Sunday Night Update

2009 November 15
by Pete

Well, the promised update from Gabe has been delayed. He’s been getting worked over pretty good by the physical therapist the past two days and is exhausted. They have had him out of bed in a chair for over an hour each of the past two days, as well as having him lift himself upright in bed a few times. He’s grumbled about it a bit and says it’s very uncomfortable, but it’s obviously good for him to be putting his muscles back in operation after laying still for days.

He still isn’t eating real food due to, umm, a lack of movement in the digestive system. After some slight medical intervention things are moving again although he still has a tube going into his stomach for now that vents gas and other nasty stuff building up until everything is flowing in the right direction, so to speak.

Gabe remains in great spirits, with his standard dry wit always present. He is still in the ICU mainly because there aren’t any beds available anywhere else yet. We’re fine with that because he’s getting fantastic care from the dedicated nurses and staff there. Brooke and Ezra are doing well, buoyed by the support of friends and family who are helping to take care of Ezra at home, providing meals, and staying with Gabe at night so Brooke has a chance to get home to see Ezra and rest. Ezra hasn’t seen his Dad since last Sunday because of restrictions on children visiting at the hospital. Hopefully they will see each other very soon.

14 Responses leave one →
  1. guest permalink
    November 15, 2009

    Invictus

    Out of the night that covers me,
    Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
    I thank whatever gods may be
    For my unconquerable soul.

    In the fell clutch of circumstance
    I have not winced nor cried aloud.
    Under the bludgeonings of chance
    My head is bloody, but unbowed.

    Beyond this place of wrath and tears
    Looms but the Horror of the shade,
    And yet the menace of the years
    Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

    It matters not how strait the gate,
    How charged with punishments the scroll,
    I am the master of my fate:
    I am the captain of my soul.

    by William Ernest Henley

  2. November 15, 2009

    So good to hear that you keep gettin’ bettah, Gabe. Perhaps Ezra can share some of his “movement” tips with you when you guys get together soon. Brooke could concoct a natural cure too, I bet. It is so heartwarming to hear how all of your loved ones are keeping you company. And good luck with the physical terrorists… I mean therapists. I guess they don’t say “no pain – no gain” for nothin’. Be brave… and yell at them while they’re working you over. Its a good “release” and fair is fair. I’m sure those P.T.s have heard it before!
    Aloha, Terri and my guys

  3. Caroline H. M. permalink
    November 15, 2009

    Wow, what an amazing poem from “guest”. Kind of beats my “get well” sentiments! I hope you get to see Ezra really soon, I think that would be one of the worst parts of being in ICU, besides, well, the obvious. Looking forward to an update soon that says you got moved to a different unit… hang in there!

  4. November 15, 2009

    Hi Gabe,
    You were so helpful to me when I was writing the Food Movies story for Urban Times; you suggested beer/wine pairings. And then I enjoyed meeting you at Goose one day when I was looking for Old Engine Oil and that German beer. I’m so sorry to hear what has happened and although I’ve never met your wife and son, I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. You seem to have such wonderful family and friends to support you. And I do hope the registered dietitian at the hospital is taking good care of you! Kim

  5. Aunt Nancy permalink
    November 15, 2009

    My nephew is SOOO brave. He has won the hearts of the entire icu staff – they hated to see him being moved to another private less-intensive care room tonight. He’s so considerate and appreciative of all the help he’s getting. The move went well and didn’t interfere with the football game too much.

  6. Cindy Parker Arbuckle permalink
    November 16, 2009

    Billy – I don’t know you but want to thank you. You are a hero to all involved/messaging to this site. The Jordon family is one of a kind and to help Gabe when he need it the most is something …well priceless. Thank you for being there and having the heart to do what you would want someone else to do for your family.

    Gabe – Keep up the good work and I agree with Matt Beaver, I think Jason owes me money JK

    Love,
    Cindy

  7. Kathy permalink
    November 16, 2009

    I’ve been following your story. You’re in my prayers. I know that God is going to use this somehow, someway in the lives of someone. You are courageous and an inspiration to a lot of people.

    May you feel the grace of God flow over you and show you His mercies every morning.

  8. Anne Scheele permalink
    November 16, 2009

    Dear Gabe,

    As you live out with grace, courage, determination and razor wit one of life’s horrific assaults on fellow man, you remain in my daily thoughts and prayers. I regularly read the blogs and wonderful comments/poems from your myriad friends and family. I know they are a source of strength. I am so glad that Rod and Eli were able to sneak in for a short visit. Hopefully I can join that visitation team soon. In the interim, know that I am with you and your beautiful, loving family in spirit and in hope.

    Fondly,

    Anne Scheele

  9. Julie Parker Smith, Keith and Elijah permalink
    November 16, 2009

    Gabe,
    So happy to hear you are doing better and in good spirits. Stay strong, I know you will. We LOVE you and the whole family. Thanks Pete for the site, the photos are great! We will see you soon.
    Love, Jules

  10. Cheryl Holland permalink
    November 16, 2009

    Have been following your progress and am so glad to hear good news. It is a long road, slow but sure! Being surrounded by loving family and friends is truly a blessed life. Keep up the good work, I know it is hard…but I also know you are so strong and can do this!
    Keep fighting…every day!
    C

  11. Lindsay permalink
    November 16, 2009

    To all you readers, friends, family, neighbors, kind souls-
    Your love and support has been a great inspiration not only to Gabe but to us all. He is physically and emotionally buoyed by your messages and looks forward to reading them daily. Please keep it up. We seem to be moving past the shock and are beginning to deal with reality and your thoughts, prayers, jokes, poems, lyrics etc. are great fuel for a long road trip. Thank you all!!

  12. Susan Walkington Argo permalink
    November 16, 2009

    To the whole Jordan clan – You are on my mind constantly. I have no doubt your awesome family unit can find the strength and courage you need. However, I hope all of these comments give you support and let you know just how much you are loved. I have great memories of all of you and will keep praying. The updates are great. Keep them coming, Pete.

    Blessings –
    Susan

  13. Paula permalink
    November 16, 2009

    Gabe, you have been in my thoughts and prayers since I heard of your injury on the news. Many folks who know you from Tab Church also shared concerns and prayers for you at church yesterday.

    God bless and God speed your recovery.

    Paula

  14. Regina and Jim Mehallick permalink
    November 17, 2009

    You have been in our thoughs and prayers for the last week. It seems your friends have been gathering and giving you support. May your days improve as the weeks go by.

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