Healing Thoughts

Hope everyone is well and enjoying a super Labor Day weekend!

2009-09-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

I know Mark is spreading his wings, making calls now and getting back into the groove with all his friends, little by little. I will not be sending updates as I am having rotator cuff surgery this coming Friday, 9/11/09 @ 11:00 – oh boy! (rehab?)

Mark has done so well in his recovery this past month and we sure are happy he is out of the woods, we say! Again, many sincere thank you’s for all of your prayers, support, love and care. Mark has so much to be thankful for with soooo many loving friends and relatives. He is one very fortunate individual!!!! (and of course the folks do too).

Our hugs always, Tal, Donna & Sons

Day 97 - Elmwood / Berkeley

2009-09-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Mark’s recovery has been coming along so miraculously. He has a great attitude and has put a lot of positive strength and effort into his rehabilitation. Another appointment last week to ‘Kaiser/Richmond’ to visit his orthopedic specialist showed all good signs of healing in his legs and no future surgeries in the forecast. He does have to wear the brass cage until Christmas but it will be a great present to have both legs free again. He’s walking quite well with a walker on his left leg hopping along. He has gained 11 lbs. — the gain much-needed.

Mark is receiving very good care, and this nursing facility is ‘on the ball’ every moment for everything. Mark could not have gotten a better rehabilitation anywhere else, I believe. Mark should be back home the end of October and he is so very much looking forward to that (and us too!). We shall see how the next months go along before he is off traveling and on the go again.

Day 87 - Elmwood / Berkeley

2009-09-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

Good day to All!

Mark had an appt. yesterday with his orthopedic specialist at Kaiser/Oakland. Mark told me everything went well and the doctor was very pleased how his left leg has healed (with quite a long pin down the front of his shin). The right leg is healing very well and the pieces of bone seem to be calcifying together and the doc told him he did not believe he would need any further surgery on that leg either.

What wonderful news and soooooo much gratitude to Stanford Univ. Hospital for doing all of his surgeries on those legs prior to transfer.

Mark stated the doctor did tell him he could start some showers now with that brace but the brace has to stay on until December or so. Mark seems to be doing very well managing that leg in rehab and moving along in the walker for a pretty far distance now. He is getting stronger, putting some weight back on and has a good appetite again. His spirits seem high and they keep him pretty busy during the day.

Still no idea when he might be coming home but with the progress he is making — won’t be long now.

Enjoy a great holiday w/end!
Hugs, Tal and Donna

Mark's birthday - a new day!

2009-08-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Mark dear friend, though you certainly would wish to be elsewhere right now, the good news is you eventually will be. Years past we have celebrated your birthday in favorite spots like Big Sur. Today we will celebrate that you are here with us, getting better and stronger every day. Eat more carrot cake! For once, you can eat all you want!

May this day find you in ever stronger spirits, as your body heals and bones knit and your PT progresses. From wheelchair to walker to eventually both feet- every day you are working toward strength and healing.

And we love you, and wish you a wonderful day as you enter your 50th year.

peace and love and more cake!

Thurs Aug 6, day 65

2009-08-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

Donna, Mark's mom, had computer trouble for awhile, hence the daily updates went silent.

In the meantime, Mark has continued his daily physical therapy and slow but steady incremental progress, at Kaiser Oakland. Little things like being able to transfer himself form bed into the wheelchair and out again, sounds small but is anything but: he has this huge metal 40-lb contraption on his right leg and it can't support any weight. The TV only has 5 channels, 3 of the Latino (his spanish is rusty) but there is no convenient way to keep an iPod or celphone handy in his bed. THe food is well, hospital food. THere are some fantastic nurses and there are some who seem to hate their job. Overall, he's in good hands, but it's still in the hands of a hospital. And It's a long way from home and while he has a room to himself, Mark would like to be closer to his folks in MountainView.

Alas, the way the insurance system works, he has little say in where he will end up; it looks like he's staying in the East Bay for now, moving to a longer-term care facility to continue the long healing process. Mark sends his love and thanks to all of you loving folks out there; he's grateful for your love and good energy, even though he's really not up to hosting lots of visitors just yet. Keep the good thoughts coming, he has a long way to go and needs all the help we can give him. As he feels up to it he'll let us know about visiting. But he knows we're out here and he says thank you thank you for all the cards and messages and love.

Day 49 - Kaiser/Oakland

2009-07-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Donna got in her two cents to KP management, here's hoping it leads to better care for Mark...

Day 49 - Kaiser/Oakland

Arrived at 1:30 today to see Mark and also to meet with the Social Services Director, 'Clay'. He informed us that they were not going to send Mark to Kaiser Permanente Acute Center (KPAK) but most probably to a custodial care facility on the Peninsula???? Unknown right now. After my talk yesterday and let it all rip as what was going on in this hospital and the negligence of Mark's care, etc. They had a meeting with doctors, etc., regarding Mark's condition. They never told us and/or Mark as to what was happening except the Social Services person, Clay, told us that Dr. Gruensrud said that Mark's 'fixator' would be on his leg for three to six months - last Thursday it was 5 - 8 weeks. So that is what changed the status of KPAK to custodial nursing care. Is so scary to think of this right leg contraption that if he slipped or even puts pressure on that leg it could shatter the bones again. That is what will take a lot of rehab to train him how to transfer his weight all on the left side and that leg is not all healed yet either. The good part of today was he got a great shave! So the big surprise will be where next? Anywhere on this side of the bay is fine. I'm sure after their meeting today things will be made better for Mark.
Hugs for another day! Tal and Donna

Day 47 – Kaiser / Oakland

2009-07-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Sending Mark’s update off today due to computer problem last evening.

We took our chances yesterday and drove to Oakland to see Mark. They were supposed to transfer him on Thursday but Mark came down with an urinary infection so that keeps him there for now. Of course, we don’t know what could occur today. It was a good visit. Mark was in good spirits and they brought him his first real gooood lunch and he sure liked that.

The physical therapists got him in his chair yesterday and he said it feels so good to sit straight up but so tiring after 15 minutes or so. Getting him from the bed to the chair is something, and then getting him back into bed.

We were finally approached by the ‘patient case manager’, and she wanted to know how we were going to manage Mark in a week or so. I just looked at her like ‘you got to be kiddin’ — I guess my red hair stood straight up and I let it rip — well, hopefully he will be in a better position to ‘motivate’ as I cannot see my husband and I lifting him around?? I cannot believe the premature planning these people push for and, like it was a good thing they did not transfer him on Thursday like he is now. Anyway being told we had to furnish his transport vehicle to Richmond for his appts. on Aug 5th, I started to ask her if we should also purchase a revolver too!!!!!

Anyway, guess we have a lot of phone calls to make Monday to make arrangements, transportation and etc. We shall see what occurs along the way.

Talked with Mark this am and he does need to get lots of rehab soon at Kpak*, San Leandro. I have to go google for the map and the Internet did not have a listing for this division. She would not give us the address until we had a plan for him when he is discharged, well I will not tell you what I said. I have been in constant contact with his case manager, nurse and primary doctor in Redwood City, who has been Mark’s doctor for over 25 years. Like I said, Monday will be an all calls day for the Alexanders.

Enjoy a super weekend!
Some more hugs! Tal and Donna

(*Kaiser Post Acute Care)

Day 44 – Kaiser / Oakland

2009-07-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

Not much news today — Mark was supposed to be transferred to the skilled nursing facility and it was put on hold.

He is scheduled for tomorrow. He was not feeling too well today and sometimes these hospitals try to get you out asap and sometimes a little premature toooooo!

Anyway, we did not go to see him today as we thought he would be in between transfer. We will try tomorrow if there is a change of schedule and if we know exactly where he is going. These things can be so frustrating if you can’t get info you want. You sure can tell there are a lot of cut-backs.

Tomorrow is another day and hopefully, stepping forward.

Hugs & prayers! The Alexanders

Day 42 - Kaiser Hospital, Oakland

2009-07-15T17:41:00.001-07:00

Got on our way this morning on hwy 237 to 880 all the way. Left our home at 10:30 am, and arrived at the hospital garage at 11:35 am — that put an end to the route over the San Mateo Bridge.

Mark was having therapy and so we had to wait out in the lobby area. Shortly, here they come with Mark in a wheelchair — wow! He did not look happy but rather scared and shocked to be moving on wheels. They took away the catheter — yeah! The water is running again! Also, the chest tube is out. He only has an IV line for glucose and the gallbladder tube. He is getting there. Asked to speak with the orthopedic surgeon — what’s the plan?

It looks like Mark will be going shortly to Kaiser’s skilled nursing facility in San Leandro! Apparently it is the longer term (and nicest) facility they have. They have to wait and see how Mark’s right leg heals before they can proceed with any further surgery to that leg. He said the left leg is healing well and should not need any further surgery. They will give therapy shortly for weight bearing pressure on that leg. Mark was only in the chair for 15 minutes as he was nauseated. But that was another step forward.

I brought popsicles, and Lipton chicken soup, plus g2 drinks. He thought I brought him a little bit of heaven compared to what he has gotten for food. He was sick yesterday so this was so good to him. They brought his lunch in, and of all things, a beef hamburger! Mark does not eat “mad cow”. He sure was glad he had the soup — ha!

So we will see how much longer he has there, sounded like a short time if he keeps up the good work.

It is amazing how you have to take care of yourself or speak up — there were orders to turn Mark every 2 hours. It happened one time on Sunday. Today, was the first day in a week that they came in to wash him (after I had complained as to what was going on with the nursing staff). He has lost so much weight he looks like a POW. I guess his stomach shrunk so small it cannot hold much of anything. Day by day, guess that will pick up too. I have to keep the popsicles and other home food coming. His appetite is anything that does not have sugar in it. That should be me — not Mark!

Hope everyone stayed cool today! Oakland was alot cooler than Mountain View.

Some more hugs! The Alexanders

Day 40 - Kaiser Hospital/Oakland

2009-07-14T00:33:00.000-07:00

Today was a good drive to Oakland and so nice to have most traffic at home resting until tomorrow's a.m.
Mark was feeling good today, but cannot eat the food there, it all appears to look like 'alien' origination, i.e., squares, circles - it sure is not home cookin. Mark said everything tastes like sugar - too sweet. Guess it's because his taste buds have been on hold and will take awhile to come back.
Just was great today to drink water finally, and cream of wheat and oatmeal the best tasting food for him. Tomorrow should be a busy day for him with doctors and therapy. Will have to find out the 'plan' for future surgeries seeing they put him at Kaiser Oakland for ortho-specialists?? Hopefully, we will know more soon. He is making progress everyday. He had the neck artery IV taken away and possibility of the food tube into his stomach will come out tomorrow. He is not eating much so maybe a few more days.
We want to send 'special thanks' to everyone who has brought such great food and meals to us. Gee! You have spoiled us and Tal has been so happy with all of the 'sweet goodies' too. Also, we have enjoyed your phone calls of encouragement and prayers. It is amazing how far Mark has come on this 40th day. Wow!
Hope you enjoyed a beautiful weekend! The Alexanders

Day 38 - Kaiser Hospital / Oakland - Transitional Care Unit (T C U)

2009-07-14T00:15:00.000-07:00

Day 38 - Kaiser Hospital / Oakland - Transitional Care Unit (T C U)

Graduation day from (ICU) intensive care unit - HOORAY FOR MARK!

Another battle on the road today to Oakland, construction off of the San Mateo bridge is 30 minutes delay to the 880-north exchange.

I made a suggestion to my hubby as we were driving along – they need to close all borders and the roads too coming into California. Think we have enough people here and the rest are out of luck!!!!!!. Close the DMV's, for license plates, etc., ha! ha! No kidding, pretty soon it will take a full day to get across the bay. Dream on lady!

Anyway! A super day, Mark had his trach taken out and he has a voice, he sounds so different but clear. It will take 5 - 7 days to heal. They tried to give him food today that was a thick substance. After 37 days without food he could not eat and just wanted water, or juice but they can't give that to him, as it will go down the wrong way into the airway right now. He has to retrain his throat to swallow into the stomach - gee! Most everything tasted too sweet to him and so he did not eat. The physical therapists came while we were there and sat Mark up on the side of the bed, put his left leg down on the floor and raised it up and down. The right leg still has the big round brass cage on it with all the wires to the pins in his leg. His feet look pretty good too. He is so anxious and just wants to come home and/or get him over here to Santa Clara Kaiser.

It seems they are moving him right along now and things just have to heal. Another thing, they also took out the chest tube so that is a great sign. The gallbladder tube stays in for 6 - 8 weeks?????

So he is in the hands of the orthopedic surgeons now as soon as they can get him eating, swallowing right and the internal organs heal themselves, then the surgeries begin again. We will go over on Sunday to see him. Kevin goes over on days we don't and hopefully he can have visitors soon too. I think they want his throat to heal without a lot of talking right now.

Enjoy a fun weekend!

Hugs! The Alexanders

Blood Center's website link

2009-07-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the Blood Center's website with the story and a few 'groovy' pics of us at the BBQ

http://bloodcenter.stanford.edu/Temp_2009_7_MarkAlexander.html

FYI, there are about 60 more photos to come, on disk, in case you're interested.

Thanks again to all who showed up, and those who couldnta but woulda!

Andrea

Letter to Mark

2009-07-08T22:34:00.001-07:00

Dear Mark,

As the moderator for the blog site nearly every day I post the poignant letters Donna writes. I carefully edit and take the steps to post the many messages to make sure folks know how you are doing. I forward emails and upload photos.

The other thing I do every day is read all of those notes and messages and learn how you are doing. I share the information with the other friends who live here – Kenny and Ann – as well as the many friends I see or email often like Andrea, Penelope, Christina, Tre, Lisa, Ron and others. So far I have basically kept “radio silence” on the blog and only served as the moderator.

Tonight, I don’t know, there was something about learning you could speak to your mother for the first time in 36 days, knowing you might get to actually eat soon, reading about how you’d been moved and the process seemed to be going very well, I just…started crying…happy tears for you, and couldn’t stay silent any longer. It is so wonderful to read that you are progressing so well. There is still a rough road ahead, yet the progress is sounding tremendous.

Your mom is a rock! She has been amazing through all of this. When all is said and done she will need a massage too. Here at our house we send you healing thoughts daily and also send thoughts of strength and healing to Donna and Tal. We know this is difficult for your entire family.

There are so many people still sending love, energy and healing thoughts your way every day and I truly believe it is making a difference. You have many messages, cards and letters Donna will be reading to you. Eventually you will probably be reading the blog and maybe even adding to it. Know that everyone loves you and is thinking about you all the time, even those that don’t write a card or call because maybe they don’t know what to say, or just get too choked up to do so. You are special to many people and we all are here standing with out-stretched hands ready to help.

With love and light,

Eva

Day 36 – Kaiser/Oakland ICU

2009-07-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

Day 36 – Kaiser/Oakland ICU

We made it to Oakland today! The last time we were there was back in the 1980s. Only took us 1.5 hours so not bad for the amount of traffic @ 10:00 a.m. Mark looked sooo better today and even could talk for the first time. They put in a smaller tube in his trachea and he had a shallow voice. He even got a sample of water to see if it would go down the right way. Hopefully, tomorrow they will try a sample of pudding. They want to be sure it goes to his stomach and not in the airway. He even had the stitches taken out of the left leg and just a small wrapping on the leg. Surgeries still planned for the right leg, but they want him to be able to eat, drink and have him totally breathing on his own first. The chest tubes are still in and also the gall bladder device for another 6 - 8 weeks????? Golly!

He has a nice view of the hills from his room (one thing better than Stanford - ha!) We are going to try and go see him every other day. As soon as he is able to have visitors we will let you know. I’m sure he will be anxious for other faces very soon.

I will cut back on my e-mails to every other day as we see Mark. If you like, please continue leaving messages for Mark. Also, today, I read the lil book of messages left by all of you since his accident. He smiled a lot and thought everyone was so nice to do that. Talked to him again about the great blood drive and next visit going to show him his tie-dye shirt from the blood drive and also, take his cards everyone has sent to him to open up. There is quite a stack from ya all. We want to thank you for the messages and cards you have sent to us too. Everyone is so

Amazing with care and love sharing with us. There is no others as special as all of you.

Many hugs again and lots of prayers –

The Alexanders

Day 35 - Kaiser Hospital/Oakland

2009-07-08T21:31:00.001-07:00

Day 35 - Kaiser Hospital/Oakland

Today was the first day we did not see Mark. I made a call this morning to the nurses’ station and all they would tell me he was resting well. I figured it would be a day of getting settled in and no time for chitchat. We plan to go over tomorrow and see what is new there. I do intend to meet with his doctors and see what their plan for Mark is and what they still need to do. New place, new beginnings, and new progress ahead.

Hugs,
Tal, Donna & Guys

Day 34 - Stanford Hospital ICU

2009-07-08T19:40:00.001-07:00

Day 34 - Stanford Hospital ICU

We went to see Mark earlier today as they thought they would transport him to Kaiser, Oakland. It was rumored before but we were hoping it would be Santa Clara, Kaiser. Oakland Kaiser is the only trauma center for orthopedic specialists. So here we go on another journey starting tomorrow. They ended up not sending him today, but will tomorrow. Mark was not so happy about Oakland, but they told him he has to go where the best is so that is good.

This morning Mark had another massage that made him feel much better. Told him today to be sure he hangs onto his bed and tell them if I go so does my bed - ha! Guess if you lay for 34 days you need one like he has.

His nurse was going to give him a shave, so he looked spiffy. I'm getting pretty good at lip reading now. They will put in a smaller tube tomorrow morning so he can speak. That will be so much better for him.

So we move on forward to more adventures and getting stronger and healing every day.

Hugs! Tal & Donna

Day 33 - Stanford Hospital ICU

2009-07-08T00:54:00.000-07:00

Day 33 - Stanford Hospital ICU

We got a smile today! What a nice surprise - worth millions. So great to see Mark more relaxed but he wants water soooo bad and a jamba juice. Told him first chance when he can have liquids, we'll bring him juice's, etc.

We will know in the morning what the plan is for Mark and where? He seems to breathing so much better, but still coughing away. I tried to get back to his room last night to tell them to turn on the fireworks for him on his little TV but he was asleep. Darn, they should have woke him up (guess that's what I should have said) bad mom!

He wants to come home - if he keeps up this progress he will be home shortly - lots of prayers for that.

Hope everyone enjoyed the weekend. Back to the ole grind tomorrow and keep on truckin!

Many hugs! Tal & Donna

Day 32 - Stanford Hospital ICU

2009-07-05T23:41:00.000-07:00

This afternoon was much better and Mark seemed very alert and eyes wide open. His nurses had just flipped him around a little to be comfy. I surely don't know how I’d feel after these many days just lying down- Oh boy!

They seem to think that Mark might be transported on Monday to where????? It is great that they feel he is pretty well fit for that but I’m sorry to see him leave Stanford that's for sure. Kaiser has been his soul source of care for years and his primary Dr. and assoc., have given Mark their best care and have become family to him. We owe a lot to Kaiser also, as they put concern, time and effort into getting Mark his new kidney and pancreas and their affiliation with UCSF hospital, giving Mark all his transplant care. This family has a lot to be so thankful for!

Beautiful weather for the 4th and hope your enjoying every moment of it. They sure roll around fast for some people -ha!

More hugs! The Alexanders

Day 31 - Stanford Hospital ICU

2009-07-05T23:40:00.000-07:00

Our visit today was about the same as yesterday's. Mark is not a happy camper and neither would any one of us be. They were changing his wrappings on his legs and then trying to reposition him in the bed. He was making motions his back was hurting bad. We just feel helpless aside of taking cold washcloth to his forehead and face to cool him down. They plan to put a speaking piece in his trake so he can talk - don't know when? His numbers again looking pretty good - still getting the junk out of his lungs and that is good as much as he can. He's is holding his own right now and that is super - his memory is still not good so I am waiting until he is better and can talk before taking him his numerous cards to open and tell him about the 'blog', and also his book of telephone messages every day. There is going to be plenty of time and lots of patience needed.

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend.

Hugs from the Alexanders

Blood Drive Pictures

2009-07-05T23:18:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from the blood drive. Thanks to all who were able to attend.

Day 30 - Stanford Hospital ICU

2009-07-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

Thankfully, another good day, the trend is positive...

Day 30 - Stanford Hospital ICU

A better day today! Still don't know the extent of yesterday's surgery to Mark's shattered legs - most of it was on the right leg, which has 15 pins in it. The left leg brace and pins (8) were removed (wonderful) and his leg is fully wrapped. The right leg is still in a big circle brace that the pins are connected to.

He was breathing pretty well without the aide of the ventilator. The only downside is that he has a lot of coughing to rid his lungs of the fluids built up this past 30 days just lying in a bed and so many operations. I will say he has a marvelous miracle comfy bed that does everything but talk. So hard to visit with him - have to be careful we don't ask questions just give him information about all of you and the phone calls, the blood drive, etc. A little at a time as he cannot grasp what has happened to him let alone what is ahead of him. One thing at a time and the main thing is to get him mended first. He is going to have another massage tomorrow so that should make him feel better.

All of his numbers look good right now and we just hope and pray he can get the goop out of his lungs. Then all of us can rest more easily.

Have a good night! God bless ya all!

The Alexanders

Day 29 - Stanford Hospital - Blood Drive

2009-07-04T11:23:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

While we were pumping blood at Stanford (and having supporting friends there too), Mark was having a very long day too.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, and to those who wanted to but couldn’t, your thoughts and wishes are still very much appreciated!!!

Kevin O’Neill of the blood bank showed me the report for their supplies before we showed up yesterday, they were in "critical shortage" on certain blood types and our show of numbers yesterday was REALLY a fantastic help!

Andrea

Day 29 - Stanford Hospital

First of all, today was the blood drive and a great success. It was so nice to meet and see everyone. Wish we could have stayed to the end. Super BBQ with the works. Steve, Paul and Ken added some music for everyone to enjoy - Ken sang a special song for Mark, so many thanks guys for sharing your talent with all of us. Our thanks to Andrea for organizing the blood drive and making it a special day for Mark.

Today Mark had both legs operated on. He went into surgery at 7:30 a.m. and did not come out until 3:45 p.m. this afternoon. We could not believe he was there so long. When we got to the hospital they were just getting him settled down and when we could see him he got very sick. We had to leave, but the nurse had told me his lungs today had more fluid in them than yesterday.

They apparently took more cultures and we will have to wait until tomorrow for more details from the doctors. The liver is looking better since draining the infection out of the gall bladder perks the liver back up. That is good! I think after getting him off of the verset and this morning putting him back on it for more surgeries, made him so sick and such long surgeries being under.

Hopefully, with rest tonight tomorrow will be a better day.

Take care and lots of prayers!

Tal, Donna and family

UPDATE on the blood drive TODAY!!!

2009-07-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

If you are planning on coming to today's blood drive:

If you are coming in the mid-afternoon -- eg, not during the lunch hour rush, or after work -- you probably don't need an appointment - and some folks have told me this was a PITA, so show up!

The BBQ will be running all day, so don't worry about getting a bite to eat, they will be cooking for us all day...

Also: EAT A GOOD SOLID MEAL today, at least 2 hrs prior to donating! Don't just count on eating at the BBQ, you need to fill the tank prior to donating. EAT EAT EAT...

DRINK LOTS OF FLUIDS!. Bring a water bottle, and keep pushing fluids all day.
They will have juice and snacks for after your blood draw, but good idea to keep yourself well hydrated!!!

See you all there at some point, and thanks for showing up!!!

Day 28: Stanford Hospital, A big surprise!

2009-06-30T22:28:00.000-07:00

Well wonders never cease...

Day 28: Stanford Hospital

A big surprise! This a.m. when I called the hospital to check on Mark, the nurse told me, “Mark just woke up” from amnesia, they took him off of the drug ‘verset’ (?sp) which places the patient in a memory loss and pain free condition. Mark was trying to talk like crazy and guess the nurses are good to mouth readings. He wanted to know where he was, and were they checking his blood sugars, and please call my mom and dad for me. We just could not believe what they told us - so all these 27 days we thought Mark was looking at us and smiling some - we were just strangers to him.

So tonight, what a surprise to see him. I am no good at mouth reading so it was frustrating for him and glad the nurse could figure it out. Just a big change! They did not do the liver ultra-sound procedure today (?) but the orthopedic surgeon called and they will operate on both legs tomorrow morning.

I told him of Mark’s blood drive tomorrow and he said he would try to get over there also, how about that! So hopefully, hope and prayers are what we have all will go well from here on out.

Looking forward to tomorrow and for those who cannot make the ‘blood’ drive your there for Mark in spirit like always.

Take care all! The Alexanders

Blood Drive Tomorrow

2009-06-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

The Friends of Mark Alexander Blood Drive is Tomorrow!
Time: 12:00 noon - 7:30 pm
Location: Stanford Blood Center, 3373 Hillview Avenue, Palo Alto, Ca 94304

Please schedule an appointment to make your donation process as smooth as possible. Call 888-723-7831.
http://bloodcenter.stanford.edu

Show your support to Mark and his family by donating a unit of blood. Bring your friends, carpool, just come and show your support.
Feel free to join us at the Donor Barbecue that day. We will enjoy grilled burgers, hot dogs and karaoke.

Blood donors must:

Be at least 17 years of age
Weigh at least 110 lbs
Be free of cold and flu
Eat before donating and drink plenty of fluids
Bring photo ID

Contacts: Andrea Hamilton 510-590-6162; Kevin O'Neill, Stanford Blood Center 650-725-2540 kvoneill@stanford.edu

Life and Hope: It's in your blood.

Day 27: Stanford Hospital

2009-06-30T08:49:00.004-07:00

Day 27: Stanford Hospital

Well, this evening's visit was good, Mark just had a shave from one of the nurses. This afternoon he had a massage from guest services at the hospital compliments of Mark's nephew Chris and wife Angela, and son Julian (our great grandson, Julian). It was amazing and we don't know how the masseuse managed with all the tubes, pins, plugs, etc. But Mark nodded his head he liked it and we think it made his day today better. The gallbladder, which was infected, is coming along o.k. as the infection is being withdrawn by a tube.

We spoke with a doctor this evening, they took an ultra-sound today of the kidney, pancreas and liver and they found an obstruction in the liver and will do the same procedure as they did for the gallbladder. The kidney is fine (wonderful) but the readings from the pancreas are still not complete. Lots of prayers that is not a problem.

They want to do more ops on both his legs this week sometime. With all of these other vital organ mishaps going on we shall see. Tomorrow is another day and each day is a little brighter and they are doing everything they can to help Mark get through this.

Hope everyone was a little cooler today and had a good day!

Our hugs to all – the Alexanders

Day 26: Stanford Hospital

2009-06-30T08:49:00.003-07:00

Day 26: Stanford Hospital

This morning a doctor called to let us know that Mark had a gall bladder infection. He explained a procedure they wanted to do by ultra-sound as an operation was too risky right now. Anything they thought was the right thing to do was a blessing to perform ASAP.

Well, this evening we expected to see him asleep & out for the evening, butttttt he was watching a little portable TV and wide-awake. We were so shocked and he was trying to talk but can't with the trach in his throat. So hard for him and we tried not to talk about anything he needed to answer except to nod.

Well, he definitely is our humpty dumpty and Stanford is trying so hard to put him back together again. Kevin and myself are calling him that - I will wait until he is much better before I let him know what we are calling him. Hopefully, the gall bladder procedure will be successful and the white cell count and infections go away.

The surgeries on his legs so far are healing well. He just wants some water so bad and they try to tell him he is getting food and water thru his tube but yeah! Thanks alot!

I'm sure the doctors will all be around tomorrow to give him a thorough going over.

Let's hope it is all good!
Hugs, Tal & Donna

Day 25: Stanford Hospital

2009-06-30T08:49:00.001-07:00

From Donna, Mark's mom -

Day 25 - Stanford Hospital

My morning call to the hospital was good news that Mark rested well during the night with his traech in place & breathing much easier. They were going to do an ultrasound today to his stomach. He shows a higher white cell count for infection. So far, the operations that were performed on his legs appear to be healing o.k.

Our visit this evening found him sleeping & he barely opened his eyes for awhile. There was no response other than just to look at us. We believe he is in another world to himself with so many meds, I guess we would be too.

Our son Kevin went up to see him last night and he said he was awake and smiled at him. No news about the tests (cultures) taken but we were there only 15 minutes and in they came to do the ultra-sound. It's amazing how they are 24/7 round the clock for operations and tests. He could not be in a better place and we have so much to be thankful for that. Enjoy your weekend & stay cool.

Our hugs and prayers,
Tal & Donna

Day 24: ICU

2009-06-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

from Donna, Mark's mom

Day 24: ICU

Today Mark had the trach put in for easier breathing. They also did the exam by camera in the bronchial tubes but did not go into the lungs as they found some matter in the trachea passage and took cultures. Mark was still asleep when we arrived at 6:00 this evening so just dropped in to check on him. Anyway, hopefully tonight and here on until he heals he can breathe easier. They had checked his stomach and everything there looks good and healing well. The kidney and pancreas is working well. Lots of fluids are still being drained from his chest cavity and that is good. Hopefully, the antibiotic for the pneumonia is cutting down the infection.

Take care for the weekend and so glad that the emails are going out to all of you on the ‘blog’. Hugs to everyone!

The Alexanders

PS Keep the prayer chain going.

Info from Mark’s nephew Chris’ family

2009-06-26T15:36:00.000-07:00

Grandma Donna,
Thank you for all of your day to day updates.
Our thoughts are constantly with you!

I wanted to let all the friends and family know that Stanford offers a music program and massage packages for patients in the ICU. If anyone would like to inquire about these services, please go to: http://stanfordhospital.org/forPatients/patientServices/massagetherapyGuestServices.html

Love - Angela + Chris + Juliana

Angela Alexander

Love from Susan Macke and Disco Julio

2009-06-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

Laughter is the best medicine. Keeping joy in the energy and healing thoughts we send is so important... It's OK to dance a little at your desk, you know Mark would.

This one comes out from Susan Macke.

The Mark Alexander Song

(to the tune of Disco Julio)

Hey Mark Alexander,

I tell you in candor

You must take a gander

At your new web blog

It's all about caring

And how you are faring

And history sharing

From the land of the grog.

(chorus)

Mark Alexander

Hey hey hey hey hey hey!

Mark Alexander

Hey hey hey hey hey hey!

We see pictures of you

Hanging out with the crew

Doing just what you do -

How you make us grin!

We stick to the good thought

Of all the joy you've brought

And all the good you've got

To bring back again.

(chorus)

We know this is rougher

But we hope to buffer -

We're tough but you're tougher

And you will get through!

We're up in a dander.

We don't mean to pander,

But Mark Alexander

How we all love you!

(chorus)

Mark from about 1990

2009-06-26T00:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a photograph is a good thing to concentrate positive thoughts on.
I thought you might wish to post this photo of Mark from about 1990.
Tom Haney

Day 23: A more difficult day

2009-06-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

After a good day yesterday, we have to face a not so good day today. Received a call from one of Mark's doctors this AM stating that they had to put the ventilator back in. Mark was struggling for air as if he had climbed the highest mountain and they were afraid of too much strain on his heart. He also said that Mark had some signs of pneumonia in his left lung and they were putting him on antibiotics for that.
We went early today to see him as it bothered us and we could not wait. We met with one of his many doctors and she stated what they thought should be done to make things easier for Mark. First they put an IV in his neck to help with feeding and meds rather than through his nose? Also, they want to do a trach directly into the windpipe to make his breathing easier. The ventilator is becoming too irritating and maybe more problems. This they will do in a few days and into or again. Then they plan to put cameras down his bronchial tubes into the lungs and see better what is going on and then try to draw fluids out. Anything to make him better if that is the case.
This evening, I called his nurse and he was resting well, they took the tube out from his left lung, replaced it with another and it was draining fluid out of the chest cavity.
— from The Alexanders

Day 22: ICU Stanford University Hospital

2009-06-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

This afternoon’s visit was another good day — Mark was still off the ventilator but they raised the oxygen level to help him along. They have taken him off of the heavy duty drugs (gosh, is he going to be mad — he hates pain meds). So many during were given for his transplant and did not agree with him then.

His nurse today, Megan (#17) — what a staff Stanford has. I have seen few of Mark’s doctors but feel these nurses in the ICU unit are more informative and straight forward. Megan gave him a clean shave — almost thought we were in the wrong room — ha! Anyway, he looked good! So wonderful to get little smiles. I told him that “God was not ready for him yet and he has a reason why — so many things left for him to do and continue to make other people happy in their lives.”

We extended our stay today to 15 minutes — just feel that we excite him and make it difficult for him to breathe. The time will come when they will have to throw us out. Every day will be a better day — prayer is powerful and definitely working. All those healing energies are being received too! A better tomorrow for all!

Our love,
Tal and Donna, Michael and Kevin

PS No surgery today, I guess they thought he had enough to handle before they have to put the ventilator back in for surgery coming up.

The 21st day: June 23

2009-06-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

What a grand surprise for our visit this afternoon @ 4:00 pm. After trying unsuccessfully to remove the ventilator for days, they told us THEY TOOK THE VENTILATOR OUT THIS AFTERNOON and Mark was breathing on his own with help of oxygen. We walked into his room and he was awake and looked so good to us and whispered some words — it was worth a million +!! I tried to tell him not to talk but to wait until tomorrow and to save his voice as we know he will come back with a singing voice. Many of you know Mark cannot sing! It is so lifting and God is answering all of our prayers, giving strength and healing.

Mark was scheduled for surgery today on both legs but it was postponed. They think he will have this done tomorrow but not sure. He still has the chest tubes in but hopefully out soon. I’m sending this out to all of you by mass email and also being forwarded to the ‘Blog’ set-up for Mark by his dear friends. All of you have been so supportive to Mark for so many years and during this hard time, once again. The family appreciates all of the wonderful and loving support you have given us too.

Keep those thoughts and prayers going.

Our love,
The Alexanders

Here's the blood drive poster for download

2009-06-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Hobbit friends and other friends,

Click here to download the final flier/poster PDF for the blood drive next week for Mark. If you have any issue downloading this PDF, contact me and I will email it to you.

Anyone and everyone, please print out a couple copies of this flier and stick it up on any unsuspecting bulletin board that you pass ... the more the merrier.

Remember, there is BBQ on offer that day at the blood center as a thank you for the donors!!!

Thanks, from Andrea

Whoops This blogging stuff is tricky

2009-06-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

To follow the story line with the new photos...
start with New Pics then go up one to- New pics 2 then the top one- New pics 3.
Hey I was proud of myself just for figuring out how to post with photos!
{:~) Camille

New pics 3

2009-06-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

My Dad came for the BBQ after the civil union and even hula hooped. Must of been the ice tea. What union is complete without Hula hoops? It was such a magnificent, special day. I had so much fun I'd like to get married every year. Rhonda says, "NO WAY"!

We haven't heard much these days, so we are just sending you our healing thoughts for a speedy and complete recovery. See everyone at the blood drive on July 1st. There just might be another small token of appreciation for those who make it:)

Love from the redwoods,
Camille and Rhonda

More great pics #2

2009-06-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

You got to meet Rhonda's Mom, Patsy and her brother, who came in from Texas for the occasion. Patsy's potato salad was out of this world, but a GALLON of mayonnaise will do that to potatoes:) I don't know what she put in the ice tea but it was incredible and got everyone up and hooping.

More great pics

2009-06-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Rhonda and I got a chance to work together this weekend on the property and we were thinking of how much you love it up here. It is so pretty this time of year. These pictures are from the Civil Ceremony on 8-8-08. Leave it to us to get married twice. We didn't want to take any chances. Here is one with you and Susan holding our bouquets.

2009-06-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

I am sharing this message from Mark's parents, Donna and Tal:

THE STANFORD BLOOD BANK ARRANGEMENT OF A SPECIAL DAY IS GREAT.

FOR ALL OF HIS FRIENDS, & FAMILY FRIENDS WHO CANNOT DONATE, THEIR PRAYERS,

ENERGIES & HEALING THOUGHTS IN ANOTHER WAY IS SO VERY SINCERELY APPRECIATED.

THANK YOU! TAL & DONNA

2009-06-17T22:13:00.001-07:00

Here is Mark, taking in the rays in one of his favorite places: the "Patio" at Big Sur....

Community Blood Drive for Mark on July 1st!

2009-06-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

Together with Stanford, we have arranged an all-day community blood drive in Mark’s name at the Stanford Blood Center on 3373 Hillview Ave (off Page Mill Rd.) in Palo Alto. The date is Wed. July 1st and the hours are 12 noon to 7:30pm.

I will soon have a flier to send around, and I encourage folks to print out copies and post it anywhere suitable: your workplace, mom’s group, local community center, wherever. Invite anyone and everyone to show up. The blood bank is going into its ‘dry’ season and this will be really helpful to them. Mark has more surgery ahead of him, so we are really doing the best thing we can for him by turning out for this.

If this date does not work for you, just go ahead and go donate whenever you can. Anytime is a good time. You can always go to any one of the three Stanford Blood Centers. It all goes to the same cause!

This one-day effort is to help people plan, arrange rides, and mobilize as many folks as possible. Plus, the blood bank will be hosting a BBQ at the Hillview center that day as a thank-you to donors, so there’s something in it for you! (replenish those red blood cells, grrrrrrr!)

I will post the official flier when it is ready, but please put this date on your calendar: July 1st, 12 noon to 7:30 pm. Spread the word!!

Andrea

Found another picture

2009-06-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Here is another picture of Mark with some friends. He is in the center. Click on the photograph to see a larger version.

The beginning...

2009-06-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, June 3rd, Mark Alexander suffered serious injuries in a car accident. He is at Stanford Hospital and is stabilized, but has had 6 operations so far and scheduled for more. He can't have any visitors at this time except family for 30 minutes a day. Please send your healing thoughts, love, and prayers to Mark so that he may recover quickly. Also you can donate blood at Stanford (any Type) as Mark has lost a lot.
There has been a huge outpouring of love and healing thoughts sent out to Mark, his mother Donna and father Tal. Information on ways you can help will be posted as Mark's long healing process moves along.
There is a "Mark Alexander Blood Drive" being set up through the Stanford Blood Center. More news and information will be posted here as it is made available.