It has been a while since the last update and this is due to a very slow recovery process that is normal with a brain injury. Paul returned to the rehab center following his surgery and has made some small, but significant improvements. His appetite was extremely poor, he lost a lot of weight and he had a serious infection; however, he has started to eat very small portions, his infection was treated and he continues to recieve nutrition through a feeding tube.
My Mom asked me to thank Kesi, Katherine and Denise for sending the music and chocolate peanut butter cookies. He was very excited about the cookies which made my parents happy because he hadn't been eating much. Due to his brain injury, he is unable to tolerate much noise or conversation, but he will listen to the music for short periods of time and enjoys it.
He has been recieving therapy from a specialist who teaches mobility to people with vision impairments. At this time, Paul cannot see and we do not know if his vision will return.
Paul will be having another brain scan this Thursday to determine the outcome of his surgery. It appears that it was a success at this time. On February 8, they will meet with the main neurosurgeon to determine when he will be cleared to return home. Once he is medically cleared to fly, we will be making plans for his flight home and services. We do not know exactly when this will be yet; however, we hope it will be late February or early March.
If you would like to send packages, my family is requesting that you hold off for now unless they are edible because they have a lot of things to carry back home.
We have set a date for a fundraiser which will be a Beef and Beer at Camden Catholic HS in Cherry Hill, NJ on February 26, 2010. I will be posting more information as I get it, but please save the date and attend if you can.
Today is Paul's birthday. Please continue to keep Paul and my family in your thoughts and prayers.
Much love,
Tara
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Hello
ReplyDeleteAn update also delayed due to lack of computer access and entertaining Paul. I (Aunt Kate) arrived 1/11/10 physically and quite happy with how Paul was considering he was post-op 4days. Hung out with him the next day, both of us recooping, me from long nauseating flights into 110 degree outside temp and him of course regaining thoughts after his sugery and dealing with a GI infection. Strides were made by both (after a language lesson from the Nurses on the unit,who gave puzzled look when requested popscicles) We aquired "Icy Poles"(popscicles)& began drinking more water. While I advanced to Burgers Paul advanced to sips of gatorade with encouragement from nurses as well, then sm. bites of toast,& to an occational taste/sm. bite of cinnamon danish (Like father like son).We had a little ritual of a midnight "Icy Pole" 1/2 for him and 1/2 for me.
Hand therapy...well "your hands are like ICE" so... he declined my help, he continues to work bit ea day.
Transition back to rehab was tiring for him a day or so. Continues with Icy poles & toast & of course, craving a bite of danish now & then. Best was last Thursday, quietly suggested any music from the CD's your friends made? "What are they again" he chose "Paul's Tunes" relaxed & sang along with a couple. First, they were a great mix of tunes and second it was a delight to have him enjoy first 4-5!! Next day "start where we left off" and listened to a few more".
Up to walks, ate snacks in the kitchen and sat short time in the lounge. Has some busy days ahead. Will have a little break for his Bday b/c it's Australia day (national holiday)& therapists have off and I'm back in Virginia.
I know that without all the support,via letters,emails,visits & packages, Bon, Kev and Paul would not be doing as well as they are. All 3 awaiting the time to get home yet patient as to have it be a smooth and safe transition for Paul. Kate