Tuesday, October 21, 2008

update #96 from Linda

Hello! We hope all is well with all of you!


Things are good. Rob and Steve head to Ann Arbor every weekday afternoon for therapy and say they're enjoying the ride and are impressed with the therapists. Before Steve left the hospital they botoxed his left arm, and we have noticed good things with that since arriving home. For example, when he washes his hands, he can lift his hand from his side to the height of the sink, rub his hands together a little bit, and is starting to reach his left in the direction of the towel to dry it.


Steve and I shopped the other day for a recliner for him, since the one in our family room was pretty uncomfortable. We chose one that didn't look too huge in the store, but almost gave Rob a heart attack trying to get it down the stairs. It's gigantic, but has good back and leg support for Steve. We have a little space heater in that corner, so he's pretty cozy. Right now he's sitting there eating ice cream and fighting Rob for control of the remote!


I asked Steve if there was anything he'd like to say about being home, and he wanted to mention that he's enjoying the food! He is still relying on tube feeding with "regular" food in small amounts for pleasure. We put a high-backed desk chair (on wheels) in the kitchen, and he uses that to sit at the table. It works out great, keeps him sitting up nice and straight, and he can use it to scoot around a bit, too. Can't tell you how nice it is to see him sitting at the kitchen table reading the newspaper and having breakfast!


I have taken over Laura's job of nagging him about using his voice, and many days he does a good job. I try to call him on the phone every day so that he has the challenge to talk to me in that way. A friend, and speech therapist for our school district, has offered to come meet with Steve and give us some pointers. :) We are looking forward to that opportunity...thanks, Carol!


This is a new version of "busy" but such a good one. I asked Steve if he missed being in the hospital and I'm sure he would have slugged me if he could! So many people have played a part in getting him to this point...we thank you for that from the bottom of our hearts.

Take care everyone!

Love,
Linda

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Linda, thank you for the updates. We think of all of you everyday!!!

Karolyn

Anonymous said...

Steve,

That is so nice that you have a new big comfy chair to lounge in! I can't imagine how it possible fit down your stairs...but completely worth the tight squeeze I'm sure!
I am so happy you're home and as you have expressed time and time again- so are you! Less chaotic, more relaxing, quieter, better food...the list goes on. Not to mention better smelling! =)
I love hearing about your progress from the blog and family. You continue to conquer that mountain and accomplish so much in such a short amount of time. What you have taught myself and so many others about dedication, faith, and triumph is remarkable. You're incredibly special in many eyes sweetheart.

Xoxos!
Love,
Danielle

Anonymous said...

Steve, it seems there really is no place like home!
It sounds like your doing great and progressing right along. We could not be happier for you and to be honest are not surprised at all!
We send Prayers and Love.
The Smiths

Anonymous said...

Perchas...

My heart is so full of love for your family and compassion and understanding of what this new chapter of your life feels like. On our journey, I remember thinking...whatever it takes, as long as we are together!! It was worth it all and I know you think the same...this new life is ok...it will work and God will get us thru. I am so thankful for the grace and peace He's given me and that there's always more and just enough for you, too!! His Grace and Mercy will make each day bearable and every victory oh so sweet.

I love hearing how well Steve is doing and look forward to the day when you all get to hear all that God was working thru this journey that you are on. Keep sharing your faith and find strength in knowing that folks, myself included, are praying you thru.

Wish I could just walk across the street and see how the "little guy across the street" was doing today.

Jen (Kogowski) Doucet