Christian took his first ride in his wheelchair Saturday. As you can see, he remains positive, upbeat and his smile is infectious. It's quite inspiring seeing Chris remain so positive in spite of the monumental struggle that remains before him. Jessi took him on a tour of the rehab floor. He also got dressed in something besides the hospital gown, which is nice to see. Jessi, in her sleep deprived state of mind got him XXL size shorts, OOPS. Chris is big, but not that big!
He wore the speaking valve over the tracheostomy tube for about 3 hours. Obviously his preferred method of communication is that of speaking in lieu of lip synching. He's actually quite good at it (lip synching that is), but none of us are very good at lip reading, so it can be a struggle at times. Chris remains patient during these instances and simply synchs the words again until we understand them. They told us that sometimes when patients can't speak for several days at a time, upon first being able to speak again they may say some nutty things (or have a panic attack of sorts). Not Chris, he was normal from the first word and saying nutty things is standard for him. For example, as the speech therapist was conducting more "are you crazy" tests, Chris was asked, "Why do children go to school?" Chris's response, "To get into trouble." Spot on response! Another example from earlier in the week (he lip synched this one), as they were conducting an ultrasound on his legs to look for blood clots he asked what they were doing. We said an ultrasound to look for blood clots and that if they found a clot it was not a huge deal, just something they want to monitor, he interjected jokingly, "guess they'll have to cut my leg off :-)!"
Jessi got him a new iPad. This should help keep him entertained during his stay. He's always one to have the latest and greatest technological gadgets. If anyone knows any great apps we should load on his new iPad just let us know.
He ate his first food since the night of the accident. He never knew pudding and some Oreo cookie could taste so good!
No timetable yet for removing the trach which you can imagine is no surprise. We've learned quickly that you just don't know when anything will happen until it does. We are all crossing our fingers that the day of extibation and trach reversal will come soon.
There continue to be small, but good signs during almost all of his different therapy sessions. We pray these will continue!
Jes and I had left the hospital for a few hours when they first tried the speaking valve. We were on our way back when the phone in her car rang. When we heard Christian's deep voice say "Hi Babe", it was music to our ears! We had been told that his voice could change, but I think it's about the same (not that it would have mattered). Christian's positive attitude and determination are an inspiration to all of us. The hospital staff continues to be impressed and pleasantly surprised every day by his strength, determination and positive spirit. Christian could not have a better partner in this journey than my daughter, Jessi. She is a classic example of "dynamite comes in small packages". Together they are going to accomplish great things. Thanks to everyone that is praying for them and supporting them, this is definitely a team effort. Go team!!
ReplyDeleteHello Deputy family! It is Malisa Jenkins Troutwine, my family (especially Sandy and Marlo) would like you to know we are hearing about your accident. You will be in our thoughts and prayers and we will be keeping up with you! You all are so loved and thought of fondly by all of us.
ReplyDeleteHere here Liz! I agree, Chris could not ask for a better partner throughout this ordeal (and all of life) than Jessi. Go team, go!!
ReplyDeleteChris,
ReplyDeleteYou don't know us but Jim is a Barbershop singer, like your dad. We've been following your story, here in South Dakota, and want you to know that you are in our prayers and we look forward to continuing seeing great progress each week.
Jim and Lin Gogolin
Christian,
ReplyDeleteThis is Aunt Marilyn. It was such a pleasure serving you last night. I feel honored and priveleged to be able to help out a little. You are a noble and kind soul. It was wonderful to be with you. Jessi is a gem and the love between the two of you is inspiring. Lyman and my kids all send their love. We are all cheering for you.
Christian,
ReplyDeleteMatt and Amy here, and we just wanted to let you know how great it was to see and hear(!!!) you yesterday in person. Your determination is inspiring! Matt still owes you wings at the Wing Coop after a day in the mountains, so take him up on that soon won't you?
Jessi~ I love how your mom summed you up..."Dynamite in a small package!" I, too, agree. I continue to keep you guys in my prayers. I have never met Christian, but through reading this blog I know he is dynamite in a little bit bigger package than you. Continue in faith, hope and prayer. Miracles do happen even if they are baby steps.
ReplyDeleteI love this picture of you two. It makes me smile, and warms my heart :) this picture says "life is going to be rough, but we are going to make it." You have great support from each other and everyone who love the both of you.
ReplyDeleteMichelle Robertson