JD Update

Today JD had a test where they stuck a scope down his throat. The scope looks through the esophagus to examine the heart a little closer. They did find a small hole. The hole is so small that they are not exactly sure if it was the cause of the stroke. Usually, repairing a hole in the heart is a surprisingly un-invasive procedure. However, because of the size, they feel that if they are going to repair it, they will have to do full-blown open heart surgery. The tools that they use to repair it through out patient are not precise enough for his hole.


So that leaves us with a difficult decision. One option is to be on aspirin as a blood thinner for the rest of his life. That's no big deal except that the only way they know if it is not working is if he has another stroke. The other option is to assume the risks of open heart surgery. I don't know what we will do. Well- we WILL get another opinion- but I don't know about after that.


He was also evaluated by an occupational therapist. OT looks at fine motor skills and the upper body. He did a bunch of tests and he can tell the difference hot/cold, sharp/dull, manipulation of joints, and such. He struggles with writing, with the tingling feeling, and precise movements with his fingers. I think he will get those skills back pretty quick. The OT did have him do some walking. That didn't go as well. He used a walker but he can't feel the floor. He felt that the temperature changed, but that's really it. He's not so stable either. The physical therapist will look more at his walking ability tomorrow- was supposed to be today- grrr.

So that's where we are at. I think once he gets to use the PT equiptment he will progress quickly, but it's taking forever to get in there. The OT thinks he needs a couple more days in the hospital before going home so he can get a little more coordinated, but the doctor is the one who decides when he goes home. And now we wait.....

All in all JD is in good spirits and is one determined man. I so admire his outlook and strength.