Well, I was hoping Jean would be able to write the next post but it doesn’t look that will happen anytime soon.
Before I tell you what’s going on, I want you to know that this is not uncommon (thanks Judy) and will hopefully resolve within the next few days. In fact, there has already been some small improvement.
Here’s what happened:
About 3 am Sunday morning they tried to give her a pill and she couldn’t/wouldn’t swallow it. Further physical assessment revealed she was unable to talk or follow commands like, hand squeezes, move hands, fingers, legs, toes. Not able to hold up her arms or legs up. If she opened her eyes, there was no eye contact. CT scan showed no indication of stoke. EEC showed no indication of stroke or seizure. With pain stimulation (pinching) she moves her arms and legs. Although they can’t rule out stroke entirely without an MRI (which can’t be done now because she has temporary pacer wires) they’re pretty sure she has Metabolic Encephalopathy. Probably caused by all the drugs and resulting chemical imbalances in her system.
The good news is, she is now occasionally reacting appropriately to some people; eye contact, a smile or nod, even the occasional word. She seems to react better to people she knows so if you can come by for a short visit, please do. Of course, don’t come if you even think you’re sick or if you haven’t had your flu and covid vaccines. Also, you will have to wear a mask.
The other good news is, her new heart is doing exceptionally well.
Also, I hope you’ll forgive me for not answering texts and emails promptly or even not at all. I really appreciate them, more than you know (thanks Luke). It’s just all quite overwhelming for me at times. I find making the blog post cathartic.
I’ll try to update this post daily until she gets past this stage.
Sun and Sand Travelers 
Cliff & I are sending optimistic thoughts and prayers to you both!! 🙏 ❤️
Wow. This is scary. But when I think back to when I had my surgery in ’94 I remember all the things that seemed to go wrong. Jean has gone through a much more invasive surgery then mine was, and it will take time to get things straightened out. We are praying for both of you.
So happy to hear that Jean’s new heart is working so well. We hope that time will continue to help her come right. Our love to you both.
Always, always thinking of you two.
Okay … Brother from another mother will be there on Wednesday morning!
The road back seems like a long and steep one, my brother, and I can’t imagine how physically and emotionally taxing this has been. I’m so glad that Jean is showing some signs of progress, and am of the belief she’ll continue to improve. God’s not done with her yet, and we’re all pulling for you. Keep the faith and know you’re loved.
Prayers and more prayers for you both. Jean you got this we love both of you. Love you Donna and Steve
The human body and modern medicine are astounding (and Jean, you are a true superhero!) Thinking of you both and sending much love and gentle healing thoughts. ❤️
We’re always thinking of you two, looking forward to getting updates and optimistic as usual.
We would like to visit you this weekend if that would be good. We both are vaccinated against Covid and the flu. We brought masks. Let us know what you think. We are here to support you both in any way that we can.
Tom and Heather