Case Management Meeting

From Alex: Today we met with Dr. Neal, the Rehab Unit Medical Director, and Linda, the Case Manager. They both were thrilled at Noe's rapid recovery and progress. Based on the Rehab team assessments (physical, occupational and speech therapy), Dr. Neal expects Noe to be discharged sometime around January 14th! This, of course, depends on the surgery scheduled for January 7th to replace the bone flap. After a long tiring day of therapy, Noe ended the day smiling and encouraged by reading through many of the comments on the blog herself! Thank you!

Please continue to pray for Noe's stamina through rehab and the headaches she has continued to experience. Noe still cannot receive visitors at this time. Thank you for the encouraging comments and especially the prayers. God hears them all!

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105

Top Ten List

From Alex: You know Noe is feeling better when she is...

10) Trying to climb out of bed and wanting to go home
9) Smiling and giggling at cousin Rodlyn's stories
8) Doing extra laps around the Rehab Unit on her walker
7) Commenting on my mismatched and wrinkled clothes
6) Sitting up in bed on her own
5) Moving her left arm and starting to squeeze her left hand
4) Requesting to take a shower and wash her hair everyday
3) Asking about how Noah, Luke and all her friends and family are doing
2) Getting me in trouble with the nurses for allowing her to get out of bed on her own
1) Thanking all her friends and family for their continual prayers and support through this journey!!!

Noe was scheduled for a full 3 hours of rehab today. A family meeting with the rehabilitation physician is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss her rehab goals and progress. We are still requesting no visiting at this time. Noe's rehab schedule is quite tyring for her.

Thank you for the continued prayers. We know that God is completely in control of all of this. If we didn't have Christ, trials as these would seem insurmountable.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12,13

Restless...yet Productive!

Noe had a restless night last night. Today she was settling into the rehabilitation program, having met with the physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Noe passed the swallow assessment today, which means she'll start eating food again soon. She is going to have a day off PT and OT tomorrow to rest. More assessments are scheduled for Monday. The neurosurgeon, Dr. Hunstock, was impressed with Noe's progress, especially the significant reduction of swelling on her brain. The neurosurgeon is hoping to replace the bone flap (skull cap) on January 7th, at the earliest.

With the demanding rehabilitation schedule, the family is still requesting no visitors. The next update will be posted following her assessments on Monday.

Please pray for a restful nights sleep tonight for both Noe and Alex. Also pray that God will continue to restore Noe and give her the mental and physical strength she needs to persevere through rehabilitation.

Please pray for Alex, as he has remained a pillar of strength by Noe's side for over four exhausting weeks. "There are three things that amaze me— no, four things that I don’t understand: how an eagle glides through the sky, how a snake slithers on a rock, how a ship navigates the ocean, how a man loves a woman." Proverbs 30:18,19

"O LORD, I say to you, "You are my God." Hear, O LORD, my cry for mercy. O Sovereign LORD, my strong deliverer, who shields my head in the day of battle-" Psalm 140:6,7

Rehabilitation

From Alex: Noe is well on her way to recovery! Today she was moved down to the 1st floor Acute Rehabilitation Unit at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. She is alert and wants to go home! Noe is doing so well with her initial physical and occupational therapy sessions that she is frequently trying to climb out of bed and walk on her own. I try to keep her safe in bed, but then she whispers to me, "You're Mean"!

Noe will have her initial acute rehab PT/OT/Speech therapy assessments tomorrow and we will better know her rehab plan. Please pray that Noe will continue to have a private room. Please pray for the new nursing staff and for strength during her many therapy sessions. We thank you for you not visiting at this time.

"O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago." Isaiah 25:1

Christmas Day 2008

From Alex: Today we had a restful Christmas Day in the ICU. Noe, her mom, and the nurse took a grand tour of the hospital by wheelchair! Also, Noe was able to briefly go outside for a breath of fresh air. Praise God for His mercies are renewed every day. We hope you had a blessed Christmas! Here is one of our Christmas favorites:

Mary Did you Know

"Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.
Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.
The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb.
Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am."

"But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." Luke 1:30-33

December 24, 2008

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Merry Christmas! From Alex: We received one of our most favorite Christmas gifts ever: Noe smiling, sitting up and even walking! This afternoon Noe had a great physical therapy session! Noe was able to sit up in a wheel chair, walk 10 yards with a walker and whisper Merry Christmas to the boys!! She even stayed up long enough to greet Santa Claus! She will remain in the ICU until Friday and then will be transferred downstairs to the Santa Rosa Memorial Rehab Unit for more intensive physical, occupational and speech therapy. Noe is on her way to recovery. The family requests no visitors at this time.

We are once again thankful for all the friends and family that have encouraged and supported us with their prayers, gifts, cards and comments on the blog! Most of all, we are thankful for experiencing first hand the love, peace and joy of the Christmas season through all of you!! May the peace and joy of God be with you all as you celebrate Christmas!

Yellow Slipper Socks!

Today was another good day. Noe was alert and smiling. Noe had an appointment with occupational therapy in the morning and physical therapy in the afternoon. They worked on sitting on the edge of her bed and sitting in a chair. She got to finally touch the ground with her no-skid yellow slipper socks! Soon, speech therapy will start working with her on swallowing and communicating. Noe’s therapy sessions will take up a big part of her day. She gets very tired and needs lots of rest.

"I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you." Jeremiah 31:3b

Please pray for Noe’s complete restoration. We thank you for your continued faithfulness and prayer. Noe is not able to receive visitors at this time. We pray that you have a blessed Christmas eve.

“Nevertheless I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand.” Psalm 73:23

All Things Are Possible!

Today Noe sat in a chair for the first time in three weeks. She was alert and smiling! Noe has a feeding tube (PEG) to help with nutrition until she is able to swallow. Her throat doesn't hurt so bad any longer; she now has pain from the procedure of the new feeding tube. She was given morphine today to control the pain. She still cannot talk, but she can write. Alex is finding so much joy in communicating with her again.

Noe is almost ready to leave the ICU and get into a rehabilitation program. Today, she met the functional requirements to move to the rehab facility at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. She'll be moved within the next few days. She'll be very busy during rehabilitation, with three full hours of PT a day.

Please continue to pray for Noe's continued recovery and restoration. For the past four weeks we have all practiced patience while Noe was in the ICU. Likewise, Noe's going to practice patience along this road of rehab. The family requests no visitors at this time.

Looking at them, Jesus said, "With people it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God." Mark 10:27

Wow! Great Progress

"The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life." Job 33:4

From Alex: Noe had a great Sunday! God was busy waking her up and encouraging her to breathe on her own! Miraculously today, the attending physician stated that she was strong enough to be taken off the ventilator. She is alert, breathing on her own, and even watched some of the 49er game with me! Based on her progress, I will speak with the physician team tomorrow to assess the next steps. Thanks again for your continued prayers and well wishes!

"..but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15

Run with Perseverance

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1,2

For Alex: I've got to remember this process of recovery and rehab is not a sprint but a marathon. Each day we are seeing improvements, but some days we face bigger hills and challenges. The respiratory therapist gave Noe another breathing test and she still needs training with the trach tube. Noe continues to be alert, yet restless. Her throat and mouth are extremely sore from the removal of the initial breathing tube. Thank you for your comments and suggestions and I am still working on lip reading. Please pray that Noe can breathe deeply on her own and for reduced pain in her throat. Please pray for a smooth road to recovery and rehabilitation.

Thank You!

From Alex: Noe had a great day today! She is more alert and responsive without her breathing (endotracheal) tube! So far she cannot speak with her new tracheostomy tube, but she was trying to communicate by moving her lips. After incorrectly guessing for 10 minutes, I finally understood her last words of ‘Forget it!', while she rolled her eyes. Tonight, in an effort to better communicate with her, I bought a block letter puzzle so she could pick up the first two letters of key words. As you may have guessed, this didn't work either! Please send in some 'comments' on how to better communicate with Noe!

As you know, I've been reading to Noe all the comments on the blog everyday. She definitely recognizes everyone and she responds with both smiles and tears!

I can't begin to thank you all for your generous gifts, prayers, and well wishes!! When Noe recovers and comes home, we will have a huge LUAU to celebrate with all of you!

Please continue to pray that Noe gains strength so that she can leave the ICU.

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:19

Tracheostomy

From Alex: This afternoon Noe had a tracheostomy to place a breathing tube in her trachea. The procedure was initially going to be done in the ICU room but they had a difficult time accessing her trachea, so they moved the procedure to the operating room. The procedure was successful and she is stable and doing well tonight. Without the breathing tube in her mouth she should be much more comfortable. Please pray that Noe becomes stronger and more alert tomorrow.

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

Psalm 139

From Alex: The attending hospitalist and the neurosurgeon agreed to schedule a tracheotomy for Noe. The general surgeon is booked up today, but will probably do the procedure tomorrow. The hospitalist has also requested a neurology consult to look into her inability to become alert for an extended period of time. Her WBC count is up a little, but no fever.

The tracheotomy will allow Noe to eat and will allow her to be more comfortable as she recovers. They will continue to monitor her and give her opportunities to breathe on her own. The neurologist assessed Noe and we will know more in the days to come.

Noe, Alex, Noah and Luke are so blessed to have each one of you in their lives. Thank you for your faithfulness and prayer during these last three weeks. Noe will remain in the ICU until she gains strength. Noe cannot receive visitors at this time. Please pray for the upcoming tracheotomy. Please pray that Noe’s swelling continues to subside and that her WBC stays normal. We will update again tomorrow. Alex enjoys reading your comments to Noe.

"O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways." Psalm 139:1-3

ICU Day 12...Romans 12:12

Noe started the day tired and slow to respond. Based on the morning respiratory therapy assessment, she is still not ready to come off the ventilator. Dr. Warner, the infectious disease doctor, says the WBC count has been normal for 2 days! She has successfully completed her course of treatment for meningitis!! Now we have to wait on her breathing to improve and the swelling in her brain to subside! Please continue to pray that she gets stronger and becomes more alert. The family requests no visitors at this time. Alex is continuing to read the comments to Noe. Please click on "comment" below so Noe can hear from you.

"Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!" Isaiah 30:18

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

Evening Update

From Alex: Noe is more alert and responsive. Noe opened her eyes and responded to questions and commands. Her CT showed normal post surgical swelling. Our goal for the remainder of the day is to continue with breathing exercises in preparation for another test. Pray that she remains strong and can breathe on her own tomorrow!!

Remain in His Love

Today, Noe is about the same as yesterday. She is able to stay awake a little longer. The ICU staff tested her breathing again and she needs at least one more day on the ventilator. The CT showed a normal amount of swelling stemming from her last surgery. Please continue to pray that each day she will get stronger and more alert. The family requests no visitors at this time. Thank you for all of your prayer and support over the past three weeks.

"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love." John 15:7-9

ICU, Day 10

We had another restful day in the ICU. Noe was trying to wake up today. She may have some residual sleepiness from the sedatives. The good news is that they turned off the ventilator temporarily to allow her to breathe on her own through the tube. She is beginning to breathe deeper! We will have another CT scan tomorrow to check her progress. Please pray that Noe will become more alert and continue to pray for Alex's strength.

"You light a lamp for me. The Lord, my God, lights up my darkness. In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall." Psalm 18:28,29

ICP Monitor Removed

Today was another restful day in the ICU. Noe's nurse, Travis, took very good care of her. This morning Dr. Lapsiwala, the neurosurgeon, removed the Intracranial Pressure (ICP) monitor! Noe has been maintaining her pressures well for the past few days. Two times a day the nurses will exercise Noe's lungs by allowing her to breathe mostly on her own. If all remains stable, Noe may be extubated on Sunday or Monday. Dr. Warner, the infectious disease doctor, said that Noe's lungs are strong and clear and that her white blood cell count is normal. She has been without sedatives for over 24 hours. She still receives some morphine to keep her comfortable. Noe is opening her eyes and nodding her head in agreement. It was encouraging to see Noe's improvement over the past couple of days.

Please pray that Noe will be increasingly stable and alert so that she can be extubated within the next few days. Please pray that God provides Alex with strength and endurance in the days ahead. Thank you for your encouraging comments. Noe is still not able to receive visitors at this time.

"Make me know Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You I wait all the day." Psalm 25:4,5

Alex and family enjoyed their trip to Sebastopol for Noah's ALLSTARS football game this morning. Game time was at 10 am.

Tears of Joy!

The Au-Yeung house decorated by loving friends

This evening, From Alex: Noe is gradually regaining consciousness and responding to basic commands. Tonight she shed tears of joy as we shared with her how her Windsor/Santa Rosa friends decorated our home with beautiful Christmas lights and ornaments. The attached picture does not capture the spirit of Christmas and love that was put into setting up the lights and decorations. I am overwhelmed by all of the love, prayers, and support we have received over the past few weeks. Thank you and we love you all!!

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Earlier today, From Alex: Thank you for all your prayers and support! The Sedation Vacation was a success! Noe has been stable for over 24 hours and is slowly coming off all her sedatives and also the morphine. The neurosurgeon on call this weekend will remove the ICP monitor and suture the opening. If all goes well, she will be extubated on Sunday or Monday and will be able to breathe and eat on her own! Please pray for the procedures this weekend to be successful.

ICU, Day 8

Here is a sedation vacation update from Alex: Noe is getting one step closer to recovery. The MDs are gradually weaning her off the heavy sedatives and she seems to be tolerating it well. The type of sedative she is currently on (Versed) lingers longer in the system than the other sedative Propofol (milk of amnesia). The nurses will keep a close eye on her progress today! Please pray that Noe tolerates the sedation vacation.

Noe's fever remains down and her infection seems to be under control. Let's hope for another 'boring' day in the ICU. At this point, no news is good news! Thank you for your continued support. Please continue to leave comments for Noe and family; Alex will read them to her every day!

"Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard." Isaiah 58:8

Our Source of Hope

Early Evening: Today has been a relatively uneventful day for Noe; she is resting comfortably under sedation. The MDs tried the “sedation vacation” today but they decided to wait. The MDs want to slowly test her response to a "sedation vacation" over the next few days. If she remains stable, the neurosurgeon will remove her ICP (intracranial pressure) monitor on Saturday and hopefully extubate her on Sunday or Monday. Her white blood cell count is starting to decrease, so we are hoping the infection will be under control soon! They are still trying to keep her fever down. They are not sure what caused this latest infection because her blood tests returned mostly normal.

One of the infectious disease doctors researched Noe’s bacterial meningitis in combination with a subdural hematoma. There has only been one reported case since 1966. These two events are so rare! They also got the test results back from the clot they removed last week. The blood clot was not caused by an AVM (vessel malformation); it was caused by a bleed in a small vessel. Please continue to pray for wisdom for Noe’s team of doctors. Pray that Noe will tolerate a “sedation vacation” and that Dr. Hunstock can remove the ICP monitor in the next couple of days.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support! Alex enjoys your words of encouragement and the scripture verses you are sending on the blog. Alex sent this verse for us today:
“Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4,5

Morning: The staff kept close watch on Noe last night. They kept her cool and her fever stayed down. Dr. Dilisio (hospitalist) will try to slowly back off of the sedatives to give her a brief “sedation vacation” later this morning. Dr. Hunstock (neurosurgeon) will check in on Noe shortly. Pray for another stable day. Alex is reading to Noe every day while she sleeps. Currently, they are re-reading “Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. They just finished “Purpose Driven Christmas”.

Another Day in the ICU

Noe and Alex at Family Camp in June 2008

1:30 pm - Noe remains in the Intensive Care Unit. She was still battling a temperature today, but it was more manageable than yesterday. The ICP monitor is still in place and she remains fully sedated. According to her nurse, Jim, they don't want to start backing off on any treatments yet. They will stay the course with all the current treatments. They'll start lifting the sedation when her condition remains stable for at least 2-3 days.

Please continue to pray for Noe and her family. The family requests no visitors at this time.

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble...The LORD will accomplish what concerns me; Your loving-kindness O LORD, is everlasting; Do not forsake the works of Your hands." Ps. 138:7a,8

Answered Prayer

7:50 am from Alex: She did better last night. Dr. Hunstock, the neurosurgeon, wants to leave her sedated for the next 2-3 days. Everything is stable. Thank you for your prayers!!

Evening Update

Noe's temperature came down. Pray that it will stabalize. Noe had a CT and it came back clear with no new swelling. She is still fighting infection. Please pray for Chuck, her night nurse, and that Noe's condition will improve this evening. Pray that Alex and the family get a good night's rest. Thank you for all of your loving comments and support!

"Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me." Ps. 54:4

Immediate Prayer

Noe is still fighting infection in the ICU. Noe's temperature needs to come down. We started at 39.4 C and we are down to 38.6C. We need her temp to be 37.5C (99.5 F). The hospital staff is doing everything they can. We also need to get her in for another CT and there is a trauma patient ahead of her. Please continue to pray! The family still requests no visitors at this time. Thank you.

Throne of Grace

8:00 am from Alex: After I left last night at 9:30 PM, Noe was responsive and holding my hand. Later in the evening she took a few steps backwards. She is showing signs of another infection. She has a fever and they are trying to cool her internal temperature down. The MDs have ordered another special panel of tests as well as a CT. Test results are negative for Meningitis. Thankfully, the ICP monitor was still in place to measure and control the pressure in the brain. She is fully loaded on sedatives in order to keep her comfortable.

Please pray that God will heal this infection and that He will guide the MDs and staff as they care for Noe. Pray for Alex’s strength and perseverance. Pray for health in the Au-Yeung household as some family members are fighting colds.

“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Is. 40:28-31

“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Pray For Patience

8:30pm From Alex: Noe is doing well. Her intracranial pressure is in the normal range and the MD plans to remove the pressure monitor tomorrow. They are also slowly weaning her off the heavy sedatives and hope to extubate her on Wednesday. They will continue to monitor the swelling in her brain over the next 7-14 days before they replace the bone flap. After replacing the bone flap, she will have to remain in the hospital another 2-5 days! She may not be home until after Christmas!

10"And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light." Colossians 1:10-12

Update

Morning: Noe’s intracranial pressure is now between a 6 and 10. This is her resting pressure while sedated. They may remove the monitor tomorrow and if all goes well extubate her on Wednesday. They will continue to perform CT scans in order to monitor the swelling on her brain. If, while she is awake, the pressure stays low they will consider replacing the bone flap that they removed during surgery. She will continue to stay in the ICU and we request no visitors at this time.

Please steadfastly pray for Noe’s recovery. Pray that her cranial pressure is normalized and that her next surgery goes well. Pray for God’s timing in the recovery process. Pray for continued strength and wisdom for Alex and family.

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” Ps. 18:30-32

God the Provider

7:30 pm - Noe's ICP (intracranial pressure) is down to 12 from 17 earlier today. This means the swelling in her brain is decreasing. We're looking for the ICP to be consistently around 10 when she is at rest. An ICU nurse that cared for Noe at Sutter, moonlights at Memorial Hospital. She remembers Noe and is now assigned to Noe for the night. Last night God provided Alex's aunt and tonight he is providing another familiar face.

"Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy! I look to you for protection. I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings until the danger passes by. I cry out to God Most High, to God who will fulfill his purpose for me." Psalm 57:1-2

Waiting Patiently

11:00 am From Alex: I briefly spoke with the attending intensivist and the neurosurgeon and they said she is doing well and we need to wait and continue to allow her to heal.

10:00 am From Alex: The attending MD in ICU has rounded on Noe and everything is going well. The CT will be done before 11 AM. Noe is resting under sedation and has movement of her extremities. We just need to wait on the Lord to complete the healing! Pray that the fruit of the Spirit will be evident in all of our lives through this situation.

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another." Galatians 5:22-26

Be Anxious for Nothing

Noe will stay fully sedated for 2-3 more days while the skull cap is off. Another CT is ordered for this morning. She will remain intibated while she's sedated. There will be another surgery to replace the skull cap when the swelling subsides. The hospital staff reviewed the CT scans with Alex's aunt(pediatric radiologist). Upon reviewing all the CT scans, she agreed with all of the findings and procedures done so far.

They are not allowing visitors at this time. Please continue to pray.

Surgery Successful

From Alex, 3:00 am: Noe is out of surgery and back in the ICU. The procedure went well with no complications. The bone flap was removed allowing space for her brain to expand due to the swelling. A pressure monitor is also inserted into the brain to monitor pressure. My Aunt (pediatric radiologist) and Uncle drove up from Hillsborough to comfort and reassure me of the procedure and the findings on the CT exams.
God is faithful!

Immediate Prayer Request

At 10:00 tonight Noe's nurse determined that Noe was less responsive. She alerted the MD and he ordered another CT scan. The neurosurgeons were notified. The CT scan shows more swelling at the surgery site. She is being prepared for emergency surgery right now(11:30 pm). They will open the skull cap and allow the brain to swell without restriction. They will insert a pressure monitor to follow the swelling. This is a life threatening situation. She will also need a future surgery to close the skull cap. Please pray for the surgery team, for Noe's body to remain strong, and for Alex who's exhausted.

"Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits - who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." Psalm 103:2-5

More Improvement!

12:00 pm - The neurosurgeon reviewed the CT and everything looks good. Praise God! Brain swelling is expected to continue to decrease over the next few days. Headaches will probably persist due to healing of infection, swelling and surgery.

11:00 am - The MD extubated her and she is breathing fine on her own. Noe is alert and responds to commands. We're still waiting for the neurosurgeon to review the CT scan.

Ground Hog Day!

Noe is still in ICU this morning at Santa Rosa Memorial recovering from her surgery. She is being taken for anther CT scan to check on the status of the swelling in her brain. She continues to be intubated and under sedation and pain killers. The hope is that she will be alert enough to be extubated later this morning. We will then will start over again refreshing her memory, removing her catheters and physical therapy. This time we will have to tell her about what happened to her hair!! Continue to pray for a full recovery as well as a clear cause for the arterial-venous malformation (AVM). Thank God for His grace, mercy and peace!!

"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

ICU

The ICU staff gave Noe morphine to make her comfortable throughout the night. Rest is very important during her recovery. They are hoping she will wake up tomorrow and they will be able to extubate her. Continue to pray for her complete healing. Visitation is limited to immediate family while she is in the ICU. Your encouragement and prayer sustained the Au-Yeung family throughout this difficult day.

"From my distress I called upon the Lord; The Lord answered me and set me in a large place. The Lord is for me; I will not fear..." Psalm 118:5,6

Recovering

It's 4:00 pm now and Noe is still sleeping after the surgery. She still has a breathing tube in. The Dr. said they are waiting for her to regain consciousness on her own. It could be anytime. They are hoping she will wake up soon so they get her reoriented, and so she can attempt to eat. She has not eaten much over the past few days.

If she does not wake up soon, they will have to put her on a feeding tube in order to get some nutrients into her body.

Noe's sister Amber flew in from Seattle with her two boys. After receiving the good news about the surgery in the morning, the family is now just waiting patiently to see what happens next. Thank you for everyone's continued prayers and support!

Surgery successful!

Noe out of surgery! Success! They found a secondary malformed blood vessel and they took care of both. They will send mass to pathology. More details in 3 hours. Doctor is optimistic! She has appropriate responses. Praise God with us! They will do another CT tomorrow 2 check site. Still no visitors at this time. Thank you for praying with us!

Surgery Update

Noe went into surgery at about 8am. The surgery will take at least 2 hours. They will remove the subdural hematoma from the right side of her brain and repair any other damage. Complications are swelling of the brain, brain damage and other clots. This is life threatening. This hematoma does not seem to be linked directly to the meningitis. They may discover the cause after she is stable.

Family is waiting at the hospital and needs your prayer. Please pray God guides the hands of the surgical team. And pray for a successful surgery in removing the clot without complication. The family is overwhelmed by your love and concern and at this time hospital visitors are limited to family only.

"Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy." Psalm 61:1-3

URGENT PRAYER

TO ALL:

Please pray for Noe Au-Yeung:

At around 2:00 am this morning, a nurse found her unresponsive. They immediately called Alex and they took her to a CT scan.

3:00 am. The doctor told Alex that the CT found a subdural hematoma on the right side of Noe’s brain. Noe is being transported to Santa Rosa Memorial where there is a neurosurgeon who will perform an immediate brain surgery.

4:13 am. Noe is intubated and prepped for surgery, but they are still waiting for the ambulance to transport her to Memorial.

· Pray for a quick transport to Santa Rosa Memorial
· Pray for the neurosurgeon who will perform the surgery
· Pray for Alex who is with her right now
· Pray for Noe’s healing and full recovery

Please check back for updates. Cheryl and Nancy will provide them as soon as they can.

God is in control.

Philippians 4:6-7

Room Change!

From Alex: Yeah! Another answered prayer! We were just moved to another room where we currently do not have a roommate - yet! The PT and OT assessment went well but Dr Warner is still concerned that she continues to have severe headaches, backaches and cannot touch her chin to her chest. If she shows progress tomorrow we may be discharged. If not we may wait until Monday and have another Spinal Tap.

Please continue to pray for Noe's complete restoration. Her white blood cells are still moderately elevated, which shows she is still fighting infection. Pray for wisdom as to when Noe should return home and that she will be pain free! Pray for her hearing to return to normal! Thank you for your comments and continued support!

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Dinner with Mom!

From Alex: This evening Noe's mom made one of her favorite dishes, garlic leg of lamb. We were going to surprise Noe by having Noah and Luke deliver it to the hospital. We planned to meet in the hospital cafeteria, but patients are not allowed in the cafeteria. Thanks to a hospital worker named Nicholas who was eating his dinner in the cafeteria, he found a spot for us in the hospital administration lobby to have dinner with the boys. Nicholas moved a table and chairs from the cafeteria and placed it beside the hospital Christmas tree. When the boys arrived, Noe enjoyed a few bites of the leg of lamb. God provides for us in all situations!

Little by little ...

Noe had another great day with PT! She is scheduled for PT twice a day, mornings and afternoons. The morning sessions go well, but by the afternoon she is very tired. She is now able to walk across the room on her own. Noe has a new hospitalist overseeing her care. He says that to go home, she needs to regain her strength and balance. The pain in her head, neck, and back is still at a level 8, so she is now on Percocet and Tylenol. She is also experiencing some difficulty hearing and is taking inhalers to alleviate some congestion in her sinuses.

Alex would like to have her room changed as she has two roommates that are a bit disruptive. Please pray for her roommates as well.

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."Psalm 46:10

Out of ICU!

Hi mom!

Text from Alex: Noe had another PT appointment this morning and walked almost 30 yards with a walker! Noe followed that up with 4 sets of leg and hip exercises. Noe was officially discharged from ICU this afternoon and was moved down to a room this evening. She has two other roommates. She is tired and anxious to go home. Noe ate some solid foods today. The New Yorker in her requested a bagel and cousin Rodlyn hopes to make a Spam Musubi for her tomorrow! Noah was able to visit with her today!

Noe is very tired. The doctor said her head, neck and back will continue to be sore for a while. Earlier today her pain was still at level 7. Visits will be limited until she gains some strength. She is trying to get some good rest tonight so she can be ready for physical therapy again tomorrow. She would really love to go home by this weekend.

We are so thankful to the Lord Jesus for all of the answers to our prayers! Continue to pray for Noe's complete restoration!

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

Time to get up!

“Humble yourselves therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6,7

This morning Noe, with the help of her physical therapist, walked with a walker out of the ICU and down the hallway! She is much more alert and clear today and she is talking with her family and friends. They have taken her off of morphine and put her on Tylenol for the pain. This change allows her to be alert, but she is still dealing with head, neck and back pain. Please continue to pray for Noe’s complete restoration.

“When I said, my foot is slipping, your mercy and loving-kindness, O lord, held me up. In the multitude of my anxious thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul! Psalm 94:18,19

Andrea is back today, as the ICU nurse, and is taking good care of Noe. She ate more Jell-O and she even had some custard! Later in the day, Alex took Noe in a wheelchair to meet Luke in the waiting room. She was overjoyed to hold Luke in her arms and she is looking forward to a visit with Noah tomorrow.

Dr. Warner, Noe’s infectious disease doctor, is very informative. She said Noe will continue to have IV antibiotics for the next two weeks. Dr. said Noe will meet with the physical therapist again tomorrow and if her assessment is favorable, Noe can move to a Med/Surge bed by the afternoon. Please pray that Noe will have a private room and we will inform you as soon as she moves out of the ICU. If her condition continues to improve she may be able to return home this weekend and take her IV antibiotics with her. Praise God for His continued faithfullness and for His loving-kindness to Noe and family.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5,6

Please leave a note below, by clicking on the word ‘comments’. Noe would love to hear from you!

Sunday, November 30, 2008 - One more step forward

Alex with Rodlyn and Noe's dad tucking Noe in for the night

Evening - Noe started eating food today, jello and broth. This is the most she's had in 6 days. She also told Rodlyn she wanted to go home!

Please continue to pray for her, Alex, Noah and Luke. The doctors cannot say how long Noe's recovery will take; everyone is different. We have to remember that God is using Noe for a purpose we may not understand, but God has a beautiful plan in store.

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 2 Thessalonians 5:16-18

1:40 pm - Things are looking better today. The MRI results came back, and the inflammation looks like it's gone down. Her white blood cell count, which until now has been high to combat the bacteria, has gone back to a more normal level. This makes sense with the blood tests from yesterday showing no sign that the bacteria existed. She is much more alert today.

She still has aching in her head, back and neck. They aren't entirely sure why, but are watching to make sure that is lessening with time. She is still on pain medicine for this.

She is recoginizing everyone and her short term memory seems better, too. She is talking in a few brief words, not quite sentences yet.

Noe's sister, Joan, is spending lots of time with the boys. The boys will be going back to school tomorrow, but between Alex, Joan, Rodlyn, grandma and grandpa, the boys are well taken care of.

Gather For Prayer

Email from Dennis Hart to brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus praying for God’s healing…

Hello All,
Earlier this evening I got word that Noe Au-Yeung is in the ICU with spinal meningitis. Several days ago, she collapsed at home, and was rushed to the hospital where she was in a coma. After a few days now of treatment, she is doing better, but her condition is still very serious. The Au-Yeungs have family in from out of town with them, so they are well cared for at this time. Their biggest need is for our prayers. Let us gather and lift them to the Lord, our Great Healer.
Dennis

Field Trip

Evening - Thanks to the insistence of the infectious disease MD, Noe is being transported to Santa Rosa Memorial for the MRI this afternoon. The MD did not want to wait any longer before getting the results. Andrea, the ICU nurse from Sutter Medical Center, was her transport nurse. It was such a blessing for Noe to have Andrea's familiar face along for the ride tonight. We will have the results of the MRI read tomorrow. Please pray that these headaches and back pain will subside and that Noe will rest comfortably this evening. Thank you so much for your prayers and keep praying! The Lord is listening!

“Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Psalms 27:14

Morning - (Text from Alex) The Most recent blood test shows no sign of bacteria. But Noe still has a headache and back pain. Her speech is a bit slurred but it may be due to lack of sleep. The MD decided to switch from CT to MRI for a more conclusive study. We are waiting for the MRI tech. They also may do another spinal tap to see if the fluid is clear. Today she seems more sluggish with headaches and backache. MD will try Penicillin to see if it works better, as well as continue with morphine for pain.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Afternoon - Noe is under guarded supervision in the Intensive Care Unit. Visitation is very limited at this time. Continue to pray for the family and we will update you as this status changes.

Noe has shown continued improvement. She can now open her eyes and she can focus on you while you are talking. The infectious disease doctor has consulted with the neurologist and states that she is doing well. She has good bilateral movement. Noe is still very tired and has not started eating. She was stating that her head hurt so they have given her some pain medication and she was able to sleep soundly.

She has great long-term memory but still foggy short term memory. Remember the movie 50 First Dates? As she continues to improve, so will her short-term memory.

The attending physician has scheduled a CT scan for tomorrow to assess the swelling in her brain. If necessary, a neurologist will be available for a consult tomorrow.

Alex has been meditating on Psalm 18:1-3 “I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.”

Alex has read Jeremiah 29:11-12 to Noe. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.”

We all are anxiously awaiting her homecoming. But we are reminded of Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

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Thursday November 11/27 - What a Thanksgiving!

Morning - They backed down again on the sedatives a.k.a. "Sedation Vacation." She was getting feisty and was trying to remove the intubation tube, so they removed it.

This was very exciting!!!

She started responding to voices and was trying to open her eyes again. When she started trying to pull her feeding tube out, they removed that too.

Praise the Lord! The latest blood test shows the bacteria is going down. They believe the steroids are helping reduce the inflammation with all the movement she has. They want people around her that she knows so the familiar voices will trigger her memory. So not only is her family with her but even her nurse on the shift right now turns out to be her masters swim teammate, Kim. So there's another familiar voice working on getting her memory triggered. Alex said this is such a wonderful Thanksgiving gift.

Thank you so so much for your continued prayers and praise to God for this amazing wonderful change of events!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

10:00 pm - They just did a "sedation vacation". As she was coming out of the sedation, she was reaching with her left hand (this is the side that wasn't moving yesterday morning) to try to remove the breathing tube. Wonderful sign that her brain in registering something. She tried to respond to verbal commands, and then she was trying to open her eyes! Alex is on cloud 9. He so desperately wanted her to open her eyes.

They will sedate her again for the night, but probably try this again tomorrow. God is hearing our prayers!!

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17

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Evening - The nurse, Andrea, was explaining how once a day they will be giving Noe a "sedation vacation". This means they will be backing off on the sedatives once a day to see how she is responding. Then they will re-sedate her to keep resting. She also said they will be doing a blood test tomorrow to see the level of meningitis still in her body.

The nurse is amazing. She has worked at UCSF, and previously was in the Neuro ICU. She is very experienced with brain issues. Praise God!

They said she has many things on her side - she's young and in good shape.
(And let's not forget Jesus!!!)

Noe’s cousin Rodlyn flew in from Hawaii. All the flights were completely full with Thanksgiving this week. So she contacted friends who worked for the airlines. They found a seat on a flight if she could get to the airport in an hour. Just more confirmation that God has this all planned out.

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4:00 pm - An EEG test was performed to determine brain activity. The Neurologist will interpret the test and talk to Alex tomorrow.

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Afternoon – Noe’s dad flew in from Las Vegas. What a blessing to have her dad here for the family. Flights are not easy to get last minute this week.

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Noon - When they backed down on the sedatives, she was moving both her left and right sides, which is a good sign. She was not following commands, like squeezing her hand yet. She was not opening her eyes yet.

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Morning – Noe’s blood was drawn today & it showed that the virus is still severe and not yet responding to the antibiotics. :(

Her brain still has swelling, so they are going to keep her sedated for another day. The plan is to wait another 24 hours and retest the blood then.

Please continue to pray for:
1) the antibiotics to work
2) the brain swelling to go down, and
3) that her brain has no permanent damage.

The boys, Noah and Luke, are doing ok. They have family in town to occupy their time. Please continue to pray for them and Alex.

THANK YOU!!!!!!

"He WILL respond to the prayer of the destitute; He will not despise their plea."
-Psalm 102:17

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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

9:40 pm - The meningitis is caused by the pneumococcal bacterium, they are treating it with specific and strong antibiotics. Noe is intubated and heavily sedated. Noe’s sister Joan and boyfriend Mike arrive after a long 8-hour drive from Los Angeles.

Praise God they have a quick answer and got started on treatment right away!
Unfortunately bacterial meningitis can be more dangerous than viral. So...here's some info on Noe's condition to help us pray:

What is bacterial meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or a bacterium is important because of differences in the seriousness of the illness and the treatment needed.
VIRAL MENINGITIS is usually relatively mild. It clears up within a week or two without specific treatment.
**BACTERIAL MENINGITIS is much more serious.
It can cause severe disease that can result in brain damage and even death.

What complications can result from bacterial meningitis?
Advanced bacterial meningitis can lead to brain damage, coma, and death. Survivors can suffer long-term complications, including hearing loss, mental retardation, paralysis, and seizures.

What is the treatment for bacterial meningitis?
Early diagnosis and treatment are very important. Bacterial meningitis can be treated with a number of effective antibiotics. It is important, however, that treatment be started early.
http://www.dhpe.org/infect/Bacmeningitis.html


"Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortal men, who cannot save.
When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the LORD his God,
the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them—
the LORD, who remains faithful forever."
Psalm 146:3-6

Your prayers are cherished by the Au-Yeung family!
Thank you for your spirit of prayer & sacrifice of praise in these crucial moments...

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7:16 pm - The test result came in positive for meningitis.

They now are working on trying to figure out if it's viral or bacterial, and what strain. They are keeping her sedated until at least 10 am tomorrow while they figure it out. Noe has been transferred to the ICU where she is being cared for by nurses that know her from her gym, the Airport Club.

Alex appreciates all the prayers...keep them coming! God is listening!

PS...He is overwhelmed hearing about all your prayers and is so thankful!

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3:54 pm - The MRI has ruled out brain tumor and aneurysm! They are now doing a spinal tap, looking for meningitis. This goes along with the symptoms she had over the weekend of a head ache and back pain. She is sedated because the spinal tap can be very painful. Alex seems relieved that the big issues have been ruled out.

If surgery is not needed, it sounds like they won't transfer her to UCSF. Alex seems confident that if it's meningitis she'll be ok to stay at the hospital in Santa Rosa. They have already started giving her strong antibiotics.

The spinal tap results won't be available for another 2 hours.

Keep praying!!!!! Looking better!!!

Early afternoon – The hospital staff took Noe for a CT scan and it showed swelling on the right side of her brain. They ruled out stroke at this time but are now thinking it may be a tumor. Now she will go for a MRI. Alex has contacted a world renowned Neurosurgeon at UCSF who is waiting for Noe to be transferred. He is utilizing his contacts in the medical field to arrange the best possible care for. He is doing an amazing job communicating with doctors, friends and family. Alex is being supported by his local church, Noe’s friends and neighbors and his coworkers. Alex has been reciting the following verse to her that Noah and Luke have memorized:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your god will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

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11:22 am – When Noe was brought in she had limited movement on the left side of her body and the right side of her face was drooping. The doctors gave Noe some medication to wake her, but she did not respond. According to the doctors it could mean a stroke, aneurysm or bleed. They are considering sending her to UCSF.
The kids are at school and plans have been made to have them picked up by friends. So thank you for continuing to pray! Friends and family around the globe are praying with you at this time. Friends in Belize, California and family in New York, Seattle, Hawaii and Las Vegas are to name a few.

Will keep you posted!

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9:30 am - Noe was taken by ambulance to the hospital this morning with what may have been a stroke or a brain aneurysm. She had complained of a backache & migraine a few days ago. On Monday she went to see the doctor and they prescribed Vicodin. Monday night she showered and went to bed at midnight with a bad headache. She had rough night of sleep. Come 8:30, after taking the boys to school, Alex and Noe’s mom could not wake her. They phoned 911 and the paramedics arrived. They thought she may have had a drug interaction from the Vicodin. After assessing her, they determined it was not a drug interaction and they drove her to the emergency room at Sutter Medical Center in Santa Rosa.

Noe is very healthy and active and this is completely unexpected so please pray to our Father & Lord Jesus Christ.

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory..."
Ephesians 3:20-21a