Lewis is still hanging tough, with antibiotics and flushing of the wound. His appetite is still good and although he is quiet, he did “answer” us and seemed happy to recognize us. He also seems to sense the direction of “home” when we walked him briefly. Dr. Silveira gave us encouraging words about the nature of the drainage, and feels maybe they are getting the infection under control. We are hoping that each passing day is bringing some increased bone replacement, although radiographs will have to wait awhile before they show the actual status.We were happy to say hello to Dr. Toni Cotton, who’s visit at OSU coincided with ours. She was going to also stop in and see Lewis while she was there to see how her famous patient was progressing. It has been through the skill and dedication of these veterinarians that Lewis has had a chance to overcome this terrible ordeal.
fred
OSU Vet School
We were able to visit Lewis Saturday at the OSU veterinary hospital. Lewis had succumbed to depression and loss of appetite over the last couple of days, and the staff brought Lewis an alpaca buddy from their research program to keep him company. Having another camelid friend in the stall definitely perked Lewis’ spirits. When we visited he was alert and eating well. After his wound was flushed and he received his antibiotics, we were able to take a short walk down the hallway. Lewis was interested in the occupants of the other stalls, and seemed more than happy to continue down the hall; perhaps to where he hoped the van waited to take him home! He reluctantly returned to his stall, where he was fed and we shared lots of hugs and back scratches. He seemed happy and we are thankful that the staff at OSU has made his stay there welcome and comfortable; and especially for his new friend!
Lewis and Laura
Antibiotic therapy and daily flushing will continue on Lewis and his progress closely monitored. Dr. Silveira is assisted by a team of veterinary students that have been giving Lewis the same special care that they would share with their own beloved pets. We hope he can keep his spirits up through all of this, and we know that their attention and care is a huge part of Lewis’ recovery.
Again we thank everyone keeping up on the internet for their supporting thoughts, emails and prayers!
Lewis underwent surgery today, which Dr. Silveira has reported to have gone well. They did not find the bone to be in any worse shape than the radiographs had predicted, much to our relief. The doctor removed a screw, some wire, did extensive debridement of the infected bone, and drained the large abscessed area. The plate is still holding at both ends of the femur and providing support. Lewis this afternoon is in his stall recovering and able to stand, putting some weight on the leg. Extensive follow up will now be done to keep the wound flushed and antibiotics to treat the infection. The next few days are critical to determine if the infection can be overcome. There is a risk that the bone could break in its weakened state. Fortunately, there were no splinters or fractures of the femur, so healing appears to have occurred before the infection set in.Again thank you to everyone who is keeping up on Lewis’ recovery; we truly feel your thoughts and prayers are what are making the difference! We continue to pray for guidance to the doctors and surgeons and Lewis’ own resilience to keep fighting his way back to health!