Update on Chris 1-23-07
Where do I begin? Smile. Today was a very full day. I got to the hospital about 9:15 am. Chris had already seen two doctors and physical therapy. Apparently physical therapy wasn’t able to work with him much because he was so tired and the same thing happened a little later when occupational therapy came in. This made Chris feel like the day had been wasted. On the other hand, the best news of the day is that they took off his oxygen mask and now he only wears nasal a oxygen tube which makes it much more comfortable and easier for him to talk. They also took off his heart monitors form his chest and the blood draw line from his arm. So, although things may not be moving fast enough for Chris, a lot of good things are happening every day.
One of the neatest things that happened today was a surprise visit from Chris’ oncologist in Arlington, who diagnosed and treated Chris’ cancer in the beginning. He heard about Chris and wanted to come see him. This meant so much to Chris and me and really lifted Chris’ spirits.
Chris also expressed his desire to see the kids, so I made arrangements (well, God knew the need, so my sister in law showed up at the right time) and she picked them up and brought them to see Chris at 5:00. He was so happy to see them and they loved on him and had some special moments together. The kids were more excited about the cool cafeteria and the Hand museum than anything else. Smile. Allison said he looked scary to her and Cody seemed upset cause he was so startled by how different he looks. But, they are being strong and I think overall, it was a good visit.
Here are some things to pray about…
They are ready to move him out of ICU, but there is not a bed ready on the fourth floor, where he has been. They may not have one for almost another week. There may be an option to move him to another building, where he was before. He would still see the same doctor, just be with different nurses and further away from the cancer center. I am struggling with this, because I think getting him out of ICU would be rally good for his mental state. I think he needs a change and is getting clausterphobic. But, I also want him to be where it is familiar. I will talk to the doctor about it tomorrow morning.
Chris’ anxiety can be overwhelming at times. He can get down right mean about it some times. He is very determined to get out of there and thinks no one is gonna stop him. I have tried to explain to him that no one is trying to stop him, he just physically is not ready to go. I usually am able to talk him down and make him understand, but I can only imagine how frustrated he must be. It exhausted me today. He told me that he won’t do any of his physical therapy until I bring him his car keys. Ugh! Stubborn brat! I am sure I will be refreshed and ready for a new day tomorrow, after I get some sleep. And, I am leaving early tomorrow to take Cody to the Orthodontist, so I will let his brother come sit with him and maybe he can handle Chris better than me. Smile. Just pray for peace of mind for all of us, especially Chris. And pray that God will give us the strength to be what we need to be for Chris.
Thank you again and again for all of the things you have done to help. We appreciate the meals that have still been coming and there have even been some surprise gift cards on the front porch. These have been so helpful… thank you for your thoughtfulness. We love you and couldn’t do this without your love, support and prayers.
Mandy