Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Update -- Wednesday, early p.m.

New info from Gin/Lisa:

This morning, and in the early afternoon visit also, Joe has been showing the most body movement/activity since the shooting, particularly on the left side. Neurosurgeon used term "purposeful" in describing the movements (a first time for that adjective). Lisa reports that he even went so far as to lift his hips and appeared to be trying to sit up, and he squeezed her hand strongly in response to specific comments and questions (a very moving moment for her). Staff cautions not to expect dramatic responses all the time, because we do not want to bring him out of sedation to "perform" too frequently.

He's running a fever again, but his white blood count is good and the nurses don't think we're dealing with an infection. Mentioned something about the possibility of a non-infectious "neurofever," but don't quote me on that. His sodium levels continue to move in the right direction -- down -- bottom line is continuing reason for guarded optimism.

All the family has been to Ash Wednesday services, and Gin says "Happy Lent" to all.

Lisa wanted me to tell everyone that she'll be posting more photos to the blog as soon as she can.

Keep the faith, hang together...

Love and thanks to all.

mark

11 comments:

  1. Ginny, Stephen, Keith, and the extended Leahy family,

    Thanks so much for taking the time to keep us informed of Joe's progress. We have so many people praying for his recovery. Your neighbors are so concerned and we feel helpless!...if there is ANYTHING we can do, please don't hesitate to ask. Stephen is always welcome to come over and hang with Kai if he needs a little break, or a homecooked meal.

    We will continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.

    Donna and Kai

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  2. That's fantastic news that he seems to be more comfortable after the procedure yesterday. We continue to pray for Dr. L every day.

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  3. such great news! the whole family is in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time!

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  4. Hi. My name is Lou Ann Clark. I am a neighbor of Phil and Jackie's in Circleville. I am so sorry to hear about all that you have been through. I was very happy to see that there is some improvement today. I have been praying for the entire family each day. I wish there was more that I could do to help you, but praying to the man up above is the strongest action that I know.

    Joe, although I don't know your personally, I have always heard from your parents how strong all of their children are. You have a very strong family to support you and I know that they are doing everything that is possible.

    I appreciate all the updates that are provided each day. God Bless you all.

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  5. Wonderful news! Great progress. Thanks for the update. Still praying...as always.

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  6. Thank you so much for posting these updates. Happy Lent to you Ginnie! This is a good time to heal :-)
    Please do not hesitate to call for anything. I can bake fresh bread anytime you want!

    Peace, and lots of love.

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  7. Ginny - Missed your smile in the car line this afternoon at school. Sending loads of love and prayers to you all.

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  8. Ginny and family....

    Just letting you know that we're praying for Joe and your family.

    Much love,

    The Lauers.

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  9. Hi Leahy family,
    I wanted to let you know that the Lones family is praying for all of you.

    Caleb has been praying for "Coach" especially hard, and says he is going to give track his very best this year in honor of Coach.

    Stephen, I have been thinking of you often, and am sending hugs and positive thoughts your way. We've missed you at SJS, but I am sure you are loving high school. Mrs. Lones

    Jennifer Lones

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  10. Ginny & all - the Soprano family is praying for you all. We are close by if you need anything - including a place to crash. We are so thankful for the blog updates so that our prayers can be more intentional. We've got lots of other friend and family in several different states praying for Joe as well.

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  11. Ginny and boys, the Rick and Jill Lancaster family has been praying and thinking of you, nonstop, since we heard the news! We will continue to do so! We have SO much LOVE in our hearts for you and all the wonderful things you have done over the years for St. John's and the track program! Mary Kate, Anna and Sara have SO many wonderful memories of Joe and track. Joe always inspired our girls to always do their best, work hard and have fun! He taught the girls things they use today in dance, dance competitions and cheer competitions.
    Ginny, you and Joe are such precious people to many! PLEASE do not hesitate to ask if you need ANYTHING...461-7923,679-2947. Jill

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