Paul's Update - 01/31/06

Dear Friends:

Dad arrived early at the Hospital today. He wanted to be there when the doctor came in for rounds. According to Dr. Azzam, the fluid level in Paul's brain is even worse than it was last Friday. The CT showed large amounts of fluid that would cause problems in any normal person such as vision, hearing, ability to stand or talk. These are most of the things we have been concerned about since the adjustment was done last Monday. His physical condition seemed to be worse .... he slept most of the week last week. The doctor said the first shunt was apparently damaged by an MRI that was done shortly after it was installed. After they remove the current shunt they may know why it doesn't seem to be working. They plan to replace the tube that drains the fluid into his stomach because there is speculation that it could be clogged. All of the doctors and other staff that saw Paul when he was at the hospital before were amazed at the improvement he has had since he left at the end of December. We are hopeful that after surgery Wednesday he will make a more marked improvement. Surgery is scheduled for late in the day (possibly 4pm). Dad & Tabby will be at the hospital early in the morning to attempt to talk to the doctor again. Paul had more therapy & testing done today. He had a specimen collected to test for signs of active staff and the respiratory therapist worked with him to clear some of the congestion he is having. Tonight he seemed to have lots less mucous. He was awake off & on all day. Since there was not real physical therapy except what Dad did he wasn't very active. He did watch a little TV with Dad (This Old House ... pretty good stuff!) While Paul is at the hospital recovering we are hoping that the smaller trach will be put in. Tabby also would like to have the IVC Filter turned and have the orthopedist come in to see Paul. They might as well try to have a "all purpose" visit while he is there!!! Please pray for Paul, his doctors & nurses, and our family as we go through surgery. I pray that this is the beginning of much recovery ......

Blessings, Lynne & Carl