Journal entry by Chris Lewis —
Timothy and I are in Philly to have his digit widget removed. As we arrived in the clinic, Timothy’s surgeon said to his nurse, “Can you call down to maintenance and see if they have a wrench that will fit this thing?”
Timothy and I laughed at his humor 😂, putting us at ease … only to realize, moments later, he wasn’t kidding 😳🔧.
As the surgeon left to tend to other patients, maintenance arrived with a tool box in hand. Nothing fit. Back to the tool room, only to locate nothing useful.
Timothy chimed in: “We’ll, someone in the OR had to have the right wrench when they put it on.”
A nurse said, “Good idea. Let’s call the OR!”
Ten minutes later, a man in scrubs walked in with THE wrench. Problem solved. Timothy wins the Captain Obvious Award of the day!
Once the wrench did its job, the pliers went to work.
Six screws unwound from the bone.
I’ll spare folks of the video — it isn’t pleasant. Poor kid almost passed out from the pain, courtesy of screw number five which was bent.
A quick breather … a bit apple juice to raise the blood sugar … and he was back at it to finish the task.
Timothy is as tough as nails. Or at least screws.
He will need to wear a splint for a month at night and do some grip strength exercises. From there, we can consider surgery on the other hand. We both agreed, today wasn’t the day to make that decision!
For now, it’s cheesesteak time … and off to the airport.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Timothy Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Timothy's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
Invite friends and family to visit the site
