Friday, December 15, 2006

Update on Senator Johnson | New Democrat born

Doctor: Senator's Progress 'Encouraging'
By MARY CLARE JALONICK
Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Tim Johnson was experiencing post-surgery swelling in his brain Friday, but his doctors said his recovery was still encouraging. They said he would remain hospitalized until the swelling went down.

The South Dakota Democrat, who suffered a brain hemorrhage Wednesday, remained in critical but stable condition Friday, just short of three weeks before the new Senate is to convene with his party holding control by a single vote.

AP Photo/CHARLES DHARAPAK
The timing of his return is uncertain, but Democrats would still be in control of the Senate if his recovery period extends into the new session.

The surgery has been described as successful, relieving pressure on the 59-year-old senator's brain and stopping the bleeding.

"Considering his initial presentation, his progress is encouraging," Dr. Anthony Caputy, chairman of the George Washington University Hospital department of neurosurgery, said in a statement released by Johnson's office.(link)
Good news from the watch on Johnson, everyone is still praying for his recovery (even if they people are speculating on political matters) and praying for his family in this trying time.


Medical marvel? or just a liberal?

Man with no pulse considered a medical breakthrough

Canadian Press

MONTREAL — A 65-year-old Quebec man who received a new long-term mechanical heart last month is being described as the only living Canadian without a pulse.

Dr. Renzo Cecere implanted the “Heartmate II” mechanical heart into Gerard Langevin in an three-hour operation Nov. 23.

Officials at the McGill University Health Centre say the device, which is about the size of a flashlight battery, could last up to 10 years.

That is longer than other models which are thought to be good for only two or three years.

The new mechanical heart, which is powered by batteries located in pouches on Mr. Langevin's body, provides a continuous flow of blood so the patient has no pulse.

“Mr. Langevin happens to be the only individual currently living in Canada without a pulse and without a measurable blood pressure,” Dr. Cecere said Wednesday.

Mr. Langevin admitted to reporters that, before the operation, he felt his time was up after he suffered his second heart attack in July.

He had the other in 2002.

“I was finished. I had no time left. I probably had only a few months left to live,” Mr. Langevin said.(link)

Ok so it was a lame joke, but this really looks cool. Imagine going for a physical and not telling the nurse about it :)
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Reason to pray

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Warzone

 Recently played a few games on Caldera (warzone) and then... Lots of luck in this one, but satisfying