It's almost time for bed, but wanted to provide a quick update:
Looks like I may be released tomorrow – we did our 2nd round of blood units today as my hemoglobin level was low and this seems to really help my energy level. Yesterday's infusion helped and we made great strides, so today is even better. I go 8 + times around the nurses' station and visit with my new friends along the way. This round of blood should help with the anemia that I've had since surgery, as I lost so much blood during surgery because of that darn Coumadin. TODAY, one of the things that really hit home was the presence of faith, family and friends during recovery time – as we walk the hallways, it's very sad to see older people trying to convalesce without anyone in their rooms to help. I'm so lucky to have emails, calls, beautiful flowers in my room, goodie bags, text messages, food delivered, and visits from all of you who have been so supportive through this entire deal. The next thing that we reflect on is how important our "team" is. My team of family have been so supportive of course, but ALSO my cardiology, neurological, surgical and nursing team have been some of the best in the business. I've developed such deep relationships that I feel very strong about ! In fact, just a few minutes ago, we finished writing thank you notes to a few people who have gone above and beyond to make my stay here as comfortable as it could have been – considering the circumstances !
What's Next ? While it's amazing the progress I have made in 3 days, I realize that there is a tremendous amount of therapy ahead for me! My challenge is going to be pushing myself everyday to get better, but not to the extreme that I hinder my health over this "several month" recovery process. I am most of all looking forward to going home and holding BABY KATE for longer than 5 minutes and listening to Kyleigh tell me stories from her experiences at school that day.
I've shared time and time again how important and strong Danielle has been through this whole ordeal, but I don't believe I could really understand the depths of her love until we went through this hardship this past 10 days. We've laughed, cried, and prayed together and through it all, we've become even better (BEST) friends. Who else can go without changing their daughter's diaper for a whole week and not get in trouble for that ? ? ha She truly has been a trooper through this !
I have the world's best parents and sister ! Mom never left my side Dad being strong for her and running back and forth from Colorado(and of course turning the updates over to Kristal was HUGE in my eyes 'cause you know my fetish about communication) Knowing how difficult it was to see me - pushing me to never stop coughing, eating or walking. The times that they knew which emotion to push and how to keep me properly motivated, for that I truly LOVE them and appreciate them ! I haven't always told my family how much they mean to me in the busyness of my life –have you done so lately !??
When we get home, I will continue to keep everyone posted. I believe that I will still take care of the priorities in my life – that being my relationship with God, my relationship with my family, my HEALTH, and my role in making a positive difference in other people's lives. I leave you with this – I firmly believe of passing it along " I am amazed at the amount of correspondence that we've received from everyone." I truly hope that we will return the favors and blessings that we have received from all of you !
As I close this – without offending my Colorado State colleagues – I hope K-State beats Baylor tonight.
God's Blessings,
Kevin