Today's Update from Kristie

Harry's double wrist surgery took about 8-81/2 hours yesterday. He returned in a lot of pain and general discomfort but in good spirits overall. He was excited about getting the operation over and being able to move into the "recovery" phase. The doctors have visited us this morning and explained the procedure: they placed a metal plate on the top (inside) of his left hand and a metal plate on the bottom (inside) of his right hand. The plate will have to be removed from the left hand sometime later. GOOD NEWS: there doesn't seem to be any serious nerve damage and he should be able to regain "full" use of his left wrist/hand. LESS GOOD NEWS: He may not be able to do all of the same things he could before with that left wrist and his chances of developing arthritis have increased exponentially. He's also expected to live with a certain measure of "permanent" pain.

MORE GOOD NEWS: The mobility in his leg is increasing beautifully. Harry is so strong and determined. He works very hard and pushes through the pain to make progress.

A knock at the door just brought more news....They are now saying that they want him to be transferred to an acute rehab facility. Since we live in Henderson they are looking into Maria Parham. We won't know anything for sure until at least later this afternoon. The Physical Therapist will come by about 1:30pm to work with him and they along with the Occupational Therapist will consult and give an update to the doctors about Harry's condition and ability to be moved to another facility (or home based on availability, insurance, necessity, etc.)

The pain and normal hospital interruptions have effectively prevented any sleep for him. We're thankful that he's finally gotten some stronger pain meds. He is trying hard to sleep some now. Suddenly, I feel more like a bouncer than a nurse....Keeping vigilant watch at the door and turning every caller away to protect the little rest he may finally find.

I'll update again later as we have more to report. Thanks again for everyone's support and concern.