Well, I am about to eat my words about Gord and his communications. Today he blew us all away. It started with a trip to the MRI suite in the basement of the hospital. We took a very very long underground walk to who knows where on the hospital grounds, Gord was taken in to do the MRI while I waited. When I was invited in to sit with him to await the "porter", the MRI attendant just easily said..."Oh boy, did he ever yell at me " I said Pardon??? He said Gord said "Get me out of here!" and then cursed. I was so surprised because we had not heard a sentence yet. The attendant didn't know these were amazing words. Also to note, his eyes looked like he had seen a ghost. He looked so frightened. I guess the noise inside the MRI freaked him out.
After getting him back to the room I thought it might be nice to get dressed today in a fresh yellow t shirt and black shorts. I presented the wardrobe to Gord and asked if he wanted to wear it. He said a clear "Yes". We got dressed, and then we had visitors. At one point, good friend, Jim McManes asked Gord how old he was. Gord looked around, took a moment and said "61". We just about fell over. Jim then asked how old Sheila was. Again, pause and he said "same". He is absolutely correct. So even though the nurse tried to downplay this brilliant event saying these times of brilliance will come and go, I say it's going to stay.
And then.....in the evening, Stacy arrives with her aunt and uncle and Gord looks at them, smiles and says "Moosejaw, Saskatchewan". (That is where they are from). He says few words but he is right on what he wants to say.
One other thing: When friend Don came in with a card, he handed it to Gord. Gord took it, looked at the envelope and tried to open it with one hand. I helped him get the card out and he looked like he was reading the poem on the front, went to the inside, read it, turned it to the back and then handed it back to me. I have no clue if he could read it but he sure was interested.
You can tell I am pumped by the amount of writing I am doing. I just can't stop!
The MRI results showed that the blood is still present and receding. This is showing progress and also there is no real swelling and definitely no more bleeding. In 6-8 weeks they will do more tests to try to determine the exact cause of the bleed. On Monday, he will have a swallowing test and will get the food tube removed from his nose for sure. If he can pass the test, then he will get fed real food and if not, a peg will be inserted directly in his stomach for a while.
It is all good news!!!
Tomorrow is Sunday, and I will go to the hospital in the morning and then have the whole afternoon off. Hmmmmmmm.....what shall I do!
I will write tomorrow if anything more exciting happens and Monday after the tests for sure.
Have a wonderful day everyone!!!
Love
Sheila
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Another Saturday
I am amazed how one day just rolls into the next and all of a sudden I hear people saying it's Friday and what they are doing on the weekend. The physio girls say "See you Monday" and here we are left for 2 long days to fend for ourselves. I feel so bad that Gord misses out on getting to sit up for those 2 days. Interesting that they cannot have staff 7 days a week. I am now seeing just how sad our medical system is.
I missed writing yesterday as I did not get home until late and was too tired to even think. I just could not leave Gord last night tethered to his bed. It is such a cruel thing to do to a person who only has one hand to scratch their nose with! And to further the agony he can't even call out for help! It is just so difficult to watch. I am rushing to get back this morning to untie him! I am even thinking of staying with him overnight just so he doesn't have to be going through this.
On Friday I was flossing Gord's teeth and he pushed my hand away...I said "Is that enough?" and he said a very definite YES. So I have witnessed it myself and can happily report the good news. He also was encouraged to actually stand with 4 people supporting him - very wobbly but he did try very hard. It was an accomplishment for sure.
He is really responding to visitors now so please feel free to visit.
See you soon,
Love
Sheila
I missed writing yesterday as I did not get home until late and was too tired to even think. I just could not leave Gord last night tethered to his bed. It is such a cruel thing to do to a person who only has one hand to scratch their nose with! And to further the agony he can't even call out for help! It is just so difficult to watch. I am rushing to get back this morning to untie him! I am even thinking of staying with him overnight just so he doesn't have to be going through this.
On Friday I was flossing Gord's teeth and he pushed my hand away...I said "Is that enough?" and he said a very definite YES. So I have witnessed it myself and can happily report the good news. He also was encouraged to actually stand with 4 people supporting him - very wobbly but he did try very hard. It was an accomplishment for sure.
He is really responding to visitors now so please feel free to visit.
See you soon,
Love
Sheila
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Another good day
Aloha everyone on January 29th in the evening
Just to clear up some misunderstandings, birthday is today Jan 29th and I was under the covers yesterday, Jan. 28th. Thank you all for your kind wishes. We spent a nice quiet day together and he did try to get some words out. I am afraid the picture I painted of Gord actually speaking was false. He is communicating in the best way he can but may not know what he is saying. I did not witness any actual words today. He still is not responding to commands and that is what we are looking for. Until he does that, they cannot assess whether he can protect his airway or not. We are not out of the woods yet. Please don't get false hope, get excited but stay grounded. It is really tough but we just have to be prepared for all eventualities. I am obviously getting very philosophical as the days wear on but I am trying to maintain a sense of the reality of the whole situation.
I went to the bottom yesterday and amazingly when I thought "what's it all about" I started feeling better and better and I am back to my old self today with my positive outlook and fighting spirit. There is a future adventure for us both I believe and that will be meeting new people, learning new things, and knowing Gord, helping everyone in rehab!
Until tomorrow.....love to all
Sheila
Just to clear up some misunderstandings, birthday is today Jan 29th and I was under the covers yesterday, Jan. 28th. Thank you all for your kind wishes. We spent a nice quiet day together and he did try to get some words out. I am afraid the picture I painted of Gord actually speaking was false. He is communicating in the best way he can but may not know what he is saying. I did not witness any actual words today. He still is not responding to commands and that is what we are looking for. Until he does that, they cannot assess whether he can protect his airway or not. We are not out of the woods yet. Please don't get false hope, get excited but stay grounded. It is really tough but we just have to be prepared for all eventualities. I am obviously getting very philosophical as the days wear on but I am trying to maintain a sense of the reality of the whole situation.
I went to the bottom yesterday and amazingly when I thought "what's it all about" I started feeling better and better and I am back to my old self today with my positive outlook and fighting spirit. There is a future adventure for us both I believe and that will be meeting new people, learning new things, and knowing Gord, helping everyone in rehab!
Until tomorrow.....love to all
Sheila
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Gord mouthed words!!!
Good Evening on January 28th, 2009
I did not go to the hospital today as I couldn't really move my body, swallow, and you can imagine the rest. I had such a headache that I lay in bed all day and imagined I had crawled into Gord's body to experience what he is going through. The TV was on but I was off in lala land. I pray he does not have the headache but soon he may be able to tell us!!! Ron and Diane rushed over to the hospital when I called for help and they had a great day with him. At one point Diane said they were going to Victoria and Gord said "Not now" and Diane told him they aren't leaving until Friday. She also asked if he had a sore throat because he was trying to clear it and he mouthed "I don't know". There was one other thing that is probably written in the book in the hospital. I am pretty excited and can't wait to get there tomorrow. I am thinking he probably will try harder for people that are good friends than me. It's fine, just like little kids and their mothers. They always have a owie when Mom's around to give sympathy. I think Gord is doing a little of that. I asked him yesterday to give us a sign that he understands some things. Maybe this was it.
Will check in later.
Have a great day everyone....I am
Love
Sheila
I did not go to the hospital today as I couldn't really move my body, swallow, and you can imagine the rest. I had such a headache that I lay in bed all day and imagined I had crawled into Gord's body to experience what he is going through. The TV was on but I was off in lala land. I pray he does not have the headache but soon he may be able to tell us!!! Ron and Diane rushed over to the hospital when I called for help and they had a great day with him. At one point Diane said they were going to Victoria and Gord said "Not now" and Diane told him they aren't leaving until Friday. She also asked if he had a sore throat because he was trying to clear it and he mouthed "I don't know". There was one other thing that is probably written in the book in the hospital. I am pretty excited and can't wait to get there tomorrow. I am thinking he probably will try harder for people that are good friends than me. It's fine, just like little kids and their mothers. They always have a owie when Mom's around to give sympathy. I think Gord is doing a little of that. I asked him yesterday to give us a sign that he understands some things. Maybe this was it.
Will check in later.
Have a great day everyone....I am
Love
Sheila
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Where or where is the chicken soup!
Events on Monday and Tuesday
Monday was a roller coaster day. I felt all was going well as we progressed through the day with Gord getting some physiotherapy etc. Visitors were to a minimum which really does help at this point. Gord seems to get agitated and almost angry when there are too many people around. I fought with him all day Monday to keep him from taking his oxygen off. He gets a really mad look in his eyes and I know to back off. Poor guy wants to talk and he just can't. Anyway, I was in his room about 4:30 pm and a nurse comes in and announces they are preparing Gord's transfer papers. Of course my question was "Transfer to where?". Red Deer Hospital she says. Well you could have pushed me over with a feather. I immediately said "There is no way we are going to Red Deer". I was whisked away to the Social Worker's office and told that some things we just cannot control etc. etc. etc. I asked for every phone number that I would need to appeal this decision etc. Needless to say I pretty well got the whole unit in an uproar and the end result was that we are not being transferred. When and if we go somewhere it will most likely be the Fanning Center or if they feel Gord will be over a year in recovery he may have to go to the Brain Trauma Center in Ponoka. I knew my life would change but Ponoka????? Now I really need everyone to pray for rehab in Calgary! Thank you.
Out of that high stress event I now have a pretty good sore throat probably leading to a cold.
All I could think of today was having chicken noodle soup with soggy toast! Su, Ken, Kathy, Peter where are you when I need you! Just kidding . There is chicken soup in the freezer right here.
I will have some now. Goodnight everyone. Let's pray for a brighter day tomorrow.
Love
Sheila
Monday was a roller coaster day. I felt all was going well as we progressed through the day with Gord getting some physiotherapy etc. Visitors were to a minimum which really does help at this point. Gord seems to get agitated and almost angry when there are too many people around. I fought with him all day Monday to keep him from taking his oxygen off. He gets a really mad look in his eyes and I know to back off. Poor guy wants to talk and he just can't. Anyway, I was in his room about 4:30 pm and a nurse comes in and announces they are preparing Gord's transfer papers. Of course my question was "Transfer to where?". Red Deer Hospital she says. Well you could have pushed me over with a feather. I immediately said "There is no way we are going to Red Deer". I was whisked away to the Social Worker's office and told that some things we just cannot control etc. etc. etc. I asked for every phone number that I would need to appeal this decision etc. Needless to say I pretty well got the whole unit in an uproar and the end result was that we are not being transferred. When and if we go somewhere it will most likely be the Fanning Center or if they feel Gord will be over a year in recovery he may have to go to the Brain Trauma Center in Ponoka. I knew my life would change but Ponoka????? Now I really need everyone to pray for rehab in Calgary! Thank you.
Out of that high stress event I now have a pretty good sore throat probably leading to a cold.
All I could think of today was having chicken noodle soup with soggy toast! Su, Ken, Kathy, Peter where are you when I need you! Just kidding . There is chicken soup in the freezer right here.
I will have some now. Goodnight everyone. Let's pray for a brighter day tomorrow.
Love
Sheila
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sunday's news
Sunday news on Monday morning early......
Well, as promised, the respiratory nurse came in about 11am Sunday and removed Gord's tracheostomy. What a wierd but interesting event. I could hear the air coming out the hole as he breathed. He did not seem concerned at all. It is now nicely patched and he is comfortable. He did get in a little power trip though as the nurse and I were trying to lower the back of the chair he had been put in by pulling out his food tube - again. He was not happy when it had to be reinserted and I am hoping he is learning NOT to touch it. All in all it was a good day with just a few visitors. Nice and calm.
I would like to send out a huge thank you to Lydia and her Church for setting up the blog which has been such a wonderful communication source. It has warmed my heart to receive all the good wishes and prayers from all the very special people that love Gord. It also allows me to tell the news once instead of 500 times.
I would also like to thank the friends who are bringing me food and snacks and inviting me for dinners and dropping gifts in my mailbox!! I love you all!
My daughter Andrea dropped off an envelope yesterday and I was so pleasantly surprised to receive a beautiful leather bound card from the "Society of African Missions Perpetual Missionary Society" saying Gord Bosch had been enrolled by Emer Parte (Andrea's mother in law). The society is in Blackrock Road, Cork, Ireland.
It reads: "Those enrolled, and our benefactors, share in our Missionary work, prayers and in a special Mass offered daily for the intentions and have the Apostolic Blessing which has been renewed by successive Popes.
Signed by : Fachtna O'Driscoll , Provincial Superior
Thank you so much Emer!
I also promised some friends I would mention the titles of a couple of books that I highly recommend be read not only to understand Gord's issues but for yourselves and life in general!
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
by Jean-Dominique Banby
isbn: 978-0-00-713984-2
My Stroke of Insight
by Jill Bolte Taylor
isbn 978-0-670-02074-4
Have a great day everyone!!!
Love
Sheila
Well, as promised, the respiratory nurse came in about 11am Sunday and removed Gord's tracheostomy. What a wierd but interesting event. I could hear the air coming out the hole as he breathed. He did not seem concerned at all. It is now nicely patched and he is comfortable. He did get in a little power trip though as the nurse and I were trying to lower the back of the chair he had been put in by pulling out his food tube - again. He was not happy when it had to be reinserted and I am hoping he is learning NOT to touch it. All in all it was a good day with just a few visitors. Nice and calm.
I would like to send out a huge thank you to Lydia and her Church for setting up the blog which has been such a wonderful communication source. It has warmed my heart to receive all the good wishes and prayers from all the very special people that love Gord. It also allows me to tell the news once instead of 500 times.
I would also like to thank the friends who are bringing me food and snacks and inviting me for dinners and dropping gifts in my mailbox!! I love you all!
My daughter Andrea dropped off an envelope yesterday and I was so pleasantly surprised to receive a beautiful leather bound card from the "Society of African Missions Perpetual Missionary Society" saying Gord Bosch had been enrolled by Emer Parte (Andrea's mother in law). The society is in Blackrock Road, Cork, Ireland.
It reads: "Those enrolled, and our benefactors, share in our Missionary work, prayers and in a special Mass offered daily for the intentions and have the Apostolic Blessing which has been renewed by successive Popes.
Signed by : Fachtna O'Driscoll , Provincial Superior
Thank you so much Emer!
I also promised some friends I would mention the titles of a couple of books that I highly recommend be read not only to understand Gord's issues but for yourselves and life in general!
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
by Jean-Dominique Banby
isbn: 978-0-00-713984-2
My Stroke of Insight
by Jill Bolte Taylor
isbn 978-0-670-02074-4
Have a great day everyone!!!
Love
Sheila
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Moving right along!
January 24th
I spent a very nice day with Gord today. He sat up very well in his bed and was alert for a little longer today. I put the Australian Open Tennis on the TV and he was riveted on the screen which gave me hope he was understanding what he was seeing. He loves watching tennis tournaments and will actually stop working on projects to take time out to watch in his normal life.
Late in the day while our friend Shelley was working on Gord doing reflexology and energy work he pulled up his right leg at the knee and pulled all his toes back. THAT is a huge step forward. Now for the right arm. Apparently, tomorrow the tracheostomy tube comes out! I think he will be happy about that. The food tube is still inserted in his nose and won't come out until he proves he can protect his airway, swallow properly etc. I don't know how long that will take. He also has to understand commands which he is not doing well yet. It may be the stubborn German in him though! I think he has figured out who he is going to co-operate with and who he is not going to co-operate with!
If you are thinking about Gord while walking the beach or sitting in the sun, or doing winter things, visualize his brain completely free of the blood that flooded it and functioning perfectly. Visualize him walking down the beach in his normal body talking to you. Speech is going to be one of his biggest challenges.
Thank you......everything we do helps him....I just know it!
Love to you all
Sheila - who now has a winter coat that the collar comes up over my ears and reaches down to my boot tops. Winter may not be so bad now that I can keep warm!!!!!! And I finally found the button for the seat heater (with Colby's help) in Kathy's car.....I am sooooo slow....
I spent a very nice day with Gord today. He sat up very well in his bed and was alert for a little longer today. I put the Australian Open Tennis on the TV and he was riveted on the screen which gave me hope he was understanding what he was seeing. He loves watching tennis tournaments and will actually stop working on projects to take time out to watch in his normal life.
Late in the day while our friend Shelley was working on Gord doing reflexology and energy work he pulled up his right leg at the knee and pulled all his toes back. THAT is a huge step forward. Now for the right arm. Apparently, tomorrow the tracheostomy tube comes out! I think he will be happy about that. The food tube is still inserted in his nose and won't come out until he proves he can protect his airway, swallow properly etc. I don't know how long that will take. He also has to understand commands which he is not doing well yet. It may be the stubborn German in him though! I think he has figured out who he is going to co-operate with and who he is not going to co-operate with!
If you are thinking about Gord while walking the beach or sitting in the sun, or doing winter things, visualize his brain completely free of the blood that flooded it and functioning perfectly. Visualize him walking down the beach in his normal body talking to you. Speech is going to be one of his biggest challenges.
Thank you......everything we do helps him....I just know it!
Love to you all
Sheila - who now has a winter coat that the collar comes up over my ears and reaches down to my boot tops. Winter may not be so bad now that I can keep warm!!!!!! And I finally found the button for the seat heater (with Colby's help) in Kathy's car.....I am sooooo slow....
Friday, January 23, 2009
Aloha from Calgary
I am finally home after a long day at the hospital. I arrived this morning, dashed to Gord's room, threw back the curtain and said "Hi Honey, I'm here!" and guess what ....the guy in the bed wasn't Gord! Of course my first thought was OH NO! I rushed to the nursing station to be told he had been moved because they needed the room and he was across the hall in Unit 111. That was a jolt of adrenaline I did not need!
The good news is, he has less monitors stuck to his body and is in the next step to the rehabilitation ward. His new room views onto the helipad so I am hoping he will see some action from his window. He is still sleeping a lot and on the weekend he will not have physiotherapy but on Monday they will start again and add Occupational Therapy as well. We still don't know what Gord is understanding at this point. He certainly recognizes people it seems and smiles quite a lot. I am feeling better about things today.
Thanks again for your prayers.
Love
Sheila
I am finally home after a long day at the hospital. I arrived this morning, dashed to Gord's room, threw back the curtain and said "Hi Honey, I'm here!" and guess what ....the guy in the bed wasn't Gord! Of course my first thought was OH NO! I rushed to the nursing station to be told he had been moved because they needed the room and he was across the hall in Unit 111. That was a jolt of adrenaline I did not need!
The good news is, he has less monitors stuck to his body and is in the next step to the rehabilitation ward. His new room views onto the helipad so I am hoping he will see some action from his window. He is still sleeping a lot and on the weekend he will not have physiotherapy but on Monday they will start again and add Occupational Therapy as well. We still don't know what Gord is understanding at this point. He certainly recognizes people it seems and smiles quite a lot. I am feeling better about things today.
Thanks again for your prayers.
Love
Sheila
A request from Sheila
Special request from Sheila
Good morning everyone! Another new day and I am looking forward to getting to the hospital to see today's progress. I will report later this evening. Now that I am settled and have use of a computer, I wonder if my friends could send me an email to gbosch@rttinc.com so that I can start to rebuild an address book again. I love sitting down in the morning and the evenings and checking my mail. I need to open up that world again. I also find using the cell phone very frustrating as there are so many places I go that I can't use it.
Normajean - please email me as I have things I need to ask you.
Peter and Kathy - all is well at home! Hope your trip was good - would like you to send some warm air this way please!!!
Thanks very much and keep those good thoughts coming our way!
Love
Sheila
Good morning everyone! Another new day and I am looking forward to getting to the hospital to see today's progress. I will report later this evening. Now that I am settled and have use of a computer, I wonder if my friends could send me an email to gbosch@rttinc.com so that I can start to rebuild an address book again. I love sitting down in the morning and the evenings and checking my mail. I need to open up that world again. I also find using the cell phone very frustrating as there are so many places I go that I can't use it.
Normajean - please email me as I have things I need to ask you.
Peter and Kathy - all is well at home! Hope your trip was good - would like you to send some warm air this way please!!!
Thanks very much and keep those good thoughts coming our way!
Love
Sheila
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Hi From Gord
Hi all,
Well just a quick update for today. I only had the chance to drop by for an hour or so and with me was my cousin Christa. I told Dad that Christa was there and asked him if he could say Hi. He really tried to mouth the word "Hi"!
Other than that I think that Dad was a little tired today and was resting a lot as he had quite a busy day yesterday with lots of visitors.
I don't have too much more to report for today but I do want to say thank you to Christa for the ride and the lunch today! Also, Aunty Peg thanks for the letter...your words of encouragement were really needed today!
Thanks to all for the positive comments and prayers being sent!
Stacy
Well just a quick update for today. I only had the chance to drop by for an hour or so and with me was my cousin Christa. I told Dad that Christa was there and asked him if he could say Hi. He really tried to mouth the word "Hi"!
Other than that I think that Dad was a little tired today and was resting a lot as he had quite a busy day yesterday with lots of visitors.
I don't have too much more to report for today but I do want to say thank you to Christa for the ride and the lunch today! Also, Aunty Peg thanks for the letter...your words of encouragement were really needed today!
Thanks to all for the positive comments and prayers being sent!
Stacy
Just For Fun
Dear Dad,
A poem from a daughter to her Dad
In a time of much needed humor relief
To the blog, this poem I will add.
I know that right now your brain is a little bit hurt
But soon you will be back up and about
Of course without your shirt.
There is a man you should know has kept everything on track
What a great friend and doctor
Many thanks go to you Deepak!!!
Don’t worry Dad, your eyebrows are still there
Although you have had several offers
To groom them with care.
All of us have been trying to do
What we think you would want
You really do have a wonderful crew.
We tried to get the nurses right from the start
To hook you up to a glass
Of Pepsi and Lemonhart.
The Foothills has provided such a wonderful team
That soon you will be up
Eating Maple Walnut ice cream!
Through this whole time you really have been so brave
You even let Uncle Richard
Give you a shave!
Dad, you really do need to go and get back to the Lake
Because soon from the city
You and Sheila will need a break.
All of us kids need your help and advice
For our household projects
No one else will suffice!
Also there are four small people that really need you back
Your cute little grandkids
Daniel, Catarina, Declan, and Jack.
We are all behind you and what more can I say here
Other than we love you and will help you get through
This most challenging year!
I know you can do it and all of your hard work will be worthwhile
When in the summer
We take our trip down the aisle.
Dad, I really do love you so much
And with this poem I hope
Your heart I did touch!
Love Stacy
A poem from a daughter to her Dad
In a time of much needed humor relief
To the blog, this poem I will add.
I know that right now your brain is a little bit hurt
But soon you will be back up and about
Of course without your shirt.
There is a man you should know has kept everything on track
What a great friend and doctor
Many thanks go to you Deepak!!!
Don’t worry Dad, your eyebrows are still there
Although you have had several offers
To groom them with care.
All of us have been trying to do
What we think you would want
You really do have a wonderful crew.
We tried to get the nurses right from the start
To hook you up to a glass
Of Pepsi and Lemonhart.
The Foothills has provided such a wonderful team
That soon you will be up
Eating Maple Walnut ice cream!
Through this whole time you really have been so brave
You even let Uncle Richard
Give you a shave!
Dad, you really do need to go and get back to the Lake
Because soon from the city
You and Sheila will need a break.
All of us kids need your help and advice
For our household projects
No one else will suffice!
Also there are four small people that really need you back
Your cute little grandkids
Daniel, Catarina, Declan, and Jack.
We are all behind you and what more can I say here
Other than we love you and will help you get through
This most challenging year!
I know you can do it and all of your hard work will be worthwhile
When in the summer
We take our trip down the aisle.
Dad, I really do love you so much
And with this poem I hope
Your heart I did touch!
Love Stacy
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A Message From Stacy
First of all I would like to say thanks to everyone for reading this blog. It means a lot to my brother and I to see that our Dad has so much support from all of his friends and family. I also want to take this opportunity to thank some people who have been a huge support of Darren and I including Aunty Diane, Uncle Gary, Aunty Vonnie, Uncle Richard, Uncle Wayne and my Mom. Aunty Diane and Uncle Gary…thanks for being there for us in Maui. It meant the world to me to have Aunty Diane at my side for many long hours in the hospital there. Also Aunty Vonnie and Uncle Richard you guys have been great and a huge support for all of us! Thank you also for the hours spent with Dad and with us during this time! Uncle Wayne, I know that you are praying for Dad and believe me, he knows and can feel that! Also a special thanks to my Mom for coming right away to help Andres and I with caring for Daniel and for making such great meals for us. Andres and I cannot express how much stress that relieved and how much your presence means to us! Also a big thanks to my boss and my co-workers for the flexibility, support, and help everyone has shown me over the past few weeks!
During a stressful time such as this, everyone’s true colors really shine and for that I am thankful. I know that in a few weeks or a few months, my Dad will get to see those true colors of his friends and family.
I have been going over and spending time with my Dad every day and over the past few days I have seen wonderful things! I have taken Daniel (my son) into see his Grandpa a couple of times and Dad really looks at him with the affection and love that I know he holds for that little guy. As everyone knows, my Dad is a strong guy and he has been showing that lately! He is grabbing the edge of the bed and pulling himself over to switch positions. I think that he is a determined man and I think that he will try his hardest to get out of that bed as soon as he can!
Tonight was a great night. Sheila and I were there together and at one point I pulled Dad’s right hand up so that he could look at it. I pulled it over to the right side of his body and he followed with his eyes! This is great news as he has been mainly just looking to the left. Also Sheila and I left the room for a few minutes and when we came back Dad was flashing smiles to everyone!! He really looked like he recognized us and was happy to see us!
Overall I am positive about the outcome of this situation and I have faith that my Dad will recover!
Thanks again for reading and I will try to write again as soon as I can!
Stacy Bosch (Gord’s Daughter)
During a stressful time such as this, everyone’s true colors really shine and for that I am thankful. I know that in a few weeks or a few months, my Dad will get to see those true colors of his friends and family.
I have been going over and spending time with my Dad every day and over the past few days I have seen wonderful things! I have taken Daniel (my son) into see his Grandpa a couple of times and Dad really looks at him with the affection and love that I know he holds for that little guy. As everyone knows, my Dad is a strong guy and he has been showing that lately! He is grabbing the edge of the bed and pulling himself over to switch positions. I think that he is a determined man and I think that he will try his hardest to get out of that bed as soon as he can!
Tonight was a great night. Sheila and I were there together and at one point I pulled Dad’s right hand up so that he could look at it. I pulled it over to the right side of his body and he followed with his eyes! This is great news as he has been mainly just looking to the left. Also Sheila and I left the room for a few minutes and when we came back Dad was flashing smiles to everyone!! He really looked like he recognized us and was happy to see us!
Overall I am positive about the outcome of this situation and I have faith that my Dad will recover!
Thanks again for reading and I will try to write again as soon as I can!
Stacy Bosch (Gord’s Daughter)
Sunday, January 18, 2009
A Smile Goes a Long, Long Way
While we're all prepared for a long road to recovery sometimes it's just amazing the difference a day can make! Today Gord appeared much more alert and focused than he has previously. He is able to fix his gaze on people for longer periods, tracking movement and shifting focus from person to person with greater ease. Perhaps most exciting, just as mother nature smiled on Calgary today with a gloriously warm and sunny day, Gord too has begun to smile again, melting a little bit of the fear that we've all harboured about getting our Gord back!
While several members of Sheila and Gord's family were visiting at the hospital today, Dr. Hill, the neurologist overseeing Gord's care, came by and essentially painted a picture about his prediction for Gord's journey ahead. He assured the family that given the nature of Gord's injury, he is doing as well as can be expected. He likened the current status of the affected area in Gord's brain to a bruise, explaining that like any bruise, it will take time for the body to reabsorb the blood and work to repair what damage it can. Gord is expected to remain in the stroke unit for about a month before being moved to the rehabilitation unit where the focus can shift to regaining any lost or altered function. In Dr. Hill's experienced estimation, he feels that Gord will likely remain in the hospital until about May, after which he will continue with out-patient rehabilitation.
Finally, because Gord is breathing well, the short term goal is to reduce the size of the tracheotomy with the longer term goal being its complete removal. It is also Sheila's hope that they may be able to get Gord into a wheelchair in the near future so they can go for walks and provide Gord with an occasional change of scenery.
We are all feeling a renewed sense of optimism today and knowing the difference a bright, sunny day can make in ones outlook, we'll pray for a continued forecast of sunshine in both Gord's future and Calgary's!
Laurie Bell
While several members of Sheila and Gord's family were visiting at the hospital today, Dr. Hill, the neurologist overseeing Gord's care, came by and essentially painted a picture about his prediction for Gord's journey ahead. He assured the family that given the nature of Gord's injury, he is doing as well as can be expected. He likened the current status of the affected area in Gord's brain to a bruise, explaining that like any bruise, it will take time for the body to reabsorb the blood and work to repair what damage it can. Gord is expected to remain in the stroke unit for about a month before being moved to the rehabilitation unit where the focus can shift to regaining any lost or altered function. In Dr. Hill's experienced estimation, he feels that Gord will likely remain in the hospital until about May, after which he will continue with out-patient rehabilitation.
Finally, because Gord is breathing well, the short term goal is to reduce the size of the tracheotomy with the longer term goal being its complete removal. It is also Sheila's hope that they may be able to get Gord into a wheelchair in the near future so they can go for walks and provide Gord with an occasional change of scenery.
We are all feeling a renewed sense of optimism today and knowing the difference a bright, sunny day can make in ones outlook, we'll pray for a continued forecast of sunshine in both Gord's future and Calgary's!
Laurie Bell
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Moving on Up
As some of you may have read in the comments section from the last post, Sheila is pleased to report that Gord has finally been transferred from recovery to the stroke ward. She has asked me to post all of the information again in the main body of this blog in the event that some of you are not reading the comments section.
For anyone who wishes to pay Gord a visit, he is still at the Foothills Hospital, now up on the 11th floor in room #1191 (unit 112 - once you get off the elevator you turn right). Visiting hours are from 11am to 1pm and again from 2:30pm to 9pm.
There are no new details to report about Gord's condition, but his move up to the 11th floor has simultaneously lifted our spirits. Gord is now in a private room and like their homes in Maui and Sylvan Lake, he'll be residing in a room with a view. Although there may not be humpback whales entertaining him, the Rocky Mountains have a certain majesty that should suffice! Perhaps most uplifting, his rehabilitation will be supervised by renowned neurologist, Dr. Michael Hill.
Before closing, I would like to take a brief moment to say a heartfelt thank you to all of those who have been supporting and encouraging me as I write these posts. When Sheila asked if I would write this blog I was so happy to have an opportunity to help and to ideally ease some of the communication challenges that have come with this trauma. Although I have felt honoured to be trusted with this responsibility, emotionally this has not always been an easy job. I wish for you to know that just as some of you have said that this blog is a lifeline keeping you connected to Gord, your positive feedback has been a lifeline to me!
When Sheila is more settled into a routine she will take over this blog. This is something that I have encouraged wholeheartedly as I feel that it will be an extremely cathartic exercise, helping her to process what she's facing all the while staying connected to you, her supportive network. Until that time I sincerely thank you for allowing me to act as a middle man of sorts.
Laurie Bell
P.S. Many of you have been asking whether I write for a living. As much as I loathe taking up any space to talk about myself, I also hate ignoring people so very quickly...the answer is yes. For the last 3 years I have been a freelance writer doing nutrition based writing for various supplement companies. I am just in the process of publishing my first research paper as a part of a cancer research team at the University of Calgary. I have also written one blog previous to this one for the University of Calgary Solar Car team with whom my husband Colby and I worked and traveled.
For anyone who wishes to pay Gord a visit, he is still at the Foothills Hospital, now up on the 11th floor in room #1191 (unit 112 - once you get off the elevator you turn right). Visiting hours are from 11am to 1pm and again from 2:30pm to 9pm.
There are no new details to report about Gord's condition, but his move up to the 11th floor has simultaneously lifted our spirits. Gord is now in a private room and like their homes in Maui and Sylvan Lake, he'll be residing in a room with a view. Although there may not be humpback whales entertaining him, the Rocky Mountains have a certain majesty that should suffice! Perhaps most uplifting, his rehabilitation will be supervised by renowned neurologist, Dr. Michael Hill.
Before closing, I would like to take a brief moment to say a heartfelt thank you to all of those who have been supporting and encouraging me as I write these posts. When Sheila asked if I would write this blog I was so happy to have an opportunity to help and to ideally ease some of the communication challenges that have come with this trauma. Although I have felt honoured to be trusted with this responsibility, emotionally this has not always been an easy job. I wish for you to know that just as some of you have said that this blog is a lifeline keeping you connected to Gord, your positive feedback has been a lifeline to me!
When Sheila is more settled into a routine she will take over this blog. This is something that I have encouraged wholeheartedly as I feel that it will be an extremely cathartic exercise, helping her to process what she's facing all the while staying connected to you, her supportive network. Until that time I sincerely thank you for allowing me to act as a middle man of sorts.
Laurie Bell
P.S. Many of you have been asking whether I write for a living. As much as I loathe taking up any space to talk about myself, I also hate ignoring people so very quickly...the answer is yes. For the last 3 years I have been a freelance writer doing nutrition based writing for various supplement companies. I am just in the process of publishing my first research paper as a part of a cancer research team at the University of Calgary. I have also written one blog previous to this one for the University of Calgary Solar Car team with whom my husband Colby and I worked and traveled.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Being Patient in Recovery
Good evening from Calgary. We were fortunate to make it home from Maui today with enough time to stop by the hospital for a brief visit with Gord and Sheila. While I only got about 15 minutes of sleep during last night's flight I thought I'd risk sounding a little off in order to give an update to the many of you who have come to count on this blog for your news.
Gord is currently in "Recovery", awaiting a bed in the stroke ward where he will likely remain while he undergoes his eventual rehabilitation. Earlier today, an ultrasound was performed on Gord's legs to check for clots, which can arise and jeopardize ones health when one is bedridden. Fortunately, the results were clear.
While we were visiting tonight, Gord moved his left side frequently, but again, there was very little from the right. His left side movement was comforting and reminiscent of a not too distant Gord who always seemed to be itching to head off and do something interesting! I was also very pleased to find Sheila in good spirits tonight, with an attitude full of fight.
Although we grew comfortable seeing Gord in his current condition while we were in Maui, I will admit that it took some effort tonight to once again accept this new reality (while at the same time accepting that we really have no idea about this new reality!). I believe the greatest challenge for many of us will be exercising the patience that is required for Gord's body to clearly communicate its status. Naturally our minds seem to want to make definitive assessments of nearly every movement he makes. The questions circulate over and over, was that squeeze of the hand or that facial expression meaningful or merely a conditioned reflex action? We live in a world where we are increasingly able to have what we want immediately and thanks in part to the Internet, this often includes answers. There is no question that both Gord and Sheila have a very long road ahead, but this time there is no way to access an answer as to the condition of that road...so tonight and maybe for many nights to come, I will pray for patience.
Laurie Bell
Gord is currently in "Recovery", awaiting a bed in the stroke ward where he will likely remain while he undergoes his eventual rehabilitation. Earlier today, an ultrasound was performed on Gord's legs to check for clots, which can arise and jeopardize ones health when one is bedridden. Fortunately, the results were clear.
While we were visiting tonight, Gord moved his left side frequently, but again, there was very little from the right. His left side movement was comforting and reminiscent of a not too distant Gord who always seemed to be itching to head off and do something interesting! I was also very pleased to find Sheila in good spirits tonight, with an attitude full of fight.
Although we grew comfortable seeing Gord in his current condition while we were in Maui, I will admit that it took some effort tonight to once again accept this new reality (while at the same time accepting that we really have no idea about this new reality!). I believe the greatest challenge for many of us will be exercising the patience that is required for Gord's body to clearly communicate its status. Naturally our minds seem to want to make definitive assessments of nearly every movement he makes. The questions circulate over and over, was that squeeze of the hand or that facial expression meaningful or merely a conditioned reflex action? We live in a world where we are increasingly able to have what we want immediately and thanks in part to the Internet, this often includes answers. There is no question that both Gord and Sheila have a very long road ahead, but this time there is no way to access an answer as to the condition of that road...so tonight and maybe for many nights to come, I will pray for patience.
Laurie Bell
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Mahalo and Aloha
There is little to report on Gord's condition today. As anticipated, Gord underwent a tracheotomy and all reports indicate that it went well. Because he was put under for this procedure we will once again wait for him to regain consciousness.
Colby and I are currently packing to head back home to Calgary, the last of Gord and Sheila's children to leave Maui. The wind in Maui was strong today, blowing in the same direction as our thoughts, eastward to home. We will miss the beauty here that is both the island and its inhabitants, but it will be nice to be home where we can support both Sheila and Gord. Thank you again to everyone here who made our time here so wonderful. Kealia Resort was a loving home away from home. If we didn't see it before, there is no question now why it is such a special place for Gord and Sheila. There were countless surrogate grandparents for our daughter Catarina who played each day out on the beach front! There was no shortage of food to keep us going. Thank you to Sue and Ken, Lydia, Patti and Max and Evelyn and Richard, who together provided food for us nearly every night that we were here.
Today I took the opportunity to visit Gord and Sheila's new condo, where Gord was working when all of this began. Their vision for the place is beautiful, equally as impressive as the breathtaking views that they will hopefully enjoy in the near future. I stood where I was told Gord lost consciousness and said a prayer on behalf of everyone for his speedy recovery. I can see how deep a mark Gord has left on the people here in Maui and I have nothing but faith that he will be back to deepen it!
Mahalo and Aloha (thank you and good-bye)! Talk to you all again from Calgary!
Laurie Bell
Colby and I are currently packing to head back home to Calgary, the last of Gord and Sheila's children to leave Maui. The wind in Maui was strong today, blowing in the same direction as our thoughts, eastward to home. We will miss the beauty here that is both the island and its inhabitants, but it will be nice to be home where we can support both Sheila and Gord. Thank you again to everyone here who made our time here so wonderful. Kealia Resort was a loving home away from home. If we didn't see it before, there is no question now why it is such a special place for Gord and Sheila. There were countless surrogate grandparents for our daughter Catarina who played each day out on the beach front! There was no shortage of food to keep us going. Thank you to Sue and Ken, Lydia, Patti and Max and Evelyn and Richard, who together provided food for us nearly every night that we were here.
Today I took the opportunity to visit Gord and Sheila's new condo, where Gord was working when all of this began. Their vision for the place is beautiful, equally as impressive as the breathtaking views that they will hopefully enjoy in the near future. I stood where I was told Gord lost consciousness and said a prayer on behalf of everyone for his speedy recovery. I can see how deep a mark Gord has left on the people here in Maui and I have nothing but faith that he will be back to deepen it!
Mahalo and Aloha (thank you and good-bye)! Talk to you all again from Calgary!
Laurie Bell
Gord and the Gang
Today there were plans to perform a tracheotomy to remove the breathing tube from Gord's mouth and provide a more comfortable access point directly through the trachea. Unfortunately, there was yet another gang shooting in Calgary that required the surgeon's attention so Gord's procedure was pushed to tomorrow (14th). Tonight those two gang members share the ICU with Gord, interesting how lives intersect. Hopefully the crime front will remain quiet tomorrow so Gord will have an opportunity to have his procedure, we'll keep you all posted.
I had an opportunity to talk with Sheila directly today and I asked her if there was anything I should post about visitation over the next couple of days. She said that given the plans for Gord's surgery it would be nice if visitors were kept to a minimum. She has sincerely appreciated all who have visited, even for a short time, but not surprisingly, it has been an exhausting time and the surgery will likely be draining for both of them. After this procedure is performed, Gord should be moved to a different ward and once both he and Sheila are settled I will post something to update you all on the visitation situation.
Lastly, there have been a few requests for a mailing address to which flowers and cards can be sent. As said previously, the ICU does not allow flowers and as much as Sheila loves flowers and appreciates the energy that they bring, she did wish for people to know that Gord suffers from allergic reactions to many flowers so she would prefer not to have them at hospital (once he is transferred out of the ICU). After discussing this matter with the family we thought it best to provide two addresses where items can be sent to Sheila or Gord c/o Stacy Bosch (Gord's daugher) or Andrea Parte (Sheila's daughter). Here are those addresses as well as their home phone numbers in the event that a delivery service requires a contact number for setting up a delivery time.
Stacy Bosch
36 Sun Valley Drive SE
Calgary, Alberta
T2X 1V2
403-697-2471
Andrea Parte
1 Meadowview Road SW
Calgary, Alberta
T2V 1V9
403-398-7844
Thank you sincerely,
Laurie Bell
I had an opportunity to talk with Sheila directly today and I asked her if there was anything I should post about visitation over the next couple of days. She said that given the plans for Gord's surgery it would be nice if visitors were kept to a minimum. She has sincerely appreciated all who have visited, even for a short time, but not surprisingly, it has been an exhausting time and the surgery will likely be draining for both of them. After this procedure is performed, Gord should be moved to a different ward and once both he and Sheila are settled I will post something to update you all on the visitation situation.
Lastly, there have been a few requests for a mailing address to which flowers and cards can be sent. As said previously, the ICU does not allow flowers and as much as Sheila loves flowers and appreciates the energy that they bring, she did wish for people to know that Gord suffers from allergic reactions to many flowers so she would prefer not to have them at hospital (once he is transferred out of the ICU). After discussing this matter with the family we thought it best to provide two addresses where items can be sent to Sheila or Gord c/o Stacy Bosch (Gord's daugher) or Andrea Parte (Sheila's daughter). Here are those addresses as well as their home phone numbers in the event that a delivery service requires a contact number for setting up a delivery time.
Stacy Bosch
36 Sun Valley Drive SE
Calgary, Alberta
T2X 1V2
403-697-2471
Andrea Parte
1 Meadowview Road SW
Calgary, Alberta
T2V 1V9
403-398-7844
Thank you sincerely,
Laurie Bell
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Wake Up Gord
The latest news from home is that Gord is no longer under sedation. The doctors have been easing him out of sedation very slowly and given that these sedative drugs are not normal to his system it may take some time for the full effects to wear off.
Gord has continued to open his eyes, but whether or not he recognizes the people around him continues to be a matter of subjective debate. The general opinion is that he has recognized Sheila, fixing his eyes on her while simultaneously squeezing her hand. A report has also spread that Gord's eyes popped open at the mention of "Lemon Hart", his favourite rum. Whether or not this was merely a coincidence, it has provided some much needed comic relief!
The culture taken a couple of days ago does indicate the presence of an infection, but because the lungs are clear, the general thinking is that it is an infection of the trachea and antibiotics are being administered. The most recent CAT scan shows no further changes from the previous one, which showed a reduction in the size of the brain area affected by the hemorrhage.
To close, there has never been a time when your prayers are needed more as we entered the phase of awakening and wait for signs to tell us the extent of the damage. Please know that your emails and comments posted here continue to uplift everyone and we cannot thank you enough.
Laurie Bell (Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Gord has continued to open his eyes, but whether or not he recognizes the people around him continues to be a matter of subjective debate. The general opinion is that he has recognized Sheila, fixing his eyes on her while simultaneously squeezing her hand. A report has also spread that Gord's eyes popped open at the mention of "Lemon Hart", his favourite rum. Whether or not this was merely a coincidence, it has provided some much needed comic relief!
The culture taken a couple of days ago does indicate the presence of an infection, but because the lungs are clear, the general thinking is that it is an infection of the trachea and antibiotics are being administered. The most recent CAT scan shows no further changes from the previous one, which showed a reduction in the size of the brain area affected by the hemorrhage.
To close, there has never been a time when your prayers are needed more as we entered the phase of awakening and wait for signs to tell us the extent of the damage. Please know that your emails and comments posted here continue to uplift everyone and we cannot thank you enough.
Laurie Bell (Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Monday, January 12, 2009
No News is Good News
It's been pretty quiet on the news front today. Gord is to have another CAT scan today and we will of course post something when we hear about the results.
Colby, Sheila's son, sent out close to 200 emails last night (using Gord and Sheila's email address book) in an attempt to ensure that everyone is aware of what has been going on and also that everyone has the link to this blog for updates. To all of those who replied to that email we will be sure to pass on all of your love and support. To those who have requested an address to send flowers, we will determine the best place to send them and let you know as soon as possible. Sheila has been spending much of her days and all of her nights at the hospital with Gord and flowers are not permitted in the ICU.
Thank you as well to everyone who has posted comments on this blog. I know I can speak for Sheila when I say that your positive energy means the world to her.
Laurie Bell
Colby, Sheila's son, sent out close to 200 emails last night (using Gord and Sheila's email address book) in an attempt to ensure that everyone is aware of what has been going on and also that everyone has the link to this blog for updates. To all of those who replied to that email we will be sure to pass on all of your love and support. To those who have requested an address to send flowers, we will determine the best place to send them and let you know as soon as possible. Sheila has been spending much of her days and all of her nights at the hospital with Gord and flowers are not permitted in the ICU.
Thank you as well to everyone who has posted comments on this blog. I know I can speak for Sheila when I say that your positive energy means the world to her.
Laurie Bell
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Good News from Home
The sun just set here in Maui and just as Gord would have been doing tonight, those of us who remain here sat watching it together. Call it luck or synchronicity, just as the sun dipped below the horizon, Stacy (Gord's daughter) received a call from home with some encouraging news.
Gord had another CAT scan today that showed a reduction in the area affected by the hemorrhage. An x-ray was also performed on his chest and showed that his lungs are clear. While we still await the results from the culture to completely rule out pneumonia, this news is extremely reassuring. Gord's sedative is slowly being reduced. He is remaining calm, making subtle movements, but again, this process will be slow and we have been told not to expect too much too quickly.
On behalf of the family we thank you for your thoughts and prayers, please keep it up! Also, please feel free to post comments to Sheila and the family, I know they are checking in on this from time to time and your support has meant a lot to everyone!
Thank you,
Laurie Bell
Gord had another CAT scan today that showed a reduction in the area affected by the hemorrhage. An x-ray was also performed on his chest and showed that his lungs are clear. While we still await the results from the culture to completely rule out pneumonia, this news is extremely reassuring. Gord's sedative is slowly being reduced. He is remaining calm, making subtle movements, but again, this process will be slow and we have been told not to expect too much too quickly.
On behalf of the family we thank you for your thoughts and prayers, please keep it up! Also, please feel free to post comments to Sheila and the family, I know they are checking in on this from time to time and your support has meant a lot to everyone!
Thank you,
Laurie Bell
The Latest Report from Calgary
Reports from Calgary indicate that Gord did well overnight. He opened both eyes, but Sheila wasn't confident that he recognized her. There has been some concern that pneumonia has set in so a culture has been taken, but the results will take approximately 48 hours. Members of Gord's family will be visiting today, giving Sheila a little time to rest and adjust to being back in Calgary (in the middle of a nasty winter!).
Laurie Bell
Laurie Bell
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Home Sweet Home
Gord and Sheila have arrived safely in Calgary and are now in the ICU at the Foothills Hospital. Sheila will stay at the hospital with Gord tonight and reports from home say that there may be attempts to bring Gord out of sedation during the night. We will await word on those developments and update everyone accordingly.
As I know many of you are concerned for Sheila, I want to assure everyone that she is being cared for. Her daughter Andrea visited her at the hospital tonight with plenty of love and food! Sheila has been provided with a home base at my parents' home, which is very close to the Foothills Hospital, making it a convenient place for her to shower, rest, eat and take her much needed breaks from the hospital.
We will post some information about visitation as soon as possible.
Laurie Bell (Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
As I know many of you are concerned for Sheila, I want to assure everyone that she is being cared for. Her daughter Andrea visited her at the hospital tonight with plenty of love and food! Sheila has been provided with a home base at my parents' home, which is very close to the Foothills Hospital, making it a convenient place for her to shower, rest, eat and take her much needed breaks from the hospital.
We will post some information about visitation as soon as possible.
Laurie Bell (Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Safe in Oregon
Word has been received that Gord and Sheila landed safely in Oregon for refueling. The flight was reported to have been uneventful and they are due in Calgary by about 6:30pm Calgary time.
Laurie Bell
Laurie Bell
We Have Lift Off
Good morning. At approximately 7:45 this morning Gord and Sheila departed Maui for Calgary. All has remained the same with Gord's condition, thereby allowing for his departure. This will be an all day journey for them as the Lear 35 that they are flying on requires a fuel stop in Hillsboro, Oregon. They are on the flight with two pilots and two medics so they are in good hands. They are expected to arrive back in Calgary some time around 7pm local time. Gord and Sheila were surrounded by family as they arrived at the airstrip to depart this morning. Although we could not join them on the journey, they have been assured that everyones' hearts, thoughts and prayers will travel every mile with them.
Laurie Bell (Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Friday, January 9, 2009
"Life Can Change In An Instant"
We’ve all heard the cautionary phrase “life can change in an instant”. The reality of that phrase has found its way into a few more lives this week.
On Monday, January 5th, while working on his condo renovations, Gord appeared distressed and lost consciousness. He was promptly rushed to the hospital and frankly, not enough can be said about the swift and decisive efforts of Ken and Keith, who were fortunately working alongside Gord that day and acted to ensure that Gord was receiving much needed medical care at the Maui Memorial Hospital within 20 minutes of losing consciousness.
At the hospital, a number of tests confirmed that Gord suffered a brain hemorrhage, likely from a blood pressure induced rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (as opposed to a stroke, aneurysm or tumour). As with any brain injury there is a great deal of uncertainty and since the moment this ordeal began, life has been a roller coaster ride in terms of developments. Gord remains sedated to ensure that his blood pressure stays under control. There have been signs of responsiveness (hand squeezing, reactions to pain, attempts to sit up, etc.), but the responses so far have been somewhat random rather than on command. There has been great concern that due to the location of the hemorrhage, Gord may have lost the use of his right side, although everyone involved is maintaining a positive attitude about this, encouraged by a number of subtle movements that have occurred on his right side. Perhaps the most comforting news has been confirmation from a CAT scan that the area affected by the hemorrhage has reduced in size, suggesting that the bleeding has ceased.
Many family members and dear friends have rushed to both Gord and Sheila’s side to offer love and support. Understandably, some who want to be here have not been able to make the long journey to his bedside, but the love and prayers from both near and afar have been truly received and have made this situation so much more bearable. Visiting Gord has also proved challenging for some people here in Maui who have had a difficult time seeing him in his current condition. Although Gord looks like himself, it does take a moment of pause to adjust to seeing such a vital man unable to launch into his usual heartfelt greetings of confident handshakes, bear hugs and kisses to the cheek. Trying to keep it light, a close family friend so lovingly summed up his current state by saying that “it just looks like Gord with some external plumbing”.
No one doubts that Gord knows when people are visiting him. When his daughter Stacy and step-sons Geoff and Colby first arrived in his room, he made a considerable effort to sit up and open his eyes. Twice when visited by one of his grandchildren his heart rate increased noticeably upon announcement of her arrival. As much as it would comfort us all to see him awake and have him offering a round of cold beverages in his abundantly hospitable manner, right now it is for the best that he remains sedated so his body is allowed time to heal.
The most recent and significant development is confirmation that there will be an attempt to transfer Gord back home to Calgary tomorrow (Saturday) morning via a chartered air ambulance. Initially, this transfer was being encouraged by the insurance company, who is anxious to see the medical bills converted to Canadian dollars, but medical advice from physicians both here and in Canada has suggested that this would be the best course of action for a number of reasons. For one, Gord is stable and already under the sedation that would be required for travel. To bring him out of sedation to assess him here and then return him to sedation for transport brings unwanted risk. Secondly, the family support that will be so needed over the months ahead can be offered with greater ease back in Canada. Thirdly, as we have all recently learned, the brain injury rehabilitation facility at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary is among the best in the world. Tomorrow morning, Gord’s condition will be thoroughly evaluated and if stable, he and Sheila will board a flight for Calgary at 7am Maui time. Updates will be posted accordingly.
Before signing off, time needs to be taken to acknowledge the incredible outpouring of love and generosity that this crisis has inspired. All of the family that have arrived in Maui have been provided with transportation, lodging and food by friends from both Maui and Canada. Maui is not the worst place to find yourself during a family emergency, but it also is not the cheapest so I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has offered support. The Finch family in particular has our unending gratitude as they have allowed Gord and Sheila’s children and grandchild to invade their brand new, gorgeous home.
We also wish to thank Deepak for his tireless support and readily available translation of the complicated medical issues being faced here. Deepak, the combination of your medical knowledge and compassion have been indispensible. Thank you to Ken and Sue for all you have been doing and will continue to do for Gord and Sheila on the Maui front, I have heard Sheila mention more than once that your support has kept her going. Thank you to Kimokeo, who visited Gord at the hospital on Tuesday and performed a traditional, spiritual blessing. Kimokeo, your calming presence came at a time when peace and faith were being taxed, we sincerely thank you for that.
Thank you to all who organized and participated in the prayer circle for Gord, held on Thursday morning. Members of the Maui Canoe Club were gracious enough to welcome Gord’s family onboard their traditional outrigger canoes so we could honour a passion of Gord’s by paddling to and from the site of the prayer circle at the Kihei Canoe Club. As a participant in this ceremonial paddle I can attest to the tranquility of the journey and the meaningfulness of our arrival in that fashion. On behalf of the family I offer an enormous thanks to all who were involved in the paddle.
I also offer tremendous thanks to those who organized and participated in the prayer circle. We appreciate everyone who came out to offer their positive energy to Gord and Sheila and their family members. We especially thank those who did not receive word of the time change for this event and despite coming out an hour and a half early stayed to participate! To those who spoke during the prayer circle, Shel, Dave, Lydia and Andrew, your words touched us all and for those who missed it, those words were beautiful enough to inspire a rainbow over the West Maui Mountains!
Lastly, thank you to Lydia for organizing this blog. During times like this so many people wish to be involved and informed and we are fortunate enough that modern technology can offer us this mass method, thereby relieving some of the communication challenges that come with the physical distance separating such an enormous circle of concerned family and friends. Just as you so many of you have endeavoured to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, we here will endeavour to keep you informed.
Mahalo and aloha,
Laurie Bell (Gord and Sheila’s daughter-in-law)
On Monday, January 5th, while working on his condo renovations, Gord appeared distressed and lost consciousness. He was promptly rushed to the hospital and frankly, not enough can be said about the swift and decisive efforts of Ken and Keith, who were fortunately working alongside Gord that day and acted to ensure that Gord was receiving much needed medical care at the Maui Memorial Hospital within 20 minutes of losing consciousness.
At the hospital, a number of tests confirmed that Gord suffered a brain hemorrhage, likely from a blood pressure induced rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (as opposed to a stroke, aneurysm or tumour). As with any brain injury there is a great deal of uncertainty and since the moment this ordeal began, life has been a roller coaster ride in terms of developments. Gord remains sedated to ensure that his blood pressure stays under control. There have been signs of responsiveness (hand squeezing, reactions to pain, attempts to sit up, etc.), but the responses so far have been somewhat random rather than on command. There has been great concern that due to the location of the hemorrhage, Gord may have lost the use of his right side, although everyone involved is maintaining a positive attitude about this, encouraged by a number of subtle movements that have occurred on his right side. Perhaps the most comforting news has been confirmation from a CAT scan that the area affected by the hemorrhage has reduced in size, suggesting that the bleeding has ceased.
Many family members and dear friends have rushed to both Gord and Sheila’s side to offer love and support. Understandably, some who want to be here have not been able to make the long journey to his bedside, but the love and prayers from both near and afar have been truly received and have made this situation so much more bearable. Visiting Gord has also proved challenging for some people here in Maui who have had a difficult time seeing him in his current condition. Although Gord looks like himself, it does take a moment of pause to adjust to seeing such a vital man unable to launch into his usual heartfelt greetings of confident handshakes, bear hugs and kisses to the cheek. Trying to keep it light, a close family friend so lovingly summed up his current state by saying that “it just looks like Gord with some external plumbing”.
No one doubts that Gord knows when people are visiting him. When his daughter Stacy and step-sons Geoff and Colby first arrived in his room, he made a considerable effort to sit up and open his eyes. Twice when visited by one of his grandchildren his heart rate increased noticeably upon announcement of her arrival. As much as it would comfort us all to see him awake and have him offering a round of cold beverages in his abundantly hospitable manner, right now it is for the best that he remains sedated so his body is allowed time to heal.
The most recent and significant development is confirmation that there will be an attempt to transfer Gord back home to Calgary tomorrow (Saturday) morning via a chartered air ambulance. Initially, this transfer was being encouraged by the insurance company, who is anxious to see the medical bills converted to Canadian dollars, but medical advice from physicians both here and in Canada has suggested that this would be the best course of action for a number of reasons. For one, Gord is stable and already under the sedation that would be required for travel. To bring him out of sedation to assess him here and then return him to sedation for transport brings unwanted risk. Secondly, the family support that will be so needed over the months ahead can be offered with greater ease back in Canada. Thirdly, as we have all recently learned, the brain injury rehabilitation facility at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary is among the best in the world. Tomorrow morning, Gord’s condition will be thoroughly evaluated and if stable, he and Sheila will board a flight for Calgary at 7am Maui time. Updates will be posted accordingly.
Before signing off, time needs to be taken to acknowledge the incredible outpouring of love and generosity that this crisis has inspired. All of the family that have arrived in Maui have been provided with transportation, lodging and food by friends from both Maui and Canada. Maui is not the worst place to find yourself during a family emergency, but it also is not the cheapest so I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has offered support. The Finch family in particular has our unending gratitude as they have allowed Gord and Sheila’s children and grandchild to invade their brand new, gorgeous home.
We also wish to thank Deepak for his tireless support and readily available translation of the complicated medical issues being faced here. Deepak, the combination of your medical knowledge and compassion have been indispensible. Thank you to Ken and Sue for all you have been doing and will continue to do for Gord and Sheila on the Maui front, I have heard Sheila mention more than once that your support has kept her going. Thank you to Kimokeo, who visited Gord at the hospital on Tuesday and performed a traditional, spiritual blessing. Kimokeo, your calming presence came at a time when peace and faith were being taxed, we sincerely thank you for that.
Thank you to all who organized and participated in the prayer circle for Gord, held on Thursday morning. Members of the Maui Canoe Club were gracious enough to welcome Gord’s family onboard their traditional outrigger canoes so we could honour a passion of Gord’s by paddling to and from the site of the prayer circle at the Kihei Canoe Club. As a participant in this ceremonial paddle I can attest to the tranquility of the journey and the meaningfulness of our arrival in that fashion. On behalf of the family I offer an enormous thanks to all who were involved in the paddle.
I also offer tremendous thanks to those who organized and participated in the prayer circle. We appreciate everyone who came out to offer their positive energy to Gord and Sheila and their family members. We especially thank those who did not receive word of the time change for this event and despite coming out an hour and a half early stayed to participate! To those who spoke during the prayer circle, Shel, Dave, Lydia and Andrew, your words touched us all and for those who missed it, those words were beautiful enough to inspire a rainbow over the West Maui Mountains!
Lastly, thank you to Lydia for organizing this blog. During times like this so many people wish to be involved and informed and we are fortunate enough that modern technology can offer us this mass method, thereby relieving some of the communication challenges that come with the physical distance separating such an enormous circle of concerned family and friends. Just as you so many of you have endeavoured to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, we here will endeavour to keep you informed.
Mahalo and aloha,
Laurie Bell (Gord and Sheila’s daughter-in-law)
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Prayer at Kihei Kanoe Club 8 Jan 2009
Aloha Family & Friends,
Thank you for attending the prayer meeting at Kihei Kanoe Club on 8 Jan 2009 for Gordon. Mahalo & God Bless, Lydia
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Kihei Canoe Club
Aloha Everyone,
On Thursday 8 January at 7:30 AM we will be gather for a time of prayer for Gordon Bosch at the Kihei Canoe Club. We look forward to seeing all of you.
On Thursday 8 January at 7:30 AM we will be gather for a time of prayer for Gordon Bosch at the Kihei Canoe Club. We look forward to seeing all of you.
Getting Inforomation To Everybody
I talked with Ken and Sue tonight and they will be checking with Shiela about creating this blog to get everyone correct and timely update on the condition of Gordon. Please keep Gordon and his family in your prayers.
Mahalo & God Bless,
Lydia
Mahalo & God Bless,
Lydia
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