Tito Zapata
Donation protected
- Explain what happened
On Friday, April 6th 2018 our beloved Tito (Abuelito/Grandpa) fell and hit his head causing a brain bleed which was worsened by the blood thinners he's been taking for his legs. That night he was rushed to South Lake Hospital where he was proclaimed in critical condition and the doctors told us he would likely not make it through the night.
He was then airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center and admitted to the Neuro ICU where they let us know he had a severe brain bleed that was causing his brain to shift considerably to one side. The first 2 days were touch and go but the Doctors and Nurses did everything they could around the clock to make the situation better. And he was doing exactly that, getting better. We were hoping the blood had stopped and that it could eventually dissipate naturally. Tito was joking around, talking, flirting with the nurses and his motive responses were as well as could be expected.
Unfortunately, when Monday finally rolled around they were able to take an MRI and uncovered a second brain bleed. This bleed was causing additional pressure on his brain. However, his vitals were still strong and he was still doing well all through Tuesday morning, even feeding himself and walking to the bathroom. Around lunch time the doctors tested his blood and the blood thinners were out of his system but his vitals had decreased exponentially and he was struggling to speak and even move. Tito's vascular doctor (for his legs) then told his neuro doctor that he could not be off of his blood thinners for more then 7 days or we risk his legs (amputation). The doctors let us know we had a decision to make and a small window of time for a surgical procedure.
We decided to move forward with the surgery, doing a craniotomy where they removed a portion of his skull to clear away the blood clot that was pushing on his brain causing his motor skills to decline. Since the surgery his motor skills have returned, he is able to somewhat speak again and moving slowly. He is doing much better but we have many months of recovery ahead of us.
We will continue to share updates here.
- Describe the recommended treatment
He is no longer in the ICU but is still at ORMC. They are hoping to release him from the hospital by the end of the week but he still won't be going home. He will be sent to an inpatient facility where he will get daily care for speech, occupational and physical therapy.
- Explain how soon you need the funds
We expect the airlift and hospital bills to start arriving in May 2018.
- Tell how these funds will help you or your loved one
Tito and Tita are on a fixed income and as the bills come in they are going to be overwhelmed. Our goal is to offer them financial support during these difficult times.
- Explain if there are other ways you need help
Your prayers and support are also needed.
On Friday, April 6th 2018 our beloved Tito (Abuelito/Grandpa) fell and hit his head causing a brain bleed which was worsened by the blood thinners he's been taking for his legs. That night he was rushed to South Lake Hospital where he was proclaimed in critical condition and the doctors told us he would likely not make it through the night.
He was then airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center and admitted to the Neuro ICU where they let us know he had a severe brain bleed that was causing his brain to shift considerably to one side. The first 2 days were touch and go but the Doctors and Nurses did everything they could around the clock to make the situation better. And he was doing exactly that, getting better. We were hoping the blood had stopped and that it could eventually dissipate naturally. Tito was joking around, talking, flirting with the nurses and his motive responses were as well as could be expected.
Unfortunately, when Monday finally rolled around they were able to take an MRI and uncovered a second brain bleed. This bleed was causing additional pressure on his brain. However, his vitals were still strong and he was still doing well all through Tuesday morning, even feeding himself and walking to the bathroom. Around lunch time the doctors tested his blood and the blood thinners were out of his system but his vitals had decreased exponentially and he was struggling to speak and even move. Tito's vascular doctor (for his legs) then told his neuro doctor that he could not be off of his blood thinners for more then 7 days or we risk his legs (amputation). The doctors let us know we had a decision to make and a small window of time for a surgical procedure.
We decided to move forward with the surgery, doing a craniotomy where they removed a portion of his skull to clear away the blood clot that was pushing on his brain causing his motor skills to decline. Since the surgery his motor skills have returned, he is able to somewhat speak again and moving slowly. He is doing much better but we have many months of recovery ahead of us.
We will continue to share updates here.
- Describe the recommended treatment
He is no longer in the ICU but is still at ORMC. They are hoping to release him from the hospital by the end of the week but he still won't be going home. He will be sent to an inpatient facility where he will get daily care for speech, occupational and physical therapy.
- Explain how soon you need the funds
We expect the airlift and hospital bills to start arriving in May 2018.
- Tell how these funds will help you or your loved one
Tito and Tita are on a fixed income and as the bills come in they are going to be overwhelmed. Our goal is to offer them financial support during these difficult times.
- Explain if there are other ways you need help
Your prayers and support are also needed.
Organizer
Alex Zapata
Organizer
Winter Springs, FL
