Wednesday, April 7, 2010

A New Challenge

Elaine arrived home at 9:00 last night to find Lowell standing in the kitchen wiping off the countertop – and his right arm was swollen and dark-colored.

“Lowell, your arm is swollen and red!”

“I know.”

“How long has it been that way?”

“Most of the day.”

“Have you called the doctor?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Well, my fingers were swollen the other day – this could just be part of that same problem…”

No, I don’t think so...

So Elaine called the after-hours help line. When the doctor called us back he told Lowell to go to the emergency room immediately, as it sounded like Lowell had a blood clot.

We arrived at the emergency room about 10:00 p.m. – and left there about 2:10 a.m. In between times: 
  • Various techs and nurses took Lowell’s information (seven times) 
  • Lowell paid for the visit from his hospital bed (the nurse took our credit card and did it right there online) 
  • Lively discussions took place regarding blood clots, ports and other issues
  • The doctor came in twice; once to take Lowell’s information and check his arm, subsequently ordering blood work, an x-ray and an ultrasound – and another time to verify that yes, there were blood clots in his neck/port area and talked about treatments and what-ifs
  • The x-ray tech (and machine) and the ultrasound tech (and machine) arrived at the same time. (X-ray tech went first)
  • The ultrasound seriously looked like something out of a science fiction movie – lots of undulating terrain and crevices
  • The tech and nurse watched Elaine give the blood thinner (Lovenox) injection in Lowell’s abdomen (he will need these twice a day for awhile)

Lowell will get two shots a day (in his abdomen) of the Lovenox for the next few days, plus he will have to take a Coumadin pill every day for the next six months. The doctor told Lowell to stop playing hockey and other contact sports :) but he could go about his normal activities.

9 comments:

Ann Marie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Ann Marie said...

Good Job Momma making Dad go in!

I would rather that you call the Doctor over every little symptom.. than wait it out and have something terrible happen because you don't want to fuss over things..

I hope you both catch up on sleep tonight. Love you both.. :)

Kathy said...

I'm so sorry Elaine and Lowell! The roller coaster ride is difficult, especially the downs. I know those emergency room visits can keep you exhausted. Take care, try to get some rest, and know that we're praying for you!

Love you,

Taff

The Wonderful World of Wampler said...

I am sorry to hear about the blood clot....thankgoodness they can give him something to help. But it breaks my heart that he has to get a shot in his stomach. No fun!

Elaine, you are such a wonderful wife :) Keep taking good care of Lowell, and please know we are praying for both of you.

And YES, no more hockey Lowell :) Try to take it easy, we want you around for a long, long time.

((HUGS))

{Mo} said...

Darn it.... more icky stuff! Yea! for a concerned and in tune wife!

I'm keeping you all in my thoughts and in my prayers! Monica

ajehz and m said...

You two are amazing...loves and well wishes....
-alissa janis (wheeler)

Unknown said...

President are you really playing hockey?!?! Take it easy. Love ya Rachel

Heather said...

Wow, I am so glad Elaine took him in! That is scary!! It breaks my heart that Lowell has to go through this! You are such a wonderful wife, Elaine keep up the good work! And as always you both are in my prayers. I love you!

Kelley said...

It is so good you are watching closely for little changes that could very well warrant concern. Lowell sounds SO tough. That is such a wonderful attribute but that is all the more reason he is blessed to have a loving conscientious caretaker! Blessings of rest and peace to you. I hope you are taking care of yourself too. Love and prayers from Texas♥