He's a "miracle"!!

We spent 35 minutes with a neurosurgeon, Dr. Reeder (Dr. Durward's "back-up") tonight...it was wonderful! He was able to answer all of mom's questions (she had a "list"...does that surprise you?) :)

He started by stating that the CT scan showed that it was NOT an aneurysm (very good thing) but a brain stem hemorrhage. Right now, the main thing we need to focus on is making sure dad is calm and that the bleed can clot. In order for that to happen, he needs lots of rest and quiet time (so basically, we need to stay away for now!). After 7-10 days, they will see if the clot has dissolved on its own and continually check the pressure on his brain. Based on the results, we will determine if he would need a permanent shunt. We are obviously optimistic and so thankful for this wonderful news.

And it was quite amusing that we all had questions and the doctor was more than patient with us. And we even started to engage in a health care policy discussion (and Jacki even asked who makes the shunt product) - oh fun times at the Karlen household.

Thank you for all your prayers and thoughts. We don't know how long we will all be here, but we have margaritas and cosmos (thanks to Steve Munderloh) and each other. Mom of course, was trying to figure out the plan for all 3 of us (daughters) and how long we should stay up in Sioux City, but as the doctor stated, we might be here for both dad AND mom. So, for now, we are very optimistic and thankful for our miracle.