Updates of Preacher Fred's Progress

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Doctor Gives Good News

Fred's infectious disease doctor visit went very well today.  Fred continues to improve daily.  The doctor decided that they would remove his PICC line on Thursday.  At that time, Fred will only be required to take one out of the three antibiotics.  He will continue to take that antibiotic for six more months by mouth.  The doctor wants Fred to slowly work back into his normal routine, but if all goes well this week Fred will be preaching from the pulpit this Sunday morning.  This is a great stride in his recovery, but he still needs his rest and recovery time.  Any extended time up on his feet results in swelling and soreness.  The family appreciates all of your prayers and support.  Please continue to keep Fred on your prayer list.   

Friday, October 1, 2010

Continue to Improve

Preacher Fred continues to make improvements daily.  His strength and motivation continues to grow as his knee heals.  If Fred can continue to stay on track, the doctor is hopeful that he will be able to make occasional trips to church in the next few weeks.  The doctor still wants Fred to take it easy and gradually work his way back into his routine.  Fred and family want to thank everyone for their loving prayers.  We will keep the blog updated as Fred continues to make improvements. 

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Walk it Out

Preacher Fred continues to improve.  Today the therapist had him walk with his cane.  He was able to walk from his recliner to the kitchen and back three times.  The therapist told him not to use the cane without her supervision, but that he would soon be able to use it on his own.  The therapist mentioned that he would probably be a little sore tonight.  He had no drainage from his knee after working out, and the hematoma on his leg has gone down.  Each day he continues to improve.  This wouldn't be possible without God through your prayers.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Doctor Gives Thumbs Up!

Preacher Fred received good news from the doctor after his visit yesterday afternoon.  The doctor removed the medical tape and said that the knee was looking better. The doctor did ask that Fred continue to keep the knee clean.  He also wanted him to continue to keep it wrapped from thigh to toe and changing the bandages out twice a day.  He also wanted Fred to continue to take it easy and keep the same workout regiment as before.  The doctor said that if things continue to progress, Fred could be back up and preaching in three to four weeks.  Praise the Lord!!  Keep moving forward Fred, God is right there with you. 

Monday, September 20, 2010

Patsy's Cooking Motivates

Preacher Fred continues to improve.  For the normal gathering at Patsy's Fine Foods restaurant Sunday afternoon, Fred worked his way to the table and ate with the family.  Not sure if that was out of fear that food would not be delivered to his recliner :)  Whatever the case maybe, it was nice to see improvement and have him back at the dinner table. Fred has a scheduled visit with the doctor this afternoon. Continue to pray that his health improves and that he has a good checkup today.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

No News is Hopefully Good News

There isn't much news to report today.  Preacher Fred has felt fairly well over the last couple of days.  His incision isn't draining as badly since his doctor visit on Monday.  Continue to pray for his healing. 

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Pray for Healing

Preacher Fred had a doctor's appointment yesterday.  At this appointment, the doctor took out most of the staples from his knee.  He left about three staples at the bottom of the incision to help that part continue to heal.  His knee is still draining blood and fluids.  As a way to help that, the doctor wants Fred to wrap his leg from his toes to his thigh.  He also wants Fred to continue his therapy.  Preacher Fred has to go back to the doctor next Monday for a follow-up.  If his knee is still draining, he will have to be put back to sleep for the doctor to go back in the incision and clean it.  After this procedure, Fred will have to stay a couple of days in the hospital.  We have faith the God can heal this problem before Monday.  Please pray that Fred's knee continues to heal and that it stops draining so he will not have to have his knee opened up again.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

In Knee'd of Strength

After two good days, Preacher Fred has felt weak today.  He is still working out with his leg motion machine for six hours a day.  He has a check up with the doctor tomorrow.  At this visit they will look at how the knee is healing and check the incision, which is still draining fluids and blood.  For the most part, Fred's health has been much improved compared to the previous two surgeries.  We are hoping that this is a sign of healing. 

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Better Days Ahead

Preacher Fred had a pretty good day today.  Fred's sister (Francis) and brother-in-law (James) from Sanford, NC assisted nurse Patsy today.  Fred's medication is issued with an antibiotic pump, which feeds his antibiotics through his PICC line. He is also taking two other antibiotics by mouth.  Fred continues to gain strength daily with the use of his leg motion machine (CPM).  The purpose of this machine is to work out and stretch the knee to certain degrees each day.  The doctor wants Fred to work out on the CPM for six hours a day.  Right now the motion machine assists Fred with bending his knee to 65 degrees.  His goal is to reach 120 degrees within the next couple of weeks.  Starting tomorrow Fred will being his physical therapy with a trainer.  With the help of the trainer and Fred's motivation to get better, the family continues to pray that God will guide his path. 

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Work it out

Since Fred has been home, he has not been able to much therapy.  His knee leaks blood and other fluids when he moves around.  His health care providers seem to think this is due to blood thinner medicine as well as his incision being closed with staples.  The doctor had to use staples instead of stitches because of the infection.  Antibiotics are pumped into Fred's body 24/7 through the PICC line.  Fred and Patsy are still trying to adjust to this method of antibiotics.  He will have to use this for at least six weeks.  Considering how long Fred has been sick, it has taken a toll on his strength and energy.  He isn't back to his old self yet, but he is making progress.  As always continue to pray. 

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Finally Home Again

Preacher Fred was able to return home today.  The doctor said the antibiotics would make Fred feel a little sick, and would take some time for his body to adjust.  A nurse came by the house to show Fred and Patsy how to administer his antibiotics through the PICC line.  This has been a long journey for Preacher Fred.  As you can imagine he has been a little discouraged.  Please pray as he continues to recover that his spirits will be lifted.  

Monday, September 6, 2010

Like a New Man

Sunday was a better day for Preacher Fred.  The therapist had him sitting up in a chair and also doing a little exercises with his knee.  Today was even better.  His blood pressure, sugar, and hemoglobin levels were right where they were suppose to be.  The therapist had him up walking around the halls today with the walker.  His knee starts to drain fluids during therapy, but they say this is a good sign.  It means it's healing.  Prayers are working!  Fred is doing a lot better, but still has a little ways to go.  His knee seems to be healing properly.  We hope that he has more days like today and continues to gain strength.  The doctor said that he should get to go home tomorrow. 

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Saturday Struggles

Preacher Fred has had a rough day.  Doctors did not want him to get up from the bed today.  Many of his vitals have been lower than normal.  His blood pressure has fluctuated.  His sugar has also been low most of the day but is back up for now.  They are going to continue to monitor his sugar very closely.  His blood level was seven, so they decided to give him two units of blood.  Hopefully, he will have a better day tomorrow.  Pray for strength and healing. 

Friday, September 3, 2010

A Quick Update

Preacher Fred was able to get a good night's rest.  His blood pressure was a little low today, but nothing that the doctor is too concerned about.  He is still in a good deal of pain.  However,  he's described that the feeling of pain seems to be more from the actual knee surgery than the infection.  We are hoping this is true and is a sign of the right road to recovery.  As always, the family thanks you for your prayers. 

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Doctor's Orders...REST! REST! REST!

Preacher Fred went into surgery at 1:30 and was out by 3:20.  Surgery went well and as expected.  The doctor was able to remove his first knee replacement and put in the new knee.  Fred is in a great deal of pain, which is expected for anyone after surgery.  It is very important that Preacher Fred gets his rest right now.  Preacher Fred needs prayers more than anything else.  Keep up to date with Fred's progress by checking the blog.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Surgery Tomorrow

Preacher Fred is scheduled for surgery tomorrow afternoon.  The doctors have determined which two antibiotics to treat Fred's infection.  The family is feeling very positive about the surgery and are looking forward to Fred recovering and getting back to his routine. Fred's main concern is his health condition. After the last two surgeries, he has had a very difficult time. We are all praying that his recovery after this surgery will be much improved. Continue to pray that this will be the surgery to heal the infection and get Fred back on his feet.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

The Decision is Made

Preacher Fred heard from the doctor yesterday.  His recommendation is to remove Fred's knee and replace it with a new one that is partially made of cement.  Normally, this type of knee replacement is temporary.  Although the doctor said if Fred does well, then it could last for years.  The lab is still trying to figure out which combination of antibiotics Preacher Fred will need to cure this infection.  They are hopeful that they will have an answer by Tuesday.  If so, Preacher Fred will have his surgery on Thursday.  Preacher Fred and Patsy are happy with these results because now he will not have to go without a knee.  The family wants to thank everyone for their prayers.  They feel like prayers are being answered.   

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Praying for the Best

Results from the fluid that was drawn yesterday came back and confirmed that the infection is a form of Mycobacterium.  It's known as Massiliense.  The lab called to tell them the news.  Fred is scheduled to talk with the doctor tomorrow.  At that time the family will know how he will want to treat it.  The family is hoping that this doctor will still want to treat the infection with antibiotics for six weeks to see if that will work.  

Fred had a pretty good day.  Patsy said he even put on his "ole" blue jeans.  However, she said that he didn't move from the recliner after that.  Maybe he will get the boots on tomorrow.  

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

The Second Opinion

Fred's doctors visit went well today.  The doctor took fluid from the knee to confirm the infection.  Results should be back in the next one to three days.  The doctor is hoping that he will be able to treat the infection through antibiotics.  Depending on the results, he would like to treat the infection for at least six weeks before deciding if surgery is needed.  Removing the knee would be the doctor's last resort. 

Patsy also received an email back from a doctor at MUSC.  This doctor is willing to look at Fred's knee if needed.  This doctor stated that she has experience in treating Mycobacteria infections.  

After the doctor visit and email from MUSC, Fred and Pasty feel much better.  Hopefully we will know something within the next few days.  Although it seems that we have been waiting for results on every post, it appears that we are getting closer to an answer.  The family wants to thank everyone for their continuous prayers and they know that God is in control. 

Staying Positive and Keeping the Faith!
 

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Quick Update

Today was not one of Fred's better days.  He ate a little bit of breakfast and spent the rest of the day sleeping.  With a lack of appetite, Fred is still weak and lacking energy. Continue to pray for the family, as Fred and Patsy will be visiting the doctor tomorrow for a second opinion.  Pray that God reveals to the doctor what he should do to get rid of Fred's infection.

Monday, August 23, 2010

A Different Opinion

Preacher Fred feels that Patsy is now a nurse as well as a private investigator.  She has been on the phone all day trying to figure out and find a doctor for him to go see for a second opinion.  He has an appointment Wednesday afternoon with a different doctor.  Preacher Fred and Patsy are happy about this appointment.  Even if this doctor feels that he needs to remove Preacher Fred's knee, they feel better about this doctor performing the surgery.  They are also looking into the possibility of going to MUSC.  They've emailed a doctor at MUSC to see if he has ever treated this type of infection.  Preacher Fred and Patsy are so thankful for all that everyone has done to help them during this time.  They can't even begin to express how grateful they are for their family and friends.  Continue to keep them in your prayers.  Our God is good and we believe that He can heal Preacher Fred without surgery if that is His will. 

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Short, Sweet, and to the Point

Today was one of Fred's better days.  Although he is still very weak, he has made some progress in getting up and moving about the house as much as he can.  Being home has allowed Fred to feel more rested and have a more positive outlook.  Fred and Patsy still have decisions to make.  We are praying that God is healing the infection in his body.  As always, the family appreciates your prayers and thoughtfulness. 



Saturday, August 21, 2010

New Nurse In Town

Patsy has started her new position as head nurse in the Quidley house.  She's checking his temperature regularly, giving Fred his meds, and flushing his PICC line.  Home health care stopped by to check on Fred and to deliver Nurse Patsy her supplies.  The therapist also made a visit and worked with Fred as he walked a little.  Now that he is at home we will be relying on updates from Nurse Patsy.  Fred and Patsy still need your prayers as they make their decision about surgery on his knee.  They are still seeking God's guidance about a second opinion.


Home Sweet Home

Preacher Fred is back home for the time being. He was released from the hospital late this afternoon. The lab has narrowed down the results from twenty-two types of Mycobacteria down to three.  The doctors are now saying that the family should know for sure by this coming Thursday which type it is.  At that time they will know which antibiotics to start using after surgery.  There is no change in Preacher Fred's physical condition, but doctors allowed him to rest and wait at home. Fred and Patsy need prayer as they decide if a second opinion would be in his best interest.  Pray that they will hear God's voice as they make a decision. 


Some people have asked if you need an account to leave a comment. Well, no you do not.  You may leave a comment as anonymous and just sign your name at the end of your message.  However, to be a follower, you must have an account.  Even though Preacher Fred is not computer savvy, he really looks forward to knowing how many new followers he has. 

Friday, August 20, 2010

Pray for Fred and the Family

Doctors for the most part, have decided that it would be best that the knee be removed. The DNA test was sent to lab yesterday and results should be in tomorrow.  That should let the doctors know which combination of antibiotics would fight off the infection after removing the knee.  His doctor thinks that surgery will be tomorrow (Friday) or Saturday depending on when the lab results come back.  This surgery would require removing the knee replacement and inserting an antibiotic block.  This would feed the antibiotics directly to the knee.  Without the knee it would limit Fred's mobility and could require him to be on crutches an extended amount of time.  Fred could also lose muscle strength and it would be difficult for him to regain full mobility. Surgery would not be the family's first choice but they want Fred to get better. The family believes in prayer and knows that we serve a mighty God that can perform miracles.  Fred, his family, and his doctors need much prayer over the next few days. Continue to pray that antibiotics could be the cure to heal the infection so that removing the knee would not be an option.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

The Results are in

The infectious disease doctor came in this morning and confirmed that the infection is a type of Mycobacteria, which is what she had suspected.  The lab is now checking the DNA to determine the specifics so that they will know how to treat it. The doctors believe they should have an answer no later than Friday.  At that time, they will begin giving him the antibiotics for that particular type of infection.  They have stopped treating Fred with the current antibiotics because they were not helping.  Please continue to pray that Preacher Fred and Patsy will stay motivated through this long process. Your encouraging words and thoughtfulness mean a lot.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

No Change

Conditions remain the same and the doctors are hopeful that the results from the lab will be delivered tomorrow.  Once the results are in, we should know what type of Mycobacteria has infected Fred's knee.


Monday, August 16, 2010

Long Road Traveled

As many of you know, Fred had knee replacement surgery this past April.  Since that procedure his road to recovery has been a long one.  He had a feeling after surgery that something wasn't right.  Soon there after he had gallbladder surgery (7 weeks after knee surgery).  After the gallbladder was removed, he showed signs of improvement and it seemed things were looking up.  However, a couple of weeks after gallbladder surgery, he became sick again.  Everyone was pretty sure that his symptoms were a result of his knee replacement surgery because of the pain and swelling he was enduring.  It seems that the doctors tested Fred in every possible way but couldn't give a reason for his sick condition.  Finally after 14 weeks, doctors determined that an infection was the cause.  So last Friday (August 6th), Fred went through surgery again.  During this surgery, the knee was removed and sterilized, then put back in place.  A biopsy of the infection was also taken in efforts to determine the kind of infection that had formed around his knee.  After this procedure, the recovery process was supposed to begin through therapy and a PICC line.  The PICC line will allow antibiotics to start killing the infection faster. 
 
Fred has been in the hospital since surgery.  His type of infection (Mycobacteria) has only been reported in 16 cases over the last 40 years.  Therefore, the doctors are having a difficult time determining the best way to treat him. Once the results come back from the lab (Tuesday/Wednesday), the doctors will hopefully have a better idea of which type of Mycobacteria is in his body and the best way to treat it.  The doctors have explained that the infection tends to attack foreign objects in the body, which in Fred's case would be his knee replacement.  They have narrowed down the treatments to two solutions. One way is to treat it using a combination of two types of antibiotics.  The other treatment would be to remove the knee and replace it with a spacer that would basically keep the knee free of foreign objects. This would leave Fred without the use of one leg and would require him to be on crutches for the next six months to a year.  After that time, the doctors would put the knee replacement back.  Please pray that this infection will be treatable through antibiotics.  This would allow Preacher Fred to recover quicker and return to the ministry, which we all know he loves.

Posts will be made each evening of Fred's progress.  Please continue to check and feel free to leave Fred and Patsy messages. 

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Daily Updates

Built "Fred" Tough was created as a way for family and friends to stay informed about Preacher Fred's recovery. Preacher Fred's progress will be posted daily.   Our hope is that this blog will keep everyone updated and will allow Preacher Fred and his family to get some much needed rest. They appreciate all the prayers and support.

 Keeping the faith and staying positive is very important for Preacher Fred. Continue to lift him and Patsy up in prayer.