This photo of Vickie was taken a few weeks before June 16th 2004.





Vickie cruised her residence neighborhood in her chair this afternoon with the help of her sister and niece. The fresh air and sun were probably good for her.

It’s hard to grasp the concept that it has now been four years since Vickie’s life was dramatically changed in just a matter of minutes and without any warning.
Hopes for a recovery that would allow her to return to her life as it was before June 16 2004 are diminishing. The best outcome would be that Vickie is able to maintain the mental facilities she still possesses.
Vickie’s physical health is reasonably good given that she gets most of her nutrition from liquid supplements and that she is unable to do any meaningful exercise.
Vickie is being treated for an ongoing infection that is resistant to most anti-biotics. She just started using a new medication last week and we are running out of options for one that will offer successful treatment.
The psychosis episodes occur often and seem to interfere with Vickie's eating and normal conversation. Most of the time she is unaware of her situation and what is happening around her.

Vickie had an appointment with her DR. Monday afternoon. There will be lab tests to determine if the treatment for the ongoing infection is having any positive results. The visit went well.

Vickie joined her sisters for a birthday event at a sister's home this afternoon. She seemed to enjoy the company and she ate well.
Vickie stayed responsive and aware most of the evening. She was calm on the trip back to her residence.

There has not been any significant changes in Vickie's condition since the last post.

Vickie joined family members at a local restaurant Thursday evening. Although the reason for the event was to honor the second anniversary of her older sister's passing, Vickie was unaware of the significance of the day.
Vickie was in a good mood, ate a little and with some assistance held her newest grand niece for a few moments.
During the trip back to her residence Vickie remarked that it was good to have the family get together and that she had enjoyed the evening.

Lately Vickie seemed to have lost what little appetite she had. The Dr. has her again taking the anti-depressant that had been stopped a month ago. Today her appetite was good. We won't know if there's a connection or just coincidence until a few days have passed.

Vickie's condition remains the same. She appears to be recovering from her recent medical problems. The new feeding tube is still functioning properly.
As always, visitors are welcome, the best times are late afternoon and early evening.

The results of a test from Vickie last Sunday revealed she has an infection more serious than previously thought. The antibiotic prescribed last week is not effective against this resistant variety. Today she will begin a more aggressive treatment, using large dosages of vitamin C and a prescribed medication.

Vickie now has a new more high tech feeding tube. Hopefully it will last longer and be more reliable than previous ones
Vickie was alert and aware during the hospital visit. She recognized some of her former coworkers and knew their names even though she had not seen them in nearly four years.
On the trip back to her residence she stopped at a Burgerville to have a burger and an order of fries. Seeing a special on strawberry milkshakes advertised on a billboard next to the drive-up-window she asked for one and drank it with her meal. Getting Vickie to eat regular food has been an issue for some time now.

Wednesday, Vickie will return to MHMC to have a more permanent feeding tube put in.
She seemed in good spirits today.
Andy Griffith was on the TV this evening and she knew all the character's names and even chuckled about Barney.

Vickie made an unscheduled trip to MHMC Sunday afternoon. She was diagnosed with a rather aggressive UTI and will have a new medication to treat it.
She also had a new feeding tube put in to replace a problematic one.
After the usual tests and probes she was discharged and returned to her residence.
She handled the entire event very well

Vickie went to her Dr. this morning for her monthly Vitamin shot. The trip was quick and without problems.
Vickie snacks on candy and cookies but she still won't eat regular food.
There are no changes to report.

As usual there are no developments to report. Vickie is still doing OK and without any new problems.

Vickie was visited by her youngest grandniece this afternoon. She held the 4 month old for a few moments.
There are no noticeable changes or improvements in Vickie's condition.

The new year started pretty much the same as always for Vickie. There have not been any new developments or changes. Her condition remains relatively stable, which is good news.

Vickie spent Christmas eve at her childhood home, now owned by her sister.
Vickie was good company until she passed her bedtime and despite the commotion from all the family she had a difficult time staying alert.
She will stay in her own home until late Christmas day before returning to her current residence.

Vickie kept her Dr. appointment this afternoon. She was not all that cooperative, she was in one of her obsessive moods and wouldn't stay focused enough to respond to questions or commands.
Friends from work visited Monday afternoon and seemed to catch Vickie at a good time. They were pleased with the way she interacted.

This evening Vickie had Chinese food brought by her sister. At times she is eating much better, but not consistent enough to eliminate the tube feeding.

Vickie had Thanksgiving dinner at a sister's home Thursday aftenoon.
She had a chance to visit with family including two of her grandsons that she rarely sees.
Vickie ate quite a bit, at least for her and she even had a little wine.

Vickie continues to enjoy her snacks and small portions of fast food provided by visitors. Her overall condition is good considering the situation. There have been no changes.