Hello everyone, positive thoughts and prayers work!
Steve had a comfortable and restful 23rd birthday. Eight nurses enjoyed singing Happy birthday to him and the nurses really liked the cake his aunt Kathie sent.
The "staples" that held his incision were removed yesterday. He looks much better without them.
Today he breathed on his own for 4.5 hours as they try to wean him off of the ventilator.
The last two CT scans show a marked difference from those performed earlier. The swelling is gone and the brain mid-line has returned to the normal position. The right (damaged), side of the brain now looks just like the left.
This next comment is very interesting and confusing, and gives us cautious optimism. The previous CT's clearly showed darkened areas where the doctors believed strokes had occurred. The last two CT's do NOT show these areas. The doctors stated that since the darkened areas are no longer present, blood flow must have returned to these areas. No-one can explain why this has happened but the two neurological assistants and Dr. Armonda (the surgeon), are excited about this turn of events.
Speaking of Dr. Armonda, do you remember Bob Woodruff, the newsman that sustained a severe head injury in Iraq? Dr. Armonda was his surgeon also. How fortunate we were that he was available when Steve came in.
Plans for our return have passed some hurdles. There still remain a couple and they will be the subject of future posts.
Hope all is well with all of you, and Thank You for your thoughts, prayers, love and support.
Rob and Linda
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
11 comments:
It is so ironic that I was reading Bob and Lee Woodruff's book "in an Instant" when our daughter,Erica, called us with the news about Steve. I have tried to be helpful by telling her about the process of healing with a brain injury and how amazing Bob's recovery was, one step at a time. The book was truly inspirational. He will be guest speaker at Erica's graduation this semester(he is a UofM Law School Grad)
Keeping the positive thoughts. Debbie Wickstrom
This is the stuff miracles are made of - you are our "miracle in motion" Steve! We know you are trying hard to come back to us - your determination and strength help us to keep our faith high! xxxooo's - Laury Stone
Steve,
This is great news about the blood flow back to the damaged part of the brain. Through you we are all witnessing a miracle, but just remember to take baby steps and watch the high's and low's. By the way if Cody and Miranda are tough kids and can't wait to jump into Lake Michigan with you again I will be there also. Actually I think the WHOLE family should do it(?).Remember good things come to those who wait so be patient in your recovery and all will be well!
Love Uncle Russ
Thanks y'all for the update. It must be hard enough to get thru the day and then remember you have to inform the fan club before calling it a night. We hang on to your every word and pray daily/hourly/sometimes more than that, about what needs to happen next. Show us what you're made of, Steve! love ya, Kathie
There is an explantion for the turn of events, and you mentioned it in your first sentence! God listens to our prayers. Hugs to everyone. Barb Heaton
"When two or more are gathered in My name, I am there.." Can't remember what verse or book, but that jumped in my mind when I read this post. Again, the power of prayer is real and it's amazing to see a miracle right before us. Keep strong Steve, you're in our prayers everyday! -Brian Wolak & Katie Watson
Steve,
Sounds like positive things are taking place. All I can say is, God is Large and In Charge! I begin each day asking God to place his healing hands upon your brain and work a miracle that only he can. Further, I ask Him to guide those who are caring for you. Let's not forget your support staff either, Mom, Dad, Beth, Grams, and Danielle....He must continue to give them faith, grace, and peace knowing that through Him, anything is possible! Good things will continue to come, I just know it! Love ya!
Uncle Don & Aunt Gail
P.S. I left you a special voice mail on your cell yesterday. I hope you get to hear it soon!
Danielle & The Percha Family,
Wonderful, Wonderful news!! There is no doubt to us that all of the prayers and positive energy that everyone from all over is sending your way is giving Steve the strength and willpower to keep moving forward each day. You are in our thoghts and prayers always!
XOXOX
Charlie, Alaine, Lauren & Brent Schumacher
We have been keeping up on the postings and are incredibly excited about Steve's progress. He is strong and determined and has so many wonderful people standing strong to support him. His physical progress is great fuel for optimism. The waiting game can be punishing. We are completely in awe of the strength of Rob, Linda, Beth, and Danielle. Your love and support provides the greatest healing for Steve and it is clear that he is aware of that. Stay strong and know that our hearts are filled with positive thoughts and wishes.
Bob and Sue Simms
I've never known such a fighter in my entire life. Steve is such an incredible person. I've often wondered why God lets such bad things happen to such wonderful people, but I think I've finally found the answer. I've never prayed so much in my entire life and God is impressing me every minute that Steve improves. My faith is stronger now than ever before!
I must also comment on the strength of Steve's family and my sister (Dani). My sister has always been strong, but words can not explain the stength that she has shown in the past weeks. She and Steve have a special relationship and those that have seen them together are well aware of this. Danielle wouldn't be herself without Steve and that's how I know that he is going to be OK!
Keep figthing Steve!
We love you! -Jessie Stone
Post a Comment