Wednesday, March 14, 2007

I am Back

On May 8 of last year, I was hospitalized with double-pneumonia and fluid around my lungs. I had drainage tubes inserted in both sides of my torso to drain the fluid around my lungs. But, that was not all. A fistula, or hole, was discovered in my trachea. This allowed fluid to leak into my lungs from my esophagus, which caused the pneumonia and the infection that caused the fluid around my lungs. My pulmonologist, Dr. Eiseman, was unsure if the fistula could be repaired. I thought I was going to die. Luckily, Scripp's Memorial Hospital in Encinitas (in California north of San Diego) has a very skilled ear, nose, and throat surgeon on staff. Dr. Ling knew how to go about fixing the fistula.

The surgery involved removing some muscle tissue from my neck and using it to seal the fistula. It was a success. I was put in to a drug-induced coma for three weeks so as not to undo the surgery. On July 3 I returned home. Since then my recovery has been slow and frustrating. I have had a few setbacks with my trach. Scar tissue blocked my trach quite a few times; twice I stopped breathing and blacked out. Luckily, my mom knows how to use the ambu bag! The paramedics were called both times and I was rushed to the hospital. I have been hospitalized twice and been to the ER numerous times since returning home. I've become a regular at Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas. They should name a wing after me. I lost the ability to swallow; I am fed formula through the peg in my stomach. Also, I am not able to talk most of the time. But, I am hopeful to regain my voice. I am determined not to lose my ability to speak. Although I have gone through many trials and tribulations over the last 10 months, I feel that my life is slowly improving. I am glad to have cheated death once again.

6 comments:

Unknown said...

Hang in there John.

annette
(computerwheelie)

vent user

Zetetic said...

Good work, John. Hurry up and give Death another kick in the ass while he's still writhing around on the ground.

Jonathan

Unknown said...

John you are an awesome guy with a lot of courage! Definitely an inspiration to the rest of us, keep fighting the good fight my friend and stay positive. Great to see you adding to your blog again, it's been a long time!

-Alan

Rick said...

John,

Bibbi and I had a chance to catch up on your Blog today. What a nice birthday present for your sis. You are such an awesome writer.

Bibs says you should be a Journalist.

We (Sterling, Dallas Rose, Stetson, Bibbi and I) are so glad you are such a great fighter.

We love ya!

Rick & Bibbi

3/25/2007

Dallas Rose said...

Dear Uncle John,

I love you so much!

When I heard you had a hole in your throat I cried for the whole day.

You mean a lot to me! I don't know what I would do without you! You are always and will always be in our prayers. Keep on fighting...

Love your niece, Dallas Rose

Cousin Carol said...

Johnny,

It was wonderful seeing you yesterday. I read your whole blog this morning and it is fabulous and very inspiring. I forwarded it to give inspiration to a friend whose 20 year old son has Spinal Bifada.

Love,

Cousin Carol