Norma Stansberry

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Norma had heart valve replacement surgery in Omaha, NE on Monday, March 6.  She suffered a stroke  at some point during the day, which has affected her left side.   Due to swelling in her brain, the Doctors performed surgery to remove part of her skull and inserted it into her abdomen, where it will stay until they put it back sometime within the next month(s) but it will be at least 6 weeks.  


Her heart has stopped twice.  The first time, they shocked it to get it going again.  The second time, it started back up on its own.  They performed another surgery, this time to insert a temporary pacemaker.  The Doctors are hopeful that she will not need the pacemaker permanently and she has not had another episode.  An ultra sound of the heart showed no blood clots.

She is still has the breathing tube in because she is not breathing as well as they would like before they take it out.  

She is responding. She can shake her head yes and no in answers to questions.  She can wiggle her right fingers and toes. 

It is going to be a long recovery for her.  We are told 6 weeks in the hospital, then a move to a rehab facility.   Doctors are saying that she may be blind in her left eye and her left arm will be paralyzed.  There is a chance she will get back movement in her left leg.  

Norma is tough.  She isn't on any pain medication other than Tylenol.  When asked if she is in pain, she shakes her head no.  If anyone can get through this, it is Norma.  We ask for your prayers for healing. 

Lee has been by her side and her sons and extended family have been there as much as possible given their work commitments.  Norma is in the hospital about 1 1/2 hrs away from her home & Lee has been staying with Norma's sister, Leila.  

The seriousness of Norma's condition , the length of time of recovery, and the distance from home are going to be very challenging for Norma and her family, not only emotionally but financially.   We appreciate your love, thoughts, and support during this very difficult time.