Tom went back into the hospital Thursday afternoon because he was experiencing the speech confusion and had tingling in his right hand again. Tom was put back on IV of Heparin and that seems to keep him stable with no major issues. His ability to say what he wants is what’s most affected, and driving him crazy. A speech therapist has been working with him to help with that. Another round of test were given and some new ones like an EEG. The tests have mostly shown normal functions, except for the left carotid artery where there is narrowing up near the brain. So, after several consultations with a variety of doctors, the plan is to move Tom to the med center tomorrow. On Tuesday, a specialist will perform a more evasive procedure to get a better look of the artery. This specialist is the only one in Nebraska that does surgery in this area, so if repair work is needed when they look on Tuesday this doctor can go ahead and repair things. The test has a risk factor of 1 in 200 for having a full blown stroke. Tom so badly wants to get out of the hospital and see if he can work. He knows his thought process isn’t where it needs to be yet, and wonders how much will come back to perform at work successfully to keep his job.

The nurses and doctors have continually given Tom great advice and to have patience. Recovery will take time. So, after Tuesday we’ll know if there’s more damage and if/what will be the next step. Tom can’t continue to live with an IV of heparin to control things.

The boys and I were visiting tonight and brought cards. The speech person suggested to play games to help with memory, quickness, and etc. We played a few games of trash and Tom could follow along pretty well. Nerts was a bit more challenging, we went very slow so he wouldn’t get confused. He enjoyed the card playing.

I’ll let everyone know how things turn out.

Praying hard, Karen