Blake Meets Thanksgiving, Part 2

We return to find our hungry crusader preparing for his next battle. Will he be able to overcome these challenges and force down the mighty beets?

Friday went by slowly and dully as I let myself and my stomach recoup from yesterday’s meal. Before I knew it I’d swallowed the last of my evening’s meds, put my faithful chair to stable and was shutting my eyes.

I woke to the sound of my annoying alarm (though all are quite so) thinking, “Is it time to spring forth into action?” My mind told me “yes’ but my arms, strengthened by months of turning those heavy wheels of my chair, overpowered and slammed down upon the snooze button. Three, maybe four more times of this and I was up, up and out the door.

My chauffeur, Papa, and Mom as my navigator were, of course, with me on this, perhaps my most dangerous adventure. We arrived in the troubled City of Whitehall in a flash. Not because it’s only a few miles and there was no traffic, but because we’re that damned good!

Exiting the car without a hitch, I grabbed my trusty walker and checked to make sure it was in stealth mode. Tennis balls firmly attached to its feet, we were ready for action. As I hobbled towards the door which father had opened, Mom kept watch to ensure our entrance was the surprise that we’d planned.

It was a few days prior when a group of thugs, calling themselves the “Farnlacher's” paid me a little visit; under the guise of cousins and an uncle. After the usual chatter of “How’s life?”, and “How ‘bout dem Bears?”, I led them towards my room. It was then when one of my nurses stopped me and asked, “So, are you ready to go see your family?” I quickly shushed her and continued on. But as soon as I turned the corner, another nurse stopped and asked the same! This time one of the cousins, Daelann (she claimed), was in earshot. When opportunity came I took her to the side and, using my amazing powers of persuasion, convinced her to keep such knowledge secret.

It seemed her secret was kept, for I had made it all the way into the “Family’s” lair. There they stood (and sat): aunts, uncles, cousins, Grandparents, and brothers. A shocked look, wiped all the way across the board. An eerie silence before the storm, then “BOOM!” Immediately the bombardment of “Hi’s!”, “Hello’s”, “So glad you could make its”, hugs, kisses, handshakes and quizzes began. The first few were blocked with “I’m good” and “I’ve missed you”, but the sheer quantity of attention began to pound me down, like a fat man does cakes. Then suddenly, through their cloud of greetings pierced the call, “Let’s eat!” There upon the couch I laid, hand chafed and tongue left dry. I turned my head towards Papa and whispered, “Please, dark meat only. And a Pepsi, please.”

After dinner and dessert, the final test was brought forth. As Aunt Susie laid the ancient board upon the table a Catholic choir could be heard in the distance; “Ha, he, ha, he, ha, ha, ha, ha, haaaaa.” Everyone exchanged blank stares as they drew their seven sacred tiles and began the grand game, “Lazy Susan Scrabble”.

Who won? What else was eaten? And, what about dem Bears? Honestly, I don’t remember. It seemed pie overload had cause a fart in my brain. Oh well, on to my next adventure.

Oh yea, about the beets. Shoot! Y’all know I don’t mess with beets!

Blake Meets Thanksgiving, Part 1

The sound of cars whizzed past, then as we grew further from the city the calming smell of smoke trailed from nearby chimneys. The week prior I had practiced safely getting in and out of Dad’s car. Now, with my legs propped up across the back seat and my head leaned upon the window, I dozed off in my bed of pillows.

I sensed us pulling into the driveway and raised my head to see that we’d finally arrived at Tim & Carol’s. The front door opened and my brother, Nick, stepped outside to come and help me get into the house. I hobbled with my walker to the side of house so that I could stretch out my calves and chatted with Nick for a second. Then we moved towards the front door. I conquered its’ two steps much easier than I had thought it would be.

Carol soon greeted us and led me straight to the couch. They had a perfect spot ready for me. One end of it had a sort of built-in footrest, which is where I would be found resting the majority of the day. We all played wii while we waited.

Dinner was announced ready; I transferred to my wheelchair and found a spot at the table. I’d heard rumors of Tim’s ability to find his way around kitchens. Well, this was his kitchen and he spanked it and made it call him “Daddy”! What I’m saying is that dinner was really good.

After a filling and delicious meal, we all returned to the living room. Tim and Carol have an adorable Yorkie, named Alf, who curled up on my lap. He looked so much like Duncan. We laid there feeling nice and full, while Nick and Pop sang and played guitar, until we dozed off.

We woke around 7:30 and looked around the room at all my friends and family. I knew that it was time for me to leave and I grew a little angry with myself for sleeping some of the evening away.

On the ride back to CRSI I thought more about the time I may have wasted with sleep. But, the more I thought I realized that the comfort of good food & good times with loved ones may have just been enough comfort to help me sink into my dreams. Having come to this conclusion, I leaned my head against the window and fell asleep.

Stay tuned for the next episode of “Blake Meets Thanksgiving”. Same Blake time, same Blake channel!


Photo by Erin Collins

Thanksgiving

Blake traveled (by car --- sideways in the backseat --- with seat belt, of course) to celebrate Thanksgiving with family. All enjoyed the fabulous cooking and hospitality of Tim and Carol followed by some "carols" (singing and the two legged one) by the fireplace (the Delelles living room, Parker on piano, Nick on guitar, and voices aplenty).



Photo by Erin Collins

Blake's Driver

Blake and Tresden

From Blake

"Tuppence a Bag"

The birds we've all claimed as ours stopped coming today. It's almost as sad as the bare trees whose leaves all seem to have left us too early.

When I first got here I noticed some of my fellow residents had been saving back bread from their meals and taking it outside to feed the birds. We have two trees whose branches were absolutely filled with sparrows just waiting for a hint of their generous, wheel-bound parents.

The weather was nice then, when I first started watching the events. I remained a spectator for a few weeks; the sight alone was entertaining enough for me, especially in a place like this. As soon as the bag of crumbled bread was emptied, feathers immediately began swooping in from all directions. A hundred birds began feasting on their meal. Numerous times a few of them flew right over my head while another few dove in right under my legs. It was, indeed, a sight.

Finally, I decided to get in on the action; saving rolls and wheat bread at every chance. It was then that the weather began to drastically sink, but one thing we all know about Ohio...
So, I did end up with a few days where my hands were lucky enough to throw the food to my winged friends.

One of my "unfeathered friends" told me she was waiting on family to bring her a couple bags of bird seed. That was about a week ago. Yesterday she threw a whole pile of seed to the ground. Today the seed remains, but not the sparrows.

Blake Quincel

11/10 10:03am

After nearly 4 months, Blake can sleep in a position other than on his back.

Amazing!

He can wear jeans!

 

10/27 10:33am

Blake, using a walker, completed a full lap around the Physical Therapy Room this morning. He is thrilled!

A pic of him and his pumpkin masterpiece:

10/23 10:06pm

Blake can move left ankle from side to side. Swelling from surgery is down enough for him to put on a sock. He slept without pillows under his legs for the first time.

10/19 9:19pm

Blake continues to have alot of pain in his left leg. His pain medication dosage may need to be changed. He's being a real trooper with his Physical Therapy.

10/14 1:22pm

Blake is out of surgery already. He will have a removable brace on his knee. Can change positions for sleeping now.

Post surgery picture

10/13 8:58pm

Prayers needed. Blake's having surgery tomorrow (Wednesday) to remove the external fixation device from his left leg. He's a bit nervous about having another operation.

X-Fix before operation picture:

10/8 9:26pm Entry from Blake

Hey everybody,

This is Blake. How have ya’ll been? Well, I’m fabulous right now because I just left…where?...That’s right, I just left Tee Jaye’s Country Place. Let me tell you how it went.

Me and my gang of fellow miscreants met downstairs at 10 a.m. Well, almost all of us, one of us was late. But, after letting us shiver in the cold for 20 minutes, she came rolling out the doors, her drool trailing behind her. So, we finally all get on the van, me last, because I needed the most room due to my legs. The Activities Director loaded us all in using the hydraulic lift – without the engine running. Then the driver gets in, and guess what? It won’t start! Luckily they were able to jump it and we were on our way.

Once we arrived my mind was solely focused on food. Corned beef hash with extra egg, 2 orange juices, a couple of cups of coffee, and pumpkin pie. Damn it was good day!

10/6 10:23pm

Blake began leg presses today in physical therapy. He did 3 rounds of 20 repetitions with 25 pounds.

10/2 11:50pm

Doctor approved Blake for bearing weight on left leg. Today he stood on both legs for the first time since the accident. It was painful and marvelous at the same time.

10/1 9:17pm

Blake's last antibiotics were taken last night. MRSA is gone! Orthopedic Surgeon today said progress is really good. Scheduled for x-fix removal October 14th.

UPDATE: Prayers Needed!

Another prayer request. Blake's Grandpa Bob was admitted to Grant Hospital this morning, possible heart attack.
2010 can't come quickly enough for the Quincels.

UPDATE: Blake's Grandpa didn't have a heart attack. He was lucky. However, he must undergo triple bypass surgery tomorrow afternoon. It will be about 5 days before he can go home.

UPDATE: Blake's Grandpa came through surgery just fine. The surgeon said veins taken from his legs were in great shape. He's in CCU recovering now.

UPDATE: Blake's Grandpa discharged from the hospital 10/6 and is resting at home. He's doing extremely well.

9/26 8:37pm

On Friday, Blake stood for slightly over 4 minutes; nearly doubling his previous record. His appetite is vastly improved, too.

9/24 10:07pm

Blake will discontinue occupational therapy until ex-fix is removed from left leg. Will still have daily physical therapy. This is a good thing. Progressing!

9/18 9:20pm

Hallelujah! Blake walked for the first time today. He traveled about 9 feet using the platform walker. It made both legs hurt, but he was ecstatic.

Pirate Day at CRSI

Dress rehearsal for Pirate Day today. Arrgghhh!

9/17 10:45pm

Had appointment with Infectious Diseases Doctor. Good news, MRSA being defeated! Antibiotics for 2 more weeks and then PICC line can be removed.

Blake has more good news! He has graduated from a bedpan to a "big boy" potty chair. He is sooo relieved. In more ways than one!

9/11 9:45pm

Blake took a spill from his wheelchair on a sidewalk ramp and fell into the street. Was taken to Grant Hospital for x-rays. Thank God he is ok, no damage done.

9/9 9:07pm

Blake got a real shower & shampoo! A nurse devised a "triple bag" over his left leg to keep it dry. He was thrilled - much better than a sponge bath.

9/8 Pic

Nick & Blake making a break for it!

Pics from the weekend

The platform walker

Jeff Byers came to visit

9/4 10:24pm

Today Blake stood up for two & a half minutes using a platform walker. Tonight his arms and legs are very tired and sore!

9/3 10:58am, 12:56pm

10:58am - Blake had post-op check up with Orthopedic Surgeon. New x-rays taken. Good news! Bones healing well. Approved to use left arm and right leg. Next appointment in 4 weeks.

12:56pm - Praise the Lord! Blake got into the wheelchair by himself today & using the parallel bars, he stood up for the first time! Pain was excruciating, but worth it.

9/1 Cheesy Product Placement

Lunch in chair:

Blake's Mailing Address

If you wanted to send Blake a card, here is his address at the Rehabilitation center:

Columbus Rehabilitation & Subacute Institute
44 S. Souder Ave. Room 219-A
Columbus, OH 43222

8/31 10:17pm

Blake in wheelchair for over 2 hours today. Trapeze bar installed over headboard so he can pull himself up from a lying position, although he can only use one arm at this time.

8/30 10:37pm

Blake had Occupational Therapy on Sunday for an hour. He learned an alternate way of getting in and out of the wheelchair. He is letting his hair and goatee grow.

Pictures - working with arm weights and a weighted rickshaw.

8/28 5:54am

Blake's blood test showed higher hemoglobin, so no transfusion needed yet. Will be tested again on Monday. Assessments done by Physical & Occupational therapy.

8/26 9:39pm

Blake moved from Grant Hospital to Columbus Rehabilitation & Subacute Institute. He will undergo assessments on Thursday to determine a plan for therapy.

8/25 10:15pm

Took JP drain off Blake's left leg. Got back into wheelchair for the first time since last Friday's surgery.

8/25 6:44am

Physical Therapy restarted Blake's right arm exercises. Infectious Diseases increased the antibiotic dosage because the MRSA is not showing signs of defeat.

8/24 6:43am

Blake had an ok weekend. Still in pain. On Sunday, he started bleeding from his left leg's stitches (Friday's surgery). Compression bandage applied. Transfusion may be needed.

8/21 11:07pm

Blake had a bit of a setback during surgery. Patellar tendon reattachment was reversed and knee cap was removed. Focus to be on curing infection and healing.

8/21 9:46am

The doctor will be taking Blake in for surgery #10 at approximately 10:30am. Cleaning out left knee. Pray this goes well. Blake's getting weary of all these operations.

New Pic

Wearing a shirt for the first time since July 13! Physical Therapy in wheelchair just required to keep "hands inside the ride".

8/20 6:29pm

Doctor said right leg x-ray is good and his is approved for getting in/out of wheelchair. But checking left leg in the morning (Friday). If there is pus, he will be taken in for surgery #10. Prayers!

8/19 11:00pm

Orthopedic surgeon ordered X-ray of Blake's right leg. May indicate he could begin putting weight on it. Make for big changes with Physical Therapy.

8/18 10:57pm

Blake had a fairly good day today. Pain was somewhat under control. Had physical therapy and requested Chinese food for dinner.

8/17 8:55pm

Blake had a Groshong PICC catheter (basically a long-term IV) installed on his right arm. It will enable administering IV antibiotics for the next 4-6 weeks.

8/16 9:16pm

Blake's contracted MRSA Virus and has been placed back into Contact Isolation. Taking antibiotics via IV. Restarted Physical Therapy. Sat up at edge of bed.

8/14 4:02pm, 5:51pm

4:02pm: Blake just went in for surgery #9. He was plenty nervous. Please keep up the prayers.

5:51pm: Blake is out of surgery. The doctor cleaned up the hematoma and moved the topmost pins on the X-fix. Said the patellar tendon repair (from over a week ago) was holding.

8:14 5:00am

Blake sent by ambulance back to Grant Hospital due to extensive bleeding from left knee. Waiting for word of possibly surgery today for knee and one troubling pin site.

8/13 5:30pm

Blake was discharged from Grant and taken to Bon-Ing Care Facility.

8/12 8:44pm - From Blake

Psych!

Hello all! It's Blake again coming to you outa Grant with a loose gown!

Well folks, things have changed once again. Exact details are a little hard to convey, but here is the punchline...I'm not going to rehab. We have to find a skilled nursing facility we like and I'll be going there for a while. If you're a little confused it's o.k....we're starting a club. Thanks again for all your prayers and concern.

Love y'all,

Blake

Margaret Valentino

Blake's Aunt Margaret (Katie's sister) slipped peacefully into God's arms last night; her family at her bedside.
Memorial service Saturday, August 15 at the Reynoldsburg Nazarene. Family will greet guests starting at 10:30am, service to begin at 11:30am.
Reynoldsburg Church of the Nazarene
1340 Crest Street
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

Moving Day Tomorrow!

(This was recorded on my phone so the quality isn't great, I am also not sure how to turn it right-side up. But you get the idea.)

Pics of Blake

Outside for the first time in a month!


Sushi!


Blake & Lucky


Visiting ICU

8/9 10:14pm

Blake's in a room with another patient and doesn't like it. His half is very cramped; 1 side chair, one tray table. Leg pain continues to be a major issue.
Still up in the air about moving to rehab center or not today.

Blake's Aunt Margaret

Blake was briefly visited by his cousin, Charles yesterday. His mom, Blake's Aunt Margaret, is in OSU Hospital. She had a cancerous lung removed and is now in a coma. She needs our prayers.

8/8 9:58pm

Blake was moved out of the Trauma Intermediate Care Unit and into a semi-private room. The doctor's may release him to a Rehab Center by Monday, but bed availability is a big factor.

8/7 12:46pm

Sweet freedom! Blake got 90 minutes in wheelchair where he traveled to the hospital's main lobby and got an iced coffee. The pain was intense afterward, but he said it was worth it.

8/6 10:40pm

Blake is doing a little better today. Still in a great deal of pain, but coping. Did nominal physical therapy. He is back on regular food and drink.

About Me & the Blog

I changed some posted blog titles to make them easier to go through chronologically when Blake is able to. All posts, unless otherwise noted, have been direct text/e-mail messages from Steve and Katie who have the most up-to-date information on Blake's recovery - which were transcribed here for Blake's fans. Thanks for the kind words that have been said about me doing this blog (including Blake!). It makes me feel good that I can do something to keep everyone in the know. I am so GRATEFUL that I still have my "baby brother" around and as soon as he heals I can resume giving him a hard time. That's what big sisters do!

All my love,
Lori

First blog entry from Blake

This was written by Blake before his surgery this (Wednesday) morning:

Family, friends, those praying for me, and anyone who's just randomly reading this blog: Hi, this is Blake. Thank you all so much for all the prayers, cards, and simply keeping me in your thoughts. If you only knew how much it really means. Your sentiments have brought me to tears on many occasions.

I have to send some special "Thank You's" real quick:
To my parents, I don't even know what to say. They have gone far beyond what I ever could have expected and have been here for me so much!
To my brothers for helping me stay strong and helping me smile.
And Lori Funk, (my sister from another mister), for making this blog and updating it. (Lori, I'm sorry if you have to translate my handwriting by the way!)
And to Jamie & Tresden, for being around as much as my weird fungal infections would allow, always making me smile and making me proud.

Well, it's Wednesday, August 05, 2009 @ 9:30 a.m. I will have my 8th surgery in an hour from now. They're reconnecting my patellar tendon!?! Basically, they're connecting my knee cap. So wish me luck y'all!

I'm out for now. Deuces! (That means "Peace").

Blake

8/5 6:26pm

Blake came through nearly 3 hours of surgery fine, but in tremendous pain. On a 1-10 scale, he says its 11. He's groggy and keeps grabbing at oxygen tube & left leg "x-fix".

8/5 2:32pm

From Steve: Met with the surgeon, Blake is out of surgery and we are waiting to see him. Tendon reattached at knee, 1 screw applied and all staples from prior surgeries removed.

8/5 12:37pm

Blake went into surgery at 11:11a. This marks his 8th surgery, but the first that he's completely aware of. He was VERY nervous. Steve & Katie ask to keep him in your prayers.


Blake resting with "Lucky". His Aunt Janet brought him a watchdog and Tresden put a lei from Dusty & Chesha's wedding reception on him. Lucky has been with Blake since he first got to ICU and rarely leaves his side.

8/4 8:49pm

Blake had more physical therapy and wheelchair time today. He got to visit the ICU staff on the 3rd floor (where he was first brought in).
Surgery is scheduled for 10:30 tomorrow morning.

8/3 11:35am

Blake got into a wheelchair during physical therapy this morning. Spent 30 minutes learning to use it. Surgery scheduled for Wednesday to reattach tendon to left knee and install plate across bone.

Power of prayer

Testament to the power of prayer. First surgeon to see Blake on the day of his accident (7/13) came by this morning. In his 8+ years as a trauma doctor, he only had 3 patients in that condition pull through.

8/1 11:08pm

Found out tonight that Blake sustained several broken ribs in the accident. They were the least of his injuries and they no longer bandaged those so they hadn't been mentioned.

8/1 8:12am

Blake did not get much sleep last night. He thinks he overdid his physical therapy and the pain was intense afterward. He has begun basic personal grooming; shaved, brushed teeth and combed his hair.

7/31 1:24pm

Blake had his second physical therapy session today. He did very well, but was in much pain afterward. Next leg surgery likely to be Wednesday.

7/30 8:55pm

If fungal infection wasn't enough, CAT scan revealed Blake has a pulmonary embolism in 1 lung. Pray medicines work to rid him of the infection and dissolve the clot.

7/30 2:52pm

Blake has fungal infection and was placed in isolation. Katie and Steve must scrub up and put on gowns and gloves to enter his room.

7/29 9:38pm

Blake's condition is steadily improving. The nightmares have apparently stopped. He is eating relatively "normal" food, however, he has lost a lot of weight. Given that he was on a liquid diet for two weeks, that's to be expected.

He began physical and occupational therapy this morning. He did really well although he was in extreme pain for most of the session.

Some of you have been asking when you might be able to visit Blake. He is not in a "regular" hospital room. The step down from ICU is called the Trauma Intermediate Care Unit. Here's what goes on during his day:

After being seen nearly every 90 minutes through the night, Blake is usually awakened around 6:30 each morning by some residents who look him over and review his vital signs. From then until around 7:00 p.m. he is visited by a steady stream of nurses, therapists, trauma doctors and residents on rounds, and surgeons. These folks are sometimes lined up outside his door waiting to see him. Between these visits he needs to order and eat his meals, go to the bathroom, get bathed, brushed, and squeeze in some nap time. His pain medications generally "knock him out" for short periods.

Blake is regularly seeing a Speech Therapist, Psychiatric Nurse, Respiratory Therapist, and, after today, Physical and Occupational Therapists.

Katie and Steve spend a good deal of time in the hallway outside of Blake's room to permit him some semblance of privacy and dignity. So, you see, he really doesn't have much time to visit with anyone.

Blake has asked us to extend his thanks for the prayers and well-wishes. He hopes to see all of you someday soon.

7/28 2:08pm

Blake's appetite is improving; he ate nearly all of his breakfast. He is feeding himself, but needs a little help cutting food since one wrist is fractured.

7/27 6:07pm

Praise be to God! Blake was moved out of ICU late last night and into the Trauma Intermediate Care Unit. He should also be getting his first taste of real "chew food" with tonight's dinner and is allowed to finally drink water (he has been requesting that for several days).

His day today has been a steady stream of doctor's, nurses, and therapists - they were literally lining up at his door. Between that, his food and bathroom needs, he did not get much rest today.

Katie spent the night with him last night and neither of them got much sleep. Blake should be good and tired tonight and needs a decent night's sleep. We appreciate all of your thoughtfulness and prayers; Blake is not out of the woods yet. He is still facing multiple surgeries, therapies, and rehabilitation. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

7/26 3:58pm

Blake is resting comfortably today; getting caught up on some sleep. He had an EKG done this afternoon, but they haven't been told the results yet.

7/26 11:47am

Blake is sleeping better now but is also more acutely aware of his pain. Steve stayed the night so he would have a familiar face when he would wake up.
White count continues to decline slowly.
Breakfast: Pureed french toast, thickened orange juice, milk & coffee.
Doctor's ok'd move to "step down" unit but don't know when that will happen.

7/25 8:50pm

Blake finally got food. Ate a few bites and fell asleep. He has feelings of paranoia each time he awakens. Speech is improving but his voice is very hoarse.

7/25 4:13pm

Blake had his food test to see if he was cleared to eat "regular food" today. He ate pudding while they x-rayed it going down his throat and he was cleared to eat. He is in much better spirits because he hasn't eaten since the day before his accident. He will have to start on pureed vegetables and fruits and work his way up to solids.
The plastic surgeon stopped in and checked on his leg skin grafts and said they were looking good.

Hopefully he will get 1-2 days of rest now and we are also hoping he sleeps since its been a few days.

RESTRICTED VISITOR NOTICE

Steve & Katie have decided that visits to see Blake be limited to family only for the time being. Blake is very delusional and he becomes upset and confused with all of people visiting right now. He seems to do best when he can focus on one or two family members and they stay with him during the entire visiting hours. The family really appreciates all of the support thus far, but this is what is best for Blake's progress at this time.

Hopefully Blake will become less and less delusional here soon and his visits may resume. I will post when he improves.

Thank you again for everything everyone has done to contribute to Blake's recovery!

7/25 6:39am

Blake had an ok night. Slept awhile but awoke suffering anxiety. Sees helicopter blades in the ceiling. Had to be medicated; is sleeping. Behavior Health will be consulted.

7/24 9:39pm

CAT Scan tonight at 8:00pm. Don't know results yet. Blake needs several days of rest to allow surgeries to heal. He is only slightly verbal and incoherent. Not ready for food by mouth.

7/24 3:36pm

Blake came through today's surgery ok. He's still in a fog and only occasionally makes a coherent statement. Steve got to feed him some ice chips. He has to have a CAT Scan yet today.

7/24 8:06am, 12:10pm

Blake is out of surgery but Steve & Katie have not seen him yet. Doctor said it went well today; skin grafting done on right knee and various other wounds closed.

7/24 8:06am, 9:00am

8:06am- Nurse reported Blake had an ok night. He slept, but only for an hour. He is speaking, but only in single word responses. Has not put a sentence together.

9:00am- Plastic surgeon met with Steve & Katie before 9:00am. He wants to do skin grafts asap, so back to surgery in the next 20 minutes.

7/23 8:28am

Blake had a VERY hard time coming out of anesthesia. Didn't speak until 8:20 tonight. The first thing he said out of the blue was "Tresden". Steve & Katie showed Blake some pictures of him.

7/23 3:02pm

Blake is out of surgery. The doctor didn't rotate calf muscle or graft skin. Closed some fasciotomies and removed leg pump. Wants leg elevated above heart for a day or two. Doctor may want to check leg arteries. Blake may be facing an 8-10 hour reconstruction surgery on his right leg.

7/23 11:48am

Blake just went for surgery. Please keep him in your prayers, he told us he was scared.

FYI- the ceiling tile was wet in his room last evening - he will be moved to another room in the ICU post-surgery.

7/23 9:42am

Not a good morning. Blake is incoherent and has been digging around at a leg wound. He also keeps pulling his blanket off, exposing himself. We need to suspend visits this morning.

7/23 6:57am

Blake didn't sleep again last night. Very agitated this morning; pulling off heart monitors. Anesthesia does not provide good REM sleep. Surgery slated for 11:00am today.

Forgot to mention that last night he wanted me to tell everyone "Hi".

7/22 10:50pm

Blake had a good evening. Recognized all of his visitors and showed some sense of humor. He has a distorted concept of time and he hates the IV's and respiratory mask.
From Lori - I was happy that he wanted a big hug when he saw me. He looks so good and is doing very well.

7/22 2:49pm

Blake is out of surgery. Skin is grafted on left leg and fasciotomies closed except outer right leg. Plate attached at left ulna. Maybe calf rotation surgery tomorrow.

7/22 11:23am

Surgery time was moved up. OR staff came for Blake at 10:45am. Blake did have a very lucid conversation with surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Blake today

7/22 9:30am

Blake is awake this morning and whispering. Has lucid moments, but delirious. No sleep last night. Recognizes us; gave his Momma a kiss. Doesn't remember last night's visitors.

7/21 9:41pm

Blake has become very alert; realizing his condition and recognizing people. He can't speak with the tubes in his throat and becomes aggravated when no one could understand him. He watched America's Got Talent tonight.
Surgery scheduled for 12:30 tomorrow.

7/21 1:24pm

Doctor's rounds were late today. Blake is responding very well to verbal commands; wiggled toes and gave us a thumbs up! Surgery still a go for tomorrow.

7/21 9:20am

Blake had a good night. Just a bit restless and feverish. Temperature at 101 degrees. Had left chest tube removed late last night.

7/20 7:58pm

Sorry for the late posting - just got back from the hospital. Surgery took 4 hours - right femur repaired with a rod. Lower legs cleaned and redressed. Left ulna not done. Will need skin grafts. The doctors removed the external frame off of the right leg and added a "boot" for ankle. Legs wrapped with an ace bandage. Next surgery on Wednesday to fix his wrist. He is still on the ventilator but he is breathing on his own now.
He looked much better today. Puffiness is completely gone from his face now, got another face shave and they left the sideburns and added a "soul patch". He's still rockin' even under sedation :)

7/20 3/24pm

They took Blake into surgery at 3:15pm. Should take approximately 2-2.5 hours. Prayers are needed.

E-Cards

Blake received 40 e-cards over the weekend and 1 snail-mail card. Katie & Steve wanted him to rest for surgery today, so they are waiting until later to read them to Blake. Keep the love coming!

7/20 10:23am

Praise God! Blake is responding to verbal commands! He opened/closed his eyes, stuck out tongue & nodded head when asked. Pumped fluids no longer tinged red.

7/20 6:42am

Blake had a restful night, sedation only slightly reduced. Still running temperature around 100 degrees. Leg surgery still scheduled for 1:50pm.

7/19 9:20am

Blake is scheduled for surgery tomorrow at 1:50pm for his legs and his broken arm. He did get the right chest pump removed today. Been at bit restless but overall not a bad day.
Blake repeatedly opened his eyes as he heard his name in a familiar person's voice. He is still not following commands such as blink your eyes.

7/19 7:39am, 9:30am

7:39am- An ok night. Restless, so his pain meds were increased. Temperature went to 101, now down to 99. Attempts to awaken only get "purposeful movement" (trying to pull out tubes).
9:30am- Blake is a bit feverish, checking for infections - may need more antibiotics. Also maybe suffering from delirium. We are waiting for doctors to make morning rounds.
10:14am- Doctor who first treated Blake made rounds today. He had not seen Blake since Monday and was pleased with his progress. Surgery tomorrow; left arm and right thighbone. Post surgery will begin weaning sedatives. Plan to remove right lung pump today and left one tomorrow.
Keep praying for God's healing hand to touch Blake.

7/18 8:10pm

Second CAT scan on Blake's brain came back negative for neurological damage. The night nurse was not surprised by his inability to awaken. Sedatives and and time spent in wreckage both factors.

7/18 11:00am

Blake needs your prayers. He's not responding the doctors like they feel he should by now. Ordered another CAT scan - just in case. Going to stop sedatives and try to wake him.
Note- they think its the sedatives and they are going to try another kind.

7/18 6:40am

Sedation had to be increased. Doctors had wanted to reduce it and remove ventilator tube. Hemoglobin count low; gave him 2 units of blood which was the first needed since Monday.

7/17 5:48pm

Blake's medicines are being changed tonight. Weekend goal is to keep his vitals stable & wean him off of the ventilator. Tube feeding has been restarted.

E-Cards - on 7/15, Blake received 11 cards, none on 7/16, but he received 48 e-cards today! They came from all over Ohio and across the US - friends, family, former teachers, etc. Katie & Steve read them to Blake and will keep them for him to look at when he needs encouragement in the coming months. Thanks everyone!

7/17 2:52pm

Breathing progress is good. Blake's already been stepped down to 30% oxygen on the ventilator. Machine is set to 8 breaths per minute and he's taking 21.

7/17 2:02pm

Steve & Katie are back in ICU with Blake. Vital signs are good and he is resting. The doctor plans to put a rod in his right thigh bone on Monday and hopefully remove the right external rods.

7/17 12:53pm

Steve & Katie met with the orthopedic surgeon at 12:40pm. He closed open wounds, lengthened support rod on left leg and closed faciatomies on insides of lower legs. More surgery scheduled for Monday. Blake is in recovery now. They are cleaning him up and then Steve & Katie will get to go see him.

7/17 10:23pm

Took Blake into surgery at 10:10am. Vitals are good. Pastor (Uncle) Dan is here. We met and prayed with the anesthesiologist and surgical nurses.

7/17 8:09am

Blake's condition is the same as last night. Vitals are good. Leg surgery scheduled for 9:05am today.

7/16 8:31pm

At 5:00pm, he awakened, opened his eyes, moved hands and blinked eyes when asked. Second tube to drain the lung of fluid was attached at 5:30pm. Had to give Blake more pain meds.
Another good day.

7/16 11:25am

Blake's blood pressure dropped & fluid built up in the right (uninjured) lung. Its called "sympathetic effusion", caused by trauma to liver immediately below. Chest tube will be inserted to drain the lung.
Steve & Katie agreed to put Blake in a study for feeding trauma patients. He will be fed via tube around the clock rather than "meals"

Facial hair update - Sideburns are intact :)

7/16 9:18am

From Steve: Blake looks good this morning. They've reduced his fluids a bit because he was getting too much and leaking. His face is less puffy. They washed his hair and shaved his whiskers.
From Lori: I hope they left his sideburns!

7/16 6:51am

Another good night. Taken off sedatives but not pain medications to "awaken" post-surgery. All good. Re-sedated. More surgery on open legs wounds tomorrow.

7/15 5:55pm

Blake is out of surgery.
"Power washing" on legs went well. The wound on his left kneecap has been closed but there was not enough skin to do the right knee. Next step is consultation with the plastic surgeons. Further leg repair might be Friday or Monday. They will be working on Blake's legs for the next 8-10 weeks.
Abdomen has been closed. Hope to begin feeding him via tube.

Some people have had questions regarding whether or not Blake is in a coma. He is not in a coma and hasn't been. The doctor's have him heavily sedated so he won't fight all the tubes but he does wake up and is responsive.

Good, good day :)

Dusty & Chesha arrive

Dusty, Blake's oldest brother with my new sister-in-law, Chesha have arrived safely from Hawaii. Nick is taking them to the hospital now to be with the family. Its so good to have everyone together now.

7/15 1:52pm

Surgical team came for Blake at 1:15pm. Should take several hours.

E-Cards (Electronic Greeting Cards)

Some people have already done this, but if you would like to send an electronic greeting card to Blake - go to the below link on Grant Hospital's website and fill out the information. The hospital prints them out and gives them to Katie and Steve. Steve said they will read them to Blake and keep them for when he wakes up.
Info needed: Blake Quincel, Grant Medical Center, Room is ICU

Grant Hospital Electronic Greeting Card Link - Click Here

7/15 12:12pm

Blake should be going into surgery at 12:45 today. His temperature is back up a bit. They have reduced his oxygen to 35% which means his lung function is good.

7/15 9:45am

Still don't know surgery time. Depends on the OR availability. Nurses may not know until 20 minutes before. The Orthopedic surgeon just saw Blake. His temperature has returned to normal.

7/15 6:57am

Blake had another good night. His temperature had gone up to 102. Nurse told he'd be in surgery this morning at 9:30 but she has not seen it posted yet (as of 6:45am).

7/14 10:59pm

Nick, Parker and Lori went to the hospital tonight. He had a ton of visitors again today. Its clear from the visitors, phone calls, text messages and e-mails that Blake is well loved and has a very strong support system. Believe me, it is helping!
Nick & Lori went back to see him tonight. They removed the neck brace and raised him up in the bed a bit so he wasn't laying flat. We told him that the Olde Cellar Band performed as "Spleen" (Uncle Tim penned this name as what they performed under as a tribute to Blake) at Millstone Bike Night in Logan without Parker or Nick and good friend, Scotty Bratcher filled in with OCB. They had a record crowd. Many, many, many thanks to OCB and Scotty! We also told Blake that we loved him and gave him your love as well.
Condition update - His right arm is not broken as they originally thought. Just his left arm as well as his legs. The doctor's were concerned today because his urine was darkening but it was from dehydration so they increased his fluids. It is back to normal coloring. He is having trouble keeping the fluids up because of all of the open wounds. They were also concerned about the dehydration because his muscles could potentialy break down into the blood and try to filter through the kidneys. This would then turn the urine to the color of Coca-Cola and cause permanent kidney damage.
Tomorrow he is going to have exploratory surgery on his exposed abdomen. They are checking for internal bleeding, which they don't think he has. Yesterday he was given 20 units of blood but hasn't needed any additional since. If there is no bleeding, they will then close up the abdomen. They are also "power washing" his legs during this surgery and see what the damage is. He is scheduled for surgery on his legs for Friday if all goes well tomorrow.

Please pass this blog on to anyone. This is probably the most efficient way of getting the most up to date information out to everyone. Also, any cards, gifts, etc. cannot be sent to the hospital because he is still in ICU. Due to the fact that he is still in critical condition, his visitors are restricted to only 2 at a time. Visiting hours are in short stints as well. Please consider waiting to visit until he can be moved out of the ICU to a regular room. You are always welcome to visit family in the waiting room until then though.

7/14 2:30pm

Jamie took Tresden to see his daddy and is happy ICU let him back there for a 20 minute visit (since he's under 12 years old). Tresden did really great. He told Blake all about his Pokemon themed birthday party since his birthday is the 21st.

7/14 10am

Blake now has a pulse in his feet which means blood is flowing to them. He is losing as many fluids as they are putting in because of all the open wounds. He is having an x-ray on his knee today and another CAT Scan on his chest. Will hopefully get an update from the doctor this morning.

7/14 11:51am

Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday to close abdomen, clean and assess legs. More surgery on Friday. Currently, the legs are cut at the knees. Left leg tendons are severed from the kneecap. Pray there is enough tissue to reattach.

7/14 7am

Steve said Blake had a good night. Heart rate rose last evening due to medications but returned to normal. Still stable.

Accident

If you haven't heard by family or on the news, Nick's brother Blake was the person driving the van that crashed into the back of a semi-truck this morning. He was sent to Grant where his spleen was split in three places. He had a collapsed lung, liver damage and alot of blood lost. Both legs are broken and exposed to the bone and his arm is broken. He had several surgeries, one to remove the spleen and another to repair his legs - which will be one of many leg surgeries.
The good news is the CAT Scan results showed no head trauma or spinal injury. He is still listed as Critical in the ICU. Hopefully he will continue to improve. He did wake up but they quickly put him back out so he wouldn't fight the tubes.

Thank you so much for the prayers, emails, calls, visits and thoughts. We know Blake is fighting and we are going to fight right along with him.