Supporting Janet

At the beginning of July, Janet developed a very unusual auto immune disorder that the doctors believed was triggered by a previous bacterial or viral infection. She started losing feeling in her extremities and thinking it may be a pinched nerve, she went to urgent care and was treated for nerve pain. That week though, she gradually lost control of the lower half of her body. Thankfully, we were able to get her to the hospital in time for them to admit and start a treatment. It was very scary in the first couple days as things declined quickly and they were testing her for various things, drawing blood, and doing X-rays and MRIs around the clock. She had developed pneumonia as well and needed to use the bi-pap machine to adjust with breathing and removing CO2. The paralysis then moved up to her face, making it so she was unable to swallow, so she couldn't eat or drink until a feeding tube was placed. We took turns staying overnight with her at the hospital and things happened so fast, that it was difficult to send out updates on the moment. We do appreciate everyone checking in though. Thankfully, shortly after the feeding tube was placed, the nutrition helped her body balance out more and most of her levels finally were within normal, or closer to normal within a couple days. She is currently at the hospital's in-patient rehab facility, practicing how to walk again and do all the normal things we usually take for granted. She can eat and talk normally again so that is a huge improvement! We are SO very thankful for everyone at the Salem Hospital who has been taking such great care of my mom and for all of our friends and family who have visited, brought flowers, cards, treats, and food. It feels so good knowing we have the support of our immediate and extended family through all of this. Friends have shown up in so many ways. We are grateful for our village ❤️