Penny has been struggling with gut attacks since Thursday morning and this afternoon we were sent to the ER. Results of the CT scan indicate a “high grade obstruction”.
Given the long medical history and recent surgery, it isn’t clear yet how we will deal with this. The usual course of action for someone without this history would likely be surgery. But given our understanding of conversations with Dr Assifi, we don’t believe that surgery will be an option.
We have dealt with obstructions non-surgically before (several years ago). So perhaps the recommendation will be to do something like that, but a number of things have changed since then. For now we are waiting in a room in the ER to consult with some specialists.
By emergency room standards, the situation is not urgent, so things have been moving relatively slowly — we’ve been here nearly five hours already — and I’m not sure when we’ll have an update on the plan of action. For now Penny is reasonably comfortable with the aid of some pain and nausea meds.
Update (11.15pm): The plan is to get through the night and consult with surgical oncology in the morning. We’ll be moving to a regular room once one becomes available. It sounds like the hospital is very full, so it may be a bit before we move.
Comments
Mia Hunefeld: Praying for pain relief and enough calmness to rest. Hoping that tomorrow brings a satisfying solution for Penny. Prayers for you as her support as well!
Laura DeHaan: Prayers that the Great Physician will heal our beloved Penny… and give you all peace and strength….
George Monsma, Jr.: So sorry for this setback. Praying for a good solution to the obstruction in the morning.
Pamela Plantinga: I am so sorry to hear this. I'm praying that the obstruction clears quickly without surgery, and for both of you while you wait.
Bonnie Mulder: Thinking of you both as you seek good care tonight. May your time in the ER lead quickly to a good plan for relief.
Jeffrey Schra: I’m really sorry to hear this news. Praying now for relief for Penny and a clear plan. Hang in there.
Christopher G Moseley: How awful for her. Praying.
Susan Langeland: Praying for a way to resolve the obstruction that will end the pain but won’t be hard on Penny. May the people in ER be exactly the right ones to be able to help the situation.
Jolene Vos-Camy: Thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Herm De Vries: Praying for relief and resolution of this issue. Keep the faith, you two.