Blake's Recovery

Story about Blake's accident

2010-12-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

10/5: From BQ

2010-10-05T21:53:00.001-04:00

Hi everybody it's Dr. Nick!

Ok, it's actually just Blake, couldn't resist the Simpson's reference though. Well it's been a week now since my surgery. I'm at home and doing quite a bit better. I'm sleeping better every night, and the pain gets just a little bit better every day. I have realized a couple really cool and exciting things since I've been home also. One is that fall is definitely upon us! Dang it's getting chilly huh?

But since they cut each of my bones flat to put against one another my left leg is about an inch and a half shorter than the right. The good thing about this is that once I am able to start walking again I won’t have to throw my body and swing my leg like I had been. I'll be able to just bring it straight forward and will barely have any limp to my gait at all. You might also be aware that I had lost almost all control of my left foot; I could press down with it, but just slightly. I also had lots of spots on it where I had no feeling at all, but used to get a lot of sudden stabbing nerve pains throughout my foot.

Well just a couple days after my surgery, while still in the hospital even, I noticed that all the weird nerve pains that I'd had for over a year now had stopped. Days later, once I had returned home, I was wiggling my toes when I witnessed my foot make an upward movement. I looked at it more closely and repeated it. It only actually moved about a quarter of an inch, but it did indeed make an upward movement, something that I also haven't been able to do for over a year now! So I called my dad in to watch and then asked him to help me check around my foot. It was then that I suddenly realized that some of the feeling had started coming back also. Now I haven't been able to tell or show my doctor this so we can only speculate as to why and how this could be happening. None the less this is exciting news. It's hard to say what this may mean, or how far it may allow me to recover but I of course will keep everyone posted on this new development.

I go to see my surgeon, Dr. French, on the 19th. At that time he will remove all my staples, and stitches, take new x-rays, and decide what else I am to do from there. He had originally said that then he will advise whether or not to start physical therapy again, which for many reasons I will certainly and firmly request. I'm also supposed to keep all my weight off of my leg for eight weeks, so I'd really like therapy’s help learning how to put weight on it and walk again.

I think that's pretty much all the news I have for now. I would like to thank Lori once again for stepping up and helping keep everybody stay in the know. And as always thanks to all of you for all your prayers and thoughts.

Until next time, catch ya on the flip.
BadBlake

9/30: 5:55pm

2010-10-01T09:06:00.003-04:00

Blake did not have any blood clots, so he came home this afternoon as planned. He's still dealing with alot of pain & needs to rest for the next several weeks.

9/30: 7:34am

2010-09-30T09:15:00.002-04:00

Blake didn't sleep much. His hip is swollen and pain is increased. He vomited this morning when bandages were changed. Doctor is checking for blood clots.

9/29: 9:56am

2010-09-29T10:12:00.001-04:00

Blake has successfully made bed to wheelchair transfers on his own & walked a lap down the hallway using crutches. He said its incredibly painful & slow.

9/29: 9:18am

2010-09-29T10:11:00.002-04:00

Blake's temperature has finally returned to normal and he slept 6 straight hours last night. Physical therapist is going to have him try crutches this morning.

9/28: 2:41pm

2010-09-28T14:51:00.001-04:00

Blake is feeling much better compared to yesterday; good enough to order Salisbury steak for lunch! Physical Therapy came in this morning and had him sitting at the edge of the bed with his left leg lowered toward the floor. The therapist remembered working with him last summer (it was actually his name that she remembered!). He is getting a couple of units of blood today to replace that lost during yesterday's surgery. And he's still running a temperature of 101.1, but his vital signs are all good.

9/28: Knee Fusion Information

2010-09-28T09:38:00.002-04:00

Interested in what's been done to Blake's left leg?
Check out this link: Knee Fusion Nail

Knee fusion is also done for failed knee replacements and severe arthritis. Blake's case is different, but the article gives a good idea of the procedure.

9/28: 9:10am

2010-09-28T09:12:00.001-04:00

Good news! Blake's pain meds dosage has been increased and he's feeling better already. He'll also be getting his catheter out and getting some breakfast soon.

9/28: 7:42am

2010-09-28T08:57:00.003-04:00

Blake didn't have a good night. Pain is so intense that he couldn't sleep. Said it feels like his leg is being crushed. Heart rate is high and has a fever of 101.1.

9/27: 5:31pm

2010-09-28T08:54:00.001-04:00

Blake's resting now. He's in a tremendous amount of pain and has relief meds administered via pain pump. He's ordered a light dinner, but not sure he'll enjoy it.

9/27: Surgery #12 continued...

2010-09-27T11:42:00.002-04:00

Steve & Katie just met with the orthopedic surgeon. Blake's surgery went very well. He has a vertical incision on the left knee and at the hip. He will be in the hospital for several days.
Blake's left leg will be slightly shorter than his right. That will actually help him walk more normally. He won't need to swing his leg to the side as he has been doing.

9/27: Surgery #12

2010-09-27T10:35:00.002-04:00

Blake went into surgery today to fuse his knee at 7:30 this morning. The operation is expected to take 2 1/2 hours. He is in good spirits & joking with the medical staff. I will update when I hear from Steve.

3/5: From BQ

2010-03-06T08:38:00.000-05:00

Hey there, hi there, hoe there come and limp and gimp with me. Yes it's that time again, time to fill in those who have cared and prayed for me for these last 7 months. Well I'm still going to physical therapy twice a week. I can actually feel a difference as the weeks go by and my leg muscles get stronger. The electronic stimulation still has not produced any improvement however. I did have to switch my primary physician this month also. I was about to run out of my pain medicine and called his office everyday leaving messages and he apparently didn't feel the need to call back. Needless to say I found another doctor. This one is also through the Ohio Health system and is located in the same building as my physical therapy. I also had to go see an endocrinologist, because blood work that was done while I was at rehab showed my calcium levels were spiking. Well a few days later I got a call from them. They told me that while I was immobile my body needed calcium so it pretty much sucked it out of my bones, but that those levels would become normal themselves now that I was active. However they found I had an extreme vitamin d deficiency due to an extreme lack of sunlight for so long. So now I take this vit. D pill only once a week. It has 50,000 mg of vit. D. and I finally got in to see pain mgt. the other day; they switched a couple things with my meds but not much. Other than that I did learn how to knit last week and began my first scarf. It should probably be done by next winter at this rate.
That’s about all for now. So see you real soon, m-o-u-s-eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

God bless- Bad Blake

p.s. Go see Crazy Heart with Jeff Bridges and think of me while you watch it.

2/7: From BQ

2010-02-08T13:56:00.001-05:00

Its been a little over three weeks since I gotten out of the big house, and things have been going well. Now that I'm home of course, I'm on my feet much more out of necessity. This at times leaves me in a lot more pain than I had gotten used to, with rest and medication its bearable though. I'm not doing much these days other than my ten tons of Dr.'s appointments, and equally as much paperwork we've been filling out to keep my medical insurance. That part has been such a joy, I assure you. I did start my outpatient physical therapy last week and it actually was great. The facility and equipment are amazing, and my therapist really knows his shit.
Well that just about covers it for now. I'll try and post new blogs every couple weeks. Life's just not exciting enough right now to update you more often.

Deuces,
Blake

1/14/2010

2010-01-15T08:59:00.001-05:00

We’re so sorry we haven’t updated Blake’s blog for several weeks. We got so tied up with all of the holiday preparations and celebrations that it got away from us. We had a wonderful Christmas and New Years and hope that you did too.

We also want to apologize for any misunderstanding we may have caused regarding Blake’s condition and progress. The video footage Steve shot from his camera when Blake first began using his walker had to be converted to a different file format to upload to this blog. This change caused the action to speed up and it looked as though Blake was walking at a fairly normal gait. He actually walks MUCH slower than that. However, that was the first available footage we had and we were so excited about it that we used it anyway.

Blake’s subsequent blog entries about his Thanksgiving escapades may also have given some of you the impression that he traveled easy; just not able to drive. The fact is we take all necessary precautions to get him into and out of our vehicle and it takes several minutes just to get him into the seat and arranged comfortably.

The good news is that we were able to take him out to celebrate Christmas with family. Blake’s brother, Dusty, and his wife, Chesha, came in from Hawaii. Blake enjoyed being able to spend time with all his brothers and his son, Tresden. And we made a trip to church one Sunday, too. We even got to take Blake out to Spaghetti Warehouse for New Year’s Day dinner.

The better news is that Blake will be discharged from Columbus Rehabilitation & Subacute Institute on Monday, January 18th. At this time we plan to have him stay at his grandparent’s home. Although Blake is able to care for himself in some respects, we don’t want him left alone in case he should fall or otherwise need help. He will still be participating in physical therapy sessions and will need regular doctor’s visits, clinical visits, blood draws, and the like.

It’s been a long 6 months and Blake’s ordeal is far from over. However, this marks a turning point in his recovery. We are so very happy to be bringing him home. But, he’ll need a period of adjustment. We need to get him “de-institutionalized”.

Blake Meets Thanksgiving, Part 2

2009-12-15T09:09:00.001-05:00

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

2009-12-05T15:11:00.002-05:00

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

2009-12-03T19:04:00.003-05:00

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

2009-11-16T16:54:00.000-05:00

Blake and Tresden

From Blake

2009-11-10T22:24:00.001-05:00

"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

2009-11-10T21:18:00.001-05:00

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

Amazing!

2009-11-06T08:48:00.001-05:00

He can wear jeans!

2009-11-05T11:14:00.000-05:00

10/27 10:33am

2009-10-27T15:46:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-23T22:44:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-21T08:36:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-14T20:33:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-14T07:56:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-09T09:18:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-07T16:47:00.001-04:00

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

10/2 11:50pm

2009-10-07T16:44:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-02T23:15:00.001-04:00

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!

2009-09-29T09:41:00.004-04:00

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

2009-09-28T13:04:00.000-04:00

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

9/24 10:07pm

2009-09-26T00:55:00.001-04:00

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

2009-09-18T21:22:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-18T09:44:00.002-04:00

Dress rehearsal for Pirate Day today. Arrgghhh!

9/17 10:45pm

2009-09-18T09:39:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-12T23:50:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-10T13:21:00.001-04:00

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

2009-09-10T09:31:00.002-04:00

Nick & Blake making a break for it!

Pics from the weekend

2009-09-08T13:27:00.002-04:00

The platform walker

Jeff Byers came to visit

9/4 10:24pm

2009-09-04T23:32:00.001-04:00

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

2009-09-03T23:04:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-02T10:28:00.001-04:00

Lunch in chair:

Blake's Mailing Address

2009-09-02T10:24:00.003-04:00

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

2009-09-01T13:12:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-31T08:56:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-28T16:59:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-27T08:58:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-26T10:22:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-25T11:17:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-24T15:15:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-22T10:52:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-21T09:52:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-21T09:50:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-21T09:47:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-20T09:17:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-19T22:42:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-17T22:46:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-16T22:41:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-14T20:38:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-14T13:52:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-14T13:51:00.000-04:00

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

8/12 8:44pm - From Blake

2009-08-12T21:26:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-12T09:49:00.001-04:00

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!

2009-08-11T22:16:00.003-04:00

(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

2009-08-11T08:52:00.008-04:00

Outside for the first time in a month!

Sushi!

Blake & Lucky

Visiting ICU

8/9 10:14pm

2009-08-10T10:36:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-10T10:33:00.000-04:00

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

2009-08-09T13:07:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-07T13:13:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-06T23:05:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-06T19:57:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-06T09:25:00.001-04:00

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

2009-08-05T18:28:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-05T14:35:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-05T12:51:00.004-04:00

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

2009-08-04T22:40:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-03T15:26:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-02T19:03:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-02T07:58:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-01T11:45:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-31T16:05:00.001-04:00

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

2009-07-30T23:07:00.004-04:00

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

2009-07-30T16:27:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-29T21:38:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-28T15:13:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-27T18:37:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-26T17:01:00.001-04:00

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

2009-07-26T12:18:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-26T11:37:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-25T16:13:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-25T15:50:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-25T08:37:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-24T23:47:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-24T19:41:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-24T12:11:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-24T09:21:00.002-04:00

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.