Hello everybody!
I just arrived at the hospital, right as Dan was about to get a bath - so I decided to gracefully exit and let them do their thing, and now I'm in the waiting room and can update everyone real quick.
He had a marathon surgery today...he was the first case of the day, which means he goes to the OR between 7 and 8am. He didn't come back to his room until about 4:30. As of now, his right leg is completely closed, the amputation as well as the inner thigh wound, and they are done with it. They successfully closed the left leg today, at the amputated end, and set a special dressing on the left inner thigh in preparation for a skin graft that's to come in a few weeks. They also had to adjust the screw they placed in his pelvis last week, and now they have it right where they want it. They were supposed to fix his broken right hand today, but were unable to do anything because the bones had already fixated rock-solid. They'll have to consult a hand specialist to figure out a plan for fixing it. Now he has two days in a row of rest (yes!) and another surgery scheduled for Friday to do more washing out of all the wounds that are still open.
I know my mom wrote about some bumps in the road that Dan's been experiencing lately - I was with him most of last night and it was definitely rough. All the pain, vomiting, lack of sleep, hiccupping (he'll hiccup for 30 minutes straight!), inability to position himself how he wants, and the very painful restriction on eating and drinking that he's had to go through would make me want to cry and punch everyone in the face. But he's not that way, at all. Through all of this he's remained calm, polite, and gracious. I'm so proud of him.
I haven't seen him at all today, because he's been in the OR, but 5 minutes ago when I arrived here and popped my head in I saw a huge smile on his face, and he told me he couldn't wait to tell me all about his day.
That's all for now, wish us luck tonight!
Leslie
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Many blessings to your brother, you and your mother. My family is greatful for the service that Dan has rendered on behalf of our family. Our heart aches for all of you and we will keep Dan in our prayers and I will tell all my friends to send support on his behalf. God bless you above and beyond...
ReplyDeleteMy family's thoughts and prayers go out to Dan and his family during this trying time. I hope they can take some small comfort in knowing that there are those of us that still honor the servicemen and women of our country, and will never forget the sacrifices they have made.
ReplyDeleteSemper Fidelis,
Russell
Dan, you and your Mom remain in our thoughts as you go through the ordeal of surgeries, post-op and all the other little twists and turns along this route to recovery.
ReplyDeleteTell Dan to hang in there, we're with him and the whole family in spirit and prayer . . .
Also tell him I can't help but smile everytime I read about "his big smile . . . " Not only can I see it in my mind's eye just as if he were in front of me, but I would expect nothing less!
Keep smiling, Dan!
George & Cynthia
Dan, Leslie, and Alice,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say that we're still out here, saying lots of prayers and sending lots of good thoughts your way!
I'm so glad you all take such excellent care of each other... What a beautiful family!
Lauren Coia Friedman & family
Good Morning Leslie. My heart and prayers go out to you, Dan, your mom and the entire family. I want to thank Dan for his service and to your family. Some people do not understand how much having someone in the military effects the family (I'm a military brat myself), but it is a good one that we all hold with pride. I attended the local SEAL get together in Sep (I am member of the UDT/SEAL Association)and the local President introduced Dan's teammates and said that you and your mother will be here at least a month,I live here in MD and work in DC, just a short drive or train ride to Bethesda...if you, Dan, your mom ever need anything please do not hesitate to contact me (ware.beverly@epa.gov). Other then being friends with numerous retired and active duty SEALS, I joined the association to give back to them and their families and support them anytime and in any way.
ReplyDeleteLove, respect and prayers are headed your way from a stranger in Annandale, Virginia. I am in awe of Dan's courage and grateful for his service to our country. Blessings... Vicki Scheibel
ReplyDeleteDan, this really sucks shipmate but some SEALs I know tell me you are tougher than woodpecker lips. Alot of people are behind you and praying for you and contributing to help. You WILL get through this, one minute at a time if you have to. Each step is one step closer to recovery. Hooyah from an OldSwabbie. God Bless.
ReplyDeletePlease give Dan our best.
ReplyDeleteWe from Camp Patriot have gathered in AZ to honor Ryan Job. Many family and team guys present. His wife is well but hurting. God has sustained her in this hour. We are all blessed to have know Ryan.
Our prayers continue with Dan and for his full recovery. God has blessed this Nation with men like Dan.
God be with you.
Bill Clark
Camp Patriot
Prayers for continued strength and healing, for Dan and the entire family. Thank you, Dan, for your service to this great country. It is men and women like you who make the US a safe and free place for all of us.
ReplyDeleteCheryl and Jay in Omaha, NE
I heard about Dan on the Dennis Miller Show. Words fail me so I will say a prayer for you instead.
ReplyDeleteMichael Hurley
for pain and other issues look at www.emofree.com
ReplyDelete. a remarkable therapy. it may help. heard on miller radio show.
all the best forever to dan and his family and those who love him and wish him speedy recovery and renewal
Hey Dan,
ReplyDeleteJust checkin' in to see how things are going. You are one tough cookie! You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Hang in there.
Please thank Leslie and your mother for their updates here.
Gracie Chang