Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Binnacle List Update: Ted Taylor

Ted Taylor’s wife Loma recently sent out the following message updating us on Ted’s current condition:
Ted Taylor at the recent Tolling Ceremony

I know some of you know that Ted has been ill this summer, but maybe you didn't know the reason. This has been going on for a couple of years now, but I couldn't figure out what was happening. He just was not functioning like the old Ted!

We have figured out what may be the problem, so I thought I would explain it to all of you at one time.

It seems his problem is caused by a LOW SODIUM condition. Ted has always been such a very "bright" man, having things already planned before I started to think of what needed doing! When his sodium is low, his thinking is so slow and it is such a struggle for him. When his sodium goes up, he is really on the ball again! But right now it stays low more often than normal. He cannot drive as he might go too low again and have seizures or pass out.

In June Ted’s sodium level dropped to 110 and the doctors are not sure how he came through that episode without going into a coma, having massive brain damage, or dying.

But Ted is very strong willed and very positive! I had never heard about low sodium problems and what it does until this took place. When it gets low, the brain gets fuzzy and you cannot think straight, although you believe you are on top of everything! It's scary to watch it happen to someone. Ted thought he was in control and now he doesn't even remember what was happening to him.

They tell me that many seniors die not knowing what has happened to them.

The Emergency Room doctor found a shadow in Ted’s upper right lung and many small spots throughout his lungs. Another doctor told us that the tumor is most likely what has been causing Ted’s sodium to go crazy! A biopsy is set for Monday, September 13th and a Petscan is planned but not scheduled yet (but will be soon). Ted has a lot of problems! The brain scan showed some scars, but NOT Alzheimer’s, which is good news.

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