New to the group.

[Claudeandbaby]

Morning ...I am new to group and mum to craig(41) ,Craig had a grade5 SAH five weeks ago ... and is only opening his eyes at this stage ...looking for hope and inspiration from you guys ...thank you ...love Jacque xxx

[cat3]

Welcome Jacque. How stressful this must be for you with the block on visiting ; my heart goes out to you. You'll be feeling lost I'm sure....

My SAH was in 2011 and I know my family were frantic with worry for the weeks before I showed improvements. Of course they didn't have the added anxiety of having to stay away, but I heard later how none of the doctors of nursing staff were able to offer a prognosis or any reassurance.

My consultant was apparently very approachable but simply repeated, each time they asked about me, that only time would tell as every case is unique, and no one can foresee the outcome. But he repeatedly said he was waiting for me to 'Turn a corner' and when I did it would be apparent ..........and time to relax a little. I turned the corner a couple of weeks later.

On meeting my surgeon in person 3 months after my discharge, it was so reassuring to have the whole 'fixing' process explained and shown on the scan, and to realise what amazing technology, skill and dedication had been responsible for my sitting opposite him that day. He made me feel safe.

Can I ask whether Craig's bleed has been coiled or clipped ? Mine was coiled. Keep talking to us my dear... Love Cat x

[Claudeandbaby in reply to cat3]

Oh thank you so much for replying cat .... it gives me hope .... Craig’s bleed was coiled ... I worry so much about his lack of progress but then again I don’t understand what the expectations are...it’s very difficult at the moment as we have had no contact with his team because of covid although we have seen him the last two Fridays ...he has no movement in his limbs and only opens his eyes for short spells.....when he sleeps he is unconscious..it’s all so worrying xxx

[cat3 in reply to Claudeandbaby]

You could phone the secretary of Craig's consultant and ask for a chat with the consultant. Secretary's are usually quite accommodating ; I think it would be worth a try.

Hopefully his brain will be searching for new pathways to compensate for damaged ones (rewiring is a complicated, time consuming process). A brain injury patient will often be outwardly unresponsive, whilst their brain is preoccupied with recuperation, requiring shutting out all external stimulus.

Your son has youth on his side. (I was 60 when I had mine but, despite certain after effects, I was living independently & driving within 6 months of discharge). It's early days, though it'll seem like an eternity to you Jacque....

Please try the secretary and keep us updated on Craig. And please look after yourself. Cat x

[Claudeandbaby in reply to cat3]

Ah cat you are a ray of sunshine in a dark world at the moment ...I love your positive vibes and I took your advice and we have a meeting tomorrow...thank you so much . X

[cat3 in reply to Claudeandbaby]

Brilliant ! I hope the consultant will clarify things for you and, hopefully, you'll feel a little less excluded and a little more reassured.

Please post an update when you can Jacque. Hope all goes well.... Cat x

[cat3 in reply to cat3]

How was it yesterday Jacque ? x