Hi all:
It has been one week since Greg's surgery to clip his aneurysm. What a week!! Seven days of heartache, tears, ups, downs, smiles, hugs, faith, and hope. We have been held up on this journey by our friends, families and each other. The outpouring of love from everyone has changed us forever. Watching our children pull for one another and understanding just how many friends they all have all across the country is simply remarkable. Jill has an attitude and outlook that is so positive. I admire her unconditionally and know that she will be the key to Greg's recovery.
What we have experienced has been absolutely nothing compared to what my "best friend" has endured. His exhibition of strength, courage, and will, is what has helped him survive and what will drive him down a long road toward his ultimate recovery. We are not only proud, but inspired by him every minute of every day.
Today was supposed to be a quiet day for the big guy. I supposed compared to prior days it was. An Ultrsound, EKG and constant intervention by doctors, nurses, IV nurses, blood draws, constant badgering by his father to "squeeze my hand"or "wiggle your toes"or "open your eyes" was probably more than most of us could tolerate. I am told he will have no memory of this. At this point we are pleased with the responses on the left side, but his right side is not as consistent and has a way to go.
His biggest challenge today was fighting a bit of a fever which is common in post brain surgery situations. The staff wrapped him in an ice blanket for most of last night and today which I know was terribly uncomfortable and caused him at times to shiver. It was heartbreaking to watch at times, but we know it is very important to the healing of brain injuries.
He had visits from his sisters Jehan and Natalie and his favorite father in law John. Our nurse and doctor friends at the Brigham, Emilie, Jess, Jason, Sean Levy, and Chris also stopped in to check on our guy. Greg also would have been so pleased to know that his buddy, Godfather, and friend Leo was able to stop by for a visit. He and Greg have one special relationship. Just for proper accounting, John has fallen four sleeves short on his golf ball commitment. I know he will catch up and follow through on this!
The really good news of he day came at 7:00 am this morning when Dr. Chiocca called to inform us that the pathology results were back from the tumor biopsy. The tumor is a type I glioma that is benign and likely present for many years. It is a rare form of glioma and the treatment or removal of this will be a discussion down the road. This is especially good news in that we can now comfortably focus on the present situation and Greg's recovery from his aneurysm.
Tomorrow is a big day in terms of his status. An angiogram is scheduled for tomorrow morning which will give us an indication of where we are in terms of the vasospasms as well another look at the blip that they have been carefully observing. The hope is that the blip is not an indictation of another unsecured aneurysm. The team here is so committed to managing his spasms and avoiding the potential for a stroke. We are so appreciative of their efforts and grateful that they have cutting edge resources and technology.
His room is becoming quite the gallery of fine art from his nieces and nephews and the Got children. This certainly brightens our spirit and I know when Greg's sees all their artwork he too will cherish their messages of love and best wishes for Uncle Greggie.
Pray for some positive results tomorrow!!
Pops
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