Mrs. Doug called and said that she was able to go in and see Bro. Dale at the 6pm visitation and he was awake, alert, and able to respond by shaking his head yes and no to any of her questions. She told him that his head looked back to normal now and he nodded and smiled. He hasn't had any pain medication since 2pm and is on no oxygen. His blood pressure is a little low, but the doctors are not concerned. She's going to go back in at 9pm and see him once again and if he's doing as well then, which she expects that he will, then she plans to go on to Tina's house and spend the night. She will be there for the first visit of the morning. They hope he will be able to move to a room as early as tomorrow.
God is good all the time, and today he has certainly demonstrated his goodness to us today! Thank you, Lord for hearing us and answering our prayers!
“You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you.” Psalm 86:5
Bro. Dale Easley
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
January 31, 2012 - Surgery is complete!
They are finished with the stitching and Bro. Dale is in recovery. They will keep him there for about an hour or so before Mrs. Doug is able to go back and see him.
1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:1-3
1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:1-3
January 31, 2012 - Surgery went well!!!
Jason just called. The surgery went well!! They are still stitching a few things up, but said that the skull fit back perfectly. Once the stitches are complete he will go to recovery for about an hour and then to ICU. He will stay there overnight.
1 I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
2 My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
3 Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.
4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.
8 Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
9 Fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him lack nothing. Psalm 34:1-9
1 I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
2 My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
3 Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.
4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.
8 Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
9 Fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him lack nothing. Psalm 34:1-9
January 31, 2012 - Surgery has begun
Porkchop called saying they got him to sleep about 8:22 and they were starting the surgery. Mrs. Doug said she expects it to take about an hour and a half, with the bulk of the time being spent stitching him back up. Remember that they will have the abdomen and scalp to stitch.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91
January 31, 2012 - They just took him back for surgery
Jason just called. They just took Bro. Dale back. The surgery should last about about an hour and a half once he is put to sleep and they get started. Please pray for him, the doctors, nurses and all involved!
14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:14-16
14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:14-16
Monday, January 30, 2012
January 30, 2012
They are supposed to arrive at the hospital at 5:45 in the morning. He will be coming by ambulance. The surgery will be 2nd Floor on East Tower of Tupelo Hospital. He will be listed under Roy Easley. Mrs. Doug will be able to wait with him for a while before surgery. During the surgery, she will either be in the waiting room on the 2nd floor or the ICU waiting room, she's not sure yet. Once he's out of surgery he will go to ICU. The surgery should begin around 7:30. I will post updates once I hear that the surgery has begun and once it's finished as well.
Johanna and children are here. She's going to be able to stay all week and go home on Friday.
He's been up for most of the day. He's been able to stand up longer and support himself more, with the harness on him still. From the waist up, he's completely unsupported and able to stand straight and tall.
Speech therapist reported that she had given him a tablet and asked him to write his name and he wrote it really clearly with his left hand. Then they played tic-tac-toe and she won one and he won the next two. He really started concentrating and acted like he wasn't going to let her win again.
All reports are that they are doing whatever he's asked them to do and been really cooperative. They said that Thursday and Friday he had been a little more sleepy and acted like he might not have felt as good, but he seemed better today.
Mrs. Doug shared too that there is a lady there at the nursing facility as a patient who Mrs. Doug believes needs to hear the gospel and that God is wanting her to share with her. Mrs. Doug asked us to pray that God would give her the words to say and that her heart would be open to what the Lord can do for her. The lady has already expressed what a blessing the Easleys have been to her.
We are praying in faith for God to guide the hands of the doctors and nurses tomorrow as they do the operation, that God will see Bro. Dale through the surgery and all will be well. We are praying for peace and strength for Mrs. Doug and the family as they wait to hear and that all present will sense the presence of the Lord with them. May God receive all the glory and honor through this situation. We put our trust in Him.
I feel the need to review what Mrs. Doug claimed as their "theme verse:"
"17 Since my youth, God, you have taught me,
and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
18 Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your mighty acts to all who are to come." Psalm 71:17-18
I look forward to being able to report the marvelous deeds God is going to do tomorrow with Bro. Dale. He is our strength and shield, in whom we trust.
6 Praise be to the LORD,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.
8 The LORD is the strength of his people,
a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
9 Save your people and bless your inheritance;
be their shepherd and carry them forever." Psalm 28:6-9
Johanna and children are here. She's going to be able to stay all week and go home on Friday.
He's been up for most of the day. He's been able to stand up longer and support himself more, with the harness on him still. From the waist up, he's completely unsupported and able to stand straight and tall.
Speech therapist reported that she had given him a tablet and asked him to write his name and he wrote it really clearly with his left hand. Then they played tic-tac-toe and she won one and he won the next two. He really started concentrating and acted like he wasn't going to let her win again.
All reports are that they are doing whatever he's asked them to do and been really cooperative. They said that Thursday and Friday he had been a little more sleepy and acted like he might not have felt as good, but he seemed better today.
Mrs. Doug shared too that there is a lady there at the nursing facility as a patient who Mrs. Doug believes needs to hear the gospel and that God is wanting her to share with her. Mrs. Doug asked us to pray that God would give her the words to say and that her heart would be open to what the Lord can do for her. The lady has already expressed what a blessing the Easleys have been to her.
We are praying in faith for God to guide the hands of the doctors and nurses tomorrow as they do the operation, that God will see Bro. Dale through the surgery and all will be well. We are praying for peace and strength for Mrs. Doug and the family as they wait to hear and that all present will sense the presence of the Lord with them. May God receive all the glory and honor through this situation. We put our trust in Him.
I feel the need to review what Mrs. Doug claimed as their "theme verse:"
"17 Since my youth, God, you have taught me,
and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
18 Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your mighty acts to all who are to come." Psalm 71:17-18
I look forward to being able to report the marvelous deeds God is going to do tomorrow with Bro. Dale. He is our strength and shield, in whom we trust.
6 Praise be to the LORD,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.
8 The LORD is the strength of his people,
a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
9 Save your people and bless your inheritance;
be their shepherd and carry them forever." Psalm 28:6-9
Sunday, January 29, 2012
January 29, 2011
Hello Everyone, I'm wrtiing the blog tonight for Cheryl. She has done such a wonderful with the blog and we appreciate her dedication to it so much.
I went to see Dale today, I had not been since Tuesday and that was too long to go without seeing him. He is doing good.
I didn't get to see any of the therapist, being they don't work on weekends. I found the tablet they get him to write on with his left hand and he had written three columns of words. They were not all real clear but you could make out his name and several words. This is alot more than he has done in the last week. I was really impressed. I bragged on him and you could tell he understood what I was saying and was proud also. I was touching his right arm and he moved it and I ask him if he could feel it and he nodded that he could. I asked him if he could move his right hand yet and he shook his head no and looked disappointed. I talked to him about the fact that he would be able to move and use it again. The right hand that has been clinched into a fist most of the time since the stroke and even up until last week was much more relaxed and much more flexible.
We had alot of company today also Henry, Beverly, Lindsey & Charlie Easley. David & Sandra Doolittle. Jeremy, Allison, Jackson & Ashton Harrell. We enjoyed each of them coming.
I shaved him again today and have not cut him yet, even though he did look a little nervous when I came at him with a five blade razor. Shaving him has been a real experience for both of us. He has gotten to where he lets me know when I'm there he wants to brush his teeth.
Today I was showing him our church bulletin and was reading the insert I had written to the church on our behalf and he got real emotional. He is really becoming more aware of what has happened and is really missing everything here in Vardaman now.
We will find out Monday afternoon what time the surgery is Tues. morning. Thank you, for your prayers, love, support and words of encouragement. Pray for us next week as we face this surgery.
We love you all,
Doug & Dale
Thanks to Mrs. Doug for emailing the update. She sent it last night but I'm just getting around to posting it. I want to take a moment to say a personal note as well. Thank you to everyone that came to the women's conference and contributed to its success. It was just wonderful. And please pray for my family that is struggling with the stomach virus. Jason has a pretty rough version of it himself. I will be leading worship this morning in his place. Please pray for healing for my family and strength for me!
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21
9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Thursday, January 26, 2012
January 26, 2012
Bro. Dale has had a good week. His pre-op went well and he is ready for surgery on Tuesday. His blood pressure has been low this week, but they've gotten it into a good range today. They discontinued one of the medications on Tuesday and cut the other down yesterday. He's had a couple of really good days in therapy. He's been alert, but they are tiring him out and he's ready for a nap once he gets back to his bed. Mrs. Doug wasn't planning to go yesterday and then today the weather ended up being bad and she decided to just rest today. She's going to spend the day with him on Saturday, so she will be able to give a more detailed report on Saturday.
"20 May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21
"20 May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21
Monday, January 23, 2012
January 23, 2012
Bro. Dale got up around 10 this morning and didn't get back in bed until after 3 this afternoon, which is longer than normal. Joan called this afternoon and he got out the word "wow" but he started coughing a lot. He has to strain a lot when he doesn't have the speaking valve on, which makes him cough more. He was so glad to talk to the boys though and smiled so big the whole time he was on the phone with them. They have not had to suction him hardly at all though because he has been able to get it up on his own.
He hasn't been wanting the TV on so far, but tonight he did. They watched some Fox News. He indicated that he was having trouble seeing out of his right eye. He was adjusting his bed several times trying to see it better. He did seem like he was able to keep up with what was being said though, which is good.
Tomorrow morning they are going to be having his pre-op work done at the surgery center, but the surgery will still be next Tuesday, January 31st. They will find out what time on Monday. He will see his regular doctor early tomorrow, have pre-op mid-morning, and then get back for rehab tomorrow afternoon. So he will have a full day tomorrow. But Mrs. Doug said that he hasn't had trouble staying alert like he has before.
Say an extra prayer for Mrs. Doug for strength for the long day as well.
"Behold, this is our God;
We have waited for Him, and He will save us.
This is the Lord;
We have waited for Him;
We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." Isaiah 25:9
He hasn't been wanting the TV on so far, but tonight he did. They watched some Fox News. He indicated that he was having trouble seeing out of his right eye. He was adjusting his bed several times trying to see it better. He did seem like he was able to keep up with what was being said though, which is good.
Tomorrow morning they are going to be having his pre-op work done at the surgery center, but the surgery will still be next Tuesday, January 31st. They will find out what time on Monday. He will see his regular doctor early tomorrow, have pre-op mid-morning, and then get back for rehab tomorrow afternoon. So he will have a full day tomorrow. But Mrs. Doug said that he hasn't had trouble staying alert like he has before.
Say an extra prayer for Mrs. Doug for strength for the long day as well.
"Behold, this is our God;
We have waited for Him, and He will save us.
This is the Lord;
We have waited for Him;
We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." Isaiah 25:9
Friday, January 20, 2012
January 20, 2012
They have completely taken Bro. Dale off the oxygen now and he is doing really well with it! They've only had to suction him twice today too, so that's good too. Whitney Casey came by today in time to go in during his therapy for a little while. They had Bro. Dale standing for about 25 minutes in the harness and he's doing really well with that. They have a peg board for him to put pegs in, which helps him develop more fine motor skills and his hand-eye coordination.
He did not meet with the OT today. The speech therapist had him saying, "wow" and "good" again. At one point she was using a sponge and sticking way back in his throat to see how his gag reflex was working. She said that it was working well and he is definitely swallowing. She thinks he is ready for a swallow test. They might wait until after the surgery to do that. One of the nurses came in at one point today and asked him if he wanted his television left on and she turned expecting him to motion and instead he said, "no" very clearly. He was wearing the speaking valve at that point. He is wearing that some, but not all the time.
Mrs. Doug got her first experience with shaving him with a regular razor today. She has only been using an electric one so far. They had a good laugh at how she had shaving cream until it was nearly all over his head. He didn't let her stop shaving him until it was just like he wanted it. She said he didn't bleed to death, so she was proud of that.
Yesterday she didn't go up there, but she did call to check on him and they told her that he had a good day. He had been really busy and at one point he was kinda clammy but his blood pressure and heart rate were great. They think it's because he's up more and doing more now.
Today he also had visits from Cheryl Mallory, Tina Dye and Jonathan Crum. They had a really good visit.
Mrs. Doug said that she's getting to where she really misses having him at home and is glad to see him when she gets the chance. She suggested that she stay there tonight and just sit on the side of the bed and talk to him, but he shook his head "no." :) She said that she has been feeling a little more balanced with working and being with him, which has helped reduce some of her stress. She has been reading the cards from everyone to him. He takes the cards and studies them. She's not sure if he can read them, but she thinks he is testing to see if he can. It's as if he knows that he used to be able to read it or make it out and he is testing to see if it's improving. She talked to him again today about the upcoming surgery. She touched the part of his head where the skull is missing and told him that they were going to get it fixed. He is very conscious that it is not there. He nodded in agreement as she told him that.
"I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever;
With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 89:1
He did not meet with the OT today. The speech therapist had him saying, "wow" and "good" again. At one point she was using a sponge and sticking way back in his throat to see how his gag reflex was working. She said that it was working well and he is definitely swallowing. She thinks he is ready for a swallow test. They might wait until after the surgery to do that. One of the nurses came in at one point today and asked him if he wanted his television left on and she turned expecting him to motion and instead he said, "no" very clearly. He was wearing the speaking valve at that point. He is wearing that some, but not all the time.
Mrs. Doug got her first experience with shaving him with a regular razor today. She has only been using an electric one so far. They had a good laugh at how she had shaving cream until it was nearly all over his head. He didn't let her stop shaving him until it was just like he wanted it. She said he didn't bleed to death, so she was proud of that.
Yesterday she didn't go up there, but she did call to check on him and they told her that he had a good day. He had been really busy and at one point he was kinda clammy but his blood pressure and heart rate were great. They think it's because he's up more and doing more now.
Today he also had visits from Cheryl Mallory, Tina Dye and Jonathan Crum. They had a really good visit.
Mrs. Doug said that she's getting to where she really misses having him at home and is glad to see him when she gets the chance. She suggested that she stay there tonight and just sit on the side of the bed and talk to him, but he shook his head "no." :) She said that she has been feeling a little more balanced with working and being with him, which has helped reduce some of her stress. She has been reading the cards from everyone to him. He takes the cards and studies them. She's not sure if he can read them, but she thinks he is testing to see if he can. It's as if he knows that he used to be able to read it or make it out and he is testing to see if it's improving. She talked to him again today about the upcoming surgery. She touched the part of his head where the skull is missing and told him that they were going to get it fixed. He is very conscious that it is not there. He nodded in agreement as she told him that.
"I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever;
With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 89:1
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
January 18, 2012
Bro. Dale's appointment today with Dr. Bevering went well. The doctor was very pleased with how Bro. Dale is doing. The surgery is set for Tuesday, January 31. They won't know the time until the day before. The surgery should last 1.5-2 hours or so, with the bulk of the time being spent on just sewing up the scalp and abdomen. He will stay in ICU the first night and assuming all goes as planned, he will be moved to a regular room the next day. They hope for him to be back in Baldwyn by that weekend. The doctor doesn't believe that the surgery should set him back any at all in his recovering process. He expects him to be sore and have a headache for a few days, but beyond that, he should do fine. They will go back next week to the hospital for pre-op stuff.
Today he was able to get back to Baldwyn in the afternoon in time for some rehab. The speech therapist is able to get him to open his mouth easily. Today he said very clearly, "wow...good!" Mrs. Doug thinks he was saying that because the therapists are always telling him, "Wow, Bro. Dale, that's good!" And we know that God is good and faithful to answer our prayers for Bro. Dale to get his speaking back! That's so exciting to hear! The speech therapist also asked Bro. Dale to smile today. He's been giving her these thin lip smiles but today he gave her his best big crooked-grin smile, teeth and all!
He also had some visitors this afternoon that he was pleased to see. His cousins Patsy and James Howard Easley and Cheryl Hendrix came by and that really meant a lot to him.
"1 Praise the LORD!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
2 Who can speak of the mighty deeds of the LORD,
Or can show forth all His praise?
...48 Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,
From everlasting even to everlasting.
And let all the people say, “Amen.” Praise the LORD!" Psalm 106:1-2, 48
Today he was able to get back to Baldwyn in the afternoon in time for some rehab. The speech therapist is able to get him to open his mouth easily. Today he said very clearly, "wow...good!" Mrs. Doug thinks he was saying that because the therapists are always telling him, "Wow, Bro. Dale, that's good!" And we know that God is good and faithful to answer our prayers for Bro. Dale to get his speaking back! That's so exciting to hear! The speech therapist also asked Bro. Dale to smile today. He's been giving her these thin lip smiles but today he gave her his best big crooked-grin smile, teeth and all!
He also had some visitors this afternoon that he was pleased to see. His cousins Patsy and James Howard Easley and Cheryl Hendrix came by and that really meant a lot to him.
"1 Praise the LORD!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
2 Who can speak of the mighty deeds of the LORD,
Or can show forth all His praise?
...48 Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,
From everlasting even to everlasting.
And let all the people say, “Amen.” Praise the LORD!" Psalm 106:1-2, 48
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
January 17, 2012
Bro. Dale had a good day today. They stood him up and put him between 2 parallel bars. He was able to stand on his left leg and with an air brace on his right leg, they would pull his right leg forward and then he would take a step with his left leg while the right leg was bearing his weight. He went the length of the parallel bars three times, taking a break when he'd get to the end. When it was over, he was really tired, but he was really pleased with what he had done.
The speech therapist worked with him and he is now able to open his mouth on command. She had him do that about 10 or 12 times. He is trying to say some words as well, but they are not able to make them out yet. The respiratory therapist came in and said that he was able to take a deep breath on command now as well. These are things that he was not able to do when he came to this facility just a couple of weeks ago. The therapist said eventually all of this is going to just click with him and it will be amazing what he will be able to do.
The OT had him working with pipes again. He had several straight pieces and joints. He was able to put the pieces together and when he picked up one that didn't fit, he looked around until he got one that did. And when he was done, he was able to put them all back up in the bag. He is really comprehending a lot more now.
His blood pressure was low this morning, which makes him a little sleepy. But once he got into physical therapy, his blood pressure went up a little and he was more alert. They have taken him off another of his blood pressure medications and the only one he is on now is given only as needed.
The physical therapist had him on the mat for about 30 minutes. One of the exercises they did with him was to have him lean back as far as he could and then pull himself back up. She said that he was doing that all on his own, that she wasn't helping him do it. So he was basically doing a partial sit up. The only help she offered was if he started to lean to the side, she would get him back up.
Tomorrow he has a CAT scan and an appointment with Dr. Bevrin about replacing his skull. Mrs. Doug will call me with an update again tomorrow afternoon with what they find out from that appointment.
Sunday morning, Mrs. Doug shared with the church a brief update on Bro. Dale. One of the things she shared was a conversation that he had with Janice on Saturday. She quoted to him Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." When Janice said that, Mrs. Doug said he nearly came up off the bed he was trying so hard to speak and communicate. He was nodding in agreement. There's no doubt that God is doing some amazing things with Bro. Dale and we praise God for what He has done and what He will continue to do.
The speech therapist worked with him and he is now able to open his mouth on command. She had him do that about 10 or 12 times. He is trying to say some words as well, but they are not able to make them out yet. The respiratory therapist came in and said that he was able to take a deep breath on command now as well. These are things that he was not able to do when he came to this facility just a couple of weeks ago. The therapist said eventually all of this is going to just click with him and it will be amazing what he will be able to do.
The OT had him working with pipes again. He had several straight pieces and joints. He was able to put the pieces together and when he picked up one that didn't fit, he looked around until he got one that did. And when he was done, he was able to put them all back up in the bag. He is really comprehending a lot more now.
His blood pressure was low this morning, which makes him a little sleepy. But once he got into physical therapy, his blood pressure went up a little and he was more alert. They have taken him off another of his blood pressure medications and the only one he is on now is given only as needed.
The physical therapist had him on the mat for about 30 minutes. One of the exercises they did with him was to have him lean back as far as he could and then pull himself back up. She said that he was doing that all on his own, that she wasn't helping him do it. So he was basically doing a partial sit up. The only help she offered was if he started to lean to the side, she would get him back up.
Tomorrow he has a CAT scan and an appointment with Dr. Bevrin about replacing his skull. Mrs. Doug will call me with an update again tomorrow afternoon with what they find out from that appointment.
Sunday morning, Mrs. Doug shared with the church a brief update on Bro. Dale. One of the things she shared was a conversation that he had with Janice on Saturday. She quoted to him Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." When Janice said that, Mrs. Doug said he nearly came up off the bed he was trying so hard to speak and communicate. He was nodding in agreement. There's no doubt that God is doing some amazing things with Bro. Dale and we praise God for what He has done and what He will continue to do.
Friday, January 13, 2012
January 13, 2012 - with pictures
Mrs. Doug brought by her camera and the report they gave her after the conference yesterday for me to get information to update the blog. According to the report, Bro. Dale is making progress. The PT reports that he is able to stand with the machine, but his blood pressure is still dropping when he stands. They have stopped some of his bp meds and decreased others of them. He is able to be on the bicycle for 15-30 minutes at a time and responds to verbal cues. He's also able to sit on the mat approximately 40 minutes with moderate to minimal assistance.
The OT also said he's making improvements following commands, recognizing common objects and is participating and tolerating more. He is paying more attention to his right side, and has the most problems with his lower right side. He is also able to help with getting dressed.
The speech therapist said he's continuing to have difficulty with sticking out his tongue. He is able to follow some commands and attempting to vocalize words. Mrs. Doug also said that when she was on the phone with Joan and Johanna today, she put the phone up to his ear and he immediately tried to start talking. She could tell he was trying to say their names. He was definitely making sounds, but not clear words. He did not have the speech valve on when he was doing. It was coming straight from him. He wasn't having to cover up the whole, he was just doing it on his own.
They think that he is making excellent progress and will soon be ready for the evaluation by the people at the Methodist Rehab in Jackson. Mrs. Doug is hoping to wait until after his surgery to replace the skull for that evaluation. The date for that surgery has still not been set yet. He goes next week to meet with the doctor that will do that surgery.
She said that Wayne and Jody Bailey went by today to see him and he definitely recognized them and they had a good visit with him. One of his classmates were also supposed to go by today - Jimmy Taylor and his wife. So he's had a good day of visiting even though Mrs. Doug was not there today.
Mrs. Doug had her stress test done yesterday. While she was on the treadmill, her blood pressure stayed in a safe range the whole time (138/78) but when she sat down it would go up to 150/80. She hasn't heard the definitive results yet of the test though. She's hoping that no news is good news! She will be going up to Baldwyn tomorrow with Amy Edmondson and will take the day off Sunday.
Mrs. Doug shared with me a verse that has been meaningful to her this week. It came from a book called Daily Comfort for Caregivers. Philippians 4:14, "Nevertheless you have done well to share with me in my affliction." She thought about how much everyone has shared with them through this by their prayers, encouragement and support from day one of this and how much that has meant to them. That has really helped her get through this and spoke volumes to her.
Mrs. Doug wanted me to share these pictures that she's taken of Bro. Dale with you all. For those of you who have not been able to see him yet, it might be a shock to see. However, if you've seen him, you will see that these pictures show a tremendous amount of progress. They are really good.
Notice how straight he is standing in this one with minimal support. It's his muscles that are allowing him to stand so straight, not the support!
You can see how the bicycle allows him to use his left leg and then automatically work his right leg at the same time. That will allow the brain to make the connections to eventually control the use of his right leg as well!
The OT also said he's making improvements following commands, recognizing common objects and is participating and tolerating more. He is paying more attention to his right side, and has the most problems with his lower right side. He is also able to help with getting dressed.
The speech therapist said he's continuing to have difficulty with sticking out his tongue. He is able to follow some commands and attempting to vocalize words. Mrs. Doug also said that when she was on the phone with Joan and Johanna today, she put the phone up to his ear and he immediately tried to start talking. She could tell he was trying to say their names. He was definitely making sounds, but not clear words. He did not have the speech valve on when he was doing. It was coming straight from him. He wasn't having to cover up the whole, he was just doing it on his own.
They think that he is making excellent progress and will soon be ready for the evaluation by the people at the Methodist Rehab in Jackson. Mrs. Doug is hoping to wait until after his surgery to replace the skull for that evaluation. The date for that surgery has still not been set yet. He goes next week to meet with the doctor that will do that surgery.
She said that Wayne and Jody Bailey went by today to see him and he definitely recognized them and they had a good visit with him. One of his classmates were also supposed to go by today - Jimmy Taylor and his wife. So he's had a good day of visiting even though Mrs. Doug was not there today.
Mrs. Doug had her stress test done yesterday. While she was on the treadmill, her blood pressure stayed in a safe range the whole time (138/78) but when she sat down it would go up to 150/80. She hasn't heard the definitive results yet of the test though. She's hoping that no news is good news! She will be going up to Baldwyn tomorrow with Amy Edmondson and will take the day off Sunday.
Mrs. Doug shared with me a verse that has been meaningful to her this week. It came from a book called Daily Comfort for Caregivers. Philippians 4:14, "Nevertheless you have done well to share with me in my affliction." She thought about how much everyone has shared with them through this by their prayers, encouragement and support from day one of this and how much that has meant to them. That has really helped her get through this and spoke volumes to her.
Mrs. Doug wanted me to share these pictures that she's taken of Bro. Dale with you all. For those of you who have not been able to see him yet, it might be a shock to see. However, if you've seen him, you will see that these pictures show a tremendous amount of progress. They are really good.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
January 10, 2012 - Additional Update
Mrs. Doug called and said that she was feeling fine and was glad that the tests came back fine. She will go for a stress test on Thursday. She's realized that she may need to take a day off sometimes when she is getting tired so she can get more rest. Just keep praying for wisdom for her to know what her limitations are and for how to know what she needs help with.
She wanted to give an update on Bro. Dale. He has had 2 really good days. He has figured out how to raise and lower his bed on his own. The OT said she had been working with him using some plastic pipes, wanting him to connect them. She showed him how to connect two of them, but he worked on it for about 20 minutes and got the whole thing done. He really got into that activity and enjoyed doing it. They also put him on the bicycle. He can sit up on it by himself (with a harness around him). He really works his left leg and with his right leg strapped in, it automatically works it too. And today when they put him back in his bed, she could tell that he was using his upper body to help him put him back in the bed. She was amazed at how much stronger he'd gotten in just 2 days. She left her camera with them so they can take some pictures of him doing his therapy to share with everyone. The next thing they will work on is getting him in the shower (but they won't be taking pictures of that! haha!)
She talked to the nurse who makes the rounds with the doctor. The only thing he did differently today was to cut one of his blood pressure medications down. That way when he's up, his blood pressure won't drop as much.
Thursday she will be meeting with all the therapists for an evaluation. They told her today that they don't think it will be long before someone from Methodist in Jackson will be able to come evaluate him to see if he's ready to come there. They go to Dr. Bevrin (the one who will replace his skull) next week, but she wants to talk to therapists on Thursday to get the their opinion on it as to how much that surgery will set him back or what they recommend they to do with that.
" 1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. 2 Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. 3 Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. 4 Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. 5 Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.... 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. 20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues. 21 Praise be to the LORD, for he showed his wonderful love to me...." Psalm 31:1-5, 19-21
She wanted to give an update on Bro. Dale. He has had 2 really good days. He has figured out how to raise and lower his bed on his own. The OT said she had been working with him using some plastic pipes, wanting him to connect them. She showed him how to connect two of them, but he worked on it for about 20 minutes and got the whole thing done. He really got into that activity and enjoyed doing it. They also put him on the bicycle. He can sit up on it by himself (with a harness around him). He really works his left leg and with his right leg strapped in, it automatically works it too. And today when they put him back in his bed, she could tell that he was using his upper body to help him put him back in the bed. She was amazed at how much stronger he'd gotten in just 2 days. She left her camera with them so they can take some pictures of him doing his therapy to share with everyone. The next thing they will work on is getting him in the shower (but they won't be taking pictures of that! haha!)
She talked to the nurse who makes the rounds with the doctor. The only thing he did differently today was to cut one of his blood pressure medications down. That way when he's up, his blood pressure won't drop as much.
Thursday she will be meeting with all the therapists for an evaluation. They told her today that they don't think it will be long before someone from Methodist in Jackson will be able to come evaluate him to see if he's ready to come there. They go to Dr. Bevrin (the one who will replace his skull) next week, but she wants to talk to therapists on Thursday to get the their opinion on it as to how much that surgery will set him back or what they recommend they to do with that.
" 1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. 2 Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. 3 Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. 4 Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. 5 Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.... 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. 20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues. 21 Praise be to the LORD, for he showed his wonderful love to me...." Psalm 31:1-5, 19-21
January 10, 2012 - Prayer for Mrs. Doug
Yesterday on her way to Baldwyn, Mrs. Doug started having a lot of pressure on her chest and she decided that she needed to stop at the emergency room in Houston. She called Maxine, who met her there and stayed several hours. They ran tests on Mrs. Doug and everything came back fine. They believe that most likely it is just all of the stress she has been under. But to be sure, she will have the treadmill stress test done on Thursday. She was discharged from the hospital this morning and intends to go to Baldwyn this afternoon after coming home to freshen up a bit. Peggy Skinner will be traveling with her. Jason called her this morning and talked with her. She sounds good and says she feels fine.
Mrs. Doug has been and remains a pillar of strength as she has stood through all of the struggles of the past few months. However, being human, she too has limitations. Pray that God will give her strength for the task, endurance for the long road ahead, wisdom to know how to balance her needs with the needs of others, and peace to trust God with it all. Pray that she can get adequate rest and find the renewal she needs for each new day.
Mrs. Doug is very aware that everyone is praying for her, but if you want to remind her of that, feel free to leave a message for her as a comment here. She and the family read the blog everyday, they will see your comments.
"2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the foe.
4 I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
5 For you, God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name." Ps. 61:2-5
"5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge." Ps. 62:5-8
Mrs. Doug has been and remains a pillar of strength as she has stood through all of the struggles of the past few months. However, being human, she too has limitations. Pray that God will give her strength for the task, endurance for the long road ahead, wisdom to know how to balance her needs with the needs of others, and peace to trust God with it all. Pray that she can get adequate rest and find the renewal she needs for each new day.
Mrs. Doug is very aware that everyone is praying for her, but if you want to remind her of that, feel free to leave a message for her as a comment here. She and the family read the blog everyday, they will see your comments.
"2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the foe.
4 I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
5 For you, God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name." Ps. 61:2-5
"5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge." Ps. 62:5-8
Sunday, January 8, 2012
January 8, 2012
Mrs. Doug gave us an update in Sunday School this morning. She said that Friday in physical therapy they sat him up on a mat and he was able to hold himself up so they put him on a bicycle for a little while. They worked him for a little over an hour in therapy and had him up for about 4 hours all together. They expected him to really be wiped out after that and sleep hard. But he only took about a 20 minute nap and then was alert for the rest of the day. Before he is able to go to the rehab facility in Jackson, he will need to be able to do at least 3 hours of therapy a day. But he is making great progress and Mrs. Doug is very pleased with the facility where he is now.
The speech therapist said she wants to see if he will use his voice if they cover the hole on the trach instead of using the speech valve. They are going to discuss options for that on Tuesday with the doctor. The main reason they are not taking the trach out at this time is because they need to be able to suction what he is coughing, which is preventing pneumonia. They are not sure if he is able to swallow well enough to handle it on his own if they took him off of the trach at this time.
Mrs. Doug said that she and Bro. Dale had been playing lots of charades. She's trying to figure out what he is trying to tell her with his "sign language." He had been pointing to the clock and pictures on the wall several times. She asked him if he was wanting to look at them or for her to read something to him and he kept shaking his head no. She finally figured out to ask, "are you trying to tell me that you can see those now." He nodded. They had determined that he had lost part of his vision on the right side of his right eye, but they had been doing therapy with that eye and his vision has been restored! Praise the Lord!
"17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law."
Psalm 119:17-18
The speech therapist said she wants to see if he will use his voice if they cover the hole on the trach instead of using the speech valve. They are going to discuss options for that on Tuesday with the doctor. The main reason they are not taking the trach out at this time is because they need to be able to suction what he is coughing, which is preventing pneumonia. They are not sure if he is able to swallow well enough to handle it on his own if they took him off of the trach at this time.
Mrs. Doug said that she and Bro. Dale had been playing lots of charades. She's trying to figure out what he is trying to tell her with his "sign language." He had been pointing to the clock and pictures on the wall several times. She asked him if he was wanting to look at them or for her to read something to him and he kept shaking his head no. She finally figured out to ask, "are you trying to tell me that you can see those now." He nodded. They had determined that he had lost part of his vision on the right side of his right eye, but they had been doing therapy with that eye and his vision has been restored! Praise the Lord!
"17 Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
18 Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law."
Psalm 119:17-18
Thursday, January 5, 2012
January 5, 2011
When Mrs. Doug got there today, Bro. Dale was in physical therapy. They said he'd be up and down all day long and was doing really good. They put him on some sort of tread mill to get him walking. She wasn't sure exactly what it was, but they said he was doing really well on it. He was really tickled to see her today. He smiled really big and patted and hugged her. He was wearing shorts and a t-shirt. She told him he looked like he was on vacation and he just grinned at her.
The speech therapist said that he was doing more that she was asking him to do. They played UNO today. He would point to the cards he wanted to play and such. And he managed to win!
She said that while he was sitting there, he would flex his left leg and then she could tell he was concentrating really hard trying to move the right leg, but he still can't move it on his own. He was getting tired though and he would pat the bed like he wanted Mrs. Doug to put him in the bed. But after he rested a little while, he was alert again. Mrs. Doug gave him a card that had come in the mail and he was trying to read it. He gets the softest look in his eyes when he hears from people and Mrs. Doug tells him about people that have asked about him. She can tell he really appreciate it.
Mrs. Doug also wanted me to report that her little niece Ella Frasier should be able to go home tomorrow. They will have home health helping them. So she's doing much better, although she has a long way to go. But we are thankful for the answered prayers!
Mrs. Doug said she'd update again on Saturday. Thanks for the prayers, encouragement, and support!
I wanted to share a devotional thought from my Life Application Bible that I read a few days ago. It was a note about the message of restoration that God gave Ezekiel. It says, "The certainty of future restoration encourages believers in times of trial. But we must be faithful to God because we love Him, not merely for what he can do for us. Is our faith in Him or merely in our future benefits?" I know Mrs. Doug and Bro. Dale have securely put their faith in God and love him. Have you?
The speech therapist said that he was doing more that she was asking him to do. They played UNO today. He would point to the cards he wanted to play and such. And he managed to win!
She said that while he was sitting there, he would flex his left leg and then she could tell he was concentrating really hard trying to move the right leg, but he still can't move it on his own. He was getting tired though and he would pat the bed like he wanted Mrs. Doug to put him in the bed. But after he rested a little while, he was alert again. Mrs. Doug gave him a card that had come in the mail and he was trying to read it. He gets the softest look in his eyes when he hears from people and Mrs. Doug tells him about people that have asked about him. She can tell he really appreciate it.
Mrs. Doug also wanted me to report that her little niece Ella Frasier should be able to go home tomorrow. They will have home health helping them. So she's doing much better, although she has a long way to go. But we are thankful for the answered prayers!
Mrs. Doug said she'd update again on Saturday. Thanks for the prayers, encouragement, and support!
I wanted to share a devotional thought from my Life Application Bible that I read a few days ago. It was a note about the message of restoration that God gave Ezekiel. It says, "The certainty of future restoration encourages believers in times of trial. But we must be faithful to God because we love Him, not merely for what he can do for us. Is our faith in Him or merely in our future benefits?" I know Mrs. Doug and Bro. Dale have securely put their faith in God and love him. Have you?
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
January 3, 2012
The doctor came by today and said that Bro. Dale looks really good. They asked him some simple commands such as "stick out your tongue" that he is still not able to follow. Also when she asks him to take a deep breath he is not able to do it on command. But they think that ability will come back.
The speech therapist said that she hasn't been able to get him to brush his teeth. So Mrs. Doug told him to do it and he would do it. They were showing him pictures and he would point things out. For instance, she would have a picture of a watch and picture of a bed and asked him to point to the watch and he could do it. But it took a few times to get him to answer a question such as "which one would you sleep in." Then she had him counting and he would move his mouth to count up to ten! But at one point, they apparently had him on overload because he verbally whispered, "wait!" They both heard him say it! So his first word is "wait." We were so sure it was going to be telling Mrs. Doug to "shut up!" haha!
The occupational therapist came in and put the electric stimulation on his right hand. She got him to flex and open like he was waving several times. She put about 20 clothespins on his clothes and asked him to find them and put them in a bucket. He was able to find all of them and put them in the bucket. She would hold up a card with a number and ask him to hold up that many fingers. He was getting some of those. Then she showed him the face of a clock and asked him to write in the missing numbers. His numbers weren't exactly clear, but they were in the right positions.
At one point, he was trying to communicate something to them that they were not able to figure out. So they gave him a pen and paper and asked him to try to write down what he wanted to say. He wrote several letters, but it was not clear what he was trying to say.
Mrs. Doug was able to talk to them about the goal for him to get into the Methodist Rehab in Jackson. So they agreed to work him harder and get him ready for that. They will start doing therapy out of his room more because that's how they do it at the place in Jackson. They will definitely start hooking up the speech valve to the trach while he is in the therapy room and leaving him off the oxygen while he's there. But for now they will reconnect the oxygen when he gets back to his room. He was unhooked from the oxygen for 30 minutes or more while they were in there today and he did great.
Johanna shared this passage from Hebrews with Bro. Dale just the other day and he started moving his mouth to try to respond. They couldn't tell what he was saying, but it was clear that it was meaningful to him:
"7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed." Hebrews 12:7-13
The speech therapist said that she hasn't been able to get him to brush his teeth. So Mrs. Doug told him to do it and he would do it. They were showing him pictures and he would point things out. For instance, she would have a picture of a watch and picture of a bed and asked him to point to the watch and he could do it. But it took a few times to get him to answer a question such as "which one would you sleep in." Then she had him counting and he would move his mouth to count up to ten! But at one point, they apparently had him on overload because he verbally whispered, "wait!" They both heard him say it! So his first word is "wait." We were so sure it was going to be telling Mrs. Doug to "shut up!" haha!
The occupational therapist came in and put the electric stimulation on his right hand. She got him to flex and open like he was waving several times. She put about 20 clothespins on his clothes and asked him to find them and put them in a bucket. He was able to find all of them and put them in the bucket. She would hold up a card with a number and ask him to hold up that many fingers. He was getting some of those. Then she showed him the face of a clock and asked him to write in the missing numbers. His numbers weren't exactly clear, but they were in the right positions.
At one point, he was trying to communicate something to them that they were not able to figure out. So they gave him a pen and paper and asked him to try to write down what he wanted to say. He wrote several letters, but it was not clear what he was trying to say.
Mrs. Doug was able to talk to them about the goal for him to get into the Methodist Rehab in Jackson. So they agreed to work him harder and get him ready for that. They will start doing therapy out of his room more because that's how they do it at the place in Jackson. They will definitely start hooking up the speech valve to the trach while he is in the therapy room and leaving him off the oxygen while he's there. But for now they will reconnect the oxygen when he gets back to his room. He was unhooked from the oxygen for 30 minutes or more while they were in there today and he did great.
Johanna shared this passage from Hebrews with Bro. Dale just the other day and he started moving his mouth to try to respond. They couldn't tell what he was saying, but it was clear that it was meaningful to him:
"7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed." Hebrews 12:7-13
Monday, January 2, 2012
January 2, 2012
Bro. Dale has had two good days since the last update. Today they got him dressed in regular clothes for the first time since his stroke! They prefer for the patients to be dressed for therapy. He was able to lift his hips with his left leg to get his pants on and he got his left sleeve of his shirt on himself.
Today he was up for 3 hours: 1 for therapy, 2 sitting in the chair. And they had him standing for 20 minutes today!
While Mrs. Doug was there this afternoon, the oxygen line on the trach had come loose and was just sitting on his chest. She noticed it and went over and put it back, but he had been breathing fine on his own. A little while later, she noticed that it had come loose again and he was trying to put it back. But he seems to be breathing so well without it. She's going to talk the doctor about it tomorrow.
They haven't been having to suction him during the day at all. He has been able to be productive enough with his cough that he hasn't needed them to suction anything.
There are some motions that he has been using over and over that Mrs. Doug and Janice think they have finally figured out. He has been making a circle with his fingers and they finally figured it out. They asked him if he was referring to the trach and he nodded. He had been patting his hand on his chest too, which they figured out he meant talking. So they put together that he thinks the trach is keeping him from talking. He has not had a speech valve on the trach since he's been in Baldwyn. Mrs. Doug is going to ask the doctor about that tomorrow. She hopes that since he is mouthing words now, that with the speech valve, he will be able to speak them. But the hope is also that they can take him off the trach soon as well. Mrs. Doug will call me tomorrow after she talks with the doctor and the therapists.
Janice flew out very early this morning from Jackson and has made it home safe and sound. She had a great visit. Mrs. Doug said it was so encouraging to get to see her girls over the past couple of weeks.
"11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:11-13
Today he was up for 3 hours: 1 for therapy, 2 sitting in the chair. And they had him standing for 20 minutes today!
While Mrs. Doug was there this afternoon, the oxygen line on the trach had come loose and was just sitting on his chest. She noticed it and went over and put it back, but he had been breathing fine on his own. A little while later, she noticed that it had come loose again and he was trying to put it back. But he seems to be breathing so well without it. She's going to talk the doctor about it tomorrow.
They haven't been having to suction him during the day at all. He has been able to be productive enough with his cough that he hasn't needed them to suction anything.
There are some motions that he has been using over and over that Mrs. Doug and Janice think they have finally figured out. He has been making a circle with his fingers and they finally figured it out. They asked him if he was referring to the trach and he nodded. He had been patting his hand on his chest too, which they figured out he meant talking. So they put together that he thinks the trach is keeping him from talking. He has not had a speech valve on the trach since he's been in Baldwyn. Mrs. Doug is going to ask the doctor about that tomorrow. She hopes that since he is mouthing words now, that with the speech valve, he will be able to speak them. But the hope is also that they can take him off the trach soon as well. Mrs. Doug will call me tomorrow after she talks with the doctor and the therapists.
Janice flew out very early this morning from Jackson and has made it home safe and sound. She had a great visit. Mrs. Doug said it was so encouraging to get to see her girls over the past couple of weeks.
"11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:11-13
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