Latest Information

So, mom’s stoma has descended from its proper position and is no longer functioning properly; this means that her condition has reverted to what it was when she originally went to the hospital back at the end of February.  Surgery would normally be performed to make a repair, but the surgeons have rejected that option because the interior condition of mom’s abdomen makes success highly unlikely, and because the mortality risk associated with performing surgery on a person in mom’s physical condition is quite high. 

Mom was insistent that she would rather face the risks associated with the surgery than continue existing in the manner in which she now finds herself, but the doctors have refused to comply with her wishes.  The treatment plan is to maintain an intravenous antibiotic regime, along with nursing assistance to deal with the other aspects of her illness.  The General Hospital has arranged for mom to return to KDH and we expect her to return there this week.

Mom continues to enjoy the visits and cards from friends and family;  anyone planning to visit mom should check with the hospital prior to doing so as the transfer back to Kemptville can occur at any time.

As well, Michele and I appreciate the support, and many offers of assistance that people have made.  

Apparently, the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing.

Surgery did not take place today.  Mom has again been passed from one doctor to another; the newest Dr. wasn't in today so the surgery was postponed until he does an assessment and consults with me.  Meanwhile mom has been in holding pattern in emergency, unable to drink or eat, in case they do decide to do surgery (don't ask me the logic behind this).  Doctors don't tell nurses what they are doing nor do they tell each other what they are doing.  Can't believe the public gets more up in arms about the shape of the education system than they do about the quality of the health care system.

More Surgery

Mom is going to have another surgery, scheduled sometime today (Wednesday, June 5). 

Her colostomy stoma retracted resulting in feces being discharged into her abdomen and causing an infection.

She went to KDH yesterday from where she was sent to the General Hospital in Ottawa.  We found out at 11:00 pm that surgery was necessary to rectify the problem.  

So, mom is back in hospital – the home care plan is automatically cancelled when that happens and we will have to wait to see what happens next.  I imagine she will be in the General for a few days and then transferred back to KDH  for further recovery (the city hospitals like to turnover patients as quickly as possible).

I will post surgery results as I am able.