Sunday

August 2, 2009

We are sorry to say that Bill took ten steps backward today. He is critical and seriously unstable.

At 2am he was rushed to the OR to remove a perforated colon. After 5 hours of surgery to remove the colon, the surgeon decided to temporarily close off his ileum (the last portion of the small intestine) and try to stabilize him for 24 hours. Tomorrow he plans on giving Bill an ileostomy, which provides a new path for waste material to leave the body after part of the intestine (colon) has been removed. The surgeon may also remove Bill's gallbladder, which is contributing to some of his complications.

The surgeon brought us very grave news that Bill has a small chance of recovery due to so many factors and complications. The main concern is that a perforation of the colon releases lots of toxins into the abdominal cavity, and from there into the blood stream, affecting other organs.

We spent the day praying, gathering around Bill and holding on to that small chance of hope. As of 10pm tonight we continue to be hopeful, because he made it this far.

He is receiving large doses of antibiotics, a lot of fluids, pain, blood pressure and sedation medicines to help him remain stable. His heart rate was good throughout the day.


Please pray for Bill.

1 comment:

  1. Howie & Maureen, please know my prayers and thoughts are with you both, and Bill's entire family. God be with you all.

    Shirley

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