First off, a big huge thank you goes out to ALL who were a part of celebrating my Dad's life yesterday!
The touching day, will forever be remembered. Lots of hugs shared, and tears off sadness, but also a time of remembering my Dad's, "famous-ness"
Hansen Funeral Home went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect! We could not have done this better ourselves!
The flowers were beautiful! Lots of Cubs themed stuff-beautiful flowering plants, green plants, and lush flowers! We loved all of them!
The dvd photo presentation was excellent. We had lots of Dad's sports photos and high school mementos (Thanks to some of this classmates and friends, and Carol for bringing his yearbooks)-Which by the way provided me with entertainment to read on the long drive home.
The "Viewing"-Lots of people came-Family members, friends, classmates, teachers, some of my Dad's players he once coached, people from my graduation class, family friends, old neighbors, relatives, co-workers, even the lady who worked at/owned the restaurant my Dad went to almost every morning for breakfast in Waupaca! I am sure I am missing some categories here, but I think you get the idea! It was wonderful seeing eveyone, meeting "new" people, and hearing how they were connected to my Dad.
To give you a sense of the crowd, the guest book only had one page left in it.
Thanks to all for the comforting embraces, and words of kindness. We appreciate the support.
His prayer card had the Serenity Prayer-Of course with the Cubs theme and his picture.
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
The Eulogy was perfect! Mike Varney, you did a wonderful job. The memories you shared will never be forgotten-lots of laughs and tears! I even learned some things about my Dad too!
The Mass was very spiritual and blessed. Father Don did an excellent job! The hymns were perfect too. I'm sure Dad loved every moment.
After the Mass, we proceeded to the baseball field-where we started the afternoon celebration! The weather was beautiful! We started the festivities with singing, "Take Me Out to the Ballgame"-with my Dad's favorite, Hary Caray, singing it! We all sang along.
We feasted on hotdogs, chips, and ballpark treats, chatted with friends and family, and shared more memories of Dad. People could come up and share a story about Dad. This was such a great memorial tribute!
Mike Varney, even played a variety of Cubs highlights, over the loudspeaker as a tribute! This was truly a memorable day.
Some people even wore their Cubs, or baseball apparel! We loved the Titleists baseball hats too!
Thanks again to everyone for everything, the support, the flowers, cards, memorial funds, phone calls, delicious food at the ballpark, and the all around memorable day.
Speaking of food- a Huge thank you goes out to the Marshfield Chaparrals (and whoever else was involved in this) for provided us with EVERYTHING at the ballpark! We truly appreciate your AWESOME DONATION! This is just what Dad would Dad would have wanted!
I am sure I missed something, but will try and think of it all when sending thank you notes.
Thanks again! Your love and support mean more than we can say!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
See you at the Ballpark!
I am delighted to share this news with you!
We would like you to come and celebrate my Dad's life at the Ballpark! He would have it no other way!
Everyone is invited to attend our Memorial Celebration at Jack Hackman Field on
Please join us for some socializing and good old baseball game treats-hotdogs, chips, popcorn, soda...after the mass.
Special Thanks to the CHAPS, City of Marshfield/Park and Rec, Hansen Funeral Home-and all other involved in pulling this off!
Dad, would have loved this, and will be honored!
Please, spread the good word!
Dad, would have loved this, and will be honored!
Please, spread the good word!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Dad's Funeral Arrangements
We have decided on Dad's funeral arrangements.
The Visitation will take place on Wednesday August 27th from Noon until 2:00 PM-at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Marshfield, WI.
Mass will be at 2:00 PM-Immediately after the visitation, also at Our Lady of Peach Church in Marshfield.
At this point-we are finalizing the social gathering afterwords.
More info to come-an Full Obituary will be in Tuesday's Edition of The Marshfield News Herald.
Hansen Funeral home is assisting us with arrangements.
The address for Our Lady of Peace (OLP) Church is 1300 W. 5th Street, Marshfield WI 54449
Thank you to all of you for you love and support. We appreciate your thoughtful greetings, messages, etc.
The Visitation will take place on Wednesday August 27th from Noon until 2:00 PM-at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Marshfield, WI.
Mass will be at 2:00 PM-Immediately after the visitation, also at Our Lady of Peach Church in Marshfield.
At this point-we are finalizing the social gathering afterwords.
More info to come-an Full Obituary will be in Tuesday's Edition of The Marshfield News Herald.
Hansen Funeral home is assisting us with arrangements.
The address for Our Lady of Peace (OLP) Church is 1300 W. 5th Street, Marshfield WI 54449
Thank you to all of you for you love and support. We appreciate your thoughtful greetings, messages, etc.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Dad is at peace now
Tonight, at 6:00pm-I watched my Dad take his last breath. I am sad, and relieved at the same time.
As hard as it was to see him go, I know now, that he's looking down at us with a big Sheahen Smile!
We are in the process of determining funeral arrangements at this time.
I will post more-when I know. Thanks so much!
Say a prayer for us tonight. I'll write more later.
As a continuation from before....
It has only been a little over 5 hours since my Dad has passed away, and I miss him already! I am still trying to take this whole thing in-grieve-and get ready for the rest of this process.
Right now, Dad is looking down on us with saying his famous words, "Nobody Panic"-Sam reminded this of me on the phone. I am sure he has already hugged his Mom and is having words with Coach Kroll.
Heck, he is probably having a cigarette! If there is one thing I know about my Dad, it's that he loved us very much, and never would want us to go though all this pain. The good memories will provide me with comfort, and I am so thankful I had words with him in recent days before all this happened. He knows how much his family and friends loved and cared for him.
His legacy will live on forever.
As hard as it was to see him go, I know now, that he's looking down at us with a big Sheahen Smile!
We are in the process of determining funeral arrangements at this time.
I will post more-when I know. Thanks so much!
Say a prayer for us tonight. I'll write more later.
As a continuation from before....
It has only been a little over 5 hours since my Dad has passed away, and I miss him already! I am still trying to take this whole thing in-grieve-and get ready for the rest of this process.
Right now, Dad is looking down on us with saying his famous words, "Nobody Panic"-Sam reminded this of me on the phone. I am sure he has already hugged his Mom and is having words with Coach Kroll.
Heck, he is probably having a cigarette! If there is one thing I know about my Dad, it's that he loved us very much, and never would want us to go though all this pain. The good memories will provide me with comfort, and I am so thankful I had words with him in recent days before all this happened. He knows how much his family and friends loved and cared for him.
His legacy will live on forever.
My Dad
Dad,
Thank you for hanging on this long. Nurse Ardis called me that you're not doing so hot today-thanks for deciding to let go on your own. As much as this saddens me, I am happy at the same time.
Yes, I regret to inform you all-my Dad is not doing too hot. The nurses and doctors think the end is near.
I am on my way to the hospital right now.
Everyone, please continue praying-as we still need it. Family is traveling to the hospital as we speak.
Will update later.
And Please...MAY GOD SPEED!
Thank you for hanging on this long. Nurse Ardis called me that you're not doing so hot today-thanks for deciding to let go on your own. As much as this saddens me, I am happy at the same time.
Yes, I regret to inform you all-my Dad is not doing too hot. The nurses and doctors think the end is near.
I am on my way to the hospital right now.
Everyone, please continue praying-as we still need it. Family is traveling to the hospital as we speak.
Will update later.
And Please...MAY GOD SPEED!
Feeling Sad, but Strong-trying to be okay
Hello
This morning Dad has spiked another fever-Carol called me with an update. We will all be up there with Dad again today.
Thanks again for your continued thoughts and words of support.
We have not all had the time or the energy to respond to everything. Your thoughts and words are truly appreciated.
Lots of people are asking about Dad, and rightfully so. It is hard for us to keep our emotions intact in many cases. We appreciate your understanding. I can't speak for my entire family on how each of us are individually feeling...but what I can tell you is we are all sad. We are are dealing with this as best as we can, given the shocking circumstances.
My Aunt Dar recently told me...Your Dad is always teaching you lessons, and this is another lesson he is teaching me...to be strong, and that I CAN make it though all of this. She's right.
It's been hard to go one with daily activities. Food does not taste the same, going places has been hard, listening to music has been hard, everything reminds me of, Dad.
I would give anything for an opportunity to have him talk to me for just 5 more minutes. I know, even if they say he can't at times-I know he can hear me. I am thanking him and telling him as much as I can during the time I have. Even Sam, just wants 5 more minutes that Dad is okay, and he could hang out with him.
Earlier this week-I made the mistake of sending my sister and brother a voice mail that I received from Dad before he came to the hospital. I prefaced it with, "just thought you want to hear Dad's voice." Sam, didn't listen to that part-and thought my Dad was now okay-I called my Mom and she called Sam, and told him it was an old voicemail. I was devastated. I never meant to hurt Sam, just wanted him to hear Dad's voice.
I seriously listen to my voicemail at least once a day-because I miss my Dad too.
Everyone reading this please do me a huge favor-and if you can-give your Dad an extra hug and tell him how much you appreciate all that he has done.
Thanks again for listening-I will write more after I visit with Dad today.
This morning Dad has spiked another fever-Carol called me with an update. We will all be up there with Dad again today.
Thanks again for your continued thoughts and words of support.
We have not all had the time or the energy to respond to everything. Your thoughts and words are truly appreciated.
Lots of people are asking about Dad, and rightfully so. It is hard for us to keep our emotions intact in many cases. We appreciate your understanding. I can't speak for my entire family on how each of us are individually feeling...but what I can tell you is we are all sad. We are are dealing with this as best as we can, given the shocking circumstances.
My Aunt Dar recently told me...Your Dad is always teaching you lessons, and this is another lesson he is teaching me...to be strong, and that I CAN make it though all of this. She's right.
It's been hard to go one with daily activities. Food does not taste the same, going places has been hard, listening to music has been hard, everything reminds me of, Dad.
I would give anything for an opportunity to have him talk to me for just 5 more minutes. I know, even if they say he can't at times-I know he can hear me. I am thanking him and telling him as much as I can during the time I have. Even Sam, just wants 5 more minutes that Dad is okay, and he could hang out with him.
Earlier this week-I made the mistake of sending my sister and brother a voice mail that I received from Dad before he came to the hospital. I prefaced it with, "just thought you want to hear Dad's voice." Sam, didn't listen to that part-and thought my Dad was now okay-I called my Mom and she called Sam, and told him it was an old voicemail. I was devastated. I never meant to hurt Sam, just wanted him to hear Dad's voice.
I seriously listen to my voicemail at least once a day-because I miss my Dad too.
Everyone reading this please do me a huge favor-and if you can-give your Dad an extra hug and tell him how much you appreciate all that he has done.
Thanks again for listening-I will write more after I visit with Dad today.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Met with Doctors
We met with doctors today-and they gave us the whole ordeal.
Dad is very, very sick. Right now his heart is only functioning at 10%. He is now septic, and is fighting a lot of infection.
Our family asks that you would keep us in your thoughts. Again, at this time, please no visitors.
We are praying for an answer.
Dad is very, very sick. Right now his heart is only functioning at 10%. He is now septic, and is fighting a lot of infection.
Our family asks that you would keep us in your thoughts. Again, at this time, please no visitors.
We are praying for an answer.
Dad's not getting better
I am sad and frusterated. We tried so hard to get my Dad better. We did all the right things, but
Dad's condition is not improving.
We are meeting with the doctor today-the entire family to make some decisions.
Please keep us in your thoughts.
Dad's condition is not improving.
We are meeting with the doctor today-the entire family to make some decisions.
Please keep us in your thoughts.
Early Friday AM update
Goodmorning,
Well, Dad made it though the night, which as he would say was "key" at this point. The nurse last night explained that he has bacterial pnemonia which on the plus side-is easier to treat than viral pnemonia. He also has bacterial e-coli in his lungs, and is being treated with a very aggressive antibiotic.
When everyone left last night (Sam, Katy, Mom, and Carol)-the very blunt nurse said the making it though the night thing (last night) would be critical.
All of these "other things" e-coli, pnemonia, etc...are making this even harder for Dad to fight, but he's fighting. We all know that.
We want to be with Dad all the time-Everyday, and it's been hard. Carol-Thanks for being there for Dad too. Thanks for leaving work early, and being there for long hours. Thanks for taking time off...and being there for support.
Katy and I have families of our own-
Katy has Brody-5 months and Natahsha-6 years. I have Collin-17 months, and Alexander-4 years. We both have loving and caring husbands-who are hanging in there too.
Mom and Carol-both work fulltime.
If you ad travel time in here too-the whole thing is exhausting. Oh, how I crave normalcy. I'm not always a patient person-that's the Sheahen in me-but in this case I will be.
Katy and Carol are going to be up by him today. Katy called me early this AM-sad and tired-we all are. She stayed in a hotel in Appleton with her fam. She has to drive an hour and 1/2 each way to see Dad-and she's nursing her 5 month old, and usually works nights at Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.
Mom and Sam, thanks for making the long trek last night too--from Rapids and Marshfield. Dad appreciates the support. Mom, thanks for giving Sam a ride-thanks for answering your phone all day at work too-and holding it together at work through all of this.
Everyday, is a new day, and we all face new challenges. We continue to believe that Dad is strong and can do this because we know he would have it no other way.
Thanks for listening and reading-will update more later-with more news.
Well, Dad made it though the night, which as he would say was "key" at this point. The nurse last night explained that he has bacterial pnemonia which on the plus side-is easier to treat than viral pnemonia. He also has bacterial e-coli in his lungs, and is being treated with a very aggressive antibiotic.
When everyone left last night (Sam, Katy, Mom, and Carol)-the very blunt nurse said the making it though the night thing (last night) would be critical.
All of these "other things" e-coli, pnemonia, etc...are making this even harder for Dad to fight, but he's fighting. We all know that.
We want to be with Dad all the time-Everyday, and it's been hard. Carol-Thanks for being there for Dad too. Thanks for leaving work early, and being there for long hours. Thanks for taking time off...and being there for support.
Katy and I have families of our own-
Katy has Brody-5 months and Natahsha-6 years. I have Collin-17 months, and Alexander-4 years. We both have loving and caring husbands-who are hanging in there too.
Mom and Carol-both work fulltime.
If you ad travel time in here too-the whole thing is exhausting. Oh, how I crave normalcy. I'm not always a patient person-that's the Sheahen in me-but in this case I will be.
Katy and Carol are going to be up by him today. Katy called me early this AM-sad and tired-we all are. She stayed in a hotel in Appleton with her fam. She has to drive an hour and 1/2 each way to see Dad-and she's nursing her 5 month old, and usually works nights at Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.
Mom and Sam, thanks for making the long trek last night too--from Rapids and Marshfield. Dad appreciates the support. Mom, thanks for giving Sam a ride-thanks for answering your phone all day at work too-and holding it together at work through all of this.
Everyday, is a new day, and we all face new challenges. We continue to believe that Dad is strong and can do this because we know he would have it no other way.
Thanks for listening and reading-will update more later-with more news.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Thursday PM Update
I just got back home from a very long, exhausting day in the ICU with Dad. Unfortunately, Dad has pnemonia, and is fighting some sort of bacterial infection. They are aggressively treating him with antibiotics in his central line.(definition thanks to the internet)-Central line: A catheter (tube) that is passed through a vein to end up in the thoracic (chest) portion of the vena cava (the large vein returning blood to the heart) or in the right atrium of the heart.
Central lines have a number of different uses. A central line allows concentrated solutions to be infused with less risk of complications. It permits monitoring of special blood pressures including the central venous pressure, the pulmonary artery pressure, and the pulmonary capillary wedge pressures. The central line can be used for the estimation of cardiac output and vascular resistance. The near end of the catheter may also be connected to a chamber for injections given over periods of months. A central line saves having to have frequent small injections or "drips" placed in the arms. Thankfully, this is now in, and will hopefully help out.
Dad is fighting so hard, and is hanging on. I held his hand, and rubbed his forehead most of the day-trying to reassure him that he was going to be okay soon. Do you know how hard this is, when sometimes, even I don't believe he's going to be okay! I do have those not so good thoughts from time to time, and and trying so hard to think positive! I have faith, and I know my Dad. He isn't ready to go yet. He made this quite clear at the beginning of this whole ordeal.
We had the priest come in too. My Dad recived the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick-it was very touching and peaceful. Dad became a little uneasy when the anointing started because I think it scared him, and he thought, okay-this has to be it...there's a priest in here, but I reassured him and told him we just called for some "back up" because right now we need all the help we can get!
As I mentioned above...I spent the majority of the day with Dad, except when they had to do some things to him that I could not be in the room for. During my trips to the ICU waiting room, I was greated with smiles and hellos, I gave the polite smile back. I tried to occupy myself by calling relatives with updates-Hi to my AZ RELATIVES! Reading the blog! I attempting reading magzines, but everything reminds me of my Dad! I can connect him to a lot of things. Plus, it didn't help that the man sitting across from me in the waiting room had a CUBS shirt on! I counted sealing tiles, evesdropped on conversations, and thought about what my Dad would say at a time like this. Let's hurry up and get this done, the Bears are on TONIGHT! Seriously, in his room before all this happened...that's what he was worried about-where can I find WGN and why the HELL aren't the Cubs on here!? Even eating my turkey sandwich for lunch. I thought of how he would laugh and say-there was no need for the tomatoes to be on that. Of course, there were 4 on my sandwich from the hospital cafe. I threw the tomatoes and lettuce out...Dad thought lettuce was only good on BLT's.
He looks ok-looking past the tubes and tape-I still see my Dad-Good color, peaceful sleeping eyes, and big belly under those covers! His rough, rugged hands a bit swollen, and warm, felt strangely good to hang on to.
The beeps and dings of the ICU room made it hard for my eyes not to wander off those numbers on the machines.
I felt cold and alone, even with Dad there. All of us...Carol, Sam, Katy, and Mom-are taking turns with Dad-sitting by his bedside.
We are all trying to comfort him-assure him everything is going to be ok. We take turns sitting by his side. Carol (his girlfriend), comforts him well into the night. We take turns calling the ICU in the early hours for updates-and passing it along the chain. I even felt angry or jealous at times, everyone around me in that waiting was getting "happy news"-except for me.
I go from being ok, to completely losing it. Dad needs us to be strong, and I try not to get upset in his room.
EXHAUSTING, but Dad would have it no other way. He always says If you belive in something-you have the power to make that happen.
Thinking of that brings me to one of his favorite movies
I'll leave you with a happy quote from the movie.
[Archie's at bat and is almost hit by the pitcher's throws, twice] Archie Graham: Hey ump, how 'bout a warning? Clean-shaven Umpire: Sure, kid. Watch out you don't get killed.
*one more thing-Fred and (Waupaca buddies) thanks for the wonderful uplifiting cards-we found at the nurses desk this AM.
Thanks for listening, EVERYBODY! Keep sending the love and prayers!
Central lines have a number of different uses. A central line allows concentrated solutions to be infused with less risk of complications. It permits monitoring of special blood pressures including the central venous pressure, the pulmonary artery pressure, and the pulmonary capillary wedge pressures. The central line can be used for the estimation of cardiac output and vascular resistance. The near end of the catheter may also be connected to a chamber for injections given over periods of months. A central line saves having to have frequent small injections or "drips" placed in the arms. Thankfully, this is now in, and will hopefully help out.
Dad is fighting so hard, and is hanging on. I held his hand, and rubbed his forehead most of the day-trying to reassure him that he was going to be okay soon. Do you know how hard this is, when sometimes, even I don't believe he's going to be okay! I do have those not so good thoughts from time to time, and and trying so hard to think positive! I have faith, and I know my Dad. He isn't ready to go yet. He made this quite clear at the beginning of this whole ordeal.
We had the priest come in too. My Dad recived the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick-it was very touching and peaceful. Dad became a little uneasy when the anointing started because I think it scared him, and he thought, okay-this has to be it...there's a priest in here, but I reassured him and told him we just called for some "back up" because right now we need all the help we can get!
As I mentioned above...I spent the majority of the day with Dad, except when they had to do some things to him that I could not be in the room for. During my trips to the ICU waiting room, I was greated with smiles and hellos, I gave the polite smile back. I tried to occupy myself by calling relatives with updates-Hi to my AZ RELATIVES! Reading the blog! I attempting reading magzines, but everything reminds me of my Dad! I can connect him to a lot of things. Plus, it didn't help that the man sitting across from me in the waiting room had a CUBS shirt on! I counted sealing tiles, evesdropped on conversations, and thought about what my Dad would say at a time like this. Let's hurry up and get this done, the Bears are on TONIGHT! Seriously, in his room before all this happened...that's what he was worried about-where can I find WGN and why the HELL aren't the Cubs on here!? Even eating my turkey sandwich for lunch. I thought of how he would laugh and say-there was no need for the tomatoes to be on that. Of course, there were 4 on my sandwich from the hospital cafe. I threw the tomatoes and lettuce out...Dad thought lettuce was only good on BLT's.
He looks ok-looking past the tubes and tape-I still see my Dad-Good color, peaceful sleeping eyes, and big belly under those covers! His rough, rugged hands a bit swollen, and warm, felt strangely good to hang on to.
The beeps and dings of the ICU room made it hard for my eyes not to wander off those numbers on the machines.
I felt cold and alone, even with Dad there. All of us...Carol, Sam, Katy, and Mom-are taking turns with Dad-sitting by his bedside.
We are all trying to comfort him-assure him everything is going to be ok. We take turns sitting by his side. Carol (his girlfriend), comforts him well into the night. We take turns calling the ICU in the early hours for updates-and passing it along the chain. I even felt angry or jealous at times, everyone around me in that waiting was getting "happy news"-except for me.
I go from being ok, to completely losing it. Dad needs us to be strong, and I try not to get upset in his room.
EXHAUSTING, but Dad would have it no other way. He always says If you belive in something-you have the power to make that happen.
Thinking of that brings me to one of his favorite movies
I'll leave you with a happy quote from the movie.
[Archie's at bat and is almost hit by the pitcher's throws, twice] Archie Graham: Hey ump, how 'bout a warning? Clean-shaven Umpire: Sure, kid. Watch out you don't get killed.
*one more thing-Fred and (Waupaca buddies) thanks for the wonderful uplifiting cards-we found at the nurses desk this AM.
Thanks for listening, EVERYBODY! Keep sending the love and prayers!
Not good news Again
Early this morning the ICU nurse called me and said my Dad's heart rate wasn't right again. The rhythm was very off, and his blood pressure was rapidly dropping. They called a code and shocked him. I am heading there soon. Please pray...harder then you have before!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Night Update
I took a day off from visiting Dad today-it was hard, but I had to take my youngest in to see if he had an ear infection.
News from today is from Carol (Dad's girlfriend) and the nurses that I spoke with over the phone.
Carol said they turned Dad's oxygen down to 70% and are going to see how he tolerates this, He had a small fever-that they are treating with antibiotics-because they don't want Dad to get pneumonia.
He is again opening his eyes today. Carol said when she held his hand and talked to him he would open his eyes. Remember, he is not in a coma. They are purposely sedating him right now, so that his heart can get stronger.
They have changed some of his heart medication around-and it seems that his heart is getting stronger...little by little.
There is still a long road-but inch by inch it's a cinch right? Keep up the good work, Dad!
News from today is from Carol (Dad's girlfriend) and the nurses that I spoke with over the phone.
Carol said they turned Dad's oxygen down to 70% and are going to see how he tolerates this, He had a small fever-that they are treating with antibiotics-because they don't want Dad to get pneumonia.
He is again opening his eyes today. Carol said when she held his hand and talked to him he would open his eyes. Remember, he is not in a coma. They are purposely sedating him right now, so that his heart can get stronger.
They have changed some of his heart medication around-and it seems that his heart is getting stronger...little by little.
There is still a long road-but inch by inch it's a cinch right? Keep up the good work, Dad!
Want to send a Note to Ed?
So I might be going a little crazy on the note thing, but this whole blogging thing is therapeutic to me. I need to get some sleep so I will make this short. Do you have a message for my Dad? Maybe a note to cheer him up, or funny story you remember about him. I am going to make a book for him, and let him know he has all this support. Just add your message to the comment on this note.Thanks so much! Your kind words and thoughts will be greatly appreciated! Those of you who sent notes-could you copy and paste them on the blog? I am trying to get a book started for him. Just ad this to the comment of this blog. Thanks~
Dad, I need you-I wrote this last night
I just finished listening to my old cell phone voice mails my dad left me a few days before he went to the hospital. One, a simple good morning message, and one, a good night message. I am glad I saved them so I can hear his voice.I am just not ready to let my dad go. Today, while at his bedside in ICU...I thought about a lot of things. Why he was there, what he could say if he could talk right now, how much my Dad means to me, and why it's to early for him to die.The game is still on...still time on the clock-don't throw the towel in. I need you! We need you, and you have to be strong!I wrote a list of things I needed him for...Dad I need you to be okay becauseI love you!I need you here for my kids. I want you to watch my kids grow up. You need to help my boys perfect their baseball and golf swings, and their arch for their free throw shot.I want to cook you a meal so you can tell me how bad of a cook you think I am.I need your fatherly advice.I need you to keep telling me how much of a "Sheahen" I am.I need you to call me in the middle of a Cubs game, just so you can tell me how AWESOME the CUBS are.I need you to call me...just because-for those great family updates!I need to see you get yelled at for blowing a call at a game!I need to see you coach-and lose it at the ref!I need you to have a taco eating contest with Katy.I need you to tell me that I drive to fast!I need you to have a conversation with Mom about her E-baying.I need you to laugh violently hard at the joke Steve told you 2 days ago!You need to be strong, and need to continue to fight! We are praying for you constantly. Don't quit now. You always told me never to be a quitter and fight until the end. I see now how important this advice really was.Hang in there DAD!WE LOVE YOU!
Starting from Day one-Here's the story
Starting Thursday August 14th
I decided to write a note on this so I don't have to repeat myself a million times. I know some people will read this and offer support, others will read this and head to the rumor mill, and others will read this and go on with their day. I have one thing to say, to each his own, but please think about a person's feeling before you make your decision.The past few weeks my Dad has been sick. It started when he was hit in the head with a fast ball while umpiring a baseball game. Yes, it's ok to laugh here...I did ;)He was behind the plate, getting a the calls right-like he always does :) He was suddenly hit by a foul ball-right off his mask. He'll tell you it was a 100 mile an hour fast ball, and that he was "rocked". It knocked him to the ground-the pitcher was someone he had once couched, and he felt terrible. Long story short here...he of course had a concussion, and all the nasty symptoms. His girlfriend is a nurse and she told him to go to the doctor, but he felt he has been slowly getting better-keeping food down, not feeling dizzy, etc. So he never saw a doctor.Recently, my Dad has started swelling. (yes, i know he is already on the lbig man size, but not that kind of swelling) He is retaining a lot of water in his legs and ankles. Well, I am not a doctor, but this cannot be good. Believe me, I have gone through all the scenarios, none of which are good, and I don't want to hear what you think it could be.-I KNOW! My sister is almost a nurse, my Dad's girlfriend is a nurse, and I have some medical background. I know that the future doesn't look too good.Please put aside the obvious, we all know my dad is not the picture of health. Smoking 3 packs a day would cause problems in anyone. The point is-we need prayers and support.My Dad was in contact with a lot of people. Some I know, and some I don't. He was very involved in coaching, umpiring, ruffing, etc. Some of us have great memories of him-Coaching at OLP-St. Ned's-when you guys played like 100 games or something after the season ended...coaching chaparrals baseball, let's not forget when he coached my 5th grade basketball team, long, practices, ridiculous, unending line drills, chewing out locker room talks, getting tossed out of a few games, throwing clipboards, the list goes on. We can all laugh about this now, I certainly do.I have a very different set of memories of my Dad. The one's that only his family share-family trips, watching him play ball, playing sports with my Dad in the backyard, dinner at Grandma and Grandpa Sheahen's, seeing the look on my Dad's face when I graduated from college! He was so proud-and I'll never forget the day he walked me down the isle-he cried and said I looked beautiful-and some other very touching things. I remember when he held my first son in his arms, and the similar experience when he held my second son. I saw him last night. Steve and I dove over an hour to see him in Waupaca-where he is now living. He's winded, and tired, looking very warn down, his skin looked a yellow greyish, and he had swollen ankles, feet, and legs. He had to take a break walking up the stairs, and of course he blamed it on his damn sandals!My sister and I, along with my Dad's girlfriend pleaded with him to go to the hospital. I tried everything. I even played the "I don't want to have to tell my children that Grandpa's in Heaven card". He thinks he is getting better-he says he just needs to get his "mojo" back. Finally, at the end of the visit-he agreed-he said he is going to the hospital today...We'll see-I hate to say this, but I will believe it when I see it! Please keep my Dad, and our family in your thoughts and prayers.We appreciate it-you can share you "good" memories of my Dad too-if you want. Thanks for listening.Friday
Friday Aug. 15th
Here's the scoop on my Dad...I want to preface this note by saying I am sad, tired, and overall emotionally drained from the events of today. I will try to explain this the best I can.My Dad arrived at Waupaca ER this AM and was given an Electrical cardioversion. An external defibrillator is used in electrical cardioversion. After you are given a sedative, a doctor places metal paddles or patches on your chest wall. The paddles send an electric current to your heart. The electric current resets your heart rhythm and your heart usually starts in a normal rhythm. His heart was beating way too fast-like he was running a marathon way too long. Because of this-his kidneys and liver have started to not function as well as they should. He also has some fluid in his lungs-causing breathing difficulty. They also found a testicular mass-possibly cancer, but unsure of that yet. He had an An echocardiogram is a test in which ultrasound is used to examine the heart. Based on those results, the doctors will decide when to do a cardiac catheterization-to find out more info on the damaged heart.Because of the organ damage to the kidneys and liver due to the heart failure-he has a long road...we are not really sure the permanent damage yet. He was in severe heart failure when he came in today, and would have for sure been dead by Monday if he had not arrived when he did.It is still touch and go from here. I wish I had more news, but unfortunately there is not much else to tell. Tons of tests need to be done yet. He is in the intensive care unit at the Appleton Medical Center-he needs prayers.As far as visitors are concerned, we ask that people would let him rest. The ICU does not really recommend anyone other then immediate family there. Plus, the room is small and cramped with a lot of equipment. He is the center of attention there. He has the prime spot in front of the nurses station-cameras on him and all.He is definitely in severe heart failure. Right now his heart is only functioning 20-30%He is very sick, and at this point, it could go either way. It's in God's hands. Please pray.Oh and I should add-at this point-he's conscious, and crabby-getting back to his normal self ;) asking for a smoke and some food!Had to throw that in there.Really, the sedatives are starting to wear off, and he was getting antzy when we left.Early Sat. Aug. 16thjust got off the phone with my Dad's ICU nurse, Will-yes, my Dad has a man-nurse-you can bet he's lovin' that ;) On a side note-Will has been happily explaining and updating to me since the start, and I love him for that!I am happy to report that his kidney functions have bounced back and have returned back to normal. Thank God, this set of organs have started pulling their weight. Now, we are waiting to hear from the cardiologist as to when she will be doing the heart cath. Yes, he has a female doctor too. I am sure he thinks the whole doctor and nurse thing is backwards-but in his confused, crabby state, hopefully he'll put his know it all-prejudices aside ;)Some have been wondering what set this whole heart thing off to begin with...Well, we are as perplexed as you are-the doctors don't quite know the answer to that. They are thinking he might have a blockage somewhere, or maybe a simple virus set this off-a long time ago.Remember, I said my Dad has been sick for awhile, but just thought he could shake whatever this was.His stubbornness seems to be the cause of some of this damage, but hopefully, not too permanent. They said most people would not have made it this long. Another reason he was so stubborn about this whole thing is because he is scared, and doesn't want to find out "bad news"-in addition, the doctors said yesterday he was confused, and not in the right state of mind due to his condition...therefore not thinking clearly.So folks, ease up on the blame game here. All obvious aside, he's in the hospital where he should be. He made it though the night, and is progressing, but not out of the woods-by far.We still need thoughts and prayers. Thanks for the support-I'll keep you posted.
Some have been asking where to send cards-His address is(Carol is his girlfriend's name)Carol Cole and Ed Sheahen221 Countryside ct. Waupaca, WI 54981or You can send them to me and I will get them to himCarly Mancl44 Tabbert Ave.Ripon, WI 54971
Later that evening-Out of ICU
Well, we are back from Appleton. Today was a different kind of day. We decided to make it a family day-Steve and I took the boys to the Zoo, the Toys 'R Us, and Olive Garden after we visited my Dad. We needed a family day. As I mentioned in previous posts...it is hard to be a mom, daughter, and wife, at the same time sometimes-plus my kids really missed us over the past few days.My Dad's condition is improving some, but he still has a long road. When visiting with him today, he seemed more alert, and even laughed at a joke that Steve told him.My mom, sister, and brother came today too. I didn't see the look on his face because we only went in the room a person at a time, but I am sure he was overjoyed to see my brother. This was the first time that my brother has seen him since the whole ordeal...same with my Mom. I am sure he appreciated the company-although it was brief because he needs his rest.Health wise-the kidneys are now working-still a huge plus. Liver-still not so good-he is on some medicines now too-for reducing the chance of blood clots, potassium, and a few other health things.He gets to eat now-although I am not sure of his diet, he is loving that whole deal. When I was there he said he was feasting on grapes, toast, and a diet coke!He seems somewhat confused though-we hope this is temporary, but he does have some memory loss.He usually makes sense, but occasionally says something off the wall-like he is getting ready to walk to Waupaca!They are not going to do the heart cath until Monday because the heart is still not functioning like it should. I should ad too-he just got moved out of ICU-so that's a good sign. Well, that's all for now. Thanks for listening-Still need the prayers. He wanted me to say "hello" to everyone.
Sunday-Aug. 17th-great dayDad looked great today. He sat up in a chair and was talkative the entire visit. I'll start with the good news-he's off the oxygen...at least for now. His count was good. His walking is better, and he doesn't look so weak. He walked to the bathroom a few times when I was there, and was able to do it without too much help. He still complains of leg and feet pain-probably due to the swelling. Kidneys and Liver-Today these counts were not too good. We are unsure if the damage is permanent, or only temporary. If/When the heart functions properly this may or may not change.Sometime tomorrow-they are going ahead with the heart cath. Hopefully, we will be provided with more answers then. He is still showing signs of Congestive Heart Failure.Today, he was interested in finding the Cubs game on tv-and watching sports. It was nice to see that again. He did not seem nearly as confused as before, and really seemed to grasp things that were said to him.All for now-thanks for listening-still need prayers.
Monday-Aug. 18thTonight, (Monday Night) I received a phone call that I was dreading...my Dad took a turn for the worst.He went into respiratory failure. Due to the fact his heart is not working right-his lungs started to fill up with fluid. He essentially was drowning due to the fluid in his lungs, and not being able to breathe. Thankfully, his girlfriend was there to see this, and called for a nurse right away.He almost coded. A crash team was in working on him for hours. Now, he is breathing with a ventilator-the ventilator is doing all of his breathing for him.He is in very critical condition.The doctor sounded optimistic about a possible recovery, but right now, it's touch and go.He said it wasn't necessary for us to be at his bedside tonight at least. We all needed rest.Who can sleep at a time like this!He is very heavily sedated..almost in a paralysis...it was medically induced. He occasionally tries to lift his head up, and cough, but does not respond to many stimuli...but that is due to the meds. He did seem to turn his head in the direction we were talking.Mom, Sam, Katy, and I (and our husband's Jay and Steve), along with my Dad's girlfriend Carol were with my Dad tonight.This is tough. It is hard to see my Dad in this shape and condition, because prior to this his condition seemed to be improving.He is in pain, and in rough shape-he seems very irritated by the ventilator, and other tubes.He's definately giving everyone a run for their money.Please pray for him and our family.We really need it.Thanks much,I'll keep you posted!
August. 18th I Just got back from spending the day with my Dad in ICU-not to many changes to tell. He hasn't gotten better or worse-pretty much just stayed the same. They are a bit worried though because of the amt of oxygen he is requiring. The blood work showed that they had to turn the oxygen up again. They are closely monitoring that as well as the occasional rapid heart rate. He looks almost comatose. Laying almost completely still today-he has some involuntary movements. Occasionally, he seems to respond to stimuli-he did so more yesterday, but keep in mind he is heavily sedated...on purpose.He needs to rest and let his heart heal. There is a lot of damage-we are still hanging on to hope.Katy, is up there right now-so if there is more updates-I will tell you later. On a side note...I just finished listening to my old cell phone voice mails my dad left me a few days before he went to the hospital. One, a simple good morning message, and one, a good night message. I am glad I saved them so I can hear his voice.I am just not ready to let my dad go. Today, while at his bedside in ICU...I thought about a lot of things. Why he was there, what he could say if he could talk right now, how much my Dad means to me, and why it's to early for him to die.
I decided to write a note on this so I don't have to repeat myself a million times. I know some people will read this and offer support, others will read this and head to the rumor mill, and others will read this and go on with their day. I have one thing to say, to each his own, but please think about a person's feeling before you make your decision.The past few weeks my Dad has been sick. It started when he was hit in the head with a fast ball while umpiring a baseball game. Yes, it's ok to laugh here...I did ;)He was behind the plate, getting a the calls right-like he always does :) He was suddenly hit by a foul ball-right off his mask. He'll tell you it was a 100 mile an hour fast ball, and that he was "rocked". It knocked him to the ground-the pitcher was someone he had once couched, and he felt terrible. Long story short here...he of course had a concussion, and all the nasty symptoms. His girlfriend is a nurse and she told him to go to the doctor, but he felt he has been slowly getting better-keeping food down, not feeling dizzy, etc. So he never saw a doctor.Recently, my Dad has started swelling. (yes, i know he is already on the lbig man size, but not that kind of swelling) He is retaining a lot of water in his legs and ankles. Well, I am not a doctor, but this cannot be good. Believe me, I have gone through all the scenarios, none of which are good, and I don't want to hear what you think it could be.-I KNOW! My sister is almost a nurse, my Dad's girlfriend is a nurse, and I have some medical background. I know that the future doesn't look too good.Please put aside the obvious, we all know my dad is not the picture of health. Smoking 3 packs a day would cause problems in anyone. The point is-we need prayers and support.My Dad was in contact with a lot of people. Some I know, and some I don't. He was very involved in coaching, umpiring, ruffing, etc. Some of us have great memories of him-Coaching at OLP-St. Ned's-when you guys played like 100 games or something after the season ended...coaching chaparrals baseball, let's not forget when he coached my 5th grade basketball team, long, practices, ridiculous, unending line drills, chewing out locker room talks, getting tossed out of a few games, throwing clipboards, the list goes on. We can all laugh about this now, I certainly do.I have a very different set of memories of my Dad. The one's that only his family share-family trips, watching him play ball, playing sports with my Dad in the backyard, dinner at Grandma and Grandpa Sheahen's, seeing the look on my Dad's face when I graduated from college! He was so proud-and I'll never forget the day he walked me down the isle-he cried and said I looked beautiful-and some other very touching things. I remember when he held my first son in his arms, and the similar experience when he held my second son. I saw him last night. Steve and I dove over an hour to see him in Waupaca-where he is now living. He's winded, and tired, looking very warn down, his skin looked a yellow greyish, and he had swollen ankles, feet, and legs. He had to take a break walking up the stairs, and of course he blamed it on his damn sandals!My sister and I, along with my Dad's girlfriend pleaded with him to go to the hospital. I tried everything. I even played the "I don't want to have to tell my children that Grandpa's in Heaven card". He thinks he is getting better-he says he just needs to get his "mojo" back. Finally, at the end of the visit-he agreed-he said he is going to the hospital today...We'll see-I hate to say this, but I will believe it when I see it! Please keep my Dad, and our family in your thoughts and prayers.We appreciate it-you can share you "good" memories of my Dad too-if you want. Thanks for listening.Friday
Friday Aug. 15th
Here's the scoop on my Dad...I want to preface this note by saying I am sad, tired, and overall emotionally drained from the events of today. I will try to explain this the best I can.My Dad arrived at Waupaca ER this AM and was given an Electrical cardioversion. An external defibrillator is used in electrical cardioversion. After you are given a sedative, a doctor places metal paddles or patches on your chest wall. The paddles send an electric current to your heart. The electric current resets your heart rhythm and your heart usually starts in a normal rhythm. His heart was beating way too fast-like he was running a marathon way too long. Because of this-his kidneys and liver have started to not function as well as they should. He also has some fluid in his lungs-causing breathing difficulty. They also found a testicular mass-possibly cancer, but unsure of that yet. He had an An echocardiogram is a test in which ultrasound is used to examine the heart. Based on those results, the doctors will decide when to do a cardiac catheterization-to find out more info on the damaged heart.Because of the organ damage to the kidneys and liver due to the heart failure-he has a long road...we are not really sure the permanent damage yet. He was in severe heart failure when he came in today, and would have for sure been dead by Monday if he had not arrived when he did.It is still touch and go from here. I wish I had more news, but unfortunately there is not much else to tell. Tons of tests need to be done yet. He is in the intensive care unit at the Appleton Medical Center-he needs prayers.As far as visitors are concerned, we ask that people would let him rest. The ICU does not really recommend anyone other then immediate family there. Plus, the room is small and cramped with a lot of equipment. He is the center of attention there. He has the prime spot in front of the nurses station-cameras on him and all.He is definitely in severe heart failure. Right now his heart is only functioning 20-30%He is very sick, and at this point, it could go either way. It's in God's hands. Please pray.Oh and I should add-at this point-he's conscious, and crabby-getting back to his normal self ;) asking for a smoke and some food!Had to throw that in there.Really, the sedatives are starting to wear off, and he was getting antzy when we left.Early Sat. Aug. 16thjust got off the phone with my Dad's ICU nurse, Will-yes, my Dad has a man-nurse-you can bet he's lovin' that ;) On a side note-Will has been happily explaining and updating to me since the start, and I love him for that!I am happy to report that his kidney functions have bounced back and have returned back to normal. Thank God, this set of organs have started pulling their weight. Now, we are waiting to hear from the cardiologist as to when she will be doing the heart cath. Yes, he has a female doctor too. I am sure he thinks the whole doctor and nurse thing is backwards-but in his confused, crabby state, hopefully he'll put his know it all-prejudices aside ;)Some have been wondering what set this whole heart thing off to begin with...Well, we are as perplexed as you are-the doctors don't quite know the answer to that. They are thinking he might have a blockage somewhere, or maybe a simple virus set this off-a long time ago.Remember, I said my Dad has been sick for awhile, but just thought he could shake whatever this was.His stubbornness seems to be the cause of some of this damage, but hopefully, not too permanent. They said most people would not have made it this long. Another reason he was so stubborn about this whole thing is because he is scared, and doesn't want to find out "bad news"-in addition, the doctors said yesterday he was confused, and not in the right state of mind due to his condition...therefore not thinking clearly.So folks, ease up on the blame game here. All obvious aside, he's in the hospital where he should be. He made it though the night, and is progressing, but not out of the woods-by far.We still need thoughts and prayers. Thanks for the support-I'll keep you posted.
Some have been asking where to send cards-His address is(Carol is his girlfriend's name)Carol Cole and Ed Sheahen221 Countryside ct. Waupaca, WI 54981or You can send them to me and I will get them to himCarly Mancl44 Tabbert Ave.Ripon, WI 54971
Later that evening-Out of ICU
Well, we are back from Appleton. Today was a different kind of day. We decided to make it a family day-Steve and I took the boys to the Zoo, the Toys 'R Us, and Olive Garden after we visited my Dad. We needed a family day. As I mentioned in previous posts...it is hard to be a mom, daughter, and wife, at the same time sometimes-plus my kids really missed us over the past few days.My Dad's condition is improving some, but he still has a long road. When visiting with him today, he seemed more alert, and even laughed at a joke that Steve told him.My mom, sister, and brother came today too. I didn't see the look on his face because we only went in the room a person at a time, but I am sure he was overjoyed to see my brother. This was the first time that my brother has seen him since the whole ordeal...same with my Mom. I am sure he appreciated the company-although it was brief because he needs his rest.Health wise-the kidneys are now working-still a huge plus. Liver-still not so good-he is on some medicines now too-for reducing the chance of blood clots, potassium, and a few other health things.He gets to eat now-although I am not sure of his diet, he is loving that whole deal. When I was there he said he was feasting on grapes, toast, and a diet coke!He seems somewhat confused though-we hope this is temporary, but he does have some memory loss.He usually makes sense, but occasionally says something off the wall-like he is getting ready to walk to Waupaca!They are not going to do the heart cath until Monday because the heart is still not functioning like it should. I should ad too-he just got moved out of ICU-so that's a good sign. Well, that's all for now. Thanks for listening-Still need the prayers. He wanted me to say "hello" to everyone.
Sunday-Aug. 17th-great dayDad looked great today. He sat up in a chair and was talkative the entire visit. I'll start with the good news-he's off the oxygen...at least for now. His count was good. His walking is better, and he doesn't look so weak. He walked to the bathroom a few times when I was there, and was able to do it without too much help. He still complains of leg and feet pain-probably due to the swelling. Kidneys and Liver-Today these counts were not too good. We are unsure if the damage is permanent, or only temporary. If/When the heart functions properly this may or may not change.Sometime tomorrow-they are going ahead with the heart cath. Hopefully, we will be provided with more answers then. He is still showing signs of Congestive Heart Failure.Today, he was interested in finding the Cubs game on tv-and watching sports. It was nice to see that again. He did not seem nearly as confused as before, and really seemed to grasp things that were said to him.All for now-thanks for listening-still need prayers.
Monday-Aug. 18thTonight, (Monday Night) I received a phone call that I was dreading...my Dad took a turn for the worst.He went into respiratory failure. Due to the fact his heart is not working right-his lungs started to fill up with fluid. He essentially was drowning due to the fluid in his lungs, and not being able to breathe. Thankfully, his girlfriend was there to see this, and called for a nurse right away.He almost coded. A crash team was in working on him for hours. Now, he is breathing with a ventilator-the ventilator is doing all of his breathing for him.He is in very critical condition.The doctor sounded optimistic about a possible recovery, but right now, it's touch and go.He said it wasn't necessary for us to be at his bedside tonight at least. We all needed rest.Who can sleep at a time like this!He is very heavily sedated..almost in a paralysis...it was medically induced. He occasionally tries to lift his head up, and cough, but does not respond to many stimuli...but that is due to the meds. He did seem to turn his head in the direction we were talking.Mom, Sam, Katy, and I (and our husband's Jay and Steve), along with my Dad's girlfriend Carol were with my Dad tonight.This is tough. It is hard to see my Dad in this shape and condition, because prior to this his condition seemed to be improving.He is in pain, and in rough shape-he seems very irritated by the ventilator, and other tubes.He's definately giving everyone a run for their money.Please pray for him and our family.We really need it.Thanks much,I'll keep you posted!
August. 18th I Just got back from spending the day with my Dad in ICU-not to many changes to tell. He hasn't gotten better or worse-pretty much just stayed the same. They are a bit worried though because of the amt of oxygen he is requiring. The blood work showed that they had to turn the oxygen up again. They are closely monitoring that as well as the occasional rapid heart rate. He looks almost comatose. Laying almost completely still today-he has some involuntary movements. Occasionally, he seems to respond to stimuli-he did so more yesterday, but keep in mind he is heavily sedated...on purpose.He needs to rest and let his heart heal. There is a lot of damage-we are still hanging on to hope.Katy, is up there right now-so if there is more updates-I will tell you later. On a side note...I just finished listening to my old cell phone voice mails my dad left me a few days before he went to the hospital. One, a simple good morning message, and one, a good night message. I am glad I saved them so I can hear his voice.I am just not ready to let my dad go. Today, while at his bedside in ICU...I thought about a lot of things. Why he was there, what he could say if he could talk right now, how much my Dad means to me, and why it's to early for him to die.
Welcome to Ed Sheahen's Progress Blog!
Hello Friends and family,
I have decided to start this blog on my Dad who is in the hospital with very critical health problems. I had something similar to this on facebook, but this way I am able to share notes of progress, news, etc. with those of you who care about my Dad.
I have decided to start this blog on my Dad who is in the hospital with very critical health problems. I had something similar to this on facebook, but this way I am able to share notes of progress, news, etc. with those of you who care about my Dad.
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