The time is drawing...wait, it's here!

Yep, so it's over. I'm done. Finito. Ok, in a matter of speaking, I suppose. I'm finished with my final surgery!

On September 1st, I went in for my follow up appt. with Dr. Bollenger. He told me he wanted to wait a month before scheduling a final surgery to take down my ileostomy and everything and in the meantime, have me get a barium enema (it's as unpleasant as it sounds).

On September 11th, I had my BE and I wouldn't wish it upon my very worst enemy. I did get to see that what's left of my colon and large intestines are happy and intact.

On October 6th, I went in for my appt. with Dr. Bollanger (pronounced Boo-lan-jay) and we talked about my final surgery. Because my blood tests came back saying I was a little dehydrated, low on electrolytes, and severely low on potassium (a hazard of having the ileostomy in the first place - pretty common), he wanted the surgery done quickly. He wasn't kidding - he had scheduled it for October 8th but wanted me in on October 7th to get rehydrated/potassium'd

On October 7th, I checked into the hospital. They put me in the Markey Cancer Center (which scared me at first before they assauged my fears and said it was just because the patient rooms over there are more private and less germ-infested because cancer patients have lower immune systems, therefore need more filters, etc). It was just a means to stave off infection after the surgery. I chilled out, slept, read, played on the internet, chatted with Sam, chilled with my folks, etc. I also heard about my surgery about 50 times and all the bad stuff that can happen to you during surgery and after (insurance/liability stuff that still scares the bejeesus outta me!). I ate and drank a full liquid diet until midnight and smoked my last cigarette at midnight as well. Bye, bye Marlboro Lights!

On October 8th, I had to wash my tummy in this weird red pre-op soap that's anti-microbacterial and super strong. It didn't hurt (actually quite soothing but I was told it's not for every-day use...dang it). I was given a gown and socks. Took off the jewelry and put my hair. Freaked out when they wheeled me out of the room where my mom, dad, and Sam were. Started crying because I was sure I was going to die. You know, normal stuff (haha). I was given an epidural to completely numb my tummy and then given some happy-liquid in my IV. I don't really know why they gave me that before surgery but meh, I'm not complaining; it calmed me down and made me stop crying. Suddenly everyone was awesome and I loved them all. Dad and Mom came in one last time to say goodbye and that they'd see me afterwards. I was wheeled to the operating room and put on this tempur-pedic feeling operating table. Man, they've come a long way from cold, hard steel and MAYBE a pillow if you were lucky. I felt relaxed, warm, and safe. Then they put the oxygen mask on me and put in the "knock your ass out" meds. They didn't warn me, which is cool because I hate it when they make you count back - it makes you feel apprehensive and edgy up until you pass out. And if you don't know I'm not awake because I'm not counting backwards, you're just stupid.

After the surgery, I woke up in a drunken stupor. I kept asking stupid questions over and over and it never escaped my attention (even while drugged), I asked the nurses "permission to speak freely". Man, forgot to tell my folks about that...haha....I blame the drugs. Anyway, the nurses kept looking at me like I was an idiot. I don't know why I kept doing it - it wasn't something I did ALL the time in the military...just something I heard and learned from my time in.

I then started having to say the yes ma'am/sir-ing and no ma'am/siring to all the questions they pelted my way. I guess they realized if I was conscious enough to ask stupid questions then I was conscious enough to answer easy ones. "Does it hurt when I do this?" "Can you feel this?" "Do you know where you are?" "What day is it?" etc. etc. etc.

I was wheeled back to my room and I knocked out, I think. I remember the post-op room pretty well but past that, the rest of the day was kind of a blur. I did get ahold of my computer and update my facebook, which still perplexes me. I rested a lot. I had in an IV, a catheter (ew), my epidural (yay), a pain button that I could press to dispense meds on command (yay), leg braces that worked like a blood pressure cuff to make sure I didn't get blood clots (meh), an NG nose tube that sucked the bile and crap out of my tummy into a container (ew), and two JP pounches below where my mucous fistula (wiki it) and ileostomy were on the left and right sides respectively to drain from those wounds (blood, pus, mucous, all that fun and gross stuff). The nurse would come in, tell me I couldn't eat or drink or have anything taken out, clean out my tubes and stuff, and leave every so often. I slept, talked to Sam, slept, talked to Mom and Dad, slept, watched TV, slept.

Over the course of the next 7 days, I got the cath out (because I had a UTI and I'm a stubborn bastard and kept asking them to do it cause it hurt), the NG out (as told why below), then the IV (because I was hydrated and had enough potassium), then the epidural (cause I could swallow pills), the leg cuffs (because I was walking around and taking blood thinner shots), then the JP tubes/containers (because the drainage had lessened enough to only require a bandage over the sites). I was forced to walk around as much as possible so I took advantage of that "happy" button a lot.

My diet also changed from no food for 2 days, to water and ice chips, to clear liquids (spirte, water, jello, italian ices, popsicles, and chicken broth), to full liquids (anything off clear liquids plus cream-based soups, pudding, ice cream, cokes, tea, coffee, etc.), to full-fledged food with no restrictions.

On the third day I had my first ever bowel movement (yeah I'm sure EVERYONE wants to know that). It was weird for me since I hadn't had to rely on that part of my body for about 8 months but I got through the initial shock. It was more just interesting and exciting than scary or weird. It meant my body was working together again and processing things. The reason they even let me off the NG nose tube and put me on clear liquids was because of the BM. Man, getting that NG tube pulled was unnerving as hell. When I was in the ICU I pulled out my own when I was heavily drugged and trying to escape (thought the nurses were trying to kill me/keep me from my family so they could do the deed - drugs are very powerful things).

The JP tubes on my tummy were equally innerving.

I think what takes the cake on weirdness was seeing my belly for the first time. I'd post pics but it's not something everyone in the world really needs to see. Let's see if I can paint a picture here:

So I have one HUGE long line of staples down my tummy. Over 20 staples, I think. I'll get back to you on that. The staples go from the bottom of my breasts (another reason for no pics) to the top of my undies. The line is a little less than a foot. Eyeballing it (when it's not bandaged like it is now, I'd say about 9-10 inches).

On my left side about 3 inches down from my breasts is a vertical scar jutting out from the original middle one (just an incision site) and then there's one horizontal line about 6 inches down from my breasts where my mucous fistula was. Right below that last line of staples is a small hole where the JP tube was for drainage.

On my right side right across from where the mucous fistula scar is, there's a scar in equal length that's horizontal where my ileostomy was housed. Below that is the other hole where the other JP tube was.

When they undressed it for the first time, they found that the top left scar and the middle scar both had some skin infection. Nothing big because it wasn't internal and easily repaired. So the second time it was uncovered, they took out a few staples from each (3 from the big one and 2 from the little one on the side). They packed the open wound full of guaze and then taped over it and everything else like normal and then put a the belly band back on. The belly band is one long elastic band that goes around my abdomen that basically keeps me stable and able to walk without too much discomfort or pain. It also prevents anything from coming off or out that shouldn't, which is nice.

The first time the resident packed the wounds full of gauze (second day), she did it in the most sadistic way possible. I'm not a huge fan of residents generally and this chick wasn't a bad person but this kinda pissed me off. She took SCISSORS (no joke...blunt tipped scissors but metal SCISSORS none-the-less) after she took out the staples and then proceeded to stab in as much regular sized guaze as she could. Oh my GOSH I was pressing that button like it was going out of style.

The second time it was redressed, the nurse (named Leah, which I found to be cool because it made me feel like my sis was there), used ribbon gauze (which is smaller and lighter and can get deeper into the wound's edges and corners and packed it in with a long Q-tip. It didn't hurt one bit.

The third time it was packed, it was done by one of the very few residents I can count on one hand that I actually liked through this WHOLE ordeal. His name is Kevin and he used to be a therapist for trauma victims in the hospital and their families. GREAT guy. Decided to join up when he heard a resident pronounce the death of a family's loved one as "Hey, what can I say? he's dead." Kevin didn't think that was right and was like "Screw this, I can do this job better than THAT guy." and he's right. He's amazing. There's no end to what this guy knows and he's so funny and intelligent. He explained everything to me and made me feel completely at ease. He even took time out of his day to teach a nursing student who was in my room at the time chatting with me (nice girl named Lauren who I talked to at length about my accident - she was interested because she has a thirst for knowledge - I just like talking).

He went through everything with us...it was like being in a class where you really really like your teacher and he makes the material accessible. I asked him why the other method (scissor stabby-mc-pain-time) was still employed and he said quite frankly, "Because some people are sadists and assholes, Caitlin." Then I remembered he was in the room when she did that procedure - hm, guess he didn't like her too much, either. At least he's honest about it. I like doctors that don't BS you.

I don't know what I did to incur the wrath of that first intern but I told Dr. Bollanger about it - not to get her in trouble but moreover to correct her methods before she really hurts someone. I could give a crap whether she likes me or not. I can obviously take the pain (I've had worse...) - I just shouldn't have had to. I'm not normally a rat but that was kinda ridiculous what she pulled. You wanna be petty, call me a name or something. I made sure to tell Dr. B about how awesome Kevin was, how he taught Lauren and I, and how that dude should get a raise or a gold star or something.

So things go smoothy for the next few days. In the course of that time I got to see my sister and Dre (on Saturday and Sunday briefly - I was still pretty loopy but it was nice to see them for a little bit - missed them both terribly), Taylor and Baxter (yay!), Sam (which is a given - he's been here through everything else - and it's much appreciated), my parents (duh), Katie, Melanie, and Eileen. Bernie Conrad stopped by for a bit but I was out for the count. For the most part I asked people not to visit for the first couple of days because it was hard to know how I was going to feel on the day to day. Most of my visits came from family, really close friends, and people who weren't in town for too long, which was fine by me. I felt bad to kinda bar the guest list this time around but the situation was remarkably different because infection was such a key factor. I'm pretty sure everyone understood. I got some really nice balloons from Tim and Melanie, gorgeous flowers from Eileen, and a slew of well-wishes and such on my Facebook from awesome people. To those who didn't say anything, no worries! I didn't expect anything or anything and this whole surgery came in without warning.

I have an appt. on the 20th to take out the staples, I think. Or leave 'em in...at this point it's "meh, whatever, let's do it" with me. I've learned a lot of patience - makes when the actual date happens that much sweeter. I plan on going back to college, moving into my new apartment in Tony and Miranda's basement, getting disability until I can get a part-time job as a waitress or a bar back while I'm in college, take care of Sadie (Tony and Miranda's little one), spend more time with family/friends, pick up some hobbies like cooking classes, Krav Maga (an Israeli martial arts that my friend Jon does and swears is the best thing ever), swing dancing at the Fred Astaire school, and anything else I can learn/do).

So as this whole thing comes to a close, I've learned a lot. I've grown a lot. I've seen people around me change and grow with me. I've cried, laughed, cursed God, forgiven God, gotten closer to God, and gotten calmer about His plan for me (whatever that may be...we shall see!). I don't know EXACTLY what I want to do with my life yet. Nursing might not be totally out of the cards but I'd like to explore a few more things first (criminal justice or teaching). We'll see. I don't have to decide today, thankfully.

Right now I'm just relaxing and letting life take me where it takes me. I'm very proud of myself for getting this far and I'm almost done but none of it would have been possible without my friends, family, God, the Navy, and the staff/doctors/surgeons/nurses/etc. that work tirelessly everyday at UK Hospital.

Much love, God bless, and may every happiness be bestowed upon you and yours in all your endeavors.

Goodnight!

Raining Outside, Sunny Inside

I haven't really posted in awhile. Why? I didn't want to bore y'all to death with the mundane day-to-day of the healing process. It's pretty slow at that daily pace but looking back from where I was to today? Wow. It seems like I've got the healing factor of Wolverine (from the X-Men - google it if you don't know who I'm talking about).

I am a very lucky woman. Blessed, more like it. I have my moments of feeling sorry for myself and generally throwing myself a big ol' pity party but it could have been worse. The horse could have trampled my head. She could have shimmied around a lot more instead of getting right off of me. I could have died right there. I could have not had the 4 amazing people there who had the intestinal fortitude and knowledge to get me what and where I needed to be (Greg, Joan, Melanie, and Sam)...but they were there and were key factors in my survival. My EMTs could have slacked off but they put pep in their step and got me to the hospital in record time. I could have been transported to Cincinatti instead of UK and who knows what kind of surgeons I would have gotten there? My surgeons are and remain miracle workers. And my Naval support - My God...I cannot even begin to explain how much they've helped me and my family. "Above and beyond the call of duty" leaps to mind. My command, my case workers Georgia Monsam and Chief Litherland, my co-workers/friends in Virginia Beach and Naples, Italy.....they all make me proud and honored to wear the same uniform. Anyone who has been in the Navy (or any branch of the military) will tell you that it's not always fun and sometimes it just is a plain-knock-down-drag-out suckfest. No job is ever perfect. At the end of the day, we're a family. Not a perfect family - but we're there for each other like any good family is. We take care of our own.

Things happened as they should have. From the minute the accident happened, I was surrounded by God's angels - people I call my friends and family. I don't think I would have made it through any of this with any sanity without them.

I was in the waiting room today at the Kentucky Clinic today and I looked all around me at these people who had wheelchairs, walkers, pins, needles, and all sorts of other contraptions that keep them mobile and alive. I have my legs that are still functional and my brain is still in tact (arguably, anyway - haha). My drawbacks are a MUCH-smaller-than-before gap in my stomach from the surgery (that has scabbed/scarred over so much I don't even need a bandage or "wound vac" over it to protect it) and an ileostomy bag. I can't run around with the stamina I had before the accident but when I'm healed I'll get that back - not everyone else has that opportunity after a traumatic injury. 

There are days I feel useless and I feel like a burden to those around me because I cannot do what I used to be able to do. Lifting my laundry is a no-go...cooking...cleaning....sometimes somedays getting out of bed is a battle in and of itself. It's depressing but then I think about people like Christopher Reeve - Superman himself - who was thrown from a horse and couldn't use his body from the neck down and look at what HE accomplished after the fact. Not only did he portray one of my fictional heros, he is a real-life hero of mine, may he rest in peace.

The bag proves problematic sometimes. It's more a vanity thing than anything, I guess. It feels awkward and dirty but it's reversible so it won't be around once I hit 25 years old (I hope). It's just partially digested food and stomach acid so you get used to it. Even people with ostomies live productive, active lives. The only reason I'm not active right now is because of the surgical site. The bag has opened my eyes to the fact that not one public restroom I've been to is ostomy-friendly. I would like to rectify this situation. No person EVER should have to kneel on a dirty germ-infested bathroom floor to fulfill a basic human requirement. There should be large-mouthed open drain basins that are waist level for ostomy patients. You wouldn't think it - but there are many out there with this affliction. Just because we do things a tinge differently than the rest of the world due to sickness, injury or otherwise, doesn't mean we should be treated as second-class citizens. 

So I'm not what one would classify as "normal". But what is normal, really? Normal is what you're used to. The abnormal...the trials and tribulations of life are what test you to become a better/stronger person. Hopefully this challenge, this accident, is just an opportunity in disguise to toughen me. God only gives you what He thinks you can handle. I truly believe that.

So while I enjoy normalcy, I don't mind the abnormal once in awhile to shake things up. Not that I crave drama or attention - but I hate the mundane. If everything was sunshine and roses all the time, what would be the reward of living? That you walked the path of least resistance? Doesn't seem very fulfilling to me. You can't have highs without lows. 

I don't think it wise to go out and seek trouble or life-threatening accidents to "carpe diem", as it were, but when life hands you lemons, make a lemon meringue pie. Do stuff that scares you normally. Take risks. I know I will. I have a second chance at life and I'm not going to waste it sitting on the sidelines waiting for things to come my way.

A very wise man once told me "it's not what happens to you, it's how you deal with it." I might not have it down to a fine-tuned art yet but I'm dealing with it. My support system (family/friends) make this possible. Thank you all for sticking by me with prayers, love, and support. It means the world to me.

Should trouble come knocking at any of y'alls doors, I'll be there to beat the hell out of it with a baseball bat...just say the word.

Love always,

Caitlin

P.S. Sorry for the novel - I just have a lot of gratitude that I haven't even begun to express. Words cannot even capture how thankful I am....to all of you. Thank you.

Dr. Phil makes me sad inside

So anyway, I'm back at home again (got here this past Monday). Yesterday was a funfilled trip to the ER because I was having some bacteria in my tummy wound but it ended up being easily fixed by a "wet dry" dressing.
Basically I pack wet gauze dressing into my (now tiny) wound in my tummy and put an absorbant pad over it and tape it. No more tubes or portable wound vacs to carry around. I'll probably go back to the wound vac but I might not...who knows?
I felt a little nauseated this morning but after some good rest, I felt a lot better.
Daddy went to the dentist today and they gave him some pretty good drugs cause Sammy and Justin had to help him up the stairs. He started saying some pretty weird crap in his sleep, which entertained Momma and I endlessly. He's doing pretty well now.
Katie's b-day is tonight and I'm headin there and see how long I can hold up. I think I'll do ok. I can hang in the kitchen sitting down for about an hour so I think I'll be ok.
Alright, enough outta me! Ciao guys!

Love, Cait

P.S. My doc's name was Nashley Steele...how cool is that?!

"Why don't you take a picture, Ian?! Post it on total freaking awesomeness dot com - backslash 'we rule'!"

Ok, so posting a quote from "Sex Drive" - mindless movie that makes me laugh. Kind of an American Pie type movie. Like I said - mindless. Sometimes you just need to watch movies like that.

Today in the mail I got that belly band that'll waterproof my woundvac and ostomy bag but unfortunately I got one size too small. I lost a lot of weight since Feb 14th so I erroneously thought I'd be two sizes smaller rather than 1 size smaller. Another way I screwed up: I never measured myself - I guesstimated. Oh well - that's why they have return policies.

I got my Superman hat in the mail today as well and i'm very happy! I'm wearing it right now. It's really comfortable and has a leather bill underneath the cap. It looks vintage and antique, which is why I bought it in the first place. I like old-fashioned stuff, vintage, retro, and antique. Guess what the price tag said on the hat? $250.00!!!!! I obviously didn't pay that much! I only paid $23.00 (including shipping). Heckuva deal, huh?!

Last night Leah came over and we watched Robot Chicken. For those who are unfamiliar, it's a stop animation show with action figures. Actually kind of a sick joke show but Leah and I love it.

Dad just left not too long ago and it was nice to visit with him. He (on top of the packages) brought me the kickass Superman fleeec blanket and my stuffed animal angel.

I am a blessed girl.

Ok, the codeine is kickin in and it's gettin hard to keep my eyes open, much less type.

LATER! <3

Run Through the Jungle

I think my titles of my blogs these days are just going to be songs I'm listening to - either lyrics or the title. Why? Cause I feel like it.

My docs had emergency OR trauma procedures to do so my docs didn't make rounds this morning. Some interns did, however. Their bedside manner was ATROCIOUS. Hopefully they'll learn some before they finish their residency. I mentioned it to one of the surgeons and he said he'd take care of it. I don't want to get anyone in trouble or stir the pot but when I'm asking a question about my health while you're walking out and you keep walking, that denotes a lack of respect. I can't respect a doctor if he can't respect me. It's just not feasible. And before anyone asks, I was talking loud enough.

Enough of my belly-aching (no pun intended). Other than that, it's been a pretty awesome day. I got some more Nintendo DS games in the mail. I've been saving money like crazy so I thought I'd treat myself a little bit. I also got myself a Superman hat (to replace the one I lost) and a few other odds and ends. I got a camera to take pics of, well, everything. I have a nice 35mm SLR but I don't really like taking that out unless it's a really special occasion. For the day-to-day random pics of life, I'm going with the Nikon Coolpix. It's red, too (my fav color)!

Trish asked me if I could type out the list of my goals to accomplish and such but since it's 95 things, I'll type it in a word doc and send it to anyone who's interested. Just give me your email.

One of the things on the list is to get a bartending license. Why? Because I think it's important to learn a new trade because you never know what's going to happen. Bartenders make good money and with the economy being what it is, it never hurts to learn a new vocation.

So here's my plan for the future. It's exciting because the military kind of plans things for you in your life - now I get to figure out my career path more on my own than I have in a long while. So here it is:

1. Take the 6 week school to be a Nursing Technical assistant

2. Work as a tech for about a month to see if becoming a full RN appeals to me.

3. If it doesn't, go back to the drawing board. If being an RN DOES appeal to me, sign up for classes at BCTC and UK to finish degree and sign up for nursing school (3 year program).

4. Be a nurse and hopefully save people.

Someone pointed out to me today that I'm ahead of the curve. I thought initially they meant because I've seen a lot of procedures done on me and I know how they work and in a lot of cases, i can do them to myself (blood thinner shots, ileostomy care, mucus fistula care, the inner workings of the intestinal system, etc). What they meant (and explained to me, of course) was that I'd make a great nurse because I've been in the bed before. I've seen the hospital from a different perspective and when I run across someone with a similar medical problem to myself, I'll be able to relate and give better advice because I've been in the trenches. Excellent point. Even if they don't have my same afflictions, I know what it's like to be stuck in a hospital and want to go home...to feel lonely sometimes...to feel scared and restless...etc. All very normal but it doesn't mean these feelings are easy to get through on one's own.

I think basically the accident was a catalyst for change that needed to happen in my life and the lives of others around me. All the blessings that have happened were MEANT to happen. I think sometimes God uses people as instruments of His divine plan and it's best not to question it. Granted there is free will for all mankind but God occasionally will shove us in a certain direction and He will NEVER give you more than you can handle. I don't think I'm a prophet, a martyr, or a saint or anything - just a regular girl that was chosen for a specific purpose because my accident was the first domino to fall in the long line of things that NEEDED to happen.

Oh, I almost forgot! Yesterday I gave Leah her Kindle 2. She was SO psyched and happy that I bought it for her. Again, I've saved up lots of money and she very much deserves it. She's been there for me from the very beginning. As soon as I got out of the ICU, she was right there ready to sacrifice sleeping in her own bed and being woken up by doctors and nurses coming in all the time just so she could sleep in a recliner next to her baby sister. She and my momma made my room at home SO beautiful and comfortable. I really can't list all the things she's done because it's a pretty long list. My parents helped out a lot too, of course and I'm very grateful. Sam is another person that was at the hospital all the time. I think he is neck and neck with Leah on that score. I got him a couple of gifts, too. Of course, both Leah and Sam were peeved that I spent money on them. Well, tough cookies, guys! They were happy with their gifts. Just seeing their faces light up...SO awesome.

I really wish I had enough money to buy EVERYONE a Kindle or something like that because everyone I know has been so supportive and helpful. Unfortunately, I don't have unlimited funds. 

Ok that's enough outta me! LATER!!! :-D

Here it goes again!

Currently listening to the little iPod stereo system I got for Dad for his birthday one year. He was gracious enough to let me borrow it. I was so sleepy this morning that I didn't even know he came in to drop it off. 

Mom came by a few hours after him and I was awake for that. She brought crayons, puzzle books that Eileen gave me, and Leah's surprise (haha - thought I'd be silly enough to post what it is, didn't you, Leah? Nope! I was born at night but not LAST night). 

Leah's coming back from Charleston, SC and Columbia, SC. She had Taylor's bachelorette party as Maid of Honor in Charleston and from the phone calls I got, it was a smashing success! Taylor and Leah definitely deserved the time to cut loose and relax a bit! They both work their butts off on the day to day not only in their normal jobs but with the wedding planning. It'll be quite a shindig. Hopefully I'll be able to go to the wedding. I'm still trying to coerce the docs into letting me go since I know how to dress/redress my wounds on my own. I'll be in a wheelchair to avoid falling or any other accidents and I'll keep a stock of supplies just in case. I can pretty much change and fix my dressings with my eyes closed now since I stopped being grossed out by it and started actually paying attention to what was going on. Once you get past the initial grossness, it's actually quite fascinating (especially the wound-vac technology). Whenever they redress my wounds, I actually watch rather than put my eye mask on. I've even gotten into the habit of helping out and telling them specifically what is the most comfortable and what prevents me from rashing (apparently I'm allergic to adhesive).

In other news, I found a great contraption online for people with ostomy bags. They have a belly wrap that's vaccumn sealed!!! Why is that so exciting? It means I can swim!!!! Take a real shower!!! Take a bubble bath!!! It's made both for wounds (like the wound vac) and the ostomy bag. Completely 100% safe and waterproof! I cannot WAIT to try it out. Sammy, my consummately awesome boyfriend, bought it for me. Apparently I had no choice in the matter....lol. I GET TO SWIM!!! But first...I have to get outta this hospital. The output has gone down a little bit but not to the level they want yet. 

I've been considering looking into nursing school lately. I know being in a hospital as a patient isn't really a basis for a career but I get to see these dedicated men and women every day. They're the most selfless people and they go above and beyond as a general principle, not for reward.

I have not had one nurse that I dislike in this whole process. They've all been compassionate, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, and understanding. Whenever I was down in the dumps, they'd let me cry but they'd give me reasons to smile. They would sit there and make sure you were smiling again before they even thought about leaving (unless there was an emergency, of course). I haven't cried for a good week now, which is nice. There's nothing wrong with grieving because of what happened and the sacrifices my family, friends, and I have had to make in the process but at some point you have to say "Well, this sucks but it is what it is and it's time to move on. You pick yourself up by your bootstraps, focus on the positives, and dust yourself off. You move on. The point of view I have now (which differs greatly from a few weeks ago) is that God has opened SO many more windows than the door that He closed when the accident happened. The VA medical benefits are just gravy or icing on the cake, as it were. I'm still grateful for these benefits the Navy is providing and once again my family and I would like to thank Amy and Georgia for their tireless efforts in making sure everything with the Navy is squared away. We really couldn't have done it without y'all!!! THANK YOU!

The biggest blessing is that my family is back together for the first time in years. A crappy way to have a reunion but hey, that's life. We've always been a close family but we lose track of each other from time to time due to busy schedules. It's normal...but we realize that we all need to take more time out of our weeks for each other. This is just another trial to prove to ourselves how tough we really are. You cannot knock a Kannensohn down, it would seem. One of Dad's friends referred to us as Team Kannensohn - that sounds about right! :-)

Oh, back to the nurses! Sorry, my conversations and blogs jump around a bit. As Sammy would say, I'm all over the place like Seabiscut. Don't ask.

The nurses I had normally last week have come in on their off time after their shifts to check on me, one nurse brought me and Sam brownies, and one taught me breathing exercises to calm myself down when I have a panic attack. Florence Nightingale would be proud! They're not just nurses - they're angels. They're like my own little surrogate hospital family now and even when I'm out of the hospital, I plan on coming back to visit - probably as a volunteer (hopefully!).

In other news, I have started a list of things I want to do in my lifetime. I'm already to number 91. Some of the entries are simple advice I've picked up from my superiors, elders, betters, etc. that I won't cross off because it's a constant thing that I need to do (such as "pick your battles wisely" or "remind loved ones how much they mean to you regularly"). Some of the entries can be crossed off (like "learn to cook" or "buy a completely refurbished 1967 Chevy Impala"). It's an organic, growing list. I didn't do it on the computer because I want to go back and re-read things and writing it out seems more personal.

Ok, time to get back to bed! Big day tomorrow! Can't wait til Leah gets back! I missed her LOTS!

Leah - if you read this before you leave - DRIVE SAFE!!!!

Love, Cait

P.S. A big big big thank you and a hug to Joan Roulette for reminding me to update the journal. I had emailed her back and told her that not much had been going on and then I realized there was a lot I hadn't written!

P.P.S. Scrubs is an AWESOMELY funny show. Shouldn't be watching a hospital show while in the hospital but I've never really followed convention - why start now? LoL

P.P.P.S. If anyone has any suggestions on what to put on my list, let me know!

Scrabble Extravaganza!!!

I BEAT DAD AT SCRABBLE! 234 to 217!!!!! FIRST TIME!

That's me above enjoying my water of victory!

Dad requests a rematch to retain some dignity. Best outta 3. Apparently I won the battle but not the war. :-)

moving again!!!

I'm moving to room 760 to my own private room! I'm sad to leave my roommate but I'm glad to have some privacy finally!

WOO!!!

Hearts and love and kisses,

Cait

It's been awhile...

Sorry for not updating lately!

I'm sitting here hanging out. I am doing MUCH MUCH MUCH better. I feel SO much like my old self again. I'm walking around a lot better without feeling dizzy or tired. Sam, Katie, Justin, Meagan and I all ate lunch in the cafeteria yesterday. It felt so NORMAL, which was so refreshing.

OH! I got a shower. a REAL shower (as opposed to a sponge bath) the other day. Right before they change the dressings on my stomach, I'm allowed to take a shower because they're going to get changed anyway so it doesn't matter if they get wet. I never thought I'd feel so grateful for a shower. It was HEAVEN!

I went outside TWICE the other day when it was really really nice. I went with Sam the first time and Katie and Sam the second time. 

I like to get out in the wheelchair at least once a day to go explore the hospital. I can maneuver it pretty well! I only use the wheelchair when I'm going a long distance. I'm doing a lot of leg exercises today with my thera-bands (huge rubber bands that I can do muscle resistance training with).

I have a new roommate and she's awesome. Very nice lady. Her son is adorable and her family is really cool.

Shouldn't be too much longer before I get to go home. I feel about 100 times better than I did the first time I was discharged from the hospital.

Love you all! Your prayers and love made this speedy recovery a reality!!!! :-)

Love, Cait

Time is on my side...yes it is...

Sorry - as the title suggests, I got nothin but time so I wanted to post again real quick to something that happened today (aside from my roommate taking a spill out of bed and quoting a circa 1990s TV commercial for elderly healthcare aids).

I was getting my vitals taken when Greg Roulette (Sam's uncle) and Sam were over. Sam and I were arguing about whether or not Gary Busey and Nick Nolte look the same. I said they do in certain pics (Nolte has gained a LOT of weight since Tropic Thunder) and Sam disagreed. Greg agreed with me because Greg is smart and Greg and I are CORRECT.

Anyway, my nurse had me hooked up to read my pulse and she had to tell me to stop arguing with Sam about Nolte/Busey because it was speeding up my pulse and if she recorded it at 145 they would probably put me on heart meds again. I had to take 10 deep breaths (and Sam had to shut up for 5 minutes) to get it down to 108.

Thanks, Sam....you jerk.... :-)

Things are what they are...

As it was pointed out to me, I'm greatly contributing to the healthcare system and lowering the national deficit (thanks, Uncle Bryan :-D ). What can I say? I'm a helper....haha

Yeah...so...back in the hospital. Apparently I caught a bug. The CT scans came back negative thankfully so they're going with tummy virus and dehydration. It probably didn't help my stomach to go from hospital food to Subway, either. Lots of changes in a really short time, which is no one's fault - just one of those things. Seemed like a good idea at the time and then it didn't work out.

So LOTS of IV bags, some morphine, and some chocolate ice cream later...I'm feeling a lot better. Much much much better. I'm sitting up a lot better and moving around a little better day by day.

I've upgraded from "clear liquid" diet to "general liquid" diet. For lunch I had a really good potato soup - soooo much better than chicken broth day in and day out (ok, for 2 days but that's a LOT of chicken broth...and it's gross after while).

I have a roommate this time around. She's an 81 year old woman and she's a PISTOL! Reminds me a lot of my grandmother on my dad's side (Lolly). She has a bad memory so she forgets that she broke her hip sometimes and thinks she can walk.

She fell out of her bed today when Sam and I were watching a movie on my laptop. I didn't know she had fallen because the curtain separates us but she started moaning said "I've fallen and I can't get up."...so I had a pretty good indication she had fallen. I pushed my call button and Sam got up to go get help. She yelled, "and there goes a man walkin' by and he doesn't even care!". I tried to calm her down while Sam got help and explain to her that he wasn't ignoring her - he just wasn't medically trained to help her. A whole SWARM of nurses and techs came in to help her up by the time Sam got through alerting the whole ward. It was pretty chaotic but everything worked out.

She's ok and got checked out. She got pain meds and her family came to visit so all is well.

As far as karma goes, Sam and I know why I'm in the hospital and why he has diabetes - we can't stop laughing that she actually said "I've fallen and I can't get up."...after we knew she was ok, of course...but still...damn, I feel guilty. Please tell me we're not alone in thinking that it's a LITTLE funny she said that...

Ok enough from me. Hope all is well with everyone!

Love, Caity

P.S. Anyone got any good funny movies they want to suggest? I got nothin but time. Books?

Status Update -- Friday, March 20

Caitlin was readmitted to UK Medical Center this morning for a stay of perhaps a few days. She has struggled with nausea -- most seriously all last night -- and she is badly dehydrated. Tests are being run to determine the cause and to rule out any infection.

We are awaiting a room assignment, but she is being treated in the meantime. While this is distressing -- most particularly for Caitlin -- in some ways it is a relief, because last night at home was frightening for the family.

All in all, we think the doctor's decision to readmit is in her best interest right now. We just have to -- once again -- readjust to things as they are.

Status Report -- Tuesday, March 17

Wow! Caitlin moved back home late yesterday, and her room was ready for her. Leah did the decorating, and we made it as comfortable and cheerful as possible.

Our major hurdle with the room yesterday was "evicting" Stewie, Leah's cat, who believed all the work had been done for her! I had made the bed and left the room to retrieve a pillow. When I returned, I noted a lump under the covers. Puzzled, I tried to smooth it. Stewie (who is, to put it kindly, quite eccentric) had nestled beneath it and settled in.

The night went well, and our initial fears proved groundless. We had gotten things pretty well under control due to Leah's planning -- which is so organized, efficient, and detailed it can't have come from either parent. Must be a genetic mutation or a gene which skipped Mike's and my generation -- a gift from some ancestor, which Caitlin also blessedly inherited.

Today was hectic. Home health care nurse and occupational therapist were here. Physical therapist will follow. It's complicated but reassuring. We will need a large wall calendar to keep everything straight!

Give us a week, and we'll have all this down to a science. We hope.

Caitlin is very tired and requires a great deal of rest. With all the frenzy around her right now, that's understandable.

We're just grateful to have her here with us. This is simply another step in the healing process. Everything will fall into place as it should.

Monday

So Monday is the big moving day. Some of my flowers have been taken back to my parents' house but my wall is still covered so it doesn't feel bare or anything, which is nice.

I think I have the mini-vac apparatus thing down to an art...it's pretty easy to work. Oh and it has an 8 hour charge as opposed to a 4 hour charge, which is nice. I might actually get to go out and see a movie or something! There's a battery monitor and stuff, too so that's handy.

I got up and walked down the hall today with Dad. It's so weird being so winded and tired after a short walk but my body has been in a state of non-movement for a loooooong time, so it's to be expected. It gets easier day by day. I actually walked further down the hall than I did last time, so that's good!

Other than all that, there's not much to report. I have been resting mostly today and Sam is coming in soon. He was just here with his friend Nick, who I got to finally meet, and now he's showing Nick where the garage is and is comin back on his own.

Leah, Mom, and Dad have been working tirelessly to get the house and my room ready and I am SO grateful to them for it! "Team Kannensohn" can accomplish just about anything, I think.

Although I'm a little apprehensive about going home with a wound vac and all this other stuff and protocols, I'm super happy to be with my family and have the familiarity of home (plus Momma's cooking!!!).

Alright, that's enough from me. Hope everyone is doing great on this Saturday evening! :-)

Love, Cait

Status Update -- March 14

We didn't post yesterday, because we were stunned: Caitlin is coming home on Monday.

Because of youth, physical fitness, and the fact miracles do occur, she has exceeded time line expectations.

We were stunned, because we were caught totally unprepared. Once again, the U.S. Navy came through with incredible support and assistance.

Her incision site is still open and covered by the wound vac system. Only a few millimeters separate her abdominal cavity from the rest of the world. She will bring home a portable vacuum with about a three-hour capacity when off electric current. We'll have a home nursing service to assist her, and we will do the daily personal routines of post abdominal surgery, as well as hygiene for/with her.

So. The next two days will be a whirlwind of sanitizing the house, organizing surrounding rooms while setting up a back bedroom near a bathroom, preparing for delivery of a new bed, assembling basic needs, etc. The Navy is shipping in medical supplies.

This is all new to us, and it's a bit scary. But, we'll figure it out, and suspect that within a few days of her return we'll have a very efficient routine set out.

The primary thing is that she's with us, and will be HOME. We can remain with her during the continued healing and surgeries and other treatment.

"Never never never quit" - Winston Churchill

Haven't updated in awhile. Things are kind of up in the air right now as to whether or not I'm going home or going to the VA hospital for my Navy check up as soon as TOMORROW!

Hopefully I'll know what's going on soon!

Katie came in today and put up a string of star lights in my room - my room RULES! The doctors/nurses/housekeeping people all comment on my flowers, cards, and decorations when they come in. It's become kind of a game for them to pick out what's new since the last time they came in. 

In other less happy news, Sam has diabetes. He blames his trip to Wisconsin (haha!). He's doing just fine and got his insulin and was educated on what he needs to do. They don't know if it's type one or two yet so they're just covering their bases until they get test results back. He's not too happy about having to give up brownies but he's taking it really really well - very positive person.

Please keep him in your prayers and thoughts!!!

Hey guys

Physical therapy came by today and I walked down the hall - also walked up/down 4 stairs and they gave me some strengthening exercises.

I didn't get to go outside as planned because things were a little chaotic but I'll probably get to go out later.

My room has gotten to look a lot like, well, MY room. Lots of pictures, cards and stuff posted up on the walls. Definitely feeling very homey!

Anyway, that's my quick update for the day! Hope all is well with y'all! :)

Status Update -- Sunday 8 March

For those who've "been there" (either as a patient or as concerned family), it will come as no surprise that a hospital room possibly is less restful than Grand Central Station!

Yesterday Caitlin showed more sustained stamina throughout the day than before, but she's still visibly weak, and welcomes times when she can just take a nap.

The wound is still open but sealed. Even to a non-medically trained eye, it's obviously healthy. So, once again, we happily report another day of progress. Caitlin remains stoic and in good spirits, but she's showing signs of worrying unduly about little things. We view even that as a strong signal that she's healing, that return to her normal "worry-wart" self.

Once again, we cannot adequately praise the UKMC staff. We encounter a seemingly boundless spirit of genuine concern, professionalism, optimism, plain talking, and good humor everywhere we look: from the medical staff, to housekeeping, dieticians, cafeteria workers, shuttle bus drivers, parking lot attendants, volunteers, etc., etc. No wonder they are part of miracles every day.

Ok here we are...

Not going to go TOO crazy on the posting so I don't bore y'all to tears but Leah just gave me my own account. It's been a really good day so far and Sam's coming in tonight from Wisconsin.

They went ahead and upgraded me to a normal diet so I'm eating normal food now. My appetite isn't what it used to be since I've lost a lot of weight but I can drink my weight in liquids, for sure! I cannot get enough water, apparently!

I don't even crave Coke, oddly enough.

Ok, that's enough outta me!

Hope all is well with y'all! :)

Ah ha!

Caitlin here!! HI!

Ok, so I kinda figured this whole posting thing out. A little bit anyway. Leah's working out right now and I'm chilling here and eatin my breakfast. I'm eating, walking, talking, etc. I might as well post a bit, right? LoL. I might tackle a crossword here in a bit, which should be fun...I've always liked those. I've also made a list of a bunch of stuff I want to do when I'm able to do so (when I get out of the hospital). Oddly enough? I've been jonesin to go swimming really badly. I can't explain it but I guess I've always been kind of a water baby. Swimming is really peaceful. There's a bunch of stuff on there - just long and short term goals to keep me focused. I have loads of time to think about these things - lol. The hospital is a great place for self reflection.

I also have loads of time to read the wonderful comments, emails, cards that I've been getting! I also have the benefit of smelling/seeing the most beautiful floral arrangements. For this. THANK YOU ALL SO VERY MUCH! I couldn't ask for better people in my corner and I feel truly blessed with such a wonderful support structure. Y'all have been so great to me and my family - if y'all ever need anything, please don't hesitate to ask!

Thank y'all again and I'll try to keep y'all as updated as possible so Leah doesn't have to.

LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!!!!!!!

- SuperCaity

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Status Update-- Friday, March 6

What can I say? It was another incredible day. Caitlin has graduated from clear liquids to milk-based foods and can now enjoy creamy soups, ice cream, and pudding, among other things! She had white bean soup, ice cream AND pudding for dinner. And Jello, of course.

Our sleeping arrangement in her room reminds me of when we were kids-- both in twin beds (well, a recliner for me). The only difference is Caitlin hasn't been talking herself to sleep like she did back then.

We watched a silly mindless movie tonight (House Bunny) with Caitlin's friends KT and Jesse, which was fun and relaxing. I almost forgot we were in the hospital for a second.

Caitlin received a TON of e-greetings today from more people than I could name--- She sends thanks and love to you all. I think the hospital might start charging her for paper! If you have a few minutes free in the coming days, keep them coming. She has so much fun reading them.

Today was a great day and maybe the first day Dad, Mom, Caitlin and I have really felt relaxed. Hoping for a great day again tomorrow, but most of all, very thankful for today!

Love and happy weekend to all,

Leah

Status Update-- Thursday, March 5

Caitlin had a much better night with a lot fewer interruptions...

She crossed another big hurdle today.

DRUMROLL PLEASE...

They graduated her to the Jackson Trache and she now has a valve in so SHE CAN TALK!

It was so great to hear her voice to go along with her always lively facial expressions. She's resting again right now with an utterly pleased and happy look on her face.

Her room is filled with balloons, cards, e-greetings, comic books, an awesome angel figurine, and the most gorgeous flowers. It smells wonderful in here! And, Caitlin just SAID, "I love 'em!"

Thanks to all for the well wishes...it is great for her to know how loved she is!

-Leah

Update @ 7:30pm: Cait can have water again and is now allowed to have a little jello, too! I don't think we've ever been so excited about jello in our lives!!!

Status Update-- Wednesday, March 4

I spent the night at the hospital with Caitlin last night. The nurses hooked me up with a cloth recliner, which apparently is a rare commodity around these parts and it's pretty comfortable!

Caitlin had a rough night, I suspect in part because of the move and the new surroundings, nurses, etc.

Her feeding tube came out last night and it appears that she aspirated a little, so unfortunately, she's back to no liquids or nutrients; after being able to enjoy Sprite yesterday, that's really hard for her.

She had a fever last night and her pulse was pretty elevated, so they ran an EKG and did a couple of chest x-rays. She had a CT scan today to check out her lungs. Her white blood cell count is really high, which means there is an infection somewhere (not uncommon in the hospital), so she's back on antibiotics. They are trying to figure out the source of the infection.

Needless to say, neither of us got much sleep last night, but she's resting peacefully now and I hope there won't be too many interruptions today, so she can rest up. She's a little down and anxious to "Go home...and go swimming" as she wrote to me earlier.

Again, I am reminded that there are going to be good days and bad ones. I hate to see her in pain/upset/uncomfortable/scared, but am trying to keep a positive attitude especially when I'm around her. We're going to wash her hair later (with non-hospital issued shampoo AND conditioner!), so she's excited about that. Anything that we can do to normalize this situation is a good thing right now.

Please send lots of prayers today and if you have a spare moment, send on an e-greeting to Caitlin. I think today especially is one when it'd be great for her to know how many people out there are thinking about her!

To send an e-greeting:

http://www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/eGreet

She's in Room 564. (List Caitlin Kannensohn as the name and Lexington, KY as the hometown).

P.S. She just received a couple of e-greetings-- Thanks, Sam!

P.P.S. She just received about 10 more! Thank you all! I can't wait til she wakes up and sees them!

-Leah

Send Caitlin an e-greeting!

Caitlin is getting settled into her room. I am staying here tonight with her. Lots of requests for her room number-- it's 564 in UK Medical Center.

To send her letters and cards, etc.:

Caitlin Kannensohn

Room 564

UK Chandler Hospital

800 Rose Street

Lexington, KY 40536-0293

Also, UK Healthcare has a really cool feature where you can send patients an e-greeting. The nurses print them out everyday and deliver them to the patients. I would love for anyone and everyone to send an e-greeting to Caitlin and keep them coming! I know she'll love to hear from all of you!

Here is the link:

http://www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/eGreet

Thanks!

Leah

Status Update-- Tuesday, March 3

Sitting here at the hospital...It's our last day in the SICU waiting room because CAITLIN IS GETTING MOVED TO A ROOM TODAY!!!!!!!! She has made enormous strides today and is really excited about having her own room.

Another thing she's really excited about: She can drink clear liquids now including SPRITE! I've never seen anyone so excited about Sprite before, and it really makes me think about the little things in life we should all appreciate.

There were lots of high fives and smiles when we visited Caitlin and found out she'd be moved today. As soon as we find out what floor, etc., we'll be sure to let yall know.

She also was able to read through the blog thanks to my trusty iPhone and she was very appreciative of all the comments and outpourings of love from all of you-- please keep them coming, since she'll be reading it from now on, and I suspect, eventually taking over some of the posting duties.

She will be graduating to a Jackson trache (we like to think it's named for our distant relative Stonewall Jackson), which will enable her to talk soon.

It's been a banner day and we're so excited!!!!!

Status Update -- Monday, March 2

We'd been forewarned by the doctors that this would be a "roller coaster ride" of recovery -- that good days would be followed by not-so-good ones. That's an apt description of what we saw today. It wasn't bad (which is, of course, good in our new world...); it was just quiet. Caitlin slept almost all day; she'd been only lightly sedated for the changing of the wound pack which seals the section of the incision still open, and she slept all day.

At one point while I was there she woke up enough to, I think, recognize me for an instant, and then was totally disoriented. That's hard to see, and I hope my reassurances about where and how she was doing were sufficient to ease the panic I saw in her eyes. She drifted back to sleep.

So, it was a quiet day for her, and we pray and believe that these quiet, resting days are healing times. Her fatigue possibly also was a response to the previous, more alert, responsive days we've just seen.

She's still improving, and that is all that counts.

Status Update-- Saturday, February 28 & Sunday, March 1

Caitlin is demonstrating reservoirs of strength. When I visited her yesterday, I complimented her on being so tough-minded through this ordeal, and she wrote in all caps, "I DO NOT QUIT."

She was very tired today, but we took her a sleeping mask, for which she was very thankful. We hope she'll get a good night's rest.

It looks like she'll be moved to her own room soon and we're very anxious for that as is she.

We've been so thankful for her wonderful nurses, who were so kind and brought her a bear with notes wishing her well, which trumped the UK bear I brought her.

Thanks again for all your thoughts, prayers, and comments!

-Mike

Status Update-- Friday, February 27

Best day by far!!!!

I'm happy to report that Caitlin is breathing on her own!!! We are beside ourselves with excitement over this big step. Her nurses say she'll probably have her own room within the next couple of days. Caitlin is excited for that possibility because she's having trouble sleeping with all the hubbub in Surgical ICU.

We had a lot of great interactions with her today as she is able to write on a dry erase board that the nurses provided. They washed her hair today, so she is looking really good. I bought her a super cool black headband with pink skull & crossbones on it that she loves and it makes her look pretty tough, if I do say so myself.

So excited right now and can't wait til she can talk again! Keep those prayers coming!

-Leah

Status Update-- Wednesday, February 25 and Thursday, February 26

Sorry for the tardy post, we were just exhausted again yesterday!

We've had a couple of great days with Caitlin and lots of interactions with her that ensure us it's still the same old Caitlin! The swelling in her hands in reducing, so we hope she will be able to communicate with us in writing soon.

Today they were able to partially close her incision. Using a mesh substance, they sealed the stomach cavity. While the remainder of the closing will be (hopefully) in the near future, the Doctor described this as a big step forward.

Yesterday, we met with a representative from the Navy and were able to learn a bit more about her current and future status. Right now, she's on a medical hold under a new program called Safe Harbor, which is a blessing for sailors in similar situations.

Thanks for your continued thoughts, prayers, and comments on this blog!

-Leah

Status Report -- Monday, February 24

Tardy again on posting. The days seem to melt away. Leah and I saw Caitlin late last night after she'd recovered a bit from the tracheostomy. She seemed to be resting comfortably after a bath and the procedure, and it was wonderful once again to see her whole face.

The nurse reported an attempt to free her arms from restraint (mild though it is) was successful for a bit. Not surprisingly, however, restlessness and anxiety recurred, and she pulled the new trach tube from her throat. Ouch! Back to restraints for the time being.

All three of us were so happy to get brief smiles during our visits.

--------------------------
REMINDER: We are working hard to prevent any infections in ourselves, however mild.
The reason is that we won't be able to visit Caitlin if we get one. When she gets stronger she not only will want but will need visits, but we're trying to be careful right now -- not only for her, but for all those in the SICU who, like her, are fighting pneumonia and other infections.

Status Update -- Monday, February 23

They were unable to close Caitlin's surgical incision today, but while she was under anaesthesia they were able to check the status of the intestines, and they remain healthy and uninfected. That's excellent news! They'll try to suture again on Wednesday; hopefully by then the swelling will have receded enough.

We learned today that yesterday she received an additional two pints of blood, for a low hematacrit, not because of any loss due to bleeding.

She's still heavily sedated -- partly due to aftermath of anaesthesia; partly for pain relief, and partly for anxiety relief.

They also have begun the protocol for weaning from the ventilator; the alternative will be the tracheostomy, which will be a step forward to our understanding.

It's heartrending for us to see how difficult this is for her, but we remain focused on the many little steps she's taken since a week ago Saturday. The biggest step of all, of course, is that she's with us. That is everything!

Status Update -- Sunday, February 22

Today is another "quiet day." Caitlin's been so active they've had to give her tranquilizers to relax her, and have had to restrain her legs. She's proving literally that she's a "fighter"...

Tomorrow they will close the incision after they recheck the intestines. Her fever is low grade. She didn't wake up when we went in, but seemed to be sleeping peacefully. She looked more comfortable without the neck brace.

Since it's another quiet day for her, we're taking the cue and will rest again to prepare for tomorrow.

We have come to know other families who are in similar -- or worse -- situations by sharing space in the ICU waiting room. We never knew... It's amazing and wonderful how we're all bonding, we strangers whose paths are crossing only briefly and through adversity.

We trade good news and mutual support and prayers for both good and bad news. We all share newspapers and food; give restaurant/housing/other advice and offer rides or to run errands to/for out-of-towners. It's a little village actually, but it's a good little village. We are seeing how -- even in the worst of times -- humans can rise to great goodness. What a blessed and much needed reminder!

Status Update -- Saturday, February 21

We are obviously tardy in posting for yesterday. It likely will come as no surprise to anyone (except us) that yesterday evening we finally "crashed."

Caitlin was so uncomfortable and restless yesterday morning that her nurses declared a "quiet day." (They probably should have extended that rule to us also, but it's doubtful we'd have been able to process such good advice...). She was heavily sedated to give her some ease from coughing spells (the pneumonia) and the whole confusing, frustrating ordeal she's undergone.

Good things: Her neck brace was removed because the MRI happily reconfirmed no neck injury. She was bathed and groomed, and we hope that -- overall -- she got some small relief.

Still no sutures or removal of ventilator, but we're told she's relying less now on latter.

Patience has never been one of our nuclear family's virtues, but we're progressing, we think...

The U.S. Navy Deserves a Salute!

We received a call a few days ago from a wonderful, immensely helpful lady who assists families and servicemen/women in our situation navigate the intricacies of available military medical services and benefits.

She called us; we didn't have to find her.

Her name is Georgia Monsam, and she exemplifies the very best of "public service" and professionalism. Not only is she a font of vital information and guidance, she obviously cares deeply about the individual service member and her/his family.

Mike is so impressed by her the question is will he: a. try to hire her; b. award her a medal; c. award her a crown, or d. try to adopt her into our family?

I think the answer is "All of the above!"

Many of Caitlin's superior officers and peers have kept in constant contact with guidance, support, and prayers. We are so grateful.

When Cait enlisted in the U.S. Navy, she followed the footsteps of her maternal great-grandfather [WWI], two great-uncles [WWII], her second cousin [retired Commander/USNA grad & a mentor], as well as her paternal grandmother [WAVE, WWII].

When she enlisted, she also forged her link in an unbroken maternal family chain of military service. Her ancestors have served in one or another branch of service, during peace-time as well as in every war fought by this nation, beginning with the American Revolution!

Status Update-- Friday, February 20

Today, for the first time, we were able to communicate with Caitlin despite the heavy sedation and the ventilator. Those of you who know her are familiar with her dramatic facial expressions, and they were our primary cues to our assurances, questions, and comments.

We were elated to see the smiles, grimaces, eye rolls and "meanie" stares. She was restless and uncomfortable and frustrated that her hands were tied to prevent her ripping out the ventilator; she cried when she first saw me (Margaret), but that quickly passed. We recognize all of that is to be expected, and were awed that she remained -- in greatest part -- as calm as she did.

Heart rate, b/p, and fever are down a bit. Pain is controlled.

We think the ventilator will be replaced with trach tube possibly tomorrow, and if MRI from today reconfirms no neck injury, the brace will be removed. Those two things will permit her to talk and to move her head, which will give so much relief.

Once again, we are grateful for even the smallest progress. To us each little step is a major blessing!

Status Update-- Thursday, February 19

Caitlin underwent surgery again today (her fourth).  

While everything looks good inside (blood flowing where it should, bowels intact, etc.), she is still too swollen for them to suture her up.  They will try again in a couple of days.

She remains on the ventilator and probably will be for a day or so more.  If she isn't ready to breathe on her own by the weekend, they will switch her to a trach tube.  Seems awful to contemplate, but -- in the scheme of things...not really.

She has developed a little pneumonia, which is not unexpected.  She's been on a low dosage of antibiotics since Saturday, but they stepped it up significantly today. 

For the above reasons, she was too sedated for us to feel she was aware we were there.  What was most important to us, of course, was that SHE was there.

Finally, if the CAT scan they run tomorrow reconfirms the first report of no neck/spinal injuries, they will remove her cumbersome neck brace.

Today was another reminder that we have to take this day by day and learn to be patient and ever grateful for even tiny signs of progress.

Please keep those prayers coming.  They are working!

Also, we've had some requests for our address:

The Kannensohns

320 McDowell Road

Lexington, KY 40502

--Leah

Please donate blood!

Just got back from donating blood in the UK Hospital across from the cafeteria.

Caitlin lost a lot of blood after the accident and we are so grateful that there was enough on hand for her.  Giving blood is another thing that we've realized is such an important duty in life.

If you get a chance today or sometime soon, please give some blood if you can and think about Caitlin when you do.

If you're in Lexington, the blood drive here is until 5pm today. You can also donate tomorrow here at UK Med from 8am to 5pm.

Here is the website for the Central Kentucky Blood Center where you can find local blood drives :

www.kybloodcenter.org

So far we've had 2 people donate in honor of Caitlin.  Please leave a comment if you donate, so we can keep track!

Thanks so much! I will be posting an update soon,

Leah

Williamstown Fire Department

Being there from the moment of the accident until she was airlifted out of the area to Lexington; I really have to commend the Williamstown Fire Department for their amazing performance.  Not only did they get onto the scene in a very fast amount of time, they made the right call to airlift her out to a trauma center, and had that airlift there in minutes.  From the time of the accident until they responded and got her airlifted away was maybe 20 to 25 minutes.  Considering the rural location of the farm this is in my humble opinion nothing short of absolutely amazing.

If anyone would like to thank them, you can contact them at:

Williamstown Fire Department

404 N Main St
Williamstown, KY 41097

859 824 4959

Chief Whalen of the WFD was actually the first responder to the accident and did an outstanding job.  I'm really grateful that they were so professional and quick when it was needed.

Sam

Status Update-- Wednesday, February 18

Today, Caitlin crossed another hurdle. 

She has her own room in UKMC ICU.  She's starting to look more like herself because the swelling continues to recede.  She remained heavily sedated and likely was unaware when we went in to visit.

Tomorrow, the surgeons hope to begin the process of suturing her incisions; if not tomorrow, the next day.

And especially heartening is their hope that they may be able to remove her from the ventilator.

She is extremely jaundiced, but we are told that is to be expected.  She is under the care of a wonderful medical team.

Her vital signs remain good.

On a lighter note...

Caitlin comes from a long line of people who confront good and bad times with a great story, no matter how many times it's been told.  

The true Southerner cares more for the tale and the telling of the tale then for minor details such as truthfulness, adherence to plot line or proper identification of starring characters.

So what's your favorite Caitlin tale?

We'll start with one of ours...

Caitlin showed her strong Southern genetic disposition at the art of taletelling at an early age.  One summer, when she was 3 and incapable of remaining in one spot for more than two seconds, she began routine rounds of the pool at the Tennis Club-- making friends, likely dispensing unwanted advice, and otherwise just being the Caitlin she still is today.

One afternoon, a stranger walked up to Mike and Margaret and remarked at their kindness for letting their orphaned niece from New York City visit them for the summer.  When met with utter confusion, the lady quickly pointed to the Coca-Cola swimsuit-clad blonde curly-headed busy body selling her sad story to the next gullible group.  

We've got plenty more, but now it's your turn...remember, in our finest family tradition, gross exaggeration is welcome, and--in fact--expected, and would-be fiction writers are encouraged to participate!

-Margaret & Leah

Sometimes, life...

Saturday, 14 February, our life was best summarized by a current t.v. ad:  "Sometimes life comes at you fast!"

How true.  But how best to view that fact is all a matter of perspective, and we can honestly say that in a scant few days our perspective of life has been dramatically altered.

First example:  The most important word in the slogan above is "life."  Only a day or so before Caitlin's accident, Mike and I had both been moved by President Obama's comment on the tragic airplane crash in Buffalo.  "It reminds us," the President noted, "just how fragile life really is."

In the past few days Mike and I have told each other how struck each of us had been by that sobering comment.

And, in the past few days, we've seen it first hand.

At the bottom line,  because of its very fragility, it is a gift all the more precious...not only because we still have Caitlin with us, but because we've been reminded we must approach  life every day with a renewed appreciation and joy.

Second example:  Things which we once viewed with absolute horror, we've learned are great gifts.  Take the concept of a loved one on a ventilator.   Once in the realm of nightmares, we now see it for the life-sustaining gift it really is.  Massive and repeated surgical intrusion?  Ditto!  And on and on.

These are only two of countless examples of our changes in perspective.  What we hope and pray is that we won't need another crash course to remind us!

This has been -- will no doubt continue to be -- a significant journey.  Without the incredible and humbling outpouring of well wishes and kindnesses and (we believe most important of all) fervent prayers we know Caitlin and our family would not have made it through even these few days.  With them, we are absolutely confident we can and will stay this course!

Margaret