Bedside Conference

Yesterday morning was our "Bedside Conference," where Steve's entire medical team comes in and gives updates.  They addressed his medical issues, which are coming along nicely--staples/sutures out, lungs continuing to improve, ulcer healing, blood clots not a concern.  They also began looking to what his homecoming will look like.  At present we are looking at a walker and only a few other alterations to our home for him to be comfortable/functional.

His OT and PT are using words like, "exceptional" and "outstanding" for his progress in the gym.  He is working on things like balance, since he does not have the use of his feet and calves as before.  They are working on managing steps, how to sit down to different heights, how to step sideways, etc.  Because he has minimal ankle control, and no calf/foot control, he is teaching his other muscles how to pick up the slack and understand his proprioceptive needs.

We are still on track for a July 2 homecoming.  I'm both excited and also nervous to not have that medical safety net just a call-button away.  Thankfully Steve truly taking over his care a little at a time, so he will be able to instruct me about how to help him.  Independence is the major goal here.

He is tired every day, as sleeping has become a skill to be mastered, and he is working as hard as a professional athlete.  But his spirits are generally very good.  He is able to meet the challenges that his situation presents, understand them frankly, and adjust his expectations to them.  He continues to be encouraged by your words and prayers.  A friend brought cookies the other day, and he had a grand old time handing them out to all the people who came to visit and the staff who attend to him.

I am tired this week.  Adventure Week is always tiring, with later bedtimes and more activity, and we are adding in a piano recital this weekend, and some other activities for the kids.  Our Big Grey Whale (van) has been getting quite the workout!  But I am thankful that each day there is progress and we have great hope.  I've been so thankful for the opportunity to help our kids understand how BIG our God really is.  God is the great healer, and he can heal Dad's body.  But even if he does not, we know that we still trust that he loves us and will care for us far beyond what we can ask or think.

(a little card from my big sister -- she helped us "feed the whale!")