Sunday, July 18, 2010

Update on Vivian - 7/18, part III.

This afternoon and early evening Vivian had periods of discomfort and unrest spelled by interludes of sleep. When she was awake, Vivian would complain that her tummy hurt, likely from the surgeries of Saturday night and this morning.

Vivian's sweet charge nurse, Ronelle, constructed a wrap for Vivian's waist out of a postpartum brace and some suture thread, and we put that on Vivian to prevent her from grabbing at her new g-button and port. Dr. Wick, the kind, compassionate ICU doctor today, was ardent about relieving Vivian's pain, so I am hopeful that Vivian will be able to rest tonight. When I left the hospital this evening, Vivian was sleeping quietly.

Vivian's occupational therapist, Carla, who has worked with Vivian since she was two, paid a visit late this afternoon. Carla had stopped by during Vivian's first week in the ICU, and she could not believe the improvement in Vivian since then. Carla talked to Vivian today and told her about her dog, Gaby. Typically when Carla arrives at our house to work with Vivian, Vivian tells her, "You need to go home and see Gaby" (i.e., you need to do something other than stay here and make me work). Today Carla told Vivian that Gaby had been chewing on her furniture. I wasn't even sure that Vivian had registered that Carla was there, but all of a sudden Vivian responded, "Gaby needs to chew on her bone." Carla and I were elated to hear Vivian say this! Clearly Vivian's memory is intact and she is making good connections.

Vivian still has a number of physical challenges to overcome, but Robert and I are so heartened by all of the progress she has made. We no longer have any doubt that our sweet funny Vivian is returning to us.

Today was largely a day of rest and recovery following surgery. For tomorrow please pray that Vivian's pain would be eased and that she would not be bothered by the g-button and port in her abdomen. Pray that we are able to get Vivian on her feet and walking. Pray that Vivian would resume taking some food by mouth. Praise God and thank Him for the innumerable miracles we have witnessed in Vivian over the past three weeks. Vivian continues to amaze everyone with how she has rebounded from being so very ill.

Your support and prayers have ministered to our family immensely. We will never be able to adequately express our appreciation.

"But I will restore health to you and heal your wounds," declares the Lord." Jeremiah 30:17

8 comments:

Dianne said...

I am smiling ear to ear as I read this. Each post gets better and better. The Gaby story was delightful!We continue to pray for Vivian daily.

Tami said...

This is sounding more like the fun Vivian stories we all know and love.
I'm continuing to pray for healing and patience.
God bless you-
tami

Maggie said...

For all the progress, thanks be to God! So glad Vivian is making so much progress. I'm continuing to pray for her and for all your family.

A Single Middle-Aged Woman said...

Eloise and Robert,
Everyday I look forward to these updates. I am grateful Miss Vivian is doing so well and not surprised at all by her spirit...it truly must be part of her saving grace. I saw this scripture quote on my friend's Facebook status this morning and it seemed to fit the situation. Truly we are blessed. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

sharon protzmann said...

I can't tell you how much I appreciate your wonderful journal writing. It not only helps me with my prayers for you but it helps me in my understanding and compassion for you and yours. You are blessed, Eloise, with such depth, grace, patience, eloquence and love that you are truly an example for all of us. I don't respond daily but just know I am reading and keeping up with everything you write. Prayers are always on the way.
Love, Sharon

sevenalstons said...

I love the stories about Vivian and the things she says ~ she is a very funny girl! I'm so glad you continue to see great progress :) I also like that you ask for specific prayers... it helps me to know exactly what you'd like prayers for. Here's to many more encouraging days ahead!

Malu said...

Dear Heloise,
Sounds like music to me ... I thank God , Our Eternal Father looks after us and He always brings us the sun after the storm.This text below is part of my devotional this morning ,it is written on my blog. God bless you and have a nice Monday ,may God carry you on the palm of His Hands.
I Believe...That we should celebrate everyday,
for everyday is a gift from God.
I Believe.
That we are responsible for what we do,
no matter how we feel.
I Believe...
That either you allow God to control your attitude,
or it controls you

Debbie K. said...

Love to read how well Vivian is doing. What a fighting spirit she has!!!
Praying for all and for continuous baby steps toward recovery.