After 50 consecutive days of being hospitalized, our Rene is finally home! Mom and Dad brought him to their home on Tuesday evening, May 12th. He is so happy to be out of hospital confinement, and in familiar surroundings again. Both Sutter Hospitals were superb in their quality of care, but there's nothing like "home, sweet home".
Rene is wearing oxygen 24/7 for now, and has to cart along the oxygen tank with his every step. He will be having an "in house" physical therapy program provided by the hospital recommendations. He is looking forward to his physical therapy in hope of getting much stronger. He is now walking with a cane instead of a walker, which is improvement from just a couple of days ago.
This whole Wegener's event with Rene's health has been a traumatic and frightening experience for each of us who know and love him, but ironically, it has also been a time that we have had to put all our trust in the Lord and grow our faith. The power of prayer is a beautiful thing... and we know that the Lord listens to our prayers. He answers our prayers in His perfect timing. In God's unique way, He has brought so many people together, out of love, for Rene. It is truly a blessed miracle that Rene is recovering in the way that he is.
A sincere "Thank You" again, to all who are and have been Rene's prayer warriors through this event. Much gratitude and appreciation to everyone who has helped support Rene and our family in these circumstances.
"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord,
plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope."
Jeremiah 29: 11
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
ROAD TO RECOVERY...
The Roseville Sutter Rehab Institute has been a wonderful place for Rene to stay during his recovery process. He has been moved to Room 6109, and has his own room to himself with another view of the outside yard. Rene is steadily improving each day with his physical therapy exercises and his vital signs have been stable. According to his Rehab doctor here, his lungs are sounding clear now. With his pending progress, Rene is scheduled to be discharged from this Rehab Hospital on Tuesday, May 12th. He will be coming to stay with Mom and Dad (in Elk Grove) for a while as he recovers to get strong enough to be living at home on his own again. He is not able to walk upstairs yet, but will be going to physical therapy outside the home for at least a few days a week. He will also be needing to wear oxygen tubing in his nose when he is released from the hospital, and will be supplied with a small portable oxygen tank. Eventually, he will be able to function without the extra oxygen when he is much stronger.
This weekend, Rene's spirits were lifted again as he had lots of "surprise" relatives visiting him from the bay area. Everyone who has called, visited, sent cards, gifts, messages, thoughts and prayers his way in these past two months has helped to make such an incredible positive impact on his successful recovery. Rene and our entire family are so very grateful and appreciative for all the support.
Sunday, "Mother's Day", was enjoyed at the Rehab Center where we (the whole Labrado family) gathered together to spend the entire afternoon having a luncheon picnic outside on the patio with Rene. The kids were happy to play and run around in the yard, and watched Uncle Rene play with his new "Fishing Frenzy" game on the Wii station inside the recreational dining room.
Please continue to keep Rene lifted up in your prayers; as he still has a long journey in his full recovery.
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."
Psalm 34: 4
This weekend, Rene's spirits were lifted again as he had lots of "surprise" relatives visiting him from the bay area. Everyone who has called, visited, sent cards, gifts, messages, thoughts and prayers his way in these past two months has helped to make such an incredible positive impact on his successful recovery. Rene and our entire family are so very grateful and appreciative for all the support.
Sunday, "Mother's Day", was enjoyed at the Rehab Center where we (the whole Labrado family) gathered together to spend the entire afternoon having a luncheon picnic outside on the patio with Rene. The kids were happy to play and run around in the yard, and watched Uncle Rene play with his new "Fishing Frenzy" game on the Wii station inside the recreational dining room.
Please continue to keep Rene lifted up in your prayers; as he still has a long journey in his full recovery.
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."
Psalm 34: 4
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
"SPRING FEVER?"
Monday morning, Rene had a fever due to a higher white blood cell count from a new infection in his lungs, as lab tests recently revealed. He is now being administered a stronger type of antibiotics intravenously, and will be on this prescription for one week. His body is fighting infection and with this second antibiotic medication, he should be getting much better soon. However, it is extremely important for any visitors to take precautionary measures by using the hospital disinfectant hand foam upon entering Rene's private room, as his immune system is insufficient. This is greatly appreciated.
Tuesday afternoon, for a "Cinco de Mayo" celebration, all the residents at the Rehab Center participated outdoors in the courtyard taking turns swinging at a "Swine Flu" Pig Pinata filled with candy. Rene gathered up enough strength to take a few swings at the pig... while clenching the handle to his walker. He's still got gumption! Tortilla chips and salsa were served as Mexican Mariachi music was played at the fiesta, making Rene feel right at home.
Rene is doing very well with his physical therapy sessions and taking more steps each day, assisted by a walker. He even practiced casting out his fishing rod several times today; he certainly hasn't lost that skill.
"And now, O Lord, what do I wait for?
My hope is in you.
Deliver me from all my transgressions... "
Psalm 40: 7-8
Tuesday afternoon, for a "Cinco de Mayo" celebration, all the residents at the Rehab Center participated outdoors in the courtyard taking turns swinging at a "Swine Flu" Pig Pinata filled with candy. Rene gathered up enough strength to take a few swings at the pig... while clenching the handle to his walker. He's still got gumption! Tortilla chips and salsa were served as Mexican Mariachi music was played at the fiesta, making Rene feel right at home.
Rene is doing very well with his physical therapy sessions and taking more steps each day, assisted by a walker. He even practiced casting out his fishing rod several times today; he certainly hasn't lost that skill.
"And now, O Lord, what do I wait for?
My hope is in you.
Deliver me from all my transgressions... "
Psalm 40: 7-8
Sunday, May 3, 2009
ROSEVILLE REHAB
Rene has been transferred, as of Saturday afternoon, to the Sutter Rehabilitation Institute in Roseville, where he was given a "warm, red carpet welcome". This special, state-of-the-art rehab center is brand new and will provide Rene with extra quality care and 3 hours per day of a more aggressive physical therapy program. He has his own spacious private suite with a window view of the outdoor recreational activities (basketball court, putting green); all he needs is a pond and he'll soon be out there casting his fishing rod! This beautiful facility is pristine and immaculate. The nursing staff is extremely caring and accomodating.
Rene is gradually making progress each day with his physical abilities, yet still very weak in his legs. His oxygen level is much more stabilized, though his breathing is still assisted with an oxygen tank. It is expected that Rene will be advancing with his physical progress over the next two weeks at this rehab center.
Visitors are also welcomed here and encouraged to share the beautiful garden grounds and outdoor patio for fresh air and sunshine while visiting with Rene.
The name and address is: SUTTER REHABILITATION INSTITUTE
6 Medical Plaza
Roseville, Ca 95661 (Eureka Exit off highway 80)
Room # 6106
Phone number: (916) 878-2506
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever."
Psalm 107: 1
Rene is gradually making progress each day with his physical abilities, yet still very weak in his legs. His oxygen level is much more stabilized, though his breathing is still assisted with an oxygen tank. It is expected that Rene will be advancing with his physical progress over the next two weeks at this rehab center.
Visitors are also welcomed here and encouraged to share the beautiful garden grounds and outdoor patio for fresh air and sunshine while visiting with Rene.
The name and address is: SUTTER REHABILITATION INSTITUTE
6 Medical Plaza
Roseville, Ca 95661 (Eureka Exit off highway 80)
Room # 6106
Phone number: (916) 878-2506
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever."
Psalm 107: 1
Sunday, April 26, 2009
3 Steps Forward, 2 Steps Back...
Rene had some more blood tests in the past couple of days to determine what kind of bacteria is in his blood; results show that it is pneumonia in his blood (compounded with his existing Wegener's Disease). Rene was immediately put on intravenous antibiotics in the ICU to treat this infection in the blood, and will be on antibiotics for 14 days. A recent CT scan also shows apparent lung damage and a small "cavity" in his left lung. Although his doctors say that this cavity is non-repairable, it will not affect his ability to function with normal activities when he is healthier. However, this is something he will need to have checked periodically for any more growth within this cavity.
Rene's breathing seems to be getting stronger each day, as he diligently practices his breathing exercises several times a day. He is starting to get more physical therapy and rehab exercises and is gradually making progress. He displays remarkable strength for all that he has endured in this past month!
Rene has moved, once again, out of the ICU and into another room. He is now on the 4th floor in Room 4315.
"A new hope comes, with each new day,
for healing lungs, and a healthier Rene.
I know that God provides his care,
and every need to get him there.
With much prayer and positive belief,
my loving brother will feel relief.
Rene's FAITH in God, carries him through,
each struggle, setback, and triumph too."
Rene's breathing seems to be getting stronger each day, as he diligently practices his breathing exercises several times a day. He is starting to get more physical therapy and rehab exercises and is gradually making progress. He displays remarkable strength for all that he has endured in this past month!
Rene has moved, once again, out of the ICU and into another room. He is now on the 4th floor in Room 4315.
"A new hope comes, with each new day,
for healing lungs, and a healthier Rene.
I know that God provides his care,
and every need to get him there.
With much prayer and positive belief,
my loving brother will feel relief.
Rene's FAITH in God, carries him through,
each struggle, setback, and triumph too."
-Janie Labrado
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Back to Intensive Care Unit!
More blood tests have been taken on Rene recently, only to discover that he has infection in his blood ("Bacteremia"). This infection causes Rene to have spontaneous shivers and trembling of being cold which often lasts for 45 minutes, and cause his blood pressure to rise and breathing to become rapid. Due to this serious condition, Rene was admitted last night (Wed. night) back into the Intensive Care Unit with an intravenous line of antibiotics to help destroy the toxins in his blood. He will have this IV of antibiotic medication for the next 7 days. The "Rapid Response Team" of Sutter General Hospital is watching Rene closely around the clock, and ready to administer to his medical needs.
An oxygen mask is now over his mouth and nose to supply him with more oxygen. Rene has been so calm and good natured through each of these "very uncomfortable and terrifying episodes"; he has been a most gracious "guest" of the ICU department and they are giving him such personable and efficient care. Rene is in Room 3418 on the 3rd floor of the ICU.
This has been a setback in his progress, but we have peace and comfort in knowing that Rene is in the best care of competent doctors and ICU staff.
PLEASE continue to pray that Rene's blood infection is controlled and diminished and that he may be feeling better again soon. Please ask God to grant him inner courage, through his calm exterior.
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; for you are with me;
your rod and staff- they comfort me."
Psalm 23: 4
An oxygen mask is now over his mouth and nose to supply him with more oxygen. Rene has been so calm and good natured through each of these "very uncomfortable and terrifying episodes"; he has been a most gracious "guest" of the ICU department and they are giving him such personable and efficient care. Rene is in Room 3418 on the 3rd floor of the ICU.
This has been a setback in his progress, but we have peace and comfort in knowing that Rene is in the best care of competent doctors and ICU staff.
PLEASE continue to pray that Rene's blood infection is controlled and diminished and that he may be feeling better again soon. Please ask God to grant him inner courage, through his calm exterior.
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; for you are with me;
your rod and staff- they comfort me."
Psalm 23: 4
Monday, April 20, 2009
"He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother..."
Rene has lost 35 lbs since he has been hospitalized one month ago... but he is determined to gain his normal weight and strength back again in due time. Now that he is able to eat solid foods again, and guzzling down "Ensure" drinks like it's going out of style, he will meet his physical goals eventually. Physical Therapists are working with Rene, at least twice a day, to help him sit up and walk with his walker. Just taking a few steps at a time requires all the physical strength he has with much effort, and Rene is making more progress each day across his room floor.
Early this morning, Rene was moved up to the 5th floor, and now has his own private hospital suite (Room 5304). Visitors are welcome for short periods of time, in between Rene's physical therapy sessions and replenishing "Ensure" breaks!
Alas, Rene has been able to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine this afternoon in the shaded patio area of the hospital (via his wheelchair). The outdoors never felt so good! Accompanied by Mom and Dad and a new fishing friend, they shared a pleasant afternoon's delight in the natural elements. This was definitely the highlight of Rene's day!
Rene's biopsy and pathology reports which have been sent to the Mayo Clinic are still in progress and will not have results back until a few weeks. Stay tuned for more updates....
It looks like the weather here in Sacramento will be in Rene's favor for the rest of this week, so he looks forward to more wheeling around outside.
The power of prayer is so amazing! Praise God for Rene's state of being and progress.
"As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God." Psalm 42: 1
Early this morning, Rene was moved up to the 5th floor, and now has his own private hospital suite (Room 5304). Visitors are welcome for short periods of time, in between Rene's physical therapy sessions and replenishing "Ensure" breaks!
Alas, Rene has been able to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine this afternoon in the shaded patio area of the hospital (via his wheelchair). The outdoors never felt so good! Accompanied by Mom and Dad and a new fishing friend, they shared a pleasant afternoon's delight in the natural elements. This was definitely the highlight of Rene's day!
Rene's biopsy and pathology reports which have been sent to the Mayo Clinic are still in progress and will not have results back until a few weeks. Stay tuned for more updates....
It looks like the weather here in Sacramento will be in Rene's favor for the rest of this week, so he looks forward to more wheeling around outside.
The power of prayer is so amazing! Praise God for Rene's state of being and progress.
"As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God." Psalm 42: 1
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