4.30.08 Evening

The chills have come again. And they are awful.

Steve had a solid day, he was in the chair for about five hours, but then around 4 PM, he started to feel cold again. The infectious disease doctor was in a little while ago, and he said that there wasn't any sign of a major infection. He has two minor infections, but the doctor didn't think they were serious enough to cause the fevers. The antibiotics that he is on are strong, so everyone seems confident that they will eliminate whatever is still in his system. Otherwise, the doctor thought that he looked good, was glad that Steve was so alert and that his legs showed no indication of clots. He is going to be keeping track of Steve's progress now also.

The plan for tomorrow is to put Steve onto a portable ventilator and take him on a tour of the floor, which would include the gym down to hall. He's been in this room for a month and I think the staff feels that getting him out of it would be good for his spirits. Of course this is dependent on how he feels in the morning.

All I can say is, Steve is the biggest champion on the planet for enduring what he is going through right now.

4.30.08 Morning

The results of the CT scan indicate that there is no abscess or infections in Steve's throat. Also, the doctor listened to his lungs and said that they sound good. If there was an abscess, they were going to need to do surgery again, so this is amazing news.

Steve was sleepy when we got in; I think maybe he didn't sleep for some of the night. His fever was 101 but he said that again, he was "so cold." They just put him into his chair, and they are getting him situated. He's still a bit cold, though his temperature is normal now. We're going to layer him up so that he feels good.

I am going to try and cheer him up with excerpts from my seventh grade journal. One entry is about the day he was born. I wish I could say that any of it was interesting, but it's so boring, it's kinda funny.

PS--Welcome to the world Logan! Congratulations to Jason and Stephanie.

4.29.08

I'm in Steve's room! How awesome is this?

He's feeling good as of right now. He has a slight fever, 100.8, but he doesn't feel uncomfortable. He sat in his chair for about four hours today. We are listening to Rappers Delight, playing with dual ipods here in ICU. It's so great to be here with him and MaryAnn and Joe.

Steve says "Thank you. Thank you for all your comments, they're great to hear and really help pass the day."

4.29.08

When I spoke to MaryAnn last night she said that Steven was sleeping and when she called the nurse at 11 PM, he was still sleeping soundly. Beautiful, huh? He had NO FEVER last night! YES! They don't have any results on the cultures and no news on the scans yet.

In a little while I shove off for my flight to Atlanta. I am so excited I can't stand it. That means that I will be offline for a while. But I'll be coming to you live from the Shepherd Center when you next hear from me.

4.28.08 Steve without the halo!

4.28.08

Steve looked great yesterday and for most of the day--he did well. He was in his chair for about five hours. But around 4 PM, things turned for him. The fever came back, and he started feeling unbearably cold. He was really uncomfortable. MaryAnn and Joe stayed with him until late again.

Some of the culture results came back negative and we are waiting for the rest of the results today. They did start him on antibiotics yesterday. They are also going to examine the infection around his trach. Hopefully, the antibiotics will kick any lingering infections out of his system, the fevers will subside and Steve will be more comfortable. I know this is what we are all pulling for.

On a different note, one that hopefully will bring a smile to Steve's face, I've been thinking about some of you guys too. In the same way that you have been so invested in Steven, I have come to feel somewhat invested in your lives as well. Steve, I thought you might just get a kick out of your worlds coming together like this. Like...Holly and Jamie, congrats on your wedding! I saw the beautiful invitation when I was at MaryAnn's house last month. And Jason-I now actually get up some morning and wonder, "Hm, did they had the baby yet?" I can't wait to receive the news--I expect a comment here.

Steve, I'll be seeing you tomorrow afternoon. When I tell Sadie that I am coming to see you she says, "I want to see him." Once you are settled back in at home, we'll come on down so that she can sing you the ABCs over and over and over again. Maybe before then, I'll try and teach her "Take the money and run." Or even better, "Sweet Home Alabama". I love you. Feel good today.

4.27.08

Steve had a tough night last night. He had a fever of 102, yet he felt like he was freezing. It was very hard on him. Everyone stayed with him straight through the day.

The staff is supposed to take cultures today to make sure the temperature isn't a sign of his body trying to fight a more serious infection than what they already know about. They are also going to scan his esophagus.

Let's send Steve a wishes and prayers for comfort today.

We can't know what you are going through Steven, but tons and ton people are thinking of you with love, prayers and hugs. May this collective energy bring you peace and calm today.

4.26.08 Saturday afternoon

Steve slept most of the first part of today. He's holding strong with another good report on his white blood cell count. The infection in his lung does not seem to have progressed, so that is awesome news. MaryAnn and Joe were waiting for the doctor to come take a look at his trach infection when MaryAnn called earlier.

Hopefully, Kris will be able to email me that photo of Steve with the halo off and I can get that up to you guys. Let's keep praying for strong and healthy lungs. Thanks everyone!

4.26.08

Kris and April surprised Steve at about 12:30 yesterday. He was really glad to see them. Unfortunately, Ashley had to stay in AL since she is on call.

Steve has an infection around his trach again. The good news is that his white blood cell count is good--so they are not too concerned about it right now. Steve did well in the chair yesterday, he was able to sit up a little higher thanks to the medication (his blood pressure was stable).

Joe and MaryAnn, if you are reading this now, I hope to bug you in a bit for details on today. Stay tuned everyone!

4.25.08

Steve had a good day yesterday. Medically speaking, he was stable--he had no fever as of last night and his body is adjusting to his blood pressure medication. As for his emotions--he was homesick. He misses everyone.

If everything remains stable like this, it looks like there is a chance that he will be moved out of ICU and to a new room next week. That is some very exciting news, huh?

The biggest discomfort for Steve yesterday was that he was still feeling really cold, like he was freezing. They had him all wrapped up trying to bring him some warmth.

Kris will be pulling into town again today, so that is sure to make him happy. And I think that April is going to be with him too. I have a halo-less photo, but the quality is poor since it was a phone photo so Kris is going to send me a better one this weekend. Also, I know that someone asked about his address, and it's in my post for 4.2.08. It's labeled at the right side of the post list. I'll send a new address once he's in his new room.

Steve, your body is getting stronger everyday thanks to your determination and commitment. You truly are AMAZING!!

Everyone else, let's bring the love once again.

4.24.08

Steve did really well yesterday. He was in his chair for about four hours and his blood pressure was more stable than it's been thanks to the medication he's on. He was in good spirits and he's looking forward to starting some new things. He was wide awake in the evening, so Joe stayed with him until pretty late. He had a low grade fever, which is an improvement over the higher temperature he had a few days ago. The pulmonologist said that his lungs sound good and as of right now, there is no infection. He got all spiffed up with a nice hair washing, which made him feel much better. And I know that all of your encouraging and colorful comments make him feel much better too. Thank you and keep 'em comin'.

4.23.08 Update: The Halo is OFF!

Wow. MaryAnn and Joe went in this morning to see Steve, and to their surprise--the halo was gone! Steve's really nervous; it's weird and scary to not have that security around him anymore. He does have a neck brace on. And it will take him some time to adjust. But now, at least all of the skin that was under that heavy frame can get air and heal.

Yesterday, Mare and Joe were told that it would probably be about 12 weeks total that Steve would have to have the halo on. But this morning they were told that the doctor felt he was healed enough. Great news! Very exciting! Congrats Steve!

4.23.08 Steve with April and Lex Luger

First off I have to say: thank you, thank you, thank you. We had a record number of comments yesterday and they were all great, conversational posts that let Steve in on what everyone is up to. Awesome work you guys.

Steve had an up and down day yesterday. He had a fever again. He is adjusting to the blood pressure medication, which allows him to sit up a little more than he could without it. He did his arm, leg, neck and eye exercises. At the end of the night, he said that he didn't want to talk anymore, he just wanted to watch The Deadliest Catch, possibly his new favorite show. (Did you hear that Uncle Joe? Dude! You know what they say...You can take the boy out of Montauk, but you can't take Montauk out of the boy.)

Here are two photos that April sent me yesterday. The first is a great shot of Steve and April, the second, yup, you guessed it, wrestler Lex Luger.

4.22.08 Special Request to Huntsville friends

Steve was pretty down most of yesterday. And here is where we need your help. I spoke to Joe this morning and he wanted for me to make a request to Steve's Huntsville friends. Please post stories about your day to day. What have you been up to? Your (boss/girlfriend/boyfriend/mother/kid/dog) did what this week? What's been going on? All the pals that I got to meet: What have you been doing? Guys at Utilities, you've got to have something that Steve would love to hear.

I know it might feel odd to share with Steve the last movie you saw or what time you got up last Sunday, but he's now been in an ICU room for a month. Put him back in touch with his hometown. If your tales can take him away from his room for a minute or two--their value would be immeasurable. A big wholehearted thanks to all of you.

4.21.08

Not many changes to report today. Steve's in his chair, but he can't sit too far up because his blood pressure is still an issue. He's still pretty blue--as any of us would be given the circumstance. He seemed to take comfort in his visit from Lorenzo, who is in a wheelchair (I can't recall if he is a volunteer at Shepherd or a patient, I'll have to clarify that with Mare). Anyway, Paula met him in the parking garage and told him about Steve. Now he comes to share his advice and encouragement. Thanks Paula!

I forgot to mention that Steve got that gorgeous hair of his washed over the weekend by MaryAnn and April. A free scalp massage was even included! I'm sure the touch and warm water felt wonderful. More later....

4.20.08

Steve sat in his chair for about four hours today. His blood pressure flutuated a lot and he had difficulty with his breathing.

He was up early this morning. Today was an emotionally tough day for Steve, but he was surrounded by love from MaryAnn and Joe, Kris and Ashley, April, Aunt Karen and Nana who of course, made him laugh. Ladies and Gents, as I've mentioned earlier, Nana (Joe's mom) is visiting Steve all week, so stay tuned for more tales of laughter, candy smuggling and possible singing. She's good medicine.

4.19.08 Evening

Steven was in good spirits today. April even made him giggle. He was in the chair today for about six hours, during which time his blood pressure kept fluctuating. He was breathing better today and he had no fever tonight. Whoo hoo!

He finally had that visit from Lex Luger, who was really nice. Thanks Lex.

He also had a visit from Nicki, (who was in the jeep with Steven when the accident happened). Steve had asked about her and Joe called her to see how she was doing. She mentioned that she worked nearby and Joe thought it would be a good idea for Steve to see her. She was telling Steve details about the day of the accident, but he couldn't remember. Thankfully, Nicki is doing really well.

I know a lot of you would like to see him also, and that time will come. We’ll keep you posted.

Here's hoping for a Strong Sunday! Go Steve go!

4.19.08 Morning

So far this morning, Steve's doing well. They have not moved him to the chair yet, which is where he tends to have trouble, so fingers crossed, he'll stay just as strong seated. His fever is down but not gone. Hey, that's progress, and we'll take it! He didn't sleep much last night so he's very tired.

When I spoke with MayAnn, Kris, Ashley and April were visiting with him. Apparently Kris walked into the room first and Steve's response was "Where's Ashley?" I think that's a clear indication that the sister-in-law to be get's two thumbs up from Steve. Nicely done Kris.

I'm sure the company today will keep his spirits high. And tomorrow, Nana and Aunt Karen will be seeing him (they will be in Atlanta through next weekend), so he's looking at a whole lotta love. Not to mention all of you very loyal and wonderful friends and family who keep supplying uplifting messages and stories. Massive, massive thanks.

4.18.08

Well, today was a tough one. Steve has a fever again, and the infection is back in his lungs. It's a pretty bad infection which they believe may have been caused by the secretions from the trach running down into his lungs. As a result of the infection, he had difficulty breathing all day. His blood pressure was a little off too. Not surprisingly, he was uncomfortable today.

The wrestler Lex Luger, who's in a wheelchair now and volunteers at the Shepherd Center, came by to see Steven, but Steven was getting an x-ray at the time. He's due to come back since the doctor called him to come in and speak with Steve personally. Go Hulk!

Steve was in his chair for about five hours today, but his blood pressure kept evelating, so they had to keep laying him back.

He's looking forward to Kris and Ashley coming. He doesn't know that April is also coming, she's surprising him. Hopefully the smiles will bring strength and healing this weekend. In fact I am sure they will.

PS: All of your comments are being shared with Steven daily. Thank you.

4.17.08

MaryAnn and Joe met with the doctor this morning. Steve's pulmonary system continues to be in a very fragile state, and that is what the doctors are focusing on. He's had some difficulties with his trach as a result of the airway surgery. That, combined with the recurring fever has put him in a tough spot. The are trying to get the trach healed, eliminate the fevers and get his lungs to a strong and stable place. Think strong!

4.16.08 Evening

Steve sat in the chair for six hours today! He's still got a fever and he continues to feel uncomfortable because he's cold. Hopefully, he will get a good night's rest tonight.

MaryAnn and Joe have an 11:30 meeting tomorrow morning with the doctor. They hope to have lots of questions answered, including when will they be able to remove the halo.

4.16.08

Steve's in the chair again, raising and lowering it using sip and puff technology (operated by his mouth using breath). He's really, really tired today, possibly from the exertion of using that machine.

Last night there was some movement with his trach tube that was concerning. It's very sensitive. So far, it seems to be better today and they are watching it closely. The physical therapist was in to work his legs and he's been doing great with his eye and face exercises.

MaryAnn and Joe have been giving him pep talks. Yours are always welcome too (wink wink).

PS--On that note, thank you to everyone who has left comments here (and keeps coming back to do so). We can't stress enough how meaningful and important they are to Steve and his family.

4.15.08

Steve's fever spiked again today and he's still feeling cold. He's not having a good day, so if you are reading this, please share a word of encouragement. Like....

Steve,
You are so incredibly badass, I can't stand it. In fact, you are pretty much as cool as they come. You're like, cooler than a Mudslide from Liar's Saloon. Cooler than Grandma's house in winter. Cooler than those scary green Fat Frogs from Dairy Barn that you and Kris ate when you were little.You're funnier than Justin Timberlake on SNL (now that, is big). You're more fun to see pull up than a Pink Tuna Taxi (of course if your calling the Pink Tuna, you're probably pretty sauced and can't focus all that well anyway). You're so chill you make Debbie look uptight. You are the BOMB.

I know it's tough right now and dang the days are long. Patience my friend. It's the toughest lesson, believe me. I was two week late on my due date with Sadie--I KNOW! We are ALL rooting for you and thinking about you all the time. Things will get easier. I promise. Just remember, you've got Nana coming down on Saturday and she's been practicing her Britney Spears to sing to you. And Aunt Karen is going to reenact your favorite Rambo scenes. Kris and Ashley? Yeah I think Ashley said that she was going to come dressed as Napoleon Dynamite and Kris was looking for a Shakira outfit. I dunno. See what happens when crazy folks miss you? Hang tough and stay strong. And just wait. I'll be down in a few weeks with my own bag of tricks. I thought I might put some hair extensions on your dad. What do you think?

xoxoxoxox LOVE YOU! Aunt Jean

4.15.08 Bracelet information

Steve was in the bed when MaryAnn and Joe saw him last night for the evening visit, the usual drill after spending a lot of the day in the chair. He's still feeling cold, so hopefully that will subside today so that he can feel more comfortable.

The rehabilitation therapist from the gym came to meet Steve and told him that they are eager for the day when he can start working with them. I'm guessing it will still be a few weeks before that can happen but it is certainly something we are all excited for.

Thank you Jennie for rockin' the bracelet sales--AMAZING. For anyone interested in buying bracelets (similiar to Lance Armstrong's Live Strong) to sell, here is the information. It's up to you to set the price of course. Proceeds can be sent directly to Steven's fund, but please make sure you send a note or include a comment here so that Steve's family know. You're efforts will inspire them, and I know they would want to thank you directly. On behalf of the family, many thanks to everyone for continuing to following Steve's progress and for all of your encouragement, love and support. Steven is so very lucky.

wristbandsnow.com
color: Cream
Steve-O
With Teen Bold Font

4.14.08

Steve sat in the chair for about five and a half hours, during which time he was able to watch a little bit of Rambo. The infection in the lung seems to be improving. He has no fever this morning--though he is still feeling cold. The doctor said that that is a symptom of the spinal cord injury. We hope to have more information later in the week once MaryAnn and Joe get a thorough update from the doctors. Go Steve Go!!

4.13.08 Steve with Hulk Hogan (and Kris and Ashley too)

You are looking AWESOME Steve! Watch out Hulk...

4.13.08 Hulkamania hits ICU

Steven is feeling better today! He slept last night and he looks much, much better today. When I spoke with Joe before, he had already been sitting in his chair for a few hours. The pulmonary doctor was in and said that everything is looking good, so we're really pleased!
Steve was very glad to see everyone: Kris, Ashley and April, and of course, Mom and Dad as well as the life-size Hulk Hogan cut out that Kris and Ashley found for him. I've been promised a picture of Steve with the Hulk, so stay tuned. Apparently the search continues for the life-size Rambo.

4.12.08

The infection in Steve's lung is causing a fever still, which is making him feel cold. He's pretty uncomfortable and just not himself. He's been surrounded by his family and April, which I am sure helps. It's just hard because he's so uncomfortable. Please pray for peace and comfort for him. I like to think the fever is just a sign that he is fighting that infection and hopefully tomorrow, he will wake up feeling good.

BTW, I finished his CD finally. Thanks for your suggestions Pete, I will definitely include them on the next one!

4.11.08 Donation Information

Steve has a little bit of a fever and is feeling uncomfortable, not surprising since yesterday's surgery was so major. He did his eye and arm exercises today with April. There is nothing good on TV, but once he can sit up more, he can watch his Rambo box set on the computer. Yeah!
Kris and Ashley are planning to come either tonight or in the morning, depending on the storms that are supposed to be the area. If there are no other changes with Steve tonight, my next update will be tomorrow so I don't hound Mare again today.

A number of people have asked about making a donation, and so here is the information on that:

Steven Collins Donation Fund
220 Wynn Drive
Huntsville, AL 35893

(apparently for those in AL, donations can be made at any Redstone Bank. Just tell them it is for the Steve Collins Donation Fund. Thanks for the info Courtney and Jim.)

Thanks all!

4.11.08 A message from Steve

This is Steveo's dad I am his secretary today, the following is a message he would like passed along: THANK YOU TO ALL!!!!!!!! I want to thank everyone for your prayers, kind thoughts and support.I would also like to give a special thanks to my favorite webmaster for maintaining my blog, THANK YOU AUNT JEAN!!!I am working hard and hope to see all of you soon!!!!!!!
Thank You Steveo!!!!

4.11.08 A message from Steve-O's family

THANK YOU TO ALL!!!! your continued support and generosity have been overwhelming in this difficult time.WE are so proud that Steven has such a great group of friends and family!We would also like to thank the doctors and staff at Huntsville Hospital for everything they did for Steven.
Love
Joe,MaryAnn and Kris Collins

4.10.08

Steve did well tonight. He had a little pain and was tired, understandably. He was very happy to see April, big smile for him, big smile for her. He kept winking at her! Happy Steve, good day! Thanks April.

4.10.08 Surgery went well

The surgery lasted three hours, but it went smoothly! The doctor didn't need to put the stint in after all, he was able to take out his stitches and move the trach down with no problems. He expects for all to heal well. Steve still has a little infection in his lungs, but he will be put on a two week cycle of antibiotics, so that should knock out anything lingering in his system. Pow.

He's not going to be able to visit his chair for the next few days so that he can heal. As I mentioned earlier, April is coming today, so I'm sure she can chat him up and keep him smiling, though they expect that he will be tired.

Mare and I had to cut our call short a few minutes ago because they were wheeling Steve back into his room.

Onward and upward folks. Steve is one mighty man indeed.

4.10.08

Thinking of you Steven! And MaryAnn, Joe and Kris. xoxo

4.9.08 Evening

Steve rocked it by sitting in his chair for 3 hours today. Whooo hooooo.

He's nervous about his operation in the morning, which is a pretty major surgery ( it's scheduled for 7:30). Please send all of your love and prayers his way (I expect nothing less from all you love-filled fans of his anyway, but I just had to say it.)

I'm sure Steve will be glad to see April when he wakes up tomorrow afternoon.

I wish I had more to say. Oh I guess I could say that I am still compiling some music mixes for him, so if you have any idea of things that he will find humorous and/or inspiring and won't drive him crazy as he lays in bed, please let me know (Kris Thank you for your suggestions earlier this week).
So far, my selections skate a fine line between cool and cheeseball. Thanks Team Steve-o.

4.9.08

After the doctor examined Steve's airway today, it was determined that he needed to have surgery in order to move his trach down. He will be operated on early tomorrow morning. The doctor will also insert a stint into the airway to ensure that it stays open by keeping scar tissue from forming over it.

The good news is that when Steve's nurse came in to ask if he wanted to sit in the chair, Steve said, "Yes." He's eager to work hard whenever he can. Way to work Steve-o!

4.8.08 Evening

Steven had some breathing treatments with the respiratory therapist today. Basically, they are just trying to clear out his lungs. They aren't having him try to take breaths on his own since they are waiting for his lungs to heal. Once they are healthy, you can bet they'll focus on his breathing workouts.

His nurse from the weekend came in to see him, though he wasn't her patient today. She just wanted to visit. It's only a matter of time before everyone in that place loves him. Right?

Tomorrow he will have a procedure done to assess the condition of his airway; basically to make sure it's healing well and all good.

The great news for tonight is that his staph infection is clearing up. And his eye therapist was in working with his eye muscles to get them back into shape.

Communication is getting a little easier, he's talking faster. MaryAnn has been reading his recovery journal to him, so thanks to everyone who contributed to that in Huntsville.

So, a whopping five hours in the chair and the staph infection is getting better. Whoo hoo. A good day indeed.

4.8.08

Sorry so late today, but it's for good reason. Steve sat in the chair for five hours today! MaryAnn and Joe only left to grab something to eat and then they were going back in to see him, so more later.

4.7.08 evening visit

I just spoke with MaryAnn and she said that Steve was asleep through most of the first half of their visit tonight. A doctor is supposed to come by tomorrow to assess his trach tube. Also a therapist is scheduled to come and work on strengthening his eyes.

On a separate note, a doctor came by today to say that he was impressed with Steven, that he has made it this far with the injuries that he sustained. He added "And I don't impress easily." We already know that Steven, in his fight these past 16 days, has been miraculous, but it's sure nice to hear that acknowledged by a medical professional. Any positive feedback, we'll take it. Go Steve! You're doing great. We love you!

4.7.08

Steve had a great visit with Kris and Ashley before they had to shove off this afternoon to go back to AL.

They removed the tube from Steve's left lung today. They are working on removing whatever tubes they can. There is no change in his lungs or the infection near his trach tube. Please continue to think strong and healthy on both of these points.

Steve did sit in the chair again today for three hours. It's quite a workout for him, so he will likely be tired for the rest of the day. Plus, the physical therapist was in to work his legs and MaryAnn worked with him on his arm exercises.

The big boy that he is, Steve is getting the maximum calorie intake through his feeding tube, so hopefully he feels well nourished (though I bet he is still dreaming about that cheeseburger and milk shake).

MaryAnn and Joe have been telling him all about your comments here, so please keep 'em coming.

4.7.08

I hope to have an update for today around 5, once MaryAnn gets out of the afternoon visit (which is 2-4).

Also, I mentioned to some of you in AL that I would be switching from this blog to the Shepherd care page. But Joe and I talked about it and decided against that for right now. I think this format is working well so I'll just keep this page going. More shortly....

4.6.08

Steve got into the chair again today for two hours! He looks great; the scar on his chin is healing nicely.

Unfortunately, he is still having a difficult time breathing due to the infection in his lungs. Tomorrow he will have a chest x-ray, which should tell us more about the state of the infection. Additionally, the staff infection remains a concern. It has not gotten any worse, but it's still there. He continues to have regular visits from his therapists. He was a little down today, although thankful for the visits from Kris and Ashley and Uncle Joe and Grandpa.

MaryAnn and Joe continue to be at his side at every point they are able. I cannot stress enough what extraordinary parents they have been, but you probably already know that. They have kept a constant watch over him, while also considering the changes that need to take place at their home. Please pray that they sleep soundly and peacefully and get some much, much-needed rest.

4.5.08

Steve was indeed excited to see Kris and Ashley and Grandpa and Uncle Joe. Uncle Joe got plenty of smiles keeping Steve in the know on all of Montauk.

Steve continues to have trouble breathing, and he continues to be very tired. The good news is that the tests revealed that he doesn't have any clots in his system.

I expect to talk to MaryAnn after the morning visit (which ends at noon) so that I can post an update later today.

4.4.08

Not much to report today. They did some test on Steve to see if he had any clots, and the process was lengthy and exhausting. As a result, he did not have any time in the chair. Hopefully, I will have more to share tomorrow. But this weekend he is sure to smile, he's got Kris and Ashley visiting, as well as his Uncle Joe and Grandpa (who has often been his mischievous sidekick).

Thank you to everyone who continuously checks in on Steve's progress. His family is very grateful for your love and support.

4.3.08 Busy Day

Steve sat in a wheelchair today for three hours--changing position in 30 minute intervals to regulate his blood pressure, which remained pretty stable throughout the entire time.

Unfortunately, Steve has a MRSA staff infection in the area around his trach tube. They are treating it with antibiotics, but MaryAnn and Joe are very concerned about it. Also, Steve complained of chest pains related to the infection, so he was given some pain medication to deal with the discomfort. Fortunately, when MaryAnn and Joe left tonight, Steve no longer had a fever.

The medical staff removed one of Steve's chest tubes today. The tube removed fluids from Steve's right lung, so its removal is a good step.

Steven was entirely exhausted from today's movements, we were told that this would be the case. Shepherd is working him, so he hasn't been as chatty. But MaryAnn and Joe are so proud of him for the way that he is handling this.
And they ask that you please, keep the prayers going. Thank you.

4.2.08 Steve's Address

MaryAnn and Joe met Steve's physical therapist today, a young woman named Briana. She seems really nice. Steve had a visit from his childhood friend Jeff Rukowski (sorry if I butchered the spelling there). He was really happy to see Jeff, who is a friend from his Long Island days.

As far as Steve's status, there are no changes. They are waiting for his lungs to get healthy before they try and have him work them. He did have a fever today, but they were able to bring it down before MaryAnn and Joe left tonight.

If you wish to, you can send him mail at:

Steve Collins
ICU
Shepherd Center
2020 Peachtree Rd NW
Atlanta, GA 30309

4.1.08 Steven's arrival at Shepherd

Steve was really nervous about the transport--he didn't sleep Monday night (I'm sure the lightening storm didn't help). But we had blue skies for the drive and he slept almost all the way there. We met his doctor, Dr. Bilsky, who is also the medical director at Shepherd. We like Dr. Bilsky: he's got a casual way about him, he was born in Queens and he likes the Giants.

He was also very realistic about Steve's condition. He said that Steve has a lot to overcome. We know that right now he is suseptable to infection. He had some very small sores which they are taking care of. The new ICU is a subdued environment with only eight rooms. Steve has a large room with hardwood floors and a window off to the side. It's quiet which is good because he is going to be worked and Bilsky stressed that he is going tired and need lots of rest. He said that when they get to it, they will work on Steve sitting up, for about 15 minutes at a time, and that is going to exhaust him.

The did some basic exams on him today and they will continue to do more over the next couple of days. He is also going to have regular visits from physical, occupational and speech therapists.. As I mentioned earlier, this "team" will then give MaryAnn and Joe their evaluation of where Steve is at and how they will move forward.

It's clear that Shepherd's is a great place and is exactly where he should be. It's also a very intense place. They are many different folks with varying degrees of physical abilities. When we first walked in there were two young adults in small wheelchairs talking, a guy in athletic shorts and a girl with a yellow lab, and they could have been any of Steve's friends. But then there are other kids with more serious conditions and reality sets in.

Steve was very tired today. After the doctor met with him he said "I'm in bad shape." I told him that it was going to take a lot of time and he was going to need to be patient. The trip and the exams seemed to exhaust him, he slept through most of MaryAnn and Joe's evening visit.

MaryAnn and Joe settled into the Residence Inn in Buckhead. We made a quick stop at the housing provided, and it wasn't exactly what they had expected. So now they are only a little farther from the center, but now someone else will be making their bed. Not bad.

(sorry for the delayed post, my flight tonight was three hours delayed and I didn't get home until almost 2:30 a.m. if you'll keep reading, i'll keep blogging.)

3.31.08 We're all ready to go.

Steve looked great at tonight's visit. He wasn't trying to say too much, maybe because we are so bad at reading his lips. He is excited about the trip tomorrow. And he asked about his glasses (he's been wearing contacts for years, so we had to piece together old records to get a pair made). They should be done tomorrow, and then they will be shipped to Shepherd. Hopefully he will be able to start with the eye recognition equipment shortly after he arrives and have much better means of communication.

Taking him through tonight is Bethany, one of our favorite nurses. She rides 4-wheelers, so she had a soft spot for her fellow four-wheeling adventurer. Steve has a sinus infection and she said that it would take a couple of days for that to clear up. I think the first goal that Shepherd will have for Steve will be to work toward getting him off the ventilator. Pray for strong, healthy lungs please.

OK, time for bed. We shove off at 7:30 in the morning, and the trip should be about four hours.
Happy, happy trails.