Monday, January 26, 2015

26 January 2015 - 2:49 PM

Yesterday when I realized we would never really know when we were going home, until the day they tell us, I decided I would try and spend the afternoons at work.  I can't really get anything done at the hospital, even though I could do my work remotely.

So I left at 12:45 to go to work. At 1:45 I got a call from Alisa to come back.  Nothing serious, but not exactly a productive 30 minutes at the office.

Here is the reason I got called back in.

The pain team came in and talked about other options for controlling pain.  Alisa is resistant to do anything that seems palliative, so she was not super excited about this idea, but we decided it would be the best.

The new plan for pain is to install a pain pump inside Alisa's body (http://professional.medtronic.com/pt/neuro/idd/edu/index.htm#.VMa57mTF_xI)
It is a little bit like a permanent epidural, but it shouldn't mess with the muscle function.  It will have a base rate and she can also give more as needed.  It is controlled remotely (that's cool).  The surgery to install the pump takes about an hour and is scheduled for early this evening.  She will need to be observed for at least 24 hours post op.  The doctors all think this is the way to go (including Joan, who we trust with our lives).  Alisa has been very clear headed today and feels like this will help her continue to fight.

Looks like a couple of more days in the hospital, totally worth it.

10 comments:

  1. Yay!! Glad you got some good news today!

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  2. oh so glad that they figured out a way to control the pain!!! will keep you guys in our prayers

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  3. I think this is a great option. I'm super happy about her clarity today.

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  4. It's good to have an advocate and it sounds like Joan is just that. We will pray for her as she goes into surgery tonight. Thinking of you all.

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  5. This sounds like a good idea. We will be praying for you both this evening.

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  6. This sounds like a good idea. We will be praying for you both this evening.

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  7. Josh you and Alisa are such an inspiration to us we love you both and are praying for you and the boys. love Suzanne and Corby

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  8. Sounds like the best plan yet! I feel like a complete stalker! I'm constantly thinking about your family and along with everyone else praying praying praying! Keep fighting! We love you Alisa! Proud of you Josh, your strength amazes me!

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  9. What a good plan! I will pray the surgery goes well and that the pain pump helps. I'm so glad Alisa has such great nurses and doctors!

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  10. Sounds awesome!! Finally some relief! I'm so happy to hear Alisa was more of herself today. praying always. Thanks for the update!

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