Happy Halloween. I made it back from Houston safely on Wednesday night. I stopped to see Kirk on my way home. It has been a few days since I have posted. He continues steady on with physical progress. He eats in the dining room at rehab. We are doing a calorie count right now to see if he is taking in enough calories to remove the feeding tube. He can eat whatever he wants and had 7 crunchy California rolls and a little snickers today. I am taking him chili tomorrow. It was a little slow the first few days but he is definitely eating more now so maybe early next week we can get rid of the last tube. He can also swallow all his pills and liquid medications. So one other thing we don't need a tube for anymore. I say the last tube because we also got rid of the catheter this week.
He also can do more basic tasks with minimal cues. For example he can take a shower by himself and might only need a reminder to use shampoo. That is so much more than before. He was also batting a baloon in PT and I was pleased with his eye hand coordination.
He walks more and without a walker. He is pretty wobbly so we will see if that resolves with time. It also seems he doesn't see fully out of his left eye. He sometimes walks into things on that side. We can't sort that out until he communicates more consistently. The cognitive skills are still much slower in improvement. He has reached the point where his physical abilities exceed his cognitive ability so he sleeps in a bed tent and must otherwise be monitored if he isn't in the tent. He just isn't steady enough on his feet but doesn't know that.
When I went to visit today I got a back rub. I also asked if he wanted to be married to me. He said he wanted to be married to an American and I was the best choice. Some of the things he says are hysterical.
Sidney and I trick or treated while Carolyn and Barbara handed out snacks at the house. We handed out pretzels. Those are good because they are acceptable snacks at school. We had a great time trick or treating. Afterwords we hung out at a neighbors for a while and just chilled and chatted. I'll get a picture of the pumpkins tomorrow. I am too out of steam tonight.
Stormy's training is going really well. Last night we had dog training, swimming, I carved two pumpkins and toasted the seeds. I crashed into bed.
It is very likely that Kirk will move again this week. Please pray for discernment for me as I look at options to try to choose the best next step for Kirk and his recovery. This is the last step before coming home and I need to get this right.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
October 28
I got to see Kirk do some work today. He walked several times at PT before I had to leave for Houston. He is definately getting stonger. I did not think even a month ago that I would see him walk. He has the motion and balance but needs to build endurance. He did a swallow study today also and can start on easy to swallow stuff like liquids and soft foods. It will likely take him a bit to manage to use his mouth properly even though he can swallow. I hope that eating is something else that can help him to feel more normal.
He was up early this morning and has spent a good part of the day at various therapies or sitting at the nurses station. He thinks he might be a nurse but doesn't really remember. But the interaction of sitting with the nurses is good for him.
I made it safely to Houston. I also got Sidney to her post-op appointment for her eyes before I left. Everything looks good and she doesn't have to go back for three months. She also took Rocky's moulted exoskeleton to school and all the 5th grade classes wanted to look at it. Rocky is our blue lobster who lives in our fish tank.
He was up early this morning and has spent a good part of the day at various therapies or sitting at the nurses station. He thinks he might be a nurse but doesn't really remember. But the interaction of sitting with the nurses is good for him.
I made it safely to Houston. I also got Sidney to her post-op appointment for her eyes before I left. Everything looks good and she doesn't have to go back for three months. She also took Rocky's moulted exoskeleton to school and all the 5th grade classes wanted to look at it. Rocky is our blue lobster who lives in our fish tank.
Monday, October 27, 2014
October 27
Kirk has had two good days from a physical perspective. He has been up more and is helping a lot with transfers, doing nearly all the work himself. He did all of his own care this morning with little help other than guidance. He can do most things you ask. He has also been on many laps around the unit in the wheel chair. And today he made his first lap around "the block" on foot. He used a walker and made a full lap around the unit. This is the first time he has walked since the accident. We kept him up out of bed all day.
But the last two days have been hard for me. Yesterday in particular was really tough. I don't think he knew who I was or was upset by something and he was just not nice to me. I honestly left broken hearted. He was slightly better today, finally telling me my name and giving me a hug and kiss. These days are really hard. I am so happy to see him able to do more things but saddened by the struggle to think.
I will be in Houston tomorrow night. My first night away since the accident. Kirk's mom and aunt will be staying with Sidney. I will be back Wednesday night. First I have to take Sidney for another post op appointment for her eyes tomorrow.
When I get home I have to carve to pumpkins and finish getting ready for Halloween and the United Way fundraiser. I think I will be more exhausted than normal come Friday night.
But the last two days have been hard for me. Yesterday in particular was really tough. I don't think he knew who I was or was upset by something and he was just not nice to me. I honestly left broken hearted. He was slightly better today, finally telling me my name and giving me a hug and kiss. These days are really hard. I am so happy to see him able to do more things but saddened by the struggle to think.
I will be in Houston tomorrow night. My first night away since the accident. Kirk's mom and aunt will be staying with Sidney. I will be back Wednesday night. First I have to take Sidney for another post op appointment for her eyes tomorrow.
When I get home I have to carve to pumpkins and finish getting ready for Halloween and the United Way fundraiser. I think I will be more exhausted than normal come Friday night.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
October 25
Kirk was still more down than up today. He woke up about noon but wasn't in the mood to do anything. The staff is giving him a choice to do PT. He says no but then he talked all afternoon. And he will do everything you ask/tell him to do. Ok sometimes he does it with a frowl (that's is a frown crossed with a growl). But he does it anyway. I think there is a lot of frustration mixed with confusion. I really wish there was more I could do for him. Sidney spent a good hour with him today. She snuggled with him for a while and chatted a bit. A good snuggle has been a long time coming.
I made chili tonight for a fundraiser next week. It's tucked safely into the freezer but between that and dinner I left a mess in the kitchen. I used the extra ground beef with some leftover mushrooms from the freezer for stroganoff. I used some noodles from the pantry that were left over from something else. So I cleaned up a bit of left overs. Unfortunately I am so tired or side tracked that I dumped a quarter of dinner on the floor. The dog helped clean that up. The only people food she has gotten at our house.
Please continue to surround Kirk with prayers of strength, patience, and peace. He is in such a difficult place in this in between. I pray for a switch to turn but I don't think it is that easy. Both his body and his mind are betraying him. I need prayers too. Sometimes I feel so worn out and afraid of the future. I miss him so much it aches. And for Sidney the peace of knowing without a doubt she is loved and safe.
I made chili tonight for a fundraiser next week. It's tucked safely into the freezer but between that and dinner I left a mess in the kitchen. I used the extra ground beef with some leftover mushrooms from the freezer for stroganoff. I used some noodles from the pantry that were left over from something else. So I cleaned up a bit of left overs. Unfortunately I am so tired or side tracked that I dumped a quarter of dinner on the floor. The dog helped clean that up. The only people food she has gotten at our house.
Please continue to surround Kirk with prayers of strength, patience, and peace. He is in such a difficult place in this in between. I pray for a switch to turn but I don't think it is that easy. Both his body and his mind are betraying him. I need prayers too. Sometimes I feel so worn out and afraid of the future. I miss him so much it aches. And for Sidney the peace of knowing without a doubt she is loved and safe.
Friday, October 24, 2014
October 24
Kirk had a down day today. It may just be that he is tired but I will be watching closely to see if there is anything else going on. But he just wasn't interested in doing anything today. Not a shower or tooth brushing. He was just sleepy. After the weekend the docs will make a few adjustments on his meds to see if we can get more functional awake time.
Kirk's mom, aunt and cousin arrived safely last night. They are getting settled in over at their hotel and getting a couple of things taken care of.
I put in yesterdays post a comment about a trauma amnesia that Kirk is demonstrating and a test for that. The test used is called a Galveston Orientation Test. It is different from a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS). GCS is based primarily on immediate physical response to very simple questions or in an unconscious patient, painful stimuli. A person who can answer who, when, and where and usually one other question like who is the president would have a GCS of 12. At the time of his accident Kirk was a 1 maybe. He could react to painful stimuli but in an manner that indicated his brain was badly hurt (he only pulled his hands and legs in). As he could react more appropriately his score changed, like when he could pull the doctors hand away. Also knowing his name is good.
The Galveston Orientation Test is different and more complicated. The test asks 10 basic questions including the patients name. They are questions regarding to determine if you know your orientation to person, place and time. They are detailed questions like telling the date and time as well as what you can remember from any day following the accident and any day prior to the accident. The date and time aren't trick questions. There is a calendar and large clock in front of him. Successful measure of being past the amnesia is greater than 67 of 100 for three consecutive tests. Generally the longer it takes to get past the amnesia the worse the head injury was. And no I don't have a timeline for how long it will take or if we will get to a 67. That's just honest, and scary for us.
Kirk's mom, aunt and cousin arrived safely last night. They are getting settled in over at their hotel and getting a couple of things taken care of.
I put in yesterdays post a comment about a trauma amnesia that Kirk is demonstrating and a test for that. The test used is called a Galveston Orientation Test. It is different from a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS). GCS is based primarily on immediate physical response to very simple questions or in an unconscious patient, painful stimuli. A person who can answer who, when, and where and usually one other question like who is the president would have a GCS of 12. At the time of his accident Kirk was a 1 maybe. He could react to painful stimuli but in an manner that indicated his brain was badly hurt (he only pulled his hands and legs in). As he could react more appropriately his score changed, like when he could pull the doctors hand away. Also knowing his name is good.
The Galveston Orientation Test is different and more complicated. The test asks 10 basic questions including the patients name. They are questions regarding to determine if you know your orientation to person, place and time. They are detailed questions like telling the date and time as well as what you can remember from any day following the accident and any day prior to the accident. The date and time aren't trick questions. There is a calendar and large clock in front of him. Successful measure of being past the amnesia is greater than 67 of 100 for three consecutive tests. Generally the longer it takes to get past the amnesia the worse the head injury was. And no I don't have a timeline for how long it will take or if we will get to a 67. That's just honest, and scary for us.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
October 23
Kirk had a good day today. His central line was removed and I don't think we will need that again. He can take everything he needs orally. He is still getting daily blood draws but I have asked the medical team to consider whether he actually needs those every day or can go to at least every other day.
He was still in his room in bed when I got there this morning. I snuck in beside him for a few minutes and he put his arm around me. It felt so good. He reaches for my hand frequently and gives me a hug as well as a kiss. He is also paying much more attention to TV now. It is pretty funny. A little like trying to get a kids attention. I am looking forward to spending time with him and Sidney in the same room this weekend.
Kirk has post trauma amnesia. That is part of what we need to overcome in order to get him "well". There is a score for this, similar to a coma scale. He has a score 6 right now with a 76 being an indicator that he no longer has it. We have a good ways to go.
Sidney is excited to go back to swimming tonight. She can't wait to be wet all over again by something other than a shower. We also have another dog training session tonight. Stormy is well ready for the next set of training. I think after I get her underway and not needing training every day I am going to try to work with the bird more to build our relationship.
Kirk's mom, aunt and cousin will arrive this evening. His mom and aunt will stay a month. His cousin will fly back to North Carolina this weekend.
He was still in his room in bed when I got there this morning. I snuck in beside him for a few minutes and he put his arm around me. It felt so good. He reaches for my hand frequently and gives me a hug as well as a kiss. He is also paying much more attention to TV now. It is pretty funny. A little like trying to get a kids attention. I am looking forward to spending time with him and Sidney in the same room this weekend.
Kirk has post trauma amnesia. That is part of what we need to overcome in order to get him "well". There is a score for this, similar to a coma scale. He has a score 6 right now with a 76 being an indicator that he no longer has it. We have a good ways to go.
Sidney is excited to go back to swimming tonight. She can't wait to be wet all over again by something other than a shower. We also have another dog training session tonight. Stormy is well ready for the next set of training. I think after I get her underway and not needing training every day I am going to try to work with the bird more to build our relationship.
Kirk's mom, aunt and cousin will arrive this evening. His mom and aunt will stay a month. His cousin will fly back to North Carolina this weekend.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
October 22
Kirk had a busy day in a good way. He looked much better when I got to see him this morning and afternoon. I think the antibiotic helped a lot. He had two sessions of speech therapy along with physical and occupational therapy. So he was exhausted tonight. His doctor stopped by to see him after 6 pm and even though he was exhausted he did everything she asked for his neurological exam. This is the best he has ever done. so a good day.
I came home last night to a lobster and a lobster exoskeleton. Rocky decided his shell needed to be replaced so I fished an entire lobster skeleton (minus one claw which I will get to) out of the tank. Now Rocky is cranky and hungry. So to the claw. It was still in the tank and tonight he decided that was his snack. He looks a bit odd with two claws and one in his mouth. I have since heard they back out of their tail when they shed. I still have the skeleton so I am going to need to look. For those who think we are weird, we are. Sidney loves oysters and calamari and we are both fascinated by anatomy.
Sidney and I had a quick dinner because we had pictures at church. It was for the directory but we also ordered some pictures. Kirk and Sidney have some pictures from several years ago when I was traveling. I tried to match them but if she and I.
Kirk moved to room 663 which is just two rooms past where he was and closer to the nurses station. I also would like to offer a suggestion for visitors. Please try to avoid asking him questions. He gets about a thousand questions per day. I would suggest to introduce yourself and tell Kirk how you know him. Then just talk to him and listen to him. Mostly his words don't fit context but you might get a jem. Sometimes he actually makes a joke. And give him time to just be with you. And thank you for continuing to support him during this confusing time for him. Please also sgn the blue guest book so we can look back later and read your thoughts.
I came home last night to a lobster and a lobster exoskeleton. Rocky decided his shell needed to be replaced so I fished an entire lobster skeleton (minus one claw which I will get to) out of the tank. Now Rocky is cranky and hungry. So to the claw. It was still in the tank and tonight he decided that was his snack. He looks a bit odd with two claws and one in his mouth. I have since heard they back out of their tail when they shed. I still have the skeleton so I am going to need to look. For those who think we are weird, we are. Sidney loves oysters and calamari and we are both fascinated by anatomy.
Sidney and I had a quick dinner because we had pictures at church. It was for the directory but we also ordered some pictures. Kirk and Sidney have some pictures from several years ago when I was traveling. I tried to match them but if she and I.
Kirk moved to room 663 which is just two rooms past where he was and closer to the nurses station. I also would like to offer a suggestion for visitors. Please try to avoid asking him questions. He gets about a thousand questions per day. I would suggest to introduce yourself and tell Kirk how you know him. Then just talk to him and listen to him. Mostly his words don't fit context but you might get a jem. Sometimes he actually makes a joke. And give him time to just be with you. And thank you for continuing to support him during this confusing time for him. Please also sgn the blue guest book so we can look back later and read your thoughts.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
October 21
Kirk's morning starts with occupational therapy at 8:30. OT will focus on life skills like shaving and physical care to start with. This morning he got his first shower in seven weeks. That has to have felt good. I didn't have his clothes there in time so he us still wearing hospital garb.
He went to speech therapy at 10 am and physical therapy at 1 pm. His medications are getting changed around a bit also. He is off coma cocktail and on a Ritalin and serotonin combination. That has shown to work well with sleep/wake cycles and attention in brain injury patients.
He is also back on an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection. He has a pretty severe one and that can be contributing to his lethargy and pallor as well as nausea. Hopefully he can kick that quickly. He had a CAT last night and that shows that the traumatic injury to his brain is stable.
I forgot to put a few things in the blog yesterday. The first thing was our "argument". I went to see him yesterday morning and told him he was moving today. He said no tomorrow and would not let it go. We went back and forth several times. I won, he moved.
I also met his occupational therapist yesterday and she told me traumatic brain injury patients were her favorite. I liked that right away. I will be working to arrange my schedule to spend enough time with him along with work and Sidney.
Sidney had evening activities every day this week. Visiting hours are 4 to 8 pm. I would encourage any one who wants to stop by to please do so. He is to the point where he needs the stimulation. His room is private and comfortable. If you come to the hospital, look for the C elevators. They are in an older part if the hospital. Go to the 6th floor and ring the bell. Kirk's room is down the left hallway on the left side.
I also went over to the VA today to try to enroll Kirk for benefits. In never dawned on me that he was eligible for benefits until I talked to a neighbor this weekend. I didn't have enough paper work so I will try again tomorrow. VA benefits could have a large positive impact on our future including a good place for Kirk to go before coming home to continue rehab therapy and after he comes home.
He went to speech therapy at 10 am and physical therapy at 1 pm. His medications are getting changed around a bit also. He is off coma cocktail and on a Ritalin and serotonin combination. That has shown to work well with sleep/wake cycles and attention in brain injury patients.
He is also back on an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection. He has a pretty severe one and that can be contributing to his lethargy and pallor as well as nausea. Hopefully he can kick that quickly. He had a CAT last night and that shows that the traumatic injury to his brain is stable.
I forgot to put a few things in the blog yesterday. The first thing was our "argument". I went to see him yesterday morning and told him he was moving today. He said no tomorrow and would not let it go. We went back and forth several times. I won, he moved.
I also met his occupational therapist yesterday and she told me traumatic brain injury patients were her favorite. I liked that right away. I will be working to arrange my schedule to spend enough time with him along with work and Sidney.
Sidney had evening activities every day this week. Visiting hours are 4 to 8 pm. I would encourage any one who wants to stop by to please do so. He is to the point where he needs the stimulation. His room is private and comfortable. If you come to the hospital, look for the C elevators. They are in an older part if the hospital. Go to the 6th floor and ring the bell. Kirk's room is down the left hallway on the left side.
I also went over to the VA today to try to enroll Kirk for benefits. In never dawned on me that he was eligible for benefits until I talked to a neighbor this weekend. I didn't have enough paper work so I will try again tomorrow. VA benefits could have a large positive impact on our future including a good place for Kirk to go before coming home to continue rehab therapy and after he comes home.
Monday, October 20, 2014
October 20
Well we like to make moves on Mondays. Today is the start of week eight and we made the next big move. Kirk is now residing at Reeves rehab facility back over at University Hospital. The address is 4502 Medical Center Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, room 665. I am so happy he is there. He got over there at about 12:30 this afternoon. He was getting checked over by everyone to decide his treatment plan. And from now on clothes during the day. So I got his new shorts washed and matched up (in theory, I'm no good without him) with some t-shirts.
I will take some pictures and cards along with his clothes to get his room ship shape and homey tomorrow. We keep moving in the right direction and with a steady pace but it is slowly and cautiously. I have to make far more decisions now than when we were in ICU. I need all the help and guidance I can get in making the best decisions.
Thank you for hanging on with us. Thank you for loving us, praying for us, feeding us, and sometimes even crying with us. We are held fast by your support.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
October 19
Our morning started with a visit to Kirk. For a morning he was pretty awake. Then we were off to church before trying to rush back to Kirk while he was outside so Sidney could see him face to face. He had gotten dressed, with a lot of help of course, and been put in the chair and taken outside. It was the first time he had been outside since the accident.
Unfortunately we didn't make it in time to see him outside. It seems moving around makes him nauseated. So he had to come in but not before the staff helped him get a flower for Sidney and I. They did let Sidney come back to his room for a few minutes. Afterwards I fed him two bites of pudding which I am not sure he liked and several small ice cubes. He did well with those but isn't that interested in them. He even used a napkin to dab his chin.
Then we headed to a recital that Sidney was in. It was a Halloween recital so she could wear her costume. She was a falcon last year and I made her costume then. She wore it again this year but was an owl. I crammed finishing the mask into last night.
She did a beautiful job with her piece. As part of the recital there was a costume contest. Three places were given and when I saw who was third I thought there was no chance she would place. Third place went to a girl who had a Mine Craft Dragon costume. It was super creative. Then they announced second place which was a store bought costume. So we were floored when the "little owl" was announced as first place.
Our friends joined us for the recital so afterwards we stopped and got ice cream. Afterwards Sidney and I ran errands and ate dinner. After dinner we went out and cleaned the table and chair in the entry. They look great and Sidney really helped. Then the mom torture began. First the hula hoop. I am proud to say that after many tries I discovered I can still hula hoop. The jump rope came next. I can manage that in flip flops. Finally bubbles. I can blow a twin bubble.
Between all of this I am training Stormy. This involves patience on my part, hunger on her part and a lot of dog slobber. She is getting most of her calories from my hands (and she is so neat about it of course).
Kirk is still set to move tomorrow. I am nervous and excited. He will have to work hard and fast. I really hope he is up for it. I so want him back. He and Sidney together make my life complete. We have said so many times that we don't care where we are as long as we are together. That is what makes our home.
Here is a picture of Sidney in her costume. No owl is complete without a mouse in its mouth. Thank Shandy for letting us borrow a mouse.
Unfortunately we didn't make it in time to see him outside. It seems moving around makes him nauseated. So he had to come in but not before the staff helped him get a flower for Sidney and I. They did let Sidney come back to his room for a few minutes. Afterwards I fed him two bites of pudding which I am not sure he liked and several small ice cubes. He did well with those but isn't that interested in them. He even used a napkin to dab his chin.
Then we headed to a recital that Sidney was in. It was a Halloween recital so she could wear her costume. She was a falcon last year and I made her costume then. She wore it again this year but was an owl. I crammed finishing the mask into last night.
She did a beautiful job with her piece. As part of the recital there was a costume contest. Three places were given and when I saw who was third I thought there was no chance she would place. Third place went to a girl who had a Mine Craft Dragon costume. It was super creative. Then they announced second place which was a store bought costume. So we were floored when the "little owl" was announced as first place.
Our friends joined us for the recital so afterwards we stopped and got ice cream. Afterwards Sidney and I ran errands and ate dinner. After dinner we went out and cleaned the table and chair in the entry. They look great and Sidney really helped. Then the mom torture began. First the hula hoop. I am proud to say that after many tries I discovered I can still hula hoop. The jump rope came next. I can manage that in flip flops. Finally bubbles. I can blow a twin bubble.
Between all of this I am training Stormy. This involves patience on my part, hunger on her part and a lot of dog slobber. She is getting most of her calories from my hands (and she is so neat about it of course).
Kirk is still set to move tomorrow. I am nervous and excited. He will have to work hard and fast. I really hope he is up for it. I so want him back. He and Sidney together make my life complete. We have said so many times that we don't care where we are as long as we are together. That is what makes our home.
Here is a picture of Sidney in her costume. No owl is complete without a mouse in its mouth. Thank Shandy for letting us borrow a mouse.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
October 18
I am sorry I didn't put up a blog post yesterday. It was a super long day and I was really tired. Kirk didn't have a great day. He did get up and dressed but he just wasn't himself (his new self that is). He was very tired and seemed like he just didn't feel well. He threw up in the middle of the day during physical therapy and was just asleep after that.
My morning started at 4 am when Sidney came in my room with a bad dream. She hung out there until I got up. Right after I got out of the shower Stormy started throwing up. She got the carpet in two rooms, tile in two rooms and a wall. After getting all that cleaned up it was off to work and through a busy day.
A friend joined us for dinner and then we were off to Wizard of Oz at the theater. Kirk and Sidney won tickets some time ago in a costume contest at the movie. I had nearly forgotten about the tickets because there were only two tickets and I always expected they would go together. I really do feel guilty whenever we are doing something that keeps our life moving, like the play or a dinner out. I think it is all part of trying to figure out where I should be.
The play was super cute. They had a little dog playing Toto. He got to eat a hot dog part way through and he had some funny moments. The Good Witch was holding him once and he was sliding down her satin dress. It was really fun but we didn't get home until after 11 pm.
We went to see Kirk several times today but he was sleepy every time. I hope this is just storing up energy until he starts working hard on Monday. Sidney and I got the usual weekend chores done today around visiting Kirk including the fish tank.
We had a visit from a dog trainer in the afternoon to get some help making sure Stormy is ready for whatever the next step is. Stormy is a really sweet dog with a few bad habits, jumping mostly, and some leash difficulties. But we want her ready to meet strangers and deal with Kirk when the time comes. Plus we want to fully enjoy our life with her.
We met a friend from Catlettsburg Kentucky for dinner. He is in town for a meeting and I haven't seen him since we left Ohio to move to Norway. It was really nice to meet him for dinner at a Japanese steak house. It was a treat for everyone especially Sidney and I. And we have enough left overs for three meals. No one at the table liked shrimp so we got everyone.
LifeCare called while we were on our way to dinner to tell me that Kirk moved to room 304. Notice there is no "ICU" in front of those numbers. I hope I never have to go to an ICU again except to say thank you to the fabulous staff at University Hospital. It is a private room and I think Kirk might be a night owl right now. He was awake and talking tonight but has been asleep all day. We are on for our move to Reeves, the rehab facility, on Monday.
My morning started at 4 am when Sidney came in my room with a bad dream. She hung out there until I got up. Right after I got out of the shower Stormy started throwing up. She got the carpet in two rooms, tile in two rooms and a wall. After getting all that cleaned up it was off to work and through a busy day.
A friend joined us for dinner and then we were off to Wizard of Oz at the theater. Kirk and Sidney won tickets some time ago in a costume contest at the movie. I had nearly forgotten about the tickets because there were only two tickets and I always expected they would go together. I really do feel guilty whenever we are doing something that keeps our life moving, like the play or a dinner out. I think it is all part of trying to figure out where I should be.
The play was super cute. They had a little dog playing Toto. He got to eat a hot dog part way through and he had some funny moments. The Good Witch was holding him once and he was sliding down her satin dress. It was really fun but we didn't get home until after 11 pm.
We went to see Kirk several times today but he was sleepy every time. I hope this is just storing up energy until he starts working hard on Monday. Sidney and I got the usual weekend chores done today around visiting Kirk including the fish tank.
We had a visit from a dog trainer in the afternoon to get some help making sure Stormy is ready for whatever the next step is. Stormy is a really sweet dog with a few bad habits, jumping mostly, and some leash difficulties. But we want her ready to meet strangers and deal with Kirk when the time comes. Plus we want to fully enjoy our life with her.
We met a friend from Catlettsburg Kentucky for dinner. He is in town for a meeting and I haven't seen him since we left Ohio to move to Norway. It was really nice to meet him for dinner at a Japanese steak house. It was a treat for everyone especially Sidney and I. And we have enough left overs for three meals. No one at the table liked shrimp so we got everyone.
LifeCare called while we were on our way to dinner to tell me that Kirk moved to room 304. Notice there is no "ICU" in front of those numbers. I hope I never have to go to an ICU again except to say thank you to the fabulous staff at University Hospital. It is a private room and I think Kirk might be a night owl right now. He was awake and talking tonight but has been asleep all day. We are on for our move to Reeves, the rehab facility, on Monday.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
October 16
This is going to be a really short update. Kirk had a good day. He brushed his teeth, buttoned his shirt (yes he wore a shirt and shorts for part of the day) and put on his tennis shoes. He responded more correctly to verbal communication and tossed a ball.
He won't move until Monday. This is to get him the longest possible start by going for a weeks worth of therapy during his start versus part of Saturday and nothing Sunday. I really am anxious to get to Reeves and get started on harder work.
I had a really rough day which I will say more about on another day. But I truly need God's peace and patience now as I begin to try to grasp what the long term affect of this accident will be on our family. Please pray for me to sleep when I need it so I can be strong when I need to be.
He won't move until Monday. This is to get him the longest possible start by going for a weeks worth of therapy during his start versus part of Saturday and nothing Sunday. I really am anxious to get to Reeves and get started on harder work.
I had a really rough day which I will say more about on another day. But I truly need God's peace and patience now as I begin to try to grasp what the long term affect of this accident will be on our family. Please pray for me to sleep when I need it so I can be strong when I need to be.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
October 15
Kirk had a really great day. He asked for shoes and socks. He shaved with minimal help and he stood three times. And he stood in order to move from the bed to the chair and back. He is still mixed up during conversation for the most part but he is able stay with you for a second or two. He didn't answer when he was asked his wife and daughters names while I was there but as soon as I left he told the therapists Kimber and Sidney over and over. He just really had a good day.
I checked out the rehab place I want him to go to and he should be all set to go as soon as word is given. I suspect it will be this week. He is medically ready and needs more physical and mental stimulation. He will head back over to Reeves at University Hospital. He will receive more than three hours of therapy a day. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and counseling. He will get up and get dressed each morning and when he can eat, will have to go to the dining room for his meals.
The liaison there said he would likely be there only three weeks. I have a hard time imagining that but have realized I better get on the ball getting our lives and house ready for him to come home. I may be a doubter but I would not allow my self to believe until today that he might actually come home. We still have huge hurdles to go over and many of them but maybe it is possible. And we will likely need to make several adjustments along the way.
Sidney and I will be able to spend different time with him at Reeves. She can see him whenever she wants and even participate with his therapies. I think that will be good for both of them. He will work hard during the day and we can spend evenings with him. Obviously we can't be there every evening but we will get as many as we can. We can also spend more time on the weekends.
I am working on Sidney's Halloween mask to go with her costume. I am working on an owl mask. It needs to be ready by Sunday for her piano recital and costume contest.
Sidney is doing OK. Her teeth really hurt from the braces. And her cheeks are sore. She isn't terribly interested in eating except maybe ice cream and soup. I really hope it gets better soon.
Thank you again for your prayers, thoughts, support and love. We wouldn't make it without you.
I checked out the rehab place I want him to go to and he should be all set to go as soon as word is given. I suspect it will be this week. He is medically ready and needs more physical and mental stimulation. He will head back over to Reeves at University Hospital. He will receive more than three hours of therapy a day. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and counseling. He will get up and get dressed each morning and when he can eat, will have to go to the dining room for his meals.
The liaison there said he would likely be there only three weeks. I have a hard time imagining that but have realized I better get on the ball getting our lives and house ready for him to come home. I may be a doubter but I would not allow my self to believe until today that he might actually come home. We still have huge hurdles to go over and many of them but maybe it is possible. And we will likely need to make several adjustments along the way.
Sidney and I will be able to spend different time with him at Reeves. She can see him whenever she wants and even participate with his therapies. I think that will be good for both of them. He will work hard during the day and we can spend evenings with him. Obviously we can't be there every evening but we will get as many as we can. We can also spend more time on the weekends.
I am working on Sidney's Halloween mask to go with her costume. I am working on an owl mask. It needs to be ready by Sunday for her piano recital and costume contest.
Sidney is doing OK. Her teeth really hurt from the braces. And her cheeks are sore. She isn't terribly interested in eating except maybe ice cream and soup. I really hope it gets better soon.
Thank you again for your prayers, thoughts, support and love. We wouldn't make it without you.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
October 14
Kirk had a pretty good day. He was awake every time I went to visit him and he had a few extra visitors today. I ran him through the animal paces. I tried to get the names of our pets out of him but got nowhere. So I tried various what does the xxx animal say. He did good on dog, cat, and cow. A fish goes meow and a duck goes tweet.
He did the tilt table and got to 50 degrees so he is over half way to standing on the tilt table. I am not sure I have described a tilt table before. It is a flat padded board basically that he is moved to from the bed. He is strapped to it and the angle if the whole table can be changed a few degrees at a time from completely horizontal to vertical. Success will be when he can tolerate 10 minutes at 80 degrees meaning he is just shy of completely vertical.
A co-worker of Kirk's came by to visit and Kirk responded really well to her. But some of the best moments of the day happened when our church Pastor from Katy, Dean, and his wife, Tricia, stopped by on their way to Kerville. Dean stayed with me and Kirk starting the night of the accident and for several days after. Tricia has stopped in for a couple of visits. Both have only seen Kirk at the lowest moments. So today was a real treat and I think because Kirk knows them well he turned up the charm. He gave me a kiss and then I wanted another before I left. Instead he gave me a hug and said he was only going to kiss him, meaning Dean. And then he gave a huge grin and was very satisfied with his joke. He will not remember their visit but it lifted his spirits all the same. And the moment of sassy lifted mine.
Sidney got her braces today. The whole thing took less than 30 minutes. The brackets are as big as her teeth but they are lovely little star shaped brackets. She has only four that are in front and one in each side in the back. She has four band colors, dark blue, light blue, purple and green. She is uncomfortable tonight. Sore teeth and sore cheeks and inside of mouth. I have a picture below of her getting them on.
I aging to visit a couple of rehab facilities tomorrow. I need to get on the ball because I really hope Kirk moves this week.
Have I yet mentioned I am double capital B blessed by Sidney. Without knowing it she is my rock. Her mouth hurts and her eyes are still a little sensitive and yet she both loves me and lights up my world. She is a blast of sunshine, love and purity that can zap you out of a rut in an instant. She is beautiful and kind and full of life. She has hugged me, rubbed my back and held my hand. What a blessed treasure.
He did the tilt table and got to 50 degrees so he is over half way to standing on the tilt table. I am not sure I have described a tilt table before. It is a flat padded board basically that he is moved to from the bed. He is strapped to it and the angle if the whole table can be changed a few degrees at a time from completely horizontal to vertical. Success will be when he can tolerate 10 minutes at 80 degrees meaning he is just shy of completely vertical.
A co-worker of Kirk's came by to visit and Kirk responded really well to her. But some of the best moments of the day happened when our church Pastor from Katy, Dean, and his wife, Tricia, stopped by on their way to Kerville. Dean stayed with me and Kirk starting the night of the accident and for several days after. Tricia has stopped in for a couple of visits. Both have only seen Kirk at the lowest moments. So today was a real treat and I think because Kirk knows them well he turned up the charm. He gave me a kiss and then I wanted another before I left. Instead he gave me a hug and said he was only going to kiss him, meaning Dean. And then he gave a huge grin and was very satisfied with his joke. He will not remember their visit but it lifted his spirits all the same. And the moment of sassy lifted mine.
Sidney got her braces today. The whole thing took less than 30 minutes. The brackets are as big as her teeth but they are lovely little star shaped brackets. She has only four that are in front and one in each side in the back. She has four band colors, dark blue, light blue, purple and green. She is uncomfortable tonight. Sore teeth and sore cheeks and inside of mouth. I have a picture below of her getting them on.
I aging to visit a couple of rehab facilities tomorrow. I need to get on the ball because I really hope Kirk moves this week.
Have I yet mentioned I am double capital B blessed by Sidney. Without knowing it she is my rock. Her mouth hurts and her eyes are still a little sensitive and yet she both loves me and lights up my world. She is a blast of sunshine, love and purity that can zap you out of a rut in an instant. She is beautiful and kind and full of life. She has hugged me, rubbed my back and held my hand. What a blessed treasure.
Monday, October 13, 2014
October 13
Sorry for the delayed post. It has been a day of go followed by go. Kirk is doing OK today. He did the arm bike for about 5 minutes and the leg bike for 5 minutes. He got nauseated on the leg bike probably from just being up while doing. He also started shrugging his shoulders and raising his eyebrows today. A friend came by and Kirk shook the friends hand.
I am ready to get Kirk moving to the next step in his recovery. I am going to get hold of insurance tomorrow to start looking at facilities. I think he is ready to start working more.
Sidney had her post-op appointment for her eyes. Everything is looking fine. The correction seems good and her incisions are healing nicely. We have only two more days of antibiotics in her eyes and next week she can swim in her class next Thursday.
We got a few things done around the house in the evening. Sidney is getting much more helpful. It's really nice. She creates her own deserts when she feels the need for a sweet. Tonight is a sugarcone crushed and mixed with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows and then microwaved for a few seconds to a gooey s'mores Nacho mess.
Sidney has her orthodontist appointment tomorrow to get her braces. I will get a picture onto the blog as soon as I can.
Kirk and I both need peace in different ways. He needs the peace of patience with his situation and I need the peace of endurance. We are both so blessed to have Sidney's simple love. She loves me when I have a rough day, she loves Kirk with every ounce of her being no matter what he looks like or can do.
I am ready to get Kirk moving to the next step in his recovery. I am going to get hold of insurance tomorrow to start looking at facilities. I think he is ready to start working more.
Sidney had her post-op appointment for her eyes. Everything is looking fine. The correction seems good and her incisions are healing nicely. We have only two more days of antibiotics in her eyes and next week she can swim in her class next Thursday.
We got a few things done around the house in the evening. Sidney is getting much more helpful. It's really nice. She creates her own deserts when she feels the need for a sweet. Tonight is a sugarcone crushed and mixed with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows and then microwaved for a few seconds to a gooey s'mores Nacho mess.
Sidney has her orthodontist appointment tomorrow to get her braces. I will get a picture onto the blog as soon as I can.
Kirk and I both need peace in different ways. He needs the peace of patience with his situation and I need the peace of endurance. We are both so blessed to have Sidney's simple love. She loves me when I have a rough day, she loves Kirk with every ounce of her being no matter what he looks like or can do.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
October 12
Kirk has just been hanging out today. He sat up for a while and promptly fell asleep. Maybe it's my company. Ha. I was singing to him earlier and he told me I needed to stop.
I went to church this morning and Sidney is with her girl friend from Katy. Tomorrow is a school holiday so she will be with them until mid-day tomorrow. She also has her post operative follow up with her eye doctor tomorrow. What she will want to hear is that she can swim, but I don't think it will happen this week.
Sidney's friend brought a beautiful card full of love from the Girls Scouts. Kirk was a troop leader for three years and the girls truly love him. I have included a picture of the card.
Tomorrow starts week seven of our journey. We will see what a new week will bring. Maybe it will bring being able to stand!! That would be fabulous.
I went to church this morning and Sidney is with her girl friend from Katy. Tomorrow is a school holiday so she will be with them until mid-day tomorrow. She also has her post operative follow up with her eye doctor tomorrow. What she will want to hear is that she can swim, but I don't think it will happen this week.Sidney's friend brought a beautiful card full of love from the Girls Scouts. Kirk was a troop leader for three years and the girls truly love him. I have included a picture of the card.
Tomorrow starts week seven of our journey. We will see what a new week will bring. Maybe it will bring being able to stand!! That would be fabulous.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
October 11
Sidney talked to Kirk twice today on FaceTime. He did pretty good both times. He said "hi baby" and "I love you" both times. The second time they talked, she showed him how to touch his tongue to his nose. He could do it and we were both thrilled. So silly but happy and our happiness worked into his fog. The heparin is off which is the last IV medication. Everything else can be taken orally. We will keep his central line at least until he moves to rehab.
So he talks a lot now. Almost all of the time I am there. He says complete sentences and long words but the thoughts have nothing to do with what is going on. He does occasionally match his words in odd ways to what is happening. For example the nurse was giving him his medications this evening and he said that you take medicine once daily or twice daily.
He hates the things that are attached to him. He doesn't like EKG leads, blood pressure cuffs, and the oxygen sensor on his finger. But the oxygen sensor detached at the connection today and he really tried to reconnect it. He knew how to attach it and got really close to success before getting frustrated.
We went to the store and got gas as well as stopping to get pumpkins this afternoon. And I made dinner again. I made salmon with dill and cucumber sauce, stuffed mushrooms, and edammame . It was fabulous.
Sidney has her girl friend from Katy for a couple of days. Her eyes are recovering although she complains about not being able to swim. She also got carried off by mosquitoes last night and has at least 20 bites. Some are really welted. Poor baby.
Friday, October 10, 2014
October 10
Today was a fairly quiet day for Kirk. He did do the tilt table again and was able to get to 40 degrees. He needs to be able to get to 80 degrees before we can work on standing. He did get a bit agitated though as it does feel very strange and it is stressful to his legs which haven't born weight in 6 weeks. He will get the weekend off from the tilt table but will sit in the chair some. He does talk a lot more when he gets agitated. Unfortunately a lot of it doesn't make sense. I can definitely see the scramble and confusion in his head.
The doctors and I have started discussing his next stop. It is at least a week away but he inches closer each day. He is almost medically stable enough to go to real rehab. We would like to get him able to take the tilt table and maybe stand on a standing table first. But because he is healthy he will get to these "easily". Easily is in doctor and therapist terms, probably not Kirk's.
Sidney got to see him today also. There is a story by Sidney which I just posted in quote of the day. It is really funny.
We have reached another Friday. Each day of the weeks seems so long but when I get to the end of a week I am not sure where it went.
There have been some real blessing this week. Things that made tears of happiness instead of sadness. Monday started off with me being able to sneak into Kirk's bed to lay beside him for a few peaceful minutes. I shared a great meal with my entire team at work o Monday also. Meals and the time associated with them are so valuable and it was nice to be sharing one with my entire team. I got to lay in bed with Sidney while she was waking up from her surgery and rub her face and hair and give her kisses on Wednesday. And the week has ended with meals with our adopted family, laughing and joking around the table and sharing the best things in our day. I hold all of these things in my heart as a treasure.
The doctors and I have started discussing his next stop. It is at least a week away but he inches closer each day. He is almost medically stable enough to go to real rehab. We would like to get him able to take the tilt table and maybe stand on a standing table first. But because he is healthy he will get to these "easily". Easily is in doctor and therapist terms, probably not Kirk's.
Sidney got to see him today also. There is a story by Sidney which I just posted in quote of the day. It is really funny.
We have reached another Friday. Each day of the weeks seems so long but when I get to the end of a week I am not sure where it went.
There have been some real blessing this week. Things that made tears of happiness instead of sadness. Monday started off with me being able to sneak into Kirk's bed to lay beside him for a few peaceful minutes. I shared a great meal with my entire team at work o Monday also. Meals and the time associated with them are so valuable and it was nice to be sharing one with my entire team. I got to lay in bed with Sidney while she was waking up from her surgery and rub her face and hair and give her kisses on Wednesday. And the week has ended with meals with our adopted family, laughing and joking around the table and sharing the best things in our day. I hold all of these things in my heart as a treasure.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
October 9
Kirk gets stronger and talks more every day. He is still not happy and frequently mixes up words. His voice isn't strong so it is hard to hear him. They are still getting him into the chair and need to get more work done on the tilt table so he can start to work on standing and walking. Coming off some of the medications may help as well.
The good news of the day though is the trach is gone!! Hip Hip Horray! He should also be off the heparin soon freeing him from another annoying tube.
In a few more days he will move to a regular room. This will give him more privacy (assuming it is a private room) as well as the ability to get a doctors note to go outside. That means he can see Sidney with no window in between.
So I have been asked about Sidney's surgery yesterday. She had limited control of her eye movement side to side, primarily in her left eye but also to some degree in her right eye. So she would use one eye to see and the other would exit the conversation. This makes her have limited depth perception. So her surgery yesterday was to address that.
The doctor made a small incision on the inside of each bottom eye lid so he could access the muscles that attach to the eye. He cut the outside muscle from the eyeball and reattached it at a different location making it easier for her to control the outward drift. He left eye needed more adjustment and today it is a little redder and more sore.
She is doing fine. She was dizzy from the anesthesia but is good today. She is still taking Tylenol but she says they hurt less today. She slept good last night and is hanging out with friends today and tomorrow. Monday is a school holiday so she has good recovery time before she goes back to school. Tuesday will be braces day.
Thank you again for your continued support. We sure couldn't do this alone.
The good news of the day though is the trach is gone!! Hip Hip Horray! He should also be off the heparin soon freeing him from another annoying tube.
In a few more days he will move to a regular room. This will give him more privacy (assuming it is a private room) as well as the ability to get a doctors note to go outside. That means he can see Sidney with no window in between.
So I have been asked about Sidney's surgery yesterday. She had limited control of her eye movement side to side, primarily in her left eye but also to some degree in her right eye. So she would use one eye to see and the other would exit the conversation. This makes her have limited depth perception. So her surgery yesterday was to address that.
The doctor made a small incision on the inside of each bottom eye lid so he could access the muscles that attach to the eye. He cut the outside muscle from the eyeball and reattached it at a different location making it easier for her to control the outward drift. He left eye needed more adjustment and today it is a little redder and more sore.
She is doing fine. She was dizzy from the anesthesia but is good today. She is still taking Tylenol but she says they hurt less today. She slept good last night and is hanging out with friends today and tomorrow. Monday is a school holiday so she has good recovery time before she goes back to school. Tuesday will be braces day.
Thank you again for your continued support. We sure couldn't do this alone.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
October 8
Kirk made it obvious that he isn't happy this morning. He is starting to talk but only when he wants and to who he wants. He told me plain as day he wanted out of the hospital. He told his friend he is embarrassed by being cared for. I am going to take joke books tomorrow and start torturing him. We have adjusted some of his meds to get him less antsy. The trach is still capped. I hope we can say goodbye to it tomorrow.
He sat in the chair a while today and had a good visit with a friend. I needed extra help today as Sidney had her eye surgery. She went in at 1:30 pm and was done by 2:30. It took her over an hour to wake up and is doing fine. She is still a little dizzy and isn't at all interested in opening her eyes. She should be in better shape tomorrow. She is eating though. Making up for a lost day of food.
We will be with friends the next couple of days so I can have extra help with Sidney. It's really great to have a place to go.
We have made it over some super high hurdles, the brain swelling, the high ICP, the drugs, the vent and soon the trach. The next set of hurdles are nearly as hard. Physical coordination and communication. And Kirk still needs peace and patience and good, strong support.
He sat in the chair a while today and had a good visit with a friend. I needed extra help today as Sidney had her eye surgery. She went in at 1:30 pm and was done by 2:30. It took her over an hour to wake up and is doing fine. She is still a little dizzy and isn't at all interested in opening her eyes. She should be in better shape tomorrow. She is eating though. Making up for a lost day of food.
We will be with friends the next couple of days so I can have extra help with Sidney. It's really great to have a place to go.
We have made it over some super high hurdles, the brain swelling, the high ICP, the drugs, the vent and soon the trach. The next set of hurdles are nearly as hard. Physical coordination and communication. And Kirk still needs peace and patience and good, strong support.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
October 7
Sorry these posts get later in the day. I am trying to cram way to much into a day. Kirk was asleep most of the times I visited today so I didn't disturb him. He still has the trach but it is still capped. Hopefully a few more days and it will be gone. He also did a tilt table today which is a step to getting him standing. It is a chance to get his legs straight with some weight as well as to see how his pulse and blood pressure react to him starting to be upright. He is strapped flat to a table and then tilted up 10 degrees at a time. Slowly we will work to 90 degrees as he can tolerate.
I had a flu shot today. Sidney went to the orthodontist to get fitted for her braces. The braces are so much easier than when I had them. They do a mold of her mouth and fit the brackets and wire to the mold. Slide it in with light activated glue and all brackets with wire are on in minutes. That will happen next Tuesday. She did get a tooth pulled today. She was told if she didn't get it out b today it would be pulled. She has another that is loose and needs to come out. I think she will work harder for that one.
She has her eye surgery tomorrow. It's a really simple procedure but needs to get done. I think the worst part will be not being able to eat tomorrow morning. I have filled her up with brownies and ice cream. We are going to stop and see Kirk tomorrow before we go to her surgery. She had a great idea to face time him from the lobby since she can't come back to see him. Maybe she can get him talking.
I had a flu shot today. Sidney went to the orthodontist to get fitted for her braces. The braces are so much easier than when I had them. They do a mold of her mouth and fit the brackets and wire to the mold. Slide it in with light activated glue and all brackets with wire are on in minutes. That will happen next Tuesday. She did get a tooth pulled today. She was told if she didn't get it out b today it would be pulled. She has another that is loose and needs to come out. I think she will work harder for that one.
She has her eye surgery tomorrow. It's a really simple procedure but needs to get done. I think the worst part will be not being able to eat tomorrow morning. I have filled her up with brownies and ice cream. We are going to stop and see Kirk tomorrow before we go to her surgery. She had a great idea to face time him from the lobby since she can't come back to see him. Maybe she can get him talking.
Monday, October 6, 2014
October 6
Today was a fairly quite day for Kirk. A friend stayed with him all day so he had a lot of attention in a caring (sometimes calming and sometimes pushing) way. I got a hug with a pat on my back also. It felt so nice to have an arm around me.
Kirk is still restless and frustrated. He isn't trying to talk much yet. I think he still confused. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly where he is but there are glimpses of good old Kirk but there is a lot ornery Kirk right now. It us just difficult to figure out where he is but that should get better with time and attention.
Kirk is completely off of supplemental oxygen and as of late this afternoon his trach was capped. This means he is breathing around it all on his own. It will stay capped but in until the pulmonologist is happy that he can maintain his own airway. Hopefully this will be a day or two. He was almost immediately more comfortable with the trach capped.
I had lunch with my work team today. I haven't been with all of them since the accident. We had a lunch celebrating two of them being with Marathon for a year. I love my team and it was wonderful to share a meal with all of them today in celebration.
Oh, and Sidney got taken out by a door. She was"speed walking" through the hall to nit be late to math and someone came out the door and hit her. She has a couple of good bruises. She'll survive and probably not walk as close to the doors.
Kirk is still restless and frustrated. He isn't trying to talk much yet. I think he still confused. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly where he is but there are glimpses of good old Kirk but there is a lot ornery Kirk right now. It us just difficult to figure out where he is but that should get better with time and attention.
Kirk is completely off of supplemental oxygen and as of late this afternoon his trach was capped. This means he is breathing around it all on his own. It will stay capped but in until the pulmonologist is happy that he can maintain his own airway. Hopefully this will be a day or two. He was almost immediately more comfortable with the trach capped.
I had lunch with my work team today. I haven't been with all of them since the accident. We had a lunch celebrating two of them being with Marathon for a year. I love my team and it was wonderful to share a meal with all of them today in celebration.
Oh, and Sidney got taken out by a door. She was"speed walking" through the hall to nit be late to math and someone came out the door and hit her. She has a couple of good bruises. She'll survive and probably not walk as close to the doors.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
October 5
We went to see Kirk this morning before church. He did not use the CPAP over night, he is completely on his own breathing although still through the trach with supplemental oxygen. Respiratory tried a speaking valve this morning. They had changed his trach over night to one that does not have a cuff so air can go around the trach. A speaking valve is a one way valve that lets him breathe in the trach and back out around the trach through his nose and mouth. Because of that he can start to speak. He did not try to speak this morning. Because of the trach change and the speaking valve, he had a lot to get used to this morning.
He is still very restless. I can tell he gets stronger every day but he is all over the place in the bed. He has pulled on his trach and central line several times. I ave warned him that they will restrain his hands if he can't leave it alone. I asked him why he was pulling on everything and he said "Because I can". I think this is an indicator of his frustration.
I have had a full month to make my way through the grieving process. He is only getting started and he can't manage to do anything for himself. Because of all the moving he has done and being fully off the ventilator, I suspect he will be pushed hard in PT this week. I also suspect he will move to a standard room. He will do physical and occupational therapy this week as well speech therapy. All of these things will quickly give him independence.
It is likely that capping trials will start tomorrow for the trach. He is breathing on room air with the smallest amount of supplemental oxygen and he is very impatient about the trach. With all the moving he is doing it would be good to get that out. I am fairly certain he can control his own airway. we won't try swallowing for a while. He can manage off the nutrition provided by the feeding tube for as long as needed.
Please continue to pray for peace and internal direction for him. He is in a difficult place and try as I might I can't change it for him.
Sidney and I did attend church this morning and it was nice. I needed a battery refill and to be able to worship in a group again. We had to rescue a walking stick bug when we got home. Sidney will rescue nearly any bug and a walking stick is one of the best bugs. My guess is he got carried onto the porch by a bird. We got him onto a paper and delivered back to the trees. Hopefully he isn't injured too badly.
He is still very restless. I can tell he gets stronger every day but he is all over the place in the bed. He has pulled on his trach and central line several times. I ave warned him that they will restrain his hands if he can't leave it alone. I asked him why he was pulling on everything and he said "Because I can". I think this is an indicator of his frustration.
I have had a full month to make my way through the grieving process. He is only getting started and he can't manage to do anything for himself. Because of all the moving he has done and being fully off the ventilator, I suspect he will be pushed hard in PT this week. I also suspect he will move to a standard room. He will do physical and occupational therapy this week as well speech therapy. All of these things will quickly give him independence.
It is likely that capping trials will start tomorrow for the trach. He is breathing on room air with the smallest amount of supplemental oxygen and he is very impatient about the trach. With all the moving he is doing it would be good to get that out. I am fairly certain he can control his own airway. we won't try swallowing for a while. He can manage off the nutrition provided by the feeding tube for as long as needed.
Please continue to pray for peace and internal direction for him. He is in a difficult place and try as I might I can't change it for him.
Sidney and I did attend church this morning and it was nice. I needed a battery refill and to be able to worship in a group again. We had to rescue a walking stick bug when we got home. Sidney will rescue nearly any bug and a walking stick is one of the best bugs. My guess is he got carried onto the porch by a bird. We got him onto a paper and delivered back to the trees. Hopefully he isn't injured too badly.
Saturday, October 4, 2014
October 4
Well we took a big step forward today. Kirk was not connected to the ventilator when I arrived this morning. He was on supplemental oxygen only. He was struggling with secretions and coughing quite a lot this morning. Respiratory therapy made some adjustments mid day that helped significantly plus Kirk fully adjusted to breathing on his own. We will be connected to the CPAP at night but I suspect that won't continue for very long. I am confident we have kissed the ventilator good bye.
He is still very restless and in and out of confusion. The weekend is a break from therapy but with the amount he is moving he needs to be prepared to work on Monday. He can follow more commands (requests really, I hate commands) and high fived Sidney today.
Kirk has lost a lot of weight, a bunch of it muscle. His admit weight the day of the accident was 109 kilograms. His weight on Monday when he moved to LifeCare was 92 kilograms. I am guessing he will loose more as he starts more intensive rehab but hopefully he will gain back muscle mass.
We had some Houston friends again this weekend and I got the gas and groceries out of the way. Plus I actually made a real dinner for Sidney and me. We had breaded chicken, fresh green beans and mashed potatoes. Of course we only made a small dent in what I cooked.
Sidney and I are going to visit Kirk in the morning, go to church for the first time since the accident, and then visit him again in the afternoon tomorrow. Monday will of course bring the start of another week.
He is still very restless and in and out of confusion. The weekend is a break from therapy but with the amount he is moving he needs to be prepared to work on Monday. He can follow more commands (requests really, I hate commands) and high fived Sidney today.
Kirk has lost a lot of weight, a bunch of it muscle. His admit weight the day of the accident was 109 kilograms. His weight on Monday when he moved to LifeCare was 92 kilograms. I am guessing he will loose more as he starts more intensive rehab but hopefully he will gain back muscle mass.
We had some Houston friends again this weekend and I got the gas and groceries out of the way. Plus I actually made a real dinner for Sidney and me. We had breaded chicken, fresh green beans and mashed potatoes. Of course we only made a small dent in what I cooked.
Sidney and I are going to visit Kirk in the morning, go to church for the first time since the accident, and then visit him again in the afternoon tomorrow. Monday will of course bring the start of another week.
Friday, October 3, 2014
October 3
Today was uneventful. Kirk continue to wean off the ventilator. He also continues to be very restless. He is moving constantly which in one way is good as he builds strength but it is also exhausting. He still needs a lot if rest. When I talk to him he doesn't know why he is restless but he is. He can squeeze my hand with both of his and I am getting lots if kisses. I think he is still confused a lot though too. He is settling in to watching a bit if history channel.
The Physical Therapy person suspects some of his restlessness is from his medications. There are a few we may try to adjust or get rid of to try to ease his restlessness.
It still kills me to leave him. It just tears at my soul to have to walk away when he is awake. I think he understands but still.
This would normally be Friday night date night according to our after accident schedule. But I can't spend the night at the LTAC as long as he is in the ICU. So I am having Friday night nobody needs me night. Everyone is fed, cleaned, or being taken care of tonight by someone else. Let's see if I manage to actually sleep.
I have some extra help from Houston friends through Tuesday and I am taking advantage if that. Thank you again for your continuing support. We are blessed by you.
The Physical Therapy person suspects some of his restlessness is from his medications. There are a few we may try to adjust or get rid of to try to ease his restlessness.
It still kills me to leave him. It just tears at my soul to have to walk away when he is awake. I think he understands but still.
This would normally be Friday night date night according to our after accident schedule. But I can't spend the night at the LTAC as long as he is in the ICU. So I am having Friday night nobody needs me night. Everyone is fed, cleaned, or being taken care of tonight by someone else. Let's see if I manage to actually sleep.
I have some extra help from Houston friends through Tuesday and I am taking advantage if that. Thank you again for your continuing support. We are blessed by you.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
October 2
Kirk continued CPAP trials today and seemed to be handling it well. He sat up again today as well. He is moving his arms and legs much more frequently and bringing his arms up to his head. My goal is to get him washing his own face and brushing his own teeth. I think he is just days from being able to do that.
I am a busy lady these days. I drop Sidney off at school and head to work for a while before I go over to Kirk for the first set of visiting hours. I head back to work for a while and go for the second set of visiting hours. I then go back to work before heading to Sidney for the evening activities. We will try to sneak her in to see her dad twice per week. That has to be at the 8-9 visiting hour. I am blessed that the LTAC is only a few minutes from work.
We have had a sick fish for almost 2 months and he finally succumbed this afternoon so I got to rescue his body from the lobster. Have I ever said we live in a zoo? Dog, cat, bird, lobster and fish plus the outside birds I try to keep happy.
Kirk needs prayers of strength, endurance and patience. I think he is frustrated and discouraged and needs to be held up during this time that is both physically and emotionally demanding. He wants to do and control far more than he can right now. So please pray for God's peace to be upon him, to hold him while he is getting much needed sleep and doing the work required to move again.
We are already talking about the next step which is intensive rehab. He must be off the ventilator and able to do several hours of hard work in order to move on. We get closer every day but he certainly doesn't have the endurance yet.
I am not going to be putting up a daily blog post right now. We have passed the critical time and I will try to get one up every few days. We are at the tortoise but stable part of the journey. I hope we will eventually graduate to weekly or even back to as great things happen in our life.
Thanks for hanging in with us. We aren't at the end of the journey and continue to need support. Especially good encouraging support for Kirk.
I am a busy lady these days. I drop Sidney off at school and head to work for a while before I go over to Kirk for the first set of visiting hours. I head back to work for a while and go for the second set of visiting hours. I then go back to work before heading to Sidney for the evening activities. We will try to sneak her in to see her dad twice per week. That has to be at the 8-9 visiting hour. I am blessed that the LTAC is only a few minutes from work.
We have had a sick fish for almost 2 months and he finally succumbed this afternoon so I got to rescue his body from the lobster. Have I ever said we live in a zoo? Dog, cat, bird, lobster and fish plus the outside birds I try to keep happy.
Kirk needs prayers of strength, endurance and patience. I think he is frustrated and discouraged and needs to be held up during this time that is both physically and emotionally demanding. He wants to do and control far more than he can right now. So please pray for God's peace to be upon him, to hold him while he is getting much needed sleep and doing the work required to move again.
We are already talking about the next step which is intensive rehab. He must be off the ventilator and able to do several hours of hard work in order to move on. We get closer every day but he certainly doesn't have the endurance yet.
I am not going to be putting up a daily blog post right now. We have passed the critical time and I will try to get one up every few days. We are at the tortoise but stable part of the journey. I hope we will eventually graduate to weekly or even back to as great things happen in our life.
Thanks for hanging in with us. We aren't at the end of the journey and continue to need support. Especially good encouraging support for Kirk.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
October 1 One Month
I have could not have know where we would be today. I wasn't sure one month ago tiday that there would be we three, Kirk, Sodney and I. But we are three and working to being a strong three again. I look forward to that day with great anticipation.
Kirk sat on the edge of the bed for the first time today and he sat in a chair for three hours. This works to strengthen his diaphragm and other muscles. It will help his lungs get and stay healthy. He has lost all of his muscle tone so we will have to take baby steps. But he is trying to move all of his limbs and is starting to move his thumbs and fingers. He is also lifting his eyebrows and trying to smile.
He did start CPAP trials today to start weaning off the vent. He did CPAP for three hours and didn't need any help. He should try again tonight. I think he will be off the vent in no time. Several things can happen when he off the vent. He will move to a regular room but it will also be easier for him to see Sidney and he can even go outside. I want to sit in the sunshine and fresh air with my beloved.
My posts might slow down as we seem to be starting our steady ascents. I will of course post any significant changes, good or bad. Thank you again for your continued support.
Kirk sat on the edge of the bed for the first time today and he sat in a chair for three hours. This works to strengthen his diaphragm and other muscles. It will help his lungs get and stay healthy. He has lost all of his muscle tone so we will have to take baby steps. But he is trying to move all of his limbs and is starting to move his thumbs and fingers. He is also lifting his eyebrows and trying to smile.
He did start CPAP trials today to start weaning off the vent. He did CPAP for three hours and didn't need any help. He should try again tonight. I think he will be off the vent in no time. Several things can happen when he off the vent. He will move to a regular room but it will also be easier for him to see Sidney and he can even go outside. I want to sit in the sunshine and fresh air with my beloved.
My posts might slow down as we seem to be starting our steady ascents. I will of course post any significant changes, good or bad. Thank you again for your continued support.
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