Traech day

Well---morning started typical. We were allowed in early and allowed to stay with him until surgery time. They did all his antibiotic meds at 9:30, did his physical therapy around 10:30 and anesthesia came in shortly after that to prep him and transport. He was awake and responsive, same Justin by way of not as perky as we've seen but responsive, had no questions prior to surgery, did physical and occupational therapy. OT said he had good bicep and tricep reaction that he didn't have last week and some slight movement of his own in his lift wrist (not so much in right one but she said that would come to him with time). PT did his lower legs which Justin indicated still no sensation; however, he could feel pressure in his abdominal area from the leg movements. All of these things we take as a positive that rehab will be an enormous help to his recovery.

We were advised verbally that he will be covered for rehab and are waiting for written notice to the hospital so they can proceed with Sheppard Center in Altanta, the most reputable rehab center in the nation that specializes in spinal injury. Justin has not been given this good news yet because he was still in surgery when the call came in. The hospital case worker has indicated this week will be primarily to wein him from the breathing machine, get him in a floor room not CCu and get up his strength for the transfer to GA.

He was back in his room after surgery around 1:30 but didn't want visitors, not even mom & dad. The nurse said he did good, was having slight trouble adapting to the traech but overall good. We had business in Daleville so I called back when done at 3:30 and his day nurse, Joannie, was checking out but advised he was in pain, still didn't want visitors but was doing overall good. Some minor changes to meds, etc which is common after the traech but she had hopes he would feel better once he adjusts.

Stats were good this morning but am unable to report on them right now, I am only able to take the nurse's word that he is good just in pain. We've pondered over hoping Justin understands this was the step to take to get to the next level and hope while he is in pain now, that he knows that too shall pass and recovery will come faster now. Will update further when he feels up to letting us back in the room.

Keep praying---the blessings are evident!!!