Apologies

My apologies to you all for not having posted this week.

Our early departure was not medically related and I'm sorry if I led anyone to believe so. We were rather blindsighted with some other issues that are relative to Justin but on more of a behind the scenes, taking care of business matter.

Justin didn't get his treatment for the tendonitis on Monday---machine was broke. He did get a PT related massage and said it made him feel better. Not 100% but better. He finally got his treatment on Tuesday and they have indicated there are a few more treatments he will need in order to feel that he is improving.

While we originally thought he was due for a September 15th transfer to VA, we have once again been advised that Shepherd has postponed calling the VA. All we have been told is that they want him here as long as possible and that Justin has not yet met all of his "goals" and his progress has been so remarkable, they want him here. It all seems like paper-pushing and politics but based on so many people we've had that have voiced concerns, I'm wondering if the longer he puts off VA, the better----I hope it won't backfire!! Shepherd is the best in the nation; I just don't want the military side of things to get into a pissing match over who has rights over Justin. I want his best interest looked after without making enemies along the way!

Still on the condom cath, still having reflex---can't be explained why. He's got a new nursing crew on him the last few days. One yesterday got informed real quick by Justin that he wanted to be changed after she allowed part of his bladder during an IC to spill over into his lap. She commented that he only had an hour or so until they would get him in bed, so he asked her "how would you feel about sitting in your pee for 10 minutes"--she said she wouldn't like it, so he said "why should I have to for an hour"---I think she got the message!

Sorry to all of you nurses, he said he 'dislikes' (I replaced his words) new crews---having to start all over getting them to understand he knows what he needs or what should happen, having to relearn who knows what they are doing and who is actually "stupid" (his words) or just there for a paycheck. I'm sure it has to be frustrating getting into a routine then having to feel like you're starting all over again. At least his Doc, PT/OT/TR and counselors remain the same through all of these journeys.

BP has been average and he continues to be cold, even though tonight he didn't want his LSU blanket. I asked three times (of course, I always over-ask then realize he said No the first time). I worry too much (ha)! Everyone says he's doing fabulously!!

He's got a full day tomorrow then does a 6-9 outing at Firehouse Subs. He seems excited about that--he said they have a Philly Steak Sub that comes with a 'special' hot sauce that you put on it but you have to specifically ask for it to get it. His mouth was watering already just telling us about it. I hope that Sub is as good as he believes it will be.

Doc said all of the vitamins he had Dad go buy wouldn't hurt. He tried making the argument that he was getting the same in the food he was getting but Justin managed to ask him if getting supplements was a bad thing. Doc couldn't argue. He said they were all good for him and that he just needed to make sure he was only doing them once per day. Justin feels like he won another battle (he did a lot of research for each vitamin and was pretty insistent that they would help not hurt).

Oh, thanks to the packages he's received, he's stocked with Angels, inspiration and junk food (thank you Deidra and Brandon & Aunt MaryBeth and Uncle Ken). He received all the goodies sent by all of you. Del Sis--he said just looking at the bag of goodies you sent would make a person sick, fully loaded bag of chocolate. I put the Angel hanging above his bed on the light that hangs above him. And while he's still having problems turning his own pages in a book, I will help him out with the book you sent. And when I can't I know Stan the Man will. He's been reading the book that the nurses from Dothan gave to Justin. He says it is his inspiration everyday and he takes super care of Justin.

Also, Aunt Lydia and Uncle Keith---we haven't told him what surprises you guys are sending up. Unless Amber has spilled the beans, should be more to inspire.

He's drinking more Vitamin water. Said his 'research' shows that the Zync flavored water and something else (I forgot the name, it's supposed to have 50% of ALL the vitamins---like taking a Centrum Silver) are awesome. The child scares me sometimes with how much he listens then adds his own version of what will help!!!

I will try to update again tomorrow and apologize again to everyone. Without all of you, we would not have the many blessings we've received and continue to receive.

We love you all and continue to remember where our strengths and encouragements come from.