Payton is out of surgery and all of the drains are removed and the bone flap has been returned to his head. Amazing how much better he looks with his forehead back to it's original shape. From the front he looks completely normal, the incision was shaved again and to our surprise he has another railroad track of staples installed in addition to his sutures. They did wash his hair this time and cleaned him up a little better, to us he looks GREAT! The surgeon told us to just take him into a local doctor in a week or so to get the staples out. I can't wait to see the look on Dr. Sharps face when we he comes into the patient room and we ask him to take all of those staples out, it may take while.
His brain is still swollen some and the surgeon said that the brain will be getting over the trauma for a while. As it continues to heal Payton should get better detail and better motor skills. We are so happy to see each bit of progress.
After the surgery we have been moved to the Neuro-Science Trauma Unit, a step under ICU. It will be much quieter here and the constant monitoring he has been under will go from every 15 minutes to 2 hours after he fully recovers from the anesthesia. His pretty sleepy but has responded well when we talk t0 him. Both Angie and I have noticed lot more spark and life in his eyes the past 24 hours, not just the tired lifeless shark like eyes he has had the past few days.
As he wakes up the nurses expect that he will come to life quite a bit the next few hours and then continue to improve at a rapid pace. In talking to surgeons, nurses and staff here this is a very rare situation. Many have never heard of a sinus infection causing anything like this. And the treatment and recovery have been remarkable and miraculous.
The other good news we received today is that Payton might get to go home and continue his recovery as early as Monday. That would be FANTASTIC and so much better for all of us. He keeps talking of wanting to watch the big screen sitting in the Love Sac, I am sure he will get his fair share of that for a couple of weeks.
Angie stayed with Payton last night and I went home. I was just getting ready to go for a short bike ride when Angie's dad Craig called and needed help. He had an accident on his bike earlier in the day and was in a lot of pain and very limited in his movement. I went to his home on my bike thinking we could get him comfortable pretty quick but after looking at the raspberry on his left hip and butt and seeing how much pain he was in we decided to take a trip to the AF Emergency Room. So the paybacks came quirky, He had helped Angie get Payton out to the car last week to go to the same place. This time it was my turn to help him, he was in a lot of pain and we had to be inventive to get him in the car. He had an X-ray, nothing broken but a nice bruise and a whole field of raspberries on his hip and arm that will sting for a while. So even on a night I thought I would be away from the hospital, I actually was right back in it.
Saturday and Sunday Payton will be able to see visitors and we welcome all to come for a short visit. He gets tired easily but he responds well to familiar faces coming in to say a quick hi. If you come, he is in room 2031 in the Neuro-Science Trauma unit at Primary Children's.
I know it sounds redundant but we are so grateful for all of the thoughts, prayers and actions in our behalf. It has made this situation much easier to bear for us. We are grateful of it's outcome to this point, realizing that there are many cases here that do not have the same conclusion. Seeing the parents and loved ones of those that are not responding reminds us of our blessings but they have a special place in our hearts as we pray for peace and comfort to come over them in their trials. I am sure like many of you we will never forget our experience here and we will be so much more understaing and empathetic to those who face these challenges. That is definitely one of the positives we will take from this experience
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
August 30, 2 PM
Well we are in a calm before the storm, just playing the waiting game for surgery tomorrow. Payton was cleared for normal foods last night and he ate well. He started with a Chicken Cease salad and followed that with a cheeseburger and fries. That is the most perked up I have seen him in over a week, he acted like he hasn't seen or tasted food for a long time. The food here is way above average, they treat the kids so well and the quality is impressive. After he ate he slept for quite a while.
Angie went home last night and I stayed at the hospital. Angie proved once again she is smarter than me as when had arranged for a full reclining chair when she stayed, I had just slept slumped in a normal chair. Last night I used the full recliner, what an improvement that was. Payton and I both slept okay, he seems to struggle about 3 am so we hang for a bit and he falls back asleep. They continue to remove lines out of him, they say here that you can judge how sick the patient is by the number of tubes in them. If that holds true Payton was extremely sick, and now with the removal of a few tubes looks about average for the ICU. Whenever they move Payton for scans is takes about 20 minutes to get all of the tubes and monitors prepared to move, then just a few minutes for the scan. We sure appreciate the hard work of the nurses and their helpful attitude here, they do a great job.
Well have finally arrived at the time we have been waiting for, we are taking another CT scan that will determine if Payton can have his surgery tomorrow that will put him on the trail to full recovery. Dr. Bockmeyer met with us this morning and said that the drain removal and bone flap replacement surgery will take about 1/2 to 1 hour tomorrow. He will look at the scans very closely today to see if there is any other work they need to do while in the accessible brain area. All indications are that it will be a very straight forward operation.
The PT came in and Payton wanted to try and get up and walk. She then got a walker and after what seemed forever of getting tubes and drains arranged, Payton surprised us all when he was able to kick his feet out of the side of the bed and sit up. That in itself was amazing, then with a little help he stood and was able to take a nice walk down the hall with the aid of the walker. The PT walked closely by on one side, I as on the other in case he got light headed. He did fantastic, then sat in a chair for 15 minutes while they changed the linen on his bed. For Angie and I this was almost as amazing of having Lazarus raise from the dead. We are stunned at the progress and so grateful We know that the great medical treatment has made a huge difference but we also know that faith and prayers have greatly enhanced the progress. At this point, Payton is really wanting to go home, that is a sign he is feeling better and is getting bored. Maybe in a few more days if the progress continues, but we are in no hurry until the time is right. AMAZING!!!!!!
Just got the news back on the CT Scans, things look good so we will be going into surgery tomorrow morning sometime. Another huge step for Payton's speedy recovery. He will continue to rest today and maybe take another walk. Then on to the next adventure.
Angie went home last night and I stayed at the hospital. Angie proved once again she is smarter than me as when had arranged for a full reclining chair when she stayed, I had just slept slumped in a normal chair. Last night I used the full recliner, what an improvement that was. Payton and I both slept okay, he seems to struggle about 3 am so we hang for a bit and he falls back asleep. They continue to remove lines out of him, they say here that you can judge how sick the patient is by the number of tubes in them. If that holds true Payton was extremely sick, and now with the removal of a few tubes looks about average for the ICU. Whenever they move Payton for scans is takes about 20 minutes to get all of the tubes and monitors prepared to move, then just a few minutes for the scan. We sure appreciate the hard work of the nurses and their helpful attitude here, they do a great job.
Well have finally arrived at the time we have been waiting for, we are taking another CT scan that will determine if Payton can have his surgery tomorrow that will put him on the trail to full recovery. Dr. Bockmeyer met with us this morning and said that the drain removal and bone flap replacement surgery will take about 1/2 to 1 hour tomorrow. He will look at the scans very closely today to see if there is any other work they need to do while in the accessible brain area. All indications are that it will be a very straight forward operation.
The PT came in and Payton wanted to try and get up and walk. She then got a walker and after what seemed forever of getting tubes and drains arranged, Payton surprised us all when he was able to kick his feet out of the side of the bed and sit up. That in itself was amazing, then with a little help he stood and was able to take a nice walk down the hall with the aid of the walker. The PT walked closely by on one side, I as on the other in case he got light headed. He did fantastic, then sat in a chair for 15 minutes while they changed the linen on his bed. For Angie and I this was almost as amazing of having Lazarus raise from the dead. We are stunned at the progress and so grateful We know that the great medical treatment has made a huge difference but we also know that faith and prayers have greatly enhanced the progress. At this point, Payton is really wanting to go home, that is a sign he is feeling better and is getting bored. Maybe in a few more days if the progress continues, but we are in no hurry until the time is right. AMAZING!!!!!!
Just got the news back on the CT Scans, things look good so we will be going into surgery tomorrow morning sometime. Another huge step for Payton's speedy recovery. He will continue to rest today and maybe take another walk. Then on to the next adventure.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
August 29th 4:00 pm
Well Payton' room has continued to be a very busy hub of activity, but the activity has changed from being one of life support and breath holding fear to one with all kinds of different teams work with him. The Infectious Disease Team have been here several times the past 24 hours, they have finished the culture from the material taken out of Payton's brain and it has been identified as Viridans Strep. This particular strain of Strep can be treated with specific antibiotics so they have changed the antibiotics some, they are giving two instead of three.....one less line!!!!!!
This type of Strep isn't very common, and it may have actually permeated through the bone in his sinus area into the brain. It appears to have been removed and arrested, we are anxious to see the CT scans that are scheduled for tomorrow morning. If the scans confirm what the rest of the tests and monitors are saying Payton will have surgery again Friday to take out drains and replace the bone flap. Then after a couple more days in ICU he will then be moved and a plan will be laid out for his recovery.
Payton was able to move the toes on his left foot today for the first time, and as the day has progressed he seems to be gaining movement and strength in them. He mentions a tingling sensation below the knee on his left leg, we hope it is "waking up" so he can gain full movement and strength there.
Payton has seen occupational therapists today, and he felt like he was taking the ACT. They gave him math questions, had him write sentences and read lots of materials to see if his brain was functioning properly. He passed with flying colors and it was a real relief to Angie and I to have the therapist tell us that they would not need to do any additional work with Payton. We are so grateful to know that his intelligence is okay and that we have one less thing to worry about. They also had him play some games which I am sure after a while he was annoyed with.
Angie stayed over with Payton last night, and things went really well. Because of his stable position the activity around his bed all of the time was less, less bells from alarms going off and not so many analysis things happening. They read the sports page of USA Today together, it is great practice for Payton to read out loud. He does pretty well but once in a while be hangs for a bit. He is still so very weak and tired, his endurance is very short. The physical therapist worked with Payton and had him sit up on the edge of he bed and do a variety of movements and stretches. He performed them well but was really tired after he finished.
Today was a great day in the food dept. Payton was moved over to soft foods and ordered Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, one of his favorite dishes to make at home. HE also had a chocolate milkshake today. He really enjoyed both and I think the food comforts him. It might have been a bit much though as he slept really hard for a while after he ate. The installed a PIC line in his arm today for all of the IV stuff he will be taking after he leaves the hospital.
The intensity of the past few days has caught up with Angie and I. Now that things are headed in the right direction you can feel your body and how tired it is. I slept at home last night, I got about 5 hours but i think that it was the deepest I have slept in years, I can't remember when I have felt that totally exhausted. It's not just the physical, but added to the mental and emotional fatigue we have felt. We both feel much better today.
Payton has been able to read emails and cards that have been sent to him. He is touched by the care and love that people have shown him and all of us continue to be so grateful and humble for how things are turning out. It is a modern day miracle to us, and we can't express in words how thankful we are for how it is going.
Some of you have asked who his doctor is, It is Doug Brockmeyer, MD. He has been very good to work with. I have liked his style, very direct and intense and when it has been a time we had to make a decision he didn't waffle around at all. He gave it to us straight, sometimes it has taken the air out of us when the news was bad but I appreciated his candor and quick action. I also appreciate his knowledge and incredible skill, you know if you are operation on the brain of a Broadbent it is truly micro surgery! In fact Payton is the only one of us that has for sure proved he has one. We feel lucky he has been Payton's doctor and we have full confidence in him.
Tomorrow Payton gets to work on his motor skills. It will be the first time that we have ever encouraged or cheered for him to play video games. The therapist says that they have found video games to be a great way to wake the brain up and restore both function and strength to the hands while improving the hand eye coordination. Payton can so many of the movement with his hands but does them a little slower than normal. We should see improvement there through therapy and as the brain continues to wake up.
Payton keeps putting his hands up and touching the staples of his incision and rubbing the area of his head that is shaved. I asked him if he wanted to see a picture of the area, which he did. I was really nervous and dying inside as I showed him the pictures and explained what the operation had been, I was not sure what his reaction would be, but it was very positive and he knows that the cuts will heal and hair will grow back to cover and hide the incision scars. I was relieved and proud of how he handled it. Progress continues and we are grateful to see our son returning to his normal state
This type of Strep isn't very common, and it may have actually permeated through the bone in his sinus area into the brain. It appears to have been removed and arrested, we are anxious to see the CT scans that are scheduled for tomorrow morning. If the scans confirm what the rest of the tests and monitors are saying Payton will have surgery again Friday to take out drains and replace the bone flap. Then after a couple more days in ICU he will then be moved and a plan will be laid out for his recovery.
Payton was able to move the toes on his left foot today for the first time, and as the day has progressed he seems to be gaining movement and strength in them. He mentions a tingling sensation below the knee on his left leg, we hope it is "waking up" so he can gain full movement and strength there.
Payton has seen occupational therapists today, and he felt like he was taking the ACT. They gave him math questions, had him write sentences and read lots of materials to see if his brain was functioning properly. He passed with flying colors and it was a real relief to Angie and I to have the therapist tell us that they would not need to do any additional work with Payton. We are so grateful to know that his intelligence is okay and that we have one less thing to worry about. They also had him play some games which I am sure after a while he was annoyed with.
Angie stayed over with Payton last night, and things went really well. Because of his stable position the activity around his bed all of the time was less, less bells from alarms going off and not so many analysis things happening. They read the sports page of USA Today together, it is great practice for Payton to read out loud. He does pretty well but once in a while be hangs for a bit. He is still so very weak and tired, his endurance is very short. The physical therapist worked with Payton and had him sit up on the edge of he bed and do a variety of movements and stretches. He performed them well but was really tired after he finished.
Today was a great day in the food dept. Payton was moved over to soft foods and ordered Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, one of his favorite dishes to make at home. HE also had a chocolate milkshake today. He really enjoyed both and I think the food comforts him. It might have been a bit much though as he slept really hard for a while after he ate. The installed a PIC line in his arm today for all of the IV stuff he will be taking after he leaves the hospital.
The intensity of the past few days has caught up with Angie and I. Now that things are headed in the right direction you can feel your body and how tired it is. I slept at home last night, I got about 5 hours but i think that it was the deepest I have slept in years, I can't remember when I have felt that totally exhausted. It's not just the physical, but added to the mental and emotional fatigue we have felt. We both feel much better today.
Payton has been able to read emails and cards that have been sent to him. He is touched by the care and love that people have shown him and all of us continue to be so grateful and humble for how things are turning out. It is a modern day miracle to us, and we can't express in words how thankful we are for how it is going.
Some of you have asked who his doctor is, It is Doug Brockmeyer, MD. He has been very good to work with. I have liked his style, very direct and intense and when it has been a time we had to make a decision he didn't waffle around at all. He gave it to us straight, sometimes it has taken the air out of us when the news was bad but I appreciated his candor and quick action. I also appreciate his knowledge and incredible skill, you know if you are operation on the brain of a Broadbent it is truly micro surgery! In fact Payton is the only one of us that has for sure proved he has one. We feel lucky he has been Payton's doctor and we have full confidence in him.
Tomorrow Payton gets to work on his motor skills. It will be the first time that we have ever encouraged or cheered for him to play video games. The therapist says that they have found video games to be a great way to wake the brain up and restore both function and strength to the hands while improving the hand eye coordination. Payton can so many of the movement with his hands but does them a little slower than normal. We should see improvement there through therapy and as the brain continues to wake up.
Payton keeps putting his hands up and touching the staples of his incision and rubbing the area of his head that is shaved. I asked him if he wanted to see a picture of the area, which he did. I was really nervous and dying inside as I showed him the pictures and explained what the operation had been, I was not sure what his reaction would be, but it was very positive and he knows that the cuts will heal and hair will grow back to cover and hide the incision scars. I was relieved and proud of how he handled it. Progress continues and we are grateful to see our son returning to his normal state
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Pictures of Payton (Viewer Beware)
Many of you have expressed you wonder what the operation is like, how they do a bone flap and such. Here are some pictures of Payton, looks pretty rough right now but it will all be covered by hair and not noticeable a few weeks after his ordeal. Not real pretty right now but it is the least of our worries, it heals so well and easily
August 28 12 pm
The update for today is positive, Payton was awake quite a bit last night and actually was his humorous self. That was very nice to see and it is a relief to Angie and I to see that his ability to think and communicate are going to be fully returned to normal. All of the signs they are watching for infection are positive, in fact they did not do a CT scan today because the signs all indicate things are clean. Temperature, blood pressure and cranial pressure all indicate things are on track to heal well. The neurosurgeon outlined the game plan for the next few days barring any sudden changes with Payton. Payton will stay in the ICU unit until at least Friday, he is healthy enough to move to the normal floor but with drains in his skull and the constant monitoring that has to be done right now he has to have a nurse that only attends to him. Angie and I actually feel really good about this, it is protective instead of a necessity to be in the ICU.
The Surgeon was amazed at the progress that Payton has made the past 24 hours, yesterday when he visited Payton was at one of the lowest points and it was obvious there was great concern about the infection and if there had been damage done that would have long term effects. As I mentioned yesterday we feel so blessed that with all of the thoughts and prayers and faith of so many people and know it has created a miracle in our lives. He still has quite a ways to go but the progress right now is fast, and it appears that all will return to normal after the brain has finished this trauma. It might require some work on Payton's part to get everything back to normal but I am sure he will rise to the occasion if that challenge is in his future.
Friday the plan is to take Payton back into surgery, remove the drains and re-attach his bone flap. This sounds pretty alarming but they talk about it like it is no big deal. they use some material like a bees wax to attach it and then basically bondo the fracture with the wax. then they will stretch the skin back and do a sew job that will be a bit better for the long term cosmetic. In fact, as Payton's hair grows back it it should hide any scar that is there. His haircut for the first month will be a little rough but he will be able to do hid Dumb and Dumber imitations to perfection. His sense of humor and confidence will support him well as he gets to those final phases.
Angie was able to spend the night at home, I stayed in the hospital with Payton and stayed in his room. It was nice to have him call out to me and talk a bit during the night. Angie came up early this morning and will stay with Payton today, I needed a break, I came straight from the bike race to the hospital and though I had a change of clothing with me I am in need of a reset and some fresh air. I also needed to do some things at work and where Payton is so stable now I took a few hours break. We thank everyone again for the thoughts, prayers and kind thoughts and messages. It makes it so much easier to deal with this knowing all the support we have and the many blessing we receive from above.
The Surgeon was amazed at the progress that Payton has made the past 24 hours, yesterday when he visited Payton was at one of the lowest points and it was obvious there was great concern about the infection and if there had been damage done that would have long term effects. As I mentioned yesterday we feel so blessed that with all of the thoughts and prayers and faith of so many people and know it has created a miracle in our lives. He still has quite a ways to go but the progress right now is fast, and it appears that all will return to normal after the brain has finished this trauma. It might require some work on Payton's part to get everything back to normal but I am sure he will rise to the occasion if that challenge is in his future.
Friday the plan is to take Payton back into surgery, remove the drains and re-attach his bone flap. This sounds pretty alarming but they talk about it like it is no big deal. they use some material like a bees wax to attach it and then basically bondo the fracture with the wax. then they will stretch the skin back and do a sew job that will be a bit better for the long term cosmetic. In fact, as Payton's hair grows back it it should hide any scar that is there. His haircut for the first month will be a little rough but he will be able to do hid Dumb and Dumber imitations to perfection. His sense of humor and confidence will support him well as he gets to those final phases.
Angie was able to spend the night at home, I stayed in the hospital with Payton and stayed in his room. It was nice to have him call out to me and talk a bit during the night. Angie came up early this morning and will stay with Payton today, I needed a break, I came straight from the bike race to the hospital and though I had a change of clothing with me I am in need of a reset and some fresh air. I also needed to do some things at work and where Payton is so stable now I took a few hours break. We thank everyone again for the thoughts, prayers and kind thoughts and messages. It makes it so much easier to deal with this knowing all the support we have and the many blessing we receive from above.
Monday, August 27, 2007
August 27, 5:00 pm
Good news, we had what our family feels was a modern day miracle. Our ward and many of our friends and family held a special fast today for Payton, and I want to report and testify that it had a very positive result. I have been one of the mass fasters for others and have always hoped that it would make a difference but have not seen it first hand like we did today. As i reported earlier, Payton has many challenges getting his brain back to where it was as well as he has had a tough time become very coherent. The CT scans came back around 10, and they were good news, no increased swelling, brain is positioned right and has not shifted and there was not an invisible infection. When the news is relayed by a nurse practioner, that is a good sign. Yesterday when it was the chief neurosurgeon that meant that things needed immediate attention. With that news we were grateful. Around noon Payton started to wake up a lot more, his eyes would open for seconds at a time and he could have short conversations. This was a great relief to us as it was obvious that he could function, think and respond. We asked questions to test both long and shot term memory,he answered correctly on all accounts. He kept requesting a drink, he really was craving a cherry limeade from Sonic with crushed ice. As the hours progressed, Payton started to get movement and motor skills back into his left arm, earlier today he could not operate this arm or hand. This is a real relief for us. The physical therapist came on today and did a bunch of tests on Payton as well. He has feeling in all of his extremities, all of them but his left leg have movement and strength. The PT can feel his muscles try to contract in his left leg, there just isn't a strong enough signal from the brain there yet to get a full response. As the swelling and trauma of the brain operation subside, we hope to see movement and power return. We truly feel like this is a modern day miracle in our lives, one that started just after the special fast for Payton had began. Angie and I both are so grateful and honored to have so many fine people in our lives that rally together to help make a miracle happen that may seem insignificant in some ways yet to us it has been a huge testimony building and faith increasing miracles. Having seen it first hand, I know that the power of many can be brought together through our Heavenly Father to accomplish great things. We love all of you and Payton has also expressed his appreciation for you thoughts and prayers. Today has been a very encouraging day, I am sure we have our challenges ahead but we will take today's progress as a good sign and continue to hope and pray for a speedy recovery of our special son.
August 27 am
Payton had a good night, he is still realy sleepy. He does wake up with some coaxing and can have some conversations. He would love a drink, he requested a cherry limeade from Sonic with crushed ice so definitely part of him is coming around. The doctor came in this morning and ordered up anoth series co scans and MRI's. He is concerned that Payton is still pretty sleepy, (Guess he doesn't know how hard sleeps normally). Since then he has become more responsive and all of the vitals and pressure guages are positive. this is a really big day for us, if things can go well we may start to round the corner and get through this situation. Angie and I got up about 5:30 and stayed with Payton until 7 am when all visitors must leave the ICU while they do their shift change. This happens at both 7am and 7pm, and lasts for an hour. It allows tem to be able to freely talk to the incoming nurse about the patient, and it force the parents to take a break which is hard. Angie and I went for a walk outside. It is a coo day and it smelled like it might have rained recently, we have been inside for the past few days so weather just passes us by. It was a pretty morning and the valley was nice to see. It was nice to get fresh air and we seem to do well then have a momnet ort woof tears just of the unknown. We have both comented it would be much easier to endure all ogf this if you knew that in the end it would have a full recovery. then time and worry wouldn't matter, it would just be do what needs done each day to make it work.
The physical therapist wil be coming in to work Payton's muscles and stretch him so he doesn't get to stiff inthe bed. His care has been impressive and outstanding, this is really an amazing place. The things that they are able to do here boggles the mind, and we are grateful that we are here, in one of the leading neurological centers in the world.
The physical therapist wil be coming in to work Payton's muscles and stretch him so he doesn't get to stiff inthe bed. His care has been impressive and outstanding, this is really an amazing place. The things that they are able to do here boggles the mind, and we are grateful that we are here, in one of the leading neurological centers in the world.
August 23-26
August 26
Overview of Payton's Situation
On August 22 Payton complained of having a headache and feeling nausea. They were flu like symptoms and so he went to bed, woke up on Thursday morning to go to his first day of college. He complained that he still had the headache, went to a coupe classes then came home early and went to the doctor.. there they treated hi for migraine symptons. Payton woke up friday not feeling better but took the medicines as prescribed. He continued to rest heavily Friday and on Saturday morning when he went to get up he could not operate his left leg. Angie then took him to the American Fork Hospital emergency where they began tests and CT scans. There the could see a mass in his head but could not identify it, also his white blood cell count was up. At that point they determined to do a Spinal tap for meningitis as his symptoms indicated this was a high probability. After reviewing the results, the hospital staff determined that they would transfer Payton to Primary Children's Hospital, one of the top neurological centers in the country. Unfortunately, all of this time Angie was alone to handle the situation as Bruce had traveled late Friday night to Afton Wyoming to do a 100 mile bike race with Dan. The whole time this was happening, Bruce was not reachable by phone, finally about 2 pm Bruce called to say they had finished the race and he was on his way home. Angie then forwarded the bad news of the situation and it was long four hours home as both of us called when there was reception to receive the latest updates. When they decided to move Payton to Primary Children's, Bruce just had Dan drop him off there and Bruce arrived at the emergency room in time to talk to several of the doctors that were trying to evaluate Payton's condition. They determined that the mass was an infection that had come into the cranial cavity from Payton's sinuses, and it had build an abscess that was putting pressure on the brain that was causing Payton to be pretty lethargic as well as it was affecting his motor skills o his left extremities. There was another pocket of fluid between the two hemispheres that was putting additional pressure. The doctors immediately started heavy antibiotics to stem the spread of the infection and stop the abscess and fluid packets from growing. They determined to monitor this through the night and do another CT scan in the morning. They also did n MRI of Payton's spine, all looked well there.
Payton continued to be very lethargic and showed signs of motor deficiency on his left side. The CT scan was completed and the neuro surgeon determined that the antibiotics where not working fast enough and additional pressure was building in the skull. It was determined that emergency surgery was needed and so a whirlwind of decisions and emotions and lots of prayers and the plan was set. We called the hospital chaplain, they arranged quickly for an Elder to come assist Bruce in giving Payton a blessing and he was off quickly to the operating room. the surgery lasted just over three hours. During this time Angie and I were in an and emotional haze, we went through so many tears and emotions, and out thoughts and prayers were with the surgeon who is one of the best in the world and for Payton that thing's would and could be fixed. the surgeon came out after the surgery and reported on the situation. There was lot of infection puss material that they cleaned out, they cleaned out and repaired the sinus area that was causing the problem, Payton brain was swollen and "angry" so the decision was made to leave the front plate of bone off at this time so the brain could have more area to expand. The incision goes from ear to ear over Payton's head, the skin was pulled forward to expose the skull, then the skull frontal plate was removed to give access to the sinus area and the area between the two hemispheres. When the swelling settles down hopefully the next few days they will operate again and re-install the bone plate. It will then require 6-8 weeks to heal, just like a leg or and arm that has been broken. Payton is breathing on his own, has so many tubes and wires hooked to him it boggles the mind and resting with moments of discomfort. He is on heavy antibiotics and morphine for the pain. Several other medications are being administered for swelling, seizure activity and a variety of other possible complications. Now it is just a waiting game to see what the next corner or obstacle we will face in getting Payton healed.
Mallory was bale to come up for a couple hours today to be with us while we waited for Payton's surgery. She spoke in her sacrament meeting today, we felt bad we had to miss it.
Angie and I are exhausted today after a crazy day yesterday, very little sleep Saturday night and then all of the decisions, emotions and anxiety we faced today. There are several times just looking at each other we have tears come. I have really struggled today. I see my son laying there fighting for his life and wish I could trade him places. I see a great young man with such a Bright future and pray it will all turn out. It tears both of us up, we are scared and anxious to what lays ahead. the prognosis at this time is positive, yet there is so much we won't know for a while such as if there will be any effects of the trauma on the brain to motor skills or other items. Payton is responsive when we talk to him, he is going to need all of the rest he can get as his body fights these battles.
We have been so grateful and touched at this time for the tremendous support and concern we have received from family, friends and our ward members. We truly believe in that the prayers of many can work miracles, we thank all for the kind messages and thoughts. AS you can imagine we are severely limited on phone use and right now we are most concerned with our son. rather than try and follow up with each, know that we appreciate you and look forward to better times in the near future that we can thank you personally. Many have inquired about visiting, right now that is not a realist option as the ICU has strict procedures on having the parents, immediate family and grandparents visit. Only two visitors can be here at any given time. Due to the fact that we are wanting to spend each second possible with our son, Angie and I need to stay in the room with him.
I will try to update this as things unfold, it will be much easier and less taxing to us at this time that retelling the same details over and over. Please feel free to check often to see how tings are progressing. This may be a little deeper detailed than you are looking for but I am writing this blog for all, and in doing so I might express emotions of the moment or thoughts that may offend. If so I apologize, my intent is to relay our thoughts and feelings, our challenges and our victories as we go through this experience
Overview of Payton's Situation
On August 22 Payton complained of having a headache and feeling nausea. They were flu like symptoms and so he went to bed, woke up on Thursday morning to go to his first day of college. He complained that he still had the headache, went to a coupe classes then came home early and went to the doctor.. there they treated hi for migraine symptons. Payton woke up friday not feeling better but took the medicines as prescribed. He continued to rest heavily Friday and on Saturday morning when he went to get up he could not operate his left leg. Angie then took him to the American Fork Hospital emergency where they began tests and CT scans. There the could see a mass in his head but could not identify it, also his white blood cell count was up. At that point they determined to do a Spinal tap for meningitis as his symptoms indicated this was a high probability. After reviewing the results, the hospital staff determined that they would transfer Payton to Primary Children's Hospital, one of the top neurological centers in the country. Unfortunately, all of this time Angie was alone to handle the situation as Bruce had traveled late Friday night to Afton Wyoming to do a 100 mile bike race with Dan. The whole time this was happening, Bruce was not reachable by phone, finally about 2 pm Bruce called to say they had finished the race and he was on his way home. Angie then forwarded the bad news of the situation and it was long four hours home as both of us called when there was reception to receive the latest updates. When they decided to move Payton to Primary Children's, Bruce just had Dan drop him off there and Bruce arrived at the emergency room in time to talk to several of the doctors that were trying to evaluate Payton's condition. They determined that the mass was an infection that had come into the cranial cavity from Payton's sinuses, and it had build an abscess that was putting pressure on the brain that was causing Payton to be pretty lethargic as well as it was affecting his motor skills o his left extremities. There was another pocket of fluid between the two hemispheres that was putting additional pressure. The doctors immediately started heavy antibiotics to stem the spread of the infection and stop the abscess and fluid packets from growing. They determined to monitor this through the night and do another CT scan in the morning. They also did n MRI of Payton's spine, all looked well there.
Payton continued to be very lethargic and showed signs of motor deficiency on his left side. The CT scan was completed and the neuro surgeon determined that the antibiotics where not working fast enough and additional pressure was building in the skull. It was determined that emergency surgery was needed and so a whirlwind of decisions and emotions and lots of prayers and the plan was set. We called the hospital chaplain, they arranged quickly for an Elder to come assist Bruce in giving Payton a blessing and he was off quickly to the operating room. the surgery lasted just over three hours. During this time Angie and I were in an and emotional haze, we went through so many tears and emotions, and out thoughts and prayers were with the surgeon who is one of the best in the world and for Payton that thing's would and could be fixed. the surgeon came out after the surgery and reported on the situation. There was lot of infection puss material that they cleaned out, they cleaned out and repaired the sinus area that was causing the problem, Payton brain was swollen and "angry" so the decision was made to leave the front plate of bone off at this time so the brain could have more area to expand. The incision goes from ear to ear over Payton's head, the skin was pulled forward to expose the skull, then the skull frontal plate was removed to give access to the sinus area and the area between the two hemispheres. When the swelling settles down hopefully the next few days they will operate again and re-install the bone plate. It will then require 6-8 weeks to heal, just like a leg or and arm that has been broken. Payton is breathing on his own, has so many tubes and wires hooked to him it boggles the mind and resting with moments of discomfort. He is on heavy antibiotics and morphine for the pain. Several other medications are being administered for swelling, seizure activity and a variety of other possible complications. Now it is just a waiting game to see what the next corner or obstacle we will face in getting Payton healed.
Mallory was bale to come up for a couple hours today to be with us while we waited for Payton's surgery. She spoke in her sacrament meeting today, we felt bad we had to miss it.
Angie and I are exhausted today after a crazy day yesterday, very little sleep Saturday night and then all of the decisions, emotions and anxiety we faced today. There are several times just looking at each other we have tears come. I have really struggled today. I see my son laying there fighting for his life and wish I could trade him places. I see a great young man with such a Bright future and pray it will all turn out. It tears both of us up, we are scared and anxious to what lays ahead. the prognosis at this time is positive, yet there is so much we won't know for a while such as if there will be any effects of the trauma on the brain to motor skills or other items. Payton is responsive when we talk to him, he is going to need all of the rest he can get as his body fights these battles.
We have been so grateful and touched at this time for the tremendous support and concern we have received from family, friends and our ward members. We truly believe in that the prayers of many can work miracles, we thank all for the kind messages and thoughts. AS you can imagine we are severely limited on phone use and right now we are most concerned with our son. rather than try and follow up with each, know that we appreciate you and look forward to better times in the near future that we can thank you personally. Many have inquired about visiting, right now that is not a realist option as the ICU has strict procedures on having the parents, immediate family and grandparents visit. Only two visitors can be here at any given time. Due to the fact that we are wanting to spend each second possible with our son, Angie and I need to stay in the room with him.
I will try to update this as things unfold, it will be much easier and less taxing to us at this time that retelling the same details over and over. Please feel free to check often to see how tings are progressing. This may be a little deeper detailed than you are looking for but I am writing this blog for all, and in doing so I might express emotions of the moment or thoughts that may offend. If so I apologize, my intent is to relay our thoughts and feelings, our challenges and our victories as we go through this experience
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