Nick medical recovery
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By now, many of you have probably heard of the serious health condition that left Nick fighting for his life on Christmas Eve, Thursday December 24th 2015. While home alone at his house in Mankato, Nick called 911 for an excruciating headache and severe vomiting. Unknown at the time, Nick was experiencing a brain hemorrhage. By the time paramedics arrived, his condition had degraded into unconsciousness. EMS transported him to the Mayo Clinic in Mankato (only a few blocks away) where he was given initial treatment before being airlifted to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Thanks to prayer, rapid medical help and skilled staff, Nick survived. While that is greatest gift anyone could ask for, he and his family still face the financial burden of a long recovery expected to take weeks to months.
Nick does have health insurance, but as his good friend and former roommate of 6.5 years, I know very well that doesn’t cover everything. With your help, let’s let Nick and his family focus on recovery and not the bill. If you understand Nick’s situation, please help. If Nick has been a part of your life, please help. If Nick’s humor has made you laugh, please help. The Kaminsky’s would be most grateful for any financial support.
I will post updates on Nick’s progress and please keep him in your prayers for a speedy and thorough recovery.
Update Feb 19, 2016 @ 10:58AM by the man himself, Nick Kaminksy
Well it looks like it’s been a little while since I’ve written anything on Facebook. To start out, I suppose I should apologize for throwing a wrench in everyone’s Christmas Eve by having a medical emergency and getting airlifted to Rochester. I guess I just can’t handle not being the center of attention.
I’d like to say thank you to all of my family, friends, acquaintances, students, and even strangers who stepped up to the plate and helped my family and me get through the very challenging days following my December 24 brain hemorrhage. I can honestly never say “thank you” enough for everything everyone did for us—the prayers, the Mass offerings, the donations of money to help with medical expenses, the gifts of food and other necessities. It is a great understatement to say that I am very blessed to know such generous people.
I am happy to report that, with your kind support, I am now on the mend and have already come a long way toward full recovery. Please know that I will always be grateful for all you have done for me.
Update Jan 28, 2016 @ 10:06AM by sister Emily Dahl
35 days later, and Nick Kaminsky is leaving the hospital!!! He'll stay with our parents for a while until he can go back to Mankato, but he's doing great! Thank God for answered prayers!
Update Jan 27, 2016 @ 1:07AM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Update on Nick: He is getting better each day. His memory is improving and his cognitive skills are slowly but surely coming back. He still has a long way to go however, and needs lots prayers. Without any more setbacks he will be coming home this Thursday. He is going to be very tired and we ask that visitors wait at least one week before coming to see him. Thanks again to all of you for your continued prayers and support.
Update Jan 15, 2016 @ 10:58PM by sister Emily Dahl
Nick had his surgery today and it went great. He's in much less pain already, and is back on the recovery floor!!
Update Jan 15, 2016 @ 1:15PM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Last night the doctors drained some of the spinal fluid from Nicks brain. The pressure had been building up and caused his episode last night. Either today or tomorrow he is going to be having a shunt installed. This should prevent it from happening again. Please continue to pray!
Update Jan 14, 2016 @ 9:26PM by sister Emily Dahl
Nick is back in the ICU. He had spinal fluid buildup in his brain, which required a spinal tap. He'll be having a permanent shunt put in within the next day or two. We're thankful this was caught before it got worse, but nonetheless, it's a setback. In case I haven't asked enough already, please please keep the prayers coming. Thank you!
Update Jan 14, 2016 @ 6:47PM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Please pray for Nick Kaminsky, he is not doing very well again. He's back in the ICU because he's been having episodes of confusion, anxiety, and blood pressure spikes.
Update Jan 11, 2016 @ 3:11PM by sister Emily Dahl
Today marks 18 days since my brother Nick's accident, and it's the first day we've really seen him frustrated and in despair over his situation. If you have a moment, please send a quick prayer that he can feel peace and hope throughout all of this. Thank you!
*My parents have been at Nick's side this entire time, and it has been very taxing on them. They are the most selfless people I know, and will never complain about any of it. But they could probably use a prayer or two as well. (heart emoticon)
Update Jan 10, 2016 @ 1:28AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick got the tube that was draining the blood out of his head removed this afternoon. He was moved out of the intensive care unit and into a regular room. If anyone is interested in visiting him he is now on the 9th floor of the Mary Brigh building. Please keep the prayers coming.
Update Jan 8, 2016 @ 5:25PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is getting a little better each day but he still has a hard time with his short term memory and certain cognitive tests. He is also very weak and has lost a lot of weight. Please do not stop praying for him because he has a long and difficult road to recovery ahead with many potential complications. Also, if you are planning on going to see him just note you will not be allowed in the room from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, as this is the time they allow him to nap. Thank you all for your prayers and support during this difficult time. It mean more than you may know. God Bless you all!
Update Jan 2, 2016 @ 1:55PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Update on Nick: Today they took the feeding tube out and he got to have some real food. Unfortunately the tube in his head that is draining the blood is going to have to be in for quite a while longer, as only about half of the blood has been removed. We are happy Nick has been improving but he is still in serious condition and we must continue to pray. I would also like to make a prayer request for a young man who is in the same unit of the hospital as Nick. His name is Adrian, he is in the Navy and is 21 years old. He has been in a coma since the 18th of this month. His parents are wonderful people and they all need many many prayers. God Bless!
Update Dec 31, 2015 @ 11:26PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is still doing well. He is talking and they had him walking in place for a while. He still has a long way to go, please continue to pray.
Update Dec 30, 2015 @ 1:35 PM by sister Emily Dahl
We just visited Nick Kaminsky again. He was awake (but very tired), and sitting up in a chair. He recognized us, and even managed to *whisper* a couple of words to us! He's been dealing with a terrible, constant headache since his sedatives have been lowered, but that's to be expected. Little by little, he's improving with each day. We owe so much of it to ALL of our friends and family who are praying for him. We can't thank you enough. Please keep the prayers coming!
Side note: Visitors are welcome, but right now, he REALLY needs rest. If you DO choose to come, we ask that you limit your visit with him to just a few minutes, and that only 2 people go in his room at a time. He'll be there a while too, so no need to rush there! Thank you for understanding!
Update Dec 30, 2015 @ 1:25PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is getting better each day. He is more alert and able to talk. He is still very groggy and has a terrible headache. We appreciate visitors and know people want to see him, but we ask that you hold off until next week when he will hopefully feel more up to it. Please do not stop praying for him because there is still a long road ahead, and many things that could go wrong. God Bless!
P.S. I am sure he would appreciate cards however. Just make them out to Nicholas Kaminsky Patient, St. Mary's Hospital, 1216 2nd St. SW 55902, Rochester MN
Update Dec 29, 2015 @ 10:41AM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Nick Kaminsky is waking up more as they reduce his sedation. He was talking a little bit this morning but still is mostly quiet and somewhat confused. They have him in the chair but he is very tired. Please do not stop praying for him. He still has a long way to go.
Update Dec 28, 2015 @ 9:10AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick Kaminsky was awake this morning. He smiled at my parents and nodded his head in answer to a couple questions. Your prayers are the the reason he is still alive, and they are the only way he will get better. God be Praised!
Update Dec 28, 2015 @ 7:38AM by father Gary Kaminksy
Last night we returned to the hospital, hoping to see a little more improvement. Instead, Nick was in severe pain and very agitated. They warned us that this could happen when the took the breathing tube out, and took him off the heavy sedatives. They were giving him Tylenol, and a less powerful sedative, which was helping some, but it was difficult to see him in such pain. They can't give him what they were before, because without the breathing tube in, the other medications would be too strong, and he would not be able to breath well enough to maintain oxygenation. They could put the breathing tube back in, but don't want to unless they really need to. The first 48 hours were the most critical, and we are now to about 84 hours, however they said the first 21 days are what he needs to get through. Please keep praying for him. To everyone who has said prayers, people we don't even know, to people who have contacted us, come to see us, helped with sudden bills, and other assistance, we can never thank you enough. May God bless all of you. Gary
Update Dec 27, 2015 @ 11:28PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
We still need lots of prayers for Nick Kaminsky. He had another test today and they confirmed they will not be able to do surgery to fix the problem. This afternoon they took him off of sedation and removed his breathing tube. He woke up but was very confused and in lots of pain. They started giving him another sedative that was not as strong and he now seems to be a little less tense. We are still praying there is no brain damage but cannot tell because he has been so drugged up. Whatever the case, we are happy he is alive and we will take him however he is. God bless you all and please continue to pray with all your hearts.
Update Dec 26, 2015 @ 8:52PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Keep praying! There are still many things that could go wrong with my brother Nick Kaminsky. That being said, he is improving each day. The doctors do not think there is any permanent brain damage although we do not know since he is still sedated. He is moving both sides of his body and opened his eyes a little bit several times. They started giving him nutrition though a tube today and he is more relaxed since having his mouthpiece exchanged for a less obtrusive one. Unfortunately they will probably not be able to do surgery so he will always be at risk of another hemorrhage. God Bless you all and keep the prayers coming!
Update Dec 25, 2015 @ 3:43PM by sister Emily Dahl
We just saw Nick. He's very sedated, but we hoped he knew that we were there.
From his angiogram today, the doctors seem to think the bleeding has stopped, but they'll check again in a couple of days.
Because the suspected source of the bleed is too deep in his brain, they're unable to do surgery (it could make things worse).
So, we wait. And we pray. Thank you again, everyone, for all of your love and support. We never knew Nick was such a popular guy (wink emoticon)
Update Dec 25, 2015 @ 11:50AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Not out of the woods yet. Nick is still sedated and hooked up to lots of tubes but he is alive. Praise be to God! He is going to be a having a brain scan today and we are hoping there is something they can do to fix the problem. If not he may have to live in constant suspense of another incident. Please continue to pray pray pray. Thank you all for your prayers and support. Merry Christmas!
Update Dec 24, 2015 @ 3:37PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Everyone storm heaven with your prayers. My brother Nick is in the hospital with a major head bleed. He is being airlifted to Saint Mary's in Rochester. That's all we know.
Nick does have health insurance, but as his good friend and former roommate of 6.5 years, I know very well that doesn’t cover everything. With your help, let’s let Nick and his family focus on recovery and not the bill. If you understand Nick’s situation, please help. If Nick has been a part of your life, please help. If Nick’s humor has made you laugh, please help. The Kaminsky’s would be most grateful for any financial support.
I will post updates on Nick’s progress and please keep him in your prayers for a speedy and thorough recovery.
Update Feb 19, 2016 @ 10:58AM by the man himself, Nick Kaminksy
Well it looks like it’s been a little while since I’ve written anything on Facebook. To start out, I suppose I should apologize for throwing a wrench in everyone’s Christmas Eve by having a medical emergency and getting airlifted to Rochester. I guess I just can’t handle not being the center of attention.
I’d like to say thank you to all of my family, friends, acquaintances, students, and even strangers who stepped up to the plate and helped my family and me get through the very challenging days following my December 24 brain hemorrhage. I can honestly never say “thank you” enough for everything everyone did for us—the prayers, the Mass offerings, the donations of money to help with medical expenses, the gifts of food and other necessities. It is a great understatement to say that I am very blessed to know such generous people.
I am happy to report that, with your kind support, I am now on the mend and have already come a long way toward full recovery. Please know that I will always be grateful for all you have done for me.
Update Jan 28, 2016 @ 10:06AM by sister Emily Dahl
35 days later, and Nick Kaminsky is leaving the hospital!!! He'll stay with our parents for a while until he can go back to Mankato, but he's doing great! Thank God for answered prayers!
Update Jan 27, 2016 @ 1:07AM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Update on Nick: He is getting better each day. His memory is improving and his cognitive skills are slowly but surely coming back. He still has a long way to go however, and needs lots prayers. Without any more setbacks he will be coming home this Thursday. He is going to be very tired and we ask that visitors wait at least one week before coming to see him. Thanks again to all of you for your continued prayers and support.
Update Jan 15, 2016 @ 10:58PM by sister Emily Dahl
Nick had his surgery today and it went great. He's in much less pain already, and is back on the recovery floor!!
Update Jan 15, 2016 @ 1:15PM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Last night the doctors drained some of the spinal fluid from Nicks brain. The pressure had been building up and caused his episode last night. Either today or tomorrow he is going to be having a shunt installed. This should prevent it from happening again. Please continue to pray!
Update Jan 14, 2016 @ 9:26PM by sister Emily Dahl
Nick is back in the ICU. He had spinal fluid buildup in his brain, which required a spinal tap. He'll be having a permanent shunt put in within the next day or two. We're thankful this was caught before it got worse, but nonetheless, it's a setback. In case I haven't asked enough already, please please keep the prayers coming. Thank you!
Update Jan 14, 2016 @ 6:47PM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Please pray for Nick Kaminsky, he is not doing very well again. He's back in the ICU because he's been having episodes of confusion, anxiety, and blood pressure spikes.
Update Jan 11, 2016 @ 3:11PM by sister Emily Dahl
Today marks 18 days since my brother Nick's accident, and it's the first day we've really seen him frustrated and in despair over his situation. If you have a moment, please send a quick prayer that he can feel peace and hope throughout all of this. Thank you!
*My parents have been at Nick's side this entire time, and it has been very taxing on them. They are the most selfless people I know, and will never complain about any of it. But they could probably use a prayer or two as well. (heart emoticon)
Update Jan 10, 2016 @ 1:28AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick got the tube that was draining the blood out of his head removed this afternoon. He was moved out of the intensive care unit and into a regular room. If anyone is interested in visiting him he is now on the 9th floor of the Mary Brigh building. Please keep the prayers coming.
Update Jan 8, 2016 @ 5:25PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is getting a little better each day but he still has a hard time with his short term memory and certain cognitive tests. He is also very weak and has lost a lot of weight. Please do not stop praying for him because he has a long and difficult road to recovery ahead with many potential complications. Also, if you are planning on going to see him just note you will not be allowed in the room from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, as this is the time they allow him to nap. Thank you all for your prayers and support during this difficult time. It mean more than you may know. God Bless you all!
Update Jan 2, 2016 @ 1:55PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Update on Nick: Today they took the feeding tube out and he got to have some real food. Unfortunately the tube in his head that is draining the blood is going to have to be in for quite a while longer, as only about half of the blood has been removed. We are happy Nick has been improving but he is still in serious condition and we must continue to pray. I would also like to make a prayer request for a young man who is in the same unit of the hospital as Nick. His name is Adrian, he is in the Navy and is 21 years old. He has been in a coma since the 18th of this month. His parents are wonderful people and they all need many many prayers. God Bless!
Update Dec 31, 2015 @ 11:26PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is still doing well. He is talking and they had him walking in place for a while. He still has a long way to go, please continue to pray.
Update Dec 30, 2015 @ 1:35 PM by sister Emily Dahl
We just visited Nick Kaminsky again. He was awake (but very tired), and sitting up in a chair. He recognized us, and even managed to *whisper* a couple of words to us! He's been dealing with a terrible, constant headache since his sedatives have been lowered, but that's to be expected. Little by little, he's improving with each day. We owe so much of it to ALL of our friends and family who are praying for him. We can't thank you enough. Please keep the prayers coming!
Side note: Visitors are welcome, but right now, he REALLY needs rest. If you DO choose to come, we ask that you limit your visit with him to just a few minutes, and that only 2 people go in his room at a time. He'll be there a while too, so no need to rush there! Thank you for understanding!
Update Dec 30, 2015 @ 1:25PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick is getting better each day. He is more alert and able to talk. He is still very groggy and has a terrible headache. We appreciate visitors and know people want to see him, but we ask that you hold off until next week when he will hopefully feel more up to it. Please do not stop praying for him because there is still a long road ahead, and many things that could go wrong. God Bless!
P.S. I am sure he would appreciate cards however. Just make them out to Nicholas Kaminsky Patient, St. Mary's Hospital, 1216 2nd St. SW 55902, Rochester MN
Update Dec 29, 2015 @ 10:41AM by brother Stephen Kaminsky
Nick Kaminsky is waking up more as they reduce his sedation. He was talking a little bit this morning but still is mostly quiet and somewhat confused. They have him in the chair but he is very tired. Please do not stop praying for him. He still has a long way to go.
Update Dec 28, 2015 @ 9:10AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Nick Kaminsky was awake this morning. He smiled at my parents and nodded his head in answer to a couple questions. Your prayers are the the reason he is still alive, and they are the only way he will get better. God be Praised!
Update Dec 28, 2015 @ 7:38AM by father Gary Kaminksy
Last night we returned to the hospital, hoping to see a little more improvement. Instead, Nick was in severe pain and very agitated. They warned us that this could happen when the took the breathing tube out, and took him off the heavy sedatives. They were giving him Tylenol, and a less powerful sedative, which was helping some, but it was difficult to see him in such pain. They can't give him what they were before, because without the breathing tube in, the other medications would be too strong, and he would not be able to breath well enough to maintain oxygenation. They could put the breathing tube back in, but don't want to unless they really need to. The first 48 hours were the most critical, and we are now to about 84 hours, however they said the first 21 days are what he needs to get through. Please keep praying for him. To everyone who has said prayers, people we don't even know, to people who have contacted us, come to see us, helped with sudden bills, and other assistance, we can never thank you enough. May God bless all of you. Gary
Update Dec 27, 2015 @ 11:28PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
We still need lots of prayers for Nick Kaminsky. He had another test today and they confirmed they will not be able to do surgery to fix the problem. This afternoon they took him off of sedation and removed his breathing tube. He woke up but was very confused and in lots of pain. They started giving him another sedative that was not as strong and he now seems to be a little less tense. We are still praying there is no brain damage but cannot tell because he has been so drugged up. Whatever the case, we are happy he is alive and we will take him however he is. God bless you all and please continue to pray with all your hearts.
Update Dec 26, 2015 @ 8:52PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Keep praying! There are still many things that could go wrong with my brother Nick Kaminsky. That being said, he is improving each day. The doctors do not think there is any permanent brain damage although we do not know since he is still sedated. He is moving both sides of his body and opened his eyes a little bit several times. They started giving him nutrition though a tube today and he is more relaxed since having his mouthpiece exchanged for a less obtrusive one. Unfortunately they will probably not be able to do surgery so he will always be at risk of another hemorrhage. God Bless you all and keep the prayers coming!
Update Dec 25, 2015 @ 3:43PM by sister Emily Dahl
We just saw Nick. He's very sedated, but we hoped he knew that we were there.
From his angiogram today, the doctors seem to think the bleeding has stopped, but they'll check again in a couple of days.
Because the suspected source of the bleed is too deep in his brain, they're unable to do surgery (it could make things worse).
So, we wait. And we pray. Thank you again, everyone, for all of your love and support. We never knew Nick was such a popular guy (wink emoticon)
Update Dec 25, 2015 @ 11:50AM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Not out of the woods yet. Nick is still sedated and hooked up to lots of tubes but he is alive. Praise be to God! He is going to be a having a brain scan today and we are hoping there is something they can do to fix the problem. If not he may have to live in constant suspense of another incident. Please continue to pray pray pray. Thank you all for your prayers and support. Merry Christmas!
Update Dec 24, 2015 @ 3:37PM by brother Stephen Kaminksy
Everyone storm heaven with your prayers. My brother Nick is in the hospital with a major head bleed. He is being airlifted to Saint Mary's in Rochester. That's all we know.
Organizer and beneficiary
Guy Gagnon
Organizer
Mankato, MN
Marita Kaminsky
Beneficiary