It's been almost 24 hours since our last post because of a few issues. Last night we were told that Courtney might be moved to Braintree Rehab Hospital (BRH) that night. That sent us scrambling to pack up her room. We later found out that she would not be moved until Monday.
Since then we've spent time gathering things that Courtney will need from home and elsewhere to make her comfortable at rehab.
Also Courtney has been busy moving from bed to chair and back again. She developed a rash overnight that seemed to be a reaction from some plastic. She has a latex allergy and also gets 'tape' rashes from the surgical tape. Courtney has been huffing and puffing - rapid heart beat and sometimes rapid respiratory rate for the past 20 hours.
It's not alarming just something that has to be watched and managed.
In the meantime we washed her hair today and everyone is freaking out because I cut off the deadends off her hair. I'm certain I was careful and cut straight but not everyone is convinced. Fortunately it will all grow back before Courtney realizes what I've done!
We bought aviator sunglasses and a hat for Courtney to wear on her ambulance ride from RIH to BRH as well as on future field trips (which we are so looking forward to).
Everyone here agrees that Courtney is ready for the work of rehab and we are ready to get started. As scary as it is for Courtney to be leaving the loving caregivers here we hope and pray that she will be as well cared for and as much loved as she has been here on the TICU.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Mom's Update
Last night while Courtney was alert I held up my finger and told her to touch my hand. She stared intently and with a very shaky hand reached for my finger. At the last second her leg went up and with all her might she grabbed my finger. It was the first time she has followed a command and it took a great deal of effort.
Later while she was wearing her snowman slippers I told her to look at her feet. Courtney looked down toward the end of the bed at her feet and stared at them while her Auntie Linda pointed out the ear muffs, carrot nose and button eyes.
This morning Courtney got the beauty treatment and is resting until it's time for her to get into the standing lift. Since she moved from side to side yesterday we will put her music on today to see if that further stimulates her.
She has been watching Jon&Kate Plus 8 and later we'll play some Christmas favorites like Charlie Brown and Rudolph.
I saw Uncle Scott this morning as he is in the step down surgical unit across the hall. Doctors can hear pulse through his lower leg and foot. His attitude is amazing as he joked with the doctor that we are 'going for the family discount'.
As I was praying this morning it occurred to me that we haven't asked for our prayers to be directed toward specific challenges recently. The next significant developments for Courtney will be for her to follow commands and try to speak. Please pray for those things to happen as they are further signs of her emerging from this stage of minimal consciousness.
Thank you as always for your prayerful support.
Later while she was wearing her snowman slippers I told her to look at her feet. Courtney looked down toward the end of the bed at her feet and stared at them while her Auntie Linda pointed out the ear muffs, carrot nose and button eyes.
This morning Courtney got the beauty treatment and is resting until it's time for her to get into the standing lift. Since she moved from side to side yesterday we will put her music on today to see if that further stimulates her.
She has been watching Jon&Kate Plus 8 and later we'll play some Christmas favorites like Charlie Brown and Rudolph.
I saw Uncle Scott this morning as he is in the step down surgical unit across the hall. Doctors can hear pulse through his lower leg and foot. His attitude is amazing as he joked with the doctor that we are 'going for the family discount'.
As I was praying this morning it occurred to me that we haven't asked for our prayers to be directed toward specific challenges recently. The next significant developments for Courtney will be for her to follow commands and try to speak. Please pray for those things to happen as they are further signs of her emerging from this stage of minimal consciousness.
Thank you as always for your prayerful support.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
from Uncle Brian
Today after work I stopped by to see my favorite niece, Courtney. I was delighted to see my other favorite niece, Katy there as well! And as fate would have it, my other favorite niece, Meaghan was there too!! Who could imagine such good luck??!!! I think my favorite niece, Claudia, may be coming back soon from college but I don't know her schedule. Given my advanced age and all, it's very difficult to keep track of all my favorite nephews and nieces. I think they number in the hundreds now. *sigh*
So Court was resting comfortably when I arrived. She looked peaceful as soothing music from the nearby CD player poured ino the room. A male nurse came in and turned off the overhead light and then left. Rain was softly pelting the large windows as evening descended over the city. Everything was just so relaxing. So relaxing in fact that I fell asleep! Hah! It was the first time in my life that I actually WANTED a bed in the hospital.
We wish the best for Uncle Scott and his family as he deals with his own challenges.
So Court was resting comfortably when I arrived. She looked peaceful as soothing music from the nearby CD player poured ino the room. A male nurse came in and turned off the overhead light and then left. Rain was softly pelting the large windows as evening descended over the city. Everything was just so relaxing. So relaxing in fact that I fell asleep! Hah! It was the first time in my life that I actually WANTED a bed in the hospital.
We wish the best for Uncle Scott and his family as he deals with his own challenges.
Mom's Update
After touring both Spaulding and Braintree Rehab hospitals we have chosen Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital for Courtney. We believe that Braintree will provide the level of therapy and TBI expertise necessary to give Courtney the best chance for a full recovery. We also believe that the staff and overall approach to care fits with our family values allowing us to be actively involved in Courtney's care and therapy and be with her at any time we feel she needs us.
Braintree is an accredited rehab hospital with many physician specialties necessary to Courtney's care. They have the latest equipment and interactive setup in the gym that will allow Courtney to participate in occupational therapy with real world activites such as a full kitchen and 'pretend' car.
The first days or weeks of Courtney's rehab will be geared toward drawing her out of her minimally conscious state. After that she will relearn many of the skills we take for granted each day.
Today Courtney 'stood' with the help of a 'standing' lift. Using a harness she was listed to her feet. Although I wasn't here to witness it I was told that she moved her feet in a purposeful motion that told the therapists she wanted to walk.
Everyone here at RIH TICU was anxious to hear about our visits and choice of rehab. They are all very excited about Courtney moving on.
Everything will be arranged over the next 1-3 days and she will be transferred as soon as the paperwork and insurance issues are all set.
In the meantime, Courtney's Uncle Scott, who is a diabetic and had a kidney transplant last year, had foot surgery yesterday to replace a bone that had deteriorated due to the diabetes. Doctors inserted a rod into his ankle. Late last night they were unable to feel a pulse in his foot and took him back into the OR. Early this morning we were told that they did not hold out much hope for saving his leg. Fortunately as of late today he did have a pulse in his foot so there is still hope. We are asking, that you keep Scott in your prayers and his wife Nora and children Daniel and Abby.
It is times like these when we find it easy to ask 'why God?' 'why us?' But we have to believe that God will never give us more than we can handle and that he will carry us all through this difficult time.
Thank you for supporting us all. We will let you know the day of Courtney's transfer. Here is her soon to be new address (should all go as planned):
Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital
250 Pond Street
Braintree, MA 02184
Braintree is an accredited rehab hospital with many physician specialties necessary to Courtney's care. They have the latest equipment and interactive setup in the gym that will allow Courtney to participate in occupational therapy with real world activites such as a full kitchen and 'pretend' car.
The first days or weeks of Courtney's rehab will be geared toward drawing her out of her minimally conscious state. After that she will relearn many of the skills we take for granted each day.
Today Courtney 'stood' with the help of a 'standing' lift. Using a harness she was listed to her feet. Although I wasn't here to witness it I was told that she moved her feet in a purposeful motion that told the therapists she wanted to walk.
Everyone here at RIH TICU was anxious to hear about our visits and choice of rehab. They are all very excited about Courtney moving on.
Everything will be arranged over the next 1-3 days and she will be transferred as soon as the paperwork and insurance issues are all set.
In the meantime, Courtney's Uncle Scott, who is a diabetic and had a kidney transplant last year, had foot surgery yesterday to replace a bone that had deteriorated due to the diabetes. Doctors inserted a rod into his ankle. Late last night they were unable to feel a pulse in his foot and took him back into the OR. Early this morning we were told that they did not hold out much hope for saving his leg. Fortunately as of late today he did have a pulse in his foot so there is still hope. We are asking, that you keep Scott in your prayers and his wife Nora and children Daniel and Abby.
It is times like these when we find it easy to ask 'why God?' 'why us?' But we have to believe that God will never give us more than we can handle and that he will carry us all through this difficult time.
Thank you for supporting us all. We will let you know the day of Courtney's transfer. Here is her soon to be new address (should all go as planned):
Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital
250 Pond Street
Braintree, MA 02184
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney's last chest tube came out this afternoon! xrays from this evening looked good.
As long as tomorrow morning's xrays show that the lung has not collapsed Courtney will be ready to go to rehab.
She has been extremely agitated today and there's no doubt in anyone's mind here that she's more than a little ticked off at being in bed for 3 1/2 weeks. She continues to lift her hips, throw her legs over the side of the bed and move her arms around.
Nurses are working very hard to keep Courtney as comfortable as possible without over sedating her so that she can continue to emerge from the coma.
Courtney was very very happy to see Katy tonight. She stared into Katy's eyes for a very long time and had tears in her eyes.
Tomorrow will be another busy day with more physical and occupational therapy. Courtney will be in the chair alot tomorrow and hopefully will stand up with the aid of some special equipment.
We will let everyone know of our rehab choice, the date of the move and address as soon as available.
As long as tomorrow morning's xrays show that the lung has not collapsed Courtney will be ready to go to rehab.
She has been extremely agitated today and there's no doubt in anyone's mind here that she's more than a little ticked off at being in bed for 3 1/2 weeks. She continues to lift her hips, throw her legs over the side of the bed and move her arms around.
Nurses are working very hard to keep Courtney as comfortable as possible without over sedating her so that she can continue to emerge from the coma.
Courtney was very very happy to see Katy tonight. She stared into Katy's eyes for a very long time and had tears in her eyes.
Tomorrow will be another busy day with more physical and occupational therapy. Courtney will be in the chair alot tomorrow and hopefully will stand up with the aid of some special equipment.
We will let everyone know of our rehab choice, the date of the move and address as soon as available.
"Other People's Pain" from Uncle Brian
Yesterday, in southern California, a military F/A-18D jet, flying out of Marine Air Station Miramar, crashed into a residential neighborhood after both engines failed. Thankfully, the pilot safely ejected. I wish that was the end of the story. Four people on the ground died when the crash set their house on fire.
My stepson, John, is interested in the military and so I said to him last night, "Can you imagine what the pilot is going through knowing what happened on the ground?" My heart went out to him.
For Korean immigrant, Don Yun Yoon, the nightmare was only beginning. In the resulting fire, Mr. Yoon lost his two young daughters aged 2 months and 15 months, his wife and his mother-in-law. His whole world was wiped out in a second.
None of us, save Diane and Craig, can even begin to imagine Mr. Yoon's loss. But in the face of his terrible loss, Mr. Yoon reached out to the pilot. He was quoted as saying on CNN's website, "I don't blame him. I don't have any hard feelings. I know he did everything he could." He went on to say, "He is one of our treasures for the country." Even in his broken English, and as an immigrant, he recognized what many of us already know.
He's correct, of course, but his response is remarkable, to say the least. Nothing I could write would be worthy of evaluating Mr. Yoon's pain. So, I want to leave you with his words- "I know there are more people who have experienced more terrible things. But, please, tell me how to do it. I don't know what to do."
Please pray for Mr. Yoon.
My stepson, John, is interested in the military and so I said to him last night, "Can you imagine what the pilot is going through knowing what happened on the ground?" My heart went out to him.
For Korean immigrant, Don Yun Yoon, the nightmare was only beginning. In the resulting fire, Mr. Yoon lost his two young daughters aged 2 months and 15 months, his wife and his mother-in-law. His whole world was wiped out in a second.
None of us, save Diane and Craig, can even begin to imagine Mr. Yoon's loss. But in the face of his terrible loss, Mr. Yoon reached out to the pilot. He was quoted as saying on CNN's website, "I don't blame him. I don't have any hard feelings. I know he did everything he could." He went on to say, "He is one of our treasures for the country." Even in his broken English, and as an immigrant, he recognized what many of us already know.
He's correct, of course, but his response is remarkable, to say the least. Nothing I could write would be worthy of evaluating Mr. Yoon's pain. So, I want to leave you with his words- "I know there are more people who have experienced more terrible things. But, please, tell me how to do it. I don't know what to do."
Please pray for Mr. Yoon.
from Uncle Brian
Beth and I have big "Pray for Courtney" signs on our vehicles on the rear window. I was putting gas in my truck this afternoon when a stranger came up to me and said that he had attempted to go on the blog but couldn't. A few people have told me this and I don't understand why. It could be that they're mispelling. Even when his face was no more that 12 inches from the sign, he used the name, "Hollingsworth" which I think is a common mistake. In fact, he also said that his name is Tim Stone and this brother is a friend of Sean Congdon!! God bless him! The man's name is Tim Stone, the brother of one of Uncle Sean's friends. I told him to keep trying and thanked him for approaching me.
Mom's Update
Courtney is very active today. She sat at the end of the bed today and nurse Donald picked her up under her arms and let her feel her feet under her. With very shaky legs and full support she 'stood'.
People are asking 'is she still in a coma?' The answer is yes. There is a glaskow coma scale - you can google it- that rates an individuals level of consciousness. Courtney's score is still very low because she is not following commands and makes noise or speaks.
Courtney did make a couple of squeaks this morning after the trachea was 'corked'.
With the trachea corked there is air flowing and she is breathing through her nose and mouth with some oxygen in her nose. Courtney's vitals are very solid with this important change. The staff and Craig and I keep telling Courtney that she can talk now in case her brain is ready to do that.
Her progress these past 2 days have been tremendous. We feel more encouraged with each passing day and pray for her continued healing and speedy full recovery.
People are asking 'is she still in a coma?' The answer is yes. There is a glaskow coma scale - you can google it- that rates an individuals level of consciousness. Courtney's score is still very low because she is not following commands and makes noise or speaks.
Courtney did make a couple of squeaks this morning after the trachea was 'corked'.
With the trachea corked there is air flowing and she is breathing through her nose and mouth with some oxygen in her nose. Courtney's vitals are very solid with this important change. The staff and Craig and I keep telling Courtney that she can talk now in case her brain is ready to do that.
Her progress these past 2 days have been tremendous. We feel more encouraged with each passing day and pray for her continued healing and speedy full recovery.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney was very very active again today. The nurses had difficulty positioning her on her throne and ensuring that she stayed put safely. After many attempts and much discussion they were able to safely position Courtney so that she couldn't wriggle off the chair.
Once in bed she was active again moving her legs over the side of the bed and raising her arms in the air over her head.
Courtney continued to raise her head off the pillow and this evening when she held our hand she pulled her head and shoulder right off the pillow. She is really fighting her way through this - it is amazing to watch.
It is also exhausting for Courtney and so we speak with the staff frequently about when we all feel it is appropriate to medicate Courtney so that she will relax and sleep.
Her bruises have all but disappeared at this point and so there are very few outward signs of the tremendous trauma that her body sustained. From the beginning there were no marks - not even a scratch on her face - her 2 front teeth were slightly chipped. This is a miracle in itself and it has allowed us the peace of seeing her beautiful face just as before the accident.
Once in bed she was active again moving her legs over the side of the bed and raising her arms in the air over her head.
Courtney continued to raise her head off the pillow and this evening when she held our hand she pulled her head and shoulder right off the pillow. She is really fighting her way through this - it is amazing to watch.
It is also exhausting for Courtney and so we speak with the staff frequently about when we all feel it is appropriate to medicate Courtney so that she will relax and sleep.
Her bruises have all but disappeared at this point and so there are very few outward signs of the tremendous trauma that her body sustained. From the beginning there were no marks - not even a scratch on her face - her 2 front teeth were slightly chipped. This is a miracle in itself and it has allowed us the peace of seeing her beautiful face just as before the accident.
Dads letter to Courtney
This is a letter to Courtney;
Dear Courtney,
I wanted to tell you how much that I love you and miss your smiling personality. Since the accident almost 3 1/2 weeks ago our lives have been forever changed. At first the days seemed longer, the sun less brilliant, the rain a little colder, a cold chill settled over our lives. Your mom and I have witnessed your strength and will to survive on an hourly basis. Our family has also been gifted by the miracles of Gods actions through your caregivers.
Like you, I also enjoy reading biographical stories where ordinary people are placed into desparate situations and only through acts of courage and faith in God does the story end on a positive note. People often single out courage as though this personal value were an island into itself. I have learned through you that courage is only a small part of the equation of love and faith. Your courage and will to survive cannot be anything less than a gift from God and we are thankful that you have been blessed with these attributes.
I must confess to you that there have been times as I watched your crumpled body writhe in pain that the agony was almost to much for me to bare and it caused me to question my faith in God. "Why God", I asked myself? I felt pity for myself and that was selfish of me. After much soul searching and prayerful reflection I believe that I now understand some small part of this painful puzzle. That you are much more than my daughter, you are a living example of compassion, love, courage, strength and above all deep and abiding faith in God.
I am sure that God will sustain you and bring you back to us whole, and with a message of courage, faith and love that will inspire others who may be challenged as you are at this moment in your life.
All my Love Forever,
Dad
Dear Courtney,
I wanted to tell you how much that I love you and miss your smiling personality. Since the accident almost 3 1/2 weeks ago our lives have been forever changed. At first the days seemed longer, the sun less brilliant, the rain a little colder, a cold chill settled over our lives. Your mom and I have witnessed your strength and will to survive on an hourly basis. Our family has also been gifted by the miracles of Gods actions through your caregivers.
Like you, I also enjoy reading biographical stories where ordinary people are placed into desparate situations and only through acts of courage and faith in God does the story end on a positive note. People often single out courage as though this personal value were an island into itself. I have learned through you that courage is only a small part of the equation of love and faith. Your courage and will to survive cannot be anything less than a gift from God and we are thankful that you have been blessed with these attributes.
I must confess to you that there have been times as I watched your crumpled body writhe in pain that the agony was almost to much for me to bare and it caused me to question my faith in God. "Why God", I asked myself? I felt pity for myself and that was selfish of me. After much soul searching and prayerful reflection I believe that I now understand some small part of this painful puzzle. That you are much more than my daughter, you are a living example of compassion, love, courage, strength and above all deep and abiding faith in God.
I am sure that God will sustain you and bring you back to us whole, and with a message of courage, faith and love that will inspire others who may be challenged as you are at this moment in your life.
All my Love Forever,
Dad
Mom's Update
Courtney was once again 'agitated' and fully alert this morning.
I played a DVD of her favorite show, Jon & Kate Plus 8, which she watched intently. It settled her down for a little while but then she seemed to be in pain so the nurse gave her medication.
She is sleeping comfortably now.
When she is awake both her eyes are wide open. The nerve damage on the right seems to be healing on its own as we haven't noticed any weakness or drooping on that side of her face.
She was lifting her head off the pillow again this morning - another sign that she is gaining strength.
Her face was beat red at one point this morning - her fighting Irish coming through.
Later today she will sit at the edge of the bed again and then be seated on her 'throne'. That's the pink chair that Courtney sits in looking out the window and at the cards hanging on the walls by the window.
Nurse Missy inserted a peripheral IV into Courtney's hand. If the IV stays and works well over the next 24 hours they will remove the main line along with the chest tube tomorrow.
Doctors may try to 'cork' the trachea later today allowing air to pass through her throat and mouth which will allow her to make more sounds. She seems to be trying to make sounds now.
Katy will be home by Thursday and I'm sure - as she did with Claudia - it will be a moment of staring and inner peace for Courtney to see her sister again.
I played a DVD of her favorite show, Jon & Kate Plus 8, which she watched intently. It settled her down for a little while but then she seemed to be in pain so the nurse gave her medication.
She is sleeping comfortably now.
When she is awake both her eyes are wide open. The nerve damage on the right seems to be healing on its own as we haven't noticed any weakness or drooping on that side of her face.
She was lifting her head off the pillow again this morning - another sign that she is gaining strength.
Her face was beat red at one point this morning - her fighting Irish coming through.
Later today she will sit at the edge of the bed again and then be seated on her 'throne'. That's the pink chair that Courtney sits in looking out the window and at the cards hanging on the walls by the window.
Nurse Missy inserted a peripheral IV into Courtney's hand. If the IV stays and works well over the next 24 hours they will remove the main line along with the chest tube tomorrow.
Doctors may try to 'cork' the trachea later today allowing air to pass through her throat and mouth which will allow her to make more sounds. She seems to be trying to make sounds now.
Katy will be home by Thursday and I'm sure - as she did with Claudia - it will be a moment of staring and inner peace for Courtney to see her sister again.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney was indeed very alert and active today. She was moving her arms and legs non-stop. She was lifting her hips off the bed in an obvious attempt to get off her back and out of bed. When the nurses put her in the chair they had to recline the chair because they were afraid she would scoot right out of it!
Later this afternoon doctors replaced the trachea with a smaller diameter trachea that will eventually allow her to talk and breathe normally. Once doctors know that she is stabilized and can breathe consistently without any troubles - eventually the trachea will be removed.
In the meantime there is an oxygen mask over the trachea hole. Courtney kept moving away today which initially concerned me but the nurse pointed out that her vitals were stable indicating that even without oxygen for a few minutes she was fine.
Courtney was raising her left arm (remember the right clavical is broken) high in the air. When her friend Emma remarked about her hair growing back Courtney reached up and touched her hair.
She had her Courtney bear in a choke hold with her right hand and was touching the bear's face with her left hand as she stared at the bear lovingly.
Finally, as if all this wasn't enough to lift our spirits - Courtney was lifting her head off the pillow tonight. She did it several times - we brought Dr. Carey in to see this astonishing action. Everyone was very excited as was Courtney - a little to excited - so Dr. Carey decided Courtney needed a little help sleeping tonight.
We wish Courtney a restful sleep and thank God for a wonderful day of amazing progress!
Later this afternoon doctors replaced the trachea with a smaller diameter trachea that will eventually allow her to talk and breathe normally. Once doctors know that she is stabilized and can breathe consistently without any troubles - eventually the trachea will be removed.
In the meantime there is an oxygen mask over the trachea hole. Courtney kept moving away today which initially concerned me but the nurse pointed out that her vitals were stable indicating that even without oxygen for a few minutes she was fine.
Courtney was raising her left arm (remember the right clavical is broken) high in the air. When her friend Emma remarked about her hair growing back Courtney reached up and touched her hair.
She had her Courtney bear in a choke hold with her right hand and was touching the bear's face with her left hand as she stared at the bear lovingly.
Finally, as if all this wasn't enough to lift our spirits - Courtney was lifting her head off the pillow tonight. She did it several times - we brought Dr. Carey in to see this astonishing action. Everyone was very excited as was Courtney - a little to excited - so Dr. Carey decided Courtney needed a little help sleeping tonight.
We wish Courtney a restful sleep and thank God for a wonderful day of amazing progress!
The Energizer Courtney
As Diane reported earlier, Courtney was very active today. Her legs were going non-stop when I visited as she continues to recover. Apparently, Courtney was given Vicoden, a muscle relaxant and one other drug that I can't spell so I won't even try. (actually I don't know if I spelled Vicoden correctly but at this point, it's not important.)
Despite the fact that Courtney was given enough drugs to knock out the New England Patriots front line, she was still moving about. (I know that Courtney wants to be a teacher but I would suggest she take up Martial Arts to release some of that positive energy. She'd give Chuck Norris a ride for his money, to be sure.) According to Diane, Courtney has also been trying to speak. It's impossible to imagine the frustration Courtney must be experiencing as she recovers.
Nonetheless, Courtney keeps steaming ahead and she keeps going and going and going,,,,,,
Despite the fact that Courtney was given enough drugs to knock out the New England Patriots front line, she was still moving about. (I know that Courtney wants to be a teacher but I would suggest she take up Martial Arts to release some of that positive energy. She'd give Chuck Norris a ride for his money, to be sure.) According to Diane, Courtney has also been trying to speak. It's impossible to imagine the frustration Courtney must be experiencing as she recovers.
Nonetheless, Courtney keeps steaming ahead and she keeps going and going and going,,,,,,
Moving on
Stopped by to see Courtney and her mom and dad this afternoon. I'm sure there will be many people like me who can't wait for Courtney to move on to her next step in her recovery, yet are sad in that she'll be so much farther away. I know in RI many people dread the "long" drive from Lincoln to, say, Warwick but this is different. Driving into Boston from Providence and returning to Uxbridge isn't a trip I can make often, during the week, while still contributing here at home.
Ultimately, we all want Court to get the best possible care and if that means she needs to travel to Juneau, Alaska we would cheerfully see her off knowing in our hearts that she'll be that much farther down her road to recovery when she returns. But I will miss knowing that Courtney is so close as I drive by RI Hospital every morning to work. (That's when I'm not yelling at some looney who thinks it's a good idea to stop in the middle of the highway because they're talking on their cell phone!) ((((((Courtney))))))
Ultimately, we all want Court to get the best possible care and if that means she needs to travel to Juneau, Alaska we would cheerfully see her off knowing in our hearts that she'll be that much farther down her road to recovery when she returns. But I will miss knowing that Courtney is so close as I drive by RI Hospital every morning to work. (That's when I'm not yelling at some looney who thinks it's a good idea to stop in the middle of the highway because they're talking on their cell phone!) ((((((Courtney))))))
Mom's Update
Courtney is sitting up in the chair this morning. She was looking out the window a while ago.
The physical and occupational therapist and nurse Missy sat Courtney up at the edge of the bed. She was picking up her feet again as though she were walking. Her neck and trunk muscles are weak but that is to be expected considering 3 weeks in bed and the trauma.
She is moving her hips up off the bed and wriggles quickly half way down the bed. This is very purposeful movement. The nurses kept telling Courtney to stay put but she would have none of it. I told them they were meeting the real Courtney. Missy asked "does she have a stubborn streak?" HA! They don't know what they're in for! That stubborn determination is what has brought her this far and will bring her to full health.
Missy said that the noises Courtney was making this morning were very deliberate. Later today respiratory therapist should be putting a smaller tube in her trachea that will allow air to enter and exit from her mouth. This should also allow her to make more noise and try to speak if her brain is ready to do that.
Today is the last day for Courtney on the antibiotics so doctors should be removing her mainline tomorrow. The chest pump is turned off - if the xray tomorrow morning looks good they may remove the chest tube as well.
Let's pray for Courtney's continued progress, strength and determination. We truly feel blessed for the strides she has made over these past few weeks, for all the support we have received and the amazing outpouring of love.
We have received everything we have asked for and even some things we have not asked for. Yesterday I told the nurse I was very concerned about Courtney's feet because they are so dry. Last night when I returned to Ronald McDonald's House (Ronnie's place as Courtney's Dad calls it) a friend had delivered cookies and foot cream. She couldn't have known my concern but the timing was perfect. Just one more example of how you have all supported Courtney and us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
The physical and occupational therapist and nurse Missy sat Courtney up at the edge of the bed. She was picking up her feet again as though she were walking. Her neck and trunk muscles are weak but that is to be expected considering 3 weeks in bed and the trauma.
She is moving her hips up off the bed and wriggles quickly half way down the bed. This is very purposeful movement. The nurses kept telling Courtney to stay put but she would have none of it. I told them they were meeting the real Courtney. Missy asked "does she have a stubborn streak?" HA! They don't know what they're in for! That stubborn determination is what has brought her this far and will bring her to full health.
Missy said that the noises Courtney was making this morning were very deliberate. Later today respiratory therapist should be putting a smaller tube in her trachea that will allow air to enter and exit from her mouth. This should also allow her to make more noise and try to speak if her brain is ready to do that.
Today is the last day for Courtney on the antibiotics so doctors should be removing her mainline tomorrow. The chest pump is turned off - if the xray tomorrow morning looks good they may remove the chest tube as well.
Let's pray for Courtney's continued progress, strength and determination. We truly feel blessed for the strides she has made over these past few weeks, for all the support we have received and the amazing outpouring of love.
We have received everything we have asked for and even some things we have not asked for. Yesterday I told the nurse I was very concerned about Courtney's feet because they are so dry. Last night when I returned to Ronald McDonald's House (Ronnie's place as Courtney's Dad calls it) a friend had delivered cookies and foot cream. She couldn't have known my concern but the timing was perfect. Just one more example of how you have all supported Courtney and us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Mom's Update
Today Courtney sat up in the chair again. I bought her snowman slippers that have buttons for eyes and a carrot nose. Claudia thinks they're stupid and that Courtney will hate them but the nurses and I think they're cute.
We put them on her feet. As she sat in the chair she lifted her feet - left right - left right over and over as though she were walking. It was a very deliberate move and wonderful to see.
She sat in the chair for 2 1/2 hours - great for her lungs and overall strength of bones, muscles and joints.
Courtney continues to breathe easily on the ventilator mask. We are hopeful that tomorrow, with the full staff on, Courtney's ventilator tube will be downsized allowing her to breathe through both her nose and mouth. With the current trachea size she only breathes on her own through her nose. This downsizing of the tube (canula) is another important step.
We are also hopeful that doctors will turn off the chest tube pump and soon be able to remove the chest tube.
She has just 2 more days on the antibiotic and then she will have the main line - an IV line going into her central artery removed. This is good news as another potential port of infection will no longer exist once it is removed.
Courtney has had a very very restful day today. She certainly has earned it after all the fevers, sweats, brain storms, heart rates and respiratory rates up and down, not to mention muscle spasms that must be very painful. These periods of restfulness help her brain to heal.
When she was awake today she was once again very alert - almost sentry like about the people entering her room.
We pray that this week will continue to bring important steady progress that will soon lead to her leaving the ICU and onto Rehab. Please pray for this steady progress with us.
Later this week we will be visiting Rehab centers in Massachusetts with friends who are in the health care industry and can help us make an intelligent evaluation. Mom and Dad will be doing the emotional evaluation! We will keep everyone informed of our decision and certainly when she is moved to Rehab.
Thank you again for another wonderful week of prayers and support.
We put them on her feet. As she sat in the chair she lifted her feet - left right - left right over and over as though she were walking. It was a very deliberate move and wonderful to see.
She sat in the chair for 2 1/2 hours - great for her lungs and overall strength of bones, muscles and joints.
Courtney continues to breathe easily on the ventilator mask. We are hopeful that tomorrow, with the full staff on, Courtney's ventilator tube will be downsized allowing her to breathe through both her nose and mouth. With the current trachea size she only breathes on her own through her nose. This downsizing of the tube (canula) is another important step.
We are also hopeful that doctors will turn off the chest tube pump and soon be able to remove the chest tube.
She has just 2 more days on the antibiotic and then she will have the main line - an IV line going into her central artery removed. This is good news as another potential port of infection will no longer exist once it is removed.
Courtney has had a very very restful day today. She certainly has earned it after all the fevers, sweats, brain storms, heart rates and respiratory rates up and down, not to mention muscle spasms that must be very painful. These periods of restfulness help her brain to heal.
When she was awake today she was once again very alert - almost sentry like about the people entering her room.
We pray that this week will continue to bring important steady progress that will soon lead to her leaving the ICU and onto Rehab. Please pray for this steady progress with us.
Later this week we will be visiting Rehab centers in Massachusetts with friends who are in the health care industry and can help us make an intelligent evaluation. Mom and Dad will be doing the emotional evaluation! We will keep everyone informed of our decision and certainly when she is moved to Rehab.
Thank you again for another wonderful week of prayers and support.
Mom's Update
Courtney had a restful night but has been rather 'excited' this morning. Her heart rate has been high and her respiratory rate has also been high at times. She has slept through the much of it leading the staff here to believe it's her brain.
Many people who treat head injuries believe there are 'brain storms' - not the kind that we are used to - but high levels of activity where the brain is coming awake and struggling to put things back together again. When Courtney is restless or her heart rate swings from high to normal and back again she is often times experiencing a 'brain storm'.
Yesterday Courtney watched and listened to The Grinch that Stole Christmas with Jim Carey.
She is a big Jim Carey fan and this is one of her favorite movies. I think she watched it 15 times last year. Someone also brought her Mr. Deeds - another favorite movie.
Today we will play Christmas music for Courtney to further orient her to the season.
In addition to the get well cards hanging on her curtain she also has a Christmas decoration that looks like a clothes line with Mrs. Claus' clothes hanging. She looks at that and followed with her eyes as I showed her each item on the clothes line.
She had a nice visit from two of her friends last night and she looked from one to the other over and over as they chatted to Courtney about funny things from the past.
All of this activity and interaction is good for Courtney in very short spurts. She tires easily but continues to make progress.
We hope that any day now they will remove the chest tube and the main line which is an IV feed going into the central artery.
Thanks to a friend who shared an Advent leaflet from their church. I'd like to share something from today's reference: 'We watch with expectant eyes, trusting that God is active, present and constantly at work, leading all of the creating toward the plan of redemption.'
We trust that God is active in Courtney's healing, that He is present with us through our trials, and that He is constantly at work guiding her caregivers efforts to bring Courtney back to full health.
Many people who treat head injuries believe there are 'brain storms' - not the kind that we are used to - but high levels of activity where the brain is coming awake and struggling to put things back together again. When Courtney is restless or her heart rate swings from high to normal and back again she is often times experiencing a 'brain storm'.
Yesterday Courtney watched and listened to The Grinch that Stole Christmas with Jim Carey.
She is a big Jim Carey fan and this is one of her favorite movies. I think she watched it 15 times last year. Someone also brought her Mr. Deeds - another favorite movie.
Today we will play Christmas music for Courtney to further orient her to the season.
In addition to the get well cards hanging on her curtain she also has a Christmas decoration that looks like a clothes line with Mrs. Claus' clothes hanging. She looks at that and followed with her eyes as I showed her each item on the clothes line.
She had a nice visit from two of her friends last night and she looked from one to the other over and over as they chatted to Courtney about funny things from the past.
All of this activity and interaction is good for Courtney in very short spurts. She tires easily but continues to make progress.
We hope that any day now they will remove the chest tube and the main line which is an IV feed going into the central artery.
Thanks to a friend who shared an Advent leaflet from their church. I'd like to share something from today's reference: 'We watch with expectant eyes, trusting that God is active, present and constantly at work, leading all of the creating toward the plan of redemption.'
We trust that God is active in Courtney's healing, that He is present with us through our trials, and that He is constantly at work guiding her caregivers efforts to bring Courtney back to full health.
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