Skepticality's Derek in critical condition

[swoopy]

There really isn't any reason for me to do this other than I can't sleep.

Derek in a matter of minutes, went from being fine, to being nearly unconscious. He has been diagnosed as having a brain bleed that is likely an AVM - Arteriovenous Malformation. He is in critical condition and unconscious at this time, with no immediate indication when he will regain consciousness. But he is expected to be hospitalized for weeks to come. They have gone in and relieved the pressure and are draining the bleed, but it will be some time before they know how or if they can treat this. There was no way to have known it was going to happen, or anything anyone could have done to stop it. Thankfully we were out when it happened, for if he had gone to lay down when he got the headache, he likely would have bled out, and died in his sleep.

I'm sitting at his desk, his stuff is all around me, because he was just sitting here a few hours ago all excited. Because Skepticality had gotten a mention at the Apple Special Event. We were listed on the big screen behind Steve Jobs as one of the top nine podcasts on iTunes. And Derek was so pleased. It was really cool, seeing our faces larger than life (well not on Quicktime..but you know..) And now, I'm just hoping I'll get to talk to him again.

So now it's my job to be there for his wife and family, and somehow we'll get through this. I selfishly hope it's sooner than later. He's my best friend.

Thanks for listening. And if you had plans with Derek (because he has fifty million things going on at once), or something he was doing for you, drop me a line and I'll see what I can do.

Thanks,

Swoopy

[bazookajoeshow]

This is awful!

Please take care of yourself and let us know if anything changes.

Bazooka Joe

[jimk]

Jesus Christ...If there is anything we can do...ask. Don't think you can't or shouldn't.

I'll think positive thoughts in the meantime.

[revupreview]

Horrendous news. My thoughts are with you.

Please, when you get the chance, keep us updated.

[Jellicle]

Wow. I'm sure everyone here, and all Skepticality listeners would want to send Derek our very best wishes for a speedy recovery. As well as having his loved ones around him he has a world-wide virtual circle of friends and well wishers willing him on to perfect health.

[no1slistening]

Swoopy,

I know everyone here in the podcast community is pulling for Derek. Let us know if there's anything we can do. Our thoughts are with Derek, his family and with you, as his good friend.

Take care of yourself.

Sincerely,
JV

[vox_monitor]

stunning, shocking news. I mean, just such a shock to read this.

I offer my sincerest hope for his full and speedy recovery.


eric

[Keeme]

I agree, this was a shock... We are all sending our positive "mojo". I heard the podcast you put out and have so much admiration for you... gathering all the strength it had to take to do that... thank you for letting us know.

Please tell him we are all thinking of him.

Robert

[shepdave]

I'm very sorry to hear about this, Swoopy. I wish Derek all the best, and I hope his recovery is swift.

Dave

[Catholic Insider]

Dear Swoopy, that is terrible news, I'm shocked to hear that. My thoughts are with you all, and I will pray for his recovery!

Fr. Roderick

[docsnavely]

this is terrible!

don't worry about being here, just take care of your man! we'll see the two of you when he gets back!

good luck!

[Will-Casel]

We're so sorry to here this, Swoopy.
My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Will

[comedy4cast]

Our thoughts are certainly with you. Hoping for a speedy recovery.

[pwfenton]

Derek and I have been growing a good friendship lately. We discovered we had so much in common. Just last night I was making a pitch on his behalf. I am so bummed by this news. If I can help in any way, please let me know.

[Hittman]

****. I just wish there were something we could do, other than wishing him a speedy recovery.

Is there an address where we can send cards?

[TINKOFF RADIO]

So sorry to hear this. Thanks for letting us know.
I will keep his well return in my prayers for peace.

Adam Tinkoff

[jeffoest]

Hopefully the thousands of podcasters and listeners positive thoughts will be of help in a time like this..... We all wish him well and are thinking of him.....

[cc_chapman]

I don't even know what to say. To fire up the computer and see this news this morning is beyond horrible.

My thoughts and prayers are with him, you and the whole family.

Please keep us updated.

[bulldog]

This makes me sad. I f there is anything you need just let me know. I will help with anything you need.

[jawbone]

Godspeed Derek and Swoopy. I'm so sorry to hear this. :(

Derek is good people. Probably one of the nicest guys I've encountered in the podosphere. Our thoughts and prayers are with him.

[speljamr]

Swoopy, if there is anything myself or the members of AMP can do to help, please let us know. We are here for you...

[paul]

Very sorry to hear this Swoopy.

Wishing for a speedy recovery.

[kneelw]

Terrible news... please let me know if there is anything I can do.

- Neil

[Barefoot Radio.com]

Hi Swoopy,
Like everyone else I'm caught by surprise.
Please let us know if he'll be ok when you can. I send you my deepest, most sincere hope that he'll be ok.

[mental-escher]

What sad news- Hang in there swoopy, we'll beam as much positive energy as possible in your direction in the hope for Derek's speedy recovery.

[dannielle]

Swoopy, I am so, so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Be strong, it sounds like a lot of people are sending positive energy your way!

[Insomnia Radio]

Jesus Christ. I'm not a real believer in prayer but you have my word that I'm going to start, and ask everyone I know to pray for Derek as well.

5 minutes ago I was sitting down to ATTEMPT to fill his shoes for AMP'ed, now...I don't know what to do.

My thoughts are with you Swoopy as well as everyone around you and Derek. Please keep us informed and...I'm not sure what virtual friends can do in times like these, but if you think of it, you know how to find us.

I'm so sorry for you and for Derek's family. Jenny and I hope he makes a speedy and full recovery.

[charleyw]

We're all thinking of him and praying for him.......worldwide.


Charley

[leolaporte]

Terrible news, Swoopy. Please keep us updated. And let me know if there's anything TWiT can do.

[Big Mike]

I'm sorry for Derek and his family and friends. Hopefully the thoughts and prayers of everyone will help him through this.

[djacobs003]

Shocked and saddened by this news. Wishing all the best for Derek and his friends and family.

[onetenderbranson]

It's weird the kind of connection that is felt through podcasts, but this actually hits at home.

All my thoughts on you all.

Cody

[FOSCO]

My thoughts and Prayers are with Derek at this time.

It's nice to see everyone coming out and being supportive.

The podosphere ROCKS!


Fosco

[kbachelder]

Swoopy,

My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Derek and everyone close to you folks.


Kevin

------

Listen to "The Signal"...
the only podcast in the 'verse dedicated to Firefly & Serenity
http://www.serenityfirefly.com

[podcastshuffle]

Sorry to hear your bad news. : (

[Craig]

Hey Swoopy, I'll be praying for his recovery as well and for strength for you and his family also.

Craig

[Dweezil2000]

I just had to chime in and basically repeat what everyone else is saying. I was so shocked and saddened to read Swoopy's post. I'm sending all my positive mojo Derek's way.

[Craig]

More details from Swoopy at the Skepticality forums:

Derek is still unconscious, but they did do another CAT scan which they weren't sure he would be stable enough for today, and he was. They also did a bronchoscopy (there will be no spelling tests here) to check for asparated materials. They did find some and are treating to combat the likely pneumonia that comes with being on a respirator. He did have a fever, but that has subsided some.

To do the CAT scan they had to lift his sedation a bit, and when they went to reinsert his breathing tube, he struggled a little, so he's got fight in him under all the medication. They say the bleed is mostly on the right side of his brain, and therefore the right side of his body is a little weak right now, but he is responding to stimuli in his limbs.

The CAT scan showed that there has been no increased bleeding, and that the catheter that is draining the blood from his brain is doing a good job. His neurologist decided then that it was a good opportunity go ahead and do an angiogram to help find the source of the suspected AVM or anurysm. That is going on now.

Derek's parents arrived early this morning and we all went directly to see him, and stayed so they could speak with the neurologist. And now they are getting some much needed rest. Susan is being very brave and strong, she is very close to her inlaws and their being here is good for everyone.

Our local friends are amazing, and are helping with anything we could ask for.

Our global friends..and that's all of you..are helping me so much with your kind emails and posts. Believe me I'll get to answering every single one of them. You're all an amazing bunch of people..but I knew that already.

All in all, if there can be good news, there is some. Answers, not yet, but maybe soon.

Thank you all again from everyone here who loves Derek. We'll be in touch.

Swoopy

[soccergirl]

I only just saw this, and I'm not sure what I can possibly say, except that Ryan and I are thinking of you guys, and there was never any doubt that Derek's got fight in him!!

We'll continue thinking of you and sending our absolute best get-better waves until Derek's back on the mic!!

Love you,
Soccergirl

[Brian]

Swoopy, my best wishes are going out to you for a speedy recovery for Derek. Keep positive, and know that you've got the support of friends, family and colleagues all sending you their best support.

[boneheadz]

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

daryl and kuma

[kickasspodcast]

Fosco & I were both shocked to hear of Derek's condition.
All our love, thoughts and good vibes to you & Derek.



Jack B.

[Treehonk]

Our thoughts are with you.

Andy, Randy, and Engineer Emma

[JohnnyWB]

Swoopy,

Thanks for keeping us posted.

Our thoughts are with you and the Colanduno family.

John and Jodie

[T&TPat]

Hi Swoopy.

Jeff just told me about Derek's condition. I was so saddened to hear about his mediacal situation. Please let his wife and family know that while they don't know me, I am thinking about Derek, and hoping for things to turn out well for him, and that he has capable, innovative doctors that are able to do their very best for him.


sincerely, pat

[dhp]

We just moved to a new apt and have been sans Internet for a while. I just saw this, and wanted to send our regards. I've only exchanged a few PMs with Derek, but was very sad to hear about this. He seems like a great guy. My thoughts are with you.

Dan
Creepy Sleepy

[goodbeershow]

It has to be rough.

Keep us informed please.

I have been in contact with him in the past on AMP issues. He is the go-to guy if you want anything done.

JeffreyT

[Canis Lupus]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Renamarie and Canis Lupus

[thedahlpod]

of course our thoughts go out to Derek and all of those close to him.

Erik and Kelly

[Craig]

Latest updated from Swoopy, copied from the Skepticality forums:

Susan is reading over my shoulder, and we're both so incredibly moved by the many many heartfelt messages of concern, care and support that we're getting.

This afternoon Derek did indeed have the angiogram which is so important in trying to discern the cause and location of the bleed he has (had). CAT scan as of theis morning showed that there wasn't any significant additional bleeding that had occured since the event that caused his collapse. This, is good news.

The angiogram, we heard from the RN who was present during the proceedure, showed nothing. Which, is also good in a way. This means that the suspected AVM is now extremely unlikely at this point. The befuddlement is of course, then what?

This is what we will be discussing with his doctor in the morning.

Of note also, because his sedation was lightened somewhat for the angiogram, after the test Derek did in fact open his eyes. The nurse (a wonderful woman named Kim) asked him to hold up two fingers, and Derek did so. None of us were there for this, but just hearing that it happened over the phone, made us all very excited. Under all those drugs, he's there..somewhere, and he knows how to count to 2. We'll take that. We're hoping to see it, and we've set ourselves a goal of some face time with a conscious Derek in a week. Like everything else so far, we hope to be proved wrong and that the time line is sped up a bit. He's an overacheiver in most things, and so far in his ..dare I say..recovery.

We are of course, elated. We realize of course the negative result of the angio and his response to instruction don't mean that we aren't still in for a tough road. But it did give us a much needed boost.

I can't believe it's only been about 24 hours since the intial occurance, it feels like a week. We have a hospital routine established, we know where to go, where to park, who to talk to, where to get coffee and which chair in the waiting room is most comfortable. We've made this new and frightening environment, part of our world now and it's not as scary as it was only a day ago.

So, what now? We don't know yet. We'll be finding out more tomorrow. It is likely that other kinds of scans will be done to try and discover, if not an AVM then what and why. He will not however..ever..be getting an MRI.

It appears...that when doing his angiogram..they found..that Derek has a bb in his sinus. No one knows how it got there. Not even his mom and dad. We're actually having a chuckle about it. I've suggested it's an alien implant.

Our evening visit was short, but good. Derek had been running a fever, which had gone. His color was good, his blood pressure also good and the cranial pressure in his head is also improved to a 19. My research shows that up to 13 is normal. And Derek's head is ..well..sizable. So maybe he's got some extra room.

Susan has been tireless and strong throughout, and having Derek's parents here has helped strengthen us all.

So, since I haven't really slept yet, and the rest of the family just short naps, we had a little something to eat and we're going to get a little sleep now, looking forward to tomorrow and hopefully more improvements.

Again..thank you all for your words of support. Susan is reading them over on Derek's computer as I type this. It's important to keep your circle of friends and family close. And I think we all feel that we've got a pretty big circle here.

- Swoopy

[Ian]

FTL sends it's best regards to the Skepticality Crew. No podcasters can wear leather like you guys!

When he wakes up, perhaps the BB story will be revealed. I'm imagining a middle school, back of the bus challenge...

[CHAZ13]

podcasting makes me feel like i'm part of one big family. sending positive thoughts and prayers for a quick and full recovery.

[Lifespring!]

I just signed onto the alley and was shocked to read the news. Please know that I am praying, and thankful that there are already some good signs.

[cdoelle]

Wow. I am so sorry to hear this... I am holding some positive thoughts for Derek. You guys know that if you need anything - the podcast family is ready to respond - in the meantime, our thoughts and prayers are working overtime in hoping for a speedy recovery.

[Marilynfan]

This is just so shocking to hear. I am holding a good thought for Derek and his family. Hopefully, he will make a full and speedy recovery.

[camilian]

I am sorry to hear this, it truly sucks ***. I am glad that things are starting to look up for Derek. Our thoughts are with him.

[Craig]

I'm going to be gone for the weekend so if anyone wants to monitor this thread and copy Swoopy's updates here I'm sure everyone else would appreciate it (I've already copied the updates from the first page):

http://www.skepticality.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=317

Craig

[radiofilibuster]

Prayers and best wishes to Derek, Swoopy, friends, and family from all of us at Radio Filibuster.

[Stonemartin]

Good thoughts to Derek and his family.

[ExtraLife]

I am angry at myself for being ticked about my computer going down, or any of my lame and petty problems. This is terrible news, and I really hope he comes out of this. Swoopy is showing serious strength. I love skepticality....so much that I think many of us feel like we know you guys in a small way. I am really pulling for you.

[Lifespring!]

Copied from the Skepticality Forum...

Derek Update 6 pm 9/10/05

Has it been a week yet? It's amazing how time plays tricks with your head. Here we are, not yet 48 hours out, and it feels like forever.

People are the power. I've always said faith is part of what a church supports, but the bulk of it is community. The community outreach from so so many people, people we know here at home, people we talk to all the time, people we've never met. That's the greatest power I've ever seen. It reaches out and is a comfort when it's late and I'm not sure how I'm going to keep going. And then I read an email from someone, offering Susan and I anything they can, and it helps. We're a little overwhelmed right now, to say the least, so we're thanking people but not really even knowing what we need. Other than something that turns back time and makes people indestructible.

So..this thing about the stages of grief, there's something in there about unrealistic euphoria I'm sure. I think we had that a bit yesterday. It was good, because we do know that even at the most basic level, Derek has comprehension. The majority of the bleed is on the right side of his brain. This means his left side is physically weak, but speech and comprehension are left brain. Fingers and toes move. And that's all really good.

Last night, no temperature, blood pressure stable, cranial pressure 19. Not far off of normal (up to 13). Overnight, blood pressure skyrocketed. Cranial pressure increased up to 31. They have plans to put a larger catheter in his head for more drainage. The balance of cerebral spinal fluid around the brain is a very delicate balance. So getting the blood out, and allowing the fluid to regenerate and maintain normal pressure is complicated.

And they're leaning more towards calling the "event" that caused this a stroke of sorts. However, they still don't know why it happened. And thus they can't predict if it will happen again. We were told, that if he were to have another hemorrhage at this point, it would probably be fatal. We all in our minds know this, of course. But it's not what you want to hear at 7 in the morning on the phone from a doctor you don't know. The next 48 to 72 hours will be helpful in evaluating which direction he's headed in.

I haven't really slept much, so I didn't go to the early hospital visit today. However, reports from Susan and his parents are that he is still very cognitive. He's moving in response to commands, and is aware of those around him. After the night he had, I'm thrilled. This also though warrants a little care on our parts, because it's important that he not be over stimulated. He needs to remain calm, and so fewer visitors - though it's been amazing how people have been visiting, is for the best right now. There is a very short evening visit, and I'm going to see him then.

An update came (just now on the phone) from a friend who was there reading to Derek, which is awesome but I think we may limit that for now, to let us know that they have put him on a new blood pressure medication, and his blood pressure has returned to safe levels and the intercranial pressure is back to 21. So. Ups and downs.

Again, it's all brand new. 24-72 hours after ANY type of event like this is the most critical, and we're not even there yet. I still have my hopes for the coming week.

My plan is now, is to find out what steps they are going to take in order to further diagnose - and subsequently treat the problem. They have stated because of the BB...I still say it's how the aliens are tracking him...they can't do an MRI. Is it more important to DO one, and take out that silly BB from his sinus? So, this will be what I discuss with the doctor when he makes rounds tomorrow.

So, that's it for now. Possibly more later. And hopefully I'll post up some stuff to the feed as well.

Love,
Swoopy

[Ian]

Prayer is BS, voting gets results. If each one of you who is praying for Derek vould vote for Skepticality, it would likely get his show in the top ten, and thereby more attention.

"God" can't vote. But I can:
http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527
Vote for Skepticality!

[charleyw]

Prayer is BS, voting gets results.Gosh...can I get this as a bumper sticker when it comes out?

Ian, I know that you care.....but I REALLY don't understand this one.


Charley

[Hittman]

Times like these can be more frustrating for non-believers than believers. Believer have the comfort of prayer. We don’t.

I’ve been to funerals of incredibly religious family members, and had to practically put my hand over my mouth to keep quiet about the bullshit they were prattling on about. (If god was with him, why did he die at 55, a week after his retirement, you idiots?) But OTOH, even though they are living in a fantasy world, sometimes, not often but sometimes, I feel just a little pang of jealousy. It would be so nice, so easy, to give up rationality and reality and retreat into the comfort of that world.

Believers can find solace easier than we can. And it’s frustrating. I won’t presume to speak for Ian, but I suspect his frustration is the same that I’m feeling. Prayer is bullshit, but bullshit can be soft and warm, at least for a little while. We don’t have any of that, so our frustration and feeling of helpless is even more profound than that of most people.


Hang in there buddy. Just hang in there.

[bazookajoeshow]

I know I've said some pretty brash things regarding religion but I think we should be a little bit more respectful here.

As far as prayer goes, it might not be the thing for you but it seems to literally work miracles for others.

My own belief is that after 25 years I believe in God. Mind you, I have no idea of what God is, whether it's some guy in the clouds who looks like Satna Claus or the universe or one of Jung's archetypes. I guess I believe more int he concept in God than anything. I'm just trying to keep the big questions open.

Religion on the other hand...well, don't get me started. this thread isn't about God or religion, anyway. It's about Derek.

Bazooka Joe

[justSue]

Swoopy - I can only imagine how surreal and frustrating and frightening this must be for you and Derek's family right now. Sending thoughts and strength your way.

Derek, when you read this, you'd better spill the beans on how the BB got up your nose. Thoughts and wishes for a speedy recovery going your way...

Love, Sue

[Ian]

Prayer is BS, voting gets results.Gosh...can I get this as a bumper sticker when it comes out?
By all means. I believe ideas should be free.


Ian, I know that you care.....but I REALLY don't understand this one.


I absolutely care, and have found a way to affect change.

Allow me to clarify. Voting is tangible, concrete, and real. Prayer is nebulous, unscientific, and total nonsense. Go ahead and pray if it makes you feel good, but also consider voting for Skepticality. (It will actually make a difference.)

Vote for Skepticality:
http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527

[mfnoffice]

I've been away for the past few weeks dealing with the Death of my Father In-Law. The first thing I see when I clicked on PCA was this tragic news!

It's strange but, with all the posts we write and read, it seems I've known each of you for several years. So when news like this happens, it truly is devistating!

My prayers are with you.

Just so you know, I added Dereks name to my families prayer circle as well. There is power in Prayer, If not a religous thing - An Energy Thing! Right now Derek needs all the physical and spiritual energy he can get.

Jim Goetz
Firehouse Radio / The Fire Guys

[Ian]

I know I've said some pretty brash things regarding religion but I think we should be a little bit more respectful here.
I respect people that want to be religious, but that doesn't mean I'll change my belief system for them. :roll:


As far as prayer goes, it might not be the thing for you but it seems to literally work miracles for others.
"Seems" and "Scientifically tested nonsense" are two totally different things.

Religion on the other hand...well, don't get me started. this thread isn't about God or religion, anyway. It's about Derek.
Exactly, so do something real for Derek and vote for his show: :wink:
http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527

[shepdave]

You know what, Ian, being radically skeptical and rational is one thing. Getting all up in people's faces about being religious when they are trying to grieve is something else altogether.

Nobody here seems to be trying to proselytize you at all. But people are trying to find their own ways to deal with Derek's sudden, very serious illness.

Calling somebody's belief system "bullshit" is really unnecessarily harsh, I think; and it really goes just a touch too far on this particular thread.

I voted for Skepticality because I like the show. Derek is still sick, though.

Respectfully,
Dave

[Ian]

Truth hurts Dave. I'm not "up in anyone's face" as this is a message board. In fact, it's a thread about the host of a show called "Skepticality".

Call me skeptical on prayer.

I would think skeptical people would appreciate that a religious person wanted to pray for them, but also agree that prayers are a total waste of time.

Calling somebody's belief system "bullshit" is really unnecessarily harsh, I think; and it really goes just a touch too far on this particular thread.
Thanks for the opinion. I was simply calling prayer bullshit. It's bullshit just like Ouija boards, ghosts, recycling, and lots of other things are bullshit!

So again, to those of you praying, try doing something that actually will do something positive for Derek:

Vote for Skepticality:
http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527

[kickasspodcast]

I am disgusted and shocked that anyone would
have anything but positive things to say in this thread.
Isn't this supposed to be a "Get Well / God Bless" thread?

We all disagree all the time, why did you have to bring
trouble to this thread? One of the things that
I respect most about Derek is his timing and sensibility.

He wouldn't want people to be bickering about
God and Voting when this thread was created
to share the news and keep people posted on
what is a life and death situation. I am not trying
to speak for him, but someone has to say something.

Shame on anyone who is trying to say anything
but "Get Well", "God Bless", "Thinking of You".

Take 2 steps back and ask yourself how in heck
you think voting for someones podcast is going
to speed up their recovery. This is all way, way,
way to serious to start fights. KNOCK IT OFF!

Jack B.
(disapointed)

[Ian]

Take 2 steps back and ask yourself how in heck
you think voting for someones podcast is going
to speed up their recovery. This is all way, way,
way to serious to start fights. KNOCK IT OFF!

Jack B.
(disapointed)

Hey Jack,

I never suggested it would speed up his recovery, however, it will help get the word out to more people about his situation. More people in the know can't be a bad thing, can it? Especially if they decide to ask for contributions. Did you vote? If not, here's an easy link:

http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527

[tocard]

I for one will be happy for when Derek awakens and sees that people have been questioning the prayers for his speedy recovery and wish I could be there to see the smile of his face at the Irony of the very spirit of Skepticality continuing on even whilst he has been bedridden.

Here's to wishing you a speedy recovery Derek...

Our thoughts, and more importantly... medical science... are with you.

[kickasspodcast]

Truth hurts Dave. I'm not "up in anyone's face" as this is a message board. In fact, it's a thread about the host of a show called "Skepticality".

Call me skeptical on prayer.

I would think skeptical people would appreciate that a religious person wanted to pray for them, but also agree that prayers are a total waste of time.

Calling somebody's belief system "bullshit" is really unnecessarily harsh, I think; and it really goes just a touch too far on this particular thread.
Thanks for the opinion. I was simply calling prayer bullshit. It's bullshit just like Ouija boards, ghosts, recycling, and lots of other things are bullshit!

So again, to those of you praying, try doing something that actually will do something positive for Derek:

Vote for Skepticality:
http://www.podcastalley.com/one_vote2.php?pod_id=3527

Prayer is BS, voting gets results.

Allow me to clarify. Voting is tangible, concrete, and real. Prayer is nebulous, unscientific, and total nonsense. Go ahead and pray if it makes you feel good, but also consider voting for Skepticality. (It will actually make a difference.)



Are you for real man?
You really think you ought to be spouting this right now, in this thread?

Unbelievable man. I hope all your listeners check out the bile
you brought into this of all threads, at this of all times.

What is it, Sept 11th? People are still stuck in NOLA, our nation is at war, Derek is in a coma, and you are telling people voting for his Podcast will help "make a difference", and prayer is BS?

Shame on you.


Jack B.


...recycling, and lots of other things are bullshit!


I can't believe you managed to slam recycling in this thread too- what's the matter with you?

[Ian]

I'll do you one better, homeslice. We'll talk about it on my show tomorrow night, and invite our listeners to go vote for Skepticality.

You just keep acting indignant. Se what good that does for Derek.
Ian

[charleyw]

I would think skeptical people would appreciate that a religious person wanted to pray for them, but also agree that prayers are a total waste of time.What if I'm skeptical that prayers are a total waste of time?

I thought about being an atheist once. But their holidays are not really a lot of fun....and you never get the day offa work.


Charley

[Hittman]

When Derick gets back (not if, when (see, we can have faith too)) I think he’ll be highly entertained by all this. He’ll appreciate the sentiment behind those who prayed, and the skepticism of those who didn’t.

[Ian]

When Derick gets back (not if, when (see, we can have faith too)) I think he’ll be highly entertained by all this. He’ll appreciate the sentiment behind those who prayed, and the skepticism of those who didn’t.

Faith in medical science, and the desire for profit. 8)

[Frank J.]

Well, I'll pray too. I'm sorry to hear this, and hope he has a speedy recovery.

[wireddude]

I am so sorry to have heard this when I woke up this morning. Derrick, our thoughts and prayers are with you. My wife and I wish you a speedy recovery.

- Dave

[jbisjim]

He is in our thoughts and prayers as well

[Craig]

From the Skepticality forums:

9/12 12:00 am

Today began early, we all went to the hospital before 7 so that we could meet the doctor when he came to do rounds. Visiting started at 8, and we went in to see a Derek that was much unchanged from the night before. Which was a good thing to see. Still stable, pressure pretty good. Derek's mom leaned in and told him she loved him, and got a hand squeeze in return. This is the best way to start a day right now, for sure.

We were able to meet the weekend neurologist, who comes well recommended and seems very skilled and also compassionate. Though upfront about the fact that while Derek is as he continually says "holding his own" during this critical period, that sudden changes could be dire and that we were doing well but far from out of the woods. It's important to keep perspective, and I know that's what he was doing, but it's something very hard for all of us to hear. We went home for a little rest.

In the afternoon the phone rang and the Dr. was advising us that Derek's catheter that is draining the blood and fluid out of his head to prevent pressure build up, wasn't doing the job and appeared to be a little clogged. They had flushed it several times without success, and as his pressure was up they wanted to insert a new line.

There was danger that this could disrupt the clot that was preventing a further bleed, but it had to be done. Susan of course consented and asked if we should go to the hospital. We were assured (I listen in on the extension during calls) that we should stay put, and that as soon as he was finished the doctor would call back. After the longest twenty minutes, although truly a short time for such an intricate procedure, the phone rang again and we were told that it went very well. The new line was working excellently and the pressure was decreasing as well. Sigh of relief, yet another scary, but mostly positive step.

We returned for an afternoon visit, and he looked good. His color was still good, his skin is cool and dry to the touch, still no fever. All of his functions, blood pressure, heart rate, sodium levels, glucose levels, urine output..and much much more, were good. But he'd had a hard afternoon, in energy expenditure terms, and was heavily sedated. I did get a squeeze out of both hands, which is what we live for. Susan wiped his face a little, and I confirmed that he was about to start getting some nutritional support, which is key to keeping his digestive system in working order. Pupils are both active and responsive. We left, reassured and hopeful for a good night.

We'll be headed back early tomorrow, again to make sure we see the doctor, which means I'm headed for a few hours of sleep. Derek's parents only just went to do the same, and Susan is resting too. She mentioned she made a post this afternoon, but I haven't gone to see it yet. I think it really helps her to see how many people are including her in their thoughts here. So thank you again.

It's expected he'll have another CT scan tomorrow, which may bring more answers. More updates as we have them, hopefully good ones. Every stable day, brings us closer to our goal. Night.

- Swoopy

[theFerf]

BUMP.

Any Updates?

[overclocked]

The Skepticality website is probably the better place to watch for updates. Copied from there, a post by swoopy:

---

Short Update tonight. Brevity for sake of additional sleep :)

Remember when I said that it would be a good day if the phone didn't ring this morning?

It was a good day. No phone call. No additional drain required. The existing drains were flushed. The doctor who treated Derek upon his arrival in emergency is back from his out of town time, and was able to evaluate Derek after the weekend and he was in the company of the other two neurologists on his case. He took some time to talk to all of us, and we are as always, reassured by his forthright and informative manner. He puts us all at ease, and we'll take any ease we can get right now.

Derek's drains seem to be well placed around the main clot, in the center. In flushing the drain on either side, flow would be produced to the other drain, so a good space has been created for drainage. Another piece of information we enjoyed was the possible speculation that intracranial pressure readings are not as high as they appear, as the pressure next to the clot where the drains are is higher than in the rest of his head.

The CT shows that he does have some space in his head, and that's good. If we can continue to keep pressures at reasonable levels as the clot absorbs slowly and begins to break down, we'll be on our way toward getting our Derek back. If we can hold steady through the week, his prognosis will be much better in the long run. Though the time it will take for the clot to reabsorb and break down is another couple of weeks or more.

His lungs are being treated, and he has medication being given via the ventilator to mend damage to his lungs and ease his breathing. He's still on 100% oxygen.

He did get another feeding today through a tube, it's a lovely looking concoction called Fibersource. He got a central line so he doesn't have so many IV lines in his arms. His heart rate is a bit higher today, but his pressure is holding (still high) but where they want it to help his brain drain off the fluids. And no fever to speak of, though he gets to lay on this nifty cooling blanket that is set at forty degrees and compression stockings that pulsate to keep the circulation in his legs moving, so prevent any blood clots there.

Derek's parents came in such a hurry they didn't bring much in the way clothes. After the hospital we did a little necessary shopping, and we treated ourselves to new pajamas. Mine have monkeys on them, and Derek's dad has sock monkeys on his pajama pants. It's the little things that are giving us smiles right now.

Susan's best friend Jennifer invited me to dinner at her house with her and her husband, and it was nice to be out of the fray for a bit and play with their cats. Then she took me to the hospital to meet up with everyone for the evening visit.

This evening Derek's condition was relatively unchanged from the morning, and in fact his intracranial pressure was down a bit more. I spoke briefly with Derek's primary doctor, and he said he had flushed the catheters again and had gotten some small bits of clot flushed out in the process.

Susan was speaking to her brother on the phone and summed it up pretty well. "Yesterday was a bad day, because I spent it being afraid he was about to die. Today was a good day, because he hadn't gotten any worse."

Susan just mentioned to me how even though it's nearly the beginning of our fifth day, it feels much like it did on the first day..when we were amazed it had only been 24 hours. We're comparing it to Groundhog Day, (the movie.....not the holiday). Every day begins pretty much the same, continues the same, ends the same. But we know one day it will change.

We had a toast at dinner tonight to hoping for "two good days" in a row. Here's hoping for another phone call free morning. Thanks again for all the care and concern, and also for the offers of food and help. Trust me, we'll be accepting them when we're ready.

[Craig]

This one should actually be read BEFORE the one above, but is here for the sake of completeness. The one above is 9/13 11:45pm.

From the Skepticality Forums:

9/12 11:55 pm

This morning we were ready to go to the hospital when we got another one of those unexpected hospital calls that stops all of our hearts. Derek needed yet another drain installed in his head, his blood pressure was way up, cranial pressure too. Dangerously so.

They had done another CT scan, which I was able to get a look at. The white solids on the scan, showing the clots, were too large and too many. Also, the first notice that I had that his brain itself was being pushed slightly off-center because of the pressure.

We went ahead to the hospital and after the procedure spoke with the doctor. The continued problem is that his brain is making the cerebral fluid it needs and filling his head, but the clots are already in residence taking up space. Thus the pressure, unless the fluid is drained off. The clots are making it hard for fluid to reach the drains properly, so their placement is critical. Derek now has left and right side drains in place.

After a bit of time his cranial pressure decreased some, but not nearly as much as anyone would like. His blood pressure too, dropped a bit, but it is the plan to allow the blood pressure to remain slightly elevated in an attempted to effuse the fluids from his head.

Complicating matters was another bronchoscopy to flush out his lungs due to the aspiration of stomach fluids when he fell unconscious initially. These fluids contained stomach acids and bile and scorched the delicate lung tissues, irritating his lungs. Derek has contracted a form of pneumonia, which was expected to a degree, and is common for patience on a ventilator. He is receiving 100% oxygen to aid in his breathing, and doing no breathing of his own.

The doctors are very concerned about his condition and are monitoring him very closely, continuing to give excellent care. But it was mentioned that his condition as of today was deteriorated slightly, and should the decline continue, Derek's chance of survival would be very low. It's important that we know the reality of the situation, but it's still devastating every time we're reminded of it.

The blessing is that he is still heavily sedated, and feeling no pain. Selfishly, we're hurting the most right now, but it helps knowing he isn't.

At our end of day visit, his condition was relatively unchanged from earlier in the day, which means he's holding steady and that's good. Not much improvement, but not much backsliding either as far as we can tell.

The next five days, we've been told, as the clot breaks down from the thick state it is in now, that is impeding progress, to a liquid that will allow more drainage is the most critical. If Derek can remain stable through this time we'll be a big step closer towards recovery. Five days from now sounds like eternity, as it has only been four days now since it all began.

Thank you again to everyone who has offered meals and support, and anything we could ever need. We're not really taking much right now in the way of food offers, as we're going out usually one meal a day just to be out in the world and breathe some fresh air, and see that normal life is going on around us. As we move further along, and the ability to exhale becomes a possibility, we may very well call on your generosity again.

I'll send more, as I know it. Tomorrow will start off well, if we can skip that morning phone call.

- Swoopy

[comedy4cast]

Just in case you missed the bold type at the top of Craig's post, the one ABOVE his (the one posted by overclocked) is the later news. It's a bit more encouraging, so I wanted to make sure people noticed the correct order.

[comedy4cast]

Swoopy's latest update from the Skepticality forum, dated 9/14 at 9:35PM

Another call free morning. Smile

And all of Derek's numbers were pretty much the same today as yesterday. They did do another CT scan this morning because even with flushing, the catheters in his head were not really producing anything and the doctors wanted to see if there was a new area they could tap into to get more fluid out. The CT showed his drains were placed as well as they could be for now, so they would closely monitor his intracranial pressure and continue to flush.

This evening his nurse was reporting intracranial pressures in the single digits. The obvious reaction to this would be elation. His doctors weren't available when we were there, as it appeared there was an emergency trauma they were responding to in the ER. If these numbers are accurate, and as I reported yesterday his doctor mentioned the high numbers might be reporting higher than actual due to the position of the drains next to the clot, it would be an excellent thing. I'm a skeptic. When I hear it from his doctor, I'll be a believer. Smile

Derek is still getting nutrition through a feeding tube, and was running a very low grade fever today that was being kept in check by the cooling blanket. Still under heavy sedation, but his pupils are still reactive and all that. So he's in there, hanging out, until we've healed his brain enough that it's safe for him to wake up.

During the CT scan his oxygen levels dropped some, and he had another bronchoscopy to clear his lungs, which was reported to be productive in clearing them out some more. He was on 60 percent oxygen this evening, down from the 100 percent he had been needing the last couple of days.

So all an all, stability. We're thrilled. Two good days in a row, we're going for three.

-Swoopy

[comedy4cast]

Swoopy's updated from the Skepticality forum, dated 9/15 at 11:50pm

I just realized, as I was tying up loose ends, that I had gotten so focused on doing other stuff...that there was no update posted yet tonight.

Hopefully everyone was on the same page, in thinking that no real news, was pretty good news.

Today, another fairly unchanged day. We're going to for three.

Pressures were up a bit this evening, but some of the beta blockers that Derek had been getting had been weaned away some as well as one of the heavy duty diuretics. Medications were being given under the doctor's ever present eye (I love that every time we're there, we see one of them there too - though I wonder when they sleep) to combat the small rise in pressure, and we were assured that if it continued in an upward trend, we'd get a phone call.

Several hours later, we're still phone call free, and as we've gotten plenty of them in the past when necessary, we feel secure about being informed whenever we should be. That does help us sleep a little easier, just with a phone next to everyone's head.

Drains are still not producing much in the way of drainage, but we realize it's now a timeline that only Derek's body can dictate. Being fairly sedated still, with mild paralytics in place, we're not getting much in the way of response. Though his nurses report that if there is any painful stimulus, his responses are present, but weak on the left side.

It's hard to believe that it was a week ago tonight that a small group of people were consoling each other in the emergency room, in shock over what had just happened to someone they all dearly loved, without warning. If our lives changed that night in about 20 minutes, they've evolved into something completely new over the course of a week.

Please, take care of yourselves. Hypertension is one of those things they call a silent killer. It's highly possible it led to the situation we're in now. Exercise, get regular check ups, and stay away from the cheese fries. Because we love you, and want you to stay healthy.

Also, talk with your family and loved ones about what to do in case of an emergency. And if you can, plan for the future, because you never know what it might bring. Here's to the health of everyone close to you, and here's to hoping you never need the plans you've made in case they aren't.

- Swoopy

Also..I honestly haven't had a moment to read anything on the boards today. My apologies, but I have a feeling that I may have some time tomorrow, and I hope so, because I desperately want to. Thank you so much for your continued interest and support. Look for iPod news this weekend as well as a show we recorded before Derek became ill.

[comedy4cast]

Swoopy's update from the Skepticality forum, dated 9/16 at 11:50pm

One week. Are you sure? Yes, only a week. Still kind of like Groundhog Day around here. Every day is mostly the same. Without Bill Murray. He'd be kind of good to have around about now. However the good part about the routine and sameness is that for the last three days, Derek's condition has remained largely unchained.

Some very minor ups and downs, mostly having to do with keeping his blood pressure at appropriate levels. He had a minor spike in pressure, but the reintroduction of his mannitol drip, that slows down his metabolism and lowers his pressure and heart rate some. Though we know the likelihood of their inaccuracy, his overall intracranial pressure numbers were on a general down trend today, which is the best thing for his brain.

For the last three nights Derek has had a new nurse, and we love him. His name is Reggie. I've always had a fondness for male nurses, because they're as a rule very dedicated care takers and a special brand of person. Not the least of his gifts, Reggie is big enough to move Derek around if need be. He's open and easy going, and reassuring and shares shaved head kinship with Derek's dad. All of the staff caring for Derek around the clock, are doing an amazing job. And we've already started talking about what kind of cookies to bake them.

So, again, no call this morning. We're settling in, starting to let our guard down just a little in the hopes that we may be on somewhat stable road. The goal was to get to the end of the week, and we've done that. So now we'll move forward, one step at a time.

Thanks again for everything, I know I've said it a lot. But it has meant a lot to all of us to have so many people to reach out for, even if we're not utilizing all of the great resources that have been offered yet, once we get over the hump and get a little sleep under our belts, we'll definitely be getting in touch more.

This weekend I have plans to rest some, but work on doing some website clean up and modification and announce some upcoming shows, and most importantly catch up on everything else that has been going on around here while I haven't been able to really pay attention. Have good weekend everyone.

- Swoopy

[theFerf]

<please disreguard>

[Craig]

From the Skepticality forums:

9/18 11:00 PM:

Today was Sunday, and for the first time we decided we would sleep in and not go to the very early hospital visit to catch the doctor on rounds. We knew he was scheduled for a CT scan this morning, and we would only be in the way. We got some much needed extra sleep, compliments of the magnificent staff at his hospital that allow us to rest easy now, knowing he's getting the best of care.

Last night was another stable night, and it's been noted through looking at the charting over the past week, that Derek's blood pressure spikes around 8 pm, almost like clockwork. They now can target when to deliver his medication so that it at it's most effective. The eerie part about knowing when his pressure is regularly high, is that he had the inital episode that began all of this around 7:30 in the evening. Another clue that Derek had underlying hypertension for awhile, and no one knew.

We are all in love with Reggie, Derek's regular night nurse for most of this past week, I'll just say that right now. He's a special guy for sure, and I'm not just saying that because he's been reading the forums too.

So, we're on the road to stability, or so it would seem. This morning Derek's CT scan showed that in fact his drains, which were not producing, might as well come out. Also, and I haven't seen the films yet but I may get to tomorrow. I saw the CT from a week ago tomorrow, so the contrast will be interesting. The edges of the major clot are "fluffy" and early indicators that it is beginning to break down.

Derek received a couple of nifty staples in his head, and no longer has tubes sticking out of his brain. I've suggested that he could easily be frankenstein's monster for Halloween. His pressure will be monitored very closely along with his other vitals that might show any indication that his intracranial pressure is on the rise.

He has a slight fever this evening, mostly due to fighting off the infection in his lungs. Still getting tube fed that lovely fibersource food to keep up his calorie load, and utilizing the cold blanket to keep his fever down.

His blood pressure was looking awesome, and some slight movements were occuring. He's not as responsive as they would like, but the paralytic drugs will wear off slowly because of his slowed down metabolism too. His sedation is lightened, and he tries to breathe on his own, and the respirator won't let him. It's a good response, and the oxygen saturation in his blood is at 100%, the oxygen level through his ventilator is 60%, so his respiratory system is doing pretty good considering.

So, it would seem we're wandering out of the deep woods. There's a path ahead, and we know were it is, but we're not quite on it yet. We'll get a few more definitive answers when we go in the morning and see the doctor on his rounds.

Thanks for hanging with us. It was a good weekend, much better than last weekend. There is talk of having Derek in a chair sitting up, even if he's not fully alert, by the end of the week. It will be quite a thing if we get there.

So, good things continue for Derek, and for those who love him. As will Skepticality. Stay tuned for a new show (previously recorded) tomorrow including the iPod winner announcement.

- Swoopy

[docsnavely]

thats excellent! glad to hear he's coming down from the peak!

[comedy4cast]

Swoopy's update from the Skepticality forums 9/19 at 10:45pm

I have to say, I'm starting to feel a little like Jay Leno. Every night, I have a monologue. I hope that no one is getting sick of it yet. I know that our world, although we're beginning to adapt, is made up of Derek's hospital stay, is just that - our world, and that everyone's day to day doesn't revolve around this. There is a certain level of tedium that is going to creep in, and if you find yourself not needing this updates for awhile, please let me know and I can take you out of the loop. That said, I also appreciate all the kind thoughts and nice words everyone has sent in being glad that they are updated, so that's great. If you want off the merry go round though, do let me know.

Kim, our favorite day nurse, was still there when we went to visit in the evening. She's an amazing woman, who has a long history working with Derek's doctor, Dr. Weaver. It helps that they know each other so well, in that between them we always know what is going on with Derek during those early morning hours when he's getting CT scans and chest x-rays.

Reggie let us know that they'll be giving Derek a tracheotomy tube soon, because long term on a respirator is hard on the throat and vocal cords. They'll also be able to administer medication for his breathing this way, and it's a better situation for his immediate and long term care. While it sounds scary, there are huge benefits to this, and when he no longer needs it, the hole will heal as if it was never there at all.

Derek's oxygen saturation is still good, and they lowered again the amount of oxygen he needs to breathe through the respirator. He's also able now to take breaths on his own, and when entirely free of the respirator does breathe completely on his own. His lungs still need the rest, so he's not going off of the vent just yet, but it's another positive step.

At this point, he is completely off of drip medications of all kinds, and is receiving the medication he needs via IV push at regular intervals. His sedation is very light at this point, although for the CT scan in order to get a good image and ensure Derek stays still, they will give him paralytic drugs on a very temporary basis. The importance of this particular CT scan will be to make sure that now the drains are out of his head that there isn't any additional pressure building and that the clot is still breaking down as it should be.

His next scan will be very early in the morning so that the films will be available to the doctor on rounds, and we got all of this great information from his staff because they know we like to see the doctor and review our situation as often as we can. So we'll be there bright and early just after seven tomorrow, so we can see what's going on. Hopefully more positives to report.

More baby steps toward what we'll probably be calling more long term care. The immediate, keep alive measures have evolved into what we'll be doing to prepare Derek for his long recovery road. Recovery is a great word, I'm glad we're able to use it.

I keep saying "we" and really it's a big "we" I'm talking about. We, the family and friends of Derek wouldn't be talking about recovery if it weren't for the amazing doctors, nurses and staff of North Fulton Regional Hospital. They work long hours, and have made Derek's care their priority and it shows every time we see him. He's being tended to so lovingly, and we feel cared about and cared for by this staff in the way they let us know what we can do to help Derek, to help them, and to help ourselves in these times. It's a foreign world, and they've made it much more friendly for us. Without them, we wouldn't be sleeping at night.

So, those are the highlights for now, more tomorrow and probably earlier too. Thanks for all the nice email we've been receiving, it's good to know that Derek is in your thoughts and prayers (because if you pray..and you believe in it..and all that stuff...it's OKAY...you can do what you do..and we'll do what we do..and it's all good in the end...whatever THAT is Smile ). We're certainly very thankful for all of you.

- Swoopy

[VergeFringe]

Sending my positive thoughts, prayers and all of the above. --Lance

[Wintersheart]

I hope Derek’s comes through ok, sending positive energy his way and I sent a pray to the goddess for you.


Love & light

Lynne Gryphon

www.ldplanet.net

[comedy4cast]

From Swoopy on the Skepticality forum, dated 9/21 at 10:00pm

Our evening was about as eventful as our afternoon, more movement from arms and legs on both sides. Arm lifting, leg bouncing, toe curling and all that good stuff. Eyes open a little, but not a lot.

For us, now comes the difficult place between elation and worry. We're thrilled he's in there, and he's moving. We're scared that he's in there, and confused or anxious and there's not much we can do about it though we continually, quietly reassure him. This is complicated a bit by the fact that the ventilator stifles him and while I'm not sure he'd be making sounds, he really couldn't anyway.

Every head trauma is different, but I recall my own (when I was seven) as being in a very fuzzy place where I knew things were going on, and I did want to participate but everything seemed to be happening far away from me and there wasn't anything I could do about it. I was too fuzzy to be worried. I don't have any memory of the accident or much about the recovery period, which is probably a good thing. It will be interesting to see if anything, what Derek remembers in the end. But our not knowing, what he knows, is the hard part for us right now.

Reggie took off the soft restraints they were using this afternoon, in an effort to make Derek as comfortable as possible. He doesn't think that even though Derek has movement that his range of motion would be enough to do anything bothersome to his tubes. And that definitely won't be happening on his watch.

The adjustable bed is just the coolest thing ever. And too, it seems like the most movement comes from Derek when he is trying to compensate for the way the bed is shifting him. The bed tilts at angles, slowly and gently, but the nylon covering on the bed allows Derek to slide some and thereby changing where he's putting weight on his back and hips. He hasn't developed any sort of bed sores, and since they have been taking such great precautions with him, that doesn't look like it's going to become a worry at this point.

Reggie also planned Derek's evening sedation so that he would be more awake for us, but would be resting comfortably soon after. His oxygen saturation levels and blood pressure is good and his fever is somewhat reduced; they're still giving him Tylenol for that.

Derek is scheduled for his tracheostomy in the morning, as well as another CT scan, so he's going to be a busy guy. The trach means bye bye goatee, so he's going to be hairless for awhile. This is really good for keeping him clean and cool though, so I suspect he won't mind, and it'll all grow back pretty quickly.

We're going to be there bright and early to see him before the procedure, which is done bedside and will only take around 20 minutes. This will give his mom a morning visit, and then she's going back to New Jersey to catch up on things there for a bit. She got exactly what she was hoping for before she left, a chance to look Derek in the eye and have him squeeze her hand. Great timing Derek, as usual.

So we're going to have a little something to eat and get to bed early. Tomorrow will bring new stuff, and hopefully more good stuff. I think we can start using the word recovery in earnest now.

However for the immediate time being, we're asking for immediate family only to visit. Since Derek is more awake, he's also more easily agitated, and what he needs is plenty of rest. A good part of this evening, we left him one on one with Susan, because that seemed to calm him the most. Some stimulation is good right now, but too much stimulation is just that..too much, right now.

We'll definitely let people know when it's good to come visit, and hopefully that time isn't too far away. But for now we'll keep you updated and thank you for understanding why we'll ask people not to visit Derek at this time.

I got some really amazing email following this afternoon's update. Much beer has been drunk in the name of Derek today. Tip your waitresses.

- Swoopy

[comedy4cast]

Swoopy has also had a moment to set up a specific section on the Skepticality forums for updates on Derek. You can find it here:

http://www.skepticality.com/phpBB/viewforum.php?f=26