I am sure that I am not the only one to say "I ate too much!" for the weekend. We always make food like half the population of a small country is coming and then complain about the leftovers!
Sunday we tried to get Matt to come to church with us but he feels so uncomfortable in big crowds and our church holds over one thousand. So Grandma had to stay with Matt while the rest off us got to celebrate the resurrection at church. The kids love to go to Sunday school and learn about the Lord.
Mom picked up Matt on Thursday night because the therapists had Good Friday off and so did mom, so one extra day at home. Jacki, Gary and the kids came and Amy was back to her usual self, eating whatever she could get her hands on and even things she couldn't! (she is a great climber and doesn't take no for an answer!) The weather was gorgeous, between +16-+18 degrees all weekend. The snow is almost gone and Matt can go all over the yard. The new deck is great, as we did Easter crafts on Saturday and Matt could watch the kids and wait for hotdogs from the barbecue.
Mom can pretty much transfer Matt by herself using the transfer board and we haven't used the lift in months. His abs were hurting this weekend from the major workout his therapists give him during the week. Mom made him put on his long sleeve shirt by himself and this weekend he has to make the girls Kraft dinner by himself, to see how he does. The more he does for himself, the more independent he will become.
We are trying to make him use his left hand as much as possible. Before he gets up in the morning/afternoon!, Matt must lift his left arm with his right arm by "holding hands' with his fingers interlocked. Then he must try to put himself into a sitting position by pushing up with his right arm and hand, still needs lots more muscle strength for this one. When Matt brushes his teeth, mom got him to hold the toothbrush with his left hand, making his hand into a fist. Matt has trouble with this as he doesn't have the strength to hold the brush as it is too small, but it is making his brain remember the movements. After that he can squeeze the toothpaste on the toothbrush.
Hope to see a few family members and friends on May long weekend. We are taking Esmeralda to Weekes with Grandma, myself, the two nannies, and Jonmarie and Shaunie. I am forgetting someone... oh wait, Matthew too! And a partridge in a pear tree!
We actually could fit an extra person in but we want leg room! We are planning to go on Friday and return on Tuesday. We are unsure whether rehab will keep Matt one more month but we are planning the trip like he will be discharged.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
One More Month
The meeting last week was very successful and Matt will stay in rehab for one more month for sure. He has been feeling blue lately and tired. I asked if he just wanted to stop rehab, that maybe it was getting too tiresome and his response was "So I can sit at home and feel sorry for myself and do nothing for the rest of my life?" I guess that was my answer. I think he just gets tired from the physical and mental strain everyday and needs the weekend to relax. However this past weekend was not very relaxing because Jacki and the kids came to visit and Amy starting getting sick late Saturday night and ended up with rotovirus. Watery, awful smelling diarrhea and vomiting constantly. The washmachine worked non stop trying to keep up so Matt couldn't come upstairs to visit and we would only go down to see him if we disinfected ourselves. But Jonmarie and Uncle played Wii and Matt watched hockey, which he loves. Jacki phoned and Amy is still not eating and can only keep small amounts of fluid in so I think a trip tomorrow to her family physician may be in order. Little ones can dehydrate so fast.
Rehab continues in the same direction with Matt's goal of putting on a shirt without assistance has been accomplished. The new stand ARGO machine that we got through funding from Telemiracle is great! Took it to the rehab department last week and now the therapist can stand him by herself. Will work so well at home for toileting and standing when we only have one person for help. It builds bone/muscle strength and helps his posture, relieve his bottom and prevent pressure sores, help to stabilize blood pressure, etc. However Matt has been having some trouble with his blood pressure. The doctor (not John!) decided to take Matt off his remaining blood pressure pill, which was given to help elevate his low blood pressure and it will take awhile for his body to get used to it. When he stands, it drops to 70/40 and makes him feel dizzy and nauseated. But we are hoping by this week his body will adjust and he will feel better.
It didn't dampen his appetite on wing night at Tony Roma's. He had over 20 wings and they were huge! Always such a great time and the staff make him feel so special, coming over and chatting and remembering what drink he likes.
Thank goodness the weather is improving and we are grateful for the wind to dry things up. You know winter is finally leaving when they don't add a wind chill warning when they talk about it being windy.
Rehab continues in the same direction with Matt's goal of putting on a shirt without assistance has been accomplished. The new stand ARGO machine that we got through funding from Telemiracle is great! Took it to the rehab department last week and now the therapist can stand him by herself. Will work so well at home for toileting and standing when we only have one person for help. It builds bone/muscle strength and helps his posture, relieve his bottom and prevent pressure sores, help to stabilize blood pressure, etc. However Matt has been having some trouble with his blood pressure. The doctor (not John!) decided to take Matt off his remaining blood pressure pill, which was given to help elevate his low blood pressure and it will take awhile for his body to get used to it. When he stands, it drops to 70/40 and makes him feel dizzy and nauseated. But we are hoping by this week his body will adjust and he will feel better.
It didn't dampen his appetite on wing night at Tony Roma's. He had over 20 wings and they were huge! Always such a great time and the staff make him feel so special, coming over and chatting and remembering what drink he likes.
Thank goodness the weather is improving and we are grateful for the wind to dry things up. You know winter is finally leaving when they don't add a wind chill warning when they talk about it being windy.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Warming Up
Thank goodness the weather is improving. We still have quite a bit of snow in the yard but can now see some patches of road. I had taken Jonmarie to West Edmonton Mall On Friday and they have much less snow then we do. I wanted Matt to come with but he isn't quite ready yet. He likes to stay at places that are familiar to him, has always been like that. Would prefer to stay close to home and be with family.
Last week Matt went bowling with the recreational therapist and a few other patients. Cecilia took a great video from her phone but I couldn't beam it onto my phone. This bowling alley is great, really equipped for people with disabilities. On the one side of the bowling alley is regular bowling. On the other they have bumpers to prevent the ball from going in the gutter. Then they have stands that are shaped like a slide and Matt could just put his ball on the top of the stand, push it a little bit and the ball would go down the "slide" and eventually make it to the end where the pins are. Next they had Matt try and throw the ball using his right hand, and the therapist would just steady the elbow. He was able to do that a few times and almost beat one of the other patients. With Matt, it is all about the competition!
On the weekend Matt had company and was great to see Travis and Amy. Mom and I went to a baby shower so Airene and Cecilia came for the afternoon. They tried to get Matt to do some exercises but he is so exhausted from the week he didn't work as hard as he usually does. Think he just needs a break. Was very quiet and just said sometimes he gets mentally tired of thinking and trying so hard all the time. But Matt always pulls himself back and gives his all come Monday. Prayers that God continues to give Matt the strength to persevere. Today he was really exhausted. Margaret had him doing abdominal work and even I hate that! He said it was so tiring and didn't want to do anything until tomorrow.
Left hand and arm are noticeable getting better as long as he is feeling well. He is able to close it into a tighter fist than before and when laying on his right side with his left propped on a pillow, can move it off the pillow onto his hip (if not too much of a difference in height). Matt also practices lifting his left hand with his right hand and put it over his head. Good for strengthening his right and reminds his left what it should be doing.
Tomorrow is Matt's month end family conference so prayers that they will continue to keep Matt as long as possible.
Last week Matt went bowling with the recreational therapist and a few other patients. Cecilia took a great video from her phone but I couldn't beam it onto my phone. This bowling alley is great, really equipped for people with disabilities. On the one side of the bowling alley is regular bowling. On the other they have bumpers to prevent the ball from going in the gutter. Then they have stands that are shaped like a slide and Matt could just put his ball on the top of the stand, push it a little bit and the ball would go down the "slide" and eventually make it to the end where the pins are. Next they had Matt try and throw the ball using his right hand, and the therapist would just steady the elbow. He was able to do that a few times and almost beat one of the other patients. With Matt, it is all about the competition!
On the weekend Matt had company and was great to see Travis and Amy. Mom and I went to a baby shower so Airene and Cecilia came for the afternoon. They tried to get Matt to do some exercises but he is so exhausted from the week he didn't work as hard as he usually does. Think he just needs a break. Was very quiet and just said sometimes he gets mentally tired of thinking and trying so hard all the time. But Matt always pulls himself back and gives his all come Monday. Prayers that God continues to give Matt the strength to persevere. Today he was really exhausted. Margaret had him doing abdominal work and even I hate that! He said it was so tiring and didn't want to do anything until tomorrow.
Left hand and arm are noticeable getting better as long as he is feeling well. He is able to close it into a tighter fist than before and when laying on his right side with his left propped on a pillow, can move it off the pillow onto his hip (if not too much of a difference in height). Matt also practices lifting his left hand with his right hand and put it over his head. Good for strengthening his right and reminds his left what it should be doing.
Tomorrow is Matt's month end family conference so prayers that they will continue to keep Matt as long as possible.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
The Saga Continues
Matt continues in rehab and we are hoping to keep him there as long as possible. He likes the staff and therapists, but still loves to come home on the weekends. This weekend the weather was great on Friday and he was able to sit out on the deck while John cooked on the barbeque. However the weather turned into that March lion and dumped over 15 cm of snow. Wet, cold, miserable. On Sunday our wonderful neighbors came and cleaned our driveway so we could get Matt back to rehab. By the time we returned a lot of the snow was blown back in and Matt's van barely made it through. No four wheel drive which makes it tough.
Matt was disappointed today because he couldn't stand without his brace. He wanted to try and the therapist said that he could but it might be difficult. He still stood three times. Matt is now trying to go from a standing position and then a slight sitting position and back up again. I will try to explain. When Matt goes to a standing position, they move the bed to the highest position so when he goes into a standing position, he doesn't have far to go. After he stands for a bit with the leg brace on the left leg in position, he tries to bend his right knee like he was about to sit down. because he cannot stand without his brace, it must stay locked in place and only the right knee is bending. Then Matt must push up back into a standing position. He is able to do it three or four times, each time he is standing so it adds up to 10 times. Mom says his right leg just shakes it takes so much effort with such a little bit of muscle to work with. The therapists are still amazed at his progress.
Yesterday they were working on his left arm, practicing supination and pronation. basically when his arm is resting on the table, Matt must try and turn his arm so his palm faces upwards and then back so his palm faces to the table. He does it better when he turns so his palm faces up. They are working on it to give Matt more mobility to help dress himself. He can now put his own shirt on by using his right arm and teeth. They got him doing his own buttons with the neatest little tool.
We are so grateful for all the prayers and thoughts regarding Shaunie. She is back to her normal self and the MRI did not show anything, however it wasn't the best diagnostic tool as Shaunie was unable to hold still enough in the machine. I had prayed that she would do well but just before she went into the room, I decided to give the Ativan the Dr. had prescribed to semi-sedate her. Thank goodness it did not take effect until after the MRI because it had the exact oppisite effect. We had to watch her like a hawk because she was like a drunk 4 year old, running into walls, jumping on the bed and off like it was still beneath her feet, screaming and agitated for 12 hours. Not a good day. Trust in the Lord and do not doubt, that is what I learned!
Matt was disappointed today because he couldn't stand without his brace. He wanted to try and the therapist said that he could but it might be difficult. He still stood three times. Matt is now trying to go from a standing position and then a slight sitting position and back up again. I will try to explain. When Matt goes to a standing position, they move the bed to the highest position so when he goes into a standing position, he doesn't have far to go. After he stands for a bit with the leg brace on the left leg in position, he tries to bend his right knee like he was about to sit down. because he cannot stand without his brace, it must stay locked in place and only the right knee is bending. Then Matt must push up back into a standing position. He is able to do it three or four times, each time he is standing so it adds up to 10 times. Mom says his right leg just shakes it takes so much effort with such a little bit of muscle to work with. The therapists are still amazed at his progress.
Yesterday they were working on his left arm, practicing supination and pronation. basically when his arm is resting on the table, Matt must try and turn his arm so his palm faces upwards and then back so his palm faces to the table. He does it better when he turns so his palm faces up. They are working on it to give Matt more mobility to help dress himself. He can now put his own shirt on by using his right arm and teeth. They got him doing his own buttons with the neatest little tool.
We are so grateful for all the prayers and thoughts regarding Shaunie. She is back to her normal self and the MRI did not show anything, however it wasn't the best diagnostic tool as Shaunie was unable to hold still enough in the machine. I had prayed that she would do well but just before she went into the room, I decided to give the Ativan the Dr. had prescribed to semi-sedate her. Thank goodness it did not take effect until after the MRI because it had the exact oppisite effect. We had to watch her like a hawk because she was like a drunk 4 year old, running into walls, jumping on the bed and off like it was still beneath her feet, screaming and agitated for 12 hours. Not a good day. Trust in the Lord and do not doubt, that is what I learned!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Left Hand Trying to Work
Last week Matt continued to be busy and pushing hard in rehab. He is standing everyday and they continue to be amazed at Matt's progress. Took him to Tony Roma's on Wednesday, was -20 with the windchill but with Esmeralda it isn't bad at all. There is a button you push which heats the vehicle without turning it on so the van is always toasty warm (when I remember to push the button). Friday Matt was supposed to go for a massage but Shaunie had a bad day and ended up in the hospital with another seizure so we postponed it until this week. Matt gets really upset when he sees Shaunie like that but came to ER as soon as we got there. Nice to have family around when it happens. He even came and visited her on the pediatric ward. I think he came for the free TV!
Lindsay, Nolan, Jacki and family, Bobby M came down for Saturday night and the ones without kids stayed up until the wee hours (except Mom but she had to look after Matt). They had a great time playing Wii and watching TV. However everyone seemed to get the flu bug that is going around. Cough, aches, runny nose, etc. Matt felt really bad on Monday am so they let him stay in bed but got him up for his therapy.
Today I was able to watch occupational therapy. She had Matt's left arm on the table on a pillowcase and was asking him to slide his arm toward a glass on the table. His shoulder is much stronger and he could do it quite easily. Then she asked him to open his left hand to grab the glass. The therapist holds his wrist and stimulates his proprioceptive, in other words by holding his wrist and pushing the joint together tells Matt's brain where his hand is in relation to his body. Then she rubs Matt's thumb and fingers on the sides of the cup to stimulate them to move. Matt was able to close his hand around the cup and hold it when she told him to bring his arm back. Then she lifted Matt's' hand up like his was going to take a sip out of the cup and he continued to hold it in his hand. I thought that was pretty impressive and then she took a jar full of beads for weight and told him to do the same thing, however he must try and slide the jar off the table and onto his lap without dropping it. He did. So not only does he have some movement in his fingers, he can grab things lightly to prevent them from falling. She asked him to put the jar back on the table and he was so close and tried so hard, but he could just not lift the bottom of the jar past the bottom of the table. It takes so much concentration and she had to continually tell him to stop trying to help with his right hand.
Keep up the awesome job Matt. We are so proud of you and thank the Lord you have continued to progress.
Lindsay, Nolan, Jacki and family, Bobby M came down for Saturday night and the ones without kids stayed up until the wee hours (except Mom but she had to look after Matt). They had a great time playing Wii and watching TV. However everyone seemed to get the flu bug that is going around. Cough, aches, runny nose, etc. Matt felt really bad on Monday am so they let him stay in bed but got him up for his therapy.
Today I was able to watch occupational therapy. She had Matt's left arm on the table on a pillowcase and was asking him to slide his arm toward a glass on the table. His shoulder is much stronger and he could do it quite easily. Then she asked him to open his left hand to grab the glass. The therapist holds his wrist and stimulates his proprioceptive, in other words by holding his wrist and pushing the joint together tells Matt's brain where his hand is in relation to his body. Then she rubs Matt's thumb and fingers on the sides of the cup to stimulate them to move. Matt was able to close his hand around the cup and hold it when she told him to bring his arm back. Then she lifted Matt's' hand up like his was going to take a sip out of the cup and he continued to hold it in his hand. I thought that was pretty impressive and then she took a jar full of beads for weight and told him to do the same thing, however he must try and slide the jar off the table and onto his lap without dropping it. He did. So not only does he have some movement in his fingers, he can grab things lightly to prevent them from falling. She asked him to put the jar back on the table and he was so close and tried so hard, but he could just not lift the bottom of the jar past the bottom of the table. It takes so much concentration and she had to continually tell him to stop trying to help with his right hand.
Keep up the awesome job Matt. We are so proud of you and thank the Lord you have continued to progress.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Back to the Grind
The weekend was uneventful because Matt stayed in the hospital. It was too cold to do much of anything. We had a blizzard on Saturday and the weather really turned cold. Mom went to the Brier with Jacki. She took Jonmarie with her to spend some time with Amy and Bobby. Shaunie stayed with us in Red Deer. Thought it would be too much for Uncle Gary to handle! I was able to go on Sunday and visit Matt for the afternoon. John still is able to pop in everyday for a few minutes.
Today it is -36 with the windchill. So not too much happening in the way of travel. However Matt's therapy is continuing strong after recovering nicely from surgery. He finds that his bladder is working much better and doesn't stress him out as much as it did. Yesterday Matt stood 3 times. The first time was very rough and he didn't last long. They have discontinued the one med to keep his blood pressure from dropping so his body can start adjusting itself. SO we were worried it would set back his rehab however the 2nd time he stood up was fine. The 3rd time Matt tried to pick up his right leg but the most he could do was lift his heel off the floor and bend his knee. I thought that was great but he was disappointed. Take it slow bud. It took over 21 months to get here, it will take just as long to get it all back. .
Mom visited with Matt last evening and he told us to stop worrying about him being alone, he has lots to do. A staff from John's office borrowed Matt 8 movies to watch and is looking forward to watching all 8. Thanks Stacey
Hoping to have some company over this weekend. Friends from home called Nolan and may come and visit. That would be great, we have a big house and lots of room.
More updates to come.
Today it is -36 with the windchill. So not too much happening in the way of travel. However Matt's therapy is continuing strong after recovering nicely from surgery. He finds that his bladder is working much better and doesn't stress him out as much as it did. Yesterday Matt stood 3 times. The first time was very rough and he didn't last long. They have discontinued the one med to keep his blood pressure from dropping so his body can start adjusting itself. SO we were worried it would set back his rehab however the 2nd time he stood up was fine. The 3rd time Matt tried to pick up his right leg but the most he could do was lift his heel off the floor and bend his knee. I thought that was great but he was disappointed. Take it slow bud. It took over 21 months to get here, it will take just as long to get it all back. .
Mom visited with Matt last evening and he told us to stop worrying about him being alone, he has lots to do. A staff from John's office borrowed Matt 8 movies to watch and is looking forward to watching all 8. Thanks Stacey
Hoping to have some company over this weekend. Friends from home called Nolan and may come and visit. That would be great, we have a big house and lots of room.
More updates to come.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Surgery a success
Matt did have his surgery for bladder stone removal yesterday at 1100. The stones were so huge that they needed to break them up before pulling them out. Thank goodness they decided to to a spinal as opposed to being put right to sleep. The anesthesiologist was concerned with Matt's previous pneumonia's and compromised breathing. I visited him yesterday and he was still groggy, couldn't move his legs but was starting to get some feeling in them. He will need a indwelling catheter and an IV for the next few days, which will put a damper on his therapy and he won't be able to come home this weekend. Which might be for the best because Mom will be in Calgary for the Brier. Jacki and Gary got her some tickets for the Sunday game and she will go up Saturday.
Thanks for all the prayers and thoughts. Will keep you posted!
Thanks for all the prayers and thoughts. Will keep you posted!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Happy Belated Matt
Thanks so much for all the comments. It is great to see how many cheerleaders on still cheering, even after all this time.
Matt spent his birthday in Calgary at Jacki's. Gary had a few friends over and I hear they had a great time playing risk, the golf card game, UNO. Matt was a bit disappointed he didn't win any of them, but felt better when he had cake on Sunday for Amy's early birthday party. Jacki put Matt's name on Amy's Dora and Diego cake. I think Matt's name was under the Dora doll but I may be mistaken!
God has truly blessed us. Thinking back to the beginning and all the difficulties Matt faced, the uncertainties, we are so much farther ahead then was ever thought possible. Matt continues to do well in therapy, but fatigues very easy. We had a family conference on Monday am to discuss Matt's therapy, tentative discharge date, meds, etc. The therapist feel that Matt's goals of going back for a few classes in school, standing without support, transferring by himself, are all attainable, but more time is needed. So they have moved his discharge date back to the end of March. I was surprised to hear that Red Deer has seen very few spinal cord injuries, most are transferred to Glenrose or Calgary. I told them what a fantastic job they are doing. We realize it makes such a difference from last year. Matt was sick most of the time, still had his trach in, his blood pressure would drop at a moment's notice. We thank God that Matt can go further with his rehab without all the other things hanging over his head.
We also discussed the possibility of Matt being seen in Glenrose Hospital in Edmonton after discharge. They will look into it. Glenrose has a spinal cord research center and have all the up to date technology.
Please remember Matt in your prayers for Wednesday. He is booked for surgery to remove stones from his bladder and he is quite nervous to be intubated again, since he has to be put under anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will come and talk to Matt again, to see if there is a possibility of getting a spinal instead. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and He will make your paths straight". Proverbs.
Matt spent his birthday in Calgary at Jacki's. Gary had a few friends over and I hear they had a great time playing risk, the golf card game, UNO. Matt was a bit disappointed he didn't win any of them, but felt better when he had cake on Sunday for Amy's early birthday party. Jacki put Matt's name on Amy's Dora and Diego cake. I think Matt's name was under the Dora doll but I may be mistaken!
God has truly blessed us. Thinking back to the beginning and all the difficulties Matt faced, the uncertainties, we are so much farther ahead then was ever thought possible. Matt continues to do well in therapy, but fatigues very easy. We had a family conference on Monday am to discuss Matt's therapy, tentative discharge date, meds, etc. The therapist feel that Matt's goals of going back for a few classes in school, standing without support, transferring by himself, are all attainable, but more time is needed. So they have moved his discharge date back to the end of March. I was surprised to hear that Red Deer has seen very few spinal cord injuries, most are transferred to Glenrose or Calgary. I told them what a fantastic job they are doing. We realize it makes such a difference from last year. Matt was sick most of the time, still had his trach in, his blood pressure would drop at a moment's notice. We thank God that Matt can go further with his rehab without all the other things hanging over his head.
We also discussed the possibility of Matt being seen in Glenrose Hospital in Edmonton after discharge. They will look into it. Glenrose has a spinal cord research center and have all the up to date technology.
Please remember Matt in your prayers for Wednesday. He is booked for surgery to remove stones from his bladder and he is quite nervous to be intubated again, since he has to be put under anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will come and talk to Matt again, to see if there is a possibility of getting a spinal instead. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and He will make your paths straight". Proverbs.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Standing Man
Matt had a busy yesterday. I was thankful I wasn't working so was able to spend most of the day with Matt. Last week he met with the rehab physician and she arranged for an ultrasound on his kidneys and bladder, to see where the stones are and if they could be causing all the bladder spasms. I was going to spend some time with him watching the Scotties on TV but he was off to occupational therapy for writing exercises.
But the most exciting was physiotherapy in the afternoon. I had brought Matt's left leg brace on the chance they would try and stand Matt. The OT Matt had been seeing in outpatients was there so I knew they were going to try (she doesn't normally work with the inpatients, but she had been waiting for this moment). First they started with what looked like a foot massage, but what they were doing is stimulating the brain to remember how big Matt's foot is. Sounds weird but many pt's with strokes or spinal cord injuries, the brain tells the body that the foot is very small and they believe that is the reason many pt's walk on tiptoes or the side of their feet, loss of balance quickly etc. After they put his shoes and brace on, they placed a table with a box besides his right arm and had him place his hand on it for stability. My job was to take pictures so they could see Matt's alignment, Cecilia would lock his brace in place when he was standing, Sonja stood behind him on the mat and Margaret would make sure his knees didn't buckle. They put the mat/bed in the highest position, then got him to stand. The first time he stood for 3 minutes and they were just testing how he would do. He was able to support his own weight with his right leg and arm. Matt felt fine, no drop in blood pressure and only sat down after muscle fatigue. After a short rest where the therapists consulted over the pictures, they got him standing again, this time for about 5 mins. He noticed his left arm became numb from hanging down so Cecilia held it up for him. They also made him reach for the ceiling with his right hand, which is difficult because of lack of muscle tone but he didn't lose balance, which is what they were looking for (he actually did touch the ceiling he is so tall). We were all very excited and felt there should have been balloons coming from the ceiling or something!
Margaret was very optimistic, but told us that Matt may never walk without the brace or some walking aides and still have a long way to go. But she didn't expect Matt to do as well as he has done so quickly.
Must go, have to go back to work. Just had to write the good news!
But the most exciting was physiotherapy in the afternoon. I had brought Matt's left leg brace on the chance they would try and stand Matt. The OT Matt had been seeing in outpatients was there so I knew they were going to try (she doesn't normally work with the inpatients, but she had been waiting for this moment). First they started with what looked like a foot massage, but what they were doing is stimulating the brain to remember how big Matt's foot is. Sounds weird but many pt's with strokes or spinal cord injuries, the brain tells the body that the foot is very small and they believe that is the reason many pt's walk on tiptoes or the side of their feet, loss of balance quickly etc. After they put his shoes and brace on, they placed a table with a box besides his right arm and had him place his hand on it for stability. My job was to take pictures so they could see Matt's alignment, Cecilia would lock his brace in place when he was standing, Sonja stood behind him on the mat and Margaret would make sure his knees didn't buckle. They put the mat/bed in the highest position, then got him to stand. The first time he stood for 3 minutes and they were just testing how he would do. He was able to support his own weight with his right leg and arm. Matt felt fine, no drop in blood pressure and only sat down after muscle fatigue. After a short rest where the therapists consulted over the pictures, they got him standing again, this time for about 5 mins. He noticed his left arm became numb from hanging down so Cecilia held it up for him. They also made him reach for the ceiling with his right hand, which is difficult because of lack of muscle tone but he didn't lose balance, which is what they were looking for (he actually did touch the ceiling he is so tall). We were all very excited and felt there should have been balloons coming from the ceiling or something!
Margaret was very optimistic, but told us that Matt may never walk without the brace or some walking aides and still have a long way to go. But she didn't expect Matt to do as well as he has done so quickly.
Must go, have to go back to work. Just had to write the good news!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Weekend at Home
Matt was glad to be home for a few days. He is such a trooper but his eyes always give him away. He doesn't enjoy going to the hospital but he knows it is for the best. We picked him up Friday late afternoon and took him back last evening. While at home he played some Wii, since he can't set his game up at the hospital. There is a room that he can go to but he must book a time for it. Matt enjoys Friday night movie night with the girls with often one or both girls are on his lap. Saturday we took Matt for a massage, sine we couldn't get him an appointment for last Wednesday. He really enjoys it and finds it so relaxing.
I think what Matt enjoys the most is he sleeps better when at home. During the week he doesn't get much sleep with all the different sounds and new bed. But he adapts so well to any situation, much better than I would be!
I forgot to mention on Friday I was there to see physio again. Margaret is really working his core muscles and what she made him do was sit up without help, which he finds he can do quite easily if it is a hard surface. Then she makes him lean to the right while holding himself up with his right hand and arm. Next she makes him lean back at the same time, than pulling himself into the upright position again. He tried it on the left but because his arm doesn't work very well, he must just use his oblique muscles, which is hard for anyone. Margaret is hoping to see him standing this week just to see how he does, so want to be there for that. More good news to come, I am sure.
I think what Matt enjoys the most is he sleeps better when at home. During the week he doesn't get much sleep with all the different sounds and new bed. But he adapts so well to any situation, much better than I would be!
I forgot to mention on Friday I was there to see physio again. Margaret is really working his core muscles and what she made him do was sit up without help, which he finds he can do quite easily if it is a hard surface. Then she makes him lean to the right while holding himself up with his right hand and arm. Next she makes him lean back at the same time, than pulling himself into the upright position again. He tried it on the left but because his arm doesn't work very well, he must just use his oblique muscles, which is hard for anyone. Margaret is hoping to see him standing this week just to see how he does, so want to be there for that. More good news to come, I am sure.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Work, work, work!
What familiar words from my childhood, arriving home from school to the sound of mom greeting us at the door "now it is time to work, work, work!" Well Matt, your time has come. Tuesday it already started with physio. Margaret, his therapist is great, really testing the waters and discovering what Matt can do. I watched her today and she is constantly watching Matt and then asking whether he can do a particular exercise or movement. However she is not satisfied with a negative response until he can prove that he truly cannot do something or Matt just thinks he can't. Yesterday, she asked if Matt can transfer from the chair to the bed by himself. He responded that he couldn't but she told him to try anyway. Cecilia was there to help but all she did was steady him with light touch and the Margaret talked him through it . Matt said it was the hardest thing he has ever had to do but he did it! He was very proud of himself and so were we. We took him to Tony Roma's that night for celebration wings and Matt can usually finish at least 20 but he was so tired his eyes looked like two holes in the snow. She has given some exercises to do, so he is constantly working on thins. For instance, Matt needs to be able to put his heels to the floor, so when he walks again, he won't walk on tiptoes. It will be a challenge though. Every time he tries to tell his brain to put his heel down while sitting in his chair, his leg spasms and he then must tell his brain to stop the clonus(spasm). So there is so much to think about with such a simple action but the more he does it, the more natural it will be.
What the staff are so impressed with is Matthew's attitude and already they love him. He has made friends with many of the patients, all who are much older than he is (by about 40 years). It is so nice to go a visit him and the staff have already warmed up to him.
Matt hasn't been sleeping well though so has been tired. He is also battling a cold and his O2 sats were only at 90%, but increased to 94% as the day progressed. Even though, he still gives his all and I think it makes a huge difference that we are so close and visit so often. Today Matt had an MRI on his brain, neck and left shoulder. The therapist really wants to see what is happening so she knows how to proceed. If Matt has a tear in his shoulder, than they will have to do things differently, such as focusing more on his core muscles and leave the left alone until it is healed, with or without surgery. We won't know until the results come back.
It is so great to write the blog again and have such positive news. God hasn't forgotten about us, He knows what Matt needs more than we do and was just waiting until Matt's body was ready.
What the staff are so impressed with is Matthew's attitude and already they love him. He has made friends with many of the patients, all who are much older than he is (by about 40 years). It is so nice to go a visit him and the staff have already warmed up to him.
Matt hasn't been sleeping well though so has been tired. He is also battling a cold and his O2 sats were only at 90%, but increased to 94% as the day progressed. Even though, he still gives his all and I think it makes a huge difference that we are so close and visit so often. Today Matt had an MRI on his brain, neck and left shoulder. The therapist really wants to see what is happening so she knows how to proceed. If Matt has a tear in his shoulder, than they will have to do things differently, such as focusing more on his core muscles and leave the left alone until it is healed, with or without surgery. We won't know until the results come back.
It is so great to write the blog again and have such positive news. God hasn't forgotten about us, He knows what Matt needs more than we do and was just waiting until Matt's body was ready.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Hello everyone. Would love to tell you how Matt is doing but John and I are in Victoria for the weekend and Grandma is babysitting for the weekend. Jacki, Gary and the kids came up to help her out and I know Gary and Matt went into town on Saturday for shopping. I think Gary just wants to drive the new van!
On Friday Matt was official admitted to the rehab unit. However he was just there for the day and then was "discharged" for a weekend pass. They want him to come back Monday evening to be ready for "work" on Tuesday (family day in Alberta for Monday). It sounds like they will be quite strict with Matt and are really going to focus on him being more independent. So instead of us doing a lot of things for Matt, such as getting his money out of his wallet to pay for things, he will have to learn to do it himself. On Friday the physio worked with him for a bit and they are going to continue to build up his core muscles so when he stands again he will be ready. He can have visitors most times except when he has rehab. So it will be tough on him for awhile to adjust but he knows that it is for his best long term goals.
We were unable to take Matt for his weekly massage but will plan again for next week. Still going to go out for his Wednesday wings and massage.
Thanks for any comments you can add, love to hear from everybody.
On Friday Matt was official admitted to the rehab unit. However he was just there for the day and then was "discharged" for a weekend pass. They want him to come back Monday evening to be ready for "work" on Tuesday (family day in Alberta for Monday). It sounds like they will be quite strict with Matt and are really going to focus on him being more independent. So instead of us doing a lot of things for Matt, such as getting his money out of his wallet to pay for things, he will have to learn to do it himself. On Friday the physio worked with him for a bit and they are going to continue to build up his core muscles so when he stands again he will be ready. He can have visitors most times except when he has rehab. So it will be tough on him for awhile to adjust but he knows that it is for his best long term goals.
We were unable to take Matt for his weekly massage but will plan again for next week. Still going to go out for his Wednesday wings and massage.
Thanks for any comments you can add, love to hear from everybody.
Monday, February 9, 2009
New Van!!
Jacki, Gary and the kids arrived Sunday morning at 10 am with the new van and Matthew was still in bed. He was up and out to the van at 1030. It was so exciting. It is massive!! We are thinking to use it a charter for the times when Matthew isn't using it. To use the lift has one controller and no manual labour is needed to raise and lower it. We have nicknamed the new van Esmeralda because the old van is Quasimodo from "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". So for Matt's first official drive we all piled in, John driving, myself in the passenger seat, and the kids, Grandma, Jacki, Gary and Matt. Believe it or not we had room for one more passenger!! Too bad, Grandpa, you missed out! We then proceeded to drive to MacDonald's for lunch. However we couldn't go through the drive thru so we all went in to order. Now I know what Ma and Pa Kettle felt like!
We drove down some of the roads we had driven with Quasimodo and couldn't believe the difference, it was so comfortable. And it has heat! Lots and lots of heat. Because it is a diesel engine it was actually too warm and we had to keep turning it down. I must say we were glad for the tinted windows otherwise we would have made quite a sight.
And we already have used it for transporting furniture and equipment. The Serengeti spa had a booth at the bridal show this weekend and Gary and Matt showed up to transport the stuff back to the spa. We fit it all in and Matt (when we had taken the stuff to the bridal show, we used 3 vehicles!). I can definelty see us making more trips with Matt, rain, shine or freezing cold. Thanks for all the prayers and if you ever in Red Deer and need some transportation for large numbers, give us a call!
We drove down some of the roads we had driven with Quasimodo and couldn't believe the difference, it was so comfortable. And it has heat! Lots and lots of heat. Because it is a diesel engine it was actually too warm and we had to keep turning it down. I must say we were glad for the tinted windows otherwise we would have made quite a sight.
And we already have used it for transporting furniture and equipment. The Serengeti spa had a booth at the bridal show this weekend and Gary and Matt showed up to transport the stuff back to the spa. We fit it all in and Matt (when we had taken the stuff to the bridal show, we used 3 vehicles!). I can definelty see us making more trips with Matt, rain, shine or freezing cold. Thanks for all the prayers and if you ever in Red Deer and need some transportation for large numbers, give us a call!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Midweek Update
Since Matthew arrived in Red Deer in October, we have been in communication with the hospital regarding having him admitted into the rehab program for more intensive physio/occupational therapy. He has been rejected before and now with the positive outcomes from the outpatient occupational therapist, they have reconsidered and Matthew will become an inpatient next week. We are very excited to have this opportunity, as the facility is geared for learning about activities of daily living and how to become more independent. Matthew of course has some trepidations about entering the hospital again, as he has settled into a routine at home. However his goal is to walk again and in order for that to happen, he needs more intense rehab.
We as a family have very high hopes for a positive outcome, as he is much stronger now and no longer suffers with frequent illnesses. We will continue to have Cecilia come to the rehab unit everyday week day to help Matthew during the times he does not have rehab and also help the staff during his rehab. She and Airene have been key in his improved strength and health. I will continue to take Matt for his weekly wing and massage night and also bring him home every weekend when there is no therapy sessions.
The new van has now been modified and the new lift is great. Gary says if Bobby (Matt's nephew who is 3) can operate it, then surely Mom will be able to learn! Gary is taking it in on Friday to get the windows tinted, because now the huge windows make it look like Matt's on display. So by Monday it will be ready and Nolan will bring it down to Red Deer.
So everything is looking brighter everyday. We certainly expect more bumps in the road, but God has certainly answered many prayers and eased our concerns.
Just a note, Matt will be going home in mid March for Alberta's spring break and is looking forward to seeing everyone from home. If you are around during March 23-28, stop in for a visit.
We as a family have very high hopes for a positive outcome, as he is much stronger now and no longer suffers with frequent illnesses. We will continue to have Cecilia come to the rehab unit everyday week day to help Matthew during the times he does not have rehab and also help the staff during his rehab. She and Airene have been key in his improved strength and health. I will continue to take Matt for his weekly wing and massage night and also bring him home every weekend when there is no therapy sessions.
The new van has now been modified and the new lift is great. Gary says if Bobby (Matt's nephew who is 3) can operate it, then surely Mom will be able to learn! Gary is taking it in on Friday to get the windows tinted, because now the huge windows make it look like Matt's on display. So by Monday it will be ready and Nolan will bring it down to Red Deer.
So everything is looking brighter everyday. We certainly expect more bumps in the road, but God has certainly answered many prayers and eased our concerns.
Just a note, Matt will be going home in mid March for Alberta's spring break and is looking forward to seeing everyone from home. If you are around during March 23-28, stop in for a visit.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Busy, busy, busy
Sorry about the late blog, weekends are so busy it is just an extension of the week.
Matt and I again took the nannies to Tony Roma's for wings, it is something we look forward to all week. Gives Grandma a break from Matt (& vice versa) and me a chance to go without the girls. Grandma loves to spend time with the grand kids. We are sure missing dad for snow clearing and transporting Matt to all his therapy sessions and bath. Hopefully he will be returning soon. Of course the big enticement will be the new van. John and I went up Saturday with the payment and Gary will take it to be modified on Tuesday. If all goes well, we may even have the van by this weekend. Can't wait to have heat without leaving it run for 1/2 hours. However the beast has been running great, no problems whatsoever so it will be like giving up an old ornery friend!
Matt's weekly massage has been great and OT has been very impressed with Matt's improvements. Cecilia has been trying to get Matt's left hand to open and close by using the stim machine but the pads are too big. You place the sticky pads on certain muscles which transmits an electrical impulse to get that muscle to move.So the pads we have now cover too much area and needs to be smaller for more precise movement. We will be on the lookout for smaller pads.
As I am writing this at work, I don't have my bible with me so an appropriate memory verse is eluding me so please reply with a verse in the comment section. Have a great week.
Matt and I again took the nannies to Tony Roma's for wings, it is something we look forward to all week. Gives Grandma a break from Matt (& vice versa) and me a chance to go without the girls. Grandma loves to spend time with the grand kids. We are sure missing dad for snow clearing and transporting Matt to all his therapy sessions and bath. Hopefully he will be returning soon. Of course the big enticement will be the new van. John and I went up Saturday with the payment and Gary will take it to be modified on Tuesday. If all goes well, we may even have the van by this weekend. Can't wait to have heat without leaving it run for 1/2 hours. However the beast has been running great, no problems whatsoever so it will be like giving up an old ornery friend!
Matt's weekly massage has been great and OT has been very impressed with Matt's improvements. Cecilia has been trying to get Matt's left hand to open and close by using the stim machine but the pads are too big. You place the sticky pads on certain muscles which transmits an electrical impulse to get that muscle to move.So the pads we have now cover too much area and needs to be smaller for more precise movement. We will be on the lookout for smaller pads.
As I am writing this at work, I don't have my bible with me so an appropriate memory verse is eluding me so please reply with a verse in the comment section. Have a great week.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Cold Weather has Returned
Well the brief reprieve from cold weather was just enough to ready us for the next blast from old man winter. Last night it dropped to -28, but thankfully no wind.
Another busy week for Matt. In OT Sonja, his therapist had a helper from physiotherapy with her and the two of them really worked Matt's abs. They notice after a weekend of doing very little therapy that Matt is not quite as strong but by Thursday he is gaining again. For a quad, he must work at least 3 hours a day to keep what he has and any extra hours are for improvement. Tough job day in and day out. On Thursday the girls called me down to see what Matt was up to. He was in the middle of his leg exercises by using the bike. Usually he needs Cecilia or Airene to hold his feet and push on his feet to get him started and to maintain movement. On this particular day Matt was doing it on his own. The spasms were hard to work through and his movements were very jerky, but he managed to do it for more about 20 cycles. Still rooting for you Matt!!
Wednesday Cecelia, Airene, Matt and I went for wing night at Tony Roma's. $3.50 for 10 wings and they were great. Matt was in his glory. He couldn't eat as much as he wanted because after supper it was off to the spa for his massage. The massage therapist also did some treatment for "backne", or back acne that worked fairly well. He was on the table for 2 hours and we had a tough time getting him off because he was so relaxed. The four of us must lift him from the bed to the chair which is no easy task for 4 women, but somehow we manage without dropping him on the floor!
Friday dad left to go home again, which is just after the weather turned cold. Wednesday night was -2 and by Thursday am it was blizzard condition with the thermostat rapidly decreasing in temperature. By the afternoon it was -30 with the windchill. So on Friday I again became the chauffeur, taking Matt for his bath. It wasn't bad going to Innisfail but was much colder on the way back and all of us couldn't wait to get in the nice warm house. The van just doesn't produce enough heat. That is why we were very excited to find a used Dodge Sprinter in Calgary and put a down payment on it. It is a 2.7 litre with a Mercedes engine in it. It holds up to ten passengers but will will take the seats out to fit his chair in. The roof is 6 feet in height and we will not have to raise the door because it it also high enough for Matt. We realize that even though we fixed up the old one, it just doesn't suffice for cold weather. So we are going to pick it the new one up sometime this coming week and the find a place that will put a lift in it for Matt. Great West Life will pay for the lift to be put in so that is one less expense that we are grateful we do not have to pay. The Lord constantly provides for our needs and for that we are continously grateful. Psalms 92:4-5 "For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord: I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts!"
Another busy week for Matt. In OT Sonja, his therapist had a helper from physiotherapy with her and the two of them really worked Matt's abs. They notice after a weekend of doing very little therapy that Matt is not quite as strong but by Thursday he is gaining again. For a quad, he must work at least 3 hours a day to keep what he has and any extra hours are for improvement. Tough job day in and day out. On Thursday the girls called me down to see what Matt was up to. He was in the middle of his leg exercises by using the bike. Usually he needs Cecilia or Airene to hold his feet and push on his feet to get him started and to maintain movement. On this particular day Matt was doing it on his own. The spasms were hard to work through and his movements were very jerky, but he managed to do it for more about 20 cycles. Still rooting for you Matt!!
Wednesday Cecelia, Airene, Matt and I went for wing night at Tony Roma's. $3.50 for 10 wings and they were great. Matt was in his glory. He couldn't eat as much as he wanted because after supper it was off to the spa for his massage. The massage therapist also did some treatment for "backne", or back acne that worked fairly well. He was on the table for 2 hours and we had a tough time getting him off because he was so relaxed. The four of us must lift him from the bed to the chair which is no easy task for 4 women, but somehow we manage without dropping him on the floor!
Friday dad left to go home again, which is just after the weather turned cold. Wednesday night was -2 and by Thursday am it was blizzard condition with the thermostat rapidly decreasing in temperature. By the afternoon it was -30 with the windchill. So on Friday I again became the chauffeur, taking Matt for his bath. It wasn't bad going to Innisfail but was much colder on the way back and all of us couldn't wait to get in the nice warm house. The van just doesn't produce enough heat. That is why we were very excited to find a used Dodge Sprinter in Calgary and put a down payment on it. It is a 2.7 litre with a Mercedes engine in it. It holds up to ten passengers but will will take the seats out to fit his chair in. The roof is 6 feet in height and we will not have to raise the door because it it also high enough for Matt. We realize that even though we fixed up the old one, it just doesn't suffice for cold weather. So we are going to pick it the new one up sometime this coming week and the find a place that will put a lift in it for Matt. Great West Life will pay for the lift to be put in so that is one less expense that we are grateful we do not have to pay. The Lord constantly provides for our needs and for that we are continously grateful. Psalms 92:4-5 "For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord: I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts!"
Friday, January 16, 2009
Great Weather
We have really been enjoying the spring like weather we are having. The only problem is the thick slush and Matt can't go through it with his manual chair, we are unable to push him. So he has been using his power chair when outside.
Matt again had OT on Monday and Thursday. She was happy with the slight progress she sees in his left hand. Matt's shoulder has been bothering him so I did LILT treatment to try and help.
Wednesday Matt had his first bath since he has gotten to Alberta. We have been trying to arrange it for months but always had to wait for permission and approval. Not like Porcupine were you can pay a little bit and just have a bath. Lots of hoops to go through but like Matt said it was so worth it. When the homecare nurse asked how long he would like to soak, he replied "forever". They were really good with him and couldn't stop gushing about how attractive he was. Poor Matt, he was blushing like a beet! Because we didn't feel Matt's day was busy enough we took him for a massage at our spa. The girl who did the massage was just great and very helpful, helping Cecilia, Airene and myself to lift him unto the bed. We could have used Gary or Nolan's muscles that's for sure! But she worked from his feet right to his neck and Matt loved it. He smelled like a peppermint tree. We asked him how it was and he replied "ow I know why the call it the stone room". I wasn't sure what he meant until I noticed that each room was labelled by the picture beside it. By the massage rooms door was pictures of stones. Funny Matt. He really did looked stoned. He woke up Thursday am feeling great and very refreshed. He gushed over it so much that Nolan went for one today and was very impressed. Mom said she is next. Not if I beat her to it.
Today was another beautiful day. +10 on the deck and sunny. When we went to the road the wind was cold but that didn't stop them from rigging up Matt's wheelchair to the toboggan and taking turns pulling everyone around. He even pulled Nolan on it and I got it on video.
Thanks everyone for writing comments on the blog. Matt, mom and dad sure miss home and love to get updates all the time. Please keep it up so home doesn't feel so far away.
Matt again had OT on Monday and Thursday. She was happy with the slight progress she sees in his left hand. Matt's shoulder has been bothering him so I did LILT treatment to try and help.
Wednesday Matt had his first bath since he has gotten to Alberta. We have been trying to arrange it for months but always had to wait for permission and approval. Not like Porcupine were you can pay a little bit and just have a bath. Lots of hoops to go through but like Matt said it was so worth it. When the homecare nurse asked how long he would like to soak, he replied "forever". They were really good with him and couldn't stop gushing about how attractive he was. Poor Matt, he was blushing like a beet! Because we didn't feel Matt's day was busy enough we took him for a massage at our spa. The girl who did the massage was just great and very helpful, helping Cecilia, Airene and myself to lift him unto the bed. We could have used Gary or Nolan's muscles that's for sure! But she worked from his feet right to his neck and Matt loved it. He smelled like a peppermint tree. We asked him how it was and he replied "ow I know why the call it the stone room". I wasn't sure what he meant until I noticed that each room was labelled by the picture beside it. By the massage rooms door was pictures of stones. Funny Matt. He really did looked stoned. He woke up Thursday am feeling great and very refreshed. He gushed over it so much that Nolan went for one today and was very impressed. Mom said she is next. Not if I beat her to it.
Today was another beautiful day. +10 on the deck and sunny. When we went to the road the wind was cold but that didn't stop them from rigging up Matt's wheelchair to the toboggan and taking turns pulling everyone around. He even pulled Nolan on it and I got it on video.
Thanks everyone for writing comments on the blog. Matt, mom and dad sure miss home and love to get updates all the time. Please keep it up so home doesn't feel so far away.
Monday, January 12, 2009
No Occupational Therapy
Matt missed out on OT therapy last week due to the fact his therapist was sick. But she was back today and feeling better. However Matt continues to get his regular physio by Cecila and Airene. So he only has days off on the weekend and even then we don't let up on him much. Prior to his therapy, we would lift his feet off the floor and onto his chair rests. Now we make him do it. Sometimes he does well and other times his left foot gets caught on his right and he doesn't have enough strength to "untangle them". Also when Matt is lying in bed he must try to bend his knee for mom and I to get his shoes off and bridge to get his pants off.He is getting stronger everyday.
Jacki and the kids came this weekend and had a great time visiting. The weather was excellent, in the plus for Saturday and Sunday so we had four wet kids coming in from playing. Played a few games of crib and golf with Matt and he always helps Jonmarie with her reading.
Nolan is coming down to visit on Wednesday and to help pick up the electric bed from the Lending cupboard. We are still waiting for one from homecare more made for Matt's size but for now this will help out so much. Matt needs to rely on mom to change his bed positions for comfort and with an electric bed he can do it himself. Wednesday Matt is also going for a bath in Innisfail and then in the evening I will take him for a massage. It will be quite interesting because we need to take the lift and try to turn him on the very narrow massage table so he can lay on his stomach. Prayers that we don't drop him!
Dad is planning to go back to Weekes on Thursday and we will sure miss him for transporting Matt to his various places. But I am so glad the warm weather is going to hold for the week. The beast (van) likes it when it is warm!
Jacki and the kids came this weekend and had a great time visiting. The weather was excellent, in the plus for Saturday and Sunday so we had four wet kids coming in from playing. Played a few games of crib and golf with Matt and he always helps Jonmarie with her reading.
Nolan is coming down to visit on Wednesday and to help pick up the electric bed from the Lending cupboard. We are still waiting for one from homecare more made for Matt's size but for now this will help out so much. Matt needs to rely on mom to change his bed positions for comfort and with an electric bed he can do it himself. Wednesday Matt is also going for a bath in Innisfail and then in the evening I will take him for a massage. It will be quite interesting because we need to take the lift and try to turn him on the very narrow massage table so he can lay on his stomach. Prayers that we don't drop him!
Dad is planning to go back to Weekes on Thursday and we will sure miss him for transporting Matt to his various places. But I am so glad the warm weather is going to hold for the week. The beast (van) likes it when it is warm!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Happy New Year
2009 is here and with it the cold weather continues. Mom, dad and Matt traveled to Calgary on New Year's Eve to go to watch the Oilers play the Flames. Mom stayed at the house to watch Bobby and Amy while Jacki, Gary, Nolan, Matt, Lindsay and dad went. Exciting game but unfortunately our team came up short, it was nice to be able to go. Met some nice people who want Matt to come and play wheelchair hockey in February in Calgary. Matt also played a few games of risk with some of Gary's friends. He won the second night and Gary pouted.
Today the weather improved, not quite the same as in Saskatchewan, lots of chinooks. Today it was -3 and sun was shining. Matt had LILT therapy today, but OT was cancelled as the therapist was sick. Matt's shoulder has been really giving him grief, so they are sending him for an MRI in the begining of Feb to see where the damage is and if there is something they can do. While doing his therapy today, Cecilia noted that when Matt was doing the arm bike therapy, after they had placed Matt's hand on the pedal, Matt was able to squeeze his left hand slightly to hang on to the pedal. Usually they would just tie his hand in place, but he wanted to help hold on so thought about it and was able to make his hand do want he wanted. However if he does it too much he starts to spasm. But anything is very encouraging. Sometimes it is very hard for us all to keep positive, but we are reminded in Luke 12:22-24 that God does not want us to be anxious and troubled with cares about our lives, because we know that we are very valuable to Him and that He will take care of us. Thank you all for your continued prayers for Matt, it is a comfort to him to know that so many friends and family are keeping him in there thoughts and prayers and he can feel there encouragement over the many miles. God bless each and everyone and all the best in the New Year.
Today the weather improved, not quite the same as in Saskatchewan, lots of chinooks. Today it was -3 and sun was shining. Matt had LILT therapy today, but OT was cancelled as the therapist was sick. Matt's shoulder has been really giving him grief, so they are sending him for an MRI in the begining of Feb to see where the damage is and if there is something they can do. While doing his therapy today, Cecilia noted that when Matt was doing the arm bike therapy, after they had placed Matt's hand on the pedal, Matt was able to squeeze his left hand slightly to hang on to the pedal. Usually they would just tie his hand in place, but he wanted to help hold on so thought about it and was able to make his hand do want he wanted. However if he does it too much he starts to spasm. But anything is very encouraging. Sometimes it is very hard for us all to keep positive, but we are reminded in Luke 12:22-24 that God does not want us to be anxious and troubled with cares about our lives, because we know that we are very valuable to Him and that He will take care of us. Thank you all for your continued prayers for Matt, it is a comfort to him to know that so many friends and family are keeping him in there thoughts and prayers and he can feel there encouragement over the many miles. God bless each and everyone and all the best in the New Year.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Christmas Has Come And Gone
I so wanted to write a blog Christmas day but I was so busy stuffing myself and..well..that is about it. We all travelled to Jacki's on the 23rd for the big day. We left later than expected because Matt had OT at 1 pm and by the time we left it as after 4 pm. I followed behind the van and was worried about the icy conditions however we mad it without any major incidents except one. The van started to overheat and we realized the cardboard dad had put in to try and keep the van warm was too effective. Also the temp went from being a freezing -21 at Red Deer to -9 at Carstairs. Crazy weather in Alberta.
We opened the exchange gifts on the 23rd because Nolan and Lindsay travelled to her folks in Vernon on the 24th. Matt was very excited over the gift Mom and Dad gave him. It turns out Nolan was getting a ticket to see the Flames on New Year's, and that is also what Gary gave to Jacki. So now Matt and Mom are going to the game as well. So they will be travelling back to Calgary for the big game.
We tried out Matt's new mattress at Jacki's and it worked great. It is guaranteed to prevent bedsores. Matt and mom were so tired on the night of the 24th that neither one woke up for 6 hours. Mom was in a panic that Matt would have a pressure sore from not moving but the mattress did it's job. It is the first time since the accident that Matt has slept so many hours in a row. Far cry from last Christmas when he was still being suctioned, could hardly move more than his right arm, and was sick 90% of the time. At church on Sunday the minister spoke of a wonderful, not well known verses in Habakkuk 3:18-19. 'I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights." Matt, you have reached heights that a year ago seemed impossible, but as we know, nothing is impossible with God.
Today Matt again back in Red Deer and has OT once again. So the break of Christmas is over and back to exercises and working towards Matt's goal of walking again. So a belated Merry Christmas to all and an early New year's greeting.
We opened the exchange gifts on the 23rd because Nolan and Lindsay travelled to her folks in Vernon on the 24th. Matt was very excited over the gift Mom and Dad gave him. It turns out Nolan was getting a ticket to see the Flames on New Year's, and that is also what Gary gave to Jacki. So now Matt and Mom are going to the game as well. So they will be travelling back to Calgary for the big game.
We tried out Matt's new mattress at Jacki's and it worked great. It is guaranteed to prevent bedsores. Matt and mom were so tired on the night of the 24th that neither one woke up for 6 hours. Mom was in a panic that Matt would have a pressure sore from not moving but the mattress did it's job. It is the first time since the accident that Matt has slept so many hours in a row. Far cry from last Christmas when he was still being suctioned, could hardly move more than his right arm, and was sick 90% of the time. At church on Sunday the minister spoke of a wonderful, not well known verses in Habakkuk 3:18-19. 'I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights." Matt, you have reached heights that a year ago seemed impossible, but as we know, nothing is impossible with God.
Today Matt again back in Red Deer and has OT once again. So the break of Christmas is over and back to exercises and working towards Matt's goal of walking again. So a belated Merry Christmas to all and an early New year's greeting.
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