Week Ending Sept. 27th

I keep getting in trouble for not blogging, and I keep explaining to Jeron that I'm the one that had a stroke and he should type it. He's insisting, so I'm trying. My left hand is still lagging a bit when typing, but it's getting better. It's really nothing to complain about anyway. I'm so blessed to be doing as well as I am and so blessed to have family members who love me enough to drop everything and come take care of me. I've posted a picture of me and my mom and my smile looks crooked, but it's not because of the stroke. My mom devoted three full weeks to come take care of me. Of course I was rude and impatient with her, but she was wonderful. First of all, I slept in every day (That never happens!) and she was my own personal slave. She made me food, got the kids ready for school, did my laundry, and put up with me. I can handle having strokes if it means lying in bed and having everyone take care of me! Mom left on Saturday, Sept. 26th. Our day was filled with soccer and football games. I hitched a ride with our neighbor, Kim, and Jeron took Spencer to his football game since they were at the same time. Austin is hilarious. He thinks it's really cool to dive to the ground just for the fun of it.

I'm feeling really good normally, although I do battle some form of a headache everyday. I have a meeting with my neurologist, next Tuesday, to evaluate the progress since my stroke. I just want to know....Can I drive? I could not be where I am without all of your prayers and help. I think mostly this stroke has taught me how we need to serve one another and forget ourselves. Thank you for all your support.

Week of Sept 15th

We've slacked with the blog this week. The good news is that there is no major drama to report. Heather has been sleeping in late every morning and has been able to get out and do more with her mom this week. She has been shopping a couple of times and even had a pedicure yesterday. There are days that she gets too worn out and ends up with some pain and insomnia as a result, but it seems that the good days outnumber the bad.

Heather's pain is much more tolerable now. She only takes pain medication when absolutely necessary, and there are days when she does not require any. Judith has been very dedicated to ensuring that Heather gets adequate rest throughout the day and has been known to confiscate her cell phone so that she can't stay up texting people.

On a few occasions Heather has attempted to do some weeding in the yard. Bending over really gets her dizzy and the effects seem to last for hours. This is a manifestation of the stroke. Her cerebellum was responsible for balance and fine motor coordination, so it may take some time for different areas of her brain to pick up the slack. She is very fortunate that the severity of the impairment is so minor. We were told that some who suffer this type of stroke are affected by severe balance impairment for years or even indefinitely.

The boys are still concerned about their mother. Spencer will say at times, "Mom! Please don't get upset or you will strain your neck again!" Austin tries to be a little more gentle around her, although he doesn't quite understand why. They are both doing very well in school and their respective sports.

I was in El Paso and Albuquerque for work this week. It is great to know that Judith is here taking care of Heather while I am away. She will return home to Georgia/Florida next Sunday. We're hoping that by that point Heather is able to drive and get around a little better.

Thanks to everyone for the prayers, meals, visits, and service. We feel so loved and are very grateful.

Sunday

Pictured: Jeron and Heather at the surprise birthday party last night!


We made it through the weekend without any major incident. We consider boring days a blessing now. It's funny how your perspective changes after this sort of wake-up call.

Saturday Heather went to Austin's soccer game. She said that it was fun to see little Austin trying hard to impress her. It made her very tired though, and she didn't feel very well afterward. She came home and slept a little bit, but she was definitely preoccupied with something. I found out later Saturday evening that she had been planning a surprise birthday party for me at the Dickson's home. We had a great time with friends, and everyone was ecstatic to see Heather out and about.

Days like yesterday make us almost forget that anything even happened. BUT, nights like last night remind us how fragile Heather still is. She was in a lot of pain from all of the activities of the day, and her pain pills didn't seem to help much. She tossed and turned all night, and we got very little sleep. She was able to finally get some sleep this morning after the rest of us left for church.

We went for a walk around the neighborhood today, and spent some time at the park chatting with neighbors. It was really good for Heather to get out and visit. She's tired tonight, and is in a good deal of pain, so we are going to bed very soon and praying for a better night's sleep.

Judith has been a huge help for the past week, and Heather's Aunt JudyAnn has stayed with a couple of days. Heather really looks up to her aunt, and loves to sit and visit with her for hours.

We have another busy schedule this coming week. Everything from doctor's appointments, games, work, and school. It has truly taken a village to get us through this and we will continue to rely on friends and family to balance all that we need to do.

For those of you who have seen her, you can tell that Heather has not lost any of her abilities or personality. She is strong, funny, and always concerned about everyone around her. We just take it one day at a time and pray for her continued stamina and endurance.

Thursday

I am happy to be home after a four day trip to California. Just as Heather mentioned, she has really good days and some not so good days. There is really no predictor of what her condition will be day-to-day, but we are pleased that there seems to be more good than bad lately.

Today was a good day. Heather said that it was without incident, and that all she had to deal with was fear and trepidation from her mom's driving. Judith has been a great help and support to Heather for the last week. I can see that she's a little tired and will try to let her rest extra tomorrow morning.

Heather said that she was able to make it today minus one of her long acting pain relievers. This is a great sign. Her balance improves each day. She has been taking time for naps and listening to her body, which is wise.

She plans on attending the boy's sporting events on Saturday. We'll see how much this wears her out. I'm a little concerned, but she doesn't seem to be at all.

It was great to be able to read what Heather has posted on the site. It is a great reminder to all of us that we still have "our Heather" with us. What a blessing it is!

Tuesday & Wednesday

I'm responsible for posting the last two days because Jeron's out of town and you will see that he is much more eloquent. I'm having a little trouble with my fine motor skills with my left hand so typing is difficult for me, so forgive me if I misspell. Tuesday was not a great day. My mom is here to take care of me for a few weeks. She woke me up Tuesday to find me with a terrible headache on the left side of my head. After a few medications and some sleep, the headache was gone...or at least seemed to be. I decided to go out with my mom (of course she has to chauffeur me around) and run some errands. After a shower and makeup, I could feel a migraine coming on. Medication can be a very good thing, but with some of these killer headaches, I have break-through pain. After more drugs and sleep, I woke up much better. I have found that I am having some trouble with my left eye so I'm dressing up like a pirate everywhere we go. So everyone who's visited me at home, has seen me with the eye patch. The rest of the day was pretty uneventful -- resting, eating, and fighting with children. I had a few visitors - some who brought food or goodies and others who just came to chat. I love the visitors and I love my friends and neighbors. I couldn't do it without you! Most of all, I feel the love and concern you have for me and it makes me feel so much a part of this neighborhood and Ward. Thank you for your kindness. I can't say thank you enough!!

Today is Wednesday and it has been a great day - probably the best so far! I've felt great. I have felt totally normal except for a couple of balance issues, which are actually a little humorous. Of course, it seems to be one good day, one bad day, and so on. We'll see how tomorrow goes. My medicine is wearing off and I still feel great. My mom and I took an exciting trip to American Fork to the Verizon store and to Costco. Most people would not find this so exciting, but I've been trapped in either the hospital or my house for a long time. I patiently (sort-of) waited with Austin and my mom in the Verizon store for close to an hour. Later we went to Costco, where I walked through the entire store with no problems, except for Austin throwing his occasional fits - thank goodness for my mom. The rest of the day went smoothly and I'm hoping to be pain-free tomorrow! I want to thank all of you for your prayers: I feel they are being answered by my quick recovery. I know I will still have some bad days, but I feel extremely blessed to be doing as well as I am. I have faith that I will completely healed.

Monday

Heather said that she felt like she moved around very well on Monday. She was able to go out and show the landscapers the needs in the yard and was even able to stay up and watch a movie with her mom.

Her eye pain continued though, so she scheduled an appointment with a neuro ophthalmologist. We have been told that the pain is probably due to the stroke, but we have learned to leave no stone unturned. I'll be sure to let you know what we learn from the appointment.

Heather enjoyed spending time with her mother. I miss being there with her, but know that she's in good hands. Thanks to everyone for the kindness and sacrifice. We are truly blessed to know you.

Heather checking in

I just had to write a little bit to tell everyone how much love I have felt. This has been a tramatic event, but even during the midst of it, I felt totally calm (besides the pain and vomiting) and have realized how loved I am. I guess I've always felt loved from people, but living far from home, my neighbors truly do become my family and I am so grateful for all of you. We have been extremely blessed through this whole ordeal. Within no time, the Bishop was at the emergency room with me holding my hand and reassuring me. My brother-in-law as well as chiropractor sat and waited, comforting me until Jeron returned home from California. I have had so many flowers, meals, phone calls, etc. from all of you and you have no idea how good that makes me feel. I didn't have to even ask where I should have my kids go and what would happen to them....neighbors and friends took over and arranged it without me. All of you who are far away, I feel your love and concern and wanted to thank you for all your uplifting comments. Thank you for all your prayers. Many have already been answered. Love,

Heather

Saturday/Sunday

Pictured: Heather is still able to talk with her hands and be animated.


Sorry about missing a day. I never knew how much everyone liked the blog until I missed a day! I even had a few people call to be sure that everything was okay, because they didn't see a new entry. Heather is doing very well. We were just very busy with football games and a soccer game.

Saturday morning we got up early and got Spencer ready for a football game and Austin for a soccer game. Spencer's team won 28-0 and Austin kicked his first goal of the season! Heather had to stay at home and rest, which made her sad.

Heather was able to go to Cristina's house to visit late Saturday morning. It was fun for her to get out of the house. She loved being able to see Cristina's "precious" little children (Isaac 2, Alex 3). They climbed all over her and she loved every minute of it. Cristina fed her lunch and pampered Heather with her pretty new pillows that she made.

I returned home from the games with some Coldstone ice cream (Heather's favorite food). When Heather returned home from Cristina's my cousin and his family were here, so we visited for a while. I tried to get Heather to rest, but knowing people were visiting without her was too much to handle, so she joined us for some additional conversation.

Overall, Saturday was a good day for Heather. It was the best that she has been able to get around the house since she returned, and it almost felt like she was back to normal. Her pain was managed well with medication, but her eye bothered her a little.

Today (Sunday) was a little more challenging for Heather. It is interesting to see how each day varies. She slept off and on until 2 p.m. Her eye has really ached today. She has worn the eye patch most of the day, which provides a little relief from the pain. Heather tried very hard today not to take her pain medication, but was in quite a bit of pain by about 5 o'clock tonight. She is enjoying time with her mother, Judith, who arrived tonight. The boys are thrilled to have their grandmother here.

I leave for Los Angeles tomorrow for a work meeting, and will return on Thursday. I will update the blog each evening, but it may be somewhat late for the East coasters out there. We have enjoyed some wonderful meals from members of our church this week, and the boys are having the time of their lives playing with neighbors so much.

Friday

Austin's first day of Kindergarten, and two days prior to Heather's stroke. She did a great job of staying active despite all of the pain she was experiencing.

Heather had a very active day on Thursday. She was able to spend quite a bit of time talking with friends and even did some physical therapy. By about 6 p.m., she wasn't feeling well at all. Her head and neck were throbbing and not responding to pain medication. She attempted to lie down and rest, but found the pain too much. After throwing up and having her head rubbed for a couple of hours, she was able to get to sleep. She slept through the night and woke up feeling a little better. It was a good reminder to us that she needs to take things slowly.

Today we had a doctor's appointment first thing in the morning, and then I brought Heather home and had her take a nap. She slept for over 4 hours! It was a much needed rest and she seems to be rejuvenated this evening. She has been on the phone quite a bit, which tells me she's feeling herself again.

We continue to receive dinners from members of our church and Heather received a beautiful basket yesterday from members of my family full of goodies that she is quite enjoying. Heather reminds me often to thank everyone for all of the kindness displayed throughout this.

Heather loves to have visitors. All who know her know how social she is, so please don't stay away too long. She will wilt like a flower if she is without conversation for too long. The best time to visit is probably the evenings after 5 p.m. She will be taking naps in the afternoon, so that she can be ready for fun in the evening.

Thursday

The top picture was taken today as Heather worked with her physical therapist. The bottom picture was Monday when the Nibleys came to the hospital to visit.

Heather slept very well last night. She was so glad not to have nurses coming in every few hours to wake her up. She talked in her sleep a lot, but it didn't seem to bother her. Her head hurts a little bit, as she's not as aggressively managed with pain medications, but she tolerates it well.

Today Heather spent some time with a few of her friends. They were kind enough to spend the morning and afternoon with Heather so that I could run and get a few things done. They watched movies, chatted and laughed. Heather even got a little nap in while her friend, Julie mopped the kitchen floor. Thank you, Julie!!!!

A physical therapist came to the house today to work with Heather. He was extremely impressed with her ability to balance and walk with coordination. She was able to climb the stairs and descend with relative ease. The most difficult task to complete was walking backwards. She was pretty tired after working with him for about 45 minutes, but she didn't have more than a mild headache and was quite pleased with her skills:) Heather is napping right now trying to recover from the hard work. He said that her youth is helping her brain to regain function very quickly. We attribute much of this progress to the prayers and faith of those who love us.

Heather wanted me to thank all who have so graciously volunteered their time and those who have been so thoughtful to send baskets, flowers, food, etc. It is so gratifying to know that so many care and are willing to sacrifice to ease our burdens.

The boys are thrilled to have Heather home. That doesn't mean that they instantly became the snuggly bugs Heather would like them to be though. She may get 30 seconds here and there, but to expect more would be unrealistic.

Thank you for all of the comments. Heather cannot wait for me to read them to her each night.

Wednesday Morning

Heather is coming home today! Her doctors are comfortable with her blood levels of anticoagulant, and are confident in her ability to rest and recover at home. She will have home health visits from therapists starting tomorrow and will have her medications managed by our family physician.

We are thrilled that she will be home with us and understand how much help she will need. She will not be allowed to walk without someone being near her, and will need lots of rest. We will continue to rely on friends and neighbors to help with our children so that she gets the rest she needs.

The echocardiogram showed no abnormalities in Heather's heart. The hereditary condition they were looking for was ruled out. We may get a second opinion at some point just to be certain, but it is a relief that the test was negative.

Heather and I walked around the unit today without any nausea or increased blood pressure. She seems to improve some each day, for which we are so grateful. Thank you for your prayers and faith. They have most certainly been a large part of recovery thus far.

Tuesday Evening

Heather had an echocardiogram today. It looks at the different chambers of her heart as well as her heart valves. We are anxious to hear what her doctors have to say about it when they visit us on their rounds tomorrow.

Jessica is returning to Georgia in the morning. We are so grateful to her and everyone who sacrificed their time to allow her to be here with us. It means a lot to Heather to have her sister with her in this difficult time. Heather's mother, Judith, will be flying in from Georgia on Sunday to help out for a few weeks. This will allow me to go back to work. I hate to leave Heather, but bills don't sleep, so I need to get back.

Some of today's highlights include Heather being able to walk a couple of laps around the unit without another irregular heart beat incident, and she was only feeling slightly nauseated after. Her doctor said that there is a small chance that she can come home tomorrow, but Thursday is looking more realistic. Either way, we'll be so happy to have her home!!!

Heather has been told that even small tasks will wipe her out for a while. Walking to the fridge may make her so tired that she needs an hour nap. She took a 2 & 1/2 hour nap today, and will need at least one long nap each day for the next month at least. We are happy to give her the rest she needs, and have been given so much help from friends and neighbors that this should be entirely possible.

Her vision seems to be 100% and the pain is well managed with pain medications. She is sleeping well at night, and is able to walk short distances. All of which are very good signs and point towards complete recovery. Heather will have to take things easy for at least 6 months and then return for another scan to see if the dissection in her vertebral artery has healed. When healed, the pain should subside and the risk for stroke should be minimal.

Tuesday Morning

Yesterday was a quiet day. Not many doctors on staff due to the holiday. Heather visited with friends and got a little rest. When she tried to do physical therapy, her heart beat became irregular and a nurse came rushing in to get them to stop. It looks like she's not quite ready for physical therapy. She was fine once she was able to rest.

We're expecting an echocardiogram to be performed today. Heather is anxious to have it done to see if there are any clues as to why a dissection would spontaneously occur.

I've got to get the kids to school now, so I'll have to cut this short. I'll post again this evening.

Monday Morning

The doctors and pharmacist on rounds just stopped by to see Heather. They reiterated the fact that this will be a slow recovery.....talking in weeks instead of days. When Heather stands for more than a minute or two she gets nauseated. She has been told to take things slowly. Their best estimate for Heather's discharge from the hospital is about 3 more days.

Today or tomorrow Heather will have more tests to check for some disorders that may have put her at risk for dissection. One test will look at her heart through an echocardiogram.

Some of Heather's friends brought her a very nice robe yesterday. It is extremely soft and comfortable. She also was given more cookies and flowers yesterday. All of this pampering is great! We had lots of visitors yesterday, which was very enjoyable.

Heather slept very well last night. She had a talk with each member of the nursing staff last night before she went to bed and warned them not to turn on the lights when they come in the room in the middle of the night. Only Heather can make such a request in a hospital and still have the staff smiling and laughing.

Jessica is going to stay with Heather tonight. Heather isn't ready for her to leave, but Jessica needs to get back to Georgia to be with her 5 young children. She will be flying out Wednesday morning. Heather's mother, Judith, is planning on flying here on September 14th and will spend a couple of weeks with us. This should allow me to get back to work. I am so grateful to my employer for being so understanding throughout this and giving me all of this time off.

Heather can't wait to hear the comments left on this site. She feels so loved and touched by the kind words and prayers. Thank you all everything that you have and will do to help us!