Thursday, March 19, 2009

3-19-09 Melvin Bell Update


Melvin had a 5 1/2 hour surgery today. The doctors spent the time removing "dead tissue" from his face, arm, hand and leg. The good news is that Melvin went through surgery well. The bad news is that he has an infection that caused them to take more skin and muscle from his leg and hand. The possibility of him keeping his leg below his knee is still very critical. The doctors are hopeful that they were able to get the tissue out that is causing the infection. Also, the doctors removed the tube in his mouth (going down his throat) and put in a tracheotomy. This will be more comfortable for Melvin. The doctors are planning on another surgery on the 24th (Tuesday). They may have intentions of grafting; however, they need to wait and see if the infection has gone down...they may have to clean more.

Melvin's parents are in need of an RV to use. The hospital has allowed them to have one in the parking lot. I know that's a big thing to ask, but If it were one of my sons in that hospital, I would not want to leave him either.

I can't thank you enough! The community of Chowchilla and the Chowchilla Barn Burner racers and fans have really come through for Melvin and his family. Melvin and his mom, Teresa, moved to Chowchilla less than five years ago and she would have never dreamed that a small community and race track would do so much for them in a time of crisis such as this. I've always been genuinely proud to be from Chowchilla and also be a part of the Chowchilla Barn Burner race track. It's times like this that everyone shows just how supportive they are to a family in need. So many of you don't even know who Melvin is and have given so freely. God bless to you all and thank you for your continued prayers.

Thank you for letting me keep you updated. I will be delivering the pre-ordered cinnamon rolls to C.U.H.S. tomorrow (Friday). I will continue to take orders for these cinnamon rolls for as long as anyone wants to buy them. If you have any questions, please feel free to call my cell (559) 975-9800 or email me at Kim@ChowchillaAwards.com. I will also try and keep the Chowchilla Barn Burner website updated.

Kim Hickman
Chowchilla Awards
Chowchilla Barn Burner

4 comments:

Melanie Petersen said...

Does Melvin need blood? has there been a blood drive for him?

Anonymous said...

Hey kimmie... its sissy as bubba says.. i wanted 2 thank u so much for everything your doing 4 my bubba... you are a true angle.. thank you... Heather

Anonymous said...

I want to thank everyone that is helping Melvin out right now! Kimmie you are truly a God's send and I really do want to thank you for everything you have done for Mel and his family!
-Cassie

Curt and Teresa said...

t night, August 1, Teresa, sister Tamara and myself were at the Madera Speedway where Kenny Shepherd and staff had invited us to set up a booth featuring the art work that local custom painter Craig Judd. Craig is doing this to help with expenses associated with his upcoming transfer to a rehabilitation facility in San Jose.
As always the "racing faternity" came through with not only generous donations but much needed moral support and prayers. The plan is to display these much sought after art pieces at Chowchilla Speedway 8/08/09 and again at Madera Speedway 8/15/09.
If anyone is interested in raffle tickets they may contact us at 559-321-5149 or email ckliewer_1945@msn.com.
This coming week will busy for Melvin as channel 30 news will be doing an interview with us in regards to the Terry House Project in Fresno. Then Thursday, Gary Scelzi, top fuel driver and champion has left word he wants to meet Melvin. Melvin is very excited. He is also scheduled for what we hope to be his last surgery for awhile. Please keep him in your prayers.
Love, Teresa and Curt