Keep my Dad (and me) in your thoughts and prayers please...

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   TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years ago

   In what is absolutely the LAST thing I and what family I have left need to hear at this point in time - my father is back in the hospital with sepsis. He's been fighting an infection in the bones of his foot for ten years now, he is severely diabetic...and they're finally going to amputate his foot.
   
   I'm hoping to scrounge up the cash to make the trip to my home-town where he is and to see him before the surgery. I'm worried about his ability to withstand the procedure - and if he does - worried about his ability to handle life without a foot.
   
   If you pray, please keep us in your prayers...and if you don't, please just send a positive thought our way. I'd really appreciate it.
   
   Thanks in advance, guys.

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      lizladominicanaposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      No matter what happens, God is on your side. He will give you the strenght to make it through any situation. Just call to him, and he will answer. I will keep you in my prayers!

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      IzzyMposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I worked in this dept in a hospital many years ago - specifically, people (usually diabetics) with gangrene in a foot, and also people with peripheral vascular disease. I worked with them both pre-op and post-op through to limb fitting, and can reassure you that all of them, and some of them were very sick indeed, came through their operations with a new lease of life afterwards.
      That damaged and infected foot pulled them far further down than their pre-existing conditions...and once it was taken off and they were pain-free (or comparatively pain-free)and infection free and really it was great to see them walking out of hospital with a new life.
      So, yes it is major surgery but your dad is going to be a so much happier and healthier person without it. I wish you and your family all the best.

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      IntimatEvolutionposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      All my best spiritual blessings to you and your father.  And, I said a special prayer for you and your father.

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      Ben Evansposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I lost my father to lung cancer 2 years ago.  My best wishes are with your father.  I have a sense that your father will be all right.

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         Ben Evansposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         Sorry I dont want to imply something that bad would happen.  I just love my dad and I know how it is to be concerned.  I am sure your father will be fine and as others have said it will most likely be routine.  I wish your father well.

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      pinkboxerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Praying for you and your entire family. Be encouraged.

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      Stevennix2001posted 14 years agoin reply to this

      omg, that's terrible gs.  i had no idea this was happening in your life.  im sorry to hear about your father, and I hope everything goes okay and that you're able to see him.  Im sure your love and support will mean a lot to him during this whole ordeal.  i only wish there was more i could do to help you, as i know you don't deserve to have anything bad like this happen in your life.  anyway, i hope things work out for the best for you.

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      jill of alltradesposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I'm praying for you and your dad.
      God bless!

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      prettydarkhorseposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I havent read through the thread but I will pray for you Glass, and if times are hard remember to keep your head up and HUGS for you, keep us upated, you're in my thoughts and prayers, mostly for your Dad!

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      seanorjohnposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Will pray that your family get through this and that your Dad's quality of life improves as Izzy ponts out.

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       blake4dposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Blessings to you and your family GS. We all will be thinking of you. Blake4d

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          TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years agoin reply to this

          Thanks, Blake - that means a lot to me! *HUGS* I hope things are going well for you!

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   h.a.borcichposted 14 years ago

   In my prayers for sure. God Bless and God Speed to you, Holly

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   myownworldposted 14 years ago

   Sending you and your family much love... I hope you find the strength to see this through... do take care

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   Fluffymetalposted 14 years ago

   so sorry. sending my positive thoughts and prayers

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   Rafiniposted 14 years ago

   Prayers for you and your father

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   Lily Roseposted 14 years ago

   Many positive thoughts coming your way!

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   Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

   Your father and you are, of course, in the thoughts and prayers of a lot of Hubbers here (including mine).  That kind of surgery is far more common than a lot of us realize unless/until someone we know goes through it.  As Izzy pointed out, lots of people get through it and do well afterward.  (Diabetes and that kind of surgery touched my family and friends more than once.)
   
   This is a different medical problem (but it may kind of apply). My friend's mother needed a mastectomy.  My friend was SO worried about how her mother would handle things after the surgery.  My friend went to see her mother and was relieved when her mother said, "The way I look it at, good riddance."  She said her mother said what people often don't realize is that knowing the disease is there makes a person "just want it gone".  People so often, somehow, just have a way of coming to terms with this kind of thing.  The medical professionals helping people after amputation are amazing, and know just how to do things to help patients recover and adjust.

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   Cagsilposted 14 years ago

   Positive thoughts.

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   WriteAngledposted 14 years ago

   I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you will be able to make the journey to support your Dad and that the surgery will give him a new lease of life.

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    alternate poetposted 14 years ago

    I would point you back to Izzy here - my Dad went through all this and losing a foot is one issue, the improvement in life itself is a bigger thing and more than makes up for it all.  Good luck, hope you get to see your Dad, but don't over-worry huh !@

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    mrpopoposted 14 years ago

    You and your father will be in my prayers, TheGlassSpider. I wish you both all the best.

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    LeanManposted 14 years ago

    Thinking of you both GS, the human body is surprisingly resilient, I am sure he will be fine.. think positive..

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    TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years ago

    Hey, everybody. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your positive thoughts and prayers.
    
    Everything is in order, and I'll be leaving tomorrow afternoon.
    
    Izzy, AP, Lisa - all of you who've had similar experiences - thank you so much for your heartening words and the reports of what you've seen! It's really helped to hear what others have seen and been through, and now I feel hopeful that this will be a positive step. I feel a lot less scared, and  really appreciate it.
    
    I spoke with him again this evening and let him know what some of you had said; he seemed to feel a little better as well.
    
    I'll probably be off and on over the weekend. I will keep you guys up to date on his condition.
    
    Thank you all again!

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    Ohmaposted 14 years ago

    Positive thoughts and best wishes for all of your family Spidey!

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    Faybe Bayposted 14 years ago

    Oh GlassSpider I am so sorry to hear your dad is so sick! Izzy is right though, the hospital knows what it's doing. I will be praying for your family and the best medical care along with a swift recovery.

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    donotfearposted 14 years ago

    Spidey I wish you the very best and pray for wisdom for the doctors, strength for your Dad, and peace for you. Hang in there!

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    green tea-cherposted 14 years ago

    God's Blessings on your father and your family. I offer my prayers for a successful recovery.

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    SomewayOuttaHereposted 14 years ago

    i wish your father and family well...and yes positive thoughts your way...

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    emievilposted 14 years ago

    Praying for you and your father. Good luck and stay strong.

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    habeeposted 14 years ago

    I'm praying AND sending positive thoughts! Oh, and here's a cyber hug, too!

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    Aficionadaposted 14 years ago

    I'm praying and will pray for your father, you, all of your family.  Travel safely; know you are loved.

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    AEvansposted 14 years ago

    I will pray for you and yours

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    Mike Lickteigposted 14 years ago

    Positive thoughts and prayers as well for your father and your entire family.

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    gramaryeposted 14 years ago

    I'm sending my thoughts. Stay strong and think positive.

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    Originposted 14 years ago

    Sending positive thoughts to your father and family.

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    Jeff Berndtposted 14 years ago

    Thoughts and prayers to you and yours, Spidey.

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    H.C Porterposted 14 years ago

    Keep your chin up and try to be strong. Hopefully without the foot and infection, your father will feel better all the way around. My uncle lost one of his legs from the knee down, his arm from the elbow down and 75% usage of the other hand (after an accident at work)...because he had always been so active, we were worried about his spirits if he survived the surgeries. Although there was an adjustment period and lots of physical therapy-he was "High on Life", and happy that he was alive. Looking back on the years I knew my uncle before the accident-I dont believe he actually enjoyed his life and family until after it happened. Point is...people can surprise you, and themselves with their abilities to survive and cope. With you loving him, support from loved ones, and less pain-he might feel better an have a new outlook. Just try and be positive for him, specially if he is having a hard time with it himself.
    I will keep you in my thoughts and on my prayer list

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    susanlangposted 14 years ago

    Sometimes we all need a prayer or two and now seems to be your time. I went to a viewing many years ago after a close friend died from a long illness she suffered with much pain. I said many prayers for her soul and remaining family, then the minster who spoke on behalf of her family said something that remains with me still today. He said, "From the moment we are born, we begin to die." That reminder made my faith in something greater then myself, even stronger now then ever before. I pray your father pulls through this in better health and you find comfort in knowing there are people who care. My good thoughts go out to both of you and remember to be prepared for whatever life brings your way because courage can define who you are. My prayers are with you and him.

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    joaniembposted 14 years ago

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad.
    
    If losing his foot is the worst, he will still have his life.
    May God give you and your Dad the strength to make it through this awful ordeal.
    
    I will be praying for the both of you.

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    Daniel Carterposted 14 years ago

    Sending all kindest and best thoughts. Big hug to you and your dear dad.

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    Justine76posted 14 years ago

    GS, I hope you don't get too stressed. Take time to take care of yourelf, pop in here to vent or get distracted if you can. Hang in there. hugs.

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    mtsi1098posted 14 years ago

    My positive thoughts and prayers go to you and you family...

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    KCC Big Countryposted 14 years ago

    Sending lots of good positive thoughts your way!

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    susanlangposted 14 years ago

    I hope you and your father are still hanging in there-- I hope you're ok with the fact that I didn't try to "sugar coat" this as I hoped to keep it "real". You both are still in my prayers and it would be nice to get an update from you on how your father is doing?

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    bloodrkposted 14 years ago

    I will include your father on my prayers, I can’t really give inspiration about that but there’s actually one that I can think of, Nick Vujicic, he was born with no limbs, you might get inspiration from his story.
    
    Think positive, Trust GOD and everything will be fine. GOD Bless you and your family.

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    logic,commonsenseposted 14 years ago

    Good luck to you and your family GS.  Hope things work out okay!

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    TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years ago

    Hi everyone! I just wanted to thank you all again for all your prayers and well-wishes. It really is nice to have all your support.
    
    I made the drive to my home-town, and arrived safely late Friday night. I have a fabulous friend who's letting me baby-sit her apartment while she's visiting family this weekend, yay! I saw Dad yesterday, and he's looking so much better than I expected! His weight and color are good, his appetite is good, the hospital seems to be taking excellent care of him. I feel a LOT better now that I've seen him. The only not-so-good news is that they'll have to take more than his foot - they'll be taking his leg below the knee. BUT he's already working with a prosthetic specialist and making arrangements for physical therapy after he's healed up some. So, it seems that he intends to get up and about as soon as possible, and that makes me happy.
    
    Thanks again, you guys, for all the prayers and stories to help! I really appreciate it. I'll keep ya'll posted!

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    susanlangposted 14 years ago

    Spider... I'm so glad you are with your father and you feel much better. Sorry to hear the doctor's going to take more of his leg...but hearing that your father is already working on getting a replacement leg is such wonderful news! Thanks so much for the update and I'll keep you both in my prayers. Hugs.

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    IzzyMposted 14 years ago

    I think that's great news! He's looking good pre-operatively so he is has a better chance of looking good post-op as well!
    Major surgery is always worrying. It is being under anaesthetic for an extended period of time that makes major surgery so difficult, not the actual procedure. So many things things can go wrong while under anaesthesia - that is why the speciality of anaesthesia is that - a speciality. Normal doctors and surgeons don't have the training. But people who are fit and well cope much much better than those less so.
    
    It is quite normal in this type of surgery to either have below knee or above knee surgery. They have to take a little more away to ensure the remaining part has not already been infected.
    
    But hey when he has his new limb fitted he'll feel like a new man! It's a long rough road ahead. He has to grieve for his lost foot, but you will be there for him. Remind him, if need be, that his health/happiness comes first. He will appreciate that constant reminder. But he may still grieve, and that is only natural.
    
    I wish you and you dad all the best. You will come through this and be happier at the end of the day.

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    TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years ago

    You are SO right Izzy...as a matter of fact, this whole trip home is beginning to reek of new beginnings and the turning of new leaves. I've reconnected with so many of my old friends...and really have started to see the forest AND the trees on things at the place where I've been staying....For anyone keeping up with my Diary of an Educated Idiot Hubs...it looks like this "tragedy" is going to become the opportunity I've needed to escape my crappy domestic situation.
    
    Some things have happened here in just a few days that have shown me that I have a lot more options than I even thought, that I NEED to take control of my OWN life...and that I don't have to put up with the things I've been putting up with.
    
    .....and I ran into my high school sweetheart! Oh my...this is starting to sound like soap opera - This trip has become like a whirlwind of re-connection and possibility. The doctor moved up Dad's operation so I can be present for it, and Dad and I are connecting in a new and refreshing way (our relationship has been...difficult to say the least).
    
    I think I might have the opportunity to take a new lease on life. Wow!!
    
    Thank you all again for all the support and well-wishes - I can't tell you how much it means to me. You all have a part in showing me...some things I've needed to see!! *HUGS TO EVERYONE*!

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    Bacallposted 14 years ago

    Hey Spidey
    I got banned again!  So I couldn't write and tell you I'm Praying for you and you dad. It's sounds like you are ok. I think your dad will be fine with the new prosthesis they have today. I'll be back to my old self probably tomorrow. You like the Look?
    
    friendly

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       TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Hey!! I *almost* didn't recognize you!! Sorry about your ban!! (We BOTH need to stay out of the religious forums, you know )
       
       Thank you so much for your kind words - I think things won't be easy...but I think they will turn out for the best.

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    green tea-cherposted 14 years ago

    Glad to hear things are going well.

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    Stevennix2001posted 14 years ago

    im very happy to hear your dad is doing pretty well despite this horrendous ordeal. I'll be sure to continue praying for his speedy recovery soon, as I know he'll be in excellent hands.  anyway, i hope things continue looking up for you both.

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    TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years ago

    Allll righty...another update, and this one better than the last!
    
    Today was Dad's surgery. It took a little longer (and more anesthesia) thank expected, but the doctors feel certain they got all the infection without having to remove more than planned - excellent!
    
    A wonderful friend from high school is giving me free reign of her guest bedroom for about the next three months, and is helping me move away from my crappy domestic situation so I can get back to my family, friends, and better scholastic/professional opportunities.
    
    So...if I can just find myself some more clients and have regular freelance work - it looks like things will be working out quite QUITE well - Far better than I could have hoped for.
    
    And did I mention I ran into my HS crush? LOL We're getting together again on Sunday! Woot!
    
    Wow. Whole new life it seems like...Thank you all again for all your prayers and thoughts!

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       Stevennix2001posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       wow, im so happy for you gs.  that's wonderful.  i was a bit worried about you when i first read the news about your situation, but now i'm glad to hear it all worked out in the end.  hopefully, this is only the start of many great things to come your way down the road.

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       mrpopoposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       This is great news TGS! Glad to hear it

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    Lisa HWposted 14 years ago

    Glad to come back and see that the ordeal of the surgery is over for your father (and you, of course).   Continued well wishes that his recovery is as comfortable and speedy as possible.  (As for the other things you mentioned about your own life, sometimes there's nothing quite like going "back to Kansas" to help you feel a little more grounded.    )

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    Aiden Robertsposted 14 years ago

    You are both in my thoughts, stay positive and all good things will come.

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    pinkyleeposted 14 years ago

    I know I a bit late on seeing this but GS I really hope everything gets better for you all. **hugs**

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    katiem2posted 14 years ago

    My most positive thoughts and prayers go with you glass spider.
    
    
    Peace

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