Kent’s Got New Lungs!
Posted by April
September 23, 12:00 AM
It is almost unbelieveable that just 24 hours ago there was a pair of harvested lungs in transit to Shands UF - and that they were a perfect match for Kent. With his 3rd daughter (and Respiratory Therapist) by his side at the hospital Monday afternoon and evening, Kent was prepped for surgery throughout the evening of 9/21 and eventually rolled in to the Operating Room at about 2:00 AM on 9/22. Even though the surgery took about 10 hours to complete, it went smoothly and without complications. When Dr. Staples called Brooke after the surgery, he said that the lungs were a perfect fit - almost like they were intended just for Kent.
We were allowed into the ICU to check on Kent within just a couple of hours. He was alert and already wanting to pull out his breathing tube. Getting adjusted to the allowing the ventilator to do breathing for him has been difficult, but less cumbersome throughout the afternoon and evening. Dr. Baz is pleased with Kent’s progress so far….the lungs are functioning perfectly!
We will keep Kent’s blog updated with his progress over the next few weeks. Thank you to everyone who has sent their thoughts, love, and prayers!
September 23rd, 2009 at 4:55 am
I am thrilled - excited - happy - grateful… Go KENT!!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 5:10 am
My prayers are with Kent.
September 23rd, 2009 at 11:12 am
Brooke & April, You both are angels!! Thankyou so much for calling & keeping me updated. I’m sorry I called so late last nite, I was being selfish but just wanted to know how he was doing. I promised myself this morning I would keep my hands under my butt so I won’t call & bother you. I don’t know where you are finding the energy to go thru all this & then already update the blog. Don’t forget to eat & keep up your strength! much love to all of you, -betty
September 23rd, 2009 at 4:02 pm
So excited for you, glad everything is gong fine! It won’t be long before you can go fishing and breathe in the fresh ocean air.
Judy and Jack Combs
September 24th, 2009 at 6:38 am
Wow ,what a relief knowing Kent made it through surgery. Thank you Brook for calling me when he was having surgery. I went nuts yesterday waiting for an update and now I have one. All are in my prayers. Kent you are strong and will do fine. Love to all and mt prayers will continue.
Larry Chabot
September 24th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Oh thank the LORD everything went well. Thank you so much for his update!!! Kent is in our prayers and our thoughts throughout each day!!! —butch & arleen
September 25th, 2009 at 8:10 am
Hey Kent…
Wow Amazing !! I am so happy to hear that you are going to be much better…
You sure deserve all the best..
Take good care of yourself,,, I know I’ll see you again…
September 26th, 2009 at 6:25 am
Kent you are good hands, and we are thinking about you. can’t wait to fish.
September 27th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
It was so good to hear about Kent’s new lungs. I’m praying that the Lord above will overshadow your chest, the doctors, nurses and staff, and let His Love and Mercy shine down upon everyone. We are all in the capable Hands of the One
who knows every fiber of our being. He is and always will be in control. May Kent’s complete recovery be a testament to our All Powerful Living God. We give thanks to His loving guidance and healing of Kent’s lungs. Bless His Holy Name.
TOM LAICHE
October 1st, 2009 at 5:00 pm
This is nothing but awesome news. Can’t wait to go fish Sebastian again. I just knew this was all going to work out. Take care Buddy.