I spent the last two months in Maryland watching the ups and downs of my dads condition. I went home to be with those I love at such a tough time in our lives. When I arrived in Maryland, my dad didn't know who I was and was borderline catatonic. Now, after over 30 strokes - all different sizes and magnitude, two massive brain surgeries, and lots of patience my dad is on the road to recovery.
Yesterday my mom had a conference with dad's surgeon and we learned that the second surgery was not as successful as the first. The right side brain bypass is considered successful; tests show a robust flow of blood on that side of the brain. However, the left side is "a disappointment" in the surgeon's words. Tests right after surgery, before closing, show excellent connection and blood flow. Closing occurred and within the first 24 hours after surgery a blockage in the bypass occurred. This limited the success of the surgery. Blood flow is limited on the left side of the brain. Therefore speech, some cognitive thought, the decision making process, and initiative responses are limited. Motor skills are good. Acute rehab should help to improve some areas, but gains are predicted to show slowly over a two year period. The surgeon is hoping that the brain, an incredible organ with unpredictable healing pathways, and with God's intervention will create a natural bypass around the surgical bypass.
Of course I want the dad I am used to back... but I know he's not coming back fully. After returning to California I feel numb; I have so many emotions running through me I can't clearly identify them. Hopefully in the next few weeks I'll have time to reflect and come to some peace with all of this... and now more than ever I am praying for stronger trust and faith. God has a plan - I know and believe that <3
Dad's Halloween surprise : ) Liam in all Red Sox gear!
No matter what happens, he'll always be my daddio and I love him more than he'll ever understand <3
