Well, it is 7:51pm CST and we've made it home long enough to unload the car and put it all in the living room and me to start the latest update.
It has seemed like a long, dreary rollercoaster ride this past week. Everything we were told a month ago to expect has decided to creep up on Justin a month later.
I previously noted his bout with his 2nd UTI, they claimed another round with dsyreflexia but Justin insists "NO", he said there was no 'migraine' headache so he thinks they misjudged that one (or jumped too fast to blame something) and has been experiencing reflex which I'm confused over since they changed him over to the condom catheter the last few days---sorry to anyone that doesn't understand (henri and mama hen and all you nurses do). This form of catheter is supposed to help him not wet himself since he cannot yet control his bladder; however, he has done so twice just on Saturday which means somethings wrong with the catheter or the installation of it!! He's only had one other time like this and it was because he was holding 1100cc. That's not the case with these on Saturday. Don't know but hope to have some answers soon.
He's been extremely cold the whole visit with Sunday finding us leaving him with his LSU blanket from shoulders to ankles, a hospital blanket wrapped around neck, shoulders, arms and hands and his LSU taboggin (spelling???) on his head.
The pain in his right shoulder is supposedly tendonitis and he gets treatment tomorrow for that but he said the pain in his left shoulder, shoulder blade and arm hurts 10 times worse. Robyn tried massaging it out and said it hurt so bad it made him tear up (sorry Justin, I know TMI!!) He said he would discuss it with the doc in the morning and see if PT/OT can do their treatment on both sides tomorrow but he said they told him that if this treatment doesn't work then his aggressive rehab schedule will be put off for approximately 4 weeks. I'm trying to stay positive.
PT Beth mentioned Friday that he does miss us when we're gone. He tried making light of it but it concerned me a bit for her to say that in front of him. I guess it's just Mama worrying too much.
We saw him enough on Saturday to have lunch with him and let him say good-bye to Pretzel then we had to make that 5 hour round trip to Augusta to make the visitation swap. Made it back in time to say good-night to him, gather his clothes and head to the hotel to do his laundry.
Today was gloomy with rain again!! Makes for a long day when inside is all you have to look forward to during family time. We fed him again but his appetite seemed less than normal. He kept saying he was okay, just cold. He stayed up late last night doing some research online with his roommate Michael. Being tired could have played a part but he didn't really get out of bed until almost 1pm.
I'm sure this was just another one of those 'stalled' out weeks and I shouldn't worry.
Dad plans to touch base with him on Monday to see how the treatment, etc. went so we'll try to post again when we know something. Only pics I got were on my cell phone and I don't know how to get them to the computer. Anyone that wants to volunteer getting me to send them to your cell phone and then load them and email them to me, I'm willing (I guess too much technology or too tired one--ha).
Love you all, another reminder that prayer, encouragement and support are the ingredients to seeing us all through this journey!!! THANK YOU!!!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Again we are late with updates
Sorry to all of you that continue to encourage and follow Justin's progress. This week apparently was just meant to be another milestone in his journey.
He started it with a UTI and just all around not feeling good. He did pick out his wheelchair and dad reaffirms he has internal sensation on bladder and bowel. His Asia is an imcomplete Asia B. Mama Hen and others familiar will know that Justin is middle ground with his feeling and sensation. Asia A being the worst case and C being the best.
Still no further developments with his hands but he is using his arms/wrists more without his wrist supports and finds way to accommodate what he needs without full function of his fingers.
He played three rounds of UNO Spin with TR Group and actually had some help with Preston (who of course showed his cards for the most part so others knew what was in his hand but they still managed to win one game and be runner up for another one--lol). I didn't have the camcorder so I have pics on my cell phone. Will have to figure a way to get them loaded to the blog site. He did manage to handle the cards for the most part by himself with his hands/fingers and figured out how to get some Life Saver gummies picked up and into his mouth himself.
He still seemed tired today. Robyn said he had been cold all morning when we got there and was still cold by sun down. Fever came in at 99.0 with BP at 110/64. We'll see how he's feeling in the morning.
We thought he was about to miss out once again on a Push Pass and was hopping mad. I talked with PT Beth who checked into it and was able to get him (and us) signed off. Robyn and I took him and Preston through the tunnel and to CVS where the boy spent a good plenty on a 'projection' clock---he said that way he could just look up at the ceiling and see what time it was everytime a nurse came in there wanting to poke, prod or roll him. The rest of the spending was on "junk" (candy, candy and more candy---he won't need candy for a while).
He said he was just happy to actually be allowed off the premises and feeling half normal.
We brought some home cooking and that seemed to really perk him up today. Nothing fancy, had some homemade tacos with the fixins for lunch and had chili dogs with cheese dip and chips for supper. He's doing cold cut subs Saturday for lunch and said after that, he's open to anything because he's happy and he know whatever it is will be good (ha).
PT Beth did advise me that they believe he has tendonitis in his right shoulder. They are going to do an injection straight into that tendon on Monday morning. It is suppose to go straight to the tendon and help it faster than pills. We ended up to a 'hot/cold' Bengay tonight. Of course, he said he could only feel it on the shoulder area of his arms, nothing through to his elbows. We continue to pray that he will eventually get his touch sensation back that goes with his actual mobility.
Dad not feeling good. He's been down since last week and this visit seems to be taking its toll on him. Of course, he continues to suck it up and do the best he can. Hopefully another doctor visit next week will find the cause enabling a find for a feel better cure.
We'll try to get some more pics and get them posted. He does PT at 8:00 in the morning so he's due to rise early.
Mama Hen--expected Grad day is September 19, he goes to Augusta for approximately 2-3 weeks (Shepherd is hoping for 2 weeks), then he comes back here for Out Patient which is roughly 4-6 weeks. Shepherd is hoping he will be so progressed in rehab that the latter will be for only 4 weeks but will keep him as long as needed (4-6 weeks). We anticipate somewhere around 1st week of November he returns back to Alabama and he's looking forward to 'walking' into SE AL Medical to tell all of you wonderful people "hello"!!!
Appreciate all of you for everything--prayers, understanding, encouragement and support. Love you all and hope everyone is doing okay!!!
He started it with a UTI and just all around not feeling good. He did pick out his wheelchair and dad reaffirms he has internal sensation on bladder and bowel. His Asia is an imcomplete Asia B. Mama Hen and others familiar will know that Justin is middle ground with his feeling and sensation. Asia A being the worst case and C being the best.
Still no further developments with his hands but he is using his arms/wrists more without his wrist supports and finds way to accommodate what he needs without full function of his fingers.
He played three rounds of UNO Spin with TR Group and actually had some help with Preston (who of course showed his cards for the most part so others knew what was in his hand but they still managed to win one game and be runner up for another one--lol). I didn't have the camcorder so I have pics on my cell phone. Will have to figure a way to get them loaded to the blog site. He did manage to handle the cards for the most part by himself with his hands/fingers and figured out how to get some Life Saver gummies picked up and into his mouth himself.
He still seemed tired today. Robyn said he had been cold all morning when we got there and was still cold by sun down. Fever came in at 99.0 with BP at 110/64. We'll see how he's feeling in the morning.
We thought he was about to miss out once again on a Push Pass and was hopping mad. I talked with PT Beth who checked into it and was able to get him (and us) signed off. Robyn and I took him and Preston through the tunnel and to CVS where the boy spent a good plenty on a 'projection' clock---he said that way he could just look up at the ceiling and see what time it was everytime a nurse came in there wanting to poke, prod or roll him. The rest of the spending was on "junk" (candy, candy and more candy---he won't need candy for a while).
He said he was just happy to actually be allowed off the premises and feeling half normal.
We brought some home cooking and that seemed to really perk him up today. Nothing fancy, had some homemade tacos with the fixins for lunch and had chili dogs with cheese dip and chips for supper. He's doing cold cut subs Saturday for lunch and said after that, he's open to anything because he's happy and he know whatever it is will be good (ha).
PT Beth did advise me that they believe he has tendonitis in his right shoulder. They are going to do an injection straight into that tendon on Monday morning. It is suppose to go straight to the tendon and help it faster than pills. We ended up to a 'hot/cold' Bengay tonight. Of course, he said he could only feel it on the shoulder area of his arms, nothing through to his elbows. We continue to pray that he will eventually get his touch sensation back that goes with his actual mobility.
Dad not feeling good. He's been down since last week and this visit seems to be taking its toll on him. Of course, he continues to suck it up and do the best he can. Hopefully another doctor visit next week will find the cause enabling a find for a feel better cure.
We'll try to get some more pics and get them posted. He does PT at 8:00 in the morning so he's due to rise early.
Mama Hen--expected Grad day is September 19, he goes to Augusta for approximately 2-3 weeks (Shepherd is hoping for 2 weeks), then he comes back here for Out Patient which is roughly 4-6 weeks. Shepherd is hoping he will be so progressed in rehab that the latter will be for only 4 weeks but will keep him as long as needed (4-6 weeks). We anticipate somewhere around 1st week of November he returns back to Alabama and he's looking forward to 'walking' into SE AL Medical to tell all of you wonderful people "hello"!!!
Appreciate all of you for everything--prayers, understanding, encouragement and support. Love you all and hope everyone is doing okay!!!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Sorry for delay in posts
I haven't been able to speak with anyone yet and will try to update again tonight.
Hot off the presses: Dad just said---
Don't know if you got any of my messages but I got here at 10:30 and Justin was nauseous. He has a UTI since Sunday and the cultures came back yesterday so they started him on anti-biotics. They're making him nauseous and his BP had took a big dip earlier going down to something like 87/42. They got him on a bag and do the IC's @ 8 every 12 hours now. He didn't tell them early enough about the Braves game so he wasn't able to go. We went to the seating clinic and Justin picked out his chair based on his needs and the info they provided. It's a nice chair, but I asked them if they were ordering or configuring and they were going to order or inform the insurer. I asked them to hold up on that parts until I could talk to Barb to see the best way to go about the equipment as far as insurer verses VA. They thought that was a good idea to get the best equipment for Justin and who would cover and who would not. TriCare sees a lot of the chair equipment as frivulous and will not cover it unless it is medically necessary. Got that done and Justin was even more sick so we went back up to the room just as lunch was brought in. Justin said he couldn't eat and wanted some nausea meds as well as pain. They brought his meds but he couldn't eat yet so I talked him into trying some gingerale to sooth his stomach and after a few sips he said he wouldtry to eat something. About 4 forks of macaroni and 3 of the green beans was all he could stand. He said he thought he was full of shit literally but that it was probably in his head. KiKi said to call her when he was ready and they would see. He had to go to PT so I told him I would be back after I got checked in. Before I got out of the parking lot he text me nd said Jenn nd him in the rec room. So I went back up and we discussed the remodeling and the house. Took all of Justin's PT time but he was glad. Jenn said it looked like we were ahead of the game and had thought things thru. Justin had TR with Katie so once again I told him I would get checked in and be back
Will update you when I have more details or answers to what is going on!!!
Love you guys, the prayers work, even when they seem like 'down' days!!!!
Hot off the presses: Dad just said---
Don't know if you got any of my messages but I got here at 10:30 and Justin was nauseous. He has a UTI since Sunday and the cultures came back yesterday so they started him on anti-biotics. They're making him nauseous and his BP had took a big dip earlier going down to something like 87/42. They got him on a bag and do the IC's @ 8 every 12 hours now. He didn't tell them early enough about the Braves game so he wasn't able to go. We went to the seating clinic and Justin picked out his chair based on his needs and the info they provided. It's a nice chair, but I asked them if they were ordering or configuring and they were going to order or inform the insurer. I asked them to hold up on that parts until I could talk to Barb to see the best way to go about the equipment as far as insurer verses VA. They thought that was a good idea to get the best equipment for Justin and who would cover and who would not. TriCare sees a lot of the chair equipment as frivulous and will not cover it unless it is medically necessary. Got that done and Justin was even more sick so we went back up to the room just as lunch was brought in. Justin said he couldn't eat and wanted some nausea meds as well as pain. They brought his meds but he couldn't eat yet so I talked him into trying some gingerale to sooth his stomach and after a few sips he said he wouldtry to eat something. About 4 forks of macaroni and 3 of the green beans was all he could stand. He said he thought he was full of shit literally but that it was probably in his head. KiKi said to call her when he was ready and they would see. He had to go to PT so I told him I would be back after I got checked in. Before I got out of the parking lot he text me nd said Jenn nd him in the rec room. So I went back up and we discussed the remodeling and the house. Took all of Justin's PT time but he was glad. Jenn said it looked like we were ahead of the game and had thought things thru. Justin had TR with Katie so once again I told him I would get checked in and be back
Will update you when I have more details or answers to what is going on!!!
Love you guys, the prayers work, even when they seem like 'down' days!!!!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Breaking News
For all of you avid fans of the nightly updates, I figured I would start out with the boring, hum-drum info and lead up to the night's finale---hope you don't mind.
Justin had a leisure visit with Robyn sharing some Java and Dunkin Stix--finally managed to get there early enough to pacify his cravings (lol). Once we managed to get packed and loaded (had a small mishap by letting Robyn leave the hotel with our keys-haha), we made it up there around 11:30--just in time to ditch the 'hospital lunch special' and make a run to the cafeteria for some food and a nice picnic in the Secret Garden.
Hotlanta temp was barely 80 degrees by lunch time which reached maybe 85 all day. Low humidity. Early 7am temp had dad thinking we were in fall already. Justin did catch a chill and wanted to make his way into some Atlanta sunshine so we managed to handle that until the rest of us decided we like 'air conditioning' way too much.
Justin had his facial and manicure yesterday and we finished off the visit with a pedicure and haircut. As the photos will show, he's feeling back to himself. He said just the haircut made him feel better. Amazing how the small things can change an attitude (of course, he reminded me that big things we take for granted can change an attitude also---hands and legs are on his order to Doc everytime they meet).
We managed to work out a plan for the coming week and he's going to have someone with him during his chair fitting time (he said he just wanted to make sure we all knew what to ask for when the time actually came to order---IF there remains a need in 6 weeks).
His BP maintained a 120/64 and he was pleased with that. He knows the importance of keeping a stable blood pressure that is as close to normal to anyone that has not experienced his trauma. Technically normal to us would be 120 over 80 with a few exceptions. So when he sees 120/64 he is inspired that 'normal' may be returning for him. No fever and the night was good for him.
And for those of you that were waiting on what is the grand finale---he texted us on our way home and advised us that he can feel his legs and 'butt cheeks' and can control his own pee!!!
Maybe too graphic for some that follow this but it is a huge step for Justin and we take any and all blessings, regardless of how small they may seem to others and how trivial it may seem.
He had already told us that he could feel the pressure on his heels laying in bed last night so he called the night nurses and told them he needed to be readjusted in bed (pulled up higher) so his heels wouldn't be pressed up and possibly cause bed sores. They wanted to know how he knew there was a problem and he politely informed them because he could feel the pressure. This is a very good sign. We've been warned so many times that paralysis means they can't feel enough to know they need to shift their weight like we would in a car riding too long or move a leg because it gets uncomfortable that way. Knowing that he can recognize his foot is pressing on something or has hit something is HUGE!!!
He also texted us and let us know that he can wiggle his thumbs a little bit.........gotta love his spirit and determination. He wants his hand function back bad and when that blessing happens I will record him playing his beloved guitar. He said he can play a lot and I've been ribbing him about how I haven't heard any of that good music---he claims he can do Phil Collins in the Air Tonight and so, so many more (too many right now to try to name, he know I love the Phil Collins and he claims Eagles too---my kind of rock and roll, he also claims some Lynerd Skynerd). Make a request list up and we'll post them by his bed as a motivation for who he will play for first.
We continue to know our blessings and continue to know that God provides them in the many forms called friends, family, co-workers, doctors, strangers---all instruments sent to answer our prayers. I thank God for each of you and I thank you call for caring enough to pray or encourage or search the blog or ask questions or give so much that we will never be able to repay.
My prayers have expanded beyond selfish---they include so much more and that in itself is a blessing!!!!
We love you guys...............may take another day or two for an update but we'll do our best to keep you all informed (leaving him was once again a hard one, I think the down time and alone time may be tougher on him than on us; yet with all of you--it will be okay).
Texas Janie---thank you so much--got the second card!!!
Amanda--missed the pics yesterday but saw them today, the nurses taped them above his bed-Thanks!!!! And it is the 'green' deoderant he is really liking, even his nurse Stanley (Stan the Man) commented today on how good it smells----you go with yourself!!!!
Love you, calling it a night!!
Justin had a leisure visit with Robyn sharing some Java and Dunkin Stix--finally managed to get there early enough to pacify his cravings (lol). Once we managed to get packed and loaded (had a small mishap by letting Robyn leave the hotel with our keys-haha), we made it up there around 11:30--just in time to ditch the 'hospital lunch special' and make a run to the cafeteria for some food and a nice picnic in the Secret Garden.
Hotlanta temp was barely 80 degrees by lunch time which reached maybe 85 all day. Low humidity. Early 7am temp had dad thinking we were in fall already. Justin did catch a chill and wanted to make his way into some Atlanta sunshine so we managed to handle that until the rest of us decided we like 'air conditioning' way too much.
Justin had his facial and manicure yesterday and we finished off the visit with a pedicure and haircut. As the photos will show, he's feeling back to himself. He said just the haircut made him feel better. Amazing how the small things can change an attitude (of course, he reminded me that big things we take for granted can change an attitude also---hands and legs are on his order to Doc everytime they meet).
We managed to work out a plan for the coming week and he's going to have someone with him during his chair fitting time (he said he just wanted to make sure we all knew what to ask for when the time actually came to order---IF there remains a need in 6 weeks).
His BP maintained a 120/64 and he was pleased with that. He knows the importance of keeping a stable blood pressure that is as close to normal to anyone that has not experienced his trauma. Technically normal to us would be 120 over 80 with a few exceptions. So when he sees 120/64 he is inspired that 'normal' may be returning for him. No fever and the night was good for him.
And for those of you that were waiting on what is the grand finale---he texted us on our way home and advised us that he can feel his legs and 'butt cheeks' and can control his own pee!!!
Maybe too graphic for some that follow this but it is a huge step for Justin and we take any and all blessings, regardless of how small they may seem to others and how trivial it may seem.
He had already told us that he could feel the pressure on his heels laying in bed last night so he called the night nurses and told them he needed to be readjusted in bed (pulled up higher) so his heels wouldn't be pressed up and possibly cause bed sores. They wanted to know how he knew there was a problem and he politely informed them because he could feel the pressure. This is a very good sign. We've been warned so many times that paralysis means they can't feel enough to know they need to shift their weight like we would in a car riding too long or move a leg because it gets uncomfortable that way. Knowing that he can recognize his foot is pressing on something or has hit something is HUGE!!!
He also texted us and let us know that he can wiggle his thumbs a little bit.........gotta love his spirit and determination. He wants his hand function back bad and when that blessing happens I will record him playing his beloved guitar. He said he can play a lot and I've been ribbing him about how I haven't heard any of that good music---he claims he can do Phil Collins in the Air Tonight and so, so many more (too many right now to try to name, he know I love the Phil Collins and he claims Eagles too---my kind of rock and roll, he also claims some Lynerd Skynerd). Make a request list up and we'll post them by his bed as a motivation for who he will play for first.
We continue to know our blessings and continue to know that God provides them in the many forms called friends, family, co-workers, doctors, strangers---all instruments sent to answer our prayers. I thank God for each of you and I thank you call for caring enough to pray or encourage or search the blog or ask questions or give so much that we will never be able to repay.
My prayers have expanded beyond selfish---they include so much more and that in itself is a blessing!!!!
We love you guys...............may take another day or two for an update but we'll do our best to keep you all informed (leaving him was once again a hard one, I think the down time and alone time may be tougher on him than on us; yet with all of you--it will be okay).
Texas Janie---thank you so much--got the second card!!!
Amanda--missed the pics yesterday but saw them today, the nurses taped them above his bed-Thanks!!!! And it is the 'green' deoderant he is really liking, even his nurse Stanley (Stan the Man) commented today on how good it smells----you go with yourself!!!!
Love you, calling it a night!!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Saturday visit
When Justin found out that I was posting things like blood pressure and temp, he told me I was going overboard and giving way too much information, so I thought I would give the Hotlanta update--temp reached a total of 88 degrees with low humidity which actually made for a nice visit in the Secret Garden (as long as you weren't directly in the sun). Every now and again we got a cloud cover and eventually made our way to a table in the shade. I guess everyone heard the same news about how gorgeous today was expected to be.
But for those of you who think the BP and temp etc are beneficial to making you guys feel better when you know it, his BP was 110/57 with HR at 64 and temp at 98.6 By 6:30 he felt warmer so I made him pacify me with another temp check and it was 98.9--IC was low at 150 cc but they told him he needed to keep drinking plenty of fluids, at every 6 hours-his IC should be somewhat higher but nurses assured he was okay.
He's still somewhat miffed about not being able to leave the grounds but we did manage to call in for some TGIFs and everyone seemed to enjoy it (even if it was in the convenience of his room).
They have taken him off the pain meds and give him only Tylenol--he's not liking that too much but I pray soon he will be able to tolerate it. He does have some pain in his left arm which he said he feels like the muscles or tendons are tight. He still can't do as much with left arm as he can right arm. I advised he mention it to Doc on Monday and see what they think.
He and Preston had another good day of playing, you wouldn't think either recognizes the limitations the way Preston runs from him and Justin chases, or getting tickled or going for a ride in dad's chair. And Dad still has just the right tone to get his attention when he won't behave himself.
One fluke was Robyn's car trouble which dad spent 1/2 the weekend fixing. But it is now road safe and trusting enough (per dad) to make it back to the great state of Alabama. She missed her best friend's dad's wedding--regrets on that part because they are close but she's safe and sound, not stranded on the side of I85 somewhere, blessings keep on coming.
Justin said he thought once he got up here that things would drag on, but nope--time is flying by. He said it seemed like forever ago wanting his traech out now it seems like so long ago he can barely remember what a pain it was. He did mention that if he had the nurses from Dothan up here and some better pain meds--he'd be A OKAY!!! He's missing you all from Dothan....and we've put the "Cast and Crew" shirt up on his locker so everyone here in Hotlanta can see how many special people were watching over him back home.
We'll try to update again tomorrow. He wants Java and Dunkin sticks in the morning and we have a 12:00 check out time. Once we get packed up we'll head back up there for one last visit before having to come home. He wants us back Wednesday for a chair fitting meeting he has but dad got him a bit down when he told him he just didn't see a way to be able to do that. Of course, Justin reminded me later that we could sleep in the gym for free--all we have to do is be up and out of there by 6:00a.m. the next morning (ha ha) and they get to go to a Braves game that night (which was one more way for him to say "hey, if you come up for the sitting you can go to a Braves game"---he sure does know how to play on my heart, lol).
Any who, getting late here, laundry done, packing still to do--probably get up early and get all that done. Dad and Preston sleeping and Peetlebug trying to get there. Signing off for now.
Love you guys, pray for everyone everyday and believe in the blessings and miracles in whatever form they come in.
But for those of you who think the BP and temp etc are beneficial to making you guys feel better when you know it, his BP was 110/57 with HR at 64 and temp at 98.6 By 6:30 he felt warmer so I made him pacify me with another temp check and it was 98.9--IC was low at 150 cc but they told him he needed to keep drinking plenty of fluids, at every 6 hours-his IC should be somewhat higher but nurses assured he was okay.
He's still somewhat miffed about not being able to leave the grounds but we did manage to call in for some TGIFs and everyone seemed to enjoy it (even if it was in the convenience of his room).
They have taken him off the pain meds and give him only Tylenol--he's not liking that too much but I pray soon he will be able to tolerate it. He does have some pain in his left arm which he said he feels like the muscles or tendons are tight. He still can't do as much with left arm as he can right arm. I advised he mention it to Doc on Monday and see what they think.
He and Preston had another good day of playing, you wouldn't think either recognizes the limitations the way Preston runs from him and Justin chases, or getting tickled or going for a ride in dad's chair. And Dad still has just the right tone to get his attention when he won't behave himself.
One fluke was Robyn's car trouble which dad spent 1/2 the weekend fixing. But it is now road safe and trusting enough (per dad) to make it back to the great state of Alabama. She missed her best friend's dad's wedding--regrets on that part because they are close but she's safe and sound, not stranded on the side of I85 somewhere, blessings keep on coming.
Justin said he thought once he got up here that things would drag on, but nope--time is flying by. He said it seemed like forever ago wanting his traech out now it seems like so long ago he can barely remember what a pain it was. He did mention that if he had the nurses from Dothan up here and some better pain meds--he'd be A OKAY!!! He's missing you all from Dothan....and we've put the "Cast and Crew" shirt up on his locker so everyone here in Hotlanta can see how many special people were watching over him back home.
We'll try to update again tomorrow. He wants Java and Dunkin sticks in the morning and we have a 12:00 check out time. Once we get packed up we'll head back up there for one last visit before having to come home. He wants us back Wednesday for a chair fitting meeting he has but dad got him a bit down when he told him he just didn't see a way to be able to do that. Of course, Justin reminded me later that we could sleep in the gym for free--all we have to do is be up and out of there by 6:00a.m. the next morning (ha ha) and they get to go to a Braves game that night (which was one more way for him to say "hey, if you come up for the sitting you can go to a Braves game"---he sure does know how to play on my heart, lol).
Any who, getting late here, laundry done, packing still to do--probably get up early and get all that done. Dad and Preston sleeping and Peetlebug trying to get there. Signing off for now.
Love you guys, pray for everyone everyday and believe in the blessings and miracles in whatever form they come in.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Answers to our questions
For all of those with questions, here goes our best attempt:
Monday--he claims he wasn't lost. There's a hallway on his floor that gives the uneducated (like we first were) the impression that you can cross over from the Shepherd building to the Marcus building---but you can't. That pathway, walkway like area, leads to doors similar to those you would see at the CCU ward, locked with signs saying no admittance except by employees that pertain to what appears some top secret area.
Any whos, Justin found that walkway area and said that's his spot to go to get warm for one thing, the sun beats through the windows and it's more comfortable than the 65 degrees they keep everything else. Also gives him time to get away from everyone. I guess no one thought to check there since it's not a spot that most personnel frequent.
His call to his dad that day was a fluke, they were doing some new things in PT/OT and he ended up dialing his dad and didn't realize it so when dad called him back, he didn't answer and didn't check his phone for voicemail or texts.
Tuesday found him tired and trying out a manual chair so Wednesday really had him wore out. He does have his collar off and is doing really good with that. He got his feeding tube out yesterday and continues to say how 'weird' he is. He can feel things internally yet can't feel the sensation of that same thing externally. Even the staff are confused sometimes by how he explains what he feels--time and prayer will tell!!!
We got in around 2am Atlanta time, found our room and crashed out with intentions of getting back up 4 1/2 hours later. That turned into 5 1/2 hours later which resulted in a phone call from Justin by 9:15 wanting to know if we were almost ready. He decided to do an 'outing' which was a trip to Cumberland Mall. Robyn was first one ready by call time so she took the baby to meet up with them and ride out to the mall. Dad and I (after getting turned around and briefly lost) managed to make it out there around 11:30 just in time for lunch and a short shopping spree.
Dad took him for some shorts and shirts at American Eagle while Robyn and I took off with son in car-like roller to hunt a dress for Robyn. He seemed to enjoy the outing with respect that it was nice for him to be out with his son and not be so stir crazy staying at Shepherd all the time. Unfortunate side about it all was that he was under the impression that the outing finalized our 'day pass' training and he wanted to cross the street and treat everyone to some TGIF---didn't work out, PT nurse is off this week and she didn't sign off on our training so we couldn't leave the premises. This of course wasn't the best news and Justin got a bit perturbed. I'm hoping this will not set in some anger or depression. I told him it was just another week, she'll be back Monday, we'll be back Friday to finalize what she wants then we can get him out next weekend. Pray for a good week for him (or better yet, pray for the nurses--he's gonna be a tyrant)
AMANDA---thanks for the package, yes he did get it, he said thank you very much. He said that while he prefers spray deoderant he used what you sent and said it smells "GOOOOOD". He truthfully is liking whatever flavor it is that you found!!!
Susan---he got the card and wanted to say Thank you!! Of course, you know Justin--he had to approach it with the "Aw, wasn't that so sweet" Justin personality but it's taped to his locker door staring at him everyday.
Lydia---he showed Doc the "da**it doll"; he told him he if he didn't watch it he would use it on him (ha ha). He has a nurse here whose husband graduated from LSU and got a blanket there from when he was studying there. It is a nice blanket, this couple gave it to Justin. He wants us to pick out an extra special thank you card for them and he's without doubt daring someone to touch that thing. She went home telling her husband what an avid fan he was so they gave it to him, go figure the kindness of people.
We couldn't do TGIF so we did cafeteria food. He managed to eat all his tater tots by himself with his own fingers (all the tots, even the ones that thought they were too low in the take-out container for him to get to--lol). We cut up his turkey burger into wedges and while he thought it was a good idea, he managed to eat that too, with the help of his 'eating apparatus'.
Monday--he claims he wasn't lost. There's a hallway on his floor that gives the uneducated (like we first were) the impression that you can cross over from the Shepherd building to the Marcus building---but you can't. That pathway, walkway like area, leads to doors similar to those you would see at the CCU ward, locked with signs saying no admittance except by employees that pertain to what appears some top secret area.
Any whos, Justin found that walkway area and said that's his spot to go to get warm for one thing, the sun beats through the windows and it's more comfortable than the 65 degrees they keep everything else. Also gives him time to get away from everyone. I guess no one thought to check there since it's not a spot that most personnel frequent.
His call to his dad that day was a fluke, they were doing some new things in PT/OT and he ended up dialing his dad and didn't realize it so when dad called him back, he didn't answer and didn't check his phone for voicemail or texts.
Tuesday found him tired and trying out a manual chair so Wednesday really had him wore out. He does have his collar off and is doing really good with that. He got his feeding tube out yesterday and continues to say how 'weird' he is. He can feel things internally yet can't feel the sensation of that same thing externally. Even the staff are confused sometimes by how he explains what he feels--time and prayer will tell!!!
We got in around 2am Atlanta time, found our room and crashed out with intentions of getting back up 4 1/2 hours later. That turned into 5 1/2 hours later which resulted in a phone call from Justin by 9:15 wanting to know if we were almost ready. He decided to do an 'outing' which was a trip to Cumberland Mall. Robyn was first one ready by call time so she took the baby to meet up with them and ride out to the mall. Dad and I (after getting turned around and briefly lost) managed to make it out there around 11:30 just in time for lunch and a short shopping spree.
Dad took him for some shorts and shirts at American Eagle while Robyn and I took off with son in car-like roller to hunt a dress for Robyn. He seemed to enjoy the outing with respect that it was nice for him to be out with his son and not be so stir crazy staying at Shepherd all the time. Unfortunate side about it all was that he was under the impression that the outing finalized our 'day pass' training and he wanted to cross the street and treat everyone to some TGIF---didn't work out, PT nurse is off this week and she didn't sign off on our training so we couldn't leave the premises. This of course wasn't the best news and Justin got a bit perturbed. I'm hoping this will not set in some anger or depression. I told him it was just another week, she'll be back Monday, we'll be back Friday to finalize what she wants then we can get him out next weekend. Pray for a good week for him (or better yet, pray for the nurses--he's gonna be a tyrant)
AMANDA---thanks for the package, yes he did get it, he said thank you very much. He said that while he prefers spray deoderant he used what you sent and said it smells "GOOOOOD". He truthfully is liking whatever flavor it is that you found!!!
Susan---he got the card and wanted to say Thank you!! Of course, you know Justin--he had to approach it with the "Aw, wasn't that so sweet" Justin personality but it's taped to his locker door staring at him everyday.
Lydia---he showed Doc the "da**it doll"; he told him he if he didn't watch it he would use it on him (ha ha). He has a nurse here whose husband graduated from LSU and got a blanket there from when he was studying there. It is a nice blanket, this couple gave it to Justin. He wants us to pick out an extra special thank you card for them and he's without doubt daring someone to touch that thing. She went home telling her husband what an avid fan he was so they gave it to him, go figure the kindness of people.
We couldn't do TGIF so we did cafeteria food. He managed to eat all his tater tots by himself with his own fingers (all the tots, even the ones that thought they were too low in the take-out container for him to get to--lol). We cut up his turkey burger into wedges and while he thought it was a good idea, he managed to eat that too, with the help of his 'eating apparatus'.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Yippee--an actual update
All of you that, like us, have been holding your breath for this moment, you can now breathe easy: I spoke to my child!!
He said Monday was a rough day, he was "sick"--said it wasn't anything in particular, he has just been feeling 'blah' since Monday. He was tired Tuesday & today and said he spent most of his spare time sleeping. No rain there so we couldn't attribute it to that, he said he's just blah and his BP got low today which made it worse.
PT/OT are continuing to work him hard and he got a "manual chair" yesterday (the not-so-morbic version of what he said what it was kicking his a**, he literally said he thought he was going to die trying to move around in it). But, he's moving around in it and I take that as another blessing--manual chairs are hard especially when you don't have 100% use of your hands.
He didn't mean to worry anyone by not responding and reiterated he's just been tired and not feeling so hot. Hopefully our visit this weekend will rejuvenate his energy and motivation.
Also, there is a couple that works there--the wife is a tech on Justin's floor who told her husband (not sure where he works at) that Justin was a die-hard LSU fan. The husband attended and graduated from LSU. They gave Justin a LSU blanket that the husband got while attending school there. SO....he asked me to get him a 'special' thank you card for them!!
So many AWESOME people making this journey so much easier to bear!!!!!!!!
It would take a post of its own to name all of you that have prayed, encouraged, supported (in every conceivable way) and expressed genuine consideration----to all of you, THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FROM ALL OF US!! WE are truly blessed.
Oh, he has his neck collar off also. We will try to get more pictures this weekend and get them posted for you all.
Love to you all, you are a huge part of the miracles we continue to see!!
Thanks to Erica and Quianna for assisting with tonight's phone call......
He said Monday was a rough day, he was "sick"--said it wasn't anything in particular, he has just been feeling 'blah' since Monday. He was tired Tuesday & today and said he spent most of his spare time sleeping. No rain there so we couldn't attribute it to that, he said he's just blah and his BP got low today which made it worse.
PT/OT are continuing to work him hard and he got a "manual chair" yesterday (the not-so-morbic version of what he said what it was kicking his a**, he literally said he thought he was going to die trying to move around in it). But, he's moving around in it and I take that as another blessing--manual chairs are hard especially when you don't have 100% use of your hands.
He didn't mean to worry anyone by not responding and reiterated he's just been tired and not feeling so hot. Hopefully our visit this weekend will rejuvenate his energy and motivation.
Also, there is a couple that works there--the wife is a tech on Justin's floor who told her husband (not sure where he works at) that Justin was a die-hard LSU fan. The husband attended and graduated from LSU. They gave Justin a LSU blanket that the husband got while attending school there. SO....he asked me to get him a 'special' thank you card for them!!
So many AWESOME people making this journey so much easier to bear!!!!!!!!
It would take a post of its own to name all of you that have prayed, encouraged, supported (in every conceivable way) and expressed genuine consideration----to all of you, THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FROM ALL OF US!! WE are truly blessed.
Oh, he has his neck collar off also. We will try to get more pictures this weekend and get them posted for you all.
Love to you all, you are a huge part of the miracles we continue to see!!
Thanks to Erica and Quianna for assisting with tonight's phone call......
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Awaiting updates
For those of you that have been avid followers and are now a bit confused with the lack of updates, please note we are experiencing technical difficulties (not sure if the hospital has lost their server or if Justin has lost his mind).
Apparently Justin went MIA yesterday, don't know what happened or why-just that he's supposedly okay now, but he hasn't answered when we call nor has he replied to his dad's text messages.
As of 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, I haven't heard from ANYONE advising how he is currently doing. As soon as I do know something, I will definitely let you all know.
So much for not worrying about leaving him by himself (argh).......
We head back up there (should be) Thursday night so I will most likely have plenty to report on, if I don't hang someone up by their toenails first.
Continue the prayers, at least we know it's working on his "attitude" (ha)
Apparently Justin went MIA yesterday, don't know what happened or why-just that he's supposedly okay now, but he hasn't answered when we call nor has he replied to his dad's text messages.
As of 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, I haven't heard from ANYONE advising how he is currently doing. As soon as I do know something, I will definitely let you all know.
So much for not worrying about leaving him by himself (argh).......
We head back up there (should be) Thursday night so I will most likely have plenty to report on, if I don't hang someone up by their toenails first.
Continue the prayers, at least we know it's working on his "attitude" (ha)
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Day in the Garden
Got Justin out of the room today and spent most of it in the garden. Justin's trache area is giving him fits with the itching. Friday night it got red and they had to cut the bandage size down to the size of the hole. They think he developed a reaction to the tape but it had pulled skin out from around the stitch holes of the trache. They started benedril and exposed the area keeping the neck brace off confining him to bed till morning.
Saturday morning it looked quite a bit better and had reduced in size but the neck brace soon had him scratching like a flea ridden dog again. I called his nurse from the garden (he said I couldn't get them to bring meds to the garden) and the desk said they would get Stanley to see what they could do. He couldn't find any topical itch cream but he brought the benedril out to the garden with a cup of water. Justin was surprised, I told Stanley he probably needed a break anyway and he agreed.
Lydia and Robyn took Preston to Walmart and bought a bunch of outdoor activity toys and bubble blowers. Judy, Lydia and the girls tried to tire Preston out with the games and bubbles but I think it went the other way. They worked him in shifts and kept swapping out but he outlasted all of them. (pics) Justin went into his weight transfer position and probably got some well deserved sleep. Humidity made the afternoon balmy out and we decided to move everyone back in to cool off. They turned on one of the personal tv's and watched "Finding Nemo" I believe.
Judy and Lydia fixed some cajun dishes for supper including crawfish etouphe, red beans and rice with some jambalaya. My stomach was a little queasy but everyone seemed to like it and Judy has a lot of leftovers for lunch next week. Started trying to get everything organized to get ready to leave tomorrow (regretably with broken hearts) knowing we won't be able to go across the street and be with him or take him out just to get away for awhile. But we've got it setup to come back on Thursday night or Friday morning to be with him all weekend until we come back for discharge training and the transfer to VA.
We have decided that my truck will be the best vehicle to convert for transport because of the room, ease of entry and storage of equipment. Now I have to just get it back on the road as quick as possible (another reason to have to go home) so we can use it to transport Justin.
Saturday morning it looked quite a bit better and had reduced in size but the neck brace soon had him scratching like a flea ridden dog again. I called his nurse from the garden (he said I couldn't get them to bring meds to the garden) and the desk said they would get Stanley to see what they could do. He couldn't find any topical itch cream but he brought the benedril out to the garden with a cup of water. Justin was surprised, I told Stanley he probably needed a break anyway and he agreed.
Lydia and Robyn took Preston to Walmart and bought a bunch of outdoor activity toys and bubble blowers. Judy, Lydia and the girls tried to tire Preston out with the games and bubbles but I think it went the other way. They worked him in shifts and kept swapping out but he outlasted all of them. (pics) Justin went into his weight transfer position and probably got some well deserved sleep. Humidity made the afternoon balmy out and we decided to move everyone back in to cool off. They turned on one of the personal tv's and watched "Finding Nemo" I believe.
Judy and Lydia fixed some cajun dishes for supper including crawfish etouphe, red beans and rice with some jambalaya. My stomach was a little queasy but everyone seemed to like it and Judy has a lot of leftovers for lunch next week. Started trying to get everything organized to get ready to leave tomorrow (regretably with broken hearts) knowing we won't be able to go across the street and be with him or take him out just to get away for awhile. But we've got it setup to come back on Thursday night or Friday morning to be with him all weekend until we come back for discharge training and the transfer to VA.
We have decided that my truck will be the best vehicle to convert for transport because of the room, ease of entry and storage of equipment. Now I have to just get it back on the road as quick as possible (another reason to have to go home) so we can use it to transport Justin.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Outing
As the photos show, the outing was good (hot, but good) and everyone participated (yay!!!). PT/OT said "we got you for another 30 minutes, you're playing"---ha ha, good for them.
He's starting to feel the catheter when we do IC on him and also held his bladder then let it release just to see if he was regaining control on that function. AND, he moved two of his fingers on his left hand (yippee).
He's extremely tired (as we all are) and it was hot for the "volleyball" session of therapy--couldn't seem to find a shade where the players were and lost what small bit of breeze there was. He's doing great with his visitors and still same ole Justin---acting up and keeping everyone laughing.
Hope you all enjoy the pics. Robyn got some too and we'll try to get them loaded and some of those posted as well. Sure hope this helps to show some of the wonderful blessings received so far and a good attitude from Justin that has been attached to those blessings.
MaMa Hen---we are extremely pleased that Shepherd sees such potential and improvements with Justin and so excited they don't want to see him leave yet and have expressed their strong efforts in getting him back here for outpatient. Will continue to update you and will be back in Dothan as soon as he can walk in there and give you guys a hug!!!!
Extra Grandma---love you, thanks for the inspiration and support!!!
He's starting to feel the catheter when we do IC on him and also held his bladder then let it release just to see if he was regaining control on that function. AND, he moved two of his fingers on his left hand (yippee).
He's extremely tired (as we all are) and it was hot for the "volleyball" session of therapy--couldn't seem to find a shade where the players were and lost what small bit of breeze there was. He's doing great with his visitors and still same ole Justin---acting up and keeping everyone laughing.
Hope you all enjoy the pics. Robyn got some too and we'll try to get them loaded and some of those posted as well. Sure hope this helps to show some of the wonderful blessings received so far and a good attitude from Justin that has been attached to those blessings.
MaMa Hen---we are extremely pleased that Shepherd sees such potential and improvements with Justin and so excited they don't want to see him leave yet and have expressed their strong efforts in getting him back here for outpatient. Will continue to update you and will be back in Dothan as soon as he can walk in there and give you guys a hug!!!!
Extra Grandma---love you, thanks for the inspiration and support!!!
Friday 8/14
Sorry for no update yesterday. It was a busy and surprising day.
Justin had 'goal setting' yesterday morning which was encouraging. Everyone pretty much was in agreement that he was progressed more than most they see in his condition. So much so, they want to keep him here as long as possible before transferring him to the VA Rehab.
Discharge is now for Sept. 19 to the VA, a 2 week stay there for hopefully only 2 weeks, then transfer back here for Outpatient rehab. Barb says if they refer him to VA now then the VA will want him now because of his progress and motivation.
PT/OT continues to work him hard and he spent some time in the gym getting set up for doing workouts. We did training for the 'day pass' which was hard, worked us out big time.
He finally got a meal pass and ate in the cafeteria. It was a good first outing (although it's not officially considered one of his outings). He's doing a BBQ in the Garden today and PT Beth said she may sneak him out to CVS or Piedmont so he can officially be listed as doing an individual outing. He has to have that before we can leave the premises with him. He's learning to stop being so hard-headed if he wants certain things (ha ha). And learning not to be so uptight about being seen in public.
And Robyn showed up late evening--we were under the impression she was working today and wouldn't make it in until late tonight so that was another one of the surprises for the day. Yes, she did come in with the baby and he's doing wonderful with Justin.
We saw him with his Aunt Lydia, Brandi, Amber, Robyn and Preston this morning and they all met his PT/OT team (Beth and Jenn--who work him 'vivicious'). We'll see him again at lunch and then spend time with him for the BBQ then he goes into TR until 4:00----then he's ours for the rest of the day.
He doesn't get his neck brace off yet. Doc said x-rays looked good but he wanted to give it a few more days. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, just a precautionary! Justin's ready for it to come off yet realizes that just means PT/OT will be able to push him harder (lol).
Will update again. Love you guys bunches and should be coming home for a while. Will see you all soon. Thanks for everything, keep praying!!
Justin had 'goal setting' yesterday morning which was encouraging. Everyone pretty much was in agreement that he was progressed more than most they see in his condition. So much so, they want to keep him here as long as possible before transferring him to the VA Rehab.
Discharge is now for Sept. 19 to the VA, a 2 week stay there for hopefully only 2 weeks, then transfer back here for Outpatient rehab. Barb says if they refer him to VA now then the VA will want him now because of his progress and motivation.
PT/OT continues to work him hard and he spent some time in the gym getting set up for doing workouts. We did training for the 'day pass' which was hard, worked us out big time.
He finally got a meal pass and ate in the cafeteria. It was a good first outing (although it's not officially considered one of his outings). He's doing a BBQ in the Garden today and PT Beth said she may sneak him out to CVS or Piedmont so he can officially be listed as doing an individual outing. He has to have that before we can leave the premises with him. He's learning to stop being so hard-headed if he wants certain things (ha ha). And learning not to be so uptight about being seen in public.
And Robyn showed up late evening--we were under the impression she was working today and wouldn't make it in until late tonight so that was another one of the surprises for the day. Yes, she did come in with the baby and he's doing wonderful with Justin.
We saw him with his Aunt Lydia, Brandi, Amber, Robyn and Preston this morning and they all met his PT/OT team (Beth and Jenn--who work him 'vivicious'). We'll see him again at lunch and then spend time with him for the BBQ then he goes into TR until 4:00----then he's ours for the rest of the day.
He doesn't get his neck brace off yet. Doc said x-rays looked good but he wanted to give it a few more days. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, just a precautionary! Justin's ready for it to come off yet realizes that just means PT/OT will be able to push him harder (lol).
Will update again. Love you guys bunches and should be coming home for a while. Will see you all soon. Thanks for everything, keep praying!!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Wednesday 8/12
They have worked Justin hard today!!!
He had his Unit guys stop by for about an hour this morning then he was off to PT/OT.
His spasm meds will make him drowsy for the first few days until he gets used to it but he's been dozing almost everytime we've gone up there. He was back in his room for 12:00 lunch but napped until 12:52, woofed down 1/2 his lunch to make his 1:00 class.
2:00 mini-break found him cat-napping again then he was off for a 3:00 workout. At 4:30 we finally got him up, had a bacon burger for supper and while he wasn't able to eat his grapes with his fingers, he did manage to do some of his fries by himself (ketchup dipping and all). We're doing a meal pass tomorrow night which means he gets to go to the cafeteria with us.
He said they put him on the lift table which is something to do with giving him the feeling of standing again. It's been 6 weeks since he's known what it feels like to stand and he can get to 40% before his BP starts going down. They pushed him to the point of his dropping down to 68/21--he said he felt that, almost passed out.
Spent some time in the real Secret Garden, which is pretty. then hung out with some other patients in the rec room. He's starting to show signs of wanting to try the pool table and he & dad are going to try to find a glove to help him (one other than what TR provides, no one could figure out how to work that thing even with a guide sheet with pictures---go figure).
He's hard at it again tomorrow but he's getting him some home-made, straight from Cajun country gumbo on Friday---yummy!! We hope to get some more pics tomorrow, especially of him in PT/OT/TR--one of them is supposed to get him on the weight machines. He said 3 hours straight of this stuff works his arms so hard he can't use them for an hour or so afterwards (I call him a 'wimp', just in fun).
We got to see his neck from where the traech was--Nurse Erica said it's healing up good. Dad got a picture but it's on his cell phone and we don't have a way to load that to the laptop so that one will have to wait (hope none of you are queasy--it's not that bad but it does show what he's gone through and how far he's come).
When we left him, he said he was heading back out for some "Hotlanta" night air to relax with some music. I told him not to fall asleep out there, someone might try to take him. He said they would bring him back so he wasn't scared (ha ha).
Love to you all. We continue to have our faith and belief, as does Justin. Appreciate you all and expect to be back in Sweet Alabama next week (leaving Justin here, of course and will try hard not to worry but I've been told he's in great, capable hands).
He had his Unit guys stop by for about an hour this morning then he was off to PT/OT.
His spasm meds will make him drowsy for the first few days until he gets used to it but he's been dozing almost everytime we've gone up there. He was back in his room for 12:00 lunch but napped until 12:52, woofed down 1/2 his lunch to make his 1:00 class.
2:00 mini-break found him cat-napping again then he was off for a 3:00 workout. At 4:30 we finally got him up, had a bacon burger for supper and while he wasn't able to eat his grapes with his fingers, he did manage to do some of his fries by himself (ketchup dipping and all). We're doing a meal pass tomorrow night which means he gets to go to the cafeteria with us.
He said they put him on the lift table which is something to do with giving him the feeling of standing again. It's been 6 weeks since he's known what it feels like to stand and he can get to 40% before his BP starts going down. They pushed him to the point of his dropping down to 68/21--he said he felt that, almost passed out.
Spent some time in the real Secret Garden, which is pretty. then hung out with some other patients in the rec room. He's starting to show signs of wanting to try the pool table and he & dad are going to try to find a glove to help him (one other than what TR provides, no one could figure out how to work that thing even with a guide sheet with pictures---go figure).
He's hard at it again tomorrow but he's getting him some home-made, straight from Cajun country gumbo on Friday---yummy!! We hope to get some more pics tomorrow, especially of him in PT/OT/TR--one of them is supposed to get him on the weight machines. He said 3 hours straight of this stuff works his arms so hard he can't use them for an hour or so afterwards (I call him a 'wimp', just in fun).
We got to see his neck from where the traech was--Nurse Erica said it's healing up good. Dad got a picture but it's on his cell phone and we don't have a way to load that to the laptop so that one will have to wait (hope none of you are queasy--it's not that bad but it does show what he's gone through and how far he's come).
When we left him, he said he was heading back out for some "Hotlanta" night air to relax with some music. I told him not to fall asleep out there, someone might try to take him. He said they would bring him back so he wasn't scared (ha ha).
Love to you all. We continue to have our faith and belief, as does Justin. Appreciate you all and expect to be back in Sweet Alabama next week (leaving Justin here, of course and will try hard not to worry but I've been told he's in great, capable hands).
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Tater tots--8/11
Forgot to mention he ate his tater-tots with his 'fingers'--couldn't quite get the dipping them in ketchup part down but he was eating finger food with fingers (yippee)!!!!
Tuesday 8/11
Justin is tired tonight from being worked so hard and roaming the halls but he's good. BP was 105/65 w/HR at 78 and temp at 96.9 (don't know SPO2 but nurse said his breathing was great).
He said PT and OT were vicious today and worked him hard. He said he should sleep good tonight and may not have as early a morning tomorrow (ha ha).
He had some visitors from his Guard unit today. I think it helped some with his attitude even though part of it was 'business'.
Still extremely tickled with getting the traech out and being able to leave his room without an 'escort' (even though he says there's really not a whole lot to see--he can't shoot pool yet or ping pong, he can't do the swimming pool yet until his neck heals and he's not interested in learning basketball). Not yet sure about leaving the premises and having people see him but seems to enjoy reminding us that we have to get our "Push Pass" before we can take him off the property (lol)....we're almost cleared for everything so we'll see. We did convince him to get a meal ticket for Thursday night so we can take him to the cafeteria for supper instead of eat in his room (good progress there).
He's showing more use of his arms and even hands (without effort too it seems). He said his wrists are getting stronger and I'm noticing he's definitely working everything in new ways than he was just a few days ago. Call it healing or call it adapting---I just know it's progress!!!
(Henri)----promise we'll try to get some more pics and some other than him just sitting in his room. We'll work harder to have him outside in the garden--the real "Secret Garden"-the place we've been going to apparently is just the Cafeteria Garden with smoking rights. The Secret Garden is like a mini-trail like place with benches and a view to the road and I think I saw a grill out there and some walk-ways are listed as "No smoking beyond this point"---pretty on a good, "cool" day (Justin said it's been a bit too hot outside today though).
Anywho, I'll post again, do more pics and update again.
Thanks to you all, love & miss you guys, keep praying--believing in those miracles. I hope the pics show it, Sgt. Black said it was definitely amazing to see him today after having seen him in Dothan.
TX Sis---got the card and Justin said thanks!!
He said PT and OT were vicious today and worked him hard. He said he should sleep good tonight and may not have as early a morning tomorrow (ha ha).
He had some visitors from his Guard unit today. I think it helped some with his attitude even though part of it was 'business'.
Still extremely tickled with getting the traech out and being able to leave his room without an 'escort' (even though he says there's really not a whole lot to see--he can't shoot pool yet or ping pong, he can't do the swimming pool yet until his neck heals and he's not interested in learning basketball). Not yet sure about leaving the premises and having people see him but seems to enjoy reminding us that we have to get our "Push Pass" before we can take him off the property (lol)....we're almost cleared for everything so we'll see. We did convince him to get a meal ticket for Thursday night so we can take him to the cafeteria for supper instead of eat in his room (good progress there).
He's showing more use of his arms and even hands (without effort too it seems). He said his wrists are getting stronger and I'm noticing he's definitely working everything in new ways than he was just a few days ago. Call it healing or call it adapting---I just know it's progress!!!
(Henri)----promise we'll try to get some more pics and some other than him just sitting in his room. We'll work harder to have him outside in the garden--the real "Secret Garden"-the place we've been going to apparently is just the Cafeteria Garden with smoking rights. The Secret Garden is like a mini-trail like place with benches and a view to the road and I think I saw a grill out there and some walk-ways are listed as "No smoking beyond this point"---pretty on a good, "cool" day (Justin said it's been a bit too hot outside today though).
Anywho, I'll post again, do more pics and update again.
Thanks to you all, love & miss you guys, keep praying--believing in those miracles. I hope the pics show it, Sgt. Black said it was definitely amazing to see him today after having seen him in Dothan.
TX Sis---got the card and Justin said thanks!!
Pictures
Ok Ms. Henri--it may take a day or two to figure out what I'm doing and how to do it. I only have my cell phone and will have to figure out how to use the camera part then how to load it on the laptop....or the camcorder (hmmm). Peetlebug will be back Friday so I'll see if she's got some already taken and see if we can get them loaded.
He's got another full day today but Scotty said he was up and ready to get started at 6:45, especially after he got his "java".
His UTI appears to have cleared itself so Doc told him this morning they would "let sleeping dogs lie, no since stirring up something that isn't causing problems".
He can get out of the room now so we will also try to get some of him roaming the halls.
Sorry we haven't gotten any posted yet. I guess I was so wrapped up with the 'hands on' that I wasn't thinking.
He's got another full day today but Scotty said he was up and ready to get started at 6:45, especially after he got his "java".
His UTI appears to have cleared itself so Doc told him this morning they would "let sleeping dogs lie, no since stirring up something that isn't causing problems".
He can get out of the room now so we will also try to get some of him roaming the halls.
Sorry we haven't gotten any posted yet. I guess I was so wrapped up with the 'hands on' that I wasn't thinking.
Monday, August 10, 2009
MONDAY---8/10
This was not your "blue" Monday.
THE TRAECH IS GONE!!!!! He skipped the button and they took the 'plug' part out. He's bandaged and has no traech. Day nurse Erica said she's been here 12 years and has only seen two other patients go from plug to nothing skipping the button part (yippee).
Of course, I think Justin is not the typical patient. Even Doc seemed a bit curious when Justin told him the electric thingee they use on his arm that is suppose to make his wrist go downward makes his wrist go upward and extends his fingers out. Doc said he would get with his OT Jenn and see what was up with that. Makes me a bit curious what Doc thinks for him to be wanting to ask Jenn what's that all about.
He did come back with a UTI yet they said it is a "bug" they can't identify so they have to wait for the culture to come back in order to determine what antibiotic or what form of treatment to put him on. Go figure, another one of those 'unusual' situations. Only Justin could keep everyone hopping over what's different about this fella??!!!
Medical conference basically said same thing we've been told--Doc asked what the other doctors and hospital told him. Explained the same thing about a complete injury versus an incomplete. Told Justin he would love nothing better than to see him walk out of here; advised Shepherd has to treat what they have now and if he doesn't need that training in 6 weeks, we can through out the window what we've been taught so far.
Doc is good for Justin--he's a jokester, prankster, upbeat kind of guy. Tells the medical like it is then says "hey, if that's what you believe, show me".
He said PT worked him (or he worked himself, wanted to push and see what he could do). OT had a temp today but he said that workout was a good one too. Between the two, they wore him out. TR forgot about him but Justin now has to be responsible for getting himself to the appropriate place at the appropriate time (ha)--he can leave his room without tracking devices going off hunting him down (lol). This is a good thing since he will have some extra company coming in Tuesday then again this weekend.
We managed to get his fingernails a bit more manicured and he said he felt like he was getting some sensation back in his left hand through all of his fingers. His spasms still get the best of him sometimes but he's doing super working through them.
Pulminary was impressed with him saying they typically like to see 1.5 and Justin gave them a 1.72 first night here. Justin said he felt like he could give them a 2.0 today and actually managed to give a 2.3---that's when they said, "yep, we'll skip the button and completely remove the traech".
He was in good spirits. Worked out hard, ate good and glad to be able to get out of his room.
I'm probably leaving out so much and will update again. Has been a busy, productive, good day.
Thank you all for continuing to pray, encourage and support.
Aunt Carol--we forgot to let him know about the fried corn bread. He said he's not big on bread but loves him some fried cornbread. I promised him if you did some more we would make sure he got it the night it got here (you asked what he wanted).
Ms. Lue--love you guys too! Thanks for being such an inspiration.
DE Sis said things went good for Ken---prayers again answered.
Ms. Henri---can't thank you enough!! Look forward to seeing you all soon, even though it will be busy, busy business---being home will be nice (though leaving him alone here will be hard).
To all of you, love you guys and appreciate you all!!
THE TRAECH IS GONE!!!!! He skipped the button and they took the 'plug' part out. He's bandaged and has no traech. Day nurse Erica said she's been here 12 years and has only seen two other patients go from plug to nothing skipping the button part (yippee).
Of course, I think Justin is not the typical patient. Even Doc seemed a bit curious when Justin told him the electric thingee they use on his arm that is suppose to make his wrist go downward makes his wrist go upward and extends his fingers out. Doc said he would get with his OT Jenn and see what was up with that. Makes me a bit curious what Doc thinks for him to be wanting to ask Jenn what's that all about.
He did come back with a UTI yet they said it is a "bug" they can't identify so they have to wait for the culture to come back in order to determine what antibiotic or what form of treatment to put him on. Go figure, another one of those 'unusual' situations. Only Justin could keep everyone hopping over what's different about this fella??!!!
Medical conference basically said same thing we've been told--Doc asked what the other doctors and hospital told him. Explained the same thing about a complete injury versus an incomplete. Told Justin he would love nothing better than to see him walk out of here; advised Shepherd has to treat what they have now and if he doesn't need that training in 6 weeks, we can through out the window what we've been taught so far.
Doc is good for Justin--he's a jokester, prankster, upbeat kind of guy. Tells the medical like it is then says "hey, if that's what you believe, show me".
He said PT worked him (or he worked himself, wanted to push and see what he could do). OT had a temp today but he said that workout was a good one too. Between the two, they wore him out. TR forgot about him but Justin now has to be responsible for getting himself to the appropriate place at the appropriate time (ha)--he can leave his room without tracking devices going off hunting him down (lol). This is a good thing since he will have some extra company coming in Tuesday then again this weekend.
We managed to get his fingernails a bit more manicured and he said he felt like he was getting some sensation back in his left hand through all of his fingers. His spasms still get the best of him sometimes but he's doing super working through them.
Pulminary was impressed with him saying they typically like to see 1.5 and Justin gave them a 1.72 first night here. Justin said he felt like he could give them a 2.0 today and actually managed to give a 2.3---that's when they said, "yep, we'll skip the button and completely remove the traech".
He was in good spirits. Worked out hard, ate good and glad to be able to get out of his room.
I'm probably leaving out so much and will update again. Has been a busy, productive, good day.
Thank you all for continuing to pray, encourage and support.
Aunt Carol--we forgot to let him know about the fried corn bread. He said he's not big on bread but loves him some fried cornbread. I promised him if you did some more we would make sure he got it the night it got here (you asked what he wanted).
Ms. Lue--love you guys too! Thanks for being such an inspiration.
DE Sis said things went good for Ken---prayers again answered.
Ms. Henri---can't thank you enough!! Look forward to seeing you all soon, even though it will be busy, busy business---being home will be nice (though leaving him alone here will be hard).
To all of you, love you guys and appreciate you all!!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Sunday update
Found Justin in good spirits this morning. Slept in a bit but was raring to go once he had is "java" (lol). Appetite still good and was a bit impressed this evening when he saw himself in the mirror and saw he is getting some "muscle" back.
He is starting to recognize when his legs are hot or cold and said it feels as though he is getting some sensation back. The 'spasms' are getting worse, some really bad. He said they hard worst when laying in bed. He said one nearly through him out of bed, he likes being in the chair now and has pretty much met their goal of trying to do 8 to 12 hours a day in the chair. He said he also realized the more he's in the chair, the less they have to turn him in bed (which sucks as per Justin).
The night nurses told him that the spasms, especially coming so hard and so frequent is a good thing. They said it means things are "waking" up and trying to do work. He said while I was down in the "secret garden"--which isn't a secret, it's the smoking spot so now I just say I'm going to the garden (ha)--he said he was concentrating hard on getting his leg to move. He said he didn't know if he made it move or it was a spasm but it jumped some, then it didn't happen again. He also said it can be exhausting trying so hard to make things move.
Funny the things we take for granted, a simple arm movement--like Justin said, when you go through something like this, it puts perspective on it when you get it back.
He made some calls last night. He seemed extremely tickled today telling me about some of the conversations and people he spoke with. He's getting real good at handling his cell phone and he said they will start him next week on the 'bicycle'--it has electrodes (or some kind of shock thing) that pulses his leg nerves and helps him to peddle a bike (this I've got to see). He said they really work him hard during the week (he can't stand the down time and slow pace during the weekends). We try real hard to keep him company on weekends, at least until the traech comes out, then he can leave the floor without having to have PT or OT with him.
We should know more in the morning about the traech and he finally got a nurse that figured out what kind of meds he needed to help with the spasms. He said other nurses during the week kept telling him they didn't know what he was talking about. Justin listens and pays attention, he corrects me plenty and can tell you what everything means--he should have been a doc, he's paying that much attention to what is said about him.
Busy, busy week--Doc conference in the morning, hopefully will get a better idea of what they anticipate because we still know nothing more than we did 12 days ago. Also get a "team" meeting Thursday, that's when all of the "specialists" get to sit down and express what they think and what the progress has been do far (yippee).
We anticipate coming home after this week, will be there for about 3 weeks. He seems a bit bummed when I tell him we'll only see him weekends but I'm hoping he'll be able to get out of the room by then so he can hang with some other patients (or shoot pool, or something) or maybe they will keep him so busy he'll get tuckered out and won't have so much down time.
Any who, he said as soon as he figures out what he wants to eat, he'll let you know (Aunt Carol) and thanks for the card and words of encouragement.
Appreciated the talk he had with everyone (and seemed like he had a good one with Gibson, thanks). He is SO very much missing his job. I didn't realize how much that child loved his job. He said that was one of the truly awesome things was to be able to say 'you love your job and miss it'.........and I think he's actually "job sick" (like home sick except he wants to be back at work--amazing).
We love you all and continue to recognize the prayers and encouragement are what have gotten us this far. I am blessed and amazed at how long yet short this journey has seemed so far. When I look at Justin now compared to July 3, 2009---people have to believe that miracles still exist in this world.
Thanks to all of you!!! Also, he still says he's walking out of here!!!
He is starting to recognize when his legs are hot or cold and said it feels as though he is getting some sensation back. The 'spasms' are getting worse, some really bad. He said they hard worst when laying in bed. He said one nearly through him out of bed, he likes being in the chair now and has pretty much met their goal of trying to do 8 to 12 hours a day in the chair. He said he also realized the more he's in the chair, the less they have to turn him in bed (which sucks as per Justin).
The night nurses told him that the spasms, especially coming so hard and so frequent is a good thing. They said it means things are "waking" up and trying to do work. He said while I was down in the "secret garden"--which isn't a secret, it's the smoking spot so now I just say I'm going to the garden (ha)--he said he was concentrating hard on getting his leg to move. He said he didn't know if he made it move or it was a spasm but it jumped some, then it didn't happen again. He also said it can be exhausting trying so hard to make things move.
Funny the things we take for granted, a simple arm movement--like Justin said, when you go through something like this, it puts perspective on it when you get it back.
He made some calls last night. He seemed extremely tickled today telling me about some of the conversations and people he spoke with. He's getting real good at handling his cell phone and he said they will start him next week on the 'bicycle'--it has electrodes (or some kind of shock thing) that pulses his leg nerves and helps him to peddle a bike (this I've got to see). He said they really work him hard during the week (he can't stand the down time and slow pace during the weekends). We try real hard to keep him company on weekends, at least until the traech comes out, then he can leave the floor without having to have PT or OT with him.
We should know more in the morning about the traech and he finally got a nurse that figured out what kind of meds he needed to help with the spasms. He said other nurses during the week kept telling him they didn't know what he was talking about. Justin listens and pays attention, he corrects me plenty and can tell you what everything means--he should have been a doc, he's paying that much attention to what is said about him.
Busy, busy week--Doc conference in the morning, hopefully will get a better idea of what they anticipate because we still know nothing more than we did 12 days ago. Also get a "team" meeting Thursday, that's when all of the "specialists" get to sit down and express what they think and what the progress has been do far (yippee).
We anticipate coming home after this week, will be there for about 3 weeks. He seems a bit bummed when I tell him we'll only see him weekends but I'm hoping he'll be able to get out of the room by then so he can hang with some other patients (or shoot pool, or something) or maybe they will keep him so busy he'll get tuckered out and won't have so much down time.
Any who, he said as soon as he figures out what he wants to eat, he'll let you know (Aunt Carol) and thanks for the card and words of encouragement.
Appreciated the talk he had with everyone (and seemed like he had a good one with Gibson, thanks). He is SO very much missing his job. I didn't realize how much that child loved his job. He said that was one of the truly awesome things was to be able to say 'you love your job and miss it'.........and I think he's actually "job sick" (like home sick except he wants to be back at work--amazing).
We love you all and continue to recognize the prayers and encouragement are what have gotten us this far. I am blessed and amazed at how long yet short this journey has seemed so far. When I look at Justin now compared to July 3, 2009---people have to believe that miracles still exist in this world.
Thanks to all of you!!! Also, he still says he's walking out of here!!!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Saturday 8/8
Good day--was sleeing this morning when Robyn & Brooke went up with coffee. Left him sleeping only to have him fussing at 12 about not being woke up. He did PT from 11:30 to 12:30 then did lunch. His appetite is still good and he's been a great spirits today.
Playing music on his cell phone and working it pretty good I might add. Refusing suctions because he said the more he coughs the better it will work is stomach muscles and get his abdomen stronger. He still needs help for the tough coughs but for the most part does good.
I've left him with Robyn and Brooke. He's had company all day so hopefully he will rest good tonight. His BP was 93/63 and temp at 95.8, had some bad pains after PT and said he feels there is a huge knot in his left shoulder blade, Robyn massaged it out and said it was a good knot in there but the massage and pain meds seemed to ease it out. May be worth rechecking to find out why he's staying so knotted on that left shoulder.
Good day for him. Will update again tomorrow. Love you guys, thanks for the prayers--they are working!!!!!
Carol--thanks for the goodies, they were delicious and greatly appreciated.
Playing music on his cell phone and working it pretty good I might add. Refusing suctions because he said the more he coughs the better it will work is stomach muscles and get his abdomen stronger. He still needs help for the tough coughs but for the most part does good.
I've left him with Robyn and Brooke. He's had company all day so hopefully he will rest good tonight. His BP was 93/63 and temp at 95.8, had some bad pains after PT and said he feels there is a huge knot in his left shoulder blade, Robyn massaged it out and said it was a good knot in there but the massage and pain meds seemed to ease it out. May be worth rechecking to find out why he's staying so knotted on that left shoulder.
Good day for him. Will update again tomorrow. Love you guys, thanks for the prayers--they are working!!!!!
Carol--thanks for the goodies, they were delicious and greatly appreciated.
Friday, August 7, 2009
TGIF--it's Friday
I told Justin yesterday morning that I was going to pray for a better attitude---it worked. 7:00 a.m. wake up call found him feeling better, he slept better, didn't resist getting up-ate breakfast and wanted to know if there was more (unfortunately there wasn't and someone swiped his sausage-ha ha). He actually got a 'shower' (a shower shower) and got to pick out his own clothes--LOL--he's graduated kindergarten and moving on to 1st grade.
The Doc visited him in the shower and he got to hear Justin speak, they had a brief consult and then Doc was on his way. He smells good, has a semi-full stomach, dressed and raring to go with OT this morning, his chair is working-just needed some recharging--like Justin I reckon. He had cell phone ready and his OT for today (Jen is off) asked him if he would write her a love letter, Dad said he usually just smiles the dimples and shows the pearly whites, who needs a letter!!!
He's got a full day. We have about an hour to do lunch and an IC, then he's off to PT and goes straight from there to TR. Hopefully we'll have loads of good stuff to report today. Him being in great spirits this morning was enough to make me feel like this is the high side of the roller coaster for now, hope to see many more!!!
Love you all, appreciate the prayers and thoughts and keeping ME looked after!!! Words (no matter how serious or humorous or heart-felt) will never express our gratitude..........
DE--let me know how it goes with Ken today!!
The Doc visited him in the shower and he got to hear Justin speak, they had a brief consult and then Doc was on his way. He smells good, has a semi-full stomach, dressed and raring to go with OT this morning, his chair is working-just needed some recharging--like Justin I reckon. He had cell phone ready and his OT for today (Jen is off) asked him if he would write her a love letter, Dad said he usually just smiles the dimples and shows the pearly whites, who needs a letter!!!
He's got a full day. We have about an hour to do lunch and an IC, then he's off to PT and goes straight from there to TR. Hopefully we'll have loads of good stuff to report today. Him being in great spirits this morning was enough to make me feel like this is the high side of the roller coaster for now, hope to see many more!!!
Love you all, appreciate the prayers and thoughts and keeping ME looked after!!! Words (no matter how serious or humorous or heart-felt) will never express our gratitude..........
DE--let me know how it goes with Ken today!!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
BLESSINGS-----from Judy
I wanted to share a brief moment from me to you all---nothing updating Justin so forgive me for straying............I've heard a few times how "unlucky" I or my family have been in recent years and at first I thought so too. I do not wish to offend anyone by addressing this, yet hope that these few thoughts will clarify where I am with things (tired and all, stressed and worried, yet thankful and blessed).
Foster home, no biggee---I came out half decent.
Didn't know my father---I came out half decent.
Not so good relationship with my mother----it's still half decent.
Found a sister after many, many years and love every minute we have!! Reclaimed a closeness with a sister I've had all my life and love every minute we have!!
Have some brothers that aren't so good at the 'girl talk stuff' but we know where everyone is should the day come that we absolutely need each other.
Marriage can be tough, yet I'm still in my first and only one.
God gave me two children, and if you know me, you know I love them with every breath I take. And while it was not planned, I have a grandbaby that has me wrapped. Smiles like his daddy and loves his MeMe like no other can besides me and her dad.
Peetlebug had a wreck and we had family and friends going out of there way to check in on her and ask "what can we do to help".
I got sick, and I found more family than I knew existed. I grew from not knowing what a big family was to having so many sisters and mamas that it wells the heart.
We lost our home and once again, it wasn't the government that bailed us out, it was community, co-workers, friends and family that saw us through.
Scotty has seen many surgeries, disability, we've handled financial struggles and all the while, family and friends encouraged, prayed and stuck through.
We are now here, at these cross-roads wondering what lies ahead and once again there are so many people standing behind us, encouraging us, praying for us and letting us know how blessed we are.
We have a house, family, friends and prayers and so many continuing to want the best.
THAT IS BEING BLESSED---not much money, no big 401K and no mansion yet we are here, surviving and seeing there's more to life.
We love you all................thanks!!!
P.S. I said no Justin update, Dad just said he's running fever, having a rough night--hate to leave him yet know they have their job to do. Will let you know in the morning.
Foster home, no biggee---I came out half decent.
Didn't know my father---I came out half decent.
Not so good relationship with my mother----it's still half decent.
Found a sister after many, many years and love every minute we have!! Reclaimed a closeness with a sister I've had all my life and love every minute we have!!
Have some brothers that aren't so good at the 'girl talk stuff' but we know where everyone is should the day come that we absolutely need each other.
Marriage can be tough, yet I'm still in my first and only one.
God gave me two children, and if you know me, you know I love them with every breath I take. And while it was not planned, I have a grandbaby that has me wrapped. Smiles like his daddy and loves his MeMe like no other can besides me and her dad.
Peetlebug had a wreck and we had family and friends going out of there way to check in on her and ask "what can we do to help".
I got sick, and I found more family than I knew existed. I grew from not knowing what a big family was to having so many sisters and mamas that it wells the heart.
We lost our home and once again, it wasn't the government that bailed us out, it was community, co-workers, friends and family that saw us through.
Scotty has seen many surgeries, disability, we've handled financial struggles and all the while, family and friends encouraged, prayed and stuck through.
We are now here, at these cross-roads wondering what lies ahead and once again there are so many people standing behind us, encouraging us, praying for us and letting us know how blessed we are.
We have a house, family, friends and prayers and so many continuing to want the best.
THAT IS BEING BLESSED---not much money, no big 401K and no mansion yet we are here, surviving and seeing there's more to life.
We love you all................thanks!!!
P.S. I said no Justin update, Dad just said he's running fever, having a rough night--hate to leave him yet know they have their job to do. Will let you know in the morning.
Nightly update
Nothing really new to report. Justin had most of his intense rehab this morning. After I left him last, he dozed in his chair. I was back up there at 5 for supper time which found him still dozing and his chair malfunctioning. WE had to put him back in bed early then his bed was acting up. He has a full day tomorrow so we kep questioning how soon we could expect to get the chair checked out. Hopefully soon--even Justin said he had PT early, then OT then TR (therapeutic recreation---first time for that one, it's actually supposed to be based around "fun"). It's just been a Full Moon kind of day---bless his heart.
He ate 2/3's good and was shivering---has been for a while and we had already been told that SCI patients can experience that and low blood pressure. Dad passed his second IC so we are both checked off on that. I do shower in the morning to get checked off and start bowel tomorrow evening. Dad will try to coordinate his time for that soon as we can figure things out.
Have some things to take care of so we ducked out around 7ish. Dad is going to peek in on him in a bit, I figure he'll be asleep---been one of those kinda of days!!!
Ms Henri---appreciate the offer, what Scotty found apparently is what Justin needed, he said it worked great, we fitted it around the "broken" chair and I told him we'd know better in the morning, but so far it seems to be what he needed. Thank you so very much for letting us know we had other options that Internet and Atlanta (lol).
Real Grandma----love your comments, sounds like you enjoyed your day off with the grandbabies. That always has a way of making a day good, huh!! Love you guys too and look forward to coming home (soon as we have that boy of ours healed and ready). Of course, we'll be seeing everyone sooner than that, we'll just not have so much to update since we won't have that hands on to report (bummer, hadn't thought of it that way until now---frowny face).
Any who, love all of you guys, praying for so many these days and will update tomorrow. Who knows what will happen with an all day schedule for him....hmmm-----great Friday to you all, wonderful weekend to you all, smiley faces to you all, missing you all-----
Carol----will make sure Justin calls you tomorrow. Love you guys!!
He ate 2/3's good and was shivering---has been for a while and we had already been told that SCI patients can experience that and low blood pressure. Dad passed his second IC so we are both checked off on that. I do shower in the morning to get checked off and start bowel tomorrow evening. Dad will try to coordinate his time for that soon as we can figure things out.
Have some things to take care of so we ducked out around 7ish. Dad is going to peek in on him in a bit, I figure he'll be asleep---been one of those kinda of days!!!
Ms Henri---appreciate the offer, what Scotty found apparently is what Justin needed, he said it worked great, we fitted it around the "broken" chair and I told him we'd know better in the morning, but so far it seems to be what he needed. Thank you so very much for letting us know we had other options that Internet and Atlanta (lol).
Real Grandma----love your comments, sounds like you enjoyed your day off with the grandbabies. That always has a way of making a day good, huh!! Love you guys too and look forward to coming home (soon as we have that boy of ours healed and ready). Of course, we'll be seeing everyone sooner than that, we'll just not have so much to update since we won't have that hands on to report (bummer, hadn't thought of it that way until now---frowny face).
Any who, love all of you guys, praying for so many these days and will update tomorrow. Who knows what will happen with an all day schedule for him....hmmm-----great Friday to you all, wonderful weekend to you all, smiley faces to you all, missing you all-----
Carol----will make sure Justin calls you tomorrow. Love you guys!!
Afternoon visit
Well, dad managed to get thru his first IC and actually threatened Justin before hand that he better not make any jokes or act like it was hurting or something--course Justin had the thought go through his mind but said he took it easy on him.
He said PT/OT worked his arms off--3 hours straight and he was tired but perked up a bit after lunch and even managed to make a few phone calls on his cell phone. They managed to find a 'make shift' way of him to use it for now, will need to more modifications but he's got music and phone calls. Will work on the texting!! He called his MeeMaw and she didn't believe it was him at first. After clearing his throat and getting the other noise in his room to calm down, she finally realized it was him and was so tickled to hear from him.
BP back down to 86/53 with HR 86--he was up 121/67 Tuesday but they keep telling us to expect the BP to be lower and to find a constant then he'll know if it's too high on him or too low on him. So much to learn, remember and not freak out over!
Spirits seemed better (not much "F" talk going on--Henri--that's something to be proud of (ha). Charlie Brown and I told him we were going to dress him in yellow polka dot bikini after shower in the morning and let him work out in the gym like that because of the way he behaved this morning and he said "bring it on, I will" (Charlie said he would send pictures---lol).
He was dozing, so I ducked out for a breather and told him I would go back later. Dad is trying to find some 'contraption' that PT/OT told him about that the hospital DOESN'T keep on hand. He did some research online and is looking locally. If he can't find it, we'll see about ordering it. It is something that will help him make more use of his hands and phone, writing, other stuff. OH, I forgot to mention he said he wrote two sentences yesterday and his name. He said it looked like German garble but he wrote.
He has a FULL day tomorrow so I can only imagine how tired he'll be then. Will let you guys know if anything interesting (or boring) happens, or update again in the morning.
Love you all, thanks for everything!!!
He said PT/OT worked his arms off--3 hours straight and he was tired but perked up a bit after lunch and even managed to make a few phone calls on his cell phone. They managed to find a 'make shift' way of him to use it for now, will need to more modifications but he's got music and phone calls. Will work on the texting!! He called his MeeMaw and she didn't believe it was him at first. After clearing his throat and getting the other noise in his room to calm down, she finally realized it was him and was so tickled to hear from him.
BP back down to 86/53 with HR 86--he was up 121/67 Tuesday but they keep telling us to expect the BP to be lower and to find a constant then he'll know if it's too high on him or too low on him. So much to learn, remember and not freak out over!
Spirits seemed better (not much "F" talk going on--Henri--that's something to be proud of (ha). Charlie Brown and I told him we were going to dress him in yellow polka dot bikini after shower in the morning and let him work out in the gym like that because of the way he behaved this morning and he said "bring it on, I will" (Charlie said he would send pictures---lol).
He was dozing, so I ducked out for a breather and told him I would go back later. Dad is trying to find some 'contraption' that PT/OT told him about that the hospital DOESN'T keep on hand. He did some research online and is looking locally. If he can't find it, we'll see about ordering it. It is something that will help him make more use of his hands and phone, writing, other stuff. OH, I forgot to mention he said he wrote two sentences yesterday and his name. He said it looked like German garble but he wrote.
He has a FULL day tomorrow so I can only imagine how tired he'll be then. Will let you guys know if anything interesting (or boring) happens, or update again in the morning.
Love you all, thanks for everything!!!
Thursday--Full moon
It is definitely a full moon coming on--went in early 7:00 to get my second bed bath done, Charlie Brown had already done it and said Justin slept right through it all. He was GRUMPY this morning, didn't even talk for Doc when he came in. When he finally got to the point of having to get up and eat and get ready (and has some blood drawn--he said he thought the nurse collapsed his vein that's how bad it hurt)---he was not the most pleasant of persons. I finally told him I would show up for what I had to do and he could do whatever he had to do. I think he calmed his nerves down a bit after that.
He ate 1/2 decent and was trying to show me how to get his cell phone up and going. Dad finally got there so I left the IT stuff with them. He does 3 hours straight of OT/PT so he should be good and worn out by lunch time. Dad does his IC 'hands on' at noon and again at 6, should get him checked off on that and I'll do "shower" in the morning which should have me done with 2 checks, then we learn bowel treatments (yippee)...........
My faith and heart want to believe he's getting more sensation. I kept feeling his leg while he was dozing and it would react with movement, then I scratched the bottom of his foot and it would draw up. At one point, it looked like he was trying to stretch out his legs (like you would when you first wake up and want to stretch your body). Time will tell!!!
For my DE sis--I hope all goes well with Ken's appointment in the morning. I've already had my prayers in bed and again this moring in the shower and said a few extra ones that he (and you) will come through this okay. Love you guys--tell Jackie, Isabella and Eric we are thinking of them often too.
Standing in line waiting a turn with the washer & dryer. Will update this afternoon. Love you all, keep praying---keeps me going----thanks to you all!!
Peetlebug--other than guitar, stand and MP3, he said he needs his tuner (let me know if you have questions or we'll try to get you and Justin on the phone before you come in). Love you too and hope you have had a great week!
He ate 1/2 decent and was trying to show me how to get his cell phone up and going. Dad finally got there so I left the IT stuff with them. He does 3 hours straight of OT/PT so he should be good and worn out by lunch time. Dad does his IC 'hands on' at noon and again at 6, should get him checked off on that and I'll do "shower" in the morning which should have me done with 2 checks, then we learn bowel treatments (yippee)...........
My faith and heart want to believe he's getting more sensation. I kept feeling his leg while he was dozing and it would react with movement, then I scratched the bottom of his foot and it would draw up. At one point, it looked like he was trying to stretch out his legs (like you would when you first wake up and want to stretch your body). Time will tell!!!
For my DE sis--I hope all goes well with Ken's appointment in the morning. I've already had my prayers in bed and again this moring in the shower and said a few extra ones that he (and you) will come through this okay. Love you guys--tell Jackie, Isabella and Eric we are thinking of them often too.
Standing in line waiting a turn with the washer & dryer. Will update this afternoon. Love you all, keep praying---keeps me going----thanks to you all!!
Peetlebug--other than guitar, stand and MP3, he said he needs his tuner (let me know if you have questions or we'll try to get you and Justin on the phone before you come in). Love you too and hope you have had a great week!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Wednesday night
This is Justin's blog, appreciate the 'political correctiveness' but Justin would say "F*** them!! If they don't like what they are reading, they don't have to read it". OF course, as Mom, I appreciate the effort to be cautious or respectful of others.
Believe me, since he has found his voice, it amazes me that the nurses haven't found a reason to put him back on the other traech---he's had me threaten the bar of soap thing about a dozen times already. Agree though, he'll keep you rolling or keep you so furious you don't know what to do with yourself; however, so far it's been more of the whooing the nurses, speaking his mind and keeping everyone laughing. His doctor is a jokester too so that is a definite dangerous situation.
Not much to report tonight. He did OT and said there was nothing new to really report. I've been checked off on IC, after another bed bath in the morning I should be checked off on that and will start learning bowel treatments Friday; hopefully I'll have that checked off by the weekend. Not sure what else comes after that but will ask tomorrow.
ROBYN-when you come in, he wants his guitar and guitar stand, his MP3 (which should be in the box in the garage, ask Brooke if she'll go get it and have it ready for when you pick her up--if it's not there, ask her to call me and we'll figure it out) and I think I'm forgetting one other thing, will ask him in the morning. We have his pool stick so that's already here. We need to go find him some more sweats "without the elastic in the leg"--that's all this WalMart had and then it wasn't a real big selection.
He didn't eat much supper---had 3 chicken tenders but asked for "field peas" and got black-eyed peas instead and he said the cabbage tasted "old" but it seemed fine by me (just no bacon or crushed red peppers--ha ha Peetlebug, they just don't know how to fix it huh). He did, however, feed himself so he's progressing, especially as Kiki put it, don't ask him--tell him what will happen (gotta love nurses).
Love all you guys, appreciate your encouragement, understanding, prayers and comments---helps us feel a bit closer to home and family & friends. Will update again tomorrow!!
Believe me, since he has found his voice, it amazes me that the nurses haven't found a reason to put him back on the other traech---he's had me threaten the bar of soap thing about a dozen times already. Agree though, he'll keep you rolling or keep you so furious you don't know what to do with yourself; however, so far it's been more of the whooing the nurses, speaking his mind and keeping everyone laughing. His doctor is a jokester too so that is a definite dangerous situation.
Not much to report tonight. He did OT and said there was nothing new to really report. I've been checked off on IC, after another bed bath in the morning I should be checked off on that and will start learning bowel treatments Friday; hopefully I'll have that checked off by the weekend. Not sure what else comes after that but will ask tomorrow.
ROBYN-when you come in, he wants his guitar and guitar stand, his MP3 (which should be in the box in the garage, ask Brooke if she'll go get it and have it ready for when you pick her up--if it's not there, ask her to call me and we'll figure it out) and I think I'm forgetting one other thing, will ask him in the morning. We have his pool stick so that's already here. We need to go find him some more sweats "without the elastic in the leg"--that's all this WalMart had and then it wasn't a real big selection.
He didn't eat much supper---had 3 chicken tenders but asked for "field peas" and got black-eyed peas instead and he said the cabbage tasted "old" but it seemed fine by me (just no bacon or crushed red peppers--ha ha Peetlebug, they just don't know how to fix it huh). He did, however, feed himself so he's progressing, especially as Kiki put it, don't ask him--tell him what will happen (gotta love nurses).
Love all you guys, appreciate your encouragement, understanding, prayers and comments---helps us feel a bit closer to home and family & friends. Will update again tomorrow!!
Wednesday update
Sorry I'm late with another update. Last night was pretty intense with finding out that Justin hurt himself at his afternoon PT/OT visit. He went too far forward and he said the pain was the worse he has felt since this all began. They took x-rays and said this morning that everything was okay but it was still scary last night. He said he was good but tired.
Add to that, I did my first IC -- you nurses out there will know what that is, for all others, let's just say that it involves having to touch an area of Justin that I as a mom hasn't touched since he was just a wittle one (lol). Neither of us freaked out and Nurse Erica said I did good (so did Justin).
He started dozing in his chair so "Kiki" (Quianna) and I got him in bed. He seemed to perk up then but I left out a bit early. We ducked in this morning to see him briefly before our class but he was asleep. 12:30 visit found him in good spirits.
He ate every bit of his lunch (I mean ALL of it). He said he almost pulled Dr. Bilsky in the bed with him this morning. Doc asked him to pull on his arm and Justin said he reckoned Doc wasn't expecting that much strength. He did as Doc told him last night to do, which was go in this morning and tell his PT nurse that his injury yesterday hurt him and he los his sensations. She wasn't too happy but at 1:00 she said she wasn't mad at him anymore, especially finding out it was Doc who put him up to it (ha ha).
He's on 10 lbs with right arm and up to 5 lbs left arm. He said he's "retarded"--they told him typically the arm he wasn't dominant in comes back first and stronger then the dominant arm comes back. He's right handed and that side has come back fastest and strongest. Also, the electrodes they do to him are supposed to make his wrist extend back, instead it makes it curl under. We always said he wasn't 'normal'.
He can't get the peg line out until the 20th--somethng about it healing right and not dumping his stomach stuff into his abdomen. He decided he wouldn't fuss too much about that anymore and just deal with it until the 20th. He also found out they may skip the 'button' on his traech and just remove it completely next week if all continues to go so well.
Yes, he still believes he is walking out of here and yes he said he's had many conversations with God. Most are typical and to be expected and he understands the power of faith and belief that is needed to help see him through this.
He's missing you all and getting a kick out of you responses (Emmanuelle.......) and gets a Sh** eating grin when he hears things like humorous and 'sensitivity' (Deidra)!! He's all--"what can I say"..............
And Tate--I got you some memory pills and an AARP card, just dont' forget where you put them (ha ha)!! That senior moment is coming up in about 5 months you know??!!!!
Love you all, keep praying---I've about got to where I'm kneeling in the shower, outside by the car while I'm smoking, anywhere it hits me because there has been so much wonderful happening (even with the scares like during PT and when I think I just can't keep dealing with it). We'll see what happens this afternoon and update you again.
Add to that, I did my first IC -- you nurses out there will know what that is, for all others, let's just say that it involves having to touch an area of Justin that I as a mom hasn't touched since he was just a wittle one (lol). Neither of us freaked out and Nurse Erica said I did good (so did Justin).
He started dozing in his chair so "Kiki" (Quianna) and I got him in bed. He seemed to perk up then but I left out a bit early. We ducked in this morning to see him briefly before our class but he was asleep. 12:30 visit found him in good spirits.
He ate every bit of his lunch (I mean ALL of it). He said he almost pulled Dr. Bilsky in the bed with him this morning. Doc asked him to pull on his arm and Justin said he reckoned Doc wasn't expecting that much strength. He did as Doc told him last night to do, which was go in this morning and tell his PT nurse that his injury yesterday hurt him and he los his sensations. She wasn't too happy but at 1:00 she said she wasn't mad at him anymore, especially finding out it was Doc who put him up to it (ha ha).
He's on 10 lbs with right arm and up to 5 lbs left arm. He said he's "retarded"--they told him typically the arm he wasn't dominant in comes back first and stronger then the dominant arm comes back. He's right handed and that side has come back fastest and strongest. Also, the electrodes they do to him are supposed to make his wrist extend back, instead it makes it curl under. We always said he wasn't 'normal'.
He can't get the peg line out until the 20th--somethng about it healing right and not dumping his stomach stuff into his abdomen. He decided he wouldn't fuss too much about that anymore and just deal with it until the 20th. He also found out they may skip the 'button' on his traech and just remove it completely next week if all continues to go so well.
Yes, he still believes he is walking out of here and yes he said he's had many conversations with God. Most are typical and to be expected and he understands the power of faith and belief that is needed to help see him through this.
He's missing you all and getting a kick out of you responses (Emmanuelle.......) and gets a Sh** eating grin when he hears things like humorous and 'sensitivity' (Deidra)!! He's all--"what can I say"..............
And Tate--I got you some memory pills and an AARP card, just dont' forget where you put them (ha ha)!! That senior moment is coming up in about 5 months you know??!!!!
Love you all, keep praying---I've about got to where I'm kneeling in the shower, outside by the car while I'm smoking, anywhere it hits me because there has been so much wonderful happening (even with the scares like during PT and when I think I just can't keep dealing with it). We'll see what happens this afternoon and update you again.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Mid-day report
Not much to report at this point. We headed back up at 10:30 and found his 'research' discussion already in progress with Justin and neighbor Michael. Dad made the lady restart the conversation after she advised us both had agreed and she just needed signatures. Bless her heart, she was a trooper by going through the spill all over again and sounds like it's nothing other than data collection and a few phone calls after discharge (no 'rats in labs' kinda thing-ha).
He was tired after OT this morning and started to doze while we were in the midst of the hands-on IC training. I think nurse Erica was a bit disappointed that we didn't want to just jump right in and "drain the snake" right off. We didn't even get a visual aid and she wouldn't let me take notes (bummer). Finally, we agreed she would do this one and we would attempt the next one. Didn't seem to faze Justin at all, I think he slept through the whole thing.
But that didn't last long--OT Jennifer wanted him to have lunch with another patient who is apparently struggling with things right now. Of all people, she wanted Justin to meet him as a "peer support" (I think she forgot about his mouth--whew). By the time this get together happened, Justin was in pain and I'm not sure how much fun or encouragement Justin was; I only hope that maybe next time Justin will be able to help out. He's shown these nurses something for them to want him to meet this younger fellow, so I know Justin will come through somehow to get this fellow on track.
We had a few hours until he'd be back in his room and spent about 45 minutes of that fighting with the local washer machine (Scotty had to treat it like a computer---and no, just turning it off then back on again wasn't doing it, he had to turn it off, unplug it, replug it, turn it back on then reset the cycles---gotta love technology).
Anywho, trying to get laundry done then back up there to see how much PT wore him out. He's still fussing about not sleeping at night and then can't sleep during the day for everything else (gotta love it---but he can talk to his neighbor now--yippee--got some bonding going on).
Will, as you know, update again (unless you guys are all bored out and need to take a break to see what will happen on next week's episode-------sorry, we are a bit wore out too).
Love you guys, love you for praying, appreciate everything and Emmanuelle---I wrote down your response so I could remember exactly what you said---he's going to be shining those dimples big time for you AND actually VOICING his reply. I'll let you know what he has to SAY.....
The bad days wear you out but you hate to miss them and the good days are so good that you want to be here for every visit so that you don't miss them.
Love you all for caring, words will never express and using "My cup runneth over" does not come close to saying it----my bath tub is overflowing and running the risk of collapsing into the room on the floor below----descriptive enough??!!!! Love you guys!!!
OH Mama Hen---Justin said Dr. Bilsky was a "pole smoker" (kidding of course because doc was late this morning---if you need to know what that means, email in private to smedley17@hotmail.com)-----, for others that already know what it means---shame on you!!!
He was tired after OT this morning and started to doze while we were in the midst of the hands-on IC training. I think nurse Erica was a bit disappointed that we didn't want to just jump right in and "drain the snake" right off. We didn't even get a visual aid and she wouldn't let me take notes (bummer). Finally, we agreed she would do this one and we would attempt the next one. Didn't seem to faze Justin at all, I think he slept through the whole thing.
But that didn't last long--OT Jennifer wanted him to have lunch with another patient who is apparently struggling with things right now. Of all people, she wanted Justin to meet him as a "peer support" (I think she forgot about his mouth--whew). By the time this get together happened, Justin was in pain and I'm not sure how much fun or encouragement Justin was; I only hope that maybe next time Justin will be able to help out. He's shown these nurses something for them to want him to meet this younger fellow, so I know Justin will come through somehow to get this fellow on track.
We had a few hours until he'd be back in his room and spent about 45 minutes of that fighting with the local washer machine (Scotty had to treat it like a computer---and no, just turning it off then back on again wasn't doing it, he had to turn it off, unplug it, replug it, turn it back on then reset the cycles---gotta love technology).
Anywho, trying to get laundry done then back up there to see how much PT wore him out. He's still fussing about not sleeping at night and then can't sleep during the day for everything else (gotta love it---but he can talk to his neighbor now--yippee--got some bonding going on).
Will, as you know, update again (unless you guys are all bored out and need to take a break to see what will happen on next week's episode-------sorry, we are a bit wore out too).
Love you guys, love you for praying, appreciate everything and Emmanuelle---I wrote down your response so I could remember exactly what you said---he's going to be shining those dimples big time for you AND actually VOICING his reply. I'll let you know what he has to SAY.....
The bad days wear you out but you hate to miss them and the good days are so good that you want to be here for every visit so that you don't miss them.
Love you all for caring, words will never express and using "My cup runneth over" does not come close to saying it----my bath tub is overflowing and running the risk of collapsing into the room on the floor below----descriptive enough??!!!! Love you guys!!!
OH Mama Hen---Justin said Dr. Bilsky was a "pole smoker" (kidding of course because doc was late this morning---if you need to know what that means, email in private to smedley17@hotmail.com)-----, for others that already know what it means---shame on you!!!
Tuesday August 4
Morning started out a bit aggitated. He said he didn't sleep well with nurses coming in every three hours. By the time he dozed back off here they came again. Then we wake him bright and early at 7:15GA time. He was to actually get a 'shower' only to find out NO, bed bath because day nurse wanted to train me on that. Then he got a chill, a BIG chill, couldn't warm him enough. After bathing, we had to put a blanket, two towels plus one around his head and day nurse finally got him a second blanket she had tumbled in the dryer.
Nurse said it was because of the spinal injury--said the body doesn't know how to tell difference between being hot or cold but this was the first time I had seen him shivering like this without a fever, came back at only 97 degrees. Agitation came from the bed bath on top of the feeling so cold and being woke up so early without getting much sleep.
We finally got him in his chair and the doc was about 1 1/2 hours late getting to see Justin. They held up morning OT for about 10 minutes for Bilsky to step in for a few minutes. By then, he had already started to be Justin--lots of conversation that can embarrass a person if you are not used to Justin's personality but the nurses seem to be okay with it.
He has research meeting after OT, lunch while I learn IC training then does his PT. Will let you know how it all goes. We don't get our one-on-one meet with the doctors until Monday morning so we wait again to see exactly what Shepherd has to say about long-term. Finding out this is definitely alot of hurry up and wait scenarios.
Love you all bunches, keep the prayers coming--that's our strength!!
Nurse said it was because of the spinal injury--said the body doesn't know how to tell difference between being hot or cold but this was the first time I had seen him shivering like this without a fever, came back at only 97 degrees. Agitation came from the bed bath on top of the feeling so cold and being woke up so early without getting much sleep.
We finally got him in his chair and the doc was about 1 1/2 hours late getting to see Justin. They held up morning OT for about 10 minutes for Bilsky to step in for a few minutes. By then, he had already started to be Justin--lots of conversation that can embarrass a person if you are not used to Justin's personality but the nurses seem to be okay with it.
He has research meeting after OT, lunch while I learn IC training then does his PT. Will let you know how it all goes. We don't get our one-on-one meet with the doctors until Monday morning so we wait again to see exactly what Shepherd has to say about long-term. Finding out this is definitely alot of hurry up and wait scenarios.
Love you all bunches, keep the prayers coming--that's our strength!!
Mailing Address
Mail for Justin goes to:
Justin L. Medley
c/o Shepherd Center
2020 Peachtree Rd. NW
Atlanta GA 30309
Justin is expected to be here approximately 6 weeks. We are unsure of how much time we will be here with him. We are aware of our other obligations and are trying to split our time (so much time here, go home for a bit then return to finalize our training and his discharge).
We have hands on training this morning, Justin goes into PT, after he has a "research" meeting, then we do lunch and he will go back into OT. Then he's pretty much available for us to visit with. Will update again!
Love you all!!
Justin L. Medley
c/o Shepherd Center
2020 Peachtree Rd. NW
Atlanta GA 30309
Justin is expected to be here approximately 6 weeks. We are unsure of how much time we will be here with him. We are aware of our other obligations and are trying to split our time (so much time here, go home for a bit then return to finalize our training and his discharge).
We have hands on training this morning, Justin goes into PT, after he has a "research" meeting, then we do lunch and he will go back into OT. Then he's pretty much available for us to visit with. Will update again!
Love you all!!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Monday night
Well, Justin has vound his voice. They put the new traech in and so far, so good!! He had almost every one of his nurses coming in wanting to hear him speak (and a few are pretty smitten with his dimples too). He actually apologized to his night crew AHEAD of time for any curse words that may come out of his mouth!!
The catheter came out next, around 6 tonight and peg line should come out in the morning, we didn't realize that the doctor is supposed to do that. Justin said if he knew that, he would have had Dr. Bilsky do it this morning.
He said the new traech helped reduce the amount of secretions and he hasn't been suctioned since. We did have to learn how to cough him when he's in the chair and Scotty does great at that. He has been in such good spirits and really conversating now!! And eating--oh my, he ate 2/3 of his steak strips, all his corn, a few bites of blueberry cobler and 2 bites of banana, drank a whole coke, ate almost a full bag of cheetos, a twix pack and a piece of gum (which he swallowed--I told him that the nurse doing his bowel treatment was going to get stuck--ha ha).
His SPO2 has stayed at 98 since the new traech and he's raring to go now. He stayed in his chair for 10 hours but got a bit tired feeding himself at supper, but that's okay-everyone said it will come better and easier with time.
I left him with dad so I could come get a few things done. Have to get up bright and early to get my first "hands on" lesson bathing him, turning him, and getting him in the chair (which we've already been helping get that done)--this is to get us doing it all ourselves.
Will update you all tomorrow. Love you guys and miss you all. Thanks again for all of the support, encouragement, thoughts and PRAYERS--working miracles up here in Atlanta.
For anyone that I miss sending out a personal note to, please forgive me--I sometimes don't think of everything when I should.
The catheter came out next, around 6 tonight and peg line should come out in the morning, we didn't realize that the doctor is supposed to do that. Justin said if he knew that, he would have had Dr. Bilsky do it this morning.
He said the new traech helped reduce the amount of secretions and he hasn't been suctioned since. We did have to learn how to cough him when he's in the chair and Scotty does great at that. He has been in such good spirits and really conversating now!! And eating--oh my, he ate 2/3 of his steak strips, all his corn, a few bites of blueberry cobler and 2 bites of banana, drank a whole coke, ate almost a full bag of cheetos, a twix pack and a piece of gum (which he swallowed--I told him that the nurse doing his bowel treatment was going to get stuck--ha ha).
His SPO2 has stayed at 98 since the new traech and he's raring to go now. He stayed in his chair for 10 hours but got a bit tired feeding himself at supper, but that's okay-everyone said it will come better and easier with time.
I left him with dad so I could come get a few things done. Have to get up bright and early to get my first "hands on" lesson bathing him, turning him, and getting him in the chair (which we've already been helping get that done)--this is to get us doing it all ourselves.
Will update you all tomorrow. Love you guys and miss you all. Thanks again for all of the support, encouragement, thoughts and PRAYERS--working miracles up here in Atlanta.
For anyone that I miss sending out a personal note to, please forgive me--I sometimes don't think of everything when I should.
Henri--duh moment
Henri--what was Johnny's last name?? I just thought about you and Jill being here when Johnny was here. Justin met Mr. Shepherd (the son, the reason this place was founded). They want to touch base with Justin again mainly because of the military background but I'll get some minds working by mentioning you and Melinda (if you don't mind)......
Heading back up, will blog again. Love you all!!
Heading back up, will blog again. Love you all!!
Update
Hey Ms. Henri--I've got some more progress to report. Justin is upgrading on his traech today. The one he has now has a 'cuff', acts like a balloon in there. The new one will be a "disposeable" traech which can be capped off for him to start speaking. If all goes well with it, he goes next week to another version which weins him completely off the traech. Will lots of praying and good reactions, he may be off the traech completely by 2 weeks from today.
Betty--yes we are getting your comments and appreciate them so much. Robyn and Brooke did drive back to Enterprise yesterday. Got in sometime after 7 AL time, ran into a wreck on Atlanta 85 but didn't put them too late getting in.
Mama Hen--Thank you so much for the information. We will definitely relay the information to all that have asked. In case you wonder, you come up alot as the motivation from Dothan and the "Mama" nurse that made our concerns less by knowing you were watching over our son. And when we express how highly recommended Shepherd was.
Justin fed himself lunch with the help of a few gadgets, well mainly one wrist band and a good nurse to offer up some suggestions (Charlie Brown---he named himself, his name is Charlie-the one we met first day on the floor and couldn't remember what he said his name was, now we can remember because he said "just think of Charlie Brown"-ha). While he seemed frustrated at first and tired, he had just come from 1 1/2 of PT and was hurting bad since he'd had no pain meds in 36 hours, he was determined to finish it himself.
He's in good spirits, upgrading on the traech, losing the catheter and peg line. We see him again after OT, around 3:30 or so but it's possible he may sleep for a while. He said he can't sleep at night for everyone coming in wanting something and can't sleep by day for PT/OT and not wanting to miss company--go figure!!
We'll keep posting and we know that you all will keep praying.
Betty--yes we are getting your comments and appreciate them so much. Robyn and Brooke did drive back to Enterprise yesterday. Got in sometime after 7 AL time, ran into a wreck on Atlanta 85 but didn't put them too late getting in.
Mama Hen--Thank you so much for the information. We will definitely relay the information to all that have asked. In case you wonder, you come up alot as the motivation from Dothan and the "Mama" nurse that made our concerns less by knowing you were watching over our son. And when we express how highly recommended Shepherd was.
Justin fed himself lunch with the help of a few gadgets, well mainly one wrist band and a good nurse to offer up some suggestions (Charlie Brown---he named himself, his name is Charlie-the one we met first day on the floor and couldn't remember what he said his name was, now we can remember because he said "just think of Charlie Brown"-ha). While he seemed frustrated at first and tired, he had just come from 1 1/2 of PT and was hurting bad since he'd had no pain meds in 36 hours, he was determined to finish it himself.
He's in good spirits, upgrading on the traech, losing the catheter and peg line. We see him again after OT, around 3:30 or so but it's possible he may sleep for a while. He said he can't sleep at night for everyone coming in wanting something and can't sleep by day for PT/OT and not wanting to miss company--go figure!!
We'll keep posting and we know that you all will keep praying.
Question--Mama Hen
Hey Mama Hen--we need your full name and your husband's name. We have a lot of people wanting to know everytime we mention you.
Also, Justin met Dr. Bilsky this morning. He is a kidder--first question to Justin was "do you remember meeting me already?" Justin said, I think so and Dr. Bilsky said it was a trick question because he had been on vacation (ha ha).
Things like a whirlwind again. What we thought were meetings for one thing turned out to be something else. We finally met with the case manager, got a calendar (sort of) and a Doctor's meeting. We weren't originally going to get a team meeting but Barbara (Barb as she's being called) said she thought it would be a good idea so she's coordinating that.
Justin was awake and good this morning. He's up from 7 lbs on his right arm to 10 lbs today after PT, he gets his catheter out and the peg line. Will start learning how to feed himself without help. He's power napping right now, will head back up there in about 10 minutes.
Will update later. Keep praying----let me know something Mama H!!!
Thanks!
Also, Justin met Dr. Bilsky this morning. He is a kidder--first question to Justin was "do you remember meeting me already?" Justin said, I think so and Dr. Bilsky said it was a trick question because he had been on vacation (ha ha).
Things like a whirlwind again. What we thought were meetings for one thing turned out to be something else. We finally met with the case manager, got a calendar (sort of) and a Doctor's meeting. We weren't originally going to get a team meeting but Barbara (Barb as she's being called) said she thought it would be a good idea so she's coordinating that.
Justin was awake and good this morning. He's up from 7 lbs on his right arm to 10 lbs today after PT, he gets his catheter out and the peg line. Will start learning how to feed himself without help. He's power napping right now, will head back up there in about 10 minutes.
Will update later. Keep praying----let me know something Mama H!!!
Thanks!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Feed back
Hey Mama Hen--we've been here officially 5 1/2 days and we've seen and heard so many tragic stories, most are younger people which we knew was a huge resident number here and each story tugs at your heart strings. We met one mother who advised we would find some that wanted to fuss about Shepherd more than anything and that has happened. I find it hard to believe that people hold no more respect than they do for the many blessings they have before them.
I put a lot of my strength comes from people like you and my Delaware sis, Louisiana gang and ever faithful Ms. Lue and the many, many others that believe in God and Justin. While the days have been good day, bad day--I can't blame anyone for them! This rollercoaster doesn't come with instructions, same as children do not. God said believe in Him and we would be rewarded with eternal life and peace in Heaven, not perfection on Earth. The trials aren't easy, yet the blessings--small or large--are amazing.
Our experience to date is awesome in that we have a bad Saturday and then have such a remarkable Sunday. I wish others here could feel what a miraculous feeling that is. Yes the bad days 'suck' as my children would put it, yet the good days make you want to cry with joy. It can be tiring and stressful, but oh so motivating. As with any hospital, you will find caregivers that have a great repour and generous spirit & heart, then there will be those that approach it as a job that pays their bills so they can lead their own lives--and that's okay too! I just thank God for all of them because Justin is ultimately the one getting the treatment, whether they "Dote over him" or just deliver the meds and leave.
Justin is still determined in his faith and motivation. He said just today that no one believes him when he says he's walking out of here yet everyone continues to acknowledge how well he has done in just that short 5 1/2 days.
Remember he came here from CCU, had not eaten real food in 26 days. In 5 days he has eaten every day, has been in a regular room for 3 days, has been up in his chair for 2 1/2 days, has been off oxygen for 4 1/2 days and spent 24 hours without pain meds. I can't figure out the negative that people are finding here. We have a shower, toilet, sink for washing, dishes for eating, a fridge to keep things cool and a stove for making things warm, towels to bathe with and a bed when we are weery.
I don't know that we'll ever be able to express the full extent of our journey. I would much rather be in Enterprise AL cooking 5 pounds of bacon for my son and son-in-law but life just changed one day and now we are here. Thanking everyone and God for the Justin we spent time with today.
May all of your lives be so blessed during good times (or bad should you ever encounter any trials). To all of you, thank you so very much, God bless and we love you guys!!
You would be loving the Justin personality (even the jokes that the nurses clearly know are something that is more of a 'family joke') and there is one-Valerie- that noted today that his "eyes" told her that he was tired even if he was saying no!!
Thanks for all the encouragement--I guess I used this blog for venting more so than an update tonight. We were informed at 7:30 by our neighbor whose son is Justin's roommate that they were both sleeping so I'm doing dishes and laundry (killing time waiting on the spin cycle, ha).
Let you all know how Monday goes!!!
I put a lot of my strength comes from people like you and my Delaware sis, Louisiana gang and ever faithful Ms. Lue and the many, many others that believe in God and Justin. While the days have been good day, bad day--I can't blame anyone for them! This rollercoaster doesn't come with instructions, same as children do not. God said believe in Him and we would be rewarded with eternal life and peace in Heaven, not perfection on Earth. The trials aren't easy, yet the blessings--small or large--are amazing.
Our experience to date is awesome in that we have a bad Saturday and then have such a remarkable Sunday. I wish others here could feel what a miraculous feeling that is. Yes the bad days 'suck' as my children would put it, yet the good days make you want to cry with joy. It can be tiring and stressful, but oh so motivating. As with any hospital, you will find caregivers that have a great repour and generous spirit & heart, then there will be those that approach it as a job that pays their bills so they can lead their own lives--and that's okay too! I just thank God for all of them because Justin is ultimately the one getting the treatment, whether they "Dote over him" or just deliver the meds and leave.
Justin is still determined in his faith and motivation. He said just today that no one believes him when he says he's walking out of here yet everyone continues to acknowledge how well he has done in just that short 5 1/2 days.
Remember he came here from CCU, had not eaten real food in 26 days. In 5 days he has eaten every day, has been in a regular room for 3 days, has been up in his chair for 2 1/2 days, has been off oxygen for 4 1/2 days and spent 24 hours without pain meds. I can't figure out the negative that people are finding here. We have a shower, toilet, sink for washing, dishes for eating, a fridge to keep things cool and a stove for making things warm, towels to bathe with and a bed when we are weery.
I don't know that we'll ever be able to express the full extent of our journey. I would much rather be in Enterprise AL cooking 5 pounds of bacon for my son and son-in-law but life just changed one day and now we are here. Thanking everyone and God for the Justin we spent time with today.
May all of your lives be so blessed during good times (or bad should you ever encounter any trials). To all of you, thank you so very much, God bless and we love you guys!!
You would be loving the Justin personality (even the jokes that the nurses clearly know are something that is more of a 'family joke') and there is one-Valerie- that noted today that his "eyes" told her that he was tired even if he was saying no!!
Thanks for all the encouragement--I guess I used this blog for venting more so than an update tonight. We were informed at 7:30 by our neighbor whose son is Justin's roommate that they were both sleeping so I'm doing dishes and laundry (killing time waiting on the spin cycle, ha).
Let you all know how Monday goes!!!
Sunday August 2
New month and new days to get through.
Prayers have been answered and today found Justin without fever, better with his congestion (he is still getting a lot of suctioning but staying around 94 with his SPO2). Robyn has learned how to help him "cough" during suctions and nurse Valerie said she's become such a pro that they may just have to hire her.....
He was sleeping when I got there aroud 9:30 and I didn't make a strong effort to wake him until Robyn and Brooke got there with Starbucks and Donuts (yum). I think his "java" had him a bit wired for a while, but he ate good breakfast, lunch and supper. He said he realized that he needed to drink the cranberry to help with the bladder--even though he can't stand cranberry juice), he knew eating good and a variety of fruits, veggies and other stuff would help health wise and body wise. He's down to 153 pounds and says most of that is muscle mass. He mentioned that again today in joking that he was "depressed" he lost so much of his muscles but also commented it would be all the more reason to work harder in PT training.
After three clippers--he finally got his military hair-do!! Dad did it with Justin's guidance and he was tickled with it. Said he felt better even though he hasn't even had his bath yet. But nurse Stanley said he needed a bath, waiting til tomorrow wasn't an option (ha ha--I told Justin he needed one last night but he wouldn't listen--lol--mom's can still get the last laugh!!!)
He was in GOOD spirits today. A lot of joking, conversation and teaching (med wise and other stuff too). He met the chaplain today and had a bried talk with him, he told him that he would be talking with him but it would be later on then he would call him. He recognizes we are all relying on God's power, healing, mercy and much more to get through this.
Congrats to Robby & Chastity--get ready Lydia & Keith---you won't believe how different it is to be a grandparent vs. a parent. I know you all must be so happy!!
I have a somewhat new grandbaby--his name is Norman--dachsund---and yes Robyn already has him spoiled rotten. He sucks his paw when he lays down to go to sleep, barks at anything that moves and doesn't like squeeky toys-go figure!!
Anywho, Justin has been over 24 hours without pain meds, spent 7 hours in the chair today before wanting back in bed. We left him around 6:00 tonight to get some things done after spening roughly 9 hours with him. Tomorrow starts a week full of rehad therapy, doctor consulations, team meetings, 8 hours lectures for training and some 'hands on' training. We'll let you know all the progress as we get through them and continue to update on Justin.
This was a good day and I was so very glad that Robyn and Brooke were here to see most of it.
Love you all, keep praying-----
Prayers have been answered and today found Justin without fever, better with his congestion (he is still getting a lot of suctioning but staying around 94 with his SPO2). Robyn has learned how to help him "cough" during suctions and nurse Valerie said she's become such a pro that they may just have to hire her.....
He was sleeping when I got there aroud 9:30 and I didn't make a strong effort to wake him until Robyn and Brooke got there with Starbucks and Donuts (yum). I think his "java" had him a bit wired for a while, but he ate good breakfast, lunch and supper. He said he realized that he needed to drink the cranberry to help with the bladder--even though he can't stand cranberry juice), he knew eating good and a variety of fruits, veggies and other stuff would help health wise and body wise. He's down to 153 pounds and says most of that is muscle mass. He mentioned that again today in joking that he was "depressed" he lost so much of his muscles but also commented it would be all the more reason to work harder in PT training.
After three clippers--he finally got his military hair-do!! Dad did it with Justin's guidance and he was tickled with it. Said he felt better even though he hasn't even had his bath yet. But nurse Stanley said he needed a bath, waiting til tomorrow wasn't an option (ha ha--I told Justin he needed one last night but he wouldn't listen--lol--mom's can still get the last laugh!!!)
He was in GOOD spirits today. A lot of joking, conversation and teaching (med wise and other stuff too). He met the chaplain today and had a bried talk with him, he told him that he would be talking with him but it would be later on then he would call him. He recognizes we are all relying on God's power, healing, mercy and much more to get through this.
Congrats to Robby & Chastity--get ready Lydia & Keith---you won't believe how different it is to be a grandparent vs. a parent. I know you all must be so happy!!
I have a somewhat new grandbaby--his name is Norman--dachsund---and yes Robyn already has him spoiled rotten. He sucks his paw when he lays down to go to sleep, barks at anything that moves and doesn't like squeeky toys-go figure!!
Anywho, Justin has been over 24 hours without pain meds, spent 7 hours in the chair today before wanting back in bed. We left him around 6:00 tonight to get some things done after spening roughly 9 hours with him. Tomorrow starts a week full of rehad therapy, doctor consulations, team meetings, 8 hours lectures for training and some 'hands on' training. We'll let you know all the progress as we get through them and continue to update on Justin.
This was a good day and I was so very glad that Robyn and Brooke were here to see most of it.
Love you all, keep praying-----
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Evening Update-Saturday
Justin has informed us that the next time we come in and find him sleeping we are to wake him up. Of course, I thought it was because he missed our loveable personalities but it was because he said "if I sleep during the day, I won't sleep good at night"---go figure. He was feeling better tonight. Had a few scares with congestion and new shift of nurses on tonight; otherwise, I think it was a good visit.
I'm trying to get the hang of things and either go too soft or too rough (as he quickly let me know tonight) but he seemed okay that we are trying. Had to "cough him" during treatment and I guess I got a bit aggressive. Apologized many times---learning alot!!
He seemed in good spirits, letting nurses know real quick what he knows he needs even when they question it. Turned down pain meds tonight and sleep aid meds and convinced respiratory he didn't need to be put on oxygen tonight.
Another day of turn-arounds and we're learning they happen.
Appreciate you all and will continue to report everything. Keep praying, that is the strength!!
Love you all for the support, encouragement, prayer and keeping us grounded!!
I'm trying to get the hang of things and either go too soft or too rough (as he quickly let me know tonight) but he seemed okay that we are trying. Had to "cough him" during treatment and I guess I got a bit aggressive. Apologized many times---learning alot!!
He seemed in good spirits, letting nurses know real quick what he knows he needs even when they question it. Turned down pain meds tonight and sleep aid meds and convinced respiratory he didn't need to be put on oxygen tonight.
Another day of turn-arounds and we're learning they happen.
Appreciate you all and will continue to report everything. Keep praying, that is the strength!!
Love you all for the support, encouragement, prayer and keeping us grounded!!
Saturday afternoon
Rechecked on just at 4:30 and found him sleeping again. Respiratory was doing another breathing treatment and said the rest was good for him. Stanley (day nurse) said he finally broke his fever. We'll check back after Robyn gets her a power nap, of course she & Brooke got in about 8:00 GA time spent about 45 minutes with Justin last night, by end of late suppertime she was out and back up 6:00 GA time this morning. Even though Justin's been tired, hurting and overall not feeling good, we've made 4 trips up there plus the Candy run (and most recent the Fresh Market run for her to get hubby some goodies while in Afghanistan).
Scotty hurting today also and having a rough day himself and Brooke pretty much being Brooke--okay with whatever is going on and whatever we need to be doing.
We continue to appreciate all of the encouragement. Days like today remind us of all the many blessings and days that were worse so we know the progress made. WE understand God works on his timeframe and do the best we can to encourage Justin on 'down' days.
Love you all very much, many thanks!!!
Scotty hurting today also and having a rough day himself and Brooke pretty much being Brooke--okay with whatever is going on and whatever we need to be doing.
We continue to appreciate all of the encouragement. Days like today remind us of all the many blessings and days that were worse so we know the progress made. WE understand God works on his timeframe and do the best we can to encourage Justin on 'down' days.
Love you all very much, many thanks!!!
New month
We all have been down this road many times. You get a good blog then a bad day comes and we report a minor (or sometimes major) setback.
7:45 found him sleeping and what I figured was a fever since he was uncovered. We didn't see anyone to discuss it with so we left and returned at 10:00 to see him before his PT visit and we found him yet again sleeping, this time covered with 2 blankets and still no contact with nurses.
We headed to WalMart for the "Mike n Ike's" he wanted last night. Returned back at 11:20 to find the nurse finally in there and Justin in low spirits and clearly not feeling well. Fever at 101.2, lots of congestion that they just couldn't get up and he couldn't get coughed up. He said he was just down right not feeling good.
PT decided to do bed exercises and Justin finally said he wanted to be in his chair but that still found him hurting in neck and left shoulder, still had congestion and got nausea and a headache. He got Tylenol for fever, nausea meds and pain meds. I finally convinced him to eat some of his lunch that was about an hour cold and he ate about half of it.
He wasn't really asleep but semi-dozing around 2:00 so we decided to head to housing to quick zap some lunch. I hope our next visit will give us something better to report.
WE love you all and ask you to continue to pray.
7:45 found him sleeping and what I figured was a fever since he was uncovered. We didn't see anyone to discuss it with so we left and returned at 10:00 to see him before his PT visit and we found him yet again sleeping, this time covered with 2 blankets and still no contact with nurses.
We headed to WalMart for the "Mike n Ike's" he wanted last night. Returned back at 11:20 to find the nurse finally in there and Justin in low spirits and clearly not feeling well. Fever at 101.2, lots of congestion that they just couldn't get up and he couldn't get coughed up. He said he was just down right not feeling good.
PT decided to do bed exercises and Justin finally said he wanted to be in his chair but that still found him hurting in neck and left shoulder, still had congestion and got nausea and a headache. He got Tylenol for fever, nausea meds and pain meds. I finally convinced him to eat some of his lunch that was about an hour cold and he ate about half of it.
He wasn't really asleep but semi-dozing around 2:00 so we decided to head to housing to quick zap some lunch. I hope our next visit will give us something better to report.
WE love you all and ask you to continue to pray.
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