We Deicherts, have a lot to thank the Lord for this evening. This evening as I was coming home I saw flashing police lights and many tow trucks and then I realized that there had been a car accident. God has protected our family while traveling many miles to and from the hospital and to and from Ohio. We are extremely thankful for His watch care over us. And also many people have blessed us with money so that the parking, tolls and gas have not been an expense for us. Thank you everyone.
Steve is getting a little stronger every day. Today they put him on a flat table and raised him up to a standing position. Strapped to the table of course. This was great. He was uncomfortable but it gave him a chance to stand and know that feeling again. He stood for about 10 minutes. He did want to walk, so he wasn't quite understanding that he was not able to do this yet. Also he is processing things a little better. He was able to take his pain medication in the pill form by swallowing them. I told him he is better than me because I still can't swallow pills!! Right family??
Sometime during the day he does have a few times that he gets very confused. Today he wanted to know if I knew what time he needed to be at Keswick. I assured him that they were not expecting him tomorrow. Sorry Bill he won't be in tomorrow. He still can't figure out why God but a dead hand on his body. He really doesn't believe that it is his. I explained that the hand is sleeping and that he needs to look at it and retrain his brain to move it. He said that I was lying to him. I assured him that I do not lie and he knows that because he has told me many times that I would never make a poker player!
Enjoy your Labor Day together with your family and friends - I don't know where the summer went. Steve and I didn't even get any delicious white sweet corn. And now I don't want it if Steve can't have it either. We'll just have to enjoy it the more next year! He will also enjoy many Jersey tomatoes.
Love,
Mr. Steve, Janice, Kevin and Brandy, Kimberly and three of the greatest grandchildren ever!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
"I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength"
Because I wasn't working to day I was able to get to Magee a little earlier than last week. I got there in time to meet him in the dining room. He was in his wheelchair with a big blue bib on eating his pureed carrots, mashed potatoes, and pureed chicken. He did a good job with this food. He was in the process of eating the papaya. He wasn't chewing and swallowing very well and I had to sweep the cheek to get it out of the little pouch so he wouldn't choke. The muscles on the left side of his face are not strong yet and this is what happens. Therefore he is not allowed to eat unattended.
After lunch he rested and then we went to the 6th floor and enjoyed some sunshine and warmth. He is always cold. They told him that the reason it is cold is because they don't want the germs to spread. He was able to tell me that. I'm not sure if it is his attention span or the fact that his bottom hurts in the chair or both, but we did enjoy a change of scenery for a couple hours. He talked to his neice in CA and our grandchildren during this "out of the room" time.
Steve is still processing everything that is going on. He wants to come home. He says he'll work hard at home. He doesn't quite understand that the "dead" hand is his hand. He wants to know why God put a "dead" hand on his body. The nice thing is that while we were talking about his hand - he got an itch on his arm. He even told me that it itched on the back of it between the elbow and the forearm. I moved his right hand over so he could itch it with the cover. So that is good I think.
He has time of getting discouraged so today we went over Philippians 4:13! He recited everyother word for me - "I CAN do ALL things through CHRIST who gives me STRENGTH!"
He got it! I asked him if I needed to post it under the clock for him to read - he agreed "yeah that may be a good idea". You can't possibly go through this without times of discouragement.
We need to take that discouragement to God and turning it into COURAGE to keep on. Mr. Steve promised to keep on and not give up.
It was wonderful - at our prayertime tonight God slipped another believer into our path to bring us encouragement. She prayed with us and told me later that our testimony has already been used. People are watching what is going on in room 454. Praise God - it's all about HIM not us.
God authorized this plan for our lives - we are just trusting HIM to get us through.
Enjoy your day of worship tomorrow,
Mr. Steve sends his love to all of you!
PS Kimberly has a cold and can't get up to see her dad - it would be great if you would pray with us that the cold will take it's course very quickly so she can see him soon.
After lunch he rested and then we went to the 6th floor and enjoyed some sunshine and warmth. He is always cold. They told him that the reason it is cold is because they don't want the germs to spread. He was able to tell me that. I'm not sure if it is his attention span or the fact that his bottom hurts in the chair or both, but we did enjoy a change of scenery for a couple hours. He talked to his neice in CA and our grandchildren during this "out of the room" time.
Steve is still processing everything that is going on. He wants to come home. He says he'll work hard at home. He doesn't quite understand that the "dead" hand is his hand. He wants to know why God put a "dead" hand on his body. The nice thing is that while we were talking about his hand - he got an itch on his arm. He even told me that it itched on the back of it between the elbow and the forearm. I moved his right hand over so he could itch it with the cover. So that is good I think.
He has time of getting discouraged so today we went over Philippians 4:13! He recited everyother word for me - "I CAN do ALL things through CHRIST who gives me STRENGTH!"
He got it! I asked him if I needed to post it under the clock for him to read - he agreed "yeah that may be a good idea". You can't possibly go through this without times of discouragement.
We need to take that discouragement to God and turning it into COURAGE to keep on. Mr. Steve promised to keep on and not give up.
It was wonderful - at our prayertime tonight God slipped another believer into our path to bring us encouragement. She prayed with us and told me later that our testimony has already been used. People are watching what is going on in room 454. Praise God - it's all about HIM not us.
God authorized this plan for our lives - we are just trusting HIM to get us through.
Enjoy your day of worship tomorrow,
Mr. Steve sends his love to all of you!
PS Kimberly has a cold and can't get up to see her dad - it would be great if you would pray with us that the cold will take it's course very quickly so she can see him soon.
Friday, August 29, 2008
"Lullaby and good night - shut your big bloodshot eyes"
There is so much going on everyday. I'm waiting for "dull and boring."
We are planning ahead and Tuesday I meet with gentlemen to discuss the ramp situation. Steve will be coming home with a wheelchair and a large wheelchair at that sooooo we will need a ramp built. Because of the doorway sizes - it will have to be in the front of the house - glug. All this needs to be constructed by Gibbsboro's building code. A new adventure!!
Steve was sleeping when I left. He didn't even move when I was praying with him. The word from the staff was that he was calmer today. Thanks for praying. He was up all night last night. He was all riled up. Calling out to Tracy his nurse to take him home with her when she left. She was sad to leave him that way. The doctor decided to put him on a neurological drug that works on the chemicals in his brain. This is NOT habit forming. And is a very low dose. This will help him cope with what is going on in his mind. I asked him specifically what he was feeling at night. He said he would see himself in a car accident and couldn't stop it. These kinds of events happen in brain injury people. So he is not abnormal and this is good. I know everyone on the night shift will be glad that he will have a good night's sleep tonight. I did ask Tracy to spot check his pulse oxygen level before she left and she said she would. Also she will ask the night shift to do the same. I just didn't want him too sleepy to forget to breathe with his sleep apnea.
Enjoy your long weekend!
The Deicherts
We are planning ahead and Tuesday I meet with gentlemen to discuss the ramp situation. Steve will be coming home with a wheelchair and a large wheelchair at that sooooo we will need a ramp built. Because of the doorway sizes - it will have to be in the front of the house - glug. All this needs to be constructed by Gibbsboro's building code. A new adventure!!
Steve was sleeping when I left. He didn't even move when I was praying with him. The word from the staff was that he was calmer today. Thanks for praying. He was up all night last night. He was all riled up. Calling out to Tracy his nurse to take him home with her when she left. She was sad to leave him that way. The doctor decided to put him on a neurological drug that works on the chemicals in his brain. This is NOT habit forming. And is a very low dose. This will help him cope with what is going on in his mind. I asked him specifically what he was feeling at night. He said he would see himself in a car accident and couldn't stop it. These kinds of events happen in brain injury people. So he is not abnormal and this is good. I know everyone on the night shift will be glad that he will have a good night's sleep tonight. I did ask Tracy to spot check his pulse oxygen level before she left and she said she would. Also she will ask the night shift to do the same. I just didn't want him too sleepy to forget to breathe with his sleep apnea.
Enjoy your long weekend!
The Deicherts
Thursday, August 28, 2008
"now I lay Steve down to sleep"
Each day is an adventure for Mr. Steve. He continues to gain strength. Today he told me that he was brushing his teeth on his own now. This is good. They are really trying to make him as independent as he can. He is also feeding himself - yummy pureed mystery meat and veggies!
And when he is thirsty the nurses give him a drink of thickened peach nector. YUM!
There are still some areas of concern however. He still has discomfort with his left side. That is the side that does not move upon command. Therefore when it is moved - he has pain. What is happening is that the muscles in his shoulder and hip are weak and since the brain is the central nervous system - it sends a signal that there is pain. And that is what Steve experiences. The doctor does not think there is any dislocation but just muscle weakness and nerves that signal pain. So lets pray specifically that God will strengthen these muscles. When this happens two things will happen - he will be free of pain AND he will have movement! It makes sense to me.
Mr. Steve wants to have liposuction done on his body. He wants to take the fat on his belly and place it in his "bottom". He has no padding and continues to be uncomfortable. Once he is stronger he will be able to re-position himself in the wheelchair, but until then it is tough for him to sit for any length of time.
The last thing that concerns me at this time is his sleeping. Sometimes people that go through brain disorders have their days and nights mixed up. I think this is happening to Steve. More than that - I think he is having trouble sleeping because he is having night terrors. The only way I can explain this is that going through an AVM you will experience seeing weird things. During the day the nurses or myself can say "No that isn't there or no I can't see that person." But at night he is alone in the room. The nurses and I think he has sleep apnea. They don't do a sleep study at Magee so it will not be able to be diagnosed until he gets home. I will make an appointment asap so he can have this test. Knowing Steve he does NOT like anything on his face so we need to find a machine that he would tolerate.
I think you have enough to pray about for one evening. If any of you women (or men) wake up during the night - remember to pray for Steve because chances are he is not sleeping peacefully.
When we left tonight he was extremely sad. He didn't want me to leave him there. It really broke my heart. Please pray about this because he has at least 5 more weeks of this.
Our love to all - Shalom
Janice
And when he is thirsty the nurses give him a drink of thickened peach nector. YUM!
There are still some areas of concern however. He still has discomfort with his left side. That is the side that does not move upon command. Therefore when it is moved - he has pain. What is happening is that the muscles in his shoulder and hip are weak and since the brain is the central nervous system - it sends a signal that there is pain. And that is what Steve experiences. The doctor does not think there is any dislocation but just muscle weakness and nerves that signal pain. So lets pray specifically that God will strengthen these muscles. When this happens two things will happen - he will be free of pain AND he will have movement! It makes sense to me.
Mr. Steve wants to have liposuction done on his body. He wants to take the fat on his belly and place it in his "bottom". He has no padding and continues to be uncomfortable. Once he is stronger he will be able to re-position himself in the wheelchair, but until then it is tough for him to sit for any length of time.
The last thing that concerns me at this time is his sleeping. Sometimes people that go through brain disorders have their days and nights mixed up. I think this is happening to Steve. More than that - I think he is having trouble sleeping because he is having night terrors. The only way I can explain this is that going through an AVM you will experience seeing weird things. During the day the nurses or myself can say "No that isn't there or no I can't see that person." But at night he is alone in the room. The nurses and I think he has sleep apnea. They don't do a sleep study at Magee so it will not be able to be diagnosed until he gets home. I will make an appointment asap so he can have this test. Knowing Steve he does NOT like anything on his face so we need to find a machine that he would tolerate.
I think you have enough to pray about for one evening. If any of you women (or men) wake up during the night - remember to pray for Steve because chances are he is not sleeping peacefully.
When we left tonight he was extremely sad. He didn't want me to leave him there. It really broke my heart. Please pray about this because he has at least 5 more weeks of this.
Our love to all - Shalom
Janice
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
FOOD - AAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!
Well today was the first day that I was not able to get to the hospital. He did make it without me. I did make sure that his brother was going to be there so I could call him and talk to him before he went to sleep. So what what ever is written is from Dennis' conversation with me.
Steve had his first "meal" - if that is what you could call it. It was pureed mashed potatoes and beef and vegetables. He had thickened juice for the beverage. I asked Steve how it was and he said ok. So you think about it - NO food in your mouth for 6 weeks and you tell me how would it taste. I think his taste buds were in shock! He didn't choke and that was good. Little by little he will be able to eat more.
Steve still struggles with his left shoulder. I think we are all frustrated with the amount of discomfort he is enduring. I will address this with the doctor tomorrow. I will be spending a good portion of my day there tomorrow - so I will have plenty of time to ask questions. I will also have a meeting with the case manager. This will be a great thing for all of you to pray about with us. Thanks.
Steve did agree to go up to the sixth floor for some fresh air today. It is a beautiful area that patients are allowed to visit. He is having trouble staying warm and it was a beautiful day so that was a great adventure. He enjoyed it for about 45 minutes. Right now he has a low attention span. I'm sure that will get better as days go by and he gets stronger.
Have a great day - these cool nights are wonderful!
Mr. Steve and company
Steve had his first "meal" - if that is what you could call it. It was pureed mashed potatoes and beef and vegetables. He had thickened juice for the beverage. I asked Steve how it was and he said ok. So you think about it - NO food in your mouth for 6 weeks and you tell me how would it taste. I think his taste buds were in shock! He didn't choke and that was good. Little by little he will be able to eat more.
Steve still struggles with his left shoulder. I think we are all frustrated with the amount of discomfort he is enduring. I will address this with the doctor tomorrow. I will be spending a good portion of my day there tomorrow - so I will have plenty of time to ask questions. I will also have a meeting with the case manager. This will be a great thing for all of you to pray about with us. Thanks.
Steve did agree to go up to the sixth floor for some fresh air today. It is a beautiful area that patients are allowed to visit. He is having trouble staying warm and it was a beautiful day so that was a great adventure. He enjoyed it for about 45 minutes. Right now he has a low attention span. I'm sure that will get better as days go by and he gets stronger.
Have a great day - these cool nights are wonderful!
Mr. Steve and company
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Dad didn't fall out a window...Eutychus however...
Good evening...
Just got back from the hospital...For me it seems like whenever I go I spend more time out of his room then actually with him;)
You see, when I get there, he needs a shower, then a bed pan, then privacy, then changing clothes, etc...The list goes on...but Dad continues to tell me that he's happy that I've come to see him and that makes me happy too:)
Dad had his trach taken out today!!!:):):):) YEAHH!!! He also tried food in his mouth as well! Part of his speech therapy they have to give him the 'ok' to eat again...and today they tried some apple sauce and thickened orange juice! And dad did well! (This is all from what my dad told me, what actually happened might be different; but I'll take it!)
His shoulder is still continuing to hurt him. He is continually in pain about this so please pray that he would get some relief.
Today dad got a visitor from our senior pastor at our church who came during one of those 'times' that I always seem to be around for...so he had to step outside for a moment while dad finished his business. When he came back in, dad and him talked for a moment or two and then pastor wanted to pray for him. So during his prayer Dad was 'at peace' and fell asleep. Lucky for him he didn't fall out of a window...but Praise God, he's still alive!:)
For those of you who do not attend our church, pastor spoke on Luke 8 and Acts 20 where there is a story about Paul preaching late into the night and one of the guys, Eutychus, falls asleep in a window and falls to the ground...and lives...its a pretty funny story so read it...
Well...Mom and I are both taking a break from seeing dad tomorrow...both busy girls now...
Good night!
Just got back from the hospital...For me it seems like whenever I go I spend more time out of his room then actually with him;)
You see, when I get there, he needs a shower, then a bed pan, then privacy, then changing clothes, etc...The list goes on...but Dad continues to tell me that he's happy that I've come to see him and that makes me happy too:)
Dad had his trach taken out today!!!:):):):) YEAHH!!! He also tried food in his mouth as well! Part of his speech therapy they have to give him the 'ok' to eat again...and today they tried some apple sauce and thickened orange juice! And dad did well! (This is all from what my dad told me, what actually happened might be different; but I'll take it!)
His shoulder is still continuing to hurt him. He is continually in pain about this so please pray that he would get some relief.
Today dad got a visitor from our senior pastor at our church who came during one of those 'times' that I always seem to be around for...so he had to step outside for a moment while dad finished his business. When he came back in, dad and him talked for a moment or two and then pastor wanted to pray for him. So during his prayer Dad was 'at peace' and fell asleep. Lucky for him he didn't fall out of a window...but Praise God, he's still alive!:)
For those of you who do not attend our church, pastor spoke on Luke 8 and Acts 20 where there is a story about Paul preaching late into the night and one of the guys, Eutychus, falls asleep in a window and falls to the ground...and lives...its a pretty funny story so read it...
Well...Mom and I are both taking a break from seeing dad tomorrow...both busy girls now...
Good night!
Monday, August 25, 2008
"No drama now, Barbie"
Today I arrived to Mr. Steve sitting in front of the nurses station with his helmet off - he is supposed to have it on when he is in the wheelchair - and he was fidgeting with his blanket.
I wondered why I was getting a silly look as I walked down the hall. Anyone who comes in the doors gets a glance because of the nature of the floor. The respirator therapist was with him. He wanted in his room and ignored my plea for a kiss. I told him that I would not move him until I got one!
On the walk to his room, Linda informed me that he had taken his track out again last night. I think I have lost count of the times he has taken it out. One of the nurses said that if they hadn't called an emergency or if they had called Dr. Berenstein - Steve's DR he would have said to just leave it out. But instead - they put it back in again. Oh my, enough is enough. For real it IS coming out tomorrow - following the correct procedure! Steve's story is this and you can choose to believe it or not. He claims he was coughing and he "threw up" and coughed it out. He wiped it with a towel and it came out. WHATEVER! He even told the one nurse Lior to give him the benefit of the doubt. Boy, he knows just what to say.
Today he had a good day at OT (occupational therapy). Ken was really impressed with what he was able to do. Steve said that he has been practicing! He was able to sit on the mat with just Ken helping balancing him. That was much better than before when I saw him. Ashley was trying to do something with a balancing table and trying to work on standing, but he was in pain. I'm sure she'll try again.
The big news was this afternoon Mr. Steve SHAVED!! That's right - shaved himself. I'm not sure whether he saw his face because all he could say was - is that as good a mirror as you have.
He sees blurry but I guess his face wasn't going anywhere so it was pretty easy. It really looks a bit funny - he shaved the middle of his chin but didn't finish the rest. Ken said they would finish it tomorrow. I sent along a picture of this momentous occasion! At church we have a spring drama and they always need bearded men - sorry Barbie, Steve will not be ready now!
I will share some more goodies tomorrow.
We love you all!
Mr. Steve and family
Sunday, August 24, 2008
A time to rest
Dad is sleeping now...I put the phillies game on for him before I left...
Mom and I both had a great time at church today...lunch...and then off to see Dad.
He's really being cared for very nicely at McGee:) We are really happy with how things are going except Dad's left shoulder:(
Dad's left shoulder is dislocated and has been for a while now. He complains a lot about it hurting, and there's really nothing we can do to help. Tomorrow he will have an x-ray done to see how things are going on his hips as well as his shoulder. The doctors will take the appropriate steps once they see how things are going.
I asked dad about his vision tonight; and he said that he sees me; but I'm a little blurry. So hopefully that means that his sight is getting better.
But the BIG EXCITING news is that on Tuesday the trach comes out!:) (hopefully)...things can always change but its exciting to think that he's almost there!!! He was 'capped' last night for the first time; which means that he was forced to sleep using his mouth and nose...this causes snoring so I wonder if his roommate, Andrew, gets any sleep;)
Before I left I prayed with dad as I always do...and during prayer he interrupted a couple times to thank the Lord for putting us through this whole situation. He also thanked God over and over the wonderful wife he has been given! He LOVES his wife...and his kids;) Dad has definitely improved mentally in the last couple days...and its really nice to hear how he tells everyone in the hospital that he's a 'miracle man'.
I read Philippians 4 before I left and Dad was glad I did. I'd encourage you to read it and take some of the verses that speak to you and put them on index cards to remind you of them throughout the day.
Until we meet again...rejoice in the Lord always...
Mom and I both had a great time at church today...lunch...and then off to see Dad.
He's really being cared for very nicely at McGee:) We are really happy with how things are going except Dad's left shoulder:(
Dad's left shoulder is dislocated and has been for a while now. He complains a lot about it hurting, and there's really nothing we can do to help. Tomorrow he will have an x-ray done to see how things are going on his hips as well as his shoulder. The doctors will take the appropriate steps once they see how things are going.
I asked dad about his vision tonight; and he said that he sees me; but I'm a little blurry. So hopefully that means that his sight is getting better.
But the BIG EXCITING news is that on Tuesday the trach comes out!:) (hopefully)...things can always change but its exciting to think that he's almost there!!! He was 'capped' last night for the first time; which means that he was forced to sleep using his mouth and nose...this causes snoring so I wonder if his roommate, Andrew, gets any sleep;)
Before I left I prayed with dad as I always do...and during prayer he interrupted a couple times to thank the Lord for putting us through this whole situation. He also thanked God over and over the wonderful wife he has been given! He LOVES his wife...and his kids;) Dad has definitely improved mentally in the last couple days...and its really nice to hear how he tells everyone in the hospital that he's a 'miracle man'.
I read Philippians 4 before I left and Dad was glad I did. I'd encourage you to read it and take some of the verses that speak to you and put them on index cards to remind you of them throughout the day.
Until we meet again...rejoice in the Lord always...
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Mr. Steve's weekend "off"
It was wonderful to sleep in this morning - sorry Brandy and all those parents who are sleep deprived! Today I did something for "me". I stayed home in the morning and fixed pancakes for Kimberly and myself. I then when to our church choir retreat. I really enjoyed the fellowship and singing.
Steve and I had a great visit although it began a little later than is usually does. For the last almost six weeks I have been getting to the hospital around noon or 1:00pm. I watch him with therapy and then take care of him until 7:00 or 8:00pm. Today I didn't get there until 4:00pm. He wanted our friend, Craig, that was visiting Mr. Steve to call me and let me know where he was so I could come visit him. Now how could I forget??? He gets a little confused from time to time. Ask him about catering for Eddie Murphy and you will know what I mean!
Today he had "off" from therapy. Boy, he really enjoyed that. I keep warning him that these 2 days off will go by quickly and that he will need to jump right in on Monday with a good attitude and work hard for Ken. Please pray that he will have relief from the pain in his shoulder and lower back/hip area. He said that the doctor said they were going to do an xray but I haven't gotten that word yet.
He seemed more interested with the tv tonight. He says things look better without the glasses right now. He definitely has some vision issues - you can pray about that as well. His mind is keen about the sports information!
It was nice to cuddle a little. I put my arms around him and he squeezed me to him and rubbed my back. That was nice. He also said he was sorry about what was going on and that it was difficult. I assured him that I was fine.
The highlight of his day was talking to "his girls" - Anna and Ella. He enjoyed talking to them on the phone. They are getting better talking on the phone to Poppop. He teared up when she told him that she loved him and that she was praying for him to get better. Aren't grandkids GRAND? He liked talking to you Kevin and Kimberly. He also enjoyed talking to Autumn (one of his Sunday School children) tonight - he said he missed teaching his kids at Sunday School. He asked if that was weird. I assured him that it isn't always true, but definitely not weird!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend,
Mr. Steve and company
Steve and I had a great visit although it began a little later than is usually does. For the last almost six weeks I have been getting to the hospital around noon or 1:00pm. I watch him with therapy and then take care of him until 7:00 or 8:00pm. Today I didn't get there until 4:00pm. He wanted our friend, Craig, that was visiting Mr. Steve to call me and let me know where he was so I could come visit him. Now how could I forget??? He gets a little confused from time to time. Ask him about catering for Eddie Murphy and you will know what I mean!
Today he had "off" from therapy. Boy, he really enjoyed that. I keep warning him that these 2 days off will go by quickly and that he will need to jump right in on Monday with a good attitude and work hard for Ken. Please pray that he will have relief from the pain in his shoulder and lower back/hip area. He said that the doctor said they were going to do an xray but I haven't gotten that word yet.
He seemed more interested with the tv tonight. He says things look better without the glasses right now. He definitely has some vision issues - you can pray about that as well. His mind is keen about the sports information!
It was nice to cuddle a little. I put my arms around him and he squeezed me to him and rubbed my back. That was nice. He also said he was sorry about what was going on and that it was difficult. I assured him that I was fine.
The highlight of his day was talking to "his girls" - Anna and Ella. He enjoyed talking to them on the phone. They are getting better talking on the phone to Poppop. He teared up when she told him that she loved him and that she was praying for him to get better. Aren't grandkids GRAND? He liked talking to you Kevin and Kimberly. He also enjoyed talking to Autumn (one of his Sunday School children) tonight - he said he missed teaching his kids at Sunday School. He asked if that was weird. I assured him that it isn't always true, but definitely not weird!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend,
Mr. Steve and company
Friday, August 22, 2008
"ESPN"
Mr. Steve is able to rest now. I think he will have Saturday and Sunday off of therapy. They may stick a little in but not the vigorous days like he has been having. He has been working like you and I are working. He is up and at'tem at 7:30am and he did not get out of his chair until 6:00pm. They usually put him in bed for a rest mid morning. By 4:00pm today he was saying, "I'm done." and would move his right hand out with emphasis.
Ken has him for two sessions. He was impressed that he was able to hold his head up better. Last night while I was there, I turned ESPN on and held his head upright and back to the head rest. This forced him to keep it upright. Well it worked. Ya know ESPN is good for somethin'.
He still has trouble with his left shoulder. It is very painful. They try to isolate the shoulder and move the arm. They are able to do this without too much pain. He will say, "Yeah buddy"
when it hurts too bad.
Steve had a better night last night. Of course Tracy went in and scolded him and told him to stop moving around and go sleep. He did. I felt better about leaving last night. I read Psalm 139 then prayed with him. One verse in particular was very apprepo - verse 15 that talks about being formed in my mother's womb. You see - this AVM was also place in Steve while he was being formed in his mother's womb. It's another "God thing" and I love it!
I thank the Lord for getting me through this week. I'm glad I got broken into the work routine gradually. Come September 2, I'll be working much more and I am praying about how God will have me work, visit Steve and do all the other house things.
Have a great weekend - enjoy your family.
Mr. Steve and company
Ken has him for two sessions. He was impressed that he was able to hold his head up better. Last night while I was there, I turned ESPN on and held his head upright and back to the head rest. This forced him to keep it upright. Well it worked. Ya know ESPN is good for somethin'.
He still has trouble with his left shoulder. It is very painful. They try to isolate the shoulder and move the arm. They are able to do this without too much pain. He will say, "Yeah buddy"
when it hurts too bad.
Steve had a better night last night. Of course Tracy went in and scolded him and told him to stop moving around and go sleep. He did. I felt better about leaving last night. I read Psalm 139 then prayed with him. One verse in particular was very apprepo - verse 15 that talks about being formed in my mother's womb. You see - this AVM was also place in Steve while he was being formed in his mother's womb. It's another "God thing" and I love it!
I thank the Lord for getting me through this week. I'm glad I got broken into the work routine gradually. Come September 2, I'll be working much more and I am praying about how God will have me work, visit Steve and do all the other house things.
Have a great weekend - enjoy your family.
Mr. Steve and company
Thursday, August 21, 2008
"comfort in God's Word"
Each day brings it's challenges. Some challenges are the same day after day. Today when I arrived he was resting in bed so that he would be more alert to participate in occupational therapy. Both therapy people converged on him and decided what to do. They decided to work in the room and try his ability to sit on the edge of the bed. He really loves the "crain" he calls it. It is a hoist that carries him like a papoose from the bed to the wheelchair. Instead of using the hoist they turned him and held him so he could learn to balance himself. He is not able to do this on his own. He falls over to one side. If they were not there - he would be on the floor yet he doesn't understand that yet. They really did a great job. I think they were the ones who got the physical workout. When I am there I am to stretch out his neck because he doesn't have the ability to hold his head up either. A couple of times he tried to re-position himself in the wheelchair. I think that was a good sign. One of the nurses (Gloria) said today that she thinks he has taken off some weight. That is a good thing too.
I did have a meeting with the case manager. She said he would be a Magee for 4 to 6 weeks. Steve has some medical issues and that complicates things. The doctor will be talking to me.
If he still isn't ready to come home - he will go to a sub-acute facility or nursing home. When he is ready to come home - he will need 24 hour care. Especially for 2 weeks. This all in completely in God's control. I especially need to stop planning and REST in God's plan. God has sovereignly planned everything out and I need to WAIT. Oops - that nasty word.
Today before I left I read Psalm 139 to him and prayed with him. We have been praying before we leave since the beginning. Now I think it is a good idea for us to read either Psalm 139 or Psalm 91. Kimberly or I will do that before we leave. I think it will be a good transition for him to go from us physically being with him to the Lord being with him always - even when we are not. The parting seemed to go much better tonight. God's Word did comfort him this evening and that is great.
This is a VERY slow and VERY long process. I KNOW God will sustain us. Steve and I review everyday about what happened and that God sovereignly planned this for us and that HE will get us through these days as we trust HIM.
We love you all,
Mr. Steve and family
I did have a meeting with the case manager. She said he would be a Magee for 4 to 6 weeks. Steve has some medical issues and that complicates things. The doctor will be talking to me.
If he still isn't ready to come home - he will go to a sub-acute facility or nursing home. When he is ready to come home - he will need 24 hour care. Especially for 2 weeks. This all in completely in God's control. I especially need to stop planning and REST in God's plan. God has sovereignly planned everything out and I need to WAIT. Oops - that nasty word.
Today before I left I read Psalm 139 to him and prayed with him. We have been praying before we leave since the beginning. Now I think it is a good idea for us to read either Psalm 139 or Psalm 91. Kimberly or I will do that before we leave. I think it will be a good transition for him to go from us physically being with him to the Lord being with him always - even when we are not. The parting seemed to go much better tonight. God's Word did comfort him this evening and that is great.
This is a VERY slow and VERY long process. I KNOW God will sustain us. Steve and I review everyday about what happened and that God sovereignly planned this for us and that HE will get us through these days as we trust HIM.
We love you all,
Mr. Steve and family
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
"being transparent"
All of you have a vision of what Mr. Steve is to you. This could be the way he acts or says or what he looks like. You will need to erase some of that from your mind for a minute or two. Right now he is lying in a hospital bed with a scrufty beard and eyes closed some of the day. He has a hole in his throat which they have put a cap on it so he can breathe without assistance. He is unable to get out of bed to use the bathroom facilities - so you take it from there.... He has been tested for sugar 4 plus times a day and given multiple needles a day. He has not had a drink of water or food for over 5 weeks. He is getting nourishment from a peg tube in his stomach. Think about that...what is his profession and delight?? And one last thing, what are you looking at right now?? He told me that the images on the TV were all scrambled up. He told me he saw a spider web on my sweater.
Right about now he has had "enough". He says this stinks. "It's like living through hell." He is scared. He got the last of his stitches out today and told me he went in for surgery. He is reliving and trying to sort out the last 5 weeks. He doesn't understand what has happened and it is way too much to understand for us as well. He doesn't really know that his left side of his body is not working. He asked today why Ken keeps asking him to hold someone's hand/arm when he is in the big lift. He doesn't know it is his hand that he doesn't feel. He thinks he can just get up and walk to the bathroom and get to the car and go home. He thinks his brother and "the boys" will take him home and it will be as it was before. He wanted his cell phone so he could call the ambulance to take him home. NO I have his cell phone.
By the end of the conversation he was crying and I was also. Praise the Lord we have been given compassionate nurses who will stay with him and comfort him. They love him as we do and they encourage him to keep on. They don't know Mr. Steve - he is made of tough stuff.
Tomorrow I have a meeting with the case manager who is a believer. This is good because we will be able to converse on the same level with openness. I will be able to get more information and be able to give it to Steve and the family.
Please pray that Mr. Steve will not become discouraged - that he will remain strong. He is doing better physically. He is not complaining about the wheelchair today as much and he is pulling up his body to sit straighter. He is also trying to straighten his head/neck. He would have rather that God would have let him know that this was going to happen. I said that's not the way it works. He knew that. So we perservere. Continue on. I told him to just look at today. I gave him examples of what HAS BEEN accomplished. I prayed and we kissed and I left. This is and will be a very long process.
Thank you for your continued prayers for all of us.
The Deicherts -Mr. Steve and family
Right about now he has had "enough". He says this stinks. "It's like living through hell." He is scared. He got the last of his stitches out today and told me he went in for surgery. He is reliving and trying to sort out the last 5 weeks. He doesn't understand what has happened and it is way too much to understand for us as well. He doesn't really know that his left side of his body is not working. He asked today why Ken keeps asking him to hold someone's hand/arm when he is in the big lift. He doesn't know it is his hand that he doesn't feel. He thinks he can just get up and walk to the bathroom and get to the car and go home. He thinks his brother and "the boys" will take him home and it will be as it was before. He wanted his cell phone so he could call the ambulance to take him home. NO I have his cell phone.
By the end of the conversation he was crying and I was also. Praise the Lord we have been given compassionate nurses who will stay with him and comfort him. They love him as we do and they encourage him to keep on. They don't know Mr. Steve - he is made of tough stuff.
Tomorrow I have a meeting with the case manager who is a believer. This is good because we will be able to converse on the same level with openness. I will be able to get more information and be able to give it to Steve and the family.
Please pray that Mr. Steve will not become discouraged - that he will remain strong. He is doing better physically. He is not complaining about the wheelchair today as much and he is pulling up his body to sit straighter. He is also trying to straighten his head/neck. He would have rather that God would have let him know that this was going to happen. I said that's not the way it works. He knew that. So we perservere. Continue on. I told him to just look at today. I gave him examples of what HAS BEEN accomplished. I prayed and we kissed and I left. This is and will be a very long process.
Thank you for your continued prayers for all of us.
The Deicherts -Mr. Steve and family
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Five weeks ago today -
About 10:00 am today the "blue fairy" appeared to Mr. Steve's room in the medical coat of the Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor! He took out the large trach that was used for the ventilator and put in a smaller collar. It was a real adventure. Steve put the nursing staff in a real tizzy with all the coughing. I will refrain from graphically explaining all that happened. At some time I know he will share this fun experience with you all. After the smaller trach was put in the doctor "capped" the trach - not allowing air to flow through the trach but Steve would now be forced to use his mouth and nose. Something he has not done yet.
Steve became like Pinocchio!! He talked and talked. He had his eyes open for most of the day also. You figure with the amount of words he had stored up for 5 weeks, he had a lot to catch up on. One story after another came rolling out like hot lava from a volcano! I had to tell him to stop because I was laughing so hard it was hurting.
Ken the OT guy was really pleased with the way Steve was pulling up with his right arm to straighten out his back while he was in the wheelchair. The wheelchair is very uncomfortable for him because he has some arthritis issues. They would like him to sit in the wheelchair for four hours. Ken is explaining to him about the bones and muscles and what he needs to do to strengthen everything. Of course Steve says - you sit for four hours in a wheelchair and tell me how it feels.
-mom
Now its my turn...
Dad had a good day...he's talking for sure...i know we said he was talking before but this time he's talking the way you and i talk...and its probably more comfortable for him now then it was.
I got to the hospital tonight around 6 and then mom took off so she could have the night off...so dad and I hung out for a couple hours:) it was really nice:) it's weird to talk to him now because he's kinda like my 'dad' again...he's talking about 'life' and not this body part or that body part hurting...which he does..but its different now. its kind of hard to explain...
We prayed before I left...and when I was done he said "good job"...silly boy...
Anyway...Mom and i have early mornings so its off to bed...thanks so much for all the cards and comments! Mom read to him a card from the little boy I nanny for and he LOVED it! Thank you Ian!:) Mr. Steve loved it!
I've asked dad repeated times about people coming up to visit and he says "why?" and then says its not much to see...and then he talks about other things which i won't go into...
But I know some of his Sunday school kids and kids from church want to see Mr. Steve...and the hospital has no set age limit on visitors...so you are more than welcome to bring them....but please respect other patients and keep an eye on the little ones...also please prep the kids that Mr. Steve does not look or sound like he used too. His eyes are closed a lot when I'm there so expect that...also his head, his beard, tubes, etc...its a lot to take in for a kid and he doesn't want to scare anybody...
and he definitely doesn't wish this experience on anyone!
thanks again for reading a little bit about our lives...
~kim~
About 10:00 am today the "blue fairy" appeared to Mr. Steve's room in the medical coat of the Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor! He took out the large trach that was used for the ventilator and put in a smaller collar. It was a real adventure. Steve put the nursing staff in a real tizzy with all the coughing. I will refrain from graphically explaining all that happened. At some time I know he will share this fun experience with you all. After the smaller trach was put in the doctor "capped" the trach - not allowing air to flow through the trach but Steve would now be forced to use his mouth and nose. Something he has not done yet.
Steve became like Pinocchio!! He talked and talked. He had his eyes open for most of the day also. You figure with the amount of words he had stored up for 5 weeks, he had a lot to catch up on. One story after another came rolling out like hot lava from a volcano! I had to tell him to stop because I was laughing so hard it was hurting.
Ken the OT guy was really pleased with the way Steve was pulling up with his right arm to straighten out his back while he was in the wheelchair. The wheelchair is very uncomfortable for him because he has some arthritis issues. They would like him to sit in the wheelchair for four hours. Ken is explaining to him about the bones and muscles and what he needs to do to strengthen everything. Of course Steve says - you sit for four hours in a wheelchair and tell me how it feels.
-mom
Now its my turn...
Dad had a good day...he's talking for sure...i know we said he was talking before but this time he's talking the way you and i talk...and its probably more comfortable for him now then it was.
I got to the hospital tonight around 6 and then mom took off so she could have the night off...so dad and I hung out for a couple hours:) it was really nice:) it's weird to talk to him now because he's kinda like my 'dad' again...he's talking about 'life' and not this body part or that body part hurting...which he does..but its different now. its kind of hard to explain...
We prayed before I left...and when I was done he said "good job"...silly boy...
Anyway...Mom and i have early mornings so its off to bed...thanks so much for all the cards and comments! Mom read to him a card from the little boy I nanny for and he LOVED it! Thank you Ian!:) Mr. Steve loved it!
I've asked dad repeated times about people coming up to visit and he says "why?" and then says its not much to see...and then he talks about other things which i won't go into...
But I know some of his Sunday school kids and kids from church want to see Mr. Steve...and the hospital has no set age limit on visitors...so you are more than welcome to bring them....but please respect other patients and keep an eye on the little ones...also please prep the kids that Mr. Steve does not look or sound like he used too. His eyes are closed a lot when I'm there so expect that...also his head, his beard, tubes, etc...its a lot to take in for a kid and he doesn't want to scare anybody...
and he definitely doesn't wish this experience on anyone!
thanks again for reading a little bit about our lives...
~kim~
Monday, August 18, 2008
"WOW"
Physical therapy is moving along well. The occupational therapist really wants Mr. Steve to progress. Today he added another half hour. He is finding out that Steve is tired by the time he gets him in the afternoon, so he wants the nurses to have him take a nap between sessions so that he is able to be productive during his time. He is working on a lot of a areas. Today he worked on stretching out his left shoulder. It is out of the socket and causes a lot of pain for Steve when he is trying to get his arm/wrist moving. Tomorrow they will fit him for an elastic brace to support the shoulder but not hinder the movement of the arm/wrist. Ken is also working on stretching out his neck. He is not able to hold his up straight. When he moved his neck around all Steve said was, "WOW". I guess he was being one of those "stiff-necked" people the Bible talks about.
Steve still does not open his eyes as often as he should. It would be nice if he would. We (Ken and I) would like to evaluate how much he does see and what he sees.
Steve did not have oxygen on during the day again today. His pulse/ox numbers were a little higher today then yesterday. That shows us that his body is getting stronger. When the numbers drop - I say "take a deep breath, hun". He does and that brings up the numbers.
This is another good sign.
It was great to be back to work today. The ladies I have the privilege to work with are great!
I know they love me and are supporting me with their prayers. I really thank the Lord for enabling me to jump back into preschool mode. I did a pretty good job of remembering things after being gone for 5 weeks.
Tomorrow I hand back the keyboard to Kimberly who you all love.
Mom Deichert
Steve still does not open his eyes as often as he should. It would be nice if he would. We (Ken and I) would like to evaluate how much he does see and what he sees.
Steve did not have oxygen on during the day again today. His pulse/ox numbers were a little higher today then yesterday. That shows us that his body is getting stronger. When the numbers drop - I say "take a deep breath, hun". He does and that brings up the numbers.
This is another good sign.
It was great to be back to work today. The ladies I have the privilege to work with are great!
I know they love me and are supporting me with their prayers. I really thank the Lord for enabling me to jump back into preschool mode. I did a pretty good job of remembering things after being gone for 5 weeks.
Tomorrow I hand back the keyboard to Kimberly who you all love.
Mom Deichert
Sunday, August 17, 2008
"some rest for the weary"
Mr. Steve was "off" today from physical, occupational, and recreational therapy. The only thing he had to do was get dressed - which is a big deal - and sit in the tilt wheelchair. He was in the wheelchair for the longest amount of time he has ever been before. By the time I got there he had a headache and was ready to get out.
Not only is his endurance getting better, but today they decided to take him off the oxygen. All day he was free of a tube and canister following him. He did very well. If you know anythng about pulse ox readings - they like them to stay in the 90's - no lower. He was able to maintain 93 or 94 and that was good. It would go up if he took deep breaths. This is difficult because he is not able to keep his body upright yet. This will all come back as he heals. I asked about night time and they said he would have the oxygen on at night. That made me feel better.
Thank you for praying for Kimberly's travels. She had a great time and arrived safely at the hospital. Of course she TRIED to wake up he father but he was toooo tired.
Well, the party is over. I have to go back to work tomorrow. This week I will be working 6:30 - 1:00. The schedule will work well because he will have therapy in the AM. I will get there in time to observe the last therapy which I would like to see. I am able to check the log book and find out what they are working on even if I miss seeing them at work. Please pray for me as I begin this busy schedule that I will have the strength to endure and wisdom to know when to say "enough".
Have a great week serving our Lord - remember to keep HIM first in ALL you do!
All the Deicherts
Not only is his endurance getting better, but today they decided to take him off the oxygen. All day he was free of a tube and canister following him. He did very well. If you know anythng about pulse ox readings - they like them to stay in the 90's - no lower. He was able to maintain 93 or 94 and that was good. It would go up if he took deep breaths. This is difficult because he is not able to keep his body upright yet. This will all come back as he heals. I asked about night time and they said he would have the oxygen on at night. That made me feel better.
Thank you for praying for Kimberly's travels. She had a great time and arrived safely at the hospital. Of course she TRIED to wake up he father but he was toooo tired.
Well, the party is over. I have to go back to work tomorrow. This week I will be working 6:30 - 1:00. The schedule will work well because he will have therapy in the AM. I will get there in time to observe the last therapy which I would like to see. I am able to check the log book and find out what they are working on even if I miss seeing them at work. Please pray for me as I begin this busy schedule that I will have the strength to endure and wisdom to know when to say "enough".
Have a great week serving our Lord - remember to keep HIM first in ALL you do!
All the Deicherts
Saturday, August 16, 2008
"building relationships"
Wherever we go we intersect with other people. We can choose to talk to them or ignore them.
Over the years Mr. Steve and I have chosen to build relationships with everyone God places in our path. Mr. Steve is doing this from his bed/wheelchair in Magee Rehabilitation Hospital.
The nurses we have come in contact with, are very nice. Not a bad one in the bunch. Mr. Steve is polite and patient even when he is in pain. They all have commented that he is great to care for. Upon meeting them - he holds out his hand to shake it. When asked a question - he gives the thumbs up. Even if his eyes are closed.
Today when we went to speech Mr. Steve was really tired. He had been in his tilt wheelchair for almost 6 hours. Don't panic. The chair moves so he is able to relieve the pressure off his backside. The speech therapist wanted to make conversation so she could hear him talk. She had seen a Bible in his room and asked if he was religious. She asked him to recite the Lord's Prayer. He didn't know it ----just kidding! She then asked what faith he was. He said Baptist.
She said she was a Catholic. She asked him if she changed because of wanting to marry his wife.
He said - no! He said he changed because of what he believed in his heart. I'm sure there will be more conversations like this in the future.
Mr. Steve is being an encourager right where he is:
"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in Heaven."
Matt. 5:16.
Friends - lets work on building relationships wherever we go. Don't be afraid to say, "Have a great day" to the toll booth lady/man, grocery clerk, or the bank teller. Let's reach out and show some love to those around us.
No silly stories today - no tragedies - just calm. We aren't bored yet.
Enjoy your Sunday!
Janice
Over the years Mr. Steve and I have chosen to build relationships with everyone God places in our path. Mr. Steve is doing this from his bed/wheelchair in Magee Rehabilitation Hospital.
The nurses we have come in contact with, are very nice. Not a bad one in the bunch. Mr. Steve is polite and patient even when he is in pain. They all have commented that he is great to care for. Upon meeting them - he holds out his hand to shake it. When asked a question - he gives the thumbs up. Even if his eyes are closed.
Today when we went to speech Mr. Steve was really tired. He had been in his tilt wheelchair for almost 6 hours. Don't panic. The chair moves so he is able to relieve the pressure off his backside. The speech therapist wanted to make conversation so she could hear him talk. She had seen a Bible in his room and asked if he was religious. She asked him to recite the Lord's Prayer. He didn't know it ----just kidding! She then asked what faith he was. He said Baptist.
She said she was a Catholic. She asked him if she changed because of wanting to marry his wife.
He said - no! He said he changed because of what he believed in his heart. I'm sure there will be more conversations like this in the future.
Mr. Steve is being an encourager right where he is:
"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in Heaven."
Matt. 5:16.
Friends - lets work on building relationships wherever we go. Don't be afraid to say, "Have a great day" to the toll booth lady/man, grocery clerk, or the bank teller. Let's reach out and show some love to those around us.
No silly stories today - no tragedies - just calm. We aren't bored yet.
Enjoy your Sunday!
Janice
Friday, August 15, 2008
Today Mr. Steve began his day at 7:30am and many new adventures were going to come his way. Just getting dressed in "real" clothes, not in a hospital gown, and sitting in a wheelchair was new. He was bombarded by almost everyone in the building. Everyone wanted to either talk to him or prod him to do something. This was a day of evaluating what Mr. Steve is able to accomplish. He had some type of therapy from 7:30 - 11:30am. Everyone was GREAT. Very encouraging to him and they document information to the family so we are aware of what was worked on. Our input is valued and communication is encouraged. I need to make a page of pictures to put in Steve's notebook so they can use it for therapy. Do you think we have one or two pictures around? What a GREAT concept.
After he was able to get back to bed - he slept for 2 hours. Then wound care came in to check his foot and his stitches. This will help all you that have been praying specifically about his foot.
His foot is calloused over and is dry so it will have lotion put on it two times a day. When it softens my guess is that she will clean up the callous. If not I'll have to ask Dr. Joe to make a hospital call! There are two stitches that need to come out.
Doctor Bernstein was asking me questions about the AVM and I didn't have the answers and he will contact Jefferson Neurosurgeons and try to get the answers for us. I like the way he is proactive with Steve's care. He is also proactive on getting the trach out. He feels it inhibits his ability to do therapy. I have heard from many around the rehab that they like Dr. Bernstein. I like him already. He has the patients best interest in view and that is GREAT.
Mr. Steve also got a visit from a Psychologist. She said he would be evaluated by her staff. Now guys - refrain from letting your brain go crazy! Steve was very good. She asked basic questions to see what he remembered. For the most part he did remember stuff. The neat thing was that she asked him who he depended on to get through this difficult time. He said my wife. Then she asked questions about us. So I said - "Okay, who do you depend on if I am not here?" He said, "MY GOD". With that she said, "its nice that you are a religious man." Have a nice day. And she left. So I don't know if she'll be back or not but at least she knows where Mr. Steve stands!
Tonight Mr. Steve was going to take a shower. Most of you think this is no big deal, but he has wanted to take a shower for a VERY long time. He told me he wanted to stay in the shower for 13 hours. I can't wait until tomorrow to see how it went. You see - Mr. Steve thinks he is able to be mobile however he is not. He will begin understanding his limitations right now. I pray that with this knowledge will come determination to fight on. As you know - Mr. Steve is NOT a quitter. And with God "ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE". That is a winning combination I think!
I thank the Lord for Magee and all the special people who we have been blessed to meet. I am excited to see what God is going to accomplish in Mr. Steve's life! How about you?
"Everything is possible for him who believes." Mark 9:23
Mike Regina - I'll take a rain check on the dinner from you when Mr. Steve can come too!
We LOVE each one of you!!
After he was able to get back to bed - he slept for 2 hours. Then wound care came in to check his foot and his stitches. This will help all you that have been praying specifically about his foot.
His foot is calloused over and is dry so it will have lotion put on it two times a day. When it softens my guess is that she will clean up the callous. If not I'll have to ask Dr. Joe to make a hospital call! There are two stitches that need to come out.
Doctor Bernstein was asking me questions about the AVM and I didn't have the answers and he will contact Jefferson Neurosurgeons and try to get the answers for us. I like the way he is proactive with Steve's care. He is also proactive on getting the trach out. He feels it inhibits his ability to do therapy. I have heard from many around the rehab that they like Dr. Bernstein. I like him already. He has the patients best interest in view and that is GREAT.
Mr. Steve also got a visit from a Psychologist. She said he would be evaluated by her staff. Now guys - refrain from letting your brain go crazy! Steve was very good. She asked basic questions to see what he remembered. For the most part he did remember stuff. The neat thing was that she asked him who he depended on to get through this difficult time. He said my wife. Then she asked questions about us. So I said - "Okay, who do you depend on if I am not here?" He said, "MY GOD". With that she said, "its nice that you are a religious man." Have a nice day. And she left. So I don't know if she'll be back or not but at least she knows where Mr. Steve stands!
Tonight Mr. Steve was going to take a shower. Most of you think this is no big deal, but he has wanted to take a shower for a VERY long time. He told me he wanted to stay in the shower for 13 hours. I can't wait until tomorrow to see how it went. You see - Mr. Steve thinks he is able to be mobile however he is not. He will begin understanding his limitations right now. I pray that with this knowledge will come determination to fight on. As you know - Mr. Steve is NOT a quitter. And with God "ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE". That is a winning combination I think!
I thank the Lord for Magee and all the special people who we have been blessed to meet. I am excited to see what God is going to accomplish in Mr. Steve's life! How about you?
"Everything is possible for him who believes." Mark 9:23
Mike Regina - I'll take a rain check on the dinner from you when Mr. Steve can come too!
We LOVE each one of you!!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
:"on the road again"
Steve is on a first name basis with the ambulance drivers in Philly now! Of course he and Daniel (his nephew) compare the transport because Daniel transports patients in NJ.
Today Steve moved to Magee Rehabilitation Center on Race Street. I received the call around 11:00am and they were going to move him at 1:00pm. A room opened up and he got it. And as God's plan unfolds - Steve got a brand new bed. Never used before. How's that for treating a special child of God? He will have that bed the entire time he is there, even if he moves to another part of the building.
From the minute I walked in, EVERYONE was nice. They escorted me around and explained everything to me. They even gave me meal passes and parking tickets. They nurses attacked Steve (in a good way) when he arrived on the floor. They found some wheezing in his lungs so they prescribed a breathing treatment right away and lowered his oxygen to 28%. They plan on aggressively getting him off the trach. This is good.
He does have a BIG surprise tomorrow. Today was his "day off" because tomorow he begins working! He will have 3 hours of therapy. So he will be one tired pup. I already warned him that he would be tired. I reminded him of his high school days and playing sports and what that felt like. I'm sure the realization of that will come back loud and clear. He does have another surprise - he will be taking a shower!!!! He has been asking to take a shower for a long time. He wants it to last 13 hours he said.
I also had a lengthy talk with the dieticians. They are very proactive about his diabetes. They will be giving him vitamin supplements. That made me feel good. Right now he is on the peg food tube but as he is able he will be able to eat pureed foods. That will be up to the speech people.
As the doctor was checking his eyes - I noticed that he does not follow to his left. He was able to see one finger and was able to point to each of the grandchildren correctly. And his depth perception is lacking. To what degree we will find out in the future. He also said things are blurry. He still has some blood behind the eyes so I pray that once this goes away - so will the vision problems.
So here we are, finding out what God has planned for Mr. Steve physically. This is a difficult thing for Mr. Steve to endure. He is totally dependent on someone. I know he would rather be home watching the Eagles game with his family than listening to it at the hospital. Please pray that Steve will be patient because has not been an easy road and the road is bumpy still. Your cards are an encouragements to him. I try to read them to him. He does smile at the funny ones.
I have this weekend to myself, so I can do whatever I want. No one to take the remote. No one to cook for. No one to tell me what to do. I know you are all envious but sorry this is my alone time. God and I will have a blast. The windows may rattle with the music so loud!
Until later -
Momma
Today Steve moved to Magee Rehabilitation Center on Race Street. I received the call around 11:00am and they were going to move him at 1:00pm. A room opened up and he got it. And as God's plan unfolds - Steve got a brand new bed. Never used before. How's that for treating a special child of God? He will have that bed the entire time he is there, even if he moves to another part of the building.
From the minute I walked in, EVERYONE was nice. They escorted me around and explained everything to me. They even gave me meal passes and parking tickets. They nurses attacked Steve (in a good way) when he arrived on the floor. They found some wheezing in his lungs so they prescribed a breathing treatment right away and lowered his oxygen to 28%. They plan on aggressively getting him off the trach. This is good.
He does have a BIG surprise tomorrow. Today was his "day off" because tomorow he begins working! He will have 3 hours of therapy. So he will be one tired pup. I already warned him that he would be tired. I reminded him of his high school days and playing sports and what that felt like. I'm sure the realization of that will come back loud and clear. He does have another surprise - he will be taking a shower!!!! He has been asking to take a shower for a long time. He wants it to last 13 hours he said.
I also had a lengthy talk with the dieticians. They are very proactive about his diabetes. They will be giving him vitamin supplements. That made me feel good. Right now he is on the peg food tube but as he is able he will be able to eat pureed foods. That will be up to the speech people.
As the doctor was checking his eyes - I noticed that he does not follow to his left. He was able to see one finger and was able to point to each of the grandchildren correctly. And his depth perception is lacking. To what degree we will find out in the future. He also said things are blurry. He still has some blood behind the eyes so I pray that once this goes away - so will the vision problems.
So here we are, finding out what God has planned for Mr. Steve physically. This is a difficult thing for Mr. Steve to endure. He is totally dependent on someone. I know he would rather be home watching the Eagles game with his family than listening to it at the hospital. Please pray that Steve will be patient because has not been an easy road and the road is bumpy still. Your cards are an encouragements to him. I try to read them to him. He does smile at the funny ones.
I have this weekend to myself, so I can do whatever I want. No one to take the remote. No one to cook for. No one to tell me what to do. I know you are all envious but sorry this is my alone time. God and I will have a blast. The windows may rattle with the music so loud!
Until later -
Momma
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Rice Pudding Anyone?
All day Dad has talked about making rice pudding! I got to the hospital early afternoon and heard about it until I left around dinner time!
He asked if we had the recipe. Then he asked about eggs, sugar, milk. He asked what kind of milk we have...and proceeded to tell us that we needed to get Vitamin D milk and not use the stuff we have on hand. He told us how long and at what temp. it needs to be and to make sure we stir it! Before Mom left, she was told that Kevin is going to take care of delivering it, so make sure he gets it.
Ask him anything about cooking and he will give you an answer! Ask him how old I am and he says "31"...people I'm NOT 31!!
Praise God Dad did not complain about a headache AT ALL today!!! He is given Tylenol pretty much on a regular basis...but he didn't need any additional pain medication!!! YEAH!!!
Last night Dad did take out his trach. His nurse came and found him with it on his forehead! Joe, the nurse, asked him "what happened here?" Dad said "My granddaughter did it!" Silly boy, he's blaming the trach coming out on his four year old granddaughter! I'm telling you, my dad is really funny these days!
Kevin, Brandy and kids got home safely; but it definitely took longer than anticipated. I guess that's what happens with a newborn:(
I will be heading out this weekend to a different part of Ohio for a wedding, so you will get some different authors soon. Pray that I have a safe trip back and forth; and that Dad won't miss me too much! He asks for me:) and every night this week after I said "be here tomorrow, dad"...he said "You better be"
You can also pray for Dad as he is beginning more intense physical therapy. Today they had him in a wheel chair for two hours; but failed to stimulate him in any fashion...but I won't go there. Just pray that his bum won't hurt so bad and that he will be better stimulated tomorrow and the coming days.
Until we meet again...I will be dreaming of rice pudding...
He asked if we had the recipe. Then he asked about eggs, sugar, milk. He asked what kind of milk we have...and proceeded to tell us that we needed to get Vitamin D milk and not use the stuff we have on hand. He told us how long and at what temp. it needs to be and to make sure we stir it! Before Mom left, she was told that Kevin is going to take care of delivering it, so make sure he gets it.
Ask him anything about cooking and he will give you an answer! Ask him how old I am and he says "31"...people I'm NOT 31!!
Praise God Dad did not complain about a headache AT ALL today!!! He is given Tylenol pretty much on a regular basis...but he didn't need any additional pain medication!!! YEAH!!!
Last night Dad did take out his trach. His nurse came and found him with it on his forehead! Joe, the nurse, asked him "what happened here?" Dad said "My granddaughter did it!" Silly boy, he's blaming the trach coming out on his four year old granddaughter! I'm telling you, my dad is really funny these days!
Kevin, Brandy and kids got home safely; but it definitely took longer than anticipated. I guess that's what happens with a newborn:(
I will be heading out this weekend to a different part of Ohio for a wedding, so you will get some different authors soon. Pray that I have a safe trip back and forth; and that Dad won't miss me too much! He asks for me:) and every night this week after I said "be here tomorrow, dad"...he said "You better be"
You can also pray for Dad as he is beginning more intense physical therapy. Today they had him in a wheel chair for two hours; but failed to stimulate him in any fashion...but I won't go there. Just pray that his bum won't hurt so bad and that he will be better stimulated tomorrow and the coming days.
Until we meet again...I will be dreaming of rice pudding...
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Waiting for a bed...
Thank you all for such sweet comments in response to my last post. Things are definitely improving all around and I'm very grateful to be where we are today from FOUR weeks ago!
It has been a month since this has begun and the impossible is becoming reality.
Dad has been moving around a lot today in bed. His head is still killing him. Mom actually put her hand on his head and could feel the thumping! So you know it cannot feel good if we can feel it on the outside!
He has continued to ask to go home; but overall, he said that today was better than yesterday. I told him over and over again that he has to get strong so we can go to Disney World! And he said "OK!" (We have a family vacation planned in October so we are hoping the WHOLE family gets to go!)
At this point, Dad is OK to move to rehab. We are only waiting on a bed. Once a bed becomes available Dad will be heading there! Whenever I leave town for a day or two he moves hospitals; and I have to go to a wedding this weekend, so he will probably be moved;)
Thank you for your continued support!
Pray for Kevin & family as they head back to Ohio in the morning!
It has been a month since this has begun and the impossible is becoming reality.
Dad has been moving around a lot today in bed. His head is still killing him. Mom actually put her hand on his head and could feel the thumping! So you know it cannot feel good if we can feel it on the outside!
He has continued to ask to go home; but overall, he said that today was better than yesterday. I told him over and over again that he has to get strong so we can go to Disney World! And he said "OK!" (We have a family vacation planned in October so we are hoping the WHOLE family gets to go!)
At this point, Dad is OK to move to rehab. We are only waiting on a bed. Once a bed becomes available Dad will be heading there! Whenever I leave town for a day or two he moves hospitals; and I have to go to a wedding this weekend, so he will probably be moved;)
Thank you for your continued support!
Pray for Kevin & family as they head back to Ohio in the morning!
Monday, August 11, 2008
where's your car?
Its getting late; but I wanted to say a few words before I head off to bed.
I went to see Dad tonight with Brandy and baby Derek. We had a smooth ride to the hospital, and when we got there he was sleeping. So we waited in the day room for a little while so he could sleep.
Brandy went in first to visit with him, then he asked for me.
Once I got in to his room his gown was all messed up and I said "Dad, what are you doing?" And he said "Where is your car?...Go get a wheel chair I need to go home to fix the phone bill."
I told him that he had to spend the night at the hospital because he has to get stronger before he can come home. He proceeded to tell me all the bad memories he is continually reliving while at the hospital. "I just want to go home and get a good night sleep."
He got upset.
I got upset.
I haven't cried in a long time; but seeing your dad frustrated, and you cannot fix any of the problems laid before him; well...you would probably get upset too. I assured him that he would be OK and that I will be back tomorrow to see him. He said "You better be."
One of the toughest battles my dad will fight in the coming weeks and months is the ability to recognize the inability he has to complete simple tasks. He said he had to go to the bathroom and he wanted me to help him up to go.
He can't walk right now, he can't hold his head up on his own. And the problem with the location of the initial hemorrhage is that he will 'think' he can do the things asked of him, lift your left arm, hold my hand, etc...but on the one side of his body it will take some time for it all to come back.
Please pray for my dad. Pray that he can understand and accept the circumstances that surround him. Pray that we would remain strong as we are helpless to his aide. Pray that his recovery would be honoring to the Lord.
Dad said that he would be OK if "It would leave me alone for a while." I told him that God thinks that you can handle this, so be strong and rely on Him to get you through it.
Also pray that bad memories would go away. Pray that Dad would be able to focus on good things and to not be scared.
It is never easy to stand and watch someone hurting. If it is; you don't deserve the life you have been given. I pray that you would help someone today, this week, this month. You don't have to help me or my family, but someone. It will do you and them some good. God told us:
I went to see Dad tonight with Brandy and baby Derek. We had a smooth ride to the hospital, and when we got there he was sleeping. So we waited in the day room for a little while so he could sleep.
Brandy went in first to visit with him, then he asked for me.
Once I got in to his room his gown was all messed up and I said "Dad, what are you doing?" And he said "Where is your car?...Go get a wheel chair I need to go home to fix the phone bill."
I told him that he had to spend the night at the hospital because he has to get stronger before he can come home. He proceeded to tell me all the bad memories he is continually reliving while at the hospital. "I just want to go home and get a good night sleep."
He got upset.
I got upset.
I haven't cried in a long time; but seeing your dad frustrated, and you cannot fix any of the problems laid before him; well...you would probably get upset too. I assured him that he would be OK and that I will be back tomorrow to see him. He said "You better be."
One of the toughest battles my dad will fight in the coming weeks and months is the ability to recognize the inability he has to complete simple tasks. He said he had to go to the bathroom and he wanted me to help him up to go.
He can't walk right now, he can't hold his head up on his own. And the problem with the location of the initial hemorrhage is that he will 'think' he can do the things asked of him, lift your left arm, hold my hand, etc...but on the one side of his body it will take some time for it all to come back.
Please pray for my dad. Pray that he can understand and accept the circumstances that surround him. Pray that we would remain strong as we are helpless to his aide. Pray that his recovery would be honoring to the Lord.
Dad said that he would be OK if "It would leave me alone for a while." I told him that God thinks that you can handle this, so be strong and rely on Him to get you through it.
Also pray that bad memories would go away. Pray that Dad would be able to focus on good things and to not be scared.
It is never easy to stand and watch someone hurting. If it is; you don't deserve the life you have been given. I pray that you would help someone today, this week, this month. You don't have to help me or my family, but someone. It will do you and them some good. God told us:
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Phillippians 2:3-11
Sunday, August 10, 2008
I'm back:)
It has been a long time since I have sat down and written a blog! Oh my goodness I don't even want to go back and check how long ago it was! I have gotten busy with other things lately and have not seen dad every day this past week; and he noticed! Mom said he asked for me which is very nice to hear:)
Dad had a good day.
Lately his days are trying to stay awake more often, therapy of all kinds, and sleep as well as can be expected in a hospital.
Right now he has the worst headache of his life and basically we want him to jog around the block; and its just not that easy.
He denied physical therapy one day this week; and well, that's not an option. Sorry, Dad. He likes to rest because that helps take the pain away. But we need him to get strong so he needs to suck it up and deal with it.
I'm sure my mother has said before; but my dad right now, is the best comedian anyone has ever seen! He's hilarious! You almost pee yourself because of all the silly things he says!
I'd encourage you if you have not already, to stop by and let him know you are praying for him and that you care for him. He will probably tell you "this is not fun, this is no party." That's what he says all the time:( But he won't turn any visitors away.
To be honest with you, now is not fun to see him. Granted, the last three weeks weren't fun either, but now things are different. Going to see him now is difficult because you want to take his pain away, have him sit up in bed and walk out the door with you.
But realistically, he hasn't walked in a month. The only body part he moves is his right arm and leg. He has a long recovery process ahead of him. Please continue to pray for him! He needs it! He needs the strength to get through the days where he's tired and not motivated to work. He needs prayer to see the progress he has made and to not give up.
Thank you to all of you who prayed for us to get to and from Ohio last weekend. The girls and I had a great time by ourselves on Saturday at a butterfly exhibit and the Ohio State Fair. And now they are here and we are having a GREAT time having all the little ones around!
Ella & Anna at the conservatory
Anna, Ella & Brandy at the pool:)
Ella & Anna at Ocean City
MeeMee & Brandy at Ocean City:)
Baby Derek
Anna & Kevin on the boardwalk:)
Hope that you all have a great week ahead of you. I pray you are diligently seeking God in your own lives, and that this process of following Christ you speak to him on our behalf. Praise God for fellowship and community in the body of Christ! Love to you all!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Our strength in God's Word!
Today God gave this to me to share with Steve:
The story is about Paul and his time of discouragement in Macedonia - 2 Corinthians 1: 8 - 11. I thought this was fitting for Mr. Steve and what God is allowing him to go through right now.
"We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt like the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many."
This passage is so Mr. Steve and us right now!! He is really tired of the daily horrible pain in this head. Today he was teasing about getting the gun and "shoot me now". He was teasing because he did the same thing with his "bad" foot.
His head hurts most of the day. Not only is it frustrating but can be scary. I have asked for Tylenol around the clock so there is no down time. However, yesterday and today around 1:30pm the pressure really got bad. He needs cool rags and he rubs his head constantly (until I tell him to stop). I asked for him to get a percaset again today. I really didn't want to - but the pain was the same time and intense so maybe there is a pattern. Once the medicine sets in he sleeps and the pain is relieved. He is also allowed to have it tomorrow and Monday. He said the pain today was not a bad as yesterday so maybe it is getting better.
One of the blessings of today was that Steve and I enjoyed about 45 minutes of continuous conversation. We interacted well and he was able to answer my questions correctly and ask questions himself. He did have his eyes open for a good amount of the time as well. We have set our HOPE that God will deliver us from this peril because YOU ALL are praying continually for us! Then WE ALL will give thanks for all that God has done for us cuz really it is all about HIM not us!!
Enjoy your time of worship tomorrow!
Mr. Steve and company!
The story is about Paul and his time of discouragement in Macedonia - 2 Corinthians 1: 8 - 11. I thought this was fitting for Mr. Steve and what God is allowing him to go through right now.
"We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt like the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many."
This passage is so Mr. Steve and us right now!! He is really tired of the daily horrible pain in this head. Today he was teasing about getting the gun and "shoot me now". He was teasing because he did the same thing with his "bad" foot.
His head hurts most of the day. Not only is it frustrating but can be scary. I have asked for Tylenol around the clock so there is no down time. However, yesterday and today around 1:30pm the pressure really got bad. He needs cool rags and he rubs his head constantly (until I tell him to stop). I asked for him to get a percaset again today. I really didn't want to - but the pain was the same time and intense so maybe there is a pattern. Once the medicine sets in he sleeps and the pain is relieved. He is also allowed to have it tomorrow and Monday. He said the pain today was not a bad as yesterday so maybe it is getting better.
One of the blessings of today was that Steve and I enjoyed about 45 minutes of continuous conversation. We interacted well and he was able to answer my questions correctly and ask questions himself. He did have his eyes open for a good amount of the time as well. We have set our HOPE that God will deliver us from this peril because YOU ALL are praying continually for us! Then WE ALL will give thanks for all that God has done for us cuz really it is all about HIM not us!!
Enjoy your time of worship tomorrow!
Mr. Steve and company!
Friday, August 8, 2008
today.....
Well, today was a little bit up and down and all around. I almost felt like copying and pasting some of the previous days entries, but I didn't want you to feel cheated.
Mom and I (Kevin) got to the hospital just after lunch and found Dad walking around the 3rd floor to the hospital.
Just kidding...
Sorry about that. It slipped.
The nurses said Dad had a good morning. He was very responsive and was alert to all that was going on around him. When the speech therapist came in, he did some of his exercises, but needs to work on the muscles in the left side of his face. He was very sleepy while working with the therapist, so I felt like we left a little on the table, there. We did get to talk to the doctor, who seems to understand all that Dad is going through, but is encouraged with his progress to this point.
About 1:00 he started to complain of a big headache. Since the docs have begun regulating Tylenol to him around the clock, we sort of ignored his complaints for a little while and put a damp cloth on his head. Then he started to really complain and really complain. Dad doesn't complain too much, so we asked that he get a percaset. The doctor wanted to check out his noggin, so they sent him to get a CT scan done. Throughout the process, Dad was alert, but at one point his blood pressure dropped pretty low. Low enough to get us all a little concerned (and emotional), but the results of the test came back normal. It even showed that the bleeding in his brain has lessened to this point.
The hard part to convey in a post like this is the up and down rollercoaster that some days turn out to be. It was a good morning, tough outing with the therapist, really tough CT scan, good results, decent evening, bedtime.
Unfortunately, I am on a plane in the morning tomorrow to go back to Ohio. Brandy and the kids are staying for a couple more days. Please continue to pray for Dad and his recovery, but also for days like this that can be really tough and emotionally draining on all of us.
Thanks again for praying,
Kevin, Brandy, Anna, Ella, Derek
Mom, Dad, Kimberly
Mom and I (Kevin) got to the hospital just after lunch and found Dad walking around the 3rd floor to the hospital.
Just kidding...
Sorry about that. It slipped.
The nurses said Dad had a good morning. He was very responsive and was alert to all that was going on around him. When the speech therapist came in, he did some of his exercises, but needs to work on the muscles in the left side of his face. He was very sleepy while working with the therapist, so I felt like we left a little on the table, there. We did get to talk to the doctor, who seems to understand all that Dad is going through, but is encouraged with his progress to this point.
About 1:00 he started to complain of a big headache. Since the docs have begun regulating Tylenol to him around the clock, we sort of ignored his complaints for a little while and put a damp cloth on his head. Then he started to really complain and really complain. Dad doesn't complain too much, so we asked that he get a percaset. The doctor wanted to check out his noggin, so they sent him to get a CT scan done. Throughout the process, Dad was alert, but at one point his blood pressure dropped pretty low. Low enough to get us all a little concerned (and emotional), but the results of the test came back normal. It even showed that the bleeding in his brain has lessened to this point.
The hard part to convey in a post like this is the up and down rollercoaster that some days turn out to be. It was a good morning, tough outing with the therapist, really tough CT scan, good results, decent evening, bedtime.
Unfortunately, I am on a plane in the morning tomorrow to go back to Ohio. Brandy and the kids are staying for a couple more days. Please continue to pray for Dad and his recovery, but also for days like this that can be really tough and emotionally draining on all of us.
Thanks again for praying,
Kevin, Brandy, Anna, Ella, Derek
Mom, Dad, Kimberly
Living in adventureland!
We have been having very busy days with the children here! And we are very much enjoying them. We also wish we had their energy! I know Mr. Steve would love to have their energy.
Steve is making good progress. We as a family need to remember this. Sometimes we get anxious for him to make big strides when just breathing with smaller levels of oxygen is a big stride. He is doing well. We all are enjoying his sense of humor! Yesterday the nurse said that she was going to give him an insulin needle and that it would hurt. He said, "How would you know?" So everyday is an adventure. Let's keep that perspective - Prov. 19:31 - "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."
Prayer requests for today: that Steve would be willing to participate in the physical therapy with Susan and speech therapy with Lee Anne. His energy level is low and he would rather be "lazy" as he says than endure some pain. I guess he forgets when he was playing sports, "play with pain or no gain." Also I requested him to get tylenol on a schedule rather than wait until he is asked by the nurse. I'm hoping this will take away some of his frustration and allow him to participate in therapy more willingly.
Thank you for all your cards. I read a few of them to him each day. He enjoys them and smiles at the funny comments.
Have a great day with your own "adventure" sent from the Lord!
Janice
Steve is making good progress. We as a family need to remember this. Sometimes we get anxious for him to make big strides when just breathing with smaller levels of oxygen is a big stride. He is doing well. We all are enjoying his sense of humor! Yesterday the nurse said that she was going to give him an insulin needle and that it would hurt. He said, "How would you know?" So everyday is an adventure. Let's keep that perspective - Prov. 19:31 - "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."
Prayer requests for today: that Steve would be willing to participate in the physical therapy with Susan and speech therapy with Lee Anne. His energy level is low and he would rather be "lazy" as he says than endure some pain. I guess he forgets when he was playing sports, "play with pain or no gain." Also I requested him to get tylenol on a schedule rather than wait until he is asked by the nurse. I'm hoping this will take away some of his frustration and allow him to participate in therapy more willingly.
Thank you for all your cards. I read a few of them to him each day. He enjoys them and smiles at the funny comments.
Have a great day with your own "adventure" sent from the Lord!
Janice
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Ocean City here we come. . .
This afternoon the kids decided that they "needed" to head to Ocean City. They wanted me to go along - so I did. We really had a good time together. The girls loved chasing the waves and riding some rides. We also "needed" a piece of Mack and Manco pizza for dinner. They don't franchise in Ohio yet. It just wouldn't be quite the same without the seagulls. One of the nicest things was that Aileen - Steve's repiratory theropists called while we were on the boardwalk. She said that NOTHING WAS WRONG, but Steve wanted to talk to me. I had told her what we were doing so she could call if she needed me. She used her personal cell phone and called. Steve sounded great! He was glad that we had gone and that the girls were having a good time. Kimberly will share all the pictures with him later.
What you don't know is that this morning Steve had a headache and they gave him Tylenol and he still had it so they gave him a percaset. I forgot that percaset makes people wacko. Steve was saying some really strange things. He asked if I had enough fruit in the freezer. I was really concerned. Not many people have a supply of fruit in the freezer. When Kevin and I began to talk about Steve this morning - he reminded meof the side effects of that medicine. I felt much better after I talked to him. He definitely had clarity of thought at 7:00pm. PTL
If you could pray along with us as we continue to pray for healing. The DR isn't concerned about the headache - but he has had it almost everyday since the surgery. Please ask God to give us and the DR wisdom with this.
No temp today and the oxygen level was lower more - he is almost down to room air now! His lungs are processing the oxygen just fine - PTL. AND he is still talking and that is truly a blessing from the Lord - amen and amen!
Thank you for all your notes - blog comments - and cards - they are greatly appreciated.
Janice
What you don't know is that this morning Steve had a headache and they gave him Tylenol and he still had it so they gave him a percaset. I forgot that percaset makes people wacko. Steve was saying some really strange things. He asked if I had enough fruit in the freezer. I was really concerned. Not many people have a supply of fruit in the freezer. When Kevin and I began to talk about Steve this morning - he reminded meof the side effects of that medicine. I felt much better after I talked to him. He definitely had clarity of thought at 7:00pm. PTL
If you could pray along with us as we continue to pray for healing. The DR isn't concerned about the headache - but he has had it almost everyday since the surgery. Please ask God to give us and the DR wisdom with this.
No temp today and the oxygen level was lower more - he is almost down to room air now! His lungs are processing the oxygen just fine - PTL. AND he is still talking and that is truly a blessing from the Lord - amen and amen!
Thank you for all your notes - blog comments - and cards - they are greatly appreciated.
Janice
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
1-2-3-4-5
Good evening to one and all! I have to admit that today has been a miraculous day at St. Agnes! There were a few surprises in the beginning no doubt, but in all a great day! Mom and I (Kevin) walked in to see Dad and were a little frustrated with the night shift at the hospital. They hadn't cared for him as we had anticipated, so we were expecting a long and trying day. Dad had physical therapy, but no occupational therapy during the morning. The explanation was that he needed to be "evaluated" for today before beginning occupational therapy.
Not sure what they needed to evaluate exactly...dude had brain surgery, slept for almost 3 weeks and we are ALL trying to get him better.
I digress...
After a looooonnnnnnnggggg afternoon nap, Uncle Denny shows up and Dad flashes a quick smile and hello. The real action happens when the speech therapist shows up a little before 5. She informs Dad all the fun he is about to endure and Dad begrudgingly says yes. After a quick suction (really gross to watch), the therapist puts a cap on the tracheotomy which will allow him to inhale through the trach, but it requires him to exhale out of his mouth and/or nose. It will force him to breathe more normally and will allow him to eventually regain some of his speech and discontinue use of the tracheotomy altogether.
After a few exercises, the therapist asks Dad to count to 5. Done. No problem. Then, to all of our surprise, the next words out of his mouth are "Yeah, Buddy!" Nice to see Dad is still alive and well! Mom, Uncle Denny and I just looked at each other briefly and started laughing because Dad just kept on talking and talking. Making sarcastic comments, teasing the nurse, threatening to pass out on the floor, and I'm pretty sure he offered to preach in church this Sunday. UNBELIEVABLE! Three weeks of nothing and then WHAM! He even requested a cup of coffee and to get out of bed. Sorry Dad, maybe tomorrow.
How awesome for all of us to see (and hear!) that God has done miraculous things through Dad in only 3 weeks!
Seeing Dad last night and having him open his eyes and look at me was a wonderful thing. For sure, I choked up and all I could get out was a hi. It is infinitely more reassuring to hear him complain about all the tests he has endured and the volume of pricks in order to draw blood! It was just like someone turned on a light switch in his brain and he figured he could talk now, so why not! Seriously, he slept just about the entire afternoon (much like everyday since that morning) and then.....magic! Ok, not magic, but you know what I mean.
Today was a great day!
....even if I had to go to a hospital.
I know it is directly related to the amount of prayer, love, and support that so many have shown during this short, yet seemingly long, time!! Thank you so much for all of your time spent in prayer for Dad and all of us.
We are going to be at the hospital again tomorrow as a newly extended family and are still excited to see all the progress Dad has made. Please continue to pray and I hope you all rejoice in this as much as we have!
Kevin, Brandy, Anna, Ella, Derek
Dad, Mom, Kimberly
Not sure what they needed to evaluate exactly...dude had brain surgery, slept for almost 3 weeks and we are ALL trying to get him better.
I digress...
After a looooonnnnnnnggggg afternoon nap, Uncle Denny shows up and Dad flashes a quick smile and hello. The real action happens when the speech therapist shows up a little before 5. She informs Dad all the fun he is about to endure and Dad begrudgingly says yes. After a quick suction (really gross to watch), the therapist puts a cap on the tracheotomy which will allow him to inhale through the trach, but it requires him to exhale out of his mouth and/or nose. It will force him to breathe more normally and will allow him to eventually regain some of his speech and discontinue use of the tracheotomy altogether.
After a few exercises, the therapist asks Dad to count to 5. Done. No problem. Then, to all of our surprise, the next words out of his mouth are "Yeah, Buddy!" Nice to see Dad is still alive and well! Mom, Uncle Denny and I just looked at each other briefly and started laughing because Dad just kept on talking and talking. Making sarcastic comments, teasing the nurse, threatening to pass out on the floor, and I'm pretty sure he offered to preach in church this Sunday. UNBELIEVABLE! Three weeks of nothing and then WHAM! He even requested a cup of coffee and to get out of bed. Sorry Dad, maybe tomorrow.
How awesome for all of us to see (and hear!) that God has done miraculous things through Dad in only 3 weeks!
Seeing Dad last night and having him open his eyes and look at me was a wonderful thing. For sure, I choked up and all I could get out was a hi. It is infinitely more reassuring to hear him complain about all the tests he has endured and the volume of pricks in order to draw blood! It was just like someone turned on a light switch in his brain and he figured he could talk now, so why not! Seriously, he slept just about the entire afternoon (much like everyday since that morning) and then.....magic! Ok, not magic, but you know what I mean.
Today was a great day!
....even if I had to go to a hospital.
I know it is directly related to the amount of prayer, love, and support that so many have shown during this short, yet seemingly long, time!! Thank you so much for all of your time spent in prayer for Dad and all of us.
We are going to be at the hospital again tomorrow as a newly extended family and are still excited to see all the progress Dad has made. Please continue to pray and I hope you all rejoice in this as much as we have!
Kevin, Brandy, Anna, Ella, Derek
Dad, Mom, Kimberly
Monday, August 4, 2008
Graduation Day:)
Today Steve moved to St. Agnes Long Term Care Hospital.
Don't let this title scare you. It sure scared me when I read that the average stay is 21 days. This hospital is used to prepare patients for rehab. I am really pleased with the care that he has received today! I actually got to talk with his doctor, and I will be able to talk to him every day! (I know Jeff is a great hospital; but we never got to talk with his doctor).
Steve still has the trach and they will work with him to wean him off it soon. They will be starting speech therapy with him once the trach is out. The respiratory therapist said that she thought he would be off the trach soon! Yeah!! Meredith his nurse at Jeff said that probably this week would be the end of it. I don't want to relive Friday night again.
While at this hospital, which is the fourth since this episode began, he will also do physical therapy and occupational therapy.
He will get care for his stitches that are driving him crazy with itching. Because he can move his right hand freely, he likes to touch his head, and scratch his stitches, and mouth, etc.
They gave him a nice big air mattress to lay on. I can't believe they wouldn't bring his cadillac bed from Jeff. (The bed he had from Jeff was a very very expensive bed, that we definitly could not bring with us:( WAWA moves people down the street in a bed in the commercial - Steve wouldn't have minded.
Praise the Lord - Kevin, Brandy, and the three children arrived safe and sound. They were able to see Poppop although we did break the rule. And you all know how I am a "rule follower". The neat thing was that when I held Anna up to see Poppop, I told him someone was here to see him. He opened his eyes and said, "Where's my Anna? Where's my Anna? " just to tease her. That is what he did a home. So he did know her and did tease her!!:)
His sugars are finally back down to under 200 which is really good!
All my kids had a great time in Ohio this weekend! But I am glad I have them all under one roof!
Don't let this title scare you. It sure scared me when I read that the average stay is 21 days. This hospital is used to prepare patients for rehab. I am really pleased with the care that he has received today! I actually got to talk with his doctor, and I will be able to talk to him every day! (I know Jeff is a great hospital; but we never got to talk with his doctor).
Steve still has the trach and they will work with him to wean him off it soon. They will be starting speech therapy with him once the trach is out. The respiratory therapist said that she thought he would be off the trach soon! Yeah!! Meredith his nurse at Jeff said that probably this week would be the end of it. I don't want to relive Friday night again.
While at this hospital, which is the fourth since this episode began, he will also do physical therapy and occupational therapy.
He will get care for his stitches that are driving him crazy with itching. Because he can move his right hand freely, he likes to touch his head, and scratch his stitches, and mouth, etc.
They gave him a nice big air mattress to lay on. I can't believe they wouldn't bring his cadillac bed from Jeff. (The bed he had from Jeff was a very very expensive bed, that we definitly could not bring with us:( WAWA moves people down the street in a bed in the commercial - Steve wouldn't have minded.
Praise the Lord - Kevin, Brandy, and the three children arrived safe and sound. They were able to see Poppop although we did break the rule. And you all know how I am a "rule follower". The neat thing was that when I held Anna up to see Poppop, I told him someone was here to see him. He opened his eyes and said, "Where's my Anna? Where's my Anna? " just to tease her. That is what he did a home. So he did know her and did tease her!!:)
His sugars are finally back down to under 200 which is really good!
All my kids had a great time in Ohio this weekend! But I am glad I have them all under one roof!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Sunday - August 3, 2008
It was a GREAT day to be in the Lord's house to worship and know the LOVE of His family!
Pastor Dave preached from Luke 7. It was great. One thing that jumped out to me was that Jesus showed compassion. He said to the widow, "Don't cry." Not only did He show compassion but He knew what was coming next. Ya know - God still knows what is coming next! So our confidence should be in Him! God knows what is coming next with Steve as well.
I trust all of you have that same confidence in God. If not please ask us about the hope within us!
Today was a good day for Steve physically that is. His oxygen level was decreased once again and his body was able to remain on a 97 pulse ox reading. Also his blood pressure is more managable. His body still has trouble with the sugar. You figure that the "kangaroo" food is high in sugar from what I understand and his inactivity as a lot to do with it. He will be on the anti-biotic for two more days. Then things should level out. Today the nurse noticed that he responded quicker. I noticed that he opened his eyes more voluntarily today as opposed to a verbal request. He can do some mouthing of words. And he does know what year it is. So progress is being made. It is smaller than the steps of a turtle but we are moving forward and that is great news.
Tomorrow should be graduation day for Steve either to St. Agnes or to Magee. We will surely keep you updated. Many of you are asking about visiting Steve. We have no problem with a visit. From what I understand - when he has visitors he knows that there is love and support.
I would ask that you call one of us, so one of us are there to enjoy the visit as well.
We thank you again for all your prayers for us. Kevin and Brandy and the kids drive in tomorrow from Ohio. Please pray for their safety.
Have a great day serving our Lord with us!
the wife/mother/mimi
Pastor Dave preached from Luke 7. It was great. One thing that jumped out to me was that Jesus showed compassion. He said to the widow, "Don't cry." Not only did He show compassion but He knew what was coming next. Ya know - God still knows what is coming next! So our confidence should be in Him! God knows what is coming next with Steve as well.
I trust all of you have that same confidence in God. If not please ask us about the hope within us!
Today was a good day for Steve physically that is. His oxygen level was decreased once again and his body was able to remain on a 97 pulse ox reading. Also his blood pressure is more managable. His body still has trouble with the sugar. You figure that the "kangaroo" food is high in sugar from what I understand and his inactivity as a lot to do with it. He will be on the anti-biotic for two more days. Then things should level out. Today the nurse noticed that he responded quicker. I noticed that he opened his eyes more voluntarily today as opposed to a verbal request. He can do some mouthing of words. And he does know what year it is. So progress is being made. It is smaller than the steps of a turtle but we are moving forward and that is great news.
Tomorrow should be graduation day for Steve either to St. Agnes or to Magee. We will surely keep you updated. Many of you are asking about visiting Steve. We have no problem with a visit. From what I understand - when he has visitors he knows that there is love and support.
I would ask that you call one of us, so one of us are there to enjoy the visit as well.
We thank you again for all your prayers for us. Kevin and Brandy and the kids drive in tomorrow from Ohio. Please pray for their safety.
Have a great day serving our Lord with us!
the wife/mother/mimi
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Steve - seeing a little of God's plan!
When I left you last - we were asking for you all to uphold us specifically praying for peace to get through the night after our "trach adventure". Today when I arrived I called his name and he opened his eyes. I asked him if he could see me and he said "yes" with his mouth. We have gotten pretty good with reading lips. I also asked him if he felt better today and he said "yes". He was even able to communicate when he was uncomfortable. This is good.
I have prayed for a long time for the Lord to direct me the proper time to begin telling Steve about "his adventure". After last night - I thought today would be good. Steve likes to know what is going on and I think it really upset him not to be aware of anything that was going on around him. The people in the field tell us only to speak happy things and to not talk about medical issues in front of the neuro patients because they can hear and understand what is going on. This could be emotionally frightening. In Steve's case - he needed to know. I chose my words carefully and told him that this brain AVM was God's plan before he was a gleam in his dad's eye. He (Steve) had no control over this and that God will get us through it. I even shared some ways that God HAS BEEN faithful to us. He opened his eyes and they got wider the more I told him. I wish you all could have been there. Last week I asked him if he would be patient to get through this. He gave me the thumbs down. Today after explaining the situation I asked him the same question - the thumb came up with purpose! I called him God's "Miracle Man." He smiled.
Today his blood pressure was better and the oxygen level was better as well. They still battle the "sugar" issue - keep praying for that to get under control. This is a VERY slow process but we high five when we see progress.
There is so much to share. The spirit is willing but the body is weak - so I will sign off. My younger editors are together in Ohio enjoying the children. Praise the Lord we will all be together next week!!
Thank you again for all your love for us!!
Janice/Mrs. Steve/etc.
I have prayed for a long time for the Lord to direct me the proper time to begin telling Steve about "his adventure". After last night - I thought today would be good. Steve likes to know what is going on and I think it really upset him not to be aware of anything that was going on around him. The people in the field tell us only to speak happy things and to not talk about medical issues in front of the neuro patients because they can hear and understand what is going on. This could be emotionally frightening. In Steve's case - he needed to know. I chose my words carefully and told him that this brain AVM was God's plan before he was a gleam in his dad's eye. He (Steve) had no control over this and that God will get us through it. I even shared some ways that God HAS BEEN faithful to us. He opened his eyes and they got wider the more I told him. I wish you all could have been there. Last week I asked him if he would be patient to get through this. He gave me the thumbs down. Today after explaining the situation I asked him the same question - the thumb came up with purpose! I called him God's "Miracle Man." He smiled.
Today his blood pressure was better and the oxygen level was better as well. They still battle the "sugar" issue - keep praying for that to get under control. This is a VERY slow process but we high five when we see progress.
There is so much to share. The spirit is willing but the body is weak - so I will sign off. My younger editors are together in Ohio enjoying the children. Praise the Lord we will all be together next week!!
Thank you again for all your love for us!!
Janice/Mrs. Steve/etc.
Friday, August 1, 2008
"I will not leave you"
This is Mrs. Steve - this was a good day. The nurse practioner called yesterday and was working on springing Steve to a new joint. St. Agnes Hospital. This is a "bridge" hospital between Jefferson and Magee Rehab. They specialize in weaning patients off of trachs and rehab them as well. This looked like a good fit for Steve.
Today they were unable to move him because of a particular blood test having to do with the pulmunary system. They decided to keep him where he is and get the pulmunary DR involved in his care. They did a number of tests. One of which was getting a sample of mucous down deep in his lung. As you can imagine it irritated him greatly and he was coughing for a long time. They also drew more blood and have him on 3 anti-biotics. The nurse gave him a treatment to hopefully open up his passage way and relieve some of his coughing.
We were reading "My Utmost for His Highest" and he needed a potty break - so we took care of that. While I was out with the nurse, Steve pulled out his trach. Oh my. I ran back in the room and saw what he had done and saw that the trach was on his chest. I ran and got the nurses and they were "johnny on the spot". They called ICU and got the pulmunary staff up right away to get it back in. They were calm and professional and VERY quickly they had a new one back in place. They spoke words of encouragement to Steve all the time. However it was very frightening for Steve. When I left I prayed with him and told him I would be back to see him in the morning. I re-assured him that there was NO heart problems (they had just this evening run an EKG). Also that there were NO pulmunary embulism (they had just run a CT scan of his chest on Thursday). I know his mind was going back to his sister who passed with a pulmunary embulism a number of years ago.
I assured him that this whole thing he is going through is part of God's plan for him and HE will get him through this. I recited a few verses and asked him to personally pray to God to get through this most difficult time. He said, "I am." I shared that God made a promise to NEVER leave us and that He would not break that promise. When I left he was acting a bit better.
Please pray for Mr. Steve especially right now - imagine lying in bed for three weeks and not be able to communicate and to be restrained on your right arm and not able to move your left arm.
If you are reading this in the evening. Please pray the Satan will not have a foothold in my thought life tonight and that I will "rest" in HIM and sleep peacefully.
Thank you sooooo much for all you prayers for all of us!
Today they were unable to move him because of a particular blood test having to do with the pulmunary system. They decided to keep him where he is and get the pulmunary DR involved in his care. They did a number of tests. One of which was getting a sample of mucous down deep in his lung. As you can imagine it irritated him greatly and he was coughing for a long time. They also drew more blood and have him on 3 anti-biotics. The nurse gave him a treatment to hopefully open up his passage way and relieve some of his coughing.
We were reading "My Utmost for His Highest" and he needed a potty break - so we took care of that. While I was out with the nurse, Steve pulled out his trach. Oh my. I ran back in the room and saw what he had done and saw that the trach was on his chest. I ran and got the nurses and they were "johnny on the spot". They called ICU and got the pulmunary staff up right away to get it back in. They were calm and professional and VERY quickly they had a new one back in place. They spoke words of encouragement to Steve all the time. However it was very frightening for Steve. When I left I prayed with him and told him I would be back to see him in the morning. I re-assured him that there was NO heart problems (they had just this evening run an EKG). Also that there were NO pulmunary embulism (they had just run a CT scan of his chest on Thursday). I know his mind was going back to his sister who passed with a pulmunary embulism a number of years ago.
I assured him that this whole thing he is going through is part of God's plan for him and HE will get him through this. I recited a few verses and asked him to personally pray to God to get through this most difficult time. He said, "I am." I shared that God made a promise to NEVER leave us and that He would not break that promise. When I left he was acting a bit better.
Please pray for Mr. Steve especially right now - imagine lying in bed for three weeks and not be able to communicate and to be restrained on your right arm and not able to move your left arm.
If you are reading this in the evening. Please pray the Satan will not have a foothold in my thought life tonight and that I will "rest" in HIM and sleep peacefully.
Thank you sooooo much for all you prayers for all of us!
stayin or going?
Dad is still at Jefferson Neuroscience and probably will be for the weekend. Then possibly Monday they will move him to St. Agnes.
The problem with this decision is that that means another two to three days with no activity. The reason Dad is doing more poorly than expected is because he has not been given the opportunity to get up and move around.
The physical and occupational therapists only come during the week, so he's not been given any therapy yesterday or today because they thought he was moving hospitals; plus he won't be given any during Saturday and Sunday.
How is he supposed to get better if he's laying still for this long?
Pray that they do more intense movements/therapy; and get him up in a wheel chair today or tomorrow. Pray that St. Agnes will be the right move and things, like therapy and pneumonia, will improve.
The problem with this decision is that that means another two to three days with no activity. The reason Dad is doing more poorly than expected is because he has not been given the opportunity to get up and move around.
The physical and occupational therapists only come during the week, so he's not been given any therapy yesterday or today because they thought he was moving hospitals; plus he won't be given any during Saturday and Sunday.
How is he supposed to get better if he's laying still for this long?
Pray that they do more intense movements/therapy; and get him up in a wheel chair today or tomorrow. Pray that St. Agnes will be the right move and things, like therapy and pneumonia, will improve.
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