Comments on: Now I’m just P—ed Off! http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/ Because Life Is So Much More Than The Pursuit of Money! Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:13:54 -0700 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 hourly 1 By: Mariana http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-89 Mariana Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:53:27 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-89 Been on my mind today, Cliff. I know you'll sail through with flying colors with all the love and prayers. You're going to be feeling much better really soon! Yay! :) Been on my mind today, Cliff. I know you’ll sail through with flying colors with all the love and prayers. You’re going to be feeling much better really soon! Yay! :)

]]> By: Keary Naughton http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-88 Keary Naughton Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:36:29 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-88 Cliff- I am thinking about you today and hoping everything goes well Cliff- I am thinking about you today and hoping everything goes well

]]> By: Richard Emblem http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-87 Richard Emblem Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:44:53 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-87 It's not that early here in England and I am praying for you, your family and the medical staff. God bless. Richard It’s not that early here in England and I am praying for you, your family and the medical staff. God bless.
Richard

]]> By: John http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-86 John Wed, 07 Jan 2009 05:05:44 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-86 I hope everything goes well, you will be on my mind tomorrow. I'll pray for you during your surgery if I can remember. I was thinking about you a lot today when I kept telling myself "Cliff would of loved to hear about the last Apple Keynote" I hope everything goes well, you will be on my mind tomorrow. I’ll pray for you during your surgery if I can remember. I was thinking about you a lot today when I kept telling myself “Cliff would of loved to hear about the last Apple Keynote”

]]> By: Edith S Baker http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-85 Edith S Baker Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:32:02 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-85 You will be in my thoughts tonight and tomorrow. Finally, you are on the road to recovery. You will be in my thoughts tonight and tomorrow. Finally, you are on the road to recovery.

]]> By: Amy Wright http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-2/#comment-84 Amy Wright Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:14:48 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-84 I will be up that early & will be praying! Get a good night's rest! I will be up that early & will be praying! Get a good night’s rest!

]]> By: anissa chard http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-83 anissa chard Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:13:36 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-83 Cliff, My prayers will be with you and your family always. I know you don't know me but you and Stephanie have helped me in so many ways just by doing podcasts. My day is always better when I listen to both of your words. I hope they can give you something to help you sleep tonight. Take care. Cliff, My prayers will be with you and your family always. I know you don’t know me but you and Stephanie have helped me in so many ways just by doing podcasts. My day is always better when I listen to both of your words. I hope they can give you something to help you sleep tonight. Take care.

]]> By: JeffInIndy http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-82 JeffInIndy Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:04:22 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-82 Cliff, I will be up then, and I will be praying. We'll see you on the other side of the surgery! Cliff, I will be up then, and I will be praying. We’ll see you on the other side of the surgery!

]]> By: D.G. Hollums http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-81 D.G. Hollums Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:02:18 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-81 still praying! love ya man! still praying! love ya man!

]]> By: Amy Wright http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-80 Amy Wright Wed, 07 Jan 2009 03:36:53 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-80 Wow, is all I can say! Many, many, many prayers are being said by me for you & your family! Hang in there buddy! :) Wow, is all I can say! Many, many, many prayers are being said by me for you & your family! Hang in there buddy! :)

]]> By: Mariana Evica http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-79 Mariana Evica Wed, 07 Jan 2009 02:46:05 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-79 Phew, I'm feeling better about how things are going for you now. I agree that it has served several excellent purposes to blog about this. Great documentation ("just in case", for the record) and it has been good for *you* to be able to share. I hope you feel enfolded by the prayers and concern for you. I'll keep you and your family in my heart. Phew, I’m feeling better about how things are going for you now. I agree that it has served several excellent purposes to blog about this. Great documentation (“just in case”, for the record) and it has been good for *you* to be able to share. I hope you feel enfolded by the prayers and concern for you. I’ll keep you and your family in my heart.

]]> By: Barbara http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-78 Barbara Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:13:13 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-78 Hey Cliff - It's Barb from Skenectady!!! You, Steph and the kids have been in my thoughts via every Tweet I have read as well as this blog. I know some of what you are going through. When I was pregnant with my last son, the last three months I started to bleed. I was in and out of the hospital for days at a time and not one doctor had a clue, idea or anything about what my body was doing with this child inside. I was scared, crying, and an emotional wreck. It was not until one last visit before I actually had him that a STUDENT INTERN came in and actually talked to me like I was not crazy and I was a person. No she didn't have all the answers but she calmed me and made me feel all would be ok. You will be fine and I believe that!!! I have a needle issue too and I have solved that. Anytime I go for blood at a place I am not familiar with I tell them you have one shot at this and your done if you blow it!!! When I go to the lab for my routine bloodwork the receptionist says "I know you only want Mike!!" Sorry so long - get well soon. Hug the kids and Steph from your "imaginary" and far away friend. LOL Barb Hey Cliff – It’s Barb from Skenectady!!! You, Steph and the kids have been in my thoughts via every Tweet I have read as well as this blog. I know some of what you are going through. When I was pregnant with my last son, the last three months I started to bleed. I was in and out of the hospital for days at a time and not one doctor had a clue, idea or anything about what my body was doing with this child inside. I was scared, crying, and an emotional wreck. It was not until one last visit before I actually had him that a STUDENT INTERN came in and actually talked to me like I was not crazy and I was a person. No she didn’t have all the answers but she calmed me and made me feel all would be ok. You will be fine and I believe that!!!
I have a needle issue too and I have solved that. Anytime I go for blood at a place I am not familiar with I tell them you have one shot at this and your done if you blow it!!! When I go to the lab for my routine bloodwork the receptionist says “I know you only want Mike!!”
Sorry so long – get well soon. Hug the kids and Steph from your “imaginary” and far away friend. LOL
Barb

]]> By: Krissy http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-77 Krissy Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:58:00 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-77 Cliff, Been reading these updates all morning. I can't believe you have been getting the run around like that. Glad to hear your spirits are up now though and you have some food ;) Praying that your surgery goes well! Krissy Cliff,
Been reading these updates all morning. I can’t believe you have been getting the run around like that. Glad to hear your spirits are up now though and you have some food ;)
Praying that your surgery goes well!
Krissy

]]> By: Sarah Smith http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-76 Sarah Smith Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:43:27 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-76 Hi Cliff, My husband and I are praying for you! I can't fathom your frustration and distress. We will be praying for Stephanie and the kids too. God Bless you. Sarah Smith (big fan of the Weekly Lost Podcast, and you guys in general!) Hi Cliff,

My husband and I are praying for you! I can’t fathom your frustration and distress. We will be praying for Stephanie and the kids too.

God Bless you.

Sarah Smith (big fan of the Weekly Lost Podcast, and you guys in general!)

]]> By: Mary Soukup http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-75 Mary Soukup Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:02:01 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-75 Cliff I have to say that it's a hard thing to speeck up for your self when you don't feel good. so I'm very happy that you had a good head on when you were talking to all these people. I think this is a good Idea to be able to blog what you have been told and what you can remember so if there are questions after the fact you have them all down. Great job. Cliff I have to say that it’s a hard thing to speeck up for your self when you don’t feel good. so I’m very happy that you had a good head on when you were talking to all these people.

I think this is a good Idea to be able to blog what you have been told and what you can remember so if there are questions after the fact you have them all down. Great job.

]]> By: Kimberly http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-74 Kimberly Tue, 06 Jan 2009 22:50:48 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-74 I'm saying a prayer for you and adding a little extra prayer for some food. For you, as opposed to me. The food is for you! ;-) I’m saying a prayer for you and adding a little extra prayer for some food. For you, as opposed to me. The food is for you! ;-)

]]> By: Shelly in GB http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-73 Shelly in GB Tue, 06 Jan 2009 22:45:59 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-73 Cliff, I read your post a little while ago and just read your most recent update. I'm so glad that you're feeling better after talking to this other doctor. Isn't it amazing how sometimes we click with certain people in these helping roles because they seem to understand where we're coming from. I'm glad that Stephanie and others were able to come be with you during the time you really needed it. Good luck and I'll be thinking about you (and praying). :) Shelly Cliff,

I read your post a little while ago and just read your most recent update. I’m so glad that you’re feeling better after talking to this other doctor. Isn’t it amazing how sometimes we click with certain people in these helping roles because they seem to understand where we’re coming from. I’m glad that Stephanie and others were able to come be with you during the time you really needed it.

Good luck and I’ll be thinking about you (and praying). :)

Shelly

]]> By: Joyfulmomlea http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-72 Joyfulmomlea Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:55:44 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-72 Cliff & Stephanie, I'm praying for you & the kids. I'm so thankful you have a great church family to help out. If there's anything we can do, let us know...we are only a couple hours away. Praying, Lea Cliff & Stephanie,
I’m praying for you & the kids. I’m so thankful you have a great church family to help out. If there’s anything we can do, let us know…we are only a couple hours away.
Praying,
Lea

]]> By: Melinda O'Brien http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-71 Melinda O'Brien Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:18:43 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-71 Hang in there Cliff. I think you're making great decisions. I'm so glad you have your church family to help out, as many of us would do if logistically possible. Continued prayers, Melinda Hang in there Cliff. I think you’re making great decisions. I’m so glad you have your church family to help out, as many of us would do if logistically possible.

Continued prayers,

Melinda

]]> By: Carrie Cotter http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-70 Carrie Cotter Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:16:55 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-70 Wow Cliff, I can't even begin to imagine what and your family are going through. After reading your post and the comments I have to agree with the last few. Is there an option to transfer? After all the confusing and not talking to each other, I don't think I would feel comfortable letting any one of those "surgeons" operate on me. We will be praying for you, Steph, and the kids! We are all here for you when you need to vent! Keeping it inside is the worst thing you could do right now. Wow Cliff, I can’t even begin to imagine what and your family are going through. After reading your post and the comments I have to agree with the last few. Is there an option to transfer? After all the confusing and not talking to each other, I don’t think I would feel comfortable letting any one of those “surgeons” operate on me. We will be praying for you, Steph, and the kids! We are all here for you when you need to vent! Keeping it inside is the worst thing you could do right now.

]]> By: Denyse http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-69 Denyse Tue, 06 Jan 2009 20:32:44 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-69 Cliff, I'm so sorry this is all happening to you. I am praying for you and the medical staff at your hospital. Get well soon. Denyse Cliff,
I’m so sorry this is all happening to you. I am praying for you and the medical staff at your hospital. Get well soon.
Denyse

]]> By: Shawn Degnan http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-68 Shawn Degnan Tue, 06 Jan 2009 20:15:08 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-68 Hang in there Cliff... God is in control... Shawn Hang in there Cliff… God is in control…

Shawn

]]> By: Amanda from Michigan http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-67 Amanda from Michigan Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:33:27 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-67 Cliff, Can you request to go to a different hospital???? Cliff,

Can you request to go to a different hospital????

]]> By: Scott Copperman http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-66 Scott Copperman Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:16:12 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-66 Cliff, I can only imagine your frustration (and I'm sure a little bit of fear). You are handling yourself much better than I expect I would - your patience and focus is outstanding, and I'm sure it will prove to be its own reward. It's fortunate you've got the 'net accessible and that you have the sense and confidence to ask the questions you are. (not to mention Stephanie and the Ravenskidlets to help refresh your spirits and give you support offline) My family and I hope that the stress and difficult times pass quickly for you and yours, and we look forward to the time (hopefully soon) when you can relegate this to simply a "good story" you share about "that time when..." . Cliff,

I can only imagine your frustration (and I’m sure a little bit of fear). You are handling yourself much better than I expect I would – your patience and focus is outstanding, and I’m sure it will prove to be its own reward.

It’s fortunate you’ve got the ‘net accessible and that you have the sense and confidence to ask the questions you are. (not to mention Stephanie and the Ravenskidlets to help refresh your spirits and give you support offline)

My family and I hope that the stress and difficult times pass quickly for you and yours, and we look forward to the time (hopefully soon) when you can relegate this to simply a “good story” you share about “that time when…” .

]]> By: Christy Ewers http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-65 Christy Ewers Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:08:17 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-65 Hi Cliff - What a frustrating time! My prayers are sure with you and the family. I work in the health care field and I know how many flawed people work here too. Most have good hearts, many are overwhelmed with the amount that they have to do, etc. I'm glad you are asking alot of questions, that is definitely the best way to protect yourself. Also, i wonder if you could ask that nursing supervisor if you could just have one Dr. communicate with you from now on, even if just by phone - so you have one person to filter all the info through. I don't know if all these other Drs are from the same group, but it sounds like there has been a communication breakdown. I would try and nicely ask if you could just deal with one guy - whichever you have had the best communication with. Often I tell my patients that the best Dr. is the one they can talk to and understand....I don't know if that helps - wish you were here in one of the hospitals I work in and I could help more! And I hope Stephanie gets there soon. Keep the faith and I'll keep praying from California... Christy Hi Cliff -
What a frustrating time! My prayers are sure with you and the family. I work in the health care field and I know how many flawed people work here too. Most have good hearts, many are overwhelmed with the amount that they have to do, etc. I’m glad you are asking alot of questions, that is definitely the best way to protect yourself. Also, i wonder if you could ask that nursing supervisor if you could just have one Dr. communicate with you from now on, even if just by phone – so you have one person to filter all the info through. I don’t know if all these other Drs are from the same group, but it sounds like there has been a communication breakdown. I would try and nicely ask if you could just deal with one guy – whichever you have had the best communication with. Often I tell my patients that the best Dr. is the one they can talk to and understand….I don’t know if that helps – wish you were here in one of the hospitals I work in and I could help more! And I hope Stephanie gets there soon. Keep the faith and I’ll keep praying from California…
Christy

]]> By: Geoff Gentry http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-64 Geoff Gentry Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:03:46 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-64 Praying for you Cliff. When it rains it pours. Praying for you Cliff. When it rains it pours.

]]> By: Edith S Baker http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-63 Edith S Baker Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:53:37 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-63 Cliff, I wish I could transport you here. I know the best gastrointerologist doctor in the world and he practices here. He saved my daughter's life twice, and when other doctors wanted to remove her colon, he gave her medications that save it from surgery. When other doctors told her that she would never conceive, he made sure to give the right meds to put her in remission. My granddaughter Meghan is the miracle this doctor enabled us to love. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts. Get better soon. Cliff, I wish I could transport you here. I know the best gastrointerologist doctor in the world and he practices here. He saved my daughter’s life twice, and when other doctors wanted to remove her colon, he gave her medications that save it from surgery. When other doctors told her that she would never conceive, he made sure to give the right meds to put her in remission. My granddaughter Meghan is the miracle this doctor enabled us to love.

Keeping you and your family in my thoughts. Get better soon.

]]> By: Cliff http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-62 Cliff Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:39:36 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-62 @Rob Blatt you wrote "Just be glad that they are catching things now rather than while having you open on a table." That's just it, they DIDN'T CATCH IT.. The only way that this was caught was due to the fact that I refused to sign the consent form before seeing a doctor who then confirmed the screw up. Otherwise, I would have gone into surgery with no mention of the MRCP they thought was so important. Now I'm waiting for a doctor who is supposed to do the MRC, who I heard in his own words say he doesn't think I need it. I have faith in doctors, but I also know they are human and I'm just a number to them. They've proven to me time and time again that I'm just a number. Numbers can get mixed up in people's minds! @Rob Blatt you wrote “Just be glad that they are catching things now rather than while having you open on a table.”

That’s just it, they DIDN’T CATCH IT.. The only way that this was caught was due to the fact that I refused to sign the consent form before seeing a doctor who then confirmed the screw up.

Otherwise, I would have gone into surgery with no mention of the MRCP they thought was so important.

Now I’m waiting for a doctor who is supposed to do the MRC, who I heard in his own words say he doesn’t think I need it.

I have faith in doctors, but I also know they are human and I’m just a number to them. They’ve proven to me time and time again that I’m just a number.

Numbers can get mixed up in people’s minds!

]]> By: mary lou http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-61 mary lou Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:36:42 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-61 i love you son, tell them you need some lunch .and not to fool with you today. love mom PS do not go on any hunger strike !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i love you son, tell them you need some lunch .and not to fool with you today. love mom PS do not go on any hunger strike !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

]]> By: D.G. Hollums http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-60 D.G. Hollums Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:26:34 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-60 Cliff, seriously, if you need me to show up let me know, I can work beside you the entire time, heh... and besides it might be nice to have a friend beside you... and the sad thing, is from all the nurses that attend FUMC, all of them say to go to St. E.'s if there is ever something wrong with you... can you imagine what it is like in the other hospitals? Dang! BTW: The MacWorld Expo is going on right now, it might take your mind off of things. Cliff, seriously, if you need me to show up let me know, I can work beside you the entire time, heh… and besides it might be nice to have a friend beside you… and the sad thing, is from all the nurses that attend FUMC, all of them say to go to St. E.’s if there is ever something wrong with you… can you imagine what it is like in the other hospitals? Dang!

BTW: The MacWorld Expo is going on right now, it might take your mind off of things.

]]> By: Rob Blatt http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-59 Rob Blatt Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:25:41 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-59 Take some comfort in this. No one who has earned their stripes as a doctor will play dice with your life. Frustration is human. I don't think that anyone could ever blame you for boiling over when it comes to this. You've got your family that loves you and legions of fans that are wishing you well. Swear if you need to, but place some faith in the doctors who have worked their entire lives to be in the position to help you too. Just be glad that they are catching things now rather than while having you open on a table. Take some comfort in this. No one who has earned their stripes as a doctor will play dice with your life. Frustration is human. I don’t think that anyone could ever blame you for boiling over when it comes to this. You’ve got your family that loves you and legions of fans that are wishing you well.

Swear if you need to, but place some faith in the doctors who have worked their entire lives to be in the position to help you too. Just be glad that they are catching things now rather than while having you open on a table.

]]> By: Mary Soukup http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-58 Mary Soukup Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:11:01 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-58 Cliff Please know that I'm thinking of you and your family. I will try and call you on the voice feed back line soon. I will also write you a e-mail when I get home. Keep a smile on your face, some times that helps. Tell the family that I am thinking of you guys. Mary Cliff
Please know that I’m thinking of you and your family. I will try and call you on the voice feed back line soon. I will also write you a e-mail when I get home. Keep a smile on your face, some times that helps.

Tell the family that I am thinking of you guys.

Mary

]]> By: Gordon Firemark http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-57 Gordon Firemark Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:03:23 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-57 Cliff - Most hospitals have a patient ombudsman. So do most Health Insurance companies. You really ought to ask for these people to help you. It sounds like you're getting an undisciplined and disorganized mess of treatment plans, etc. Everybody who's hospitalized should have someone (other than themselves) available to advocate for the patient, to question the doctors, and to INSIST on complete and thorough information and explanations. Since Stephanie is busy with the kids, house, etc., perhaps you can call on a friend or other family member to take on this role.... Trust in God is a good thing. For all others.. "trust but verify"... and don't hesitate to question things! Good luck. My prayers are with you! Cliff –

Most hospitals have a patient ombudsman. So do most Health Insurance companies. You really ought to ask for these people to help you. It sounds like you’re getting an undisciplined and disorganized mess of treatment plans, etc.

Everybody who’s hospitalized should have someone (other than themselves) available to advocate for the patient, to question the doctors, and to INSIST on complete and thorough information and explanations. Since Stephanie is busy with the kids, house, etc., perhaps you can call on a friend or other family member to take on this role….

Trust in God is a good thing. For all others.. “trust but verify”… and don’t hesitate to question things!

Good luck. My prayers are with you!

]]> By: Troy Price http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-56 Troy Price Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:00:18 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-56 Man, you are a trooper! Know that we are thinking/praying for you down here. FYI: I hear that removed gall bladders sell really good on Ebay. You could be the leading Podcast Equipment and Useless Organ Supplier of 2009. Man, you are a trooper! Know that we are thinking/praying for you down here.

FYI: I hear that removed gall bladders sell really good on Ebay. You could be the leading Podcast Equipment and Useless Organ Supplier of 2009.

]]> By: Wayne Henderson http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-54 Wayne Henderson Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:44:34 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-54 Cliff, I'm sorry that everything at the hospital has been one big screw-up, practically from the start. I'm prayerful that the most recent developments will lead to all of the DRs, RNs, and LVNs to get together on the same page. You know how they say "some day we'll look back on this and laugh"? Well, I think it will be a large number of years before you'll look back on this and laugh. On the plus side, sharing all of this with everyone will give us the knowledge to use, just in case any of us end up in a similar situation in a hospital. In the meantime, still praying that God will strengthen and comfort you and Stephanie and the kids, and that He will guide the medical staff in your care. Wayne Cliff, I’m sorry that everything at the hospital has been one big screw-up, practically from the start. I’m prayerful that the most recent developments will lead to all of the DRs, RNs, and LVNs to get together on the same page.

You know how they say “some day we’ll look back on this and laugh”? Well, I think it will be a large number of years before you’ll look back on this and laugh.

On the plus side, sharing all of this with everyone will give us the knowledge to use, just in case any of us end up in a similar situation in a hospital.

In the meantime, still praying that God will strengthen and comfort you and Stephanie and the kids, and that He will guide the medical staff in your care.

Wayne

]]> By: Mariana Evica http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-53 Mariana Evica Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:41:15 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-53 After some prayer, I want to share something with you, a gut feeling. Cliff, I know you have your hands full, but please consider speaking with a knowledgeable lawyer, just to get an opinion. I think you are in a very vulnerable position right now, and possibly in danger (apologies for sounding alarmist!). I think you can expect continuing similar behavior and decision-making from this hospital, and that you may wish to consider another hospital. I don't want to make a mountain out of a molehill, but I'm deeply concerned that a) no one is advocating for you b) that what they have been doing is criminally negligent and c) that you may not be well-informed in some important regard (legally, medically, etc.) I will continue to pray for you. After some prayer, I want to share something with you, a gut feeling. Cliff, I know you have your hands full, but please consider speaking with a knowledgeable lawyer, just to get an opinion. I think you are in a very vulnerable position right now, and possibly in danger (apologies for sounding alarmist!). I think you can expect continuing similar behavior and decision-making from this hospital, and that you may wish to consider another hospital. I don’t want to make a mountain out of a molehill, but I’m deeply concerned that a) no one is advocating for you b) that what they have been doing is criminally negligent and c) that you may not be well-informed in some important regard (legally, medically, etc.) I will continue to pray for you.

]]> By: Lindsay Johnson http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-51 Lindsay Johnson Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:14:16 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-51 I know how you feel. I once went into the hospital for braxton hicks, and the doctors forgot to tell me I was being transferred to Arnold Palmer, until they were taking me to the transfer ambulance. I was like "Um, where are we going?" The medic told me... wow was I surprised. I ended up staying a month :( I am not a fan of hospitals. I know how you feel. I once went into the hospital for braxton hicks, and the doctors forgot to tell me I was being transferred to Arnold Palmer, until they were taking me to the transfer ambulance. I was like “Um, where are we going?” The medic told me… wow was I surprised. I ended up staying a month :( I am not a fan of hospitals.

]]> By: Michelle http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-50 Michelle Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:04:38 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-50 I am sorry for the poor treatment you have been given and am praying for some solid decisions to be made and a speedy recovery. On a lighter note, if your treatment gets any worse, maybe you could have a lawsuit on your hands. You were praying for a mysterious source of instant income— this could be it! We all know that God works in mysterious ways. Sounds like a case for Eli Stone. I am sorry for the poor treatment you have been given and am praying for some solid decisions to be made and a speedy recovery.

On a lighter note, if your treatment gets any worse, maybe you could have a lawsuit on your hands. You were praying for a mysterious source of instant income— this could be it! We all know that God works in mysterious ways. Sounds like a case for Eli Stone.

]]> By: Edith S Baker http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-49 Edith S Baker Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:53:31 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-49 One more note—a positive note, as someone, like you, who is always watching her waist line and hardly seeing it shrink, think of the good news: Because you are not eating, you will be thinner. One more note—a positive note, as someone, like you, who is always watching her waist line and hardly seeing it shrink, think of the good news:

Because you are not eating, you will be thinner.

]]> By: Edith S Baker http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-48 Edith S Baker Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:49:28 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-48 Can you imagine the poor person who cannot fend for himself as well as you can? Can you imagine what the poor person who has no Internet to get educated by and has no way of voicing his or her concerns? I am so grateful that you are able to take control of your life and defend your rights and make sure your health is up to par. Some of these doctors should never been allowed to practice and the AMA protects them. I am not against doctors and the AMA. My son-in-law is a doctor. But I find it offensive that we must practically know as much as they know in order to make sure we get good care. That's what pisses me off about some of them. Cliff, you have every right to be mad. It's your body and your health and someone did not pay the attention that he or she should have done. I went through this when my mother-in-law was alive. She suffered from Alzheimer’s and couldn’t fend for herself and I am saddened to say that even if she did not have Alzheimer’s she would still not be able to fend for herself. Something is wrong with our health-care system. So, in essence, I applaud you for being pissed, for standing up for your rights, and for making sure your body gets the proper care. Hopefully, you will be over this hurdle soon enough and be back on your feet providing for your family while entertaining us. I am not a believer, but I pray that you get good care and get home soon to your family who needs you. Can you imagine the poor person who cannot fend for himself as well as you can? Can you imagine what the poor person who has no Internet to get educated by and has no way of voicing his or her concerns? I am so grateful that you are able to take control of your life and defend your rights and make sure your health is up to par. Some of these doctors should never been allowed to practice and the AMA protects them.

I am not against doctors and the AMA. My son-in-law is a doctor. But I find it offensive that we must practically know as much as they know in order to make sure we get good care. That’s what pisses me off about some of them.

Cliff, you have every right to be mad. It’s your body and your health and someone did not pay the attention that he or she should have done.

I went through this when my mother-in-law was alive. She suffered from Alzheimer’s and couldn’t fend for herself and I am saddened to say that even if she did not have Alzheimer’s she would still not be able to fend for herself. Something is wrong with our health-care system. So, in essence, I applaud you for being pissed, for standing up for your rights, and for making sure your body gets the proper care.

Hopefully, you will be over this hurdle soon enough and be back on your feet providing for your family while entertaining us.

I am not a believer, but I pray that you get good care and get home soon to your family who needs you.

]]> By: Amanda from Michigan http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-47 Amanda from Michigan Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:42:47 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-47 I have no idea how the logo I designed for my dad's company is on there...but hey, it works! I have no idea how the logo I designed for my dad’s company is on there…but hey, it works!

]]> By: Amanda from Michigan http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-46 Amanda from Michigan Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:42:08 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-46 Cliff, What a bummer! Sorry it's such a trouble. You're in my prayers as always. Ultimately, you're the one who cares the most about your own health. It's hard to be an advocate when you're hungry and sick, but that's the way it goes. I do hope that things go more smoothly!!! It's okay to rant. It's YOUR blog! Cliff,

What a bummer! Sorry it’s such a trouble. You’re in my prayers as always.

Ultimately, you’re the one who cares the most about your own health. It’s hard to be an advocate when you’re hungry and sick, but that’s the way it goes. I do hope that things go more smoothly!!!

It’s okay to rant. It’s YOUR blog!

]]> By: Stephen Cross http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-45 Stephen Cross Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:39:09 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-45 Much too often patients are passive in their medical care. Cliff, look out for yourself (and your family). Ask, ask, ask until you are satisfied. No lets get down to the real issue here... NO EATING SINCE FRIDAY!!!! :) Thoughts and prayers are with you. -S Much too often patients are passive in their medical care. Cliff, look out for yourself (and your family). Ask, ask, ask until you are satisfied.

No lets get down to the real issue here… NO EATING SINCE FRIDAY!!!! :)

Thoughts and prayers are with you.

-S

]]> By: Toni Briere http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-44 Toni Briere Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:29:01 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-44 Cliff, I can't believe the incompetence of the doctors and staff surrounding your illness! It's a good thing you have your computer there to look everything up and stay informed, because you would not otherwise be if it were up to them! Is there anywhere else you can go? Your doctors have neglected you and failed to "first do no harm" by keeping you there in pain, without food and doing unneccesary test on you. I've had to be an advocate for myself during hospital stays and it can be intimidating. I'm glad you stood up for and protected yourself. When I had my gall bladder taken out I was 6 months pregnant and had the big cut, but my doctor told me the options (try to keep it in or get it taken out) and I wanted the surgery so it was scheduled for that evening. I was miserable, they knew it and got me taken care of. It seems like your doctors are dragging their feet to keep you in there. That's NOT ethical. I agree with the person who said you should fight for not paying for unnecessary tests. Again, totally unethical. I'm mad with you and I'm praying that they take care of you the way you should be taken care of! And no need to apologize for the use of language, that's pretty tame given all you've gone through! One more thought, the more hydrated you are, the easier it is to get to your veins, so if you need more bloodwork, definitely stay well-hydrated! I'm guessing you have an IV, so that shouldn't be too difficult. Our Prayers are with you! Toni, Ali and Ani Briere Cliff,

I can’t believe the incompetence of the doctors and staff surrounding your illness! It’s a good thing you have your computer there to look everything up and stay informed, because you would not otherwise be if it were up to them!

Is there anywhere else you can go? Your doctors have neglected you and failed to “first do no harm” by keeping you there in pain, without food and doing unneccesary test on you. I’ve had to be an advocate for myself during hospital stays and it can be intimidating. I’m glad you stood up for and protected yourself.

When I had my gall bladder taken out I was 6 months pregnant and had the big cut, but my doctor told me the options (try to keep it in or get it taken out) and I wanted the surgery so it was scheduled for that evening. I was miserable, they knew it and got me taken care of. It seems like your doctors are dragging their feet to keep you in there. That’s NOT ethical. I agree with the person who said you should fight for not paying for unnecessary tests. Again, totally unethical.

I’m mad with you and I’m praying that they take care of you the way you should be taken care of! And no need to apologize for the use of language, that’s pretty tame given all you’ve gone through!

One more thought, the more hydrated you are, the easier it is to get to your veins, so if you need more bloodwork, definitely stay well-hydrated! I’m guessing you have an IV, so that shouldn’t be too difficult.

Our Prayers are with you!
Toni, Ali and Ani Briere

]]> By: Ben http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-43 Ben Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:24:05 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-43 Well Cliff... I'm pretty pissed off just reading your situation.... wishing I knew some people on the inside of St. E's.... The level of incompetence is staggering. You are just a number.... a chart, that apparently they barely bother to read before they walk in the door of your room. Pathetic. Well Cliff… I’m pretty pissed off just reading your situation…. wishing I knew some people on the inside of St. E’s….

The level of incompetence is staggering. You are just a number…. a chart, that apparently they barely bother to read before they walk in the door of your room. Pathetic.

]]> By: Amy Pearson http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-42 Amy Pearson Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:22:58 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-42 Oh yeah, one other thing - if you would like to speak with someone about the quality of care you feel you have or have not received, ask if they have a "patient care advocate" or the equivalent. That would be the person the hospital has on staff to address and try to reconcile the issue. He/she would go through the proper channels so your concerns would get voiced to the proper people. Oh yeah, one other thing – if you would like to speak with someone about the quality of care you feel you have or have not received, ask if they have a “patient care advocate” or the equivalent. That would be the person the hospital has on staff to address and try to reconcile the issue. He/she would go through the proper channels so your concerns would get voiced to the proper people.

]]> By: Patrick http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-41 Patrick Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:21:04 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-41 I pray you will get the proper care soon. Don't they realize you are on the verge of producing the the "Help I've got Medical Condition" podcast in the works?! I pray you will get the proper care soon. Don’t they realize you are on the verge of producing the the “Help I’ve got Medical Condition” podcast in the works?!

]]> By: Amy Pearson http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-40 Amy Pearson Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:08:56 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-40 Cliff, I totally understand your frustration. When Mike had his appendix out on November it always felt like it took forever to get results and we were moving in slow motion. Not to mention that his Grandpa died the day he went into the hospital, so I had absolutely NO help with my 3-year-old Twins for the first three days he was in the hospital. I think the fact that I work in medicine and he was hospitalized at the hospital I work at helped to move things along faster than they may have otherwise because I know who to talk to and what the procedure should be. I can totally see how frustrating it would be for someone with out medical back ground to be getting little to no information. The internet is a great help, but from my point of view it is scarey how much medical information is out there for the lay person. Much of it is accurate, but much more of it is not and much of it can be very scarey. I commens you for being unwilling to sign the consent before speaking to the surgeon. The surgeon should ALWAYS discuss the plan of action with you and let you know the possible risks and complications before you consent to surgery. Oh and if nothing else is going to be done today, I would see about getting at least a liquid diet sent up. It would probably, just be broth, tea, sherbert and the likes, but at least its something and had a little flavor. Keeping you in my thoughts and hoping all goes well. Amy Cliff,
I totally understand your frustration. When Mike had his appendix out on November it always felt like it took forever to get results and we were moving in slow motion. Not to mention that his Grandpa died the day he went into the hospital, so I had absolutely NO help with my 3-year-old Twins for the first three days he was in the hospital. I think the fact that I work in medicine and he was hospitalized at the hospital I work at helped to move things along faster than they may have otherwise because I know who to talk to and what the procedure should be. I can totally see how frustrating it would be for someone with out medical back ground to be getting little to no information. The internet is a great help, but from my point of view it is scarey how much medical information is out there for the lay person. Much of it is accurate, but much more of it is not and much of it can be very scarey. I commens you for being unwilling to sign the consent before speaking to the surgeon. The surgeon should ALWAYS discuss the plan of action with you and let you know the possible risks and complications before you consent to surgery. Oh and if nothing else is going to be done today, I would see about getting at least a liquid diet sent up. It would probably, just be broth, tea, sherbert and the likes, but at least its something and had a little flavor. Keeping you in my thoughts and hoping all goes well.
Amy

]]> By: Joe Lamp'l http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-39 Joe Lamp'l Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:53:38 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-39 Tell it like it is brother. Shout it from the mountain top. It'll do you some good. I know you are frustrated as heck right now and you have every right to fell the way you do! Those docs don't sound like they have their act together and that is inexcusable! Cliff, you should continue to assert yourself and not proceed until YOU are satisfied that you have your questions answered! My gosh, it seems like those doctors owe you an apology for being so lackadaisical! We're all keeping you in our prayers and looking forward to your next rant! It makes great reading but I'm sorry it's at your expense! Go get em' tiger! Tell it like it is brother. Shout it from the mountain top. It’ll do you some good. I know you are frustrated as heck right now and you have every right to fell the way you do! Those docs don’t sound like they have their act together and that is inexcusable! Cliff, you should continue to assert yourself and not proceed until YOU are satisfied that you have your questions answered! My gosh, it seems like those doctors owe you an apology for being so lackadaisical! We’re all keeping you in our prayers and looking forward to your next rant! It makes great reading but I’m sorry it’s at your expense! Go get em’ tiger!

]]> By: John Shaffer http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-38 John Shaffer Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:51:03 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-38 I agree with you and the other comments posted here. This is getting to be ridiculous that you haven't eaten and the incompetency of the staff at the hospital. You should no be having to do there job and find there mistakes. What next are they going to bring you in to the operating room and have you do the surgery yourself? (just a joke there). Hope you will get getting back home soon I am sure that Stephanie needs your help and I am sure you will rest better there then in the hospital. I agree with you and the other comments posted here. This is getting to be ridiculous that you haven’t eaten and the incompetency of the staff at the hospital. You should no be having to do there job and find there mistakes. What next are they going to bring you in to the operating room and have you do the surgery yourself? (just a joke there). Hope you will get getting back home soon I am sure that Stephanie needs your help and I am sure you will rest better there then in the hospital.

]]> By: FredFromLongIsland http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-37 FredFromLongIsland Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:35:39 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-37 Writing to you from the orthodontist's chair. It's OK to express your reaction to this situation. I honestly believe the doctors' wait and see attitude when my wife had appendicitis caused them to wait until it began to burst. She required wound care from a visiting nurse for a couple of weeks after the surgery. It is definitely in your best interest for someone to be on your side keeping track of what's going on. Hang in there! Writing to you from the orthodontist’s chair. It’s OK to express your reaction to this situation. I honestly believe the doctors’ wait and see attitude when my wife had appendicitis caused them to wait until it began to burst. She required wound care from a visiting nurse for a couple of weeks after the surgery. It is definitely in your best interest for someone to be on your side keeping track of what’s going on.

Hang in there!

]]> By: Daniel Johnson, Jr. http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-36 Daniel Johnson, Jr. Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:34:19 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-36 I would probably feel the exact same way as you if I were in in your shoes right now. I'm so sorry you're going through this, Cliff. I do hope things work out good for you soon. P.S. I could think of several stronger words than the one you chose. ;) I would probably feel the exact same way as you if I were in in your shoes right now.

I’m so sorry you’re going through this, Cliff. I do hope things work out good for you soon.

P.S. I could think of several stronger words than the one you chose. ;)

]]> By: Melinda O'Brien http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-35 Melinda O'Brien Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:25:12 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-35 Cliff, you have every reason in the world to be angry! What counts is what you do with your anger. Somehow, I can't imagine that in your frustration and anger you treated your doctor in a disrespectful manner. i.e. calling him names, cursing at him, punching him in the face, etc. You are simply voicing your understandable frustration with this situation. I'm sure that even your doctor would agree with your frustration. Thank God you had the sense to not sign off on the surgery for today. Keeping you and yours in my prayers, Melinda Cliff, you have every reason in the world to be angry! What counts is what you do with your anger. Somehow, I can’t imagine that in your frustration and anger you treated your doctor in a disrespectful manner. i.e. calling him names, cursing at him, punching him in the face, etc. You are simply voicing your understandable frustration with this situation. I’m sure that even your doctor would agree with your frustration. Thank God you had the sense to not sign off on the surgery for today.

Keeping you and yours in my prayers,

Melinda

]]> By: Chris Beiting http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-34 Chris Beiting Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:14:40 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-34 Dude, I do not mind your rant at all... I think our medical care in this country is extremely flawed, and you just showed a great example. In this day and age of technology there should be no screwups, no oversights... I understand that humans can have errors, but really they get paid hundreds of thousands of dollars... they better have their A-Game all time. I hope you get better man... I'm so sorry about CES. :( Dude, I do not mind your rant at all… I think our medical care in this country is extremely flawed, and you just showed a great example.

In this day and age of technology there should be no screwups, no oversights… I understand that humans can have errors, but really they get paid hundreds of thousands of dollars… they better have their A-Game all time.

I hope you get better man… I’m so sorry about CES. :(

]]> By: JeffInIndy http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-33 JeffInIndy Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:10:26 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-33 I'm not surprised at your tone or attitude. In fact, I'm glad that you're not letting them walk all over you. This is ridiculous. A Christian is supposed to turn the other cheek, but also defend themselves. And that includes from incompetence. Is anyone in the hospital concerned that you haven't eaten in almost 4 days? At what point are they going to allow you to eat? I don't think a week with no food is a good thing. I’m not surprised at your tone or attitude. In fact, I’m glad that you’re not letting them walk all over you. This is ridiculous.

A Christian is supposed to turn the other cheek, but also defend themselves. And that includes from incompetence.

Is anyone in the hospital concerned that you haven’t eaten in almost 4 days? At what point are they going to allow you to eat? I don’t think a week with no food is a good thing.

]]> By: CJ http://pursuingabalancedlife.com/now-im-just-p-ed-off/comment-page-1/#comment-32 CJ Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:07:25 +0000 http://ravenscraft.org/?p=62#comment-32 Leave it to the American health care system to frustrate and madden even those with the most docile nature. Leave it to the American health care system to frustrate and madden even those with the most docile nature.

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