It’s been a tough week and this week isn’t going to be much better. Pat and I along with his doctors have decided to try new approach to his spasm medicine. We have decided to look into a baclofen pump, this is a pump that is inserted into his body and releases the medication directly into the spine. The reason we are looking into this is because Pat has extremely painful spasms, if you want to learn more check out this website regarding spasticity & muscle spasms (this website also has some very good information regarding spinal cord injury and how it relates to the body). The reason it has been a tough week is because we have started doing tests to see if Pat would be a good candidate for the procedure and that requires the administration of an intrathecal test dose of Baclofen. This is usually done via a lumbar puncture, and the patient is then monitored for a reduction of spasticity. If a reduction of spasticity is observed, then the patient is usually considered for the implantation of a pump. The biggest side effect is a migraine headache and unfortunately Pat has had one since the test was done. The test was conducted this past Thursday and the doctors want to administer another test dose this coming week so Pat may have another migraine to look forward to. If things go as planned then he will probably have surgery in the next week or two to have the pump implanted. The goal is to reduce his spasms and side effects (extreme drowsiness) from the oral spasm medication that he is taking. I will keep everyone up to date as we move along.
On a better note the house is moving along as scheduled and looking really nice. Please go to the remodel page and see the album and pictures.
Hi Pat and Ang,
Sorry to hear you have been having difficulties with spasticity and the meds to combat the problem. After reading the websites Angela suggested, which I found to be very informative and reassuring, it sounds like implanting the baclofen pump is an excellent alternative to the oral meds and their related problems.
We support you 100% in your excellent and brave decision. Bob and I are with you every step of the way in our thoughts and prayers.
Angela, I LOVE the pictures you are posting of your house – fabulous progress being made and looking great! We’re here if you need us.
Love, Ann and Bob
Angela and Pat,
Just a note to say I am thinking of you and sending you lots of hugs! It won’t be long till I finally get to visit you and then you can feel the love! The reactions from the test sounds horrible. I hate even having a tension headache. Pat, you are so very brave and I admire your strength and attitude. It sounds like they plan to do the implant and I hope that helps make a big difference. I love seeing pictures of the house as it moves along, thanks Angie for posting them. Love, Aunt Cindy
Stay strong you two and if we can help in anyway please let us know. Good luck with the implant, and the headaches. The house looks great, what a difference. Take care and thanks again for all of your updates.
Love,
The Olney’s
Sorry to hear about the meds and reactions to them. There’s never a perfect option, but I hope you can find a treament and dose that works well for you. The work on the house looks great – I can’t believe how much has been done since I last looked at the album.
Thinking of you both. Hang in there.
Our thoughts and prayers are always with you both. Sorry to hear about the most recent “hiccup” with the spasms. I can only imagine how difficult this all is for you both, but with your continued positive attitude, I have no doubt you will continue to amaze us all. The house seems to be progressing quickly, which is tremendous – it means you are that much closer to being home! Thanks Ang for continuing the updates and pics of the house – you are the best.
Love
Jeff, Denise and family