Let's Help Walter!

Not Sure What To Do

2010-07-24T03:08:00.003-04:00

Hello to all my friends that have supported, prayed, helped in some way, and been there for me and my family. It has been very hard to have to live day to day with migraines/headaches, seizures periodically, short-term memory loss, weight gain due to medicines, dizzy spells, light headed, not sleeping, and just worn out. This has taken a toll on my body and dont know what else to do. I know about praying b/c I try to do that daily but when you face something like this from time to time you just get exhausted from praying wondering why you feel your prayers are just bouncing off the wall. I need help in every way possible. I need the prayers to continue, I need help at my house due to a leaking roof and now damage to ceiling on dining room, I need help with weeds, I need help putting things in the attic, etc....It is very hard on me b/c I cant do those things anymore and it frustrates me to the max. I am used to doing these things myself and not having to ask for help. I just dont know how else to let anyone know or how to even ask. I wish there was an easier way to let this blog be known to my email buddies and facebook friends. You would only see this if you knew about it. That is frustrating too. This is a way for all to know how I am and how I am making it. Plus if I have any surgeries or any upsetting doctor appts. I can let you all know. I just wish I could this out a lot easier.
I recently had another surgery on my head. I had the metal taken out b/c it was starting to come loose and cause problems. My neurologist found a neurosurgeon for me in Knoxville, Tn. I am glad for that b/c it was getting hard to go to Atlanta for any of my appts. with my previous surgeon. He began to treat my neurologist hatefully and she said "no way". So, I am glad she saw firsthand how he was treating me in the end. My dad was a witness after having several appts. with this guy. It was unfortunate b/c he was a good surgeon...I liked him until he became mean and hateful. Just to let you know the surgery was a success praise the Lord! I am still swollen and still have a bunch of staples in my head. I have a war wound now 3x's so I am thinking of keeping my hair shaved low so I can show off this expensive thing. Well that is all for now b/c I dont know what else to say or talk about. I hope you all have a great day and that you have a chance to read this and pray about it.

God Bless,
Walter Herron

A good family needs your help

2009-11-08T14:01:00.003-05:00

Hello. My name is Aaron, and I am a good friend of Walter and Shannon's. They need our help. While the government is bailing out institutions that don't deserve it, it is allowing the Herrons to suffer needlessly all because Social Security has thus far refused to declare Walter as disabled. As a result of this many agencies and charitable organizations that could otherwise lend them assistance are unable to do so. So I say let's do something about that!

Walter's congressman is John J. Duncan, Jr. Whether he's your congressman or not, let's inundate his office with emails and faxes requesting his help for Walter and Shannon. I've already written the letter for you, so all you have to do is email it or fax it to his office. Either way, be sure to include your name and address.

Following this link to email him: http://duncan.house.gov/services/contact-information.shtml.

You can also fax his Maryville, TN office at (865) 984-0521.

Following is a letter you can use, or feel free to write one of your own. Thanks for your help!

Aaron

Dear Congressman Duncan,

I am writing on behalf of my friends Walter and Shannon Herron who have been struggling financially for a little over two years now. This all started when Walter was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain bleed, and since then has had to undergo two brain surgeries. As a result of his condition, Walter gets throbbing headaches daily and is unable to drive or perform even the most minor of physical tasks for very long. His long term disability insurer has denied his benefits on the basis of it being a pre-existing condition (which it is not). This family has been forced to live on Shannon's small salary of $10.50 per hour, hardly enough to provide even the basics for their family of five.

Despite all this the federal government has up to this point refused to label Walter as disabled, and as a result he is unable to get the assistance he needs from the agencies that could help otherwise. It is very obvious that Walter cannot physically provide for his family, so I'm at a loss as to why the federal government will not label him as disabled. I beseech you to please look into this and so that this wonderful family might get the help they deserve.

Sincerely,

Your name and mailing address

help to Chicago Nov. 10 until they release me

2009-11-04T19:33:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my friends that are following this blog,

I am embarrassed to have to write something like this. I don't like asking for help and I don't like that I am having to rely on sources like that. Ever since I my episode two years ago where I suffered a blood vessel bursting in my brain and having two surgeries I have not been the same. My thought process has been altered. I can express things well and I have memory loss that becomes frustrating. I also have chronic migraines/headaches daily. It is bad and I hurt all the time. Never a day I am headache free. I say all that to say this. My doctors have sent me to Michigan to a Clinic there for help with most of these issues. We tried it for 5 months and this program did not work. My doctor and I think alike in the way that I don't want to give up hope for help. So he suggested to send me to Diamond Headache Clinic in Chicago. I have to leave on Nov. 10, 2009 to get to my appointment on Nov. 11 at 9am. I am to be admitted into their program that same day at St. Joseph Hospital in Chicago. I am to be there for up to two weeks so they can run all kinds of tests and procedures to see if they can help. If this does not work then I have to go to a pain clinic somewhere close so they can monitor the pain meds I will be on. I am trying to avoid that if all possible.
Unfortunately, it is going to cost on this trip. Hotel fees, plane trip, deductible(at least $250)day of appointment, and food for the time before I get admitted. Also, taxi's, subway, etc. costs. If anyone can help it will be greatly appreciated b/c I have to go this one alone and my wife is stressed about it all just like I am. I want to thank you if you are able to help, pray, and be supportive of this situation we are facing. May God bless you greatly!!

Walter Herron

NEED YOUR PRAYERS ONCE AGAIN

2009-10-29T01:15:00.002-04:00

Hello to all who are following this blog,

I have been under extreme pain for the past several weeks and the plan I was to follow from Michigan has just not been working. I ended up having a discussion with my Neurologist and he suggested to try one more time but to a new location. This time in Chicago. It is the Diamond Headache Clinic with St. Joseph Hospital. I was reluctant due to financial hardships we are facing as a family but did not want to give up either. So, I did decide for my doctors to set the appointment up. I will hear back from Chicago in the next day or so. Then we will decide the time I need to be there. Because of my condition and the difficulties I have I will most likely be staying for awhile with them to see what they can do. I just pray we can find some answers from them. If this does not work then my doctor suggests that I get back on pain medication and go through a pain clinic in Knoxville.
My pain is some of the biggest issues I face but I have other altercations that keep flaring up and causing problems. My prayer is that we can find a way to get to Chicago and back and that my wife will be able to take off to help me. I know prayer can work because I am living proof of it. I know I don't deserve God's Grace and love but gives it to me anyway. I pray that we will be provided for on this journey to our next phase and hope that the doctors at this clinic can give us some answers that we can work with. Please feel free to contact me by leaving a comment below or email me at walterruh2002@yahoo.com. I hope to hear from you soon. God bless!

Walter

The newest update

2009-10-13T13:50:00.002-04:00

I want to thank many of you for praying for me and my family. It means a lot to each of us. It is hard to explain all the time all that is going on with each of us. So much has happened health wise and struggles wise that I debate on sharing all the news. Just know that we are in deep need of prayers for things to work out for us.
Not too long ago I had an episode at our local pharmacy that at the time when I was rushed to the ER that they thought it was another mini-stroke. Thank the Lord it was not that b/c my doctors believe now that it was a good size seizure. Either are not good but the second of the two was better than the first.
I continue to be in contact with Michigan Head and Pain Neurological Clinic that my doctors have referred me too. As many of you know I was there back in the beginning of the summer for almost a month. I went after my episode recently for a check up and have been given strict orders to follow. So far they have not helped and I still struggle with major headaches/migraines. It has been hard to hurt all the time everyday. It has been hard to take so many medications that my body just cant adjust without being groggy all day and tired all the time.
My kids are doing well. Kaci has turned six years old and is a ball of joy. She is now apart of gymnastics every Tuesday and loves it. She is progressing well at Pre-K in Greenback. I hope after this year she can move up to Kindergarten. Bryce is growing up so fast and all boy. He is a lot of fun to be around and loves to fish. When I do fill well we try to go. He has learned so much of how it all works. I am proud of him. He made a 3.0 GPA in the first quarter and loves to go to school. Amber is 16 to be 17 soon. She is definitely a teenager. Has the attitude of one and boy am I protective of her. I just don't want her to get hurt my guys b/c of the pain she suffers from her real dad. She has done quit well and doing good for what she has been and has gone through. She is a good girl and loves to go to church. That makes me proud of her too.
Shannon is the backbone of the family since she is the one working and trying to hold us together. It is a lot of pressure for one person to take on. She has done well for what has been dealt her way. She needs a lot of prayer b/c she does struggle with the stress of it all. She definitely deserves a medal of what she has gone through.
With what our family has faced we have been weathering the storm. We have lost things and many things have gone to collections. But what do you expect when I cant work or get Social Security. We are fighting for it but so far we have not won. We need prayer for this b/c we need the help beyond what can be imagined. I know out of sight out of mind is easy to do b/c you think if you don't think about it then you don't have to worry about it. But I say this for a reason. I need prayer on this b/c we cant provide for my family and I feel helpless b/c I cant do my part. Many times people see me when I am not hurting too bad and just assume that all is fine and that I am okay. But they don't see me in my home and they don't see me when I hurt at my worst. It is hard to talk about b/c it can be depressing and that is not me. I don't want to be that way and I don't want people to take that from me. But sometimes I cant help it and I pray that most of you can be patient with me in this. It has been the worst trial I have faced in my life but I do know God will see us through it b/c He has so far. It reminds of the poem "Footprints". Many times I look back and see one set of footprints and think God has left me but am reminded in His Word that He has not and those footprints are His carrying me in these tough times. Please pray for us b/c we need it. Thank you for all you have done for me and my family. God bless to you all.

Walter Herron

help from a friend

2009-08-26T12:44:00.002-04:00

http://us.mc459.mail.yahoo.com/mc/showMessage?sMid=32&fid=Shannon%2520Herron&filterBy=&midIndex=7&mid=1_28723_AFbPjkQAAMPdSH6GIgd1KF%2B%2FG8I

I am not sure how this works but it was a Jpeg from a friend that did this for me and my family.

thank you for all your help.

walter

It has been a long time

2009-08-05T11:24:00.002-04:00

Hello to all,

I know it has been awhile since I have left a blog. But to be honest I have not felt like doing so. I hate to always leave a blog telling how rough I have been having it or how bad I feel. I am sorry for not doing a better job in leaving a message. But, the past two years have been extremely tough and rough for me and my family. I cant stand having to go through everything I have been going through. I am very thankful and grateful God has given me a second chance. I am thankful He saw fit to allow me to stay here and be with my family and to see my kids grow up. The part I have had the roughest time with has been all the after effects from the bleed, surgeries, and hospital visits. My pain tolerance has grown due to all the pain I have to go through each day. But it is not enough b/c I still hurt a lot.
I have gone to a special hospital to deal with the pain, short-term memory issues, and seizures/passing out. It helped for a brief moment in time but I am back to the same. My wife has a hard time with it b/c I cant be much help at home. She is the bread winner now and is the backbone of the family. I forget things all the time and through away papers or deposits and don't know I am doing it. She has a hard time with my temper tamptrums that I cant seem to control. It is hard on her as well as the kids. My doctors are doing all they can to help with that issue but it is not enough b/c I cant still control them. I am aware of them and I try to control them for the most part but it is still rough. Especially after one I feel very embarrassed and humiliated. I just hate it for my family.
Some days I just don't want to do anything nor get out of bed. I have dealt with depression and I try to keep going. It has not been easy. It is not easy when no one seems to understand. Everyone looks at me and thinks I am normal so therefore I should be working. But I cant lift a lot and I cant bend over for a length of time. I just cant do it. When I try I get real dizzy and I start to have a massive headache. I try to do work around the house to help my wife but I cant last long b/c I begin to hurt or I just don't have the energy. I share all this for two reasons. One, for prayer. Two, so people can understand what it is like on my daily life. It is not easy to share all this nor is it easy for anyone to understand fully unless they have walked in my shoes.
Please keep in mind my wife and myself. Also, my kids. We just don't have it to support them or get them things they need. They are beginning to understand but it is hard on them. They are young and they should not have to go through this nor my wife. This is not what she signed up for when she married me. She is starting to break but holds it together in front of people b/c she does not want them to know how tough and rough we are having it with my health. She trys to go to work everyday with a smile. She tries to keep it together when we go to church when we go. I don't get to go often due to my health and that is tough for me. Since I was a child and since I became ordained in the ministry I have loved and enjoyed going to church. I miss going and I miss being a youth minister. I hope one day God can use me again to maybe share my story or serve as a minister somewhere again.
Please just remember us when you can. I hurt and I am tired of hurting. It is no fun. I am tired of taking so much medication to just make it each day and that is not enough on most days. Thank you for listening and hope to hear from anyone.

God bless,

Walter Herron

back to the same

2009-07-10T22:59:00.002-04:00

After being home for a couple of weeks I truly hoped that things would get better with my headaches/migraines. Unfortunately, it did not happen. I slowly became worse and went to see my Neurologist(headache one) this week. He said that if they don't get better in next couple of weeks then I may have to be readmitted back to the Hospital in Michigan. I have not had a particular medicine since i have been back due to having complications finding a Pharmacist that can compound it. It has taken almost two weeks to finally get it done. Now I have to wait on funding to get it. So, if and when I get this medicine if it does not work then I go back. I had a few shots in my neck from my Neurologist the other day to help and it did not. I have hurt real bad the past couple of days and have had to give myself shots. I am only allowed up to three in a week. So, my weeks worth is almost out.
Other than that all is good. My wife has been trying to work and keep up with the family. My kids have helped me out some this week so I can manage. I have had a hard time watching Kaci due to hurting so bad.
Tomorrow we go to a Down Syndrome Carnival in Knoxville. It will be fun and I believe Kaci will have a blast. So, I cant wait to see how she responds to the fun filled day.
God bless to you all and hope to hear from anyone soon.

Walter Herron

good news today

2009-06-23T11:00:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone,

I went to rounds this morning and so far good news. I had a good night. I have had a good morning. If I continue to have a great day then they(doctors) will discuss when I go home tomorrow. I hope they will say tomorrow but that may not happen. I ask that you continue to pray hard for me while I venture in this day. I have been uplifted reading some scriptures today that help me keep my mind where it needs to be. I thank each of you for your prayers, your support, and your friendship. I hope you can continue to keep up with this blog. If you have anything to say please feel free to comment. IF you have a blog that I can follow please feel free to leave it on the comment. Again, we will take one step at a time and God will do the rest.

Love to you all,

walter

A new day

2009-06-22T18:53:00.002-04:00

Today might have been a breakthrough day. Things were just the same and still tough. I was running a tough headache today. The doctors wanted to change a few things around and give a particular medicine. It took the high headache down to a low grade headache. Great news right!!!! Well, that does not mean they found a cure. This will be something I have to live with the rest of my life. I will constantly have to take med's to help me. But if this combination works then this is something they will work with for me. I just want you all to know the prayers and support have been great and I/we still need them.

I have learned since I have been up here that I will not have a cure. Mine is such a peculiar case that surgery could be an option if I want to be paralyzed for life. So, I take the medicine direction... I will have to make adjustments but who doesn't right. My way of life as I had it will most likely not be like it was. Which is okay, but it is good to get direction from above as well as the doctors. At least I know what I am dealing with pertaining to my head. I still have to deal with memory issues, dizzy spells, seizure activity, and migraines. Hopefully, with the doctors now I don't have to have a migraine every day like I have been for the past 2 years. Anyway, I am stoked about the medicines today and how I have been feeling. Thank you again for the prayers.

Walter

Today is a new day

2009-06-21T09:34:00.002-04:00

I did not sleep well last night due to not being comfortable and my head. But today is a new day. The doctor is going to try something new with the medication and see if it works a bit. My head is pounding today but tolerable. I have had to live with it for almost two years everyday, what is one more, right!

I got to talk to my little Kaci Grace this morning and it was a blessing. My other two were not available to talk so I hope they will wake up and call me. Shannon and Kaci were on their way to church this morning and Kaci already got something on her pants. She is a handful!!! Then they will go up to Shannon's Grandmother's house to have a great Father's Day meal. I will miss that. Good food and good desert's.

Amber and Bryce are spending the night somewhere else and I hope they get up for church. If not I hope they make it to the dinner. Anyway, I will do my best to have a great day. I hate hurting but I know one day I can give God the glory for getting me through it. Even if my head never stops hurting I will still give Him the Glory. He has already brought me through so much that I honestly looking back dont see how I made it. My wife included. We should be on the streets by now but by the Grace of God and the help of others through God we have made it.

I want to send out a HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to my dad. He is the greatest dad in the world. I have been truly blessed. Love you dad!!

May God bless you all!

Walter

tough

2009-06-20T22:38:00.002-04:00

It is tough sometimes to be away from your family. Especially when you are hurting and needing help. As I am up here in Michigan getting help for my pain (which is hard for people to see) I just wish that all this never happened. It is so hard to explain how I hurt and how I cant do what I used to do. I was once a man that could do as I pleased. I worked hard to provide for my family. I came home and took care of my wife and my kids. I worked in the yard and kept our vehicles up and running and looking nice. I was able to cook and clean without any problem. Now it is hard to do the simplest things. I get sick if I stand too long. I get sick if I bend over. I get sick if I lift too much. My head hurts constantly.
There are times that people would see me out and about but it was because I was sick of being alone in the house and always confined to the house. So, even if my head was not pounding out of this world but still hurting I got out some. But maybe that was a mistake. Because when people see you out and about then they think you are just fine. That is where I put the parenthesis. Pain is hard for people to see. So, since they cant see what is going on inside of me then most people think all is well. I learned a valuable lesson in all that. I should not be driving. I have had it explained to me by the doctors and by a roommate that just left over the weekend. If I drive and I have another episode whether it be passing out, dizzy spells, etc. then the accident will be on me. I could not live with that. So, I have made a commitment that even if I do feel good I better not drive. It will be hard but I have to abide by the law and by my doctors orders.
I miss my kids, I miss my wife, and I miss my dog. I am getting tired of hospital food as well. It gets old quick especially when it gives you gas. Whew, it is not fun for my roommate!! Ha, Ha, Ha.....
I have enjoyed getting to know some of the patients here at Chelsea Community Hospital. Which the Michigan Headache/Pain and Neurological Clinic is associated. I have gotten to know some of the families and their children. It has been fun to play with them and fun to pray with other patients. I have gotten to pray for those that are hurting so bad that it is painful to watch. You wish you could do something for the pain. But we know, as Christians, that God is the one that can take the pain away. It is hard sometimes when you feel like your head is about to explode all the time. Or you are so low emotionally that you just don't feel like you can go on. But, we all need to know that He is the one that took our pain and made it His pain. Thank the Lord we have a Saviour as He. May God bless you all!

Walter

not another good day

2009-06-19T19:17:00.002-04:00

I have had a tough day today. My headache on a scale from 1 to 5 has been a 4-5 all day. I again had shots in the back of my neck and they are not working. I have had this done three times this week and it has not been fun. They worked things out with my insurance to stay longer. I am not happy for that b/c I miss my wife and kids. But I do understand that they are doing all they can to help me. So, I am fine as I try and understand what is going on and how to deal with it. My little girl cries every night when I talk to her and it kills me. I just want to hold her.
I have tried to get a flight for them to come up and see me for fathers day and there is just no way. It is way too expensive and we just dont have it to do. It was worth the try. I have had many tests. They have not worked but we are at the drawing board to try more. I will have to stay two nights at a hotel to do two days worth of tests when I leave the hospital. I will have another test with a neuro-apthropologist(if that is how you spell it) when I get home. I went to the eye one and he said optic nerve was fine but wanted me to see the neuro guy to see the nerve endings further back. I see blurriness in both eyes and the doctors here want me to see what is going on. The two days of testing is for my short-term memory and what I can do to make it better if I can. Well, I am going to go lay down since I dont feel good. May God bless you all.

Walter Herron

What a Day!

2009-06-18T22:25:00.002-04:00

Yesterday and Today was tough day. A lot seems to be going on and it is frustrating when you cant see your wife and kids. I wont get to see them on Father's Day. It has been hard b/c i talk to them each night and it makes me miss them more. Especially when little Kaci Grace cries. That tears me up. So, I have to explain to her that daddy is with the doctor and getting his boo-boo fixed. I know things may seem jumbled but that is some of what is wrong in my head too. So, bare with me.
I hurt most of yesterday and and today I was mainly in OR getting shots in front of neck and then coming back and laying down. I had a massive headache which means the block did not work. I am now a bit more functional so that is why I am taking advantage of this time. I talked with my PA today and they said they approved more time on my insurance so that means I will be going past the 2 week mark. My two weeks will be next Tuesday June 23, 2009.
I saw an ompthrapologist yesterday for my eyes to see if there is a reason for some blurry vision in the right eye, etc. My vision keeps going down ever since the malformation that burst in my head and having two brain surgeries. This guy wants me to go see a Neuro dude while I am here and we will see. Plus I mess up half the information b/c I need my wife to help fill it out. So, I do my best and we go from there. I am going to sign off since I have been just pumped with a bunch of meds and given my other meds. It is making me sleepy and I want to lay down and watch a bit of TV since the doctors and nurses will be getting us started at 5:30am. That is every day and then we have classes to go to after that unless we are in the OR.. Well, good night and God bless to all!!

Walter

Forgot to add some procedures

2009-06-16T23:11:00.002-04:00

Hello again to all,

Today was a bad day. Using the scale to 1-5, I was a 4 for most of the day. I ended up going to the OR to get these shots in my neck. They did both sides. My buldging disc is still hurting. So the next step is steriods. Then the next step after that is surgery. So, I hope steriods help. Also, I go to the eye doctor tomorrow. My vision keeps getting worse and they want to know if it is a direct result from the malformation that burst in my head plus the surgeries. I also get these deep shots in my temple areas on both sides tomorrow too. They are not working on the side where I have an informaty from the surgeries. That site is extremely tendor to touch. It still hurts after having two different shots on two different days. I am explaining this b/c I believe in prayer. Please remember to pray for me in these upcoming procedures. Also, as a reminder, pray for my wife and kids as I am away. God bless you all!

In His Love,

Walter Herron

Having a hard time in Michigan

2009-06-15T19:59:00.002-04:00

Hello to all,

I have been at the Michigan Headache/Pain and Neurological Institute at their Hospital in Chelsea, Michigan. I came in on June 9, 2009. It looks like I am going to be here a long time. I am not sure of the time line but they are having a time with me and my head injury and the headaches. It has been bad the past 3 days. I have hurt so bad that I get sick. On a scale of 1-5 I have been running 4 consistantly. Today, actually now, I am getting some relief. I am running a 2 1/2 from the 4 I have had all day. So, that is good to me anyway. It has been hard being away from my wife and kids. To hear my Kaci Grace cry for me bothers me a lot. I try to hold the tears back. Then to talk to my two older children has been nice and sweet. I am thankful they are helping their momma out. Shannon is having a hard time working and having someone all the time keep little Kaci. Plus the kids are so active they are just everywhere. I just wanted to update the best I could since I have been hurting. It is hard to put thoughts into words. I ask that you pray for my family that God gives them strength and peace and comfort during this time. I also ask that you say a prayer for me and my team of doctors. Thank you very much for your time....Love to all.

Walter Ruh Herron

what a place

2009-06-11T14:48:00.002-04:00

I want to say thank you to the many that helped me and my wife make it up to Michigan for me to get the help I needed. The flight was safe and getting to the hotels was good. It was nice to see and be with my wife for the few days we got together. I know she was able to rest and help me get started.
The first day at the Chelsea Community Hospital affiliated with Michigan Headache/Pain and Neurological Clinic was nerve racking. I am still a bit nervous but have been getting great help. The staff is really good and the Nurses do a great job. I had a roommate for a day and he had to leave to medical complications that MHNI could not fix. Then they moved me to another room to room with another guy I had hooked up already. So that was nice.
I have classes everyday and stay busy with them all day. I meet with a whole team of doctors in the early morning every morning. They get things done right away and that is nice. I do get to rest some in the day b/c I am on a lot of medications as well as things in the IV that make me worn down.
Please continue to pray for my family as I am away. Please pray a simple prayer for my wife so she can have the strength to do what she needs to do to run the house, work, and the kids. She is a special lady and I am extremely thankful for her. If you have time say a prayer for me to find answers or at least find some ways to deal with what I have.

God bless each of you.

Walter Herron

nervous

2009-06-06T20:58:00.003-04:00

I am very nervous about leaving tomorrow. It will be Sunday June 7, 2009. My wife and I fly to Detroit, Michigan. We will get there around 9:30am. From there we will get our rental car and head off to Ann Arbor, Michigan. We will stay in a hotel for that night. Then we get up EARLY Monday morning June 8, 2009. We start at 7:30am at the Michigan Headache and Neurological Clinic. I will be doing tests all day. After we get done we go to Chelsea, Michigan to stay in a hotel until Wednesday June 10, 2009. My will will have to head back on Tuesday to get back to the family and then return to work on Wednesday. I find out late on Monday for how long I have to stay in hotel before I get admitted in the hospital for the clinic. From there I will be locked in until they let me go home. I am not looking forward to staying away from my family for that long. I will miss my wife and kids.
Today we had a car wash in our honor. A pastor friend of ours headed up this idea of doing a car wash. It was great that we were able to raise money to help with the trip. The sad part was that we did not raise enough. So, I am not sure how we are going to pay for the rest of the trip. I just hope something falls in our lap while away that we can make it. So, please pray for us in this whole trip financially, spiritually, and emotionally. Of course pray for me while I am in the hospital that the doctors can tell me something that I can do to make my life easier or just how to cope with it all. Thank you again for listening and God bless.

Walter Herron and family

I guess I need to let you all know what is going on

2009-05-29T20:46:00.002-04:00

I want to start out by saying thank you from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts, prayers, and support for me and my family during this difficult time. I dont like to share a lot b/c I feel like I am bearing my soul too much. I dont want to offend anyone with what I say nor do I want to sound needy. That is why I have not shared since January. A good friend suggested that I get back on here and start sharing something.
I have had many health issues since my brain surgeries which include; TIA, dizzy spells, passing out, seizures, migraines daily, and short-term memory loss. On top of that I take over 25 pills a day not including pain medication. Still fighting for disability and my wife has about worn out her candles at both ends trying to keep this family afloat. She is a true champ and deserves whatever medal that can be given in this situation. I love her and cherish her for all she has done for me. If I could just trade places so I could take care of her I feel better. I know I cant at this time but maybe one day God-willing I can. I have three beautiful children and I am thankful for them as well. My littlest one has Down Syndrome and she is just so funny. They all keep me going.
Of course you can figure out that we are struggling more than normal. We are in such a bind in any way imaginable so I wont go there to bear my soul. I just ask that you pray and ask God to show us how to make it. I have been battling depression in such a way that I am not used to that. I am used to being stable and taking care of everyone so it has been an adjustment for me and my wife. She tries to help me and deal with me and I am thankful for the most part she is patient with me. I am so used to being in the ministry working with youth on a daily basis. I am used to helping anyone in times of need and going on mission trips all over the world. It is way different being on the other end receiving help. I get embarrassed and upset b/c I dont like being in the position. I am thankful I have friends that remind me of that from time to time to shut up and accept any help that may come. It was put to me in this way: " If you deny us from giving you a gift then you deny God's blessings for all parties". That was powerful and that was humbling to hear. I would never want to reject God blessing someone b/c of my pride. So, I am trying to be a better steward of all this.

Love to you all,

Walter, Shannon, and kids

time to update

2009-01-02T13:25:00.002-05:00

Hello to all,

I want to say that I am sorry for not giving an update in these past few months. It has been difficult to do so and hard to find the time and energy. I am still suffering from bad headaches/migraines. I am getting out when I can but that is when people see me in an okay status. I am not seen going home having to lay down or wanting to get out due to my headaches coming on so fast. I am seeing another Neurologist just for my headaches. He is telling us that there will be no way to fix the problem but to try and manage it. Where my brain bleed happened it had done some damage on that part of my brain and therefore these headaches/migraines I will have to live with. That is okay but hard at times. At least I know now what is going on with them. I am seeing a pain specialist as well for my buldging discs in my upper neck. I have been getting theropy and shots in my neck to help control or fix the problem. So, far it has not worked. This neck problem happened from when I had my episodes of falling out and landing on objects or the floor.
We have been going through such a dark valley for sometime now that I have been challenged in every way. I will say that I have failed God and have struggled very hard. I have not understood the magnitude of pain and heartache we have had to endure. It has not been easy for my wife, children, and myself. I did go through some dark times of depression and am still battling that. My doctors, which are many, are working with me to get these things under control or at least maintained. Please continue to pray for me and my family as we are facing many giants and honestly we are having a hard time. Without getting into details I will say that it is hard to check emails, facebook, and the blog due to many things being taken from us and internet being one of them.
My wife is having some issues as well. She will be having outpatient surgery for the doctors to do further study on things they found. This will take place in a couple of weeks. My step-daughter my wife's daughter is having consultations with surgeons and doctors as well. They found some similar things on her like my wife but this has been put on the back burner for now. The big issue is that she has been misdiagnosed for 15 years. She has spinal bifada. It is located in her lower back. Her spine did not properly form right at the bottom as well. It is leaving her nerves and spinal chord exsposed. Her spinal chord is also stretched and tethered at the end. She has a big tumor growing on her lower back from the stem of either one of the nerves or spinal chord. Therefore we will be now going to a Neurosurgeon in Nashville to Vanderbilt in about a week. We will find out what he will want to do and what we can do. So far the other specialists and her primary doctor see surgeries in her future. Please just pray for her. She has been experiencing a lot of pain and it has become magnifide in the past month. She had to quit cheerleading and has been taking pain medication to control her pain. As you can tell we have been hit hard and we have been praying that God will show us a path to go through from this.
I go see my Neurologist next week to talk about my health and pain from headaches. Since it is not better they will be setting up an appointment with my other Neurologist for my headaches. But next week they will be looking at some of my meds and see if anything needs to change or any needs to be increased. We have a lot going on and a lot to deal with. I have been denied disability twice now and working on the next level with my attorneys to go before a judge. I still have been denied disability from work and working with a seperate attorney on that. Please pray we can hang in the best we can b/c living on hardly nothing you can imagine what we are facing and going through. My wife is stressed to the max and I wish I can do something to contribute to take pressure off her. With three children to raise you can also imagine how exspensive and how hard that is with living on nothing and worrying about there well-being.
As I have stated before please be in prayer for us because we need it. God bless to you all as you read this and as you go through your daily lives. Thank you for your prayers.

Love to you all,

Walter and family

A Day To Catch Up

2008-10-13T15:11:00.002-04:00

Hello to all again,

I am at home trying to think up ways to let you know any updates. I am still dealing with the after effects of my Brain Surgery. I had the first in Atlanta, Ga on Dec. 13, 2007. I had my second one on May 15, 2008. I have had to deal with short term memory loss and Migraines daily. I also have had to deal with blacking out and seizures. The earliest I can drive if they will let me will be sometime in Nov. 2008. I have been battling with attorneys to get my Long Term Disability and my Social Security Disability. So far nothing has come through. That has been very hard on me and my family. Since we live all my wife's income. Her hours have been cut to 30 instead of 40+. Thanks to many prayers and love and support from you we have been able to survive. It has not been easy with three children and one being disabled.
The doctors have put me on new medication and it makes me sleep all morning. That has not been easy to adjust too since I like to be up early. My days are all messed up and I cant remember what I am to do each day. I am going to physical therapy this week twice for my neck. Where I have falling so many times I may have damaged the top three vertebrae in my neck. I have to get an MRI to make sure I don't have bulging disc's. I may have to get shots or surgery depending on what they find. Anyway, I hope all is going well with each one of you. I thank you once again for praying for me and my family. To be honest we really need it. Times are very hard on us and we don't know week to week what we can hang on too. God bless each of you!!

In His Loving Care,

Walter and family

nice scare

2008-08-13T09:51:00.002-04:00

I am sorry to anyone reading this b/c there was such a scare yesterday. I feel dumb after it happened. I got real sick real fast yesterday and for a precaution the doctors had me rushed to the emergency room. Everything checked out okay after a few hours of tests. They chalked it up to a serious migraine. I have them daily but this one was different. I was real sick,dizzy,lightheaded, and massive headache all at one time at the same time. I am glad it ended up not being anything real serious and I am thankful for your prayers. God is good all the time and all the time God is good. I am just recovering today and getting some rest. God bless to you all.
Walter

Good Day to All!

2008-08-01T11:03:00.002-04:00

Hello to everyone reading this,

I hate to get on here all the time and leave a message because it seems to be the same old stuff going on with me all the time. I do want to communicate with you all as much as possible. A lot of days I dont feel good and it is just too hard to spend the time to write something when my head is hurting. I hope you all understand.
Lately, I have just been dealing with migraines and just not feeling the best. Some of you all know we have had complications with a daycare. We finally found one and they will let Kaci start on Monday this coming week. Yeah!!! I have had to watch her most of the summer and when you are not feeling good most of the time that is hard. Especially when the doctors have not released me to lift much at all. That includes my daughter.
I did get some bad news lately determining my Disability. I really hoped it would work out the first time through. Well, it did not. I did get denied from Social Security. They claim I am not sick enough and that my headaches are not that bad. Even though they are putting me down most of the time. Plus, they claim I can understand simple instructions even though my memory stinks and I have to take medication to help it to some degree. Therefore, they say I can take on a lesser job than what I am qualified for or educated for. Which means I can get some high school job as bagger or what not. First, the doctors will not let me lift or strain at this time. It is still putting pressure on my head causing headaches when I do. The doctors will not let me drive right now since my EEG is coming back with seizure symptoms. Makes sense doesn't it for them to deny me. I can't provide for my family and therefore it has become nearly impossible to take care of what I am to take care of so we dont get into trouble with the creditors.
Anyway, my Long Term Disability has denied me too and my old workplace made sure we had that and paid it so if something like this happened we would have something to fall back on. Well, that did not work out either. In the meantime I have had to hire two different attorneys and that is a strain too. If you would please pray for me and my family that we can survive it would be greatly appreciated. I am only letting you all know this so you know what to pray for. I still need good health and my wife need's strength. It is very hard for her at this time and she feels like throwing in the towel due to all the heartaches we are facing. Totally understandable right????? God bless and hope to hear a response from any of you. That would be great too.

Love,

Walter Ruh Herron

Good Evening!

2008-07-24T19:52:00.002-04:00

Hello once again,

I had a Nuerologist appointment on Tuesday July 22, 2008. Everything went well as expected. I was taken off my Alzheimer's medicine to help my memory due to side effects. They instead put me on another one. This one should be better because it is a patch. I wear it for 24 hours at a time. They increased my blood pressure medication and want me to stay on new dose for awhile. I had to do several different tasks and did okay on most. The one I messed up on the worst was when I had to close my eyes while standing still. I started to wobble and fall over. The doctor had to catch me. So, my balance is a bit off still. I am still being treated for seizure symptoms and migraines. The medication has not changed in that department. But, the doctors dont know what to do at this time for my pain. I know in time it will all get better. So, I pray it does. I am sorry I dont update a lot but to be honest, I forget or my head is hurting to much for me to remember I need to get on here to give you all the lastest. So, please bear with me as much as you can. My wife gets irritated at me at times. Not on purpose but with frustration due to memory problems and then my irribility due to headache pains. Please continue to pray for us all. We REALLY need them at this time. Love to you all!!!

Walter

nothing new

2008-07-10T10:33:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone.. Nothing has changed so far. Just the same old stuff that you have to deal with when not having a job, on all kinds of meds., stressing over everything, worried about your family, and just trying to make it everyday.. I appreciate the cards, words of encouragement, and just being a friend. It has been a hard road but it has been worth it. The reason is because God has been good through the whole thing. HE has never left me even when I have a hard day or stressful day. It has not been easy. I will be honest but I know when it is all over God will get the glory, and God will be the one praised. I know times are tough for everyone. I just want you to imagine our tough times and say a prayer. There is always one suffering a bit worse than you are at the time. I try to remember that as well. I am still alive, breathing, talking (even though short-term is bad), and just trying to take life as it comes. God bless to you all.

In His love,

Walter Ruh

rough few days

2008-06-26T03:49:00.002-04:00

Lately I believe I have been tried and I need prayer. I found out my LTD insurance company does not want to pay me the disability I am due b/c they are finding loop holes to get around. That is enough headaches as it is. Then I had an episode today where apparently it was my bloodpressure that went sky high. I thought I was having another situation like I did 8 months ago. I got lightheaded, dizzy, nauseated, massive headache, and extremely weak. IT scared me at first. The doctor believes it was just my bloodpressure. I am to keep an eye on it for a bit. Can't sleep. I am up now at 4 am. I have just gotten so out of wack and I have a hard time sleeping. I do need some prayers and if you can say one for me and my wife. God bless!!

Need Prayer

2008-06-23T10:50:00.002-04:00

What a beautiful day today has brought. I have gotten to enjoy a great morning out in the sunshine on the porch drinking coffee. Everything is still the same as far as headaches, memory, and the other treatments. No new updates to give on that.
I go tomorrow to see another doctor and if all goes well I pray that I will receive disability until I can get back on my feet to work again. Today I got bad news from the Long Term Disability Insurance Company from my old workplace. They are claiming I was pre-exhisting so they denied my disability from them. It hurt to be honest b/c all my doctors claimed I was not being treated for a pre-exhisting condition since they released me and all was fine. Only being treated for headaches. It is a tactic they want to use to keep from paying. I just need prayer for this and for my wife. She is as stressed as anyone could be. Especially since she is the only working and having to drive me to most places. It has taken a toll on her to where she is just exhausted all the time. I want to thank you all for the prayers I know you will be lifting me and my family up for. God bless to you all!!

In His Care,
Walter

Thank the Lord!

2008-06-20T10:39:00.002-04:00

I have had a very interesting couple of weeks. Back when I had my second surgery I had encountered a situation that hurt me physically. When the nurses messed up on my cathador I had a bleeding problem. When they finally fixed the problem after 9 hours of painful bloating and bleeding I had to stay at the hospital more days. I went home with pain in several areas and had to wait to heal before I could see doctors. I finally got in to the Urologist and everything came back fine. I had healed up well and no signs of scar tissues. That is a blessing from above. I am healing fine on my scar on my head. I still deal with daily headaches that sometimes just hurt to bad to describe. I still am suffering from short-term memory loss and I am still being treated for seizures. I know eventually all will be well. I just ask that if you can continue to pray for me and my family. My wife is under a lot of stress since she is the only one able to work. trying to live off her income with a family of five and many expenses it has become too tough to imagine. I thank you all for your support and prayers being lifted up. God bless to you all!!

Walter Ruh

what a day!

2008-06-10T13:57:00.002-04:00

I went to the nuerologist today. Everything went pretty good. I still have the headaches. I have to be careful on the straining and lifting right now. She wants me to get in touch with my Nuerosurgeon by letter to explain to him all that is still going on and let him give me an answer. After that she can make a better judgement call.
I had to be put on a new medication today for my memory problems. It is what they give Alzhiemer's patients. She is keeping me on the lower dose for a while. It is the 5mg. It only goes to 10mg. That is fine b/c I need help with my memory. I have problems remembering short-term stuff and I forget to pay bills and we end up behind two months. After I think I have paid them I find out I have not.
In order for me to go to my doctor's appointments I have to go in with my wife and then wait until a family member or friend can come and pick me up. Like today, I had to be at my wife's work place at 7am. My appointment was at 9:30am and then I came back to her work place to finish out the day until she gets off work. That is just the way it has to be since I cant drive. I thank each and everyone of you for your prayers. May God bless each of you!

Walter

Blessings

2008-06-06T10:13:00.002-04:00

I want to start out by saying, "thanks". I have received so many calls, cards, and emails from everyone. I just thank you for your continued prayers. I have not been able to update a lot lately due to hurting. I hope you all understand that at this time. I have had some doozy headaches and my side of my head hurting that I just have not felt well to update or get on line much. I am very thankful for your thoughts and prayers. I have needed them and my wife has too. She has been a trooper and stuck doing everything even after working. She is tired and has not slept well in two weeks. When that happens your just not on top of your game. So, please pray for her and for my kids. Sometimes they understand and sometimes they dont. It is difficult on all of us.
As far as other things in my life I am just praying the dissability comes through for my wife's sake. She is stressed on what that brings to a family of five and one source of income. Please continue to pray that God will take care of it which I know He will in His timing.
You all have been a tremendous blessing in my life and God has been so good. He loves us and knowing that is enough. I send my love and thankfulness to each of you.

In His Love,
Walter and family

thankful

2008-05-22T09:54:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone. I want to thank you for all you have done for me and my family during this difficult time. I would love to update you on all that has happened. I know you have been updated and I am thankful you were.
When my wife and I went down to Atlanta last week we were not a hundred percent sure what all was going to take place. We had the pre-op stuff Wednesday morning that week and was getting prepped and ready for surgery the next day. We also got to go and visit with my surgeon. He clarified many things that day and we knew more then that was going to take place. We found out that day that there was no leakage taking place. The MRI confirmed to him that it was residue from the last surgery and my Venus Vein that showed up so clearly. That was a praise in itself. He also told us that he was not 100% sure that the bone flap was totally infected or not. It had been and he was clear to say that once you have had it then it is likely it will never go away. But with no visible signs of infection on the surface he was sure that was taken care of. He was unsure on the inside and on the bone. I had extreme tenderness that alarmed him that there still could be something on the inside and I was a likely candidate.
As they did the surgery on Thursday it showed I had no more infection that they could see so he took the bone flap out and cleaned it real good and flooded me with antibiotics to make if there was any inclination of a bug that he got it. He basically said that there was just no way for sure to know until they opened me back up. As my dad always says," it is better to be safe than sorry". The doctor definitely agreed to that.
Unfortunately I did have a complication that took place while in the hospital on the road to recovery. It was an accident on the nurses behalf but something that could have been avoided. I was nicked when a certain something had to be inserted. In results to that I lost a lot of blood and it was likely it totalled up to 2 Liters or more. I had to stay in the hospital longer than expected and now I am home. If I had not been bathed in prayer and my family I am sure it could have been worse. But needless to say God was going to take care of me and I am glad He did. He watched over me and my family and for that I am extremely grateful to my Lord and Saviour. I am thankful I have friends and family that prayed for me and my family. God is good and good all the time. HE did get me through the first time and I knew He would the second time but I was nervous. Who would not be. I am only human and that is not an excuse either. But with prayer and the love and the support I received I knew it would be okay. Especially knowing God was not going to leave me either. So, thanks again and God bless to each of you.

Walter

Another Surgery

2008-05-07T17:11:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone,

I want to first of all thank each and everyone of you for your prayers and your concerns for me and my family. I just found out today that I will have to go back to Atlanta next Tuesday to get ready for another surgery. I have appointments all day Wednesday starting early. Then I have my surgery next Thursday. I don't know all the details just yet but will before I go down to Atlanta. I know that there are possibly two different things they will have to do once they open my head back up. So, if you can continue to pray for my family and for me to have the strength one more time. Love to you all.

Walter Herron

Yesterday

2008-05-02T12:16:00.002-04:00

Apparently I was informed I needed to reconfigure my post from yesterday. So here it goes. I went yesterday (May 1) to Baptist West for an MRI. I was asked to come in by my doctor for that reason. They changed my date of next weeks appointment to today May 2. We had complications with the insurance as well yesterday. Shannon's insurance we dont know when it will go into effect. The hospital couldn't understand at first but now understand it is a mess since Baptist is now Mercy and they are undergoing changes and one of them is insurance. It might take up to 2 months to get the insurance. So, please add that to your prayer list of concerns for me and my family. We need that to work out since that is important when being seen.
I still hurt with headaches and other complications but hopefully my doctors will figure it out and help fix the problem.

Today I saw the doctor and they believe there is still an infection going on with my wound and the bone that was taken out during surgery. They are going to be in touch with my Nuerosurgeon in Atlanta to figure out the next move. It looks like a strong possibility now that they will have to replace that bone with some type of plate and clean the infection out around the surgery and wherever. So remember that in prayer please.

I am still waiting on Disability to come into effect and it may take longer since the letter I got today is stating they are having a hard time getting all the information they need. I have been in touch with Sen. John Duncan Jr. to see if he can help me along. I just pray it all works out.

Thank you all for anything and everything you have done for me and my family. Especially the prayers. Without them God can't hear our requests. I appreciate all those involved in prayer. I know all things are possible with God. Plus, where two or three are gathered in His name He will hear and answer their prayers. I will join you all in prayer. And thanks for your concern and love you have poured out to me and my family. God bless you all!!

Walter

Email notification for new blog posts

2008-05-01T22:11:00.003-04:00

If you would like to receive email notification when there is a new post to the blog, email me and let me know.

Aaron
GoVols1[at]gmail[dot]com

Thank You

2008-04-30T08:37:00.002-04:00

I want to start out by saying thanks to all of you. It has been a blessing to have great friends that care. It has been a struggle for me as you know. Most of you know what has happened and is happening with me from my Brain Surgery. There is a possibility for me to have one more surgery that will require even more detail and pain. I hope that is not a route I have to take. There is a possible infection that is causing pain and discomfort to my head right now. Other than that I am dealing with the aftermaths of major surgery. I still have major headaches, pain, and light headiness. I can't lift at this time or strain. The doctors do not know if it is related to the surgical area inside my head or something else.
The prayers that you have offered up for me and my family have been greatly appreciated. I know there is a donate button that is with this blog. I want to thank you ahead of time if you are led to help me and my family.
I have not been able to work for over six months and it is hard not being able to contribute to your family. My wife has been working and doing the running around for me. She is taking care of the kids and me. I try to help when I can and how I can according to the doctors orders. We have bills that are out the roof right now and we struggle daily and weekly to do anything. I am getting behind on most things and try to take care of them when I do receive help or when Shannon gets paid. We have a family of five if you do not know by now. I have one child with Down Syndrome and she had open heart surgery a few years ago. She is 4 1/2 years old. I have two other children that are 15(amber) and 10(Bryce). They do help and the oldest has a permit. She helps me after school if I am able to get a few errands done before my wife comes home.
I am rambling a bit but wanted you to know that I still need prayer daily. I have not slept good for the past week. The past few nights I have gone to bed around 4am and get up when the kids do for school. I am tired and my head is hurting worse when I don't get enough sleep. It could be due to complications, medication, or lack of sleep. Either way thank you again for praying and helping where and when you can.

Walter Ruh

Welcome!

2008-04-28T23:41:00.006-04:00

Welcome to the Let's Help Walter blog! Here you will find a history of Walter and Shannon's dealings with his brain bleed and ensuing brain surgery. I have compiled this from the emails I have received from his family, and I hope it will help you to see how far he has come and some of the challenges he and his family still face. Walter and his sister Stacie have the ability to post here as well, so between the three of us we can keep this blog fairly current.

Let's continue to support Walter and his family in prayer as well as emotionally by writing, calling, and commenting to blog posts and financially by using the donate button at the top right-hand side of the blog (see the "Power in Numbers" pot on 4/27 for details).

Together we can make a difference!

Aaron

Power in Numbers

2008-04-27T20:35:00.001-04:00

Walter and Shannon are very much struggling financially, and I know a lot of us feel helpless to make a difference for them in this situation, but if we work together we are not helpless. What do I mean?

If each of us who loves Walter will take a few minutes to send him just a little financial help from time to time, this will help tremendously.

To illustrate:
If 20 people were to give just $10 each month to help them out, that would be an additional $200 per month for them. And what if we instead sacrificed a little more and gave $20 per month? That would be another $400 per month! Now that won't pay all the bills, but it will go along way in relieving their financial burdens. So how about it?

In addition, the more we grow this group the more of an impact our numbers added together will have. So let's spread the word! Tell everyone about the Let's Help Walter! blog!

You can give quickly and easily over the internet: Walter and I have tested his PayPal account to ensure it works and that he can get the money into his bank account from his PayPal account. (What is PayPal? It's a proven and safe way to send money to someone via the internet. All kinds of non-profits and commercial companies such as eBay have used it for years. See http://www.paypal.com for more information.) All you have to do to send Walter some financial aid is click on the Donate button underneath Walter's photograph at the top right of this blog. Alternatively you can click here.

The money you send will go directly into his PayPal account. (If you'd rather give the old fashioned way by mail, shoot me an email, and we can work out the details.) I can assure you any amount you can afford to give will make a difference!

Whether or not you help financially, the power in numbers formula also applies to prayer. So let's pray in numbers, too! Let's also continue to encourage Walter and Shannon often as I'm sure they could use it.

Aaron

Update 4/22/08

2008-04-22T20:24:00.000-04:00

I spoke with Walter today. He's been out of commision for the past few days, but he was back in action today. For that I am grateful.

Walter and Shannon's trip to the neurosurgeon in Atlanta was a bit of a disappointment as the neurosurgeon did not receive the necessary test results from Walter's neurologist office in Knoxville to make a firm analysis. At this point the neurologist is forwarding the necessary results to the neurosurgeon after which the neurosurgeon will review the results and make a recommendation. Let's pray that Walter does not need another surgery!

On the positive side, Walter has been added to Shannon's health insurance at Baptist! This is a really huge answer to prayer as it will allow him to continue to receive the medical attention he needs.

Still Walter and Shannon are very much struggling financially, and I know a lot of us feel helpless to make a difference for them in this situation, but if we work together we are *not* helpless. See the discussion topic "Power in Numbers" for details.

Let's continue to remember Walter and Shannon in our prayers daily. They need and deserve it!

Update 4/15/08

2008-04-15T22:44:00.001-04:00

Walter and Shannon are making the drive from Greenback, TN to Atlanta, GA tomorrow for a long one-day trip to visit with the neurosurgeon who performed Walter's surgery last last year. The doctors in Knoxville are of the opinion that Walter will need another operation, but our hope and our prayer is that there is no need for this.Walter and Shannon face many challenges besides Walter's medical issues: finances, health insurance, taking care of the kids, etc. Let's continue to remember the entire family in our prayers daily and do all we can to support them in other ways.

Walter Ruh update

2008-02-14T22:39:00.000-05:00

An email from Walter Ruh!!!

Hello All,

I just wanted to give an update on everything pertaining to me and my family. I first want to thank you for your prayers. They have been greatly appreciated. We have needed them. We still need them daily if you can continue. My wife is stressed and is the runner after work and that takes a toll.

I went to the Neurologist today and it was good in some aspects but I did not like it in others. First, they are not going to release me to drive which will effect me going back to work. Second, they think there is a possibility that I might be leaking inside my head where the incision was and it has not healed back properly. They had me go and do a CT Scan and soon another MRI. I had to do more blood work and I will have to go back for a EEG. I am still battling at times dizziness and my balance. I sometimes do too much b/c I want to get well so fast and I guess I overdo it. Because of that I put strain on where the surgery was. That is why the CT and MRI's. Third, they think that my scalp around the scarring and the staples were may be infected. I dont know the proper wording for that but they are putting me on strong antibiotics for 10 days b/c they believe it has now gotten infected. They dont w ant me to have to get that part infected which could lead to a whole new mess. I dont know when I will be driving again but the way she talked it will be sometime.

So, now I need you to desperately add that to your prayers. Not the driving persay but that fact that I have been out of work since Oct and I have no disability from work. I have called my county and called other various organizations and I have gotten turned down. Apparently I am not bad enough or there are other reasons. We almost had our Utilities turned off this week. We were two months behind but we had some close friends at an area church that got wind of my situation from me going to the Utility company pleading with them to keep our heat on and there church paid our heat bill. That was a true blessing from above. But this is tough and I am having a tough time with it..So, I desperately thank you for your prayers.

That is all I know for now and will keep you updated as I find out more. You are free to call me or stop by or email me anytime. Love to all.

Walter Ruh

Walter Ruh update 1-17-08

2008-01-17T20:09:00.000-05:00

An email from Big Ray...

Thank you all so much for your continued prayers.
Walter Ruh had his follow-up with the surgeon in Atlanta yesterday. He said Walter Ruh was doing very well and as expected. One area of the incision is not healing as well as the doctor would like, but it should be better soon with continued cleaning.
Dr. Barrow stated Walter Ruh should now begin trying to do more activity. However, with this being the most traumatic surgery a person could have, he must use caution. Hopefully, he will be able to return to more normal activities within about 4 more weeks. Walter Ruh must be released by the neurologist in Knoxville before being able to drive. The seizures he had prior to surgery require a certain period of time without another one before driving can begin.
He is healing more each day and Dr. Barrow hoped he would see an even more dramatic improvement within the next 2-4 weeks. The headaches will most likely continue for some time. Remember, he just had major brain surgery 4 weeks ago.
Please continue praying for Shannon and the kids. This has been an extremely difficult time for them as well.
We love you all and look forward to greater news in the days ahead. God is so good!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Big Ray

Walter Ruh update

2008-01-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

An email from Big Ray...

Hey, gang,
I have failed to send a recent update on Walter Ruh. I appreciate your prayers and ask that you please continue to remember him and his family.

He goes back to Atlanta on the 16th for a follow-up with the neurosurgeon. The 40 staples were removed last week and the stitches will eventually dissipate. There still are headaches and some days worse than others. However, we know these will eventually go away. He must continue to be very careful and take it easy.

Also, please pray for Shannon and the kids. She is working and having to get all of them to and from school and the after school activities. They surely have a plate full.

Again, we really cannot thank you enough for all of your calls, emails, cards, and especially the prayers. God has been so good to us. We only seek His guidance. We owe each of you a lot!

Love to all,
Big Ray

Update From Dad on Walter Ruh

2007-12-18T00:27:00.001-05:00

An email from Stacie...

This is an email Dad sent out earlier today. Walter Ruh is home and resting. He said the trip home (4 hr drive) was hard on him. He took some medication and went to bed. Thank you again, everyone for your love, care, and prayers!
Stacie

HALLELUJAH!!!!!!
What an awesome God we serve! I could hardly wait to update you all. Walter Ruh's surgery lasted only 2 1/2 hours instead of 5 1/2. The bleed area was not as deep as first thought. The doctor was able to remove the old blood and correct the cavernous malformation. Even though he has 40 staples in his head and will still have a headache for a couple of weeks, he is coming home TODAY!
I cannot begin to tell you all how much the prayers were answered. We have received messages from people all over the country. The prayer network is amazing. God has truly blessed us and this will be a special Christmas remembered.
We can only thank you for your efforts and praise God for the results. Please continue praying that Walter Ruh will improve each day. His recovery time is expected to be about 2 months. Of course with you all praying, it will be sooner! Also, pray for Shannon and the family as they care for him. This has been a very difficult time for them.
We love you all and appreciate each one of you more than we could ever express.
God Bless!!!!!!
Big Ray and family

Hey, gang,
In my haste and excitement to send out the great report, I forgot to mention a HUGE answer to your prayers. There was absolutely NO paralysis or slurred speech after the surgery. As I had told you all last week, the doctor said this could happen, but it did not!
Again, what an awesome God we serve!
Big Ray

Walter Ruh's surgery (Pictures)

2007-12-16T11:44:00.002-05:00

Pictures of Walter Ruh after his surgery sent in an email from Lou Herron, Walter's mom...

Update on Walter Ruh, 12/14 and 12/15/07

2007-12-15T12:27:00.000-05:00

An email from Stacie...

12-14-07

I talked with Dad just a little while ago and he gave me an update on Walter Ruh. He is in EXTREME pain and has requested not to see anyone. Dad said his whole face is really swollen and his right eye is swollen shut. The doctor's went in on his right side. They are having difficulty understanding Walter, so his speech has been effected. He did wiggle his toes and his hand. So that is great news. We really won't know the after effects for several days. He is pretty sedated right now. They are keeping him in ICU again tonight and will determine tomorrow if he will go on to a private room. When I saw him last night after they brought him in from recovery, he did not look so good. He was very pale and very swollen. The surgery only took 2 1/2 hours instead of 5 hours and the doctor was very pleased. They did not have to go in to his brain tissue as deep as they had thought and they were able to scrape out the bleeding and sto p it. We want to PRAISE GOD for all He has done for Walter Ruh through this! There were a lot of people praying for him and I thank God for watching over him and protecting him!!

12-15-07

Dad just called me, so I thought I would go ahead and give everyone an update for today. Walter Ruh is doing VERY WELL this morning. Physical Therapy came and walked him down the hall...YEA!! He is not paralyzed and his speech is more understandable today! Isn't it amazing how GOD took care of him??? He is still in EXTREME pain, but is feeling better as each day passes. They think he might get to go home Monday. We are all pleased at his progress!! Thanks for keeping Walter Ruh in your thoughts and prayers!

Stacie

Update on Walter Ruh

2007-12-05T18:48:00.000-05:00

An email from Stacie...

Walter Ruh is having surgery next Thursday (Dec. 13th) in Atlanta at Emory. The risks are great, but the doctor said the risks would be even greater if he DID NOT have the surgery. It would continue to only get worse. Please continue to pray for him. We are all very concerned, but we know that God is in control and will take care of him. We want to thank you all for your prayers, thoughts, cards, and phone calls. We have such amazing friends and family.
We love you!

The Herron Family

Update on Walter Ruh

2007-11-14T17:29:00.000-05:00

An email from Stacie...

I had lunch with Walter Ruh today and talked with him about his trip to Atlanta yesterday afternoon to the Neurosurgeon. He seemed to be pleased with the outcome. They are referring him to the best Neurosurgeon in the country (at Emory in Atlanta) who specializes in his type of brain bleed. The Gamma Knife Procedure is out of the question but the route to go is surgery. The bleed is next to a major artery, but the doctor felt they could perform the surgery with success. PRAISE GOD!! Of course the Neurosurgeon said there are still risks involved. He said he could have a major stroke which could lead to paralysis, but still felt they could perform the surgery. They are setting up the appointment this week to see the doctor at Emory, but I don't know when it is scheduled at this time. Because this is the second time this has bled, it puts him in a different category. Meaning, something has to be done, because it will continue to happen if it is not stopped. Walter Ruh feels that he will probably end up having surgery before Christmas. He is still in a lot of pain and until they get this fixed he cannot drive or work. Please continue to keep him and his family in your prayers and let them know that GOD WILL PROVIDE!! Thank you again for thoughts and prayers!!

Stacie

At Peace

2007-11-13T22:42:00.000-05:00

An email from Stacie...

I just wanted to send out a quick email to let you know that my Grandmother passed away this evening. She is at rest and is now at home with her Lord and Savior. Thank you for your encouraging words and most of all your prayers during this time.

Walter Ruh went to Atlanta this afternoon and was pleased with the outcome. They are referring him to the best doctor in the country (at Emory in Atlanta) who specializes in his type of brain bleed. The Gamma Knife Procedure is out of the question but the route to go is surgery. But we found out that the risks are not as threatening as the doctor at UT Hospital made it out to be. The bleed is next to an artery, but the doctor felt they could perform the surgery with success. PRAISE GOD!! They are setting up the appointment to see the doctor at Emory, but I don't know when it is scheduled at this time. Thank you again for thoughts and prayers!!

Please PRAY!!!

2007-11-05T17:40:00.001-05:00

An email from Stacie...

As most of you know, my brother has been in the hospital with a brain bleed called a cavernous malformation. Today, we received some disappointing news from the hospital in Atlanta regarding the Gamma Knife procedure we thought they were going to do in order to stop the bleeding. They CAN'T do the procedure. Because of where the bleed is and because it is a cavernous malformation, the procedure would not work. The only alternative to stop the bleeding is surgery. My Dad said the Neurosurgeon from UT Hospital told Walter Ruh that the surgery would paralyze him. I am completely devastated to say the least.

Then we received a phone call late Saturday from my Grandfather in Morehead City, NC that my Grandmother is extremely ill. She is in the hospital with pneumonia. I just got off the phone with my Dad and the doctor's said the pneumonia is alot worse than they thought. She is non-responsive and incoherent. They are giving her antibiotics and pain medication and she is on oxygen. Dad said her breathing is very labored. This is my Mom's mother. My mother, her sister, and my Dad went down to NC yesterday and will be there until further notice. My Grandfather asked my Dad to take him to the funeral home today at 2:30 to make funeral arrangements. It does not sound good.

I know this is alot to take in, but I ask that you please remember my family in your thoughts and prayers right now. I know it says in the Bible
(1 Corinthians 10:13) that God will not give us more than we can bear, but with every temptation He will also provide a way out. We can trust God not to expect us to endure beyond our ability. God knows what we are capable of bearing even more than I do. We have to trust Him, and He will bring us through the refining process so that we can emerge as pure gold.

PLEASE PRAY!!! THANK YOU!!!

STACIE

Update on Walter Ruh

2007-10-30T11:30:00.001-04:00

An email from Big Ray...

The house doctor at UT Hospital is trying to coordinate with Walter Ruh's neurologist and the neurosurgeon about the necessary steps to get the Gamma Knife surgery proceeding. Please pray that this will happen soon as he is still in a lot of pain and, obviously, the bleeding is continuing. The house doctor and neurologist are of the opinion this should be done ASAP. He will not be released until this decision is made.

All tests on his heart have been OK and this is no longer an issue.

Please pray for guidance and communication of the doctors. We appreciate all of your prayers and thoughts.

Thanks,

Big Ray

Update on Walter Ruh

2007-10-25T22:48:00.000-04:00

An email to me from Stacie...

First off, thank you EVERYONE for all the phone calls, emails, and prayers!!! We LOVE you all so much. We are so thankful for our great friends and family.

Here is the latest on Walter Ruh. The neurosurgeon came in tonight and said that Walter Ruh has a cavernous malformation and because of where it is located on his brain (too deep) they WILL NOT do surgery. Instead, they are recommending something called Gamma Knife Surgery/Radiation. Which is a non-invasive neurosurgical procedure that uses powerful doses of radiation to target and treat diseased brain tissue while leaving surrounding tissue intact. I have found some information on both issues and have enclosed it as an attachment so you can read it.

They are going to do some more testing on him tomorrow, because Dr. Ingrahm said the Cavernous Malformation should not have caused him to pass out and make his blood pressure go up and pulse rate stay below 50. He believes something else must be going on. So he has ordered more testing. I believe an EKG and some other things.

We will keep you updated as we hear any information from the doctors. Thanks again for all the prayers...we have felt them!!

Stacie

Please Pray for My Brother

2007-10-24T13:29:00.000-04:00

An email I received from Stacie Herron, Walter's sister...

Dear Friends and Family,

Just a quick note to please ask for everyone to keep Walter Ruh in your thoughts and prayers. He is in ICU right now at UT Hospital and in serious condition. He has a bleed on his brain the size a bit bigger than a golf ball. Last night around 8 o'clock he passed out twice, was very disoriented, and confused. Shannon had trouble getting him up and called 911. When the ambulance came they had trouble stabilizing him. When they finally stabilized him, they took him onto Blount Memorial Hospital. As many of you know, Walter Ruh has had trouble with migraines and last year the neurologist found a bleed on his brain about the size of a pea. But they felt it would go away. They decided not to do surgery then because of the chance it could cause paralysis on one side. The doctor's now believe he would probably now need surgery. The nuerosurgeon has not come in yet, so we are still waiting. We will have some decisions to make so please keep Shannon and Mom and Dad in your thoughts and prayers also. I will try to keep you updated as I find out any information. He is in a lot of pain and they can't get the pain stopped in his head.

Thank you and we love you!!
Stacie (and The Herron Family)

Urgent Prayer Request from Walter's Dad

2007-10-24T13:27:00.001-04:00

An email I received from "Big Ray" Herron, Walter's father...

Would you please add our son, Walter Herron, to the prayer chain.
He collapsed at home last night and had to be rushed to Blount Memorial Hospital. It was discovered that he has a very large "brain bleed" and then had to be transferred to UT hospital. He is currently in the surgical ICU in serious condition. It is not known for certain at this time, but it appears he most likely will have to have surgery. We ask that the church family please pray for him and his family. I will update you as we learn more later today.
Thank you,
Big Ray