Jeff Head Update, May 16

May 16, 2010 | Gail Head

[Gail_Head]

Okay, so I have to apologize for taking so long to get an update out. I was kind of burned out for a couple of days after Jeff’s last surgery…too much time at the hospital and not enough sleep. I have decided that I will try to get an update out each Sunday evening. That gives me a target and gives you all an idea of what to expect.

Jeff’s third and final surgery was Tuesday, May 11 to do the bone graft. Dr. Rhines told me it would be two or three hours, but now I’m thinking he must have been talking about HIS part of the surgery because it was actually eight hours. Most of the work was getting all the vessels etc connected once the bone out was of his leg and into his back. It’s all done with a microscope. Very time consuming.

Jeff was supposed to be in ICU a day, but the hospital is running at near full capacity and he had to wait four days before space opened up on the regular floor. He was transferred there this afternoon (Sunday). He is doing much better now that all the surgeries are behind him (no pun intended). =) He still has a lot of pain in the bones, but that is getting better as well. Tomorrow will be the first day of the next phase of his treatment. They will take the splint off his leg that had the bone taken out and get him started on some in-bed physical therapy. It will still be another two to four weeks before they will get him out of bed. He has been in bed three weeks now and it is amazing to me how fast your muscles can atrophy. He will have to get some strength back in his legs and arms before he can attempt any getting up and/or walking.

Things are looking really good for Jeff. He still has feeling and flex in both feet. Dr. Rhines said the surgery was very successful and he is very pleased with the outcome. The main tumor, which was pretty much the whole sacrum, is all out. We still haven’t heard if they are going to do the stereotactic radiation on the two little spots this trip or when we come back in four or five months for the general radiation treatments.

Thank you for the wonderful support, prayers, faith, and help you have given. All the cards, emails, phone calls, and donations of time and money are greatly, greatly appreciated! One of Jeff’s Free Republic friends is an RN on the floor below us and he comes almost every day to check on us. His mom (also a Freeper) frequently sends lunch and/or dinner for me while I am spending all day with Jeff. Faith, Friends, and Family, plus our own personal nurse and chef…we couldn’t be better cared for!

[grey_whiskers]

Thanks for the update, Gail.

Tell Jeff we're all pulling for him, prayers continue!

g_w

[Bloody Sam Roberts]

Prayers up for a top notch Freeper!

[combat_boots]

God bless you, Jeff and family.

Thanks for the update!

Tell Jeff he’s missed, but we’re glad you post the news.

[Lurker]

Dear Gail,

Please tell Jeff I'm praying for him, and for your entire family.

It's not much, I know. But it's all I can do right now.

My best to you and yours,

L

[pollywog]

Wonderful report!!!! Can you share the address where we can send a card of encouragement?
Thanks...

Polly

[Vigilanteman]

Thanks for the update! God bless you and Jeff. I’ll add my prayers for a speedy recovery.

[basil]

I continue to keep Jeff, you Gail, and your whole family in my prayers. It’s great to get such an optimistic update.

[soundbits]

May the Lord bless you both.
In Jesus’ name. Amen

[Gail_Head]

We can get mail at:

Faith House
4611 Cedar
Jeff and Gail Head, Theile Apt.
Bellaire, TX 77401-4202

[Big_Harry]

Lord Jesus, please touch Jeff with a mighty healing touch tonight.

[LADY J]

Sending prayers and much love to you, Jeff and the family. Thank you for thinking of us.

Stay strong and take care of yourself. Praying that the Lord will keep both of you in His Loving Care.

[mojo114]

Prayers and gentle hugs.

[HuntsvilleTxVeteran]

BTTT, and prayers still lifted for this fine man.

[yorkie]

Oh, Dear Gail. My heart is with you. I've been there, too, waiting through surgery, lab tests, results, being hungry and don't want to leave your loved one. Your whole life is consumed with love for your man.

My prayers are not only for Jeff, but for you, his woman - his support - his love - his bride.

Please try to do something little for yourself every day. It will not take away from Jeff in any way, and you will be a stronger woman when you are both at home - together again.

Prayers continue.......((((((GAIL)))))

[Steve0113]

This is excellent news. Prayers continuing from both of us here.

Steve & Nina

[I_be_tc]

Gail, I have been keeping up on Jeff as often as I can. So pleased you have good news. What an ordeal you have both endured. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Thanks for the updates.

TC

[B Knotts]

Continued Prayer BUMP

[cherry]

I didn’t know any of this but so happy to hear that the surgeries are behind him and he is starting therapy pretty soon....best to him....we miss him....

[yorkie]

Gail - Post #15 was meant for you. ;-)