Thursday, May 17, 2007

Thoughts and prayers appreciated

In his better days...

5-23-07 Update
Just (de)venting here...

The vent tube has been removed and he is doing really well. He's very weak, of course, but talking (!!) and things are going much better for him. People say not to get too excited, that things can change in a moments notice and I'll get my hopes dashed, but I don't care! I'm an optimist and proud to be one.

I will update more later in the day if I get the opportunity, tonight at the latest.

Thank you all, once again, for your thoughts and prayers. I KNOW it has made a huge difference.

We love you all.


5-22-07 Update
It was a heck of a day at sea, Sir.

The doctors removed all of Dale's infusion ports today because they are thought to be the source of his bacterial infection. Other ports were installed and will be put to use tomorrow. Despite their concerns to the contrary, he tolerated the procedure very well and when I left at 7 pm to take his brother to the airport, he was resting comfortably.

In order for the procedure to be performed, it was necessary for the nurse to unhook him from the many machines he was on. She was on a tight timetable in order to get him ready to go to the ER and his wrist would not stop bleeding. I had volunteered to help her earlier, and she finally took me up on it and let me apply pressure to his wrist. For the first time I felt like I was really helping! Don't get me wrong, I know that my being there gives him strength and I'm all about that, but this was something totally different and it felt really REALLY good! But enough about me...

His critical care doctor had told me that the procedure would be difficult for someone in Dale's condition and that there was a chance that he wouldn't make it through. As you can imagine, I was Nervous Nelly, waiting for him to come back to the ICU. I hadn't told Dan what the doctor said because he was already stressed enough and I didn't need 2 patients on my hands, so I'm sure he thought I was a nut-job (even more than usual) when I spent the next 3 hours pacing the hospital.

But, obviously, the outcome was good. Very good!

I took Dan to the airport without getting lost or running anyone off the road (that I know of) and am now back at Wolf's apartment. Stick a fork in me, I'm done (for the night). Tomorrow it's back to the hospital for the day. They are planning on taking him off the ventilator (!!) as he has tolerated the weaning process very well.

Thank you all, once again, for your thoughts and prayers. It means the world to us.

We love you all.


5-21-07 Update, Part II

Today was a tough day. They took all the tubes and the ventilator out for the move to ICU and then had to re-insert them. As you can imagine, that wasn't very fun for Dale. This is all so hard on him, I can't even imagine what he's thinking most of the time.

The room is about the size of a bathroom and there's absolutely nowhere to put any of his things. His photos, the cards, the personal items are all in boxes against the wall. There's no stereo, no anything. They have visiting hours (which I will break, I guarantee it) and there's no room for anyone to be in there with him, unless you stand by his bed. I can't see how that can be conducive to his getting well.

They said that they moved him because he needs such specialized care and they don't have the staff in place on the bone marrow ward to do it right now, but I think that Dale believes it's because he's getting worse. I've told him the reason, but he doesn't seem convinced.

To be honest, I'm very upset that they moved him and I'm sure they are aware of it. I tracked down the social worker in charge of his case and she promised to make sure that the doctor's tell him why he was moved. She also promised that he was at the top of the list to move back into the Bone Marrow Transplant ward once a nurse becomes available and I will hold them to that. I know they are doing the best they can, but I am very afraid that this will set Dale back or worse.

We are going to meet with the Dale's medical team tomorrow to discuss treatment options and also to figure out the medical power of attorney issue. Dan needs to go back to Billings to take care of some of Dale's affairs and would like to meet with the doctor's before that happens. I'll stay with Dale until Dan gets back.

Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts.

Dale, Dan, Wolf and Laurie


5-21-07 Update

Because of a staffing shortage, they are moving Dale to the ICU. None of us, most especially Dale, are happy about it. The room is tiny and we can't be with him as much. He has improved a bit and I hope this doesn't set him back. Thank you all for your kindness and prayers. We love you all.

I'm giving platelets so this will be short. I'll try to post more tonight if I don't fall asleep at the computer again.

Hugs from Dale, Dan, Wolf and I.

5-20 Sunday Update

Dale has an infection that is antibiotic resistant. His critical care doctor said if they can't get a handle on it soon, they are out of options. Please keep Dale in your thoughts and prayers and hug the people you love.


Update 5-19-07

Dale has made small, but important gains today. He has some infection growing in his main lines, but they are watching it closely. His liver counts are slightly improved and his critical care specialist seems really pleased. She says she believes the improvement he is showing is the real deal and I, for one, choose to believe her.

Cousin Dan asked Dale if he felt like he could continue on this way and Dale was very adamant that he DID want to carry on. It was a defining moment in Dan's eyes, though not so much for me because I already knew what his answer would be.

Wolf came to visit and brought some more of Dale's jazz CD's. Dale brightened considerably while he was here. He kept his eyes wide open, answering Wolf's questions with nods and he was even trying to form words.

They have lessened his level of sedation because he is tolerating the ventilator well. They are going to be letting him breathe some on his own today or tomorrow, which according to the nurse, is a very good thing.

I read a few more cards to Dale today and he got tears in his eyes when he heard your messages. I hope you all know how much it means to him. If any of you are considering sending more cards, the address is the same, but the room number is now 3404. I think he will be there for awhile.

Overall, things are slowly improving. Some say not to get too excited or count on too much, but I'm a very positive person so I'm going to continue to be positive.

I thank you again for all the love you've shown us. Keep those thoughts and prayers coming our way.

With love to you all from Denver,

Dale, Wolf, Dan and Laurie

Update 5-18-07

Last evening Dale looked better. He wasn't nearly as "yellow" and he appeared more peaceful. When I told him a funny story about what had happened during the day, he grinned. When his brother told him that his niece Rachel had called, Dale turned his head and opened his eyes. He was unable to speak due to the heavy sedation and tube in his mouth, but he is most definitely aware of what is going on

When we were leaving I touched his arm and told him that he was strong and I knew he could beat this thing. I told him to keep on fighting and he shook his head up and down several times.

It is obvious to me that Dale is not ready to hang up the towel yet. We will keep reading to him and talking to him and playing jazz for him. If there comes a time when he is ready to stop fighting, I know he will tell us, somehow.

Please continue to pray for a miracle.


We love you all.



Update 5-17-07

Dale's blood tests were slightly improved today so we will stay the course and pray for a miracle. He knows we are there and is not in pain. I'm giving platelets now so this will be short. I have a hard enough time typing with both hands. Thank you all for caring and praying and loving.

Another Update 5-16-07
We were called into a family meeting today at the hospital. The meeting was attended by Dale's primary care physician, his primary nurse, social workers and several other people who's names and functions I did not catch. At this meeting we were told that some catastrophic event had caused Dale's systems to start shutting Tuesday morning. His last several liver tests had come back off the charts and not in a good way.

His doctor said that on a scale of 1 to 100, with 1 being healthy and 100 being deceased, Dale was currently at 99.9. His doctor told us that he had a heart attack on Tuesday morning and they had been forced to give him very strong drugs to control it. They would not be able to use those drugs on him again because of his condition. In other words, if he had another heart-related incident, they could not revive him. It was suggested that since Dale had voiced some opinions over quality of life issues, that we allow life support to be withdrawn. We were not ready, or able to make the decision at this time. They told us to take the all time we needed.

After leaving the meeting, shaken and despondent, the doctor came in and said he would like to try one more thing. Dale had already suffered through numerous blood clots, and so he wanted to try a drug that would prevent them from forming, hoping that the clots were causing the strain on the liver. We, of course, agreed to have them try the drug and it was started at 5:30 this evening. They will draw blood at 4 am and we should know more then.

It is really hard to know what to do, since Dale had not put any of his thoughts to paper, despite being asked to. I always thought he hesitated because he thought by writing it out, it would mean it was a possibility and he didn't want to even consider that. He is unable to tell us what he wants now, being sedated and quite confused because of the toxins in his system, so whatever decision is made will fall on Dan, and also on me. I pray that this treatment will work and a miracle will come to pass, but if not I ask for the strength we will need to make the right decision if the time comes.

When I talked to Wolf tonight, he told me of a conversation he had with Dale on Monday night as he was leaving. He said that Dale told him he just wanted to go home. Wolf thought that it meant he wanted to go home when he was well, but now he thinks that maybe Dale knew, as dying people often do, that his time on earth was ending and he was ready to go "home". My mom, Wolf's grandma, said the exact same thing as she lay dying not that long ago.

Anyway, that is the latest news. I will try to keep you all posted.

Thanks for keeping Dale and all of us in your thoughts and prayers.


Update 5-15-07:

I'm in Denver now. Kay couldn't get away and time seemed of the essence so I left around 1 pm and drove straight through. Dale's brother Dan flew in from Billings this afternoon. Wolf was given the day off to spend with Dale who is now on a ventilator and heavily sedated. The purpose of the sedation is to keep him from trying to breath on his own. We will talk to the doctors tomorrow and we should know more then.

Wolf read some of the your newest cards to Dale (kudos everyone, they really are amazing), and even though Dale wasn't able to comment, Wolf believes he was listening. Dale's heart rate was quite erratic for awhile, so Wolf put a jazz CD in the DVD player. The speakers are located right by Dale's head and his heart rate stabilized after the music was turned on. I am so thankful Wolf was here to be with Dale. No one should be alone in that situation.

I'll try to update as often as I can. Your kindness and concern means the world to all of us.


Thank you
.


-------------------------

I had wanted to wait to update you on Dale until I had good news, but recent developments dictate that I do so now. On Friday when my son Wolf went in to see Dale, he was in good spirits. They teased the nurses and talked about the future.

Dale showed Wolf the multitude of cards and photos and artwork he had received from you bloggers and discussed what he would write back to each one of you. He showed Wolf each item and Wolf said Dale was fairly beaming with delight. He couldn't believe that people he didn't even know had taken the time to shower him with gifts. He was a very happy man and very thankful.

The plan they devised was to have Wolf bring in his laptop and type out the comments, then Wolf would email them to me for editing and posting on this blog. They agreed that Wolf would come over this afternoon (Tuesday) to work on the project. It would be Dale's first official ghost blogger post.


Wolf showed up at the hospital at the appointed time only to find that Dale's condition had deteriorated drastically and he had been moved to a different room. Dale was disoriented and non-communicative. He would answer questions, but didn't talk otherwise. His eyes were bright yellow. Wolf was beside himself when he realized that the nurses weren't able to give him any real information on Dale's condition because he didn't have the proper privacy authorization.

Wolf called me and I talked to the nurse. She was one that I had gotten to know rather well when I was down there and she finally, despite her reservations, told me what I wanted to know. Then she made arrangements so that Wolf could access Dale's information by calling a number and giving the security code.

The news isn't good. Dale was started on continuous dialysis this morning because he is in acute renal failure. His liver is shutting down and he is having some serious heart problems as well. What is startling to me is that he could go downhill so quickly in a hospital of all places, but according to his nurse, it happens sometimes with Graft Vs Host Disease. She said the situation was dire, but not to give up hope. Wolf will be talking to Dale's primary doctor tomorrow and I hope to have more information for you all then.

My son handled everything with grace and dignity. While I know he had to be shaken beyond belief, he held fast to the belief that this was a temporary setback and that Dale would shake it off and come out of it. Wolf stayed with Dale for several hours and spent the last half hour holding Dale's hand. After he left he went down to the parking lot and called me to reassure me that Dale would make it. I have a wonderful, strong, incredible son and I am so thankful that he is there for Dale.

Kay and I are trying to make arrangements to go down this weekend, if her work schedule permits. We will leave Thursday afternoon, drive straight through and stay until Sunday night or Monday morning and then come back to Montana. Our hope is to raise Dale's spirits and also give Wolf a break. If she is unable to go, I will probably drive by myself.

I know I've asked for your help before and you've given it more than willingly. I'm asking for it again. Please send forth your healing thoughts and prayers today and everyday until Dale is out of danger.

Thank you.




106 comments:

Menchie said...

I am so sorry to hear about Dale's condition but we can continue to pray for a turnaround. Hang in there. And you've got a wonderful son.

Mary said...

Having a loved one in the hospital is a roller-coaster ride, I know that well. Keep the faith, Laurie. I'll keep all of you in my prayers.

Pam said...

I am so sorry that Dale has to suffer like this in his fight for survival. The power of hope and prayer is amazing and while Dale's resources are at a low ebb, we will carry on for him with hope, love and our prayers to see him through this time.

Your son is a most amazing man and his loving vigil means more to Dale than he will ever realize. Bless him and you and your family for who you are.

Squirl said...

I've been stopping back as often as I can to see if there's any news on Dale. Now I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes.

Prayers going out for Dale and all of you.

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry to hear the path is so rocky right now. I'll keep him in my thoughts.

Cuppa said...

More thoughts and prayers are speeding on their way to you and Dale from our corner of the world this morning.

Pam is right, the power of hope and prayer is amazing, and when you feel too low or tired to carry on, the love of family and friends will strengthen you every step of the way. Hang on! All our hearts out here in blogdom are with you.

threecollie said...

Oh, Laurie, I am so sorry. I hope he soon makes a turn for the better.

thailandchani said...

Dale is fortunate to have your son there with him. Naturally, we are all thinking good thoughts for both of them.


Peace,

~Chani

Anvilcloud said...

More positive vibes coming from Canada. Hang in there Dale and supportive family.

Pink said...

You have it, sister.
xx
pinks

Bonita said...

I will never forget Dale and Wolf, and this quiet vigil. Know that my prayers are for all of you as you ride the waves of this ordeal.

Gina said...

I am so sorry that I forgot to have Mr. P make a card! But, I will definitely not forget to pray for Dale.

Pink said...

Laurie...I didn't have a chance to read the post earlier except your email. Now I have.

What strikes me is that Dale was so happy before his condition turned. This is a wonderful gift and will help him to find the inner strength to fight.

I am dedicating prayers and sending healing energy for Dale's highest good. I am also praying for your safe journey.

Lots of love.
xx
pinks

Unknown said...

Thanks for you positive comments everyone, I will make sure to pass them on to Dale. And thanks mom for your wonderfull blog.

Wolf

dmmgmfm said...

Thank you, everyone, for your thoughts, prayers and overall kindness. I can honestly say I love you all.

Wolf and I will try to keep the updates coming as often as possible.

Hugs and health to you all,
Laurie

TigerYogi said...

Consider it done...

KGMom said...

Laurie--what is there left to say right now--except that I will pray--for grace, for strength, for peace, for healing.

Romeo Morningwood said...

What a battle for every inch of Life. What more can you say about a person who has fought so hard every extra minute.
In the end the lessons are for us to learn. Dale certainly has his own unique perspective playing inside.
It is all so far removed from what we strive to busy ourselves with every single day. I am glad that Dale enjoyed a brief quickening period for all of the vigilant family members and friends. There was a lot that needed to be said and I hope that was accomplished.

Today I ran across quite a few people looking for answers and prayers for loved ones living in the shadow and I keep hearing a Cat Stevens. I hope it soothes your soul a little.

"Miles from nowhere
I guess I'll take my time
Oh yeah, to reach there

Look up at the mountain
I have to climb
Oh yeah, to reach there.

I creep through the valleys
And I grope through the woods
'cause I know when I find it my honey
It's gonna make me feel good"

Cathy said...

God bless you all, Laurie. My prayer is for Dale's comfort and healing and that you may reach him and hold his hand. Dear sweet Wolf. He's been through so much and I can not imagine what his presence has meant to Dale.

Sending you heart hugs and wishes for safe travels.

WithinWithout said...

Laurie and Wolf:

Intention and hope and love and strength are the most beautiful of gifts you both have consistently given to Dale.

Those are things that he will always have, no matter what happens next, and he will always know that and have those things with him.

It was a joy to hear of his delight at the cards and gifts from those of who have been captivated by his fight.

Let's hope we can yet see those comments from him on your blog, as told to Wolf and to you.

Smiles and hugs and warm thoughts all around.

Anonymous said...

I'll continue to pray for him.

Glad to read that you are going to be with him.

Laura@SomewhereinNJ

Ur-spo said...

I too am sorry to hear of this
I hope too it is merely a nasty setback
I have my rosary beads a-going

captain corky said...

I'm sorry to hear about your cousin. My thoughts are with you and him.

thailandchani said...

Still sending powerful and good thoughts for Dale, whichever way it goes.

Glad you were able to get there so quickly and be with him.


~Chani

dmmgmfm said...

Fellow bloggers,

You are all so dear and I am thankful to know you.

I keep passing your comments on to Dale, and although he is sedated, I believe he knows what I'm saying and can feel all of your love and support.

Bless you all,
Laurie

Q said...

Dear Laurie,
Sending blessings to Dale and to you.
Be full of care as you travel.
Hugs,
Sherry

Carol said...

I'm so far behind, Laurie and so sorry to only be getting to your blog today. I have sent Dale a card this morning, so I hope he receives it soon. I am sending all of you my warmest wishes, good thoughts and lots of love.

Carol

Cathy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Bonita said...

Oh yes! Keep playing the music, and chat together. That will be supremely comforting to Dale. Oftentimes, the patient cannot comment, but they can hear everything! May all of Gods grace carry all of you, at this time.

Anonymous said...

Hi Laurie
I've come to this story very late in its telling. You and your family are in my thoughts. You and your son bring great dignity to Dale's journey. I think Joseph Campbell calls it a Hero's journey. You are not alone.

Mary said...

I'll be thinking of him during my trip this weekend. Tell him there's a multitude of well wishers out there...

Girlplustwo said...

oh honey. i've been thinking of Dale and you quite a bit.

love you. i am sending you peace.

dmmgmfm said...

To all of you wonderful people, words alone cannot express our gratitude for your kindness. I ask, again, that you bless us with your healing thoughts and prayers as we face another day here.

Thank you.

Laurie, Dale, Wolf and Dan

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry things aren't going well. You are all in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

It is not fair to a soul as happy and content as Dale's to go through so much. He is so lucky to have family like all of you. I think in his heart the decision he found to be so difficult to make was answered with his trust in you to make the right call. They say two heads are better than one. When it is over, Dale will be home either way. God Bless you all in these trying times.

Cathy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Bonita said...

My prayers are with you, Laurie, as you, Wolf, and the doctors try one last measure to sustain Dale's physical conditions. I will add, though, that when Dale mentioned that he wanted to go home, that he is now ready for the comfort and security of that transition. He is ready, and I'm sure he wants everyone else to feel prepared for that journey.

Unknown said...

I'm sorry Dale is suffering Laurie, and that you, Wolf, and Dan are as well. We're all pulling and praying for you guys.

LittlePea said...

Oh Laurie-I've been out with the flu so I missed out on this post. I'm so sorry to hear about this. I will continue to pray for Dale and your family!

Gina said...

Oh Laurie, I just read the update. I will pray for you to have the strength to make the tough decisions. And for Dale, that he be spared as much pain as possible.

Cathy said...

Laurie - I'm praying for your miracle. If anyone deserves one - it's Dale and his caring family. You're one remarkable lady, Laurie - you give of yourself in every way possible.

WithinWithout said...

Blogging with one hand while giving blood and doing everything in your power to help save a loved one's life with love.

Extraordinary and much more.

Your caring and feeling will never be wasted. It's a gift to him that will always endure.

dmmgmfm said...

Thank you ALL so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers on Dale's behalf.

Dale indicated to us today that he wants to continue to fight. It was a moment I'll never forget, no matter what the outcome eventually is.

I wish I had the energy to answer you all personally, but I just don't. Please know how much you all are appreciated.

Love,
Laurie

steve'swhirlyworld said...

I'm praying for Dale, you, and your family - I'm praying for comfort and peace for you all.

thailandchani said...

Just came by to check on Dale and read your update. We're still thinking positive thoughts for him here and will continue.

I like what Caroline said about the Hero's Journey.


Peace,

~Chani

Pink said...

Laurie...Dale and you and your family continue to be in my prayers...

xx
pinks

zoe said...

laurie, you and your family are heavily in my thoughts and i really hope that dale isn't suffering too much .... although that's a bit much to say.

if he can focus at all, let him watch the FA cup today!

xxxx

Anonymous said...

I am sending lots of prayers for peace and healing thoughts both for Dale and you.

NatureWoman said...

I'm praying for Dale and you and your family Laurie. Hugs to all of you, I know the hospital thing is not easy at all.

Squirl said...

Thanks for keeping us updated. I just read down through the 5-17 update. I'm hoping that Dale's "going home" means his physical house. I know my mother talked about going home in her last week.

But it sounds like Dale's rallying. Hang in there!

Pink said...

Send our love to Dale...praying as always...

Cathy said...

Sending love and prayers, Laurie. The courage and care you are sharing with us - lifts me - reminds me of how precious and good is the human heart.

TigerYogi said...

05/19/07

I just read the updates. You'll all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers...

dmmgmfm said...

You are the most wonderful people in the world. Your thoughts and prayers and caring really has made a difference. I wish you could see the look in Dale's eyes when I read him your cards or comments.

A week or so ago, before he took the bad turn, we were yakking on the phone and he kept saying how incredible it was that people he had never met could care so much. You have touched him on a deeper level than you can ever imagine.

There's no way I can ever thank you enough.

Anonymous said...

I went to see CDConnection.com this morning and had them send Dale a copy of my favorite album. It will give him something different to listen to while he recovers.

Helen the Felon said...

The update is encouraging! I knew Dale was a fighter, and I'm sure having you guys there helps a ton.

You, Dan and Wolf be sure to take good care of yourselves...make sure you eat, and get some rest when you can. Dale needs your strength.

All the best thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep fighting, Dale!

Cathy said...

I'm sending you such a tender hug. Dear sweet Dale. Oh Laurie, it's been such a struggle. May your heart rest comfortably in the knowledge that you could not have given more in this effort to save his life. You gave of body, mind and spirit. You lifted him up as I think no one else could.
You and Wolf and your cousins are very special people - the kind of people that make life worth living - that step up to plate when called - that give and give without asking anything in return.
Bless you.

Cuppa said...

Sunday afternoon - just catching up on reading your blog. Thanks for the updates. Dale is always in my thoughts and prayers these days. You are too. What a struggle this is for all of you, but you are not alone. Hang in there.

I agree with you that you should get excited about any little move in the right direction. Let's celebrate the good and the positive. It sure can't hurt and it always helps. Hugs, hugs, hugs!

Pink said...

Oh Dear!

I'm praying as always. I wanted you to know that I did a race for the cure for cancer today and I dedicated it to Dale who I know is fighting the fight.

Tell Dale if he keeps fighting I'll keep racing for him until he is well again.

Lots of love,
Pinks

dmmgmfm said...

I don't know what to say to all of you. The love you've shown us has been beyond belief and such a source of strength for us all.

Dale continues to struggle, but also to show how strong he is. He even did the infamous "Dale Petersen eye roll" (photos of a healthier Dale doing the "eye roll" will follow as soon as I have time to access them) when an ex-girlfriend's name was mentioned. It amazes me that he wants to make us laugh while he's lying there so very ill.

Every one of you is a part of this amazing fight and we thank you for lending us your strength.

Love,
Dale, Dan, Wolf and Laurie

Mary said...

I am so sorry I missed the events while I was away. And what I am more sad about is that my card I sent to him was returned to me...my fault on the address. I'm going to send Dale more mail, Laurie. It's worth the hope that his response will beat the physical challenge he faces. My prayers are with you, your son, and Dale - and also with his staff of nurses and doctors.

Tell Dale we all want to see his "eye roll" along with his "thumbs up".

Anonymous said...

I've got to tell you Laurie, it's strange that I wake up in the morning and I think to myself, "I have stuff to do I'm not gonna touch the computer today." But then I think of Dale and you and all the fam. I just have to know what is happening in your part of the world. That you are doing OK. You all are so strong, just checking in brings tears to my eyes. Many thoughts and prayers for you!

Anonymous said...

I'm not litigation-happy, but I think it's legitimate to ask the question, "How was he exposed to antibiotic-resistant bacteria?" He didn't have that problem when he checked in.

You are all in my thoughts. I know how exhausting it can be to care for someone who is ill.

zoe said...

i'm still thinking of you all, and i really want to see that eye-roll - one of my daughters tends to roll her eyes and say "oh mama!" whenever i embarrass her - which, of course, is exactly what parents are for.

gentle hugs to dale and chin up :)

xxx

Gina said...

Oh Laurie, I hope things get better soon. Prayers, as always.

Cathy said...

A gentle hug . . . .

sandy said...

I just found my way here and will add my prayers to everybody else.

sandy

sandy said...

I just found my way here and will add my prayers to everybody else.

sandy

Unknown said...

I will continue to include Dale in my thoughts and prayers. Know that we are all here for you and for him. Do not let your fatih waiver.
I have sent out a distant Reiki to Dale. May the energy be used for the highest good.

Pink said...

Laurie,

I sent today a card to room 3404.

It should be there in 4-5 days.

Sending healing and prayers.

You stay strong,too. Rest and eat when you can. Dale is counting on you being well.
xx
pinks

Squirl said...

Thinking about all of you. Like Pink said, remember to take of yourself, too.

dmmgmfm said...

Thank you all for your kindness. I've said it so many times, but it still holds true, it means the world to us here.

Please keep Dale in your thoughts and prayers.

Much love from all of us.

WithinWithout said...

This move to the ICU seems so counterproductive but surely it must be unavoidable, if confusing and a huge inconvenience.

Continued positive thoughts and hugs...

wd said...

With all that movement to a new room - 1) you break those visiting rules!! 2) make @&#*$(#@(*$& sure the Dr. tells Dale why he was moved and what it will take to move him back ...

doubling up on prayers here!!!!!!

>HUGE HUGE bear hug< ... bill

Pink said...

Hi Laurie,

Yes, its important Dale does not believe they have given up on him.

If I may make a suggestion - as a matter of priority, get some blue tac and put up all the cards on the walls around him. Go to walmart and get a small stereo and headphones if you need that.

It is ABSOLUTELY essential Dale keep his spirit up and not believe anyone has given up on him.

I sure haven't!

Lots of love,
Pinks

Cathy said...

So many prayers and hugs coming to you all- I hope you can sense them through the exhaustion and pain.

dmmgmfm said...

Dear Sweet Blogfriends,

Once again thank you for your fantastic comments. I plan to take your suggestions to heart and will pick up some blue tac today.

There WILL be a stereo in the room today, if I have to buy one myself and the docs WILL be telling him the real reason he's in there.

Your comments and the discussions I've had with some of you have given me renewed strength and resolve.

I thank you so much and will love you all forever.

Cuppa said...

Oh Laurie - what a tough road you are all walking. So many twists, turns and obstacles in your path must make you weary and discouraged beyond words. Seems like it is all uphill these days too.

I hope and pray the road levels out soon and just around the next corner you find the trek a little easier.

Your blogging buddies are walking with you in spirit and sending you support for the journey with every keystroke we make. Hang in there kiddo.

jnuts said...

there will never be a time in my life where I am not in awe of the strength of women. as a male, it is truly humbling. the men in your life are quite lucky. all of them.

Cathy said...

Just lying here getting ready to turn the light off and thinking of you, Dale, Wolf, Dan - of the lonely, frightening, exhausting hours you've stood vigil with sweet Dale.

We're all sending love and a prayer for Dale's miracle. I hope you're getting some rest, Laurie. Giving blood and spending hours in the hospital - I don't want you to collapse. I know you're strong, but you're human, too. Really. So wonderfully human. Take care.

Unknown said...

My prayers continue.

dmmgmfm said...

Blogfriends, Dale is doing better. He is such a strong person and he amazes me every day.

As for me, yes, it's an emotional rollercoaster, but I promise you it is one that I'm equipped to ride. Please don't worry about me, I am doing just fine.

Thank you all so much. You are the best!

Anvilcloud said...

Sorry I have been missing these as they haven't been coming through as fresh feeds. It seems that Dale may have turned a corner. Hope so anyway. hang in there, kid.

Girlplustwo said...

what a roller coaster, love. i am thinking of you all the time.

today's update was inspiring. yes.

wd said...

Any improvement is such a joy to read!!! And - tah dah!!!! - you didn't get lost!!!! (ducks to avoid being hit) ...

(HUGE bear hug) ... b

Pink said...

Laurie,

Wonderful news about Dale. I'm glad he came out well from the ER.

Now hang in there, honey. You're doing great.

I'm glad you had the chance to feel you were participating in his healing. That's important.

xx
Pinks

Anonymous said...

It's nice to have a ray of hope!

(I sent you a quick email this morning.)

Mary said...

Laurie, I'm really glad you are updating every day. I hold my breath...

God Bless Him. God Bless you, too! You must possess nerves of steel.

Cuppa said...

Oh good. I was just about to run out the door but stopped by for a quick update and was so glad to hear/read that Dale came through the trauma of yesterday OK. Such a nice note to start my day on. I will be thinking of you all today. Take care dear friend.

Helen the Felon said...

Dale is a rockstar, and so are you and Wolf and Dan. I know he can make it through this, with your help and support. Hang in there.

Gina said...

I hope things stay the way they are!

Anonymous said...

Good News!!!!!Yeah!!!!! I won't get too excited though, just like you said. But that news is a whole lot better then the news that brought tears a few days ago! Hang in there girl!

TigerYogi said...

5/23/07

I just read the latest update. Such good news!

I'll keep praying and thinking of you folks! :)

Cathy said...

It was so good to find good news about Dale. He's got his voice back. Music to your ears.

You and Dale come from some very special stock :0) I'll bet there were many stalwart, optimistic ancestors in your family tree and it seems they've forwarded that can-do, facing-into-the-gale determination to you. It's so inspirational, Laurie. I'm taking notes.

Prayers and hugs. Like everyone above - I hang on your updates - please give Dale a kiss on the cheek from all of us.

WithinWithout said...

A roller-coaster ride it's been, but you've gotten through it and stuck with it.

Time for another funny card for Dale, I'd say. I'll get right on that.

And can you smuggle a case of beer up there and let us make a mass toast to him and his health?

And to you and Wolf and Dan?

Maybe even the nurses want a pint or two...

Squirl said...

My fingers are crossed really, really tightly! This sounds like good news. Yes, your presence is healing for Dale, but I know what you mean about being able to do something physical to actually help.

We're thinking, hoping, and praying for all of you.

Love!

dmmgmfm said...

Today was another good day. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have Dale speaking again. I have missed that so much.

He said he remembered me telling him that all of you were rooting for him and praying for him. He told me it helped to get him through the worst of times.

Thank you doesn't really say what I'm thinking, but it's the best I can do at the moment.

We love you all.

steve'swhirlyworld said...

I will stay hopeful. This sounds like fantastic news.

dmmgmfm said...

Steve, I continue to remain optimistic and the doc's are astounded by Dale's strength.

Thank you for caring.

Mary said...

I think I'm comment #100.

Enjoy your optimism, Laurie! We need people like you, as does Dale.

Smile!

Girlplustwo said...

ah love. so glad to hear this. so glad.

you continue to be in my thoughts.

thailandchani said...

Still checking in daily, so you know.... and positive thoughts and much more coming from my little corner of Sacramento.


Peace,

~Chani

Girlplustwo said...

continuing to keep you all in my thoughts, now more than ever, to you and sweet Dale.

dmmgmfm said...

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. You are the best!

Love,
Dale, Wolf, Dan and Laurie

Bonita said...

Ahhhh, it is good to see things looking up here!

steve'swhirlyworld said...

Thinking of you, Dale and Wolf...wishing you all the very best and full recovery.