from Frug: keep singing but read this for update

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Charley Noble
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 08:10 AM

Frank-

This has indeed been an amazing thread, and I join everyone in hoping for a full recovery for Sarah, however long that takes.

Amazing.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Barbara
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 12:38 PM

We sang for her at the pub last night, Frug. Hope it all helps. Sang The Great Storm Is Over and a bunch of other good stuff.
Blessings,
Barbara

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Frug
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 03:26 PM

Sarah is fighting for her life..........there are infection issues. moving back to CCU.............. Dig deep catters we need your help. Will post when I can

Frank xx

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: catspaw49
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 05:25 PM

Best thoughts continue from here. Keep all hope alive and take care of yourself Frank......Believe me, we're all with you for whatever its worth.


Spaw

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 05:34 PM

I shall envision Sarah feeling cool and at peace, awash in the calm waters of a favourite place with a soft, cool breeze to help. I shall also envision a myriad of good cells, fighting back and protecting her from any infectious interlopers.

I shall sing several songs which come to mind with those elements in them. May Sarah recover, fully, and be free of pain, strife, and fear. May you all feel the great power of us united with you in bringing all good things to bear.

So mote it be!

kat

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: DrugCrazed
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 06:19 PM

I'm singing (quietly because I'm on the train) the Shanty and Grey Funnel Line. You're in my thoughts.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Frug
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 07:03 PM

Update.... 3 Problems identified and now being addressed. Chest infection probably due to tubes, Urinary tract infection probably due to catheter and ...... a blockage in the brain drain. Now for the good one...As a family we have always found it difficult to stay the fuck out of it...we're very hands on. Hence when we started our chill treatment using fans, misters and flannels we were asked(very politely) not to spray her bed clothes etc (we thought it a good idea as it prolonged the cooling effect) We also brought in a load of gel cooling strips and plastered them all over. We clearly had an impact but had to stop the clothes soaking.....tonights treatment precribed by the head honcho...wrapped in soaked sheets with industrial sized fans blowing over her. Quote the head honcho "its all a matter of scale" She is now much more comfortable and resting peacefully with the issues addressed. Her life hangs in the balance.....50:50 at best, there has been no neurological deterioration and physical responses better than anticipated. As a family we are united in effort. My 2 lovely boys have been staunch. Dom was flakey yesterday we carried him, Sam and I both flakey today...we got carried. I have read and re-read the posts and messages. I can't describe their impact on me.....worried about fucking the laptop with tears. Amazing what you guys intuit....Kat, Sassy is a mermaid if she sees water she has to get in it. We went to the folk festival at Skegness, there was 4 inches of snow on the ground but she had to have a paddle. I don;t know what will happen, but I know my girl will give it her all. Whatever the outcome life is going to change big time.. I hope I am up to it. My Celtic heart reaches out to you all...loveya

Frank xx

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 07:16 PM

if she becomes able to drink ask about offering cranberry juice..obviously known for uti but other infectiosn as well. mg

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: jacqui.c
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 07:18 PM

Still here Frank and still singing.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Big Ballad Singer
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 07:22 PM

Frug, I've posted a prayer request for you, your boys and your Sarah to my Facebook account. Rest assured that our best thoughts, prayers, wishes and heartfelt encouragement are yours for the taking.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Janie
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 07:58 PM

Just letting you know this voice is still joined with the rest in this heart song.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: ClaireBear
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 08:26 PM

Sang "Lay Me Low" in the office today for healing, but very quietly so as not to startle my cubicle mates. I'm now headed home, so I can (and will ) sing for Sassy as loudly as I want (that's pretty loudly). Water themes, eh? Well, she might like some chanties then...and "Peace, Be Still" to cover all bases. And I think I'll join Barbara in "Alleluia, the Great Storm Is Over."

Best, Frug, Dom, and Sam. Strength to you all.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 09:46 PM

rehearsed with a HUGE group of women, a capella, loud and strong, and am thinking of you.

now, at home it is quiet, and in my heart is Peace LIke a River, with so many harmonies on the chorus. I can imagine us all, singing together.

you are all well thought of tonight, hugged and surrounded as best we can from far away.

Dani

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Big Ballad Singer
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 11:23 PM

ClaireBear, "Peace, Be Still" is one of my favorite hymns... what a gorgeous melody it has. I, too, shall sing that lovely tune for your family, Frank.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Ebbie
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 12:58 AM

There are some of us out here not posting but loading and sending thoughts of strength and peace and vibrant health to Sassy and her loved ones.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 03:19 AM

ditto

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: BrooklynJay
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 04:03 AM

Still singing, still praying.

Jay

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 04:37 AM

Been following this thread since the beginning. Don't know what to say for comfort or hope, that others here have said far more eloquently than I could.

My thoughts are with you all. Lending my voice to the mudcat choir when the opportunity presents.

Finally, a vision of glistening white snow for Sarah to cool herself in.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: My guru always said
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 04:41 AM

Many thanks for the update Frank, we're sending positive thoughts from Surrey. We're away to Lechlade for a singing weekend and 'll ask some friends there to sing a song for Sarah.
Hils

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: KT
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 05:00 AM

Lots of water songs here. Holding you all in heart and mind... KT

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Andy Jackson
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 05:31 AM

What amazing news. Keep strong, there is still a road ahead, but be heartened by the progress.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 08:49 AM

I'm singing all the water songs I know, including:
Wade in the Water
Peace Like a River
The Storm is Passing Over
By the Waters of Babylon
Peace is flowing like a River
Seal Woman's Sea Joy
Swimming to the Other Side

Bless you and yours, dear Frug. Holding Sarah deep in my heart.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Frug
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 05:38 PM

Brief update....

Much improved tonight. Temperature under control, blood pressure normalish. Awake for some of the time. Alert, cognisant, responsive, trying to talk but inhibited by a few tubes. Now able to turn head through 180. More signs of movement including on left hand side which was a concern, noticed today large swelling on left elbow.... so might explain a bit. Scan and test results show no obvious weakness in blood vessels in brain, so overall cause still a mystery. Encouraging signs but long way to go. Next 10 days will allow clot to dissipate, so emphasis is on allowing rest and care to facilitate healing.....need for further intervention not certain. Thank you for continued support. Will post further updates but less frequently as we are in a waiting period. But will report my ladies achievements where they are significant. Mudcat and Mudcatters are great.............OFFICIAL !

Frank, Sassy, Sam and Dom xx

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: maeve
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 05:49 PM

Those are such wonderful developments, Frank. There are many of us cheering you on- both those who have posted and those who read, pray, and give silent thought in support.

Maeve

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: DrugCrazed
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 06:19 PM

This is wonderful news!

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Arthur_itus
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 06:22 PM

Thanks for keeping us updated Frank. Glad that things ae still improving.
Best wishes to you all.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Janie
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 06:26 PM

You and the boys tend to Sarah and we'll keep the songs going.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Maryrrf
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 08:03 PM

The news is better and better - this is wonderful. I hope things continue to improve.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Aug 11 - 11:36 PM

Continuing to give thanks for all good things which have come to pass and the steady progress. What a wonderful family you all are, Frank. It is an honour to be able to sing for all of you. SO glad you all are TAKE CHARGE guys and Sarah had you all watching her back, so to speak! Swimming when there's snow, though! That's an image that certainly brings cooling to mind.:-)

Light, Life, and Love,

kat

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: fat B****rd
Date: 05 Aug 11 - 04:10 PM

Best wishes and thoughts to you and yours,Frank, from Charlie in Dunfermline

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Genie
Date: 05 Aug 11 - 07:23 PM

So wonderful to hear you encouraging news, Frank. I'm singing along with the rest of the choir.

Genie

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 05 Aug 11 - 10:37 PM

I don't know how I missed this thread until tonight, but I'm adding my off-key voice in song.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Charley Noble
Date: 06 Aug 11 - 10:02 AM

Better is more good!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Noreen
Date: 07 Aug 11 - 06:22 PM

Keeping positive thoughts heading your way...

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Barbara
Date: 07 Aug 11 - 08:16 PM

Still singing for you and yours.
Blessings,

Barbara

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Joe Offer
Date: 08 Aug 11 - 02:07 AM

Just to keep your spirits up, how 'bout the Queensland version of "Waltzing Matilda"?

And he sang as he watched and waited 'til his billy boiled, you'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.....

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: s&r
Date: 09 Aug 11 - 02:47 AM

Hope all is still improving

Stu

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: alanabit
Date: 10 Aug 11 - 02:47 AM

Same message from here. Hope things are quietly on the mend.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: My guru always said
Date: 10 Aug 11 - 03:51 AM

Still sending positive thoughts to you all!

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Frug
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 05:51 PM

Hello Catters........sorry for the long wait for a Sassy update but life as you can imagine has been volatile. Sassy progressed vey quickly for the first couple of days and then became beset with a very high temperature. Various attempts at controlling it were unsuccessful and as there was a risk of fitting/seizures, they eventually hit her with massive doses of broad spectrum antibiotics. To an extent these worked and the temp. reduced. Sassy became more herself, and personality started to out. She was asking for food, particularly Greek salad and demanded her breakfast.....however sill on naso-gastric nutrition.

Many many positives......unfortunately she then experienced an anaphylactic reaction to one of the antibiotics and has inflamed airways. Consequently she has been sedated and reitubated and treated with steroids. She has been under sedation for 48 hrs and will be so for another 36-48 hrs. Her temperature and blood pressure are normalish without specific medication, she is physically strong and there has been no deterioration in her neuro condition. We remain optimistic that not only will she recover, but it will be a substantial if not total recovery. She has astounded the medics so far and knowing my girl she has more to come. There is a side issue. Sassys mom Polly passed away over the weekend. This was not a surprise as she has been suffering with vascular dementia for nearly 10 years following a stroke and we have nearly lost her on several occasions. Polly was in an intensive nursing home 5 miles from where we live and Sassy had reduced her hours at work and was spending up to 12 hours per day with Polly. Sassys sister Helen who lives in Scotland was coming down every other week and they shared the visiting care. Thankfully Helen was here when Sassy's illness/accident occured so was able to help me and the boys and to continue to support Polly on her inevitable journey. Whilst mourning my ma-in law with whom I had a marvellous relationship, I and the rest of the family am grateful that she is now at peace. The fact that Polly lasted so long is a testament to the strong will and determination to live of the family. This can only bode well for my Sassy, . Once again thank you for your thoughts prayers, and songs. We are very battered, tired but wholly optimistic for a good outcome. I shall try to updated again soon. Thank you Frank, Sassy, Sam, Dom xx

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: maeve
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 06:04 PM

Thank you, Frank. Isn't it interesting how life and death keep twining around one another?

Keeping you all in prayer,

Maeve

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Little Robyn
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 07:08 PM

Much love to you and your family Frank.
I've been playing my wee pipes (for the first time in ages) and the tune I was drawn to was the one from Andy Stewart - Now the battle's o'er.
but we sang the following words at a friend's funeral:

Fare thee well, make the journey homeward,
Strong in heart, trust in life's sweet flow,
Travel on over hill and valley
To the place where you long to go.
Travel onward, make the journey,
Carry with you the things you know,
Peace and blessing go before you,
Be your guide as you homeward go.

Robyn

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: DrugCrazed
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 07:38 PM

Still singing. Sad news about Polly, but I hope Sassy keeps fighting.

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: katlaughing
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 09:15 PM

Maybe Polly will be more able to help from the Other Side, if you believe in that kind of thing. Still sad to hear of her passing.

Thanks so much for taking the time to keep us updated. May all good things come to pass.

Much love and hugs,

kat

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Janie
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 09:18 PM

Still singing....

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 09:21 PM

Still reading along, in amazement.

SRS

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: BrooklynJay
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 09:32 PM

Thank you for the update - still singing, and sending prayers and all positive thoughts your way.


Jay

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 11:46 PM

I'm still singing, too, and I add my condolences for Polly. I like Kat's comment: "Maybe Polly will be more able to help from the Other Side, if you believe in that kind of thing."

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Genie
Date: 12 Aug 11 - 01:58 AM

Hang in there, Frank (and Sassy).    It's not an easy time for you, but I hope our prayers, visualizations, and singing are helping.

Genie

Subject: RE: from Frug: keep singing but read this for update
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 12 Aug 11 - 04:18 AM

as Stilly wrote - Still reading along, in amazement.