Updates on JoAnn

7/16/14 - Since we were not happy with the interface at CaringBridge, I have created this website as a way for all friends and family of my mother to be able to get the latest updates on her recovery.  To catch everyone up, I am reposting all of the updates I had previously posted on Caring Bridge, so I apologize if this is a repeat for some of you. Please use this site to communicate with the family so we have a centralized way to talk to people as there is much activity and we are all keeping very long hours by her side and have terrible phone reception in the hospital. I am looking into other sites to manage everyday tasks that people might want to help out with in the near future when my mom is back home and my dad has his hands full so stay tuned!
Jennifer

1st post:
JoAnn suffered a fall on Saturday, July 5th. She fractured her C2 vertebra and was admitted to the Neuro ICU at St. Francis Hospital. She has been here since then, fully intubated and sedated because of congestion and swelling of her airway. Two surgeries were performed last week to mend the fracture, with screws placed in the vertebra. The trauma from the fall has caused sustained swelling, which is why she is still intubated. We are hoping for a tracheostomy to be performed today to give her some relief from having tubes down her throat for over a week. 

2nd post:
JoAnn did get a tracheostomy last night to help alleviate discomfort from swelling and congestion. She has been breathing on her own through the trach for several hours today. They have also been practicing weaning her off the sedatives. Even though she is making progress, it is a very slow process and she is likely to remain in Neuro ICU for the next several days. Anyone wishing to visit, we ask that you please be patient until we are in a regular hospital room and she is able to visit with you. 

Again, thank you for all your support and we will will try and keep you updated. 

3rd post:
Just a reminder, there are no flowers allowed in the ICU and we aren't spending much time at home if people are interested in providing food. However, we will let you know if we set up a food schedule as we think our dad, Jim, may appreciate that help once he is caring for JoAnn at home.