Thomas and Natalie went to Baltimore yesterday for Thomas' follow up appointments at Shock Trauma.
Departing in the early morning hours in the handicap accessible van (an ambulance-type van that has a powered flat lift to get Thomas and wheelchair inside), they arrived at the out-patient shock trauma clinic, and Thomas was transferred to a stretcher and taken for a CTscan to look at his fusion. Following the scan, they met with Thomas' surgeon and another attending physican on the Shock Trauma team. They were thrilled to see Thomas "looking fantastic!" The meeting went very well and the Doctors confirmed that Thomas is now considered ASIA C because he has regained some controlled movement below his level of injury -- he can now move 4 out of 5 toes in his left foot! They were happy with the CTscan results and said "everything looks very good!"
The surprise of the morning was when the Doctor proceeded to remove Thomas' surgical collar and throw it in the trash! "Well then, guess we don't need that anymore!" While Thomas has been feeling so much better and stronger in his neck, he and Natalie definitely weren't expecting him to be cleared for the collar to be removed! And you can imagine how thrilled Thomas is! They did give him a soft collar for him to wear for comfort whenever he wants, which he did for the very bumpy ride back to DC. They have asked to see him again in 6 weeks.
The driver had told Thomas and Natalie that they could take as long as they needed, so they made a visit to the 4th floor to see their nurses! Natalie said, "It was a very surreal experience, but really good to see the nurses and respiratory techs! Everyone was so thrilled to see Thom and kept saying how incredible the transformation is so far!"
Before the long trek back to DC, the two sat at Au Bon Pain (where Natalie and other visitors shared countless meals) together for lunch...and Thom was thrilled to finally get a sandwich of his own.
Join us in prayer!
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
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Praying for continued healing! So glad to read the good news. Hope you enjoyed your sandwich!!
ReplyDeleteThanks be to God!! Continued prayers for a speedy and full recovery.
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful update. I remember how great it felt when I was able to get out and do something "normal", too.
ReplyDeleteJust offered another Ave for you! I hope you continue to improve.
ReplyDeleteThat is very good news! I hope this is the road towards getting speech recovery. He might have to undergo speech language therapy! Wiggling the toes for Thom is a very good sign and the equivalent of mastering new zen-like strength. Good job and look forward to hearing more updates on Thom's recovery. I am praying everyday now.
ReplyDeleteJenny, Thanks for your note! Sorry if we were unclear before: Thom has no trouble with his speech now. His trach has been removed and he is talking normally. Thanks for your prayers!
DeleteHang in there...God's plan is perfect
ReplyDeleteSo proud of you both.
ReplyDeleteGreat news! Glory and praise to God. We'll continue to pray for your recovery.
ReplyDeleteGO Thomas!!!!!! I am so proud and happy for you and Natalie! I hope everyone is still praying - obviously He is listening...
ReplyDeleteHugs to you both.
Still praying. Thom and Natalie, at Mass tomorrow I will be praying for both of you. ~ Rosemary in Ohio
ReplyDelete