Some Griffith health updates
Mark Winston Griffith
Hey family. Some of you know this information, but I wanted to make sure everyone was updated.
First thing first, Sharon has tested positive for COVID-19. The good news is, most of her symptoms are behind her, although she is still feeling a sore throat. Otherwise, she’s up and about and active.Sharon also happens to be my father’s primary care provider, with the support of a home attendants who comes during the week.
And as you may know, my father has slowed down considerably since many of you have last seen him, and over the last few months, he’s been having more acute health challenges. Earlier this year, he was in the hospital to address swelling in his leg and what was eventually discovered to be an irregular heartbeat and a mild stroke.
In order to build his strength, he went from the hospital to a rehabilitation center/nursing home. That’s where he was when the pandemic broke out.
A few weeks ago, he made a triumphant return home. He was doing well; alert, walking, and in good spirits. But within a few days he started to lose his appetite and became non communicative. We thought it was depression, but that didn’t make complete sense because he had been so happy to return home. It got to the point where he had become dehydrated and we brought him to the hospital. It was a difficult call, because we knew that hospitals in NYC had become overrun and overwhelmed. Also, there have been reports of seniors becoming infected with various bugs at hospitals. But we really had no choice.
Daddy entered the hospital Wednesday. On Thursday he was admitted to the ICU with high sodium levels due to dehydration. And on Friday we learned conclusively that he had COVID-19. We also learned his irregular heartbeat was persisting, probably because of the virus, and that he apparently had another stroke, although we’re not clear on the effects of that. He’s also lost a lot of weight.
On a positive note, he has not had respiratory problems up to now so he’s not on a respirator. Sharon and I talked to him on Friday using the Dr.’s Facetime and he was responsive. And today he was brought to a regular room, which means he’s definitely getting better. Not bad for a soon-to-be 90 year old.
I’ll keep you update. Wishing safety and soundness for everyone.
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