It's been three week's since Thomas' accident, and a week since our last update.
On the surface, not much has changed: Thomas is still wearing the HALO, he is still spending a lot of time on the ventilator, he is still fighting an infection, and we are waiting on a surgery date.
On the surface, not much has changed: Thomas is still wearing the HALO, he is still spending a lot of time on the ventilator, he is still fighting an infection, and we are waiting on a surgery date.
On the other hand, much is different from our last check in: Thomas is taking long periods of time off the ventilator, and breathing on his own; Thomas is practicing with a speaking valve, as well as working on swallowing foods; he's begun physical therapy for his legs and stretches for his arms.
TREATMENT OF THE INJURY + INFECTION
Yesterday all of his specialists came to a unified decision to wait on surgery, because of Thomas' infections. Thomas was started on a new regimen of antibiotics to tackle that (praying he doesn't have a reaction this time - last time he got a rash). They are giving his trach some extra wound care and keeping an eye on his white cell count.
HIS LUNGS + PHYSICAL THERAPY
His lungs continue to improve. On Monday, Thomas was off the vent for a record of 6.75 hours! And he had a second shorter session that night. Tuesday he did two more amazing session off the vent - 6 hours & 6.75 hours. Sadly he won't be allowed to sit in his wheelchair until after surgery - they are worried it's getting to be too much moving and shifting and they don't want any new damage to occur. Rumor has it he is getting a different bed that can be put in the chair position - a position crucial for his diaphragm and lung strength.
Physical Therapy continues each day. Thomas and Natalie have been given stretches to do and tools to help Thomas strengthen his arms, and stimulate the muscles in his legs, and keep his circulation going. He is able to eat foods, but is sticking to ice chips still. (Having seen the food they deliver, your resident blogger can't really blame him!)
He is in good spirits, and getting lots of rest. The chaplain comes up every few days Yesterday he asked to watch a movie for the first time. And last night he was in great spirits because he got to see his mom and sisters, who are in town for a few days.
Physical Therapy continues each day. Thomas and Natalie have been given stretches to do and tools to help Thomas strengthen his arms, and stimulate the muscles in his legs, and keep his circulation going. He is able to eat foods, but is sticking to ice chips still. (Having seen the food they deliver, your resident blogger can't really blame him!)
He is in good spirits, and getting lots of rest. The chaplain comes up every few days Yesterday he asked to watch a movie for the first time. And last night he was in great spirits because he got to see his mom and sisters, who are in town for a few days.
Keep praying specifically for the healing of his infection, for patience and fortitude in this time of waiting, and for his lungs!
REMINDER: we are in Day 2 of the Novena to Servant of God Luisa Piccarreta, to whom the Natalie's family have a particular devotion.
My husband and I joined you in the novena last night and will continue to do so (with an added intention!) :). May His grace lift you up to get through these moments!
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