Hi all
A note: If you haven’t already, please read Friday’s (21 Jun) blog prior to reading this one.
I spoke too soon on the last blog. Unfortunately Friday night saw us going to the ER! Really. Some sort of premonition I guess. My left lung fully collapsed and we called 911. Very uncomfortable, but not exactly painful. A strange, though unwanted sensation. I had a chest tube inserted at 2 in the morning and now am in the ICU enjoying the benefits of being a “serious”patient. Really nice and private rooms to be exact. Vanderbilt has always treated me very well and I’m not at a loss for any pain meds:-). Plus, the discomfort of the tube was quickly overshadowed by the Ben and Jerry coffee shake that Jenn had so graciously volunteered to purchase. For any future chest tube victims out there, ice cream works wonders as a distraction. Sweet.
I’m still in shock at how the events played out. Everything that could have happened, did. I was breathing very rapidly Friday night. We went to bed and I woke up not being able to breathe at all. That was one of the most frightening experiences I’ve ever had. I would start uncontrollably coughing and try to squeeze into the conversation at hand. We quickly decided to call an ambulance. (Nope, still didn’t have the siren.) My parents were awake, having decided to stay for their original visit in case something happened, which I was sure was not going to! So finding someone to watch the boys has not been a stress for these latest symptoms. (Not that it would have been; at 11 pm, our generous neighbors were outside, waving to me in the ambulance, ready to take the boys.) Jenn followed at in our car while I was hooked up to a CPAP machine that forced air into my lungs. Once we arrived, a chest X ray determined that I needed a tube to re expand the lung. This is the third chest tube I’ve had and this one is significantly much easier. Pain is minimal this time and not being in the middle of a chemo round really helps the cause.
So now I’m waiting for the lung to fully re expand which the docs say should good by Monday. We’ll see.
Uncanny 🙂
It's Not a Sprint 
Dude. You are always on our minds. Your DTRA friends are sending out mega vibes to support you in your continuing fight. You are the epitome of strength and courage.
Hunter, I did read your blog from yesterday so when I opened email and saw “Uncanny”, I was so sorry to read how everything had abruptly turned in less than a 24 hour period, and know that chest tubes are no “walk in the park”. Glad to hear this one has been less painful than the two prior procedures. Prayers for quick re-inflation of that lung!.
My response to yesterday’s blog was rooted in a sense of gratitude to you for the profound lessons you are teaching me about fortitude, love, courage, resiliency; perhaps not your intention to be a teacher but through your “life lens” you have been a source of strength for me in my journey….again, deep gratitude.
Peace and Good Will to you, Jenn, and the boys,
Dee
How quickly do things change. . . . and by Monday the lung will be inflated again! Amazing thatedecone can do many things like that so quickly. There’s a testimony to who you are in this and also Jenny and the boys. Their unwavering support for you and “chipperness” during these scary moments and your strength in being dad and husband even though there is stuff that’s out of wack. So all of us who read your blogs and think and pray about you on a daily or weekly or whenever basis. We can’t be right there to help and we are in your corner through this even though far away. So inflate quickly and yourself home. Blessings to you all. Now if us up here in R&D could develop an in-home lung inflator and transition same to Tennessee. . . .
Btw. I apologize for not catching odd autospells from this iPhone. It’s is amazing what medicine … And Jenn are 2 examples.
Jedi Master, you continue to inspire and teach wisely through you and your family. May God’s grace allow you some healing and rest. First, you’ve attained the rank of Jedi Master and can lead the council given all the Big C battles you’ve won. Second, your decision to share your path you selflessly say is because it has helped you, but I know for a fact, knowing you has helped, and will forever help, me. Love, Mike
We are sad to hear of your latest disappointing set back. We know that it will only be temporary, as we have learned of your will and love of the life you have with work and family. I feel so sad that Jack and I never had the chance to talk to you at Jolene and Jimmy’s wedding. Someday, we will set that right!! You are amazing and even though Jenn isn’t talking on this blog, we know that what she’s holding up to and being so brave and loving, is making her an amazing woman. Our prayers continue for you and family.
with our love, Jack and Sharon
Oh no! Sucks you ended up on ER just when you were talking about not going to the ER. I hope your lung re-inflates soon so you can get back to your summer.
THINKING OF YOU ANF YOUR FAMILY
Hunter, you all our in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if we can do anything at all. Hugs!!
Hunter your attitude through all of this continues to inspire, amaze and impress me! You deserve to get through this and spend many more years working long hard hours in the Army, oh wait, I mean you deserve to have a rest! I think of you often – your situation makes me appreciate life so much more!!
Dear Hunter, my name is Cyndi. I am fortunate to be a friend of Diane Royce with whom I share a Bible Study Group. We are all (7) praying for you. Your fortitude and positive spirit. Amaze me. Like Dee’s message above I am learning from you. So falling to my knees I thank God for all the parts of me that still work reasonably well at 66…then I lift you up in heartfelt prayer for blessings and healing.
By the way, I love your name
Seriously! You are in ICU with electronics?!? What is this world coming to?
On the real side…I am so sorry your lung went out on you again. I think it likes attention. Argh. I did not mean that either.
Trying again. Your generosity in allowing us to share in your journey humbles me. Yes. This is what I want to say. Hugs, love, and thankful for electronic connections.
Sorry to hear things took a bad turn this weekend Hunter. I hope things go back on the upswing quickly…sending you positive vibes. Hang in there!
For the love of God Hunter, would you please stop trying to figure out what it’s gonna take to get the ambulance sirens???
If there were a “like” button, I would be adding it to your post, Jenifer.
🙂
ditto!
Ben & Jerry coffee shake to overshadow discomfort — won’t forget! I appreciate seeing the strength you have. As always, it’s inspirational!
Your amazing strength and will to live is absolutely phenomenal Hunter. I admire your tenacity and fortitude through this entire ordeal. I will NEVER take for granted my health issues after reading what you have experienced. May God give you grace and grant His mercy on you as you try to conquer this horrific disease. My prayers are with you and your family at this critical time. Continue to keep the incredible stamina! Much love and blessings to you and your family!
Never a dull moment with you, Hunter! I’m sorry that you didn’t get to take the trip that you and Jenn had been planning for so long, but I am mighty happy you were home and could get the medical attention you needed. You are a constant source of amazement and inspiration in your cancer battle. Your sense of humor and outstanding attitude (along with your great wife and adorable kids) will get you through. I miss you guys and keep you in my thoughts and prayers daily!