SEEING MORE OF JOHN EACH DAY
Everyone who walks in the door can see that John is getting stronger - he waves to everyone. If you come in, he will make sure you shake his hand! He is very alert more often and wanting so much to communicate. Sunday was another day of rest with time on the trac collar (off the vent & breathing on his own) and sitting in the special Barton chair.
Monday was more time on the trac collar and another opportunity in the chair, a little longer each time. John had therapy with both the OT and the PT which revealed improving nerve return and muscle strength. They did have to stop the blood thinners because the bleeding from the upper leg wound was causing his red blood count to drop which makes him weaker and more vulnerable. The wound doctor came and felt there had been no damage from the bleeding, but healing has slowed down without using the wound vac. Ultimately, the two doctors have decided John will begin one of the blood thinners on Tuesday and will be watched carefully. Six weeks of blood thinners would probably get rid of the blood clot.
Today was an excellent day! John was on the trac collar for 4+ hours. During that time both the OT and the PT came as a team and gave him a thorough workout on the edge of the bed with his right leg planted on the floor. Again, it was about "balance" and mental concentration of firing returning nerves to move/strengthen muscles. He held his own head up the entire time. It is amazing to watch! After 30 minutes they put him in the chair for some continued time upright. Then, the speech therapist came, put a special "cap" on the trac and said "well, talk to us." And he did! Just like that! It was a bit hard to understand, but we were all so elated. Then he was exhausted.
There is a lot of work ahead, obviously, and all days will not be successful. John has begun to experience a lot of pain as the nerves regenerate and often feels very restless. We are reminded it is still a slow and steady crawl, but everyone believes the worst damage of the Guillain-Barre Syndrome has probably been done. But John is there - as he tries to smile and moves his hands gracefully in trying to express himself - not preaching yet, but certainly witnessing to a sure and steady faith in the True Physician. Thanks to each and every one of you who remain faithful in prayer and loving support.
No comments:
Post a Comment