Lewis had his radiographs, which showed improvement though not complete bone closure yet. When we visited Saturday night we were able to meet one of the students who is taking care of Lewis, and also met another of the students who visited us at the llama show we attended near Columbus. It is obvious what wonderful individuals these are who are helping Lewis cope with his difficulties and day to day trials!Lewis seemed very well to us, much more like himself than on our previous visit. He is adapting quite well to his circumstances, and proving what a fighter he is. We are pleased that he seems comfortable and has an appetite, and is not losing his appetite for live despite his long confinement and daily injections and wound care. The infection is still ongoing and may not clear up until all the external pins are removed. In the meantime we feel Lewis is enjoying a quality of life that is remarkable given the circumstances; our thanks again to the staff at OSU for going the extra mile to make this little llama happy and comfortable!
Monthly Archives: April 2001
Lewis’ Leg Showing External Fixator
Lewis did not get the radiographic exam that he was due to have earlier this week. The technicians felt they needed to manipulate the leg to accurately evaluate the condition of the bone, and the doctors felt that it might be too early to perform such manipulation. Since Lewis continues to walk on and use the leg, we are hoping that healing is occurring.The infection may be lessoning, with the drainage beginning to clear up. Lewis’ spirits are such that he still wants to steal food from Psycho; so he has some of his original “gumption” still there! We are so pleased to hear that despite the long confinement and challenging process of healing, that Lewis is “still Lewis.” We owe the staff at OSU more than they can imagine!
Lewis and his Alpaca Buddy
I must apologize for not making more frequent updates; and thank everyone for their emails about Lewis. The latest information is that Lewis’ spirits are good, and he is being walked outside in the lovely spring weather we have finally been getting here in Indiana. He has a new stall mate, an alpaca nick-named “Psycho,” who he tries to steal food from! Obviously his appetite is still good which is always a good sign. The circulation in his lower leg appeared to be affected after the surgery. Hydrotherapy and time have improved this and the leg seems warmer now and he is using it to walk; all good indications.The fixator has been holding now for over two weeks, also a critical factor. However, there is still exudate and infection which is not responding completely to treatment. Lewis will have more radiographs next week to evaluate his progress. The continued infection is worrisome, but his general condition under the circumstances and willingness to keep fighting are encouraging.
The staff at OSU have taken some digital photos of Lewis and the gang, and we hope to put some of them on the site here as soon as we get them, so check back!