February 3, 2017: Day 76

We covered a lot of ground today, but let me start with some fun news.

When I arrived at the hospital physical therapy had been working with Doug.  He had a great session. He was able to sit on the edge of the bed with no supports for 4 seconds.  He balanced himself.  We were very excited.  He also stood today with just the support of the therapists.  That was another big accomplishment. His physical therapist wants to work toward transitioning him to a regular wheelchair this next week.

His occupational therapist came in and did some new exercises with him.  Today not only was he moving his arm to his belly but also lifting his arm up on his right side.  His  left side is still slower to respond.  However he was able to turn his hand over on his left side and pull his whole arm back from the elbow and shoulder.  He is now able to move both shoulders back and forth and up and down. We did show and tell all day with everyone who came into his room.  Everyone is excited over his progress here.

More good news.  He was cleared by his SLPs to have a regular diet.  No more restrictions.  He has been asking for a hamberger for weeks.  So today, I went and got him a Smash Burger, fries and a Coke. He kept saying "This tastes so good" over and over and over.

With support from Marsha our SLP, Doug is now eating
Smash Burgers

I went and looked at 3 potential facilities to transfer to for rehabilitation and medical support.  The transition coordinator here at Vibra was in the hallway when I started to leave.  I told her about Doug's progress.  I told her how everyday he gets better. Who knows what will be happening by next week.  She thought I might want to check with the Elks, now owned by St. Lukes.  And so I did.  I think out of all the places I looked at, that St. Lukes may be our number one choice.  It is not very convienient for me.  They have a sub-acute floor and an acute floor. Doug can transition between the floors as appropriate to meet his needs. They also have a higher nurse to patient staffing and doctors on staff.  They have specialists in neuroligical disorders. St. Luke's comes highly recommended by one our favorite nurses here, and I have had a couple other people tell me very positive things. I feel hopeful about finding the right place and feel positive that Doug is making good progress and will be ready for the next stage in this grand Camino. I am thankful for some wise words today from my friend the Rev. Karen Hernandez.  She said that God always goes before us in our transitions. I am trusting in that.

Lastly, Doug is having substanial pain in his back tonight.  We are not sure why.  It is midnight and I am still with him here at the hospital.  We are not sure of the cause of the pain and hope it is neurological, related to the nerves in his back waking up or a possible strain from the work he did with the PT earlier today.  I just hope it is not a kidney infection.  The doctor has ordered some pain medication and so hopefully it will begin to reside.

Time to Pray:

God of Possibilities, God of Light, you go before us always, with the reminder to "be not afraid". Today had so many twists and turns and yet with every hill to climb, there was a glimpse of the vistas ahead. Thank you for the blessing of wonderful people, working so diligently to make a difference in peoples lives from our therapists and nurses to the staff I met in the many facilities I visited today. We are so grateful for the progress Doug is making each day. It fills us with hope for the days to come. Be with him this night.  Ease his pain and may he awaken in the morning rested and well.  In your name we ask it.  Amen