Today, Nathan was sharp - he had his sense of humor and he knew where he was and answered all the questions correct for the first time (name, birthdate, where are you, etc).
He also decided he was going to take his good right leg and hoist himself into a sitting position and caused himself quite a bit of pain. I don't think he'll try that again!
He ate a little bit of breakfast, no lunch, and almost 1/2 grilled cheese for dinner. The pain killers make it so he's not hungry, and then because he has no food in his stomach, the medicine upsets it - a vicious cycle.
Randy is here - and he is sending me to sleep back at the house! I am grateful, please pray I'll sleep. They moved the noisy roommate out today and the room is so peaceful - pray this will continue.
I took Judy to the airport about 7pm - and that was a VERY hard goodbye. She is such a faithful friend and she walked me through some very rough stuff - Nathan was so glad she was here.
Tonight a verse from my friend Carl............
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
I don't think I shared this (forgive me if I have), but on Monday in ICU Randy and I were by Nathan's bed and decided to turn on the radio to Spirit 105.3. - here are a few lines from the first song that came on......................
"and it's all because of Jesus I'm alive, it's all because the blood of Jesus Christ, covers me and brings this dead man life" - brought tears to my eyes. Very appropriate!
PS We appreciate all the love and support like you'll never know - visitors are kind of hard on Nathan right now until they get his pain better managed. We'd love it if you'd call my cell phone and check in before planning a visit - just a little thought from momma bear :-0
Life At Korthuis Manor
Captain Randy and his First Mate!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Rollercoaster rides.................
Wow - 8:15AM - that took forever to come.....................
Nathan went from hot to cold all night, they are still trying to figure out his pain meds as it is different without the tubes.
The "neighbor" in the next bed is trying my patience.............odd duck - had his tv on until 2 am, hacks and spits - grossness, talks non-stop to everyone that walks in the room, puts his bed up and down, the list goes on.............. pray for patience, he upsets Nathan, ........................we suggested maybe a new roommate today. God knows.......................
Randy is coming back today PTL! I need my rock. Judy goes home tonight - what a phenomenal friend/"aunt".
As I sit here drained - I wonder if I can do this, do it right. I so want to bring him home, but I don't know how tough I am and how much I can take. Pray for wisdom, for strength, for rest......................
Surgery #5 is on Monday - knee surgery - THEN, I think we're done!
Taryn sent me a verse this morning........................
Zeph. 3:17
Your God is present among you, a strong warrior there to save you.
Nothing like being spoon fed God's word right now, it's what I need.
Nathan went from hot to cold all night, they are still trying to figure out his pain meds as it is different without the tubes.
The "neighbor" in the next bed is trying my patience.............odd duck - had his tv on until 2 am, hacks and spits - grossness, talks non-stop to everyone that walks in the room, puts his bed up and down, the list goes on.............. pray for patience, he upsets Nathan, ........................we suggested maybe a new roommate today. God knows.......................
Randy is coming back today PTL! I need my rock. Judy goes home tonight - what a phenomenal friend/"aunt".
As I sit here drained - I wonder if I can do this, do it right. I so want to bring him home, but I don't know how tough I am and how much I can take. Pray for wisdom, for strength, for rest......................
Surgery #5 is on Monday - knee surgery - THEN, I think we're done!
Taryn sent me a verse this morning........................
Zeph. 3:17
Your God is present among you, a strong warrior there to save you.
Nothing like being spoon fed God's word right now, it's what I need.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
A room with a view
Room 705 bed 2 - by the window. And this weekend when the skies are clear, Nathan will have a view of Mt. Ranier.
He is resting peacefully right now. He had 3 bites of manicotti and sucked down a can of grape juice in one go!
He has a fever - continue to pray!
He has pain - logical I know - but as a mom - no fun to watch!
Pray for me tonight as I am going to sleep by his side (I hope there will be sleep) Judy is going back to the house and I will go back in the morning and get cleaned up for a new day.
Jason & Tanya brought Emily down tonight. SO good to see my girl! It was good for her to see Nathan too - he told her he loved her - ahhhhhh!
verse for this evening - thanks Katie B:
1 Peter 5:10 "In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation."
Sweet dreams Nathan!
He is resting peacefully right now. He had 3 bites of manicotti and sucked down a can of grape juice in one go!
He has a fever - continue to pray!
He has pain - logical I know - but as a mom - no fun to watch!
Pray for me tonight as I am going to sleep by his side (I hope there will be sleep) Judy is going back to the house and I will go back in the morning and get cleaned up for a new day.
Jason & Tanya brought Emily down tonight. SO good to see my girl! It was good for her to see Nathan too - he told her he loved her - ahhhhhh!
verse for this evening - thanks Katie B:
1 Peter 5:10 "In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation."
Sweet dreams Nathan!
It's lunchtime.....
Nathan's nurse just came out and said that he had just given him some more morphine and he there's a tray of FOOD waiting for him when he wakes up!! I'm sure it will pale in comparison to the food I'm already planning to cook up for him - but it is FOOD :-)
It's time to get some meat back on that boy's bones!!
It's time to get some meat back on that boy's bones!!
He says "thank you"
Nathan asked "how much longer"..............
I told him that this afternoon it looks like we're going down to a "normal" room and we're leaving ICU and in about a week I get to bring you home.
He looked at me and said "thank you" - :-) , oh - I love that boy!
I'm a bit nervous about them moving him - that means I'm on mom duty full time. His nurse yesterday, Marnell (who I fell in love with - spunky lady, hmm wonder why I liked her) told me that when he gets moved, that we're going to want to stay with him and make sure he's taken care of and that he learns to ask for pain medicine BEFORE he hits his threshold,
Lamentations 3:21-23 "Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."
PS If I could ask for prayer for myself today - I have a horrid headache and a jaw that is hurting - no pain in comparison to Nathan's, but a bit distracting.
I told him that this afternoon it looks like we're going down to a "normal" room and we're leaving ICU and in about a week I get to bring you home.
He looked at me and said "thank you" - :-) , oh - I love that boy!
I'm a bit nervous about them moving him - that means I'm on mom duty full time. His nurse yesterday, Marnell (who I fell in love with - spunky lady, hmm wonder why I liked her) told me that when he gets moved, that we're going to want to stay with him and make sure he's taken care of and that he learns to ask for pain medicine BEFORE he hits his threshold,
Lamentations 3:21-23 "Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."
PS If I could ask for prayer for myself today - I have a horrid headache and a jaw that is hurting - no pain in comparison to Nathan's, but a bit distracting.
We're going to the Beach!!! :-)
No surgeries today - as far as we know. We haven't heard what they've decided about the knee - so we wait - we're getting good at that!
They removed all Nathan's tubes yesterday.
Randy had caught a ride down with friends for the evening so about 6 we went back and we GOT TO TALK WITH NATHAN! He's very hard to understand and he's dying to talk - he got mad at Randy once for not understanding him!:-)
The first thing he said is "When can we go to the Beach " - random yes, I know, but music to my ears. I assured him that as soon as he felt like going to the beach, we'd get there!!!
He informed us ...."I'm gonna be a liberal now!" ?!?!?! :-)
And then he broke my heart............"You must be disappointed in me" :-(
He is in extreme pain and that is hard to watch. He has a guy in the room next to him that is loud and the nurses have to yell at him a lot because he keeps trying to get up and pull his tubes out - I wish he could move on......
Today, I assume Nathan will be a little more clear and look forward to talking more. He has no idea of the severity of his injuries - pray for me as I'm thinking he will probably start asking questions.
So many have sent words of songs to me - such an encouragement (just like the verses)......................Here are some great words from friend Katie B.
Here are the lyrics to What Faith Can Do by Kutless:
Everybody falls sometimes
Gotta find the strength to rise
From the ashes and make a new beginning
Anyone can feel the ache
You think it's more than you can take
But you are stronger, stronger than you know
Don't you give up now
The sun will soon be shining
You gotta face the clouds
To find the silver lining
I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do
It doesn't matter what you've heard
Impossible is not a word
It's just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody's scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It'll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing
Overcome the odds
You don't have a chance
(That's what faith can do)
When the world says you can't
It'll tell you that you can!
They removed all Nathan's tubes yesterday.
Randy had caught a ride down with friends for the evening so about 6 we went back and we GOT TO TALK WITH NATHAN! He's very hard to understand and he's dying to talk - he got mad at Randy once for not understanding him!:-)
The first thing he said is "When can we go to the Beach " - random yes, I know, but music to my ears. I assured him that as soon as he felt like going to the beach, we'd get there!!!
He informed us ...."I'm gonna be a liberal now!" ?!?!?! :-)
And then he broke my heart............"You must be disappointed in me" :-(
He is in extreme pain and that is hard to watch. He has a guy in the room next to him that is loud and the nurses have to yell at him a lot because he keeps trying to get up and pull his tubes out - I wish he could move on......
Today, I assume Nathan will be a little more clear and look forward to talking more. He has no idea of the severity of his injuries - pray for me as I'm thinking he will probably start asking questions.
So many have sent words of songs to me - such an encouragement (just like the verses)......................Here are some great words from friend Katie B.
Here are the lyrics to What Faith Can Do by Kutless:
Everybody falls sometimes
Gotta find the strength to rise
From the ashes and make a new beginning
Anyone can feel the ache
You think it's more than you can take
But you are stronger, stronger than you know
Don't you give up now
The sun will soon be shining
You gotta face the clouds
To find the silver lining
I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do
It doesn't matter what you've heard
Impossible is not a word
It's just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody's scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It'll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing
Overcome the odds
You don't have a chance
(That's what faith can do)
When the world says you can't
It'll tell you that you can!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Number #588
Today Nathan was patient number #588
The surgeon walked in the "holding" tank and asked me to go for a walk - talk about FREAK OUT - that just shook me up a bit. Marla TK, Donna and my mom stayed behind, and Judy and I followed the Dr. on about a 10 minute walk to a library where he sat us in front of a couple computers and ran through every inch of Nathan's "befores" and "afters" for us.
That boy will have enough hardware to open a store when this is done!!
They are in the process of waking him up and getting ready to pull his breathing tubes - pray for him.
Dr. Routt is expecting that in 8-9 days we should be able to leave Harborview. This is where the big decision making process comes in for the what, where, why and how of that.
Randy and I were just talking with Nathan, and I told him if he worked hard that we would be going home in a few days - he opened his eyes, raised his eyebrows, and shook his head like "no way mom - are you crazy"? That's my boy!
Here are a couple fun pics I stole off of Facebook - thanks Greg!
Does that kid look fun or what?!?! :-)
Here's another verse sent to me. God's word is my strength right now - an encouragement in my time of need.
Lamentations 3:22&23
Because of the Lord's Great love we are not consumed for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
The surgeon walked in the "holding" tank and asked me to go for a walk - talk about FREAK OUT - that just shook me up a bit. Marla TK, Donna and my mom stayed behind, and Judy and I followed the Dr. on about a 10 minute walk to a library where he sat us in front of a couple computers and ran through every inch of Nathan's "befores" and "afters" for us.That boy will have enough hardware to open a store when this is done!!
They are in the process of waking him up and getting ready to pull his breathing tubes - pray for him.
Dr. Routt is expecting that in 8-9 days we should be able to leave Harborview. This is where the big decision making process comes in for the what, where, why and how of that.
Randy and I were just talking with Nathan, and I told him if he worked hard that we would be going home in a few days - he opened his eyes, raised his eyebrows, and shook his head like "no way mom - are you crazy"? That's my boy!
Here are a couple fun pics I stole off of Facebook - thanks Greg!
Does that kid look fun or what?!?! :-)Here's another verse sent to me. God's word is my strength right now - an encouragement in my time of need.
Lamentations 3:22&23
Because of the Lord's Great love we are not consumed for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
Surgery #4 and pics of the bike
Today is the rest of the hip/pelvis reconstruction - another BIG one. BUT - possibly the last one - for a while!
Today the going gets tougher and the tougher get praying.............
His nurse yesterday told me that today - he will not like her - he will be mad - and he WILL be in pain! She has to bring him out of his fog enough to start breathing on his own so they can get the tubes out. I'm so ready for the tubes to be out - I want to talk to my boy - and you know Nathan - I'm sure he's ready to talk - ask questions.
I can't bear the thought of him in pain - YES - I know there's plenty ahead - but I've never been one to fix boo boo's on our kids because I am a weak link. When I can't fix their pain - I crumble.
Pray today:
-Nathan's stamina going into a 4th surgery
-no complications and Dr.'s wisdom in surgery
-no complications with getting the tubes out and that he will breathe well
-that God will give Nathan grace and strength to endure what he has to today (and obviously in the days to come)
-for Randy as he is feeling displaced and can't be here
-for Brandon and Em, I know surgery days are harder for them too
-for this mommy,sitting here crying - strength that I've never had to be there for Nathan today
Here's the bike - cousin Darren sent me a pic.......................
Our "neighbors" down here saw this pic and they know bikes, and she said usually after a bike after a wreck doesn't even remotely look like a bike. They usually it's a wheel here, a seat there, and they never even can find all the pieces! So again - A MIRACLE.
Sorry for the long posts - it's therapeutic for me (you know I'm a woman and I have to get all my words in for the day!). I just want to share one more thing. Katie B. sent me a verse and I love it......................
1 Corinthians 12:10 "That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Today the going gets tougher and the tougher get praying.............
His nurse yesterday told me that today - he will not like her - he will be mad - and he WILL be in pain! She has to bring him out of his fog enough to start breathing on his own so they can get the tubes out. I'm so ready for the tubes to be out - I want to talk to my boy - and you know Nathan - I'm sure he's ready to talk - ask questions.
I can't bear the thought of him in pain - YES - I know there's plenty ahead - but I've never been one to fix boo boo's on our kids because I am a weak link. When I can't fix their pain - I crumble.
Pray today:
-Nathan's stamina going into a 4th surgery
-no complications and Dr.'s wisdom in surgery
-no complications with getting the tubes out and that he will breathe well
-that God will give Nathan grace and strength to endure what he has to today (and obviously in the days to come)
-for Randy as he is feeling displaced and can't be here
-for Brandon and Em, I know surgery days are harder for them too
-for this mommy,sitting here crying - strength that I've never had to be there for Nathan today
Here's the bike - cousin Darren sent me a pic.......................
Our "neighbors" down here saw this pic and they know bikes, and she said usually after a bike after a wreck doesn't even remotely look like a bike. They usually it's a wheel here, a seat there, and they never even can find all the pieces! So again - A MIRACLE.Sorry for the long posts - it's therapeutic for me (you know I'm a woman and I have to get all my words in for the day!). I just want to share one more thing. Katie B. sent me a verse and I love it......................
1 Corinthians 12:10 "That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Tuesday evening
Here's the wrap up for today -
Today, Nathan was #139............................
Surgery #3 in 4 days, is done - went well. The injury was worse than I had thought - we never really heard how bad the right hand was. The bone on the outside of the hand was broken and the knuckle at the base of the pinky finger was shattered and needed 4 pins in it. For now it is in a splint and they will go back in in 2 weeks remove the pins and cast it.
He is on the slate for first surgery tomorrow. Dr. Routt (the best!!) will be in there again with his team. This is another major surgery and will be 3-4 hours. Nathan will be on his left side and they will go in and finish the hip/pelvis.
Last night before heading home Randy stopped to get his stuff at Dennis and Michelles and when he told them that Nathan had Dr. Routt for surgery, they were thrilled!! Michelle is an RN and says his reputation is phenomenal and Dennis knows several who are now "good" after Dr. Routt worked on them! PTL - he gave Nathan the best surgeon in this area in the nation - we've been told this repeatedly and there are articles on this man........I'll have to find some.
When I say Nathan will be "good" - I must say that "good" in Dr. Routt's opinion is perfect! The head nurse and Dr. Routt both said Nathan should be skiing by this winter - that is - only if he can get out of the protective bubble his mommy puts him in!!!!
By the way my new friend in the ICU waiting room (you tend to bond here), just noticed that Dr. Routt's first name is Chip - get it? - Chip!!! Kind of funny if you think about it - it doesn't take much these days!!
Here's another verse a friend shared - awesome!
This is the version from The Message: Isaiah 41:13
"...I, your God, have a firm grip on you and I'm not letting go. I'm telling you, "Don't panic. I'm right here to help you."
Thank goodness for a firm grip...........................................
Today, Nathan was #139............................Surgery #3 in 4 days, is done - went well. The injury was worse than I had thought - we never really heard how bad the right hand was. The bone on the outside of the hand was broken and the knuckle at the base of the pinky finger was shattered and needed 4 pins in it. For now it is in a splint and they will go back in in 2 weeks remove the pins and cast it.
He is on the slate for first surgery tomorrow. Dr. Routt (the best!!) will be in there again with his team. This is another major surgery and will be 3-4 hours. Nathan will be on his left side and they will go in and finish the hip/pelvis.
Last night before heading home Randy stopped to get his stuff at Dennis and Michelles and when he told them that Nathan had Dr. Routt for surgery, they were thrilled!! Michelle is an RN and says his reputation is phenomenal and Dennis knows several who are now "good" after Dr. Routt worked on them! PTL - he gave Nathan the best surgeon in this area in the nation - we've been told this repeatedly and there are articles on this man........I'll have to find some.
When I say Nathan will be "good" - I must say that "good" in Dr. Routt's opinion is perfect! The head nurse and Dr. Routt both said Nathan should be skiing by this winter - that is - only if he can get out of the protective bubble his mommy puts him in!!!!
By the way my new friend in the ICU waiting room (you tend to bond here), just noticed that Dr. Routt's first name is Chip - get it? - Chip!!! Kind of funny if you think about it - it doesn't take much these days!!
Here's another verse a friend shared - awesome!
This is the version from The Message: Isaiah 41:13
"...I, your God, have a firm grip on you and I'm not letting go. I'm telling you, "Don't panic. I'm right here to help you."
Thank goodness for a firm grip...........................................
Something to make you smile.....
Cousin Darren is a saint - you remember him - the "bone pickin' up" cousin! :-), well he is packing up Nathan's room and belongings at his house and moving it all to our shop - he offered - honest! He sent me a picture.......
Nathan's friend Ben has a precious mom that has been doing laundry - I think we'll have to send her $$ for her water/soap bill :-)
Nathan's friend Ben has a precious mom that has been doing laundry - I think we'll have to send her $$ for her water/soap bill :-)
Hand surgery
They just took Nathan in for hand surgery - this one will be 2 hours.
They are having trouble managing his pain and keeping his heart rate down - pray for wisdom for the Doctors.
My BFF Judy flew in last night from Idaho to "babysit" me while Randy has to be home. I am so thankful for her family in "sending me the package" :-), and she is the "medicine" I need right now. She loves Nathan like her own and HE knows that!
When we were in by his head I said to Judy "we're going to have to give him a haircut" - no sooner did I say that and Nathan's eyes flew open and he shook his head "NO" and the only way to calm him down was to say - ok, we won't, it's ok!! :-) A little happy spot for a moment.
How much can a heart take? I guess I am learning.............................
His mercies are new every morning (sometimes every minute) - GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS!!
They are having trouble managing his pain and keeping his heart rate down - pray for wisdom for the Doctors.
My BFF Judy flew in last night from Idaho to "babysit" me while Randy has to be home. I am so thankful for her family in "sending me the package" :-), and she is the "medicine" I need right now. She loves Nathan like her own and HE knows that!
When we were in by his head I said to Judy "we're going to have to give him a haircut" - no sooner did I say that and Nathan's eyes flew open and he shook his head "NO" and the only way to calm him down was to say - ok, we won't, it's ok!! :-) A little happy spot for a moment.
How much can a heart take? I guess I am learning.............................
His mercies are new every morning (sometimes every minute) - GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS!!
hard to leave.........
Last night it was hard to leave - always hard to leave - but especially last night......................................
His blood levels were going down again and they just couldn't get his heart rate to go down below 140 and that wasn't good. Naomi his nurse said that they didn't like it up there and they might need to give him more blood.
I called this morning and she said that they didn't give him blood, but 2 more liters of fluid, and they also had to give him more pain meds. I had told her last night that he is like me in this area and if the bottle says 2 then 3 is better - he is such a big boy.
I had thought that today they were going to "leave him alone", but they are taking him in at 12:30 to work on his right hand. I don't know exactly what this means - I don't think surgery - but reset and a cast perhaps. I have learned that you don't really know anything about times, and what is happening when, until it's done.
I cling to the positives of yesterday, but am reminded that he is NOT yet out of the woods.
Last night as I rested my cheek on his face he turned his face up against mine - I felt his love. Randy says it's important I stay strong around Nathan and so far - even in moments like this, God allows me to contain the tears until I walk out of the room - but trust me - JUST out of the room!
Randy left last night to go work - unfortunately money is still necessary in this life - even more so now. I talked with him this morning and he says it's nice being home and is glad to give Em a hug, but he feels like it's not where he needs to be. He has been my steady rock, voice of calm AND reason :-) and reminding me that God is God of all things and has brought our family to this point for a reason. Randy's faith is amazing to me - it's just like Randy is - strong, steady and unwavering. I praise the Lord for the gift of my husband.
More updates today from me - more prayers from you...................(My friend Susi shared this scripture with me - what a blessing)
His blood levels were going down again and they just couldn't get his heart rate to go down below 140 and that wasn't good. Naomi his nurse said that they didn't like it up there and they might need to give him more blood.
I called this morning and she said that they didn't give him blood, but 2 more liters of fluid, and they also had to give him more pain meds. I had told her last night that he is like me in this area and if the bottle says 2 then 3 is better - he is such a big boy.
I had thought that today they were going to "leave him alone", but they are taking him in at 12:30 to work on his right hand. I don't know exactly what this means - I don't think surgery - but reset and a cast perhaps. I have learned that you don't really know anything about times, and what is happening when, until it's done.
I cling to the positives of yesterday, but am reminded that he is NOT yet out of the woods.
Last night as I rested my cheek on his face he turned his face up against mine - I felt his love. Randy says it's important I stay strong around Nathan and so far - even in moments like this, God allows me to contain the tears until I walk out of the room - but trust me - JUST out of the room!
Randy left last night to go work - unfortunately money is still necessary in this life - even more so now. I talked with him this morning and he says it's nice being home and is glad to give Em a hug, but he feels like it's not where he needs to be. He has been my steady rock, voice of calm AND reason :-) and reminding me that God is God of all things and has brought our family to this point for a reason. Randy's faith is amazing to me - it's just like Randy is - strong, steady and unwavering. I praise the Lord for the gift of my husband.
More updates today from me - more prayers from you...................(My friend Susi shared this scripture with me - what a blessing)
Psalm 95
"Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song.
For the Lord IS THE great God, the great King above all gods.
In His hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to Him...
......................................and so does my Nathan!
......................................and so does my Nathan!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Address for Nathan
Sorry for so many posts - it gives this mom with A.D.D. something to do.I was just given an address for Nathan, he can have notes, mylar balloons (no latex) and stuffed animals. You can also send notes to us if you want but they have to be under Nathan's name. Comments on the blog are awesome too!
Harborview Medical Center
Patient: Nathan Korthuis
325 Ninth Ave.
Seattle,WA 98104-2499
This is Nathan and his cousin Darren at their cousin Jon's wedding. Darren was behind Nathan on his motorcycle and saw the whole thing happen, rushed to his side, picked up the pieces of Nathan's bone off the road - you know, just normal cousin stuff :-) We love you Darren!
Hope these pics put a smile on your face - they do on mine!
All done - for now
He's done. He's resting for another day - more surgery on Wed.
2nd surgeon - the one that was on the "elbow team" said it went well, plate was placed by his elbow - all done!
He also mentioned that after they do the rest of the hip on Wed., that they will run MRI on the knee and it MAY not need surgery. That would be another miracle.
He mentioned that if we have "village" we might be able to bring Nathan home - we do have a "village", I would love to have him home instead of at a nursing home, - pray for wisdom - we have a while before we decide.
This morning after they had taken Nathan to surgery we were talking with the head nurse in his room and a bunch of people walked in and she said they were getting ready to start rounds. We asked if we should leave and she said "we're discussing Nathan if you'd like to stay". It totally looked like a scene from a tv show. They teach the UW med students here, so they had one of them talk about Nathan's meds, etc. and everyone was taking notes. They were 10 of them including the Chief of Surgeons!! Pretty surreal. Of course, Randy told me later it reminded him of a Seinfeld Episode - sure why not - he said the only thing missing was Kramer standing in a white jacket taking notes!!
If you get the Herald you've read this already............................
Pretty sobering when it's your son's name!
"Raised in His Power the Weak become strong, His Strength is perfect"
God is so faithful and I am ashamed at my lack of faith sometimes. I rest in his sovereignty and complete control in our lives!
2nd surgeon - the one that was on the "elbow team" said it went well, plate was placed by his elbow - all done!
He also mentioned that after they do the rest of the hip on Wed., that they will run MRI on the knee and it MAY not need surgery. That would be another miracle.
He mentioned that if we have "village" we might be able to bring Nathan home - we do have a "village", I would love to have him home instead of at a nursing home, - pray for wisdom - we have a while before we decide.
This morning after they had taken Nathan to surgery we were talking with the head nurse in his room and a bunch of people walked in and she said they were getting ready to start rounds. We asked if we should leave and she said "we're discussing Nathan if you'd like to stay". It totally looked like a scene from a tv show. They teach the UW med students here, so they had one of them talk about Nathan's meds, etc. and everyone was taking notes. They were 10 of them including the Chief of Surgeons!! Pretty surreal. Of course, Randy told me later it reminded him of a Seinfeld Episode - sure why not - he said the only thing missing was Kramer standing in a white jacket taking notes!!
If you get the Herald you've read this already............................
Lynden man in serious condition after motorcycle crash
- THE BELLINGHAM HERALD
E-Mail 
Print 
LYNDEN - A 22-year-old Lynden man's condition was upgraded to serious Monday, April 26, at Harborview Medical Center after he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed on East Wiser Lake Road three days earlier.
Nathan Korthuis was riding his 2008 Yamaha YZF R65 shortly after 2 p.m. Friday, April 23, when he failed to make a curve in the 300 block of East Wiser Lake Road, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The motorcycle drove off the road, crossed over a driveway and struck a curb. Korthuis was ejected, and the motorcycle came to rest in the eastbound lane.
The likely cause of the crash was excessive speed, the State Patrol said.
Korthuis was wearing a helmet, and neither drugs nor alcohol are suspected to have been a factor in the crash, according to the State Patrol.
"Raised in His Power the Weak become strong, His Strength is perfect"
God is so faithful and I am ashamed at my lack of faith sometimes. I rest in his sovereignty and complete control in our lives!
talking with the surgeon
He's big, he's tall, he's reported to be the best in the Nation, and He FIXED my boy!
We met with Dr Rutt after he finished his part of the surgery. Randy's parents are sitting here with us and the Dr. sat and faced us, stretched a pillowcase across his lap and drew us pictures, and sketched out our life for the next 3 months...............................
This was SUCH AN ENCOURAGING MEETING!! He says Nathan will be good - did you hear that - good! Excuse while I tear up, sing a little song (How great is our God, sing with me................), and praise my Heavenly Father for his provision and protection.
Still a long road, still 2-3 more surgeries this week, but he should be good!
Lots of metal, screws, incisions and stitches - but good!
More details later. Nathan IS still in surgery and they are currently working on his left elbow/arm - more metal.............................but HE WILL BE GOOD!
We met with Dr Rutt after he finished his part of the surgery. Randy's parents are sitting here with us and the Dr. sat and faced us, stretched a pillowcase across his lap and drew us pictures, and sketched out our life for the next 3 months...............................
This was SUCH AN ENCOURAGING MEETING!! He says Nathan will be good - did you hear that - good! Excuse while I tear up, sing a little song (How great is our God, sing with me................), and praise my Heavenly Father for his provision and protection.Still a long road, still 2-3 more surgeries this week, but he should be good!
Lots of metal, screws, incisions and stitches - but good!
More details later. Nathan IS still in surgery and they are currently working on his left elbow/arm - more metal.............................but HE WILL BE GOOD!
Etc..............
It's about 12:30 and Nathan has been in surgery for 4 1/2 hours.? to go.................... Today he is number #695.
We did find out that they are planning on fixing the hip, the pelvis, AND the left elbow today - it needs a metal plate.
I'm terribly emotional today because of the mental image of my son having to be cut open and worked on............Randy says it's a good day for him as he says it means progress - I get that - still weepy.
The comments on the blog are encouraging, overwhelming, strengthening, and bring tears. All good things!
My cousin sent me this verse in an email - LOVE IT, I must share............
Isaiah 40 v 29-31 “ He gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak. … those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”
That's me - boy howdy - that's me.................................................
Monday morning.............
Surgery #2 day - this is the BIG one. He just went into surgery as I am typing. There is a team of 5 doctors and they say it will take ALL day - a LONG day.
The hardest part is seeing my big boy/man laying in that hospital bed - I forget how big he is! At 6'4" they had to bring in a long bed for him - it takes 3 nurses to turn and lift him. I think I'd better start lifting weights for the months to come!
Yesterday was a good day - it's amazing what makes a good day now! I was getting coffee at Starbucks yesterday and the barista asked the guy in front of me how his day was going and he said "yesterday wasn't good - but today might be a little better" - and in my head I thought - "yeah, we hope today might be a little better too". I realize people go on with their lives and Praise the Lord their lives are normal - but "a good day" definitely - for now- has different meanings for me.
Lots of family and friends yesterday - so much love. I have everyone writing notes to Nathan - that will be special to him later. Of course I try to take pictures of everyone too because this is a journey that will have to be scrapbooked to tell of God's faithfulness to Nathan.
Here is the view from our friends house where we sit and have coffee in the mornings.............................................. 3 pictures to capture the whole panoramic view!! We sit in two chairs - just like at home, and have our coffee in the morning - pray for Nathan - and begin the day.
Psalm 42:5
Why are you so downcast O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD, FOR YET I WILL PRAISE HIM MY SAVIOR AND MY GOD!!!
What's amazing is that in Psalm 42&43 that exact verse is there 3 times! I love that - even David, when writing the Psalms, had to remind himself to not enter a pity party, but focus on his Hope in the Lord! Me too!
Thank you for loving our boy and praying for him.........................
The hardest part is seeing my big boy/man laying in that hospital bed - I forget how big he is! At 6'4" they had to bring in a long bed for him - it takes 3 nurses to turn and lift him. I think I'd better start lifting weights for the months to come!
Yesterday was a good day - it's amazing what makes a good day now! I was getting coffee at Starbucks yesterday and the barista asked the guy in front of me how his day was going and he said "yesterday wasn't good - but today might be a little better" - and in my head I thought - "yeah, we hope today might be a little better too". I realize people go on with their lives and Praise the Lord their lives are normal - but "a good day" definitely - for now- has different meanings for me.
Lots of family and friends yesterday - so much love. I have everyone writing notes to Nathan - that will be special to him later. Of course I try to take pictures of everyone too because this is a journey that will have to be scrapbooked to tell of God's faithfulness to Nathan.
Here is the view from our friends house where we sit and have coffee in the mornings.............................................. 3 pictures to capture the whole panoramic view!! We sit in two chairs - just like at home, and have our coffee in the morning - pray for Nathan - and begin the day.
Psalm 42:5Why are you so downcast O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD, FOR YET I WILL PRAISE HIM MY SAVIOR AND MY GOD!!!
What's amazing is that in Psalm 42&43 that exact verse is there 3 times! I love that - even David, when writing the Psalms, had to remind himself to not enter a pity party, but focus on his Hope in the Lord! Me too!
Thank you for loving our boy and praying for him.........................
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sunday morning............
Nathan had a "good" night. He did not need blood and they are feeling better about his blood pressure and hemacratic levels (sp?).They are going to leave his breathing tube in and keep him heavily sedated as he needs to rest and is fairly restless and combative when they bring him out at all. His body needs to be prepared for the HUGE surgery ahead tomorrow.
They are looking at a minimum 5 hour surgery to reconstruct his pelvis and we ask you to pray!
Today we are expecting a bit of company which will help the day pass.
I am longing to be at church today to sing with my church family the praises that are due to the great and mighty God I serve! Music and praising the Lord are a salve to my soul.
This morning there is sunshine and it helps to make the soul feel brighter. Here is the view from our' "living room on the 9th floor.
Loving all of you and am overwhelmed at the care and compassion and PEACE we are feeling."How great is our God, sing with me, How great is our God, so all can see How great, How great, is our God!!"
Saturday, April 24, 2010
This is tough
Here is Nathan after surgery - resting and sedated. It's SO hard to see him like this - I don't handle it very well :-(
Uncle Larry,Aunt Kim, Darrin, and Jeremy came to visit. It helps to pass time to have people to visit - it's easier to turn my brain off.They are thinking they may be able to take the breathing tube out tomorrow. After this photo was taken with me by Nathan, he tried to talk, opened his eyes to look at me, and had a tear roll down his cheek - oh man - this IS TOUGH!!
They have a screen in the surgery waiting room to track your patient. Nathan is #850 and we were in the waiting room just as it directed!! We talked with the surgeon and he couldn't even begin to tell us how many surgeries this could take.Every time I see someone walk into his room I just want to scream - "That's my boy - please take good care of him." Sometimes they are so casual - and they have to be - I get that - but it's hard sometimes not to see constant urgency - after all - I am his mom!
"You will keep in perfect peace, him, whose mind is steadfast on you" Isaiah 26:3 (I think)
Update - Sat 4/24 12:45PM
We just met with the Surgeon and he says things went well - all things considered. They put a titanium rod in his femur and he is missing about 2 inches of his femur, they are hoping the bone will grow back.
They decided not to fix anything else because they wanted to stabilize him again, and let the leg start healing. At this point pray that he will not get an infection in this area.
We should be able to see him in the next little bit. Pray for this weepy mommy - feeling rather weak and depleted.
We will update again. PRAY PRAY PRAY - God is good - ALL the time - through the darkest valley His light still shines...........
They decided not to fix anything else because they wanted to stabilize him again, and let the leg start healing. At this point pray that he will not get an infection in this area.
We should be able to see him in the next little bit. Pray for this weepy mommy - feeling rather weak and depleted.
We will update again. PRAY PRAY PRAY - God is good - ALL the time - through the darkest valley His light still shines...........
Pray for Nathan!
Remember this..................................Yesterday about 2pm Nathan was in a motorcycle accident. He laid it down on a curve on the Wiser Lake Rd. - just 1/2 mile from home. Here are the details - bear with me - this mommy is foggy...................
-airlifted to Harborview about 5pm Fri. evening.
-fractured pelvis
-fractured hip
-open femur fracture
-fractured knee
-broken elbow, broken ulna with dislocated bones
(all of this on the left side)
-broken right hand
-bruise on his lung
-lacerations to the kidney and liver
They had to paralyze him to manage the pain and he is on a breathing machine NOT for breathing complications, but just because they have him medically paralyzed.
We just got the call that they took him into surgery this morning and I believe they are going to set the pelvis and work on the femur fracture.
HIS BRAIN AND HIS SPINE ARE FINE - PRAISE THE LORD!
All things considered - it could have been much worse.
I'll keep updates coming - it gives mommy something to do. Please feel free to email me or call my cell.
Last night Kathi, Dan, and Marla came down with us until we could go in and see him! Jeff drove me to the hospital in B'ham. Katie came and stayed with Em! Craig and Debbie came and prayed with us - thank you Lord for the abundance of support and love.
We have friends from ski patrol that live about 10 minutes from the hospital - Dennis and Michele. Dennis came to Harborview last night and brought us here to stay at their home - thank you Lord for providing!
It's going to be a long haul....................................
Friday, April 23, 2010
Time to dig in!!
Ok - yesterday I left work early, and decided I had ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to keep me from weeding! The bathrooms were clean, floors mopped, vacuuming and dusting done, laundry caught up - yep - good to go. I just can't go outside if the inside is not done. My friend Trisha said it best, "It's just kind of depressing to come in after you've worked so hard outside to a mess inside"! - she "gets" me!
With my dreaded resolve to not weed before March, it was pretty hideous!! The nice days we've had since, I've had company, working or on the boat - I know only working is the excuse that holds! :-O Here are the before pics!
Yes - I'm ashamed! Now - here are the afters.............................
I even found a rose in full bloom while I was weeding - it was low on the back side of the rose bush, so one wouldn't have noticed it unless one was on their hands and knees with their booty sticking up in the air!!!
I just have to share my flowering plum tree. So far, we've planted one at every house. I just love the deep red/purple blooms - they make me happy! I told Randy I want 5 more!!! I see it from my kitchen and living room - it's perfectly placed - it just worked out that way. We were placing it strategically outside and it just happens to be the best spot for inside too!! Don't you love that when it happens!!
And now, I must go pop my blisters so I can actually hold a pen at work today!!! (I know - it's my own fault!!) Enjoy your weekend!!
With my dreaded resolve to not weed before March, it was pretty hideous!! The nice days we've had since, I've had company, working or on the boat - I know only working is the excuse that holds! :-O Here are the before pics!
Yes - I'm ashamed! Now - here are the afters.............................
I even found a rose in full bloom while I was weeding - it was low on the back side of the rose bush, so one wouldn't have noticed it unless one was on their hands and knees with their booty sticking up in the air!!!
I just have to share my flowering plum tree. So far, we've planted one at every house. I just love the deep red/purple blooms - they make me happy! I told Randy I want 5 more!!! I see it from my kitchen and living room - it's perfectly placed - it just worked out that way. We were placing it strategically outside and it just happens to be the best spot for inside too!! Don't you love that when it happens!!
And now, I must go pop my blisters so I can actually hold a pen at work today!!! (I know - it's my own fault!!) Enjoy your weekend!!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A new fave
Have you seen these?
I hadn't until a few weeks ago when DH and I went to Costco. They were on an endcap and caught my eye. LOVE THEM!! It's great to consume a bagel and not feel so guilty about it - besides - bagels can be just too much bread.
Love them toasted with cream cheese - Emily likes them UNtoasted with cream cheese.
Great with an egg in the morning and awesome with meat and cheese for a sandwich.
You've got to try them!
I hadn't until a few weeks ago when DH and I went to Costco. They were on an endcap and caught my eye. LOVE THEM!! It's great to consume a bagel and not feel so guilty about it - besides - bagels can be just too much bread.
Love them toasted with cream cheese - Emily likes them UNtoasted with cream cheese.Great with an egg in the morning and awesome with meat and cheese for a sandwich.
You've got to try them!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
I would if I could
These are the latest style.........................
I think they are fun.
I would love to wear a pair like this.
I would only wear a pair like this if "my pair" were this small.
I would if I could!
PS Marla - we obviously found the store at Alderwood Mall with the cute inexpensive jeans.
I think they are fun.I would love to wear a pair like this.
I would only wear a pair like this if "my pair" were this small.
I would if I could!
PS Marla - we obviously found the store at Alderwood Mall with the cute inexpensive jeans.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Happy Birthday Marla!
Today is Marla's Birthday..................................
So yesterday to celebrate we packed up and headed out to Sucia Island for the afternoon.
The water was smooth as glass - coming and going - an absolute rarity!
Lots of laughing, snacking, relaxing, etc.........................................
Saying farewell to Echo Bay.....................
The Captain even let Marla drive on the way home!
Happy Birthday Marla, you are a blessing to me and I am proud to call you friend/sister!
So yesterday to celebrate we packed up and headed out to Sucia Island for the afternoon.
The water was smooth as glass - coming and going - an absolute rarity!Lots of laughing, snacking, relaxing, etc.........................................
Saying farewell to Echo Bay.....................
The Captain even let Marla drive on the way home!
Happy Birthday Marla, you are a blessing to me and I am proud to call you friend/sister!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Worth a thousand words
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