I wanted to re-cap what Father Charles said so eloquently about Chris during his homily. It's not a direct quote...just what I can remember from that day.
Father Charles told a story about Chris from when Father Charles, Chris and several others went hiking on the Appalachain Trail for a day or two. He said Chris would be hiking with the group and then pass them and be the first to see the beautiful scenery along the trail. Father Charles said he knew Chris had reached a great view by look of awe and amazement on his face.
Chris is ahead of us with our Heavenly Father seeing beautiful scenery that none of us have evern seen before. I look forward to the day when I may be able to enjoy that beautiful scenery with him.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Highwayman
Below is a link to a live performance of one of Chris' favorite songs "The Highwayman" by the Highwaymen. Greg read some of the lyrics in his eulogy. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uw1bHaUk1CM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uw1bHaUk1CM
Friday, December 4, 2009
New Beginnings
Below is a sermon by Father Thack Dyson about new beginnings. Father Thack was the priest at St. Marks before moving to St. Paul's in Daphne.
http://www.stpaulseasternshore.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Yc08myT%2bJWw%3d&tabid=154&mid=719
While my family and all of us who knew and loved Chris are still grieving and will be for months, this sermon sends a message that after we have grieved, we will all start new chapters in our lives. Here is an excerpt:
"As believers of the resurrection, we perceive the conclusions of their last earthly chapters of life as only the beginning of a new chapter for both of them---an endless chapter with God. But their deaths are more than that. They also usher in the beginning of the new chapters in our lives without them. These kinds of beginnings can be very hard for many of us [...]The reality, however, is that everything, including life as we know it—both the good and the bad—will never be the same. From this day forward, for everyone, life will never be the same. And sometimes, some days, that knowledge can really hurt. But as people of faith, we also know that what hurts us, if we acknowledge it, can also heal us. If we can honestly face the painful endings of our lives and deal with them, we are thus liberated to embrace the new beginnings that follow."
http://www.stpaulseasternshore.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Yc08myT%2bJWw%3d&tabid=154&mid=719
While my family and all of us who knew and loved Chris are still grieving and will be for months, this sermon sends a message that after we have grieved, we will all start new chapters in our lives. Here is an excerpt:
"As believers of the resurrection, we perceive the conclusions of their last earthly chapters of life as only the beginning of a new chapter for both of them---an endless chapter with God. But their deaths are more than that. They also usher in the beginning of the new chapters in our lives without them. These kinds of beginnings can be very hard for many of us [...]The reality, however, is that everything, including life as we know it—both the good and the bad—will never be the same. From this day forward, for everyone, life will never be the same. And sometimes, some days, that knowledge can really hurt. But as people of faith, we also know that what hurts us, if we acknowledge it, can also heal us. If we can honestly face the painful endings of our lives and deal with them, we are thus liberated to embrace the new beginnings that follow."
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Chris' Eulogy
Here is a copy of the eulogy which was given by Greg Spence, one of Chris' best friends. Greg was an amazing friend to Chris. He was right there with the rest of us into the wee hours at the hospital day in and day out. Thank you, Greg, for all that you did for Chris and our family.
Eulogy for Christopher Clarke Patterson:
Today, we’ve gathered together to cherish the many memories of Chris Patterson, a dear son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Though the many paths we’ve taken with Chris by our side originate in different times and different places, they’ve finally converged here, in this single, blessed celebration of his life.
Chris was first led on these paths by his parents, Doug and Lisa, who instilled in him the hard-earned values of love, kindness, determination, and faith. Like twin pillars, they have supported him at every stage of his life: from his early days in Talladega and Troy, to his more recent times in Phenix City and Panama City. In his sisters, there are also reflections of Chris; in Lauren, his restless, adventurous spirit resides; in Natalie, his persistent drive for success.
My path with Chris began six years ago, when I first started teaching English at Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Within months, we’d become fast friends. We would spend countless hours catching up, chatting about everything under the sun. After gradually getting to know him better, I marveled at the range and depth of Chris’s interests. In the course of a single conversation, it wasn’t unusual for us to discuss:
Music: Chris loved music, especially acoustic guitar songs.
Movies: He had a special passion for disaster movies. If the movie involved zombies taking over a small town or a meteor plummeting to earth, you can bet that, on opening night, Chris would be sitting in the front row of the theater.
Television: Chris avidly watched episodes of Curb your Enthusiasm and loved The Office, in large part, because he was living it every day at C.V.C.C. He came across a whole cast of characters there.
Books: He would always pick up the latest Dan Brown thriller or spy novel. My own personal favorite was one entitled “Marketing to Women: How to Understand, Reach, and Increase Your Share of the World’s Largest Market Segment.” Apparently, Chris wasn’t only studying Economics while enrolled in Business classes at Troy.
Chris can be admired for so many reasons:
He was kind, even-tempered, gracious, and always modest.
He was calm in the midst of crisis, like the eye in the center of a hurricane.
But most of all, he was an extraordinary listener. When you were in Chris’ presence, a solemn hush would fall over the room: that was the sound of him listening to you.
Working with Ms. Cynthia Floyd in Student Services, Chris managed literally thousands of students and advisees who arrived at his door, which was always open. He registered them for classes, instructed them in Orientation courses, and guided them in student organizations. More importantly, he played an indispensible role in shaping and directing each student’s future.
All his life, Chris was a fighter. In the last few weeks, he fought harder than he ever had. His numbers were down, but with the help of his loved ones we rallied to his cause, stirred him with our words. We called him by many names: son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, “Christopher,” “Chris,” “Christo,” “Bigfoot,” even “Rambo.” And as we called him, he listened to us, he responded to our call, and he climbed back to the top.
I know that Chris has ascended to heaven, where he is at peace with our Lord. That state of constant, peaceful calm was always in his nature, after all. He’s at home now. You can call on him any time there, and he will respond.
A little over a year ago, Chris sent me an email. In it was a brief message and a link to a live performance by a band that he loved. The brief message read: “don’t know if you’re into The Highwaymen. Here is one of their songs. One of my favorites.” Listen carefully to the songs’ lyrics and you’ll hear echoes of Chris’ voice:
I was a sailor. I was born upon the tide.
And with the sea I did abide.
I sailed a schooner round the Horn to Mexico.
I went aloft and furled the mainsail in a blow
And when the yards broke off they said that I got killed
But I am living still.
I was a dam builder across the river deep and wide
Where steal and water did collide.
A place called Boulder on the wild Colorado.
I slipped and fell into the wet concrete below
They buried me in that great tomb that knows no sound.
But I am still around…I’ll always be around…
and around and around and around and around.
I fly a starship across the Universe divide
And when I reach the other side
I’ll find a place to rest my spirit if I can
Perhaps I may simply be a single drop of rain
But I will remain.
And I’ll be back again and again and again and again.
Eulogy for Christopher Clarke Patterson:
Today, we’ve gathered together to cherish the many memories of Chris Patterson, a dear son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Though the many paths we’ve taken with Chris by our side originate in different times and different places, they’ve finally converged here, in this single, blessed celebration of his life.
Chris was first led on these paths by his parents, Doug and Lisa, who instilled in him the hard-earned values of love, kindness, determination, and faith. Like twin pillars, they have supported him at every stage of his life: from his early days in Talladega and Troy, to his more recent times in Phenix City and Panama City. In his sisters, there are also reflections of Chris; in Lauren, his restless, adventurous spirit resides; in Natalie, his persistent drive for success.
My path with Chris began six years ago, when I first started teaching English at Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Within months, we’d become fast friends. We would spend countless hours catching up, chatting about everything under the sun. After gradually getting to know him better, I marveled at the range and depth of Chris’s interests. In the course of a single conversation, it wasn’t unusual for us to discuss:
Music: Chris loved music, especially acoustic guitar songs.
Movies: He had a special passion for disaster movies. If the movie involved zombies taking over a small town or a meteor plummeting to earth, you can bet that, on opening night, Chris would be sitting in the front row of the theater.
Television: Chris avidly watched episodes of Curb your Enthusiasm and loved The Office, in large part, because he was living it every day at C.V.C.C. He came across a whole cast of characters there.
Books: He would always pick up the latest Dan Brown thriller or spy novel. My own personal favorite was one entitled “Marketing to Women: How to Understand, Reach, and Increase Your Share of the World’s Largest Market Segment.” Apparently, Chris wasn’t only studying Economics while enrolled in Business classes at Troy.
Chris can be admired for so many reasons:
He was kind, even-tempered, gracious, and always modest.
He was calm in the midst of crisis, like the eye in the center of a hurricane.
But most of all, he was an extraordinary listener. When you were in Chris’ presence, a solemn hush would fall over the room: that was the sound of him listening to you.
Working with Ms. Cynthia Floyd in Student Services, Chris managed literally thousands of students and advisees who arrived at his door, which was always open. He registered them for classes, instructed them in Orientation courses, and guided them in student organizations. More importantly, he played an indispensible role in shaping and directing each student’s future.
All his life, Chris was a fighter. In the last few weeks, he fought harder than he ever had. His numbers were down, but with the help of his loved ones we rallied to his cause, stirred him with our words. We called him by many names: son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, “Christopher,” “Chris,” “Christo,” “Bigfoot,” even “Rambo.” And as we called him, he listened to us, he responded to our call, and he climbed back to the top.
I know that Chris has ascended to heaven, where he is at peace with our Lord. That state of constant, peaceful calm was always in his nature, after all. He’s at home now. You can call on him any time there, and he will respond.
A little over a year ago, Chris sent me an email. In it was a brief message and a link to a live performance by a band that he loved. The brief message read: “don’t know if you’re into The Highwaymen. Here is one of their songs. One of my favorites.” Listen carefully to the songs’ lyrics and you’ll hear echoes of Chris’ voice:
I was a sailor. I was born upon the tide.
And with the sea I did abide.
I sailed a schooner round the Horn to Mexico.
I went aloft and furled the mainsail in a blow
And when the yards broke off they said that I got killed
But I am living still.
I was a dam builder across the river deep and wide
Where steal and water did collide.
A place called Boulder on the wild Colorado.
I slipped and fell into the wet concrete below
They buried me in that great tomb that knows no sound.
But I am still around…I’ll always be around…
and around and around and around and around.
I fly a starship across the Universe divide
And when I reach the other side
I’ll find a place to rest my spirit if I can
Perhaps I may simply be a single drop of rain
But I will remain.
And I’ll be back again and again and again and again.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Address for Memorials
Donations to The Chris Patterson Student Services Support Fund may be sent to the following address:
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
c/o The Chris Patterson Student Services Support Fund
2602 College Dr.
Phenix City, AL 36869
Thank you.
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
c/o The Chris Patterson Student Services Support Fund
2602 College Dr.
Phenix City, AL 36869
Thank you.
Directions to Green Hills Funeral Home in Troy, AL and Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, AL
The address to Green Hills Funeral Home where the visitation and funeral will be held is:
1621 South US Hwy 29
Troy, Alabama 36079
For a map, please visit their website at:
http://www.greenhillsfuneralhome.net/?page_id=22
Here are directions from Green Hills Funeral Home in Troy to Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham where the burial will take place:
1. Take a right out of the funeral home
2. take exit for 231 North
3. Turn right on Taylor Rd in Montgomery
4. Merge onto I-85 S via the ramp to Downtown
5. Take exit 172 to merge onto I-65 N toward Birmingham
6. Take exit 258 for Greenspring Ave
7.Turn left at Green Springs Ave S
8.Turn right at Martin Luther King Jr Drive
9. Elmwood cemetery will be on your left
1621 South US Hwy 29
Troy, Alabama 36079
For a map, please visit their website at:
http://www.greenhillsfuneralhome.net/?page_id=22
Here are directions from Green Hills Funeral Home in Troy to Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham where the burial will take place:
1. Take a right out of the funeral home
2. take exit for 231 North
3. Turn right on Taylor Rd in Montgomery
4. Merge onto I-85 S via the ramp to Downtown
5. Take exit 172 to merge onto I-65 N toward Birmingham
6. Take exit 258 for Greenspring Ave
7.Turn left at Green Springs Ave S
8.Turn right at Martin Luther King Jr Drive
9. Elmwood cemetery will be on your left
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Memorials
In lieu of flowers, we are asking for donations to a special student services support fund in Chris' memory at Chattahoochee Valley Community College where Chris served as an advisor and counselor to all who needed his attentive ear.
Donations can be sent to the following address:
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
c/o The Chris Patterson Student Services Support Fund
2602 College Dr.
Phenix City, AL 36869
Donations can be sent to the following address:
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
c/o The Chris Patterson Student Services Support Fund
2602 College Dr.
Phenix City, AL 36869
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Visitation and Funeral Dates and Times
Chris' visitation will be at Green Hills Funeral Home on Monday starting at 5:00pm and will last until about 7pm or later depending. The funeral will also be held at Green Hills Funeral Home on Tuesday. It begins at 10:00am. After the funeral, we will be driving straight to Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham where Chris will be laid to rest next to his Grandmother and Grandfather.
Chris' Lambda Chi Alpha brothers will be honorary pall bearers.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Chris' Lambda Chi Alpha brothers will be honorary pall bearers.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Heaven has a new angel
Christopher Clarke Patterson went to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend and will be sorely missed. God must have an awfully important job for him in Heaven.
Thank you all for your love, support and prayers. We are blessed to have all of you in our lives.
May you rest in peace, Christopher.
Thank you all for your love, support and prayers. We are blessed to have all of you in our lives.
May you rest in peace, Christopher.
In Need of Many Prayers
Chris has been really struggling today. They are having a hard time keeping his oxygen levels up. He was not doing well with the pressure from oscilator and his stats were not improving so they switched him back to the old ventilator and his oxygen level is at about 50-52%. The nurse said she hopes that he will steadily climb but she cannot guarantte anything. Please pray that his stats steadily climb and the he does better on the old ventilator.
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW 3:00pm
The intensivit doctor (who is really sharp) gave us a daily update with some tough news. He said he was waiting on the radiologist to come look and see whether Chris' blood clots in his legs had improved or not. Chris' oxygen levels have been really low today. The intensivist was thinking because his blood oxygen levels were low there had to be something else going on for his oxygen levels to be so low because all of his other x-rays and information looked like he shouldn't be this ill. So, if the blood clots were worse, my parents would have had to make the decision whether to move him in his delicate state to get a cat scan to see if there was a clot in his lung. The doctor said just moving him would be a major risk because several things could go wrong. Then, it would be risk giving him the dye to do the cat scan because the effect it might have on his kidneys. And if there was a blood clot in his lungs they would have to give him thrombolitic, which is very very risky in itself because he has bled internally in his lungs before.
So after the intensivist left we were waiting on the xray reading by the radiologist as to whether his blood clots had improved. Thanks to yet another miracle by God, they had improved!! So, they will not have to move him. However, the doctor said that means that there is something else other than the clots that is causing his oxygen numbers to be low. He said it could be the bacterial infection in his sputum that is making his numbers so low. So please pray that the infection goes away and that whatever may be causing his oxygen levels to be so low to go away, too.
So after the intensivist left we were waiting on the xray reading by the radiologist as to whether his blood clots had improved. Thanks to yet another miracle by God, they had improved!! So, they will not have to move him. However, the doctor said that means that there is something else other than the clots that is causing his oxygen numbers to be low. He said it could be the bacterial infection in his sputum that is making his numbers so low. So please pray that the infection goes away and that whatever may be causing his oxygen levels to be so low to go away, too.
Nov. 27 @ 2:30
Chris' oxygen levels are floating around in the 60s and 70s. They were in the mid-80s for most of the night, but this morning after they were cleanin his trach his oxygen levels dropped. The nurse said they would go back up so hopefully they will. His lungs are still very inflammed and they found a new bacterial infection in his sputum. Please pray that the bacterial infection goes away, that his blood oxygen goes back up and that his lungs begin to heal.
Chris is in a very delicate place. He has so much to fight against. He has fought so hard for so long and I know he can keep going. Please pray that God sees him through this.
Chris is in a very delicate place. He has so much to fight against. He has fought so hard for so long and I know he can keep going. Please pray that God sees him through this.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving Update II
Around 8:30 tonight we checked on Chris and his blood oxygen level was around 80. The nurse said that was because the respiratory therapist had just been in to do a few things and the nurse said the oxygen level should go back up soon. I checked on him again around 10 and his oxygen level was still in the low 80s. She said they were working on getting it to above 85. Please pray that Chris' oxygen levels get above 85 and stay there for the rest of the night.
Thanksgiving Day Update
On this Thanksgiving day, my family has so much to be thankful for. First and foremost we are thankful for an awesome and loving God that has continuously wrapped Chris and our family in his loving arms. We are so very thankful for a son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend who continues to fight minute by minute so that next Thanksgiving he will be around our family table enjoying a heaping pile of stuffing and turkey. And, we are thankful for all of our family and friends. Our family has truly been shown the real meaning of love and friendship, and we will never be able to adequately express to all of you how much your support has meant to us. We couldn't have made it this far without all of you.
Chris had a really great night last night. Throughout the night he steadily maintaied a blood oxygen level from 97-98 and all of his other vitals were good, too. Today, the doctor said his lungs looked the same as yesterday (but yesterday the doctor said they were looking better so that is good that there was no change). The doctors are no longer concerned as much about his pancrease or kidneys. The doctor continues to be concerned about the blood clotting. Please pray that the doctors can find that delicate balance with the heprin to help combat the clots.
The doctors have also started to lower the amount of oxygen that the oscilator is pumping. They brought it down to 95%. Please pray that Chris can adjust as the reduce the amount of oxygen.
Chris had a really great night last night. Throughout the night he steadily maintaied a blood oxygen level from 97-98 and all of his other vitals were good, too. Today, the doctor said his lungs looked the same as yesterday (but yesterday the doctor said they were looking better so that is good that there was no change). The doctors are no longer concerned as much about his pancrease or kidneys. The doctor continues to be concerned about the blood clotting. Please pray that the doctors can find that delicate balance with the heprin to help combat the clots.
The doctors have also started to lower the amount of oxygen that the oscilator is pumping. They brought it down to 95%. Please pray that Chris can adjust as the reduce the amount of oxygen.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Chris is still hanging in there! He is being so strong! They have slightly elevated him and eventually want to elevate him to 30% so that they can put in a feeding tube again.
The doctors are still concerned about the clotting and he remains on the heprin. His oxygen levels are pretty much the same--floating around in the high 80s.
Please pray that he remains stable for the night! We finally convinced mom and dad to go home for a full night's sleep. Lauren, my aunt, uncle, cousins and me are keeping watch during the night. Please pray that my parents actually get a good night's sleep.
The doctors are still concerned about the clotting and he remains on the heprin. His oxygen levels are pretty much the same--floating around in the high 80s.
Please pray that he remains stable for the night! We finally convinced mom and dad to go home for a full night's sleep. Lauren, my aunt, uncle, cousins and me are keeping watch during the night. Please pray that my parents actually get a good night's sleep.
I apologize for just now updating. My mom and I arrived at the hospital recently for our shift.
Chris is still hanging on. He is such a fighter!! The doctor said that his pneumonia is looking better so that is good news. However, the blood clots still present a major problem. The doctors and nurses are doing their best to keep the blood clots in check and to maintain the delicate balance with the heprin. When my mom and I left at 5am his blood oxygen level was at 80. It had hit as high as 98 while I was visiting with him. This morning his blood oxygen levels have been around 76. I will update again soon after my parents have gotten another report from the doctors.
This morning one of my dad's friends called to let us know about an article in USA Today. Here is the link:
http://content.usatoday.com/topics/post/Letter+to+the+editor/620002787.blog/1
What an inspiration this story is to our family! We are praying that like the guy in the article above, Chris, too, will pull through this.
Chris is still hanging on. He is such a fighter!! The doctor said that his pneumonia is looking better so that is good news. However, the blood clots still present a major problem. The doctors and nurses are doing their best to keep the blood clots in check and to maintain the delicate balance with the heprin. When my mom and I left at 5am his blood oxygen level was at 80. It had hit as high as 98 while I was visiting with him. This morning his blood oxygen levels have been around 76. I will update again soon after my parents have gotten another report from the doctors.
This morning one of my dad's friends called to let us know about an article in USA Today. Here is the link:
http://content.usatoday.com/topics/post/Letter+to+the+editor/620002787.blog/1
What an inspiration this story is to our family! We are praying that like the guy in the article above, Chris, too, will pull through this.
Chris is still holding on. His oxygen levels are between 82-86 and he is remaining steady. We are hoping he remains stable throughout the night. Please pray that all of the blood clots in his body go away and that his lungs continue to react to the new oscilator.
Thank you all so much for your support. We couldn't have made it this far without all of you.
"Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard." Isaiah 58:8
Thank you all so much for your support. We couldn't have made it this far without all of you.
"Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard." Isaiah 58:8
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
update as of Nov. 24 @ 4:30pm
Chris' oxygen levels are around 88-89. He has had a slow and steady upward climb today. The doctor is concerned the many blood clots in Chris' legs. They did an ultrasound and found them. The doctor suspected they were there before they were able to do the ultra sound so he put him on heprin prevantively and we are so thankful he did. He said had he not, Chris would not have made it rhrough the night.
The doctor said that H1N1 causes severe deep vein thrombosis (blood clotting). He said Chris is only 1 of 5 cases he has to study that is similar to his because H1N1 is so new. Treating the blood clotting is very delicate balancing task. The amount of heprin needed to treat regular blood clotts is not enough so they have to give him more. That creates the risk of bleeding anywhere in his body.
We have decided to start doing shifts instead of all of us trying to be here at once and then all of us getting exhausted at the same time. This way, someone will be here all throughout the night and we can all get some rest. Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers. This is in God's hands.
The doctor said that H1N1 causes severe deep vein thrombosis (blood clotting). He said Chris is only 1 of 5 cases he has to study that is similar to his because H1N1 is so new. Treating the blood clotting is very delicate balancing task. The amount of heprin needed to treat regular blood clotts is not enough so they have to give him more. That creates the risk of bleeding anywhere in his body.
We have decided to start doing shifts instead of all of us trying to be here at once and then all of us getting exhausted at the same time. This way, someone will be here all throughout the night and we can all get some rest. Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers. This is in God's hands.
update Nov. 24 @ 7:53am
When we got here this morning Chris' oxygen levels were at 38. Now, his oxygen levels are at about 71. Chris also has blood clots in his legs. They put something in him that will prevent the blood clots from going anywhere else other than his legs. I can't remember what it is called. Please pray that his numbers keep improving.
He is so strong. He has done this once and I know he can do this again. Please pray for him. We know God has a plan and a purpose for everyone and every single thing that He does.
He is so strong. He has done this once and I know he can do this again. Please pray for him. We know God has a plan and a purpose for everyone and every single thing that He does.
Please Pray for another miracle
Urgent: Oxygen levels have dropped drastically. Chris needs all the prayers he can get. Please pray for another miracle.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Nov. 23 @ 9:15
When we left Chris tonight all of his vitals were strong and he looked good. Please pray that he has a good, calm night and that the oscilator continues to work well for Chris. Our hope is that they can get Chris on the normal ventilator tomorrow and then begin to bring down the amount of oxygen the ventilator pumps and slowly bring him out of sedation.
All of you, including those we do not know, have no idea how much we appreciate all of your kind thoughts and prayers. They mean the world to us.
All of you, including those we do not know, have no idea how much we appreciate all of your kind thoughts and prayers. They mean the world to us.
Even more good news @ 2:54
Lauren just arrived from Ecuador. We are so glad she is finally here and that all of our family is finally together. We just went back to see Chris. His oxygen level was at 100!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is the highest it has been since he was admitted to the hospital. The oscilator (jet ventilator) is recruiting the aveioli in the lungs. The nurse said they will leave him on the oscilator through out the night because he is doing so well on it. They may consider moving him to a regular ventilator tomorrow sometime.
We are on a roller coaster ride. We have to keep praying that he remains stable. We are taking this a minute at a time. My whole family and I are amazed at the power of the Lord and the power of prayer.
We are on a roller coaster ride. We have to keep praying that he remains stable. We are taking this a minute at a time. My whole family and I are amazed at the power of the Lord and the power of prayer.
11am Nov, 23 PRAISE THE LORD
When we left last night Chris' oxygen level was at 86. This morning when I got here his oxygen level was at 96. When the doctors got here this morning they were AMAZED that Chris made it through the night. They said when they left last night they had done all that they could do and it was in God's hands. THanks to all of your prayers and his amazing cheer squad here, we got him through the night.
He is still very, very ill and not out of the woods yet. Specifically, please pray that the low oxygen levels he had yesterday did not cause any brain damage. The doctor said this morning he was concerned about his kidneys so please pray that his kidneys stay steady and strong. His pancrease is not inflammed anymore.
Thank you all so much for your prayers! They have complimentary wireless here so I will try to update as much as I can.
He is still very, very ill and not out of the woods yet. Specifically, please pray that the low oxygen levels he had yesterday did not cause any brain damage. The doctor said this morning he was concerned about his kidneys so please pray that his kidneys stay steady and strong. His pancrease is not inflammed anymore.
Thank you all so much for your prayers! They have complimentary wireless here so I will try to update as much as I can.
update 2:00am
Wow. I am amazed by God and the strength he has given Chris since I arrived here and at the will of Chris to hang in there and keep fighting. At around 10pm the nurse called us back because his oxygen levels dropped really low. We got in there and started cheering him on to keep fighting. Little by little his oxygen level raised. He went from below 50% to 85% where he is now.
Please continue praying because it is working! First, it was a miracle that he survived the transport of only one block to another hospital. It was another miracle that they were able to do the procedure and put him on this new breathing machine. And third, it is a miracle that he has made such an improvement in one night. And it was all through your prayers and the power of God.
Please continue praying because it is working! First, it was a miracle that he survived the transport of only one block to another hospital. It was another miracle that they were able to do the procedure and put him on this new breathing machine. And third, it is a miracle that he has made such an improvement in one night. And it was all through your prayers and the power of God.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Still Holdin' On 6:40pm
Chris is still holding on. He is fighting. His blood oxygen level remains low around 60%. We are taking it a minute at a time. Please pray for all of his numbers to keep increasing. The doctors and nurses are doing all that they can.
4:00pm
We just went back and talked to the doctor and saw Chris. They were able to get him on the new jet ventilator and have got his blood pressure up a little and and his blood oxxygen is up from 40% to 60%. He is still in extremely critical condition. The doctor said he has seen this new ventilator work and he has seen it not work.
He has a whole team of doctors and nurses continuously by his side. Please pray that god guides their hands and that Chris' numbers keep going upwards. And pray that God wraps his loving arms around Chris and provide him with comfort.
He has a whole team of doctors and nurses continuously by his side. Please pray that god guides their hands and that Chris' numbers keep going upwards. And pray that God wraps his loving arms around Chris and provide him with comfort.
Update as of 3:00 Nov. 22
Early this morning all of Chris' vitals were going down swiftly. As a last chance/last minute procedure, they transferred Chris from Doctor's Hospital in Columbus to a hospital that is literally right next door to Columbus Regional Medical CEnter to the 8th floor for an emergency procedure. They were trying to push air into his lungs and switch him over to jet ventilator which is a new kind of ventilator that hasnt been used much. They were able to get him stable enough to switch ventilators, but the new one didnt work and his vitals kept going down so they put him back on the regular ventilator. They may try to switch him back to the jet ventilator later. He is still not stable and all of his numbers are really, really low.
PLEASE PRAY FOR A MIRACLE!!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE PRAY FOR A MIRACLE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Nov. 20 @ 3:00pm
Chris is holding on. The doctors are trying to do all that they can to clear Chris' lungs. The lungs are not progressing as fast as the doctors want them to. Chris is also retaining a lot of fluid in his body so the doctors have upped some of his medications to help him get all of that extra fluid out.
Right now, Chris' main battle is with ARDS. As a systematic result of the ARDS, Chris has an inflammed pancrease. The doctors also think it is because he has not had much food.
He is on the final day of the new H1N1 drug, and they are going to test him for H1N1 again to see if it is still in his body.
All of Chris' other systems are steady and holding. His blood oxygen level is back up from yesterday. The doctors are keeping Chris going so that he can recover from this. Please pray that the doctors can treat the ARDS so that Chris' lungs and the rest of his body can heal.
Right now, Chris' main battle is with ARDS. As a systematic result of the ARDS, Chris has an inflammed pancrease. The doctors also think it is because he has not had much food.
He is on the final day of the new H1N1 drug, and they are going to test him for H1N1 again to see if it is still in his body.
All of Chris' other systems are steady and holding. His blood oxygen level is back up from yesterday. The doctors are keeping Chris going so that he can recover from this. Please pray that the doctors can treat the ARDS so that Chris' lungs and the rest of his body can heal.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Nov. 19 @ 11:45pm
The pulmonogist continues to adjust Chris' oxygen levels to treat the ARDS. He moves the amount of oxygen the ventilator pumps up and down as a part of that treatment. His blood oxygen level has been fluctuating, but it has not been below 90% so that is good. We want it to stay above 90%.
I want so bad for Chris to be off of the ventilator, but he may be on it for a while as part of his recovery. I called my mom earlier and she sounded positive. She said we are going to pull Chris through this, and we will. We have to pray that Chris continues to fight this and the ARDS.
I want so bad for Chris to be off of the ventilator, but he may be on it for a while as part of his recovery. I called my mom earlier and she sounded positive. She said we are going to pull Chris through this, and we will. We have to pray that Chris continues to fight this and the ARDS.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Nov. 18 @ 1:30pm
Today, the pulmonologist drained a lot of fluid from Chris' lungs. They are going to test that fluid to see if there is any other kind of infection in addition to the H1N1. Because of that procedure, they raised his ventilator to 88%. My mom said he looked like he was resting really well.
I will update the blog later today if I get anymore news. Thank you all for your comments and prayers. Please keep praying for him!
I will update the blog later today if I get anymore news. Thank you all for your comments and prayers. Please keep praying for him!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Nov. 17 @ 1:30pm
Chris is hangin' in there. The ventilator is pumping 70% oxygen and Chris' blood oxygen has remained steady at 97%. This is about where Chris was before he got the ventilator associated pneumonia and the tracheotomy. Let's pray that he remains at 97% blood oxygen as doctors and nurses continue to lower his ventilator oxygen supply.
Today, the doctor will do an echo gram on the back side of his lungs. They think there may be some fluid back there, and the echo gram will determine if there is. If there is, then they will drain the fluid which will help Chris even more.
The doctors want to give him food, but are not ready to bring him out of sedation quite yet and do not want to have a relapse with the feeding tube causing aspiration into his lungs so they are looking into that. It will probably be a few days before he is out of sedation.
Thank you all for your comments and prayers! They are much appreciated!
Today, the doctor will do an echo gram on the back side of his lungs. They think there may be some fluid back there, and the echo gram will determine if there is. If there is, then they will drain the fluid which will help Chris even more.
The doctors want to give him food, but are not ready to bring him out of sedation quite yet and do not want to have a relapse with the feeding tube causing aspiration into his lungs so they are looking into that. It will probably be a few days before he is out of sedation.
Thank you all for your comments and prayers! They are much appreciated!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Nov. 16 @ 5pm
Chris has developed acute respiratory distress sydrome (ARDS). There is not a drug that can treat it, but the pulmonologist is treating it by finding different ways to supply Chris with oxygen. The ventilator is still pumping most of the oxygen. His blood oxygen remains at 97 which is very good. My parents have changed pulmonogist. The one we had before was doing a good job, but the new one was suggested by several people, and he is very well respected in the community.
Chris will also be receiving another drug to help treat H1N1. It has been approved by the FDA and could possibly help Chris more than the Tamiflu.
My dad said from here on out there will not be much to update on a daily basis because Chris has a very, very long road to recovery ahead of him. I will still continue to update the blog daily and whenever I receive any kind of news. We just need to pray that Chris remains strong and encouraged during this time and pray that his lungs heal. Also please pray that he begins to heal from ARDS.
Chris will also be receiving another drug to help treat H1N1. It has been approved by the FDA and could possibly help Chris more than the Tamiflu.
My dad said from here on out there will not be much to update on a daily basis because Chris has a very, very long road to recovery ahead of him. I will still continue to update the blog daily and whenever I receive any kind of news. We just need to pray that Chris remains strong and encouraged during this time and pray that his lungs heal. Also please pray that he begins to heal from ARDS.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Nov. 15 @ 8pm
My mom and dad saw Chris and they said he was resting really well. They will very, very slowly begin to bring him out of sedation. Tomorrow, they will begin weaning him off the ventilator like they were doing before.
11am Nov. 15--Chris out of procedure
My dad just informed me that Chris is done with the tracheotomy procedure. He said it went well and only took about 30 minutes. They were waiting to see him in the ICU.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Tracheotomy procedure
I just wanted to let everyone know that Chris' tracheotomy procedure is scheduled for 8am tomorrow morning.
Nov. 14 @ 11am: LOTS of news
We have received lots of news today. The doctors confirmed that Chris has H1N1, which they have been treating him for all along with Tamiflu. The Infectious Disease Specialist is trying to locate a new drug to treat H1N1 for additional help as Chris combats this horrible disease. The Pulmonologist said that Chris is over the worst activity of H1N1--whatever damage H1N1 could do has already been done, and he also said that he is treating the ventilator associate pneumonia and making progress with that.
Chris' oxygen is at 80% and he will remain on the ventialtor for a while. Because he will have to be on the ventilator for a while, Chris will have a tracheotomy done either this afternoon or tomorrow morning. After the tracheotomy is done, all of the ventilator tubes will come out of the trach instead of his mouth. As a result, they will be able to bring Chris out of sedation, he will be able to sit up, eat food instead of having a feeding tube in his stomach, and while he will not be able to talk, he will be able to write so he can communicate (he was trying to write on a clipboard before, but because of the sedation his writing was not legible). Chris was very uncomfortable and getting agitated with the ventilator tubes going through his mouth. This procedure will make him much more comfortable and is good news. Some of you may know that my dad had 2 tracheotomies done in the past. He said that while it sounds like a major procedure, it is not a complicated one and will help Chris. I find comfort in knowing that my dad will be able to coach Chris through having this trach because he has "been there and done that."
In addition, all of Chris' vitals remain good. They are also measuring his Peep breathing level. I don't understand what all it measures, but we want that number to eventually be 3-4. Right now, it is at 12.
Chris is still a very, very sick guy. We anticipate that he will experience ups and downs along this road and as I have said before, he is not out of the woods yet. Please pray for his body to heal, especially his lungs, and pray that the tracheotomy procedure goes well and that Chris will be more comfortable after it is done.
Please keep the faith and keep praying! We are so blessed to have friends and family like all of you.
Chris' oxygen is at 80% and he will remain on the ventialtor for a while. Because he will have to be on the ventilator for a while, Chris will have a tracheotomy done either this afternoon or tomorrow morning. After the tracheotomy is done, all of the ventilator tubes will come out of the trach instead of his mouth. As a result, they will be able to bring Chris out of sedation, he will be able to sit up, eat food instead of having a feeding tube in his stomach, and while he will not be able to talk, he will be able to write so he can communicate (he was trying to write on a clipboard before, but because of the sedation his writing was not legible). Chris was very uncomfortable and getting agitated with the ventilator tubes going through his mouth. This procedure will make him much more comfortable and is good news. Some of you may know that my dad had 2 tracheotomies done in the past. He said that while it sounds like a major procedure, it is not a complicated one and will help Chris. I find comfort in knowing that my dad will be able to coach Chris through having this trach because he has "been there and done that."
In addition, all of Chris' vitals remain good. They are also measuring his Peep breathing level. I don't understand what all it measures, but we want that number to eventually be 3-4. Right now, it is at 12.
Chris is still a very, very sick guy. We anticipate that he will experience ups and downs along this road and as I have said before, he is not out of the woods yet. Please pray for his body to heal, especially his lungs, and pray that the tracheotomy procedure goes well and that Chris will be more comfortable after it is done.
Please keep the faith and keep praying! We are so blessed to have friends and family like all of you.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Fri. Nov. 13 4:00pm
Today, we had a minor set back. Chris developed ventilator associated pneumonia in his left lung. As we understand it, this happens frequently with patients who are on a ventilator for several days. In response to the ventilator associated pneumonia, the doctors put Chris back on 100% oxygen. They have already decreased that to 90% and that is where it has remained for most of the day. Yesterday, before Chris developed ventilator assocaited pneumonia, the nurse said that they would increase and decrease the amount of oxygen he receives as a part of weaning him off of the ventilator.
All of Chris' vitals remain good and he still has not had a temperature since Monday night. The doctor said that his blood work continues to improve each day. We also found out that Chris does NOT have salmonella. It was a mis-read by the lab. However, Chris is still in critical condition and has long road ahead of him.
Please continue to pray for him!!!!!!
All of Chris' vitals remain good and he still has not had a temperature since Monday night. The doctor said that his blood work continues to improve each day. We also found out that Chris does NOT have salmonella. It was a mis-read by the lab. However, Chris is still in critical condition and has long road ahead of him.
Please continue to pray for him!!!!!!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
9:15pm Nov. 12
Since the last update we got back the result one of more test. Chris tested positive for influenza A. So far, we know he has had salmonella and influenza A. The doctor said it is still a possibility that Chris may have H1N1. We should know the results of that test by Monday. Needless to say, Chris has been fighting a tough battle. I have been so amazed by his strength through all of this.
When we left tonight the ventilator was brought down to 70% and his blood oxygen was staying around 94. I believe they are going to keep him at that level tonight. All of his vitals remain good. They continue to adjust his oxygen so that he can breathe more on his own. We are hoping that he will be off of the ventilator by next week sometime. Please pray that he is able to come off the ventilator soon!
I can not tell all of you enough how mcuh we appreciate your calls, emails, visits and especially prayers. All of your prayers have gotten Chris to where he is now and will continue to pull him through.
Today, as I left the hospital, a song by Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthews came on the radio. As I was reflecting on the last few days I heard this line: "just breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see.." and it is. Seeing my brother in the ICU fighting so that he can breathe in and out on his own has put things into perspective. Just to be on this earth and be breathing really is such a blessing.
When we left tonight the ventilator was brought down to 70% and his blood oxygen was staying around 94. I believe they are going to keep him at that level tonight. All of his vitals remain good. They continue to adjust his oxygen so that he can breathe more on his own. We are hoping that he will be off of the ventilator by next week sometime. Please pray that he is able to come off the ventilator soon!
I can not tell all of you enough how mcuh we appreciate your calls, emails, visits and especially prayers. All of your prayers have gotten Chris to where he is now and will continue to pull him through.
Today, as I left the hospital, a song by Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthews came on the radio. As I was reflecting on the last few days I heard this line: "just breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see.." and it is. Seeing my brother in the ICU fighting so that he can breathe in and out on his own has put things into perspective. Just to be on this earth and be breathing really is such a blessing.
2:30pm Nov. 12
I apologize for just now updating today. I will be heading to Troy tomorrow so I will have access to internet all day and will be able to update frequently.
So far today we have received results of several tests. The TB test, flu test (not H1N1) and bacterial test all came back negative. However, a test for salmonella came back positive. It was specifically slamonella from eggs. We think, but are not sure, that Chris contracted the flu or whatever is causing the pneuomonia first and then got salmonella from eating eggs, which is what caused all of the intestinal problems. The doctors are continuing to test for everything. We may have the H1N1 test results back as early as Monday. We still do not know what caused the pneumonia.
On a positive note, Chris has not had a temperature since Monday night. As of this morning, his white blood cell count was normal and his bloog coagulation improved. Before lunch the ventialtor was pumping 75% oxygen and his blood oxygen level was 94, an improvement from last night.
They are slowly trying to wean him off the anethesia and he has been trying to communicate through hand gestures and writing on a clipboard.
PLEASE KEEP THOSE PRAYERS COMING!!!!! "And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up." -James 5:15
So far today we have received results of several tests. The TB test, flu test (not H1N1) and bacterial test all came back negative. However, a test for salmonella came back positive. It was specifically slamonella from eggs. We think, but are not sure, that Chris contracted the flu or whatever is causing the pneuomonia first and then got salmonella from eating eggs, which is what caused all of the intestinal problems. The doctors are continuing to test for everything. We may have the H1N1 test results back as early as Monday. We still do not know what caused the pneumonia.
On a positive note, Chris has not had a temperature since Monday night. As of this morning, his white blood cell count was normal and his bloog coagulation improved. Before lunch the ventialtor was pumping 75% oxygen and his blood oxygen level was 94, an improvement from last night.
They are slowly trying to wean him off the anethesia and he has been trying to communicate through hand gestures and writing on a clipboard.
PLEASE KEEP THOSE PRAYERS COMING!!!!! "And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up." -James 5:15
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wed. Nov. 11 @ 6:00pm
Today, we have seen several small improvements in Chris. As stated below, this morning they had reduced the ventilator to 91% and his blood oxygen level was 97%. The normal blood oxygen level for someone Chris' age is around 94-95%. Mid-day the doctors had reduced the ventialtor again to 81% and Chris' blood oxygen was at 94%. And, before we left tonight, the ventilator was reduced to 75% and his blood oxygen level was 90%. They will maintain him at 75% on the ventilator tonight. While these improvements are encouarging, Chris remains in critical condition and still has a long fight ahead of him.
All of your prayers are working, and I ask that you please continue to pray for him. He looks strong and good. Also, please pray to give my parents strength. They are emotionally and physically exhausted. Please pray that tonight they are able to get a good night's rest.
My family and I are so moved by the support of all our family and friends and even those who do not know Chris but are praying for him. Thank you!
All of your prayers are working, and I ask that you please continue to pray for him. He looks strong and good. Also, please pray to give my parents strength. They are emotionally and physically exhausted. Please pray that tonight they are able to get a good night's rest.
My family and I are so moved by the support of all our family and friends and even those who do not know Chris but are praying for him. Thank you!
Update as of November 11 1:30 PM
We have a had a few pieces of good news. Doctors said his blood work has improved a little bit. When we left the hospital last night his blood oxygen level was 88. The last time we say him today it was 97 which is normal. They lowered the ventilator from 100% oxygen to 91% oxygen and his oxygen level has remained 97. While we have received encouraging news he is still not out of the woods and remains in critical condition.
We are so blessed to have such supportive friends and family and your many prayers. I will try to update again later this afternoon.
We are so blessed to have such supportive friends and family and your many prayers. I will try to update again later this afternoon.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Update as of Nov. 10 @ 8:15pm
This is Natalie, Chris' sister. I arrived in Columbus today and was able to see Chris. He is so strong and brave and such a fighter. Despite of all the tubes and machinary, I thought he looked good and strong.
Chris has pneumonia in both lungs and therefore, the doctors sedated him and put him on a ventilator to help him breathe. He seems relaxed. Good news is that he has not had a temperature in the last 12 hours. He is stable: his heart rate and blood pressure are normal, but his oxygen levels tend to fluctuate a bit. The doctors are testing everything to figure out what it is. Today they did an echo gram (I think that is what it is called) and it came back negative which is good. However, he is still in critical condition.
My family and I appreciate all of your calls and prayers. We need all the prayers we can get for him!!! Please pray that he continues to fight and stay strong and please pray for all the doctors and nurses caring for him. I will continue to update this blog as frequently as I can.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." -Isaiah 41:10
Chris has pneumonia in both lungs and therefore, the doctors sedated him and put him on a ventilator to help him breathe. He seems relaxed. Good news is that he has not had a temperature in the last 12 hours. He is stable: his heart rate and blood pressure are normal, but his oxygen levels tend to fluctuate a bit. The doctors are testing everything to figure out what it is. Today they did an echo gram (I think that is what it is called) and it came back negative which is good. However, he is still in critical condition.
My family and I appreciate all of your calls and prayers. We need all the prayers we can get for him!!! Please pray that he continues to fight and stay strong and please pray for all the doctors and nurses caring for him. I will continue to update this blog as frequently as I can.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." -Isaiah 41:10
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