Gene is in intensive care at Emory University Hospital. His diagnosis is a sub-arachnoid hemorrhage. This means that bleeding occurred in the middle layer of the three-tissue covering of the brain and spinal cord. The cause of the hemorrhage is unknown at this point, but in some cases the cause is not found and the patient goes on to a full recovery. If the cause is found, it can usually be treated. Gene was vacuuming his car when he said it felt like his head exploded with pain, soon after he had nausea and vomiting.
The critical period is 3-14 days after the bleed. It's reassuring that Emory has advanced facilities for treating complications, should they occur. Gene is not seeing visitors until his condition improves. He wants everyone to have a good time at the windsurfing party on Sunday. As previously listed, cards can be sent to:
Lisa Wise
2677 Hollywood Dr.
Decatur GA 30033
Barrett
Today (Sat.) Gene is feeling somewhat better, but has developed a 101F fever. The hospital took a culture looking for an infection.
Barrett
Sunday morning Gene had a good breakfast, is more alert and feeling better. No infection was found, so the fever, elevated blood pressure & blood sugar are probably responses as he begins the healing process. I talked with the chief resident and Gene is being treated prompty to keep his blood pressure, blood sugar & electrolytes (sodium & potassium) close to the normal range.
Barrett
Monday 12/19. Gene thanks everyone for signing his card. Lisa brought it to his room last night after the WS party and it gave him a real boost to know you cared so much.
This morning his electrolytes are out of balance. In response, more sodium has been added to his IV solution. Gene wakes up every hour or so, but is then overcome with fatique and drifts off into sleep. He tries to read or watch TV, but can't focus for more than a brief period. We are told by the staff that this is common during the critical recovery period.
Barrett
Thank you for the updates...let us know when he can recieve visitors...John