Scott did not have any surgery yesterday as thought. He has developed an infection in his lung which we later found out is pneumonia. I know that this is the first of many battles with infections and his body is so weak to fight. He struggled to fight infections before he was in the accident, so I can not imagine how he could now. We are told that he continues to remain "pain free and comfortable" but is is still on life supportive equipment. He is non-responsive and I have not been able to get him to open his eyes for a couple of days.
While Scott is battling his infections, I am battling the hospital to honor Scott's wishes in his living will and his many conversations. This is not how he wants to live. I have told the hospital that we are ready to take him off the ventilator and other life sustaining measures and have hospice involved. I did speak with a representative from Hospice of the Valley and although she was very understanding and comforting, she said that she could not do anything until the hospital- Doctor signed the papers giving permission.
The hospital is not giving "permission" because they feel that his injuries are all recoverable given time. I ask recoverable to what and for how long? I have had my brother Morgan, who is a lawyer and who we worked with to draw up our wills, assisting me. We have been told because this process was started on a weekend and a holiday on Monday that the Hospital "Ethics" committee will not be able to meet until Tuesday at the earliest to give their "counsel". I have never been more frustrated at the bureaucracy of it all. I have a valid living will and knowledge of what Scott would want, but I also have a determination and mission to see his wishes carried out. I guess I do not have red hair for nothing. (Even my brother said that he was a little scared after we meet with some hospital staff! :).
Your prayers are still felt and needed. The children and I need them for strength through this waiting time and Scott needs your prayers to be able to pass in peace.
Thank you for all you do and have done for our family.
Dessie
Remind me to NEVER go to that hospital. Both Jack & I have living wills. What good are they if they are not honored. I'm so sorry they are putting you through this, Jessie. Stay strong & our Heavenly Father will guide you. Much love & prayers to all of you. By the way little Annie Brown is having brain surgery on Thursday so an extra prayer for her & Michael Brown family is appreciated
ReplyDeleteDessie, my heart is with you and your children. Please know that you have many prayers being sent your way, including many of the families whose children you teach. Thanks for keeping the updates coming, you are always in my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteMelissa
Dessie, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are praying that this situation will resolve peacefully for you. We love you and your family. Use that red hair! Bless you. You are so strong. Love, Michael and Tiffany
ReplyDeleteI love you sister. You are so strong and I know that the Lord is your pillar of strength, holding you up when you feel you can no longer endure. Your example has always touched my life, but never more than it does at this moment in time. I am here for you and your wonderful children. They do not come any better than Hayden and HeartLee. Know that I am thinking about you and we are praying for you. Love, your sister and aunt
ReplyDeleteThis morning was the first time that we've realized the extent of Scott's injuries. Joe and I read all the latest and realize that you are living minute by minute with this. We have prayed for you and the strength to carry on. I thought about you and Scott and kids while I drove into work this morning. The irony is dealing with a "system" and the right of choice that they take away simply by not allowing a choice. Of all of the!*#$ed ...! We await a time when we can do more. Love, your cousin Joe and Natasha Brown
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers continue to be with your family. I hadn't read your blog for a couple of days, so my prayers will support yours, with the will of the Father. So glad your kids were able to spend some time with Scott and you. May you continue to feel the strength that you will need to get through this trial in your life.
ReplyDeleteAnn and Tom Perry