Monday, August 27, 2012

West Nile Update On "General Bill"

Today marks one month that my Dad has been in Intensive Care in Dallas with West Nile Encephalitis.  Thank you to all of our friends and family who have been praying for my Dad.  We thought it would be a good time to send out an update.

Overall, he would still be considered in "critical" condition.  He is extremely weak.  His heart has stabilized, and he did not have to be on a ventilator, or have a tracheotomy.  The doctors tell us that is something to be very thankful for.  He is still sleeping much of the time.

He is moving today to a long term care Hospital.  These are our specific prayer requests:

1. Healing of his brain and nervous system-no seizures, or fluid on the brain, and return of normal cognitive function.
2. Alert, and awake so he can communicate.
3.  Strength to do physical and occupational therapy to learn to eat, walk, etc.
4. Successful removal of feeding tube.
5. No complications with his heart, diabetes, or bacteria/viruses he is coming into contact with.
6. Transition to long term care Hospital.

We are so thankful for family and friends who have been there to love and support our family during this illness.  I am so proud of my Dad for his continued good attitude.  When I left yesterday to fly back home, he whispered, "I love you."  I'm not sure those words have ever sounded so sweet.  We so appreciate your continued prayers for his continued healing.

"My soul waits in silence for God only; From Him is my salvation.  He is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken." Psalm 62:1-2