Prayers for my wife please

[ckadiddle]

My wife Freddy (Freda Lee) needs your prayers. We have known her liver was cirrhotic (s?) since 2001 when it was discovered during other surgery. She has stayed pretty healthy liver-wise in the years since. She also has cardiac and other health issues that complicate matters. She was recently hospitalized for a kidney infection which in combination with her liver being weaker than in past years made her deathly ill. I have been taking care of her at home the last week or so since the hospital, she is still very weak and very sick. Just getting dressed and going to a dr appt wears her out totally.

Her internal med docs are referring us to Shands in Gainesville to get registered for probably future liver transplant surgery. At this time we don't know if surgery is needed sooner or later. We do know that any other serious illness con become life-threatening quickly,which is what happened this time. A kidney infection was the culprit this time around. Kidney infection plus sickly liver equals BAD. She is not recovering quickly.

[ckadiddle]

Freddy has never consumed much alcohol. One or two drinks once or twice a year. Even less since we found out about liver issues in 2001. She has an aunt that is a liver transplant patient that also had cirrhosis for no apparent reason. We are wondering if this tendency might be hereditary.

[Mike Poore]

Please tell Freddie that Barbara and I love her and are praying for both of you. Hopefully your loving care and the doctor's skill will see her through this bout, until a proper course of treatment or transplant can be accomplished.

[ckadiddle]

Wondering how you can help besides prayer? I gave my wife an Old English Sheepdog puppy for christmas in 2005. Sarah the sheepie is now 55 lbs and very strong and full of energy. Help us find her a good home. We love her and it will be hard to let her go, but it is not good for a puppy to spend so much time cooped up in her cage. Freddy is too weak to handle her now and we cant take a chance on the dog possibly injuring her mommy. We are anticpating a lot of travel back and forth to Gainesville as time progresses and don't want to keep boarding her. I know she spends too much time in the cage there too. I know someone out there needs a great family dog! Sarah is about 14 months old, still needs supervision when she is loose inside the house....you know how kids get into everything, dont ya? It would be great if you have another large breed puppy that likes to play.

I am going to be taking her in for maintenance real soon, get her shots up to date, bath and groom etc then I will post some adorable current photos. This is an older photo of Sarah.
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/ckadiddle/asortedPicture096.jpg
Can you resist this face? I think not! One blue eye, one brown eye, looks half crazy all the time.

[Hotrauder]

As per the PM Freddy and you are on the list. Godspeed. Dennis

[ckadiddle]

Please tell Freddie that Barbara and I love her and are praying for both of you. Hopefully your loving care and the doctor's skill will see her through this bout, until a proper course of treatment or transplant can be accomplished.
Thanks Mike. Pra for some sanity for me willya? It kills me not to be able to do something to fix this for her.

[KillJoy]

Heather and my thoughts are with you as well.

KillJoy

[ckadiddle]

Thanks Killjoy.

[Marauder386]

Sherie and I send prayers of strength and hope...

:cool:

[rumble]

Is the Mayo Clinic a posibilty? I know everyone has
advice but they are supposed to be wonderful.
Jacksonville is not that far from Orlando.

My family's prayers and thoughts are with you and
your family.

[Bigdogjim]

Prayers are sent. Will do so till recover is complete.

God Bless!!

[Merc-O-matic]

Pete... Please know that you and Freddy (the whole family) our in
our prayers. If there is anything that Linda and I can do to help,
we are only a phone call away! If we didn't already have "Rosie"....
we would take Sarah. Keep us posted.

[Bluerauder]

My wife Freddy (Freda Lee) needs your prayers. We have known her liver was cirrhotic (s?) since 2001 when it was discovered during other surgery.

Will keep Freddy and you in our thoughts and prayers. Here's hoping for her to regain her strength for a quick recovery.

[dwasson]

I will keep her in my prayers. I can state from experience that modern medicine is a powerful force. We shouldn't underestimate it's capabilities.

[Smokie]

Will pray for her recovery and strength for you to cope and help her.

[JMan]

Pete,
I'm sorry to hear this. Here's best wishes for a quick and complete recovery for Freddy. I've personally been through the 15 most helpless feeling months of my life. I have great empathy for you! We'll keep Freddy in our prayers for the duration. We know you'll be strong! As dwasson said, modern medicine is incredible and Shands may be the pinnacle of modern medicine.

I have a neighbor that has had a couple sheepdogs. He still has one now. I'll contact him and see if he's interested in Sarah. She is adorable!

In the meantime, feel free to call me if I can help.

May God Bless you all!

Jake

[jgc61sr2002]

Freddy and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

[the_pack_rat]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

[MarauderTJA]

Pete, I truly hope for the best for Freddy's recovery and for yourself in having to handle these difficult times.

[MyTMerc]

Diane and I send our thoughts and prayers to you and Freddy. Stay strong.
Shaun

[teamrope]

Prayers from the TR household as well

[mr.continental]

You and your wife are in my prayers.

[Ladyhawke]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Freddy.

[SC Cheesehead]

Pete,

You and Freddy will most certainly be in my prayers. I'm going to add you to the prayer list at our church as well.

God bless, and keep us posted.

Rex

[Marauder2005]

My prayers are with you my brother.

[fastblackmerc]

You & your family will be in our prayers.

[JamesHecker]

May God bless your wife and you with healing and his love and joy. That dog is adorable. You should have no trouble finding her a loving home.

[MM2004]

Prayers sent and God bless!

Keep us posted as the two of you progress.

Mike.

[LordVader]

Prayers and good thoughts sent your way for you both. God bless and keep you both strong and healthy.

[Pops]

My thoughts are with you nad your family.

[ckadiddle]

Thanks for all the prayers and good thoughts folks. I am in the office for a few hours today, then out for appt with the wife and hopefully back to the office for another few hours in late afternoon. I am trying to get some hours in at the office this week. I am blessed with a great boss that says "do what you need to do".

I took a few photos and a short video of Sarah the sheepie yesterday and will post them when I have time to upload them to the web. She desperately needs a bath, so consider these to be "before" pictures. :) Her hair is short, growing out from having her coat shaved a while back due to heavy matting. But she's still cute.

[RoyLPita]

Prayers sent. Keep us posted, please.

[magindat]

Well dayum....

I finally got around to reading this thread. I don't know what to say. I'm really not a 'prayer' kind of guy. But, I do believe in the power of good thoughts and wishes and you have mine.

It sucks to hear about this kind of stuff and for a do-er of a guy, it makes ya feel helpless to fix it, or even to offer help.

All my best for the best possible outcome and if you need anything I can help with in the meantime, just holler. I mean it.

Rich

[RedMerc04]

Prayers sent! Hope everything turns out for the best!
God Bless,
Matt

[2003 MIB]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Stay strong.

Dan, Coli and the kids
<!-- / message --><!-- sig -->

[chicago_cop]

You can count on prayers from my wife and I. She had a group of women that get together every Tue, and many will be praying for a miracle.

Bible quote: God if a very present help in a time of trouble.

[ParkRanger]

Stay strong and don't let the medical bastards get you down!

PR

[pantheroc]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Freddy.

[Raudermaster]

Prayer's sent! Hope everything goes well. Don't worry, it will.

[ckadiddle]

Freddy Update:
Yesterday afternoon she had a little over six and a half liters of fluid drained from her belly. A new record. :) Whatever is going on is causing her to retain huge amounts of fluid in all her tissues, especially collects in belly area. I told her that her new nickname is "BeerMeister". This is the third time she has been "tapped", first couple times they got 4-4 1/2 liters out. Freddy crashed out for a couple hours nap in the early evening.

This morning we will see a kidney specialist that her internal med guy is referring us to on an ASAP basis. Without the referral from the other doc in the same group it would have taken months to get an appt with the kidney doc.

We both slept better last night. I am in a better mood today. :)

[ckadiddle]

http://s46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/ckadiddle/sarah/

These are recent ! She is dirty, runs like a Marauder on a road track around our back yard that is mostly dirt, leaves and sticks. Likes to run after anything you throw for her, then plays
"keep away from daddy" with the ball so I will chase her.

[Dragcity]

Stay Strong. My Brother went through similar things. I know it's not easy.

My thoughts and prayers are with you both....

[oldekid]

Pete,
So sorry to hear about Freddy.

I was trying to get caught up here and just now read your post. Sorry, but we just didn't know.

Denise had her shoulder surgery, and we've been busy dealing with that. I know it's nothing compared to what you are going through, but I just haven't had the time lately to stay informed.

Please let Freddy know that our thoughts are with her, and we certainly wish her the very best.

We also aren't able to help out with Sarah right now, but I will ask around when I go back to work tomorrow. I know what a burden pets can be at times like this.

Give Freddy our love and hang in there Pete. Let us know if there is anything we can do to help, and please keep us informed.

[Haggis]

Freddy Update:
Yesterday afternoon she had a little over six and a half liters of fluid drained from her belly. A new record. :) Whatever is going on is causing her to retain huge amounts of fluid in all her tissues, especially collects in belly area. I told her that her new nickname is "BeerMeister". This is the third time she has been "tapped", first couple times they got 4-4 1/2 liters out. Freddy crashed out for a couple hours nap in the early evening.

This morning we will see a kidney specialist that her internal med guy is referring us to on an ASAP basis. Without the referral from the other doc in the same group it would have taken months to get an appt with the kidney doc.

We both slept better last night. I am in a better mood today. :)

Pete, Chris and I are deeply saddened to hear this news. We will keep Freedie and you in our prayers. Please keep us updated as to her condition.

[94_302]

Prayers are with your family.

[ckadiddle]

We liked the kidney doc we met yesterday, he took a lot of time with us and we didn't feel rushed. Freddy's kidneys look fine to him, he told her to avoid salt, which she has already been doing. He is going to consult wth the internal med guy to see if they can come up with any new ideas.

Today is a doctor free day for a change.

[Jerry Barnes]

All of us at Trilogy wish Freddy all the best in her recovery.

Jerry

[Mike Poore]

We liked the kidney doc we met yesterday, he took a lot of time with us and we didn't feel rushed. Freddy's kidneys look fine to him, he told her to avoid salt, which she has already been doing. He is going to consult wth the internal med guy to see if they can come up with any new ideas.

Today is a doctor free day for a change.

Barb reminded me that our friend Erma had many of the same issues, and it took a while, and much sickness, to discover the cause: a ruptured urethra from an LPN carelessly inserting a catheter, causing the abdominal cavity to fill from a leaking bladder.

That would explain the fluid.

[ckadiddle]

Lung doc visit today. Verified what we already knew with exam and chest xray. Freddy can't breathe worth crap cause the fluid in her tissues won't allow the lungs to fully expand.

The fluid is collecting all over her body, not just in abdomen. Even after draining fluid off the belly, there is still plenty left in legs, hips, rear, etc. Yesterday after resting all day she was a tiny bit perkier. Today after a looong dr visit she is worn out again.

[Mike Poore]

Dr. and Mrs. Poore will go back to praying for Freddie and you.

[05GTMach70]

Freddy has never consumed much alcohol. One or two drinks once or twice a year. Even less since we found out about liver issues in 2001. She has an aunt that is a liver transplant patient that also had cirrhosis for no apparent reason. We are wondering if this tendency might be hereditary.
We will be praying for you as well. I'll put her name on this list at my church and the congregation can help as well..

[ckadiddle]

Thanks again for all the prayers and kind thoughts. Freddy was feeling perky Saturday afternoon, ad wanted to get out of the house. So, of course, we took her to Walmart! Needed a bunch of stuff anyhow. Wore her out big time, she had an early evening nap, then slept all night too. :) Sunday we mainly rested and hung around the house. I needed an at-home day myself. Freddy's belly is swelling again, so I see another pericentesis (sp?) in her near future. Based on my observations, I think her body is very very slowly working it's way back to normal balance, it's just taking forever. Our friend Twyla that usually spends weekends with us has the day off today. She helps me out immeasureably on the weekends - taking dogs out, laundry, dishwasher stuff like that. She also brings over her collection of the tv series "24" so we can get to know Jack Bauer more intimately. We had never taken the time to watch it. Seems like someone is always getting kidnapped or turtured. Freddy said she will never look at a grinder the same way again. :) We have finished the first season and are on the third disc into the second season. TV is so much more fun without commercials!

[JVJ]

Prayers And Thoughts!!!!!

[LordVader]

Glad to hear the Mrs. is doing a little better. It's nice to hear you both found a little diversion in 24. Sometimes 'Ol Jack is a little intense, but I think it's one of the best shows on TV. You both take it easy, and we'll keep the good thoughts and prayers coming your way.

[ckadiddle]

Update:
Rough weekend for Freddy, a good deal of pain and discomfort from the grossly swollen abdomen, hips, legs, etc. She is still on oxygen 24/7, very short of breat. Appts for blood draw for labs and drain the fluid off the belly appt this afternoon. One of her new caps fell out last week, she has not felt up to trying to make it to the dentist to get it reattached yet.

And, oh yeah, I was trying to get laundry caught back up Sunday evening and the friggin' dryer croaked off. I am going to try to get out to Lowe's or Home Depot tonight and get one bought and delivery scheduled for later in the week. Freddy confirmed what I thought, the dryer was a wedding gift from her parents about 13 and a half years ago. It's about time for a new one anyhow, I guess. We had already replaced through remodeling and mishap every other appliance, heating and a/c units, waterheater, etc in the last 2-3 years.

Recent events remind me why I treasure those quiet, uneventful days where noone is in the hospital or deathly ill, and I have a boring day at work.

[Cobra25]

Our Prayers & Blessings are with you Both.

[magindat]

Dude, we're here for ya.

[Haggis]

We will continue to keep Freddy in our prayers.

[ckadiddle]

Freddy called me a little while ago, she had me reschedulae todays appts for tomorrow. She is not up to going today.

[SID210SA]

Lisa and I will be praying for you and your wife...

[ckadiddle]

OK. the appt was rescheduled to Wednesday, not today. I had to call dr's office this morning to find out what was going on with it.

New Kenmore dryer is being delivered sometime on Wednesday. 443 bucks including delivery and setup, new pigtail and vent hose. I am going to have my motherinlaw assigned to dryer-waiting duty whilst I take the wife to her lab and pericentesis appt. I think I will probably take the whole day off. I really could use a little more sleep.

[Breadfan]

Been reading this thread since you posted it, hadn't replied but wanted to let you know I have and will continue to keep Freddy and your family in my thoughts and prayers!

[ckadiddle]

Thanks, BF and everyone for continuing well wishes.

[05GTMach70]

Yes still praying for her. How is she ?

[JMan]

Pete,
Got ahold of a gal in the Ocala area that deals in OE Sheepdogs (meaning finding homes for them). Let me know if you need her info.

Jake

[ckadiddle]

Thanks, Jake. I am giving it a while trying to find Sarah a home locally first, then I will work with the OES rescue folks. Freddy would like to be able to visit her occaisionally, so closer is better.

Freddy's health is about the same. More comfortable temporarily after draining five and a half liters off her belly yesterday. Got Beefy King on the way home. My back was out so I went to the chiro yesterday morning instead of sleeping in. Took meds and went to bed at nine thirty, woke at two thirty, took dogs out, took more meds, slept till seven thirty this morning. My back is still sore, but not as bad as it was.

I need to know where around Orlando I can get a trailer hitch installed properly. I also need to know what class/type I need in order to handle a wheelchair rack that is hitch mounted. And, what is a good place around orlando or internet to order a wheelchair rack? Approximate price of hitch plus install? Do hitches bolt-on or welded-on for our cars?

[ckadiddle]

I still need to know about trailer hitches.

Freddy is still very ill, needs tapping again.

May have found a home for Sarah, a coworker and his wife are coming to see her tomorrow. They have had a sheepdog for years and know what they would be getting into.

[Mike Poore]

I still need to know about trailer hitches.

Freddy is still very ill, needs tapping again.

May have found a home for Sarah, a coworker and his wife are coming to see her tomorrow. They have had a sheepdog for years and know what they would be getting into.


We still have Freddy on our prayer list; but wondering if you ought to start thinking about one of the major clinics in the US where the largest concentration of experts live. There's also the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, where a referral from Freddie's team will get her on a protocol.

As for the hitch, send a PM to Barry (Cruztaker). He put one on his MM to carry his slicks & such, which should be just fine for your application.

[DefyantExWife]

Diddle, I am sorry to hear of Freddie's troubles. Please follow all doctor's orders to the T as far as diet and fluid intake, and of course medication. I hope she's on a diuretic, or 2. If Beefy King means Burger King, then that would be a detrimental no-no for her. The sodium content is astronomical, as is the sodium content in canned AND frozen food.

Have a peaceful Sunday and hang in there :)

[JMan]

Pete,
Call me tomorrow (Monday) about trailer hitches.

Jake

[ckadiddle]

Thanks for the help and suggestions, everyone. I got the right person on the phone this morning at Shands and we now have an appt for initial consult on the 22nd of March. I was also able to verify that Shands is "in network" for our insurance carrier, United Healthcare HMO.

[ckadiddle]

Update...yesterday we went to get fluid drained off again, Freddy's blood pressure was too low. Ended up seeing her internal med dr, he sent us to hospital. If course, this took from about noon to eleven pm yesterday. Stayed with her for a few hours till she was comfortable, got to bed about five am this morning. Just spoke to her a few mins ago, looks like they will be doing a TIPS procedure tomorrow. For info on TIPS see here:
http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/0200/0237.asp?index=4956&src=newsp
She also said they think her kidneys may be having problems.

Yesterday evening I called my brother from the hosp to check on my dad. Around the end of Jan dad was in the hosp for a few days for some unexplained bleeding. Nothing found on scans or xrays to explain it. His regular GP, after reviewing the hospital data and scans has referred him to a cancer specialist. Yesterday was the first visit to the cancer doc, my brother took him to the appt. Dad has asbestosis, which may have caused mesothelioma, which I haven't had a chance to research yet. Doc does not want to cut on dad right now, this stuff may not be an immediate issue, but they have no other recent scans to compare to since dad has been fairly healthy the last few years. Right now the recommendation is to run the scan again in two months and compare to see if there are any changes.

[FordNut]

I just checked mine it is made by Valley, model 82610, class IV, 2" square receiver. I believe it bolted in to existing holes in the frame, no drilling required.

[ckadiddle]

OK.... thanks for looking at your hitch, fordnut. I was hoping it was bolt-on.

Update on Freddy:
TIPS is now scheduled for this coming Monday at 7:30 am. Yesterday when I stopped by we went down for ultrasound of liver, liver veins, and kidneys. Last night nurse let us know that the kidneys looked fine, no abnormalities showed on ultrasound. No reports back on liver ultrasound yet.

[ckadiddle]

Sunday Sarah the sheepdog went home with her new mommy and daddy. She has several new playmates both canine and human.

On Monday, Freddy made it through the TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic shunt) procedure with no complications.

[JMan]

Sunday Sarah the sheepdog went home with her new mommy and daddy. She has several new playmates both canine and human.

On Monday, Freddy made it through the TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic shunt) procedure with no complications.

Great news! Keep your chin up and forge ahead.

J

[Haggis]

That is good to hear, prayers are still being sent.

[magindat]

I been eye-ballin this thread periodically and have you guys in my thoughts.

I hope that Sarah's new home is the beginning of things getting better, smoother and easier for ya'll.

Keep yer chin up, bud. Both of ya.

[ckadiddle]

Got a call at four am this morning. Freddy is worse and has been moved to ICU. Hepatic encephalopathy is keeping her out of consciousness for the most part. Responds with some moaning to being handled by nurses. Doesn't appear to recognize that myself or other family members are in the room. It's pretty much killing me to see her like this.

[Merc-O-matic]

You and Freddy are very much in our prayer's....keep the faith!
Again, if we can help in anyway lets us know. Keep us posted.

[magindat]

Not sure what to say...

One big ol' shoulder here to lean if you need it....

[ckadiddle]

Just got the message that Freddy has been accepted into the liver program at Shands. She will be transferred as soon as there is an available bed.

[Cobra25]

We will keep praying for both of you.

[JMan]

Just got the message that Freddy has been accepted into the liver program at Shands. She will be transferred as soon as there is an available bed.

That's great. Shands is a wonderful, miraculous facility. Keep up the faith. Know our hearts and prayers are with you!

God continually bless,

J

[SC Cheesehead]

Just got the message that Freddy has been accepted into the liver program at Shands. She will be transferred as soon as there is an available bed.

Pete,

You and Freddy remain in our prayers. Hang in there!

SCCH

[Rider90]

Does insurance cover all of this?

What can I do to help? No room for another dog, but if bills are racking up tell me where to send a check. We've helped people get engines, I would be glad to pitch in some money to provide some assistance in this time of grief. If we can get more people to pitch in some spare mod-money this would be the best mod thus far...

Please let me know.

Jason Gauer

[ckadiddle]

Should pretty much all be covered under our United Healthcare HMO. They are pretty good except for sometimes screwing up the billing end of things. I did verify that Shands Hospital is an "In Network" provider for our insurance coverage. We should be OK. The out of pocket expenses are going to be for my room and eats when I stay up there. I could use some recommendations on decent motels near Shands. I like Holiday Inn/Holiday Inn Express and I see there are several in the area. I know they give some heavy discount rates to hospital visitors. I am looking specifically for motel/hotels with high speed internet access so I can keep in touch with you guys and our other friends, relatives, etc. I get tired of repeating the same story over an over on the cell phone.

[ckadiddle]

Just got the message that Freddy has been accepted into the liver program at Shands. She will be transferred as soon as there is an available bed.
Update:
Day before yesterday, Freddy was moved from ICU to a regular room. This means that she is no longer eligible for an emergency transplant. She will have to go to Shands as an outpatient. Last night she was much more coherent and back in the same world as the rest of us. She now has much better control of her hands and fingers, speaking much more normally and not talking any crazy chit. She remembers only a few bits and pieces from the last few days or so. She is scared and I am too. We are treading unmapped territory here. She is so weak she cannot move herself around in the bed and has a pressure sore started. Last night her nurse mentioned they were going to give her a pint of blood. Hopefully that will help to perk her up a bit. Her appetite is beginning to come back some.

[Marauder386]

...still sending prayers of strength...big hugs too...

:cool:

[ckadiddle]

Thanks for the continued support. In other happy news, yesterday afternoon I was trying to load the Sarah's folded-up cage (huge) in the trunk to bring to work to her new daddy and scratched the rear bumper pretty good. Ended up laying it across the back seats and floor. Must have been how we got it back from the store. Well, at least I don't have to worry about it rusting.

On the upside, I did get my bad fog lamp fixed. Turned out not to be a bad bulb. One of the two little tiny S-shaped prongy thingies that makes contact with the back side of the bulb flangydoodle was bent down and wasn't making good contact.

[ckadiddle]

Freddy was looking some better last night, still in hospital. They have been giving her albumin (sp?) IV to help move the fluid out of her tissues and back where it belongs. Improved a bit, but still a long way to go, though. We got her sitting up on the edge of the bed for a couple minutes, but she was dizzy from it. Still pretty weak overall, but her grip and arm strength has improved noticeably. Her appetite continues to improve.

[MM03MOK]

Thanks for the update. Prayers to you both.

[oldekid]

Pete,
Glad to hear that Freddie is showing some improvement, and I certainly hope that trend continues.

We missed you Saturday night in Sanford. There were a few people that were asking about you guys, who obviously didn't know about Freddie's condition. Unfortunately, not everyone has been staying very active lately.

Just tell Freddie we are all thinking of her, and looking forward to you two meeting back up with us, hopefully soon.

[Cobra25]

Glad to hear it may be getting better. We will continue to pray for both of you.

[04MRADR]

I will keep her in my prayers

[Hotrauder]

Pete our prayers continue for you both. Thank you for keeping us posted. Please let Freddy know we all are with her. If there is anything at all that we can do that would help please let us know. Penny and Dennis:)

[1stMerc]

Good news on both counts. You and your family are in my prayers.

[Bradley G]

great progress ! more prayers sent

[Local Boy]

My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless

[ckadiddle]

Thanks for the continued prayers and thoughts. Freddy was transferred out of the hosp yesterday afternoon to a rehab facility where she will get physical therapy seven days a week. I think she will probably hate the facility, and probably hate me also. In the hospital bed for three weeks, she has lost the minimal ability to walk with my help that she had prior to the hospital admission. I hate not knowing what is the right decision and having to decide anyway. The insurance company and hospital administration were pushing for her to leave the hospital. They felt she was as good as she was going to get there. All I do know for sure is that I miss her and it is awful to see her so sick for so long with nothing I can do to make things better.

[Pops]

Thinking of you and your family. Thanks again for your support in my time of need.

[ckadiddle]

Thanks for the continued prayers and thoughts. Freddy was transferred out of the hosp yesterday afternoon to a rehab facility where she will get physical therapy seven days a week. I think she will probably hate the facility, and probably hate me also. In the hospital bed for three weeks, she has lost the minimal ability to walk with my help that she had prior to the hospital admission. She is still carrying a LOT of fluid in her hips, abdomen and legs that needs to be gone. She normally wieghed around 150ish, she has weighed as much as 220 in the hospital with all the fluid collecting in her body. That excess weight and bloat is hindering her ability to move herself around in bed, and is causing her many other nasty issues that I won't mention. She is still not eating very much. I hate not knowing what is the right decision and having to decide anyway. The insurance company and hospital administration were pushing for her to leave the hospital. They felt she was as good as she was going to get there. All I do know for sure is that I miss her and it is awful to see her so sick for so long with nothing I can do to make things better.

[Merc-O-matic]

Remember it's all about money, but there is one thing stronger and much better than money....PRAYER. May our LORD and SAVIOR continue to Bless and keep you both (speedy recovery) this EASTER season.

AL & Linda "Rosie"

[ckadiddle]

Thinking of you and your family. Thanks again for your support in my time of need.
Going to work as much as possible and posting to mm.net are some of the few "normal" things that I am doing to try and retain a small part of my sanity. I am not nearly so tough as I thought I was.

It was very difficult not to just have Freddy brought home from the hospital so that I could be with her more. In theory, the seven day a week rehab she will be getting will have her back able to travel to Shands much sooner that three times a week at home. Her mom and I got her to agree to try it for a week or so and see how it goes.

We take so much for granted every day, like being able to get out of bed and take ourselves to the bathroom without help from anyone else any time we wish to go. Take time to appreciate the every day things in life for a moment. Every day that you and your family/friends are all reasonably happy and fairly healthy and nobody is in the hospital is a big gift in my opinion.

[magindat]

Going to work as much as possible and posting to mm.net are some of the few "normal" things that I am doing to try and retain a small part of my sanity. I am not nearly so tough as I thought I was.

It was very difficult not to just have Freddy brought home from the hospital so that I could be with her more. In theory, the seven day a week rehab she will be getting will have her back able to travel to Shands much sooner that three times a week at home. Her mom and I got her to agree to try it for a week or so and see how it goes.

We take so much for granted every day, like being able to get out of bed and take ourselves to the bathroom without help from anyone else any time we wish to go. Take time to appreciate the every day things in life for a moment. Every day that you and your family/friends are all reasonably happy and fairly healthy and nobody is in the hospital is a big gift in my opinion.

Words to live by Pete. My thoughts are with ya'll!

[Haggis]

Pete, Chris and I will say a special prayer for you and Freedie this Easter. God bless and hang in there.

[ckadiddle]

Update:
Freddy has been transferred from the rehab center back to the hospital, to Intensive Care Unit. She is now jaundiced, has a skin infection and pneumonia in one of her lungs as well as her liver going even farther downhill than it was.

I am alternating between :mad: ,:mad2: , :alone: and :help: . I was so tired last night I was having trouble making sense of the words coming out of people's mouths. Like they were speaking in foreign tongues.

[knine]

Pete, my prayers for Freedy and for yourself. Please seek out someone close to talk to, confide in. This is a good, supportive place, but personal, one on one really helps, Lord knows I've been there. It's difficult to watch those we love when they are this sick. Be strong my friend, Freddy needs you to be right now. Earin.

[ckadiddle]

Update:
Freddy has again been accepted by Shands for ICU-to-ICU transfer and transplant. Now it's a matter of twiddling thumbs till they have a bed open. Prayers please for the patients in the Shands ICU unit to get better so Freddy can get moved up there.

I do have my brother, Freddy's mom, and some very dear friends that are helping me survive this. You really find out who your real friends are during these times. The "fair weather" friends quickly become evident.

I have started gathering my stuff together in organized piles so packing will be take a few minutes when the time comes. I suck at packing, Freddy has always taken care of it for me in the past. As long as gainesville has wallymart and cvs drugstores I can survive indefinitely. ;)

[prchrman]

I am praying for you and Freddy...God bless...willie

[mcb26]

Prayer with ya'll. Take care

[JMan]

Best of luck Pete. More prayers forthcoming for you, Freddie and the rest at Shands. One of the best facilities around, period!

May God Bless you and may this be a distant memory soon!

J

[Cobra25]

We will continue to keep praying for both of you. May God Bless both of you.

[ckadiddle]

yesterday afternoon Freddy was put on a ventilator to breathe for her. She and her mom consented to it due to her continueing to have a lot fo trouble breathing. She has been coughing nonstop for weeks and has to be exhausted. Coughing up some blood due to the intubation and not having enough platelets to clot. She was transported to Shands in Gainesvilled last night, my brother drove me up in the MM as soon as she was on her way in the ambulance. Her pupils were somewhat dilated after getting to shands and they were going to CT her head to check for bleeding around the brain. No changes we could see this morning. We have a room for wed and thurs nites, but gonna have to hunt for fri and sat nites due to ball game booking up most all available rooms. Last resort we could stay with a friend about 25 miles away.

Bizarrely, we just came back to the holiday inn express to lie down for a while and discovered a black marauder with georgia plates in the parking lot. I carded ya with my cell number. Looked like it also had been to the Shands hosp parking garage today as had we. We will go back to the hosp later after getting a nap.

[SID210SA]

Our prayers continue to be with you and Freddy......

[the_pack_rat]

Still here & praying for all the best.

[Hotrauder]

Pete, we continue to pray and hope for the best for you both. I admire your strength, courage and ability to cope. I hope that I could do half as well. Please, if there is anyway Penny and I can help Pete let us know. Dennis

[ckadiddle]

Pete, we continue to pray and hope for the best for you both. I admire your strength, courage and ability to cope. I hope that I could do half as well. Please, if there is anyway Penny and I can help Pete let us know. Dennis
Strength, courage, Cope? Nope, I cry a lot.

Met oneof the transplant docs last night as she was looking in on Freddy . Right now it's a wait and see game. She is too sick and weak to undergo major surgery. Head CT scan was OK. She will have to get weaned from the ventilator and other complications ahve to be cleared up before she can be considered a candidate for liver transplant. There is some possibility that she will not meet qualifications for transplant and then some hard decisions will have to be made.

[magindat]

Holy Shnikies, Pete! We 'take action' guys feel as helpless as you do. All the best and as always feel free to holler even if it's just to vent.
We'll be thinking about ya.

[Haggis]

Chris and I will continue our prayers for Freddie, you and the rest of your family.

[Starman]

I have followed this since the first post and have continued to say prayers. I am sorry to hear about the latest and will continue prayers in earnest.

God Bless.

[oldekid]

Pete,
I hope I can speak for your fellow Orlando area SSM members in saying that our thoughts and prayers are always with you and Freddy. If there is anything that we can do to help beyond that, please don't hesitate to ask.

Although we may not always be well organized at times, I know we are a group of very caring individuals that know how stressful your life must be right now, and are all willing to do what we can to assist.

Take care of yourself, and be strong for Freddy. Right now that is what's important.

We're here for you buddy.

[PAPAJOHN]

Pete,
John is absolutly correct in speaking for our Orlando group, and certainly for Pat and myself.
You have our phone numbers, and we would not want to find out there is something we could do, and you didn't want to ask. You already have our prayers, and are wanting to do more.

[ckadiddle]

Good news for you finally! Freddy was awake when we fot to Shands this morning. Able to communicate via hand squeezes and head nods. Tube was taken out this afternoon, throat anc vocal chords are very sore and will take a while to heal up. She is back with us again finally. Comin off the ventilator is one of the steps she had to take toward being considered for liver surgery so this is good. Two of the Liver docs continue to check on her each day. Nurses here are outstanding. I am tired this evening, posting from Silver Springs cause Gainesville was sold out motelwise due to UF events. Moving back to Gville tomorrow though. :_

[JMan]

Great to hear things are on the upswing! Keep looking forward!

God bless,

J

[knine]

Glad to hear the news. Keep your chin up. God Bless, Earin.

[jgc61sr2002]

Great news.:D

[MaLo03]

Pete Im soooooooooo sorry to here. I just read this post but happy to hear Freddy has taken a turn for the better.
I hope to see you both very soon. I'll be calling you ASAP.
Tell Freddy I'm praying for her. Out of all of our CFL members, I'm allways thinking about her. Ever since we visited you home as a group, I never got over her Coca Cola collection. Everytime I see anything to do with Coca Cola and want to get it for her, I show Chrissy and she says "no, she got that one too"
God bless....Talk to you guys soon.

[ckadiddle]

Back in Gainesville yesterday. Saw that other Marauder in the parking lot again. Saw a differnet black marauder over the weekend when we were running between silver springs. My brother was driving Blue Thunder, I was riding a ways back in another vehicle. Plate was MYRAUDR or something similar. I ahven't seen this many marauders since marauderville iv.

Freddy is still hanging in there, very jaundiced at this point. She was feeling generally uncomfortable today. She had her nasogastric tube removed the day after the ventilator tube came out. Today they removed her arterial line. She is on a soft diet, gnawing on jello, yogurt and the ever-popular Ensure. I ran back to Orlando for a couple hours today to get a few more clothes and pick up mail.

[ckadiddle]

Today freddy passed a cardiac stress test necessary to see if her heart could stand the stress of a long surgery. She passed OK. Also had another chest xray to check on pneumonia, no results back on that yet. Physical therapy is beginning to work with her to get her strength and movement back. Today she was sitting up in a chair for 30-40 minutes. Wasnt able to hold her head up straight, I had to keep pushing it back up. Tonight they started her on nutrition through IV. There was a new PICC line put in today which will be used for this and other uses. She ate a little solid food and drank some fluids for me at dinner. Not enough solid food to feed a bird though. Stil trying to get her strength up so that she can stand surgery and recovery from surgery. It was a busy day for her today.

[oldekid]

Thanks for the updates Pete. Glad to hear that Freddy is showing signs of steady improvement.

Keep the good news coming!

:2thumbs:

[ckadiddle]

Freddy was moved out of ICU for a few days, seems to have picked up some more infection,, is now back in ICU again. Last night she had a really bad sounding wet cough. Back on antibiotics again. Was also testing positive for blood in her stool. Platelets keep dropping low. Back on nasogastric tube again for food and antibiotics in addition IV nutrition.

On the up side, she was smiling at us yesterday and watching tv last night. She is improving slowly iwth the physical therapy she is getting.

[Pops]

This is good news and I know all of us are thinking about your family.

[Haggis]

Hang in there Pete, we are all praying for Freddie and you.

[ckadiddle]

We are approaching the end of the road. Freddy has been doing worse and there is no chance she would recover nearly enough to undergo transplant surgery. We had to make the decision today to decline further aggressive life support measures and move into "comfort care". Freddy's liver, kidneys and lungs are all shutting down. She is on heavy duty pain meds and anti anxiety meds. She was sleeping fairly comfortably when we left to get a few hours nap at the motels. We are heading back to the hosp shortly. Please keep us in your prayers and thoughts, we are wishing for a relaxed and pain-free end to her suffering.

[Shora]

I am so sorry for her, you and the rest of her family and loved ones.

[JMan]

Pete,
I am so sorry to hear this. Don't give up hope on her! I'll continue to give prayer for you and your whole family. I can only wish you the best course of events in the days ahead.

May God bless you all!

J

[Haggis]

Chris and I are saddened to hear of this. May God Bless Freddie, you and the rest of the family in this time of sorrow.

[DefyantExWife]

I am so sorry, you're in all our hearts. May she pass comfortably in her sleep and finally be at peace.

[oldekid]

Pete,
It is with much sorrow that I say this, but I hope for you and Freddy that her suffering comes to a peaceful end.

I know you have done everything possible to avoid this. I have been where you are now, and I know there comes a time when the pain and suffering just needs to stop.

I just want you to know that our thoughts are with you.

[MM03MOK]

Thank you for sharing this difficult journey with us, Pete. She's in the hands of her Higher Power. Continued blessings and prayers to you and Freddy, giving you strength and Freddy peace.

[Cobra25]

I'm sorry to hear how things are turning out for Freddy. We will Continue to Pray for her and your whole Family.

[Pops]

Sorry that it has come to this. My thoughts are with you and your family.

[Mike Poore]

Pete, Barbara and I cry, seeing and traveling with you and Freddie on the emotional roller coaster through hope and despair, and back again. Your faith will give you strength and time will heal the sorrow, but we are very saddened by the news. We are not supposed to outlive our wives, and certainly, not our children. The thought of loosing my Barbara brings on another flood. God bless you.

[Mike]

I wish you and your family the best. My prayers are with you.

[Bluerauder]

Very sorry to hear that Freddy's condition continues to deteriorate. Sounds like she has fought this battle long and hard. If and when the end does come, may it be as peaceful and painless as possible. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and Freddy during this very difficult time.

Stay strong, Pete. You are not alone.

[jgc61sr2002]

Pete - Thinking of Freddy and you in this most difficult time. May God Bless you all.

[ckadiddle]

Freddy passed away quietly at Shands Hospital this afternoon at about 12:45 pm. She was as comfortable as possible. .Thanks to everyone for your concern and thoughts during the past weeks.

[MM03MOK]

She now rests in peace. Our most profound sympathies to you and your family, Pete. Thank for sharing something most precious with us. We are truly honoured.

[JMan]

Pete,
My most sincere condolences! You have to believe she's in a better place with no pain or suffering whatsoever. Apparently she had a higher calling away from this earth. I'm certain she doesn't want to see her loved ones in deep sorrow although sorrow is a part of the healng process for the grieving.

Stay strong for your family and may God bless you all,

J

[fastblackmerc]

Condolences to you and your family.

[Haggis]

Chris and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family. I know what it is to watch someone sufer, my Mother, and I know it is better for all when it has ended. Now is the time for healing and knowing she is in a better place.

[2003 MIB]

I'm sorry for your loss but happy she's not hurting anymore.

[SC Cheesehead]

Pete,

I was deeply saddened by the news, but Freddie is with the Lord, and all her pain and suffering has ended.

Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Rex and Terry

[FordNut]

You have my condolences. May she rest in peace.

[LordVader]

I am so sorry for your loss. She put up a brave fight, but she is in a far, far better place. Our condelences to you and all her friends and family.

[Cobra25]

Our Deepest Condolence's to you and your Family Pete.

[Hotrauder]

Pete our prayers continue for Freddy and for you and your family. Again, if there is anything that Penny and I can do please let me know. Thank you for taking us with you on this journey. We too hope to understand. Dennis

[Pops]

Again my thoughts are withyou and your family. John

[knine]

Pete, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It's strange, I've never met you or Freddy in person, yet as I sit here and type this, tears are streaming down my face. You have become part of my extended family. I've lost two close loved ones to cancer, I know the hurt that you feel with this loss. May each day find you with kind memories of happy times and the knowledge that you were there for her until the very end. You are a very special, kind and loving person. God bless you and your family, Earin.

[Mike]

Sorry for your loss, my condolences to you and your family.

[MarauderTJA]

Pete, I am really sorry for your loss.

[Merc-O-matic]

Pete, Please know that you are not alone...may the Good Lord continue
to Bless and keep you during this time of sorrow. We know the "hurt"
our only child "Denise Lynn" died (4/26/93) 14 years ago today,
four days before her twentieth birthday.

Dear Lord keep us faithful to Thy saving Word, that we, too, may depart
in peace when life's journey ends, washed clean in the blood of our
precious Savior, to enter into glory, there to live with our loved ones
in the Savior's presence eternally. O Lord, abide with us,
for Jesus' sake. Amen.

Al & Linda Saleker

[RoyLPita]

I am sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.

[teamrope]

Our condolences as well.

[prchrman]

Praying for you and your family in this time of sorrow...God bless, willie

[Blackmobile]

I'm sorry for your loss and prayers go out to you and your family.

[magindat]

Will be on my Marauder in honor.

No words can take away the pain and sorrow and no condolance can relieve the exhaustion from your recent experiences. Nonetheless, we will try our best to offer our support, comfort, and understanding.

Folks here at work are looking at me funny tearin up while staring at my screen. I'm glad I got to meet her at Gainesville. I've been tellin' my girlfriend about this as it happens. I'm off to call her now.

Pete, thanx for sharing this experience. We feel like we're part of it and hope we can share the load.

Here for ya, any time.

Rich

[Dragcity]

My thoughts are out to you and those you hold close.

[pantheroc]

tearin up while staring at my screen.
Rich

Ditto ^^^. Sorry to hear Pete, God bless and your in our prayers.

[Breadfan]

Pete, I'm very saddened by the news and wish you and your family the best in this time of sorrow. Stay strong and God bless.

[Bluerauder]

My sincerest condolences to you and your family. May Freddy rest in peace. Her suffering has now ended.

[Blackened300a]

Im very sorry to read this news, My condolences to you and your family.

[carfixer]

Pete, our deepest sympathies to you and your family through this tough time.

[MM2004]

Pete,

Sorry to read this news. We are here for you. Be strong.

God bless Freddy.

Mike.

[oldekid]

Pete,
I have tried several times today to reply to your post regarding Freddy's passing. It's been very difficult for me to even know what to say.

As you can see from the replies, this has touched the hearts of many members. I think it shows the concern for each other that we all really do have. We aren't an actual family, but we do have special ties that bring us together when one of us is in need.

I'm hoping that the thoughts expressed by so many will somehow help you get through this. You have suffered a great loss. Stay strong and remember your Marauder family is here.

Please let our local members know if there is anything we can do.

[1stMerc]

Pete,
My condolences go out to you and your family.

Peace be with you.
As long as Freddie remains in our hearts and mines she's never really gone.
Be stong.

[DeadVic]

I have quietly followed this thread since the begining. I have prayed for healing nearly everyday.

I am so sorry to hear of your wife's passing.

Please take the time to grieve and reflect as it is so important to begin to heal yourself.

You know she would want you to honor and remember her but to also live your life and to be happy.

Let us know if we can do anything to assist in the faciliation of your own healing process.

[unclebuck]

Friends, Pete just called me while driving home. He asked me to update MM.net. Freddy passed away Wednesday afternoon. She was peaceful, quiet and painfree.

The services will be Wednesday, May 2nd. Viewing; 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Service; 3:00 PM. Freddy loved flowers, so flowers are okay.

Harden/Pauli Funeral Home
1617 S Bay St
Eustis, FL 32726
352-357-4126

Take RT 441 North, in Eustis you will come to an overpass-take it, it is Bay St. H&P Funeral Home is about 1 mile further North on the Right side.
Steven at H&P gave me Claudia's Florist, 352-735-0012 for the freshest and nicest flowers in that area. Of course you could call your local florist and arrange for flowers too.

Pete said he may come to the Car Show in Sanford Saturday, tomorrow, to see some friendly faces. I hope he does.

[unclebuck]

I don't know why the faces appeared in my previous message.
The viewing times are 1 to 3 in the afternoon, the service is 3 in the afternoon on Wednesday, May 2nd.

[MM03MOK]

I don't know why the faces appeared in my previous message.
The viewing times are 1 to 3 in the afternoon, the service is 3 in the afternoon on Wednesday, May 2nd.
I'll fix that....has to do with : and P, put together make :P.

[Breadfan]

I don't know why the faces appeared in my previous message.
The viewing times are 1 to 3 in the afternoon, the service is 3 in the afternoon on Wednesday, May 2nd.

If you had a ":' and "p" character next to each other the forum software would automatically parse these and insert the smiley that appears above.

Thank you for the info, we really appreciate it.

[Haggis]

Thanks for the information Buck.

[MENINBLK]

Pete,

I am deeply saddened to hear that Freddy has gone home.
It is a very emotional time when a loved one is called home.

I will pray for you and your family, for the strength you will need,
to cope with Freddy's passing.

[the_pack_rat]

Pete,

I am very sorry to hear things never turned around for her like we have all been praying for. Wish there was more I could say to ease the pain of your loss.

[SID210SA]

I am so sorry and we send our condolences.....our prayers continue to go out to you...

Mike and Lisa

[jgc61sr2002]

Pete - Very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.

[RCSignals]

Pete, my thoughts are with you at this time.
This is a period of deep emotion and sorrow for you, you can never be prepared.
Take all the time you need and come back with us when you are ready.

[ckadiddle]

Friends, Pete just called me while driving home. He asked me to update MM.net. Freddy passed away Wednesday afternoon. She was peaceful, quiet and painfree.

The services will be Wednesday, May 2nd. Viewing; 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Service; 3:00 PM. Freddy loved flowers, so flowers are okay.

Harden/Pauli Funeral Home
1617 S Bay St
Eustis, FL 32726
352-357-4126

Take RT 441 North, in Eustis you will come to an overpass-take it, it is Bay St. H&P Funeral Home is about 1 mile further North on the Right side.
Steven at H&P gave me Claudia's Florist, 352-735-0012 for the freshest and nicest flowers in that area. Of course you could call your local florist and arrange for flowers too.

Pete said he may come to the Car Show in Sanford Saturday, tomorrow, to see some friendly faces. I hope he does.

Thanks Buck.
Also, following the memorial service in Eustis we will be heading to Freddy's mom's (Georgia is her name) house in Winter Park, FL for food, friends, food, family, food and stories...and food. The women in Freddy's family apparently express grief through cooking. PLEASE come help me eat all this food on Wednesday afternoon/evening! Crazy Aunt Connie had already gotten started stress-cooking as of eight oclock this morning. Everyone near and far is invited, I know some of you won't be able to get off work early enough for the memorial service. PM me for her address and assorted contact numbers.

Thanks to everyone for all your love and support. It helps.

.

[04MRADR]

You got it man. I say some ptrayers everyday for the club members and family who are ill. Your wife will be in them.

[Paul]

I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. Will keep you in my prayers.

[mcb26]

Just got back to my computer, Sorry to hear of your loss. Take care.

[oldekid]

Just so everyone knows, the service for Freddy was this afternoon. It was a very nice tribute to a special lady.

We had some of our local guys attend, and because Freddy was part of our Marauder family, they asked us to park our cars in a special place to pay tribute.

When the service was over it was suggested that we crank up our cars as the people were leaving. At first, I had some reservations, but we were told that no other services were going on at that time, so I went along. Most of our members that attended have cut out their mufflers, so it was a pretty awesome Marauder farewell to Freddy.

It was very different, but everyone knew that she was into cars and would have appreciated every minute of it.

My wife (Denise) and I stopped later at the bar of one of our favorite restaurants. and had a toast to Freddy.

It was a sad. but special day.

Pete, we were happy to be there for you. We'll all miss Freddy.

[ckadiddle]

Just so everyone knows, the service for Freddy was this afternoon. It was a very nice tribute to a special lady.

We had some of our local guys attend, and because Freddy was part of our Marauder family, they asked us to park our cars in a special place to pay tribute.

When the service was over it was suggested that we crank up our cars as the people were leaving. At first, I had some reservations, but we were told that no other services were going on at that time, so I went along. Most of our members that attended have cut out their mufflers, so it was a pretty awesome Marauder farewell to Freddy.

It was very different, but everyone knew that she was into cars and would have appreciated every minute of it.

My wife (Denise) and I stopped later at the bar of one of our favorite restaurants. and had a toast to Freddy.

It was a sad. but special day.

Pete, we were happy to be there for you. We'll all miss Freddy.
Thanks guys, it was awesome. I am sure Freddy appreciated the send-off. I got some video:D . I will post it in a few days when I have time to fool with the camera.

Someone mentioned that the Eustis PD kept cruising past the funeral home...reckon they were lusting after the four Marauders parked out front? Or maybe they thought we were gonna cause some trouble! :D One of the young employees at the FH wouldn't let me leave without answering some Marauder questions for him.

[ckadiddle]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/ckadiddle/th_100_1161.jpg (http://s46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/ckadiddle/?action=view&current=100_1161.flv)

Here is the video if you would like to view it. I think at least two of the three are "muffler deleted".. ;)

[oldekid]

Here is the video if you would like to view it. I think at least two of the three are "muffler deleted".. ;)Pete, they are all three "muffler deleted", since I recently had mine cut out too. Thanks for posting.

[ckadiddle]

Pete, they are all three "muffler deleted", since I recently had mine cut out too. Thanks for posting.
I am sure Freddy loved it.