Malcolm was going to send a comment but it hasn't appeared so I'm putting up brief news:
Andrew has had a lumbar puncture to help determine whether or not to have an operation to clear the clot in his basilar artery. The spinal fluid looked OK, but needs proper test results due later today. If he does go for the op, he may have to be moved. There are not many places that do it. The L&D are talking to the Royal Free constantly and there is one other place in the Eastern Region
Chloe- he loved your 2006 broadcast. Music raises his alertness considerably. The consultant is concerned about his drowsiness, which is partly why they are considering an operation, rather than relying on the aspirin as they are doing now
Thank you all for your support
Gill
xxx
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From Malcolm (ex Fiddlin’ Around guitarist). Gill has asked me to let you all know how Andrew is today (Weds 11th Feb).
ReplyDeleteWhen I visited today I was pleasantly surprised to find him without tubes/drips/monitors and looking visually well. His measurable vital signs (blood-pressure, pulse etc) are all normal and he quickly demolishes any food that is placed in his vicinity. As has been said on a previous occasion, “This guy can eat!”
His voice is weak and he does become tired. However, he smiled and laughed at various quips. Understandably, he is a little insecure and appreciates comfort and reassurance.
Today he had a Lumbar Puncture. The fluid released from this is to be analised to help identify the way forward. Following the procedure, he has to lay flat for 24 hours. He is not very good at this and constantly wants to get up and/or move around.
There is a possibility that they MAY operate to remove the blood clot. The Consultant at L&D Hosp is discussing this with a specialist at The Royal Free Hosp. To be clear, it is by no means certain that they will operate. However, should they decide to do so, it is likely that Andrew will be moved to a different hospital. So, if you are intending to visit L&D, it might be sensible to phone first.
Andrew has had a succession of welcome visitors today: Ned (who brought a teddy!), Doreen, Chris (Weaver??) and Andrew’s sister Chris. Gill has been there all day and is intending to stay tonight. He has also received a whole bunch of get-well cards. It’s notable that Andrew managed to open each one unaided, and also read each of them and knew who the ‘senders’ were. I understand he also enjoyed listening to a CD sent by Chloe.
In fact music appears to be the main thing that absorbs Andrew – he becomes totally immersed in it. He has a CD player by the side of his bed, so if you have any ideas for music that might interest him….
Finally I must mention Gill. She is brilliant with Andrew – comforting him and keeping his spirits up. I am sure that we shall all continue to do whatever we can to support her as well as Andrew.
It's good to read all the news about Andrew. I visited on Tuesday when he not only remembered who I was but also the names of my children.
ReplyDeleteI also wanted to add a comment about how wonderful Gill has been. I'm sure I would have crumpled under the strain by now.
Love
Caroline