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.

Infection comes knocking again...

Matt did not have a good day today, he has infection in his lungs again, so the trach trials are on hold. He is taking antibiotics which they feel is causing some of the nausea. He was up in the chair for a couple hours, but was not feeling well so went back to bed. He fell asleep and was sleeping all afternoon and early evening. He also was having a hard time keeping any food down so had mostly fluids. Jacki went and spent the evening with him, and though he did a lot of coughing he still enjoyed the crossword and Suduko puzzles. Wasn't to thrilled that Edmonton lost to the B.C. lions, Oilers lost to Calgary and Boston beat Cleveland. Not a great day for his teams. He did eat better tonight was able to keep 2 slices of pizza and some real mashed potatoes and homemade hamburgers down. Prayers for today are that the infection will clear up quickly and the trach trials can begin again as the vent is the problem with the infection in the lungs. Thank you for the continued prayers and support. Nahum 1:7 "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him."

Trach Trials going well, Praise God

Matt was able to do a 4 hour trach trial today, with no trouble. He felt really good, so they will try a little longer tomorrow. He was up in the chair for 3 hours, but his neck started to bother him so he was put back to bed. No nausea today which is another answer to our prayers. Keeping his food down well and is really happy to have home made food. His Dad went home today, so makes for a hole in his day. Lots of company today which is always good for lots of smiles. He say Hi to everyone and thank you all for the many prayers on his behalf. He is kept busy with rehab for a part of his day and likes to bug the staff at City. Is getting to know all the staff and they keep him on his toes. 2 Chronicles 15:7 But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.

Wheelchair ordered

Matt's days are really busy lately. He has been having lots of company and deflates the cuff so he can talk. During that time he was up in his chair for 3 hours. Was tired in the afternoon after 3 1/2 hour trach trial and physio, but a good tired. Also had massage therapy for an hour, so that would make anyone relaxed! We had forgot to mention that Matt moved his middle finger on his left hand yesterday. Some days his movements are more pronounced, and spasms are less. So those are good days. Matt's custom made wheelchair was ordered, which will be great to have one that fits that tall drink of water! Mom says Matt was a little less talkative and quiet today. I think he is feeling with the ordering of the chair that they feel he will never walk. But it is just until he does walk. We know that it will be awhile and he might as well be comfortable. Then we can donate it back for someone who really needs it. Prays that Matt will remain strong in faith. Psalms 62:2 "He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."

Whirlpool bath

Today was a busy day for Matt. He had a whirlpool bath, and then went to the gym to listen to a speaker who was quad because of a accident at the age of 17 in 1984. He is an wheelchair rugby player and showed the people present all some different styles of chairs and boards to play certain sports. He was very interesting to listen to. Matt also did a 3 hr trach trail and sat up in the chair for around 4 hrs. He beat his sister in Yahtze and then she beat him Golf. So they both came out even. He was very tired and had a nap after he was back in bed. He was able to eat some dinner and then his sub in the evening. This evening he had some trouble with his pulse going up and lots of secretions, but all in all a good day. Prayers for tomorrow that Matt will continue to do well with his trach trails and his muscles continue to strengthen. Romans 12: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. God bless each and everyone of you.

Weight up and rubs his nose

Matt had another good day. He was able to do another 2 hours trach trail and also had the cuff down so he could do some talking. Was up in his chair for 5 1/2 hours and did really well. He went up to rehab and was able to do some work on the arm and hand pulleys using both wrists. His right arm is much stronger than the left, but was able to do a little with his left. He had a couple bouts of nausea, but was able to keep everything down. Took a trip outside and to see our beautiful fall weather. Ate well today and after his weight was checked is now up to 176lbs. If they feel he is gaining enough they may do away with the tube feedings all together. For the first time was able to lift up his right hand to rub his nose, all smiles. Lots of company today, loves to visit and get all the news. Praise the Lord. Prayers for continued success with the trach trails and with rehab. Isaiah 26:12 All that we have accomplished you have done for us, O Lord.

Keep the Movement Coming

I was driving home from swimming and was thinking what I should pray specifically about for Matt. From a nursing perspective, I know what a huge thing it would be for Matt to bend his elbow. So while I was driving, prayers for Matt to bend his elbow were heard, because tonight Mom told me that Matt could bend his right elbow by himself! An answer to pray before I even asked it! 1 Chronicles 16:8-9 "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts." Matt was able to lift his arm off the bed, bend it at the elbow at a 90 degree angle. He could hold it only a second, but what an accomplishment! Jacki said he was just sweating and panting hard. Go Matt! (Jacki and the kids arrived today the same time as mom. Bobby gave Matt 2 very wet kisses!) The physio also was amazed at how well Matt has done in the last week. He is able to curl his right fist into a ball, however the tip of the thumb and forefinger still can't bend. His left leg movements, though slight, are just as strong as his right leg. Just his toes are not quite as strong. His left hand is only a quiver in his pinkie and thumb, but the antispasmodic meds may be inhibiting some of that movement. It will come. They were able to complete a trach trial today for 2 hours. Matt was beginning to get tired, but it was another plus! No de-sating either. And they also deflated the cuff when Matt had company so he could talk. They left it deflated for over 2 hours. The respiratory therapist feel that Matt's left lung and diaphragm are increasing in strength all the time. Will be off that vent by Christmas, right Matt? Has had some nausea, but they have changed the times they give the meds and that seems to be working. Has more of an appetite. Which reminds me,Bev, ginger snap , peanut butter, and oatmeal macaroon cookies are some thing he likes to eat. E-mail me for the recipes if you don't have. Thanks again for everyone who reads the blog and keeps Matt in their prayers. Matt has shown the benefits of prayer.

Getting organized...

Just to let everyone know, we were not able to do the blog yesterday as the power has been out at Shelley's since yesterday at 6pm, and dad & I were unable to hook up for me to get an update. We should be back on track for this week.

Anyway, Matt has been doing awesome. I understand that the hospital staff have changed the timing of his meds to try to prevent the nausea that plagues him most days. It seems to have worked today as he was able to eat all his meals without feeling sick. Lets pray that this trend continues! He had lost of visitors today and yesterday which is great as Matt really perks up when he has people to talk too. Since he is an official coach potato, he can converse on many topics that he sees on TV - his favorites being football and baseball right now. He watched the last quarter of the Rider game today (was asleep for most of the game as he didn't know it was on - part time fan!), and is currently cheering on the Rockies in the MLB semi-final.

Physically, Matt was able to sit in his chair for 3 hrs today and 4 hrs yesterday, and also had his cuff deflated for about 2-3 hrs each day so he could talk to his visitors. He didn't have a trach trial today, but had one yesterday for 1/2 hour (they stopped as this was the first time in a while and didn't want to overdue it - but I guess Matt did great). Please pray for continued success in his trach trials so that his lungs will get stronger, and he will become more independent.