Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Update - Tuesday August 5

Paul is adjusting to his new home at the rehab facility. His therapy sessions start at 9:00am and, aside from a lunch break for the therapists from 12-1, don't stop until after 3:00. On Monday, his speech therapist gave him thickened apple juice, much like apple sauce, and he swallowed it easily. So, she plans to continue testing him through the week and hopefully get him on something more solid soon. In the meantime he continues to be fed through his feeding tube, which he often tries to pull out with his left hand.

His speech therapist still would like him to more awake and responsive, something we continue to hope and pray comes soon. And we want him to start talking, of course.

His "purposeful" movements continue as well. Because he tries to pull out his feeding tube (and sometime his catheter) with his left hand, he has been wearing a "mitten" on his left hand that looks a lot like a Snoopy paw, which prevents him from grabbing anything. He has recently figured out that he can take the mitten off with his teeth if he works at it long enough, if the velcro is hanging off even a little. While this is a major pain for those watching him, it is also encouraging in terms of his intent. He also consistently repositions his favorite pillow, and sometimes pulls himself so that he can lay on his side.

His brother Jim (and Jim's family) were in town from Kansas again this weekend and that was great for Paul and for Buzz.

To all family and friends, thank you again for ALL that you do. For your comments and all your love and support. It means the world to all of us.

Love and blessings to you.

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ha! I love how fiesty you are Paul! Gotta love all the determination and intent! AWESOME! You've become our hero ---- who needs Batman! :)

(uh, yea, I'm a friend of Patty, not Buzz ...despite my use of 'awesome' and references to Batman. ah, well. I'm sure Paul sees the humor in it all.)

keri said...

WAY TO GO, PAUL! Keep your spirit up and know that everyone is rooting for you. And, of course, I'm still praying for ya.

darrah said...

nice! keep it up! still praying for you and patty and fam!

Anonymous said...

Patty-
You sure have one determined guy on your hands. I know you are just as determined. Things are happening and changing for Paul, just like you knew they would. I know you being with Paul is truly making a difference. Thinking of you all the time.
Jennifer

Anonymous said...

Hi Paul and Patty,

Congrats on your new move. Hope you have a good window view. And the air conditioning is working as you work up a sweat with all your physical activity!

You continue to be in our prayers.

Maggie and the rest of the Maresh's

PS~Erin said...

So encouraging! Thanks for the updates. We are always thinking of you and Paul and Buzz.

Erin and Ryan

Jason said...

Nice move, Paul. The tubes sound uncomfortable. I'd be trying to pull them out as well. "Would somebody please give me a steak!" That's what you're thinking, isn't it?

We miss you here at the office and I can't wait to see you again. I'll come and visit soon.

Alex K said...

Good job, PJ! And thanks, as always, Patty, for the updates. Those nurses and rehab specialists deserve pats on the back as well. They're going to get you back up to speed in no time!

Alex K said...

Good job, PJ! And thanks, as always, Patty, for the updates. Those nurses and rehab specialists deserve pats on the back as well. They're going to get you back up to speed in no time, Paul!

Anonymous said...

Hi Buzz,

knock knock.
Who's there?
stan.
Stan who?
Stand back! I am going to sneeze!

I am praying for your father.

From,
Jack Rowland

Anonymous said...

Though I don't know you and your family, I think about you every time I ride around the lake--which means several times a week--and check the blog often for news of your progress. I'm not a praying person, so I hope you will settle for hope, good vibes, and best wishes.

Anonymous said...

We continue to pray for you Paul and we Thank God for the support of your loving wife and family.

Man, I would hate to have those snoopy mittens on to!! LOL Keep trying to wake up!!

God be with you,
St. Pat's Mother's Club Prayer chain