[Wswss] [Fwd: Ron Patterson- W6FM aka: The VQZ]

[Jerry Gastil]

Stu Hacken wrote:

> I have received lots of calls/emails regarding Ron's condition. As
> many of you know, Ron was trimming branches off a big tree in his
> backyard on Saturday, 4/9 and standing on the top of a tall ladder. A
> large branch came down and knocked the ladder out from underneath him.
> He fell to the ground (about 12') and landed on his back. Thanks to
> everyone who has called or emailed me for your good wishes! I have and
> will continue to pass them on to his wife Marcia and family. My last
> report was this morning... He is stable however, they are still trying
> to stop the internal bleeding. His stomach is very distended as all
> the blood and fluids are filling it up. He has tubes in him for
> drainage and other things. The doctors are hoping to operate this
> Thursday to remove vertibrae bone fragments from his back and from one
> of his lungs. The CT Scan showed  bone fragments pressing against his
> spinal cord as well as in other areas of concern. This is what is
> causing his paralysis from the waste down. At this point the Dr's are
> not very optimistic with regard to a full or even a partial reveral of
> his paralysis. However, we are all praying for a miracle!  As you
> know, Ron is a very strong willed person. He has been quite "fiesty"
> to the staff in the hospital from what I have been told. He is fully
> conscious and is thinking "fairly" clear.  Fortunately, his present
> attitude is that he will beat this, and ride motorcycles, climb
> towers, particiapte in his VHF contesting/Field Days, etc. once
> again! I'll keep you guys posted.  The family has asked me to funnel
> info back and forth to his ham radio buddies. AS you can imagine, it's
> real hectic at his house. Marcia's sister that lives in Santee has
> been with them. Tomorrow, Ron's sister is flying in from Connecticut.
> His friends and neighbors have been very helpful and
> supportive..bringing the family meals, flowers, etc.  He is still in
> ICU in critical condition. No phone calls or visitors other than
> family at this time. If anyone would like to send a card, his address
> is "OK" on QRZ.COM. I will update everyone again Friday. Say a prayer
> for Ron and his family!  73' StuWV6H
>
>
>