The Griffin Family’s COVID Journey
UPDATE - 03/11
UPDATE -
Okay, story time!
A few months back, Shawn saw one of the pulmonologist’s that oversaw his care while he was in ICU. The first thing out of his mouth when he entered the room was “Well, your file’s too thick to go through so I’m just going to let you know that you’ll be on oxygen for the rest of your life.” As you can imagine, that wasn’t a very good first impression for Shawn but for me, that’s pretty much the attitude that I’ve been dealing with since August!
Shawn left that office very discouraged and to put it frankly, PISSED! After we talked through it he said, “I’m not going to listen to that asshole. I’m 52 and WON’T be on oxygen the rest of my life!”
We requested to see a new pulmonologist, one who didn’t know anything about him. That appointment couldn’t have gone any better. We saw two doctors and both had nothing but positive things to say despite how thick his file is.
Fast forward to today, Shawn had an echocardiogram, a CT Scan and a breathing test.
His echo showed slight enlargement of the right side of his heart, which is common for someone who went through a battle like he did. Otherwise, it’s functioning as completely normal. ❤️
His breathing test revealed that he has about 60% lung capacity right now but he believes that he will continue to improve every day.
His CT Scan showed damage, which we expected.
He’s able to stop the blood thinners too. (He’s already scheduled his next tattoo!). ♀️
He’s gained 26 pounds since he got home in December and is looking more and more like his old self!
His right hand is still not fully functional but with therapy, it’s showing signs of improvement each week.
So, the moral of the story is, all doctors aren’t God (although some may they may think they are). There’s only one God and when he uses you as a pillar of hope, you settle for nothing less than than miracles. ❤️
#GriffinStrong #CovidSurvivor #nevergiveup #miraclesdohappen
UPDATE - 02/16/2022
We saw the Pulmonologist today.
Let me back up real quick so I can give you some history. Shawn had seen a Pulmonologist a few weeks ago who happened to be one of the ones that treated him when he was in ICU. Right out of the gate, he was negative (not surprising). He told him that his file was too thick to go through and that he’d likely be on oxygen the rest of his life. Shawn left there without much optimism and frustrated as anyone would. He called our Primary Doctor and requested to see someone new. Someone who hadn’t known anything about his journey and thank God we did.
Fast forward to today. The new Pulmonologist is part of MUSC which was the hospital directly across the street from the one he was in. We had wished he had been treated there but there wasn’t any time to doctor shop, unfortunately.
We met with two doctors actually and both were great. They said that it is truly remarkable that he is alive today and has done so well getting to where he is as many who have been severely infected, unfortunately weren’t as lucky as him. With the progress that he’s made since he’s been home, mainly on his own, he’s made tremendous strides in weaning down on his oxygen and gaining strength which will help him in his recovery. They were pretty impressed!
They believe that he will eventually be able to be completely off of oxygen. They are sending him for an echocardiogram, a CT scan and blood work to get a baseline of where he is now so they can tell if he’s got any heart damage due to the blood clot and to see the amount of healing that his lungs have been able to make up until this point which is actually something that we were hoping to have a better idea of.
They explained that being the infection was so severe, that it’s likely he will have some residual inflammation and scarring of the lungs. Sometimes these can be seen on the scans as the same thing so within the coming months they will be able to tell what is what as his healing continues.
They also mentioned a pulmonary rehab program that spans about 6 weeks and is 3 days a week where he would go and workout with the assistance of trained professionals in that field available to assist, when/if needed, and also show him ways to gain strength which ultimately will assist him in his continued recovery.
He continues to go to therapy for his right hand/wrist. He had a Neeve Conduction Study done a few weeks ago and they were able to see that his radial nerve is still firing so he should get full function back within 6 months.
We’re continuing to also care for the wound on his backside which is slowly getting smaller and showing signs of healing. He sees the Wound Clinic now every two weeks instead of weekly. We’ve also added a costly supplement to his daily diet to assist in it healing which seems to be helping. ❤️
So, still lots going on on our end. Still lots that we don’t know but are hoping to get clarity on within the next few months.
We continue each day to focus on continued healing and positivity in that he will get back to as close as possible to life as we knew it before August 2021.
I’m including our Go Fund Me link and we ask that you share it so that others can read of our journey through Covid and hopefully learn from it. We still are trying to reach our goal, if not surpass it, of financial assistance, as you can imagine, this has been a very costly hit to us. Costly not only mentally and physically but financially as well with all of the hospital/doctor bills and the continued cost of getting him back to good health.
As always, we appreciate your continued thoughts, prayers and support through this horrible journey. ❤️
#GriffinStrong
UPDATE - 01/08/2022
Sorry it’s been awhile since I’ve posted an update on Shawn.
We had a very busy week last week. I went back to work, which was a bit nerve racking since he continues to have Home Health and many doctor appointments. It went better than I had expected although I’m more tired trying to juggle all the things than ever before!
Julianna has really stepped up and has been helping a lot which is a huge help for me. ❤️
Shawn saw an Occupational Therapist as he continues to have limited use of his right hand, a Wound Care doctor, our Primary Care doctor and the Pulmonologist last week and honestly, there’s not much really to report. He’s working on trying to gain some weight back and getting around much more which is helping him build back some strength each day.
He’s going in in a few weeks to get an echocardiogram so we can find out if and just how much damage was done to his heart due to the blood clot. He’s also going to do a walk test at his next appointment with the Pulmonologist so we can determine how much scarring his lungs have which will tell us whether or not he’ll ever be able to get off of oxygen entirely. The possibility of him never getting off of it didn’t settle well with him (or us) so we are going to focus on the positive and the thought that he wasn’t expected to make it this far so he’s going to continue to beat the odds with the oxygen as well!
We continue to move forward each day knowing just how blessed we are in so many ways. Thank you to those who continue to support us by sending messages, calling, sending cards and your generosity through our GFM to help us tackle the financial impact that this has added to this already difficult journey.
Without all of you, we couldn’t have gotten through these last 5 months. We hope that you all are staying safe out there and that you and your families are healthy and happy in this new year! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 12/27/2021
Shawn was able to walk to the end of our street today! We stopped a few times for him to rest and recoup his oxygen but he did great! He hitched a ride back but the more we do it, the easier it will get!
More appointments coming up in the next few days including his second vaccine shot!
He was able to do over 2 hours yesterday without any oxygen which also was a huge accomplishment!
Little by little we’re getting there…❤️
#GriffinStrong
UPDATE - 12/23/2021
What missing from this picture?!?!
This guy went without his oxygen for over an hour today!
His Occupational Therapist told him to give it a try and see how long he could go. They set a timer for 5 minutes and he ended up holding strong for an HOUR and 5 minutes!
She said that practicing daily by going without it will help strengthen his lungs so we’ve added that to our daily To Do List! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 12/21/2021
Shawn’s chest tube was able to be removed today!
His pneumothorax on the X-ray hadn’t changed since they clamped it last week so it’s healed! Praying that no others develop as she did mention that it could happen but we’re hoping two were enough! ♀️
We’ve made some progress at home over the last week as well. He’s walking (with assistance) and no longer needs the walker so that’s another thing down. And he was able to make it upstairs, making a few stops along the way, so we no longer are sleeping on the couch which my back thanks him for!
He’s down to 2 1/2 percent on his oxygen and we’re becoming pros at the travel oxygen which, at first, was not an easy task. We now travel with a few spares and luckily my car fits a wheelchair with room to spare for Julianna who comes to every doctors appointment and helps me get it in and out of the car. I tell ya, I really do have a soft spot in my heart even more for those who have children/family that require this level of care because it’s a full time job!
I haven’t mentioned this before, but Shawn developed a pretty gnarly bedsore on his backside that we’ve had Wound Care treating. They’ve come twice now and they think he may need a wound vac. We see the Wound Doc next week but meanwhile, I’ve also become a Wound Care Nurse and have been packing it and changing his dressings on the off days. Hoping he won’t need the vac but it’s better than him requiring surgery to help get it closed.
We don’t have anymore appointments scheduled for this week due to the holiday so we’re going to try and enjoy the lull while we can as we’ll be back at it next week. ☺️
This year started off good and then all of this happened and hit us like a ton of bricks! Although it’s ending on a better note, we’re still treading some water a bit so we’re hopeful that 2022 will be a better year for us.
Stay safe out there everyone! It’s a very scary time we are living in… ❤️
#GriffinStrong
UPDATE 12/16/2021 -
Hi everyone.
As hard as this is, we’re asking for help to reach our goal. It’s the unfortunate reality of our situation.
Everything is adding up so quickly with medical bills and supplies for which insurance does not cover.
This fund has helped and will continue to help with the following needs for our family -
Gas to get to and from hospitals and doctors which has been up to 2 hours away.
Parking Garage costs each day which was as much as $40 at times for just one day.
Hotel costs when having to stay in Florence for a month on and off.
Eating out for 3 of us because there was no time to shop and cook having the need to be on the constant go.
Medical bills and co-pays which I can’t imagine how much almost 4 months being hospitalized is going to add up to.
Ensure and Protein Supplements
Being unable to work through all of this reducing my income to 60%.
♂️ Reducing Shawn’s income to none.
We are beyond thankful for the generosity by those have given to us thus far. You’ve helped allow me to be by my husbands side this entire time which is something that words cannot begin to express just how much that has meant to us and how much it has helped him with his healing. ❤️
To those who have shared our story and GFM link, please know that that means just as much to us.
We know how difficult this time of year is for everyone, especially those who are also suffering/struggling.
So, thank you again in advance for your willingness to help in any way that you can. We love and appreciate you for anything that you can do to continue to help our family through this extremely difficult time. ❤️
#GriffinStrong
UPDATE — 12/14/2021
Shawn had his follow up today with his lung surgeon and surgery was a SUCCESS!
His X-ray from a week ago to today shows that his collapsed lung is healed! His chest tube has been clamped and no air was shown coming from the lung which is a good sign! We’re hoping that in another week he’s able to get the tube removed.
We see our Primary Care doctor tomorrow so we’ve had 3 days of getting him out of the house and in the car which is no small feat! ♀️ Hats off to those who are a Caregiver and handle all of this every day because my body is starting to feel it!
Home Health Care and Physical Therapy come to the house twice a week and they’ve been great. He has a list of excercises that he does daily and we practice walking with the walker which he’s been doing great at although he can’t go too far just yet. No changes with his oxygen levels but we’re hoping in time he’ll continue to wean down.
We have some goals set for this week that we are hoping to achieve including getting him upstairs so we can sleep in our own bed again. The couch isn’t cutting it! ♀️
Thank you AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN to those who continue to check in with us and continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers! We love ya’ll!!! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 12/07/2021
Well, our first day home has not been easy.
It’s harder than I ever imagined to be a caregiver. And, it’s also hard for Shawn not having all of the comforts that a hospital has (the few I should say) such as constant monitoring of his oxygen and just the peace in knowing that should anything be needed or happen, the staff is right there.
We’re slowly getting used to our new normal and trying to get the hang of it all. Slowly is the key word there!
He slept well last night, me not so much but I’m hoping that once we’re able to get him upstairs to the bedroom, I’ll begin to get a better nights sleep.
We made doctors appointments for the beginning of next week and HHC and PT are coming tomorrow for the first time so we’ll get a better understanding of how all that is going to work.
But with all that said, he’s here and he’s home and we are together once again. Hoping we’ll be pro’s at all of this by weeks end. ❤️
#GriffinStrong
UPDATE - 12/06/2021
WE’RE HOME!!!
I’m a bit late with posting the video (see attached) of us leaving the hospital. Lots of “things” to have to know and that we had to take with us so it was a bit overwhelming.
Shawn hasn’t been outside but once in just shy of 4 months so we drove with the windows down some so he could take it all in. ☺️
We got home and settled and haven’t left the couch since. He requested pizza for dinner so pizza he got! And we caught up on last nights episode of Yellowstone!
Home Health Care will be coming to the house as well as for PT and Occupational Therapy about 4 times a week so it looks like I’ll be filling in on the off days. ⚕️
It’s certainly a different way of life, for the time being, and while we wish none of this ever happened, we’re so thankful for the place we’re in.
There’s still a lot of healing and work to be done to get back to where we once were but we’ll get there. ❤️
#GriffinStrong #letsgohome
UPDATE - 12/03/2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️ Surgery went well! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
They put in another chest tube so he now has 2. They took out a good amount of fluid AND they were able to put in the “drains” which will allow him to be discharged hopefully on Monday!!!
They are ordering all the “things” he’ll need for home, including Home Health Care. ⚕️
They also removed his oxygen monitor from his finger and said that he’s been doing well and hasn’t destated so they will check it every few hours going forward which is a huge step forward!
All in all I’d say it’s been a GREAT day! Prayers were definitely answered, once again, so a BIG Thank You to everyone who has continued them for us!
Hopefully my next update will be to say that he’s being discharged!!!! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 12/02/2021
Surgery has finally been scheduled for tomorrow morning!
They’ve done a few CT Scans and the surgeon feels that she won’t need to put in a new chest tube but can use his existing tube which is great news!
They plan to insert the “glue” and are hoping that they’ll also be able to give him some drains that will allow the air to be suctioned instead of him needing to be attached to the suction mechanism on the wall. She isn’t certain yet but is hoping that she’ll be able to get it done.
This would be the best option and will allow him to do more physical therapy wise AND they are even thinking he can be discharged on Monday if all goes well!
He is experiencing PTSD being he’s been in the hospital so long so we’ve decided to have him come home and have Home Health Care come to the house instead of him going to the Physical Therapy Facility. He had a great PT session today and passed their requirements to be able to come home!
With that being a possibility, I frantically worked to clean up the house and organize some things like the stacks of unopened mail laying in piles here and there all day today.
Julianna also started to not feel well today so we’re hoping it’s a bug and will quickly run its course over the weekend.
Never a dull moment! ♀️
We were grateful to have a wonderful home cooked meal made for us by Melinda who owns a local store here in Downtown Summerville called Cotton Down South. We haven’t had one in months since we usually aren’t all home at the same time and I just haven’t had the time or energy to cook even when we are. We’re so blessed to have such kind and generous people in our lives! ❤️
Hopefully, this is the last time I’ll need to ask for prayers. Prayers that the surgery goes well and that he is able to get the drains so he can come home sooner rather than later. And prayers for our sweet girl too that she feels better soon! This has been such a long road and I’m sure you’re all feeling it too.
Thank you, as always, for all of your love and support! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 12/01/2021
We’re having a slumber party! (See attached photo)
This is the first time in 3 1/2 months that we’ve been able to sleep next to each other. It’s not ideal but we’re thankful to be able to once again. ❤️
The plan for Fridays surgery is to insert another chest tube in to a different area of his lung cavity and put some “glue” through it so that his lung will stick to his chest wall preventing it from collapsing. Unfortunately, he’s stuck here, at minimum, another week after surgery.
The plan is still for him to be home for Christmas. One more bump in the road may prevent that from happening so this NEEDS to work!
Thank you all who have stuck with us this long and continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers! ❤️
#griffinstrong UPDATE - 11/30/2021
Surgery didn’t happen today.
Shawn got settled in about 1:30 a.m. after his transfer and this morning met with the surgeon. They decided to do a CT Scan and then decide from there.
I’ll be honest, driving back to that hospital where our journey all began brought back some serious emotions. PTSD set in for real real as I drove up to the parking garage and grabbed the ticket and pulled in to a parking space where I had so many times before not knowing whether or not my husband was going to live much longer or may not even be alive when I walked inside. Even though we’ve come a long way, those memories that I never wanted to experience again came back.
And, they did for him too. Even though he doesn’t remember much of what he went through when he was there, just being there again was hard for him. The stories that I’ve shared not knowing that we’d end up back there he was recalling and the situation is not ideal. We made the best of it as best we could.
And then, after trying to overcome all of that, word quickly spread that he was back and some of his doctors, nurses, the Chaplin, even down to the Food Service came in to see him. And btw, Food Service never delivered any food to him since he had a feeding tube but they saw him as they passed by his room to deliver food to others and remembered him. It was like he was a star who had been admitted. The nurses cried as they hadn’t even held a conversation with him before he had left. They were so overwhelmed with being able to see him look so much better than he had and to hear his voice for the first time. That brought him to tears too, more than once.
So, it’s been another long day. Although I’m thankful to not have to spend most of it in the car driving! It’s such a relief for us both to know that we are not far from each other. ❤️
The OR is scheduled for Friday morning. Unfortunately, the LTAC didn’t have enough sense (shocker!) to stop his blood thinners before he left so he needs to be off of them for 48 hours prior to surgery. So again, we wait. And we don’t know exactly what procedure they will end up doing yet because the surgeon got stuck in surgery. More to come once we know.
While we hope it will be the quickest, least invasive option, ideally we will go with the option that will allow him to have the best and most lung function he’s able to have for the rest of his life.
Again, we ask for continued thoughts and prayers as we continue down this road to getting him home. We’re still hoping that can happen before Christmas…❤️
#griffinstrong
#GivingTuesday2021
Please share! ❤️
QUICK UPDATE - 11/29/2021
Shawn’s in route back to Charleston.
Surgery should happen sometime tomorrow. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/28/2021
Soooo, we were scheduled for transport to the Physical Therapy Facility tomorrow at 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. today.
Shawn’s latest X-ray showed his pneumothorax as being bigger than the last. The doctor advised the nurse to put him back on suction and we both literally lost it.
We get that time heals all things BUT, at this point it’s hindering his ability to move forward in all other ways so I had to intervene. We’re both completely over all of this and it’s time to make a move. After dealing with another nurse with an attitude, she got the doctor on the phone and he explained it all to us. Again, we heard the words “It needed time to heal.”. Well, he’s had it now for over 5 weeks so we agreed that it’s been given enough time and surgery needs to happen.
The doctor advised that he’d have to be moved to a hospital to have it repaired and mentioned the one near them. I chimed in immediately and asked, that since he’s being transferred closer to home for PT, can we just transfer him to a hospital near by instead and luckily he said, absolutely!
The plan is to have them consult with a Thoracic Surgeon in the morning and set it all up. While I’d love for them to still be able to have him transferred as scheduled tomorrow, I’ve quickly learned that they don’t move that fast so it’s highly unlikely that will happen. Hopefully it’ll be scheduled for Tuesday at the latest because each day that goes by is another day that we are getting nowhere. Instead all of this is wearing more and more on us.
The doctor isn’t sure which type of procedure the Thoracic Surgeon is going to recommend so it may be minor or more invasive. Either way, it’s another setback.
We had hoped that this wouldn’t be the case but here we are again.
Please pray they get their shit together and move fast to get him transferred. And please pray for our sanity because we’re both at our wits end. ❤️
#griffinstrong
Venmo - @LindsayGriffin22
Cashapp - $LMGriffin22
UPDATE - 11/25/2021
I’m just realizing as I post this that we were eating with Shawn’s urinal right there next to our Thanksgiving plates! ♀️♀️ That pretty much sums up our life these days!
Today was a really tough day. Of course we are thankful and grateful for Shawn being still with us, but it still was hard. They only allow two visitors so Frank stayed home and Julianna and I spent the day at the hospital.
Shawn broke down a few times. The hospital setting and wanting to be home with us really hit hard today.
We haven’t seen or heard from a doctor all week (yes, all week!) so we haven’t heard anything definitive regarding the status of his chest tube. Only what the nurses tell us when they come in and say “The doctor told us to do…” this or that. His one remaining chest tube has been on and off suction and he’s had numerous X-rays each day. The last update we got was right before we left today which was “The doctor called and told me to put you back on suction and that the X-ray shows it smaller than yesterday.” They plan to turn it off at midnight and then tomorrow will discuss whether or not they will go to surgically repair it. Either way, it looks like he’ll be there at least through the weekend.
What we, without question, are thankful for today and every day is still being a family of four, our health despite having to fight a few battles over the years, our friends and family who have been an incredible blessing during this difficult time and for all the thoughts, prayers and generosity of those who have continued to support us throughout this journey.
We hope that you all had an amazing Thanksgiving filled with love and joy. We appreciate and love you all more than words can say. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/22/2021
We were hopeful that Shawn would get to leave and move on to the Physical Therapy Facility tomorrow or Wednesday since the world is going to stop for the long holiday weekend.
Unfortunately, the one remaining chest tube due to the pneumothorax, as of tonight, isn’t fully healed to be able to pull it allowing him to be released.
They are going to repeat his X-ray again in the morning and see where it stands and if it’s not better than they are going to discuss surgery which will delay his release another week.
This too will not allow him to push forward as hard as he’s ready to with physical therapy.
We all want so badly for him to be able to move on to the next phase of this journey. He’s beyond sick and tired of being in the hospital and I’m beyond exhausted from having to drive up here and live out of a bag when I do stay.
We need prayers again. Prayers for healing and for him not to need surgery. And prayers for strength to get us all through this.
I hate this for us to not be able to be preparing to gather around the table and enjoy another Thanksgiving together. At this point it looks like we’ll be split up farther than we want to be this year for the holiday eating hospital food/fast food.
I so want to be positive. I’m truly trying. We all are but we’re just so tired.
I’m having a “This SUCKS!” kind of day…unfortunately, they sneak their way in every now and then. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/20/2021
So, the last few days have been pretty uneventful when it comes to any changes.
I drove up and back the last three days/which has worn me out. Frank is planning to spend the day watching football with him tomorrow and that will allow me to get some things done at the house. Then I’ll be back on Monday with the hope of them being able to pull his one remaining chest tube out and getting back to doing some physical therapy. It’s very frustrating that they don’t do any on the weekend.
I started telling Shawn bits and pieces of what the last four months have been like for us. He doesn’t remember much of anything. He vaguely remembers me bringing him to the ER but after that, not much up until about two weeks ago.
I started from the beginning and shared with him some text messages he sent to me before he was intubated and he said “What the hell is that?!”. I agreed and told him that I did my best to make out what he was trying to say but he doesn’t even remember sending them or the messages he was trying to convey.
We started reviewing my Facebook posts starting back at my first post and I read him just a few. He’s in complete shock of all that has happened and of a few photos that, by his request, I showed him of when he was intubated. I took them in the event that he wanted to see them at some point. I didn’t post those as I wanted to respect his privacy and wait until I spoke with him first.
He gave me to to post the attached photo as he agrees that it is important to share the reality of all that has happened.
It’s a lot to take in so we have taken it slow. I’m happy to know that he doesn’t remember any of it so I know that he hasn’t been in any pain this whole time.
He’s very angry, as we are, at the fact that they gave up on him so quickly and without hesitation said to me “Well, I was never giving up!”. That we had no doubt about and was why we continued for 5 weeks and 4 days and even in the days thereafter up until he was more awake to fight for him and be his voice when he couldn’t be.
My heart breaks to think about how many people have been taken away too soon because they rely on “the experts”.
Nobody, in my opinion, knew better than those who know him best that there was no way he was leaving us behind without a fight. And a battle was definitely fought, that I can assure you. He’s truly a miracle and defied all odds to be with us again.
Covid is one hell of a beast but Shawn is a bigger one!
We’ve made it to the top of the hill and we’re starting our way back down to level ground. It was a pretty steep one and the journey isn’t over yet but there will not be any giving up on our climb back down. One step at a time, we’ll get there. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/18/2021
He’s taking steps! (See video) And he even made it out of his room this afternoon!
Today he walked farther than yesterday and tomorrow he will walk farther than today. Each step is a step in the right direction!
Eating however, has been a challenge. After not having eaten for over 3 months, his stomach shrunk a bit so just like his steps, he can only eat so much but each day, he’ll be able to increase his intake. And hospital food is gross, he said! (as many of us know!) So, I bought some snacks that I’m hoping will be more enjoyable for him.
He still has one chest tube in place as there still was evidence of some air in his lungs in X-ray but hopefully that’ll be able to come out soon. And his right grip is stronger so we’ll continue to work on strengthening that wrist.
He started to receive some cards with beautiful messages of strength and love in them yesterday. Thank you all so much who have taken the time to send them. ❤️
I’ve spoken to our Care Coordinator regarding his transfer to the Inpatient Physical Therapy Facility so while they are working on that, he’s continuing to work on the goals set in place for him to be moved. Still hoping by the end of next week for that to happen.
As ALWAYS, Thank You all for you prayers, love and support! ❤️
#griffinstrong
Venmo - @LindsayGriffin22
Cashapp - $LMGriffin22
UPDATE - 11/16/2021
Lots happened today!
Swallow Test ✔️
One Chest Tube Removed ✔️
Large Monitor Personal Monitor ✔️
Scab on cheek removed ✔️
I think Shawn’s eyes were bigger than his stomach because he wanted “all the things” and was only able to eat a small amount before his stomach went in to shock. They said that it will take some time for him to be able to eat like he used to. He ate a small amount and felt full and had quickly developed a stomach ache.
The plan is soft foods (grits, mashed potatoes, eggs, apple sauce, most liquids…) for a bit with some Ensure until he can tolerate more solid types of foods.
They removed one of his chest tubes and are keeping the other in place, just in case, but hopefully that will be removed in a few days.
His big oxygen and heart rate monitor were taken away and so now he just has a personal monitor which will allow him to do more with physical therapy. He can’t wait to have us wheel him around for a change of scenery and some fresh air!
And, the doctor came in and pulled the scab off of his face which had already started lifting on the sides. It actually doesn’t look too bad underneath so we’ll work on healing it some more and fading any scar that may be left behind.
I spoke with our Care Coordinator about options for his discharge which we’re hoping will be in another week. The plan is for him to move to an Inpatients Physical Therapy Facility much closer, (Thank God!) where he’ll do 4-6 hours of PT a day to regain some strength for about 2 weeks. Once home he’ll continue with in home care for all the things that still need work.
SO, as I had hoped, it looks like he should be home for Christmas which were are all so happy about! And while he may not be able to have a full Thanksgiving meal, he’ll at least be able to enjoy some of the dishes that we’ll take to him at the PT Facility. Even so, it’s going to be a very Thankful day as is every day.
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/15/2021
We thought he was sending us a selfie so at the light, we sent him one back.
NOPE! While he did send us a selfie, it was to show us that his trach is GONE!!!
Hopefully tomorrow he’ll be able to start drinking and maybe even eating some soft foods!!!
Next step is to get his chest tubes out because we also got the news that BOTH pneumothorax’s have HEALED!
Only uphill from here on out! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/15/2021
13 weeks, 4 Days
95 Days
2,280 Hours
136,800 Minutes
This is the amount of time that Shawn has been in the hospital. The amount of time that he’s been away from us.
Last week was definitely much better than the week prior. He’s made much progress with strength and awareness. He’s aggitated still but more at the fact that he can’t just come home.
My sister-in-law came to visit last week and it was great having someone by my side so I’m not alone. Even so, today I crashed. I’ve been going since Wednesday and it’s all caught up to me again. I seem to have this pattern where I can go 4-5 days and then my mind and body just say, you need a break and unfortunately it comes by way of breakdown.
So today, I’m going to rest and recoup and let her take over, which is hard. Thank God she’s here. And his brother and his wife will be here tonight for the next few days so I’ll be able to rest and regroup.
Hoping this week brings greater strides forward as last week did. We’re hoping that his chest tubes can be removed and his trach! Then physical therapy will be able to be done much easier without all the attachments that have been stalling things.
We love you. We appreciate you. More than words can say. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/13/2021
SO, today was a BIG day!
Shawn had his trach capped and is breathing on his own with only a little help from some nasal cannulas!!! (see attached video)
He was extremely nervous which is understandable after knowing that you’ve had support to breathe, to stay alive (as you will see in the attached video). But he did SO well!!!! ❤️
After 48 hours, about mid-day on Monday, he will then be able to say C-Ya to the trach!
And what comes next??? EATING and DRINKING!!!
We all cried happy tears!!!
Thank you AGAIN for all of your prayers, love and support! All of this couldn’t have happened without you!!!! ❤️
#griffinstrong UPDATE - 110/09/2021
A message from Shawn (see attached video) to all of those who have been following along with his journey, keeping us in your thoughts and prayers and offering support in any way that you can. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/08/2021
Another BIG step was taken today! The nurse had waited for my arrival to have Shawn try a Passy-Muir Valve. This will get him working on strengthening his vocal cords and allow him to talk instead of mouth words which has been very frustrating for us. (He’s told me many times with facial expressions that I’m not good at reading lips! )
Don’t judge him by his hair in the attached video! He’s likely not going to be happy that I have posted pictures and videos but, hey, I’m keeping it real with everyone and want to share this journey with all of you so he’ll get over it!
As the day progressed it got a bit easier for him although he coughed a lot since it caused a tickle in his throat.
His heart rate and oxygen levels both stayed at the perfect level all day which was also awesome! The next step once he builds up that strength is to try and cap the trach and do a swallow test so that he can begin eating soft foods. When I asked him what the first thing is he wants to eat when he is able he said “Apple Pie!”. ♀️
By the time I got there today he had already done all of his therapy and did well. He was able to stand a little longer today without his oxygen being effected which was great. Each days we hope he can continue to increase his ability more and more.
We watched Yellowstone on the iPad and just enjoyed the day together without any complaints which was wonderful after last week. ❤️
I left about 6 with him listening to some Jason Aldean and shortly after we got a group text from him that I had set up which wasn’t expected! We were all so happy to see it come through! The nurse/sitter in the video was great and she really did a lot with him today which I am so thankful for.
Thank you to everyone who chatted with me on my long ride this morning. It was a great way to fill in some gaps and to allow me to not focus on the long and boring ride.
And, as always, thank you to everyone for all of your love and support. ❤️
#griffinstrong #thisiscovid #covidsucks
For those asking to send cards, here is the address -
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Regency Hospital
805 Pamplico Hwy, 2nd Floor
Florence, SC 29505
Attn. Shawn Griffin 260
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
**No food or fresh flowers allowed.**
UPDATE - 11/06/2021
Shawn’s brother put this together. (see attached video)
It’s a snapshot of the good things which we are so grateful for. Lots of craziness happening in the background, as I mentioned, but I don’t want to leave out the good.
This week almost broke me. I left yesterday afternoon to get a break and try and rest and regroup. I’ll be back on Monday to start a new week. Our biggest obstacle right now is anxiety. I can’t blame him for wanting out of there but we need to get rid of a few things before we can start discussing his discharge plan.
Friends drove up to see him today which I was so thankful for. ❤️ It’s so helpful to know someone is popping in on the staff and to be able to FaceTime him and ensure him that I’m still here and am staying on top of everything.
Franks going tomorrow to watch football with him which I’m sure he’ll love.
Unfortunately, PT isn’t there on the weekends which is frustrating. But as you can see in the video, he is always working those legs and arms and is focused on getting his strength back.
It’s such a balance mentally and physically but I know that we will get there. I did when the tables were turned and if anyone can do it, I know he can.
Please continue to pray for us. We appreciate you all more than words can describe. ❤️
#griffinstrong #thisiscovid #fuckcovid #covidsucks #unstoppable
Venmo - @LindsayGriffin22
Cashapp - $LMGriffin22
**I do not own the rights to this music**
UPDATE - 11/04/2021
This is the reality of our situation (see FB for the video). One of the many struggles we are faced with.
This is what COVID has done to my husband. He’s right hand dominant and this is the function of his right arm and hand at the moment.
We aren’t sure if it is due to some nerve damage from having been proned while intubated or if perhaps he had what’s called a TIA or mini stroke. Since he was sedated nobody saw him have one and nothing showed up on his brain scan but from what I understand, they don’t always show on them.
The rehab facility has so far not impressed me as far as the staff or lack there of. The rehab specialists have been great, however. That’s another battle that I am currently fighting not knowing if this is the right place for him but our options unfortunately are slim.
Being the only person handling all of this has been very hard on me. Extremely hard not only being here but the reality of the situation. And all anyone can ever say to me is give it time. That’s all I’ve heard for almost 3 months now.
I’m tired. I’m frustrated. I’m worn down. I’m sad. I’m angry. I’m lonely. I’m all the things.
And yes, I’m thankful too but in all honesty, not all the time.
I need help.
Please share our story. Please share the reality of it. And please share our Go Fund Me because I don’t even know if tomorrow I will still have my job.
I may need to hire some help. I don’t know who or how but I do know that I am only one person holding up too more weight than I can bare.
Thank you as always for all of your love, prayers and support. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/02/2021
Shawn is having a really tough time transitioning from ICU to the new LTAC facility.
ICU Delirium has hit him pretty hard and he’s struggling with really bad anxiety to the point that it’s taken over him. A new place and all new faces is going to take some time to get used to so we’ve taken a few steps back in the last couple of days.
Leaving him last night and being so far away was really hard on the both of us so I woke up this morning and packed a bag and headed back.
I spent the day trying to keep myself together and keep him calm which was extremely difficult.
I was so excited to get him out of that hospital after 80 days that I really didn’t prepare myself for the current struggles that we are facing so I, myself feel a bit more overwhelmed than I already was feeling.
I’m staying in a Guest House for the families of patients that is communal living. A bit strange but very accommodating none the less.
I received a surprise Venmo from a very sweet person who is a friend of a friend which covered my stay and gas for this week so I can be by his side through this rough transition. The overwhelming amount of support and kindness through all of this has been incredible and I am so appreciative for it all.
I haven’t asked for prayers in a bit and know that many of you are still praying each day for us but I’m going to throw the request back out there for some as I feel that we really could use them.
I’m going to try and get some sleep and head back there in the morning in hope that tomorrow brings a better day. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 11/01/2021
Today seems like it’s been the longest day of my life!
Shawn was transported to the Long Term Care Facility (if you hadn’t yet seen the update) which is an hour and a half from us.
I learned today that it’s going to be a tough drive going there and back each day. They do have a Guest House that I’m going to look in to staying at for at least this week just so I know he’s settling in well and to get to know the new doctors and nurses.
When I arrived today, he was very anxious being in a new environment and seeing all new faces as they each entered the room.
It is much different than the hands on care he’s been receiving in the ICU which is going to be hard for both of us to get used to.
Leaving him tonight was harder than I ever imagined. I cried much of the ride home.
Here are some of the pictures I took before leaving today. The first one is with the Infectious Disease doctor that saw him from the first day he came in and who treated him up until today. The next is of one of the CNA’s who was just so sweet and who adored Shawn. She was crying when she was saying goodbye. The next is of the Chaplins and some of the nurses that have treated him along the way who all have been amazing. And last is of some of our dear friends who were able to come and celebrate his departure. We truly love each and every one of you! ❤️
And, much love to you all who have stuck with us throughout this journey and have shared such kind and supportive words of encouragement, love and prayers.
Each day is a blessing and a new day to celebrate how far we’ve come. Cheers to tomorrow…❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/30/2021
C-YA VENT!!!
Shawn’s done so well on the trach collar and oxygen mask that when we were just at the hospital for our final ICU visit the Respiratory Therapist came in and said “I’m here to take his vent!”
Tomorrow morning they’ll be transporting him to the Long Term Care Facility, finalllllly! We’ve been telling him all week that he’s going there but he still asks us if we’re there to take him home each visit. He’s SO over being in that hospital and we’re hoping he’ll be happier at the new one being able to do more each day. Nothing compares to home but it’s one more step closer so we’ll take it! ❤️
It’s crazy to think where we were and where we are today. To us, looking back, it seems like it went by fast but to him, he just sits there each day looking at the clock. He’s beyond ready to leave and understandably stir crazy!
So much so that when we got there tonight they had just given him a bath and talked the nurses into give him a mohawk! ♀️♀️
AND, he tried to talk us in to sneaking him some soda and some candy!!!
So yeah, he’s definitely ready to go!
Onward and upward…❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/29/2021
We visited with Shawn yesterday and it broke my heart because when we got there he thought we were coming to pick him up and take him home.
We realized that he’s starting to get ICU Delirium which is basically going stir crazy from being there for so long staring at the same things day in and day out.
He bored out of his mind and gets confused and his short term memory has also been affected from all of this we’ve noticed.
The nurses are beyond wonderful! They have decided that they need to come up with some things to help keep him busy, both mind and body. His nurse today wrote down on his glass wall some goals and the date so he can keep track. I had brought in a clock radio so she’s going to move it where can can also see the time. She’s also going to see what she can find for him to do to help strengthen his fine motor skills.
I’ve ordered some fine motor skill items off of Amazon (Thank God for Prime!) so that he can not only use them to help pass the time but to also help with building up some hand strength.
His right side, which is his dominant side, seems to have been affected the most from being immobile and turned so much for so long. He has a very bad bed sore on his right cheek that is taking forever to heal. His right eye was infected and had a scratched cornea and his right arm and hand is non-functional at the moment.
On a good note, she did have him brush his own teeth and wash his face this morning which was difficult having to use do it with his non-dominant hand.
We are still waiting on the final decision on getting him moved to the Long Term Care Facility which I don’t know if he fully understands. I’ve explained it to him several times so he knows that he’s not going to be able to come straight home but again, I don’t think he is fully retaining everything.
I feel like everything at the moment is a “hurry up and wait” game. And now here we are again at the weekend so…hopefully things will all come together and he’ll get moved at the beginning of next week. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/28/2021
Shawn is on the trach collar which means he’s breathing on his own with some oxygen!!! AND, he can TALK!!!
His parents are there visiting and the first thing he said was , “Good Morning. Get me outta this place!”
I FaceTimed him after to see it for myself and he said to me “I’m doing better now.”
I’m BAWLING my eyes out!!!
We are so thankful for him to have gotten this far and to have a voice after having been on the vent so long!!! It was a concern that they had and one of those things that they would say to us “We just don’t know…”
I miss him SO much! I can’t wait to have him back home again!!! He’s my hero! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/26/2021
YA’LL! Today has been INCREDIBLE!
Shawn weened down to the lowest setting on the ventilator which means he can now switch to a trach collar. With that he will have more freedom to move around, will be able to swallow on his own and gradually regain the ability to talk again!
He ALSO was able to sit on the side of the bed for 30 minutes! I said to the nurse, “30 seconds?” NOPE! 30 MINUTES!
Today has been the best day we’ve had in MONTHS!
It’s literally like a whole transformation has happened overnight! We are all so excited and overjoyed!
AND, we are waiting to see if insurance will approve him at the LTAC facility in Florence due to some recent changes at the local facility which ended up to work out better for a few reasons. They allow more visitors each day and it’s inside MUSC Hospital so should anything be needed beyond their ability, he can get the care he needs. They also have a Guest House available so family can stay if they choose to. It’s as if it was meant to be. So while it’s a bit further away, it’s overall a better option.
Going from being one of the 6% of those who survive once put on a ventilator to today, we’re celebrating some definite leaps in the right direction, FINALLY!
Thank you, as always for your support, love and prayers!!! ❤️
#griffinstrong
Quick Update - 10/21/2021
First, I want to say ❤️Thank You❤️ again from the bottom of our hearts for all of your love and support. I do read every comment and message that I get and we appreciate them all so much.
Shawn did have a better day today. He was able to get a good nights rest last night and with the help of the chest tube he is now more comfortable.
They even were able to get him in later this afternoon to swap out his chest tube to one that lays under the skin which is more secure and will allow him to move to the Long Term Acute Care facility. Pending no other setbacks (Please God! ) we’re hoping he will be moved there at the beginning of next week.
He gets anxious quite a bit so they are trying to treat that as best they can to make him more calm and comfortable.
Understandably, with all that he’s been through, he just wants out of there so badly. He doesn’t fully comprehend the toll that this has taken on him physically and is focusing a lot of his “free” time on trying to get up and out of that bed.
The nurses said that they are quite surprised on how much strength he actually has despite it all which is a good and bad thing. Good in that he will hopefully do well with therapy and bad that he doesn’t realize that he can’t do what his mind is wanting to. He’s caught quite often trying to pull himself using the bed rails in to all different positions.
His nurse told me tonight that when she asked him “Where do you think you’re going?!” that he just kept repeating over and over, “I’m going home!”.
Breaks my heart hearing that.
So, while we get over one hurdle, there are still others in our path. But getting home is the ultimate goal and it’s clear that we all cannot wait until we cross that finish line! ❤️
#griffinstrong
Quick Update - 10/20/2021
I got a call at 1 a.m. letting me know that Shawn’s left lung developed a pneumothorax which means it partially collapsed like the right side had done a few weeks ago. It only partially collapsed because of the scar tissue he has due to Covid on his upper lobe.
They called in a Thoracic Surgeon and needed my consent to place a chest tube on the left side which they did shortly after.
Hence, today was not a good day. One step forward, a few steps back.
He’s frustrated and so am I. We’re so tired. And it’s so hard not to be able to be with him or do anything to help him.
Praying for a better day tomorrow…❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/18/2021
Throughout the last few months, I’ve had doctors tell me -
“Your husband is very critically ill and likely will not survive this.”
“It’s very unlikely you’re husband will recover from this and we suggest you considering a DNR should anything happen.”
“We’d like you to begin thinking about making the difficult decision to let him go as it’s been too long and we don’t even know if ‘he’s’ still in there.”
“You’re husband is already dead. That machine is the only thing allowing him to breath and appear alive.”
Yes, they’ve said ALL of those things to me and NEVER once did I say anything but, “We are NOT giving up and I am telling you to do whatever it takes to keep him alive despite how you may feel or what you may think. And DO NOT ask me again about making decisions or the DNR because it’s NOT happening.”
I know my husband best and knew if anyone could overcome this, he could.
Well, tonight I can say that my heart is SO full!!!! ❤️
Shawn is more awake and more aware of where he is and what is happening. We haven’t discussed the amount of time that has gone by as I don’t want him to know that just yet. He’s already absorbing a lot so I don’t want to overload him until the time is right.
He did 9 hours of breathing on his own today too which is AMAZING!!!
He’s anxious and frustrated with not being able to get up out of bed but I helped him understand why and that with some time and physical therapy to help rebuild his strength that he will be able to begin to do so much more soon.
He’s become a favorite of all the nurses and even flashed them a smile or two when they were teasing him. So many of them who have treated him at some point throughout this journey have approached me to tell me that it brings them so much joy seeing him awake, alert and moving. They even have teared up at times because they are just so happy for us all.
After visiting him for a bit tonight I could tell he was getting tired so I decided to leave so he could rest which he was okay with. I told him that I loved him and he “mouthed” it back and leaned in for a kiss (through my mask)!!! Oh my heart…❤️❤️❤️
I’ve been SO anxious for this day to come! To be able to talk to him again and know that he IS mentally and physically back with us, despite what the doctors thought, which makes me SO beyond happy.
I know he’s going to have good days and bad days ahead but being together again will get us through. ❤️
THANK YOU ALL, AS ALWAYS! ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/16/2021
Hi everyone.
It’s been over 9 weeks since our world changed. We still cannot believe it’s all real. It’s like we’re all in a fog most of the time.
Shawn had a setback last week. His right lung collapsed which they say is common when someone has been intubated and on a vent for a long time. So, they had to put in a chest tube to drain the fluid that was causing it. This delayed things a bit from being able to ween him down on the vent.
They’ve also had a hard time getting the right combination of medications and the timing just right too as to when to give them to him when transitioning him off of the heavy sedation meds. So there’s been some changes made here and there in an attempt to get it right. This has delayed his ability to wake up and respond to us more and more. He’s essentially still in a fog along with us.
He also has his days and nights mixed up so sometimes he’s up all night and asleep most of the day so we end up missing out on seeing him awake since visiting hours are so limited.
When he is awake, he is moving his arms and legs and trying to sit up at times. He continues to respond to yes and no questions appropriately. Occupational Therapy has come in to try and work with him but he tires easily and his heart rate gets up there from the pain of not having moved for so long so they haven’t been able to do too much in that arena.
In total, to date, he’s lost 50 pounds. He’s very weak and frail which is so heartbreaking for us to see.
But, with all that being said, he’s here and with time, he will continue to get better and regain his strength and weight. Like they’ve continued to tell us, it’s a very slowwww process but we are just so eager to have him back with us so to us it seems like it’s taking forever.
They are also working on strengthening his lungs by allowing him time to breath on his own during the day without any help from the vent. He did a total of 4 hours the other day which was awesome! His lung X-rays are improving as well which is a great sign.
So, transitioning to the Long Term Acute Care facility hasn’t happened yet and likely won’t for a few more weeks. He can’t go there with a chest tube so until that resolves, we remain in ICU.
It’s been very hard to get through the days without him here at home with us. Especially for me, going to bed at night alone and without him next to me has been one of the hardest things. And knowing that he’s there in that hospital all alone and confused is beyond hard.
Even though he’s still here, I feel like I lost my best friend. It’s lonely. And most days I feel lost.
When I leave Shawn after visiting and pass by all of the rooms of others who have been effected by COVID-19 and see their loved ones sitting by their side and knowing that this is just a small fraction of people who are also living this nightmare, it truly brings to light just what our world has been hit with.
It’s not something to take lightly. It certainly doesn’t discriminate. And is absolutely real. And it’s affecting and taking too many amazing people.
I’ve never been a preacher of things but this I will say, please take all the precautions that you can and that are available. Trust me when I say that you do not want you or your family to go through what we are going through.
As always, thank you for love and support. It has and continues to get us through every minute of every day. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/10/2021
Hi everyone. ❤️
It’s been over 8 weeks now that my husband has been in the hospital. Over 7 weeks since being intubated. To say that it’s been a slow process, each day does seem like forever to get through but at the same time, to realize how much time has gone by it seems as though it’s gone by quickly.
He’s becoming more awake in the recent days and doing more purposeful movements. He’s responding well to questions with stronger head nods and has even mouthed a few words.
I don’t believe that he’s fully aware of why he’s in the hospital or the amount of time that has passed. He is aware of when family is there visiting and isn’t very happy when we have to leave.
With all of the swelling now gone you can tell that he’s lost quite a bit of weight. If I had to guess, about 35-40 pounds. Luckily, all his muscle is still under there which is good. We’ll get to working on putting back that weight back on once he’s able to eat real food again.
He’s in a bit of pain which he expressed to the nurse. They feel it’s mostly muscular since he hasn’t moved at all in months. His muscles are all so weak and tired. He’s even tried to sit up a few times as he doesn’t realize that he can’t. It’s all very hard for us to watch knowing how strong he has always been. But just like his weight, we’ll build that strength back up with therapy.
I haven’t heard anything yet about the status of getting him in to the Long Term Acute Care Facility. He needs to make some more progress on weening down on the vent and the medication. While he’s off the IV drip, the more he comes to, the more his anxiety kicks in so they have had to give him a few “pushes” of sedation to help calm him. The anxiety causes his heart rate to increase therefore throws his breathing off. They want to be able to get him off the vent and on a trach collar requiring just oxygen vs. oxygen from the vent before he can transfer.
Again, they keep telling us it’s all a very slow process with a lot of up’s and down’s but they ensure us that we will get there.
The nurses rotate and some don’t see him for a few weeks before they are back on his floor. One of his nurses told me that she couldn’t believe the improvement he’s made over the last few weeks and that they all were talking about it and tearing up. He’s become a favorite of theirs I think. I can’t wait until we can go back there months from now and truly thank them for everything they have done for us.
We all look forward to the days ahead as he continues to make progress. It’s all baby steps but to think about where we were to how far we’ve come, they are pretty big to us.
Again, another big thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. I do read every comment and message that is sent so if I don’t respond, please don’t take it personally. My level of exhaustion physically and mentally has taken a toll from all of this and it’s hard enough to get through each day just doing the basics. We all appreciate the support more than you know which has helped and continues to help get us through.
I’ve attached our ~Go Fund Me~ link that our daughter created which is very hard for me to do, but I know that we aren’t even half way through this journey. We are so grateful for the support that we’ve received already which will help with lost income, medical bills, travel cost, parking garage cost, eating out (which we unfortunately do more than we would like), helping me take care of the house on my own, etc. Every penny has already been so helpful in taking off some of the stress that we have outside of Shawn and his health.
So, a big thank you as well to everyone who has donated, shared and supported us in some way monetarily.
We feel so very loved by you all. Thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough to express how much you all mean to us. ❤️ #griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/07/2021
Hi everyone. ❤️
They’ve weened Shawn off all of his IV medications and have moved to pill form (watered down through his feeding tube) which they will then slowly ween down over time.
He continues to interact with us by shaking his head to answer questions, blinking when you ask, etc. but I can tell that he’s gets a little frustrated with not being able to actually talk and have the strength to move very much. It’s heartbreaking to see him like this since he’s always been so strong. But, I know with time he’ll gain back all of his strength again.
The hospital called me and said that they are planning to have him moved to a Long Term Acute Care Facility soon where they will take over his care and he will begin working with speech, occupational and physical therapy to get back all motor function. Unfortunately, there are only 2 locations to choose from - 1.) 45 minutes away and 2.) 2 hours away. Depending on who has availability to take him will depend on where he goes. Please pray that it’s the closer location because it will be hard for us to visit as often as we want to if he’s at the one farther away.
As much as I wish I could fast forward through all this and get him back home, it seems as though he likely won’t be able to come home for several more months as he needs more time to heal and gain back strength.
Thank you all for your continued throughts and prayers. They are appreciated more than you know. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE - 10/04/2021
Hi everyone.
Today started off rough for me. Some days I’m just okay and others I’m just not. From the second I woke up I could tell my nerves were high. I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it to go and see Shawn or not until I got a call from his Nurse Practitioner.
She asked me how I was doing and I fell apart. I hate to do that to them knowing already how much is on their shoulders but she said, “Well, I have some good news to share with you!”
She proceeded to tell me that Shawn had started to move a bit and respond to requests. She said that he blinked his eyes, squeezed her hand, wiggled his toes and raised his eyebrows when asked. He was also able to shake his head yes and no very slightly when asked questions.
I SOBBED!
Literally SOBBED uncontrollably for I don’t even know how long. They were tears of joy and built up worry that was just needing desperately to be released.
She then told me that I had to go tonight because she also said that she asked him if he wanted to see his wife and his eyes lit up! ❤️
After everything that has happened and the doctors and nurses responding to our questions with “Well, we’ll just have to wait and see how he is neurologically…” more times than we’ve wanted to hear, getting to this point has always been a concern in the back of my mind that I have fought with often.
So, I did go tonight during visiting hours. I cried for the first ten minutes outside his door like I always do and then I pulled myself together and went in. He did most of the same things that the Nurse Practitioner said he did for her when I asked him to do them.
He so badly wants off of all that “stuff”, I can tell. He’s still fighting and fighting hard to fully get back to us. He’s truly the strongest person I know.
While all of this up until this point has been SO hard, this part is very hard because he’s actually feeling it. Prior to this he’s been sedated and paralyzed so he really has no clue. But this is different. It’s hard to watch and not being able to do anything to help is pure torture for me. And, like they’ve told me and I’ve shared with you, it’s all such a slow process.
So I ask again, please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers for strength and healing as we continue down this journey. We’re getting there but are no where close to the end. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/30/2021 -
Hi everyone. ❤️
As you know, Shawn got the trach on Monday. He remains on the ventilator but they are continuing to ween that down as they can and as his lungs continue to heal.
They have also been weening him off his medications which were upwards of 7-9 and are now down to 2. His ”episodes” have lessened and are less severe which is a great thing. When he does have them, his heart rate and blood pressure get out of wack but his oxygen stats stay and he levels out quickly. Again, I believe it’s all part of the weening off process and how his body is handling it but they still aren’t certain.
Since he has been sedated for longer than normal (2 weeks on average) it will take him longer to come to, they said it may be a few months even before he’s fully aware of what has happened.
With all of the strides that he’s made, we are hoping it doesn’t take that long as we all can’t wait to have him back with us and for him to begin physical therapy.
So, again, I can’t thank you all enough for your prayers. For him to pull through this is truly a miracle and all of your prayers have definitely contributed to it.
Please continue to pray for strength for him and us as we continue down this VERY difficult path. For his continued healing and for him to continue to overcome as each day passes. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/21/2021 -
Sorry for the delay in updating everyone.
Shawn remains stable but is still having episodes which they have narrowed down to thinking when they ween his setting down his lungs can’t handle the oxygen exchange. They can for a bit but then can’t requiring them to bring them all back up again.
It’s all a balancing act. And it’s unknown whether there is permanent lung damage or his lungs just need more time to heal.
Please keep praying for healing and strength for us all. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/12/2021-
Hi everyone.
Shawn is holding steady. Longer than he has in the past. Still critical but has come down quite a bit on the vent and is tolerating it well and for longer periods than before.
The hard part is weening down the sedation. Similar to detoxing, not everyone tolerates it well so they are working on that. And we all know that Shawn’s likely going to be one of their hardest patients when it comes to this.
The doctors and nurses seem so defeated by all of this. They are tired and don’t seem to want to have any hope or try at this point.
We, however, ARE NOT backing down!
I continue to be his advocate and tell the doctors that we are not and won’t be giving up hope anytime soon. I have advised them to do the same and to continue to do everything possible to keep him with us.
I don’t think they realized at first just who they are dealing with here!
So we ask that you all continue to hope, pray, and trust in the miracles that have and can happen. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/09/2021 -
Hi everyone.
The last 24-48 hours have been SO tough. Just when we think we are turning a corner, we find out we aren’t. It’s a lot to write but I wanted to give you all somewhat of an update.
He’s still holding strong. There are so many things that are still unknown. Our heads are spinning. This is all so beyond what you read. What you think you know, you don’t even know the half of it.
While we find hope in some success stories, every one is different and this virus effects everyone so differently.
It doesn’t seem to matter if you have any underlying conditions or not. My husband had none.
We don’t know much but remain hopeful.
He’s too critical to bring for a CT scan so they aren’t sure the extent of the lung damage me may have. They also don’t know the extent of the heart damage he may have after the blood clot.
They have assured us that he isn’t suffering at all.
All of his organs are still functioning fine.
They decided today that the best next step is to begin to ween him off the paralytic and also ween him off most of his medication. They also have been weening down his vent settings to see how much his lungs are able to do on their own. This all will give them a better understanding of the status of his heart and lungs. While he made great progress today, we’ll have a better idea of everything as we continue to take baby steps and see how he reacts one the paralytic fully wears off. We did get word that he has already tried taking some breaths on his own which is a good sign.
It’s all so slow and we’re so anxious to see him better but we are trying to be as patient as possible which is excruciatingly painful.
So, we continue to lean on hope and prayers. We appreciate your diligence in praying for him. Praying for us. If anyone can overcome, it’s him. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/08/2021 -
Hi everyone. I’m so sorry I haven’t posted any updates of recent.
Basically, we are back to where we were a week ago before the blood clot.
We’ve started over and are trying to take baby steps towards getting the trach. As long as he continues to cooperate and hold strong, we are hopeful they will be able to get it done and get him off of the sedation and paralytic and wake him. God willing there won’t be any other set backs.
Some of his family is still here and will see him today to give him that added push. They’ll be heading home tomorrow.
Living this hotel life has been a blessing but it’s wearing on us so we too will be heading back home this afternoon.
They are also going to try and move him to another CICU floor where he can have one visitor a day for a few hours in the morning and then again at night. So, as long as my days have been, they’ll be getting even longer once they begin to allow that but I’ll be so thankful to be able to see him again more consistently. The hospital he’s in is about 45 minutes from us, without traffic.
So please continue to do all the things that you have been for us. Clearly they are working! We love you all and appreciate you more than you know. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/06/2021 -
Well, we’ve now gone 36 hours holding strong! 
Shawn’s family all rushed here after he really scared the crap out of us yesterday morning. Some got here late yesterday and some arrived today but everyone got to spend some time with him, to touch him and talk to him. We do feel that that made a world of difference in the progress he had made. Even the nurses couldn’t believe how he rebounded!
They wanted to see how he did if they weened back some of his sedation today and he actually opened one eye, moved his head and leg when family was in the room. So he’s trying. Fighting SO hard to get better and be back here with us. ❤️
We are staying in a hotel a mile from the hospital so that we can get to him quickly if we need to. Luckily, we haven’t needed to. We’re going to stay another few nights just to be safe.
We unfortunately won’t be able to visit with him tomorrow (per the hospital) so we’re going to take the time to get some much needed rest and regroup. And that will give him time to rest too.
Thank you all again for everything. It’s been so helpful to know that we are all being surrounded with so much love and prayers. It’s what’s keeping us all going so please don’t stop. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/05/2021 -
We received another “You need to come here.” call at 6:30 a.m.
We are at a point where his heart and lungs have both taken a hit. They are out of options and he’s stable but it’s all up to him now.
So, we wait. And we hope. And we pray that his body still has enough fight left to get him through this.
PLEASE PRAY FOR STRENGTH. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/03/2021 -
I so badly want off this rollercoaster!
Today, Shawn started off having a rough morning. We all know how tough and stubborn he can be and most of the time we chalk it up to him just not liking to be messed with. I told his medical team and nurses this so they are well aware. So, they let him be for a bit to settle down while keeping a close eye on him.
Out of nowhere, his stats dropped to the lowest that they’ve ever gone and panic set in. They feared his blood clot had moved to his heart and quickly did an echocardiogram which confirmed that his heart was struggling. This confirmed their suspicions that the clot had moved and had reached his heart.
They consulted with the Cardiology team and the Pulmonary team and decided it was time to give him TPA which is a very risky medication but when it works, it will break up the clot. They made the tough decision that at this point the benefit outweighed the risk.
So, it was then that I got the dreaded call, “You’re husband is in a VERY critical state and we think you should come here as soon as possible.”
Try and swallow that. I couldn’t. I was a mess. I sent out a cry for help to my close friend group and one of them came running because there was no way I was going to be able to drive.
So, as hard as it was to hear those words, I then had to tell the kids. Talk about devastation.
We all got in the car and didn’t say much on the ride. None of us wanted to go but we knew we had to.
When we got there, the kids hadn’t yet seen him in the state that he is in so that was the first hurdle we got through while waiting for the doctors.
We all watched the monitors and I explained to them what was what so they understood.
Finally, the doctors came in and sat with us and told us the details of the medication and explained that they don’t use it unless it’s a crisis situation, what lead them to that decision and explained why they called and told us to come. They said that before we got there it was unknown whether or not it was going to work but that by the time we were there he was beginning to head in the right direction. THANK GOD!
They feel that he hasn’t been progressing to the level that they thought he should be by now (being he has no underlying conditions) and that it is likely because that clot was working it’s way through reeking havoc causing all these ups and downs. And while they have had him on blood thinners, sometimes that doesn’t do the trick.
We spent a few hours with him and talked with him. I called all of his family members who took time to talk to him too. We struggled so badly with having to leave him but we know that he is in great hands.
They already have a plan for if anything else creeps up (PLEASE LET THERE BE NOTHING ELSE!). They are all still very hopeful, as are we, that he will pull through this.
So, tonight will likely be the hardest night for me yet to try and get some rest. I don’t think I truly have in weeks. Exhausted isn’t even the word to describe me at this point.
Please keep the prayers going, not that I need to tell you all that as I know we have a lot of continuous prayer warriors on our side and we appreciate you all more than you know.
The doctors are all hopeful that he will now start and remain going in the right direction which is right back home to us.
That moment can’t come soon enough. ❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/02/2021 -
The power of touch is an amazing thing. ❤️
The nurses called me just as I was about to grocery store to grab a few things and each time they call me, I hesitate for a moment before answering out of fear.
When I answered, I was not at all expecting them to say “We all came together and decided to bend the rules a bit and let you come in and see your husband. How quick can you get here?”
Of course I said, “I’m on my way!” It’ll be 3 weeks tomorrow since I saw him and 2 weeks since I have had any communication with him.
All the feelings that one can feel came over me. Excitement, nervousness, joy, fear, you name it I think I felt them all.
I got to spend about 2 1/2 hours with him and lay my hands on him again, finally! I had some family members call and a few friends so that they can talk to him. His doctor came in and kneeled next to me and we talked at length about everything. His nurse came in and showed me all the “things” so I better understood what they were and the purpose they were serving.
I asked the nurse if she really thinks he can hear me/us. I asked because I noticed his heart rate at times increase as we all spoke to him. She said “Well, if this helps at all, his heart rate was in the 80’s before you came.” It got as high as 99 and stayed mid to high 90’s the entire time I was there. ❤️
So with that, I now know that he heard me. He heard us. I told him about all the love and support flowing in from everyone. I told him about all of the people thinking of us and praying for him to get better and back home soon.
AND I told him how loved he is by so many.
While each day we inch forward and sometimes back, which is unfortunately how this evil thing likes to operate, I have no doubt that he’s going to continue to fight this battle with all he has and win!
Thank you all again SO much for your thoughts and prayers. Keep’em coming because they are definitely working!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 09/02/2021 -
First off, I want to thank everyone, from the bottom of our hearts for all of your thoughts, prayers, and generosity during this time. It definitely is as difficult as you can imagine, more honestly. ❤️
Yesterday, Shawn didn’t have a good day as you may have seen in my post on Facebook.
Let me back up a bit. Tuesday, Julianna and I were able to set up a FaceTime call with him through the hospital. It was the first time that we had seen him since he’s been on a ventilator (over 2 weeks). We tried to prepare ourselves as best we could but the reality of the situation became that much more real. We struggled through tears but talked to him and we both noticed his eyes twitch when we did which was so helpful for us in knowing that he did hear our words. He had a really good day that day and I like to think it’s because he heard our voices. His vent got down to the lowest they’ve been able to get it at 70%.
They called me to discuss setting up a Tracheotomy since he’s been on the vent for 2 weeks and they don’t want to keep him sedated and on a paralytic for too much longer. They scheduled it for today at 3 p.m. With a Trach he eventually will be woken up and can begin moving, as best he can and eventually start therapy. We’d be able to see him and correspond with him too which for all of us would be amazing.
Yesterday however, he woke up doing well and out of nowhere his stats plummeted. They initially didn’t know why as they didn’t see anything obvious. They had to bring his vent back up to 100%. After rounding and brainstorming they came to the conclusion that he likely had a Pulmonary Embolism (a blood clot). They decided to leave him be and not do too much to disrupt him as they felt it was too risky. They couldn’t take him for a Ct Scan to see if he had any blood clots in his lungs, again, because it was too risky. So they began treating him as if he had one.
We FaceTimed him again last night in hope that if he heard us he would level out and calm down. This time both kids and I were there and it was heart wrenching.
With a little help from Ativan, I did get some much needed rest last night even though I fought it for a bit. Not knowing at any point if you’re going to get a phone call is so hard. I prayed that I wouldn’t and Thank God, my phone didn’t ring.
I just spoke to his nurse and she said he did well overnight. They were able to bring the vent down to 85% and he’s holding steady. They are planning to discuss a plan for today during rounds but she did tell me that they won’t be proceeding with the trach today because it’s just too risky.
They’ve already decided to hold off on the Tracheotomy for now. His stats need to improve before they proceed. Luckily the surgical team is there all weekend so they can do it once he maintains a good level and doesn’t require that much oxygen.
So, we wait and we hope that today’s a better day and that he holds steady long enough to be able to get the Trach.
I’m going to set up another FaceTime, as hard as they are, so that I can continue to be his cheerleader and let him know that we are okay so he’s not worrying and he can stay calm. I’ve been telling him that so many are praying for him and that we all love him so much.
Please continue praying HARD for him so we can get back home to all of us. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
#griffinstrong
UPDATE 08/31/2021 -
Hi everyone. I am going to give you all an update on Shawn but first I want to say that I have read ALL of the posts, texts and messages that you have sent. I can’t tell you how much the prayers, kind words and support in all ways means to us. I know that Shawn appreciates them all as well knowing that we are so loved and being taken care of on his behalf in so many ways.
Today marks day 13 since I’ve seen or spoken to my husband. In over 24 years of not going more than a few hours of at least a quick text, this has been grueling to say the least.
I spoke to one of his Crital Care doctors yesterday at length and she said that since we are approaching day 14 on a ventilator and under sedation (and a paralytic at times), they are going to be discussing giving him a tracheotomy. This will allow him to be able to interact with them and treat him better. While little things have come up here and there that have made my heart sink, he’s still fighting like the beast that he is.
We need to weigh all of the pro’s and cons of being on the vent vs. a trach as they both come with risks. She does feel that this step would be a good thing as long as he is able to tolerate it. They will have the ability to hook the vent up to the trach if they need to but let’s hope they don’t. He’s become aggregated at times with the vent so with a trach he would need to be tolerant to having it so not to increase his blood pressure or need for oxygen.
He’s going to require speech therapy, occupational therapy (fine motor skills) and physical therapy which they would be able to start if he has a trach. He would be moved to another ICU floor where he can begin to have visitors and then eventually move to a physical therapy floor. Once he’s home, therapy will continue and he may also continue to require oxygen.
If he’s suffered any permanent damage to his lungs and vocal cords at this point, they can’t tell me. The trach can also cause these. I pray that he’s suffered enough and won’t have any but we just won’t know for awhile unfortunately.
Emotionally, that’s a whole other ball game. For all of us really.
But, as you all know, we’ve been down this road before. And I just can’t wait until I can start caring for him the way he cared for me when I was sick. That’s been one of the hardest things for me is not being able to reciprocate all the love and care he gave that got me while I was going through my battle.
I requested to have one of the nurses FaceTime me today so that I can see him. I’m not going to lie, I’m terrified. Nobody wants to see their loved one like this. But I know that he needs to hear my voice and know that we are okay.
Our long road is just beginning although it seems like we’ve been traveling down it forever. Our sweet daughter wanted to do something so that she feels she’s helping in some way so she did set up a Go Fund Me for us. To put yourself out there like this is extremely difficult for us but we know that so many have asked how they can help. We know that everyone is fighting some battle in some way but if you are able to assist monetarily, it would certainly take some of the stress and worry off of our already full plate. I don’t even want to think about what the cost of this is going to be on top of neither of us being able to work at this time. I have added it below but please, if you can’t, we completely understand. It’s a difficult time for so many right now. Even sharing would be so appreciated.
As soon as I have more information to share, I will.
Again, thank you SO much for your love, thoughts, prayers and generosity in all ways as we navigate through this.
We are truly blessed to have you all in our corner rooting for us to overcome, once again.
#griffinstrong
Many people have been asking what they can do to offer support to my family during this extremely difficult time so I thought I would create this Go Fund Me for them. My father is critically ill and my mom can’t work right now with everything going on so I know that during this time, finances may be tough and I don’t want them to worry any more than they already are.
For those who don’t know the whole story, I’ll share it below.
On my father’s 53rd birthday, we went out to celebrate with friends and had an amazing time like we always do.
A few days later, our life took a horrible turn. My father started to not feel well and thought he had a sinus infection. We went about things throughout the week even so but by Friday, August 6th he took the day off to rest. He woke up on Saturday, August 7th and said “I think I need to go get tested.” That test came back positive for COVID.
We spent the next week checking his temperature and monitoring all of his symptoms. Our doctor gave us antibiotics and steroids to try and prevent him from getting pneumonia which, come Friday, August 13th, became reality. My mom rushed him to the ER where he was admitted. That was the last time I saw physically saw my dad.
He spent the following week on oxygen and medications to try and control his breathing, slowly but quickly going through all levels of oxygen levels until Thursday, August 19th when we were woken up by a FaceTime video call from the hospital telling us that they were about to put my dad on a ventilator and they wanted to let us to talk to him before they did. That was the worst nightmare that we’ve ever been woken up by.
Fast forward to today, August 29th. Every day has consisted of calls to the Critial ICU unit where his nurses and doctors have now give us updates on how he’s doing. Truly angels in disguise. My heart sinks a little with each call not knowing what they are going to tell us. While he’s had good days, he’s also had bad which they keep telling us is all part of this slow and grueling process.
Earlier this week he developed pneumonia on top of having COVID pneumonia which was so concerning. Luckily they are able to combat that with some more antibiotics which seem to be working.
All his organs are functioning fine and he is fighting like hell to get through this and back home to us. He squeezed the doctors hand and wiggled his toes so that gave us some confidence in knowing that he’s there and still fighting this battle like the warrior he is.
Our days are long and our nights are lonely. After my mom already fighting her battle with breast cancer I never would have thought that we’d be having to fight another like we are.
Once he comes off the ventilator he’ll need to remain on oxygen and basically go backwards from where he initially started. He’s going to need speech, physical and occupational therapy and possibly need oxygen once he’s home too. He’s looking at several more weeks in the hospital and at least 6-8 weeks of recovery once he’s off of the ventilator.
We appreciate all those who got word and have sent thoughts and prayers our way.
So with all that said, we ask that you PLEASE keep us in your thoughts and prayers while we struggle to get through every minute of every day.
Those who know my father, he’s the most giving and loving man. The first one to drop everything and be there for you so please, let’s pull together for him and be there for him. May the power of prayer bring him back home to us. ❤️ Julianna
#griffinstrong