I will remember you
Will you remember me?
Don't let your life pass you by
Weep not for the memories
I'm so tired but I can't sleep
Standin' on the edge of something much too deep
It's funny how we feel so much but we cannot say a word
Though we are screaming inside oh we can't be heard
I'm so afraid to love you, but more afraid to loose
Clinging to a past that doesn't let me choose
But once there was a darkness, deep and endless night
You gave me everything you had, oh you gave me light
That I will remember you
Will you remember me?
Don't let your life pass you by
Weep not for the memories
Guest Blogger Jim back on duty -
first order of business...Grandma May, I can't call you if your line is continually busy. Today, Riley, Miya and I arrived at the hospital during Dean's physical therapy session. We got to watch while Dean practiced getting up from bed and shifting to a sitting position with his legs out of bed. We left him while he was streching his torso and right arm (while using it for support). Achieving a more upright posture allowed Dean to take a fuller breath, using his diaphram and complete chest cavity, rather than just the stomach breathing that he preformed for the night nurse taking his vital signs.
So, after we returned from lunch, we found Dean waiting for us in his room, sitting in his wheelchair. I suggested a chess match and asked if he wanted to play Miya or Riley and of course Riley got the finger of fate pointed at him. When Dean plays chess against his son, everything is on the line, so there is no looking off out the window or even at the TV. His entire focus is on the game. He held that concentration for at least 15 minutes and the only thing that broke the spell was an irritation with his feeding tube. Eventually we called for some help, but the CNA insisted that he keep the tube in place. Finally, after checking twice with his nurse, she disconnected the tube. Immediately Dean gestured to leave but as we moved toward the door, he took a turn to the bathroom...he needed to use the facilities, that was the reason for his agitation with the feeding tube, it needed to be disconnected before he could go to the bathroom. A simple human need for which we had not yet developed a way to communicate between us. Ahh, the things we take for granted.
Well, later we went out the the interior courtyard of the rehab center and when we returned, Dean was tired enough that he wanted to get into his bed. I assisted him to a standing position but he was able to do the rest himself, adjusting his body so he could drop into bed and moving his body until he was in a normal position, centered, with his hips above the crease created when the bed is adjusted when the head is raised. The work and training is paying off in a very practical sense and again, I can't help but think that his self-confidence took another step forward.
Tomorrow we will most likely see the occupational therapist at work and report back.
Goodbye for now,
Jim
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Sunday, June 28
Guest Blogger brother Jim signing in -
What a difference since the last time I saw Deano at Kindred. He is in a new space (still with a window view, overlooking a small garden) both phyically and emotionally. My daughter, Miya, and I went to see Dean directly from the airport and met a man with a big smile on his face and one who giggled as he was being tickled by his wife. Just seeing him in a t-shirt made a change in his appearance and I can't help to think that Dean feels much less like a patient by being able to wear civilian clothing again. He showed me how he could flex his right toes and move his leg. His attention span is much improved from a few weeks ago and the level of communication has increased.
They do things a bit differently at Long Beach...Dean was given 2 sessions of therapy today, rather than waiting while the therapists take the weekend off. When we went to visit him this afternoon, it was obvious that he was tired from the physical & occupational therapy sessions, as well as the visitors that were kind enough to make the effort to see Dean. The crew here intends to work him, whether he wants to or not...everything is geared to his becoming self-sufficient as soon as possible while he is on this long journey back. I am looking forward to observing (and helping out as needed) when he undergoes the therapy sessions this week.
As I always told the kids on the soccer team during the summer training sessions as I sent them off on yet another lap, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single strp". I would cite Chairman Mao and his Little Red Book, but I think he stole it.
Tomorrow promises to bring more work and with that effort comes progress.
Jim
What a difference since the last time I saw Deano at Kindred. He is in a new space (still with a window view, overlooking a small garden) both phyically and emotionally. My daughter, Miya, and I went to see Dean directly from the airport and met a man with a big smile on his face and one who giggled as he was being tickled by his wife. Just seeing him in a t-shirt made a change in his appearance and I can't help to think that Dean feels much less like a patient by being able to wear civilian clothing again. He showed me how he could flex his right toes and move his leg. His attention span is much improved from a few weeks ago and the level of communication has increased.
They do things a bit differently at Long Beach...Dean was given 2 sessions of therapy today, rather than waiting while the therapists take the weekend off. When we went to visit him this afternoon, it was obvious that he was tired from the physical & occupational therapy sessions, as well as the visitors that were kind enough to make the effort to see Dean. The crew here intends to work him, whether he wants to or not...everything is geared to his becoming self-sufficient as soon as possible while he is on this long journey back. I am looking forward to observing (and helping out as needed) when he undergoes the therapy sessions this week.
As I always told the kids on the soccer team during the summer training sessions as I sent them off on yet another lap, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single strp". I would cite Chairman Mao and his Little Red Book, but I think he stole it.
Tomorrow promises to bring more work and with that effort comes progress.
Jim
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Saturday, June 27
I took my love and I took it down
I climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well the landslide brought me down
What can I say - the picture speaks for itself and he does look good outside. We sat out in the court yard and then we watched some tennis in the family room. No schedule of events today.
Jim and Mia arrived from Seattle today and just in the nick of time. The drive to Long Beach is really not that bad - if you do not get traffic on the 405.
Dean and I laughed a lot today and that was really nice.
Oh, mirror in the sky
What is love
Can the child within my heart rise above
Can I sail thru the changing ocean tides
Can I handle the seasons of my life
I climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well the landslide brought me down
What can I say - the picture speaks for itself and he does look good outside. We sat out in the court yard and then we watched some tennis in the family room. No schedule of events today.
Jim and Mia arrived from Seattle today and just in the nick of time. The drive to Long Beach is really not that bad - if you do not get traffic on the 405.
Dean and I laughed a lot today and that was really nice.
Oh, mirror in the sky
What is love
Can the child within my heart rise above
Can I sail thru the changing ocean tides
Can I handle the seasons of my life
Friday, June 26, 2009
Friday, June 26
Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking
But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb
The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking
Can you believe we quietly approached Mile Marker 10 and I believe we are picking up momentum.
After a long day of waiting, Deano's transfer from Kindred to Long Beach Memorial was a success and he seemed to tolerate the ambulance drive very well.
Our departure from Kindred was definitely bittersweet. There were some, on staff, that touched my heart. There was also the convenience and being able to see Dean during lunch and after work. Because of the distance it just may work out that I now only see him on the weekends. Some think that may very well be a good thing. May make Dean want to work harder. There was another aspect of the departure that I also had to come to terms with. When we were transferred to Kindred there was a sense by me that we had no choice and I know there is always choice. We were given, probably, a 2 hour window to be transferred from UCLA to Kindred. And I believe that made it very easy for me to forget to honor the next step of Deano's journey. The difference now is that I was given time to discuss the discharge from Kindred and to make a decision on the next facility. And it was ultimately, as it was before, my decision on where we would travel next. I toured Long Beach Memorial and made a decision for the transfer. The decision was based on several things, not one of which was the distance. I based it on the look of the facility, my understanding of their program for rehabilitation, the kindness of the case worker on the phone and the social worker that provided me with the tour and their philosophy to have patients out of bed as much as possible. I don't like to be wrong (and I have to say again, for those of you who know me - you know that to be true) and in this circumstance I feel like I cannot be wrong because Deano's well being depends upon it.
Deano's first day at LBM and his schedule consisted of: a) bathing himself in the morning, b) dressing himself (that is right, clothes that do not consist of a hospital gown but of his own tennis shoes, socks, T-Shirt (you were expecting a button down) and c) hospital provided draw string pants (because I do not have a pair that fit him and he had to be ready to go by 9:00 am.
9:00 am Occupational Therapy
11:00 am Speech Therapy which consisted of food trials (applesauce, water & nectar)
1:00 pm Speech Therapy for swallowing and speaking
2:00 pm Physical Therapy
And at 4pm in the social room will be music therapy (optional).
Dean said he didn't sleep well last night and I think he just might sleep like a happy dog after chasing his tail tonight.
When visiting Deano and you don't find him in his room there is a BIG board in front of the nurses station and it is a schedule of each patients activities for the day. Just look up the room no. and it will tell you exactly where he is. It is their philosophy to have patients out of bed as much as possible so they do have a wheel chair in the room for Dean and they do encourage friends and family to take him out. There is a court yard and a family visiting area with a huge flat screen and computers. You just need to check with the nurse and let her know and also have her or him help you with getting Deano in and out of bed.
If you were wondering why I do not have pants that fit Deano, wonder no more. It is official he has lost apprx. 45 lbs. (shit is that all you ever had to do to drop that kinda weight - you think someone would have shared this info with me long ago).
After talking with the Social worker at LBM they try and have patients home within two weeks. Can you even believe that time frame. Well I cannot and to be honest, kinda took my breath away. First of all, he will require in home care, which I learned today, is not covered by insurance (I will have a sign up sheet at my front door for volunteers). The other thing that has me nervous (just one thing; I don't think so - for there are so many things) is our home may need to be retrofitted to accommodate Deano's needs (I am thinking we aren't going to fit here anymore (Grandma May, get ready us California Nambas are going to become Washington Nambas).
Deano's new attending physicians are still evaluating him and the Social worker thinks by next week they will have a more clear picture of the length of time Dean will be visiting LBM.
The Dr.'s are currently contemplating two new medications: Sinemet, which is used on Parkinsons Patients, and has been found to stimulate language in brain injury patients. Ritain, which is used for children with ADD, has been found to stimulate movement in patients with brain injury. The use of these two medications are optional and would be on a short term basis. With the Sinemet the time frame would be 3 months and if the patient is responding well then after 3 months they would start the weaning process and after cutting back and the language is still present they can then determine it was not the drug that stimulated the language and continue to wean. The Ritalin is known to cause agitation and insomnia in brain injury patients and if that is the reaction then it would be immediately omitted. So this is a decision for Deano on whether or not to start this type of therapy (Did I say Dean).
Oh, in Deans room right below his T.V. is another board and that too will display his schedule for the day.
I think that will do it for today.
I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going
And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on
Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa
(from the mouth of a 16 year old - you think she knows something I don't. Or maybe I just need to try and be 16 again).
P.S. Nice hearing from you Ricky and thanks it is good to know someone is paying attention.
P.S.S. Thanks Grandma Jo and Mom and May - where would we be without you.
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking
But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb
The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking
Can you believe we quietly approached Mile Marker 10 and I believe we are picking up momentum.
After a long day of waiting, Deano's transfer from Kindred to Long Beach Memorial was a success and he seemed to tolerate the ambulance drive very well.
Our departure from Kindred was definitely bittersweet. There were some, on staff, that touched my heart. There was also the convenience and being able to see Dean during lunch and after work. Because of the distance it just may work out that I now only see him on the weekends. Some think that may very well be a good thing. May make Dean want to work harder. There was another aspect of the departure that I also had to come to terms with. When we were transferred to Kindred there was a sense by me that we had no choice and I know there is always choice. We were given, probably, a 2 hour window to be transferred from UCLA to Kindred. And I believe that made it very easy for me to forget to honor the next step of Deano's journey. The difference now is that I was given time to discuss the discharge from Kindred and to make a decision on the next facility. And it was ultimately, as it was before, my decision on where we would travel next. I toured Long Beach Memorial and made a decision for the transfer. The decision was based on several things, not one of which was the distance. I based it on the look of the facility, my understanding of their program for rehabilitation, the kindness of the case worker on the phone and the social worker that provided me with the tour and their philosophy to have patients out of bed as much as possible. I don't like to be wrong (and I have to say again, for those of you who know me - you know that to be true) and in this circumstance I feel like I cannot be wrong because Deano's well being depends upon it.
Deano's first day at LBM and his schedule consisted of: a) bathing himself in the morning, b) dressing himself (that is right, clothes that do not consist of a hospital gown but of his own tennis shoes, socks, T-Shirt (you were expecting a button down) and c) hospital provided draw string pants (because I do not have a pair that fit him and he had to be ready to go by 9:00 am.
9:00 am Occupational Therapy
11:00 am Speech Therapy which consisted of food trials (applesauce, water & nectar)
1:00 pm Speech Therapy for swallowing and speaking
2:00 pm Physical Therapy
And at 4pm in the social room will be music therapy (optional).
Dean said he didn't sleep well last night and I think he just might sleep like a happy dog after chasing his tail tonight.
When visiting Deano and you don't find him in his room there is a BIG board in front of the nurses station and it is a schedule of each patients activities for the day. Just look up the room no. and it will tell you exactly where he is. It is their philosophy to have patients out of bed as much as possible so they do have a wheel chair in the room for Dean and they do encourage friends and family to take him out. There is a court yard and a family visiting area with a huge flat screen and computers. You just need to check with the nurse and let her know and also have her or him help you with getting Deano in and out of bed.
If you were wondering why I do not have pants that fit Deano, wonder no more. It is official he has lost apprx. 45 lbs. (shit is that all you ever had to do to drop that kinda weight - you think someone would have shared this info with me long ago).
After talking with the Social worker at LBM they try and have patients home within two weeks. Can you even believe that time frame. Well I cannot and to be honest, kinda took my breath away. First of all, he will require in home care, which I learned today, is not covered by insurance (I will have a sign up sheet at my front door for volunteers). The other thing that has me nervous (just one thing; I don't think so - for there are so many things) is our home may need to be retrofitted to accommodate Deano's needs (I am thinking we aren't going to fit here anymore (Grandma May, get ready us California Nambas are going to become Washington Nambas).
Deano's new attending physicians are still evaluating him and the Social worker thinks by next week they will have a more clear picture of the length of time Dean will be visiting LBM.
The Dr.'s are currently contemplating two new medications: Sinemet, which is used on Parkinsons Patients, and has been found to stimulate language in brain injury patients. Ritain, which is used for children with ADD, has been found to stimulate movement in patients with brain injury. The use of these two medications are optional and would be on a short term basis. With the Sinemet the time frame would be 3 months and if the patient is responding well then after 3 months they would start the weaning process and after cutting back and the language is still present they can then determine it was not the drug that stimulated the language and continue to wean. The Ritalin is known to cause agitation and insomnia in brain injury patients and if that is the reaction then it would be immediately omitted. So this is a decision for Deano on whether or not to start this type of therapy (Did I say Dean).
Oh, in Deans room right below his T.V. is another board and that too will display his schedule for the day.
I think that will do it for today.
I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going
And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on
Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa
(from the mouth of a 16 year old - you think she knows something I don't. Or maybe I just need to try and be 16 again).
P.S. Nice hearing from you Ricky and thanks it is good to know someone is paying attention.
P.S.S. Thanks Grandma Jo and Mom and May - where would we be without you.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Thursday, June 24
Well it appears we are on the move again.
Tomorrow Deano will be transferred to Long Beach Memorial, you guessed it, in Long Beach.
Tomorrow I will post the address and room no.
Tomorrow Deano will be transferred to Long Beach Memorial, you guessed it, in Long Beach.
Tomorrow I will post the address and room no.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Tuesday, June 23
Where does the time go???
Before I forget: Deano is now in Room 51, right down the hall from where is was and two doors up from where he started.
So, (that just continually seems a great way to start out), These past couple of days (actually since Friday) have put me a little (okay a lot) on edge.
As I previously indicated it started on Friday (Not April 3 Friday, a few days ago Friday) when I was working and received the call from the case manager wanting to discuss Deano's discharge plan. Upon hearing my very panicked voice the case manager said not to worry because they wouldn't be moving Deano until Monday so I had plenty of time. Yeah right....
Let me see if I can keep on track because my brain has been filled with so much information these past couple of days in addition to the past couple of months.
Let's see how is the shortest way possible I can explain what has transpired:
On Monday I met with the Dr. and the case manager, and that was after talking to the case manager from Long Beach Memorial, and the Dr. does not believe that Deano is ready to endure acute therapy (now acute by definition at Long Beach Memorial would mean 3 hours of daily therapy consisting of: occupational, speech and physical). Here is the thing, and this is all decided by the insurance companies and come to find out Deano was already being evaluated by Long Beach Memorial before I even knew they existed. Once our insurance company declines treatment for Deano at Kindred he will have to move to either an acute rehab facility, whether that be Long Beach Memorial or quite possibly, a nursing home.
So I have been speaking with Dr.'s, case workers, and directors to first of all, buy us more time where we are to try and get Deano better prepared for what lies ahead and to convince the powers that be that the reason, as I see it, that Dean has not been doing well in his therapy is because he is not sleeping well. And it would appear that he is not sleeping well (at night that is) because he appears to be quite agitated by loud noise, (like the t.v. and the sounds of other patients in tremendous amount of pain). This is what we have worked out so far: a) Dean is now in a private room (Room 51), b) He is receiving Benadryl at night to help him sleep and c) the PT will make every attempt to work with Deano in the morning rather than late afternoon and d) PT will also increase the intensity of his various therapies.
And while all that is going on I am in communication with the case manager for Long Beach Memorial daily so that they can reevaluate and praying that we do not get evicted from our current location. And at the end of the day "We might just get what we need" and whose to say, certainly not me...
That is pretty much what I can explain without having you read on and on for hours.
This afternoon, when I saw Deano he was eating applesauce and then he drank milk. The speech therapist said he made a tremendous improvement on his ability to swallow and follow direction. Tomorrow he will be treated to a trial meal which will consist of pureed vegetables, meat and mashed potatoes (yum, yum). Provided he continues to tolerate this well and does not show any signs that the food may be traveling down the wrong path, then they will continue to incorporate foods into his diet and eventually remove the feeding tube.
With regards to his speech I was incorrect in the information I provided (well not really) I just wasn't up to date on the tests that Dean had been given. The good news he does not have vocal cord paralysis. What he is faced with, however, is Dysphagia and Apraxia of Speech.
Basically dysphagia occurs when there is a problem with any part of the swallowing process caused by such things as severe trauma to the brain such as a stroke. The speech therapists have been working with Dean to strengthen the muscles which allow him to swallow and process food and beverage. And as of today it would appear that is on the mend.
Apraxia is a speech disorder in which a person has trouble saying what he wants to say correctly and consistently not caused by weakness or paralysis of the speech muscles. It is caused by damage to the parts of the brain that are involved in speaking and involves the loss or impairment of existing speech abilities.
Again all in a nut shell and it would appear we have our work cut out.
The Dr. also ordered a CT scan today to make sure nothing else was causing Deano's reluctance to participate in PT.
Oh, before I forget, one more thing, I did tour the facilities at Long Beach Memorial and it appears they have a really great program for rehabilitation of its patience. Did I say based on there initial evaluation Long Beach declined Deano at this time.
Music is the healing force of the world;
It's understood by every Man, Woman, Boy and Girl...........................
Before I forget: Deano is now in Room 51, right down the hall from where is was and two doors up from where he started.
So, (that just continually seems a great way to start out), These past couple of days (actually since Friday) have put me a little (okay a lot) on edge.
As I previously indicated it started on Friday (Not April 3 Friday, a few days ago Friday) when I was working and received the call from the case manager wanting to discuss Deano's discharge plan. Upon hearing my very panicked voice the case manager said not to worry because they wouldn't be moving Deano until Monday so I had plenty of time. Yeah right....
Let me see if I can keep on track because my brain has been filled with so much information these past couple of days in addition to the past couple of months.
Let's see how is the shortest way possible I can explain what has transpired:
On Monday I met with the Dr. and the case manager, and that was after talking to the case manager from Long Beach Memorial, and the Dr. does not believe that Deano is ready to endure acute therapy (now acute by definition at Long Beach Memorial would mean 3 hours of daily therapy consisting of: occupational, speech and physical). Here is the thing, and this is all decided by the insurance companies and come to find out Deano was already being evaluated by Long Beach Memorial before I even knew they existed. Once our insurance company declines treatment for Deano at Kindred he will have to move to either an acute rehab facility, whether that be Long Beach Memorial or quite possibly, a nursing home.
So I have been speaking with Dr.'s, case workers, and directors to first of all, buy us more time where we are to try and get Deano better prepared for what lies ahead and to convince the powers that be that the reason, as I see it, that Dean has not been doing well in his therapy is because he is not sleeping well. And it would appear that he is not sleeping well (at night that is) because he appears to be quite agitated by loud noise, (like the t.v. and the sounds of other patients in tremendous amount of pain). This is what we have worked out so far: a) Dean is now in a private room (Room 51), b) He is receiving Benadryl at night to help him sleep and c) the PT will make every attempt to work with Deano in the morning rather than late afternoon and d) PT will also increase the intensity of his various therapies.
And while all that is going on I am in communication with the case manager for Long Beach Memorial daily so that they can reevaluate and praying that we do not get evicted from our current location. And at the end of the day "We might just get what we need" and whose to say, certainly not me...
That is pretty much what I can explain without having you read on and on for hours.
This afternoon, when I saw Deano he was eating applesauce and then he drank milk. The speech therapist said he made a tremendous improvement on his ability to swallow and follow direction. Tomorrow he will be treated to a trial meal which will consist of pureed vegetables, meat and mashed potatoes (yum, yum). Provided he continues to tolerate this well and does not show any signs that the food may be traveling down the wrong path, then they will continue to incorporate foods into his diet and eventually remove the feeding tube.
With regards to his speech I was incorrect in the information I provided (well not really) I just wasn't up to date on the tests that Dean had been given. The good news he does not have vocal cord paralysis. What he is faced with, however, is Dysphagia and Apraxia of Speech.
Basically dysphagia occurs when there is a problem with any part of the swallowing process caused by such things as severe trauma to the brain such as a stroke. The speech therapists have been working with Dean to strengthen the muscles which allow him to swallow and process food and beverage. And as of today it would appear that is on the mend.
Apraxia is a speech disorder in which a person has trouble saying what he wants to say correctly and consistently not caused by weakness or paralysis of the speech muscles. It is caused by damage to the parts of the brain that are involved in speaking and involves the loss or impairment of existing speech abilities.
Again all in a nut shell and it would appear we have our work cut out.
The Dr. also ordered a CT scan today to make sure nothing else was causing Deano's reluctance to participate in PT.
Oh, before I forget, one more thing, I did tour the facilities at Long Beach Memorial and it appears they have a really great program for rehabilitation of its patience. Did I say based on there initial evaluation Long Beach declined Deano at this time.
Music is the healing force of the world;
It's understood by every Man, Woman, Boy and Girl...........................
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Sunday, June 21
Happy first day of Summer and Happy Fathers Day!!!!
Meeting with the Dr. and the Case Social Worker tomorrow. Will fill you in then.
You can't always get what you want and if try sometime you just might find you get what you need....
Meeting with the Dr. and the Case Social Worker tomorrow. Will fill you in then.
You can't always get what you want and if try sometime you just might find you get what you need....
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Saturday, June 20
Happy Fathers Day to all you Dads out there!!!
Well something has been bothering Deano for the past few days and he has not wanted to participate in physical therapy. I think Deano has a crush on Naoko, his female therapist and she has been on vacation and Adam, the male therapist just cannot get Deano to cooperate. Dean's sitting balance has really improved. He can sit up without holding himself up with his hand. He still has a little difficulty looking up instead of down.
Today, I waited all day, just like yesterday, to see the Dr. No luck today.
Tomorrow Riley and I will be driving to Long Beach to get a feel for the area where the hospital is located. I probably will not be able to tour the facilities until Monday and it is really looking like Tuesday will be the transfer day.
That's it; that's all, just for now.........................
Well something has been bothering Deano for the past few days and he has not wanted to participate in physical therapy. I think Deano has a crush on Naoko, his female therapist and she has been on vacation and Adam, the male therapist just cannot get Deano to cooperate. Dean's sitting balance has really improved. He can sit up without holding himself up with his hand. He still has a little difficulty looking up instead of down.
Today, I waited all day, just like yesterday, to see the Dr. No luck today.
Tomorrow Riley and I will be driving to Long Beach to get a feel for the area where the hospital is located. I probably will not be able to tour the facilities until Monday and it is really looking like Tuesday will be the transfer day.
That's it; that's all, just for now.........................
Friday, June 19, 2009
Friday, June 19
Today, I got that phone call at work that I knew was coming - especially when I saw the trach button had been removed. Which I might add, is healing very nicely.
The account manager from Kindred called me today so that we could discuss Deano's discharge plan. Which is really not a plan, more like insurance will no longer pay for him to be here so you (meaning me) need to decide where Deano's next home will be.
Even though I knew the call was coming - still not prepared.
According to his current Dr. and that too will be changing soon, Dean has paralysis of the Vocal Cords and that is actually referred to by another name (ooops, couldn't help it and I did it again 2 prepositions together). The Dr. thought that was good news because it means with extensive therapy that Dean will find his voice.
I tried to leave the hospital 10 times tonight and what I noticed Dean even without words has discovered how to get what he wants. When you are visiting keep a close eye on that left pointer because it is working overtime.
So anyway, we are looking for his new home to provide acute rehabilitation therapy (was that an oxymoron and I think not after all).
The two choices we have been given are both in Long Beach: St. Mary's, which is not accredited, and Long Beach Memorial, which has come highly recommended.
As of right now we have another 5 days, after spending all day at the hospital thinking we were being transferred on Monday, we now have until Tuesday, I believe. I am trying to get an appt. to tour Long Beach Memorial.
Keep checking and I will post our new location as quickly as I possibly can.
And were rolln'.................................................
The account manager from Kindred called me today so that we could discuss Deano's discharge plan. Which is really not a plan, more like insurance will no longer pay for him to be here so you (meaning me) need to decide where Deano's next home will be.
Even though I knew the call was coming - still not prepared.
According to his current Dr. and that too will be changing soon, Dean has paralysis of the Vocal Cords and that is actually referred to by another name (ooops, couldn't help it and I did it again 2 prepositions together). The Dr. thought that was good news because it means with extensive therapy that Dean will find his voice.
I tried to leave the hospital 10 times tonight and what I noticed Dean even without words has discovered how to get what he wants. When you are visiting keep a close eye on that left pointer because it is working overtime.
So anyway, we are looking for his new home to provide acute rehabilitation therapy (was that an oxymoron and I think not after all).
The two choices we have been given are both in Long Beach: St. Mary's, which is not accredited, and Long Beach Memorial, which has come highly recommended.
As of right now we have another 5 days, after spending all day at the hospital thinking we were being transferred on Monday, we now have until Tuesday, I believe. I am trying to get an appt. to tour Long Beach Memorial.
Keep checking and I will post our new location as quickly as I possibly can.
And were rolln'.................................................
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Thursday, June 18
I can barely believe it is the middle of June and summer is upon us.
Which brings to mind the words of a song: "Cause it's summer; summer time is here".
Anyway, as we head towards mile marker 6, I believe we have reached a plateau. So if you were on a course a plateau would basically mean you weren't going either up or down hill.
For those of you who know me well you know that I am not particularly fond of plateaus. You get no momentum from them.
See you at 6..........
Which brings to mind the words of a song: "Cause it's summer; summer time is here".
Anyway, as we head towards mile marker 6, I believe we have reached a plateau. So if you were on a course a plateau would basically mean you weren't going either up or down hill.
For those of you who know me well you know that I am not particularly fond of plateaus. You get no momentum from them.
See you at 6..........
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Tuesday, June 16
Day after day I'm more confused
Yet I look for the light through the pourin' rain
You know that's a game that I hate to lose
And I'm feelin' the strain;
Well I would say we just approached mile marker 5 (that means we only have 4 more sets of 5):
This evening when I visited Dean he had a bandage with tape around his neck. And ya wanna know why... Because they removed the Trach Button.
I don't know if anyone noticed but the only tubes he now has are the feeding tube and catheter. He is not even getting oxygen anymore (ooh, is that a double negative; I hope not because I said it and I ain't changin' it).
And when my mind is free
You know a melody can move me
And when I'm feelin' blue
A guitar's comin' through to sooth me
Thanks for the joy that you've given me
I want you to know I believe in your song
Your rythem and rhyme and harmony
You've helped me along
Makin' me strong
Yet I look for the light through the pourin' rain
You know that's a game that I hate to lose
And I'm feelin' the strain;
Well I would say we just approached mile marker 5 (that means we only have 4 more sets of 5):
This evening when I visited Dean he had a bandage with tape around his neck. And ya wanna know why... Because they removed the Trach Button.
I don't know if anyone noticed but the only tubes he now has are the feeding tube and catheter. He is not even getting oxygen anymore (ooh, is that a double negative; I hope not because I said it and I ain't changin' it).
And when my mind is free
You know a melody can move me
And when I'm feelin' blue
A guitar's comin' through to sooth me
Thanks for the joy that you've given me
I want you to know I believe in your song
Your rythem and rhyme and harmony
You've helped me along
Makin' me strong
Monday, June 15, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Not much to report today.
Still working on that uphill climb to mile 5. I hope we get there soon because I am running out of gas(that reminds me I need gas in both vehicles).
Deano is really liking the T.V. right now (oh, that was nothing new). The new thing is without sound.
I have not heard any more rumors about us moving to a different location.
Goodnight and may God wake you with the morning light.
Still working on that uphill climb to mile 5. I hope we get there soon because I am running out of gas(that reminds me I need gas in both vehicles).
Deano is really liking the T.V. right now (oh, that was nothing new). The new thing is without sound.
I have not heard any more rumors about us moving to a different location.
Goodnight and may God wake you with the morning light.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
June 14, 2009
Those happy hours
That we once knew
Though long ago,
They still make me blue
......................................
Well I think last time we met we were headed for mile marker 5 and let me tell you I think it is all up hill on this mile and we are still climbing to reach 5. I am working so hard to get there I was so out of breath I couldn't even talk. As you can see, Dean managed to write his first name with his left hand. The last name on the page was supposed to be Riley. This exercise really pooped him out.
Both me and Riley have been playing tic-tac-toe with Deano and when Dean and I played neither one of us won. That says a lot (or maybe not)(no Blondie jokes).
Nioko, the physical therapist, is working very aggressively with Deano. They are working on his sitting balance and now he can sit up in the bed without her holding on to him and his standing balance. They are also working on his balance with a cane. The occupational therapist, Lana, works with Dean on brushing his teeth and hair (which was a new one for him, since he was a wash and wear kinda guy).
My sister Kristine was with us today and at some point she will post a video of Riley and Deano playing catch. I am not sure what that does for Dean's spirit and I can see what it does for Riley to be able to play catch and tic-tac-toe with his Dad.
So, when I said we may be looking for a new home shortly I didn't think it meant we would be playing musical rooms. Well the music has stopped and we have safely landed in Room 47B-East Wing.
P.S. Thank you to Janet and Fred for the Banana Nut Bread. I am sorry I missed you and Karen and Mark. Maybe next time you make your way out here.
P.S.S. Thank you Kristine for checking in with me today.
P.S.S.S. Thank you Kathy and Alan for the best ham and cheese sandwich (actually best sandwich period) that I have ever had.
P.S.S.S.S. And thank you to everyone out there who continue to pray and keep us in your thoughts and for continuing to check up on Deano. He continues to get a steady stream of daily visitors.
............................................
They say that time
It heals a broken heart
But time has stood still
Since we've been apart...
That we once knew
Though long ago,
They still make me blue
......................................
Well I think last time we met we were headed for mile marker 5 and let me tell you I think it is all up hill on this mile and we are still climbing to reach 5. I am working so hard to get there I was so out of breath I couldn't even talk. As you can see, Dean managed to write his first name with his left hand. The last name on the page was supposed to be Riley. This exercise really pooped him out.
Both me and Riley have been playing tic-tac-toe with Deano and when Dean and I played neither one of us won. That says a lot (or maybe not)(no Blondie jokes).
Nioko, the physical therapist, is working very aggressively with Deano. They are working on his sitting balance and now he can sit up in the bed without her holding on to him and his standing balance. They are also working on his balance with a cane. The occupational therapist, Lana, works with Dean on brushing his teeth and hair (which was a new one for him, since he was a wash and wear kinda guy).
My sister Kristine was with us today and at some point she will post a video of Riley and Deano playing catch. I am not sure what that does for Dean's spirit and I can see what it does for Riley to be able to play catch and tic-tac-toe with his Dad.
So, when I said we may be looking for a new home shortly I didn't think it meant we would be playing musical rooms. Well the music has stopped and we have safely landed in Room 47B-East Wing.
P.S. Thank you to Janet and Fred for the Banana Nut Bread. I am sorry I missed you and Karen and Mark. Maybe next time you make your way out here.
P.S.S. Thank you Kristine for checking in with me today.
P.S.S.S. Thank you Kathy and Alan for the best ham and cheese sandwich (actually best sandwich period) that I have ever had.
P.S.S.S.S. And thank you to everyone out there who continue to pray and keep us in your thoughts and for continuing to check up on Deano. He continues to get a steady stream of daily visitors.
............................................
They say that time
It heals a broken heart
But time has stood still
Since we've been apart...
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Thursday, June 11
Nothing today.
When you visit Dean, check his room no. because as of this evening he is no longer in 59B and I am not sure what room he will be in tomorrow.
...................
When you visit Dean, check his room no. because as of this evening he is no longer in 59B and I am not sure what room he will be in tomorrow.
...................
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Tuesday, June 9
Well what can I say, it is 8:54 Tuesday evening and Riley and I are just getting home from leaving the house at 8:00 am this morning.
Tim has gone home. Larry and Paul left on Monday and I dropped May off at the airport early afternoon.
May and I made several trips to the hospital today for reasons that I will not even go into at this moment.
Suffice to say Deano's health continues to improve.
So here we are.
Looking forward to brighter tomorrows.............
Tim has gone home. Larry and Paul left on Monday and I dropped May off at the airport early afternoon.
May and I made several trips to the hospital today for reasons that I will not even go into at this moment.
Suffice to say Deano's health continues to improve.
So here we are.
Looking forward to brighter tomorrows.............
Monday, June 8, 2009
Monday, June 8
Today my emotions have the better of me.
So for the second night I am left with nothing to say.
P.S. Thank you Larry Namba for the deeeeelicious meals while you were here and for getting the truck door to work. Anytime you want to come back and help me out with that project we were talking about would be greaaaaaaaaaat.
Signing off for now.............
So for the second night I am left with nothing to say.
P.S. Thank you Larry Namba for the deeeeelicious meals while you were here and for getting the truck door to work. Anytime you want to come back and help me out with that project we were talking about would be greaaaaaaaaaat.
Signing off for now.............
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Sunday, June 7
Crazy day today. My body feeling lots of the stress today.
Got to talk to the Dr. today and he said he is working on Deano's stay and where we go from here.
It is some one's bedtime right now so got to cut it short.
Larry and Paul leaving tomorrow and May leaving on Tuesday.
Lots of adjusting.
Got to talk to the Dr. today and he said he is working on Deano's stay and where we go from here.
It is some one's bedtime right now so got to cut it short.
Larry and Paul leaving tomorrow and May leaving on Tuesday.
Lots of adjusting.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Saturday, June 6
Hotel Namb's is becoming very popular these days. Who woulda thunk it??? Amazing what can happen when you just let it happen. Our two bedroom, 1 bathroom has now lovingly held so many wanting to be close to Deano.
Rumor was as I suspected. It appears that our sacred time at Kindred may be coming to a close. And may I say they have prepared him well for the next step of his journey.
I am hoping to catch the Dr. tomorrow so I can get a sense of where we go from here.
Okay what Hags failed to mention, I didn't really let him stay here. He actually worked for room and board. Hags painted the side of the garage which by the way was tagged with graffiti. He fixed the toilet. He fixed the fence that was becoming weak from Coffee jumping on it (that Coffee, you just got to love him). He cleaned up the fish tank and I think he even fixed the front door which was sticking. And what he doesn't know is I actually slept with my mouth open which means I was pretty relaxed and I haven't slept that relaxed since Deano's been gone. I am making another list for the next time you come so check that calendar of yours. THANK YOU!
:-)
Larry cooked dinner tonight. Those Namba boys sure can cook and yesterday he fixed a downspout for grandma Jo.
Well I will keep you abreast of our moving situation.
Rumor was as I suspected. It appears that our sacred time at Kindred may be coming to a close. And may I say they have prepared him well for the next step of his journey.
I am hoping to catch the Dr. tomorrow so I can get a sense of where we go from here.
Okay what Hags failed to mention, I didn't really let him stay here. He actually worked for room and board. Hags painted the side of the garage which by the way was tagged with graffiti. He fixed the toilet. He fixed the fence that was becoming weak from Coffee jumping on it (that Coffee, you just got to love him). He cleaned up the fish tank and I think he even fixed the front door which was sticking. And what he doesn't know is I actually slept with my mouth open which means I was pretty relaxed and I haven't slept that relaxed since Deano's been gone. I am making another list for the next time you come so check that calendar of yours. THANK YOU!
:-)
Larry cooked dinner tonight. Those Namba boys sure can cook and yesterday he fixed a downspout for grandma Jo.
Well I will keep you abreast of our moving situation.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Friday, June 5
Wow busy day:
Every one made it safely into town today.
And today we have a guest speaker:
I've learned why Nambs loves it here so much... It's really beautiful here.
Great to be joined by May and brother Larry today.
First a few clarifications... Contrary to popular belief in the greater Seattle area and who knows where else, Teri's name isn't Teri. It's Maria. Her Mom wanted to name her Theresa but her Dad won that battle. Dad called her Teri for short anyway so that's how it went till she had to actually use a name that was documented.
After she straightened me out on that I helped her out with some Seattle name stuff: Deano's last name is Coles. (He's a childhood neighbor) Dean's name is Nambs (or Namboid). Tim's last name is DiMarco (sorry about the spelling Tim). I'm Hags (Hrags), not Tim. When I showed up Nambs was expecting Tim, not me. It all worked out though.
My observations on Nambs yesterday and today: He's way in there when you look in his eyes and he's working his way out. It takes several moments for our questions to sink in and several more for his response. If there are no distractions his responses are mostly accurate. His Physical Therapists (I wish this thing had spell-check) tell me he is improving along these lines.
Yesterday I got to see him roll over to his left side unassisted several times. He has to really concentrate to drag his right leg over but he does it. Interestingly when he's doing his PT his brain works much faster and you can tell he is really focused. At PT they had him work on standing up from his wheelchair between parallel bars. His right arm can't help yet but he does most of the work himself. He took a couple very short steps with lots of help today. His left side is really strong but I could see his right quad flexing. He's chewed ice and swallowed so the Nilla Wafer therapy should be coming soon. I expect drastic improvement at that time.
I've been lucky to join Teri (Maria!) on the emotional roller coaster during my stay. It's heart-wrenching to see Nambs now compared to last Christmas when he visited us but it's equally overwhelming to see him standing himself up and working so hard. Things could be so much worse...
That being said, I encourage you to visit if you can. Nambs will give you a big "cowboy-grin" followed by hand holding and maybe a hug. It sure worked for me...
Thanks Teri for letting me blog tonight. (Or did you just want the night off?!)
Hags
Every one made it safely into town today.
And today we have a guest speaker:
I've learned why Nambs loves it here so much... It's really beautiful here.
Great to be joined by May and brother Larry today.
First a few clarifications... Contrary to popular belief in the greater Seattle area and who knows where else, Teri's name isn't Teri. It's Maria. Her Mom wanted to name her Theresa but her Dad won that battle. Dad called her Teri for short anyway so that's how it went till she had to actually use a name that was documented.
After she straightened me out on that I helped her out with some Seattle name stuff: Deano's last name is Coles. (He's a childhood neighbor) Dean's name is Nambs (or Namboid). Tim's last name is DiMarco (sorry about the spelling Tim). I'm Hags (Hrags), not Tim. When I showed up Nambs was expecting Tim, not me. It all worked out though.
My observations on Nambs yesterday and today: He's way in there when you look in his eyes and he's working his way out. It takes several moments for our questions to sink in and several more for his response. If there are no distractions his responses are mostly accurate. His Physical Therapists (I wish this thing had spell-check) tell me he is improving along these lines.
Yesterday I got to see him roll over to his left side unassisted several times. He has to really concentrate to drag his right leg over but he does it. Interestingly when he's doing his PT his brain works much faster and you can tell he is really focused. At PT they had him work on standing up from his wheelchair between parallel bars. His right arm can't help yet but he does most of the work himself. He took a couple very short steps with lots of help today. His left side is really strong but I could see his right quad flexing. He's chewed ice and swallowed so the Nilla Wafer therapy should be coming soon. I expect drastic improvement at that time.
I've been lucky to join Teri (Maria!) on the emotional roller coaster during my stay. It's heart-wrenching to see Nambs now compared to last Christmas when he visited us but it's equally overwhelming to see him standing himself up and working so hard. Things could be so much worse...
That being said, I encourage you to visit if you can. Nambs will give you a big "cowboy-grin" followed by hand holding and maybe a hug. It sure worked for me...
Thanks Teri for letting me blog tonight. (Or did you just want the night off?!)
Hags
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Thursday, June 4
There's nothing you can do that can't be done.
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung.
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game. It's easy.
Nothing you can make that can't be made.
No one you can save that can't be saved.
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time. It's easy.
Big weekend with lots of visitors.
Tim, an old friend of Deano's made it in today from Seattle (but not really, actually via San Diego but from Seattle). Tomorrow May and, as I understand it, Larry (the twin of Gary), Deano's brother, are flying in tomorrow. And Paul, Deano's cousin, was also supposed to be in tonight (flying standby so I guess we will just wait and see if he makes it).
Tim spent the afternoon with Deano and they were able to take a cruise outside around the parking lot and through an obstacle course. Tim said Deano turns over to his left all on his own. He also thought Deano is in much better shape than what he expected. Tim was a little concerned that maybe Deano would not remember him and Tim said as soon as he saw Deano he knew right of way there was definitely recognition. Tim also got one of those huge teddy bear hugs from Deano.
Well it is pretty late and I have had a couple of Tim's Mrs. Lupner's and they are pretty darn deeeelicioussssssssss. We will see how they taste tomorrow morning.
All you need is love, All you need is love. Love is all you need.
Nothing you can know that can't be known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be. It's easy.
P.S. Hey Colorado Uncle Jim, what did you say about the Magic. That was some Magic displayed tonight. Oh that's right, just not by the Orlando Magic.
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung.
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game. It's easy.
Nothing you can make that can't be made.
No one you can save that can't be saved.
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time. It's easy.
Big weekend with lots of visitors.
Tim, an old friend of Deano's made it in today from Seattle (but not really, actually via San Diego but from Seattle). Tomorrow May and, as I understand it, Larry (the twin of Gary), Deano's brother, are flying in tomorrow. And Paul, Deano's cousin, was also supposed to be in tonight (flying standby so I guess we will just wait and see if he makes it).
Tim spent the afternoon with Deano and they were able to take a cruise outside around the parking lot and through an obstacle course. Tim said Deano turns over to his left all on his own. He also thought Deano is in much better shape than what he expected. Tim was a little concerned that maybe Deano would not remember him and Tim said as soon as he saw Deano he knew right of way there was definitely recognition. Tim also got one of those huge teddy bear hugs from Deano.
Well it is pretty late and I have had a couple of Tim's Mrs. Lupner's and they are pretty darn deeeelicioussssssssss. We will see how they taste tomorrow morning.
All you need is love, All you need is love. Love is all you need.
Nothing you can know that can't be known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be. It's easy.
P.S. Hey Colorado Uncle Jim, what did you say about the Magic. That was some Magic displayed tonight. Oh that's right, just not by the Orlando Magic.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday, June 3
Late night tonight...
P.S. Thanks to Bob and Laura for leaving Baby Blu for Deano.
P.S.S. Thanks to Michael for trusting Deano with your Magical Blanket - he obviously remembers...
P.S. Thanks to Bob and Laura for leaving Baby Blu for Deano.
P.S.S. Thanks to Michael for trusting Deano with your Magical Blanket - he obviously remembers...
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Tuesday, June 2
Beautiful faces and loud, empty places
Look at the way that we live(d)
Wastin' our time on cheap talk and wine
Left us so little to give
That same old crowd
Was like a cold dark cloud
That we could never rise above
This is another BIG day so I am going to say that we just may have passed mile marker 4 and are now headed toward mile marker 5.
Right now the adrenaline has surged and it almost makes you feel drunk. If you were drunk would you feel like you could keep running forever. Let me have another drink and I will let you know. (Just kidding it is a weeknight and I do have to work tomorrow).
I popped into the hospital around 11:45 this morning and I am so happy that when I was there the occupational therapist, Lana, made a visit. What a truly, truly, truly nice woman. After determining that I was the wife (or still am the wife) we started talking and this is what she says to me, "Did you know that Dean was standing up yesterday?" (I used the quotation marks because my homework last night was to grade one of Riley's essays on Davey Jones and he used quotations every time someone in the story said something and I was so impressed - Anyone impressed?) I know, I said exactly the same thing: STANDING UP are you SERIOUS. STANDING UP!!!!! Lana had come in the room to let Dean know she hadn't forgot about him and that she was coming to work with him around 1, maybe 2 since he was napping. The speech and physical therapists had both already been there. Lana said she was taking him to the gym so they could work on standing again. She said he is 50% standing on his own. Can you f _ _ _'n believe it????
So, I am back at work and then I get an email from Steve saying he stopped by to spend some time with Deano and that they put him in a chair and took him outside. Thanks for letting him use your cap. Great picture. Thank you.
I am driving home from the hospital this evening and I see that I have a message from Kyle Johnson telling me he went to visit Deano today and when he was there he got to see Deano in the gym STANDING UP. OMG!!!!! Thank you Kyle for being there :-)
But here in my heart I give you the best of my love
Oh sweet darlin' you get the best of my love
P.S. Thank you to everyone for the support and continued prayers. Please keep it coming. Look how far we've come.
P.S.S. Ricky Elliott we are missing you. Is everything okay with you????
P.S.S.S Hey Colorado Uncle Jim, my sight was Street Lights.
Look at the way that we live(d)
Wastin' our time on cheap talk and wine
Left us so little to give
That same old crowd
Was like a cold dark cloud
That we could never rise above
This is another BIG day so I am going to say that we just may have passed mile marker 4 and are now headed toward mile marker 5.
Right now the adrenaline has surged and it almost makes you feel drunk. If you were drunk would you feel like you could keep running forever. Let me have another drink and I will let you know. (Just kidding it is a weeknight and I do have to work tomorrow).
I popped into the hospital around 11:45 this morning and I am so happy that when I was there the occupational therapist, Lana, made a visit. What a truly, truly, truly nice woman. After determining that I was the wife (or still am the wife) we started talking and this is what she says to me, "Did you know that Dean was standing up yesterday?" (I used the quotation marks because my homework last night was to grade one of Riley's essays on Davey Jones and he used quotations every time someone in the story said something and I was so impressed - Anyone impressed?) I know, I said exactly the same thing: STANDING UP are you SERIOUS. STANDING UP!!!!! Lana had come in the room to let Dean know she hadn't forgot about him and that she was coming to work with him around 1, maybe 2 since he was napping. The speech and physical therapists had both already been there. Lana said she was taking him to the gym so they could work on standing again. She said he is 50% standing on his own. Can you f _ _ _'n believe it????
So, I am back at work and then I get an email from Steve saying he stopped by to spend some time with Deano and that they put him in a chair and took him outside. Thanks for letting him use your cap. Great picture. Thank you.
I am driving home from the hospital this evening and I see that I have a message from Kyle Johnson telling me he went to visit Deano today and when he was there he got to see Deano in the gym STANDING UP. OMG!!!!! Thank you Kyle for being there :-)
But here in my heart I give you the best of my love
Oh sweet darlin' you get the best of my love
P.S. Thank you to everyone for the support and continued prayers. Please keep it coming. Look how far we've come.
P.S.S. Ricky Elliott we are missing you. Is everything okay with you????
P.S.S.S Hey Colorado Uncle Jim, my sight was Street Lights.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Monday, June 1
Since we just passed mile marker 3, it is probably safe to assume that we are now headed for mile marker 4. At this stage I need to watch my form. I have to make sure my shoulders aren't moving up towards my ears (and then again which direction exactly can they go). I have to make sure my top half is not falling forward or leaning back to much. Form is very important in preventing injury. What I really need to keep in check, however, are the emotions that creep up: anger, impatience, frustration, doubt...(Are you getting the picture).
This afternoon I saw Dr. Englandoff and she said Deano is doing very well (and he is looking real good in that goatee he is sporting). She said the trach button could actually be removed within the next couple of days. She also said the catheter may very well be removed, soon.
This evening when I saw Deano he appeared very relaxed. What I am looking at, first of all, is his face and then to the machine which monitors his oxygenation and his beats per minute. The goal for the oxygenation is 100 and of course the lower the better on the beats per minute. Tonight the numbers were 100 and 74 respectively.
Okay so all this has got me to thinking (okay keep the thinking jokes to yourself - I do think on occasion). And as I was driving home one evening I shared my thoughts with May. I am starting to sense that with the removal of so many things and Deano's continued progress, we may be looking for another home in the no so distant future. I will have to come up with a nice gentle way to broach the conversation with the Dr.
Time for me to put the little one to bed (ha ha I can hear you laughing. Of course I am not talking about Riley; I am talking about me).
Sweet dreams all you out there in blog land.................
This afternoon I saw Dr. Englandoff and she said Deano is doing very well (and he is looking real good in that goatee he is sporting). She said the trach button could actually be removed within the next couple of days. She also said the catheter may very well be removed, soon.
This evening when I saw Deano he appeared very relaxed. What I am looking at, first of all, is his face and then to the machine which monitors his oxygenation and his beats per minute. The goal for the oxygenation is 100 and of course the lower the better on the beats per minute. Tonight the numbers were 100 and 74 respectively.
Okay so all this has got me to thinking (okay keep the thinking jokes to yourself - I do think on occasion). And as I was driving home one evening I shared my thoughts with May. I am starting to sense that with the removal of so many things and Deano's continued progress, we may be looking for another home in the no so distant future. I will have to come up with a nice gentle way to broach the conversation with the Dr.
Time for me to put the little one to bed (ha ha I can hear you laughing. Of course I am not talking about Riley; I am talking about me).
Sweet dreams all you out there in blog land.................
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