"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him" Nahum 1:7
As you all have noticed I have not been blogging quite so often. This does not mean that our days are just days of rest and movie watching, rather Nate has dressing changes daily, physio daily and now he is to be up in his wheelchair daily as well. In between that Nate has his meals, calorie shakes (which are a meal in itself) and some time to visit.
At this time the plastic surgeon has not looked at Nate's grafts yet as he is still on holidays, but I have had the pleasure of looking at them myself and from my view point they look very good, but I am not the doctor. As per the nurses they don't think that Nate will need another skin graft surgery, but this will be up to the plastic surgeon.
The other thing that has been going on is the start of the paper work to transfer Nate to the Rehab Centre (which is attached to the hospital - on Wellington Ave) This is the next big step towards coming home. Unfortunately Nate has to do a LOT of rehab first. He has to be able to get more range of motion and strength in his right arm, be able to stand (which he is unable to do a this time due to the amount of tissue/muscle removed, get range of motion in his right leg and strength. There are many obsticles to over come yet, but it is incredible to see how far the LORD has brought Nate in the last nine weeks. Nate will need much prayer and encouragement as he moves toward the rehab part of his getting better.
On behalf of Nathan and our families I would like to wish you each the LORD's blessings in the new year. Turn to Him and He will give you all you stand in need of.
Please continue to remember us in your prayers. If you would like to visit please contact me before coming, this can be done via email to the email address attached to the blog and wait for my response.
Much thanks to all who have visited, Nate appreciates the heads up you have given us and Nate loves the visits.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
"Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 124:8
Well...its time to do some catch up... But first we would like to wish each of you the LORD's blessings this Christmas season as we celebrate our Saviours birth, and as we look forward to the new year 2011.
So Saturday Nate had his second set of skin grafts as I previously posted. His pain this time around is not as sever as last round, this is most likely due to the fact he doesn't have to roll onto his side and therefore onto his skin grafts, rather his skin graft donor sites are all on his right leg. Nate and I are very thankful all the donors are on the leg for the alternative would be to have them off his back...which he is on all day...
Nate still does have pain and is still tired, but this time around he seems to be feeling better much quicker. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday Nate was still quite tired and vomited a couple times each morning. Since then they have changed some medication, given him two more blood transfusions and yesterday (Wednesday) he started feeling better, didn't vomit and even had somewhat of an appetite. The problem with feeling better is that physio starts to really work Nate out. Mary (Nate's physio therapist) is getting Nate to lay on his stomach and flat on his back to put his hips in alignment (this is all to prep his body for a prosthetic) Nate also has to continue to lift weights with his left arm and getting full range of motion with his right arm.
Today (Thursday) they will be taking all Nate's dressings down to have a good look at the donor sites to see if they have taken. . This too is tiring and a bit stressful to see if the grafts have taken.
The other good news is that Nate is getting much better sleep, some nights even up to 8 hours....yah....this has given him much more energy and ability to think straight. Our Heavenly Father provides for His children what they truly need.
Please continue to pray for Nate and our family as much patience and strength is needed through each day.
Well...its time to do some catch up... But first we would like to wish each of you the LORD's blessings this Christmas season as we celebrate our Saviours birth, and as we look forward to the new year 2011.
So Saturday Nate had his second set of skin grafts as I previously posted. His pain this time around is not as sever as last round, this is most likely due to the fact he doesn't have to roll onto his side and therefore onto his skin grafts, rather his skin graft donor sites are all on his right leg. Nate and I are very thankful all the donors are on the leg for the alternative would be to have them off his back...which he is on all day...
Nate still does have pain and is still tired, but this time around he seems to be feeling better much quicker. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday Nate was still quite tired and vomited a couple times each morning. Since then they have changed some medication, given him two more blood transfusions and yesterday (Wednesday) he started feeling better, didn't vomit and even had somewhat of an appetite. The problem with feeling better is that physio starts to really work Nate out. Mary (Nate's physio therapist) is getting Nate to lay on his stomach and flat on his back to put his hips in alignment (this is all to prep his body for a prosthetic) Nate also has to continue to lift weights with his left arm and getting full range of motion with his right arm.
Today (Thursday) they will be taking all Nate's dressings down to have a good look at the donor sites to see if they have taken. . This too is tiring and a bit stressful to see if the grafts have taken.
The other good news is that Nate is getting much better sleep, some nights even up to 8 hours....yah....this has given him much more energy and ability to think straight. Our Heavenly Father provides for His children what they truly need.
Please continue to pray for Nate and our family as much patience and strength is needed through each day.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
"Shout with joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious!" Psalm 66:1-2
This morning Nate underwent his second skin grafting operation. Nate did well through the operation and they were able to graft the right leg and touch up some areas on the stump that did not take to the graft the first time. Nate's plastic surgeon was happy with how it went but told us that Nate will most likely need another skin graft operation in order to do touch up to the areas that the grafts don't take. This is very common that grafts don't take fully the first time. They were able to take all the donor skin from Nate's leg, which Nate really was hoping they would do. Nate still has a lot of pain from the surgery, but thankfully he can move and roll from side to side without " too much pain" Nate has also been put on a pain pump (PCA - Patient Controlled Analgesia) which means he can give himself very small doses of pain medication as needed. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be working the best for Nate as the doses are not high enough for his amount of pain, hopefully this will change tonight. The other thing they did in the OR was bend his right elbow past 90* to break up some of the scar tissue formed there. This is a very painful thing, so we were thankful it was done while he was sedated.
Tonight Nate was very tired and I'm sure this will be the case for the next couple of days. PLEASE remember this if you are visiting. We hope to take the kids into visit Nate tomorrow after church again, as this has been part of our "routine" they are eager to go to the hospital to see Dad, hopfully Nate will have the energy to visit with them as well!! They do visit at least two to three times a week depending on how things are going at the hospital and at home.
Please continue to pray for continued healing, patience and strength for Nate and patience for Taryn and Aiden as they would love to go home and have Dad come home too. (As would Mom!!)
This morning Nate underwent his second skin grafting operation. Nate did well through the operation and they were able to graft the right leg and touch up some areas on the stump that did not take to the graft the first time. Nate's plastic surgeon was happy with how it went but told us that Nate will most likely need another skin graft operation in order to do touch up to the areas that the grafts don't take. This is very common that grafts don't take fully the first time. They were able to take all the donor skin from Nate's leg, which Nate really was hoping they would do. Nate still has a lot of pain from the surgery, but thankfully he can move and roll from side to side without " too much pain" Nate has also been put on a pain pump (PCA - Patient Controlled Analgesia) which means he can give himself very small doses of pain medication as needed. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be working the best for Nate as the doses are not high enough for his amount of pain, hopefully this will change tonight. The other thing they did in the OR was bend his right elbow past 90* to break up some of the scar tissue formed there. This is a very painful thing, so we were thankful it was done while he was sedated.
Tonight Nate was very tired and I'm sure this will be the case for the next couple of days. PLEASE remember this if you are visiting. We hope to take the kids into visit Nate tomorrow after church again, as this has been part of our "routine" they are eager to go to the hospital to see Dad, hopfully Nate will have the energy to visit with them as well!! They do visit at least two to three times a week depending on how things are going at the hospital and at home.
Please continue to pray for continued healing, patience and strength for Nate and patience for Taryn and Aiden as they would love to go home and have Dad come home too. (As would Mom!!)
Friday, December 17, 2010
"Be not afraid, O land; be glad and rejoice. Surely the LORD has done great things." Joel 2:21
So to do some catch up....
Yesterday, (Thursday Dec 16) Nate got into the wheelchair for the first time. He needed a lot of assistance, but he got into it. This was very exciting for then we got to go visit Oma upstairs on the 5th floor. We also went to the ICU to visit some of Nate's previous nurses and doctors - they thought this was pretty neat, they don't often get to see patients again once they are feeling better.
So yesterday Nate had a good day and had 2 days of no vomiting (Wed & Thurs) which was the first time in a long time. They are not sure why he is vomiting almost daily, and have tried to change medication. Other then that Nate has been feeling great, this feeling great is also due to the fact Nate has finally been sleeping well at night, which was due to as Nate puts it "Aileen putting her foot down once and for all... then everyone listens." I have to disagree with "everyone listening" but yes, I did have to be very firm with the doctor to get the medication changed, but boy is Nate glad we got it changed (and so am I) Yes Nate has been getting anywhere from 6-8 hours of sleep straight through the night, instead of interrupted sleep.
Today (Friday) Nate had a pretty good day other then the fact he vomited right after lunch, once again we're not sure why. Shortly after wards Nate pretty much got himself to sitting on the side of the bed with very minimal assistance and then proceeded to move himself into the wheelchair with only a little assistance. The physio therapist was stunned....and so was I. Nate told me afterwards that his stump was hurting so he had to move quickly! Whatever the case we were very excited, so once again we went to visit Oma upstairs and then went to visit the Vandyk family in the waiting room. (Their daughter had a car accident and is in ICU east, if you want to know proper details please see her blog at kimvandyk.blogspot.com) What an exciting time for us all... but all this excitement tired Nate out and he wanted back to bed. Shortly there after Nate vomited once again....?due to too much movement?? who knows...
Tonight we were notified that Nate will be having surgery tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. That is if no other emergencies come in. This surgery is to do skin grafting on the right leg (we won't know how much until he comes out of surgery) as well as finishing the stump (certain areas didn't take as well - this is very common) And since I'm talking about his skin grafts, Nate's right arm graft took very well and no longer has a dressing on it, he has also started to shake hands with his right hand again and is using it very well, considering all the work they had to do to it.
The LORD has richly blessed us through these past weeks as we continue to see the progress Nate has been able to make. This was really made aware to us when we visited the ICU and realized and remembered how sick Nate was. The LORD has a plan for Nate and us, and we know that through this all He is in full control, His hands guide the doctors and nurses and its His plan that is worked out.
Please pray for Nate that tonight he may get a good rest and tomorrow the surgery may go well. Pray for the doctors and nurses and all involved in Nate's care. Please also remember Oma Aikema and Kim Vandyk in your prayers. How thankful we are that our Heavenly Father controls all things.
So to do some catch up....
Yesterday, (Thursday Dec 16) Nate got into the wheelchair for the first time. He needed a lot of assistance, but he got into it. This was very exciting for then we got to go visit Oma upstairs on the 5th floor. We also went to the ICU to visit some of Nate's previous nurses and doctors - they thought this was pretty neat, they don't often get to see patients again once they are feeling better.
So yesterday Nate had a good day and had 2 days of no vomiting (Wed & Thurs) which was the first time in a long time. They are not sure why he is vomiting almost daily, and have tried to change medication. Other then that Nate has been feeling great, this feeling great is also due to the fact Nate has finally been sleeping well at night, which was due to as Nate puts it "Aileen putting her foot down once and for all... then everyone listens." I have to disagree with "everyone listening" but yes, I did have to be very firm with the doctor to get the medication changed, but boy is Nate glad we got it changed (and so am I) Yes Nate has been getting anywhere from 6-8 hours of sleep straight through the night, instead of interrupted sleep.
Today (Friday) Nate had a pretty good day other then the fact he vomited right after lunch, once again we're not sure why. Shortly after wards Nate pretty much got himself to sitting on the side of the bed with very minimal assistance and then proceeded to move himself into the wheelchair with only a little assistance. The physio therapist was stunned....and so was I. Nate told me afterwards that his stump was hurting so he had to move quickly! Whatever the case we were very excited, so once again we went to visit Oma upstairs and then went to visit the Vandyk family in the waiting room. (Their daughter had a car accident and is in ICU east, if you want to know proper details please see her blog at kimvandyk.blogspot.com) What an exciting time for us all... but all this excitement tired Nate out and he wanted back to bed. Shortly there after Nate vomited once again....?due to too much movement?? who knows...
Tonight we were notified that Nate will be having surgery tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. That is if no other emergencies come in. This surgery is to do skin grafting on the right leg (we won't know how much until he comes out of surgery) as well as finishing the stump (certain areas didn't take as well - this is very common) And since I'm talking about his skin grafts, Nate's right arm graft took very well and no longer has a dressing on it, he has also started to shake hands with his right hand again and is using it very well, considering all the work they had to do to it.
The LORD has richly blessed us through these past weeks as we continue to see the progress Nate has been able to make. This was really made aware to us when we visited the ICU and realized and remembered how sick Nate was. The LORD has a plan for Nate and us, and we know that through this all He is in full control, His hands guide the doctors and nurses and its His plan that is worked out.
Please pray for Nate that tonight he may get a good rest and tomorrow the surgery may go well. Pray for the doctors and nurses and all involved in Nate's care. Please also remember Oma Aikema and Kim Vandyk in your prayers. How thankful we are that our Heavenly Father controls all things.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
"Praise be to the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God who comforts us in all our troubles." 2 Corinth 1:3-4
Well the last couple of days have been quite busy in our family, not just with Nate. On Monday, my grandmother (Oma Aikema) underwent open heart bypass surgery. Tonight I can tell you that things went well with surgery and now she is "on the way" to recovery. Please pray for continued healing for her, as she has a long way to go yet. But she too is in God's Fatherly hands.
As for Nate, he has been having a bit more vomiting the last two days, not sure why, it could be medication related as they started him on a few different meds or if it is a "bug" or something. Hopefully we will know in a day or two, or it will reside. Other then that physio is going well, and he sat on the side of his bed for the first time today - they assisted him to sitting and then he sat on his own. This is a big step towards being able to get into a wheel chair. He will have to learn to shift himself along the side of the bed next, but all in due time. We are very thankful for the progress he has made this far. Our Heavenly Father continues to bless us in so many ways.
Thank you to all who have supported us in so many ways, by first of all your prayers (the most important), monetary donations, help with the house, kids etc. I'm sure we won' t be able to thank each of you personnally, but please know we are extremely thankful to each of you. We ask that you continue to pray for healing, patience and endurance.
Well the last couple of days have been quite busy in our family, not just with Nate. On Monday, my grandmother (Oma Aikema) underwent open heart bypass surgery. Tonight I can tell you that things went well with surgery and now she is "on the way" to recovery. Please pray for continued healing for her, as she has a long way to go yet. But she too is in God's Fatherly hands.
As for Nate, he has been having a bit more vomiting the last two days, not sure why, it could be medication related as they started him on a few different meds or if it is a "bug" or something. Hopefully we will know in a day or two, or it will reside. Other then that physio is going well, and he sat on the side of his bed for the first time today - they assisted him to sitting and then he sat on his own. This is a big step towards being able to get into a wheel chair. He will have to learn to shift himself along the side of the bed next, but all in due time. We are very thankful for the progress he has made this far. Our Heavenly Father continues to bless us in so many ways.
Thank you to all who have supported us in so many ways, by first of all your prayers (the most important), monetary donations, help with the house, kids etc. I'm sure we won' t be able to thank each of you personnally, but please know we are extremely thankful to each of you. We ask that you continue to pray for healing, patience and endurance.
Monday, December 13, 2010
"I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121: 1-2
I just thought I'd take a moment to reflect back over the past 6 1/2 weeks. I read the first couple of blogs again this morning and I was overwhelmed at how far our Heavenly Father has brought Nate. To think that only a couple weeks ago, we were taking it minute by minute and hour by hour, but now we can look more long term and think more in weeks instead of hours. What a gracious Father we have.
Just a week and a half a go and we didn't know if Nate's kidneys would ever function and now they are functioning very well and Nate is enjoying food once again.
Though we don't understand why this has all happened we can rest assured that it is all part of our Heavenly Father's master plan.
Nathan has a very long road of recovery ahead, but to be on that road now is a blessing in itself. Hopefully only two more skin grafts at the most (hopefully just one) and then its all rehab - the LORD willing.
Nate has been up in the neuro chair (for approx 1 hr) both Saturday (to visit with friends) and Sunday (to visit with family). He enjoys these times to get out of his room and to have visitors and then we aren't limited to number of people in his room. In this way too we can see how our Heavenly Father provides for us.
Please continue to pray for Nate to have the patience he needs to continue each day again. Thank you for all your prayers, we are so thankful for them.
I just thought I'd take a moment to reflect back over the past 6 1/2 weeks. I read the first couple of blogs again this morning and I was overwhelmed at how far our Heavenly Father has brought Nate. To think that only a couple weeks ago, we were taking it minute by minute and hour by hour, but now we can look more long term and think more in weeks instead of hours. What a gracious Father we have.
Just a week and a half a go and we didn't know if Nate's kidneys would ever function and now they are functioning very well and Nate is enjoying food once again.
Though we don't understand why this has all happened we can rest assured that it is all part of our Heavenly Father's master plan.
Nathan has a very long road of recovery ahead, but to be on that road now is a blessing in itself. Hopefully only two more skin grafts at the most (hopefully just one) and then its all rehab - the LORD willing.
Nate has been up in the neuro chair (for approx 1 hr) both Saturday (to visit with friends) and Sunday (to visit with family). He enjoys these times to get out of his room and to have visitors and then we aren't limited to number of people in his room. In this way too we can see how our Heavenly Father provides for us.
Please continue to pray for Nate to have the patience he needs to continue each day again. Thank you for all your prayers, we are so thankful for them.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
"For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you." Psalm 84:11-12
Nate has had some 'good' days lately, his appetite is very good, and tonight one of his nurses who hasn't seen him in a week, couldn't believe how much "better" he looks. We are very thankful he has an appetite and is willing to drink at least 3 calorie/protein drinks a day. Nate has to get so many calories to help gain weight but also because his body has so many areas to heal and this requires a lot more nutrition then the average person.
Nate's arm grafts are healing well, as are the donor sites on his torso. There is one donor site on his arm that will take a bit longer to heal as well as a small site on his left side where they got too close to his scars. In due time these will heal too. They are no longer painful, just itchy and he's okay with that. The graft on his stump is "splotchy" and will need to have some areas re-grafted. This is very normal for grafts.
Nate is going to, the Lord willing, have another surgery next weekend some time. No official date has been set. This is to re-graft areas of Nate's stump and hopefully start to graft the right leg. They don't know if they can graft the whole thing due to a tendon still showing. Until they take him to the OR they won't know how much they can do.
Nate is undergoing a lot of physio now, for all limbs and his torso. Right now they are working on range of motion in all limbs (except the left which is having strengthening physio) Once Nate has full range of motion in a limb then they can start with strengthening physio.
So between dressing changes, physio, and eating most of his day gets filled up very quickly. Nate has at least one possibly two more surgeries yet and needs all the rest and strength he can get. Nate love visitors but still does tire. The other thing is the BTU is still considered an ICU and normally would like to keep visitors to 2 at a time, (There are some exceptions) their visiting hours do end at 8p.m. and this needs to be remembered as we have had some comments from the nurses.(Spouse excluded) If you would like to visit, please call or email me, (I will try to get back to you asap) each day is different and we can't promise that you will be able to see him or that he won't be sleeping, having physio etc. Nate loves visitors but does tire, we ask that you please respect this and remember that Nate has many more weeks (months possibly) yet to be in the hospital.
At this time we ask that you please continue to pray for Nate, that he will continue to have the strength and patience each day again.
Nate has had some 'good' days lately, his appetite is very good, and tonight one of his nurses who hasn't seen him in a week, couldn't believe how much "better" he looks. We are very thankful he has an appetite and is willing to drink at least 3 calorie/protein drinks a day. Nate has to get so many calories to help gain weight but also because his body has so many areas to heal and this requires a lot more nutrition then the average person.
Nate's arm grafts are healing well, as are the donor sites on his torso. There is one donor site on his arm that will take a bit longer to heal as well as a small site on his left side where they got too close to his scars. In due time these will heal too. They are no longer painful, just itchy and he's okay with that. The graft on his stump is "splotchy" and will need to have some areas re-grafted. This is very normal for grafts.
Nate is going to, the Lord willing, have another surgery next weekend some time. No official date has been set. This is to re-graft areas of Nate's stump and hopefully start to graft the right leg. They don't know if they can graft the whole thing due to a tendon still showing. Until they take him to the OR they won't know how much they can do.
Nate is undergoing a lot of physio now, for all limbs and his torso. Right now they are working on range of motion in all limbs (except the left which is having strengthening physio) Once Nate has full range of motion in a limb then they can start with strengthening physio.
So between dressing changes, physio, and eating most of his day gets filled up very quickly. Nate has at least one possibly two more surgeries yet and needs all the rest and strength he can get. Nate love visitors but still does tire. The other thing is the BTU is still considered an ICU and normally would like to keep visitors to 2 at a time, (There are some exceptions) their visiting hours do end at 8p.m. and this needs to be remembered as we have had some comments from the nurses.(Spouse excluded) If you would like to visit, please call or email me, (I will try to get back to you asap) each day is different and we can't promise that you will be able to see him or that he won't be sleeping, having physio etc. Nate loves visitors but does tire, we ask that you please respect this and remember that Nate has many more weeks (months possibly) yet to be in the hospital.
At this time we ask that you please continue to pray for Nate, that he will continue to have the strength and patience each day again.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9
So to do some catch up....Tuesday - Nate's dialysis tube was removed, this was uncomfortable and felt "weird" but other wise went well. Nate also had dressing changes on both the stump and the arm. They are very pleased with the grafts on the right arm and the grafts on the stump are happy with but need a bit longer to heal. Nate also had some of the donor dressings removed, these appear to be healing well . Nate also started with a bit more extensive physio on the right arm to get full range of motion, and he was up in the neuro chair as well (for 20 min) So Nate had a VERY busy day with no time to rest between each thing. His patience seems to be starting to wear, but he continues to turn to his Heavenly Father for comfort and strength.
Today, Nate had dressing changes only on his right arm, hopefully he will only need one more dressing on this arm and then it will be free from large dressings and only have donor site dressings on it. This means that you will be able to see the skin grafts. (Which are healing well) Nate also got up into the physio chair for 55 min today, which took a lot out of him and he did get quite dizzy. Nate also had more physio and it was really neat to see how "much" progress he is making. It may not seem like much to some, but when you see where he has come from and where he is now, it makes us extremely thankful. Nate has an extremely long road ahead of him, and this was reconfirmed by his plastic surgeon. They cannot tell us how long Nate will be in hospital, but at this time it looks like it will be at least another 2 months, this is not confirmed and they really don't know until after his next skin graft and how he does with rehab.
Please continue to pray for patience for Nate, the days and nights are long and difficult. Your continued support and prayers are necessary. Thank you for all you have done.
So to do some catch up....Tuesday - Nate's dialysis tube was removed, this was uncomfortable and felt "weird" but other wise went well. Nate also had dressing changes on both the stump and the arm. They are very pleased with the grafts on the right arm and the grafts on the stump are happy with but need a bit longer to heal. Nate also had some of the donor dressings removed, these appear to be healing well . Nate also started with a bit more extensive physio on the right arm to get full range of motion, and he was up in the neuro chair as well (for 20 min) So Nate had a VERY busy day with no time to rest between each thing. His patience seems to be starting to wear, but he continues to turn to his Heavenly Father for comfort and strength.
Today, Nate had dressing changes only on his right arm, hopefully he will only need one more dressing on this arm and then it will be free from large dressings and only have donor site dressings on it. This means that you will be able to see the skin grafts. (Which are healing well) Nate also got up into the physio chair for 55 min today, which took a lot out of him and he did get quite dizzy. Nate also had more physio and it was really neat to see how "much" progress he is making. It may not seem like much to some, but when you see where he has come from and where he is now, it makes us extremely thankful. Nate has an extremely long road ahead of him, and this was reconfirmed by his plastic surgeon. They cannot tell us how long Nate will be in hospital, but at this time it looks like it will be at least another 2 months, this is not confirmed and they really don't know until after his next skin graft and how he does with rehab.
Please continue to pray for patience for Nate, the days and nights are long and difficult. Your continued support and prayers are necessary. Thank you for all you have done.
Monday, December 6, 2010
"I know that the LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods. The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths." Psalm 135: 5-6
When talking with Nate today, he wanted me to convey to each of you how thankful he (and I) is for the many prayers, encouragement and support you have given to us through these past weeks. We are completely overwhelmed by it all. (In a good way) Please continue to remember us in your prayers as the long road stretches out before us, and the days require much patience.
Today Nate had dressing changes on his arm, stump and leg. They are very happy with the progress of the grafts on the arm and stump. The arm graft seems to have taken in about 95% of the areas and the stump seems to have taken at about 80% (which we expected) The right leg, is still in the process of being prepped for skin grafting and we don't know when this is to take place. The donor sites are healing well even though they still cause a lot of pain to Nate especially when they turn him. (Turns must be done at least once a shift)
Tomorrow Nate will have dressing changes on his arm and stump, this will be done daily until healed. The "kidney" doctors are also planing on taking out the 'catheter' they put in his neck for dialysis tomorrow. Nate's kidney's are functioning well on their own right now and so he no longer needs this 'catheter' in.
Nate is still very tired, but each day he seems to get a bit more energy. And as long as he keeps drinking those "delicious" protein/calorie drinks he will continue to build up more energy and strength.
In all this we see how our Heavenly Father has brought us so far. Each day again, we are blessed with many wonderful things, and each day again we are reminded of His almighty, awesome power. He is a gracious God who gives to those in need.
"Praise to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Psalm 41:13
When talking with Nate today, he wanted me to convey to each of you how thankful he (and I) is for the many prayers, encouragement and support you have given to us through these past weeks. We are completely overwhelmed by it all. (In a good way) Please continue to remember us in your prayers as the long road stretches out before us, and the days require much patience.
Today Nate had dressing changes on his arm, stump and leg. They are very happy with the progress of the grafts on the arm and stump. The arm graft seems to have taken in about 95% of the areas and the stump seems to have taken at about 80% (which we expected) The right leg, is still in the process of being prepped for skin grafting and we don't know when this is to take place. The donor sites are healing well even though they still cause a lot of pain to Nate especially when they turn him. (Turns must be done at least once a shift)
Tomorrow Nate will have dressing changes on his arm and stump, this will be done daily until healed. The "kidney" doctors are also planing on taking out the 'catheter' they put in his neck for dialysis tomorrow. Nate's kidney's are functioning well on their own right now and so he no longer needs this 'catheter' in.
Nate is still very tired, but each day he seems to get a bit more energy. And as long as he keeps drinking those "delicious" protein/calorie drinks he will continue to build up more energy and strength.
In all this we see how our Heavenly Father has brought us so far. Each day again, we are blessed with many wonderful things, and each day again we are reminded of His almighty, awesome power. He is a gracious God who gives to those in need.
"Praise to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting." Psalm 41:13
Saturday, December 4, 2010
"Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wonders to be remebered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate..." Pslam 111: 2-4
I'd like to first on behalf of Nathan and myself, take this opportunity to thank Sheehan's Truck Centre (Nate's work) for their fantastic pancake breakfast fundraiser. They not only prepared a delicious breakfast but they were able to fundraise a lot of money. A special thanks to Marc Poland (Service Manager) who took a lot of time and effort to put this fundraiser together, as well as all the many employees who spent their Saturday morning (and many other days) preparing, cooking, serving and cleaning up. Thanks also the the Sheehan's family who encouraged, supported, and helped with this fundraiser as well. It is amazing to see how the LORD uses all whom He has created to benefit His children. Our Heavenly Father not only takes care of our bodily needs but also our financial needs. We are very thankful that the LORD used Sheehan's in this way.
At this time I'd like to also thank all those who mysteriously have been showing up at our house and renovating things for us to prepare for the day when Nate can return home. I do not know exactly who is all involved, but we would like to thank each of you. Every time I tell Nate something else that has been done, he (and I) is overwhelmed. The communion of saints is such a great gift from our Heavenly Father, He has blessed us in so many ways.
May our Heavenly Father continue to bless, guide and keep each of you.
As for how Nate is doing. His kidney's are functioning. The blood levels that show kidney function are almost at normal, and Nate can eat a normal diet along side his wonderful protein/calorie shakes. Nate is still in a lot of pain from his surgery, and is still very tired. He once again needed more blood (common after skin grafts) so hopefully this will help him feel better.
Please continue to pray for continued healing, for Nate's skin grafts and for strength not only physically but also spiritually. Nate has a long road ahead of him, with many more days of pain, and this can really wear on the body and the mind.
May you each have a blessed Sunday.
I'd like to first on behalf of Nathan and myself, take this opportunity to thank Sheehan's Truck Centre (Nate's work) for their fantastic pancake breakfast fundraiser. They not only prepared a delicious breakfast but they were able to fundraise a lot of money. A special thanks to Marc Poland (Service Manager) who took a lot of time and effort to put this fundraiser together, as well as all the many employees who spent their Saturday morning (and many other days) preparing, cooking, serving and cleaning up. Thanks also the the Sheehan's family who encouraged, supported, and helped with this fundraiser as well. It is amazing to see how the LORD uses all whom He has created to benefit His children. Our Heavenly Father not only takes care of our bodily needs but also our financial needs. We are very thankful that the LORD used Sheehan's in this way.
At this time I'd like to also thank all those who mysteriously have been showing up at our house and renovating things for us to prepare for the day when Nate can return home. I do not know exactly who is all involved, but we would like to thank each of you. Every time I tell Nate something else that has been done, he (and I) is overwhelmed. The communion of saints is such a great gift from our Heavenly Father, He has blessed us in so many ways.
May our Heavenly Father continue to bless, guide and keep each of you.
As for how Nate is doing. His kidney's are functioning. The blood levels that show kidney function are almost at normal, and Nate can eat a normal diet along side his wonderful protein/calorie shakes. Nate is still in a lot of pain from his surgery, and is still very tired. He once again needed more blood (common after skin grafts) so hopefully this will help him feel better.
Please continue to pray for continued healing, for Nate's skin grafts and for strength not only physically but also spiritually. Nate has a long road ahead of him, with many more days of pain, and this can really wear on the body and the mind.
May you each have a blessed Sunday.
Friday, December 3, 2010
"For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of you hands." Psalm 92:4
Nathan had dressing changes done once again today. These were done on his right leg and the skin graft donor sites. In other words Nate was in a lot of pain again and is very tired. They are happy with how his right leg looks and hope to skin graft it in a couple of weeks (if you know how hospitals work you know that a couple of weeks means just about anything.)
Nate was also seen by the 'kidney' doctor again today, and was told he could eat anything he wanted and is no longer on a special diet. This was a great relief to both Nate and myself, and now we can really focus on getting him some high calorie, high protein HEALTHY food. He still does not like coffee or cheese (both previous favorites) and his taste buds are a bit off, but in time this too will correct itself.
Nathan loves to have visitors, but since his surgery has been extremely tired and unable to visit for more then five minutes without closing his eyes. If you visit, please remember this and that more people like to visit as well. If he is too tired, you may be asked to return another day. Please don't think we don't want visitors, (we love it) but Nathan's rest and well being comes first.
Please continue to pray for healing in the skin graft sites and the donor sites, and that Nate's pain may be relieved. Thank you for all your prayers over the past five weeks, and please continue to remember us and our children, families and the medical staff in your prayers.
Nathan had dressing changes done once again today. These were done on his right leg and the skin graft donor sites. In other words Nate was in a lot of pain again and is very tired. They are happy with how his right leg looks and hope to skin graft it in a couple of weeks (if you know how hospitals work you know that a couple of weeks means just about anything.)
Nate was also seen by the 'kidney' doctor again today, and was told he could eat anything he wanted and is no longer on a special diet. This was a great relief to both Nate and myself, and now we can really focus on getting him some high calorie, high protein HEALTHY food. He still does not like coffee or cheese (both previous favorites) and his taste buds are a bit off, but in time this too will correct itself.
Nathan loves to have visitors, but since his surgery has been extremely tired and unable to visit for more then five minutes without closing his eyes. If you visit, please remember this and that more people like to visit as well. If he is too tired, you may be asked to return another day. Please don't think we don't want visitors, (we love it) but Nathan's rest and well being comes first.
Please continue to pray for healing in the skin graft sites and the donor sites, and that Nate's pain may be relieved. Thank you for all your prayers over the past five weeks, and please continue to remember us and our children, families and the medical staff in your prayers.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Fundraiser Update
Saturday, December the 4th is the big date for the Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser for Nathan and Aileen, that's only 2 days away!! We're so thankful to those who have donated and for the money that has been raised for them thus far. How amazing to see how his place of employment has rallied together and done so much work to raise funds ... and since I have a bit of a "sneak-peak" into how much has been raised thus far ... I'd say that they have done a wonderful job thus far!! How blessed Nathan and Aileen are to be surrounded by so many caring people.
While the initial ticket deadline was for this past Friday I thought I would send an update to let people know that they WILL be selling tickets at the door. So for all those who missed your opportunity to buy tickets you can still come on out and show your support in this manner. The function is being held at Port Nelson Unit Church - 3132 Sourth Drive, Burlington (click for Mapquest). Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. They have two seating times the first from 8am-9:30am and the second from 9:30am to 11am. Breakfast includes pancakes, bacon, sausages, coffee, tea, and juice. There will also be activities for the kids to enjoy, and since it's a breakfast with Santa that means Santa will be there :)
If you would still like to make a donation to Nathan and Aileen you can do this by contacting me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com or Marc Poland at Sheehan's Truck Centre at marcp@sheehanstruck.com or (905) 632-0300. All money collected before December 4th will go to the Fundraiser total, any money received after that date will still go to Nathan and Aileen - regardless they will get the money :)
While the initial ticket deadline was for this past Friday I thought I would send an update to let people know that they WILL be selling tickets at the door. So for all those who missed your opportunity to buy tickets you can still come on out and show your support in this manner. The function is being held at Port Nelson Unit Church - 3132 Sourth Drive, Burlington (click for Mapquest). Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. They have two seating times the first from 8am-9:30am and the second from 9:30am to 11am. Breakfast includes pancakes, bacon, sausages, coffee, tea, and juice. There will also be activities for the kids to enjoy, and since it's a breakfast with Santa that means Santa will be there :)
If you would still like to make a donation to Nathan and Aileen you can do this by contacting me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com or Marc Poland at Sheehan's Truck Centre at marcp@sheehanstruck.com or (905) 632-0300. All money collected before December 4th will go to the Fundraiser total, any money received after that date will still go to Nathan and Aileen - regardless they will get the money :)
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever." Psalm 136:1
Today Nate underwent his first skin grafts. With much thanks to our Father in Heaven, Nate did very well in surgery. The Lord guided the hands of the doctors and nurses in surgery and they were able to graft both his right arm and stump. This was more then they expected to graft. Now we must wait and pray that the grafts will take.
Upon return from the recovery room, Nate was in excruciating pain, with some good pain meds, the nurses were able to get things under control until we had to shift him on his bed. With more pain medication on board this pain too was relieved. Nate will be in a lot of pain for the next couple of days, this was something they did say is normal after skin grafts. The 'donor' sites are much more painful then the areas actually grafted. But even through the pain, Nate was thankful for all our Heavenly Father has given him once again.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that these skin grafts may heal well and that Nate's pain will be bare able. Each day again we have much to be thankful for, one of the greatest blessings is Nate's ability to speak to any one he can (especially the nurses and other patients) about how the LORD has worked so marvellously through these days.
"Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever." Psalm 136:26
Today Nate underwent his first skin grafts. With much thanks to our Father in Heaven, Nate did very well in surgery. The Lord guided the hands of the doctors and nurses in surgery and they were able to graft both his right arm and stump. This was more then they expected to graft. Now we must wait and pray that the grafts will take.
Upon return from the recovery room, Nate was in excruciating pain, with some good pain meds, the nurses were able to get things under control until we had to shift him on his bed. With more pain medication on board this pain too was relieved. Nate will be in a lot of pain for the next couple of days, this was something they did say is normal after skin grafts. The 'donor' sites are much more painful then the areas actually grafted. But even through the pain, Nate was thankful for all our Heavenly Father has given him once again.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that these skin grafts may heal well and that Nate's pain will be bare able. Each day again we have much to be thankful for, one of the greatest blessings is Nate's ability to speak to any one he can (especially the nurses and other patients) about how the LORD has worked so marvellously through these days.
"Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever." Psalm 136:26
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