Mistake in the Hospital

OK, I've been home for over a week now and have only posted once. I'm resting so much my brain is dry. I hope this video will get the blog juices flowing again.

Health Update

First of all I would like to share my heartfelt appreciation for all the prayers and support given to my family and myself.

June 1st
Went to Elkhart General ER with significant swelling around the ear and fever. I had been battling an earache for approx 6 months.

A CAT scan revealed a cholesteatoma (non-cancerous tumor) in and around my left ear. This tumor eroded away the mastoid bone behind the ear, also the bone that protecting the facial nerve was gone and there was a hole in the bone separating the ear canal and the brain cavity. It was this hole that required a transfer to IU med center in Indianapolis. My fever had peeked over 102° in Elkhart and became a source or urgency for the doctors.

June 4th
I was transferred to IU and had a MRI to get a better look at what the CAT scan had shown. I had been on a couple strong antibiotics since the first night and they were concerned about the infection spreading. At this point we had been told things such as multiple surgeries, long surgery (up to 14 hours) and immediate surgery. We were also told that I would receive IV antibiotics at home for approx four weeks after surgery.

June 12th
Complications from surgery included; meningitis, facial paralysis, deafness, and more. The antibiotics seemed to be working and the swelling had come down during the last few days. My surgeon was Dr. Richard Miyamoto and surgery came and went in just three hours with very positive results. The cholesteatoma was removed, the bones within the ear were saved, and the infection was kept from entering the spinal fluid. All praises. The only set back was that the nerve to my taste buds was severed. I was told this should be temporary as the body would correct this on it’s own in approx four weeks.

June 13th
I was released to go home with oral antibiotics and lots of rest.

I have personally been very impressed by my family and friends who showed tremendous love and support during the past few weeks. My wife and kids were very worried about me and they did a great job at casting their cares to the Lord. Your prayer support was evidenced by the peace that we felt and the love that we feel. Thank you.

IMPORTANT PRAYER REQUEST

Important prayer request FOR KICKSTAND! he is going to Indianapolis for a surgery. he has had tissue growing in his ear and in between his brain for almost 3 decades and has developed into an infection and slight tumor. we don't know when he will return but it will take a little while for recovery. if all goes well he will be back on his feet and doing better than ever it is so IMPORTANT that you keep him in your prayers!

his daughter
Tara