William was born with "Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a disease in which a portion of the myocardium (heart muscle) is hypertrophic (enlarged) without any obvious cause, creating functional impairment of the heart. (Source: Wikipedia)
In 2009, he had 2 silent heart attacks, one in June and the other in August. The angiogram showed 100% blockage in the left anterior descending vessel. Cardiologist didn't expect him to go into heart failure after the angiogram. He started to have difficulty in breathing after the angiogram but all the nurses did was to give him oxygen and monitor his blood pressure. For 2 and a half hours, he was struggling to breathe. I looked distressed after I heard what sounded like boiling water when he was struggling to breathe in the end. Code blue activated and he was rushed to ICU. 22% of his heart muscles were damaged as a result. Had a successful bypass 2 weeks later. He had a few heart failures in subsequent years. His heart rate was irregular which warranted the implant of the ICD in October 2012. However, he developed atrial fibrillation which was the cause of his massive stroke on 7 Dec 2012. After his stroke, it was downhill as far as his health is concerned. He was in no position to work and I became his one and only caregiver. He calls me his "mi c".
Append below the email/facebook updates since his massive stroke on 7 Dec 2012. Thought it will be good to recount how the Lord has been good to us.
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 7, 2012 at 4:33 PM
Subject: Covet your urgent prayers for elder seah - 7 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
Due to atrial fibrillation, blood pools in his atrial & blood clots form. My worst fear happened this morning at 5:37am when I heard strange noise from elder seah in his sleep. Felt his back & he was perspiring which raised alarm bells. Woke him & asked him questions, he could answer me coherently but his speech was slur. Left side cannot move. Call for ambulance & within 10 mins which seem like eternity, the ambulance arrived at 6am I was told by my condo security & he was rushed to NUH, CT scan showed massive stroke in right brain. Dr Teoh Hock Luen the neurologist ruled out surgery as it's very risky. He'll do what he can. When I left him to come back to freshen up, elder seah was restful, he could still speak & thank God for enabling me to decipher his slurred speech.
Please pray for us. I quote his 2 liner
"When all other means fail, my God shall prevail;
Though struggles assail, God's grace to me avail."
Pleading for God's mercies.
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 7, 2012 at 11:55 PM
Subject: Covet your urgent prayers for elder seah - 7 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
As elder seah has not drunk any fluid since his stroke in the morning, his throat is dry & sore. Doctor says no fluid by mouth as he may choke but allows me to let him suck on ice cube whenever he feels parched. He could tell me he now knows a little of how the rich man felt when he asked Father Abraham to send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool his tongue for he was tormented in hell.
Thank God elder seah's speech is less slurred towards the evening and he remains lucid. Thank God he has not lost any consciousness. The headache on his right side due to the clot in his right brain is less now with panadol. Please pray for NO swelling in the brain. MRI scan tomorrow will show geographically the extent of the damage. Pleading for the Lord's mercies. There are people who miraculously recover from a major stroke & gain mobility.
With all your prayers, thank God I'm sustained by His grace. It's not easy but I know God is always there for me as I pray unceasingly, crying out to Him to have mercy and preserve elder seah's life, restoring him to health for His glory and for my sake. I know He has heard all our cries. He never leaves me nor has He forsaken me, He has only given more grace for each trial.
When I said good night to elder seah just now in hospital before his younger son & wife took me home, he said he's going to rest well. Thank God breathlessness has also kind of subsided but it may return if he goes into another heart failure. He was in heart failure just now. Doctor is monitoring him closely. While I was alone with him, I was looking at the monitor and there were several occasions when he was in apnea so I told elder seah to consciously breathe. Breathing to us healthy people is effortless and natural. But not to elder seah. Pray his breathing will improve.
Thank you so much for upholding us in your continuing prayers. Thanks for all who have responded to let me know you're praying for which I'm grateful. Visit at this time is not advisable as he needs all the rest he can get. We treasure your prayers.
In Christ's love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Dec 9, 2012 at 4:21 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 8 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
His younger son, Colin took me to NUH in the morning. When we arrived, he had just returned from his scan and he was feeling quite breathless. He didn't manage to sleep in the night as he missed his soft pillow which he cuddles to sleep so Colin drove home to get it while I stayed with him. He complained of very dry & sore throat again as the nurse didn't give him any medicine for it. Later in the morning, met with Dr Teoh Hock Luen the Neurologist i/c and he said the scan was much the same as yesterday's - massive stroke & bit of swelling as expected in the right brain. He's to be monitored closely as he's still not out of danger.
Dr Teoh gave the green light for him to take his lime juice and the speech therapist showed me how to thicken with thixer before giving it to him. He felt so soothed and enjoyed the lime juice so much that he finished one & a half cup on an empty stomach. Thank God his stomach is quite strong. He used to take his favourite pineapple before his meal.
He was served lunch, his first meal since admission: soft diet of mashed potato, minced beef patty and porridge, soup and watermelon juice. Whatever liquid he takes needs to be thickened with the powder thixer. He only managed to take 1/3 of the mashed potato, 1/4 of the beef but not the tasteless porridge, a bit of the thickened soup & all of the thickened watermelon juice.
He tried to rest after lunch but he was so uncomfortable that he couldn't sleep as the breathlessness persisted. There were many times that the monitor beeped and showed "Tachy" (tachycardia is a heart rate that exceeds the normal range) for ECG reading, his systolic pressure was raised. It pains my heart to see him like that, prayed with him several times & many times silently in my heart with tears.
Thank God his appetite improved during dinner as the purée pumpkin and blended oats with fish were tasty (he got me to try some). Again soft diet of tasteless porridge was not palatable & he ate only a few spoons. Thank God he finished the tasty soft food but not the porridge which I myself wouldn't want either, took half of the thickened soup and about half of the honey dew. He has done well.
As he was trying to rest after dinner, I decided to give him a gentle massage on his left calf & foot after checking with the nurse that it was alright to do so. Thank God there is no water retention in his feet. As I massaged, I was praying hard and tears flowed, pleading for God's mercies again. I was reminded of how Hannah prayed in the bible and Eli thought she was drunk but God heard and answered. I'm comforted & encouraged that many of you are also praying fervently for us. During the massage of his left foot, I asked if he could feel me massaging & he said a bit and I was delighted. Yesterday, he couldn't feel a thing. More time was spent massaging his left calf & foot and then I moved on to his right calf & foot. Thank God he was able to rest while he was being massaged. When he was awake, I gripped his left arm and asked if he knew what I was doing without looking and he said I was massaging his left thigh. Hmmm....???
At 9:30pm, the nurse came to check on him. She asked him if he knew where he was now and he answered "hospital", bravo. Yesterday in the same ward, he answered "ambulance". He also could tell he was in NUH which was quite amazing. When he was asked if he knew if it was night or day time. He rationalised that it must be night as the lights were switched on as he said he didn't have a watch on him. That's smart thinking for someone who just had a massive stroke yesterday. She then asked him to raise his right hand and he could resist her hand pushing it down quite easily. Then she asked him to raise his left hand and he could do it immediately. I was stunned and my eyes almost popped out in disbelief. Next was to raise his right leg and he could do so with ease. Then she asked him to raise his left leg & he did but the strength was weak. It was a MIRACLE! Another nurse in the ward echoed the same as he couldn't even move his left side of the body at all yesterday. Shedding tears of joy this time, I praised and thanked the Lord for this miracle.
Thank God for loved ones & friends who brought me food & provided transport. Thank God for every provision & mercy.
Thank you all who have prayed fervently for us and even got your friends to pray. The Lord has heard & answered, all to the praise & glory of His Name.
It's a long road to recovery and we continue to covet your prayers.
In His love
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Dec 11, 2012 at 8:58 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 10 Dec 2012
To:
Dear All
The nurses were concerned about the delayed coughs after taking the food/drink and the speech therapist came to assess his swallowing yesterday morning and found he's not swallowing the normal way which means food/fluid goes into wrong channel, delayed signal to brain which results in delayed cough. This can cause lung infection which can be fatal. As a result the feeding tube was inserted yesterday so that he can get the nutrients he needs to get well. It is quite uncomfortable to say the least but he bore with the discomfort without any complaint. As I thank him for being so brave, bearing with all the discomfort of breathlessness and now the tube. He said these are nothing to be compared to the sufferings Christ bore for us on the cross. He told me that God will heal repeating his 2 liner on God's grace.
It is so hard to put on a brave front as I feel so helpless, not able to help in any way to relief any of his discomfort & it hurts so so much. I could only cry to our gracious Lord to provide the relief. I was blowing my nose so hard that the nurses thought I was having flu but was relieved to know it was due to tearing haha.
Thank God he passed out quite a considerable amount of fluid after lasix was given which offered some relief and towards the afternoon he was able to rest as he was less breathless.
Once again I'm deeply touched by the outpouring of love & prayer support by loved ones & friends.
Continuing to trust.....leaving for hospital soon.
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Dec 12, 2012 at 9:26 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 11 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
Thank God elder seah was restful yesterday, breathlessness is still there but of a lesser degree. Since 10 Dec 2012, he is being tube-fed on renal diet called Nepro which will give him all the nutrients he needs to recover. Nothing by mouth. He is so bent on having his Peel Fresh Yuzu drink (lime drink-his dream drink at this moment) that he requested to gargle with it promising not to swallow as he knows it's dangerous as it may go to the windpipe. Lip balm is applied to keep his lips from cracking and he is diligent in gargling & brushing with the sponge brush to keep infection away. Was very delighted whenever my massage service is called for as he says it's a preparation for his physio which he's looking forward to do.
Dr Teoh Hock Luen, the neurologist is surprised by the progress he makes. If he remains stable, he is going to be transferred out of high Dependency soon.
As for me, thank God for good 6 hrs of sleep, twice the amount since his admission on 7 Dec 2012. Thank God for the many who are praying as I was much calmer. Was able to do some follow up work on outstanding insurance matters. I've been keeping his cardiologist Dr Susan Quek informed of his progress via sms as she's overseas. She asks me to expect ups & downs during his recovery process which is pragmatic advice.
Leaving for hospital soon.
Keep praying.....I know you all are, needless to say, many thanks. (:
In His love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Dec 13, 2012 at 12:16 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 12 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
The physiotherapist came in the morning to assess his mobility & balance. Lots of physio needed for him so says Dr Teo Hock Luen, the neurologist.
Thank God he's stable enough to transfer out of high Dependency but there was no bed available in the general ward so he spends another night (12 Dec) in high D. We've got the ArjoHuntleigh mattress overlays installed in the afternoon as the hospital bed was too hard for comfort. With this therapeutic mattress overlays which provide effective pressure redistribution and optimum user comfort, I hope he can have a good night sleep. The hospital pillow is also too hard and I'll bring his own pillow tomorrow morning. I'm glad he has overcome the discomfort of the feeding tube.
He has slight headache & sore throat, please pray for relief.
I'm praying that the Lord will provide a good cardiologist while he recuperates in NUH to manage his heart problem especially his atrial fibrillation. I fear the next stroke will be fatal. As much as the fear is real, as Christians, I know our lives are in God's hands and I should learn to trust Him and take it one step at a time.
It's a long road to recovery but he's determined to get well. Thank God he's a fighter. Thank God for preserving him in so many near deaths.
As always, thanks to all who have written, encouraged & prayed and are still praying fervently for us.
In His love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 14, 2012 at 10:11 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 13 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
The speech therapist, Ada Soh assessed his swallowing in the morning (13 Dec) & was pleased with the progress of recovery and gave the green light for normal food (soft diet) by mouth. He has to concentrate on swallowing, taking small sips of fluid as his swallowing muscles are not fully restored but will be in due time. He still coughs a bit after taking in food & fluid. He has once again asked for Peel Fresh Yuzu drink & in addition coconut water. When he asks for food/drink, that means he's on the mend. He has gotten used to the feeding tube & it's now mainly to feed medicine till his swallowing function is fully restored.
13 Dec was the first day of physio & he is motivated to do and is looking forward to more. However his heart being in atrial fibrillation with slightest movement is also a factor to consider.
Praise God for the timely provision of a good cardiologist in Dr Lim Toon Wei, atrial fibrillation being one of his field of specialty. Elder Seah is surely in good hands with the team of medical experts taking care of him. Surely but steadily God will restore him to full health as He has promised in Jeremiah 30:17a "For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD;"
Morning reading of Daily Remembrancer of 13 & 14 Dec have ministered to my heart and I've attached to this email for those who are interested to read.
Dec 13: When I read the opening verse "Ask what I shall give thee" 1 Kings 3:5, my petition immediately was to restore elder seah to health. But my prayer changed to "Lord give me wisdom & understanding like king Solomon" as I know all the rest will fall into place.
Dec 14: "The author and finisher of our faith" Hebrews 12:2. My faith at this time is weak, I need more faith to trust His providence, expecting His intervention, leaving my concerns in His hands, to be arranged, directed, and brought to pass. "Lord, in mercy, increase my faith" was my cry.
I've noticed my BP & heart rate during this time are raised. BP is well above the normal 130/80 when I've no history of high blood pressure, hypertension or high cholesterol. I will by God's grace try to sleep more, thank God for good 6 hrs of sleep last night & I've resumed my 4 km run on 13 Dec.
Thanks for your continuing prayers, got to leave for hospital now.
In His love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 14, 2012 at 11:55 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 14 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
He is well-liked by the nurses in the ward & as they see me there with him from morning till night every day, he was moved to a single aircon room en suite within the C class ward this afternoon, much to our delight & thanksgiving to God for this unexpected bonus.
He had his 1st bath this morning and I was glad to see him looking refreshed. He was telling me how he was interestingly transferred onto a blue Shower Trolley for showering in a supine position. I took the chance to give him his 1st shave.
Had his 2nd session of physio in the morning, grabbing a cone from a stack of 6 on the left & transferring it to the right with his left hand till all 6 cones are stacked. As he tires easily due to his heart failure, physiotherapist is taking it slow on the physio. He tends to lean on his left (the weak side) while seated and he has to be aware of this to correct his alignment. His left hand is weak but usable & he has to tell his mind to get it to work for him. When I asked what he would like to tell all who are praying for him, he has this to say "God be praised for my left hand I can raise".
He managed half of the porridge at breakfast but lost his appetite and ate poorly for lunch & dinner.
He takes his medication orally today, with tablets pounded and mixed with water. Can imagine the bitterness & unpleasant taste but he took them without any complaint. He said there's no point complaining, nobody listens anyway. God willing, the feeding tube shall be removed tomorrow.
I leave you with what he believes in, that "Faith is never tested in prosperity but always in adversity. God has a special purpose & blessing in every testing. We must learn to accept & acknowledge it & believe that it is for our ultimate good".
Please pray for appetite to improve and relief from all discomfort (dull headache and breathlessness). Many thanks.
In His love
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Dec 16, 2012 at 8:01 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 15 Dec 2012
To:
Thank God william is more alert unlike the day before when he was drowsy most of the time. Appetite is still poor. He now drinks coconut juice & lychee drink with ice as Yuzu being citrus causes a bit of discomfort in the stomach as he's not been eating well. He's able to sit on the chair for extended period to have his meal.
He didn't do much physio yesterday as he tires easily so it was just to be aware of alignment while seated on the bed as he tends to lean towards his weak side i.e. left. On his 1st day of physio (13 Dec 2012), we were glad to see a big & strong malay man whom we all took a liking to. The next day, when a pretty physiotherapist appeared, william was asking for the malay physiotherapist. However he was just covering for someone on leave that day as he does physio for heart patients in the cardio ward. I hope to be able to make a special request for him to be his physiotherapist as it'll be an added incentive for recovery.
When the nurse asked him if he has any pain, he said "all pain's gone when I see my wife" which makes me smile. Also the fact that he wants only me to shave for him also makes me feel so wanted.
Thank God his memory is still intact, he was able to recite Psalm 138:1-8, Proverbs 3:1-35 & Hebrews 6:9-15 verbatim with minimal prompting, That's 50 verses in total, an amazing feat. He goes through the scriptures which he has memorised daily & meditates upon them constantly. He always challenges christians to hide God's word in their hearts & to live it out in their lives, setting the example. Nothing encourages him more than to see his challenge being taken up.
Believing that "there hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (1 Corinthians 10:13), he accepts whatever the Lord gives. Like Job in 13:15a he's able to say "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him:"
His aching limbs have been relieved by daily massage. Was glad to learn some proper techniques of massaging stroke patients from YouTube this morning. Thank God for the internet.
Visits at this time is limited to family & relatives. I'm also controlling visitors so he can have some rest during the day. However, you may sms me at xxxx2803 to check and I hope you'll understand if your request is "postponed". Your continued prayers is good enough. Dr Teoh is treating his stroke at the moment, stepping up the blood thinning medication gradually to ease out & prevent blood clots and have asked the cardiologist to back off. I guess when he recovers from his stroke, they'll work on his heart problem so he'll be in hospital for some time.
In His love,
amy
P.S. Attach picture of william with Mr Physiotherapist (photo taken on 13 Dec 2012).
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Dec 17, 2012 at 9:14 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 16 Dec 2012 (Sunday)
To:
Dear all
Breathlessness which set in after he strained to move his bowels in vain in the morning prevented him from resting in the day. On a scale of 10, breathlessness was a 5. When deep breathing offered little relief, an ECG was taken and he remarked that he was being decorated like a Christmas tree with all the electrodes on his chest, hands & legs. As expected, ECG turned out abnormal, blood test was taken and the on-call doctor (Dr Justin Christopher Ng) examined him in the late afternoon. No medication to be given as his systolic BP was already hovering around 100 & it must not go any lower else not enough blood to the brain & he will lose consciousness. Oxygen was given after his dinner. He tried to eat a bit more despite the discomfort of sustained breathlessness & the poor appetite. Please pray he'll be able to pass out more fluid as it'll relieve his breathlessness. Sitting up & being propped up on bed help during this time.
No physio on Sunday being a rest day. My request for the Malay Physiotherapist was turned down as he is not a stroke physiotherapist.
Got me to test him on the whole chapter of Psalm 103 (22 verses) & Romans 12 (21 verses) amidst his breathless feeling and he did an excellent job in reciting them verbatim . The Lord be praised for His everlasting mercies.
"The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him." Nahum 1:7.
In His love,
amy
P.S. Attached Daily Remembrancer, morning reading of 16 Dec that has encouraged my heart & I hope it will also encourage yours.
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Dec 18, 2012 at 9:06 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 17 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
Battle with breathlessness rages on but God's grace has enabled him to cope. He says he's fighting on for me which makes me cry in my heart. Thank God he was able to sleep for 7 hrs (17 Dec). Speech therapist (Beatrice Teo) examined him in the morning and noted his swallowing muscles are still weak and has instructed for fluid to be thickened with Thixer again to prevent delayed cough. Initially he didn't want his soup nor coconut juice to be thickened as it altered the taste but relented after a bit of gentle persuasion.
Rehab doctor (Dr Chan Gek Cher) also came to assess his mobility/balance for rehab in the late morning and in the afternoon her senior (Dr Mary Anne Lim) examined him further. Both doctors felt that his breathlessness must be addressed before starting any rehab programme. Thank God his cognitive skills are intact so is his sense of wit & humour.
Yesterday was spent massaging his legs especially his right last toe which cramped up. He's very appreciative of my massage & will thumbs up when it gives relief.
On a brighter note, thank God his appetite has improved by 50% as he's able to eat more, supplemented by Nepro to give him the needed nutrients.
Still not able to move his bowels yesterday. He tried after dinner, again in vain & that brought breathlessness to a 7 on a scale of 10; oxygen given, ECG taken.
My apologies again for not replying your sms nor acknowledging your email. Whenever you think of us, please pray. The 3G coverage in the hospital is lacking (all 3 Telcos were fined S$10k each by the authority for poor 3G coverage recently) hence I find it easier to update you only once at home on my laptop. Last night my mind was exhausted as I kept dozing off and gave up doing any work. Although I brought some insurance work to the hospital, I find it almost impossible to do when he needs all my attention. Writing doesn't come naturally to me unlike William who's gifted with writing, considerable amount of time is spent thinking, editing & re-editing this update before clicking the "send" button.
As always, thanks for thinking & praying for us.
In His love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Dec 19, 2012 at 8:52 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 18 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
Thanks for your concern for me. I know many of you are praying & the least I can do is to keep you updated on his condition. Actually what prompted me to bring it up was due to an sms from someone who's already in this email loop asking how elder seah is doing which stressed me up. Hence I seek understanding for only one update a day via email.
Dr Yeo Tee Joo (Registrar, Cardiology) examined william yesterday. Breathlessness is still a 5 on a scale of 10 as fluid was found at base of lungs. Please pray he'll be able to pass out the fluid as that will ease his breathlessness.
He wasn't able to nap in the day again due to sustained breathlessness. Physiotherapy was put on hold but he was encouraged to flex his feet while lying in bed to ensure blood circulation.
Amidst the breathless feeling, he was meditating on Psalm 46 (11 verses - one of the many psalms he has memorised). Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." He shared this prayer with me "Lord, You're a very present help in trouble. I'm in trouble now, please help. I can do nothing without You".
Thank God his appetite has improved tremendously and he finished all his dinner save 2 spoons of porridge.
Thanks for praying, writing, encouraging & love shown in practical ways.
In His love,
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Dec 20, 2012 at 8:58 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 19 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
SOB (shortness of breath) status quo, still a 5 on a scale of 10. X-ray & ECG taken again. Thank God X-ray showed lungs are clear. On top of sustained SOB, he experienced nerve pain in last 2 toes of right foot and later in the evening stomach cramps. We were concern about the SOB as it prevented him from resting again for the 3rd consecutive day and had the doctor checked him. Diagnosis: still in heart failure but the marker though elevated is slowly coming down. Found out that the AF specialist Dr Lim Toon Wei dropped by on 18 Dec 2012 to check on him when I bus down to office to submit 2 PA applications. I wish I was present when Dr Lim came. He ordered the ICD checked & resetting yesterday & the device is now pacing his heart at a slower heart rate of 60 instead of 70. During the ICD check, it showed Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in progress. He's very tired and is bed-ridden yesterday, even deep breathing tires him. Breathing comes naturally to us & we don't even have to think about it. Not to him, still can't find the rhythm. Took 1/4 of the chicken porridge for late breakfast but managed to eat 90% of the lunch when I fed him during tea time. Too tired to take dinner and nurse tube-fed with Nepro.
Amidst all his discomfort & trouble, God is his very present help and His words continue to be his comfort. Attached photo of him listening to the audio bible reading on Psalms from his iPad.
He asked me about the hospital bill so far & I told him not to worry but to concentrate on getting well. God will provide.
Thank God for his elder daughter-in-law who has been bringing me delicious home-cooked food and 2 sisters-in-Christ who dropped by with things I like to eat. His children & their spouses have been most supportive during this time. Daughter put up 4 inspirational posters on 18 Dec to make the room more cozy.
As always, thanks for thinking & praying for us.
In His love
amy
____________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 21, 2012 at 8:50 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 20 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
Thank God appetite improved. It was a joy feeding him as he's bed-ridden for the 4th consecutive day due to sustained breathlessness, increased oxygen offers little or no relief. Shall check with the cardiologist on this. Before I left, nurse reduced the oxygen flow from 5litres/min to 2litres/min as his oxygen saturation is at a 100%
Managed to move his bowels in the morning. Developed painful & sore throat in the afternoon, soothed by lozenges. Towards the night, throat was less painful, another thing to thank God for.
God has been good to give him sleep now & then during the day despite the SOB which also enabled me to have my cat nap.
We're appreciative of the excellent nursing care in NUH & we must say that it is better than the private hospital.
Please continue to pray for wisdom to the doctors and the medical team to treat his stroke & heart. William continues to plead Psalm 46:1, God being his very present help in his trouble (breathlessness).
Thanks so much.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Dec 22, 2012 at 8:49 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 21 Dec 2012
To:
Dear all
God was good to enable me to be at the hospital early yesterday (21 Dec), being present when the cardiologist, Dr Lim Toon Wei visited. Dr Lim, having studied his medical records and having examined him, felt that a 3 lead instead of his current 2 lead ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator) is needful. The extra lead to his other side of the ventricle wall will help the ventricles to pump in sync. It is now rocking instead of pumping which is why he has this sustained SOB (shortness of breath). He has asked for a good price for the upgrade from Boston Scientific as the device is only 2 months old. Yes, another surgery is scheduled (don't know when) for this to be done.
He's still struggling with this sustained SOB, not able to rest in the day again. Physiotherapist came yesterday to teach him 2 exercises while in bed to ensure blood circulation & muscle strengthening. Glad that he has been doing the exercises whenever he can.
The 1st dose of Warfarin (an anticoagulant) to prevent the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels and their migration elsewhere in the body was given on 20 Dec 2012. Senior Pharmacist Mr Yong Yuen Ching & Dietitian Ms Cassandra Lim briefed me on the kinds of food/beverage which will affect the effectiveness of Warfarin. The desired thinness of the blood is between 2-3 INR (International Normalized Ratio). Blood test taken yesterday morning (21 Dec) is at 1.12 INR. Another blood test on Monday, 24 Dec. Please pray for wisdom to get the right dose of Warfarin, he's now at 3mg.
Towards the evening, thank God he wanted to have his dinner seated on the chair and requested for oxygen to be removed. He fed himself & almost finished his dinner and moved his bowels.
Attached this morning's reading which has spoken to my heart & strengthened me. God is my hope & confidence. Also the song "Wait on the Lord' with lyrics penned by him in 1989 echoes what we're going through.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Dec 23, 2012 at 9:12 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 22 Dec 2012 (Sat)
To:
Dear all
He was unable to sleep the whole night due to increased SOB (a 8 or 9 on a scale of 10) after he was being sponged on Friday night and lost his appetite yesterday (22 Dec). Doctor ordered CRIB (complete rest in bed).
Thank God for His mercies in granting him some rest for about an hour or so in the late afternoon. Hope he'll be able to rest more today being a Sunday with no medical staff visits.
He is so sweet in asking me to rest after I massaged him for some time saying that I'm not a machine. But I am most delighted to be able to do anything for him including giving him manicure & pedicure.
Please continue to pray for us as well as wisdom for the doctors & medical team. Thank God he's recovering well from his stroke but his heart is giving him the trouble.
Thanks for all your concern, encouragement & prayers.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Dec 24, 2012 at 1:46 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 23 Dec 2012 (Sun)
To:
Dear all
Status quo - sustained SOB prevented rest once again with no appetite. Constant plea to God is "God, You promised in Your Word that You are my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.(Psalm 46:1) My trouble is my breathlessness, be my very present help". I asked if God has answered his prayer. He nodded & said God gave peace. No wonder he remains placid amidst the discomfort, not a word of complaint.
Nurses are careful not to allow him to move as they follow doctor's strict order to Rest In Bed. Passing motion & urine are done in bed which is most unnatural for a grown man. Told him to be like a 73 day old baby and he started to imitate a baby's cry haha.
Thought I'll update before I sleep.
Thanks for praying.....
ln His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Dec 25, 2012 at 12:58 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 24 Dec 2012 (Monday)
To:
Dear all
He mentioned that cardiologist Dr Lim Toon Wei saw him this morning & noted crepitus at the base of his lungs. Today's X-ray showed lungs are wet which explained why he had sustained breathlessness which prevented sleep for the 4th consecutive day & I'm concern. Please pray God to preserve him from pneumonia which can be fatal.
Had a short physiotherapy session to train his motor skills in the late morning which he did quite well. His left side is gaining strength and that's encouraging to see.
Thank God for a meaningful Christmas dinner & singing of carols with the family this evening. He ate all his porridge and a bit of the pasta, turkey, beef and sausage prepared by his daughter Bena & daughter-in-law Adeline. So happy to see him eat well. The presence of family helped. We were all encouraged by his closing prayer after listening to a downloaded Christmas sermon.
Blood test this morning showed INR (international normalised ratio) above 3. No warfarin given today.
Please pray he'll be able to sleep well. If not, then be able to rest in the day. As such, may I request no visits for the time being.
Blessed Christmas and a God fearing 2013 everyone.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Dec 26, 2012 at 1:39 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 25 Dec 2012 (Tuesday)
To:
Dear all
Thank God he had some sleep last night but was tired more than breathless (although SOB persists) due to sleep deprivation for 4 consecutive nights. Managed to nap for an hour in the day. Towards the evening SOB eased a little (4 on a scale of 10). Was glad he ate reasonably well for lunch & dinner. Still supplemented by half a can of Nepro.
Blood test taken in the morning showed 2.5 INR which falls within the desired range (between 2 to 3 INR), warfarin resumed but at a lower dosage (0.5mg). Blood will be drawn every morning for monitoring purposes. Quite a lot of needle marks around his stomach and hands as he's being poked at least 2 times a day since being hospitalised 19 days ago. The nasogastric feeding tube or NG-tube was changed on 24 Dec 2012, this time through his left nostril.
He amuses me, having 'adopted' a dog from the 2013 Action for Singapore Dogs calendar (Allister's & Adeline's dog named Trustie was one of the dogs featured-Apr month). Out of the 12 dogs featured, he took a liking for 2 and renamed them "Holter" and "2D echo". "Holter" won his heart and has become his hospital companion. Attached photo of him sleeping with "Holter" by his side.
I'm trying to settle to a routine, getting home by 9plus & getting to hospital early to catch the doctors when they do their rounds between 8-11 am.
Can never thank God enough for all your prayers, encouragement & outpouring of love shown in practical ways. It's amazing how I am sustained by 3-4 plus hrs of sleep each day and kept in good health. Thank God also for the excellent nursing care. I've known majority of the nurses in the ward by name.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Dec 27, 2012 at 3:48 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 26 Dec 2012 (Wednesday)
To:
Dear all
Thank God he's able to rest about 2 hrs in the night and about an hour or so in the day but sleep is still so lacking. SOB has not worsen but still a 4 on a scale of 10 as his lungs are still congested. He kept telling me he's tired, wish he can rest continuously for more hours.
Occupational therapist assessed him on his ability to do daily activities like combing his hair, wearing his clothes and buttoning his shirt plus his perceptual skills. Buttoning his shirt is quite a feat, thank God he has the patience and determination to do. Perception from his left still needs to be worked on. Physiotherapist taught him how to deep breathe the correct way as he has been breathing too hard & that tires him easily. He's quite enthuse about the therapy and that gladdens their hearts. After sitting on the chair for a while, with the help of a nurse, he was able to walk 4 steps to the bed, that's a milestone.
Blood tests registered a good reading of 2.15 INR. It's amazing how the desired range is obtained so quickly after the 1st dose of Warfarin on 20 Dec 2012. Can only attribute it to God's goodness & mercies.
Thank God for supportive clients and for provision of potential insurance business which is needful at this time. I marvel at the love God has shown in more ways than one.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 28, 2012 at 9:23 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 27 Dec 2012 (Thursday)
To:
Dear all
He couldn't sleep in the night again nor rested in the day due to SOB, had terrible stomach ache and unable to move his bowels, in much discomfort. I felt helpless again and wish I was the one suffering. No appetite for breakfast nor lunch, no strength for any physio, bed-ridden. Suppository given. Relief came only in the late afternoon after the 'jam' was cleared, ate fairly well for dinner. Was dreaming of coconut jelly.
Medical social counsellor visited in the afternoon to brief us on St Luke's hospital for inpatient rehab. On hearing the various room charges, she was concerned why I was crying. Wanted him to be comfortable there, thought we could get him a single room but is beyond us. We finally settled for 6-bedded, at least there's some government subsidy.
To be healthy, being able to breathe without effort, move bowels easily, to answer the call of nature with ease are such blessings which we take for granted.
He is so much a part of me, seeing him suffer like that pains me deeply. We have such a blissful married life, 24hrs together, never quarrel nor argue in our 16 years though there are misunderstandings along the way numbering less than 10 but are always resolved in the Lord, strengthening our relationship, deepening our understanding of each other, cherishing each moment spent together in our ministry and work. Lord Jesus, will You give us many more years together?
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Dec 29, 2012 at 8:56 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 28 Dec 2012 (Friday)
To:
Dear all
A quick one as a kind brother is taking me to the hospital at 9am.
Thank God for some sleep in the night as well as in the day but he could do with more. SOB still at a 4 or 5 on a scale of 10. Scheduled for surgery to upgrade to a 3 lead ICD on 16 Jan 2013 but he has to lie flat without SOB, under LA for 2-3 hrs. Trusting God to clear his lungs of the congestion.
Urine sample taken yesterday showed traces of blood, thank God no bacterial. Kidneys are still slightly impaired. Urea is high.
Warfarin stepped up to 2mg as INR fell below 2 yesterday. Appetite is wanting.
He has made remarkable progress in recovery as far as the stroke is concerned & doctors felt he is ready to be discharged. Transferring to St Luke's Hospital for inpatient rehab on Monday, 31 Dec 2012 at 9:30am by ambulance.
As his (perhaps mine too) immunity is weak, please refrain from visiting if you're not in the pink of health. Nothing substitutes prayer.
Some have given love gifts for which we're very touched & grateful which in some way will help in the hospital bills & surgery.
As always thanks for your prayers, encouragement, love gifts & love shown in practical ways.
Many have asked me to eat well & to take care. I'm trying. As far as eating is concerned, to me, it's just to fill the stomach, avoiding sweets at this time.
In His love
amy
Attached below this morning's daily remembrancer reading which spoke to my heart. Indeed God has a purpose for everything & I submit to His perfect will.
December 29
MORNING
"All things work together for good" Rom 8:28
“TO THEM THAT LOVE GOD, WHO ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE.” All the Lord's people love God. They may not love Him as they desire, yet they cleave to Him, and press on to know Him more. He is their God and has called them according to His own purpose and grace, chosen them in Jesus Christ before the world began. It is good for the Christian to view everything as having its place in God's grand plan, and its role to play in accomplishing God's purposes. Angels, men and devils, all perform His good pleasure. All things are ordered by the infinite wisdom and purpose of the Most High. He superintends every movement of every one of His creatures; and directs them to answer His purpose and end. He overrules everything for our good; we never lose anything worth keeping by any of His wise dispensations. We may gain by all that occurs; we may gain wisdom, holiness, matter for prayer or praise, work for faith, patience, or hope. However, our best interests are secure; everything is working together for the good of the Church; and though it be rough in parts, it is the right way to our Father's house.
All things on earth and all in heaven,
On God's eternal will depend;
And all for greater good were given,
And all shall in His glory end;
This be my care! and this alone;
Father, in me Thy will be done.
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Dec 30, 2012 at 12:03 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 29 Dec 2012 (Saturday)
To:
Dear all
Found him looking better as I entered the room this morning and was delighted to know that he slept for 7 hrs! He also mentioned that he sat on the chair for his breakfast which he took a little before I arrived. Had a shower on the trolley but found it stressful as slight movement brought on increase SOB. Took him some time to bring down to his baseline level of 5. While he was away, took the chance to change all the pillow cases and protectors and freshen the room with lemon freshener. Door was kept opened and the receptionists were thrilled when the fragrance reached their noses.
Left this out in my rush update this morning:
Speech therapist examined him on 28 Dec 2012 and allowed him to drink normal fluid, thickening it only if he has delayed cough after consuming. His swallowing muscles have improved but still not fully restored to pre-stroke days. He can handle manuka honey and coconut drink but water is still a challenge. He was able to walk 7 steps with the help of a walking frame under the watchful eyes of the occupational therapist & physiotherapist from his bed to the wheelchair parked outside the isolation room which he has been occupying since 14 Dec 2012. He was taught how to maneuver the wheelchair. Oxygen was taken off on Friday night after level was slowly reduced from 4 to 1.5 litres per minute.
Oxygen saturation continues to be above 95% since it was taken off on Friday night. Thank God for preserving.
He ate well for dinner and is determined to have the NG tube removed asap. Took his medication orally after dinner. To make it easier for him to take, all the medication were well-mixed with the manuka honey and coconut drink, thickened with Thixer and he bravely finished all. With this, hope the NG tube will be removed soon.
I asked him if he gets frustrated when his left hand is weak & is not able to help in many ways. He said no and says each day will be better and that he's pressing on. So encouraging to the ears. He's such a sweetheart & caring for him is easy.
I've not been able to properly hug him since he's bed-ridden most of the time & I truly miss the warm embrace. When he's up on his feet, I shall do it for myself & on behalf of many who care.
Thanks to those who have given spontaneously and we're grateful for your love gifts. As he says, nothing substitutes prayers and want to let all of you know that your prayers for us are much treasured.
His son Allister & wife Adeline have been giving me rides home almost on a daily basis, bringing me home-cooked dinner whenever possible (love Ad's cooking), fetching me from home to the hospital and getting me my favourite vegetarian bee hoon. Tonight, they gave me an orientational drive from our home to St Luke's hospital which is only less than 10 mins away.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Dec 31, 2012 at 8:10 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 30 Dec 2012 (Sunday)
To:
Dear all
Thank God he was able to sleep more hours in the night but unable to sleep in the day, hasn't moved his bowels the whole of yesterday (30 Dec 2012).
Feeding tube removed before lunch yesterday (30 Dec). Each meal, we aim to finish all the fish given and at least half of the plain porridge.
Had to vacate the isolation room in the afternoon as another patient in High D needs to be isolated. At 3:20pm, he was moved to a 6-bedded. Thank God for the enjoyment of the isolation room for 17 days.
I'm down with runny nose & sore throat, self medicating with piriton & lozenges, started yesterday, wearing mask while in hospital. Laid off running for 2 days.
Leaving now for hospital as he's going to be transferred to St Luke's this morning.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 1, 2013 at 8:25 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 31 Dec 2012 (Monday)
To:
Dear all
The transfer from NUH to St Luke's Hospital was smooth yesterday morning (31 Dec) although delayed by 20 mins as the cardiologist Dr Lim Toon Wei was on leave & another cardiologist had to be called in to sign the release papers.
He's nicely settled into the 6 bedded ward with 2 other occupants Roger & Terrence whom he made friends with in no time. They encouraged him to be motivated to do the physio sharing their own experiences and urged him never to give up, just persevere.
Fed himself dinner, seated on the chair. However his SOB (shortness of breath) went up from a 5 to an 8 on a scale of 10 after walking 3 steps onto the bed assisted by a nurse.
His SOB (shortness of breath) is inhibiting his physio. Please pray.
The plan is that he'll be in St Luke's till 15 Jan 2013 for rehab, re-admitted to NUH on 15 Jan 2013 for surgery to upgrade ICD on 16 Jan 2013. He has to lie flat for 2-3 hrs under LA without SOB for Dr Lim to do the procedure.
My nose has stopped running and throat is better but still not fully recovered, feeling weak, still self-medicating.
As always, many thanks for those who have given love gifts, encouraged through email & most of all continuing in your prayers for us.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 1, 2013 at 10:42 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 1 Jan 2013 (Tuesday)
To:
Dear all
As mentioned his SOB (shortness of breath) was bad last night & it didn't improve today. No appetite for lunch nor dinner. Drank only a quarter of the nutritious milk (Resource 2) when he was suppose to drink the whole packet in a day. He was sitting up on the bed till his backside hurt and asked to sit on the chair. In fact, at 6 pm after his children left, he was feeling very uncomfortable as he can't breathe properly. While he was on the chair, I found him reckless and moaning as he just couldn't find a position where he can breathe properly. I was extremely concern and alerted the staff nurse. Oxygen given & on-call doctor came shortly to check on him. ECG taken. Doctor told me the ECG is no different from the last one taken from NUH. I expressed my concern for his sustained shortness of breath and the doctor says they'll monitor him every 4 hrs. X-ray to be taken in the morning.
Due to his stroke, BP has to be kept high so as to ensure enough blood flow to the brain else he may lose consciousness. Giving him gtn is not advisable although it will probably ease his shortness of breath but will at the same time lower his BP. So it's so hard to see him suffer.
I cried to the Lord for mercies and asked the Lord to undertake. Don't understand why. William prayed after me and said that we don't have to understand, just to trust. When the outlook is bleak, try the uplook. God has preserved him many times & he says God will preserve, don't know how but simply to trust.
Lord, strengthen my weak faith. :(
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jan 2, 2013 at 10:19 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 2 Jan 2013 (Wednesday)
To:
Dear all
Chest X-ray this morning showed infection at bottom right lung, he has pneumonia. :(
No wonder he can't breathe properly. Thank God he has been treated with the 1st dose of antibiotics in the afternoon and will continue with antibiotics till the infection clears up. I'm relieved to know that his breathlessness will soon be past.
He was weighed after the chest X-ray. Lost 10 kg since hospital admission on 7 Dec 2012, he's now a light weight of 62 kg, that's under weight for his 1.71 m frame. Appetite is still bad but he forces himself to eat at least half. That's my brave sweetheart.
2 Rehab doctors examined him in the afternoon but they didn't tell me their findings. When I asked william what they said to him. He said the doctors will find a solution to his problem.
Speech therapist also came to assess his swallowing ability. He still needs nectar thick fluid.
After lunch, he did some exercises to help with heart endurance while lying in bed under the supervision of the physiotherapist. When she left, he continued with one of the exercises on his own till I have to tell him not to over do. Later in the afternoon, had another round of physio, this time he walked quite a distance with the help of the walking frame, guided by the physiotherapist who carried the oxygen in her backpack. Thank God he felt ok.
He complained of pain in his backside after prolonged sitting on bed in one position. Have ordered the therapeutic mattress to help relieve.
In the light of this new development (pneumonia), I seek your understanding that visits are limited to immediate family members for the time being. Talking makes him breathless & he needs rest. Will advise when he is visitable.
Thank God for perfect timing. His son-in-law came in the evening and our family doctor was running his night clinic so I took the chance to drive to see him as my flu is not getting any better. Thank God I'm on antibiotics too. I feel better already after the 1st dose of medication.
Your continued prayers for us are much treasured & appreciated. Thank you. (:
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jan 4, 2013 at 2:26 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 3 Jan 2013 (Thursday)
To:
Dear all
Doctors are trying to find the cause of his sustained shortness of breath. At rest, it is a 5 on a scale of 10. He just cannot find his rhythm of breathing and feels suffocated most of the time. Slight movement aggravates it. His ICD is pacing his heart 90 plus percent of the time, as one doctor puts it, it's like working out in the gym 24 hrs a day.
His throat is ticklish causing him slight cough, have notified the nurse about this.
Feels full although he eats so little. Appetite is still bad. Encourage him to force himself to eat in order to have the strength to recover. He has lost 10 kg since being hospitalised on 7 Dec 2012 and he needs to gain back at least 5 kg. As he eats so poorly, he has to take Resource 2, a milk rich in nutrients but this in itself is quite hard to drink as it's rich & sweet. He is suppose to drink a packet a day but only manages a quarter. He's a bit dehydrated, drinking much less than his 1 litre a day fluid restriction.
As his swallowing muscles are still weak, speech therapist advised nectar thick fluid and soft diet, food finely chopped. He still cannot swallow pills so these have to be crushed and pounded. Taking medicine this way is such an ordeal as you all can imagine. Extremely bitter and he dreads it. Mixing it with Manuka honey helped but little and he has to force himself to finish the medication, leaving an extremely unpleasant bitter aftertaste in his tongue. He waits for me to come every morning to feed him the medication, preferring no other as he is most comfortable with me doing it.
Doctor is still covering him with antibiotics while sorting out the cause of his breathlessness. Blood was drawn this morning for more tests. Oxygen removed as his oxygen saturation is above 95%.
The single room was available yesterday (3 Jan) and I was glad I was around to top up the deposit. Thank God for this provision as both of us are more comfortable with the amenities of the single room. I sense he was actually quite miserable in the 6 bedded ward but not a word from him. The only complaint was that his backside hurts due to prolonged sitting on the hard mattress and we rented the therapeutic mattress for him yesterday, preventing bed sore at the same time.
I'm recovering well from flu, still on antibiotic, wearing a N95 mask (photo attached) which attracted curious stares & questions from the nurses and passers-by in St Luke's Hospital. The nurses have not seen this mask before and I was glad I googled the net for instructions to put it on yesterday. With this mask on & frequent hand-washing, at least I know he won't catch anything from me.
Below is what he said to me last night:
"Whatever happens to me, God has a higher purpose. On my part, I must seek to do what is within my human responsibility to seek treatment but to leave the healing to the Lord. In the human responsibility we ought to pray for God's guidance in seeking the best medical help possible within the framework of our affordability, trusting the Lord to provide for all our needs.
There's nothing that God cannot do but He is our Master, not our slave. Therefore we need to submit in total obedience to what He allows in our lives that through whatever trials, we may continue to feel His love and care for us, that at the end He may have the honour and glory."
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Jan 5, 2013 at 10:20 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 4 & 5 Jan 2013 (Fri & Sat)
To:
Dear all
William can't wait for me to come from home, a 7 min drive. He called twice this morning urging me to come quickly. He was waiting for me to feed him medicine. Didn't want the nurse to do it.
He tried swallowing a quarter of a pill in the presence of the speech therapist this morning (5 Jan) but she advised that he is not ready to swallow pills yet. Medicine time has become a scary experience to him now. Please pray for God to heal his swallowing muscles. Before his stroke, he has no problem taking the many pills & supplements amounting to 30 each day. Now that the medicine are in liquid form or crushed/pounded to be taken orally, it's an ordeal as the medicine tastes so bitter. The thought of it makes one nauseous.
Despite his SOB (shortness of breath), he was motivated to do his physio, a short 15-20 min session and the therapists are mindful of his SOB constantly checking for oxygen saturation.
The CEO of St Luke's Hospital, Mr Lee Chee Yeng came by to say hi this morning.
Although not much appetite, thank God managed to feed him substantial portion of lunch & dinner.
As for me, was able to nap for 50 mins on the couch this afternoon. Thank God I'm almost recovered from runny nose & cough. It was so sweet of our family doctor not to charge for consultation & medicine. May the Lord prosper his business.
We're grateful to God for those who have given love gifts, continuing in their prayers for us and constantly write to encourage us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Jan 6, 2013 at 3:20 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 6 Jan 2013 (Sunday)
To:
Dear all
Was at St Luke's at 8:30am, saw that he was back on oxygen. Checked with nurse, he had difficulty breathing at 2:40am and on-call doctor instructed by phone to put him on 1 litre of oxygen just to play safe although his oxygen saturation was 97% then. He managed to sleep after that. When I arrived, he said chest felt congested and had a dull pain. On-call doctor examined him and said they'll monitor him closely. If the pain got worse after breakfast of oats and medication, they'll send him to NUH.
He finished half of the oats by himself and the dull pain seemed to have subsided before medication. Thank God he felt better.
He shared with me that when he experienced increased SOB in the night, he was reminded of the acute heart failure he had in Mt Elizabeth Hospital in Aug 2009, gasping for breath for 2.5 hrs, no doctor saw him, oxygen given, nurse kept checking BP & oxygen saturation. By then his lungs were filled with fluid & towards the end, I could hear water as he was trying to gasp for breath. Then did the medical team came to his aid (code blue) & he was rushed to ICU. That night 3 litres of fluid was drained from his system & 22% of his heart muscles were damaged as a result of the acute heart failure. We certainly do not want a repeat of this scary experience.
The bitter after-taste of the medication aggravates his shortness of breath. :(
His chest feels tight & we've communicated that to the nurse.
Lord, please have mercy.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 8, 2013 at 12:14 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 7 & 8 Jan 2013 (Mon & Tue)
To:
Dear all
7 Jan 2013 was a day of activities. William was seen by two in-house doctors (Dr Karen Ferrera & Dr Chong Tsung Wei) and a new speech therapist (Wai Lam) in the morning. Followed by blood drawn for INR & heart enzymes. Moved bowels in the commode in the toilet, took the chance to have his shower. By this time his SOB increased to a 7. Physiotherapist came, aware of SOB so had him do light hand & leg exercises in bed. Fed him lunch which he could only manage half. Another round of physiotherapy by Evonne Mah, the occupational therapist in the afternoon. Rested and by evening time, fed him dinner, thank God he finished all, much to my delight.
After dinner, he was quite well & called one of the 3 people (all in their 80s) whom he used to call daily, 6 times a week without fail before his stroke and encouraged her on the phone & even prayed with her.
He tried to do inhalation exercise with the Triflo II, inhale to lift the 1st ball in the 1st chamber but think he must have overdid it. SOB went up to 8 and he was put on 1 litre of oxygen at 10 pm. Prayed with him & I left, committing him to the Lord.
This morning when I arrived at 8:30 am, he told me that he couldn't sleep well due to SOB, only managed on & off naps in the night.
Last IV antibiotic this morning. Dr Karen examined him & lungs are clear, thank God. But he still has occasional coughs.
Yesterday, Dr Chong told me his INR went down to 1.85 from 3.2 two days ago. He'll be back on 1mg of warfarin.
Now more on the speech therapist Wai Lam. We took to him like old friends, must be the chemistry he has with us. He assessed william's ability to swallow pills yesterday morning. William was determined to try. He succeeded after several attempts but needed lots of water, thickened with thixer. As his fluid restriction is 1 litre per day, we abandoned the idea and will be patient to wait for healing of the swallowing muscles.
So back to manuka honey with medication. I need replenishment of manuka honey.
Thanks for all your love & care for us.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jan 9, 2013 at 11:34 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 9 Jan 2013 (Wed)
To:
Dear all
I'm amazed at how God provides for our needs. Immediately after the email was sent yesterday, a christian brother sms to indicate he wants to supply Manuka honey. 3 hrs later, 2 bottles of Manuka honey were delivered by a stranger, from a kind christian couple. 2 more Christians are bringing 1 kg of Manuka honey to us in the course of the week and another christian couple who just returned from New Zealand is also giving us Manuka honey. Truly amazing!
Thank God william looks better this morning when I arrived at 8:30 am. He was trying to call me on the phone haha. St Luke's security officer noticed that I come early & go home late, usually the last car to drive off in the car park. He chatted briefly with me this morning and said I must be very tired, I gave him a warm smile.
William says he's a burden to me. I told him he is NOT. It is a tremendous joy to be able to care for him & coming here as early as I can is something which I look forward to every morning. Thank God for good 5 hrs of sleep, woke at 6 am today as I wanted to resume my 4 km run after laying off for 11 days due to runny nose & cough. I'm feeling stronger already & think I'm 98% recovered. My raised BP due to stress is normalising soon, yeah..., Praise the Lord.
Did my QT with the daily remembrancer before my run and I read last night's and this morning's reading to William while he had his breakfast of oats, prayed & encouraged him that God is indeed our very present help.
We've given 2 copies of the Daily Remembrancer, one to the physiotherapist from Philippines & one to a staff nurse from Myanmar, both are Christians. Left 2 copies of the Daily Remembrancer lying on the table in the room & William told me 2 more Christian nurses from Myanmar will be delighted to have them and they have written their names on the book. We'll write them a personal message of encouragement and present to them some time today. The 1st two who have received said they are blessed. Thank God this Daily Remembrancer is blessing the staff here at St Luke's Hospital.
The love & support from family is tremendous. William has been thinking of cooking the best tom yam soup for grandson Mark and 3 dishes & 1 more soup for his children & their spouses when he gets home. He can't wait to go home.
Clinically, William's lungs are clear, last dose of IV antibiotics on 8 Jan 2013, last dose of oral antibiotics either today or tomorrow.
Blood drawn this morning for INR so warfarin dose can be adjusted accordingly.
You know, if God can have all the glory through this trial, it is worth enduring, no matter how hard as I know He will give more grace. (:
May His name be honoured & glorified. Please pray that we'll bear a good testimony for Him. Indeed the joy of the Lord is our strength.
Thanks for all your unceasing fervent prayers for us.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jan 11, 2013 at 4:10 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 10 & 11 Jan 2013
To:
Dear all
Yesterday was a not so good day for William as his SOB (shortness of breath) went up to a 7 on a scale of 10. (10 means can't breathe at all, you & I will be 0 and his constant SOB is 5). He's still struggling with SOB at 7 now, fellowship of a little of Christ's sufferings (when our Lord Jesus hung on the cross, He must have felt it hard to breathe).
Speech therapist Yoon Wai Lam came yesterday morning to assess his swallowing. Taught him how to swallow pills with thickened water. Thank God William is able to swallow small pills, one at a time, lots of effort but manageable. When it came to the bitter yellow potassium pill which is bigger and cannot be cut, he had difficulty although he tried many times. So back to liquid form for potassium which leaves a bitter & sharp after-taste that sometimes increases his SOB. He's taking lasix to help drain excess fluid from his system, potassium prevents stomach cramps.
As he's struggling to breathe, no physio yesterday but 3 physiotherapists came today, did some ball throwing while in bed and got him to sit on the chair, doing some light exercises. They seem to enjoy each session with him as he's so fun to be with. Testing them riddles, general knowledge and amusing them with his wit. The therapists remarked that William is motivated to do the exercises, only impeded by his SOB. He told them that his motivation is God, trusting Him every day, sharing with them that without Christ, he can do nothing (John 15:5).
Yesterday, the in-house doctor, Dr Chong Hsiun Wei brought three 3rd year medical students to visit William & asked if he mind having them. He beckoned them to come nearer & hi-5 all of them. Dr Chong got him to walk 7 steps without aid, holding the back of his pants & you could see he was not stable, left leg still weak. He needs a walking frame. He has also been asking me how we can have a wheelchair when he's discharged as he cannot walk long distances. Told him God will provide. He used to have a wheelchair for his late wife and loan it to someone many years ago but he cannot remember where it is now.
Edward Chan, the dietitian from NUH visited yesterday afternoon, educated us on what food to eat or not eat as he's on anti-coagulant Warfarin. Told him about William's weight loss of a further 2 kg (weight loss of 12 kg since his massive stroke on 7 Dec 2012) and was relieved to know that his BMI of 20 is within the healthy range 18.5-22.9, so nothing to worry.
His INR came down drastically to 1.6 from 3.2 so Warfarin dosage adjusted. You & I who are not on blood-thinner have an INR of 1. His has to be within 2 and 3.
William remarked when one is sick in the family, everybody is busy and feels he's a burden again. Assured him that he's a joy to take care, not a burden. He then said he's a burdensome joy haha. Told him he has made my life a lot easier as a care-giver, he takes all his medication although it's such an ordeal 3 times a day. Was telling his son-in-law the other day that if I were him, I would have refused the bitter medicine. William quickly asked "can I?"
The Christian nurses called Daily Remembrancer "the bible". Have given out 5 so far. Leaving 3 more on the table in room.
He's scheduled to be re-admitted to NUH on 15 Jan for surgery to replace defibrillator on 16 Jan 2013. As mentioned, he has to lie flat for 2 to 3 hrs without SOB which seems impossible. The cardiologist says that 2/3 of the patients will feel better after the procedure. 1/3 will experience no change. We're hoping with the 3 lead ICD, his SOB will be a thing of the past. Covet your prayers.
Was not able to update yesterday as have been busy. May I request that when you don't hear from me, pray harder instead of asking "how's elder seah?". Some of you have advised that I need not update so frequently. I shall heed your good advice.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jan 11, 2013 at 6:15 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 10 & 11 Jan 2013 follow up
To:
Dear all
Thought I'll let you know that God has again provided for our need of a walking frame & wheelchair, within 2 hrs after below email was sent.
Thanks to the few who responded so quickly.
All praise & thanks to God from whom all blessings flow.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Jan 14, 2013 at 4:02 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 12-14 Jan 2013 (Sat-Mon)
To:
Dear all
William is coping reasonably well by God's grace with constant SOB at 5 and sometimes at 6-7 with slight movement. He feels tired even at rest. This is due to his heart. Right ventricle wall not pumping in sync with left wall so ventricle is rocking instead of pumping. With another lead to the other ventricle wall, it'll help the lower chamber of the heart to pump in rhythm. Dr Lim Toon Wei said that 2/3 will feel better after the bi-ventricle ICD. Pray that God in mercy will help him recover from his constant breathlessness which is, to say the least, distressing.
Last night at 10 plus, had painful muscle spasms on his right upper back. Applied some muscle rub, prayed for him & thank God he was soon asleep although the on-call doctor was notified. I had a word with the doctor but there was no need to examine him as he was sleeping quite soundly. So I left SLH at 11:10 pm.
Speech therapist Wai Lam assessed his swallowing this morning and put him on normal diet. After being on soft diet for a month, he is tired of it and craved for something different. Yesterday, he got me to buy Tiong Bahru lor mee mid-morning from a stall in the nearby coffee shop. Heard that it was famous and sure enough the queue was long but to us, it was not that great. Ate several small spoonfuls of lor bee hoon but found the meat a bit tough to chew. I'm still praying that the swallowing muscles will be fully restored so he can swallow the big potassium pill.
I'm sleeping over at SLH tonight as he's scheduled to be re-admitted tomorrow at NUH, no confirmed time of transfer yet. Surgery scheduled on 16 Jan 2013, surgery time not known yet. Pray that the Lord will help him cope with his surgery as lying flat aggravates SOB. Still trusting & believing that God can do wonders. He has shown Himself faithful in providing for all our needs. Thank God for wisdom in making decisions.
As for me, tail end of flu lingers. Lack of sleep doesn't help. Power nap (10 mins) refreshed me today as had only 2 hrs of deep sleep. Had to handle some insurance matters. Was glad I cleared the dinning table which was crowded with stuff last night. Now the house looks neater. Thank God for a christian couple who got their helper to vacuum and clean our house this afternoon.
Visits still not advisable. Appreciate checking with me (hp xxxxxx03) if you really want to visit.
Thanks for your continued prayers.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 15, 2013 at 1:52 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 15 Jan 2013 (Tue)
To:
Still in SLH, awaiting NUH to call re time of transfer. Guess there is no availability of bed in the C class ward. Hoping for a repeat of the use of the isolation room at no extra charge. Possible??
No idea of time of surgery scheduled for tomorrow either.
We retired at midnight, slept reasonably well but nothing like sleeping on our own bed. I usually fall asleep the moment my head hits the pillow at home but took an hour last night. Woke at 2:15 am feeling cold on the leather sofa, folded blanket to make it thicker and was able to sleep till 6:15 am. William woke 2 hrs later, I was thankful that he was able to sleep soundly.
Son-in-law came with delicious yong tau foo with noodles for our breakfast & William ate well. Too full for lunch.
Please continue to pray that God will undertake for us, granting safe, smooth & successful implant of the bi-ventricle ICD, wisdom to the medical team in the operating theatre, guide the surgeon's hands that the procedure will be without any complication.
William's asking me to test him on scriptures. (:
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 15, 2013 at 3:05 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 15 Jan 2013 (Tue) Cont'd
To:
NUH called at 2 plus to inform availability of bed, transfer any time. Ambulance booked at 4:30 p.m.
William will have his shower before leaving SLH.
He's having constant SOB.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jan 16, 2013 at 12:14 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 15 Jan 2013 (Tue) follow up
To:
Thank God the transfer to NUH was smooth & William took the journey well & didn't need oxygen.
His bed in the 6-bedded ward was next to the bathroom & toilet, the smell of urine bothered me but not him. His attitude is "whatever God gives, just take, no murmuring & complaining". Saw that the bed diagonally across, by the window, was vacant & made my request for the move. In the meantime, William asked me to read him Isaiah 40:29-31, these 3 verses were written on the huge card which our church's youths made for him (attached) and have become very precious to him as he waits upon the Lord. He has coined the following acronym for the word WAIT as follows:
Watch unto prayer
Acknowledge God's sovereignty (in our own lives, acknowledge the Lordship of Christ)
Instructed in God's word
Take God at His promises
He then requested me to read Psalm 34 & 103, each with 22 verses which he had memorised. I soon realised that he was reciting in his mind as I read aloud. I didn't manage to test him scriptures before the move as I was busy packing.
A few doctors in the team visited. One told me the worst case scenario (like the lead puncturing the lungs or heart, excessive bleeding, infection) but said the risk is 1%. Dr Lim Toon Wei, the cardiologist performing the procedure explained that he's going to re-position the lead to his right ventricle wall & put the 3rd lead to his left ventricle wall which is more complex.
By evening time, someone noticed a pair of white parrots perched on the tree overlooking his bed and attracted the attention of visitors & fellow patients. The assistant male nurse Vik shared the experience of the presence of white parrots while he was at the Institute of Mental Health. The patient recovered very quickly, a good omen. An elderly patient opposite him echoed that it is a good omen, his first time seeing the pair of birds there. I'm not bothered by this, I bear this in mind, trusting God to undertake for us that with the full restoration of health for William, we may serve him faithfully & fervently till He calls us home to Himself.
Surgery at 8:30 am Singapore time on 16 Jan 2013.
If all goes well, William will be back at SLH for rehab after 2 nights stay in NUH.
Seek your prayers instead of visits while he's at NUH as he needs all the rest he can have.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jan 16, 2013 at 9:05 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 16 Jan 2013 (Wed)
To:
Surgery postpone as his INR is above 3 but is steadily coming down from (3.44 to 3.39 and is 3.21 this morning). Blood test again tomorrow morning, surgery will proceed if INR is between 2 & 2.5 else have to wait after Chinese New Year as lab limited due to renovation works. If INR is at the desired level, surgery will be tomorrow afternoon.
William says he has committed to the Lord, trusting in Him who will bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5.
He's resting now, almost flat, coping quite well with SOB at baseline of 5.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Jan 17, 2013 at 12:08 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 17 Jan 2013 (Thu)
To:
INR 2.77 and probably decreasing. Hence, surgery confirmed at 2 p.m. today (17 Jan 2013). Wonderful to just wait upon the Lord as He directs every event in our lives.
Swabs done on admission (15 Jan 2013) showed presence of MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a type of bacterium which is resistant to a number of commonly used antibiotics, probably got it from SLH. Patients with weakened immune systems or open wounds are more susceptible to MRSA infection. Infection occurs when MRSA enters the body through cuts, surgical wounds, drip sites or implants. Hence after the surgery, he'll be in isolation room. Thank God he has no fever since hospitalisation on 7 Dec 2012. God is good.
Psalm 37:5 continues to be our constant meditation as we commit all things to Him who knows the end from the beginning.
Your continuing prayers sought, visits not advisable. Please check with me (xxxxxx03) if you really want to visit.
Thanks & God bless.
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Jan 17, 2013 at 6:04 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 17 Jan 2013 (Thu) - Follow up
To:
Praise the Lord that the surgery went well. It started at 3:30 pm, At 5:45 pm Dr Lim Toon Wei briefed us (glad son-in-law was here with me) that it went well, he has a good vein for the lead to the left ventricle wall. lead to right ventricle was re-position so as to get a better pacing.
Have not seen him yet but thanking God for HIS GREAT MERCIES towards us.
Thanks for all who have prayed & are continuing to pray.
Seek your understanding for NO visits at all till further notice as he needs all the rest to recover.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jan 18, 2013 at 6:35 AM
Subject: Update on Elder Seah - 17 Jan 2013 (Thu) follow up
To:
Noticed that he is not so breathless as he talked to son-in-law, Benedict & me while I fed him dinner. Ate fairly well. Thank God his appetite is slowly improving as he craves for different kinds of food now (can't tolerate spicy food). Was wheeled to do a chest X-ray last night (17 Jan) and returned with SOB at 5 as he was moved, thank God he was coping well when I left him at 11:10pm.
I've been diligent in my hand-washing. Also brought his hospital companion "Holter 2" home to wash and the soft toy dog from IKEA is ready to meet its master this morning. He was asking for it last night & I had to explain that "Holter 2" needs a bath. Attached photo of us with me carrying the cute & cuddly dog right after his surgery, waiting to be moved to his bed in the general ward. No isolation room available although he's a MRSA carrier. Healthy people can be carriers too so we must all be diligent in hand-washing before & after contact with patients.
As expected, the surgical site is giving him a bit of pain & quite a bit of discomfort. Please pray for relief. He took pain killers, 2 pills cut into 8 smaller pieces for him to swallow with thickened water. Thank God a system has been established for pill taking which shortens his ordeal somewhat.
Thanks to all who have responded to my updates, glad to hear from a few who have never written before.
Thanks for upholding us in your continued prayers and for being with me in this experience.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Jan 19, 2013 at 7:52 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 18 Jan 2013 (Fri)
To:
William had his pressure bandage removed and his dressing changed. Dr Lim Toon Wei was pleased with the wound. The skin around the surgical site is very tender and there are some skin tear. When alcohol was used to remove traces of the stickiness left by the pressure bandage, skin smarts badly and it was extremely painful, like being cut by a razor knife. Exposed skin tear covered to prevent infection.
He's being treated with very strong antibiotics for the MRSA. Soon after the 1st dose was given by IV in the morning, he felt all his toes hot. Doctor notified, She came to see him in the late afternoon. Nothing to be done, just under observation. Guess it's part of the side effects.
Today 2 more doses of this and blood will be drawn for INR. Warfarin was resumed after the surgery.
Device was checked and showed atrial fibrillation in progress. Arial fibrillation causes blood clots in the upper chamber of the heart. Chances of 2nd stroke high. That's why it's so important to thin his blood to prevent blood clots and Warfarin is proven to do just that. Desired level of thinness of the blood is between 2 & 3. Attached information on Warfarin & food he can or cannot eat for those who are interested.
Speech therapist Jessica (a young Caucasian lady) came in the afternoon to assess his speech. When she asked him "where are you now?" William replied "I'm in front of you". She asked again & he gave her another funny reply till she had to ask him to give her the exact location of the place he was in according to google map. Then she finally got the expected reply "NUH". She asked him to repeat the phrase after her like "I like chocolate cake". William echoed "I don't like chocolate cake" and we burst out laughing. She told him he made her day. The stroke has affected his left facial muscles & tongue. She taught him some tongue & facial exercises to strengthen the muscles.
Thank God he's not constantly gasping for air now unlike before. Dr Lim Toon Wei said it'll take months for him to be able to feel the difference. He's coping well with SOB at a 3. He is able to rest with only slight elevation of bed. He's still bed-ridden, backside hurts as not much flesh since he has lost so much weight. Have ordered the therapeutic mattress and awaiting delivery. The ward is under-staff. Glad I am there to help him when he wants to answer the call of nature. Calling the nurse only to note the level of urine & to re-position him. I feel more comfortable washing the urinal myself, knowing it's clean for the next use.
Every fluid has to be measured to ensure compliance of the fluid restriction of 1 litre a day. He now has a phobia for medicine but still takes as he doesn't want to make life difficult for me. Told him he's a model patient. He said, good or bad, still a patient & is no fun being one.
I'm glad his appetite is good. He now cannot tolerate spicy food and doesn't like fried food, preferring steamed stuff. That's a good start to healthy eating.
He's feeling "sian" (tired) in this 6-bedded ward and has asked me a few times when he can return to SLH. It can be quite warm when the air is still although the ceiling fan is on. He looks forward to the single air con room in SLH. Transfer likely on Sunday or Monday if everything goes well.
Thank God I'm 99.9% well. Although lack of sleep, power nap of 10 mins refreshes.
Please pray for speedy recovery with no complications. God is good, has always been. I tear whenever I recount how He has been good in so many ways.
Thanks & God bless.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Jan 19, 2013 at 11:30 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 19 Jan 2013 (Sat)
To:
Take this chance to update as William is sleeping supine. Thank God it's raining now, perfect weather to sleep.
Dr Lim Toon Wei visited this morning and ordered the infusion rate of the strong antibiotic, Vancomycin to be slower. I've googled and noted the side effects. Toes feeling hot is just a reaction, nothing to worry.
Please pray for availability of single room in SLH which only hold room after check-out for a day before releasing it. Single rooms are few as SLH is undergoing renovation, they're upgrading.
Thanks once again for responding to my update. (:
Thanks for praying.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Jan 22, 2013 at 8:44 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 19-22 Jan 2013 (Sun-Tue)
To:
Just when he was feeling 'sian' in the 6 bedded C class ward with backside hurting on the hard mattress, he was transferred in the late afternoon of 19 Jan 2013 to a single room in the A class ward without extra charge. He remarked that it is a penthouse. Even the hospital clothes he wears here looks so nice and is of a better quality. Thank God for provision and comfort. I'm amazed at how God grants the desire of my heart as I delight myself in Him. God proves Himself true to His word as He brings all things to pass when we commit our ways to Him. He knows the future and His timing is nothing but perfect.
Dr Lim Toon Wei is very pleased with the recovery from the surgery and is ready to discharge him 2 days ago. He says we can stay here till the single room at SLH is available. What a bonus and blessing.
He's now on oral antibiotic for the treatment of MRSA. It's a big pill and is cut into 4 quarters. Medicine time is a dreaded phobia. I know he tries to delay taking his medication but I have to be firm although I understand how it must have felt. He said to someone that I scrap all the thickened liquid potassium in the medicine cup and even make him lick the spoon as I want him to take the right dosage. That's how mean I am ha ha.
Appetite remains reasonably good and home-cooked food is always a treat. Daughter-in-law Adeline made some fish porridge for us last Saturday which satisfied our tummies.
Thank God his parameters (BP, heart rate, oxygen saturation) have been good and has no fever thus far. But he says he has no sense of well-being and is feeling tired most of the time. Isaiah 40:29-31 continues to be his constant meditation & encouragement, trusting God to give him power as he feels faint & feeble, waiting upon God to renew his strength and can't wait to mount up with wings as eagles. He now sits up on the chair for his meals, walks to the toilet to poo using the walking frame with nurse's assistance but is too tired to shower.
INR at 2.2 on 20 Jan 2013 is within desired range, thank God, 1.5 mg of Warfarin continues.
This hospitalisation is the longest (since 7 Dec 2012) and is most trying. I'm feeling the strain already. Hospital has become my 'home' and home is just a place to sleep and shower. I'm leaving later and later each day (11 plus pm) for the past week as I want to ensure he's comfortably settled for sleep. Last night he was breathing quite loudly and I had not the heart to leave. As it was midnight, I decided to make my bed on the couch, woken up by nurse coming in twice to take his parameters every 4 hourly. At least it's more comfortable here compared to SLH.
Thank God I'm fully recovered from my flu but had a mild food poisoning yesterday. I re-heated the food left over from afternoon for my dinner on 20 Jan and it kind of tasted funny at the end. Woke up yesterday with churning stomach and nausea and lost my appetite. Decided to visit the walk-in emergency clinic at NUH and what an experience.
William is awake, got to go.
Thanks for continued prayers as always.
love, amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jan 23, 2013 at 10:30 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 23 Jan 2013
To:
William had diarrhoea at 2:50 am. After the clean up, thank God stomach settled and we were able to get back to sleep.
Blood drawn this morning showed INR at 3.06, no Warfarin today, awaiting dosage adjustment.
Was told this afternoon that single room at SLH available, transfer by ambulance tomorrow (24 Jan 2013) at 9 am. Praying that he'll be able to do more rehab with this new device and be able to go home after 2 weeks, before Chinese New Year.
Dr Lim Toon Wei visited in the afternoon. Ordered device check by Boston Scientific & specialist nurse Christina Chong to look at wound. Device is working fine, atrial fibrillation in progress. Wound is healing well but fragile. Dressing changed. Chest X-ray taken in the night. Still on oral antibiotic to prevent infection.
His mouth feels bitter (probably due to medication) & has no appetite. Even the much anticipated home-made chwee kueh (steamed rice cake) with preserved radish garnishing (chye poh) could not help improve his appetite. Gave him Resource Plus to supplement since he ate so poorly. By dinner time, he managed to eat a bit more. Still has no sense of wellness but pressing on.
As we spend the last night here (I'm staying overnight as need to pack early tomorrow morning), we're ever so thankful to God who is able to do abundantly above all that we ask or think. (Ephesian 3:20) I'm much refreshed after my longest nap (45 mins) on the comfortable couch this afternoon.
We continue to trust God for the healing and restoration to full health, asking Him to undertake all things for us as we commit our ways unto Him.
William is constantly meditating on Isaiah 40:29-31 written on the huge card made by our church youth placed in front of his bed. He is also thinking and praying for the salvation of the parents of some of our church members who are still outside of Christ. He told me that when he is well, he would like to be more actively reaching out to more of his AIA colleagues as he sees this as an important part of his ministry. May the Lord show him clearly and direct him in this endeavour.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jan 25, 2013 at 4:33 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 24-25 Jan 2013 (Thu-Fri)
To:
Thank God transfer from NUH to SLH yesterday was smooth. Had to delay ambulance arrival from 9 am to 10 am and finally to 10:30 am as William woke only at 8 plus and cannot be hurried to do things. Breakfast was fish porridge but could hardly find any fish. As porridge was blend, it was replaced by toast with marmalade which he could only manage a slice.
Dr Lim Toon Wei visited at 8 plus, updated result of chest X-ray. Leads are in good position (from very good initially), expected as the heart is constantly pumping.
The ambulance personnel were on hand to help with our barang barang. It was good to return to familiar surroundings and we were greeted with warm welcome & smiles. Was told by nurses & cleaners that the same room vacated by us remained unoccupied during our absence. After a prayer of thanksgiving, set up the internet for live streaming of tennis from Australian Open 2013. Unpacked, set up home as he'll be here for a month, spending his 74th birthday & Chinese New Year here.
As it was too rush to take his morning medication before the move, it was taken only when he was nicely settled in at SLH. He's still on oral antibiotic, twice a day, 12 hrs in between dose, last dose being this afternoon. As the morning dose was given at 12:30 pm yesterday, the next dose was to be given past midnight and I had to stay over last night Managed 2 plus hrs of sleep as the couch here is shorter in length which is not the most comfortable. I prefer to go home to sleep but will stay over when required.
His left hand (where the IV site was) is swollen, inflammed & painful when touched. Dr Chong started him on antibiotic this afternoon.
Blood drawn this morning showed INR at 1.8, a drastic drop from the last reading of 3.06.
Dr Karen examined him in the afternoon, BP was very low (80/50) but no giddiness. ECG done. He's on a few BP lowering medicine. He's in good hands of the doctors and nurses and the higher hand of our good Lord.
Medicine taking continues to be a phobia. Manuka honey is a chaser and he remarked that he's been taking so much of Manuka honey till bees are coming out of his ears.
He feels tired most of the time and rest whenever he can.
Thanks for continued fervent prayers for us.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Jan 28, 2013 at 1:03 AM
Subject: Re: Thanksgiving Item - My mum accepted Christ to be her Saviour
To: gerrylee@yahoo.com
Dear Gerry
We rejoice with you for the salvation of mother and recall God's promise in Acts 16:31 as all His promises are yea and amen in Christ. Looking ahead, may the Lord continue to work in the hearts of Evelyne's parents that they too may come to know & love the Saviour remembering 2 Peter 3:9 in God's own time for salvation is of the Lord and what a rejoicing that will be. In particular we are praying much for the Tengah congregation that salvation may reach down to all their loved ones especially parents who are still in darkness that they may see the light. In this respect, we are praying much for the mother of sister Mary Lim in Batu Bahat, the mother of brother Ee Huat, the father of sister Sherri and the mother of sister Peggy Leong that all these in their evening years may delay no longer but come to trust in the Lord and have their names written in the Lamb's book of life. May Tengah be a praying church with a passion for lost souls.
While God's word continue to be my daily contemplation may the Lord increase my faith that I may take Him at all His promises especially in Isaiah 40:29-31. At the moment, my physical struggle is indeed most trying but His grace continues to be sufficient until I see His full deliverance in His own time. Covet your prayers that I may be able to endure all these as a good soldier of Jesus Christ knowing that He works all things well for our good in the end. Only believe.
When I considered Philippians 3:10 to be my life verse, little did I realise the reality of the fellowship of His sufferings until the Lord showed me a little more of this truth for which I rejoice in Him during my present hospital stay. Indeed our dear Saviour suffered so much for us when He went to the cross enduring all the physical sufferings and despising all the shame He did it all because of His great love for us. On my part, all these have come that ultimately His name through me might be glorified. As for Christ He went through it because of His great love for us. Indeed He paid the debt for us which He never owed because we owe Him the debt which we could not pay. Jesus paid it all, therefore let us reconsecrate our lives to live for Him until He comes for us remembering His words to us in Revelation 22:12.
Our God is faithful and keeps covenant with His people whom we are only in mercy the Lord will keep us faithful to the end.
The world crowns success but God crowns faithfulness.
God bless.
elder seah
)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Jan 28, 2013 at 10:32 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 26-28 Jan 2013 (Sat-Mon)
To:
Thank God William has no shortness of breath (SOB) since Saturday, 26 Jan 2013 and breathes a lot easier and is able to sleep supine for longer periods. Had his 1st shower and free hair cut on Saturday. Find him looking good and alert as I visited this morning. Appetite has improved tremendously since Saturday and has been craving for all kinds of food till I remarked that he's like a pregnant lady. To this he replied that he's expecting triplets.
Blood drawn for INR, PSA & uric acid this morning (28 Jan 2013), the last two were at my request.
He went to the gym this afternoon, walked round the gym with the walking frame under the watchful eye of the physiotherapist, did some steps exercise and cycled without feeling breathless, just tired after the exercises and limbs aching a little.
Dr Melvin Chua, consultant, Division of General Medicine from NUH visited this afternoon. As William's left hand is still inflammed and swollen, he changed the antibiotic to one that's stronger.
As mentioned earlier Manuka honey continues to be his chaser having consumed so much of it that bees are buzzing and flying out of his ears as a protest that he has taken away so much of their produce till his whole system has become like a honey comb.
As his potassium level is well within the normal range, potassium is now not a part of his medication, much to his relief.
Thought I'll share with you what he has written last night (he dictated & I typed) to a deacon of our church whose mother has accepted Christ recently for your blessing, please see attached.
Finally, below are his thoughts in his waking moments:
"Amidst the struggles of life, both big and small,
God's grace triumphs over all".
He's ever so thankful to God (me too) for sparing his life and continues to trust in Him according to the promises of His word especially Isaiah 40:29-31.
As always, many thanks for your continued fervent prayers.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Jan 31, 2013 at 11:53 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 29-31 Jan 2013 (Tue-Thu)
To:
William continues to feel better, no more SOB even when he exercises at the rehab gym at SLH, just the normal tiredness. This afternoon, the therapist taught him how to use the walking stick and he walked round the gym with it. Even after exercise, his BP, heart rate & oxygen saturation remain good. However, when he returned to the room, his BP was very low and the nurse & therapist were concerned. He feels alright, no giddiness nor headache. By night time, his BP remains low and doctor has discontinued one of the medication which lowers his BP.
I'm so thankful that SOB is now a thing of the past. The Lord be praised. It was painful to see him having constant SOB before the procedure. Glad he's able to have the ICD upgrade on 17 Jan 2013 instead of waiting after Chinese New Year (CNY). God's timing is perfect.
Yesterday was a time of celebration with thanksgiving to God as William turns 74. The children visited during lunch time and it was a blessed time spent. At 3 pm, 2 cakes were brought to celebrate his birthday with the nurses and the therapists. William thanked the nurses for their excellent nursing care. It was also an occasion for him to thank all the staff who have been looking after him. In the evening, a group of close friends came with McDonald burgers as he requested for cheese burger and his favourite apple pie as his birthday dinner.
William needs lots of physio especially for his left side of the body and we're in no hurry to be discharged. I'm alone with him at home and would want him to be at least 90% restored from his stroke before he gets discharged. Yesterday (30 Jan), the occupational therapist was at our home to assess if modification is required. I was glad daughter Bena, the interior designer was around to give her input.
William continues to have cravings for food which is a good sign. His taste buds have become sensitive, not able to tolerate spicy and sourish food now. He just told me tonight to get him some bak kwa as CNY is round the corner. He now weighs 64.5 kg, puts on 2.6 kg.
William has this to say:
"Today is another day, a blessing from the Lord given to me.
Ever grateful for the life He has given me beyond my expectation just because of His mercies.
His word continues to be my daily meditation & hope, living each day conscious that without Him life is at best miserable.
But in Him & for Him, joyous & profitable."
Now that he's recovering well, those who wish to visit, please do check with me at 9029 2803. As our immunity may not be at the greatest, please refrain from visiting if you're having upper respiratory illness.
Convenient time to visit as follows:
After 5:30 pm on weekdays
After 2 pm on weekend.
Covet your continuing prayers that as he waits upon the Lord he shall renew his strength, and I look forward to the time when he shall mount up with wings as eagles as the Lord has promised for all His promises in Christ are yea & amen.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Feb 8, 2013 at 12:08 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 1-7 Feb 2013
To:
7 Feb 2013 marks 2 months of hospital stay. He's sick of hospital food & prefers food from outside which I can understand. Thank God that there are a few nice coffee shops in the vicinity of St Luke's hospital. I'm glad for wonderful friends who will also go the extra mile to bring him food that he craves for, sometimes at very short notice.
Sorry for no update for a week. I didn't even realise it's been a week until a few of you emailed. Being the only care-giver, surviving on 4-6 hrs of sleep daily (an improvement from 2-3 hrs) causes me to be tired and I try to nap whenever I can instead of doing other things. I don't even have time for myself but that's ok.
This morning I was surprised to see Dr Benjamin in the room when I arrived at 9 am and William being put on oxygen. I was told he was woken up by chest pain at 7 am. 2 ECGs done within 5 hrs interval and blood drawn for heart enzymes. Doctors are monitoring. He is to rest and doctors ordered no therapy for today. Blood tests returned inconclusive & another blood test to be taken tomorrow. At the time of update, the pain has become a dull discomfort but he's more concerned for the cause of the pain.
Thank God that his INR has been quite stable, hovering between 2-3 for a few days already and Warfarin dose at 1 mg. Due to the frequent blood tests, his poor arm has been poked many times & bruised. His uric acid is high at 743, normal is 266-585 umol/L. High uric acid not being treated as he experiences no pain. Doctor said the medicine which he used to take for control of uric acid may interfere with Warfarin.
On 4 Feb 2013, he was ambulanced to NUH to have the device checked and wound inspected. When asked for his name by the Malay ambulance attendant, he introduced himself as "William Bin Seah". After the device check, he was a bit heavy on breathing & SOB returned at the usual level of 5 on the breathless scale. The device technician did some threshold tests and that brought on his SOB which I've brought to the doctor's attention. BP & oxygen saturation checked. BP is a bit low but oxygen saturation is good. No treatment but just to observe. Thank God SOB eased after rest and was completely gone the next day. I'm glad he's able to have the rhythm of breathing back. He's been discharged from the specialist nurse clinic as his wound has completely healed.
Speech therapist Ri Yin assessed his swallowing on 1 Feb 2013. Swallowing muscles are still weak. She observed throat clearing after normal liquid consumed and suggests nectar thick liquid to be safe. However, he's ok eating normal food. Medicine taking continues to be his phobia.
Due to the massive stroke, his left hand has little or no sensation, similarly for the left side of his mouth. As a result, he's not aware when food is there which I discreetly wipe away. The muscles may or may not be revived depending on whether there are new neuro connections in the right brain.
I try to buy him food & fruits which he likes to eat that will make him happy. Just a few days ago, I asked him if he was happy and he said yes. I then asked him why & he uttered an unexpected reply "because you love me very much" which brought joyful tears and a huge smile.
He continues to meditate on God's words. He's like what the psalmist says in Psalm 1 verse 2, delighting in God's words day and night. This afternoon, he got me to read him passages of scriptures which he had memorised, reciting them in his head as I read.
Arrangement has been made for contractor to install grab bars at 3 locations around the house where there are 3 steps and I've ordered the bed rail, shower chair, non-slip mat and the fingertip pulse oximeter. All to be delivered & installed on 14 Feb 2013 at 2 pm. I'll take 2 hours off to see to this.
We'll be taking a few hours of home leave on the eve of Chinese New Year (CNY) for a reunion lunch with the children & grandsons. No therapy on Sunday and over the CNY holidays. Those who would like to visit, please check with me (hp 90292803) before coming. Convenient time to visit is after 2 pm for Sunday & public holidays.
It's past midnight now & it's time for me to leave SLH. Gosh, took me more than 2 hrs to write this update. Now you know why I'll rather.....
Thanks to those who have given love gifts and brought us things. Grateful for continued prayers.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Feb 11, 2013 at 11:25 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 8-11 Feb 2013
To:
When I arrived at 9 am this morning, William just woke, telling me he felt refreshed & joyful that the Lord has promised him that He will renew his strength. He told the Lord that he doesn't want to live for the sake of living but to make his life useful for Him. His desire when he returns home is to witness to the parents of the few church members who are still non-believers. Being an older person, he feels they will listen. Please do pray for the spirit to prepare their hearts. Also, he wants the Lord to show him who among his AIA colleagues that he should witness to when he returns to the office.
Thank God his chest pain is gone but his right arm aches badly. The feeling is like having lifted a ton of stuff and panadol offers no relief. His feet are a bit swollen with water retention due to prolonged sitting during reunion lunch on 9 Feb 2013. As of now, the water retention on his right foot has dissipated but his left foot is still a little swollen. Not to worry, the fluid will drain when the foot is elevated. I tried to massage away the water but that only helps very little. His right arm is bruised at the 2 sites where blood was drawn. He's going to tell the phlebotomists that if they bruise him further, he'll have to change his name to Bruce Lee.
He told me he wants to go home when the grab bars are installed on 14 Feb 2013. He is finding the air therapeutic mattress not as comfortable as our own bed. I envisage that he still needs to do some more physio for his weaker left side. Told him discharge will be soon, my target date is 20 Feb 2013 but I'll check with the doctors & therapists when they return to work on 13 Feb 2013 about discharge.
This hospitalisation stay has been the longest and most trying. Can't believe we actually spent Christmas, New Year, his birthday & now Chinese New Year (CNY) in hospital. I was glad William's sister-in-law, Lucy brought home-cooked food prepared by his elder brother's wife, Sin Gek who always cooks for the bigger Seah family every CNY. Today we had more visitors than usual but it was a happy occasion and William was glad to receive ang pows.
Many who visited remarked that he has put on weight & looks better. Indeed, he has gained 0.2 kg, got him weighed today and the scale showed 64 kg.
Wishing those who celebrate CNY a blessed & joyous lunar year of the snake.
He's fast asleep and I must go home now.
Thank God for all of you.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Feb 13, 2013 at 4:20 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 12-13 Feb 2013
To:
Was told by nurse this afternoon that I don't need to monitor his
fluid intake & outflow any more as doctors feel he's better now.
Now that he's 64 kg, he's conscious not to put on the 12 kg he has
lost. Told him he still can put on 1 more kg & then to maintain at
that weight.
CNY holidays are over, the therapists have returned to work today. He
had his exercise this afternoon.
Come Saturday morning (16 Feb), the occupational therapists want to
assess how he cooks in the rehab kitchen. He's going to cook them
fried rice and has instructed what ingredients to get and to have the
rice cooked on Friday night.
Attached video clip of him cycling in the room yesterday (12 Feb).
This is a testimony of the Lord's goodness and you've all been
instrumental in his recovery through your fervent prayers and
encouragement. You may also view it at YouTube www.youtube.com under
"Cycling to Yangon".
Please continue to pray.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Feb 18, 2013 at 12:23 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 14-17 Feb 2013
To:
The day has finally come for him to be discharged and it's 18 Feb 2013.
God is good to work all things out. Managed to bring forward the appointment with the cardiologist, Dr Lim Toon Wei at NUH from 25th to 18th. William has the brilliant idea of getting the ambulance to send him home after we're done at NUH. I've brought back most of the things, leaving only the essentials for his use.
One of the nurses said she'll miss him but William misses home more (especially our bed) and his more than 80 plants along the corridor that invaded into neighbour's territory on both sides. He said he received a 'call' from his plants complaining that no one talks to them. Due to my neglect, 2 plants have withered but he was glad to receive 2 new flowering plants recently. Our Malay neighbour has been very kind to get her maid to help me water the plants during William's hospitalisation. She has sold her apartment recently and is moving out on 24 Feb.
The grab bars have been installed on 15 Feb. Supplier forgot our scheduled appointment on 14 Feb. She called just as I reached our home car park to inform that contractor won't be there. Needless to say I was upset. She compensated my wasted trip with a small discount. I've been busy getting the room/house ready to welcome him home.
The cooking session at the rehab kitchen on Saturday, 16 Feb went well. His children, daughter-in-law Adeline and grandson Luke were there to witness this historic event. He has no control over his left hand. Watching him cut the garlic and luncheon chicken was quite nerve wracking. The aroma of the fried rice attracted other therapists to the kitchen. His legs were tired after the cooking session. Attached photo of the yummy fried rice.
Both his arms still ache considerably. This morning he developed pain above the device and the pain has now gone down to his heart area. Doctor examined him and diagnosed it as muscular pain, he's on panadol. His BP today is low, systolic below 100 and diastolic below 50. One of the nurses said to him "you have pain & your condition not stable, cannot go home". He quickly added that his pain is a stable pain, bearable.
His weight has dipped slightly today to 63.2 kg, down by 0.8 kg.
He'll have to do physio as an outpatient at SLH in the weeks that ensue. Therapist recommends that I get him a peddle bicycle with resistance for him to exercise at home. I'm sourcing for a MagneTrainer ER.
Covet your prayers for me as I manage him alone at home, being with him 24/7, making sure that he doesn't fall, helping him with his daily living activities like transferring, toileting, showering etc. It'll be a new experience for me to handle him alone without the nurses but God will give the grace & strength. However, I'm finding it hard to manage insurance work. Please pray for time management. I'm still surviving on 3-5 hrs of sleep & hope to catch up on sleep soon. Have kept up with my 4 km run at least 3 times a week. Thank God that my BP is back to normal. It's amazing that I've been kept in good health. However my hands have become very dry and have developed small cuts at the fingers which made contact with anything painful. My nursing friend said it's eczema, something which I've never had before.
Lastly, would like to place on record our grateful thanks to all who have been (& are still) praying as well as for those who have given love gifts. Thank you for your generosity.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Feb 23, 2013 at 12:24 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 18-22 Feb 2013
To:
The discharge from SLH on 18 Feb 2013 was uneventful. Was glad the ambulance came an hour later than the time I was told so that gave me a breather to get all things organised.
Upon arrival at NUH, blood was drawn for INR & kidney function. Thank God INR of 2.89 was within the range 2-3. Kidney function was normal, also another thanksgiving item as it was slightly impaired a few months ago. Device was checked. Battery is in good condition, device records that he's still having atrial fibrillation (AF). There are a few ways to treat AF, one is to shock the heart into rhythm and the other is ablation i.e. to burn off part of the heart's muscles. Or in Dr Lim Toon Wei's words "if he's lucky, the AF will just go away with rest". We of course don't want anything invasive so we continue to plead for the Lord's healing hands upon him.
As the blood test results were out only 2 hrs later, we took the chance to have our late lunch at the kopitiam at NUH. He was quite amazed that I knew how to go from one place to another while he felt lost. He used to visit many hospitals during his hospital ministry and knew every corner but NUH has changed, more so with renovation going on and it's like a maze getting around now. After lunch, we were the second last patient to see the cardiologist. Dr Lim was pleased with the implant thus far and we're to see him in 3 months time.
Back home, William is not used to sleeping on my side of the bed which is nearer the toilet so I've to change back to status quo. While he enjoys the comfort of sleeping on his own bed, never did he anticipate the unbearable aching pain to his limbs which has disturbed his sleep/rest considerably till he became disheartened due to the immense discomfort. However, he takes comfort in God's words in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that God will not test him beyond what he can bear but will deliver. Panadol offers no relief and the chinese medicated oil which used to give him instant relief from aches & pain now provides temporary relief. This morning I was woken 4 times starting from 1 plus am to rub the oil for his aching pain. We're concern about this pain. Thank God managed to make an unscheduled appointment with the neurologist Dr Teoh Hock Luen on 28 Feb 2013 at NUH.
Thank God too that he's able to take his pills one at a time with normal water. He tried it for his night medicine on 18 Feb and we were thankful that he can do away with thickened fluid for medication.
He used to be my heat pad but not anymore, he feels cold easily now due to his weak body. From the moment he wakes, I'm there to help him with brushing up, poo-ing, pee-ing, showering besides getting meals ready, ensuring he takes his morning & night medicine, etc. I still measure his fluid intake & records his urine as he's still having a daily fluid restriction of 1 litre due to his weak heart. When he walks from the bed to the dining area with the walking stick to have his meals, I put on the transfer gait belt for him so I can hold him in case he falls.
I feel bad for not having the time nor the energy to handle outstanding insurance matters especially following up on clients' claims, this has been hanging on my head. Now that things are more settled, I can work on them. May God give me the grace & wisdom to handle.
A christian client asked how our insurance business had been affected. Since his major stroke on 7 Dec 2012, we've not been active in our insurance sales, hence no First Year commission for more than 2.5 months. We've also lost a few clients to other AIA agents. These clients fail to realise that we need their business more so now than before. Sigh. That's life.
It's hard to get someone to keep an eye on him at a moment's notice while I do my errands like going out to buy lunch/dinner/grocery or to submit documents to the office. So I entrust him to our gracious Lord whose eyes are always upon the righteous and so far, the Lord has been good to keep him safe.
William is very appreciative of my care for him and asked how he can repay me. Told him there's nothing to repay as he's so delightful to care for but he pressed for an answer. To that I said "keep loving me" and he spontaneously replied "I always will". Need I to say further? "Sweetheart, you've repaid already".
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Mar 10, 2013 at 12:15 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 23 Feb - 9 Mar 2013
To:
He had difficulty breathing this afternoon (9 Mar), SOB was quite bad, a 9 on the breathless scale of 10. He felt as if his breath was going to be cut. I called for an ambulance which arrived shortly and we were rushed to NUH A&E.
A series of tests done & doctor ordered that he be warded for observation although his breathing was somewhat relieved after he was given lasix and GTN patch. I suspect he had another heart failure.
As mentioned in my last update, he has been feeling unwell since discharge on 18 Feb from St Luke's hospital..
For many days he had aching pain in his arms & thighs. This pain is likened to the after effects of having lifted a ton of bricks, 'sng' to the bones. Thank God the muscle relaxant pills have helped. However, his legs continue to feel heavy. Since yesterday his last 2 toes of left foot have become very sensitive, painful upon contact.
He had blocked nose for a few days. I was thankful that our family doctor could make the house call & brought medicine for his blocked nose which is slowly clearing up. Breathing was difficult when his nose was blocked. Now his throat seems stuck with phlegm. Please pray that he'll be able to expel the phlegm.
He also has slight headache and feels giddy when he rises from the bed. Hasn't been able to move bowels for a few days despite being given medicine for relief of constipation.
All the above have caused him to feel very lousy & disturb his rest but we continue to plead for the Lord's mercies & wait for deliverance from all these troubles.
The visit to the neurologist on 28 Feb was uneventful. Dr Teoh examined him & commented that his strength is good. As he complained of terrible aching pain, he ordered blood tests. Blood was drawn for full blood count, liver & renal function. Thank God results returned normal. Dr Teoh said the statins could cause muscle aches but not likely which turns out to be true in his case as he was on it since Sep 2009 & didn't experience any aching pain. Nevertheless, he suggests stopping it for a day or two & if pain continued, to resume & start him on the muscle relaxant pills. Thank God that the muscle relaxant pills provided relief after a few days.
He has grown sick of outside food & wants to cook but he has neither the wellness nor the strength to do it. Hence he has no choice but to give me specific step by step instructions to cook the food he wants to eat since last week.
As you can imagine, I've been very busy caring fpr him, sometimes being woken up a few times in the wee hours of the morning for his pee and hence too tired and no time for update till now.
Covet your prayers.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Mar 11, 2013 at 4:07 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 10-11 Mar 2013
To:
After 2 nights of observation, he's discharged this afternoon, resting at home. Inpatient discharge summary recorded upper respiratory infection as the cause for hospitalisation. Doctor said it was not heart failure as I thought.
Please continue to pray as he recuperates at home.
As his heart is very weak, catching the common cold or flu can be life threatening for him. He must seriously avoid those who have or are recovering from upper respiratory tract infection.
I've just gotten a free smart phone after re-contracting with my Telco for another 2 years and have not copied contacts to this new phone so would appreciate identification whenever you sms me at xxxxxx03.
Thank you for continued prayers.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Mar 18, 2013 at 10:28 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 12-18 Mar 2013
To:
His condition didn't improve after discharge from NUH on 11 Mar and this morning (18 Mar) he was retching very badly with a terrible headache that I had to call the ambulance & he was rushed to A&E in no time.
Chest X-Ray, ECG, Blood tests & CT Scan done. All normal except blood tests showed raised level of white blood cells which indicates infection. He was given medicine for his headache & retching and needs to be warded (yes again) for observation as he still feels nauseous & headache lingers.
He has been praying. In his prayer he has pleaded with the Lord that should this trial continue, His grace will see him through. However he's also pleading that in mercy God may choose to restore him for His own glory. He continues to meditate on Isaiah 40:31 taking God at His word which He has magnified above all His name (Psalm 138:2). His heart is at peace even through this difficult time as God never makes any mistake but only works well in the end for His children who have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus.
I'm taking all these cheerfully (God be praised) knowing that He is in control, nothing happens by chance, all within His permissive will.
NUH is full, waited 7 hours for a bed but there was some miscommunication between A&E and the ward staff nurse. The bed that he is sleeping on in this C class ward is spoilt but he's taking it well, no complain. When the staff nurse asked him several questions to test his mind, he scored full marks. When he was asked who I was, he said "my sweetheart". When he was asked who she was, he replied "you're my sweet nurse".
Thanks for still upholding us in prayers. It is amazing how the Lord has seen us through all these more than 3 months of struggle.
In His love,
amy
P.S. I'm doing some housekeeping to the email list for this update. Please reply to this email if you wish to receive further updates. If I don't hear from you, I'll remove your email address from the list. Thanks & God bless.
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Mar 20, 2013 at 6:59 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 19-20 Mar 2013
To:
William is being treated with medication for his headache & nausea. Since being admitted to A&E on 18 Mar 2013, retching has stopped but the nausea still comes back now & then together with the headache which worsens with movement. Doctors have done a few blood tests and ECGs but are not able to specifically pin point the cause.
Heart enzymes are raised which is indicative of atrial fibrillation. His AF has been ongoing since late Nov 2012. Had a discussion with the cardiologist, Dr Lim Toon Wei yesterday and we're keen for the AF to be treated by electrical cardioversion "which is a jolt of electricity delivered to the heart to "convert" the rhythm from AF back to a normal heart rhythm. This shock can break the pattern of abnormal electrical signals and restore a normal rhythm. Electrical cardioversion isn't the same as the emergency heart shocking procedure often seen on TV programs. It's planned in advance and done under carefully controlled conditions with the person heavily sedated." (source: internet).
His INR (International Normalized Ratio for blood clotting time) has been in the desired range of 2-3 since 18 Feb 2013 so there should not be any blood clots in his body. However, clearance is being sought with the neurologists (due to recent stroke) for the procedure.
Thank God he is able to hold food down, tries to eat as much as he can although appetite is not fantastic. The Appelin B12 syrup which stimulates the appetite somehow helped.
He hasn't moved his bowels for 2 days already which to him is quite distressing as he used to move his bowels without problem every morning before his stroke.
He tries to sit up to read the bible on iPad but had to lie back down after a short time due to the headache.
It gets stuffy when the weather is hot although his bed is by the window and fan speed is put to the maximum and can be quite uncomfortable at times but not a word of complaint from him. When he was dressed with a different colour top after the nurse showered him, he called it "mix n match", much to my amusement.
Thank God he accepts whatever the Lord gives and continues to plead for mercies.
As for me, thank God for good sleep albeit short and I'm at the hospital early to catch the doctors when they go on their rounds. One of the nurses asked William if I was a nurse as they observed how I took care of him.
Many thanks for those who have replied which I've personally acknowledged. Housekeeping is time consuming but I'm glad this is done.
We're grateful for your love, concern & prayers for us. I'm always glad to read incoming emails and some have touched my heart.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Mar 21, 2013 at 6:18 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 20 Mar 2013
To:
Attaching below update dated Mar 20, 2013 at 6:59 am which some of you missed as your email addresses were removed due to late reply but now reinstated.
For the first time, William expresses his insecurity and discomfort in this C class ward. Of all the hospitalisations this is the worst and he wants to be discharged asap. I arrived after breakfast was served at 8 am. He asked for the dining chair and was told he can't have it as the ward has only 2 and were used by other patients so he has to have his breakfast in bed. Nursing care is wanting with only 1 staff nurse and 1 assistant nurse to care for 6 patients, 2 are bedridden and cannot feed themselves. I being there for William when he needs to pee helps ease their load. Just in case you think I'm trained as a nurse, I am not.
Thank God for seeing him through another hot & stuffy day yesterday (20 Mar). It became cool towards evening time.
He'll be transferred to the CCU this morning (21 Mar) to have the Cardioversion. Exact time not advised yet. Will update on my facebook (www.facebook.com/amy.seah.1)
Please pray for complication free, safe & successful Cardioversion. Also for the first time he is apprehensive about the procedure. We prayed.
He still can't move his bowels since his last poo on 18 Mar before A&E admission although he's been trying daily and has been taking constipation relief syrup to soften the stools. Told him not to strain & he can always have the suppository. Unlike last Saturday (16 Mar) when he had hard stools which he could not pass out and you can imagine the immense discomfort. For almost the whole day, he was trying to poo. I've lost count of the number of times I've to wipe him after each throne visit. He passed out the suppository. I think we didn't know how to do it right. Finally I drove to the nearby pharmacy to get the Fleet Enema on my friend's advice. My 1st time using it and it was a messy, smelly affair. Then the clean up as the bed and carpet in the room were dirtied.
All these are nothing. Two things make me cry - to see him suffer and the fear of losing him. Thank God that He is near and each time I cry to Him, He always never fails to comfort me with His faithful promises. This morning's Daily Remembrancer speaks to my heart (highlighted in red) and reminds me to rest on God's faithful promises once again. Attached below for those who care to read.
Covet your prayers with grateful thanks.
In His love,
amy
PS: Reference to this "Many thanks for those who have replied which I've personally acknowledged. Housekeeping is time consuming but I'm glad this is done." Thought I'll clarify what "housekeeping" refers to. I meant "Housekeeping" on this email list & not the actual cleaning of the house which I'm managing by God's grace. Sorry if I've caused some misunderstanding.
March 21
MORNING
"I will give you rest" Mt 11:28
“WE WHICH HAVE BELIEVED DO ENTER INTO REST.” That rest in Christ is assured to every believer. There is no rest for the Christian in the world. There will always be something to disturb, perplex or distress him; it is an enemy's land. But our Lord says, "I will give you rest." He does so by enabling us to rely on His word, recognise His hand, submit to His will, and trust in His perfect work. He assures us that our sins are forgiven us; that our persons are safe in His keeping; that His presence is always with us; and that all things work together for our best. We can rest on His faithfulness: He has been tried, and found faithful. We can rest on His love: for it knows no shadow of turning. We can rest on His power: it is ever engaged on our behalf. We can rest on His covenant: it is ordered in all things and sure. We can rest on His blood: it speaks peace, pardon, and acceptance with God. We can rest at His feet: there we are safe, and can never be injured. We cannot rest on our graces, on our comforts, on our friends, or on our possessions; but we may always rest on Jesus. We should rest on Him with unshaken confidence and ardent love; for His promises are plain, His power is infinite, and His love passes knowledge. Only He can give us rest.
In the ark the weary dove
Found a welcome resting place;
Thus my spirit longs to prove,
Rest in Christ, the Ark of grace.
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Mar 21, 2013 at 11:57 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 21 Mar 2013
To:
He called at 7.50 am as I was about to leave home to inform that he would be transferring to CCU. He's on drip, had no food & drink after dinner the night before.
At 12 plus, the representative from Boston Scientific conducted a device check which showed AF in progress.
At 1 pm, Dr Lim Toon Wei arrived at CCU and the team went into action and I was asked to leave the room.
When I returned after lunch, he was asleep due to the sedation. Thank God cardioversion went smoothly & device check after the procedure showed AF is gone. I was delighted and thanked the Lord.
He has no appetite, all he took when he awoke was 3 biscuits. I gave him his Resource milk twice today.
He still couldn't move his bowels. Suppository given at close to 8 pm and an hour later, thank God it was relief for him.
Thank God too that he was allowed to spend the night at CCU which is many times better than the C class ward and will be discharged tomorrow if all goes well.
Please pray for recovery from this viral infection, he still has phlegmy throat.
Thank you all for your continued prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Mar 23, 2013 at 5:46 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 22 Mar 2013
To:
Arrived at CCU before the doctors start their rounds (8-11 am) as no one would be allowed in then. Thank God he slept well and was being sponged as I arrived. Phlegm in throat cleared and last night it was a bit ticklish.
When the resident doctor of CCU, Dr Jesse Ong visited, we asked him why William has been feeling giddy with movement and has this dull constant headache. He diagnosed as tension headache and said he could be discharged once his boss, Dr Lim Toon Wei (Director of CCU) gives the clearance.
When Dr Lim Toon Wei visited late morning, William mentioned his left leg & hand are numbish and heavy. Dr Lim said there could be a possibility of a small clot being dislodged during the cardioversion on 21 Mar. CT-scan of brain ordered at 3 pm and nurse updated status as "not for home today".
We were told that a bed was available in the C class cardiac ward and he would be transferred out once the patient discharged. William asked why can't he stay the night at CCU and I explained that CCU is meant for critically ill patients and Dr Lim was surprised he was still there as there were 4 emergency cases that came in last night. However in my heart I was hoping that he would be able to spend the night at CCU which is air-con, single room although it's freezing in there and we can't do anything about it as it's central air-conditioning.
The CT-Brain scan was uneventful & he was back to his room after 20 mins.
A doctor from the neuro team visited later in the afternoon. He said the scan is no different from the last scan, likely no new stroke but can't really tell if there is one over the damaged portion in the right brain unless a MRI is done which is not possible as it affects his implanted device. He would rather monitor his headache, not keen to give him new drug as he's on warfarin.
Nurse updated that he is to stay another night in CCU as the patient who was supposed to be discharged in the C class cardiac ward took a turn in his condition. God is so good to grant me the desires of my heart. We continue to commit all things to Him and He surely will bring all things to pass according to His will.
Thank God for sustaining me with 3-4 plus hours of sleep since his admission on 18 Mar 2013 and also enabling me to do a bit of insurance work like helping clients with their claims.
God is so good to preserve me from a near accident on 21 Mar 2013. I didn't realise that my bluetooth was off and my mobile phone was not paired to the car. When the phone rang & I saw that it was William on the line, I picked up his call while driving. During the spilt second as I took my eyes off the road and when I looked up again, I almost knocked into the van which had stopped in front of the bus. Thank God for helping me to avoid it in time. It was a close shave & I chided myself for using the phone while driving. If it had been for other callers, I would have ignored the call. Since yesterday, I've switched on bluetooth so calls can be over the speaker as I drive.
It's now 5:45 am and I shall go for my run.
Thanks so much for keeping us in your thoughts & prayers which have helped in seeing us through during this period as God has heard all your prayers. (:
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Mar 23, 2013 at 6:57 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 22 Mar 2013 Cont'd
To:
Just back from refreshing run. Thank God for preserving me again. Was walking back from the gardens, somehow missed a step and that sent me moving forward a few steps, kept my balance and nothing happened. Phew.
Just one correction to below email. The van has stopped behind the bus and not in front. Guess I haven't woken up when I was drafting the update. It happened on my way back from the hospital and I was nearing home.
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Mar 25, 2013 at 6:15 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 23-24 Mar 2013
To:
On Saturday, 23 Mar 2013, I rushed to CCU 2 mins before 8 am to find the room vacated. The nurse had forgotten to inform me that he was transferred to the C class cardiac ward the night before. William told me an hour after I left, they woke him to inform him of the transfer at 9 plus pm. He thought it was morning and asked why they would want to traumatise him when in a few hours time he would be discharged. As he was in hospital records a MRSA positive patient, the 6-bedded ward refused to take him and he landed in the 8 bedded ward. Thank God he could sleep. However the next morning, he started to feel miserable and couldn't wait to be discharged.
A/P Poh Kian Keong with 2 other doctors from the Cardiac team visited and gave clearance for discharge. Upon my request, blood was drawn for INR which save me a trip to the clinic and a swab taken from his nose, armpit and groin for MRSA screening. Nurse Reina will update me soon on the MRSA result. Since he was tested positive for MRSA on 15 Jan 2013, he was not swabbed for further screening in subsequent admissions.
Finally after a long and tiring wait, William was finally allowed home at 2 plus in the afternoon when all the documentation was done and medicine given.
Thank God he is able to sleep and rest well in the home environment. However, due to the constant headache & giddiness, he's confined to bed most times. He does walk to the dining area to have his meals and to the lounge for a change of environment but he can't sit for long due to the giddiness. Washing up and showering have become a chore due to the constant headache which he struggles with. He's on anti-vomiting medicine and that helps ease his nausea.
Thank God he's able to swallow medicine better now and I notice that he drinks faster too. He used to have to take small sips of fluid but now can drink the fluid almost like a normal person.
Thank God for giving me the joy & strength to care for him 24/7 which I've never known I had. Not to mention the peace that passeth all understanding during this time. It is awesome. I must confess there are fearful moments albeit brief. I don't need any breather as there's no other person I'll rather spend time with.
Now that we're home, I'm able to rest more and am aiming for 7-8 hrs of sleep. Thanks to all who are concern for me and I assure you I'll take good care of myself.
William is happy to receive visitors at home. As he has ZERO immunity, only those who are in the pink of health should visit. Please check with me via email or sms xxxxxx03 before you come.
Thanks for your continued prayers which are very much appreciated. Without which I don't know how we would have made it through these more than 3 months of hospitalisation.
It's now 6:15 am, shall leave for my run after sending this off.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Mar 28, 2013 at 4:26 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 25-28 Mar 2013
To:
William continues to have constant headache, giddiness and nausea. He wants to vomit but can't, has stomach ache but can't move his bowels. For those who experienced food poisoning or constipation can identify with these discomfort. Appetite is poor but he forces himself to eat which is a consolation for me.
He's confined to bed most times and is NOT able to receive visitors for the time being as he has a nagging headache and giddiness whenever he sits up.
MRSA swab on 23 Mar 2013 shows he's still positive, a carrier.
Thank God latest INR of 2.39 is still within desired range.
Have been in contact with his cardiologist, Dr Lim Toon Wei, updated him on fluid in & out as well as BP & heart rate. As William is passing out more fluid than he takes in, he may be dehydrated. As instructed, I've excluded the 60 mg of furosemide in his morning medication today. (NB: Lasix (furosemide) is a loop diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt, allowing the salt to instead be passed in your urine.)
Despite the immense discomfort he's going through, he continues to trust in God's word especially Isaiah 40:29-31 that God will ultimately grant the healing so that his strength may be renewed, that he may walk and not faint. Pray for greater faith.
Thank you as always for your continued prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Mar 29, 2013 at 11:29 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 29 Mar 2013
To:
Thank God for relief from constipation, he managed to poo last night after dinner.
Headache, giddiness & nausea continue to plague him. When he awakes, still lying on the bed, this discomfort is a 3 or 4 on a scale of 10. Once he gets up, it grows to a 5 or 6. He doesn't want the anti-vomiting pill as it offers no relief. Thank God so far he's been able to keep his food down although the feeling of wanting to vomit remains.
We continue to pray & trust.
Here's wishing one & all blessed Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. We have not been to church since his stroke on 7 Dec 2012 but we look forward to be able to attend one day when the Lord restores him to health.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Apr 2, 2013 at 12:25 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 30 Mar - 2 Apr 2013
To:
Thank God William is feeling better since 60 mg of frusemide was taken off on 28 Mar 2013 from his morning medication. The cardiologist was right that he was dehydrated. He now has no more nausea and has been able to keep his food/drink down since 28 Mar 2013. Headache & giddiness is slight about 1 or 2 on a scale of 10. Hope it'll be completely gone soon. He's able to move his bowels daily since 30 Mar 2013.
He went for his 1st 2 hr outpatient physio yesterday at St Luke's Hospital. The first one & a half hour was mainly assessment of his balance & endurance. Was glad he could walk round the room 5 times continuously with his walking stick without anyone holding him. Back home he surprised me by walking up 3 steps from the living room to the dining area while I was in the kitchen getting dinner ready.
Thanks for your continued prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Apr 16, 2013 at 11:39 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 3-16 Apr 2013
To:
Sorry for no update for almost 2 weeks. I've received sufficient well-meaning sms/emails asking after William that necessitate this update.
Giddiness & dull headache (1 or 2 on a scale of 10) continue to be his constant companions, causing him no sense of wellness. As a result, he's unable to rest adequately in the day, making him feel very tired and miserable but his comfort is in God's words, listening to the audio bible on iPad. He believes no medicine nor doctors can heal him, only God, the great Physician can and God will heal in His time that all glory & honour be unto Him; ".......knowing that tribulation worketh patience" (Romans 5:3), he continues to wait upon the Lord, trusting and pleading for God's sustaining grace to endure these more than 4 months of difficulty. I'm ever so thankful to God for preserving his life thus far.
Nobody knows the cause of this constant giddiness and headache that he is experiencing since Feb 2013. The cardiologist thought it could be due to tinnitus and asked if he has any ringing in the ears. William replied that there is no ringing in his ears but adds in his usual humourous way that when the phone rings he's able to hear. When we saw the neurologist on 4 Apr 2013, we mentioned about his giddiness but nothing eventuated. The cardiologist remarked that "giddiness is often an incredibly frustrating and hard to manage issue because there are sometimes multiple reasons." I've been in touch with the cardiologist. Not sure if William is still dehydrated as he has been passing out more fluid than his intake due to the spironolactone. Cardiologist suggested letting him drink more and monitor.
As for me, I'm feeling the strain of being a care-giver 24/7, constantly at his back & call. My sleep is daily interrupted twice in the wee hours of the morning by him having to answer the call of nature. Before his stroke, he could sleep through till morning without having to wake for pee. I struggle to do work with whatever time I have, either by waking early in the morning or doing it after he goes to bed. Often than not, I find myself dozing off many times at night due to sheer sleepiness. Waking up early at 4 or 5 am is more productive but sometimes not possible with the interrupted sleep. Feeling stressed, frustration overwhelms and crying to God helps, drawing fresh grace to carry on.
Since 31 Mar 2013, I've been wheeling him around our estate for some fresh air and sunshine.
I would like to place on record our heartfelt thanks to those who are still praying for us, even putting him on the church weekly and prayer list for prayer.
Thank God for Dr Tow Siang Hwa who has been visiting him in hospitals & home, calling ever so frequently to enquire after his health and praying with me on the phone even when he is ministering in overseas churches. Recently, Dr Tow with 2 brethren came to our home and conducted the Lord's supper and it was good to be able to partake of this sacrament being absent from church since his major stroke on 7 Dec 2012.
Thank God for enabling William to attend Sunset Gospel Hour last Sunday (14 Apr), our first service after more than 4 months. Although his giddiness intensified after sitting for 40 minutes, it was good to be able to worship in a church. Thank God that Calvary Pandan is very handicap friendly as William's legs feel very heavy and he needs the wheelchair to move around. Our application for Handicap Parking label was rejected and we're appealing to the Centre for Enabled Living.
Covet your continuing prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Apr 23, 2013 at 9:53 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 17-23 Apr 2013
To:
Thank God headache & giddiness no longer plague him since 19 Apr 2013. However, he is still not out of the woods as he has no sense of wellness, legs are still very heavy, can't do without the walking stick which he remarks has his initials WS. We continue to trust the Lord to restore health unto him.
Thank God for enabling us to attend our church, Tengah's ECM (Extraordinary Congregational Meeting) last Sunday (21 Apr) to elect 3 new deacons to the Session. Many members were delighted to see us, the feeling was mutual. We had to excuse ourselves after voting for SGH (Sunset Gospel Hour) at Pandan. Thank God he was able to sit through the hour long service without giddiness.
This Sunday (28 Apr) is our church, Tengah's ACM (Annual Congregational Meeting) which we plan to attend. Please pray that he'll be able to sit through the more than 2 hours of meeting.
He still wakes me up at 2 plus am or 4 plus am for pee as his urine needs to be measured & recorded. I notice that he passes out more during these times ranging from 200-300 plus ml compared to 100 plus ml in the day. I continue to keep track of his daily fluid intake & outflow (mindful of the fluid restriction so as not to overwork his heart, at the same time ensuring that he is not dehydrated) and faithfully take his BP 3 times a day. Thank God his BP & heart rate are mostly good.
As for me, God's grace has been sufficient to see me through each day and I've experienced tokens of His love & care. Thanks for those who were concerned for me, I've rested and have recovered from sheer tiredness. Keeping fit with 5 km run in the morning whenever possible, yes, I've increased the distance, mindful not to overwork the knees.
Thanks for your concern & continued prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, May 6, 2013 at 1:51 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 24 Apr - 5 May 2013
To:
William is off spironolactone (water passing pill) completely since 3 May after I brought to the cardiologist's attention that he had been passing out more than a litre of fluid for 2 consecutive period of time (from midnight to 9 am). Without this diuretic, he's able to sit for longer period without feeling giddy and his BP seems to be better. Thank God that the dehydration problem is now finally resolved.
It's been almost 5 months since the massive stroke to his right brain. Thank God he is recovering slowly although left side continues to feel weak and has not regained strength completely with occasional muscle pain in his limbs. However, his left fingers are now able to hold the newspaper, something which he could not do 2 months ago.
He still needs my assistance for his daily living activities and is totally dependent on me, his only care-giver. God has been good to give grace and more grace in depressing times.
Since my last update on 23 Apr, I've been down with cold and phlegmy cough which sometimes are violent ones. He is also coughing but not as bad as me.
Covet your continuing prayers and thanks for keeping us in your thoughts & prayers.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, May 9, 2013 at 11:32 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 6-9 May 2013
To:
William woke this morning (9 May) with 30% sense of wellness, something which is unheard of since his ICD implant in Oct 2012. He now enjoys his food and energy level has gone up. The Lord be praised!
Thank God we are 80% recovered from our cough.
My heart is touched to know that you are caring & praying for us. Some of you have gone the extra mile to show love in practical ways. Thanks for calling, sms-ing and emailing.
Attached photo of William taken this morning.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, May 22, 2013 at 10:30 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 10-22 May 2013
To:
Cardiologist was happy to see William walking into his clinic on 20
May with the aid of the walking stick although we have the wheelchair.
Thank God for good blood tests results and device check showed no AF
(atrial fibrillation) since the cardioversion 2 months ago. God is
good and greatly to be praised.
William's sense of wellness and energy level have improved. However
his legs continue to feel heavy and the ticklish throat doesn't seem
to go away which causes him to cough occasionally. Covet your prayers.
Thank God I've fully recovered from cold & cough.
God's precious words continue to saturate his mind daily. Whenever
someone encourages him with a bible verse, he adds it to his memory
bank and meditates on it, even writing a poem to express his
understanding. His recent meditation is on Proverbs 18:10 which says
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into
it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10
Thy Name, O Lord, is a tower strong,
Entering therein, my fears all gone;
Within its walls, safety I find,
Coupled with peace of heart and mind;
Daily I seek, in it to hide,
Safe and secure, whatever betide:
Increase my faith Lord, in Thee alone to trust
Throughout all my days, while life on earth shall last.
Thanks for continued prayers. Thanking the Lord daily and asking for
God's richest blessings upon those who are praying for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jun 14, 2013 at 6:17 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 23 May - 14 Jun 2013
To:
A routine scheduled appointment with the neurologist on Monday,10 Jun
landed him in A&E. William was feeling unwell and light-headed while
waiting his turn to see the neurologist who observed that he was off
colour and suspected he may have a heart failure. ECG, blood tests,
chest X-ray done. All normal except heart marker Troponin was raised.
As a result, A&E doctor wanted him warded for observation. Against
hospital's advice, William signed the indemnity form and discharged
himself that day and has been resting at home since. Thank God no
untoward consequences and he has been feeling fine. Suspect his
light-headedness could be due to a transient drop in blood pressure.
Appointment made with the cardiologist on 1 Jul for follow up.
Thank God for enabling William to make the trip to Le Grandeur Palm
Resort Johor, our home away from home in Senai (from home to hotel
less than an hour journey by car) for a time of rest (29 May-7 Jun)
and for me to drive solo in Malaysia (my 1st experience apart from the
emergency drive back in Nov 2011 when he had his 3rd heart failure at
the same resort). Thank God for safety and protection. It was
delightful to return to a hotel with warm hospitality. We were very
well taken care of.
We have been invited to join our mother church family camp in KL,
Malaysia from 17-22 Jun with the understanding that William may not be
able to attend all the meetings due to his health. We look forward to
a time of spiritual feasting on God's word and fellowship with the
Pandanites. Please pray that William will be able to take the almost 4
hrs journey by hired car, his first since the acute heart failure in
Aug 2009.
By God's grace and your continued prayers, I'm coping reasonably well.
William feels bad that I've to handle everything alone as he feels so
helpless. I find strength in Him for our God is a prayer answering
God, ever near us and sees all that we are going through.
A dear sister-in-Christ shared Psalms 66:20 "Blessed be God, which
hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me." with us
sometime back and William committed it to memory, meditated on it and
wrote the poem (his preoccupation during this time of compulsory rest)
append below for your encouragement.
"I bless Thee Lord for hearing my prayer
In mercy I'm kept under Thy watchful care
What then have I to fear?
To know that Thou art always near.
In Thee, Lord will I ever abide
Safe and secure whatever betide.
Daily before Thy throne I spend
Trusting in Thee alone to journey's end.
Then shall my soul to heaven ascend,
O what a blessedness, with no more sorrow or care,
All tears forever gone, no more burdens to bear.
But while on earth, with others the gospel to share
Alas to meet in heaven, the saints' eternal home up there!"
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Jun 14, 2013 at 3:41 PM
Subject: Fwd: Update on Elder William Seah 23 May - 14 Jun 2013 - Update
To:
Wow, I am awed by God's marvelous care. Pandan camp committee took the initiative to arrange for a medical doctor to accompany us on our journey to & fro KL for the church camp. Praise the Lord for this unexpected provision.
Thank God that the poem has blessed many hearts. You are free to share with others. Just one minor amendment to the last line. It should be "At last" instead of "Alas".
Amended version of poem on Psalm 66:20 as follows:
"I bless Thee Lord for hearing my prayer
In mercy I'm kept under Thy watchful care
What then have I to fear?
To know that Thou art always near.
In Thee, Lord will I ever abide
Safe and secure whatever betide.
Daily before Thy throne I spend
Trusting in Thee alone to journey's end.
Then shall my soul to heaven ascend,
O what a blessedness, with no more sorrow or care,
All tears forever gone, no more burdens to bear.
But while on earth, with others the gospel to share
At last to meet in heaven, the saints' eternal home up there!"
William told me he has no sense of wellness today. We continue to hope & quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Jun 15, 2013 at 1:26 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 15 Jun 2013
To:
Due to William's unstable heart condition and on medical advice, we
have cancelled our trip to KL (17-22 Jun).
Please pray that we will be able to have the appointment to see his
cardiologist on 17 Jun for device check & consultation.
Append his latest meditation on Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the
thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace
and not of evil to give you an expected end." resulting in the poem
below.
"How marvellous are Thy thoughts to us ward for vessels of mercy we are,
In time past, have wandered from Thee afar.
But when yet without strength, Christ died for the ungodly,
Setting us free from the fetters of sin and misery;
Condemned for hell, in despair we did wander,
Away from God's love, further and further.
Though dead in trespasses and sins we did not even bother,
Until quickened by the Spirit, causing us to pause and ponder;
To reject so great a love, how can it be? I started to wonder;
No, no, and only then, I turned to Him in total surrender;
Peace filled my soul, thereafter, never from Him to wander,
Saved by His grace, each day for Him to labour on;
With joyful heart, and lips filled with praise and song,
Marching upward with all the saints of God making up the redeemed throng,
Pressing on to my home above,
Constrained by His matchless and undying love,
Called not only to believe on Him but to suffer for His sake,
Willingly therefore my cross to bear and all worldly pleasures to forsake.
Heir of God and joint-heir with Christ - at last, my place in heaven to take,
For this is our expected end,
To God be the glory as we gladly echo the sweet 'amen!'
Thy child, O Lord, protect and defend,
For in weakness, Thou art my refuge and strength."
Covet your continuing prayers for us.
Thanks & God bless.
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Jun 17, 2013 at 10:38 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 16-17 Jun 2013
To:
Just a short update.
We are unable to get an earlier appointment other than the one already booked for 1 Jul for William to have his device check and to see his cardiologist.
I'm keeping him indoors with the aircon on as the haze is bad with PSI in the unhealthy range today. At 10 pm, the PSI was 155 - the highest since 1997.
The dengue situation in Singapore is getting worse. Dengue cases have crossed the 10,000 mark and dengue clusters have appeared in the west where we are. Trusting the Lord to protect.
William has been resting and in between rest, constantly meditating on God's word and putting his thoughts on iPad.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Jul 3, 2013 at 1:19 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 18 Jun - 3 Jul 2013
To:
Visit to the cardiologist on 1 Jul went well. Results of blood tests
were mostly normal. Device check showed 1 brief episode of atrial
flutter (5 seconds) on 11 Jun when he was asleep in the night and
another episode of fast heart beat (156) for 8 seconds on 22 Jun when
he was resting in the evening. He didn't feel a thing during these
occurrences. Cardiologist is not too concern but will monitor. Next
appointment on 30 Sep.
It is sometimes quite trying on our faith but thank God for His word
which give encouragement and renewed faith to trust Him for full
restoration of health for William.
Append below a poem based on the following verses which have been our
constant encouragement.
Romans 15:4 "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written
for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the
scriptures might have hope."
Psalm 31:24 "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart,
all ye that hope in the LORD."
Lamentations 3:26 "It is good that a man should both hope and quietly
wait for the salvation of the LORD."
To hope in the Lord is His command
This we must do whatever life may demand;
The Lord of all, and unchanging is He
Being assured that in eternity, His dear face we shall see;
But while on earth, His witnesses we must be,
Sharing the gospel, which is the power of God unto salvation;
Trusting in Jesus' atoning death, assures us of redemption;
And at the end, to see Him face to face, that's glorification.
Day after day, and waiting for His glorious Return
Reaching out to family and friends, making it our heart's concern;
While the gospel seed we must faithfully sow, to pray and to trust
The Spirit will bring conviction, and souls saved at last.
Before His throne, all our burdens on Him to cast
All glory to God in the highest, who sits enthroned above
Looking down on us His people in pity and in love.
So let's press on while it is yet day
For night will soon come, and all opportunities pass away
Away with our slothfulness, but putting on zeal and steadfastness
Trusting only in His unchanging truth and unfailing faithfulness
Being clothed only in Jesus' perfect righteousness
On this alone we stand
O Lord, Thy people defend
Thou art our Saviour and Friend, even to the end!
As we echo the sweet amen.
Thank you for your concern & continued prayers for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Aug 3, 2013 at 10:46 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 4 Jul - 3 Aug 2013
To:
Since the last update on 3 Jul, the days that follow have been difficult. William continues to struggle with his health with no sense of wellness, feels tired all the time, experiences constipation on a few occasions, has shallow breathing on & off, a sense of hopelessness and uselessness overwhelm him. All these are his 'calamities'. The stroke has caused some bio-chemical imbalance which explains why he is feeling down, currently on medication to restore the imbalance.
On a brighter note, visit to the neurologist on 1 Aug went well. The neurologist remarked that William has made remarkable recovery as the extent of damage to his right brain by the massive stroke would have rendered him unable to walk. Next appointment is open-dated. The Lord be praised.
Psalm 57:1-2 expresses his plea.
"Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me:
for my soul trusteth in Thee:
yea, in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge,
until these calamities be overpast.
I will cry unto God most high;
unto God that performeth all things for me."
"He will certainly do it as from sin He has set me free
Thanks be unto God that in Christ we have such liberty!
Only waiting to see Him face to face in His eternal glory.
O what a joy and rejoicing that will surely be.
In the meantime Lord just have mercy on miserable me
Pleading as always from my calamities to be set free
My strength to renew, to mount up with wings as eagles
To run and not be weary,
to walk and not faint, freed from all my misery
From heaven Lord look down on me with pity."
Thank God for keeping me in health & giving me strength daily to attend to all his needs 24/7. Whenever he is not well, my heart aches, tears roll down spontaneously, feeling quite helpless and wishing I could do something to relief him.
For those who are thinking & praying for us, I pray daily that the Lord will bless you richly.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Aug 14, 2013 at 5:19 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 4-14 Aug 2013
To:
A short update.
Cardiologist appointment on 12 Aug went well. Device check showed no atrial fibrillation; only a few brief moments (3-4 seconds) of ventricle tachycardia (fast heart beats). As they self-terminated, there is no cause for concern. The new medication is helping William, he no longer has feelings of hopelessness and uselessness but he has to cope with the unpleasant side effects (giddiness, headache, nausea, tiredness & constipation). His energy level is low; shallow breathing is still an issue. Despite all the physical infirmities, he is still meditating on God's words and trusting the Lord to bring all these 'calamities' to pass.
Thanks for having us in your thoughts & prayers.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Sep 19, 2013 at 6:01 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 15 Aug - 19 Sep 2013
To:
Thank God William is making good recovery from his stroke, his left
hand grip is stronger now. No more side effects experienced from the
new medication. He has been moving his bowels daily which is something
we are thankful for. His energy level remains low, been resting lots.
Taking him down for evening walks whenever possible.
He is still struggling with his health, having to cope with his
perpetual nasal problem and constant shortness of breath which
returned about a month ago. The nasal drip causes him to cough
occasionally. Shortness of breath is between 1-4 on a scale of 10 with 10 being the most breathless. Will discuss with the cardiologist at our upcoming appointment on 30 Sep.
I don't know how I could have survived these more than 9 months of
difficulty if not for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and for your
prayers.
William expresses his appreciation for my care many times but today he decided to pen them. He typed on his iPad while I drove to the office to submit a client's accident claim. Sharing it with you with his permission. William has always loved me sacrificially and
unconditionally and I don't need any repayment. His well-being is my
greatest reward. I look forward to the day when he is fully restored,
doing things together, serving the Lord together again.
"Thursday, 19/9/2013 (2:19pm.)
Hi darling
While I rest and ponder I cannot thank God enough for you especially
for your love, devotion and care for me at this time of my life, doing all that you have to do with so much joy and cheerfulness.
I want to be well for you and by His grace I will overcome.
Words cannot adequately express my gratitude and appreciation for all
that you have done and continue to do for me. I will never be able to
repay you for all that you have done for me, ever so patiently without a word of murmur or complaint. It makes life much easier for me for sure as the Lord progressively restores my health for He is the health of my countenance and my God.
I want to let you know how much I truly appreciate all your efforts
and can only pray that the Lord will richly bless you that together,
we may serve Him with renewed zeal and fervor till He comes.
By God's grace I want to be up and about again to be with you and
doing things together like old days and even better..... I am resting
in Him to do it for me so that we may praise His Name together. In
the meantime pray for me that I may patiently wait for Him and also to quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord for His time is always
perfect and best for me. May I be able to translate this truth from my head to my heart.
I will always love you as Christ loved the church, sacrificially and
unconditionally, possible only because of His grace.
I continue to meditate on His Word until all my calamities be overpast.
Yes this chapter of my life will end soon and a new chapter will begin according to His Word unto His servant whose soul trusteth in Him hoping only in His mercies with this prayer.
'Be merciful unto me
O God, be merciful unto me
For my soul trusteth in Thee
Yea in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge
Until these calamities be overpast
I will cry unto God most high, unto God that performeth all things for me
In Jesus' Name, amen.'
With all my love and hugs
darling william"
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Nov 17, 2013 at 11:43 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 20 Sep - 17 Nov 2013
To:
Since my last update on 19 Sep, William has been struggling daily with his health with no sense of wellness. Currently, he is feeling quite unwell, headache & nausea don't seem to go away even with panadol and nausea pill. This unwellness is making him feel miserable.
Thank God he no longer has the constant shortness of breath since end
October. There was only 1 episode a couple of days ago which he
struggled with his breathing for a while.
Covet your prayers.
Below poem expresses his feelings
Lord bid the sense of my unwellness to depart
And restore peace and joy to my fainting heart
Plenteous Thy mercy and ever so gracious Thou art
By Thy grace Lord I'm enduring the test
Waiting upon Thee to give me Thy best
In the meantime Lord, teach me in Thee to rest
Waiting patiently for Thee to be truly blest.
Plagued by constant nausea and headache as well
None can really understand, so to Thee Lord I must tell
Delivered from condemnation and the torment of hell
Remove far from me doubting and fear
Teach me to know that Thou art near
To strengthen my weakness as my Redeemer dear.
My life is Thine O Lord and for Thee alone to live
Sharing the gospel that others in Christ might believe
And life eternal from the Son of God freely to receive
Cleansed by His blood, and all our sins He will forgive.
Christ must increase and I must decrease
So that His love in me others may see
Till in glory I shall be with Thee eternally
Pressing toward the mark for the heavenly prize
Watching for His return in clouds of the sky
For the dead in Christ will first arise
As promised in His Word hence no surprise.
In His glory to share and never to part anymore
Good bye to earth and in His presence forevermore.
Rested from all our labours, our cares and to sin no more
And to worship the Lamb and Him to praise and adore.
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Feb 24, 2014 at 6:01 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 18 Nov 2013 - 24 Feb 2014
To:
Apologies for no update for more than 3 months.
William is still struggling with his unwellness day in day out which
has become his calamity. It's not nausea or indigestion or
bloatedness, just unwell, a feeling which he can't even describe. I
feel so helpless.
Nausea & headache ceased after discontinuation of 2 medicine. Thank
God his BP & heart rate readings have been good and he is passing out
water well.
Yet, we don't understand why he is feeling so unwell. It's been more
than a year already. It has become quite difficult to bear, depressing
at times. He feels miserable when he dwells on his unwellness. Only
God's words can take his mind off. Indeed Psalm 119:92 is so true of
his situation "Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have
perished in mine affliction." If not for the Lord's mercies in
keeping us in His love & tender care, our faith would have failed.
We dwell on past deliverance and give thanks. God who has miraculously
& mercifully preserved him from 5 heart failures & a massive stroke
can & will deliver, in His own time & for His glory. We continue to
plead.....
Sharing a poem which he has penned some time ago.
Pleading for God's plenteous mercy to fall on me (Psalm 103:8)
The psalmist declares that plenteous is Thy mercy
For this I humbly plead in my unwellness which is become an agony
So turn unto me according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies
For each day is become an eternity, so look down with pity on me
Thou art my very present help in trouble, so deliver me from this calamity
My soul is utterly cast down unless from it Thou wilt set me free
For Lord this is my urgent plea, therefore do hear me speedily
And bid my unwellness from me to flee, yes Lord do it for Thy own glory.
I know Lord that looking at my unwellness causes nothing but despair
So forgive me Lord for on Thee I have cast my every care
So I must cheer up and bless Him for His deliverance thus far
I must therefore learn to "Let Go and Let God" and in Him to trust
O my soul, dwell not in thy misery but in His loving care that will
forever last.
Until in clouds of the sky we hear the glorious trumpet blast
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Mar 25, 2014 at 10:23 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 25 Feb - 26 Mar 2014
To:
Yesterday's visit to the cardiologist yielded some good news.
Cardiologist is pleased that his enlarged heart has reduced in size, comparing readings from the 2D echo done 6 months ago with the latest. This is good as it means his heart is pumping more efficiently.
Device check showed no AF (atrial fibrillation), another item for thanksgiving. Praise God that there has been no AF since the cardioversion a year ago. However, there were a few runs of VT (Ventricular Tachycardia - fast heart beat in the bottom chambers of the heart called the ventricles) which he didn't feel at all. As they are non-sustained, very brief, about 10 seconds and self-terminated, they are not of concern. Device is pacing his heart 95% of the time. Remaining battery life is 8 years which is the maximum battery life span, even after slightly more than a year of usage.
Blood test results were all normal and INR of 2.5 within desired range.
Yet he continues to feel unwell.
Adjustment was made to his medication with the discontinuation of one medicine.
He is still not out of the woods and I covet your continuing prayers for us. Grateful to those who pray so fervently for us and are not letting up.
His present meditation is on Psalm 70:1 "Make haste, O God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord." as he struggles with his continuing unwellness.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Jul 27, 2014 at 8:55 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 26 Mar - 26 Jul 2014
No news is good news is not always true.
Each day has been & is still a struggle with Nausea, Unwellness, Headache & Shortness of breath setting in in varying degree since my last update 4 months ago. He abbreviated such symptoms 'NUHS' in jest with no bearing on the National University Health System.
During the 4 months, adjustment was made to his heart medicine but these symptoms still persist.
Shortness of breath has become quite suffocating lately. On the advice of the cardiologist, I had to drive him to the emergency yesterday afternoon. Blood tests & chest X-ray done and he is to be admitted. However the hospital has no bed for him and he was held in the emergency holding area. At the time of writing he is still there & it has been more than 15 hrs.
Was told by A&E doctor he has heart failure.
Please pray for wisdom to the doctors to treat him. While I had 4 good hrs of sleep in the comfort of home, he was clock-watching through the night. :(
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Jul 27, 2014 at 6:33 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 27 Jul 2014
Thank God I was allowed into the emergency holding area to see William upon arrival mid-morning. He was still breathless and on oxygen but better compared to yesterday. Being on that trolley bed for more than 15 hrs without much movement caused his backside to be painful and he was asking the nurse to allow him to sit on a chair. The nurse had compassion on him and relented since I would be by his side to watch over him in case he falls. After being on that chair for a good 45 mins, the A&E Sister got the nurse to bring him a sofa armchair and William remarked that he was being treated like a 'king' with such comfort.
At 10:45 am, we were happy to see his cardiologist who dropped by to check on him. It is indeed God's appointment that the cardiologist had to work over the long weekend, today being Sunday and tomorrow is a public holiday (Hari Raya Pusa). The chest X-Ray showed slight congestion in the lungs and increased pressure in the veins. He ordered 20mg of Frusemide (water passing out pill). An hour before noon, there was still no news about bed availability and we took the chance to ask for discharge. After some persuasion, he agreed, we were overjoyed.
Traffic was smooth and we were home in no time. Settled him in bed, he slept well for a while and got up to have his late lunch and went back to sleep again.
As he is nauseous after meals 99% of the time, on advice of the cardiologist, an ultrasound was done a month ago. A few gall stones but gall bladder is of normal shape & size, thankfully. He will be repeating the ultrasound on Tuesday, 29 July at NUH and see the surgeon the following Monday.
Heartfelt thanks to all who have been and are in continuing prayers for us.
God is so wonderful to undertake all things for me. It's amazing that I could stay so long with him in the emergency holding area today. Hospital policy is to only allow one next-of-kin in for 5-10 mins, one time admission, no multiple visits within the day.
Most important, God has preserved his life once again and I am most thankful.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Aug 26, 2014 at 1:29 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 28 Jul - 25 Aug 2014
To:
Since discharge from A&E on 27 Jul, William has been resting in a 1-bed, 1-ward 'hospital' called Home with round the clock care by his private Missy (untrained).
He is still unwell with shortness of breath & nausea. Headache seems to have left him so it is NUS (nausea, unwellness, shortness of breath) for now.
As his shortness of breath is sometimes suffocating, I wonder if he is still in heart failure mode. The cardiologist suggested getting the heart failure team involved. But the earliest appointment to see the cardiologist who specializes in advance heart failure is a month from now. :(
A repeat ultrasound was done end July and a CT scan of the abdomen last week. Thank God that the few gallstones remain status quo compared to the first ultrasound scan in June and the gall bladder is not inflamed. Surgeon is not keen on surgery to remove gall bladder due to his weak heart condition and doctors are not 100% sure that the gallstones are the sole cause of his nausea. The ultrasound & CT scan also revealed 2 small cysts in his liver but they are too insignificant and will not cause nausea. The treatment plan for now is for him to take Domperidone 10mg for 2 weeks and to review in a month's time.
Despite his physical unwellness, he makes it a point to attend church on Sundays even though it is a struggle for him to sit through the service. Often times we had to leave immediately after the service due to his breathlessness and chest discomfort. When he felt a bit better, he would stay for a time of fellowship with members and friends but those were rare moments.
Someone asked me what he does during the day. Well, when he is not lying in bed, he is constantly meditating on God's word or asking me to test him on bible verses which he has memorised or typing email to whomsoever the Lord lays on his heart to encourage with God's word. As the Lord gives the inspiration, he would pen poems on his iPad which I've selectively posted on facebook.
He is concentrating on getting well so that he can be in active service in the Lord's vineyard again and also to do insurance sales, something which he is still passionate about.
By God's grace, I'm kept in health & strength, still doing my runs to keep fit, managing the house and work single-handedly. It is a challenge but with God's help He enables.
Would not have survived without your prayers.
So thanks to all who are still thinking and praying for us.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Sep 2, 2014 at 2:28 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 26 Aug - 1 Sep 2014
To:
As his shortness of breath is not improving and continues to be suffocating at times, he was taken by ambulance to A&E this afternoon. ECG, chest X-ray and blood tests done and he is to be warded for heart failure.
After being in the emergency treatment area for 9 hours, he was finally transferred to a bed in the cardio ward. I was not allowed to see him as visitors are strictly not allowed in the treatment area.
By the time I left the hospital after making sure he was fed and ready for bed, it was past midnight.
Please pray for wisdom to the doctors and speedy recovery from heart failure.
As always, thanks for your continuing prayers.
I leave you with a poem he penned a few days ago entitled "My urgent prayer to God".
My SOB Lord coupled with nausea too
Are troubling me very badly the whole day through
Coupled with my unwell feeling, I'm really lost for words to explain
So to Thee Lord I'm coming with this calamity to seek relief from this nagging agony and pain
I'm feeling so miserable which words cannot aptly describe
So look down in mercy and compassion, crying out to Thee, my plea subscribe.
At times I feel I'm at my wits' end not knowing what next to do
And Thy Word keeps telling me 'trust in Him who is faithful and true'
So that's what I will be doing, like Job of old I must be
Until the expected end is come and His full salvation I shall see.
At times I feel abandoned as if He has ceased to care
But I can still hear Him say to me 'My child all your burdens I will carry and bear'.
Forgive me Lord for my faithlessness, returning to Thee in simple believing prayer.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Tue, Sep 9, 2014 at 7:16 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 2-8 Sep 2014
To:
Since admission on 1 Sep, William's condition is stable but shortness
of breath persists. On a scale of 10 with 10 being the worst,
breathlessness is at a baseline of 3 to 4; nausea at 1 to 2, goes up 3
to 5 after food. Thank God though nauseous he has appetite and can
hold food down.
Device checked, there were 6 brief episodes of VTs (fast heart beats
in the ventricles) since the last device check more than a month ago
but they self-terminated. So not of concern for the time being.
Blood tests for cholesterol, kidney function and fasting sugar were
normal. Blood tests for heart failure as expected were abnormal.
Mibi stress test done to see if heart muscle is getting enough blood
flow and oxygen when it is working hard (under stress). Also to
ascertain how much of his heart muscles are working. This scan is done
in 2 parts on separate days and during the scan he was reciting the
many portions of bible verses that he has memorised.
Thank God for seeing him through all the tests and scans especially
the stress test as in very rare cases, heart can stop and he had to
sign an indemnity.
Mibi stress test showed 10% of the left ventricle muscles is not
getting enough blood flow and oxygen when it is working hard (under
stress).
2D echo showed EF has deteriorated from 35% 6 months ago to 22% which
explains why he feels tired after brushing his teeth and needs to
rest. Ejection fraction (EF) is a test that determines how well your
heart pumps with each beat, normal 55-70%.
Lungs seem clear but he is still breathless. The team said the heart
failure doctor will see him next.
Medication adjusted with new medicine given, praying for no side effects.
He is able to sleep supine in the C class ward as the nights have been
cool. His only complain is the food as they 'murdered' the green
vegetables. How did it taste? It tasted deadly was his reply.
He will be here for a few more days for the heart failure team to
complete investigations and come up with recommendations.
Please continue to pray for wisdom to the doctors.
His constant comfort lies in the knowledge of the presence of God who
has been his help all these days and his hope in the days to come as
He has promised in His Word, the bible, which has been his constant
meditation and encouragement.
I know that whenever the call comes, he is ready to go except for now
he has asked the Lord to spare his life for my sake as he knows his
sudden departure will cause me great emotional difficulties. May the
good Lord look down in mercy on us.
Below poem was written last week on
Deuteronomy 31:8
"And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with
thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither
be dismayed."
If the Lord goes before me, what have I to fear
He hast promised never to leave me but be always near
In His presence is fullness of joy
And this nothing can ever destroy
Onward with my sojourn, I journey on in His strength
Looking only to Jesus my stronghold and my Friend.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sun, Sep 14, 2014 at 1:52 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 9-13 Sep 2014
To:
William was in CCU/CMU (Coronary Care Unit / Cardiac Monitoring Unit)
for 2 nights (11-13 Sep) to receive treatment (infusion of
Levosimendan) for his heart failure. Thank God for keeping him in good
spirits and for grace to bear with the discomfort of the catheter at
the right side of his neck where the drug was being infused for 30 hrs
with his heart being monitored closely.
The heart failure specialist was quite pleased that his cardiac index
increased from 1.1 to 2.2 (normal 3.5) after the treatment. Cardiac
index is one method of measuring how much blood is being pumped by
your heart.
He feels marginally better but still can't regulate his breathing. I
believe breathing will improve in due course as we continue to wait
upon the Lord for full restoration.
Nausea is still felt after eating but of a lesser degree. When the
heart is not pumping enough for the whole body's needs, the body goes
into ration mode. The brain, kidneys & liver will take majority of the
blood while other parts of the body like the digestive system is not
getting enough. Hence the nausea.
Thank God he was discharged last evening (13 Sep) and is recuperating at home.
His left leg is very weak (stroke leg) and has nerve pain at slightest
movement as he has been lying in bed most of the time during the 13
days of hospital stay. Thank God for strength to walk short distances
with assistance. With wobbly legs, he is prone to falls and needs
constant supervision.
Doctor recommends we rent an oxygen concentrator which was delivered
yesterday, in time for him to use when he sleeps or when
breathlessness sets in. Although his oxygen saturation is above 95%,
taking in oxygen will help improve his overall being.
Thank God for grace, strength and joy to care for William, made
possible by your prayers.
As always, appreciate your kind thoughts of us and continuing prayers.
Attached photo taken yesterday.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 4:58 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah 14 Sep-13 Dec 2014
To:
I had wanted to update only when his condition improves BUT it has
been 3 months since the heart treatment and he is STILL struggling
with the same NUHS (Nausea, Unwellness, Headache, Shortness of breath)
which are "constant daily companions", at times almost unbearable.
Nausea now comes with headache (he calls it the enhanced version),
sometimes occurs even before food.
It has been difficult if not for the Grace of God. What kept him going
is the Word of God which he meditates ever so frequently, reciting
them almost on a daily basis to keep them fresh in his memory. I'm
amazed he still can recite all 35 verses of Proverbs 3 by heart,
verbatim. This exercise takes his mind off his unpleasant symptoms.
He looks good despite having constant NUHS, this he testifies to Psalm
146:5 "Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope
is in the Lord his God:"
Thank God his BP & heart rate have been excellent and he also has an
answer for this, found in Psalm 73:26 "My flesh and my heart faileth:
but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever."
We believe only God, the Great Physician can deliver him from NUHS,
there is nothing too hard for God. Doctors have done all they could
for him. Bringing Jeremiah 32:27 "Behold, I am the Lord, the God of
all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?" before God in my
prayer for William's restoration of health. God has preserved his
life many times and surely He can if He will. Will you join me in
earnest prayer?
Finally, William wants to share his latest meditation with you from
Psalm 71:16-18
16 I will go in the strength of the Lord God: I will make mention of
thy righteousness, even of thine only.
17 O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I
declared thy wondrous works.
18 Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until
I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to
every one that is to come.
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Wed, Dec 2, 2015 at 11:29 PM
Subject: Update on Elder Seah - 2 Dec 2015
To:
I'm physically drained with only 3-4 hrs sleep since his admission on 27/11, in hospital from morning till past midnight seeing to his every need and providing constant updates to his children. Didn't have the heart to leave till he's comfortable & sleeping.
Emotional roller coaster for me as he almost died 2 nights ago. A frightening experience. He was gasping for air like a fish out of water, couldn't find any comfortable position, perspiring & had chest pain (1st time ever), heart rate dropping. Thank God for sending medical team who wasted no time in saving him. I left at 3 am after committing him to the Lord.
Imagine my joy yesterday when I saw him awake upon arrival in the morning and hear him say that he's alive and kicking.
Slight improvement today as breathing is better but nausea is still bad and appetite poor due to damaged liver; kidneys slight improvement too but still impaired. Due to poor heart function & chronic AF (Atrial Fibrillation), his already weakened heart is pumping even lesser blood for body hence liver & kidneys are 1st to be affected.
Blood was extremely thin yesterday due to liver damage. Vitamin K (blood clotting) given helped to bring down INR from yesterday's more than 10 to 3.9, still outside therapeutic range of between 2-3.
Doctors are giving medicine to treat. He's still not out of danger.
Visit is restricted as his immunity is almost non-existence & catching another common cold or flu may be fatal. In fact he always say in jest "no need to visit, just send the cash" haha. Jokes aside, your prayers are good enough for us. Please continue to pray God to restore liver & kidneys and wisdom to doctors to treat.
God is still in control. "All is well" continues to ring in my mind. I need your prayers too as one moment I'm strengthened the next moment my peace is disturbed by distressing news. I must continue to stay my mind on Jesus & continue to put my trust in Him, not in man. Thank God He is sovereign, nothing happens by chance for a Christian. I'm learning many precious & needful lessons through this minor trial and is comforted that God never tests us beyond what we can bear but always provides a way of escape. His grace indeed is sufficient and His strength made perfect in weakness.
I know that the damage done to his heart is irreversible and it will one day stop. The thought of losing him is unthinkable and right now I don't think I can deal with it. But I know if it is His will He will prepare me as I don't wish to dishonour Him. Elder Seah accepts whatever the Lord gives and will fight on for my sake till the call comes to enter into that perfect rest. The bible records that king Hezekiah was sick unto death, he cried unto the Lord and the Lord gave him 15 years. I don't specify the number of years, all I ask is that the Lord in mercy will keep us till He comes for us to meet us in the air.
P.S. This is my first email update since my last update on 13 Dec 2014, preferring to update on facebook. ID: amywkchia@gmail.com
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 4, 2015 at 12:01 AM
Subject: Update on Elder Seah - 3 Dec 2015
To:
I've good news!
Thank God INR back to normal (2.2), within therapeutic range.
Kidneys back to normal.
Liver enzymes dropped by 50% still abnormal but improving. Ultrasound of liver to investigate further. Tested negative for hep B & C.
Potassium low now so I can give him his favourite pisang raya & bird's nest haha. He's also given potassium to bring the level back to normal.
Breathing better than yesterday.
Still no appetite & energy but these will return. Blood sugar normal, still on glucose drip. He managed to eat half of the food served for dinner.
Oxygen 99-100%, still on 2 L/min of oxygen.
Praise the Lord that He continues to undertake all things for us as we look to Him. Thanks for continued prayers.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Sat, Dec 5, 2015 at 12:43 AM
Subject: Update on Elder Seah - 4 Dec 2015
To:
He looks better today, countenance has improved.
Appetite is slowly returning, at least he feels like eating although the portion is small.
Breathing is much better than yesterday. Extremely thankful for this as he has been constantly breathless for more than 2 years.
Hardly any nausea after eating, another praise item.
Markers for liver enzymes are coming down although still abnormal. Due to poor heart function worsened by the viral lung infection, insufficient blood to liver caused some cells to die. One of the enzymes shot up to 4000+, now at 1000+ (normal max = 34). As he doesn't take alcohol (told doctors he can't afford) and has no underlying liver diseases, doctors are optimistic the liver can regenerate once there's sufficient blood supply.
Infection is clearing up as phlegm is no longer brownish.
Body is extremely weak, tends to lean towards his weaker left side when the therapists sat him on edge of bed. Lots of physio required to get him back to normal.
He won't be discharged anytime soon although he has been asking since yesterday when he can go home.
Thank God for all who have and are continuing to pray for us.
I continue to trust God to undertake all things for us. My prayer now takes on a different perspective, no longer telling God what to do but trusting Him to do as He deems fit for His glory as Elder Seah always says "God is our Master, not our servant".
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Fri, Dec 18, 2015 at 9:37 AM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah
To:
Infection cleared and gout being treated after 17 days in NTFGH, he was transferred to the community hospital for at least 2 weeks' rehab to regain muscle strength which he was looking forward to. However hardly any physio done due to his very weak heart with constant breathlessness, nausea, headache and unwellness.
Another episode of bad SOB (shortness of breath) before dawn on 16/12. 1st one was the day before. ECG done but no different from previous. Doctors are slowly restarting some of his heart medication which were withheld due to low BP & damaged liver, with close monitoring. On 2 litres/min oxygen. Yesterday's X-Ray showed patch in right lung. Could be fluid build up or another lung infection. He has been coughing 3 days ago.
Medical personnel sprang into action. However, staff nurse failed to insert IV plug twice as right hand quite bruised from many blood taking and previous IV plugs insertion. Thank God principal physician Dr Chuah succeeded. Medicine (frusemide) injected thru IV to drain fluid. Since then more than 2.5 litres of fluid passed out. Antibiotic (Augmentin) ran for half hour through IV.
Left leg pain returned. Doctors afraid may have blood clot due to chronic AF, investigating. INR was once 1.36. Last check was 1.8, still out of therapeutic range of 2-3.
Thank God one of the 2 liver enzymes has normalised. The other is still raised but slowly dropping (last liver function test on 14/12 showed it has fallen from 118 to 85, normal max 34)
Appetite remains poor.
Due to constant SOB, coordination of breathing & swallowing is poor, risk of choking on saliva, food/fluid going into lungs. On soft diet. Further fluid restriction imposed (800 ml).
The Lord is still in control, undertaking all things for us & giving doctors the wisdom to treat. God is great & greatly to be praised.
There are moments of distress but thank God for peace which passeth all understanding as I commit all things to Him whose wisdom is infinite & nothing is too hard for Him as He is the God of all flesh. Elder Seah believes only God can heal & he will be well soon.
I've never loved someone so deeply. If possible I'm willing to exchange my healthy heart with his defective one so he can continue to bless many hearts with God's wise counsel; cause many to laugh over jokes which he delivers with a straight face. I've heard them numerous times but still find them funny. But the main reason (a selfish one) is so I be spared of the pain of losing him who has become so much a part of me to the point of being inseparable. May God have pity on me.
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Dec 31, 2015 at 10:30 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 31 Dec 2015
To:
Dear all
After 35 days in hospital, thank God he was discharged this afternoon and is nicely settled at home, feels so good to sleep on his own bed. Lots of things to thank God for before the new year dawns.
I'm sorry I've not replied nor acknowledged all your emails. Grateful to those who have written to encourage and assured us of your prayers.
Here's wishing every one a most blessed new year.
In His love
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Thu, Dec 31, 2015 at 11:52 PM
Subject: He has dealt graciously with me
To:
I was reading this evening's Daily Remembrancer's devotional reading to elder seah before he sleeps and it aptly described my feelings. Reproduced below for your encouragement.
"DECEMBER 31 EVENING: “GOD HATH DEALT GRACIOUSLY WITH ME” – Genesis 33:11
“THOU CROWNEST THE YEAR WITH THY GOODNESS.” Is not this our language tonight? Brought through another year, a year of trials, temptations, and storms, and yet a year crowned with countless mercies from above. Looking back we thank God for every want supplied, every promise fulfilled, a thousand evils prevented, unnumbered blessings bestowed. What sins we have committed! What duties we have neglected! What privileges we have slighted! How faithless we have been, and yet how faithful has been our God. Not one thing has failed of all that He promised. Our obligations owing to Him are infinite; our praises should be constant and unending. Our lives and bodies should be wholly consecrated to God. As for me, He hath dealt graciously in pardoning my sins, in hearing my prayers, in subduing my fears, in protecting my person, in guiding my feet, and enabling me to hold on in His righteous ways. O my soul, trust in the Lord, He is thy help and thy shield! Call upon Him in every future trouble. Surrender to Him all that is dear and precious in thy esteem. Let me rest in the Lord, wait patiently for Him, and trust Him more heartily than ever, for He hath dealt graciously with me.
Then in the history of my age,
When men review my days,
They’ll read His love in every page,
In every line His praise."
Indeed, God has dealt graciously with me and has given me grace for every situation and provided for all our needs. He is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. He never fails, the same yesterday and today and forever. He has undertaken all things for me as I commit everything to Him in prayer with thanksgiving and not be anxious about anything. I will always cherish the unexplained peace that overwhelms me on the night when his life was hanging by a thread. The voice that whispers "All is well" still rings whenever circumstances are unfavourable. The year 2015 has been a great struggle for elder seah's health, an emotional roller coaster for me. The fear of losing him is so real and yet I can't let go. He is ready to meet his maker and yet endures all the discomforts for my sake. He wants to live to serve, not for the sake of living. The love we have for each other, the joy we find in each other and the tremendous support we give to each other, no one except God can understand. I always remind him that he is never a burden, only a joy and I will do all I can, upheld by His grace, to nurse him back to health so we can serve Him like before. Still praying for the Lord to keep us together till He comes for us and may that day come soon.
_____________________________________________________________________---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Amy & William Seah
Date: Mon, Jan 11, 2016 at 4:50 PM
Subject: Update on Elder William Seah - 11 Jan 2016
To:
His worsening breathlessness & nausea accompanied by headache making him constantly unwell are due to poor cardiac output. Have been in touch with his ICD cardiologist & this afternoon's meeting somewhat offers hope.
Heart failure cardiologist says there are 2 drugs by infusion which will help heart pump function. He has tried one of them (Levosimendan) twice in the past without much effect. The other is not suitable as it causes electrical storm in the heart.
There is one last option which is the new heart failure medicine in the news last year, supplied to hospital just last month but is pending approval for marketing to masses.
2 conditions to assess suitability (1) kidneys normal (he passed this one) (2) min systolic BP of 100 as the drug will drop it by 10 points.
As he is on a few heart medicine, his systolic BP is sometimes below 100. Will stop one of the heart medicine wef tomorrow & see if systolic BP stays above 100 by Fri. If yes, he can start new drug (Entresto) on low dose (1/2 tab 2x daily) next week & see how he responses/tolerates as with any medicine, allergy (like those being stung by bees) can develop. We continue to trust God to undertake.
This new drug is fairly expensive, once it's been approved by HSA, price will drop by $1 per tab.
Thank God his liver enzymes are back to normal. Praise God.
Appetite remains poor as terrible nausea prevents further eating although he has the desire to eat; supplemented by nutritious milk (Nepro HP made into popsicles) which he manages half of the prescribed amount. He has lost 12 kg in a year, current weight of 53 kg is 21 kg lower than pre-stroke weight 3 years ago.
As always, many thanks to all who continue to keep us in thoughts & prayers. God has shown Himself faithful to His word as I continue to commit all things to Him. He is my refuge & strength, a very present help in trouble (a few crying sessions before Him but always comforted by His word). His grace indeed is sufficient to see us through each day (still single-handedly taking care of him, home & work). I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. All praise & glory to His name.
In His love,
amy
_____________________________________________________________________
Things have not been easy since my last update on 11 Jan. Too busy and distraught to update by email nor facebook after 11 Jan 2016 so I'll recount briefly here the events leading to his death on 24 Apr 2016.
He was back in hospital for 6 days barely 2 days since my last update on 11 Jan due to breathing difficulties after one heart medicine was temporary stopped to see if his systolic BP was above 100 which never was the case. Hence he is not a suitable candidate for the new heart failure drug.
He was again hospitalised in Mar 2016 for a couple of days for breathing difficulties. I was out at that time and had to rush back from NTUC without buying anything and found him in bed with face turned blue.
On 3 Apr 2016, BP monitor showed his heart rate was irregular and was rushed to NUH CCU by ambulance. His heart was weakening and device fired a shot on the night of 4 Apr when his heart rate hit 400 beats per minute, quite insane! Thank God he didn't feel a thing as he was already unconscious by then. His heart became weaker and weaker as the days went by. 5 days before his passing, he didn't ask for water nor food. I googled and realised that dying people don't feel thirsty nor hungry. As less & less blood was circulating due to a weakening heart, his feet became icy cold and he was less responsive. On 24 Apr at 4:18 am, I was awoken by a phone call from NUH nurse informing that his BP was trending downwards. Was amazed at the peace God gave and accepted his home-going well. His daughter & son-in-law were with me when he passed on.
