From: JShelton@unitedtexas.com [mailto:JShelton@unitedtexas.com]
Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 8:01 PM
Subject: News about Jerrod

Jerrod had a CT scan this morning and Dr. Catterini just came in this evening. Everything looked good so he removed the Ventricular Catheter. We asked if he still feels we won't need the permanent shunt and he said "so far so good." After removing the catheter he stapled the incision. I'm not telling you that to make you cringe, but when he shot the first staple in he asked Jerrod if he was okay. He gave a thumbs up and said with a grin "that feels great." Dr. Catterini said, "and you're a good liar."
He said Dr. Morgan would be here tomorrow and would most likely move him out of CCU onto a regular floor. From that point it just depends upon his progress. He said once he can eat and walk he can leave the hospital. Eating is not a problem. Let me give you the menu he ordered tonight. He is eating now.

Cream of Potato Soup
Home Style Mashed Potatoes
Black Beans and Rice
Corn
2 White Rolls
Carrots
Vegetable Medley
Pork Chop with Tarragon Sauce
Fettuccini with pesto sauce and baby shrimp
Fresh Fruit Plate
Tater Tots
New York Style Cheese Cake
Iced Tea
Vanilla Milk Shake
2 percent Milk

You think I'm kidding don't you? I'm serious. It required 3 trays to bring it all. (I don't think he can eat it all but he likes to eat a little of all of it.)
So... I believe walking is our only challenge to work on.
Dr. Catterini said that the nurses will transport him to the neuro floor and Mayflower Movers will need to be called to move the rest. That's about the truth. After living in the CCU for two weeks we have kind of set up housekeeping here.

Physical Therapy worked with Jerrod again this morning and got him up and had him march in place and walk to his chair. He was a little stronger today. It will be easier for him to work on walking as we continue to remove tubes and wires.

We still do not know about the tumor, we hope to have the results by Friday. That is our estimated date of dismissal from the hospital. We will be staying in the Womble's apartment for two weeks which we appreciate more than we could ever express in words. Dr. Catterini does not want us more than a few minutes away from the hospital for two weeks after we leave.

Russ is also going to post a photo of Carla, Jerrod and Daddy on the website that we took as we celebrated the removal of the catheter.

Prayers just continue to be answered don't they? Jerrod still has a very loud grinding noise in his ears and I believe that is what is effecting his speech. His speech was a little bit clearer today and he thinks the grinding may be a tiny bit better today. His eye sight is getting a little better when he looks straight, but his peripheral vision is still blurry and dark.
But considering what he has been through, we feel more than blessed.

We will continue to keep you updated, thank you all and we love each of you dearly,
jerry
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Jerry Shelton
Director of Advertising

United Supermarkets - Market Street - United Super Mercado
7830 Orlando Avenue, Lubbock TX 79423
806-791-8106 - Direct Line
(806) 791-0220 - Store Support Center
jshelton@unitedtexas.com     www.unitedtexas.com