Sunday, July 13, 2008

The Waking Up Process

Thank you so much for all your prayers and support. I feel like it is important to explain what we are going through with Paul now. We have said that Paul’s eyes are open much of the day, and he is more alert, but I think it is important to explain the reality of “waking up” from a coma-like state. I have had to learn more than I ever wanted to know about this. It is nothing like the movies where a person is “sleeping” and then suddenly “wakes up” and is just the way they were before the accident. I have learned that this is a long, slow process. There are various stages. Doctors even talk about levels of consciousness, as opposed to coma. People move through these levels at their own pace. While we do see progress, and Paul’s eyes are open from time to time, we don’t really know how aware he is. There is so much unknown at this point, it is hard to describe what is happening. One constant we hear from the doctors and nurses is that no matter his levels of consciousness, we should always speak positively around him. People who have recovered from similar injuries have said that they heard and understood what people were saying around them. Therefore, we would like to keep conversation about Paul’s condition upbeat and positive. I hope this helps you understand about Paul’s condition.

Love,
Patty

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

hey patty
thx for the info. my plan is to come out there in a few weeks when paul is back up and ready to kick some ass (he never took names? why?).

hope you are getting out of there and taking some time to do some things for yourself. of course you know the instant you leave he'll wake up and holler your name! and/ or the license plate number!

see you soon. we're always thinking of you buzz and paul. -felix sockwell

Anonymous said...

Hi Patty,

You are wonderful - a tower of strenght- your messages are full of important information and I really appreciate the updates.

I wish I was in Texas to help out but I know that you have a wonderful support system.

I'm sure you had nothing else to do this summer but hang out at the hospital, huh -- I think you should just start thinking about a great vacation that the three of you can go on when this adventure is over.

A day doesn't go by that I don't think and pray for you and the entire family.

Love to you all,

Bunny

Anonymous said...

You are so good at giving out information and guiding us all to be the best for you and your family. Thank you, Patty! You are a wise wonderful woman. Strength, peace and lots of love.
Micki and Pete

Anonymous said...

Hi Patty;

It was good to see you last Thursday and I'm glad you had some Buzz time. It's important for you and him. Thank you for these updates and after seeing Paul I know he hears you/us and is working hard at coming back to you as quickly as he can. Continued prayers, strength and faith.

Love,
Kristine

Anonymous said...

Patty,
I am glad that you posted this info. I know it is pretty exhausting to keep explaining things over and over when people come to visit.
We love and miss talking to Paul- and pray everyday for his recovery.
Love,
The Proudmans

Anonymous said...

HEy Patty, thinking of you guys often and can't wait for the day he's awake fully enough where he can read these himself and wonder who the heck I am lol. Haven't really known you guys long enough to just show up but if you ever wanna chit chat or need company let me know. I keep asking Theresa for any up dates I don't know about. Take care. David B

kerri said...

Hi Patty,
I haven't met you or Paul, but I have been keeping you in my thoughts. I am friend of Wille's and he told me about what has happened. I know you've got lots of friends and family pulling for you- Just wanted you to know you've even got some strangers keeping you in their prayers as well.

Love,
Kerri Arista