Meeting with the doctors...

They need some direction. We've got some choices to make. It depends on what we'd like for Dad.

The MRI was successfull yesterday. It provided the much needed clarity into his state. Dad definitely had multiple strokes. Over a period of days most likely. But what was the cause. The doctors still need to find this.

There are 2 basic thoughts on this:
1. The trans thoracic echo test from yesterday showed a possible aneurysm. This may be the source of the blood clot causing the stroke.
2. Vasculitis of the brain. This is infalmmation of the blood vessels causing restriction of blood to the brain.

A third suggestion was demylenization. However, Dad was given steriods early on and this would have cleared this up.

So what we have is to run a T.E.E test. This will show whether the Dad has an aneurysm or not. If it is detected, the doctors want to close it in case more clots may develop and product another stroke.

The hospital will conduct further MRI's after the aneurysm surgery and see if he still is exhibiting effects. If not, then that likely was the cause of the clots.

The higher risk if the effects are still showing is to have a brain biopsy done. They would drill a hole in the skull and remove a sample of brain tissue. This is the only was to determine if he has vasculitis of the brain.

This is where we are right now. One day at a time. Mom's holding up. Barely. I call her during the day at the hospital and in the evening after she gets home.

Daughter added on thing to her Christmas wish list: Grandpa to come home.
I wish it could be possible, but I don't think it's going to happen.

Brother wasn't able to be present at the meeting. I'm sure Mom will get an earfull for letting the meeting go on without him. Bless his heart. He means well. He did say last night that she's not thinking of Dad and that she needs to consider Dad's health. Thanks, but what do you think she's been doing all along? I don't think she's enjoying the situation for the extra attention it gives her. I try my best to counter the negative comments that brother gives her. She knows what's best for Dad. That's all we're all thinking of... what's best for Dad.

Mom will give her consent on Monday for the T.E.E. test after informing Brother of the information given us today. I told her to hold off until Brother was informed. I'm sure he'd go ballistic if she signed off on the prcedure without telling him.