It seems like everyday brings small amounts of joy. Over the weekend Doug began moving his right arm and hand. He was able to lift his hand to hold the tray table and reach out and shake Fr. Dave's hand. Then last night he was able to move his left arm and hand off the bed by about 6 inches. When he does these things he does not seem at all surprised. I think he has been sending signals to his body all along and nothing moved. Now when he sends signals something moves.
His respiratory therapist was just in. He has not seen Doug in a week. He was very happy to see that he is breathing so much more deeply. He had a chest x-ray yesterday and his lungs look good. His oxygen levels are always above 95 now. He has come so far.
Yesterday his physical therapist came in to Vibra on his day off to get Doug into a regular wheelchair with only a couple of support pillows. Doug was able to sit in the regular wheel chair for more than hour. And yesterday he was able to sit 14 seconds by himself on the side of the bed. A couple of days ago when they tried, he was able to sit for only 4 seconds. His trunk and back muscles are getting stronger. So day by day it is coming.
Early last week when Doug got the feeding tube removed, we set a goal for Doug to be able to eat chicken wings for the Super Bowl. Sure enough he ate chicken wings and loved them. The aides were so excited for him and his progress they went and got him some little smokies to celebrate from the staff lounge where they were having a pot luck. He was in heaven.
Our goal for this week is for Doug to be able to feed himself some finger food. Last night he reached up and took two chips off his tray and tried to make it to his mouth. He dropped them on his chest, but he was pretty close to making it happen. I was so excited. I was totally involved in the last few minutes of the game when he said darn! I looked over and there were the chips. He just keeps trying to do more.
Today I went back to a regular schedule of work. While I was gone, three of our friends kept Doug company. He had a wonderful day with these kind and caring people. Thank you so much Jan, Joanne and Jerry. You made my day easy. We are both so grateful.
It is time to pray.
God of Beginnings, You go before us always. Give us eyes to see Your presence in all things and to trust in your goodness. We are so grateful for each small step of progress. It sustains our hope. There are challenges to be sure. Help us to let go of fear, live fully into the mystery of the unknow and await the promise of new beginnings and new life. In your name we ask it. Amen.
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