This is a roller coaster and some downs are to be expected.
The wound on Jim’s backside was surgically cleaned last week and they put a wound vacuum on. Over the last couple of days Jim has been a bit lethargic. In fact he has developed MRSA in the wound, which was confirmed yesterday. MRSA is a staph infection that is not uncommon to see in a hospital setting.
Jim’s lungs are still his weak spot, so any setback effects his lungs quickly. The docs put him back on the vent. He’s on antibiotics so we just need them to do their work.
August 31, 2021
Patricia Schwerdt : I’ve been checking your progression regularly and we continue praying for you. Don’t give up and continue to fight. Lots of people are rooting for you.
Love,
Cousin Patsy
•9/4/21
Ruby Mortell : Sending you dog barks, slaps on the back, howls at the moon, bear hugs, and Superman strength wishes. You are running a f*cking marathon. We are all on the sidelines cheering you on, Jim. I know you aren’t a huggy/ kissy person, but I’m still sending you big FAT hugs and SUPER sloppy kisses from us— Paul, Heather and Rosie
•9/1/21
Anthony Curran : Bob,
Thanks for the update.
I was able to visit Jim on Sunday morning – and it had a profound effect. As reported, he’s in RML Hinsdale, a very nice facility, and he’s got the big corner room thanks to his high school classmate being on staff (it pays to be a friend!). I told him there were easier ways to become a resident of Hinsdale. He replied that I was at least the third one who made that joke. An aide was assisting him with eating a fruit cup and he had her laughing. We conversed for a few hours: the typical, wide-ranging conversations that we all enjoy with Jim. On a few occasions, I caught myself complaining (the heat, the masks, etc.) only to realize that, not only did I not hear a complaint from Jim the entire morning, but that he was only thankful — thankful for all the prayers, the support, the kind words he’s received from all the rest of us. Thankful to the health care staff and the professional care he’s received. Thankful for the people at Loyola Academy (Clara’s school) who’ve given support. Thankful to his friends at work.
Sometime after noon, his father arrived, sneaking in some Chipotle, and they began their routine: sit up, exercise the lungs, monitor the monitors … What a blessing to have a father like Joe there. He was happy with Jim’s progress and optimistic: respiratory recovery continues and, God willing, the next step to Shirley Ryan for the physical recuperation soon.
As mentioned, the day had a profound effect: later I was up at Marquette to retrieve a car from my son. On the way home it developed a rattle. But we got off the highway, my co-pilot/daughter navigated the backroads, and a mechanic’s shop appeared – and a pizza place soon after. My visit with Jim reminded me of how so many of our problems are solvable. And why to be thankful for all those around us to make those problems solvable.
Cheers to Jim and cheers to you all!
•9/1/21
Brian Fulton : Prayers continue your way, Jim! ~Kathy Fulton
•9/1/21
Molly Schaffer : We’re praying for you Jim!
•8/31/21
Jill Drazek : Hang in there Jim! You got this!
•8/31/21
Zeb Bradford : Stay strong Jim! I have plenty of books piling up for you to read!
•8/31/21