If you could take a few minutes to share some of your memories of Robert, we would be most grateful. We have heard many stories over the past two weeks, but would like to collect them all in writing. This site will be kept open until November 1; then our plan is to organize all of the memories into a booklet, which we can hopefully have for family members by Christmas.
As this will be a written keepsake, we ask that you take your time and edit your stories to make them concise and readable (not rambling). Proofread what you have written, and get someone else to read through it, before you post. Please be sure to include your first and last name, and note your relationship to Robert. Just click "Comments" at the end of this paragraph to add your own memories. We will be adding pictures soon.
Funeral Plans
Here is the schedule for Robert's funeral and viewings. A viewing is planned for Sunday, July 26, from 3:00-8:00 pm at Hopewell Christian Fellowship, Elverson. The funeral will be Monday, July 27, at 10:00 am, also at Hopewell, with a viewing between 9:00 and 10:00. A graveside service will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, near the church. Check the link in the sidebar for a map locating the church.
He's Home—Monday, July 20, 1:43 pm
Everyone put forth a valiant effort, but at 1:43 this afternoon Robert went to a better place. In the end his heart couldn't keep up with the demands and gave out. The hospital staff has been wonderful throughout. We're together as a family, taking care of all of the details that are a part of this process. When we have determined plans for the viewing and funeral, we will post them. Thanks for all of your prayers and support through this very long week. The outcome was not what we had hoped for, but our eternal hope is secure.
Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
Revelation 21:3-4
Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
Revelation 21:3-4
Don't Give Up!—Monday (7/20), 12:05 pm
Medically speaking, Robert's condition is slipping. The doctor's are trying everything they know to do, but his body is struggling to respond. We know that God can still intervene, and that is our hope. Keep standing with us!
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
In my distress I called to the LORD;
I cried to my God for help.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry came before him, into his ears.
He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
Psalm 18:6, 16
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
In my distress I called to the LORD;
I cried to my God for help.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry came before him, into his ears.
He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
Psalm 18:6, 16
Holding On—Monday (7/20), 5:45 am
As of 3:30 am not much had changed. Robert was still on the highest ventilator setting, forcing air into his lungs under pressure, and had a heart rate of about 120 beats per minute. They did give him medication to bring it down, and it's now in the 80s. His lungs were looking somewhat better, but we're waiting on the latest chest x-rays. The lungs must start functioning better for surgery and necessary work to proceed, so keep praying!
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
Pneumonia, Be Gone!—Sunday, 8:45 pm
Robert's condition has again stabilized, but we need to get that pneumonia cleared up and those lungs consistently functioning properly. Numerous people have expressed that the battle is as much spiritual as physical, so keep praying those fervent, effectual prayers!
...pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
James 5:16
...pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
James 5:16
PRAY—Sunday, 6:15 pm
Robert's condition has worsened yet again and your prayers are needed. The doctors are giving 110%, but they can only do so much. The prayers of God's people are stronger than any medicine and now is the time to bring in a big dose.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
Romans 12:12
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
Romans 12:12
A Big Bump—Sunday, 2:30 pm
Robert's breathing problems escalated into a major crisis shortly before noon today. The pulmonologist (respiratory specialist) administered a drug which would relax his body and allow the ventilator to completely take over his breathing. His heart started racing under the stress and needed medication to return to normal. His condition has stabilized, although that term is relative, as we saw today. With his critical status it doesn't take much of a change to become a crisis.
Breathing Problems—Sunday update
We don't have any details, but Robert is struggling more with breathing. He is still in very critical condition, so intensify your prayers!
Be a Blessing—Sunday, July 19
We haven't had a chance to meet with a doctor this morning, but it appears that overnight changes were just small fluctuations. Instead of a medical report, we'll take this opportunity to recognize some of the people who have blessed us in the past week.
We received a card from an anonymous saint who was one of the first people on the accident scene. Although not a medical professional, this individual administered first aid and prayed aloud for Robert. You know who you are, but we want to thank you in person, so come see us when you are ready!
Dr. Sharps was in the emergency room when Robert arrived, and did all of the right things to save Robert's life. Sure, it's what he's trained to do, but we want to acknowledge his professionalism.
The head trauma physician on call the weekend of Robert's accident was Dr. Fernandez, by all accounts one of the best at what he does. Dr. Fernandez has a wealth of experience, including work as a missionary doctor. We were very impressed with both his patient care and communication with the family, but unfortunately he could not continue with Robert, because he is going back to Iraq today to be a doctor to the troops. God be with you, Dr. Fernandez!
The entire staff—medical professionals and support staff—have gone out of their way to give Robert the best care possible, and to support us as family. We are deeply grateful. Cindy commented this morning on how well they work together and help each other out. It makes a difference, and we appreciate it. Let's all make that a regular practice.
So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers].
Galations 6:10 (Amplified Version)
We received a card from an anonymous saint who was one of the first people on the accident scene. Although not a medical professional, this individual administered first aid and prayed aloud for Robert. You know who you are, but we want to thank you in person, so come see us when you are ready!
Dr. Sharps was in the emergency room when Robert arrived, and did all of the right things to save Robert's life. Sure, it's what he's trained to do, but we want to acknowledge his professionalism.
The head trauma physician on call the weekend of Robert's accident was Dr. Fernandez, by all accounts one of the best at what he does. Dr. Fernandez has a wealth of experience, including work as a missionary doctor. We were very impressed with both his patient care and communication with the family, but unfortunately he could not continue with Robert, because he is going back to Iraq today to be a doctor to the troops. God be with you, Dr. Fernandez!
The entire staff—medical professionals and support staff—have gone out of their way to give Robert the best care possible, and to support us as family. We are deeply grateful. Cindy commented this morning on how well they work together and help each other out. It makes a difference, and we appreciate it. Let's all make that a regular practice.
So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers].
Galations 6:10 (Amplified Version)
Building Up—Saturday, 9:25 pm
While it seems that Robert has been standing still medically the last couple of days, there are signs that he is stabilizing and starting to get stronger. His blood pressure is high enough that he is nearly off of medication for that, his breathing has improved a bit, and his feeding tube nutrients are being gradually increased.
No major intervention is planned for tomorrow, but Monday will be a big day if he is up to it. Pray that the next 36 hours will be a time of steadily building up, especially for his respiratory system. This area has been the most difficult to stabilize.
Most of the family will be present much of the day tomorrow, if you want to drop in. We know you would rather see Robert, and that day will come, but for now you can write a note in a journal we are keeping for him, and convey your support through us. At this time we aren't planning an update until mid-morning or later tomorrow.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
No major intervention is planned for tomorrow, but Monday will be a big day if he is up to it. Pray that the next 36 hours will be a time of steadily building up, especially for his respiratory system. This area has been the most difficult to stabilize.
Most of the family will be present much of the day tomorrow, if you want to drop in. We know you would rather see Robert, and that day will come, but for now you can write a note in a journal we are keeping for him, and convey your support through us. At this time we aren't planning an update until mid-morning or later tomorrow.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
Waiting...Saturday, 4:25 pm
The doctors are now planning to wait until Monday to do any major procedures, giving Robert time to gain strength and stability. We had hoped this would be a time of seeing his status steadily improve, but not much has changed. One lung is looking better, but pneumonia is still an issue with the other one. Other stats continue to fluctuate, but his blood pressure is now normal, and his hemoglobin level is good after receiving the two units of blood.
Someone from the blood bank was talking to us yesterday, and encouraged us to remind you how vital your blood donations are—literally a gift of life—so sign up if you haven't already! (Note that we originally listed both dates as August 8, but the first one is Thursday, August 6.) Even if you aren't in this area, get into the habit of donating regularly to your local bank.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
Someone from the blood bank was talking to us yesterday, and encouraged us to remind you how vital your blood donations are—literally a gift of life—so sign up if you haven't already! (Note that we originally listed both dates as August 8, but the first one is Thursday, August 6.) Even if you aren't in this area, get into the habit of donating regularly to your local bank.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
Together—Saturday, 9:30 am
Robert experienced no significant changes overnight, so we're using this post to share a little family information.
Immediate family members have spent a considerable amount of time at the hospital. We've had our own space in a conference room, where we can pull together and meet with visitors. Robert's wife, Tracy, and her three children - Brooke (15), Jedd (13), and Grace (10) - have been in a good share of the time. She has had to deal with a multitude of things, including insurance, business issues, and on and on. We are relieved to know that Robert's business, Morgantown Masonry, is in very capable hands and hasn't missed a beat.
Robert's mother, Verna (Vernie), has been a rock through this. It's cut deeply for her, as her first husband, Tom, was killed in a car accident at the same age that Robert is now (42), but God has been faithful. In fact, she spends about as much time encouraging distraught visitors as others invest in lifting her up! Her husband, Kenny, often comes in the evening.
Robert's oldest sister, Cindy, has been a regular at the hospital, along with her husband, Lanny (a school teacher), and son, David. Her daughters, Emily and Katie, are currently away. Between Cindy and Robert in age is his sister, Connie. She works out of her home as a medical transcriptionist, and has been in as much as possible, along with her daughters, Rachel and Rebekah. Robert's younger sister, Karen, has also been in much of the time, joined evenings by her husband, Joe, a dairy farmer.
Vernie, Cindy, and Karen are all RNs, so they get the medical updates from doctors or nurses. We (whoever is at the hospital at the time), go over the report, decide what is most important or relevant to include in the blog, come up with a theme and Bible verse, then post the blog. Vernie calls in for the early morning report and relays it before we put out the blog.
A big thank you to the many people who have visited, called, sent notes, prayed, spread the word, prepared meals, organized blood drives, etc! We are truly in this together. As we daily see graphic evidence of how intricately the body parts and systems must work together to be whole, we realize anew how fitting the analogy is of the church as the body of Christ.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
Immediate family members have spent a considerable amount of time at the hospital. We've had our own space in a conference room, where we can pull together and meet with visitors. Robert's wife, Tracy, and her three children - Brooke (15), Jedd (13), and Grace (10) - have been in a good share of the time. She has had to deal with a multitude of things, including insurance, business issues, and on and on. We are relieved to know that Robert's business, Morgantown Masonry, is in very capable hands and hasn't missed a beat.
Robert's mother, Verna (Vernie), has been a rock through this. It's cut deeply for her, as her first husband, Tom, was killed in a car accident at the same age that Robert is now (42), but God has been faithful. In fact, she spends about as much time encouraging distraught visitors as others invest in lifting her up! Her husband, Kenny, often comes in the evening.
Robert's oldest sister, Cindy, has been a regular at the hospital, along with her husband, Lanny (a school teacher), and son, David. Her daughters, Emily and Katie, are currently away. Between Cindy and Robert in age is his sister, Connie. She works out of her home as a medical transcriptionist, and has been in as much as possible, along with her daughters, Rachel and Rebekah. Robert's younger sister, Karen, has also been in much of the time, joined evenings by her husband, Joe, a dairy farmer.
Vernie, Cindy, and Karen are all RNs, so they get the medical updates from doctors or nurses. We (whoever is at the hospital at the time), go over the report, decide what is most important or relevant to include in the blog, come up with a theme and Bible verse, then post the blog. Vernie calls in for the early morning report and relays it before we put out the blog.
A big thank you to the many people who have visited, called, sent notes, prayed, spread the word, prepared meals, organized blood drives, etc! We are truly in this together. As we daily see graphic evidence of how intricately the body parts and systems must work together to be whole, we realize anew how fitting the analogy is of the church as the body of Christ.
From [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:16
Keeping On—Friday, 7:45 pm
Robert had his abdominal wound dressing changed this afternoon, but didn't respond well, so the feeding tube wasn't moved. He is receiving small doses of liquid nutrition through the feeding tube, and is also now getting nutrients intraveneously. Robert's platelet count is back up close to normal levels, but his hemoglobin level is low, so he is being given two more units of blood. He had a fever this morning, but that subsided, and his pneumonia hasn't gotten worse.
We've been trying to get a morning report out by 6:00, so Robert's work crews can get it before they head out for the day, but they're off tomorrow, so we're planning to sleep in! Keep praying and believing; progress is slow, but we're looking ahead with confidence that our God has good things in store.
...O LORD, you hear my voice...I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.
Psalm 5:3
We've been trying to get a morning report out by 6:00, so Robert's work crews can get it before they head out for the day, but they're off tomorrow, so we're planning to sleep in! Keep praying and believing; progress is slow, but we're looking ahead with confidence that our God has good things in store.
...O LORD, you hear my voice...I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.
Psalm 5:3
Baby Steps—Friday, 11:15 am
It looks like another day of three steps forward, two steps back. Robert's abdominal wound dressing will be changed, and depending on his condition the feeding tube may be connected directly to his intestines. Unfortunately he hasn't been tolerating the feeding very well, so he will be "fed" intraveneously for now, with the feeding tube in place for when he is ready.
The tracheostomy is being delayed for now. This is primarily due to Robert's low platelet count. Platelets are involved in clotting, which is necessary to avoid hemhorraging during surgery. The platelet levels may have been affected by adjustments in medications; it's a constant balancing act, with gains in one area often offset in a different area.
The tracheostomy is being delayed for now. This is primarily due to Robert's low platelet count. Platelets are involved in clotting, which is necessary to avoid hemhorraging during surgery. The platelet levels may have been affected by adjustments in medications; it's a constant balancing act, with gains in one area often offset in a different area.
No Change—Friday 6:00 am
It was another quiet night for Robert with no changes. Surgery is still pending, and we will be given an update when we go in this morning.
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.
Psalm 5:3
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.
Psalm 5:3
More Rest—Thursday, 8:30 pm
A restful day is just what the doctor ordered, and Robert may need more of the same tomorrow. The staff is waiting to check on his status tomorrow before deciding whether to schedule surgery or not. Robert is running a low grade fever, and needs his strength to fight infection.
Due to the increasing signs of infection, visitation is now being limited to immediate family. Please don't give the staff a hard time about it; it's truly what Robert needs.
We now have two blood drives scheduled, as follows:
1) Thursday, August 6 at Hopewell Christian Fellowship in Elverson from 3:00–9:00 pm. Call Aimee at 610-670-1581 or email at ashober@juno.com to schedule an appointment
2) Saturday, August 8 at Exeter Bible Church in Birdsboro from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Call Kathleen at 610-779-9359 for an appointment.
If neither of those dates works for you, check the links in the sidebar to work directly with the blood center.
In quietness and trust is your strength.
Isaiah 30:15
Due to the increasing signs of infection, visitation is now being limited to immediate family. Please don't give the staff a hard time about it; it's truly what Robert needs.
We now have two blood drives scheduled, as follows:
1) Thursday, August 6 at Hopewell Christian Fellowship in Elverson from 3:00–9:00 pm. Call Aimee at 610-670-1581 or email at ashober@juno.com to schedule an appointment
2) Saturday, August 8 at Exeter Bible Church in Birdsboro from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Call Kathleen at 610-779-9359 for an appointment.
If neither of those dates works for you, check the links in the sidebar to work directly with the blood center.
In quietness and trust is your strength.
Isaiah 30:15
Status Quo—Thursday, 12:15 pm
As stated earlier, no major procedures are planned for today, as Robert rests and gains strength. The medical staff is primarily monitoring his condition and making adjustments as necessary. Intracranial pressure is better, but some signs of pneumonia are beginning to develop. This is not at all unexpected, and will be treated. The doctor pointed out that fluctuations are common, and we shouldn't read too much into a higher or lower reading at any given time.
The tracheostomy is currently planned for tomorrow, and hopefully Robert's large abdominal wound will be closed. Possibly his feeding tube will be transferred from going through his nose to a direct entry into his intestines.
Now here's an update on blood donations. The Miller-Keystone Blood Center, which supplies blood products for hospitals throughout the region, has been swamped with calls about donating in Robert's name! As a result, they would like to set up a blood drive specifically addressing this interest. We posted links to the blood center, but
if you can wait a few days, we will hopefully have a drive arranged soon. At any rate, you would not be donating directly to Robert, so your blood type doesn't matter. Just get a card stating that you are donating in Robert Miller's name. We'll collect those, and possibly they can help with insurance reimbursement. The main thing, though, is replenishing the region's blood supply. Stay posted!
The tracheostomy is currently planned for tomorrow, and hopefully Robert's large abdominal wound will be closed. Possibly his feeding tube will be transferred from going through his nose to a direct entry into his intestines.
Now here's an update on blood donations. The Miller-Keystone Blood Center, which supplies blood products for hospitals throughout the region, has been swamped with calls about donating in Robert's name! As a result, they would like to set up a blood drive specifically addressing this interest. We posted links to the blood center, but
if you can wait a few days, we will hopefully have a drive arranged soon. At any rate, you would not be donating directly to Robert, so your blood type doesn't matter. Just get a card stating that you are donating in Robert Miller's name. We'll collect those, and possibly they can help with insurance reimbursement. The main thing, though, is replenishing the region's blood supply. Stay posted!
Rest—Thursday, 6:00 am
After a rather uneventful night, we're praying for a restful day today, in which Robert can gain strength before more interventions tomorrow. Robert has been on a general antibiotic to prevent infection. Yesterday he was given a second antibiotic to treat a slight yeast infection. His white blood cell count had been somewhat low, but has rebounded; this is positive, as the white blood cells form his "army" to fight infection. One concern is a slight increase in intracranial pressure. His blood pressure medication has been increased to address this.
In quietness and trust is your strength.
Isaiah 30:15
In quietness and trust is your strength.
Isaiah 30:15
Long Day—Wednesday, 8:20 pm
After numerous little steps forward yesterday, today was a day of stepping back a bit, then waiting to see what ground, if any, would be gained back. In the end Robert edged back about to where he had left off yesterday. The addition of the feeding tube should help him to gain strength. Tomorrow will be a day of rest, and hopefully more progress, in preparation for another attempt at surgery Friday.
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
Frustration—Wednesday, 3:00 pm
Sorry for the late post. Today has been a day of setbacks and lack of information. We know these days will come, but it is frustrating when we are in the middle of it. Due to his breathing difficulties, Robert's surgery was postponed, but several procedures were done in his room. The medical staff was so busy throughout the morning and early afternoon that we were unable to get any updates until now.
Dressings were changed in Robert's large abdominal and side wounds. A feeding tube was inserted through his nose and into his intestines, and he should now be enjoying his first "meal" in days. ;) Meanwhile his breathing has again improved, almost to where it was yesterday. His kidneys continue to function well.
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
Dressings were changed in Robert's large abdominal and side wounds. A feeding tube was inserted through his nose and into his intestines, and he should now be enjoying his first "meal" in days. ;) Meanwhile his breathing has again improved, almost to where it was yesterday. His kidneys continue to function well.
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
A Bump—Wednesday, 5:45 am
After a smooth day yesterday, Robert hit a bit of a bump in the road last night. His breathing status slipped, so he's requiring a 100% supply of oxygen again. (He had been down to 50% yesterday.) He is being given Lasix, which is a diuretic, to help remove extra fluid, which may be affecting his breathing.
Surgery is currently scheduled for 2:30 pm, but that may change due to his breathing condition. We'll post an update when we have it. Obviously the big prayer request today is for an improvement in respiratory status. There has been no further change in his neurological standing, so keep that in mind as well. People all over the country are praying, and we greatly appreciate the support!
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
Surgery is currently scheduled for 2:30 pm, but that may change due to his breathing condition. We'll post an update when we have it. Obviously the big prayer request today is for an improvement in respiratory status. There has been no further change in his neurological standing, so keep that in mind as well. People all over the country are praying, and we greatly appreciate the support!
The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4
The Eyes Have It!—Tuesday, 8:15 pm
There hasn't been much activity this afternoon, but Robert has briefly opened his eyes several times, including once when his daughter, Brooke, was watching. It's not a major step, but an encouraging sign.
Tomorrow will be a big day, with several procedures planned, as noted earlier. The tracheostomy may not be done yet, but a feeding tube probably will be inserted in Robert's stomach to ensure nutritional intake. Pray that the activity will not cause any major setbacks.
Robert has already received over 50 units of blood, straining a blood supply system that has been struggling to stay ahead of demand. Please give blood regularly if you can! We aren't sure if Robert's insurance will pay for all of the blood products, but if you are in the area and donate to the Keystone Blood Bank, you can donate in his name; it will be credited to his account if his insurance doesn't cover everything.
Tomorrow will be a big day, with several procedures planned, as noted earlier. The tracheostomy may not be done yet, but a feeding tube probably will be inserted in Robert's stomach to ensure nutritional intake. Pray that the activity will not cause any major setbacks.
Robert has already received over 50 units of blood, straining a blood supply system that has been struggling to stay ahead of demand. Please give blood regularly if you can! We aren't sure if Robert's insurance will pay for all of the blood products, but if you are in the area and donate to the Keystone Blood Bank, you can donate in his name; it will be credited to his account if his insurance doesn't cover everything.
Optimism—Tuesday, 1:30 pm
After being touch-and-go in several areas, Robert appears to have cleared some initial hurdles. His lungs have greatly improved, although he is still on a ventilator to assist breathing. His kidneys are now functioning, so he no longer needs dialysis. Heart medication has been discontinued, and blood pressure medication has been greatly reduced.
Looking ahead, Robert is scheduled to return to surgery tomorrow for another abdominal assessment. He will also have a tracheostomy, so the ventilation tubes can be removed from his mouth. In addition, he may have several wounds closed.
Robert is in a very deep coma, but did momentarily open his eyes when he was turned this morning. The CAT scan has not shown signs of neurological damage, but continue to pray for more of a response.
The current visitation procedure is as follows: Visitors should go directly to Conference Room #2 to the right of the ground floor registration desk, which the hospital has graciously provided for family space. Access to Robert's room is still being strictly limited. We understand that you may want to see Robert, but the priority has to be what is best for his recovery.
Looking ahead, Robert is scheduled to return to surgery tomorrow for another abdominal assessment. He will also have a tracheostomy, so the ventilation tubes can be removed from his mouth. In addition, he may have several wounds closed.
Robert is in a very deep coma, but did momentarily open his eyes when he was turned this morning. The CAT scan has not shown signs of neurological damage, but continue to pray for more of a response.
The current visitation procedure is as follows: Visitors should go directly to Conference Room #2 to the right of the ground floor registration desk, which the hospital has graciously provided for family space. Access to Robert's room is still being strictly limited. We understand that you may want to see Robert, but the priority has to be what is best for his recovery.
Mixed Results—Tuesday, 7:05 am
First the negative news. Although Robert is no longer sedated, he has yet to show neurological response. This isn't unusual after such extreme trauma, especially as he is still on heavy pain medication, but we would like to start seeing some signs of activity. On the positive side, his heart rate has become more regular, and is now in a normal range. His medications are also gradually being lowered. Short of a miracle this will be a very long haul, and your prayers continue to make a difference!
Breathing Improvement—Monday, 8:50 pm
The big improvement for Robert today has been in his breathing, although he is still on a ventilator to assist in respiration. His kidneys aren't functioning normally, so dialysis was started late this afternoon. Pray for the following:
1) Robert may have some neurological damage, but it's too early to determine anything definitive.
2) Infection control is very important. To help in this area, only family members are being permitted to see Robert. Other visitors may still support the family in the waiting area.
You are also requested to refrain from calling the hospital for information; it's extra work for the staff, and they aren't allowed to release information anyway. Thanks.
1) Robert may have some neurological damage, but it's too early to determine anything definitive.
2) Infection control is very important. To help in this area, only family members are being permitted to see Robert. Other visitors may still support the family in the waiting area.
You are also requested to refrain from calling the hospital for information; it's extra work for the staff, and they aren't allowed to release information anyway. Thanks.
Surgery—Monday, 12:40 pm
We just met with the surgeon, who covered a variety of issues. A catheter was inserted in Robert's brain to monitor intracranial pressure; it showed normal pressure. Most of his injuries were in the chest, side, and abdomen. Surgery involved checking for internal bleeding and organ damage. There is a large amount of bruising, but no significant organ damage or noticable bleeding. His condition continues to be stable, but very critical. Some specific concerns are as follows:
1) The doctors would like to reduce or eliminate blood pressure medications, provided he can maintain blood pressure, as they
contribute to undesirable side effects.
2) Infection is an ongoing concern, especially pneumonia.
Thanks for all of your support.
1) The doctors would like to reduce or eliminate blood pressure medications, provided he can maintain blood pressure, as they
contribute to undesirable side effects.
2) Infection is an ongoing concern, especially pneumonia.
Thanks for all of your support.
A Good Night—Mon. 7:55 am
Good morning,
Mom called the hospital this morning at 5:30 am. Robert had an uneventful night. He was able to be turned several times and tolerated it well. This is progress, as he was too unstable to be moved all day yesterday. They were able to slightly decrease his blood pressure med over night, but his blood pressure remains low. His oxygen levels have increased to near normal, indicating that his breathing is also improving. He will have surgery again today. We are unsure of the details of the surgery and will be posting later this morning.
Cindy
Mom called the hospital this morning at 5:30 am. Robert had an uneventful night. He was able to be turned several times and tolerated it well. This is progress, as he was too unstable to be moved all day yesterday. They were able to slightly decrease his blood pressure med over night, but his blood pressure remains low. His oxygen levels have increased to near normal, indicating that his breathing is also improving. He will have surgery again today. We are unsure of the details of the surgery and will be posting later this morning.
Cindy
Sunday, 8:15 pm
Robert is holding his own. Even though his blood pressure is still a bit low, his blood levels and his oxygen levels are better. The acid in the blood is no longer a problem. There have been many pastors here today from many churches praying for him and he has been annointed with oil. Tommorow they are planning to do some additional abdominal surgery. We appreciate all your prayers.
Update—Sunday 10:15 AM
Robert is listed as extremely critical this morning. During the night they had problems keeping his blood pressure and oxygen levels up and raw acid is building up in his blood. He has received 40-50 units of blood and blood products. He is kept sedated because of a ventilator so he cannot communicate. The next 12-24 hours are very critical in the outcome. He has multiple fractures of ribs, wrist, and pelvis. He has a wonderful team of doctors, nurses, etc. working with him all the time. Thanks for your prayers.
Initial Information
Sunday morning, July 12
Robert was in a motorcycle accident at approximately 3:30 pm on Saturday, July 11, 2009. He was transported to Reading Hospital via helicopter. He sustained multiple abdominal, pelvic and chest injuries. A hole in his side was closed during surgery soon after his arrival at the hospital. There is also some hemorrhaging in his brain that will be closely monitored.
A more detailed update will be coming soon.
Robert was in a motorcycle accident at approximately 3:30 pm on Saturday, July 11, 2009. He was transported to Reading Hospital via helicopter. He sustained multiple abdominal, pelvic and chest injuries. A hole in his side was closed during surgery soon after his arrival at the hospital. There is also some hemorrhaging in his brain that will be closely monitored.
A more detailed update will be coming soon.
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