Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Medical Update

Justin and family waited until 7:00 PM for his doctor to arrive. We were able to get answers to our many questions. It appears that all 4 of the main nerves in Justin's arm are damaged. The doctor does not expect this to worsen. It is too early to tell if the damage is permanent. They will do more testing next week. Justin will also be evaluated to see if it is appropriate for him to be moved to the rehab unit. Justin earnestly is ready to work hard to regain use of his body.
Justin had a rough day. He had a chest xray done. Between running a fever today and a tight chest concern for pnuemonia was high. It appears that he is not breathing deeply enough, and fluid is beginning to collect. Justin's left thigh (donor site) is massively swollen and extemely painful. Dr Cheng and the wound care team will unveil this area tomorrow at noon to determine what is causing the problem. Justin was rarely able to get comfortable throughout the day.
At this point Justin still has his left leg...it looks like he may be able to keep it however, the use will be limited at best. He is able to move one of his toes but the doctors say he will not be able to bend his knee.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers... they are what get us through.