Thursday, April 9, 2015

Update # 197

8 Years

The only thing really going on around here is rain and storms the last few days. Jeff, the TV guy, was aggravated yesterday when we had to sit in the hall for 30 minutes. They said it was a “tornado” warning – but it was really a “thunderstorm” 40 miles “South” of our location. Then this morning after the rain ended, we wanted to open the blinds in the 1st floor gym so Jeff could look outside while he did the bike. A therapist said no, the manager said they had to wait for the “all clear” – the sun was shining and we saw blue sky. Another therapist opened the blinds and said she’d take the responsibility.

Jeff continues to work hard in each therapy session. Yesterday, PT tried a “litegait” walking harness. This was difficult and took quite a bit of concentration. Jeff commented he did not have the arm support as much as when doing the parallel bars.

This morning, OT helped Jeff take his first shower in weeks – seated on a bench. Jeff had been wanting to wait till the trach was removed. And speaking of the trach removal, we noticed how well the site is healing when the dressing was changed.

Late afternoon, the case worker came to Jeff’s room to discuss the weekly meeting the staff had on Jeff’s progress. They were all pleased with his improvement. His functioning level rose again – from 3 to 5. Naturally, the biggest concern is regaining strength in Jeff’s legs so they will support him. We can feel muscles in his legs and see those muscles working when he does his therapy. The techs have said that once Jeff is able to gain that support, he’ll take off! We all know that’s true.

Well, I have no idea when this update will actually be sent. I began it a couple of hours ago but stopped for weather and a few phone calls. One call was with Ken who is sitting in the dark at home due to lose of electricity from a tornado warning. The hospitals do not let me send a bulk list of emails so I send this to Ken who sends it out to everyone from home.

We are thankful Jeff has seen continued progress. We know he is feeling much better overall when during non-therapy time he is beginning to become bored. Time for him to get up and back to work – especially when there’s bad weather and he’s not directing the news coverage. Thanks for being with him as he accomplishes his goal. We appreciate all the prayers.

love,

Marcia