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Evelyn Utterback Drake 56
USA
67 Posts |
 Posted - 03/21/2009 : 16:16:22
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| On March 30th, Elda will have a heart valve replacement at a hospital near her home in California. I will be going out on the 28th to be there for the surgery and with her for about 10 days on her return home. Please, all of you who know her as "Elda" or "Miss Utterback", keep her in your prayers. She is in great physical shape due to hiking and diet so I know she will be fine but prayer always helps. Thanks |
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Patty Cox Osborne 67
128 Posts |
Posted - 03/25/2009 : 21:31:51
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I had "Miss Utterback" in the 4th grade at East Rainelle Elementary and have always been so very glad to see her at the reunions.
You're right, prayers always help, and we will certainly remember her and pray for a speedy recovery.
Please let her know that the 'home folks' will be thinking of her.
Travel safely, Evelyn.
Patty |
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Dale Tincher 64
USA
485 Posts |
Posted - 03/30/2009 : 22:02:29
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Elda and Evelyn appreciate everyone's prayers. Evelyn reports that, "Elda came through the surgery well. They were able to do the less invasive procedure through the side instead of normal open heart. The surgeon said the valve was about 75% glued shut. She is still totally zoned out but we have been in to see her."
I wrote to Elda after seeing Evelyn's and Patty's notes on the board. I don't think Elda would mind my writing part of her response since it might help someone else. She said, "I do not want this surgery, but without it, I will not live beyond a few more years, and I do want to experience a lot more of this world.
The hikers are the ones that sensed something was wrong and just insisted that I go to a doctor immediately. If I had not been on a steep mountain keeping up with a group, I would not have known the valve was almost closed. On level I am fine, and I do well on hills if I set the pace. The cardiologist put an end to hills until all of this is in my past."
It was wonderful getting to meet so many people and renew acquaintances at the Reunion. Elda was one of the very nice people with whom I had the pleasure to spend some time. I am proud of a picture I have with her. She was an excellent teacher and is an interesting lady. I hope Evelyn lets us know tomorrow that she on her way to recovery and, later, that she is back on the hiking trails.
One of the greatest pleasures I have with this site is hearing about how fellow Rangers are doing and being able to be involved. I miss Rainelle so much, but this helps maintain a link. It was, for example, so great to be able to hear about Mr. Anderson and to send him something and hear that he enjoyed the cards and well wishes. It's good that we know that we can send more cards and perhaps elevate his spirit some more.
Evelyn or I will keep you informed on Elda's progress. (I keep wanting to call her Miss Utterback.) 
Dale Tincher - Class of 64
919-272-8052
dale.tincher@rainellereunion.com |
Edited by - Dale Tincher 64 on 03/30/2009 22:04:52 |
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Dale Tincher 64
USA
485 Posts |
Posted - 03/31/2009 : 08:13:39
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All, continue to be in prayer for Elda. She had some complications and required some more surgery. She is stable now, but Evelyn requests that we "keep those prayers going, "hat she's not out of the woods yet." Dale
Dale Tincher - Class of 64
919-272-8052
dale.tincher@rainellereunion.com |
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Dale Tincher 64
USA
485 Posts |
Posted - 04/04/2009 : 07:20:57
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Hello everyone. I'll summarize what Evelyn has reported and I hope I get it right. Elda had some set-backs, but she was taken off the respirator Friday. Evelyn reports, "She is still not doing all the breathing they would like but they are trying to force the issue. Then this afternoon they got her up and in the hallway. She was not walking like Elda would walk but at least she was up and that will bring strength. She still seems terribly sleepy, likes to keep her eyes closed. When you call her name she will open them but if you don't continue the stimulation, they shut again. Each step seems like a major leap considering what she's coming from. Still not there yet but working toward the goal. Thanks for your love and friendship."
Judging from an e-mail conversation I had with her before the operation, I think Elda's will be a "yes" vote for having the reunion sooner than the scheduled 5-year period. She told me to hang onto the picture I have, but promised me another picture with her. Dale
Dale Tincher - Class of 64
919-272-8052
dale.tincher@rainellereunion.com |
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Evelyn Utterback Drake 56
USA
67 Posts |
Posted - 04/07/2009 : 15:39:09
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| Unfortunately Elda has had some difficulties from this surgery done don Mar. 30 and still remains in the hospital. She started to turn around on Sunday and each day is seeing great progress. We haven't been in today to see her but have heard that the doctor has said she may come home this Friday (a week later than anticipated)' We all appreciate your prayers, good thoughts and will stay in touch. |
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Evelyn Utterback Drake 56
USA
67 Posts |
Posted - 04/22/2009 : 08:44:20
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Thank you so much for your prayers, calls and support during Elda's surgery and slow progress back. But she is back, doing quite well, still has some lingering issues but we are all confident that she will be back full force by fall. A friend is staying with her until the 27th and by then we think she'll be all right on her own.
Thanks again. |
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Elda Utterback Montgomery
