I found out last night just how bad a chat friend was hurt in an accident. I knew she was in a car crash, but didn't know how bad it was until last night. Considering she got broadsided drivers side by a truck going 50something, and seeing the car after the accident (someone posted a link, let me know if you want it) surprised she's alive at all... Injuries are: fluid on the lungs, blood on the brain, broken collar bone, broken cheek bone and nose, broken rib, punctured lung, lots of bruising. Pray for Slyvia Fahlman, she's currently in the hospital - they just took her out of ICU, but she's still in a BAD way. :(
Sorry to keep you all guessing. Things are just very busy these days!
Physically, I would say that Sylvia is making steady progress. She is still in the Neurological Observation Unit, 5A at the Regina General Hospital, but has been moved to a bed farther from the desk. (Only 2 visitors at a time, please.)
The good news is that she will be the next person moved into a regular room as soon as one becomes available, as she is doing so well.
The bruises are fading, and she's disconnected from everything: IV, Oxygen, and the drains that were drawing liquid off her chest. She walks on her own, but with at least one person at her side in case she becomes unsteady. She is still disoriented as to time and place.
The physiotherapist has been working with Mom. It seems like the left arm is not 100%. The causes of this could be two-fold:
1) Her brain injury is on the right side of the brain ... and the right brain controls the left side of the body. 2) Her collar bone is broken very near her left shoulder - and this could be part of the problem as well.
Blood tests have been done that show that Mom has Diabetes! In fact, she has had for some time, according to the tell-tale bloodwor! They are now treating this with Metformin pills and Insulin, and working to get the blood sugar levels back to normal. I guess both her mom and brother were diabetic, so this is not too surprising, I guess.
Secondly, they have also diagnosed her with high blood pressure, and she is now on medication for that. This too will be a process to get under control.
Meanwhile, the medical staff want us to understand that Mom has an acquired brain injury. She will be able to get rehabilitative assistance from a team that specializes in this area.
Apparently her recovery will take a long time - 6 months to a year - and she may or may not make a complete recovery. Naturally we are praying for her to return to her feisty self, but it's important to have some ideas on what to expect.
The brain is a complex organ, and the healing doesn't take a straight trajectory like a broken bone. She will have good days and bad days, and we need to get our heads around what to expect as she heals.
It seems that her long term memory is intact. She recognizes everyone. However, at least right now, it seems like she is having trouble converting short term memory into longer term memory. For example, she might not remember half an hour later who visited, or what she had for lunch.
When Mom is moved to a regular room, we will be sure to get permission before we bring in a phone or TV (or computer), as brain injury patients need to not be bombarded with too much information at once and being overwhelmed.
She's received some beautiful cards and flowers from her friends in the Room, and on behalf of the family, I thank you all for your care and concern!
I'll let you know once they move her to a regular room, and sooner if something changes.
