08.28.06
Setback
This will be a short post, but we wanted to let you all know that Al is back in the hospital.
Today he developed a blood clot in his leg, in the same spot where he had one back in May. Its development is not surprising, since he went off the blood thinners last Wednesday in preparation for the surgery, but it does represent a tricky situation, since his blood needs to be thin to get rid of the clot, but at the same time distinctly not thin for the sake of healing after the surgery. Also, he’s been coughing up blood since last Wednesday, and thinning the blood could increase that as well.
So we went to the local emergency room this afternoon, where he received good care, and late this everning they transferred him downtown to the hospital where the brain surgery was performed. All the doctors involved agreed that in case any complications should arise from this delicate business of thinning the blood–at the right time and to the right degree–it will be best for him to be under the supervision of the surgeon who knows all the details of last week’s surgery and what is going on in Al’s brain. How long they’ll keep him is up in the air at this point.
After Al was sooooo glad to get out of the hospital and back home yesterday, this is disappointing. And we had hoped that if they had to admit him, at least it would be to the local hospital. But we are glad for good medical professionals who know their business, are on top of things, and are taking good care of him.
So, the adventure continues…
Thanks for riding the river with us,
Libbie
Rick said,
August 28, 2006 at 11:26 pm
We continue to pray for you guys and it is our blessing to be on the river with you. We love you.
Rick and Nancy
Debbie Doerfel said,
August 29, 2006 at 2:41 am
Al and Libbie and family,
I continue to pray for you all, and for wisdom for the doctors and other caregivers! I’m glad that Al got to spend the night at home, and enjoy a cheesesteak. : ) Sorry he had to return to the hospital – I know that’s not fun at all.
I just want you to know how much I love you all, and send you hugs. Have thought about calling your home (other than times pre- or post- hospital stays) but don’t want to intrude….but also don’t want to neglect an opportunity to minister to you because I’m afraid I’ll intrude.
Many Hugs, Debbie
Sarah (Viss) Rapier said,
August 29, 2006 at 7:33 am
Hi Groves Family, I missed reading your blog for a few days and so just this morning caught up on all the latest. I will pray pray pray!
I am on my way to pick up Ben and Ramona from the airport for a 3 week visit! I think they plan on swinging by to see Will & Mariana at some point. Anyway, I will have a 2 hour car ride alone (baby is staying home) and will get some time to pray.
Your blog has been such a blessing to me and my faith is encouraged by the strength of your faith. May God continue to grant you His peace and joy!
love to you all,
Sarah
PS – I love the picture of Alden in his Holland shirt! Hup Holland! 🙂
Bruce McKenzie said,
August 29, 2006 at 10:50 am
Dear Al and Libby,
I just found out yesterday about Al’s condition and wanted to let you know that my wife Debbie and I will be lifting you up in prayer. Although I know our contact has been minimal since Dartmouth days, I was glad we briefly connected in Hanover in 2000 and value the impact both of you had on my spiritual life. Your blog is very inspiring in showing your ongoing faith and trust in our great and good God in the midst of this trial. As a family update, we now have two sons, Kevin 7, and Grant 4, with a new arrival expected in early Feb. We will continue to pray for God’s sovereign will and purposes to be fullfilled in your lives. Eph. 1:15-23.
By God’s Grace,
Bruce
The Peats in England said,
August 29, 2006 at 12:04 pm
Libbie
So sorry to hear this but continuing to bring Al and you all before the throne of grace.
The Peats
Tom Kulp said,
August 29, 2006 at 2:01 pm
Let me leave you with one of my favorite quotes from my good friend Dave “the Animal” Ennis when asked how his day was: Response,” Any better and I would need counseling”. I will pray that they keep a good balance of blood thinning.
Tom