ANA Discussion Forum

General Category => AN Issues => Topic started by: tripsplus6 on September 08, 2007, 09:53:37 am

Title: Adrian's Update
Post by: tripsplus6 on September 08, 2007, 09:53:37 am: Just talked to Sam, Adrian is doing great, in ICU but already up walking around and will be in a regular room by this evening. She has not left his side. She said to tell everyone he is doing beautifully, they left some of the tumor on the facial nerve and he will have radiotherapy in the future for that. I know we are all so relieved! Terri
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 08, 2007, 09:57:11 am: Awesome!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: robynabc on September 08, 2007, 09:58:39 am: Great to hear!!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: tripsplus6 on September 08, 2007, 10:04:37 am: Oops! Looks like Patti and I both talked to Sam at about the same time. Please see Patti's update on the other thread about "Surgery scheduled Sept 6." What a great ICU unit to let family stay around the clock like that. Terri
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: pattibobatti on September 08, 2007, 10:08:53 am: Hi Terri,

I had just talked to Sam too!!! I posted on the other site but wanted everybody interested to get all the news on this thread too.

He had a 15 hour surgery. He was intubated until 8 am the next morning which made him very frustrated. He has a bit of facial paralysis. Sam said that he talks like Sylvester Stallone! The doctors are confident that his face will be fine.

Sam was up 40 hours straight. She sounded great on the phone. She could not post while in the ICU, but thinks she wil be able to tomorrow. I did tell her we were concerned and to give her man a huge hug from all of us!!

Patti
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 08, 2007, 10:15:31 am: Thanks Patti and Terri,
Glad to finally hear some good news. Sam must be exhausted! tampa general is in assocation w/ moffitt. They will let someone stay in icu but there are no tv's or phones and no cots. When he gets to a regular room they'll bring in a cot for sam. Mema and Paul talked about stopping in to see him this week. Wish I was closer :-\

M
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 08, 2007, 10:24:27 am: Quote from: pattibobatti on September 08, 2007, 10:08:53 am
Sam said that he talks like Sylvester Stallone!

Wait, I'm confused, I picture him calling out "Adrian", but that's his name! I guess "Sam, Sam" works too. :D

I'm not sure how Sam can sound great after being up 40 hours straight, but she is an amazing trooper. 15 hours is a long surgery. What does "intubated until 8 am" mean?

Great news, thanks Terri and Patti.

Steve
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: satman on September 08, 2007, 10:25:31 am: "AWESOME"-up walking,JOB WELL DONE !
you go boy.
patti and terri -"the new bounty hunters"
run but you cannot hide, nice job.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: satman on September 08, 2007, 10:38:26 am: hi steve,i think it has to do with breathing assistance,not sure though.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: ppearl214 on September 08, 2007, 10:42:12 am: thanks terry and patti for the updates and making the phone calls on our behalf.... this is great news and now that Adrian is a "postie", now onward and upward to wellness.

Adrain/Sam.... wishes for a very speedy recovery! Welcome to the wonderful world of "postie-ness"!!!!!!! :)

Phyl
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Jim Scott on September 08, 2007, 11:50:00 am: Wow! A 15 hour surgery and Adrian is up and walking already? That's even better than I did - and I did pretty good! :)

Congratulations to Adrian for reaching postie status and to Samantha for being his 'rock'. She is truly an awesome lady!

Now, let's all hope and pray for a continued rapid recovery for Adrian....and a good nights sleep for Sam! She's earned it.

My thoughts and prayers are with you both...and I know I'm certainly not alone.

Jim
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 08, 2007, 01:50:04 pm: entubated is the tube they put in your airway to keep it open in case they have to give you oxygen. I woke up with mine still in. Oh I feel for Adrian. Awful experience as they typicall keep your hands tied to the bed so you aren't tempted to pull the darn thing out. That was the worst part about waking up was the tube I wasn't expecting and my hands tied and not being able to see. I like to think Adrain woke momentarily then went right back out until they took that tube out. ;D Usually, the tube is removed before you wake up in recovery. For me it was a precaution due to blood pressure issues which are more uncommon than common. For Adrian I would suspect it was just in case he started having seizures since his AN was so large. Either way, not comfortable!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: matti on September 08, 2007, 02:30:10 pm: Terri - Thank you for the update, I am so relieved.

Hugs to Sam and Adrian

Cheryl
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Obita on September 08, 2007, 05:54:57 pm: THANK YOU LADIES!!!

I have been checking in four or five times a day hoping to see a "He is fine" post. Last night, the Nervous Nellie part of
me was starting to appear. I am so relieved and happy, happy that the hard part for Sam and Adrian is over!

I talked like Sly myself and felt like one cheek was stuffed with cotton for a good month. Invest in a box of straws Sam and Adrian. Drinking is much easier with a straw and a heck of a lot neater. Also, ask for prune juice in the hospital and get some for when you get home. The prune juice will get your bowels rocking and rolling again!

Welcome to the other side you two. Good luck and take it real easy.

You did it! ;D Kathy
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: linnilue on September 08, 2007, 06:09:48 pm: Hey Gang, We'll all rest tonight. And hopefullly so will Sam, Adrian's "Rock of Gibralter." What a couple they are! Their parents must be so proud of the way they interact with one another and support each other, it's remarkable. They have been in my thoughts constantly. It's funny isn't it, how close we can become through this diagnosis? We bond, feel the same shock and pain and we hold each other up and yet we wouldn't know each other if we met on the street. I think it's wonderful. Now, let's celebrate. It's a great day in the neighborhood...Holly
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 08, 2007, 06:26:12 pm: Quote from: nikynu on September 08, 2007, 06:09:48 pm
It's funny isn't it, how close we can become through this diagnosis? We bond, feel the same shock and pain and we hold each other up and yet we wouldn't know each other if we met on the street. I think it's wonderful. Now, let's celebrate. It's a great day in the neighborhood...Holly

It surprised me to discover how much it mattered to me to get the news on Adrian. I will admit, the thought that "no news is bad news" entered my mind more than once. It really was a relief to hear that "Rocky" Adrian was up and about in the ICU, no doubt complaining about that awful tube they had down his throat. And you are right, Holly, it is wonderful.

Steve
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 08, 2007, 06:37:18 pm: I'm thinking Sam and Adrian need to tie the knot and have a big wedding and invite us all for Cake! LOL
They seem to have such a solid loving relationship. Hoping he's resting well tonight and Sam too!

M
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Jeanlea on September 08, 2007, 08:02:40 pm: I am so happy to hear the good news! I too, had frequently been checking for updates. So glad we all got the update. Good wishes for an uneventful recovery.

Jean
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: pattibobatti on September 08, 2007, 08:15:34 pm: Hi Holly,

The part about we would not even know each other if we met on the street is not right... Maybe we could post lots of pictures of ourselves so we might feel more connected to each other.... something to make that statement not true.......

I cant figure out how to change my picture on this forum~ Maybe we need some help with all this..
You would think with all the technology we have available that we could make this forum much more personable.

Patti
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 08, 2007, 10:13:56 pm: I don't know, pattibobatti, I kind of like the parrot picture. :)
I've added a picture of me to my profile, so now you can spot me walking down the street.
The main thing is you need to have the picture on some web site somewhere before you can load it into your profile. When I get back from my special little trip, I'll offer some more help if you want.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: marg on September 08, 2007, 11:30:12 pm: Steve that would be great. I don't know how to post a picture either. Family members should at least know what each other looks like. ;D .

Maybe Adrian and Sam will post pictures / video of the wedding so we can all "be there" once they tie the knot. Oh brother ! We do sound like family ...... giving 'suggestions' like we would to our own families :o .

Anyway, I know that I will sleep better tonight knowing that 'the kids' are both okay and things will get better day by day for them.

Margaret
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Denisex2boys on September 10, 2007, 11:01:32 am: I am SOOOOO relieved the everything is going well! What a relief that he is now on the 'post-op' side of things :)
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Gennysmom on September 10, 2007, 11:23:31 am: Yeah Adrian and Sam!!!! I'm so glad!!!!! Now I can't wait to hear that he's home!!!! Home is such a good place to be after that surgery!!!

Patti and Holly I can tell you from experience....even if those pictures are little you'll still recognise people...we've had two get togethers where I was relying on that small photo only to recognise people, and I totally did. Of course, I was looking for them! It would be nice though if this site had a photo gallery like some others do so we could see some bigger pictures!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 10, 2007, 01:29:29 pm: WOW! I am so sorry tohave made you all worry like that! I am so touched by the love and warmth we receive always from you all. When I picked up the phone and heard from Patti and Terri that you all were so worried I couldn't help but feel bad about what I did but also extremely loved! Thank you so much and I am so sorry for not being able to post sooner, but as I am sure you all now know I did not want to leave AdrianÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s side for one moment!

We are home .... yes you heard me correct.... HOME as of right now! Adrian's recovery has been amazing to say the least! Today he doesn't feel well because he over did it yesterday... thinking he is Rocky and all..(HAHAHA) But all in all we are more than thrilled with the outcome and his recovery!

The day of surgery was VERY long however and VERY hard. The doctors had told us they thought surgery would take 6-8 hours. So when 8 hours came around and they said that they needed a couple more hours I became a little nervous. We asked for an update every 2 hours and they kept saying the same thing. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Everything is going well, we need a couple more hours.Ã¢â‚¬? When the 12 hour mark hit and we received the same response I at that point began pacing and stood outside of the OR doors where I had said goodbye to him and watched him get wheeled through before surgery. When 14 hours arrived the lady who was there to communicate between us and the doctors had left for the day and the surgical waiting room which was full all day was empty because all the other surgeries were through and I started to have an anxiety attack as to how do we get a new update???? So I decided to call the surgical recovery room and told them my situation. The nurse was very nice and said she would go and see if she could get some information and let me know, and she came back saying that they were finishing up and the doctors would be out soon to talk to us. I was SOOOOOO happy to finally hear that! :)

They wheeled him out about an hour later and straight to the NICU. They told me to give them 45 mins to get him situated and then I could visit. So I went up 45 minutes later. They werenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t ready yet so I had to wait a bit outside the door, but finally around 12:45am I was let in and got to see him. He was intubated and the machine was still hooked and breathing for him like he was in a coma and this made me nervous but the nurse said this was because of how long his surgery took and that it would need to stay for awhile. I then noticed his hands were tied to the bed and this was because natural instinct would be to pull the tubes out.

A little after 1am they decided to wake him and make sure he could understand by giving him some basic tasks to perform like squeezing there hands and blinking and moving his feet and toes.

He did all of this with flying colors and was extremely irritated that they would not remove the tubes. I know it must be a horrible feeling Ã¢â‚¬Â¦. Every time his pain meds started to wear off a bit he would wake and become extremely agitated about us not understanding that he wanted the tubes out.

It was a VERY hard night and I just tried to soothe him and calm him as best I could and explained that his surgery was lengthily and this was a precaution they had to take. I became distraught myself for him when they kept saying Ã¢â‚¬Å“Another hour or soÃ¢â‚¬? and that hour would come and they would still not remove the tubes. He finally had it removed around 8am! I wasnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t allowed to be there when they removed it but thank God he had a wonderful nurse to be by his side for it.

ALL the nurses were extremely nice and understanding and caring. I was so thrilled that they let me stay with him through all of this! :)

This has been one heck of an experience I must say... and I know that the journey is not quite overy yet... but of course the scary parts are at least for now out of the way!

Thank you all so much for your support, thoughts, prayers, love, good wishes and cyber hugs! They are without a doiubt what helped pull us through this! We love you all!

xox
Sam~
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Palace on September 10, 2007, 01:34:18 pm: BLESS YOUR HEARTS!

Thank you for writing and that couldn't be better news! There is no place like home. Keep up the good recovery and we are still there for you both.

Hugs,

Palace
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Obita on September 10, 2007, 03:52:37 pm: Dear Sam and Adrian:

Wow. Home after a 15 hour surgery in 4 days..........you must be one healthy guy Adrian!!

Take it easy Adrian, it sounds like you know that now. I didn't listen very well either and paid for it the next day too.

Thanks for the update Sam, cyber hugs from Minnesota, Kathy
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Pembo on September 10, 2007, 06:52:33 pm: I can't believe he is home so soon! Good for both of you! Remember one week of fatigue for every HOUR of anesthesia. Make sure "Rocky" doesn't over do it. REST = recovery.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: leapyrtwins on September 10, 2007, 06:54:50 pm: Sam -

thanks so much for the update. I, like everyone else, am thrilled that Adrian is home now and doing well :)

I'll continue to keep you both in my prayers,

Jan
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Lisa Peele on September 10, 2007, 07:40:09 pm: Welcome Home Sam & Adrian!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 10, 2007, 07:40:30 pm: YEAH!!! I am amazed how soon Adrian came home. I guess Mema won't be stopping in to meet Adrian tomorrow!
Sam your such a trooper and inspiration. I can just see you marching into surgery and pushing the intercom demanding and update! None of us would have blamed you. Thanks for the update and may Adrian continue to have a speedy recovery.

Don't forget to take care of you!
Hugs to you both,
M
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: marg on September 10, 2007, 10:25:59 pm: Hurray ... now on the road to recovery. I am so glad for both of you. Amazing that you are home in less than a week. All I can say is WOW !.
Margaret
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: mema on September 11, 2007, 05:35:54 am: Sam and Adrian,

So happy to hear you are already home. Please take it easy and get a much needed rest, both of you.
Prayers coming your way for a wonderful, easy recovery. M. mentioned a few of us getting together when Adrian's up to it.

mema
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: hendi51 on September 11, 2007, 05:45:14 am: So glad he's home Sam. Hope every thing continues to well for you and Adrian.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Mary 117 on September 11, 2007, 11:15:04 am: So glad to hear you are home and everything went as well as possible. Don't overdue it for a while. There's nothing to prove, so just rest, recover and let others help! Sending postive thoughts to you!

Mary
2cm Middle fossa, HEI, Dr. Brackmann 05-24-05
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Jim Scott on September 11, 2007, 01:42:26 pm: Hi, Sam:

Thanks for the update. We really appreciate it. You had us a bit worried there...for a while, anyway. Now, all is right with the world.

No apology is needed on your part for not posting sooner as you certainly had more important things to do. :)

Yes, the lengthy surgery must have been stressful (to put it mildly) and the long night in the NICU with Adrian suffering through incubation is probably one of the worst nights either of you have had, or will have, but I can assure you that it will soon become nothing but an unpleasant memory that you'll hardly ever recall - or want to. That's how my ICU experience seems to me, now, 15 months later.

That Adrian is home and apparently 'chomping at the bit' (to get back to his normal activities) is wonderful news. I was sleepy my first few days at home, but I soon was anxious to get back to normal living....and I did. With your love and support, I know Adrian will, too. Wish him all the best for me....and take care of yourself, too, young lady. :)

Jim
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Sue on September 11, 2007, 01:45:07 pm: I, too, am so happy Adrian is in his own home and recovering so quickly. He must have set a new land speed record for microsurgery to his own bed! I'm amazed at how fast it was. Take care,

Sue in Vancouver USA
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Windsong on September 11, 2007, 03:02:12 pm: Fabulous news! So happy to hear that Adrian and you are back home! Wishing Adrian fast healing , too. :) All the best,

windsong
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 11, 2007, 05:54:25 pm: Adrian is resting in the bed at the moment and has been doing well today. :) He had a rough day yesterday with pain but was SOOOOO happy to be back home!

Thank you again all for everything. What an absolutely amazing group of people we have had the chance to meet through this experience. I read about some talking of how we would not know each other if we saw each other on the street and I know we have a picture up but it is tiny on my screen so thought I would post a large picture of us, as well as an after picture of Adrian in the hospital. I also have a picture of his battle wound which to me looks great, but will only send to those who request it in a personal message.... in case some have sensitive stomachs. ;)

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c41/oxllsamanthallxo/KeithAS1effect_5-26-07-1.jpg)

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c41/oxllsamanthallxo/Dancing1.jpg)

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c41/oxllsamanthallxo/hosp1.jpg)

(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c41/oxllsamanthallxo/hosp2.jpg)

For those of you who would like to share photos and do not know how, go to www.photobucket.com (http://www.photobucket.com) you can upload them for free and they give you the code to paste on the forums. REAL easy stuff! :)

I look forward to meeting you all through photos! ;D

xox
Sam~
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: linnilue on September 11, 2007, 06:10:19 pm: You two make a beautiful couple and this health crisis has shown that you two do it well, together. You're amazing in the ways you support each other. I have to say, it is a rare young couple who could go through something like this with such fortitude. Watching the way that you two operate (no pun intended) sets an example for us all to examine our own relationships and ask ourselves, "do we do it this well?" You are very fortunate to have each other and if I were your parents, I would be so very proud of you. My hope for the two of you is to get through this, put it in the past and be able to live your lives with the same gusto and love that you have already shown each other. BRAVO...Holly
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: yardtick on September 11, 2007, 07:13:17 pm: Sam,

Please send me Arian's photo. I was told I'm going to need my facial nerve removed and a nerve grafted. I have a facial neuroma and radiation treatment is out of the question.

You and Sam make an amazing couple. Wishing Sam a speedy recovery. Take good care of him Sam. Make sure he gets his rest. I went back to work too soon last year after Ihad my fisrt surgery.

Anne Marie

P.S. I will be in Largo in Feb, is that near you?
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 11, 2007, 08:18:59 pm: Sam thanks for sharing the pics. Adrian looks great. You two make such a cute couple...when's the wedding?

Hugs M
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: leapyrtwins on September 11, 2007, 09:00:14 pm: Sam -

thanks for the update on Adrian; sounds like he's doing well. Thanks for the pictures also. You two make a beautiful couple. ;D

Jan
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Sue on September 12, 2007, 03:43:26 pm: Okay, you guys win the "Couple Of The Year" award from me! You both have won the lottery - you have each other. Yeah, we all wanna come to the wedding! ;)

Huggles,

Sue in Vancouver USA
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Gennysmom on September 12, 2007, 04:38:55 pm: I'm so glad to see some postie photos! He looks great for 15 hours! You guys just have the right attitude about this...keep it up, and lean on us when you need to. It's life changing, but it can make for even better relationships....I know my other half made it through this with me, we can do anything!

Many hugs!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: robynabc on September 12, 2007, 05:06:05 pm: Hi Sam,

I just want you to know i completely understand how hard the wait is. As much as I know how hard this is for the people going through it, it seems as hard for the loved ones. My youngest Baby. That was the hardest for me. And Eric's first night out of surgery. Eric's surgery was 13 hours. Talking about it is still hard for me. In fact I cry when I talk about it. :'( Our doctors told us to wait at home because they knew it would be hard for us to wait at the hospital. They were great and called us about every 2 hours. Everytime they went a little over 2 hours I would have alot of anxiety. Then they would call and tell us things were going well.

Eric's tumor was as large or actually larger than Adrians. Isn't it amazing that they both went home after 5 days! Even though it doens't happen every time, this illistrates the importance of really good doctors. I am so happy for you both. Sam, I completely know what you are going through. One of the hardest issues for us was that look they give you because they had brain surgery and the steroids. It wasn't our same old Eric and we were worried the old Eric wouldn't come back. But the doctor assured us this is temporary and it was. I am so happy for you both and even though I don't know you personally we will always have a bond. I am a different person and understand parents that have children with serious illness. In my view, this is why we are all here, to help each other.

You really are an adorable couple.

Have to go, am crying. (Don't worry they are tears of joy)

Love and Peace,

Robyn
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: susier on September 12, 2007, 05:54:17 pm: Great news Sam & Adrian!
What a cute couple! Take care and keep us informed of your speedy recovery!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Pembo on September 14, 2007, 06:55:11 am: What a cute couple you are! Glad to hear Adrian is doing so well. Make sure he gets lots of rest and doesn't over do it AND make sure you get some rest too. Being the support person is tough work as well. Don't be afraid to do something for yourself!!!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: matti on September 14, 2007, 09:49:27 am: Thanks for the pictures, you and Adrian are a beautiful and amazing couple, your love and devotion sure shines throughout

(Battyprincess and I like wedding cake ;))

Hugs,
Cheryl
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Denisex2boys on September 14, 2007, 10:59:43 am: I am sooooo' glad to hear that he is doing so well! I only hope and prayer that should they recommend surgery to me that I have as good an attitude as Adrian does! YOu two are so sweet - I am glad all is well!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Captain Deb on September 14, 2007, 02:45:21 pm: Yo Adrian!!

The ANA forum should have a "Squeaky Wheel" Award and it should go to you and Sam for putting up such a fight to get the best health care possible for your AN surgery! It pays to have Pirattitude and not get shoved around by the insurance system. Woo! Woo! Wooo!!!!!!

Ain't it great to be back home? I didn't get home for 2 months and it sucked, but I had really good folks caring for me.
Thanks for posting the pics--would like to see more of that around here!

Take care of each other!

Capt Deb 8)
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: krbonner on September 14, 2007, 03:14:37 pm: Just wanted to say I'm thinking of you guys and hoping that Adrian's recovery continues to go smoothly!

Katie
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 15, 2007, 08:01:49 am: Hello ALL! Ã¢â‚¬Å“IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢M BACK!!!!!!!Ã¢â‚¬? This is my first Ã¢â‚¬Å“Postie-PostÃ¢â‚¬?. This is also extremely difficult to type as my right hand feels like a dead piece of fishÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.lol, but I will persevere!

You ALL are amazing! I cannot believe I received phone calls from Terri and Patti in ICU and because people were worried about Sam and I. Before I get started, let me say a few words about Sam. I believe Jim Scott called her my Ã¢â‚¬Å“rockÃ¢â‚¬?. She was my rock; she has now reached Mount Everest status! She was amazing through the entire surgery. What none of you know is that Sam has 3 children from a previous marriage. I was not the only worry on her mind. SamÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Mother moved into our house while we were in Tampa and made sure all 3 kids were taken care of including school, homework, dinner, and all the extra things involved in parenthood. She kept calling them and never letting the children know her worries and concerns about me. Times like this really test what youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re made of, and Sam has strength in spades! Everyone that knows Sam falls in lover with her immediately. She has an infectious personality. As life throws us curveballs, one of the many things I am so appreciative for is making our relationship so much stronger. WowÃ¢â‚¬Â¦I always new Sam was strong, but she truly has shown me a new element of her persona. I LOVE YOU BABE!

She never left my side. ICU at Tampa General was like a 5 star hotel. I also had 2 (am/pm) of the best ICU nurses alive! They both were so incredibly nice to Sam and brought her a reclining chair for her to sleep in. She only had to leave from 6:30 am Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 8:30 am for shift change and as you all know she was by my side the entire time. I hated leaving ICU for a normal roomÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.too much of a downgrade.

I am getting stronger and stronger everyday and I look forward to the challenges ahead. Many things are like learning them for the first time all over again. My handwriting is atrocious. Starting Monday I am going to write anything for about 30 mins if I can handle that and increase the load steadily from there. My walking is good. I have to learn how to deal with undulations in pavement all over again. This feels like an entirely new phenomenon to meÃ¢â‚¬Â¦lol. Starting Monday as well, I want to walk around the neighborhood.

This is honestly harder than I thought it would beÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..silly me I guess. It shows how much one relies on their family and friends for support. Thank you to my AN FAMILY for all of your love, support, and encouragement. When Sam read me the many posts on the forum it was impossible not to cry. A good cry though, one of overwhelming loveÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦and very good drugs!!! They may have removed the tumor, but they left my sense of humor!

Talk to everyone soon!

Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: robynabc on September 15, 2007, 09:55:54 am: Adrian,

So good to hear you up and around. I told Eric that you were better and he says Hi. He wondered if you have any swallowing issues. It seems everyone has their one or two problems. He is frustrated with his vocal cord and interested in how you were doing. :) I am so happy you are doing well. One thing that helped us. Our doctor told us that Eric would feel completely different in a month so just think of that. He was a ton better after a month. You sound great. It will just get better from here. You know you really find out alot about people when something like this happens. I am so glad you found out how many people love you.

One question "Is Transpetosal Translab?"

Robyn
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: leapyrtwins on September 15, 2007, 02:23:21 pm: Adrian -

it's truly great to hear from you. I can totally relate to your comment of "this is honestly harder than I thought it would be". My neurotologist tried to tell me what the first few days and months post op would be like, but I had to experience it personally to know what he was talking about. That said, I have to tell you that it gets better every day; before you know it you'll be back to doing things you used to do. Remember, you, and your body, have been through a lot and it takes time to heal - but you'll get there. I'm glad you have Sam - and from the sound of it, her incredible mother - to help you during your recovery.

Keep up the good work - we're all thinking of you ;D

Jan
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 15, 2007, 05:00:14 pm: Hello again. I was looking through this thread and noticed that the details of my surgery were never toldÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦.both to let all you know and to hopefully educate another newbie. My surgery took 15 hrs because I was a Ã¢â‚¬Å“bleederÃ¢â‚¬?. My tumor was very sticky and very vascular so every time they peeled away at it, they had to pack it and wait for it to stop bleeding. Silly Sam and I also for expecting a Ã¢â‚¬Å“normalÃ¢â‚¬? surgery; there is NOTHING that we do that is normal! Personally for my life, I always go against the grain, so my tumor removal shouldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t be any differentÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.lol.

My doctors used a Transpetosal approach which is an expanded translab. Given the size and more importantly, the placement of my tumor (all against the brain and brain stem, and none in the ear canal) they felt this to be the best option. Consequently I have a larger incision than most that wraps tightly, but longer around the back of my right ear. They removed most of the tumor, but the part on the facial nerve they left because it was sticky and they wanted to decrease the chances for facial paralysis. I had an MRI the next day. Dr. van Loveren, my neurosurgeon, showed Sam the MRI and she says itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s only a sliver of the golf ball my tumor used to be. The doctors left more than they wanted, and after a years plus time of facial nerve healing I will need radio surgery. Also, since my tumor was so vascular, chances of the blood supply being cut of after surgery are not good.

My symptoms are pretty typical:
   Head Pain
   Tongue Laceration (because of the tube in my mouth for 24hrs total)
   Facial paralysis
   Face feels swollen. I Ã¢â‚¬Å“feelÃ¢â‚¬? like Rocky!.....lol
   Dry eye. My eye doesnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t blink, but does close when I make it. There are times when it does not close all the way, a little gap. This should improve with time if not I will get a gold weight my the doctor does not recommend at this time.
   Shooting pains through my head, ear, cheek. Dr. Danner says this is good, but will be excruciating. These are the nerves re-generating.
   Un-coordination in my right hand. This is already getting better this past week. Should return to normal or close.

IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m walking and getting about great! They expect my facial functions to get much better, but as with all ANÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s nothing is ever guaranteed. Theoretically speaking, it should heal.

I thank God for my surgical team. I was the reason for the long surgery, not them. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m so incredibly happy to have them. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢d hate to think of the outcome from a less experienced team. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve said this before and IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll say it again about my surgical teamÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦..money couldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t buy better surgeons. I truly believe that and that is the best feeling. Tampa General is about to open the largest Neurosurgery wing in the nation. Dr. van Loveren is the head of Neurosurgery. EVERYONE at TGH says he is one of the best in the country. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m just glad he is/was one of my surgeons. When he came in the next day I shook his hand and very gratefully said thank you. I told him that surgery took a little longer than he expected. He replied, and this is one of the reasons I love himÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..Ã¢â‚¬?You kicked my ass!Ã¢â‚¬? I just looked at him and saidÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.Ã¢â‚¬?Yes I did!Ã¢â‚¬? and we had a good laugh. His younger partner, Dr. Levine, pre surgery was worried about me having swallowing problems post-op as I was having to occasionally force myself to swallow pre-op. I did not in ICU and I do not since IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been home. That is a good feeling. When I woke up in ICU tied to the bed with a tube in my throat, and about to break the bed apart, even in my angst, I did notice that my thoughts were so much clearer and lighter. That also is a good feeling. I just told Sam this evening that even though IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve recovering right now, IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m so much less tired and wore out. I just feel better.

I go back this Wednesday to get my hardwareÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.lolÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.staples removed. The incision is healing beautifully. Sam says its one if the best sew-up-jobs she has ever seen. ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s very tight and was never red, but always flesh colored.

Talk to you all again soon.
Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Obita on September 15, 2007, 05:33:24 pm: Welcome to the other side Adrian!!!

It is great to see you on the forum. Yep, no one can really prepare you for what it is going to be like after you get a hole drilled in your head. They can tell us, we can read about it but, until you start moving around and trying to do things, you really can't believe that certain tasks take real work. I was terrible with the typing the first week or so. My brain would say "right hand type" and my left hand would type. So Adrian would come out: ;kue;v - no kidding!! I was so afraid wires were crossed in me head!!

Take it easy my friend and don't walk too far on Monday. You don't want to have to hitchhike home!! ;D

Say hi to Super Mom for me. I agree with you Adrian, Sam is one great lady.

Good luck with the hardware removal. It is a piece of cake. Kathy
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: susier on September 15, 2007, 07:13:04 pm: Hi Adrian,
It's great to hear from you. So glad you're doing so well. i can't even begin to imagine what you're going through, but sounds like you have a great attitude which always helps. I'm sure you're gonna come out of this just fine. Keep up the recovery and will continue to send good thoughts and prayers your way.
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Pembo on September 16, 2007, 08:47:31 am: Welcome to the other side. I also had a sticky bleeder and my surgery was 16 hours. I too am one that can't just have the "normal" surgery. :)

My handwriting was horrible as well and the OT told me to color! Yes, get out those crayons and color. It really did help gain strength and was actually very relaxing. It also didn't hurt that my almost 3 yo had someone to color with her. My boys loved the fact that mom's "homework" was coloring. (A smile in remembering) Something to consider....
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Featofclay on September 16, 2007, 03:43:04 pm: WELCOME ADRIAN (now POSTIE)

We are all here pulling for you for your recovery. You have such a positive attitude and that goes a long way. This board was so helpful when I had my surgery in February.

The main thing to remember is not to overdo or you will pay for it. Some days you may think you feel better than you really do and your body will let you know, you need rest.

What a jewel Sam has been...you are blessed!

Sending get well vibes your way.
Jean
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 16, 2007, 11:49:38 pm: Adrian, its good to hear from you, it sounds like it went great, all things considered. I agree, I think you had the best team on your side. I hope your recovery continues well.

If what I learned about radiation and the facial nerve at Stanford is right, you should not have trouble with that follow up in a year to treat the last bit of the AN. They seemed to think that the facial nerve is pretty resilient to radiation, so if you can get function back now, you can expect to keep it.

All the best to you and Sam. Steve
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 23, 2007, 11:14:50 pm: Adrian, glad to hear from you. And such a long post too. It woudl have taken me days after surgery to type something that long!
Don't forget to keep your eye moist until it starts closing completely on it's own. I know about two weeks after surgery I got hte gritty eye thing. I thought my eye was closing but found it it was not closing completely and my eye became dry. Not a great feeling.

I am curious are you right handed? I had difficulty with my left hand (left sided tumor) right after surgery but since I've noticed issues with my handwriting (right handed which is controlled by the left brain). Like pembo said, coloring, pracitice writing, typing, jacks, marbles, perfection, childrens puzzles are all things that can help speed your hand coordination. My therapist used to have me play a game with pegs in a peg board. Like the game of perfection. Oh how I hated that game LOL Battle ship works too.

Good luck on your recovery and hopefully one day we will all be able to get together.

M
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 25, 2007, 03:24:26 pm: Hi Michelle,

I am right handed, but because my tumor was, in Dr. BartelsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ words, jammed up underneath the Cerebellum which controls coordination, is why I amÃ¢â‚¬Â¦wellÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.un-coordinatedÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.lol. When I had my staples removed last week Dr. Bartels informed me that is also why I had such a long surgery. The tumor was Ã¢â‚¬Å“stickingÃ¢â‚¬? to my Cerebellum. They had to carefully dissect it. He did say it was very successful, just long. The coordination should come back with time. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m already doing dramatically betterÃ¢â‚¬Â¦with typing, handwriting, shavingÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..sounds silly but I couldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t shave. Couple that with I have a goatee and sideburns; I couldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t do the Ã¢â‚¬Å“detailÃ¢â‚¬? work. I shaved with my left hand the first few times and Sam had to do the detail work. As of Wednesday of last week I can do it all myself. My handwriting still needs work, and that will just take practice, but is so much better than 2 weeks ago. Typing is almost back to normal.

I feel like I had a 2 gig stick of RAM installed in me brain. My thoughts are so much more free, light, and clear. I never knew what was holding me back. I also couldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t understand why my memory was fading. I used to have the mind of a steal trap. I never would have thought a tumor, but glad itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s out!

The eye is constantly dry and is a sore spot for me. If I use Genteal PM gel its great, but itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s the consistency of Neosporin so I canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t see. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been trying to use the Genteal Severe eye gel; I just have to re-apply often. But then againÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t see, but it is tolerable enough to read and drive, etc. Oh wellÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..have to keep it lubed. It does suck, bad when you get the Ã¢â‚¬Å“grittyÃ¢â‚¬? eye thingÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.not a good feeling.

IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been walking around the neighborhood. I started last Thursday, 2 week post-op date, with 1 mile. I walked 2.5 miles this morning. DidnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t set any land speed records, but it felt great. The undulations in the pavement feel so extreme. Walking is good practice and is helping with that sensation.

My incision is beautiful. Dr. Danner (Dr. BartelsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ partner) sewed me up and did an amazing job. The incision was never red, always flesh colored and is fusing so well. My cut is longer that most peopleÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.from my head to my ear lobeÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦and I am so happy to say looking great.

I am supposed to go back to work next Monday. I think IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m ready for it. I emailed my Dr. Bartels today for a go-back-to-work note. I am awaiting his response. I have a desk job, so it shouldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t be a problem. I think I can do it, but donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t know until I try. Part of me desperately wants to get back to some normalcy. I meet with my boss on Friday and IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m sure he and everyone else in the office will be Ã¢â‚¬Å“easyÃ¢â‚¬? on me at first. We shall see.

There is still no movement on the right side of my face. I am only almost 3 weeks post-op so I need to be patient. I do have sensations of tightness, pulling, and creepy crawlies on my face. I assume this is a good thing. I feel like IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been in a fight. My face Ã¢â‚¬Å“feelsÃ¢â‚¬? swollen. Every time I touch it, I do it very carefully as to not hurt it. When someone else touches my face, it hurts. I feel pain, so I assume that is a good thing. There are certain areas that are very numb, but I can feel touchÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.it just feels as if it were shot full of Novocain. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m very self-conscious of my facial palsy, especially in public, but I just need to rememberÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.at least I can walk, I can drive, I can feed my self, I can swallow, I can use my limbs, etc. The face not working all of a sudden is less important. Only time will tell. Did anyone else have these or similar facial sensations and how long did use of your face take to return to normal or close to normal?

Thanks for listening to me rambleÃ¢â‚¬Â¦lol.

AlsoÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..I have to add this little note because I lived with them for 9 months. I DONÃ¢â‚¬â„¢T HAVE HEADACHES!!! I used to have excruciating headaches. I would call Ibuprofen Ã¢â‚¬Å“candyÃ¢â‚¬?. I took enough of them a day for it to be candyÃ¢â‚¬Â¦lol. I am so happy to say I donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t have them any longer.

Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: deea on September 25, 2007, 08:09:09 pm: Adrian,

I will try and call you tomorrow. I have app. at 8 tomorrow am. Appt. with internist went well today. He said he saw great progress since he saw me 2 weeks ago. Have been back to ER twice since he saw me. I'm doing great between visits. Just have to stop the visits.

Glad to hear that walking is helping you. I find that when I walk fast I do much better. Slow pace and I tip over. Such fun!

Hang in there buddy....We are winning this race, just a little bit further to go my friend !

Claudia
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: sgerrard on September 25, 2007, 10:49:25 pm: Quote from: Samantha n Adrian on September 25, 2007, 03:24:26 pm
IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been walking around the neighborhood. I started last Thursday, 2 week post-op date, with 1 mile. I walked 2.5 miles this morning. DidnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t set any land speed records, but it felt great. The undulations in the pavement feel so extreme. Walking is good practice and is helping with that sensation.

Dang, Adrian, you don't mess around, do you. Barely two weeks after a 15 hour surgery, and you are out lumbering around, scaring all the neighborhood kids. :D
I bet the surgeons are thrilled. Walking 2.5 miles a few weeks after having a goose egg peeled off your cerebellum means they did an outstanding job - and that you are a great patient.

Quote from: Samantha n Adrian on September 25, 2007, 03:24:26 pm
I am supposed to go back to work next Monday. I think IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m ready for it. I emailed my Dr. Bartels today for a go-back-to-work note. I am awaiting his response. I have a desk job, so it shouldnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t be a problem. I think I can do it, but donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t know until I try. Part of me desperately wants to get back to some normalcy.

Okay, now you are just showing off. :) I can understand wanting to get back to normalcy, but I have to say, not working is nice in my book. At least it is possible for you, I seem to remember quite a flap last month about family leave and all that. It sounds like your employer might be fairly reasonable after all.

My impression from various posts on this forum is that recovery of facial movement can continue for quite a while, as long as a year, and that you can get full function back in time. Keep smiling, it will be good excercise for your face! ;)

Steve
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 26, 2007, 07:58:55 am: Ok, so I like showing off!....lol The truth is that I only had 30 days leave. I have been at my place of employment for less than 1 year and do no qualify for FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act). It is not company policy, but state law to allow 30 days leave. I guess the company could allow more, but they do not need to. Technically, I am terminated on my 31st day and also lose my insurance. I have 90 days after my termination date to re-apply for my position or another position all while regaining all my seniority, benefits, etc. I don't want to go through the hassle if I do not need to and my boss might not be able to go without someone in my position much longer. There is not anyone filling in for me, everyone else is just sucking it up. I think I can go back to work. I do not know where my fatigue limits are yet.....many things, as you ALL know, are very new post surgery. But, if you don't explore those limits, you won't know where they are. All I can do is put my head down and charge like a bull!

Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: leapyrtwins on September 26, 2007, 04:29:12 pm: Adrian -

it sounds like you are doing phenomenal (I think that's how you spell it).

Fatigue is one of the longer lasting side-effects. In my experience, it kind of creeps up on you when you least expect it. But then again, you are younger than I am LOL

Take it easy, and if need be, ask your boss about returning part-time for a week or ten days before you go back full-time. I found that scenario very helpful in my case.

Jan
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 26, 2007, 11:00:01 pm: Adrian I am so impressed with your recovery!

Yes, the creepy crawly bug sensations are normal. I had that right after surgery and was told it is the nerves doing their stuff. I want to say it took about 9 months before my head didn't feel asleep. I still have facial numbness but brushing my hair feels more normal than it did right after surgery. The hand eye coordination took a while for me to regain due to nystagmus issues.
The coordination will take some time. I felt like I had two hands that were not attached to my body since they would not do what I wanted them to do. My mom got tired of me saying, "oops, I have a little problem" as I kept spilling things LOL

Are you driving? If so I'm really impressed. I couldn't drive safely for months after surgery.

Will you boss let you return for half days for the first week while you get reacclimated? I know you only have the 30 days but surely they'll work with you some. The fatigue is a big issue and staying too fatigued can slow your recovery. I know several started back to work and slowly built their stamina.

I have been told by more than one surgeon that it can take up to 24 months for your facial nerve to heal and return to a normal state. Patience is the hardest part in that area.

You sound like you are doing great after such a huge tumor. I had headaches for a year before surgery and kept a full bottle of excedrin migraine with me at all times. I really dislike the doctors who say that headaches have nothing to do with the tumors. I still get headaches since surgery but not as bad as pre surgery. When we get those nasty storms in I end up with the migraines.

After all you've been through you are allowed to show off!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: marg on September 26, 2007, 11:05:57 pm: Adrian,
   If you can start out part time like Jan said it would be great.... I am still 1/2 time (my surgery was 4 months ago) but I am 53 and I teach VERY active 2nd graders. I do not spend much time sitting at a desk or anywhere else.... and I'm pretty wiped out after a few hours at school.
   I'm so glad you have a desk job. Hope things go well for you on the job. If you are already walking 2 1/2 miles you must be recovering quickly.......................AH to be young ::) and recoup. quicker...... I'm sure you will find the limits and adjust as needed. We are all pulling for you and a quick recovery.
   Margaret
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Mtn Gal on September 27, 2007, 02:02:03 pm: Hi Adrian and Sam,
I have kept up with this forum, but have not participated in about a year. I have read your story and felt your pain as you both struggled to make the big decision and to get things worked out with doctors and insurance. I am glad your surgery was a success and now your recovery is exceptional. I have enjoyed reading the support given to you both and my thoughts and prayers are with you too. You both are an inspiration to all of us and we wish you continued success in every thing.

I had retrosigmoid surgery and returned to work after three weeks. I have an office job and had to be out at a busy time. My recovery was very good and I felt that I could return to work. My family didn't want me to do anything much at home, so I felt I could at least sit at my desk and answer questions or tell others what to do. I returned full time and found by the end of the day I was very tired. Also the help from my family sort of vanished, as they figured mom was back to work, so she can do her usual chores. For at least six months I had to take rest periods each evening and on weekends. I must say it took me a year to feel like I had totally regained my stamina and could do any thing I wanted. I did not walk or exercise as you are, so that might have hindered me. I am mid 40's, so youth is on your side. I had the luxury of staying home for as long as I needed, but somehow I wanted to be back to normal activities. Looking back now, I should have taken extra time because I could. You will get very tired, and you must give yourself time to rest and relax. Take time to take care of yourself and don't over do it. There is nothing wrong with taking a nap when your body tells you it needs it. Sometimes getting back to a bit of normalcy is the best medicine. Don't be afraid to ask for help of any kind at work or at home. Best wishes as you return to work and for your continued recovery.

God bless.
Mtn Gal
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: linnilue on September 27, 2007, 08:19:20 pm: Adrian, You are a bionic man, no kidding and on top of that you live with the bionic woman. I have so much I want to say to both of you because you are a real source of inspiration to all ANers. Did you guys happen to see "Oprah" today with Michael Moore. It was all about the complex "issues" with the insurance industry and their lobbiests. You are champions becasue you did exactly what needed to be accomplished to get past the bureaurcracy and get the immediate medical attention you needed. Most people have no idea how to even begin to do this. But you two got it sone and you are on the road to recovery and back to work! My God, can you believe it?! I am so proud of you both. Congratulations and best wishes for a continued speedy recovery. It's just amazing. My Very Best, Holly
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 28, 2007, 07:46:28 pm: Hi MichelleÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..Yes I am driving, I started this past Monday. Driving is actually better actually because the perpetual Ã¢â‚¬Å“spinningÃ¢â‚¬? that I used to have is gone. The only thing that is still a bother is my eyes are still very photosensitive. Couple that with the thick eye gel that I use, and itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s not very pleasant. I make sure to wipe my eye clean before I drive.

As far as easing into work with a part time status, that is not possible as I am a salaried employee. If I were hourly it would be no problem. My boss is very flexible and will be fair, but I canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t blatantly take half days. Politics of businessÃ¢â‚¬Â¦lol

MtnGalÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦yes, I do get tired by early afternoon and have to take a nap which does worry me when I get back to work. The only thing I hope for is an adrenaline rush to pull me through as my job is very fast paced. That fast pace is also a double-edged-sword. Oh wellÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.my sayingÃ¢â‚¬Â¦I say it all the timeÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦I AM STRONG LIKE BULL!

HollyÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..no I did not watch the Oprah show that day. Insurance companies are a pain. In 2004 Florida was hit by 4 large hurricanes and at the time I was working for a company that specialized in hurricane restoration. The company did everything from settle the insurance claim to rebuild the home/business as it was a public insurance adjuster and a general contractor. I lost complete respect for insurance companies during that time. I saw homeowners with $100K worth of damage and the insurance company wanted to settle for $65K. Kind of hard to argue with a general contractor regarding the cost to rebuild a house.

Yes Holly, I live with bionic woman! I always knew Sam was strong, but this AN experience showed me that she isÃ¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦Bionic Woman!

Thank you everyone for all your support and warm wishes.

Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Battyp on September 30, 2007, 12:43:35 am: Adrian I'm in absolute awe! You're definitely rockin' your recovery. Must be all the bionic woman help you got!
Hope your boss takes it easy on you! If not he'll have to deal with us!
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Samantha n Adrian on September 30, 2007, 05:02:17 am: Lol MichelleÃ¢â‚¬Â¦..nice to know I have an entourage!

Adrian
Title: Re: Adrian's Update
Post by: Captain Deb on September 30, 2007, 12:26:29 pm: Yo Adrian!
Bottoms up and raise a toastie,
Here's to you, you're now a postie!

Welcome back to the land of the living!!!!!
and the land of getting on with your life. You and Sam totally(in Phyll words) RAWK!!

Be well and sail on,

Capt Deb 8)