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Sunday, December 27, 2009

Sean's Update #59

Thursday, December 17, 2009

#59 Update December 17th

Steady process is still happening. Yesterday we met with 2 new doctors, the Rehabilitation Director for Memorial South and the Neurologist working with brain injured patients in Memorial's Rehab clinic for a updated evaluation. They are trying some new medications, to help stimulate Sean's brain more & differently. We are checking out more options for the next step in physical therapy development. Sean is still on a marathon and not a sprint, hang in there. Sean has progressed a lot farther than the doctors were willing to give him credit for from the very beginning. He actually worked with the computer last night and today for the first time in a long time. This is wonderful as he was too frustrated before now. He still has short term and some long term memory challenges but surprises us all the time. He loved seeing all the cousins and Great Aunts and Uncles at Thanksgiving so much so he didn't want to leave early. We will spend Christmas with everyone and even more cousins on the Sunday after Christmas which will be fun and he is looking forward to seeing everyone again. Before we went to Denver I had asked him if he was afraid to see everyone and he said "No". A few minutes passed and he said "Should I be?" I told him no, I just wanted him to feel comfortable that we were going. We are still blessed and feel very thankful for each and every day as well as the progress he has made. As always thank you for your prayers and warm thoughts we can still feel them and pray for you all as well. We need to take the family photograph and then we'll send out our Christmas cards. Until then Merry Christmas everyone and a Blessed New Year.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

A Blessed Thanksgiving, Updates #56 thru 58


tuesday, november 24, 2009


#58 Update November 24th

Needless to say we have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Last night we were able to spend some time with cousins Donna and Sarge Marvel which are the first family members that have seen Sean since his return home. He is still developing strength and each day continues to have promise. We are also thankful for all of our family and friends that have been there for all of us with countless hours of prayer, warm thoughts and well wishes. It is truly humbling to be so blessed, all our love, warmth and prayers to each and everyone of you.

saturday, november 14, 2009


#57 Update November 14th

Sean is still progressing steady and sure. We were watching NCIS on television the other night and I could tell something was bothering him. I asked him what was wrong, he didn't answer so I asked him what he was thinking about. I almost cried - he said "I was wondering if I will be able to join the Air Force again." I asked him if he missed the Air Force and he said "yes". I told him that Paul missed the Air Force too. I told him he'd have to get his hands and arms stronger and be able to pass the Air Force physical, he said "yes". He is able to take a shower by himself now and needs very little help getting dressed. Using his hands for detail things like eating, tying his shoes, brushing his teeth and combing his hair are still challenging. He needs more strength and less movement while accomplishing the tasks. We continue to be amazed and are thankful for each and everyday. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

wednesday, october 28, 2009


Update #56 October 28th

Sean is progressing nicely and the therapist are pleased with his progress. We have always been pleased with each new day. He printed his name Monday it was shaky but you can read it, this is a first for him. They retested his strength in his hands, his left hand continues to be his stronger side progressing from 20 lbs to 25 lbs and his right from 18 lbs to 20 lbs. Steady progress for sure. He is feeding himself more with a fork and spoon, still pretty frustrating at times but he makes the effort. All of your prayers and ours are working he is still on the journey of recovery bless his heart. God bless you and yours always.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Mom's back in Business!

I'm so excited for mom, she's decided to become a Pampered Chef consultant. I know she'll be great at it. When my dad got laid off on his 60th birthday, my mom decided she would take a part-time job to help out while he searched for a new job. This way she gets to make her own hours, be social and share what she's learned over the last 12 years going to our friend Bambi Shoemakers' shows. Mom's all about making the show fun for everyone and Bambi was an excellent teacher.

Some of my fondest memories when I was a little girl, are watching mom cooking in the kitchen or teaching kids arts & crafts when she was Park & Rec Director in Wrightwood, CA. She always was tinkering with recipes when I was little, adapting them around my severe milk allergy. My playroom in Goldsborough was just off the kitchen and when we were in Germany, I remember scrumptious smells wafting down the hall from the kitchen to my bedroom. Seemingly to welcome me when I came home from school or in from playing outside.

Some of my parents favorite pictures of me are of me covered in whatever I was "helping" with. Delaney has already started showing interest in helping in the kitchen so we'll see. I'm so lucky to have such a creative mother who loves to be social with her friends so I think this will be a great outlet for her.

Right before we moved from Wrightwood, CA to Colorado, she started her own consulting business finding teachers crafts and projects they could do with their classes as well as creating samples. She was well versed in that from when she was working at Wrightwood Elementary and later with the city's Park and Rec. She's always been very creative. When we lived in Arlington, Texas Mom's first job outside the house that I can remember was working at Craft King. She quickly became a demanded talent, constantly creating large fluffy bows, flower arrangements, wall hangings, hats and samples for the store. When I would go visit her at the store she seemed to light up helping customers or their children with their projects. She is still willing to try new things all the time.

Also I'm sure that getting out of the house and being around other people will be good for her. Visit her website http://www.pamperedchef.biz/justaskandrea if you're interested in checking out the products and I'm doing my part by send friends and family a link to the catalog show I'm hosting for mom this month.

Updates # 55, 54 & 53

Saturday, October 10, 2009

#55 Update, October 10th

Sean has been doing outpatient therapies now for 2 weeks and is progressing slow but sure. He had an appointment to see about taking the filter out that they put in the day of his open heart surgery. The filter was put in to prevent the one blood clot in his lower left leg from moving up into his heart. They told us that day that it needed to be removed before it had been in for a year; it doesn't seem possible that it has been 10 months this week. He had an ultrasound and they found that he has not just one clot in his lower left leg but 3. They are stable and should not move but he needs to go to another doctor for a 2nd opinion to remove the filter or not. He tripped going back to his bedroom and hit his head on the rock collection at the end of the hall breaking the Plexiglas which nicked his forehead. He didn't get a bruise, bump, headache or dizziness which was wonderful because he broke his fall before he hit. Pretty scary watching him from behind him and not being able to prevent his falling. It was good that it was Plexiglas instead of regular glass as well. I'm sure the only reason the Plexiglas broke is because the collection was put together when I was in 7th grade and that was a few years ago. :o) Delaney loves to dance and Sean actually got up to dance with her yesterday which was delightful, they are best buds. She actually sat on his lap and fed him some of his sandwich yesterday as well. He has come such a LONG way and it is a GREAT feeling seeing him do so well. Thanks for your continued support and prayers. God Bless

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Update #54, Sept 24, 2009




Sean is starting a new phase in his rehabilitation. He'll be going to a local rehab center for "out-patient" therapy, so that he can use specialized machines to help strengthen and train his body and brain. He was evaluated by physical therapy and occupational therapy on Wednesday. He had his speech therapy evaluation Friday. He will have all three therapies 2 times a week on Mondays and Fridays. He is beginning another part of his journey and improving more and more each day. We are thankful for each day. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.
We promised photos from when Sean went to meet his friends Annie & Jeff and their family. We traveled to Gunnison in southwest Colorado to have a short visit; they were vacationing in the Four corners area on Jeff's family's property near Pagosa Springs. The top is Sean with the Steinmanns, and the bottom is of Sean and Jeff. He really enjoyed the visit with Annie, Jeff and their children. That was the last long trip we took in his Hummer before turning it in to GMAC after the lease was complete.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Update #53, September 15th

Sean has had 2 weeks off of therapies waiting to go to outpatient rehab. He will be evaluated next Wednesday and Friday. He has enjoyed taking naps whenever he liked and not be awakened by a schedule. But even he admitted that he is looking forward to working out again. We had his eyes examined and his vision is 5 times worse than before. The eye doctor said his own eyes changed a lot after having heart surgery and he laughs whenever he reads that heart problems do not effect your vision. Sean actually engaged in, started asking questions and making statements the other day when we were discussing the girls(our 2 female dogs) getting into another fight and what we should do. They asked for his social security number last week and I said it would take me a minute as I have it written down. Sean gave the nurse the number matter of fact without hesitation, I was impressed. Still making progress each day and we are very thankful for each of them.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Update #52, Sept 4th

Friday, September 4, 2009

#52, Sept 4, 2009
Sorry that we haven't updated this recently; our computer was being "tuned up" and in the shop. Anyhow, Sean has done just about all he can with in-home treatments and therapies, so we're looking for out-patient places so that he can do therapy with specialized machines. With the long weekend coming up, this process is slow at the moment.
Posted by Paul and Andrea Knott at 1:45 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Sunday, August

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Say a prayer for The Coffey family

Eric Coffey is the youngest of 4 brothers and I consider him an old, dear friend of mine. His oldest brother Keith was in a terrible dirt bike accident on Friday that left him with some very serious injuries. So Im adding Keith and Eric and their family in my prayers. As Matt Garnes put it, Keith is a great friend, father and brother who kicks ass at everything he does. Last I heard he had no feeling from the chest down, a broken clavicle, broken sternum, punctured lung in addition to a crushed T5 & T6 vertebrae. He is resting in the hospital after a long surgery to rebuild his spine. My heart goes out to the whole Coffey family as I can empathize with the situation.

I especially empathize with Eric as he was my classmate. I know he has a beautiful heart, a gentle heart, and a deep love of his family. I met Eric in the 4th Grade at Wrightwood Elementary and after losing touch, we reconnected several years ago after Sean ran into him and Keith (Sean's classmate at Serrano High School) at the farewell Oingo Boingo concert in Las Vegas. Keith is the oldest, then Jason, then Darren and last but definitly not least there is Eric. Eric is a classical guitarist and he and his brothers are definitely old souls. Their eyes are windows, that seem to tell stories much older than their physical years. At least Erics always did. We moved from Wrightwood in July '91 but I remember Eric and his brothers rather vividly. Keith has always been Superman, the most outgoing of the 4, and a fire fighter.

After I read the news of Keiths accident, I began to think about the Coffey brothers. The brothers are extremely tight which has helped them through the various trials of their lives. Keith is an awesome older brother and family man. Jason I never really knew, except for impressions from his brothers. The majority of memories I have of Darren are from when Eric & I were at Pinon Mesa Middle School together. I can see Darren vividly playing football during gym class and looking out after Eric, he was hard to miss with his red hair. Eric was always the quiet soleful one but Darren brought him out of his shell. Darren was killed doing what he loved on January 26th, 2008 (See the following links for more info) The brothers have been very dedicated to keeping Darrens memory alive through his website and memorial fund. As a matter of fact, Keith held a fundraiser early this month at his house to raise money for the fund.

http://www.sbsun.com/portlet/article/html/fragments/email_article.jsp?article=8105191&hostName=www.sbsun.com&section=/&siteId=208&siteName=San Bernardino County Sun

http://www.rimoftheworld.net/columns/neufeld/forest

Please keep Keith, Eric and their family in your thoughts and prayers. I revisted Darren's Memorial website today and I found the following quote that I love.

N
o one beats him at his game
For very long but just the same
Who cares, there's no place safe to hide
Nowhere to run--no time to cry
So celebrate while you still can
cause any second it may end.
And when its all been said and done
Better that you had some fun
Instead of hiding in a shell-why make your life a living hell?
So have a toast, and down the cup
And drink to bones that turn to dust,
No one lives forever!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Update # 51, August 23, 2009

Sunday, August 23, 2009

#51, August 23, 2009
Friday was the day that we drove Sean's Hummer to the dealer for lease turn-in. With a couple of signatures, we gave them the keys and they gave us the license plates. That evening Sean told Andrea that he had to drive his car, and Andrea explained that he needed to be able to grab the steering wheel and the shifter to do that, and that both she and he needed to do exercises to strengthen their hands, and he seemed satisfied with that. As always, thanks for your good thoughts and prayers. Sean's progress is slow but steady, with more strength returning to his hands and legs. We'll update you as he progresses.
Posted by Paul and Andrea Knott at 10:37 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Personally, this was a hard day for all of us as we didn't know if Sean #1 fully understood that we were turning his H3 back in and #2 because it was such a thing for Sean when he got it. After driving Hummers (the original H1s I guess) in the Air Force and realizing they were one of the few heavy-duty trucks he could comfortably fit in, which is a major feet for someone 7 feet tall. (He has issues with head clearance in my CRV so I angle the seat for him). He seriously thought about getting a H2 and so for his 32nd? birthday, rented one for his birthday weekend. It was fully decked out with heated leather seats in the back, and mom & dad enjoyed riding in it on the way back up to Denver to turn back in. When Sean was still stationed in Virginia and his Jeep started to clunk out on him, he drove it back here on leave and Darwin up at Al Serra Chevrolet at Chapel Hills took great care of him.
Initially Sean was looking for another manual Jeep but after the one he originally found in stock online wasn't available any longer. But since he was active duty military he actually got a better deal on the H3 than he had expected for that Jeep. Apparently Colorado Springs is much freer with military discounts (or as I see it, take better care of our military) than his area in Virginia which surprised me. Anyway, it was auspicious timing because he was on leave heading to a training class in Mississippi right before Hurricane Katrina was due to make landfall. His blog picture (http://pk71knott.blogspot.com/) was taken a few days after he got it. My parents felt much better about him drving through or near a hurricane since he was in his H3. Needless to say his training class was cancelled in Mississippi and Sean loved his H3. As a matter of fact as he was considered 'essential personell' when his base would have closures due to fierce storms in Virginia (the base was actually below sea level), he had no excuses to not come in and possibly swing by to pick up some of his coworkers on the way.
As mom & dad blogged previously, we had talked to Sean a few times in the months before his emergency surgery about what he was thinking about doing when the H3's lease expired this month. Those conversations made the decision to turn it back in slightly easier on my parents. Also Sean's doctors have told us that when he's able to drive again in the future, it will have to be an automatic, not a manual transmission. But it definitely a bittersweet day at least for me, as I know that Sean as well as mom and I all share a mutual love of driving to clear our heads, and think through things.
We got used to driving when we lived in the picturesque mountain community of Wrightwood, CA, which was nestled in the San Gabriel mountains. As beautiful as it was, certain things like a wide variety of shopping options were limited to "going down the hill" as we used to say. It was a 30 minute drive to my dad's work at George Air Force Base (which has since closed), approximately 30 minutes to Victorville, an hour to San Bernadino but just over 2 to get to Disneyland or Magic Mountian, Barstow was 4 1/2 to go to the Outlet Mall or on the way to Las Vegas which was a little over 6 1/2 if I remember correctly (depending on traffic of course). Driving to us was no big deal and we would trek all over Southern California to Sean's many basketball games or tournaments.
Anyway, it's amazing the little things that we take for granted until they're taken away from us. I look forward to the day that Sean will be able to drive again and everyday I thank God that Sean's still with us and for every progress he makes. No matter what sibling rivalry we may have had in the past, I'm so glad that he's here and part of our lives. He is truly a living example of God's wonder and his will and fight to survive over unspeakable odds as 99 out of 100 people would not have made it out of the operating room after his initial emergency surgery January 15th, let alone continued to battle, survive and thrive after all the obstacles that have been thrown at him so far. We have some wonderful guardian angels watching over our family and I am eternally grateful and blessed to have them watching over all those that are so precious to me.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Update #50, August 14th

Friday, August 14, 2009

#50 Update, August 14th
Today was the first time we saw any frustration in Sean. One of his medications was changed to a lower level and it will now be increased back. He is getting stronger everyday. The right side of his body is showing great improvement in coordination. We have been playing some of his CDs and he will occasionally sing along with them. I thought the other day he was going to get up and dance but he didn't. Steady and sure is the course.Thanks for continuing to pray for him and us, we feel it and know it helps a lot.
Posted by Paul and Andrea Knott at 10:52 PM

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Update #49, August 4th, 2009

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

#49, August 4, 2009

Yesterday we took Sean to Gunnison, Colorado, to see two of his friends from high school, Jeff & Annie Steinmann. Jeff & Sean played basketball together; Annie was Sean's classmate (Serrano High School, Class of '90) and his junior prom date, whom he introduced to Jeff who graduated a year ahead of them (Serrano HS '89). They were staying in southwestern Colorado with their family, and Gunnison is about halfway between us and them. He enjoyed spending time in his Hummer (the H3 in his profile picture) and seeing them for the first time in about seven years. He had some trouble recognizing the kids, which is normal. The day was really nice - not too hot or cold, and enough clouds to let us enjoy the park.
On the way back, Sean was able to handle his drink by himself and take sips on his schedule, which indicates that he is regaining dexterity in his hands.
We'll post some photos so that you can see the Knotts and the Steinmanns.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Random quip "In Plain Sight"

Quotes I like recently ....


I've collected quotes that I love for a long time now but recently I came across some new ones that have been rather inspiring so I thought I'd share. Then I decided to put a pin in that for a bit and go with this instead. I'm still learning and getting my head around "blogging", so please bare with me and my learning curve. Feel free to let me know what you think.


I discovered USA Networks' 'In Plain Sight' last season but I am enjoying this season even more. Each episode seems to have a whitty quips of dialog, something to ponder or think deeply about hidden in them. Tonight is the summer season finale but I recommend catching repeats if you can or checking out the website. These are just a few of my favs from recent episodes. Such as ...

Marshall - "Everyone has failures in life. Ultimately all of us fail. The Aquaducts of Rome will eventually fail. But who we are, the standards by which we're measured, lies in our response to those failures. My dad used to tell me, 'You don't fail until you quit.' I know its a cliche but its the best I got right now and its true."

Norman: "I'm sorry, I can't go from a guy who's never wrong to a guy who's never been right once. I'm just not that flexible."

Marshall: "(Some people) can't accept that Failure is a part of life. The most important part. It's the part that teaches us things and the part that hurts."

Brandi: "What does your loved one say is your greatest asset? And don't say my chest."

Marshall: "You want me to sugar-coat it or you want the truth?"
Brandi - "Can you sugar-coat the truth?"
Marshall - "I suppose not"

Mary - (Thinking to herself) "People talk too much. People think too much. We're all village idiots enamored with our shadows, oblivious to the setting sun."

"Families are like puzzles, they fit together in a certain way, and when one of the pieces are missing it throws everything off."

Mary - "I yearn for blind devotion - unthinking, unwavering - a cause, a thing, a principle worthy of absolute loyalty. A truth self-medicating, a love unabating, something - anything - to which I relinquish all personal responsibility. Semper Fi, 'Til Death Do Us Part', In Nomine Patris, Let's Go Mets. To the true believers, the lucky few, of thee I sing."

Peter - "Before I got sober, my life was a series of self-implosions. Everytime I got within sight of something I really wanted, I'd throw a landmine in my own path to make sure I never achieved it. And I just thing you need someone to help you avoid your own landmines. To help you believe you deserve some of those things you really want."

Mary - "I once dated a man who taught Quantam Physics. I learned two things that night.
The first being... if you ask a Quantam Physicist to explain how gravity works? Not, what it is? Not, how it behaves but how it works? He will first - talk himself in circles then wind up crying and finally sometime... between the entree and dessert, call you a b*tch and leave.

The second revelation came as I sat at the bar in morose solitude, pondering the cantilever relationship between the bartenders gut and lower extremities. and this important so pay attention!! Before the Big Bang. Before time itself. Before matter, energy or velocity, there existed a single immeasureable state called yearning. This is the special force that on a day before there were days ablitterated nothing into everything. It is the unseen strings tying planets to stars. It is the maddening want we feel from first breath to last light. "

Update #48, July 27th

Monday, July 27, 2009

#48 Update, July 27th
Sorry for not getting this posted earlier, Mom here has had a few health issues, I'm fine. Sean is beginning to toss a ball overhanded with both his right and left hands which is great. Dr. Patrick is really working on strengthening those arms & hands. He has 1 lb weights on each arm as well to help strengthen those muscles. As a treat each day Paul has been taking him out in his Hummer for rides. It is hard to think about turning it in since the lease is up the 22nd of August, that will be a very sad day indeed. He had talked to us before surgery about turning it in instead of purchasing it and getting another truck. It is just hard to deal with right now. The other day I asked him while he was in the bathroom if he needed any help, or was it alright if I went back to the kitchen. He said "Who are you talking to?" back to me which is a good indicator that the brain is processing more and more with real time situations which is GREAT! He is working on coordination and getting the right body part to work when needed. Crossing his arms to the opposite side of the person in front of him is hard but getting better. He is able to put his socks and shoes on next comes tying them. He can take his shirt off and on as well. We are reminded constantly what miracles our bodies are and how they work especially when relearning comes into play. He always works hard and still loves to nap. :o) He and Delaney play ball a lot more now and she will cuddle him as well as pull on his shorts to follow her and do what she wants done. All of his therapist are pleased with his hard work and continued progress. He will laugh at "Two and a half men" and occasionally at other things, he doesn't comment on items often. I asked him what he wanted for lunch, he looked at me and said "What are my choices?" I told him I wasn't giving him any choices. I just wanted to know what he wanted, I normally would give him 2 or 3 choices. Of course he said "BBQ", which we didn't have available; but we did get him BBQ for dinner that night. Progress for sure. Thank you as always for your prayers and warm thoughts we feel them and as always appreciate them. All our warmth, love and prayers.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 8:01 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Monday, July 13, 2009

Update #47, July 11th, 2009

Saturday, July 11, 2009

#47 Update, July 11th
Sean has improved a lot this week with the new physical therapist. They have been working on the strength in is right hand, right arm and shoulder especially. He is able to pull up his socks, put on his shoe and needs help to tie them but he has come a long way. He is working on dressing himself which is a nice step to see him make. It will still be a little while until he can completely feed himself, that will come with strengthening his hands and arms. He is talking more in sentences instead of just yes and no which is encouraging. His memory is coming back bit by bit. Thank you to those of you that have sent him cards, he looks at them and I think it helps to stimulate his brain to remember who you are and how he knows you. This week is the first week he has looked at his scars with any interest. We have talked about them several times and may talk about them even more but that is ok. He has the long vertical one from the heart surgery with 2 small circles where the drain tubes came out then the stomach tube circle and the horizontal scar on his left side from when they took the fluid off the back of his heart and the circle below it from the drain. Everyday he gets stronger slow but sure.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 3:54 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Update #46, July 3rd

Friday, July 3, 2009

#46 Update, July 3rd
This is a 2 week update, sorry I got behind. Life happens while we are making other plans. Sean is reading more, writing more and actually drew a picture the other day, it is on the refrigerator. The new physical therapist doctor came to evaluate him Thursday. He is getting stronger everyday but the muscles in his right shoulder, arm and hand are weak. This new therapist is going to work specifically on those weak muscles and his coordination 3 times a week instead of the twice a week he was getting. He may be reintroduced to a computer soon. The goal is to introduce him to things that he can successfully achieve. Challenging him is fine but frustrating him too much is counter productive. He is beginning to engage in a conversation sometimes rather than just answering questions asked of him. We went to a Deli and grocery store the other day and asked if he wanted to go and he did. The outing was very nice for him not too long as his endurance is still not up to speed. He is staying up more and more but when he wants to sleep in or take a nap it is good for him to do so. He is beginning to feel more comfortable being out in public which is great, he said he would like to see the cousins up in Denver. We are working on some plans for him to see the cousins soon.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 10:41 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Update #45, June 20th

Saturday, June 20, 2009

#45 Update, June 20th
Long week with slow and steady progress. Sean was evaluated by the speech therapist team on Monday and had his first session on Friday. There are a lot of positive areas and several areas that need work. He can read a newspaper but doesn't always comprehend everything. They will begin to work with him 3 times a week in addition to the physical therapist and occupational therapist, which each come twice a week. He continues to amaze us with what he can do, remember and strives to do. His hands are getting much stronger, he works extra hard to get more control of his right one. He can't write yet but he is able to make marks on a page which is a start. He went to the barber with Paul last Saturday and got his hair cut but still has a full beard, we took photographs just in case he wanted it shaved. His blood is back where it should be for thickness since he was off of his medicine when his peg tube was taken out. He fell for the first time and scared the daylights out of us. He was getting up to go to the bathroom on his own and lost his balance. His hands were red and he was sitting on the floor when I got to him but no blood which I was VERY thankful. We walk several times a day still to add stamina and go out on various short errands in the car. Sean and Delaney are still very tuned in to one another and share each other's activities. He has started to wear his own underwear for which he is very proud and enjoys.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 7:50 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Update #44, June 12th

Friday, June 12, 2009

#44 Update, June 12th
Smiles, strength, tears of joy and laughter were all part of this week. Those of you that we have had the privilege to share a meal with you know we hold hands, say grace and then everyone from the youngest to the oldest has the opportunity to say what they are grateful for each day (good haircut etc). Delaney has been know to chatter a little during this time as well. Sean surprised us by saying grace with us and then he added "Thank you for today, thank you for this meal, thank you for everyone" pure joyful tears and lots of praise. He is getting stronger everyday, we walk several times a day up and down the street. He likes taking car rides to various places besides going to see the doctor. He will start with a new speech therapist on Monday. He is making great strides; he is reading more, doing some math, exercising using his right hand more and more. His short term memory is tough some days, he is beginning to remember more about his past. Certain foods he used to like or didn't like are changing so we are having fun trying new recipes as well as some old ones. He and Delaney play catch and she will sit with Sean more now. I think his having the peg tube out has encouraged that connection again. Each day is a blessing and we all grow more and more with each other.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 8:52 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Monday, June 8, 2009

Update #43, June 5th

friday, june 5, 2009

#43 Update, June 5th
Another week of progress, Sean read Are You My Mother by Dr Seuss. He read it slowly but surely. He continues to strengthen his grasp in both hands and his core muscles for balance and walking. He always takes the harder choice whenever we ask him which challenge he'd like to accomplish and works hard at accomplishing whatever is given to him to do. He stamina needs work so we will need to walk him twice a day and a little longer each time. He has a full beard and mustache; you'd hardly recognize him. I think he looks quite handsome but I am prejudiced. When he agrees, and we are hoping that will be very soon, we will post some recent photographs on line. He colorizes all the parts and puts the items together when working with them. When given a task he starts it pretty quickly now, so the processing time is a lot shorter which is very encouraging. He misses playing with his peg tube, it is almost completely healed. For those of you that have sent him cards & words of encouragement; we read them with him as soon as they come in. I'll ask him if he remembers you and he'll say "yes", sometimes he says "no" but that is not to say he won't remember later. Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers, warm thoughts, words of encouragement and being our as well as his friend. It means the world to us and helps those long days we have sometimes. He is a joy and very up, he hasn't gotten upset or angry since he came home which is wonderful. Somehow that lets me know that I am doing my job correctly with respect and love.
posted by paul andrea knott at 10:31 pm

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Update #42, May 28th

Thursday, May 28, 2009

#42 Update, May 28th
Sean's latest step is the removal of his feeding "PEG" tube this morning. We went back to the Medical Center of Aurora for the procedure. As an update for those of you who have been here, especially when Sean was in the Critical Care Unit, the remodeling has proceeded to the point where the main entrance of the hospital is now open, and what seemed to be miles to walking is now down to a few yards. The first night, when Sean spent so long in surgery, the Berger clan came to stay with us while we wondered what was happening and then if he'd survive. That waiting area is now part of Admissions. We pulled up, Sean and Andrea went in, and Delaney and I parked the car and met them in their same-day surgery clinic. A nurse came in and removed the feeding tube, put some gauze on the wound, and sent us home. We were in the house before noon. Prognosis is excellent. Evidently the stomach lining heals within two or three hours of removal.His therapy continues. Balance and strength are returning, and his vocabulary is expanding, although 90% of his replies are "Yes" or "No."We'll update this blog as things happen. As always, thanks for your prayers and kind thoughts.
Posted by Paul Andrea Knott at 12:49 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Monday, May 25, 2009

Update #41, May 22nd

friday, may 22, 2009

#41 Update, May 22nd
Another week has passed with growth in strength and development. Sean is doing occupational therapy, physical therapy and will have speech therapy again starting next week. He remembers so much; the therapist stopped him after he counted to 50. He knows his abc's and was saying the words for picture flash cards. He still needs development in the control of his hands. He is able to do a lot, such as picking up objects but putting them in a particular place is sometimes a challenge. They are working on muscle control for his arms and hands especially his right. He is trying to feed himself and can with help but it is frustrating for him a lot of times. Writing will come, remember doing lines and circles when you began penmanship well that is still the standard. He will laugh at TV shows like Two and a Half Men and some comedy shows which is nice to hear. Occasionally he will ask questions and we are asking him more questions that are not just a yes or no answer. Our neighbor Jason, and his friend, came over to see him the other night when he saw him outside walking on the driveway. They used to share memories of Germany, talk trucks and cars as Jason rebuilds them all the time among other things. It made me and Jason cry when he didn't remember him but that is not to say that he won't remember later. He LOVES being able to sleep in; anyone who has ever been in the hospital will remember not being able to sleep very well while being there with them checking blood pressure etc all the time. Each day is a blessing and it is exciting to see him progress and do more and more. He will have his stomach tube taken out Thursday the 28th which will be nice not to have to worry about it anymore.
posted by paul andrea knott at 5:41 pm

Friday, May 15, 2009

Updates# 39 & 40 - The New Chapter has begun...

#40 Update, May 15th
Several people have requested Sean's current address in order to be in contact with him. He is living with his parents; his permanent address while he was moving around in the Air Force etc. You can send mail to Sean at 5565 Lantana Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80915. We kept his cell phone number active for him.
For those of you that knew him while he was Langley Air Force Base in Virginia, he is now 260 lbs. Before having surgery he was missing being in the Air Force and his friends. When he finishes his recovery we don't know what he will be doing but I know he will continue to put his heart and soul into whatever he decides. It was interesting to us that when he was in his coma and later on, several of the nurses and doctors said they could tell he had a good heart just by his demeanor. He has always had a good heart, loves and cares a lot for people; even though sometimes expressing himself hasn't always been easy for him. When he agrees to photographs I will post some for everyone. He got himself up this morning and has done several things without help; turning on lights and going to the bathroom. It may not sound like much but these little steps are GREAT progress forward for his independence. Thank you again everyone especially his friends for asking and caring so much.
posted by paul andrea at 5:40 pm 0 comments
thursday, may 14, 2009

#39 Update, May 14th
WOW! What a wonderful Mother's Day present to have Sean home at last! It has been almost a week that he has been home, time flies so quickly. He is doing great, talking more and asking questions on his own. He can at times stand up and walk short distances by himself. We are still very guarded and protective. He's gaining more strength everyday. He loves being able to sleep in now in the mornings. We have had some up and down days as expected for the most part they are UP and the best part is he is home. He saw his new doctor Tuesday and he is very nice and Sean seemed to like him. He and Delaney have played ball and he almost picked her up last night while sitting in the recliner. Thank you for your continued prayers and support; we continue to feel and appreciate your strength and love.
posted by paul andrea at 3:11 pm 1 comments

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Updates# 29 - 38 (thru Friday May 8th, 2009)

Friday, May 8, 2009

#38, May 8, 2009
I am still not sure what happened, but Andrea got a call from the hospital that there was some challenge with Sean's procedure and would we be picking him up today? Of course we would! We motored up the freeway to Aurora and, due to a "minor accident" which turned Interstate 25 into a parking lot at the Tech Center, took the scenic route to Spalding. Sean was packed up and waiting for us, so we dressed him in warmer clothing and wheeled him to the Hummer. On the way back, I selected some of his radio presets, which really seemed to please him.He is resting comfortably in our bed, which he likes so much more than the hospital bed that he's been in for so long. We bought a bed rail so that he won't fall out and a bed alarm so that he won't walk out in the middle of the night.Sean will now be doing some home therapy and some in-office work; all is in flux right now due to the speed of his release. We'll keep you all up to date on his progress.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 10:17 PM 0 comments
Thursday, May 7, 2009

#37 Update, May 7th
Today is a MAGICAL DAY! We got the final word that Sean can come home on Saturday. I can't imagine a better MOTHER'S DAY PRESENT!!! They are taking the filter out of his groin tomorrow morning and will observe him for 24 hours to make sure everything is all right. They put the filter in just before he had his open heart surgery so he wouldn't throw any more clots while in surgery or shortly thereafter. He has worked so hard and we trained hard together and it has paid off. He is really looking forward to sleeping in a BIG bed; he only remembers being in a twin bed since Spalding - not the 2 months before. We are going to bring him home in his Hummer, which is what we promised him that we'd do if he worked hard in his therapy.Of course, he'll have more therapy when he gets home, but he is walking very well with the occasional tilt. The last test was getting on and off curbs in his new chair, which is better suited to his size.We'll add to the blog as he progresses, as we're sure that he will, but don't expect daily posts. We want to thank you all for your kind and positive thoughts and prayers. He continues to beat the odds and impress his medical and therapy staff. If you should ever need a facility like Spalding, we recommend it whole-heartedly. Thanks again to all our friends and Sean's.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 6:23 PM 0 comments
Monday, May 4, 2009

#36 May 3, 2009
We "survived" our overnight stay with Sean in fine shape. The hospital has a section of their training area that looks like a one-bedroom apartment. Andrea and I did some training with Sean, fed him his supper, and then helped him to bed when he got tired. The nurses came by about midnight to check up on him, which woke us up. Lesson #1, don't close the sliders all the way because staff will want to get in. About 2 am, Sean woke up and wanted to use the restroom. Lesson #2, make sure that the bed alarm is attached. Around 5:30, he was moving around in the bed and set off the bed alarm. Lesson #3, make sure that the alarm cord isn't someplace that can get tangled up. After breakfast, we did some more training and then headed home.This week, we'll bring Delaney in for training for when she and Sean may need help at the same time. As we understand, this is one of the final steps between now and Sean's being able to go to home health care.Sean is able to get up on his own with minimal help from us and is taking his medications by mouth, which means that his feeding tube may be removed this week. The big news is that he may be discharged as early as this week, which means that we need to do some rearranging of furniture to accomodate him and his needs.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 9:24 AM 0 comments


Thursday, April 30, 2009

#35 Update April 30th
The last couple of days have been GREAT! The training classes have gone very well and tomorrow night we will be staying overnight in the hospital apartment taking care of Sean full time just Paul and I. There is the call button if we need help, but we aren't planning on needing any help. We took up his Hummer today for him to transfer sitting in it. He didn't want to get out and would hardly give back the keys. :o) He is looking forward to sleeping in his California King size bed again. He hasn't complained but the twin size hospital bed is getting to him for sure. The training is being done with the Occupational Therapist and the Physical Therapy Therapist. We will train again tomorrow, spend the night and train again Saturday morning. Some more training next week will include Delaney. My notes will be a good reference for what to do in various situations. We still do not have a dismissal date; but we are really getting prepared for his release whenever that will be in the future. He will still have therapy sessions after his release but they will be here in Colorado Springs. We are looking forward to being at home and enjoy each other.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 7:28 PM 0 comments
Monday, April 27, 2009

#34 Update, April 27th
Paul and I started our at home training today with the occupational therapist. We need to have between 5-10 hour sessions in the next 2 weeks and an overnight stay to see how to take care of Sean so he and we are safe. We don't have a date for his coming home as of yet but it could be soon. It went very well today and he is excited to work with us because it means he is getting closer to coming home to his California King bed instead of the hospital size bed he has been in since January. This Friday he will have been at Spalding Rehab Hospital for 50 days which doesn't seem possible. He has come a long way in such a short time. Thank you everyone for continuing to pray for him and supporting us with warm wishes and thoughts. We have another challenge right now I have a blood clot (DVT) in my upper left arm from when a box fell on me just over a month ago, they found it last week. The challenge is my arms are weaker than normal but I will be going to therapy soon for strengthening them so that won't be a problem. The good news is they took enough blood before I started the blood thinners that if my side of the family has a gene that is causing this we will be able to identify it and it may mean Sean won't have to be on coumaden for the rest of his life. They couldn't determine why Sean had all the blood clots he had because they gave him Heprin the blood thinner right away and that modified the test results. He has good days & bad as expected but he is moving forward. We are so excited that he is getting stronger and better with each passing day.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:37 PM 0 comments
Saturday, April 25, 2009

#33, April 24, 2009
We took Delaney up to see Sean this evening, and unfortunately both Delaney and Sean had just woke up, so neither of them were very social. We'd let Delaney know that Sean had a tender tummy (due to the feeding tube, which they only use to give Sean his meds), and she seemed a little tenative due to that. He was able to say her name, though. If they both are awake, they'll probably do much better.Sean went outside yesterday and got to play catch with his physical therapist for a while. There is a semi-enclosed area off the first floor dining room with paved areas, cobblestones, grass, and landscaping for different therapy challenges, and with the warmer weather, Sean likely will be spending more time there.We've had a cold front move in this morning, but we'll be heading up to see Sean soon. The next step for us in Sean's journey back is to receive training in how to help Sean with his daily activities, including an over-night stay in Denver. When we finish, then we'll be preparing for his discharge, with the goal of his being able to live an independent life again.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 9:59 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, April 21, 2009

#32, April 21, 2009
Today we met with Sean's therapy team, and they all are happy with the progress that Sean is making, but noting just how long of a road is ahead of us. The main thrust of each therapist is that sometimes he does really well, and sometimes, not so much progress.After the meeting, both Andrea and I worked with the physical therapist to help Sean stand, walk to and from the toilet, and sit back at the bed. When we came into the room, he was sleeping, so we didn't do much more than feed him some pudding and a quick run-through of getting his gait belt on and the therapy. He'd actually been outside earlier today, so was kind of tuckered out.We're beginning to talk about when Sean leaves the rehab center and comes home , what things we'll need for the house (grab bars, ADA toilet rails, etc.) and just what our expectations are for him vs what his needs are going to be.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 5:24 PM 0 comments
Sunday, April 19, 2009

#31, April 19, 2009
Due to the snow, this was the first time we'd been up to see Sean since Wednesday, and he is still doing well. We got to take him around the hospital in his chair, and fed him both pistachio pudding and his regular supper. If the weather had been a few degrees nicer, we could have taken him outside, but that will be coming very soon. Tuesday will be the first "formal" team meeting with his therapists. We've spoken to them all individually, of course, but we will be sitting in on their daily meeting where they let each other know about what Sean has been doing in the individual sessions. The communication among nursing and therapy staff really seems to be excellent here, which helps the healing process tremendously.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:01 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, April 15, 2009

#30 Update April 15th
Sean had a great day! His appetite is back; he ate 2 helpings of his dinner tonight. He is working really hard and making great strides. He is able to sit up for hours at a time now and occasionally only needs one person to help him with his walking. We asked him if he wanted to get a haircut today and he said "no". Not to brag but when the nurse asked him what kind of cooking he liked best he said "my Mom's".
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:40 PM 0 comments
Saturday, April 11, 2009

#29, April 11, 2009
Sean has moved up a room, from the stimulus-controlled section to a room with more of a view (of I-225) and a little more room. Tonight, we helped Sean walk from his bed to the restroom and back, and Andrea and I fed him his supper. His walks are with help, but not necessarily with mechanical support. He can go up stairs pretty well, but has trouble going down the stairs. The staff has mentioned several times that we seem to be having a good effect on him; he is less likely to balk at their attempts at helping him or giving him medications through his feeding tube than before we arrive.We're hoping that either we can walk him to the dining room or that he can come out there to see Delaney tomorrow. When she is in the ward, she sometimes gets a little loud, and we don't like to feel that we're bothering the other patients.Thanks as always for your prayers and positive thoughts; we feel that Sean is responding to them.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 10:37 PM 0 comments

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Updates 28 - 22

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

#28, April 8, 2009
Andrea was able to feed Sean his supper tonight. He's progressed to the point where he can have pretty much anything he wants; in fact, the aide told us that he'd picked out his meal this evening. Somehow he got salmon and asparagus on the plate, and he didn't really care for them. He's a lot more alert today. We think that the doctors have been adjusting his medications to help him be more in tune with his surroundings. His speech is improving as he regains control of his tongue and lips. The therapists are also happy with his progress.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 7:46 PM 0 comments
Monday, April 6, 2009

#27 Update April 6th
Sean is doing better, he seems to be processing a lot. Some of the answers to questions are coming a lot faster. Granted these are yes or no answers but that is a huge step. He is very tired lately so we are hoping that is due to processing more and his brain healing more. He told us 1 + 1=2; there are neat windows of light that some signals are there, working and we are hoping/believing with more to come.He is not as combative, mainly he wants to do things on his own so he can come home. He told us yesterday that they won't let him come home. We were able to help him understand that he will be able to come home as soon as he is capable we promised. He had to promise that he would let them help him get better so that it could happen faster. A "I promise, you promise" exchange and he understood and repeated "I promise, you promise" back. He has gained back some of his weight loss so that is good.The biggest thing that has upset him lately is he now understands it is April and he has been in hospitals since January. Bless his heart!
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:22 PM 0 comments
Sunday, April 5, 2009

#26, April 5, 2009
We went up today to see Sean, and he was sitting up on his bed, with his feet on the floor. Andrea brought along some tapioca, which had too many "pearls" for him to be comfortable with. We explained the best that we could that he needs to be able to do more things for himself before he can come home. Tomorrow will be a chance to meet with his therapists to set some weekly goals for him. It's our hope that if he understands that he needs to do more than walk and swallow before he can leave, he'll be more cooperative with the therapists and staff. Thank you all for keeping us and Sean in your prayers.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 6:07 PM 0 comments
Thursday, April 2, 2009

#25 Update April 2nd
Sean is improving but is extremely frustrated as he has had to relearn the basics of life. They are trying new medications to help with the movement he has that is like but not Parkinson's disease. The new medication made him combative and so they stopped it and will try something else. He has another urinary tract infection as well. April Fool's day was a blustery winter snow storm for us but seeing him and being able to calm him made the trip all worthwhile. Thank you again for your warm thoughts and prayers; it is making all the difference.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 2:38 PM 0 comments
Monday, March 30, 2009

#24 Update March 30th
Today was an unusual day for Sean as we were there to see him about noon. I fed him some pistachio pudding that Paulette had made and he really enjoyed it. We haven't seen him so frustrated for a long time; he was running a bit of a fever and not letting the nurse take his blood pressure. My sister Mary Lou and niece Anne got to visit for about 5 minutes as he was having a challenge and unable to explain what was upsetting him. He had 3 good therapy sessions today and walked a lot. The therapists are mainly there to steady him. They took him down the hall to the elevator, then had him walk around the first floor gym and back again, which is a pretty long walk.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 6:22 PM 0 comments
Friday, March 27, 2009

#23 Update March 27th
After the blizzard from yesterday it was a treat to see Sean this afternoon. He was talking and walked a lot today. He graduated to chopped up pieces about 1/2 inch in size of chicken, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and applesauce. He can also suck out of a straw. I stayed to feed him and it was delightful to share the time and meal with him. He was hungry and has eaten 100 % of all of his meals today. His nurse asked him what branch of the service he was in Navy, Army or Air Force and he answered Air Force. He is making small but noticeable steps forward. He will always be one of our best achievements in life no matter what. Between him and Delaney, she "talks" more but we understand more of Sean's words; someday soon hopefully they'll be even.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:56 PM 0 comments
Thursday, March 26, 2009

#22 Update March 26th
Sean is relearning how to take food! He had some "nectar" yesterday without incident. Not a sirloin, but we all have to start somewhere, I guess.We met other caregivers of brain-injured people in a support group yesterday, and we feel humbled by what these people have gone through after traumatic brain injuries--falls & auto accidents in the crowd we were with. If we didn't process that this is a marathon, the experiences we heard last night brought that home. The doctors tell us that the first six months or so will bring the greatest healing and learning; due to the coma that Sean was in, that six-month clock really didn't start until he arrived at Spaulding. Thanks again for the prayer groups that you all have added Sean's name to, and thank you again for the individual prayers and positive thoughts directed our way.Due to a springtime blizzard here in Colorado, we aren't going up tonight, and we might stay home tomorrow as well. Saturday is forecast to be bright and sunny, though. We call the hospital to see how his day is, and what new things he is doing. All the best to everyone.

Updates 21-15

Sunday, March 22, 2009

#21 Update March 22nd
Yesterday he wasn't talking very much. Today he stood by himself for a few minutes while they were transferring him to his walker for physical therapy. He can walk down the hallway with assistance and "walk" himself down the hallway while sitting in his wheelchair. He was talking a lot more today and a good percent of the words you could understand. Sometimes when you ask him a question you can see him processing it, if you wait you might get an answer. I read him some of his Consumer Report Magazine. He listened and sometimes made comments which was great.Thank you again for your continued prayers and support.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 7:48 PM 0 comments
Thursday, March 19, 2009

#20 Update March 19th
Before I share today Thank you to Aunt Judy, Bev, Sheila and Paulette who brightened Sean's St. Patrick's Day by their thoughtfulness.Today was both informative and challenging-knowledge is power yet it still hurts.Sean's brain damage is located in the middle of his brain the Caudate nucleus and Globus pallidus; both the right and left side are affected. The middle of the brain is the control center for the other parts of the body. The high functions are not affected except by the overall control he needs from the center area. There is no time table for how long it will take or how much will heal at this point. Usually the first 6 months are the most healing but it can take a year to 18 months as well, time will tell. How long it will be before he is discharged from rehab is unknown as well. He is responding and progressing but it is definately a journey.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 7:43 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, March 18, 2009

#19 Update March 18th
Sean isn't sleeping very much only about 3 to 5 hours a night. Today he walked up and down the hallway and I understood him when he was telling me about it. He was talking a lot today but the nurse and I were having trouble understanding him. Paul and I go see him tomorrow during his physical therapy and speech therapy sessions so maybe we will be able to learn more then. The rash he has been dealing with on his legs is doing a lot better and he isn't itching so that is GREAT!
Posted by Paul Andrea at 7:37 PM 0 comments
Monday, March 16, 2009

#18 Update March 16th
Today was the first full day of therapies for Sean and he did AMAZING! He has 1 hour of speech, 1 hour of physical and 1 hour of occupational each day and we were there to watch occupational today.He didn't sleep very well last night 3 hours at most. Probably because he wasn't understanding what is happening & where he is at even though we tried to explain it to him. They took him off all of the sedating medications so that he is fully awake and able to process as much as possible. He has been very emotional, it is hard to see him so upset. The therapist said that whatever their disposition before they had brain damage is greatly exaggerated afterwards. They(his team) can tell that Sean has a big heart, is tender and loving by his emotions.Last night we told him he could come home after he learns to walk and eat again. Before we left he told us he wanted to walk. We can only stay for 15 to 20 minutes now. As he progresses we will be able to stay longer.He walked up & down the hallway 4 times behind his over sized wheel chair with assistance. He read all of their names aloud from their badges, the team was impressed. He spelled "deer hunting" to the nurse as well.He was less emotional today with us, excited to see us and actually said, " I will learn to swallow again." When we told him goodbye, we'd see him tomorrow and we loved him; he repeated he would see us tomorrow and he loved us and didn't cry. We think after having his therapy sessions today he understands he needs help to learn to do things again. It was so much easier leaving him tonight, he is at the right place and moving forward. Thank you for continuing to pray for him and us it helps so much.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:39 PM 2 comments
Saturday, March 14, 2009

#17 Update March 15th
Sean has settled into his room. Since he is off the Percocet his skin looks much better. One side effect of this med is itching, and since Paulette had that reaction, we mentioned it to his doctors, and they have him on alternate medication. When we saw him, he looked almost as though he was in bed at home; almost all of the tubes and lines that he had been hooked up to have been removed, except for the feeding tube. He is aware enough to be kind of overwhelmed by what has happened to him. He asked us several times, "Why?", and we did our best to explain the things that he has undergone. Talking is still difficult; it's possible that either when they put in the airway to help him breathe, or when he pulled it out that there may have been damage to his vocal cords--or else, he's just out of practice.The staff is starting to evaluate his base position for speech, occupational and physical therapy, and we'll be talking with them on Monday. So far, we're very impressed with how well he's being taken care of.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 9:57 PM 0 comments

#16 Update March 14th
Sean did very well yesterday making the move, confused but he is adjusting to the quite environment of Spalding. He slept through the night and will have more evaluations today. We will go up later to see him. They have him in the brain injury unit, they control the environment with absolutely no noise of any kind at first. It gives the brain the rest it needs and helps it to process better. Delaney won't be able to see him for awhile because she has so much energy which is overstimulating for an injured brain. They will tell us when he is ready to see her again. He can tell them his name which is wonderful, he is talking more. When I saw him last night he was responding to some questions and following commands. He is assigned one nurse that stays with him at all times currently until he progresses more. He can have visitors only 1 or 2 at a time. He isn't able to swallow yet but the speech therapist will be working on it with him; so he can have his feeding tube removed. He now has lost 65 lbs, he will be very surprised I'm sure. We are on the right track and moving forward. The therapists had him standing at Triumph yesterday and he patted one of them on the head. He still needs prayers as he faces relearning everyday things now. Thank you for your love, prayers, warm thoughts and kind words. I give him all of your messages and print them out for him to see later.
Posted by Paul Andrea at 8:12 AM 0 comments
Thursday, March 12, 2009

#15 Update March 12th
Sean will be moving tomorrow Friday to Spalding Rehabilitation Center. Paul and I checked it out today and again he will have access to the same doctors at The Medical Center of Aurora should he have the need; continuity is vital to the plan. He stood up 3 times today with help. They did the swallowing test and he is unable to swallow at this time so they will leave the feeding tube in for awhile longer. They will put him in the brain damage unit where it is quieter and he will have one on one assistance for awhile until he is able to do things on his own. He was talking a lot today mainly one syllable words yes, no, on. He is still itching but they are giving him Benadryl which helps a lot. Craig Rehabilitation Hospital doesn't have a bed available for 3 weeks. After visiting Spalding we need to move him now to keep his progress moving in a positive progression. This has been our ultimate goal to get him to rehab so that he can have the opportunity to have a life on his own again.