George, there are actually two cousins, Maureen and Eileen, who are tending to matters. JLA arrived at the hospital about 3, and consulted for some time with them, then all three of them with the doctor. I got off the phone with him a few minutes ago.
Edwarda is very weak, and appears to have some sort of abdominal infection, although they have still not identified it. Most of her organs are compromised. They have run just about every test they can think of. Basically, the intention is to keep her alive until she either spontaneously recovers, or they identify the illness and determine a course of treatment. She is relatively stable since yesterday: some things are better, some are worse, so it is a "draw". The biggest concern is her weakness, which makes even simple procedures dangerous.
On the other hand, it was JLA's impression that she responded to them being in the room, after he had said something to her, so she may not be fully unconscious. The nurses said that she was talking, although sometimes confusedly, until a couple of days ago. There may be some fight left.
The other hopeful news is that, according to the cousins, the hospital she is in has an excellent reputation, and is part of the Beth Israel complex of hospitals. JLA himself was impressed by the facilities, and liked the doctor he talked to. Edwarda appears to have health insurance, although JLA is going to check on the status, and take care of some other outstanding business in cooperation with the cousins.
JLA did suggest that they might get the Center for Disease Control involved, due to the mysterious nature of the disease, but is not sure they will take that suggestion.
I am the one who contacted the old friend, and I have sent messages to assorted friends by culling addresses from e-mails that Edwarda sent to me and others simultaneously.
JLA will be meeting with the cousins, and then the sister, tomorrow morning, and will try to call me in the early afternoon. If there is anything worth reporting, I will do so.......... |
