Scott has settled in to his new digs in San Leandro. His days are starting to become more routine now, which is great after so many ups and downs, emergency procedures, scans, etc. It finally feels like he is in a recovery phase.
He has great physical therapy staff at this facility who are pushing him hard. They focused immediately on getting Scott up and out of the bed and by day two had him in a wheelchair. By the end of the week, with much assistance, Scott took his first steps. The physical therapists feel that he'll probably be mobile again before he is even cognitively ready. So, again, close monitoring will be required to keep him safe if he is mobile before he is able to make safe decisions.
Unfortunately, as long as he is still without part of his skull, he has to wear a helmet any time he is out of bed. He hates it. He spends a lot of energy being preoccupied with helmet during therapy sessions and any time he is out of the bed.
He is not quite ready to participate during speech therapy...yet. But, he is definitely swallowing, able to eat some pureed foods and even took a bite of a sandwich and swallowed it. All this is helping him get some voice behind his words and he is definitely trying to talk and communicate.
Jason, Sean and Sandy spent several hours with Scott today. They felt that he definitely recognized them and was happy to have some visitors. They said he seemed a little frustrated with his inability to communicate with them. They are pretty sure they heard him say something along the lines of, "My eyes and my head aren't in sync" and "is it awkward?" As hard as it is to hear that he may be starting to become aware that something is wrong, it is also a very great sign. They also got some good laughs out of him and, as usual, he was quick to start tapping his toes as soon as they put some music on.
Tomorrow he will be taken back to Redwood City for a neurology appointment. They will check on his progress and, I think, will take out the sutures in his scalp. Jennifer plans to talk to the doctors about when they will try and perform the surgery to put a replacement bone in his scalp.
So so good that they have been able to get him up and moving! Bodies need to move around, and surely this will enhance his cognitive recovery as well. Scott, you are so fortunate, to have so many caring friends who can come and be with you as you begin to re-integrate. And to feed you sandwiches! Sandwiches are everything, enjoy every one :) Keep coming back, friend - hang in there, everyone -
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for the frustration Scott is going through on his way back and at the same time I'm thrilled to hear of such wonderful progress. We love you all so much and pray for you to have the strength daily to endure this process. We are all so blessed to have you all in our life and want you to know we think of you everyday as we look forward to the updates. Thank you Penny and thank you Jennifer for looking out for Scott with such love. Stay strong and don't hesitate to call us for anything.
ReplyDeleteterrific progress Scott and Jen
ReplyDeleteit is wonderful to hear and amazing to read back and forward to where you are today.
our thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with you all the way.
Vicky said it best, My heart aches. I am trying to think of what I can Do to help or comfort you and your family.Please Know that I will do anything for ya'll. Of course it is a bit selfish of me to say that because it would make me feel good, but don't hesitate to tell me what you need or want. You are all in my prairs and may God bless you. all my love and respect.
ReplyDeleteI too, echo Vicky and Rob's sentiments. I wish there was something we could do back in Wilmington. Please don't hesitate to ask. All our thoughts, Danny and Lia.
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