On Thursday, Darla is monitored closely by the orthopedic and trauma teams in the ICU. They continue monitoring her for internal bleeding, checking her vital signs, hemoglobin and hematocrit (H&H) routinely. The goal is to take her into surgery to repair her pelvis as soon as she shows no sign of internal bleeding for 24 hours. The clinical staff also work with her to calibrate her pain meds and attempt to keep her comfortable.
Darla is amazingly alert and asking to see visitors; however, she doesn't fully understand the extent of her injuries and requests repeatedly for Kevin to take her home. She has a neck brace on and the only body parts she can move are her arms and wiggling her toes. Darla is unable to move in bed on her own and any microscopic shift by the nurse causes her excruciating pain.
The stress is taking it's toll on Kevin and the girls. This is the beginning of a very long road for rehabilitation and recovery. There are numerous relatives at the hospital to support Darla and her immediate family. We want to thank everyone for their concern, support and continued prayers.
Darla is unable to have flowers or items in the ICU until she steps down to a lower level of care in a standard hospital room. Also, she does not have access to a telephone in the unit. However, I know she would appreciate hearing from you. Please send cards to Darla Friel, c/o UCI Medical Center, 4 North, Neuro ICU/Bed 3, 101 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868.
