I have known Maxine for easily 12 plus years and did a number of face painting projects with her. She was a kind, funny caring friend. I spoke to her fairly often. She was of the same faith as me and we had many religious conversations. She was true to her faith. I’m sure she would want you to know that this life is only part of our journey. No doubt death brings sadness to family and friends but we believe we will meet again. She lived a good, long life filled with lots of joy. She had the opportunity to touch many lives in a positive way. I am saddened for her family and those close around her but I know she has gone on to a better place free from physical pain. Life’s decisions like removing one from life support, is very difficult. I’m sure that was very difficult for Joe. I hope they have comfort in remembering all the good times and the many laughs she has given.
Gary Cindy, That is absolutely true! I hope my explanation helps people understand the general situation. Here is RoByn's quote: "Things did not go as well today. The doctors called Maxine's family in for a meeting. Although off the dialysis and her insulin levels better, her lungs appear very damaged. They are going to try to get her to breathe without the respirator. They are also trying to lighten her levels of sedation so that she regains consciousness. Because they are unsure of the damages to her lungs and brain by both the strokes and the infections, they are unsure that any of this will actually work and wanted to discuss the family's wishes if the need arises. Please continue sending prayers and positive energy to my friend. Thank you. RoByn" Being taken off of the respirator (ventilator) is not tantamount to being taken off of life support. It is not uncommon for trials to be done. If individuals are on heavy sedation, the sedation is lightened. Since she had a stroke, the doctors want to see how responsive she is off of sedation. Once people are more awake, they are talked to: squeeze my hand if you hear me, wiggle your toes, blink twice if you hear me, etc. That gives you an idea of brain function. The work of the ventilator can also be minimized once someone is more awake (less sedation), and they will be given a trial to see how they do breathing on their own or with minimal help from the machine. That is particularly true if the rest of her organs are recovering, which appears to be the case. Remember, Christopher Reeve could not breathe on his own. But that never meant he was less alive or that he would be taken off of life support. In very general terms, someone will only be taken off of life support if their brain no longer functions. Also note that RoByn said the family is discussing wishes - "if the need arises". This is VERY common place to discuss wishes ANY time someone is critical in the ICU and at a potential turning point. And discussing wishes means: Do you want us to do everything in our power... full court press to save your family member's life? Do you want us only give support breathing? Do you want us to shock the heart if it stops beating? Do you want us only to give relief for pain, and do nothing but support with love and care if they stop breathing or their heart stops? Those are the types of things that are discussed. It is easier to make decisions ahead of time in a more calm environment rather than on the when someone emergently needs their heart shocked. The wishes are discussed on a regular basis, in case the family's wishes change based on the status of their loved one. So everyone keep fighting for her. This definitely does not mean it is over. Carmela - someone with a lot of medical experience in the ICU; dying wishes, and medical involvement in disconnecting life support; but also seeing people who were thought to be at death's door make a full recovery. -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [fpba-assn] Maxine From: "cindy trusty" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Date: Mon, September 22, 2008 6:52 am To: <[email protected]> There is some confusion and doubt as to Maxine's current state of health. Don't count her out just yet...we're awaiting confirmed reports. Keep her in your prayers! Cindy No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.169 / Virus Database: 270.7.0/1683 - Release Date: 9/22/2008 6:39 AM --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Face Painting and Body Art Association." This is a PG-13 forum dedicated to the discussion of Face Painting and Body Art. This group is provided for the benefit of all and as such is not moderated. Our goal is to promote open and unrestricted communication between people interested in face painting and body art. We hope that you will be courteous to others and try to stay on topic. You are free to offer products or services related to face painting as well. Please address concerns with the original poster before contacting the management. To post to this group, send email to [email protected] To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/fpba-assn -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
