When Snake Bite Turns Your Life Upside Down
October 28th will not be a day to forget, currently putting up what has happened to update my friends in Hive, some I have made contact to notify what has transpired.
St Winifreds resident bitten by Green Mamba
The elderly man was rushed to hospital in a stable condition after being bitten on the head by a juvenile Green Mamba.
Vusi Mthalane
October 29, 2024
A Green Mamba in its natural habitat. Photo: Warren Dick.
AN ELDERLY St Winifreds resident was stabilised and rushed to hospital after he was bitten by a snake at his home yesterday (October 28).
PT Alarms spokesperson Dhevan Govindasamy said PT Ambulance Service was dispatched at around 09:00. On arrival, the crew was informed that an elderly man had been bitten on the head by a snake.
The medical crew acted swiftly as the suspected snake was said to be a Green Mamba known for its neurotoxic venom. The elderly male was given treatment before being rushed to hospital for further medical intervention, said Govindasamy.
Full article attached
"A snake catcher confirmed that a juvenile Green Mamba, known for its neurotoxic venom, bit a man on his head." South Coast Sun
Actual Snake Catcher from Rapid Response on Facebook in my garden shed! - Not my photo!
My husband would not have survived this incident had it not been the extremely fast accurate reporting the incident to me, identifying the snake, Vusi has been assisting me since May upgrading the home repairing and painting.
Snake catchers took the snake to an area for safe release, the Green Mamba was startled by my husband, normally a shy snake that only strike when confronted or in danger.
29-10-2024
Visited in the morning, met Doctor for update, extreme loss of blood constantly being transfused, still restrained continuously trying to remove tubes. Not sleeping, which is what he needs.
Critical, being well cared for by Hospital Staff, Doctors and Nurses. Head scan revealed no sign of haemorrhaging, a good sign with bite to the head. Laboured breathing, on an oxygen mask with about 8 drips combating as best is possible.
Medicated to sleep and relax, Rob was not aware of our visiting, quietly spoke to him, advised more rest, with family and friends are holding him in their thoughts.
===============
30-10-2024
First time appears to recognize us, still internal bleeding, not off critical list.
Rob needless to say wants to come home, still combative toward nursing staff.
Before leaving we explained once again he has been unaware of our visiting for two full days.
Poison is very much in his system, to relax, sleep and allow his body time to heal.
================
31-10-2024
Visit revealed an overnight turn-around.
On entering he immediately recognized Son and I, then proceeded to ask where is his clothing, he is going home!
Not so quick buddy, you have only had a cup of tea, have been non compos mentis for three days.
Nursing staff have been exceptionally patient, discreet with updating us, he is still slowly being weaned off medication. Bleeding has stopped, solid lunch should be served today.
Rough estimation another three days before he comes home, only time will tell the affects. One thing is his teeth have taken a knock so the Dentist will be next port of call once stable enough.
01-11-2024
Call from hospital this morning, arranging an endoscope. Required to see why there is blood in the stool, scheduled for 11am.
Doctor phoned to let me know he has a massive stomach ulcer.
Second time working with Rob, Specialist Surgeon said his heart skipped into arrhythmia, has now requested a Cardiologist to check him over as well.
More lucid than previous according to Doctor, chatting away about his years running Comrades, one of his favourite topics.
Snake venom is no longer evident in his system.
=================
02-11-2024
Time to heal, no change, under the best supervision and watchful eye of Doctor and Nurses in ICU.
Will update if need arises. Well wishes have been passed along.
==================
04-11-2024
Visited hospital midday after Specialists and Doctors had done their rounds.
Cardiologist reported an incident had transpired, heart clear no longer showing signs of arrhythmia. After massive loss of blood during the first couple of days might be an indicator, we did not get to speak to Cardiologist.
Neurologist now assigned to assess brain, nerve or spinal cord damage, connecting back to repetitive/forgetful behaviour.
Still on tubes and has not walked in a week. Rob keeps asking if I am picking him up at 4pm to bring him home, does not appear to remember that I told him he will be in the hospital for a few days.
=====================
06/11/2024
Still not sure waiting for Neurologist for briefing, did not get to see her today.
Presiding doctor said she would let her know to phone, or will try see her tomorrow.
Still in ICU being weaned off, catheter now removed waiting to see how he copes.
Managed a walk with physio today, balance and strength from years of walking he is still able to manage.
======================
09/11/2024
Neurologist phoned morning of 8th November to give results of MRI, Rob's Dementia cognition indicated a bad result on score. MRI scan, revealed Frontal Lobe and Temporal Lobe are in keeping with Alzheimer’s.
Remains in ICU waiting on motivation letters to be moved to Dementia / Alzheimer’s care home, with my not having any support in the home.
========================
11/11/2024
He now has a serious chest infection on both lungs after doing a scan.
Urinating blood again and bladder has become extremely enlarged.
It doesn't look like he is going to be on his way to the frail care home today or tomorrow.
Will now have to follow another five day course of antibiotics, with Urologist to diagnoze further. This urologist is the same Dr who treated him about 10 years ago with brachytherapy for prostrate.
=========================
13/11/2024
Urologist checked up this morning, he is not fit enough to go into theater for full check-up.
Still on oxygen with physio visiting twice a day to help clear the chest.
Sister today did not know what lung infection Rob has, but indicated Surgical Specialist would update me.
Rob remains in ICU under high care.
==========================
14/11/2024
Doctor/Physio now suctioning phlegm from lungs as Rob is unable effectively do it himself.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot) appeared in leg, currently on treatment.
Perhaps long term indication being bed ridden for three weeks now.
Currently we wait through to next Friday 22nd, see how he copes, deep depression setting in not being able to leave.
Very difficult trying to explain it is in his best interests to try remain calm and work with Specialist/Doctors and Nurses.
============================
Thought that came to mind "The longer we keep looking back in the rearview mirror, it takes away from everything that's moving forward. - Dan Quinn"
My sons and I have found a terrific small Frail Care home close to where we live, after inspecting and meeting the Nurses hopefully Rob will find a comfortable place to call home. Nice garden to enjoy with around the clock surveillance where he will be safe.
Updating Hive I have kept contact with Community Members to pass along the message when able, thanks to @lizelle, @papillon_77, @fionasfavourites, @SilverSaver888 and @melinda010100 your love and kindness is greatly appreciated.
Thought for Today: "Without life there is nothing." - Zulu Proverbs
Oh my goodness this experience sounds dreadful!!! I'm so sorry! I'll be praying for his full recovery!
Thanks for kind words, we will take care Owasco.
As lucky as he is to be alive. It truly takes a toll on your life to encounter such dangers and having to battle with all your health.
Ripple effect runs far and wide, keeping contact with relatives has been time consuming. Thanks for your kindness !LUV
@coffeenlove, @joanstewart(3/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
Dear friend @joanstewart, my greatest wishes that your husband gets better soon. We are here to support you. A hug.🤗😘
Thanks for kind words and will take care Mamani
Wow thigs change so quickly and please take care of yourself. Rob got lucky for sure and funny how other complications are found. They say things happen for a reason and I normally blow that kind of thing off.
Between Vusi and Emergency Services he is a lucky man, in hospital within 20 minutes. Everything being found more than likely his total resentment of going for checkups. Being a runner, walker his whole life (14 Comrades when younger) perhaps thought it enough to combat. I agree most things happen for a reason.
I am so sorry, I hope he recovers well, take care of you.
Thanks for kind words, we will take care Almi, life carries on....
Sending you hugs. Praying everything would be fine soon♥️.
Thanks for your kindness !LUV
@asiaymalay, @joanstewart(8/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
It reminds me how important it is to appreciate every moment and the people around us. Wishing you both strength as you continue through this tough time. The road ahead may be long, but it sounds like you're finding the right care and support.
Thanks for kind comments, one keeps going, always appreciate the assistance has been offered. !LUV
!LADY
@iamlovelykate, @joanstewart(7/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
View or trade
LOHtokens.@joanstewart, you successfully shared 0.0100 LOH with @iamlovelykate and you earned 0.0100 LOH as tips. (1/17 calls)
Use !LADY command to share LOH! More details available in this post.
Life can change in an instant. I hope Rob recovers as much as possible from this. He is in good hands.
In the meantime, be certain that you are taking good care of yourself, dear friend.
!hiqvote
!DUO
!LADY
!BBH
!INDEED
View or trade
LOHtokens.@melinda010100, you successfully shared 0.0100 LOH with @joanstewart and you earned 0.0100 LOH as tips. (1/12 calls)
Use !LADY command to share LOH! More details available in this post.
You just got DUO from @melinda010100.
They have 1/1 DUO calls left.
Learn all about DUO here.
Taking one day at a time, trying to remain stable and calm. Life changes in a heartbeat we have no control over.
Thanks for you steadfast support !LUV
@melinda010100, @joanstewart(1/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
@joanstewart! @melinda010100 likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH to your account on behalf of @melinda010100. (1/1)
(html comment removed:
)
(9/50)
@joanstewart! @melinda010100 Totally agrees with your content! so I just sent 1 IDD to your account on behalf of @melinda010100.
Sending you positive energy and strength… I hope he recovers the best he can.
!LUV
!LADY
@joanstewart, @littlebee4(5/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
View or trade
LOHtokens.@littlebee4, you successfully shared 0.0100 LOH with @joanstewart and you earned 0.0100 LOH as tips. (3/5 calls)
Use !LADY command to share LOH! More details available in this post.
Thanks for support, greatly appreciated.
!LUV
@littlebee4, @joanstewart(2/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
We were thrilled that @lizelle kindly updated us in Discord recently, and we very much appreciate this direct update. You, Rob, and your family remain in our thoughts and prayers. 🙏
View or trade
LOHtokens.@ladiesofhive, you successfully shared 0.0100 LOH with @joanstewart and you earned 0.0100 LOH as tips. (15/20 calls)
Use !LADY command to share LOH! More details available in this post.
Hi Joan, as Melinda says, life changes in a split second. It's quite surreal thinking that all is normal, but changes to an absolute crisis.
Thinking of all of you and praying for healing.
Don't forget to look after yourself Joan🙏
Really appreciate support I have received online and local residents who have come to the fore, people I have never met previously.
Trying to remain calm and keep notes everyday as many make contact. Forms, arranging to be done is like walking a tightrope. I will try take time to relax and breath... !LUV
We simply keep on praying for Rob, you and the family, and there is some good advice here to also take care of yourself Lady Joan.
!PIZZA and all of our !LUV to you and the family.
@joanstewart, @papilloncharity(2/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
Thanks for prayer and concern, always appreciated !LUV
@papilloncharity, @joanstewart(4/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
No problem, as it's just the way that we are. !LUV
@joanstewart, @papilloncharity(1/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
$PIZZA slices delivered:
papilloncharity tipped joanstewart
silversaver888 tipped joanstewart
@hiq.smartbot(2/5) tipped @joanstewart
View or trade
LOHtokens.@joanstewart, You have received 1.0000 LOH for posting in Ladies of Hive. We believe that you should be rewarded for the time and effort spent in creating articles. The goal is to encourage token holders to accumulate and hodl LOH tokens over a long period of time.
!LADY
You have already used the number of tips you had for the day. Please try again tomorrow or buy more LOH tokens to send more tips.
What a terrible run of events. I am so sorry. Poor Rob. Poor you. The wheel turns. At any moment it can stop and we are in trouble.
I will add your husband to my prayers now, until he is over this crisis. I'm not a prayer, but recent events in my own life have shown me I have no other options.
Take care of yourself, @joanstewart
Life's path changed, we never know when there is a bend in the road, thanks for kind thoughts well received.
I'm sorry to hear this Joan, it must have been a terrible time for you and your family and something that will take some getting to grips with. Best wishes moving forward and all the luck in the world.
Taking one day at a time, my sons are assisting wherever able. Cannot change what has happened, can only try make him comfortable in a home where qualified folk are able to work with his conditions. All takes time so I watch my health and try be strong.... 🙃
I'm praying for healing and thinking of you, your son, and most especially Rob.
Meanwhile, sis @joanstewart, make sure you are taking care of yourself.
Sending you love!
!LADY
!LUV
!PIZZA
!BBH
!INDEED
@joanstewart, @silversaver888(1/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
View or trade
LOHtokens.@silversaver888, you successfully shared 0.0100 LOH with @joanstewart and you earned 0.0100 LOH as tips. (1/50 calls)
Use !LADY command to share LOH! More details available in this post.
Time will tell how everything rolls out, will take care and try make contact when able !LUV
@silversaver888, @joanstewart(5/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
@joanstewart! @silversaver888 likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH to your account on behalf of @silversaver888. (1/20)
(html comment removed:
)
(1/5)
@joanstewart! @silversaver888 Totally agrees with your content! so I just sent 1 IDD to your account on behalf of @silversaver888.
@melinda010100, the HiQ Smart Bot has recognized your request (1/2) and will start the voting trail.
In addition, @joanstewart gets !PIZZA from @hiq.redaktion.
For further questions, check out https://hiq-hive.com or join our Discord. And don't forget to vote HiQs fucking Witness! 😻
You and Rob are constantly in my thoughts. Sending love and strength.
Thanks for you support, and take care of yourself as well !LUV
@fionasfavourites, @joanstewart(6/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily
Hello @joanstewart
This is @lizelle,
I'm part of the Silver Bloggers’ Community Team.
Thank you for sharing your excellent post in the Silver Bloggers community! As a special "token" of appreciation for this contribution to our community, it has been upvoted, reblogged and curated.
Oh gosh. What a journey you've all been on. Take care of yourself. I hope things start to improve for you all. 🙏
Thanks for kind words and will take care Ellen.
OMG @joanstewart , I wondered where you had gone, what a scary time you and your family have endured. I really hope for you all that this nightmare will become something you can look back on without fear. keep your strength up and look forwards. Stay safe.
Stephen
Took a little time off yesterday/today to make contact, my sons went in to visit giving me time off.
Newspaper another crowd for sensational reporting, hacked me off wanting to go into the hospital on the 31st October to take photographs of the man lying fighting for his life. I told them to piss off hence they never got his name published....
Going day by day with exceptional people in the village, living here 44 years people are supportive in assisting with advice.
One day at a time 🙃 Joan.
Hello dear friend @joanstewart
I am so sorry for what you had to go through, I am deeply saddened by what your husband is going through, I sincerely wish Rob a speedy recovery.
Thanks @jlufer, with Rob having Dementia and Alzheimer’s family decision is to place him in a home to be cared for. Both his mother and mother's father suffered with Alzheimer’s, his sister in New Zealand is also in agreement it is safer for the individual.
Thanks for note of concern, we move forward slowly but surely in the hope he will leave the hospital to the Frail Care Home by Friday, wait and be patient he is in very capable hands where he is being looking after in ICU.
I think Black mambas have a growing population in the US, and thank God for his survival, and hopefully recovery very soon.
For their sake I hope not it's an aggressive mamba! To my knowledge in Africa particularly Sub-Saharan Africa.
Thanks for visiting and kind encouragement.
Most mambas are aggressive, the green and the black one, and they're devastating too.
Witnessed that with my own eyes, something to respect at all times. Take care!
I like this reflection picture from the rearview mirror
All the best for you and Rob. It really has been a roller coaster ride.
I hope he gets better and things are more normal soon.
!LUV
!HUG
@joanstewart, @zakludick(7/10) sent you LUV. | tools | discord | community | HiveWiki | <>< daily