Updating on a rollercoaster

Today, I went into the hospital to see my husband as usual. When I arrived, the physical therapist had just cajoled him out of bed to work on his endurance and taking a few steps. He'd really not felt good and had to be talked into it, but he was.

He walked about halfway down the hall with the walker and the PT supporting him. By the time he got there, he was almost angry. I can't say I blame him. 21 days today. And he's been couped up and tied up to machines, and he's just facing such an unknown.

The doctor came up while he was trying to get walking again. She told us the news that Don most did not want to hear. That the existing problem ( C5/C6 movement, with exposed spinal cord) was worsened, significanlty. It's now the C5/C6 & C6/C7 and the spinal cord is displaced with (?iffy on medical facts here, not sure I fully understand) the foramen exposed as well.

This, is what's causing the extreme pain and weakness in his arms. Which, for him, IS his mobility. His arms propel him while he walks, they lift him to a standing position and help to stablize him. But at least he's going, for now. The pain from the spinal issue is causing significant pain in his hands though, and gripping the walker is quite difficult. He dropped his fork several times today and could not lift the cover off the food with his right hand. The loss of control has us very concerned.

If the EMG is right... the damage is done, and as long as the nerves are compressed in the neck, there is nothing that can be done ... and well, with Don's repsiratory system, he's not a candidate for the surgery.

They also think the C5/C6 exposure is what is increasing his breathing difficulties. The C5 is what effects the breathing & swallowing muscles.

So, once again, we are waiting to see ... what's next and where we go from here.