Another Win

Matt was pretty excited today over the roughriders win. They had it set up in ICU so the nurses could watch some of the game, and they invited Matt for their party. There was pizza and pop, and Mattt was in his roughrider outfit. At our house, we had a birthday party for Jonmarie and Jacki dressed Amy in her roughrider outfit, so Matt and Amy are good luck. I must apologize for giving false information. Matt did receive a second hand wheelchair 3 days ago. It isn't the best, but it does fit him better. However there were many adjustments that needed to be made, and the staff just didn't have the time. So last night dad spent 1 & 1/2 hours trying to fix it for Matt. He also rigged up a holding compartment for Matt's O2 tank on the wheelchair, so Matt would be free to boogy where he wants to. It is working great. This wheelchair is called a mid-drive. It is similar to dad's lawnmower, zero turn radius with the big wheels in front and the small wheels at the back.
Matt was having so much pain in his neck, that dad had suggested they give Matt Advil 1/2 hour before getting him up in the chair, because getting him in the chair causes him the most pain. They tried it and it seems to be working. (They give the Advil in his feeding tube, to try and prevent stomach upset). Matt ate like a horse today and when mom phoned at 8:00, she was out buying him a sub because he was still hungry! Just like old times. You had to eat fast in our house, otherwise the food would be gone. Mom also mentioned that Matt had his trach capped for 4 hours, and still counting! Possibly tomorrow I will know the full extent of the time he lasted without the ventilator. For a least an hour of that time he went without any O2 as well. Well done Matt! You will have that thing out before you know it. Matt is now able to scratch his nose without bending at the neck. He still has to really concentrate and it takes him awhile, but he can do it. Matt, progress is being made everyday! Deuteronomy 31:8 "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged".

Long Week-End

Matt had a quiet day as with the long week end all his therapy is on hold. He took a tour around the hospital to see all the Christmas decorations, didn't go outside because his chair was giving him some trouble. He had some company and is always happy to visit. His appetite is getting better and was happy with the homemade Pizza Pop from one of the mom's at home. He is very tired of hospital food and says it all tastes the same. He was on the trach trail for 17 hours and they capped it for one hour. He will try for longer today. He continues to get stronger with his breathing, Praise the Lord. Prayers for today are that Matt will get more sensation in his hands and His left side will start moving more easier. Matt sends his love to all and thanks you for your prayers, jokes, food, visits, messages and support. Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.

Mom's Back

Sorry about missing yesterday's blog - lack of communication between mom and myself. Matt was so glad to see mom - he really missed her! He always says she is his biggest cheerleader. She had some discussions with the respiratory therapist to see what the plans are for Matthew. They are just so scared of pushing him too quickly but have now decided to cap his trach every day. Today he did it for one hour and his oxygen saturation did drop a bit. He continues to do the trach trials for 15 hours per day. He did his exercise again where he is strapped to the table, however, he only made it to 60 degrees and his blood pressure dropped. While he is in this position they do exercises on his arms.
They took Matthew's catheter out as they are trying to train his bladder. So far he is doing okay. They do not want his bladder to fill more than 500 ml at a time so they have to re catheterize him about every three hours. Having a problem trying to get a wheelchair. The one that is best for Matt is unavailable due to cost as Sask Abilities is unwilling to pay for it. So we are looking at the second best wheelchair - still unsure when it is coming. He has been having a lot of neck pain so they will do an x-ray tomorrow. He had an interesting visitor today. One of the doctor's that looked after him at RUH came to visit. He is a doctor from Winnipeg and had just done a locum at RUH. He told Matthew not to give up no matter what people say - he will be better one day as long as he continues to believe. Isaiah 40:29 "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak".

Matt and his Harem

Well, Matt was back to his old self. Waking up late, ate 2/3 of his lunch and then had BLT for a snack. Was able to go upstairs for rehab. Today they tried something new. They strapped Matt on a table that looks like and x-ray table. Then they slowly (over a period of 15 mins) tilt the table so Matt would eventually be in a standing position. They must do it slowly because his body is not used to being in the upright position and his blood pressure will drop into his socks if they do it too quickly. Matt made it to about 70 degrees, and then his blood pressure went too low and his pulse rate was above 170 beats per minute. But he recovered nicely and they were happy with how well he did. There are mirrors all around, and Matt commented that this was a view he hadn't seen in awhile, seeing himself standing up. I was happy for him as well, because they wouldn't be doing that exercise unless they believe Matt will walk again. So we have more believers on his side, which is great! Matt was still feeling like doing something, so back to ICU for a "fill up " of O2, then off to find Rocky. Couldn't be found, so Matt and dad went outside for about 1/2 hour. Was able to chat with Jacki on the cell phone. More company when they returned, so dad left for awhile. By the time he came back, Matt was getting a massage, a pedicure and manicure, plus another nurse was getting supplies ready for washing his hair. Dad had to fight past 3 women to feed Matt his foot long sub. Just like a Sultan and his harem. I could almost hear Matt purring. Psalms 30:11 "You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy"."They may possibly cap the trach tonight, if not he has been on the trach trial and average fo 16 hours per day. Capping is just one more step closer to getting rid of the ventilator all together. Prayers for continued success, and for mom's safe journey after being away for 1 & 1/2 weeks (will return tomorrow).

Pukey Day

Matt's old friend emesis (throwing up) came back for a visit. Dad was wondering why Matt was sleeping at noon. When he woke up for lunch, Matt said he really didn't feel like eating. The nurses didn't want to get him up in his chair to go for rehab, but Matt insisted. He was feeling so bad that he couldn't even operate his chair. But he still wanted to go. He was very pale and they put him on the mat to do some upper body exercises. There was a new therapist on, and asked Matt if his legs were in spasms. Matt replied that he was moving them. She was so impressed she had to find out how much he actually could do. The left still has minimal movement, but the right is getting stronger, though he is unable to bend the knee. Unfortunately the exercises were a bit much in Matt's state that he got sick on the mat. But we are so proud of you Matt, to have the determination to do your exercises even when you are so sick. 2 Samuel 22:33 "For it is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." The nurses gave him gravol when he got back, so he slept from 3-5 pm. At supper, Matt was able to eat about half, but then he needed suctioning and threw everything up. But dad was happy this evening, because Matt was able to finish 1/2 sub, some Ensure and some tea. Matt was much more perky and stated he felt better. Hopefully it was just a 12 hour flu bug and tomorrow will be a better day. Psalms 51:10 "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Exercises

I can say one thing for Matt, he is a brave soul. Today Dad and him went for a spin outside. The weather was cold! I didn't even want to walk to my car! But Matt was all dressed up and ready for winter. They are now able to go themselves, without a respiratory therapist or a nurse. Matt also made a trip to rehab. They put him on the machine that moves his legs, which helps his brain remember the movements and to strengthen his butt & leg muscles. He was on it for 50 mins, but I am unsure how much is from the machine and how much Matt has to do.
One of my prayers is almost answered. Matt is finally able to scratch his nose if he puts his head down. They are really working on being able to do it without bending his head. I was always scratching his nose while I was there! Sometimes I think it wasn't even itchy, he just wanted to see me do it! Matt had more company and went to visit Rocky, but was unable to go into his room because Rocky was sick. No more germs for Matt. Hope Rocky will feel better soon. Tonight is the first night Matt will be without nutrition from the tube feed. They feel his weight is more stable at 180 lbs, and that he is eating enough on his own to keep his weight up. First step towards getting that tube out. Thanks to all those who continue to think about Matt and pray for his recovery. Jude 2 "Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance."

Quiet Day

Sunday's are a day of rest, and this one was no exception. Matt did have a whirlpool bath, and then was up in his chair for the afternoon. Ate his leftover Chinese food. Gary and him watched movies, and bet on a few football games, in which Matt won $5. More company in to visit, which is always a welcome change. Matt had an afternoon siesta, and then ate 2/3 of his supper. I was able to talk to him on the phone again. I would ask him a question..silence.. then I asked him if he was tired.. "no, not really".. so again I would ask him a question.. "What?" he would ask. So finally I asked what he was doing... "watching TV". And if anyone knows Matt, when he even walks by a TV, you can be in the middle of the conversation, and he zones right out. So finally I told him I would kick him in his posterior if he didn't listen. He just proceeded to tell dad on me! Big baby. But before we even began to speak to each other, Matt was getting his "red hoody" on. No, not anything like that, just the cap on his trach. It has a red cap, so it sounds like a red hoody. So hopefully Matt will have it on for a least hours, but I will find out tomorrow.
I often quote from Proverbs, but it is one of the best books of the bible. Lots of great stuff in there. Proverbs 18:10 'The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

House full of kids

The blog is late, it was all Jacki's fault. She came for a visit, both of us went and seen cousin Patti curl in Red Deer until 11:30 pm, and her Bobby wakes up at 6:00 am. So all her fault. Anyway, Matt had an interesting day yesterday. First thing in the morning, had a episode where he de-sated, but turned out it was just a mucus plug in the tube. Then Dad and Matt went up to rehab to visit Rocky. They took the portable O2 with them, but the nurse said to keep an eye on it, was not sure how long the tank would last. So 25 mins into the visit, dad checked the tank, it was on red (empty). The rehab nurse came to check, and the O2 wasn't even on! So Matt had been without O2 for 25 mins!. He said he was fine, but dad was worried so they went back to ICU, got it straightened out, and resumed their visit. Way to show them, Matt. You are a tough one! Had a haircut and a bath, so is all ready for the weekend. Last night, Matt convinced the resp. therapist to cap his trach again. They didn't want to but Matt insisted and completed 2 hours. He likes it because he can talk much louder (which he needs to so he can compete with Gary). Gary arrived yesterday evening, and today they watched a couple of movies and Matt showed him around the hospital. Once the staff figured out the best way to sit Matt in his chair, he can control the wheelchair like anything. Gary and Matt played Trivia Pursuit Star Wars edition, which Gary won, only because he is such a nerd! Matt is now able to use the call bell to call the nurse. It is flat, and they put it close to his hand, and he is able to lift up his hand and hit the bell himself. More company from home, which Matt really enjoyed because he finagled a massage from one of them. It's those big Bambi eyes that gets them every time. I know, because he used it on me all the time. So tonight they are taking Matt Chinese food, by special order, and I may possibly speak to Matt on the phone. Prayers that Matty keeps his wonderful spirit and praise that he has so many prayers for him! James 5:16 "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

Another Good Day

Matt was a hungry man yesterday. Usually Matt doesn't eat too much of his dinner at 12:00, and yesterday it was no exception. However Dad got him a BLT and fries, which he gobbled in no time. Supper was also eaten without exception, which was another first, because it was the hospital food. As anyone who has been in the hospital, the food leaves much to be desired. The weather was cold, but Dad and Matt braved the element's and went outside for a spin around the grounds. Then off to "exemisises" (what Jonmarie calls exercises). Last week, when Matt had sat on the floor with support, then put his hands behind him, he was able to support himself for 3 mins. Now he was able to hold himself for 6 mins. They also practiced rolling on the floor. With help, he was able to do it 4 times. But dad said the 3rd time, Matt almost did it himself. Keep up the hard work, Matt. It will pay off.
They did no further capping of the trach yesterday, however Matt still did 13 hours with the cuff down, and minimal support from the ventilator. With the cuff down, he talked to mom on the phone. I think she is having a hard time being away from Matt. It is like being away when your baby rolls for the first time. As a mother, you don't want to miss anything! Hebrews 10:23 "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."

God Is With Us

I am always amazed at the power of prayer. Exodus 15:11 " Who among the gods is like you, O Lord? Who is like you- majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?"Matt had such a good day with only a few minor setbacks. They capped Matt's trach today. But let me explain it to you first. When Matt has his cuff deflated, he is still hooked up to the ventilator at the lowest setting and moisture is continuously running. But with the trach capped, the inner cannula of the trach is removed and the cuff deflated, so he can only breathe with his nose and mouth. The respiratory therapist then puts Matt on nasal prongs, so O2 is still entering his system to give him and extra boost. It is hard work, and Matt lasted over 1 hour. 1 hour & 15 mins to be exact. We are so proud of you! God is watching over you always. Matt had emesis again after he ate dinner, but he was having trouble breathing and they suctioned him, which always makes him gag (it would make anyone gag!).
But to me the best news of all is when I was able to hear Matt's voice on the phone. He now has a phone in his room. It is a bit complicated, and is only working if he phones out. But to hear his voice was so encouraging. His sense of humor is still as sharp, I laughed for 15 mins. Matt is trying to grow a beard, and states he looks like a mexican! He received a carved pumpkin and a mask (pirate) from one of the nurses, so Halloween was full of "Shiver me timbers" But the worst was, when he was sleeping one of the nurses painted his toenails lime green! And he knows which one did it, though no one is talking. Matt said they better watch out once he is mobile! Prayers that everyone has a safe Halloween!!

At a standstill

We seem to be in neutral at this point. We are hoping they change their plan of not pushing the trach trial longer than 13 hours. Matt really wants to continue moving forward, so lets pray that will happen. Proverbs 4:25 "Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you." He had lots of company, which is great and even better with the cuff deflated so he can talk, instead of reading his lips (which Matt knows I am not good at, he would just roll his eyes in disgust!). Matt's appetite is improving slowly, and he ate very well today. A bit of nausea when getting up in his chair, but it was a rough ride. Enough said. Massage therapist was in again to work out those kinks. She has a hard time doing it herself, so it wasn't as good as she would have liked, but it is better than nothing. Still hoping he will go upstairs tomorrow or Thursday to rehab for a few hours. Needs to continue building those muscles. Gary is coming this weekend, and then Matt could give him a workout. Just ask him to play a game of Trivia Pursuit Matt, that should keep him quiet! We continue to thank all those who respond to the blog, who read it, who take encouragement from it, and for those who come and see Matt. Every act of encouragement keeps him looking ahead and looking up. Romans 15:5 "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Double Touble

Isn't a great title, but oh well. Matt was up in his chair today at 1 pm. The occupational therapist and physical therapist were there to assess Matt's muscle strength. The last time they had tested him was 2 weeks ago. They were really surprised to find Matt had doubled his strength in his right arm, hand, and shoulder. Way to work hard Matt! Little by little , it will continue to improve. They had also hooked him up to muscle stimulation with electrodes to his bicep and triceps. They didn't think Matt was so strong yet, and when they asked him to bend his elbow, he nearly knocked himself out with a punch! After that they turned it down, and used less stimulus to help him along. Practice those punches for when Gary gets there! They are continuing with Matt being off the ventilator during the day (13-14 hours), and on it at night. Hoping he will be able to go to rehab for part of the day starting Wed. or Thurs. They also refitted him for a new "touchie cushie" or a bum cushion for his wheelchair. It works on the same principle as his air mattress, so feels like he is sitting on the clouds. I need that for when I am marking papers! Thanks again to dad for all the info. Matt, we are daily reminded of God's great goodness and mercy. We are so glad you are pushing ahead and keeping strong in faith. Ephesians 1:16 "I have no stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers."

Tim Horton's

Matt right hand is getting so much stronger, he was able to pick up one of Tim Horton's timbits today. He could almost get it to his mouth, but it fell out of his grasp. Once they put it in Matt's hand and closed his fingers around it, he could then bring it too his mouth. Keep up the good work. Those timbits will put weight on your body! Matt was also able to pick up a ball that was put close to his hand, then he flicked his wrist, and threw the ball over the side of the bed! So much progress is great to hear. Tubby time in the whirlpool today, so his body is now as clean as his hair! Mom was glad to see him looking and smelling so good before she left. She must return to work again, and will not be back until next Wednesday. She will be amazed at what Matt can do by then. Trach trials continue to go well, and they are going to continue to keep Matt on the ventilator at night, to make sure that his infection is gone and ensure he is getting enough moisture. While during the trach trials, Matt is on 35%O2 with moisture (that is the lowest it can go), and his cuff is deflated so he can talk. But at night, the ventilator helps him to breathe and the O2 and moisture are higher. The deadline is Christmas for Matt to be off the ventilator, so they don't want any setbacks. This way, they can almost guarantee success. Matt 6:34 "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Lazy Day

Sorry the blog is so late. Mom is in Prince Albert celebrating at Aunty Sandy's surprise birthday party, and I was unable to get a hold of her. Dad said Matt had a lazy day yesterday, which is only right on a weekend. The trach trial had started at 9:30 am, and when dad left at 11:00 pm, he was still on it. So definitely over 14 hours. They were going to try it while he was sleeping, so hopefully update you later today. Did not eat as well yesterday, but he also had such a quiet day that didn't build up an appetite. Had his hair washed, so again he is one spiffy looking guy.
They finally found Matt a new bed, a 7 footer. Took them a long time to find one to fit him. Dad says he looks great in it. They were worried about foot drop, because of his feet hanging over the edge of the bed. A very difficult condition to fix so thank the Lord for the proper size bed. Psalms 105:3-4"Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord. Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his face evermore". Matt watched Colorado be defeated again, and he is not too happy about it. But I hope the win the Roughriders had the other night makes up for it.

The new leg machine

Today Matt had his first go at the leg machine (for 20 minutes) - a motorized bike that peddles his legs which will help to strengthen his leg & butt muscles. Matt was a bit disappointed that he couldn't put much effort himself into the machine, but he forgets that his biggest muscle (i.e. butt) has disappeared in the last 4 months. As he uses this machine more, he will only get stronger. He also had a stint at the arm machine for 10 minutes. Since he has an IV in his left arm, they couldn't strap his arms in as tight, and therefore he couldn't do quite as much as yesterday. But the IV should only be there for another 4 days and then he'll be able to make a better effort (IV is for the antibiotics to fight his lung infection).

Matt had another great trach trial today for 9 hours and 5 mins. It could be longer, but mom is still at the hospital and we do not know when they put him back on the ventilator. He had also had lots of company who came bearing food (gotta love those cookies!) He's really enjoying the homemade goodies! Quick note from Nolan, states Matt looks great and was he was so surprised when he saw Matt lift his hand to his nose by himself. He was actually teasing Matt by putting a french fry in his hand, and watching him try to get it to his mouth (the meanie!!!). Matt kept saying -"stupid fry"! This is great practice for Matt - anything to keep him motivated. Joshua 1: 9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage: do not be afraid, do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

9 hours

Matt did an incredible 9 hour trach trial today! Was very exciting and I think he was very proud of himself. And he did this with an infection still hovering, so well done Matt! Another workout day in the gym, and Matt was on the mat today. They propped him up with his arms behind him and palms on the ground, like when you sit on the floor to watch TV. They assisted him but he was able to sit that way for 3 minutes. Strengthens his stomach muscles and his arm muscles. They tried to get him to roll over, but that one still needs more practice. Ate around 3000 calories all day, which was great, but still not maintaining his weight. Matt could eat a horse and not maintain his weight! He was very excited for his friend Rocky, who was able to drive a car today with a driver trainer. I am not sure how he did, but wish him the best. Once Matt masters the wheelchair, next will be the Jeep Cherokee! Watch out Weekes! They are having trouble finding a wheelchair for Matt. They wanted to get him a second hand one, but there is none in Sk. to fit his size. Hopefully they will see the need to custom make him one, regardless of price. So big praise today for the trach trial and prayers for continued big steps forward. Phil 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

Long Day

With Matt only getting the one sleeping pill, he is awake much earlier and doesn't sleep in the afternoon. So that makes for a long day. But it was also busy. It was tubby time, and I am sure that feels great. Hopefully they let him have a bit of a soak. His trach trials are going awesome, with today being a grand total of 6hours, 20 min. He does get pretty tired, but knows it is for the best. He also went outside today, and motored around in his chair. He can only do it by himself for a short time. His hand movement has improved, but his muscle strength is very weak. They gave him so more exercises to do. Mom had spoken with the doctor, and he said there was still swelling around the spinal cord, which causes compression. That can remain anywhere up to 18 months, so we will continue to see progress as that swelling slowly goes down. So by that standard, Matt is doing great. They have also encouraged him to do exercises himself every 20 mins. Sometimes it is easy to forget, so they put a sign on his board. And when company comes, encourage him to show you what he can do. Matt still feels numbness in his hands and feet, but when you think about it, when you watch TV in a chair for even 2 hours, everything is stiff, sore, and you may have numbness in the butt! So Matt, it will come. You just must continue to work hard and believe. Your cheering squad is always in your corner. Psalms 54:4 "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me."

Breathing Keeps Improving

Matt's trach trial lasted 5 3/4 hours today. They were hoping for 6, but when they reached 5 1/2 hours, Matt wanted to come off. However, they kept encouraging him to push a little harder, and Mom was right there cheering him on. He had been awake at 8:30 am, and hadn't slept since, so he was tired. But they got an extra 15 mins from him. Way to go Matt! That extra 15 mins is hard earned. They did suction Matt for lots of thick mucous, but it was still okay. O2 levels are still great. Thanks again for continued company. It really encourages Matt and keeps him focused on family and friends, and that they are an important process in the healing. Eating well, and weight was again up to 174lbs, had taken a bit of a dip before. Watched Nolan play some video games. Watch it Nolan, Matt is memorizing what you are doing and will soon kick your butt! Last night they gave Matt's sleeping pills earlier than usual, and want to see if that helps him so he is not so groggy in the morning. Maybe then he would be able to eat breakfast, which he doesn't feel up to doing right now. All in all a good day. I encourage everyone who believes to pray when they read this blog for Matt's continued success in his trach trials and movements. James 5:15 "And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up." Matt this is a verse for you, Mark 11: 24 "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."

5 hours

Matt did a trach trial for 5 HOURS today. Even with the infection he is still barrelling ahead. He also sat up in his chair for 5 hours as well. Let's pray that his new chair will come sooner than later, as his current chair is very uncomfortable. It was workout time today, as Matt went downstairs to the gym, where they put him on the machine that moves his arms. From what I understand, Matt has to do some of it on his own, but the machine helps stabilize his arms. I think Matt's feeling a bit discouraged that the movement, and especially the strength is so slow in coming. But remember Matt, that each nerve ending has to heal. They have been without brain stimulus for a long time and need lots of "reminders" and practice. 3 1/2 months without much movement really eats your muscles. I read an article about people in space, that their muscles waste away very quickly with no exertion from very little gravity. Same thing with Matt. It will come. Jacki and kids left today, but big brother Nolan showed up to cheer Matt on. Brought a few movies along with his brotherly love, and they are all set. A note of praise. By the end of December, the wonderful apartment that mom and dad have been using is needed by the owners. Today, a nurse offered her house for 3 months while they are in New Zealand. So another answer to prayer. Job 26:24-26 "Remember to extol his work, which men have praised in song. All mankind has seen it; men gaze on it from afar. How great is God- beyond our understanding."

Strong Matt

The infection is not keeping Matt down as much this time. He still was able to do a 4 hour trach trial, but did have more trouble at the end. He also ate a little better today with no emesis. Need to build up that body, so has to keep the food in. Mom said he had lots of mucous, but he is so strong with his coughing that he is able to bring it up himself, so very little suctioning today. He was up in his chair, but only for 2 1/2 hours. His neck gets so sore, the chair is not built for him so gets uncomfortable. What chair could accommodate those long legs! Just a note that Jacki and the kids are leaving tomorrow, so need some visitors who like to play Yahtzee or dice. Maybe even a game of trivia pursuit, but let me warn you, he has all the answers memorized. He said he doesn't but that is the only way he could beat me! A real inspirational discussion was had by mom and a physician who doesn't know Matt, but had read through his files from RUH. He wanted mom to know that Matt has far exceeded anything they thought he would do. Everyone is amazed by Matt's continued recovery. Thank goodness we relied on faith of the power from above and not faith in man. Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Prayers for Matt's continued recovery and the ventilator off before Christmas.