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Journal & Tips

My Mother 2010 Archive

2010 Jan 1-5--Been a ok week but trying for sure. Mom has a UTI that's causing much back pain and still has a hard time sitting for long periods. Jerry and her have been getting around and doing some functions at the hospital. Mom watched the Ravens beat Oakland Sunday to make the playoffs. Her best friends Marion and Walt came to visit as well as my Uncle Bob. Mom responds and answers questions now much better but physically she can;'t get up out of bed with out help. I need to maybe hire a trainer to work with her every day..anyone knowing anyone local in Baltimore contact me please.
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jan6-9- Mom's UTI has been taken care of with antibiotics. Now it's more muscular weakness in her back and she still complains it hurts her when sitting up. The protein supplement they feed her at night will be cut down to force her to eat more solid foods and more of it. Other then her being weak still mentally she has been doing pretty good. Such improvement should continue but with her being weak and in pain I do not know where this is going. She will have to be out of there by feb/march and at that point I will cross that bridge.
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Jan 10-12th- Sunday Mom watched the Ravens whoop the Patriots and loved the first play of the game when Ray Rice ran 83 yards !. She has been eating ok and the docs did a calorie count for 4 days. Her back is hurting her but it is muscular now as from sitting in the wheelchair. The UTI is gone and she will have to fight through the pain till those muscles get stronger. Tues Jerry myself and Uncle Bob took her down to rehabilitation ourselves on the doctor's orders to get her to work on standing up with the guide railings they have. This is first before they will give her a walker. We got her up 4 times and the last 2 were excellent.Times were 30 sec, 60 sec then maybe 45 the last two. Jerry was supporting her back and I had her front around the waist. I was barely holding her as she supported and balanced herself the last 2 times We'll try again as much as possible to keep her getting up.
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Jan14th- Pt is back working with mom. She stood 3 times for 2 minutes each. With help from the therapist . Then with help she walked a therapy rail 3 times. It's prob 20-25 feet long but she moved her arms as she walked and tried to balance herself. The therapist had under her arms standing in front of Mom while she went left-right-left-right . Very good today and she ate pretty well also.
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jan 15th--Today 7 times down the rail. Pretty damn awesome considering she wasn't even supposed to be more then minimally conscious from the initial bleed in her brain and the damage. She is a fighter and on the 7th time walking ( with help) she was smiling !!! We are getting there and next week the feed tube may come out if she continues to eat ok. Then it's a possibility of going home in feb.....I am so proud of my Mom !!!
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Jan 16-17. mom's appetite not so good. i have a email in to see if there is anything that can be done. I am in Vegas then Fountain Valley Ca for 2 PBA events. Jerry is also on this . I did get her a strawberry shake sat and she liked that. I am sure it's the hospital food as her taste's are coming back ! She needs to eat so she can have the energy to move around and continue to do well with the therapy.
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Jan 19-20-21---At the Tournament of Champions and made match play but struggled thurs night. So Been talking to Jerry to get updates and talking to Mom on the phone.Wed and Thursday Mom walked up and down the hall with a walker and with the therapists there. Her eating is going ok and she sounded good on the phone. first thing thurs afternoon she asked was if I had made the cut! I was happy to say to her that I did. My wish is that she will be walking better with the walker by the time I get home feb 1. Its hard to be away right now....
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Jan 21-23- Called Mom again after qualifying for match play and the first thing she says is "did you make the cut" I was so proud to say I did mom ! Jerry told me she has been eating better and doing more therapy. Wed she walked the hallway 3 times ( with help) with a walker just down the hall. Thursday she went up and back 4 times. We are talking prob 40 feet or so each way.It's so outstanding for her to be doing this after how bad this brain hemorrhage was aug 11. I am proud of her !!! I told her when I get back Feb 1 I want her walking and she is working hard !
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Jan 24-27- Another good week according to Jerry. Mom walked with the walker down and up the hall as well as did work on the morning stuff like washing her face, combing her hair etc. Jerry said she has been eating pretty good and while I am in CA trying to bowl things have progressed well. My bowling not so much this week. On Feb 2nd there is a CAT Scan scheduled for Mom to see how her brain looks. If all is well there is a good chance she will be heading home. So the next part of this journey back continues.............
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Jan-28th-31st- Mom had a good weekend. She has been walking the hallways with her walker and on thurs and fri 300-600 feet according to Jerry. She is eating the yummy ( not so good) hospital food as much as she can tolerate it.. Thursday she had a CAT scan done to see how things are inside her head. I flew home friday as I missed the cut but barely cashed.
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Feb 1-2. Word s that Mom will be heading HOME ! Feb 8th almost 6 months from the date of the initial hemorrhage. We met with Dr. Judy Huang today. Dr. Huang is the neurosurgeon who saved my Mother's life. It was a fantastic day although Mom has no recollection of the first 4-5 months after the surgery. Dr. Huang explained to her all what happened and also how impressed and elated she is on how far Mom has progressed. 15% of a level 4 survive and maybe 3% of those recover in the manner Mom has then factor in her age of 73 and it's totally remarkable.We are very blessed and when Mom thanked Dr. Huang and hugged her I had tears . Absolutely astonishing is all I can say. Jerry and I then took Mom to meet some of the ICU nurses who basically worked on Mom for months through many many complications. Theresa and Christine had tears of joy and were so happy to see Mom and be able to talk to them normally. Guy and Marvin were also in astonishment also. They had all seen Mom in and at the worst possible scenario in late aug/sept. A very nice day and I only wish the rest of the ICU staff could have been there. Jerry and I cannot thank all of them enough for their dedication and time they spent helping Mom recover and for watching over her during a very rough time period.
SO Monday a new journey begins with Mom in familiar surroundings. AT HOME !

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Feb 4-7th ...All going as planned. Mom is doing well and she has been going up and down the hallways on her walker. Getting stronger all the time. She tires easily but building her stamina will come. She needs little help to get out of the wheelchair and can basically walk with help for balance reasons. That will come. The weekend we got snowed in so been talking to her on the phone. She answers and chats like nothing happened. Amazing to say the least. Jerry and I were snowed in so the nurses have been with her and said she is doing well. Mom also said wow what a snowstorm. She watched the news all day sat during the storm and tonight watching the superbowl. Not sure if Monday we will be able to take her home but if not then tues.
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FEB 9TH 2010--- Tuesday almost 6 months from Mom's brain Hemorrhage she went home ! I picked her up because jerry couldn't get out from the snow. We got her into the house and in the tv room. It's a miracle and we still have a long road to get her physically better but she has again progressed way more then predicted.
Jerry and I wish to thank each and everyone of you for your concern. We thank you for your prayers and well wishes, emails texts etc. Please continue to do so as we are not out of the woods but things are progressing to where they once were. Mom is elated and ecstatic to be back at home ! We to are happy to see her home!
For the Family and friends PLEASE CALL her !!!!
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Feb 10-14---Been a trying week but good one. Mom is happy to be home but can't do the things she did. In time she will but it will take time and patience. Jerry has been cooking for her and she has been eating. Kind of a slow week but again she is and will be healing for a long time. I will keep writing on here keeping everyone posted. Again we thank everyone for all their prayers and blessings, thoughts and well wishes. We are fighting through this !
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Feb14-22-second week at home and so far so good. Mom sleeps alot but has the therapist coming 3 times a week to get her moving and to help Jerry with stuff for Mom. I left sat the 20th for Indy for the US Open and before this the week I saw was good. The nurse come in a few times a week to check vitals and anything else. mom did get c-diff which is from the antibiotic from the hospital creating a virus inside her. She is on antibiotics to correct this now. Jerry is now doing all the cooking for her. I went over everyday to see what was happening and helping mom walk and get into her wheelchair which sits her correctly. I talked to her today and she sounded good. She had a long day today with therapy and the nurse there also. one day and week at a time !
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Feb 23-28- I was in Indy at the US Open. Not a good week for me there but I cashed. I spoke to Jerry on the phone asking what all was going on and basically Mom has been doing good with the therapist and all is ok with her vitals. I talked to Mom also and she sounded great. She even told me on Wed that I would make the first cut and not to worry. I did make it so she knew ! She knew I was in indy and is eating better and remembering somewhat what she had earlier in the day. So after leaving Indy sat on Sunday she was looking good. Jerry showed me a little of what she has worked on and in the week I have been gone Mom can almost get herself up to her walker with little help. She walked through the living room and back to the tv room like she was on a mission ! It was nice to see. So again this week more therapy and I'll be going to her house to see and work with her ! So far so good !
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March 1-10-Been 5 weeks since Mom went home and this is great. It's been an adventure for Jerry mostly but he handles it well. I go by everyday for the most and do what i can. She is walking better on her walker. The therapist that comes only 2 times a week ( we need 4 times) got her 1/2 way up the steps. So progressing. mam is also washing her hair, taking out her partials and cleaning them, brushing her teeth and still sleeps a lot . Short term still hard and remembering things that happened a few hours before frustrates her.I still need more physical therapy and need to check on this. 2 times a week and the little thins Jerry does not enough It's basically if she says no then that's the way it is just like the old days ! We do make her do things though don't get me wrong it's just when it's someone else she responds better....so 2.5 weeks before the Baltimore PBA stop and I keep telling her ya gotta be able to walk in the doors with me !

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Mom and Jerry outside enjoying the nice weather ! 3-18-2010


March 11-18th---Pretty good week. Mom is eating well and doing her therapy ok. Only 2 times a week which isn't enough. I am needing to get someone else in here 2 more times a week. It was nice out a few days and Jerry and I got Mom outside for a little while. She is remembering a little better with the short term memorably loss situation and does well with older memories. We have 1.5 weeks till the Baltimore stop so hopefully Mom can get to the center at lest for a few games. I switched to A squad so it's easier on us to work in getting her into the center.
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March 19-21- Weekend was good except Sunday we took Mom to see her Uncle Charles and my great Uncle. He passed away on Tuesday. He was my Mom's younger brother and was 86. Mom was very upset but knew he was home with his Mother and sisters. Many of our family attended and were taken/surprised by Mom's progressions. They mostly knew what she had been through and is going through but so happy for her. In away a sad day but in another a good day to get Mom out to see the family. Monday the therapist came and Mom walked , went up and down a few stairs and some other things. One thing on Sunday I have to mention is Mom did her hair and put on her own makeup. Things are progressing although slow. Next week in the Baltimore PBA stop and it will be great to have Mom there to watch. From what she has been through just her walking in with me we win !
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Wed March 24th. So today Mom went to her and Jerry's general doctor for a checkup. He was so happy to see her and couldn't believe how well she has done. He was up on all that happened and has the reports from Johns Hopkins as well as the rehab/vent facility. All went well except he suggested she have some Lab work done to check her cholesterol levels. She was on meds but hasn't been since all this. Also the therapist came by and Mom walked with a cane and went up and down a few steps. She also made he do some leg work while lying in bed to keep her moving more. So a pretty good day !.
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Fri March 26th to Sunday 28th. Jerry took Mom to the mall where they uses to walk. All her friends were so happy to see her and were glad she is doing so well. it was nice to get her out of the house and it's getting easier. Jerry takes mom out the front door and she sits until he gets the car. her parks in front of the house and then gets her to walk to the car. She is doing well getting in and out of the car. So Saturday they went to the diner for lunch! She had her stuffed flounder with crab cake ! Sunday Mom was pretty wiped out and rested most of the day I think for tues coming and wed when I bowl it's going to be so awesome to see Mom in the stands watching me bowl. Something I never though would be possible 6 months ago.

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Mom and me at Country Club Lanes March 30th 2010
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Tues/wed March 30-31- Mom and Jerry came out to watch me bowl !! Yes we walked through the doors together !!!!! Something 6 months ago I thought would never be possible ! I didn't do as well as I wanted but regardless of missing the cut by 4 pins with Mom seeing me bowl again I win ! It really puts all in perspective from what we all have been through. Bowling is important but no where a priority like it once was. My Mom and Jerry mean to much and with how the tour is going these days , to be home to help them is where my priorities are at. I was elated for them to be there and Mom stayed the whole 9 games tues morn and only 3 wed as she was super tired.
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April 1-6-2010- The rest of the week was good. Jerry got Mom out to the mall again and on Easter we all went to a restaurant to eat dinner. Mom ate well having turkey, veggies, potatoes etc. Really not to much more other then it's getting to hot to go outside now this week and Mom watches tv a naps alot still. next Friday is the last week for in house therapy so we got to find out something to keep her active and to get her physically stronger.
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April 7-12- All still good. Mom and Jerry doing stuff like going to the mall and she "supervises" him when doing the yard work ! She did get a headache Sunday Morning but it went away in an hour and was in the front. I emailed the docs and possibly from all the pollen and it may have been sinus related. It's really bad right now here in Baltimore. She had some lab work done on Monday to check Cholesterol levels. All in all she is getting a little more active.
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April 14-18th---Jerry gets Mom up now in the morning like her old schedule before all this. They go to the mall and hopefully her endurance will get better. This week I suggested her trying to walk a little more at the mall.She gets her hair done at the salon one a week and has been able to do most of her "normal" stuff herself. From putting on her makeup to dressing herself etc. The improvement since going home has been terrific.
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April 19-24th--Not a bad week again ! Jerry and Mom going out and doing things. Going to Sam's to shop although Mom sat at the food court watching people.while Jerry got a few items. They fgo to the mall everyday. Mom doing things on her own and is remembering better of what she did during the day. They went to the docs to see on those blood tests and Mom's protein levels are low hence why in the afternoons she gets tired. So more chicken and protein drinks and veggies. All in all a good week !
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April 26- May 3---another great week. mom is starting to do more on her own which scars me since her balance isn't great but her mind says I am doing it so that's the way it is. Just like before all this ! Jerry and Mom are going to the mall. They walk a little and they hang out with their friends. They go eat then home for Dr. Oz show and a nap. It's been relieving to me as well as Jerry to be able to go do things and get things going without the worry.There is still along way to go but she amazes me every time I see her .
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May-5-9- mom helped supervise Jerry doing yard work a few days this week! They went to wal-mart and the florist and got flowers for the yard. She is getting around much better since Jerry is feeding her more protein. She gets up on her own and walks. Still needs the walker or a cane but they go to the mall everyday with their friends. She is eating pretty good and picking up a little weight,.
Mother's day was awesome. Spending it with her and Jerry and m my girlfriend , Dana and her mother like last year was awesome. Dana's Mom just had back surgery 3 weeks ago so for her to be able to go with us is amazing also ! She went to the eye doctor Monday and NO changes to her eyes. She had/has wet macular degeneration. Her right eye is good but the left is not. She has not had a shot for almost a year so it's good no changes.
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5-10 to 18th- Pretty good busy week for Mom and Jerry. They go to the mall everyday and do a little walking. Tuesdays are Bingo day and they also have been getting to a few stores recently looking for stuff---shopping !. Mom's older brother, Bill and his wife Mary came up to see their kids and stopped in for a few days. It was nice to see them and they all enjoyed their time together. They all went and had crabs at Mom's fav crab house and she also had a beer ! What's crabs without beer ! Dana and I went to Dover for the Race but I checked in. Mom also has been going through the back basement door and UP the steps lie before. She is eating well and has a new found addiction to this new place in town that makes lightly fried chicken. Whatever it takes to get protein and some more weight on her is good. She eats veggies and also a protein shake in the evening. All in all really good week !
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May -20th to 31st- About the same going on. Mom is doing well except her back bother's her when she walks awhile. Still will take time. Eating ok and her and Jerry go out to eat. May 27 Mom turned 74! Unreal for what she has been through and what a fighter to get back so soon about 70% Physically and 80 or so mentally. She remembers stuff a little better and even recent things.
For her B-day all her friends were at the mall and celebrated with her and then we all went for a b-day lunch at the diner ! She likes their stuffed fish with crab meat ! Friday more of her friends met us at a crab house and we had crabs and mom had 2 glasses of beer. It's a little worry some but hey for her to be doing what she can do a beer is nothing !
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June - Well nothing has really changed all is in progression and Mom and Jerry are doing similar things to what they used to. The Mall to walk and see their friends, Some shopping at k-mart and wal-mart.She is eating good and walking better. Actually mostly with out a cane now!
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Monday June 7th - Mom and Jerry took off to Myrtle Beach to see my sister and her 2 boys. My sister drove up to her time share and this is the first vacation Mom and Jerry has had obviously.With all that has happened this is so awesome. Mom was on the balcony checking out the beach and the people while Jerry was on the beach with my nephew David . Last year they all got together this time and being there is one of the last things she remembers before aug 11 2009.
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June 10-15--Mom and Jerry Returned from Myrtle beach. They had a good time their with their grand kids and my sister. Mom didn't journey out to much as it was hot but did sit out on the balcony and enjoyed the beach breeze.They had a long drive home and got stuck in the friday rush traffic in DC/Balto.
I got my car out on Friday for a bit then Dana and I had a wedding on Sat. E-Town NHRA didn't happen. Been practicing a little and going to bowl Forest Hill Regional.Mom and Jerry will be up to watch ! After that not sure.With Mom getting more able and her and Jerry doing many more things it's kinda opened up some things for me to do. Still on edge as she has her "independent" ways back and wants to do things that can possible hurt her like falling as she doesn't comprehend the scenario's that can happen.Steps, turning on things and forgetting, doing things unsupervised etc. Her mind says she can but physically without supervision she needs help at time.
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June 17-28th--All has been going well. Jerry and Mom go to the mall everyday and walk. She is doing more and more now. No Cane or walker and her balance is much better. Walks up and down the staircase in the house with Jerry watching every step. She has become Mom that was with her demeanor. Although she doesn't worry about things like before.
The weekend of June 25-27 ..I bowled a PBA Eastern regional 45 min from them and they came out to watch Sat and Sundays' finals. I qualified 6th on sat and hung around the top 7 all day in the 16 games of matchplay. I went 12-4 in match play and led games 12-13.I was third going into the position round game and shot 267 to go around the top 2 players and won the event ! Mom and Jerry were so elated and happy. Dana and her Mother were there as well and many fans were cheering me on ! It was the first win for me since the Doubles event in 2008 for me.
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June 28th to July 7th--- Not a whole lot to report other then Mom is walking more at the mall. Jerry told me she goes a little more each day. They go out and have lunch and have been hitting the local dollar stores and other stores shopping. It's been so hot here as there have been a few days in the 100's they do their thing in the morning and get inside. Aug 9th Mom has her appointment with Dr. Judy Huang, the neurosurgeon who saved her, almost a year to the day from when this ordeal began. Mom's short term is getting a little better as she responds most of the time quicker to what she did earlier in the day when I ask her.Physically she seems to think she can do stuff on her own with out asking for help. Good and bad because her balance isn't quite there and she has fallen a few times trying to do things like before without asking for help. Jerry is with her all the time a home but needs to do home stuff and its been a few time she has attempted to not ask for help and done things like bending to get something and her balance gave out. Nothing major but this is scary as she become more independent not understanding that she can't do some stuff yet and can hurt herself.
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July 8-17th--Not a whole lot going on as things have returned to being almost normal. Mom's memory is getting better, She walks by herself still a little wobbly, Eating well, and being herself ! Jerry and her go to the mall every morning and walk. She is now walking the whole mall like before.We are coming up on a year Aug 11th. We are blessed for sure and on Aug 9th we meet with the neurosurgeon. I also am gonna take Mom up to the ICU as well as the Burton rehabilitation center. Thy all need to see her !

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June and forward
June 17-28th--All has been going well. Jerry and Mom go to the mall everyday and walk. She is doing more and more now. No Cane or walker and her balance is much better. Walks up and down the staircase in the house with Jerry watching every step. She has become Mom that was with her demeanor. Although she doesn't worry about things like before.
The weekend of June 25-27 ..I bowled a PBA Eastern regional 45 min from them and they came out to watch Sat and Sundays' finals. I qualified 6th on sat and hung around the top 7 all day in the 16 games of matchplay. I went 12-4 in match play and led games 12-13.I was third going into the position round game and shot 267 to go around the top 2 players and won the event ! Mom and Jerry were so elated and happy. Dana and her Mother were there as well and many fans were cheering me on ! It was the first win for me since the Doubles event in 2008 for me.
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June 28th to July 7th--- Not a whole lot to report other then Mom is walking more at the mall. Jerry told me she goes a little more each day. They go out and have lunch and have been hitting the local dollar stores and other stores shopping. It's been so hot here as there have been a few days in the 100's they do their thing in the morning and get inside. Aug 9th Mom has her appointment with Dr. Judy Huang, the neurosurgeon who saved her, almost a year to the day from when this ordeal began. Mom's short term is getting a little better as she responds most of the time quicker to what she did earlier in the day when I ask her.Physically she seems to think she can do stuff on her own with out asking for help. Good and bad because her balance isn't quite there and she has fallen a few times trying to do things like before without asking for help. Jerry is with her all the time a home but needs to do home stuff and its been a few time she has attempted to not ask for help and done things like bending to get something and her balance gave out. Nothing major but this is scary as she become more independent not understanding that she can't do some stuff yet and can hurt herself.
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July 8-17th--Not a whole lot going on as things have returned to being almost normal. Mom's memory is getting better, She walks by herself still a little wobbly, Eating well, and being herself ! Jerry and her go to the mall every morning and walk. She is now walking the whole mall like before.We are coming up on a year Aug 11th. We are blessed for sure and on Aug 9th we meet with the neurosurgeon. I also am gonna take Mom up to the ICU as well as the Burton rehabilitation center. They all need to see her !
July 17 to Aug 1---Not a whole lot of changes as Mom is getting back to her old self. Still some physical weakness but still walking at the mall everyday and going up and down steps with little or no help.She did have some elevated liver enzymes and was tested for this.The Dilantin and pravacal meds attributed to this. She had a CAT scan done on Monday Aug 2nd. Her appointment with Dr. Judy Huang is Aug 10 which is almost a year from the date the aneurysm burst. I hope all is well with her head and we will see how all has progressed internally when we see the Doctor.
Won my second PBA Regional in a month July 30-aug 1 in Delaware. Mom, Jerry and Dana were there to watch. 2 for 2 with Mom there !
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Today, Aug 10th, we all went back to see Dr. Judy Huang, the Neurosurgeon who operated on Mom and saved her life. She was elated at Mom's progress. We talked about all the many past and present issues. It's been 6 months since Mom left the hospital and Aug 11th is 1 year since the aneurysm burst. All in all a wonderful day and I am proud of Mom !!!
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AUG 11th 2010-Today is one year since my Mother was admitted to JohnsHopkins for an anneursm that burst. A level 4 hemmorage that bled in her head.One year later she has far exceeded all the predictions andoutcomes that we were told from this type of bleed. We have been blessed to have her still here to enjoy life.One year ago I was in Detroit bowling the WSOB when my stepfather called me about what happened. I immediatly withdrew and flew home. It's been a rough journey for all of us especally for what mom has endured.The mental anguish we've encountered of not knowing what would become of mom. Many many months of pain and heartbreak but optimism occured. We all hoped for the best but didn't know what God had in store for us. Mom has worked hard and Jerry and I have been pushing her being there right by her side. This journey will always continue until God calls. I have learned alot about life and myself during this period. I do know that nothing is more important then your Mom and Dad and nothing matters more. You come into the world with nothing and leave with nothing.Take care and cherish your parents and each day.
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Aug 12-22nd--Well not alot going on or changed the last few weeks since our visit to Dr.Huang and the ICU. Mom eating well and doing the same things with Jerry as they used to.On Aug 18th they took offon a drive to Texas to see her Daughter and grandkids. two day drive ansome rain on their way.I was worried but know the both of them needed to get away.This weekend they went from my sister's to Ft. Worth to see her Brother and their family. Mom remembers to call and check in with me and tell me what's going on with them down there.

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Aug 24-sept 1-Mom and Stepfather Jerry in Texas.It was good for them to get out of their daily routine here and do something like they used to do.They went to see her brother(the one on the singing video on my wall) and his family.They spent a few days there then took off to south Lousiana to see Jeyy's sisters.He had to as his one sis, who is in a nursing home, and not doing well. From there back to commerce, tx to my sister's for a few more days.I don't know how she did out of normal surroundings but I am hoping ok. I talked to her almost everyday and she sounded pretty good.They returned back to Baltimore Sept 1st.

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Sept- Other then our family having a get together Labor day weekend with a lot of relatives things have been going pretty well the first few wekes of Sept. Mom's memory is still short on recent things but her long term as well as even recent events from like a week or even a few days is better.Mom and Jerry go to the mall and walk most everyday, once a week play bingo, go to the local K-mart and Wal-mart and shop. hey go to the Farmer's market but she still gets tired and rests a lot during the day while watching tv. Jerry and Mom went out with like 10 friends and had steamed crabs-A Baltimore tradition this time of the year! One other note she did get a one day stomach virus that's been going around but never a fever just stomach issues One day and gone...her body is functioning.So we go one day at a time. I have shown her the PBA schedule and Her and Jerry are already looking at coming up to watch me bowl the US Open in NJ in Feb.
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Oct- Not much different. Mom's memory is getting better. She also is getting her taste for her snacks back. Eating peanut m&m's and ice cream again. She has gone to her regular doctor and all is looking pretty good. Jerry and her walk everyday at the mall and go out to the stores.

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Nov1-15th- Been to the eye doctor a few times. The wet macular degeneration is showing again so she has received 2 shots in her right eye. Her BP is also elevated a little . Doctor wasn't worried to much as it may have been the tea she drank . All in all Mom has showed us all how not to give up. She is feisty as before and tells it how she feels again ! LOL

My Mother 2009 Archive

8-11-2009-from PBA web board:
Had to withdraw from the world series of bowling. My Mother had a brain aneurysm(Subarachnoid hemorrhage) and went unconscious 8:30 Tuesday Morning 8-11-09. My Stepfather saved her by administrating CPR until the paramedics arrived. I flew immediately home and do not know what will be the outcome after her aneurysm was clipped in a 6 hour surgery. She is in a coma and it could be a few days or weeks depending upon God's choice.Therapy will take months and months if God wants her to stay with us. As far as the World Series of Bowling, It is not a priority. I already lost my Father in 1992 and this is my only Mother. I will do all I can to be here for her and for my stepfather of who I am indebted to for his Love of my Mom and at least giving her a chance.They are best friends and do everything together. Until I know more that is all I can say. Thanks for all your support and well wishes and prayers in advance. We need them as this is a life changing situation for myself and family.
All the best to all of you and one day at a time for me.
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8-14-2009 off PBA web board:
First I want to thank each and everyone of you for the kind thoughts, well wishes, thoughtfulness and most of all the prayers. This is the toughest thing I have ever had to deal with along with losing my Father in 1992. Obviously I will not be bowling today and do not know yet if at all.We have to take this hour by hour, day to day. I will have to fly back to Detroit to get all my items from my room,my truck, equipment and drive back to Baltimore eventually. This weekend is the key. 3 days and Mom has show some improvement. The main concern to the doctors is infection. Still unconscious. There is WAY more to this that's going on I will not get into. Just remember though she is in God's hands and we are all hopeful. I appreciate all the responses and I ,as always, appreciate all the great fans and wonderful people and the support.
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8-19-2009- off PBA web boards:
Quick update... I will soon try to get updates on my website when time permits but I know some would want to know since it's been one week. My Mother had a little better day today. Still semi unconscious but opening her eyes at times. It's a one hour at a time one day at a time situation and a long road ahead of my stepfather and I. There is the pneumonia that was caused from aspirating, the fever from it, the brain still swollen and draining as well as a bunch of other complications. Once again thank you all for the prayers,well wishes and emails I have received. We really appreciate the kindness and compassion very much. All the best to everyone
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2 weeks after-- 8-25-2009: Mom is still unconscious from the blood particles in the brain fluid.She took a few steps backward from last week. The docs are doing a lumbar puncture to relieve the pressure. She has had a few of these to drain but they are doing a permanent one soon. She also will get a trach for breathing as well as getting a feeding tube in her stomach. This is to get the hoses out of her mouth and nose. The pneumonia is still persistent also but the last antibiotic seems to be helping more. She isn't coughing as much. We are at a loss but remain positive for the outcome. This could take weeks to see some improvement. It's one day at a time for us and we thank everyone for the love, support, compassion and most the prayers for Mom's well being.
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8-26-2009
Yesterday the Doctors did a LP ( Lumbar puncture) to relieve the pressure build up on the brain as well as to drain the blood particles that remain. Also done was a feeding tube in the stomach as well as a Tracheotomy for breathing as well as to get all the tubes out of her mouth and nose. I found links on this and it's a scary situation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subarachnoid_hemorrhage. and http://www.bafound.org/info/subarachnoid.php
Mom had a stage 4 sub-arachnoid hemorrhage
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8-28-2009
Today was somewhat better. Not great but since it's been 3 days since the Lumbar Puncture the cerebral fluid is clearing up. Still some blood in it but more of a yellowish look instead of murky red. The pneumonia is still persistent.Her breathing is better with the trach. We got some open eyes at times and a little movement. This is heartbreaking as Mom was so active for a 73 year old and now helpless.
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9-1-2009-3 weeks
Over the weekend there was some more hope. Mom opened her eyes more as well as followed voices when her name was called. The LP was taken out but the fluid built up again. There were some slight movements of her head, legs and right arm. The pressure from the fluid build up remains a problem and the pneumonia seems to be dissipating.Monday more chest x-rays, a ct scan and a spinal tap. There was a small blood clot in the fluid that released through the spinal tap so we'll see if this makes any changes. Still not knowing the unknown of what is in her head hurts us. Time and patience is all we can hope for as well as prayers from all.
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9-2-2009- Today they are doing a MRI to look deeper into why her cerebral fluid isn't flowing from the head to the body. It's built up again and yesterday very little response. Thursday a permanent shunt will be placed to help in the aid of the cerebral fluid.
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9-4 2009-- Well a day after the shunt and not much going on. We did see some response right after the surgery Thurs evening but Friday it was like those hopes went the other way. The docs are going to adjust the shunt to increase the cerebral fluid so hopefully this weekend we see some responses to our touch as well as more to sound.
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9-6-2009-- Sat was better. mom was more alert so the fluid was draining better. Still really no movement on right side but occasionally a stretch of her feet. Some head movement and she followed a little with her eyes to sound.
Sunday evening things were slower. Sat they did alot of tests and had her breathing on her own without the ventilator so that's why Sun was slower. She was tired.
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Wed-Sept 9th -one month 1 day- Back on the ventilator because of fluid building around her lungs. The docs are in between on her getting too much fluid or not enough. Her proteins have been low since she was admitted and this is another complication they are dealing with as well as a urinary trac infection. They did the muscular test and there is communication to the nerves and muscles from the back of the brain. Whether that connects t the cerebellum so she has control of this is unknown.She is still in and out of sleeping and things are slow. Any movement or reflex is good but everyday I go I tickle her feet to try to get a reaction if she is sleeping. Just to see this reaction would be awesome. They will move but I want her to open her eyes and look at me on the reaction......so damn hard.....
I also have to thank ALL the doctors, nurses and special services people at Johns Hopkins Bayview. These people have been so wonderful with their service in all aspects. I ask ALOT of questions and they are right on it with answers. Their caring of my Mother has been fantastic. Thanks You all.
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9-11-09- Another complication comes about. Mom's lungs are filing with fluid. From being in bed for a month her proteins are low and her body isn't flushing fluids. Another possible surgery to have drains put in to remove the fluid.One complication after another.. They want to rehabilitate her but first must ween her off the ventilator but can't because of the fluid.
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9-14-09----So the weekend was up and down. Sat Mom was out of it and not responding to much to anything. It happens from what the docs tell us. Sunday and Monday totally different. She was awake for the most part for hours at a time. Eyes followed movement. Left leg stretched in and out at times. Still no following commands like move you finger etc. no reaction to me tickling her foot either like I do each day. The lungs have basically cleared, small air pocket in lung is gone, urinary tract infection gone, breathed Sunday night on her own till Monday morning then back on Ventilator. Protein levels are building back up but it takes time. We'll see how this week goes and they may move her to rehab finally. I want her to react to commands though but hopefully the brain connects in time...how much.. no one knows.
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9-15---5 weeks----Today Mom was tired. Less responsive. I did find out she basically was initiating the breathing for 21 hours last night,which is good and why she is much more tired. Today they took the larger 6cm trach tube out and put in a 4cm. This will make her breath with more intent to strengthen her diaphragm.The physical therapists also came in again for 45 minutes to get her stretched and initiate muscle movement. No responsive movement to commands.No response to tickling or moving her foot either .
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9-16---They jumped the gun...Mom had a tough time with the smaller trac tube so back to the larger one. 3 weeks wasn't enough. Early today My stepdad said she was pretty alert and following with her eyes. As the day went on and she struggled breathing she got tired. When I got there she was asleep. No response of movement to commands.No response to tickling or moving her foot again either.. So on to tomorrow....
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9-18--- With the bigger trac in Mom was breathing without struggle and initiating all the breathing. The Ventilator is still on 50% but at 10 breaths per minute. She is in the 20-28 per min with very little help.So both Thurs and Fri Mom was more alert. Theresa ,the one nurse said she pinched Mom on arm and Mom 'mouthed" ouch....The therapist also said she mouthed HI but when they were working her muscles and tendons out Mom didn't help them and they moved her. Maybe in time she will help with the movements. I got there after the morning workout and Mom was tired. It doesn't take much to wear her out.
Friday stepdad Jerry and I were working her arms out just moving them for her and there is a "main line" for blood in her right arm. Jerry moved her arm and something pinched Mom and she got a frown on her face and "mouthed" OUCH...I saw it and was like wow this is good finally. I have heard things but saw this. She was more alert both days so we will see how the weekend goes. Also the therapists got her in a "medical" chair and had her sitting.Still not moving anything on command and no reaction to moving her foot when I tickle it ..
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9-19 sat and 9-20sun--Sat was hell. Mom was struggling to breath. The respiratory and doctors had to work on this for 12 hours to get her stable. For some reason the carbon dioxide was not expelling from her at a good rate. This left her lethargic and out of it. Breaths were short and choppy. Very hard to see this......
So Sunday 180 deg change. They got the respiratory thing figured out. Mom was alert, following people turning her head and eyes and moving her right arm finally a little. Also a big surprise was her comprehending us with mouthed answers!! Big small step so to speak. I turned to her staring at me surprising and said "you scared me mom" "what are you looking at" she smiled and mouthed "you". Also Dana asked her how she felt. She mouthed "I feel fine". I tickled her foot and she looked at me and mouthed "stop". There were a few more answers like the paper I put in front of her that read "do you love me" ? Her eyes went back and forth reading and figuring this out and she mouthed"Yes" !!! so small steps but hopefully this is a start...A good Sunday.
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Mon Sept 21- Mom was tired and not quite as alert as on Sunday and the same on tuesday. The Therapists worked her muscles and actually sat her up. She had a hard time holding her head up but did try. After the 40 min sessions she was tired. Slow progress but much better .
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Wed Sept 23rd- Today was better then the 20th. The docs gave her some medicine to wake her up to be alert during the day and to sleep at night. Mom mouthed to the doctors good morning after they said that to her. She was mouthing answers to most questions. I need to learn to read lips. She said a few long sentences to respond to a question but I didn't get it. She has been trying to adjust her self in bed. That's very hard since its been 44 days in bed. She tries... She also mouthed to me after I asked her is she was ok "I feel fine" and " my back hurts" (she had back surgery 3 years ago) So these are awesome signs ! Little by little and she is really surprising the doctors from what she has been through. She smiled a little and also mouthed back to me "I Love you too"
Also on Thurs Sept 24 ( my Birthday) Mom is being moved out of the Neurology ICU to the geriatric rehabilitation center at Johns Hopkins !! Great B-Day present !! Still one day at a time and this is a long long journey.
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Fri/sat/sun--Ok so the doctors decided NOT to Move Mom from the ICU because her lungs still were not capable of having the ventilator lowered.She was a little more "quiet" but still answering questions which is fantastic. I had to go to Salisbury on Sat. night to be inducted into the MD State USBC Hall of Fame and it was very hard to speak of my parents and what Mom is going through and not having her and Jerry there with me.
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Monday Sept 28th. My Mom's Mother's Birthday and YES they moved Mom to the geriatrics rehabilitation center. This is the first stage of a long journey back to normalcy. They are going to first ween her off the ventilator step by step and it could take a week or 2. It's going to take awhile and Patience is a must but the first stage has started.
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Tuesday sept 29th -7 weeks- Mom is doing well. The doctors are very surprised on her progress she has made. It's still a long way to go and there are still little complications. Weening her off the ventilator and getting her now moving arms and legs stronger is the next step. She is very week but is comprehending some commands and answering questions. Her lungs still have some fluid in them and getting them stronger is a very slow process.She has been alert during the last days and takes little naps . The therapists had her sitting up and giving her commands to move her feet and hands and she did well. She held her head up while sitting also which she couldn't do last week.. one day at a time !
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wed/thurs/fri oct 1-2-3---This week has been a trying one. Ups and downs all week. Mom is alert at times and answers questions,moves her left hand and grabs when asked. The right side is still very affected bad. Little movement but there is firing in her right arm and hand so it's better. It will take time for all this to connect and hopefully it gradually does. I think she is becoming more aware of the situation to a small degree. I told her what happened and I got a frown like what are you talking about or what do you mean. I think in some way she is aware she can't move and at times she might be depressed. There are still issues with her lungs and the doctors are monitoring her blood pressure with the meds as well as the interaction with her heart medicine. The lungs are and have been treated with diuretic medicine. I still feel helpless and it hurts watching an active woman try to sit up ( the therapists help keep her stable) It's going to take time..alot of time and I keep telling her over and over it's up to her to work hard and help the therapists when they work with her. Whether she understands this I am not sure....
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10-6-tuesday- 8 weeks since initial hemorrhage... Not a good start. Mom's BP went crazy. The fluid came back in her lungs and there was some pulmonary edema also. They had to bag her to get O2 in her faster then the machine . So eventually as like before it's all in the adjustments between all the different meds to balance everything. The brain plays tricks so to speak on someone who's balances are messed up.
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10-7- Wed- 180 degree turn. Balance was restored for now. Alert, answering questions, watching tv, moving legs and arms a little and even getting stronger in her right arm which has been pretty limp. I ask her to push my hand with her left (like arm wrestling hold) since she has been moving this arm I have been doing this daily just to feel. She is laying in bed and I can feel the "push" against my arm. Little more each day. Also the therapists had her sit up again today in bed. She moved her leg to a command. It's gonna take 6 weeks about to ween off the respirator and then more time to get strength going. One day at a time....
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thur 8th/fri 9th/sat 10th---The rest of this week has been pretty good so far. The Docs seem to have the meds and diuretics and well as the fluids under control. Mom was tired from the therapists but she sat up in bed and then sat with no help for like 10 min. More leg movement too as well as her arms. They took out the main line in her right arm because there was some possibility of infection from being in to long. Friday and sat there was more movement but she was tired fro the therapist working on her for 45 min.. On Sat My uncle Don from Texas flew in to see his sister. Also my Aunt Cathy, Uncle Bobby and wife Donna, Uncle Buddy, Jerry , Dana and I were in the room. So with all of us there Mom was really interacting answering questions, remembering a little bit of things etc. She still can't speak because of the trac and vent but you can read her lips. It was probably one of the best days we have seen and great timing to keep even more hope and possibilities of better then thought of recovery for the initial hemorrhage. Mom is really surprising all of us. Everyone is different and there is still a long road ahead. She know she needs to work hard and after mouthing "I want to get out of here" she might be realizing some really bad happened to her. We just need to be patient and keep her spirits up as the depression can set in being more alert now of her not being able to do the things she used to do right now .One day at a time and each day I hope I see more improvement..BTW Now when I tickle her toes when she is awake it distracts her and she looks at me like what are you doing...LOL..This upcoming week they will try to get the vent weening going since her lungs are almost clear.
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10-11-09-Sunday. Mom watched the ravens play (and lose) on Sunday. Jerry and her watched and I asked her about what she thought and she gave me the disjointedness look..and a frown...
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10/12/13 Mon/Tues mom's white count got high again into the 18/19 thousand range. The docs don't know why but they started her on antibiotics again . So now there will be more fluid retention. She was still alert and aware and considering it's 9 weeks since the initial hemorrhage she is doing pretty good. She moves and is restless and wants to get out of there. Since the white count was high there is no way of trying to see if she can breath on her own. They will try Thursday.
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10-15-18 No go on the attempt to see if Mom can breath on her own for a bit. White blood counts high. More la-sics and different antibiotics. The weekend was pretty good again. Mom has been alert still with periods of sleep. She gets tired easily. Jerry brought a 1lb weight so she can work her arms. She know exactly what it was and used it a little. We are also trying to work her legs using a little resistance making her pull her leg up and push against us. She understands commands and moves whatever we ask of her. Be it that she is weak it doesn't take long for her to tire.
On Sunday Mom watched the Ravens on tv. Her favorite player Matt Stover was signed to the colts and when the new guy missed for the win Mom wondered where Matt was....he would have made it she said...
She has also been put into a medical geriatric chair to get her sitting up as to get her diaphragm working better. Laying in a bed for 10 weeks and not sitting has taken it's toll.
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10-19- Mom had visitors today. Her brother Carl and his son Cory came up. She knew them and hadn't seen Cory for along time and mouthed his name ! Long term memory still is kicking in. Short term not so much but that will take time.
Also Dr. Christmas came by. Dr. Christmas helped my Mom back in 1999-2002 with her Mother (my grandmother)when she got sick. It was great to see Mom smile and recollect as Dr. Christmas spoke to her . Mom remembered. Although it was a sad time and my Mom gave 5 years of her life to help her own mother back then , Dr. Christmas was a huge help to my Mother and Jerry with her expertise and care for my grandmother. I had never met her before but heard alot about her. I appreciated her coming up to see and chat with Mom.
Mom also was sitting in the medical chair again for a few hours. Wednesday they will attempt to see if Mom can breath on her own for a minute or so..Amazing to read back and 1 month ago Mom was barely awake and not even following commands. Now BTW I tickle her foot she looks at me moves her foot and mouths stop with a dirty look !!!
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10-20- 10 weeks --Family meeting with Myself and Jerry with the doctors and OT ( occupational therapy) and PT (physical therapy). Went over all that's happened and where all will lead. There is no time line really it's up to how Mom progresses and the weaning off the ventilator could take 6-8 weeks more.. The PT and OT stopped working with Mom after the first 2 weeks of being admitted to the geriatric unit. as she was deemed not progressing to the parameters stated by the law. So Jerry and I have been doing some arm and leg work with Mom plus she has been "awakening" more in the last 3 weeks. SO I had them come to the room and I did my thing asking Mom to pick her leg up ( she is in a medical geriatric chair for 3-5 hours a day) and place it in my hand--she did. I then asked her to bring it up to her chest-she did- then push against me for resistance on the way down--she did. Jerry gave her a chap stix and she herself put it on her lips.The OT and PT were surprised as Mom wouldn't do much for them before and were the things they were looking for. Comprehension and connecting the command to the muscles with the brain. They asked her to wiggle herself at the hips to adjust herself in the chair- she did make the attempt but the torso is so weak from being in bed 70 days basically. They then got her to stand up almost and with alot of their help but Mom was trying and smiling on the way up !! It doesn't take much and Mom gets very tired. After another hour the Vent therapist came in with the Dr and they ran some "weaning" test on her. Mom did breath without the vent for a minute or two. Her O2 levels were good, heart rate was a stationary 70, she needed to get a 200 level of oxygen on a deep breath but got a 140. So all in all today was a wonderful remarkable day !
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week of 10-21-10-25 Sunday
Pretty good week ! Mom was tired alot but the OT and PT came in just about everyday to work with her. Jerry and I have been doing little exercises with her on her hands , arms and legs. I got her a squeeze ball for hand strength. She has been in a medical chair at a minimum 4 hours a day and thins is helping with her breathing. Sunday the OT came in and we played cards. Mom could add the totals up, knew who won, shuffled the cards ( slowly at that ) dealt them etc. good day. Mentally other then short term she seems capable of doing some things. I gave her her hand held poker game and she knew immediately how to play it like she used to but more slowly but grasped it well.One day at a time one week at a time.
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Monday oct 26- Today vent rehab began....they took Mom off of the vent for 15 minutes to breath on her own. She passed and also blew a 407 on a deep breath. We normally take in 200 on a normal breath. So good stuff. Lungs are clear, BP has been good 120's over 70's, oxeygen 100 %. The OT and PT ladies came in and had her try to stand up ( with their guidance and help) 4 times up and down.
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Tuesday oct 27th 11 weeks....Today 1/2 hour off the vent wore her out but she did well. Wed 1 hour. This is like starting over again to breath. The OP therapists also had mom flip over coins, arrange them and then count and add up the totals. Took some time but she did well at it. Actually she had a time picking up the pennies off the table so what does she do? slides them to the edge and grabs it and then flips it. ! Priceless ! Mom also stood up somewhat ( with help) again. It's like re learning everything BUT she is doing well. She gets aggravated she just can't do stuff but I think she is understanding something happened to her....
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Wed Oct 28th and Thurs Oct 29th- Wed 1 hour off the vent and 2 hours off on Thursday ! Wonderful progress and again surprising everyone. Mom is very very tired after the sessions though. Imagine yourself you've been in bed for 9-10 weeks and a machine has been breathing for you then your taken off it. It's like running a marathon.The OT and PT therapists also have been working with Mom doing some muscle work and thinking stuff. Mom gets frustrated but I keep reiterating this will take some time and you have to work hard.
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Fri Oct 30/sat Oct 31---4 hours off on Friday and sat 8 hours off !!! No problems with the weening. They double everyday so Sunday could be interesting. Mom was tired by hour 6 or so but did a remarkable job ! So far so good. Don't know how long this will take but the process is moving quicker then we thought and Mom's strength is coming along. It's amazing to think during the last month how far she has progressed and to thing 2 months ago we were not sure what any outcome would be....
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Sunday nov 1 and Monday Nov 2---well 16 hours off the ventilator and Mom did well. She was tired late in the early evening but did well. Mom and Jerry watched the Ravens spank Denver and when I got there she said they did well !
Monday 24 hours off is the goal and she was doing fine today so tonight when she sleeps will be a test......The Ot and PT therapists came in and worked on Mom. Doing some leg work and trying to get her to stand. I got there after I had a dental appointment but Jerry said she did well. Still a long way to go and Tues is 3 months....so for what we thought we may have left from the initial hemorrhage and the damage from the blood in her brain, the coma as well as the aspirating and pneumonia in her lungs for weeks now she is doing remarkable to say the least and we are getting some of the ol' Mom back with her sarcastic looks and stuff she says. Still a long road but so far so surprising !!
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Monday and Tuesday Nov 2-3- Well so far so good as of Tuesday evening. Mom was off the vent since 8:40 am Monday morn. When I left the hospital at 5 pm it was 32 hours off. She was very tired as it's alot of work to breath. The OP and PT worked a little with her also. She also was put in a medical chair to sit her up for a few hours again. This has been an ongoing thing as sitting up helps build her diaphragm muscles. My uncle bob ( Mom's brother) came up to visit as he does every week as well as my Dad's youngest brother, Don and my Aunt Betty. They were also surprised knowing how bad this initially was and to see her alert and responding was great. Unfortunately she was super tired and not as attentive as in previous days. By the was this was 3 months after the initial hemorrhage.
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Wed and thurs. Wed Nov 4th was my Father's 82nd birthday. Hard to believe that it's been almost 18years since his passing. Mom remembered the date and who's b-day it was . Mom was off the vent for like 2 days but they decided that she will go on it at night for 8 hours and off for 16. Her blood oxygen levels were ok but they know she can be weened. Now it's just getting her stronger. This weening will take 4-6 weeks and for her to regain strength will take many months if not years. She gets frustrated that she can't get up and go but we tell her all the time it will take time and one day at a time. It's been remarkable her progress but a long road still..
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fri-tues- Mom still sitting up in med chair for a few hours a day. She has had her speaking valve in also. Been quite agitated at times but also in good spirits at time. Part of the brain re connecting. Stomach still is distended somewhat and Dr. Forti told me they were gonna do a colon cleansing to help with the distention.. Mom also has been eating jello, pudding and some other soft foods at time. Things taste weird to her as she said. Watched the ravens get beat on sunday ...not happy...lol
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Wednesday nov 11th. Today wasn't so good. Talked to the doctors and Mom was agitated and pulling hoses and fidgeting with everything. Her stomach is really distended and they are fighting this. She was talkative but said some weird things. The got a CT scan of her stomach as well as her head just to see if anything is going on with both. No exercising today as she was also lethargic and not feeling well. The bad days and good days continue.....
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Thurs Nov 12- Talked to the nurse and Vent nurse. Got there after the Dr's left. They said today not so good. Back on the vent all day just for a day. Stomach is distended and the CT scan showed something internally not right. So tomm I will check in with the doctors. Not to talkative and lethargic all day according to the nurses.
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Friday Nov 13- I got indicted into the Greater Baltimore Bowling Association's Hall of Fame. Again like the MD state hall both Mom and Jerry were not there and it was very hard to speak. I missed them there....
Sat evening Mom was pretty talkative and in ok spirits.. Since her stomach is distended and there is a small blockage in the lower intestine they have her back on the vent. 2 steps forward 3 back...
Sunday even worse. Very lethargic again and slow on response. I will find out today what is going on and what can be done with this blockage that's not allowing her to go and keeping her blown up
They tried a cleansing for her system as well as some other things but we'll see . Evidently Mom had some issues I did not know about with her stomach....with the aneurysm and being tube fed for 3 plus months thins is somewhat normal but hopefully it's just a intestine that's flipped.
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Monday Nov 16- Well talked to the docs in the early afternoon. No ileus (part of the intestine just not moving food through). So they actually got her stomach down by getting things moving. Dr Forti told me she was doing OP and PT and going outside later. I got there after six pm and Mom was in good spirits and her stomach was way down . She felt a ton better and looked really good. Alert, responsive and talkative.
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wed/thurs-- Mom's Stomach started to blow up again but she was still feeling ok and doing her OT and PT stuff with the therapists. I have been going up to see her in the evenings now as I am practicing a bit more. I call the docs to get updates. She went outside a few days also with Jerry and she told me she enjoyed that ! The docs are giving her stuff every other day to help with the intestinal trouble and trying to regulate it to keep her stomach from bloating.
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Friday Nov 21 2009- Mom had a good week. I talked to Dr. Greenough and he informed me that they would regulate the "go lightly" liquid medicine for her intestines. He said she just isn't moving things but hopefully as she becomes more active so with they. Mom was asleep when I got there at 5:30. I asked her of her day. She remembered (I already had talked to the Dr, respiratory and nurse) and went through her day with me. She said she went outside in the wheelchair with Jerry's help, went to therapy downstairs, they made her stand and try to walk , did arm and leg stuff also. She said an hour of it which is what I found out. Mom was tired but remembered for the most part what happened from her " very long long day" as she said.
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Nov-22-24- Weekend was ok. Stomach still distended and Mom didn't do any therapy. Talked to the Dr.Forti and because her stomach is still distended they will be giving her more 'go lightly' to help. There may be some coincidence with her thyroid issues Mom has had for a number of years which is connecting to this stomach issue. They are checking on this.Hopefully this week the therapists will get her moving more as too many days in bed will not help. I will work her legs and arms in the evenings to go along with what they do. Hopefully Jerry is doing small things with her during the day.This I don't know as it's up to me to get her progressing. He'll do what he has to I guess. (which is why I don't go during the day because of his lack of involvement and disposition and snapping at me for working Mom. I snapped back and now stay away and let him do whatever it is he does which before was just sitting there for 8 hours.) I'll do my part as in the long run with my sister being in Texas and Jerry being 71 This will be on my shoulders. Since I haven't been going during the day the last 2 weeks I have not see much progression so I still think Jerry needs to get involved (with exercises like the therapists told him to 6 weeks ago)or it will take longer for her to get out of there.This has nothing to do with the past and before Mom's aneurysm as he was/is a godsend to Mom and me. This is about NOW and the future and I will not be told what I can't do for her whether she likes it or doesn't by him. Only the direction coming from the doctors.I'll await for the docs to give me the go ahead to work her in the evenings after the stomach settles. My Sister is in town with her boys so since she hasn't been here and seen Mom since the 3rd week in Aug they can spend time with Mom this week and work with her(hopefully).
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Tues/wed ( Thanksgiving) - Tues was a good day Dr.Forti told me Mom was in good spirits and did well in therapy. She still is having debates on what to do the lower stomach issues. She talked to the neurology docs and they are starting her on some different meds next tues. The doctors have told me that if Mom gets off the Vent and progresses more in therapy but still has these medical issues she will have to go to a nursing home. This is not of Mom's wishes nor mine but I am not a nurse and Jerry could not take care of her at home in the situation she is in. Hopefully in 3- 6 months to a a year things will be different.So as the Docs said and the therapists said the more WE do even the little exercises will help down the road. Small things matter.Even if she went to therapy ...
Fri to sun- Rough weekend...Mom was very very tired and lethargic. She did do therapy Friday but it was rough. Her blood pressure, blood oxygen, blood carbon dioxide levels all good. There may be something up with her thyroid meds. She does not have a thyroid as it was removed in the early 70's then the rest in the late 80's. She needs to be on medicine. Docs are looking more into this.
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Monday Nov 30- Therapy again today. Mom's focus and attention levels have been weak. She can't focus on things and looses her attention . Short term memory is weak also. Tomm the Docs are bumping up the thyroid meds. Hopefully these focus and attention things start improving. Hyperthyroidism is a possibility. Since she doesn't have one and all her levels are good this might help in a few days of seeing some improvement...
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tues-fri- dec 1 to 4th...Much of the same. Stomach distended and at times her focus not there. BUT since the docs jacked up the meds for her thyroid there have been time of more alertness and communication. Not to bad of a week with therapy also. She stood (with help from the therapists) and did some other exercises. Also her vision is pretty good being that she was suffering from wet molecular degeneration. Might be a coincidence that she had fluid building pressing on the optical nerve but she says she isn't seeing the squiggly lines and faded black spots now so this is good ! Been 5 months since she had a shot in her eye.
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Week of dec6th to 11th.... Well it seemed like the thyroid meds started kicking in a little bit. It will take a few more weeks to see the full effect but this week Mom has been more alert and a little more focused. Still drifts off but not lethargic like last week. The therapist have been working with her trying to get her to stand up. She forgets things quick. She will need to be able to stand to function and this right now is a setback. Many good things happened this week along with the thyroid meds upped. She has started to be weened again off the vent. As of Friday it's been 3 days. Also they have started giving Mom regular food although she eats very little they have begun to disconnect the feeding tube so that she begins to get an appetite. She is comprehending things and started at times to ask questions. So other then the physical part somehow we got to get more interaction and physical parts together. A very good week ! Hoping for more improvement next week. By no means is thins going to happen anytime soon and what I mean is it will take over a year for Mom to even do things we take for granted. everything is moving at an extreme slow pace. Honestly for what We were supposed to have left of Mom ,as told by the medical books, what she has accomplished is simply amazing to this point. All her vitals are right on . Blood pressure, white blood count, blood oxygen etc....Tuesday the 15th will be 18 weeks..what a journey!
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This week dec 13-17th has been a good one. Mom is way more alert and more focused. She has been completely off the ventilator and is eating a little bit of soft food. They have taken her off the feeding tube during the day so she gets an appetite. Therapy also has been going well. She is standing ( with help of course) much faster then before but can only stand up to a minute. She has put cream on her face and combed her hair albeit slow but in time. She also is more talkative and her old sarcastic ways are coming back. Short term memory not so good. . She is being moved to the B-wing from the vent rehab. I am assuming the trach and feeding tube will be removed withing the next few weeks. To me since the docs have upped the thyroid meds her well being has improved. She also has talked to her brother Donald and Billy on the phone ( they live out of state) She knew who they were and also her brother Bob makes his tuesday visit every week and "torments" Mom ! LOL...much better week for sure.
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Weekend 18-21- Was not able to get to the hospital at all because of getting 20 inches of snow on Sat. I called and Mom had a good day sat according to the nurse. ALSO they started "plugging" the trach and basically that means Mom has to completely breath through her mouth and nose. This is a critical step. Off the vent then plugging. It started last Friday for like 10 min. They then went an hour and work it up over the course of a few days. .
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Monday Dec 21- Mom has been doing much better. Still weak and very hard to try to stand and move. Jerry and I have to do what we need to as the OP and PT help has stopped. We had a "family meeting " and because Mom has not physically progressed in 6 weeks with what they work on they have a time period to evaluate.Again this goes back to a few weeks ago of us physically working with her. I know she got stronger BUT it's the remembering and the focus on what she is doing that is not good. Short term memory is not there.The good news is that since her brain is functioning in ways never thought of( comprehending, speaking sentences, asking, feeding herself, talking with no problems, facial expressions, functioning albeit slow physically etc) there is a chance that with in the next 4-6 weeks she could go home believe it or not. This is a whole new ballgame as Jerry and I would have to be on alert for 24/7....This entails care all the time since she is not able to do things as of yet like we take for granted. We need her to come along further in the next 6 weeks as this will help us and more Jerry to make it easier on him. I need to find someone or an organization , family, friends, that can lend a hand. This will be another huge challenge when it comes to this. CONTACT on my homepage to email me if anyone out there who may have experienced this. The hospital will help with their connections and I will be reaching out also. This all is another new step in the recovery of Mom who is defying all odds for the amount of damage that initially occurred Aug 11.
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TUESDAY DEC 22--19 weeks.....Today Mom got her tracheal tube removed from her throat. It's been in since the end of august. She has been off the vent since last week. The feeding tube is all that remains but until she starts eating more food this will remain. Wednesday they are moving her to the skilled rehab part of the building so another positive step in recovery. She needs to eat more and needs to get stronger. She still doesn't really grasp why she is in the hospital and why she can't get up and walk. For the most part she is in good spirits and kinda understands that she needs to do the above to get out. Still a good 4 weeks plus before any possibility to get out of the hospital and it's up to us to teach her relearning skills so she can function properly.
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Week of dec 23-27-- Been a long week. The PT and PT work has subsided. Mom has not been able to show improvement to them for 6 weeks or remembering the sequence of how to stand up out of the wheelchair. She also has not been able to stand with out alot of help. One good thing is that she is now in the c wing which is the skilled rehab. Prob is her back is killing her severely and Jerry and I have a tough time getting her to sit in the chair much less get up out of bed. I asked for an MRI since she had a lower back surgery 4 years ago to see if something is out of place. We shall see....She is so aware of this and many other things mentally but physically is not able to do alot of "normal" things. I am going to have to reach out here down the road for any medical people that know of any local Baltimore people that can do home visits to help Jerry when the time comes. Email me ( contact us on the homepage) if there are any ideas....thanks. !
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Dec-28-31-2009- Well what a trying end of 2009. Since Aug this had been one of the hardest things in my life. I would not anyone do have to go through this ever. To watch your Mother almost die then slowley come back after months of tubes, meds, doctors, being in a coma, feeding tubes, stomach and intestinal issues, infections, thyroid medication issues, and so much more and to still have her look at me and say "i Love you" is astonishing ! We have many many more months to go but it is a blessing to have my Mother still here with me. Jerry and her were married dec 30 1988 and he has been by her side everyday since aug 11.
Ok so this week they had to give Mom a 5mg dose periodically for her back pain. She can't sit long and complains. The docs had told me her white count is ok for the most part but there is a UTI. So her lower back is near the kidneys and hence the pain. Antibiotics are being administered and soon as the pain subsides it's time to get her up and about more.
Its been a long 5 months and I appreciate everyone's' concerns, emails, blessings and prayers. Have a great 2010 !

Masters Story

WAUWATOSA, Wis. - Only two bowlers in the 56-year history of the United States Bowling Congress Masters have successfully defended their titles. The feat hasn't been accomplished since Billy Welu did it in 1965, and it's not going to happen this year.
 
Despite averaging 239.67 for 12 games Thursday at AMF Bowlero Lanes in suburban Milwaukee, defending champion Danny Wiseman of Baltimore was knocked out of the double-elimination bracket with a 655-650 loss to Christopher Sand of Chesterfield, Mich.
 
Sand, who finished third in the 1998 Masters, needed two strikes in the final frame of the three-game match to erase a 17-pin deficit and slip past Wiseman. Sand delivered three clutch strikes and advances to meet Brad Angelo, who fell to qualifying leader Mike Scroggins of Amarillo, Texas, in the third round of the winners' bracket.
 
"Since I'm not out on tour anymore, I haven't been bowling much," said Sand, who is a salesman for Roto Grip and Turbo 2-n-1. "But it's always nice to be in that situation and make the shots when you need them."
 
After losing to Adam Barta of Girard, Ohio, in the opening round, Sand topped Derek Eoff of Greenfield, Wis., and then avenged his first-round loss with a win over Barta to set up his meeting with Wiseman.
 
Wiseman, who was automatically seeded into the 32nd spot in the bracket, was matched up against 40-time Denny's PBA Tour titlist and 2004 (January) Masters champion Walter Ray Williams Jr. of Ocala, Fla., in the opening round.
 
Needing a double in the final frame of his three-game match against Williams Jr., Wiseman struck on his first shot, but left a 10-pin on his second attempt, falling 788-782. Wiseman entered the final game of the match with a 24-pin lead, but Williams struck on his first 10 shots to erase the deficit and put the pressure on Wiseman.
 
"I knew my match with Walter Ray was going to be a tough one, and since we were playing the same part of the lane, I knew they would open up for us," said Wiseman, an 11-time titlist. "I'd rather lose to Walter Ray than anyone else though. He's the best player in the world. It was great for the fans, and there was a lot of drama out there."
 
Wiseman went on to defeat Kerry Kreft of Madison Heights, Mich., 744-566 and Marc Massie of Fort Wright, Ky., 700-567 before running into Sand.
 
"I came into this week knowing that if I could just win four matches, I'd be on the show again," Wiseman said. "I knew I had an advantage over everyone else since I didn't have to go through qualifying. If I can take anything positive out of this though, it's knowing that I was able to shoot the scores I did with the lanes as tough as they were. I was able take make shot after shot 95 percent of the time. Unfortunately, the other couple of shots that I threw were really bad, and it cost me."

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DW Gear Preview

Visit my ebay store store and you will find button up tribal,skulls and flames like the ones I wore on the PBA tour.Some of my older USED bowling balls, patches, vintage bowling magazines,MLB,NFL,NASCAR models and NHRA items.  If your an ebay member please add me to your favorite sellers list.

 

New Dragonfly Shirts !!!!

Get ready for the new season with some new Attire like the one I wore on the PBA tour over the years ! Click the link to go there!!! The shirt categories re-organized so check them all out by click on the dw gear clothing link then to the categories. You can also click here to go to my ebay store.

 

NEW DRAGON SHIRTS !!!

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KIDS BOWLING SHIRTS !!

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Danny Wiseman limited "BOWL SO HARD U.S.A." T-shirts

Since my induction into the PBA Hall of Fame  on ebay are the  limited edition DW "Bowl So Hard" USA t-shirt. Go tebay store and click the side link BOWLING SHIRTS/DW Gear Shirts.

 

CUSTOM BOWLING BALL DISPLAY CASE

If you have a special Bowling Ball that is stuffed away for keepsake, here is the perfect way to showcase your prized ball ! "Nothing out there like it" That's my quote for this beautiful hand crafted customized Bowling Ball Display case. Click to go to offthesheetdisplays.com and message Randy. Tell him I sent you!

 

FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED 2004 USBC MASTERS PICTURE

Click the headline to go to the page to order yours ! MATTED 8x10 2004 USBC Masters Picture with the #42 signifying my place in the top 50 PBA players and the PBA H of F 2013 inscription.

 

Black Abstract Pins and Flame Kids and Adult T-Shirt

ABSTRACT T-SHIRTS IN ADULT AND YOUTH in the BOWLING SHIRTS/DW Gear Shirts EBAY store link .

 

Bleuz and Dragonfly shirts

Go to the link above to see the new Dragonfly shirts Some in very limited quantities. Get them before their gone ! Also new styles in the Bluez shirts and "D" CLOTHING. Many are also in my ebay store.

 

Logo T-SHIRTS

Brand new to the DW GEAR collection are these awesomely designed T-Shirts. Designed by Stevie Lange (RIP) and now my branded logo. Limited sizes are available ! Get yours today and show your support !!!!!!!

 

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