all black, others with mottled orange and black. The were amazingly beautiful for goldfish. There were about 20 of them, and they were quite entertaining.
During his illness, Jan has taken over the care of the pond. She's struggled through equipment failures and routine maintenance. She's worried when the water got cloudy. She's changed the filter many times a day through all seasons and in all weather. She's done this because she knows how important the pond is to Dave.
Dave's physical therapist, Doug, has his own pond and talks with Dave about ponds every visit. In fact, Doug greets Dave and then heads out to look at Dave's pond before starting his session. He always reports to Dave about the condition of his pond.
This morning, Jan called me to tell me the most amazing fish story I've ever heard. This morning, when Jan went out to feed the fish and clean the filter, the floating feed ring was laying on the patio, which was unusual. Jan picked it up and set it on the water, and started to open the food container. Only the pond remained silent. No fish poking their mouths to the surface for food.
This was unusual, so Jan took a closer look. Peering into the crystal clear water, Jan couldn't see any fish! And she realizes that someone or something has taken Dave's fish!
In the past, Dave & Jan's backyard has been the hangout for raccoons, and although they haven't been spotted in a while, it's possible that the raccoons took the fish down into the sewer opening in front of their house, and shared them with the families there. Doug had reported that all of his fish were taken from his pond a few weeks back, and he knew that a large bird had taken them. We don't know who is responsible for this theft, but we have had quite a laugh today about this. When Jan told Dave that all of the fish were AWOL, he just shook his head.
Perhaps we should have posted a "No Fishing" sign.
Friday, June 04, 2004
News From The Surgeon
This morning, Dave, Michelle, and Jan rode in the ambulette to Dave's appointment with Dr. Fox in Centerville. Dave really enjoyed being outside and getting a chance to look around, and the weather was beautiful.
The doctor surprised us with the news. He feels that Dave's wound will not heal without surgery, and says that three of them will be required. The first one will happen quickly, just as soon as Dr. Peterangelo, Dave's family doctor, says that Dave is strong enough for surgery, and as soon as it can be scheduled at Miami Valley. We expect that it will take place next week. Dave will likely spend two days there for the surgery and recovery and then return home.
Sometime soon afterwards, Dave will have the second surgery. The doctor can't give us a timeline because it will depend on several factors. This surgery will give Dave a colostomy, which is necessary to keep the wound area completely clean. Dave is not having any sort of bowel problems, and has never had them. The doctor says that any infection in Dave's wound could cause it to get worse instead of healing, and with Dave's overall situation, there aren't other options.
The colostomy procedure could be reversed, but the reversal surgery is a big deal, and the doctor quite frankly said that he didn't expect Dave would be up for that. But it is a possibility, and it falls into the category of "we'll jump off that bridge when we come to it."
The third surgery would involve stitching up the wound on the inside. This would be the last stage of healing.
We are waiting now for Dr. Peterangelo to stop by the house to give Dave a pre-surgery physical. As soon as we know the result and the date for his surgery, we will let you know.
Dr. Fox explained this process to Dave, and he immediately said that he wanted to go through with it. His spirits are good, but he is a bit nervous, as you can imagine. Please feel free to stop by the house until Dave's surgery, and we will let you know about visitors after it. Dave is always glad for the company.
We have developed a saying in the last year, and this situation fits it. It's unexpected and unfortunate that Dave's journey is taking him down this road, but in the big picture--"this is just a hiccup in the road."
This morning, Dave, Michelle, and Jan rode in the ambulette to Dave's appointment with Dr. Fox in Centerville. Dave really enjoyed being outside and getting a chance to look around, and the weather was beautiful.
The doctor surprised us with the news. He feels that Dave's wound will not heal without surgery, and says that three of them will be required. The first one will happen quickly, just as soon as Dr. Peterangelo, Dave's family doctor, says that Dave is strong enough for surgery, and as soon as it can be scheduled at Miami Valley. We expect that it will take place next week. Dave will likely spend two days there for the surgery and recovery and then return home.
Sometime soon afterwards, Dave will have the second surgery. The doctor can't give us a timeline because it will depend on several factors. This surgery will give Dave a colostomy, which is necessary to keep the wound area completely clean. Dave is not having any sort of bowel problems, and has never had them. The doctor says that any infection in Dave's wound could cause it to get worse instead of healing, and with Dave's overall situation, there aren't other options.
The colostomy procedure could be reversed, but the reversal surgery is a big deal, and the doctor quite frankly said that he didn't expect Dave would be up for that. But it is a possibility, and it falls into the category of "we'll jump off that bridge when we come to it."
The third surgery would involve stitching up the wound on the inside. This would be the last stage of healing.
We are waiting now for Dr. Peterangelo to stop by the house to give Dave a pre-surgery physical. As soon as we know the result and the date for his surgery, we will let you know.
Dr. Fox explained this process to Dave, and he immediately said that he wanted to go through with it. His spirits are good, but he is a bit nervous, as you can imagine. Please feel free to stop by the house until Dave's surgery, and we will let you know about visitors after it. Dave is always glad for the company.
We have developed a saying in the last year, and this situation fits it. It's unexpected and unfortunate that Dave's journey is taking him down this road, but in the big picture--"this is just a hiccup in the road."
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
Dave's Doctor Visit
Dave returned this morning to the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Center to check on the progress of the enzyme wound healing process. Originally, he wasn't scheduled to return for two weeks, but his nurse and the family doctor decided last week that it would be best to have an interim check up. The doctor was pleased with his progress, and has referred Dave to a plastic surgeon.
There was some confusion about the ambulette that was supposed to take Dave home from his appointment, but eventually they got him home. But when he arrived, he wasn't able to rest from his field trip--the stream of therapists were waiting for him. Dave put in a full day today, and went to sleep tonight without any problems.
On Friday, Dave will see Dr. Fox in Centerville to determine if they will just continue the enzyme therapy, or if some surgery will speed up the process. Without the surgery, Dave's wound should heal in 3-4 more weeks, and with the surgery, it could be healed in just one more week. An ambulette will take Dave to his morning appointment, and he should be back home by noon.
Thanks to everyone who emailed and stopped by last week. I've scheduled my next trip back, and will spend the week before July 4th in Ohio. I hope to see some of you then.
Dave returned this morning to the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Center to check on the progress of the enzyme wound healing process. Originally, he wasn't scheduled to return for two weeks, but his nurse and the family doctor decided last week that it would be best to have an interim check up. The doctor was pleased with his progress, and has referred Dave to a plastic surgeon.
There was some confusion about the ambulette that was supposed to take Dave home from his appointment, but eventually they got him home. But when he arrived, he wasn't able to rest from his field trip--the stream of therapists were waiting for him. Dave put in a full day today, and went to sleep tonight without any problems.
On Friday, Dave will see Dr. Fox in Centerville to determine if they will just continue the enzyme therapy, or if some surgery will speed up the process. Without the surgery, Dave's wound should heal in 3-4 more weeks, and with the surgery, it could be healed in just one more week. An ambulette will take Dave to his morning appointment, and he should be back home by noon.
Thanks to everyone who emailed and stopped by last week. I've scheduled my next trip back, and will spend the week before July 4th in Ohio. I hope to see some of you then.
