Day 24

*This is Tony. Healthy Tony. THIS is who we are praying for. *

*UPDATES*

4/20/23 4:30pm

Day 24

The CT scan showed that Tony is a good candidate to begin the draining tomorrow. However, things have changed. He now has a 4th pocket of fluid much lower in the abdomen that will require a drain through the abdomen wall itself. Also, initially, they were hopeful that they could go in through the stomach with one stint. It now appears the collections have grown slightly in size but have separated. Therefore, a 2nd stint will be placed. (Both stints will be placed through the stomach lining.) They will drain and remove as much of the dead tissue as possible and culture it. And then, it's VERY likely that the team will have to go BACK in endoscopically three days later to drain and collect again. There is a chance they will have to go in multiple times. The stints will remain in for a few weeks, and then we will have to come back to have them removed in an outpatient setting.

This is a complex situation. Interventional Radiology (IR) is involved in placing the outer drain, and the doctors will ALL review the CT again individually to make sure EVERYONE is on board.

GI is confident that the risk for the infection spreading is low, and they've continued IV antibiotics since we've been here. 

I think it goes without saying that we REALLY covet prayers right now, but ESPECIALLY tomorrow. This procedure (like any) is not without risks. And again, there's so many variables in the air. We know that Tony is where he needs to be, but, gosh, we sure want him home. "Hospital Time" is a weird thing. We tend to lose track of the days and times. Sleep is elusive. And right now, there's no end in sight. His home-bed feels a long way away.

Would you pray we have AMAZING nurses tomorrow? We are in awe of how hard they work, and most have been phenomenal. They are true HEROES, and we have so much respect for them. But, we've had a particular nurse here that has been really keen on complaining about her job, and even as far as making comments to Tony like, "we'll, you don't LOOK like you're in pain." We just want someone who loves caring for others. One who nurtures, supports, and SPEAKS LIFE. 

Pray for the doctors. GI, IR, and the surgery squad.

Pray for Tony's body to respond positively. We claim HEALING. 100%.

Please pray we can ALL sleep tonight and get solid rest.

I know I've missed messages as I'm holding down both phones. (Mine & Tony's) Please know I'm grateful and encouraged by each and every one. I read every single message and comment.

It's all systems "GO."

All hands on deck.

When I know the specific time he's heading into the operating room tomorrow, I will try to update. 

As always. Thank you for being IN the battle, ON your knees with us, THROUGH prayer. 

Our family Motto is: "Nelsons Never Quit"

Tony's got his armor on for battle. We fight.

#TeamNelson