Kate Update - 7:00 pm Tuesday 12/12/17

Friends of Katie,

We are glad to report that Kate is back on a very positive track.   We trust this trajectory will prove to be a lasting trend.

Monday and Tuesday have been filled with waiting for two specific things.  The first is the Infectious Disease team, who is continuing to monitor the cultures the growing cultures which will help them  determine what specific infection Katie has been battling.   Earlier this afternoon, they came and shared that they had identified it as in the staph family (bad news)  but that it wasn't that "bad ass mersa" or however you spell it.... (great news!)  They are now shifting her antibiotics and will be utilizing two specific ones that are laser focused on battling the specific bug Katie has.   They will continue to monitor the cultures for the next few days but they are pretty confident they have zero'd in on the bug and will now start a 6-8 week antibiotic regiment to insure the infection in completely gone, resulting in being able to put the piece of her skull back on her noggin. 

The second issue the neuro team of doctors is monitoring is the fluid in Kate's crainial area.   Since her surgery on Sunday, she has had a drain coming from the incision in the back of her head for the purpose of draining of fluid from the surgery along with the typical crainial and spine fluid Katie continues to produce.  This morning, the neurosurgen removed the drain (This proved very very painful for Kate.....when the procedure was completed she asked to see what specific apparatus they pulled out the back of her head, she was stunned at the size and asked if she could save it.   For those of you who like that kinda stuff, she has it by her bed and would love to show you) The surgeons are now waiting to see if the fluid drains naturally, or whether or not they need to put in a temporary lumbar drain.  They should be able to make a decision over the next day or two.   

All of her vitals have been holding strong and trending in the right direction which we are all thankful for.   If all holds steady and she continues to progress as is, the plan could have Kate moving back up the 8th floor to be reunited with her recently made friends at the In-Patient Rehab unit.   They are axious to get her back on the full days schedule of therapy! 

Earlier today, Katie said emphatically that she "can't wait to get back up to rehab and start working out!"  We asked her if we could remind her of that when she is rueing the notion of doing exercise and endurance class.... she winked and begrudingly said yes! 

The waiting period prior to Christmas on the chuch calendar is called Advent.  It is a period of waiting for good news.  Katie waits similarly and in parallel with our entire world, for good news.  The past two days have been filled with such news.   We are grateful for each and everyone of you whom continue to wish warm thoughts and while putting voice to the longings of your heart for Katies healing.   Thank you!