Rhonda Writes -
I am assuming that Eric has been busy this morning. Each afternoon he gets a schedule for the following day of times when he has therapy. This morning, I've called twice and he hasn't answered so either he's working hard or worn out and avoiding the phone. :) He's so worked up and excited about getting his strength back. The boredom has set in though and Eric wants me there every night so we can hang out. Garrett is not digging this. He wants Mom home with him so I'm torn between my men. I'm leaving Sunday for our National Sales Meeting returning home Wednesday night so while I'm away, you guys keep him occupied. He'll be so lonely!!
A good friend of mine (Jen Ren) sent me a link for a 20 minute video of a woman that had a stroke. She was a neuro-scientist and recalls her stroke in detail as it was happening. It's pretty moving. Eric and I watched it Monday night and he said from what he remembers from the onset, that she nailed it dead on. I thought I would pass along the link... create some awareness.
http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/229
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
April 30, 2008
Rhonda Writes-
For those of you that haven't seen Eric, say in the past week, please stop in for a visit. You'll be pleasantly surprised. He is a different person. His attitude and desire to get through this are shining through. His speech has improved so much that you won't have any problems understanding him anymore. He played cards with his son last night. He's using his right hand to hold things, such as cards, papers, etc. He wasn't able to do that a week ago. His right leg is getting stronger too. This morning, the Occupational Therapist put Eric in the wheelchair and rolled him in the bathroom and said "let's see what you can do". He washed his face, brushed his teeth and put on cologne. (You know he's GOT to smell good!) This is the first time he's done any of this. The guy joked with him and said he didn't really need therapy. He helped Eric get his clothes and he got dressed. He spent time with the new therapists today (Occupational, Speech, Physical and Recreational). He also spent time with the Dietician. He's very happy with the facility and the people although he misses the girls downstairs at Select. Susan, Kim and Martha stopped in on their lunch break for a visit. It's amazing the changes that we're seeing take place before our very eyes. Just amazing.
Eric's at the same address:
Durham Regional Hospital
3643 North Roxboro Road
Durham, N.C. 27704
Room # 7320
Phone: 919.470.7320
To send an email:
http://www.durhamregional.org/patient_visitor/Ecard
For those of you that haven't seen Eric, say in the past week, please stop in for a visit. You'll be pleasantly surprised. He is a different person. His attitude and desire to get through this are shining through. His speech has improved so much that you won't have any problems understanding him anymore. He played cards with his son last night. He's using his right hand to hold things, such as cards, papers, etc. He wasn't able to do that a week ago. His right leg is getting stronger too. This morning, the Occupational Therapist put Eric in the wheelchair and rolled him in the bathroom and said "let's see what you can do". He washed his face, brushed his teeth and put on cologne. (You know he's GOT to smell good!) This is the first time he's done any of this. The guy joked with him and said he didn't really need therapy. He helped Eric get his clothes and he got dressed. He spent time with the new therapists today (Occupational, Speech, Physical and Recreational). He also spent time with the Dietician. He's very happy with the facility and the people although he misses the girls downstairs at Select. Susan, Kim and Martha stopped in on their lunch break for a visit. It's amazing the changes that we're seeing take place before our very eyes. Just amazing.
Eric's at the same address:
Durham Regional Hospital
3643 North Roxboro Road
Durham, N.C. 27704
Room # 7320
Phone: 919.470.7320
To send an email:
http://www.durhamregional.org/patient_visitor/Ecard
Monday, April 28, 2008
April 28, 2008
Rhonda Writes-
While walking to my car tonight, I realized I haven't updated you guys on Eric for several days. Tonight, I spent the evening packing up all of Eric's belongings. Connect Four that he and Carol play during the day, the Bible that my cousin Karen brought for him, all the pictures of the kids and me & Eric… it's been one of those "feel good" nights.
Eric's going to the Durham Rehab Institute tomorrow. Friday was an emotional day full of doubt and frustration as his Case Manager told me that Eric was not approved by the insurance company to go to rehab. The insurance company felt he was not ready to leave Select and that going to rehab would be risky and he might not be strong enough to endure three hours of rehab a day. We learned all of this after the awesome tour that we had Friday given by the Director of DRI and after Eric had his hopes so high that he couldn't stop smiling. When we heard the news that he wasn't able to go, he looked as if someone sucker punched him. Carol and I left the hospital hoping that something or someone could change this decision.
I got a call from the hospital around 6:30. It was Eric. He was so excited telling me he was going Monday… of course I reminded him that the insurance company denied it, blah, blah, blah and he said "listen to me… I'm going". His case manager got on the phone and was telling me it was true! Eric's doctor and the doctor at DRI both called Cigna and convinced them that Eric was truly ready. We all screamed and laughed together and Eric's case manager "churned the butter and shook her groove thing". This is how Eric described it tonight. Also, his doctor stopped a particular medication that started at Duke. Miraculous things have happened over the weekend. The medication was causing depression, low blood pressure and a whole array of negative side effects. In two days, Eric's voice has returned. His secretions seem to be better, he has more energy and is using his right arm more.
It's like a miracle…. Another miracle. Scary to think a medicine that was prescribed to help him could affect him that way. He talked non-stop tonight. It was hilarious. It's like 2 months worth of things he's wanted to say crammed into 2 hours. :) He told me how happy it made him to spend every day with his Mom. This is something they've been unable to do since he was 18 and left for the Navy. He wanted to talk about the kids and the dog and all of our friends and Desperate Housewives… He asked, "when and how did Carlos go blind?" I'm sure there are days when he asks himself "how did I get to this point?"
Eric had a lot of visitors today. He absolutely LOVES seeing folks and said tonight it's good that people can finally understand what he's saying. I can't even begin to know how frustrating that's been for him. Once he's in his new digs, I'll post the room number. He's "movin' on up" to the 7th floor, hopefully by lunch time Monday. DRI is like a luxury condo! The rooms are HUGE and so nice. He said he was moving up to the Penthouse. He also told me tonight that he'll be home in 30 days. He made the 2 week prediction about leaving Select and nailed that one, so let's see if he's right about coming home. Our 10th anniversary is June 13. How cool would it be for him to be home and able to have dinner with his family? We're looking forward to that day. So tomorrow, Carol and I will decorate his new home with all the pictures, the beautiful lighthouse that Joann brought him and the infamous Hello Kitty CD player. To finish off a great Monday, we'll take Garrett & Erica up for a visit with their Daddy. I couldn't think of a better way to kick off the week.
While walking to my car tonight, I realized I haven't updated you guys on Eric for several days. Tonight, I spent the evening packing up all of Eric's belongings. Connect Four that he and Carol play during the day, the Bible that my cousin Karen brought for him, all the pictures of the kids and me & Eric… it's been one of those "feel good" nights.
Eric's going to the Durham Rehab Institute tomorrow. Friday was an emotional day full of doubt and frustration as his Case Manager told me that Eric was not approved by the insurance company to go to rehab. The insurance company felt he was not ready to leave Select and that going to rehab would be risky and he might not be strong enough to endure three hours of rehab a day. We learned all of this after the awesome tour that we had Friday given by the Director of DRI and after Eric had his hopes so high that he couldn't stop smiling. When we heard the news that he wasn't able to go, he looked as if someone sucker punched him. Carol and I left the hospital hoping that something or someone could change this decision.
I got a call from the hospital around 6:30. It was Eric. He was so excited telling me he was going Monday… of course I reminded him that the insurance company denied it, blah, blah, blah and he said "listen to me… I'm going". His case manager got on the phone and was telling me it was true! Eric's doctor and the doctor at DRI both called Cigna and convinced them that Eric was truly ready. We all screamed and laughed together and Eric's case manager "churned the butter and shook her groove thing". This is how Eric described it tonight. Also, his doctor stopped a particular medication that started at Duke. Miraculous things have happened over the weekend. The medication was causing depression, low blood pressure and a whole array of negative side effects. In two days, Eric's voice has returned. His secretions seem to be better, he has more energy and is using his right arm more.
It's like a miracle…. Another miracle. Scary to think a medicine that was prescribed to help him could affect him that way. He talked non-stop tonight. It was hilarious. It's like 2 months worth of things he's wanted to say crammed into 2 hours. :) He told me how happy it made him to spend every day with his Mom. This is something they've been unable to do since he was 18 and left for the Navy. He wanted to talk about the kids and the dog and all of our friends and Desperate Housewives… He asked, "when and how did Carlos go blind?" I'm sure there are days when he asks himself "how did I get to this point?"
Eric had a lot of visitors today. He absolutely LOVES seeing folks and said tonight it's good that people can finally understand what he's saying. I can't even begin to know how frustrating that's been for him. Once he's in his new digs, I'll post the room number. He's "movin' on up" to the 7th floor, hopefully by lunch time Monday. DRI is like a luxury condo! The rooms are HUGE and so nice. He said he was moving up to the Penthouse. He also told me tonight that he'll be home in 30 days. He made the 2 week prediction about leaving Select and nailed that one, so let's see if he's right about coming home. Our 10th anniversary is June 13. How cool would it be for him to be home and able to have dinner with his family? We're looking forward to that day. So tomorrow, Carol and I will decorate his new home with all the pictures, the beautiful lighthouse that Joann brought him and the infamous Hello Kitty CD player. To finish off a great Monday, we'll take Garrett & Erica up for a visit with their Daddy. I couldn't think of a better way to kick off the week.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
April 24, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
Hey guys! Things are at a pretty typical run rate with Eric. He's doing pretty good. He had a great evaluation yesterday. The Director of Durham Rehab Institute watched Eric work with his physical and occupational therapists. She asked Eric if he was ready to WORK and he said YES MA'AM!
We should know something by tomorrow if he's "moving on up" to the 7th floor into full time rehab by tomorrow. WE ARE SO EXCITED !! Keep your fingers crossed that this works out. We want to keep him close to home and definitely out of a Skilled Nursing Facility. He needs rehab, not nursing care. He told Susan (our friend and Occupational Therapist) that he wanted to push her in a wheelchair down the hall soon. Wouldn't that be fun?
I'm heading up there shortly to see him. Carol said he's smiling and happy today. He worked really hard yesterday to show them that he's capable of this and hopefully he'll see the benefits. I always knew Eric was strong willed but buddy… he is dedicated 110% to walking again, talking again, eating again and being an awesome Daddy again to the kids. The things we tend to take for granted are huge mountains for him. With our internal network of friends and the support he has and most of all prayer, I know he can accomplish it all.
Hey guys! Things are at a pretty typical run rate with Eric. He's doing pretty good. He had a great evaluation yesterday. The Director of Durham Rehab Institute watched Eric work with his physical and occupational therapists. She asked Eric if he was ready to WORK and he said YES MA'AM!
We should know something by tomorrow if he's "moving on up" to the 7th floor into full time rehab by tomorrow. WE ARE SO EXCITED !! Keep your fingers crossed that this works out. We want to keep him close to home and definitely out of a Skilled Nursing Facility. He needs rehab, not nursing care. He told Susan (our friend and Occupational Therapist) that he wanted to push her in a wheelchair down the hall soon. Wouldn't that be fun?
I'm heading up there shortly to see him. Carol said he's smiling and happy today. He worked really hard yesterday to show them that he's capable of this and hopefully he'll see the benefits. I always knew Eric was strong willed but buddy… he is dedicated 110% to walking again, talking again, eating again and being an awesome Daddy again to the kids. The things we tend to take for granted are huge mountains for him. With our internal network of friends and the support he has and most of all prayer, I know he can accomplish it all.
Monday, April 21, 2008
April 21, 2008
Tom Writes -
Eric and Rhonda truly have some great friends. Chris Morris, a friend of Eric's from (where? - I don't know) called me up last week and said that he had been thinking about doing a golf tournament for Eric. One week later and - look to your right folks - the golf tournament is reality. Mark down Tuesday, June 24th in you calendars.
Chris has scheduled what sounds to be a fantastic day at the Hillandale Golf Course in Durham. For those of you that don't know, Hillandale is centrally located by Duke Hospital, between 85 and 147. It's easy to get to, and has one of the best Pro Shops in the country. (At least, that's what the lady on voice mail says while I'm on hold...)
Plan to attend. There will be golf, bar-b-que, a raffle, and a lot of fun. Additionally, we are discussing a silent auction. And it all goes to help a very good friend and his family. So stay tuned, 'cause there will be more information forthcoming.....
Eric and Rhonda truly have some great friends. Chris Morris, a friend of Eric's from (where? - I don't know) called me up last week and said that he had been thinking about doing a golf tournament for Eric. One week later and - look to your right folks - the golf tournament is reality. Mark down Tuesday, June 24th in you calendars.
Chris has scheduled what sounds to be a fantastic day at the Hillandale Golf Course in Durham. For those of you that don't know, Hillandale is centrally located by Duke Hospital, between 85 and 147. It's easy to get to, and has one of the best Pro Shops in the country. (At least, that's what the lady on voice mail says while I'm on hold...)
Plan to attend. There will be golf, bar-b-que, a raffle, and a lot of fun. Additionally, we are discussing a silent auction. And it all goes to help a very good friend and his family. So stay tuned, 'cause there will be more information forthcoming.....
April 21, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
Eric's had a great day. He had a great workout with Physical and Occupational Therapy. He sat up in the chair for over an hour. His blood pressure was pretty good, dropping some towards the end but I danced in front of him a little and that helped. Ha-ha.
He is so ready to get stronger though. He never turns down a chance to work. What seems like simple stretching is a major work out for Eric. Just touching his thumb to each finger on his right hand is something he has to concentrate on. He was surrounded by his "work wives". He loves it. I told them today to keep doting on him. He'll improve quicker that way! :) His speech therapist worked a lot with him today. She had frozen, lemon swabs that she rubbed on the back of his throat to stimulate swallowing. He loved it.... Closest thing he's had to food in 2 months. Can you imagine? He's resting now. He's very exhausted and ready to nap.
Eric's had a great day. He had a great workout with Physical and Occupational Therapy. He sat up in the chair for over an hour. His blood pressure was pretty good, dropping some towards the end but I danced in front of him a little and that helped. Ha-ha.
He is so ready to get stronger though. He never turns down a chance to work. What seems like simple stretching is a major work out for Eric. Just touching his thumb to each finger on his right hand is something he has to concentrate on. He was surrounded by his "work wives". He loves it. I told them today to keep doting on him. He'll improve quicker that way! :) His speech therapist worked a lot with him today. She had frozen, lemon swabs that she rubbed on the back of his throat to stimulate swallowing. He loved it.... Closest thing he's had to food in 2 months. Can you imagine? He's resting now. He's very exhausted and ready to nap.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
April 20, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
Sorry the posts haven't been coming every day… Eric is doing great! He is still working hard and wants to get stronger. Erica is going up today for a visit with him while Garrett is at Stephen's birthday party. We've started having more visitors and Eric is loving it!! Please feel free to drop by and say hello to him. He enjoys seeing everyone. We've had a couple of heart to hearts about things and he has the right attitude and optimism needed to get better. He wants to go to the rehab unit which is also in Durham Regional in a couple of weeks. He's setting goals… look out! His blood pressure seems to be doing better during therapy and his health is overall pretty stable. He's ready to get the show on the road!!!
Sorry the posts haven't been coming every day… Eric is doing great! He is still working hard and wants to get stronger. Erica is going up today for a visit with him while Garrett is at Stephen's birthday party. We've started having more visitors and Eric is loving it!! Please feel free to drop by and say hello to him. He enjoys seeing everyone. We've had a couple of heart to hearts about things and he has the right attitude and optimism needed to get better. He wants to go to the rehab unit which is also in Durham Regional in a couple of weeks. He's setting goals… look out! His blood pressure seems to be doing better during therapy and his health is overall pretty stable. He's ready to get the show on the road!!!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
April 17, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
Eric is filling out!! He's a juicy 138 pounds now. Yee Haa! He was able to sit up in the recliner today and his blood pressure stayed in the normal range which is awesome!! I'm taking Garrett for a visit tonight..... Eric needs his fix (and so does Garrett). Eric and I had a good visit last night after being apart for a couple of days. He was very loving and affectionate. He's really getting his "normal" personality back. He's joking around a bit and starting to give everyone a hard time which warms my heart. Autumn and Carol are back. He was very excited to see them. Momma is always good medicine!! :)
Eric is filling out!! He's a juicy 138 pounds now. Yee Haa! He was able to sit up in the recliner today and his blood pressure stayed in the normal range which is awesome!! I'm taking Garrett for a visit tonight..... Eric needs his fix (and so does Garrett). Eric and I had a good visit last night after being apart for a couple of days. He was very loving and affectionate. He's really getting his "normal" personality back. He's joking around a bit and starting to give everyone a hard time which warms my heart. Autumn and Carol are back. He was very excited to see them. Momma is always good medicine!! :)
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
April 15, 2007
Tom Writes -
Rhonda is out of town, so I am the guest writer today. I am sitting with Eric this afternoon, listening to him talk. This has become something of a common occurrence - I told him just last week that I had not heard him talk like this in eight weeks, and it is true -he is speaking clearer and with more force now than he has since he was admitted to the hospital.
It is certainly a welcome development. This is not to say that everyday is the same, or that the progress made puts him where he was before his surgery, but for me, it has been a very comforting experience to have a conversation with a friend about topics great and small, and know that just as I can make myself be understood, Eric will be able to make himself be understood as well.
Have a good evening.
Rhonda is out of town, so I am the guest writer today. I am sitting with Eric this afternoon, listening to him talk. This has become something of a common occurrence - I told him just last week that I had not heard him talk like this in eight weeks, and it is true -he is speaking clearer and with more force now than he has since he was admitted to the hospital.
It is certainly a welcome development. This is not to say that everyday is the same, or that the progress made puts him where he was before his surgery, but for me, it has been a very comforting experience to have a conversation with a friend about topics great and small, and know that just as I can make myself be understood, Eric will be able to make himself be understood as well.
Have a good evening.
Monday, April 14, 2008
April 14, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
Eric continues to get stronger each day. Today we made phone calls to his Mom, Jarrod and the kids. His voice was weaker than normal but I thought he should touch base with the "outside world". Carol and Tom went home today. (I already miss her). Carol and Autumn (Eric's sister) will be returning on Wednesday.
Eric had a very busy day yesterday. Susan (our friend and one of the OT's at Select) came up on her day off and worked with Eric. He got out of the bed and into the chair. He's having some issues when he sits up. His blood pressure drops considerably so they're having to use extra precaution. His pressure Saturday dropped to 80/40. He normalized after a few minutes but he was leaning back a bit rather than sitting so upright. Our friend Stephanie cut his hair and Carol and I scrubbed him up (manicure and all).
We had an awesome visit from my cousin Karen and her husband Paul. They brought two friends (Serena & Lynn) to pray with Eric. We all surrounded him, holding his hands, feet and head and prayed for God's healing powers to touch Eric. It was overwhelming and beautiful and comforting. The only way we can make it through this is to allow God to intervene. Sometimes it's hard to turn things over to Him but when you do, a peace falls over you and you realize things are going to be okay. After Eric's busy day, his buddies came to the hospital and had "boys night". Unfortunately he was so tuckered out, he slept a lot but I think they all had a good time anyway. (Thanks for then note in the Visitors Book guys… very funny) :)
Today was another busy morning. One of the Speech Pathologists came in to work with him. He's progressing very well - learning to swallow again and talking clearer. Each day brings more surprises which is really cool. His infections are clearing up and hopefully the kids will be able to visit this coming weekend. He's ready to work and regain his strength. He never turns down he chance to work with the physical therapists or speech (and especially not Susan, Kim or Cheryl). As tired as he is and despite the hip pain, he wants to continue therapy and work towards recovery. He has a realistic expectation of what's to come and time frames but hasn't once seemed frustrated. What a trooper…. I didn't realize until this weekend that you can send emails to Eric at Select. They print them and deliver to his room. I wanted to include the address so he could get "love notes" from all his girlfriends (Kirsten, Jenny, Casey, Lisa…) Good thing I'm not a jealous wife! Ha-ha. Thanks y'all.
http://www.durhamregional.org/patient_visitor/Ecard
Eric continues to get stronger each day. Today we made phone calls to his Mom, Jarrod and the kids. His voice was weaker than normal but I thought he should touch base with the "outside world". Carol and Tom went home today. (I already miss her). Carol and Autumn (Eric's sister) will be returning on Wednesday.
Eric had a very busy day yesterday. Susan (our friend and one of the OT's at Select) came up on her day off and worked with Eric. He got out of the bed and into the chair. He's having some issues when he sits up. His blood pressure drops considerably so they're having to use extra precaution. His pressure Saturday dropped to 80/40. He normalized after a few minutes but he was leaning back a bit rather than sitting so upright. Our friend Stephanie cut his hair and Carol and I scrubbed him up (manicure and all).
We had an awesome visit from my cousin Karen and her husband Paul. They brought two friends (Serena & Lynn) to pray with Eric. We all surrounded him, holding his hands, feet and head and prayed for God's healing powers to touch Eric. It was overwhelming and beautiful and comforting. The only way we can make it through this is to allow God to intervene. Sometimes it's hard to turn things over to Him but when you do, a peace falls over you and you realize things are going to be okay. After Eric's busy day, his buddies came to the hospital and had "boys night". Unfortunately he was so tuckered out, he slept a lot but I think they all had a good time anyway. (Thanks for then note in the Visitors Book guys… very funny) :)
Today was another busy morning. One of the Speech Pathologists came in to work with him. He's progressing very well - learning to swallow again and talking clearer. Each day brings more surprises which is really cool. His infections are clearing up and hopefully the kids will be able to visit this coming weekend. He's ready to work and regain his strength. He never turns down he chance to work with the physical therapists or speech (and especially not Susan, Kim or Cheryl). As tired as he is and despite the hip pain, he wants to continue therapy and work towards recovery. He has a realistic expectation of what's to come and time frames but hasn't once seemed frustrated. What a trooper…. I didn't realize until this weekend that you can send emails to Eric at Select. They print them and deliver to his room. I wanted to include the address so he could get "love notes" from all his girlfriends (Kirsten, Jenny, Casey, Lisa…) Good thing I'm not a jealous wife! Ha-ha. Thanks y'all.
http://www.durhamregional.org/patient_visitor/Ecard
Thursday, April 10, 2008
April 10, 2008
Today was an interesting day. By the time I arrived at the hospital, I would describe it as Eric's best day. Earlier in the day though, the OT and PT got him out of bed. With their help, he stood up. When he sat back down, he became unresponsive for 30 seconds or so. Kim was clapping in his face and couldn't get a reaction. He was sent down for a CT scan this afternoon to see what's going on. They suspect he had a seizure which isn't uncommon after strokes but nonetheless scary. Eric said he doesn't remember anything... One minute he was standing and the next he's in bed with 5 people hovering over him. Once Carol arrived, she said that Eric was so talkative and in good spirits. I stopped by the hospital after work and he was still quite the conversationalist. We talked about how he feels---that it's hard to differentiate between reality and dreams. Being in the bed all the time confuses him. He also asked if I was okay and how I was keeping up with work, kids, etc. I laughed... I guess it's ironic that he's concerned about me. We both agreed there were no other words for this other than "it sucks". Not very eloquent, but so true. He has a bit of pneumonia again (infections from being in the hospital) but overall feels pretty good. He's experiencing a lot of hip pain. I'm going to check to see if he can get a better bed tomorrow. That might help a bit. His buddies are planning "boys night out" at the hospital Saturday night. I'm sure that place will never be the same. He asked me to pick him up some "Hugh Hefner pajamas" so he could look good for visitors!!! He's starting to cut up a bit and acting like the "old Eric". (Heavy sigh....it's such a good thing!!) I'm putting a "visitors journal" in his room so when people stop in they can sign and leave him/us a note. He has a hard time remembering who all visits since he drifts in and out a lot. I want to capture as much as I can for him. His sister Autumn is coming back in town next week. I know he'll be thrilled to see her. (Me too!). I'm still in awe over the support and love so many of you are extending to us through prayer, cards and visits. It is amazing and helps get all of us through each day. Love to you all.......
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
April 8, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
So, tonight, Mr. Lacey was trying to get me to break the law. We had a rough afternoon with nursing staff so I was trying to give in to his every need, want and desire… (Yes - those who know me? I can't hear you laughing!) I don't usually do that very well.
BUT - Eric tried a new thing today. Ice chips with a spoon. Mind you, he's not eating the ice chips. Their job is to cool the spoon off, then Eric sticks it on his tongue to cool it, then he practices swallowing. So here I come with a cup full of ice and a plastic spoon. He kept trying to tell me something so I put his speaking valve on and he said "METAL---- I need a metal spoon". Okay, so I didn't think about plastic not cooling off the way metal would. He told me, "go get a metal spoon and don't let them tell you no for an answer". With that I got nervous. Of course, they had no metal spoons (not even in the cafeteria). When I came back to tell him the great news he told me in a firm voice……. "Tell my mother to bring me a metal spoon and a cup - she won't forget".
Yes ladies… MOM won't forget. Rhonda just HAD to bring a plastic spoon. What purpose does that serve (other than scooping out strawberry Jell-O). Once he realized I wasn't getting a metal spoon, guess what he did? Grabbed that cup and chunked ice into his mouth. PANIC sets in and I start yelling "spit it out… spit it out…" He's spitting, laughing, etc. I'm not finding it so funny. I grab the suction and proceed to take any moisture out of his mouth for fear he would aspirate. After the attitude and chaos, I was done. Toooo much drama on a Monday night. So, by this email, you should be able to tell he's doing better. His spirit has more fire and he's getting spunky. (It's Kim's fault… everyone just say that over and over). :) I can't wait to see what kind of excitement we'll see tomorrow. Please… no feeding Eric. Even if he tells you he can have that cracker? Don't do it!! :)
So, tonight, Mr. Lacey was trying to get me to break the law. We had a rough afternoon with nursing staff so I was trying to give in to his every need, want and desire… (Yes - those who know me? I can't hear you laughing!) I don't usually do that very well.
BUT - Eric tried a new thing today. Ice chips with a spoon. Mind you, he's not eating the ice chips. Their job is to cool the spoon off, then Eric sticks it on his tongue to cool it, then he practices swallowing. So here I come with a cup full of ice and a plastic spoon. He kept trying to tell me something so I put his speaking valve on and he said "METAL---- I need a metal spoon". Okay, so I didn't think about plastic not cooling off the way metal would. He told me, "go get a metal spoon and don't let them tell you no for an answer". With that I got nervous. Of course, they had no metal spoons (not even in the cafeteria). When I came back to tell him the great news he told me in a firm voice……. "Tell my mother to bring me a metal spoon and a cup - she won't forget".
Yes ladies… MOM won't forget. Rhonda just HAD to bring a plastic spoon. What purpose does that serve (other than scooping out strawberry Jell-O). Once he realized I wasn't getting a metal spoon, guess what he did? Grabbed that cup and chunked ice into his mouth. PANIC sets in and I start yelling "spit it out… spit it out…" He's spitting, laughing, etc. I'm not finding it so funny. I grab the suction and proceed to take any moisture out of his mouth for fear he would aspirate. After the attitude and chaos, I was done. Toooo much drama on a Monday night. So, by this email, you should be able to tell he's doing better. His spirit has more fire and he's getting spunky. (It's Kim's fault… everyone just say that over and over). :) I can't wait to see what kind of excitement we'll see tomorrow. Please… no feeding Eric. Even if he tells you he can have that cracker? Don't do it!! :)
Saturday, April 5, 2008
April 5, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
The kids just left the hospital. They had a nice hour long visit in Eric's room. It was emotional... They crawled up in bed with him and told them how much they miss him. They asked the typical child-like questions... What's this, what's that, how long til you come home...
It was heart wrenching for me and Carol but good for the kids. They were very happy to spend time with him. Carol just left to take them home and I'm staying a little longer. Eric's sleeping like a baby.
I'm going to sit him up in a bit. The "OT girls" told me he should sit on the edge of the bed, even on the weekend when they're not here, so I'm going to wrestle a nurse to help me do it.
It's so hard for Eric to communicate. Last night when I was leaving, he tried to tell me something. He couldn't get the words out and I couldn't understand what he was trying to say. He got frustrated, I got frustrated....
Its so hard. I'm having a really hard time right now. All the emotions have finally worked their way out and now I can't seem to control them. I guess you can only be strong for so long, huh? So, as usual, I'm sitting here crying my eyes out trying to type on the blackberry. Eric is getting used to the tears. Pray for me. I need strength now more than ever. No one ever imagines that their lives could be turned upside-down in the blink of an eye. Love each other like you've never loved before. Life is so short and can be so unfair.
The kids just left the hospital. They had a nice hour long visit in Eric's room. It was emotional... They crawled up in bed with him and told them how much they miss him. They asked the typical child-like questions... What's this, what's that, how long til you come home...
It was heart wrenching for me and Carol but good for the kids. They were very happy to spend time with him. Carol just left to take them home and I'm staying a little longer. Eric's sleeping like a baby.
I'm going to sit him up in a bit. The "OT girls" told me he should sit on the edge of the bed, even on the weekend when they're not here, so I'm going to wrestle a nurse to help me do it.
It's so hard for Eric to communicate. Last night when I was leaving, he tried to tell me something. He couldn't get the words out and I couldn't understand what he was trying to say. He got frustrated, I got frustrated....
Its so hard. I'm having a really hard time right now. All the emotions have finally worked their way out and now I can't seem to control them. I guess you can only be strong for so long, huh? So, as usual, I'm sitting here crying my eyes out trying to type on the blackberry. Eric is getting used to the tears. Pray for me. I need strength now more than ever. No one ever imagines that their lives could be turned upside-down in the blink of an eye. Love each other like you've never loved before. Life is so short and can be so unfair.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
April 3, 2008
Rhonda Writes-
Today was a busy and productive day! Cheryl and Martha helped to sit him on the edge of the bed. They're working on his balance and strength. For Eric to sit upright and lift his head is a chore. He then spent an hour and 1/2 sitting in this cool wheelchair. Cheryl made the oxygen and IV portable and we took him for a spin. It was his first time out of the room. He enjoyed it but boy is he worn out. He's snoozing hard right now. When he sleeps his weak leg twitches a lot. The therapist said that's a good sign... The nerves are healing themselves. Baby steps....
Jarrod and Mary left this morning. I'm sure that was emotional for both Jarrod and Eric. It was a great visit though. Carol and Erica were planning on taking a big, long nap today. :)
Today was a busy and productive day! Cheryl and Martha helped to sit him on the edge of the bed. They're working on his balance and strength. For Eric to sit upright and lift his head is a chore. He then spent an hour and 1/2 sitting in this cool wheelchair. Cheryl made the oxygen and IV portable and we took him for a spin. It was his first time out of the room. He enjoyed it but boy is he worn out. He's snoozing hard right now. When he sleeps his weak leg twitches a lot. The therapist said that's a good sign... The nerves are healing themselves. Baby steps....
Jarrod and Mary left this morning. I'm sure that was emotional for both Jarrod and Eric. It was a great visit though. Carol and Erica were planning on taking a big, long nap today. :)
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
April 2, 2008
Rhonda Writes -
I spent some time talking to Eric's doctor today regarding his tests. The MRI and EEG showed no additional problems. There were no positive changes yet but he said it could take 6 months to a year from the brain to start healing itself.
Jarrod came in and gave Eric a shave. It was sweet!! I took a picture and plan to send it to Tom to load on the website. Dr. Hunter is going to allow the kids to visit Eric. He's checking to see if he can get clearance for them to come into his room so he can remain hooked up to his goodies (oxygen, monitors, etc.). That would be awesome!!!
PT and OT came in today and sat Eric up on the side of the bed, then into his new wheelchair. He stood the wheelchair for about 20 minutes then asked to go back to bed. While he was sitting up, they worked with him on posture and balance. It doesn't take much to wear him out. He's been asleep for about 2 hours now. I've been working at the hospital today so I could check out all the cool things they're doing to him. The speech therapist also told me that he coughed a bit today when they suctioned his trach. This is a HUGE accomplishment and very exciting news. Eric also pulled his right leg up a bit when they turned him on his side. Another huge accomplishment! The staff here is wonderful and I'm so happy with the care he's receiving. I know Eric is too.
I spent some time talking to Eric's doctor today regarding his tests. The MRI and EEG showed no additional problems. There were no positive changes yet but he said it could take 6 months to a year from the brain to start healing itself.
Jarrod came in and gave Eric a shave. It was sweet!! I took a picture and plan to send it to Tom to load on the website. Dr. Hunter is going to allow the kids to visit Eric. He's checking to see if he can get clearance for them to come into his room so he can remain hooked up to his goodies (oxygen, monitors, etc.). That would be awesome!!!
PT and OT came in today and sat Eric up on the side of the bed, then into his new wheelchair. He stood the wheelchair for about 20 minutes then asked to go back to bed. While he was sitting up, they worked with him on posture and balance. It doesn't take much to wear him out. He's been asleep for about 2 hours now. I've been working at the hospital today so I could check out all the cool things they're doing to him. The speech therapist also told me that he coughed a bit today when they suctioned his trach. This is a HUGE accomplishment and very exciting news. Eric also pulled his right leg up a bit when they turned him on his side. Another huge accomplishment! The staff here is wonderful and I'm so happy with the care he's receiving. I know Eric is too.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
April 1, 2008
Rhonda Writes-
Eric continues to get stronger. By the time I get to the hospital, he's worn out from Physical Therapy and all the activities of the day. They ordered him a special wheelchair today which they're hoping to get him in tomorrow. If he can get a little more mobile (sitting up more, etc) it will dramatically help with the secretions in his lungs. He has a follow up MRI tomorrow morning and a hip X-ray. The MRI is just for precaution and the hip X-ray is because he's experiencing pain when they do sit him up. The doctor thinks its bursitis.
Eric told me last night that he really misses the kids. I'm going to talk to his doctor tomorrow to see if we can bring the kids up for a quick visit. If he's in the wheelchair, they could possibly let the kids see him in their conference room. We'll see---keep your fingers crossed.
He can have visitors (a couple folks have sent emails inquiring) so if you'd like to drop in for a visit, feel free to! I'm sure it would lift his spirits. Eric's cousin Morgan left today. Jarrod is staying until Thursday. The kids are really enjoying having their cousins there. They've been having a ball. Little Zach and Bryce have been providing that baby fix that I need too!! :) I hope this update finds everyone well....
Eric continues to get stronger. By the time I get to the hospital, he's worn out from Physical Therapy and all the activities of the day. They ordered him a special wheelchair today which they're hoping to get him in tomorrow. If he can get a little more mobile (sitting up more, etc) it will dramatically help with the secretions in his lungs. He has a follow up MRI tomorrow morning and a hip X-ray. The MRI is just for precaution and the hip X-ray is because he's experiencing pain when they do sit him up. The doctor thinks its bursitis.
Eric told me last night that he really misses the kids. I'm going to talk to his doctor tomorrow to see if we can bring the kids up for a quick visit. If he's in the wheelchair, they could possibly let the kids see him in their conference room. We'll see---keep your fingers crossed.
He can have visitors (a couple folks have sent emails inquiring) so if you'd like to drop in for a visit, feel free to! I'm sure it would lift his spirits. Eric's cousin Morgan left today. Jarrod is staying until Thursday. The kids are really enjoying having their cousins there. They've been having a ball. Little Zach and Bryce have been providing that baby fix that I need too!! :) I hope this update finds everyone well....
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