Hi Friends, it's that time again...
Bill is doing well in in-patient rehab. He is getting 3+ hours of intense therapy per day (and it is really working him!) However, it does not stop him from being the social butterfly that he is-he has made so many friends while here, ha!
Funny story: There is a woman that was here when Bill first moved in whom Bill refers to as "Miss Joy". Well, last week "Miss Joy" was released and moved back home and she and Bill said their goodbyes. At the beginning of this week "Miss Joy" called Bill on his cell phone to check on him and see how he was coming along! He said he was doing just fine and asked how she was doing back at home. Jamie got a real kick out of this! Not only because of how sweet she thought it was of "Miss Joy" to check on her man, but that Bill is giving his telephone number out to older women! Ha!
In medication news, Bill began coumadin this week. The Docs have ordered for his blood to be drawn twice a week to check PT INR level to make sure his blood is regulated to the correct level. It is a very precise science to maintain the blood at a level that is not too thin and not too thick. The worse thing that could happen would be another clot (NO!!)
Bill is continuing to gain back strength, but needs even more strength in his hip abductors and stabilizers (the PT refers to this as the trunk area of his body). This strength is required in order for him to gain balance and be able to walk independently. As of right now he is requiring the assistance of a walker to walk. He is doing well when using the walker, but his mobility is very slow and unbalanced. He tires easily due to his lack of strength and overall weakness. He can stand with weight on his right leg, but not his left (remember the clot on his spine was on the left side and has caused those nerves to be damaged more greatly). He is however performing exercises that he was not able to do before which is a sign of great progress, yippee! Both Bill and Jamie are constantly being reminded of what a long process this is to be-he still has a ways to go before he returns to his "normal" self. Bill attempted to do some walking with a cane today, but it didn't go so well. It was decided that he will continue the use of a walker (or parallel bars he uses during PT) until he has gained enough strength and mobility to use a cane. The nerves that have been affected take some time to heal, but it is good news that he is able to feel something. The therapists say that they are not concerned that he will never walk again-HE WILL! However, it is his strength and nerves that are giving him the most grief. The nerves must heal and his trunk area must become stronger before he will be independent of the walker. Of course, Bill is such a go-getter and he become extremely frustrated and emotional at times when he is trying to walk.
Both Bill and Jamie realize how blessed they were that he has no known permanent damage. The feeling is coming back in his legs and has worked it's way down from his hips to his rear to his legs and feet. This is normal (hallelujah!) and such great news that he is healing appropriately. He's still very tingly and cold. He describes it as feeling like his body is asleep.
Bill has lost close to 20+ lbs along the way and Jamie is working hard to bulk him right back up! He has two protein shakes a day (about to bump it to 3) and she feeds him an extra dinner! Bill thinks that this is hilarious that she is so concerned by his weight loss:) She believes that getting is weight back up could help with his strength and endurance.
As for when Bill will be released is still undetermined, but please pray that it is no sooner than he needs! The intense therapy that he is getting while in in-patient is exactly what he needs right now, and the longer he can receive that type of therapy the better.
Jamie continues to be Bill's cheerleader/protector/advocate. She is tired too at the end of the day! She says "Coffee is my best friend these days!"
Jamie and Bill want to especially thank everyone that has visited, prayed, kept up with the blog, and been a great support system to them. They still need those prayers and support so keep 'em coming!
Till next time....
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Weekly Wrap Up...Live From Rehab
Well Folks, I know you all have been waiting for an update so here it is! Take a bathroom break if you need one, because this is a LONG one;)
Bill has been in inpatient rehab for 1 week now (and Jamie A.K.A Bill's cheerleader, moved in with him!) and he is doing great! He has both Physical and Occupational Therapy everyday for 3 hours! That is like having a part time job! He has graduated from speech therapy so he no longer has that in his schedule. (I guess they figured his speech was improved enough to talk up a storm to anyone and everyone that he encounters! For those of you who know Bill, you know he has NEVER met a stranger!) Jamie says that he has made friends with several ladies (all 75 and older :))
As for therapy, it's INTENSE! It consists of walking, improving upper body strength, agility drills and many other types of exercises. He is walking with a walker during therapy and the furthest he has walked has been 232 ft. He always uses a walker when he walks. The plan for therapy is to walk about 150 ft and work on his form (foot placement, shifting weight, balance, and all the skills that are required to walk). Makes you stop and think about the things we take for granted, huh? His muscles in his legs are very fatigued and sore, but his strength is growing everyday. We have to stop and remind ourselves that this is a process and every little bit counts! Bill hasn't gotten all feeling back in his legs yet, but don't worry......its coming! The Dr. said that those particular nerves are extremely delicate and it takes take for them to recalibrate and begin firing correctly again. He also said that the fact he is able to feel pain in his legs is a good sign that the nerves are beginning to work. His right leg is still stronger than his left, due to the fact that the hemotoma was more on the left side of his spine causing those nerves to become more damaged.
Bill is feeling independent these days and even gets himself to therapy! His new wheels are his wheelchair, but he is just happy to be taking himself. Of course Jamie follows right behind him, but she just sits back and lets him roll! He is very eager to get to therapy each day, and in true Bill fashion he goes early and stays late!
Today, Bill was able to put on his own socks and shoes and tie them! This is a great accomplishment for all he has been through. It's baby steps, but it feels like HUGE progress (it is!)
In medication news, he should begin coumadin this week and bridge with the lovonos injections (blood thinners) that he receives twice a day.
No news yet on how long he will remain in in-patient rehab, nor what the future holds as far as therapy, etc. Day by day, slow and steady wins the race :)
He still has a slight headache, which worries Jamie to pieces but right now the Drs. don't think it is enough of a concern to warrant a CT scan. They will eventually do a CT scan just to make sure everything looks good.
It was a pretty good first week! Bill has had a few frustrated moments (who can blame him?!) but his mindset is good and his spirits are continually lifted by family and friends. Keep those prayers coming! Thank you friends for your support!
Bill has been in inpatient rehab for 1 week now (and Jamie A.K.A Bill's cheerleader, moved in with him!) and he is doing great! He has both Physical and Occupational Therapy everyday for 3 hours! That is like having a part time job! He has graduated from speech therapy so he no longer has that in his schedule. (I guess they figured his speech was improved enough to talk up a storm to anyone and everyone that he encounters! For those of you who know Bill, you know he has NEVER met a stranger!) Jamie says that he has made friends with several ladies (all 75 and older :))
As for therapy, it's INTENSE! It consists of walking, improving upper body strength, agility drills and many other types of exercises. He is walking with a walker during therapy and the furthest he has walked has been 232 ft. He always uses a walker when he walks. The plan for therapy is to walk about 150 ft and work on his form (foot placement, shifting weight, balance, and all the skills that are required to walk). Makes you stop and think about the things we take for granted, huh? His muscles in his legs are very fatigued and sore, but his strength is growing everyday. We have to stop and remind ourselves that this is a process and every little bit counts! Bill hasn't gotten all feeling back in his legs yet, but don't worry......its coming! The Dr. said that those particular nerves are extremely delicate and it takes take for them to recalibrate and begin firing correctly again. He also said that the fact he is able to feel pain in his legs is a good sign that the nerves are beginning to work. His right leg is still stronger than his left, due to the fact that the hemotoma was more on the left side of his spine causing those nerves to become more damaged.
Bill is feeling independent these days and even gets himself to therapy! His new wheels are his wheelchair, but he is just happy to be taking himself. Of course Jamie follows right behind him, but she just sits back and lets him roll! He is very eager to get to therapy each day, and in true Bill fashion he goes early and stays late!
Today, Bill was able to put on his own socks and shoes and tie them! This is a great accomplishment for all he has been through. It's baby steps, but it feels like HUGE progress (it is!)
In medication news, he should begin coumadin this week and bridge with the lovonos injections (blood thinners) that he receives twice a day.
No news yet on how long he will remain in in-patient rehab, nor what the future holds as far as therapy, etc. Day by day, slow and steady wins the race :)
He still has a slight headache, which worries Jamie to pieces but right now the Drs. don't think it is enough of a concern to warrant a CT scan. They will eventually do a CT scan just to make sure everything looks good.
It was a pretty good first week! Bill has had a few frustrated moments (who can blame him?!) but his mindset is good and his spirits are continually lifted by family and friends. Keep those prayers coming! Thank you friends for your support!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Movin' On Up!!!
Hi Friends! Glad to bring you the update you have been waiting for! Drum roll please................Bill has moved out of the hospital and in to rehab! Whoo hoo! Yesterday he was moved to a new rehab facility. It is actually the original facility they were planning to move him to, before the plan was changed for him to stay at the rehab downtown. Well, the plan was changed again (chuckle) and he is happy to be at this NICE, new facility! It is so vibrant, and a far cry from the dull, drab, hospital room. Of course, we were so thankful for the care he recieved in the hospital, but it just feels good to have him OUT!
He also go to wear regular clothes for the first time today, and it was great to see him out of a hospital gown! He has no more IV's, as all of his medications are received orally (except his blood thinner injection).
He will see a Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, and a Speech Therapist- it seems that they are going to keep him pretty busy! Today he walked 50 feet with assistance and did good. Therapy really "kicked his butt" (his words!), and he was worn out because he is so weak.
His blood levels are continuing to be monitored, and the latest results are not back yet. The Docs are planning to bridge the injection and the oral meds soon, meaning that they would like to have him on all ORAL medications. They are continuing to try and get his blood therapuetic for him.
How long will he remain in the in-patient facility you ask? Great question! They have speculated 3 to 4 to 6 weeks....but only time will tell. It could be shorter or longer depending upon progress, etc. Right now things look good and hopes are high that Bill is gonna kick butt!
The staples (20!) in Bill's back (from surgery) were removed yesterday and the incision looks good. He even had Jamie's mom take a photo of the scar! What a guy thing to do, right?! His back is still pretty tender and sore-major surgery and 20 staples will do that to ya I guess :)
Things seem to be truckin' along nicely, and the rehab facility couldn't be nicer! I will update as I hear. Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers!
He also go to wear regular clothes for the first time today, and it was great to see him out of a hospital gown! He has no more IV's, as all of his medications are received orally (except his blood thinner injection).
He will see a Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, and a Speech Therapist- it seems that they are going to keep him pretty busy! Today he walked 50 feet with assistance and did good. Therapy really "kicked his butt" (his words!), and he was worn out because he is so weak.
His blood levels are continuing to be monitored, and the latest results are not back yet. The Docs are planning to bridge the injection and the oral meds soon, meaning that they would like to have him on all ORAL medications. They are continuing to try and get his blood therapuetic for him.
How long will he remain in the in-patient facility you ask? Great question! They have speculated 3 to 4 to 6 weeks....but only time will tell. It could be shorter or longer depending upon progress, etc. Right now things look good and hopes are high that Bill is gonna kick butt!
The staples (20!) in Bill's back (from surgery) were removed yesterday and the incision looks good. He even had Jamie's mom take a photo of the scar! What a guy thing to do, right?! His back is still pretty tender and sore-major surgery and 20 staples will do that to ya I guess :)
Things seem to be truckin' along nicely, and the rehab facility couldn't be nicer! I will update as I hear. Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Go Ahead, thin my blood...
Today Bill received his first blood thinner injection. He will get this twice a day (morning and night, I believe). It is a very low anti-coagulant that works to keep his blood thinned enough as not to produce clots. He was experiencing a pretty bad headache (which is always scary) so the Dr. ordered a CT scan just to be on the safe side. Luckily, the scan came back good and everyone took a sigh of relief!
Overall, Thursday was a hard day. Movement is difficult and painful for Bill. Finding a comfortable position is usually momentary.
Although PT is going well (according to the therapist), Bill remains frustrated and worrisome about his lack of use in his legs. He is also still in a lot of pain from the surgery on his back Sunday night. The progress on his legs is slow, but to be expected with the circumstances. Bill is a determined man, and he is expecting to see the results that he is working so hard for. Hopefully, once he gets to in-patient rehab he will see the progress he is hoping for.
If everything goes according to plan, he should be moved to another area at this same hospital early next week for in-patient rehab. It was decided that he would not be moved to another facility off campus. Both Bill and Jamie agreed that they felt more comfortable with him remaining close to the Doctors that have cared for him throughout this ordeal. After the scare the other night, it feels safest to have him remain downtown. There has been no word on how long they predict he will remain in rehab, but they hope to get an idea soon.
Bill's heart rate was a little low today, and he began a new blood pressure medication due to his pressures remaining elevated.
Specific Prayers: Please continue to pray that Bill's spirits would be lifted. Not only is this a difficult physical journey for him, but emotional as well. Pray for less frustration and for peace in knowing he is on the road to recovery. Pray that Jamie's FMLA papers get completed and processed and for her peace of mind as well.
Thank you all so much!
Overall, Thursday was a hard day. Movement is difficult and painful for Bill. Finding a comfortable position is usually momentary.
Although PT is going well (according to the therapist), Bill remains frustrated and worrisome about his lack of use in his legs. He is also still in a lot of pain from the surgery on his back Sunday night. The progress on his legs is slow, but to be expected with the circumstances. Bill is a determined man, and he is expecting to see the results that he is working so hard for. Hopefully, once he gets to in-patient rehab he will see the progress he is hoping for.
If everything goes according to plan, he should be moved to another area at this same hospital early next week for in-patient rehab. It was decided that he would not be moved to another facility off campus. Both Bill and Jamie agreed that they felt more comfortable with him remaining close to the Doctors that have cared for him throughout this ordeal. After the scare the other night, it feels safest to have him remain downtown. There has been no word on how long they predict he will remain in rehab, but they hope to get an idea soon.
Bill's heart rate was a little low today, and he began a new blood pressure medication due to his pressures remaining elevated.
Specific Prayers: Please continue to pray that Bill's spirits would be lifted. Not only is this a difficult physical journey for him, but emotional as well. Pray for less frustration and for peace in knowing he is on the road to recovery. Pray that Jamie's FMLA papers get completed and processed and for her peace of mind as well.
Thank you all so much!
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