Dear Friends:
After church today Bill, Tabby, Carl and I went to Baltimore to look at a handicap equipped van that Bill saw for sale last week. It is already equipped with a lift and appears to have been used as a transport for several wheelchairs at a time. The price is right and the van looks OK. We were not able to contact the seller so we weren't able to start it up or drive it and we aren't sure it will pass Virginia inspection but Tabby will explore for more information this week. We also looked at some dealerships to see what kinds of used vans are on the market. Bobby, Carolyn, Billy & Alysa stayed with Paul today (along with Audrey, Paul's CNA for the weekend). Carolyn said that Paul was giving her a guilt trip to get her to feed him most of the day. He has figured out that he can look at her and reach for "imaginary food" and try to put it in his mouth ... or hold his hand out like he is holding a cup ... and she knows he is hungry. So he ate quite a bit today. This afternoon before we left for Baltimore we had gone by the house to see how Paul was doing. Tabby said he was up most of the night so Dad asked him if he was feeling bad. Dad had also been up most of the night with a headache and stomach ache so he asked Paul if his head was hurting ... he nodded "yes". Then he asked if his stomach hurt and he nodded "yes" again. Tabby keeps baby aspirin for such occasions. He seemed a bit better as the day went on. Carolyn & Bobby were able to take him outside for a bit today since it was a nice day. Dad & I visited a little when we got back from Baltimore. He was eating dinner ... the same Dinty Moore beef stew he ate the other night. Carolyn said he wasn't interested in it ... but once Dad was there he seemed to eat pretty good ... I think he's just more comfortable with Dad being in charge! We didn't stay long but Paul was up all day so hopefully he had a quiet evening and went to bed early. Tabby could use the sleep since she didn't sleep much Saturday night. Tabby is becoming uncomfortable & exhausted from the pregnancy. Little Max is moving a lot and getting very big. She is getting anxious to be finished with the pregnancy! She only has five more weeks before her due date! We are more convinced that Paul will be able to enjoy his new son when he comes. He seems to know almost everything that is going on around him. Tabby has a "snuggly" that wraps around the shoulders and holds the baby. She plans to have Paul be able to hold him with it. What a joy that will be! It will be another answer to our prayers!
Have a great day, Lynne & Carl
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/29/06
Dear Friends:
Praise God ... our days just keep getting better. Today was no exception. Dad & I got there late today. Saturday is a day that Tabby has lots of help. This morning started with Paul's breakfast that included applesauce with his meds in it. He did great! At this point Tabby is ready to talk to the doctor about having the feeding tube removed. That would be so nice and we believe Paul wants that too. At dinner time tonight Tabby was going to give him some Ensure through the feeding tube and he wouldn't let her have the tube. She told him the option to that was for him to drink the Ensure. She gave him the can and he drank every last drop!! When we got to the house this afternoon Carolyn was there and Paul was eating some fruit. After he finished Dad spent some time exercising Paul. First they walked from the bedroom to the kitchen and back. Tabby bought some weights (2 1/2 lbs) that strap onto his legs. Dad had Paul exercise with them. He kicked his left leg about twenty times and the right about 15. Then he did the march in place while in the wheelchair. He did that about 10 times with each leg. After he finised Dad asked him to "walk" his wheelchair across the floor with his feet. Paul actually got the wheelchair across the room but the good part is...he made the wheelchair turn to miss some obstacles in the way. It was apparent that he knew he couldn't get the wheelchair past the table or the cabinet in the kitchen so he maneuvered it around them!!! Then dad told him to back up and come forward again. Going backwards was pretty easy for him once he got past the obstables again. After he went forward to the kitchen the second time he turned the wheelchair all the way around to go back to the bedroom. Tonight some friends came by to visit. The neighbors across the street who have been extremely helpful and supportive for us ... especially Tabby!! While they were visiting Paul was eating fruit and then had two freeze pops. After he ate he developed the hiccups. Tabby went to the kitchen to get a spoonful of sugar & some water (home remedies really work) and while she was doing that Paul took a deep breath and then closed his lips to HOLD HIS BREATH!!! He held it for about 30 seconds then started to breath. He hiccupped again so he took another deep breath and held it!! OK ... I say again ... that seems like problem solving to us!! How great is that? But ... I saved the best for last ... Tabby told Paul today "I love you" and HE SAID "love you" back to her!! Then she said "I'm going outside for a few minutes, is that OK?" and HE SAID "okay"! Of course it is still like a moan but you can tell he is forming a word! It actually sounds like a word!!! When I left this afternoon I said "I'll be back" and he said "alright"! OK ... since we came home ... we came off the muscles relaxers & the parkinson's drug, began moving both arms and legs more, he began eating baby food then progressed to regular food, he now eats and drinks by himself, he uses problem solving skills, and TALKS! That is more than he has done in the last five months!! How exciting is that? Tuesday Paul is going to see a new doctor, a neurologist. This doctor will followup for Dr. Azzam. It will be interesting to see what his evaluation of Paul's condition is! Remember the Ranchos Los Amigos Scale? Well .... I believe he is now about a 7-8 on a scale of 1-10 (he was probably a 5-6 when he left Mt. Vernon). Tomorrow Tabby, Dad and I are going to look at a Handicap Equipped Van that is in Baltimore. Pray that it will meet our needs. We will be taking Paul back and forth to doctors & therapies for a long time and dependable handicap equipped transportation will be very important. Thanks for continuing to pray ... it's working!
Have a great day! Lynne & Carl
Rancho Los Amigos Cognitive Scale
Praise God ... our days just keep getting better. Today was no exception. Dad & I got there late today. Saturday is a day that Tabby has lots of help. This morning started with Paul's breakfast that included applesauce with his meds in it. He did great! At this point Tabby is ready to talk to the doctor about having the feeding tube removed. That would be so nice and we believe Paul wants that too. At dinner time tonight Tabby was going to give him some Ensure through the feeding tube and he wouldn't let her have the tube. She told him the option to that was for him to drink the Ensure. She gave him the can and he drank every last drop!! When we got to the house this afternoon Carolyn was there and Paul was eating some fruit. After he finished Dad spent some time exercising Paul. First they walked from the bedroom to the kitchen and back. Tabby bought some weights (2 1/2 lbs) that strap onto his legs. Dad had Paul exercise with them. He kicked his left leg about twenty times and the right about 15. Then he did the march in place while in the wheelchair. He did that about 10 times with each leg. After he finised Dad asked him to "walk" his wheelchair across the floor with his feet. Paul actually got the wheelchair across the room but the good part is...he made the wheelchair turn to miss some obstacles in the way. It was apparent that he knew he couldn't get the wheelchair past the table or the cabinet in the kitchen so he maneuvered it around them!!! Then dad told him to back up and come forward again. Going backwards was pretty easy for him once he got past the obstables again. After he went forward to the kitchen the second time he turned the wheelchair all the way around to go back to the bedroom. Tonight some friends came by to visit. The neighbors across the street who have been extremely helpful and supportive for us ... especially Tabby!! While they were visiting Paul was eating fruit and then had two freeze pops. After he ate he developed the hiccups. Tabby went to the kitchen to get a spoonful of sugar & some water (home remedies really work) and while she was doing that Paul took a deep breath and then closed his lips to HOLD HIS BREATH!!! He held it for about 30 seconds then started to breath. He hiccupped again so he took another deep breath and held it!! OK ... I say again ... that seems like problem solving to us!! How great is that? But ... I saved the best for last ... Tabby told Paul today "I love you" and HE SAID "love you" back to her!! Then she said "I'm going outside for a few minutes, is that OK?" and HE SAID "okay"! Of course it is still like a moan but you can tell he is forming a word! It actually sounds like a word!!! When I left this afternoon I said "I'll be back" and he said "alright"! OK ... since we came home ... we came off the muscles relaxers & the parkinson's drug, began moving both arms and legs more, he began eating baby food then progressed to regular food, he now eats and drinks by himself, he uses problem solving skills, and TALKS! That is more than he has done in the last five months!! How exciting is that? Tuesday Paul is going to see a new doctor, a neurologist. This doctor will followup for Dr. Azzam. It will be interesting to see what his evaluation of Paul's condition is! Remember the Ranchos Los Amigos Scale? Well .... I believe he is now about a 7-8 on a scale of 1-10 (he was probably a 5-6 when he left Mt. Vernon). Tomorrow Tabby, Dad and I are going to look at a Handicap Equipped Van that is in Baltimore. Pray that it will meet our needs. We will be taking Paul back and forth to doctors & therapies for a long time and dependable handicap equipped transportation will be very important. Thanks for continuing to pray ... it's working!
Have a great day! Lynne & Carl
Rancho Los Amigos Cognitive Scale
- Level I: No response to pain, touch, sound or sight.
- Level II: Generalized reflex response to pain.
- Level III: Localized response. Blinks to strong light, turns toward/away from sound, responds to physical discomfort, inconsistent response to commands.
- Level IV: Confused/Agitated. Alert, very active, aggressive or bizarre behaviors, performs motor activities but behavior is non-purposeful, extremely short attention span.
- Level V: Confused/Non-agitated. Gross attention to environment, highly distractible, requires continual redirection, difficulty learning new tasks, agitated by too much stimulation. May engage in social conversation but with inappropriate verbalizations.
- Level VI: Confused/Appropriate. Inconsistent orientation to time and place, retention span/recent memory impaired, begins to recall past, consistently follows simple directions, goal-directed behavior with assistance.
- Level VII: Automatic/Appropriate. Performs daily routine in highly familiar environment in a non-confused but automatic robot-like manner. Skills noticeably deteriorate in unfamiliar environment. Lacks realistic planning for own future.
- Level VIII: Purposeful/Appropriate.
- Level IX: Purposeful, Appropriate: Stand-By Assistance on Request.
- Level X: Purposeful, Appropriate: Modified Independent.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/28/06
Dear Friends:
Paul had another pretty good day. He ate all three of his meals by himself. He even had a bowl of cereal this morning with milk and when he finished the cereal he used his spoon to finish the milk ... and didn't spill any of it!! Dad gave him some options for his meals and let him choose what he wanted by putting his hand on it. At lunch he had hotdog & beans and when he got to the end of the bowl there were three beans scattered in the bowl. He used his spoon to scoop them together and picked them up together to eat them. Hmmmm ... this seems like "problem solving". We were told by the folks at Mount Vernon that he would probably never be able to problem solve because of the portion of his brain that was damaged! The PT came today. Dad was telling her about his eating. She is a bit concerned about his need to put anything you hand him into his mouth. She suggested we give him things like a hairbrush to practice on figuring out what he has and what is the appropriate use for it. She worked to have him kick her hand. He kicked 50 times with the left leg and 25 times with the right. Then she put a 7lb weight on his legs and he did 40 with the left leg and 20 with the right!!! Then she told him to stop kicking and hold his leg straight out. He did that for about 2 minutes with the left leg. She also had him march in place from the wheelchair. It is so impressive ... even the therapist was surprised at his ability. She asked if he used to lift weights and Dad said "no, just motorcycles"! He is having a lot of trouble with his right leg. Dad asked if he could put an air cast on that leg to prevent him from turning his ankle and possibly falling down. She thought that was a good idea so Dad is planning to try that. She felt he is eating so well that she suggested we put his meds in food so he can be prepared to have the feeding tube removed!! The nurse called today. He is coming by next week. He is still encouraging us to think about going to an outpatient status. This would mean Paul would go to the hospital three time a week for about 3-4 hours each time to do therapy. No decision has been made on that yet ... we still need to research the pros & cons of this. We have a meeting with Brain Injury Services on Tuesday morning and the nurse wants to be there for that meeting. We aren't real sure what we expect to get from BIS but we are anxious to hear what they can offer as help. Today marks the 25th week of Paul's recovery. Needless to say it has been a long road but we have learned so many things through this experience. Paul has always been in God's hands, His presence is evident. We are stronger than we ever thought we could be. Or family and friends have been a great source of support. You cannot be prideful when you need help ... well you can be but at what expense?? Doctors & Nurses are people too ... they don't have ALL of the answers. Even when things look their worst there is opportunity to see hope. Sometimes you don't need anything but a good cry & someone to hold you and listen! Some things take hard work and others just take perseverance. We have been blessed beyond what we deserve and we are most grateful! Thanks for your continued prayer and concern. You have been so important to all of us!
Love, Lynne & Carl
Paul had another pretty good day. He ate all three of his meals by himself. He even had a bowl of cereal this morning with milk and when he finished the cereal he used his spoon to finish the milk ... and didn't spill any of it!! Dad gave him some options for his meals and let him choose what he wanted by putting his hand on it. At lunch he had hotdog & beans and when he got to the end of the bowl there were three beans scattered in the bowl. He used his spoon to scoop them together and picked them up together to eat them. Hmmmm ... this seems like "problem solving". We were told by the folks at Mount Vernon that he would probably never be able to problem solve because of the portion of his brain that was damaged! The PT came today. Dad was telling her about his eating. She is a bit concerned about his need to put anything you hand him into his mouth. She suggested we give him things like a hairbrush to practice on figuring out what he has and what is the appropriate use for it. She worked to have him kick her hand. He kicked 50 times with the left leg and 25 times with the right. Then she put a 7lb weight on his legs and he did 40 with the left leg and 20 with the right!!! Then she told him to stop kicking and hold his leg straight out. He did that for about 2 minutes with the left leg. She also had him march in place from the wheelchair. It is so impressive ... even the therapist was surprised at his ability. She asked if he used to lift weights and Dad said "no, just motorcycles"! He is having a lot of trouble with his right leg. Dad asked if he could put an air cast on that leg to prevent him from turning his ankle and possibly falling down. She thought that was a good idea so Dad is planning to try that. She felt he is eating so well that she suggested we put his meds in food so he can be prepared to have the feeding tube removed!! The nurse called today. He is coming by next week. He is still encouraging us to think about going to an outpatient status. This would mean Paul would go to the hospital three time a week for about 3-4 hours each time to do therapy. No decision has been made on that yet ... we still need to research the pros & cons of this. We have a meeting with Brain Injury Services on Tuesday morning and the nurse wants to be there for that meeting. We aren't real sure what we expect to get from BIS but we are anxious to hear what they can offer as help. Today marks the 25th week of Paul's recovery. Needless to say it has been a long road but we have learned so many things through this experience. Paul has always been in God's hands, His presence is evident. We are stronger than we ever thought we could be. Or family and friends have been a great source of support. You cannot be prideful when you need help ... well you can be but at what expense?? Doctors & Nurses are people too ... they don't have ALL of the answers. Even when things look their worst there is opportunity to see hope. Sometimes you don't need anything but a good cry & someone to hold you and listen! Some things take hard work and others just take perseverance. We have been blessed beyond what we deserve and we are most grateful! Thanks for your continued prayer and concern. You have been so important to all of us!
Love, Lynne & Carl
Paul's Update - 04/27/06
Dear Friends:
Today was yet another good day. Paul is trying hard to do so many things. He has excelled since he has been home and today was no exception. Paul had Ensure this morning for breakfast. Dad set him on the edge of the bed after a bit but the bed was higher up than normal and his feet weren't touching the ground. He was able to maintain his balance pretty good even without using his feet! Afterward he got up and walked to the kitchen. He is still having a lot of trouble with his right leg but he manages to walk with Dad's help. He stood at the sink for a bit before going to his table and eating a bowl of cereal. After he finished eating he went back to the bedroom and watched TV. He and Dad watched "Madagascar". At lunch he sat at the table and ate meatloaf & mashed potatoes, a fruit cup, two cups of Gatorade and a cup of water. He ate all by himself today. Dad didn't even have him prove that it was all gone between bites. Dad seems to think he is seeing double since he reaches for his spoon or cup and misses it then reaches over a bit and gets it. Tabby is thinking about getting an eye patch to see if we can determine that he is or isn't seeing double. Later in the day he watched the movie "Oscar" ... this movie has a funny history in our family! This evening for dinner he had another good dinner that he ate by himself. He is doing really good with his drinking. He is monitoring his amounts all by himself. When he wants something to drink he reaches his hand out like he is holding a cup. It is a pretty good signal!! He also ate strawberries and some Oreo cookies ... of course you have to have milk with that!! Tabby told him he could dunk his cookies ... so he did!! LOL He crammed a whole cookie in his mouth ... it took him a while to chew it all up but he was able to do it!! For snack this evening he had a bowl of watermelon ... funny thing is he never use to like watermelon! After dinner he rested in bed for a while. Dad and I went out with Bill & Ronda after bible study tonight. We came back to the house afterward to make sure Paul was all ready for bed. He was pretty tired and Tabby was just getting him tucked in for the night He has pretty busy days. How wonderful it is to see him do so many good things. He is trying so hard! God is healing Paul each day and we are so thankful. Every day is another blessing!
Have a great day, Lynne & Carl
Today was yet another good day. Paul is trying hard to do so many things. He has excelled since he has been home and today was no exception. Paul had Ensure this morning for breakfast. Dad set him on the edge of the bed after a bit but the bed was higher up than normal and his feet weren't touching the ground. He was able to maintain his balance pretty good even without using his feet! Afterward he got up and walked to the kitchen. He is still having a lot of trouble with his right leg but he manages to walk with Dad's help. He stood at the sink for a bit before going to his table and eating a bowl of cereal. After he finished eating he went back to the bedroom and watched TV. He and Dad watched "Madagascar". At lunch he sat at the table and ate meatloaf & mashed potatoes, a fruit cup, two cups of Gatorade and a cup of water. He ate all by himself today. Dad didn't even have him prove that it was all gone between bites. Dad seems to think he is seeing double since he reaches for his spoon or cup and misses it then reaches over a bit and gets it. Tabby is thinking about getting an eye patch to see if we can determine that he is or isn't seeing double. Later in the day he watched the movie "Oscar" ... this movie has a funny history in our family! This evening for dinner he had another good dinner that he ate by himself. He is doing really good with his drinking. He is monitoring his amounts all by himself. When he wants something to drink he reaches his hand out like he is holding a cup. It is a pretty good signal!! He also ate strawberries and some Oreo cookies ... of course you have to have milk with that!! Tabby told him he could dunk his cookies ... so he did!! LOL He crammed a whole cookie in his mouth ... it took him a while to chew it all up but he was able to do it!! For snack this evening he had a bowl of watermelon ... funny thing is he never use to like watermelon! After dinner he rested in bed for a while. Dad and I went out with Bill & Ronda after bible study tonight. We came back to the house afterward to make sure Paul was all ready for bed. He was pretty tired and Tabby was just getting him tucked in for the night He has pretty busy days. How wonderful it is to see him do so many good things. He is trying so hard! God is healing Paul each day and we are so thankful. Every day is another blessing!
Have a great day, Lynne & Carl
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Chuckles and a few Head shakes - III
The weekend grows ever closer. I am looking forward to maybe sleeping later than 5:30am. Other than being a busy week it has been interesting and challenging.
#1 has been working with me several days and it has been fun. Though he needs to pick up the pace or I will totally wear him out. The whippersnappers seem to struggle to keep up with us Seniors.
#2 is doing the same and it looks like nothing but a swift kick will get him into gear.
Star is planning her wedding that is down the road a bit. Hope to see her when she comes up for Jacqui's baby.
Jacqui is about ready to deliver any day now.
Lou was a bit testy this last weekend. He just has to push the boundaries and I have to enforce them. But does he ever talk. It is like a faucet. Only way to stop it is to fill it with food.
Haven't heard too much from Wild Mom. I guess the all night parties are taking their toll. At least we haven't seen her name of the local police blotter yet.
Tenairi won the 11 year old group by a landslide (+160 pins) and now advances to Richmond and the Pepsi State Tournament. We have two practices scheduled so we can prepare for the next level. Can she win and advance to the National Tournament in Ft. Lauderdale? I think so.
Jenna came by today and we went to MacDonalds, grabbed a few sandwiches and then sat in the park and had a picnic.
******
8.4 Billion profit for one quarter and I am being forced to pay +3.10 a gallon. It is about time for some action from Congress to slow this train down. But, the Oil Lobby has them in their pocket and only a few gushing mouths will stir things up. Windfall Tax the crap out of them. If they won't build Refineries to ease the problem then dump the taxes into the Social Security Fund. Do I believe there is some manipulation of prices .. Quack, Quack.
Don't you just love it; the Nationals tried blaming their sad play on the ballpark not being a hitter’s park. When that backfired and they got whipped 13-4, now they blame it on construction, lack of ownership, and lack of TV exposure. Come on Cry baby's ... what is wrong is that you have 25 players, some with skill, not a 25-man team. What is going on with the politics of ownership has nothing to do with the lack of pitching, poor run support, and elementary school fielding skills. I find the minor league teams more interesting than this supposed professional team.
Moussauoui -- let him rot in jail and do not martyr him by killing him. Maybe a work release program to the Jimmy Dean Sausage factory would help clear his head. But then again, the United States prison System is more like a resort than a correctional facility. So go ahead and kill him and then grind him up for sausage .. Then the virgins won't come near him.
#1 has been working with me several days and it has been fun. Though he needs to pick up the pace or I will totally wear him out. The whippersnappers seem to struggle to keep up with us Seniors.
#2 is doing the same and it looks like nothing but a swift kick will get him into gear.
Star is planning her wedding that is down the road a bit. Hope to see her when she comes up for Jacqui's baby.
Jacqui is about ready to deliver any day now.
Lou was a bit testy this last weekend. He just has to push the boundaries and I have to enforce them. But does he ever talk. It is like a faucet. Only way to stop it is to fill it with food.
Haven't heard too much from Wild Mom. I guess the all night parties are taking their toll. At least we haven't seen her name of the local police blotter yet.
Tenairi won the 11 year old group by a landslide (+160 pins) and now advances to Richmond and the Pepsi State Tournament. We have two practices scheduled so we can prepare for the next level. Can she win and advance to the National Tournament in Ft. Lauderdale? I think so.
Jenna came by today and we went to MacDonalds, grabbed a few sandwiches and then sat in the park and had a picnic.
******
8.4 Billion profit for one quarter and I am being forced to pay +3.10 a gallon. It is about time for some action from Congress to slow this train down. But, the Oil Lobby has them in their pocket and only a few gushing mouths will stir things up. Windfall Tax the crap out of them. If they won't build Refineries to ease the problem then dump the taxes into the Social Security Fund. Do I believe there is some manipulation of prices .. Quack, Quack.
Don't you just love it; the Nationals tried blaming their sad play on the ballpark not being a hitter’s park. When that backfired and they got whipped 13-4, now they blame it on construction, lack of ownership, and lack of TV exposure. Come on Cry baby's ... what is wrong is that you have 25 players, some with skill, not a 25-man team. What is going on with the politics of ownership has nothing to do with the lack of pitching, poor run support, and elementary school fielding skills. I find the minor league teams more interesting than this supposed professional team.
Moussauoui -- let him rot in jail and do not martyr him by killing him. Maybe a work release program to the Jimmy Dean Sausage factory would help clear his head. But then again, the United States prison System is more like a resort than a correctional facility. So go ahead and kill him and then grind him up for sausage .. Then the virgins won't come near him.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Dreams of Sand Castles
Well, another week comes to an end. For the most part everything, though busy, went well. The bad part is that while it was sunny on the weekdays it will rain on Saturday and probably Sunday. Doesn't give anyone much of a chance to work on the house or yard. The call of the islands is growing louder. Right now the bug is satisfied by just browsing and dreaming of a trip.
In May, the company has us all participating in a behavioral study. Hey, I don't need anyone telling me I have no personality and my behavior isn't on the scale. So another fun time is in the making.
I need to start planning a birthday bash for someone turning 50 in May. HeHeHe .... :)
Lady has been under the weather with sinus problems and a slight cold. Maybe she needs to recuperate in the islands!
#1 and #2 - No change. Hmmm I wonder what the service life is on the X-box controller. When they wear out maybe something will happen. Not!
Mom - No word from the wild woman since she has gone to my brother's house. That could be bad or good.
Star - hope to see her soon when she comes up for Jacqui's baby which is due in early April.
Lew - Talking up a storm now. The question of the second is "what is this?" Sometimes I want to pull the last of my hair after about the 1000th question. But we wouldn't have it any other way.
Can you believe that after a year New Orleans is still a pile of trash and within 6 months Cancun was rebuilt and back to normal. Who is the third world country?
They say the economy is doing great and inflation is low. But from where I sit the prices are climbing very fast. Gas prices increase .03 a day. By late May we will hit $4.00 a gallon. But it is ok to give some oil boss a $400 Million retirement package plus post billion dollar quarterly profits. In a near by county, the electric company is raising its prices 72% in June. Why, because the government allowed a price control instituted after de-regulation to expire. They didn't want to upset the Electric Company's boat. Insurance companies are dropping customers because of a loss while the Industry posts billion dollar profits. The County keeps raising my property taxes yet the road is a washboard, no sidewalks or any other civic improvements in my neighborhood. Oh well, I must have my rose colored glasses on and this is all an illusion. The only thing I know is real is that my pocket book is empty.
In May, the company has us all participating in a behavioral study. Hey, I don't need anyone telling me I have no personality and my behavior isn't on the scale. So another fun time is in the making.
I need to start planning a birthday bash for someone turning 50 in May. HeHeHe .... :)
Lady has been under the weather with sinus problems and a slight cold. Maybe she needs to recuperate in the islands!
#1 and #2 - No change. Hmmm I wonder what the service life is on the X-box controller. When they wear out maybe something will happen. Not!
Mom - No word from the wild woman since she has gone to my brother's house. That could be bad or good.
Star - hope to see her soon when she comes up for Jacqui's baby which is due in early April.
Lew - Talking up a storm now. The question of the second is "what is this?" Sometimes I want to pull the last of my hair after about the 1000th question. But we wouldn't have it any other way.
*********
Can you believe that after a year New Orleans is still a pile of trash and within 6 months Cancun was rebuilt and back to normal. Who is the third world country?
They say the economy is doing great and inflation is low. But from where I sit the prices are climbing very fast. Gas prices increase .03 a day. By late May we will hit $4.00 a gallon. But it is ok to give some oil boss a $400 Million retirement package plus post billion dollar quarterly profits. In a near by county, the electric company is raising its prices 72% in June. Why, because the government allowed a price control instituted after de-regulation to expire. They didn't want to upset the Electric Company's boat. Insurance companies are dropping customers because of a loss while the Industry posts billion dollar profits. The County keeps raising my property taxes yet the road is a washboard, no sidewalks or any other civic improvements in my neighborhood. Oh well, I must have my rose colored glasses on and this is all an illusion. The only thing I know is real is that my pocket book is empty.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Scratch - Scratch
Well, mom made it and is doing fine. She was easy to find at the airport, I went to the place where they sell Long Island Ice tea and there she was poking along and eyeing the counter for an empty stool. She brought enough luggage that I felt like an African porter going on a long safari. Just wish I knew some of them cool walking songs they do. Walking around the Mall ... Arrgh! Tonight starts the final practices for the Easter program by the choir. Haven't heard from my brother but he should be home from the hospital.
Work is going good. The old satellite dish comes down this weekend and the new ones get aligned on Thursday. The new office server will get deployed before the end of the month. Then I get to choose the next project from a long line of projects.
**********
No DNA match ... hmmmm. The prosecutor says he has enough to still prosecute them. That should be good. A group of guys attack someone and leave NO DNA evidence. Perhaps the lawyer should listen to his own comments. The other day he said he had pictures to prove she was out of it when they dragged her into the house. Would it be conceivable she was raped somewhere else by someone different and she came too at that party and blamed them in the fog of confusion? Maybe she had a bad experience with her boyfriend and needed an alibi for her husband? Sure looks suspicious.
Immigration - I agree! They came here wrongfully and should go home and do it right. Now as a sign of amnesty they could get a certificate and then that would guarantee they could return once the paperwork is correctly completed by a cutoff date sometime in the future. But when they return they will have to pay income, social security and Medicare tax. This would also pertain to state taxes too. Having the pool of taxable people increase by a couple million would help the Social Security and Medicare balance sheets. So curb the proliferation of illegal’s, strengthen the borders (fences, guards) and really give teeth to the penalties if someone is caught sneaking back in. And for those employers that thrive and support the illegal’s, if INS finds one illegal on a worksite, then they are shutdown for 60 days and fined $1,000,000 per illegal found and based on the information obtained charge them the minimum wage for every hour the illegal worked. That may slowdown the attractiveness of using them to bypass the laws to increase their profit margin.
Terrorism – Give Iraq a date to get their act together or we withdraw all troops and stop the loss of American while they piddle around with their meaningless agendas. As for Iran, set a date for them to comply with the U.N. mandate or if not, then react accordingly. If you are right and without doubt … go at them with strength to force their compliance or if you are unsure, then shut up and mind your own business.
I find it interesting and a bit baffling how someone totally changes someone’s life (The young Lady that hit Paul) and her punishment amounts to a minor charge and a piddly fine. Paul’s medical care matched the fine in the first 30 seconds after the accident. She goes about life without a second thought and on the other side of the coin Paul, his wife, their immediate family is affected in ways no group of people should ever be affected. She is now free to forget everything about that day and Paul and his family will never forget it. The judge had a chance to help many people with her sentence. Community care at some rehab center would highlight the consequence of what she did. In turn, she would help someone recover in a small way; the rehab center could provide a bit more care and the family of the victim would get some help without paying for it. Perhaps by doing this she would know more about the fragility of life and how one careless moment can change things forever. I know some will say it is cruel and I have no business worrying about it. Well, if it is done in a spirit of help it won’t be cruel, more like community service provided by volunteers. My son received more community service (60 hours) for stealing some money than she did for greatly altering the life of another human being. Medicare has now taken up the responsibility for the payment of bills and that does affect me because it is our tax dollars that funds that system. So her actions did affect me and millions of others.
Work is going good. The old satellite dish comes down this weekend and the new ones get aligned on Thursday. The new office server will get deployed before the end of the month. Then I get to choose the next project from a long line of projects.
**********
No DNA match ... hmmmm. The prosecutor says he has enough to still prosecute them. That should be good. A group of guys attack someone and leave NO DNA evidence. Perhaps the lawyer should listen to his own comments. The other day he said he had pictures to prove she was out of it when they dragged her into the house. Would it be conceivable she was raped somewhere else by someone different and she came too at that party and blamed them in the fog of confusion? Maybe she had a bad experience with her boyfriend and needed an alibi for her husband? Sure looks suspicious.
Immigration - I agree! They came here wrongfully and should go home and do it right. Now as a sign of amnesty they could get a certificate and then that would guarantee they could return once the paperwork is correctly completed by a cutoff date sometime in the future. But when they return they will have to pay income, social security and Medicare tax. This would also pertain to state taxes too. Having the pool of taxable people increase by a couple million would help the Social Security and Medicare balance sheets. So curb the proliferation of illegal’s, strengthen the borders (fences, guards) and really give teeth to the penalties if someone is caught sneaking back in. And for those employers that thrive and support the illegal’s, if INS finds one illegal on a worksite, then they are shutdown for 60 days and fined $1,000,000 per illegal found and based on the information obtained charge them the minimum wage for every hour the illegal worked. That may slowdown the attractiveness of using them to bypass the laws to increase their profit margin.
Terrorism – Give Iraq a date to get their act together or we withdraw all troops and stop the loss of American while they piddle around with their meaningless agendas. As for Iran, set a date for them to comply with the U.N. mandate or if not, then react accordingly. If you are right and without doubt … go at them with strength to force their compliance or if you are unsure, then shut up and mind your own business.
I find it interesting and a bit baffling how someone totally changes someone’s life (The young Lady that hit Paul) and her punishment amounts to a minor charge and a piddly fine. Paul’s medical care matched the fine in the first 30 seconds after the accident. She goes about life without a second thought and on the other side of the coin Paul, his wife, their immediate family is affected in ways no group of people should ever be affected. She is now free to forget everything about that day and Paul and his family will never forget it. The judge had a chance to help many people with her sentence. Community care at some rehab center would highlight the consequence of what she did. In turn, she would help someone recover in a small way; the rehab center could provide a bit more care and the family of the victim would get some help without paying for it. Perhaps by doing this she would know more about the fragility of life and how one careless moment can change things forever. I know some will say it is cruel and I have no business worrying about it. Well, if it is done in a spirit of help it won’t be cruel, more like community service provided by volunteers. My son received more community service (60 hours) for stealing some money than she did for greatly altering the life of another human being. Medicare has now taken up the responsibility for the payment of bills and that does affect me because it is our tax dollars that funds that system. So her actions did affect me and millions of others.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Musings of a Tired Ol' man -- Part II
With springtime quickly approaching I wish things would slow down so I could get caught up. Even the grass is growing now and wanting its first cutting. Easter preparation is in full swing (choir and church activities). This weekend one of the young lady's I coach in bowling tried to qualify for the state Pepsi Youth Bowling Tournament. She managed to roll 156-158-146=460. That is outstanding since her average is only 98. We practiced hard last weekend and it paid off this weekend. Best of luck to her as we wait to see if she goes to Richmond for the next level. Needless to say, guess where I will be mother's day weekend if she does! And as usual, it is tax time. Ugh!! Anyone have some spare change ... errr ... dollars?
My brother had gall stone surgery today. Nothing like procrastinating till it finally makes you listen and brings you to your knees. He is doing fine and should go home tomorrow. Normally they do this as "outpatient surgery" but do to the size and inflammation they keep him overnight. True be told, he has been such a pain this last 9 days, his wife asked the doctor to keep him one night.
It never ceases to maze me when they said the DHS official was extremely depressed. I would think so since his little peversion will cost him his job, his family, his freedom and who knows what else. Then the lawyer wanted bail to be set because he had 30-40 people who would vouch for his "upstanding" character. Boy, did he fool them. Just like so many other pedophiles, he kept his little secret well hidden until one mistake exposed it. Just what we need is for him to be set loose to prey on a child again. Gee, Florida comes to mind on how quickly freed pedophiles return to their ways. I wish we would get more serious with these people who think children are for their sexual pleasure. Until we do something radical, this scenario will keep coming to light.
So the pompous congresswoman realized she played the race card at the wrong time. I am happy to see someone finally get caught doing it for this tactic is used more frequently than we wish to admit. Even though she apologized to lessen the whirlwind, the Police should prosecute and set the bar for how serious this was.
Looks like the Montreal expos finally showed up in Washington DC. I have seen better pitching and fielding with the local "A" ball team. Plus the "A" Team has better prices and it feels like baseball should.
My brother had gall stone surgery today. Nothing like procrastinating till it finally makes you listen and brings you to your knees. He is doing fine and should go home tomorrow. Normally they do this as "outpatient surgery" but do to the size and inflammation they keep him overnight. True be told, he has been such a pain this last 9 days, his wife asked the doctor to keep him one night.
*****
It never ceases to maze me when they said the DHS official was extremely depressed. I would think so since his little peversion will cost him his job, his family, his freedom and who knows what else. Then the lawyer wanted bail to be set because he had 30-40 people who would vouch for his "upstanding" character. Boy, did he fool them. Just like so many other pedophiles, he kept his little secret well hidden until one mistake exposed it. Just what we need is for him to be set loose to prey on a child again. Gee, Florida comes to mind on how quickly freed pedophiles return to their ways. I wish we would get more serious with these people who think children are for their sexual pleasure. Until we do something radical, this scenario will keep coming to light.
So the pompous congresswoman realized she played the race card at the wrong time. I am happy to see someone finally get caught doing it for this tactic is used more frequently than we wish to admit. Even though she apologized to lessen the whirlwind, the Police should prosecute and set the bar for how serious this was.
Looks like the Montreal expos finally showed up in Washington DC. I have seen better pitching and fielding with the local "A" ball team. Plus the "A" Team has better prices and it feels like baseball should.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/09/06
Dear Friends:
As we end the first full weekend of Paul being home we feel that being home is positive for. Saturday was busy for everyone. The CNA came around 6am. She works a 12 hour day. Whew!! She seems quiet but is very nice and tends to Paul well. Dad came around 10am so Tabby could go to Starbucks (this is a regular routine for Tabby every Saturday!). Dad got Paul up after he was dressed and put him in the wheelchair for a bit. He had restarted his muscle relaxers and as we know it usually affects him. He was still able to support his weight and with help from Dad he walked to the wheelchair. He didn't do quite as well walking as he did on Friday. It was raining to he wasn't able to go outside. Dad left around 1:30 to take his sister to the airport and meet me so we could go to lunch with Bill & Ronda (this is part of OUR Saturday routine!!). Bobby stayed with Paul. This was the first time that Bobby has done the feeding but it went OK. There is an art to it though!! When Dad & I got back to the house later in the evening a Nurse from PW Home Health Services at PW Hospital was there doing her intake. She received Paul as a patient late on Friday night. She went over his history and took his vitals. She got information from us that the hospital doesn't document ... like what he is and isn't capable of doing. Her agency is also in charge of getting the therapists will come from. They will start early in the week. It will probably take a while to get a routine down.
Sunday was a quiet day at home for Paul. Paul was up and watching a movie when I arrived. He was holding his head up really well and was alert. Tabby said she was working with Paul to do some sign language to say "OK". She said he tried to make an "O" sound!! Dad got Paul up and walked about 10-15 feet. They worked on balancing while standing as well. A member from church came to bring some leftovers from the Picnic/Easter Egg hunt that we had today after the service. Paul seemed to enjoy seeing him. He got a little wave before he left. A short time after I arrived one of Paul's best friend from work came by. He spent about an hour with Paul. He rode his Harley Davidson so we took Paul outside to see it. Paul had given much advise to his friend on how he should fix it up. Paul got to see the work that had been done. Paul also got to hear it started up and running. Dad tried to get him to hold the handlebar to feel the vibrations from the bike. He didn't hold it long but I think he enjoyed hearing it and the story about fixing it up! It was a great time with such a great friend! When he prepared to leave Paul made mouth movement that appeared that he was saying "bye"!! Tabby had bought the DVD of The Chronicles of Narnia and when I left this evening he, Dad & Tabby were preparing to watch it. All in all Paul had a great weekend. As we prepare for Easter this week I am reminded that we have been so blessed by God's love. We praise God for holding Paul so closely during these last five months. We praise Him for the love of friends & family that have been right beside us. Most of all we praise Him for sacrificing His son so that we might be saved and spend eternity in Heaven. We are hopeful that Paul will be able to come to the Sonrise Service Easter morning. This was a special tradition for Paul & Tabby. It is also an opportunity for Paul to see many people who have been a special part of his life. Have a great week.
Love, Lynne & Carl
As we end the first full weekend of Paul being home we feel that being home is positive for. Saturday was busy for everyone. The CNA came around 6am. She works a 12 hour day. Whew!! She seems quiet but is very nice and tends to Paul well. Dad came around 10am so Tabby could go to Starbucks (this is a regular routine for Tabby every Saturday!). Dad got Paul up after he was dressed and put him in the wheelchair for a bit. He had restarted his muscle relaxers and as we know it usually affects him. He was still able to support his weight and with help from Dad he walked to the wheelchair. He didn't do quite as well walking as he did on Friday. It was raining to he wasn't able to go outside. Dad left around 1:30 to take his sister to the airport and meet me so we could go to lunch with Bill & Ronda (this is part of OUR Saturday routine!!). Bobby stayed with Paul. This was the first time that Bobby has done the feeding but it went OK. There is an art to it though!! When Dad & I got back to the house later in the evening a Nurse from PW Home Health Services at PW Hospital was there doing her intake. She received Paul as a patient late on Friday night. She went over his history and took his vitals. She got information from us that the hospital doesn't document ... like what he is and isn't capable of doing. Her agency is also in charge of getting the therapists will come from. They will start early in the week. It will probably take a while to get a routine down.
Sunday was a quiet day at home for Paul. Paul was up and watching a movie when I arrived. He was holding his head up really well and was alert. Tabby said she was working with Paul to do some sign language to say "OK". She said he tried to make an "O" sound!! Dad got Paul up and walked about 10-15 feet. They worked on balancing while standing as well. A member from church came to bring some leftovers from the Picnic/Easter Egg hunt that we had today after the service. Paul seemed to enjoy seeing him. He got a little wave before he left. A short time after I arrived one of Paul's best friend from work came by. He spent about an hour with Paul. He rode his Harley Davidson so we took Paul outside to see it. Paul had given much advise to his friend on how he should fix it up. Paul got to see the work that had been done. Paul also got to hear it started up and running. Dad tried to get him to hold the handlebar to feel the vibrations from the bike. He didn't hold it long but I think he enjoyed hearing it and the story about fixing it up! It was a great time with such a great friend! When he prepared to leave Paul made mouth movement that appeared that he was saying "bye"!! Tabby had bought the DVD of The Chronicles of Narnia and when I left this evening he, Dad & Tabby were preparing to watch it. All in all Paul had a great weekend. As we prepare for Easter this week I am reminded that we have been so blessed by God's love. We praise God for holding Paul so closely during these last five months. We praise Him for the love of friends & family that have been right beside us. Most of all we praise Him for sacrificing His son so that we might be saved and spend eternity in Heaven. We are hopeful that Paul will be able to come to the Sonrise Service Easter morning. This was a special tradition for Paul & Tabby. It is also an opportunity for Paul to see many people who have been a special part of his life. Have a great week.
Love, Lynne & Carl
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/07/06
Dear Friends:
Paul's first whole day at home! His first night went fairly well. It seems he is comfortable being back in his own home. The CNA arrived at 6am. Dad got there around 7:30am and they got Paul up and dressed. The put him in the wheelchair and he sat up for a bit. After the 11am feeding Dad got him out of the bed and walked him to the kitchen where the wheelchair was. He walked with Dad's assistance about 15 feet. Paul did most of the work ... Dad just held him up and helped him keep his balance. Once in the wheelchair he sat up for a while before going back to bed. Around 2pm Dad got him up again and took him outside. They sat outside watching the traffic for about 2 hours. He stayed in the wheelchair until about 6pm watching the TV in his room. He was doing lots of movement with arms and legs and sat with his head up all day. Around 6pm Dad got him back in the bed. He was moving his legs a lot and even tried to reach his sock on the right foot. He moved the right foot up so that he could reach it with his left hand. He even tried to sit up a little bit to help reach it. When I came into the room he looked over at me to see who was there. The RN came this morning to tell Dad what to expect. She also told him what kinds of things Medicaid will cover and she will order some things. Some of these things we were previously told Medicaid would NOT cover. She also has a bathtub chair that she will bring over for Paul to use. The therapists didn't come today. We aren't sure why but the RN will call the Case Manager at Mt. Vernon to see who she called to order therapists. The good thing is Dad already knows what the therapists at Mt. Vernon were working on and he can do some of those things while we wait for things to get straightened out. Saturday will be a crazy day since all of us have things to do throughout the day. It appears we will be sharing times to go and feed Paul since the CNA doesn't do feedings. The CNA is very nice and I hope she will continue to work out. So far we've been blessed with many good things. We know God is doing good works in Paul!! When we left tonight (Dad & I actually got to leave a bit early) lots of people had arrived to visit and finish some of the last few things that need to be done to the house. What a blessing!
Have a great weekend! Lynne & Carl
Paul's first whole day at home! His first night went fairly well. It seems he is comfortable being back in his own home. The CNA arrived at 6am. Dad got there around 7:30am and they got Paul up and dressed. The put him in the wheelchair and he sat up for a bit. After the 11am feeding Dad got him out of the bed and walked him to the kitchen where the wheelchair was. He walked with Dad's assistance about 15 feet. Paul did most of the work ... Dad just held him up and helped him keep his balance. Once in the wheelchair he sat up for a while before going back to bed. Around 2pm Dad got him up again and took him outside. They sat outside watching the traffic for about 2 hours. He stayed in the wheelchair until about 6pm watching the TV in his room. He was doing lots of movement with arms and legs and sat with his head up all day. Around 6pm Dad got him back in the bed. He was moving his legs a lot and even tried to reach his sock on the right foot. He moved the right foot up so that he could reach it with his left hand. He even tried to sit up a little bit to help reach it. When I came into the room he looked over at me to see who was there. The RN came this morning to tell Dad what to expect. She also told him what kinds of things Medicaid will cover and she will order some things. Some of these things we were previously told Medicaid would NOT cover. She also has a bathtub chair that she will bring over for Paul to use. The therapists didn't come today. We aren't sure why but the RN will call the Case Manager at Mt. Vernon to see who she called to order therapists. The good thing is Dad already knows what the therapists at Mt. Vernon were working on and he can do some of those things while we wait for things to get straightened out. Saturday will be a crazy day since all of us have things to do throughout the day. It appears we will be sharing times to go and feed Paul since the CNA doesn't do feedings. The CNA is very nice and I hope she will continue to work out. So far we've been blessed with many good things. We know God is doing good works in Paul!! When we left tonight (Dad & I actually got to leave a bit early) lots of people had arrived to visit and finish some of the last few things that need to be done to the house. What a blessing!
Have a great weekend! Lynne & Carl
Friday, April 07, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/06/06
Dear Friends:
Paul came home today. He worked with the speech & Occupational therapists this morning before going home. The speech therapist gave him about 1/2 a popsicle and worked to exercise his mouth and tongue. His swallowing was a little better today but she wasn't absolutely sure he was swallowing all of it since he wouldn't make vocal sounds to show his throat was clear. He wouldn't work with the buzzer today. He shook his head "no" and pulled his hand away when she asked him if he wanted to work with it!! She talked to him a bit and told him he needed to work on exercising his vocal cords. He had occupational therapy after that. He went into the bathroom and she tried to get him to take a washcloth to his face using his left hand. He couldn't reach it but he tried. He washed his right arm with it since he could reach that. She put the deodorant in his right hand and asked him to take the lid off ... he shook his head "no". She finally got him to take the lid off she put the deodorant in his left hand and he applied it. Then they got him dressed. When it got closer to time to go home it appeared he had a little anxiety attack about leaving. The handicapped cab came at 2pm but the paperwork to release him wasn't ready until 2:30pm. The cab driver followed Tabby back to the house. While driving home there was a Harley Motorcycle went by and he looked over and watched it go by. They got almost home but he got sick in the cab. It was just a long trip. When they got home Paul was very upset. It took a little bit to get him calmed. I suppose the trip or being back home could be enough to be upsetting. When Dad & Tabby got him in the hospital bed they realized that the bed wasn't working. The electrical cords of the bed were not working. Apparently they were crushed while it was being stored. Someone from the company that owns the bed came to repair it. Dad took Paul outside to watch his cousin and a friend work on a walkway up to the house. Paul's friend is working to see if they can get a discount or donation on the concrete. What a blessing that would be!! Friday we will have the nurse, the CNA & all the therapists at the house to meet Paul and see the house. We will have more information about when they will be coming to do therapy. The CNA will come everyday from 6am to 6pm. The therapists will come every day Monday through Friday for each regimen (Speech, Occupational and Physical therapy). Paul was making lots of vocal sounds today. It seems like he is trying to say words. This is the most he has made vocal sounds. The work on the house is mostly complete now. The bathtub fixtures are still being worked on but most everything else is done!! We are so thankful for all the helpers that have come. We couldn't have been ready for today without all the help!
Have a great day (TGIF), Lynne & Carl
Paul came home today. He worked with the speech & Occupational therapists this morning before going home. The speech therapist gave him about 1/2 a popsicle and worked to exercise his mouth and tongue. His swallowing was a little better today but she wasn't absolutely sure he was swallowing all of it since he wouldn't make vocal sounds to show his throat was clear. He wouldn't work with the buzzer today. He shook his head "no" and pulled his hand away when she asked him if he wanted to work with it!! She talked to him a bit and told him he needed to work on exercising his vocal cords. He had occupational therapy after that. He went into the bathroom and she tried to get him to take a washcloth to his face using his left hand. He couldn't reach it but he tried. He washed his right arm with it since he could reach that. She put the deodorant in his right hand and asked him to take the lid off ... he shook his head "no". She finally got him to take the lid off she put the deodorant in his left hand and he applied it. Then they got him dressed. When it got closer to time to go home it appeared he had a little anxiety attack about leaving. The handicapped cab came at 2pm but the paperwork to release him wasn't ready until 2:30pm. The cab driver followed Tabby back to the house. While driving home there was a Harley Motorcycle went by and he looked over and watched it go by. They got almost home but he got sick in the cab. It was just a long trip. When they got home Paul was very upset. It took a little bit to get him calmed. I suppose the trip or being back home could be enough to be upsetting. When Dad & Tabby got him in the hospital bed they realized that the bed wasn't working. The electrical cords of the bed were not working. Apparently they were crushed while it was being stored. Someone from the company that owns the bed came to repair it. Dad took Paul outside to watch his cousin and a friend work on a walkway up to the house. Paul's friend is working to see if they can get a discount or donation on the concrete. What a blessing that would be!! Friday we will have the nurse, the CNA & all the therapists at the house to meet Paul and see the house. We will have more information about when they will be coming to do therapy. The CNA will come everyday from 6am to 6pm. The therapists will come every day Monday through Friday for each regimen (Speech, Occupational and Physical therapy). Paul was making lots of vocal sounds today. It seems like he is trying to say words. This is the most he has made vocal sounds. The work on the house is mostly complete now. The bathtub fixtures are still being worked on but most everything else is done!! We are so thankful for all the helpers that have come. We couldn't have been ready for today without all the help!
Have a great day (TGIF), Lynne & Carl
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/05/06
Dear Friends:
Today was court day. We arrived at the courthouse at 8am and waited for Tabby's attorney to get there. The docket starts at 9am and Tabby's attorney wanted to get a chance to talk to the commonwealth's attorney who would be prosecuting the case. The girl that hit Paul plead "not guilty". This wasn't a surprised to us. Her attorney indicated that they were going to plead that way but they were really not going to contest the testimony from the witness. The judge found her guilty and fined her. Now the way is paved to proceed with payment from the insurance company and the eventual civil suit that Tabby will file. It is really difficult to determine how this girl feels about what happened. We had NO direct contact with her. The case ran very long and we didn't leave the courthouse until around 1:30pm. We took Tabby home and then Dad dropped me home before leaving for the hospital. The speech therapist came in at 3pm. This is the only therapy Dad was there for. She continues to exercise his mouth and gums. She talked to him about his release and told him what to expect. She also told Paul that he needs to be exercising his arms and legs on his own whenever he can. She tried to put some ice cream in his mouth but he didn't even try to chew or swallow it. He really hasn't tried to swallow anything she has given him for the last several days. Dad said later Paul started trying to move his arm all around ... maybe he remembered what the therapist said and was exercising it. She plans to give us some information to obtain supplies that will help when we get home. The physical therapist told Dad that they walked three sets today and did most of the length of the gym. He held his head up good for her. Dad didn't see the OT today ... tomorrow he will have OT first thing and Speech after. The doctor has arranged for transport in the afternoon on Thursday. Friday a nurse will come to assess the house and our readiness. Then the Certified Nurses Aid will start the same day. We are not sure when the therapies will start but it sounds like everything is trying to be arranged for them to start very soon. We appreciate your continued prayers ... Thursday should be a difficult day. We are certainly anxious about this new step of Paul's recovery. As of yesterday Paul has been in the hospital for five months. Being at home will be different for Paul but we expect it will be good for him!
Love & Hugs, Lynne & Carl
Today was court day. We arrived at the courthouse at 8am and waited for Tabby's attorney to get there. The docket starts at 9am and Tabby's attorney wanted to get a chance to talk to the commonwealth's attorney who would be prosecuting the case. The girl that hit Paul plead "not guilty". This wasn't a surprised to us. Her attorney indicated that they were going to plead that way but they were really not going to contest the testimony from the witness. The judge found her guilty and fined her. Now the way is paved to proceed with payment from the insurance company and the eventual civil suit that Tabby will file. It is really difficult to determine how this girl feels about what happened. We had NO direct contact with her. The case ran very long and we didn't leave the courthouse until around 1:30pm. We took Tabby home and then Dad dropped me home before leaving for the hospital. The speech therapist came in at 3pm. This is the only therapy Dad was there for. She continues to exercise his mouth and gums. She talked to him about his release and told him what to expect. She also told Paul that he needs to be exercising his arms and legs on his own whenever he can. She tried to put some ice cream in his mouth but he didn't even try to chew or swallow it. He really hasn't tried to swallow anything she has given him for the last several days. Dad said later Paul started trying to move his arm all around ... maybe he remembered what the therapist said and was exercising it. She plans to give us some information to obtain supplies that will help when we get home. The physical therapist told Dad that they walked three sets today and did most of the length of the gym. He held his head up good for her. Dad didn't see the OT today ... tomorrow he will have OT first thing and Speech after. The doctor has arranged for transport in the afternoon on Thursday. Friday a nurse will come to assess the house and our readiness. Then the Certified Nurses Aid will start the same day. We are not sure when the therapies will start but it sounds like everything is trying to be arranged for them to start very soon. We appreciate your continued prayers ... Thursday should be a difficult day. We are certainly anxious about this new step of Paul's recovery. As of yesterday Paul has been in the hospital for five months. Being at home will be different for Paul but we expect it will be good for him!
Love & Hugs, Lynne & Carl
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Paul's Update - 04/04/06
Dear Friends:
Today was a little slower day. Speech was suppose to be at 2pm but the therapist's 10am patient couldn't be woken so she switched Paul's time to 10am. She tried to talk to Paul about the many ways to communicate. He needs three signals "yes", "no" and "doesn't matter". Thumbs up for yes, thumbs down for no and open hand or no thumb for doesn't matter or has no answer. If he answers a yes question he has to be answer a no question consistently right after as a "control" question to know he understood the question. She worked open his hand, close his hand, put his thumb up and put his thumb down. She told him how important it is to be consistent. He didn't do well, but she will keep working on it. She also exercised his face and tongue. PT was at 11am. They walked with the walker and he kept his head up. He went about 1/2 the length of the gym before taking a rest. Then he walked another 1/2 of the gym. OT was at 1pm. The therapist worked on getting Paul to pick up things and put them in a bowl after she stretched his arms. He did OK but he wouldn't open his hand for her some of the time. She gave him a 2lb weight and he was supposed to give it to Dad. He took it and moved it toward Dad but then he just stood it on one end but wouldn't give it to Dad. It was cold outside so he wasn't able to go out. He stayed up in the wheelchair for a couple of hours. The doctor told Dad that he increased Paul's meds again last night. Tonight he seemed pretty tired and wasn't moving much. The doctor told Dad that he suspects that Paul's stiffness in the left arm may not be something he cannot control ... rather he purposely stops people from moving the arm. The doctor doesn't know for sure and doesn't know what he plans to do about it yet. At the house Tabby had the hospital bed delivered. They also delivered a walker, a suction machine (for the saliva) and some of the liquid food. It appears that Paul will be coming home sometime between 11-2pm on Thursday! Wednesday is court day. Bobby, Tabby, Tabby's attorney, Dad & I are all planning to be there. It will be the first time that any of us have seen the girl that hit Paul. We won't really have any part of this proceeding but we want to be there and impress upon the District Attorney how serious her "failure to yield" was! Pray for us as we are all at another anxious part of this long ordeal. We know God is in charge of this and we hope for the appropriate justice will be done.
Have a great day! Lynne & Carl
Today was a little slower day. Speech was suppose to be at 2pm but the therapist's 10am patient couldn't be woken so she switched Paul's time to 10am. She tried to talk to Paul about the many ways to communicate. He needs three signals "yes", "no" and "doesn't matter". Thumbs up for yes, thumbs down for no and open hand or no thumb for doesn't matter or has no answer. If he answers a yes question he has to be answer a no question consistently right after as a "control" question to know he understood the question. She worked open his hand, close his hand, put his thumb up and put his thumb down. She told him how important it is to be consistent. He didn't do well, but she will keep working on it. She also exercised his face and tongue. PT was at 11am. They walked with the walker and he kept his head up. He went about 1/2 the length of the gym before taking a rest. Then he walked another 1/2 of the gym. OT was at 1pm. The therapist worked on getting Paul to pick up things and put them in a bowl after she stretched his arms. He did OK but he wouldn't open his hand for her some of the time. She gave him a 2lb weight and he was supposed to give it to Dad. He took it and moved it toward Dad but then he just stood it on one end but wouldn't give it to Dad. It was cold outside so he wasn't able to go out. He stayed up in the wheelchair for a couple of hours. The doctor told Dad that he increased Paul's meds again last night. Tonight he seemed pretty tired and wasn't moving much. The doctor told Dad that he suspects that Paul's stiffness in the left arm may not be something he cannot control ... rather he purposely stops people from moving the arm. The doctor doesn't know for sure and doesn't know what he plans to do about it yet. At the house Tabby had the hospital bed delivered. They also delivered a walker, a suction machine (for the saliva) and some of the liquid food. It appears that Paul will be coming home sometime between 11-2pm on Thursday! Wednesday is court day. Bobby, Tabby, Tabby's attorney, Dad & I are all planning to be there. It will be the first time that any of us have seen the girl that hit Paul. We won't really have any part of this proceeding but we want to be there and impress upon the District Attorney how serious her "failure to yield" was! Pray for us as we are all at another anxious part of this long ordeal. We know God is in charge of this and we hope for the appropriate justice will be done.
Have a great day! Lynne & Carl
Musings of a Tired Ol' man
Well, life returns to normal after a brief respite. Satellite Dishes installed on the 12th floor on Saturday, last second web changes over the weekend, and then the usual things a weekend incurs.
I started reading “The Journey” by Billy Graham this week and I have found it a great reading so far. Its message is simple but straight to the point. Sometimes, I need at light tap by a 2x4 to get it through my thick skull.
Lady had her procedure done and every thing went well as all the suspicious places were accounted for. We arrived at the hospital at 6:45 am and got home about 3:00 pm. A long day especially for the tush having to endure those hard seats. On the 12th we go back for the results. We know will be good, so maybe we will play hooky. Thanks for the prayers and support.
Bowling Scene: We finished 3rd on our Sunday night league. Sure beats finishing next to the bottom. Summer Youth league will start in about 6 weeks so I can enjoy a few quiet Sunday afternoons till then. This weekend two of my students whom I coach will be bowling in a tournament. Good Luck Michaela and Tenairi.
Manassas will never be the same after Monday, 10 April. Wild Mom will be here to spread her cheer and perhaps some oats. She will spend 2 weeks with us and two with my brother.
I see the oil companies are adding to their profits again. Prices just keep escalating to what ever level they desire. Yes, we will squeal when the price hits 3.00. They will drop it .25 and we will waddle off smiling that we won all the while that price will leave us paying .60 more than last year. I still maintain that we either regulate the price or demand new refinery capability within 2 years. They can do it if pushed, but that also means the politicians will lose some of their “gifts”.
Paul's Update - 04/03/06
Dear Friends:
I'm a little behind since I went away for a much needed weekend with two of my girlfriends. It was very relaxing but I thought of Paul most of the weekend. Dad was with him all weekend and has kept me up to date on his progress. God has blessed us with lots of great things to report!!
Saturday we have two therapies scheduled. OT was scheduled first. They worked to stretch his arms and legs. They also stretched his back and neck. He seems more flexible each day. He is helping more. Speech therapy was spent mostly on exercising his mouth and tongue. She worked with the buzzer a bit. She had asked him to push the button twice and he did that but he wouldn't let go until she told him to. The therapist said she had consulted with the psychiatrist on staff about Paul's injury and his difficulty with following commands. The doctor said that she had a patient before that was just like Paul except that she could talk. While working with her the doctor finally asked her if she understood what she was being asked and her response was "I can understand everything you are saying but I can't make my body do what you ask". When Paul heard her talking to Dad he started to nod his head "yes". Then he reached up and did the buzzer twice. It's possible he is understanding more than he can respond to!! Sunday is our quiet day. Dad worked to exercise Paul and then later in the day they were able to go outside for fresh air. While they were outside near the emergency room there was an ambulance leaving. Dad said "noisy huh?" and Paul nodded his head. Then another ambulance on the other side of him started up his engine and Paul turned his head to watch them pull out. Then Dad decided to have a change of scenery so they went to the garden in the front of the hospital. Dad saw birds and said "do you see the birds over to the left?" and Paul nodded his head. Then he said "there is a couple of them in the tree" and Paul looked up to see them!! Later they went to the patio outside of the cafeteria. It is on the second floor of the hospital and there is a glass wall with a board trim on the top of it. If you look through the glass there was only a roof to look at and the wood trim was right above that. Dad said "you can't see anything can you?" and Paul shook his head "no". Sounds familiar huh? He was doing these kinds of things before the meds zonked him out. How wonderful it is to see him respond. Later in the evening his nurse came in to say goodbye for the night (and next few days) and he raised his left hand to wave at her!! We also now are seeing Paul move his arms and legs much more. Dad was able to work with Paul's left arm and get his hand all the way up to his chin ... three times!! Monday we get back into the weekday routine. Dad missed ADL today but the therapist said he was doing really good. He was reaching for his clothes and raised his leg to put his pants on before she asked him to. He also reached for the washcloth before she was ready to put it in his hand. PT went really good today. Paul worked with less assistance while used the walker. He didn't go as far but he did better. He held his head up and looked at Dad the whole time he was walking. The Speech therapist mostly worked with swallowing and exercising his tongue and cheeks. She tried to get him to lick a spoon but he wouldn't do it. She tried to reach and grab his tongue to get it to come out. He pulls his tongue back from her. But later she saw him lick his lips ... she knows he CAN do it. The Speech therapist told the doctor that the swallowing action seems to be almost completely absent and she feels that it is drug related but she told the him that Paul is doing so much better in so many other things that she doesn't want him to change any meds. Later in the afternoon Dad took Paul outside. They were sitting under the pavilion (near the emergency room) and Dad asked Paul if he wanted him to move the wheelchair into the sun. He said "if you want me to move you all you have to do it hold your thumb up". He took his hand and showed him how to do it. Then he asked him again and Paul just sat there with his thumb tucked in, but when he asked "do you want to go back to the room?" he turned his hand up and gave him a "thumbs up". Tonight we had a visitor ... Uncle Jimmy came by. Every time Uncle Jimmy talked to Paul he looked up at him and paid attention. Then when Uncle Jimmy was leaving he said "next time I see you it will be at your house" and Paul got a big smile on his face. Later Dad & Paul were watching a funny commercial where the husband was fixing tiles in the bathroom with a deer head. Dad asked Paul if he would put a deer head in the shower and Paul smiled!! I saved the best for last ... when Tabby called the hospital tonight to get an update on how the day went she told Dad to tell Paul she loved him. Dad suggested she talk to Paul and held the phone to his ear. She said "hey babe" and HE made a noise that sounded like "hi". It is the first time he has made noise with his voice that appeared that he was trying to say something. Tuesday the hospital bed will be delivered. We are almost ready for Paul to come home on Thursday. It seems a shame that Paul is finally doing well in therapy just in time to go home! But we are hopeful that he will do even better in his own environment!! It appears that God has orchestrated things that make us more ready for Paul to come home. Our prayers have been answered over and over ... God is so good!!
Blessings, Lynne & Carl
I'm a little behind since I went away for a much needed weekend with two of my girlfriends. It was very relaxing but I thought of Paul most of the weekend. Dad was with him all weekend and has kept me up to date on his progress. God has blessed us with lots of great things to report!!
Saturday we have two therapies scheduled. OT was scheduled first. They worked to stretch his arms and legs. They also stretched his back and neck. He seems more flexible each day. He is helping more. Speech therapy was spent mostly on exercising his mouth and tongue. She worked with the buzzer a bit. She had asked him to push the button twice and he did that but he wouldn't let go until she told him to. The therapist said she had consulted with the psychiatrist on staff about Paul's injury and his difficulty with following commands. The doctor said that she had a patient before that was just like Paul except that she could talk. While working with her the doctor finally asked her if she understood what she was being asked and her response was "I can understand everything you are saying but I can't make my body do what you ask". When Paul heard her talking to Dad he started to nod his head "yes". Then he reached up and did the buzzer twice. It's possible he is understanding more than he can respond to!! Sunday is our quiet day. Dad worked to exercise Paul and then later in the day they were able to go outside for fresh air. While they were outside near the emergency room there was an ambulance leaving. Dad said "noisy huh?" and Paul nodded his head. Then another ambulance on the other side of him started up his engine and Paul turned his head to watch them pull out. Then Dad decided to have a change of scenery so they went to the garden in the front of the hospital. Dad saw birds and said "do you see the birds over to the left?" and Paul nodded his head. Then he said "there is a couple of them in the tree" and Paul looked up to see them!! Later they went to the patio outside of the cafeteria. It is on the second floor of the hospital and there is a glass wall with a board trim on the top of it. If you look through the glass there was only a roof to look at and the wood trim was right above that. Dad said "you can't see anything can you?" and Paul shook his head "no". Sounds familiar huh? He was doing these kinds of things before the meds zonked him out. How wonderful it is to see him respond. Later in the evening his nurse came in to say goodbye for the night (and next few days) and he raised his left hand to wave at her!! We also now are seeing Paul move his arms and legs much more. Dad was able to work with Paul's left arm and get his hand all the way up to his chin ... three times!! Monday we get back into the weekday routine. Dad missed ADL today but the therapist said he was doing really good. He was reaching for his clothes and raised his leg to put his pants on before she asked him to. He also reached for the washcloth before she was ready to put it in his hand. PT went really good today. Paul worked with less assistance while used the walker. He didn't go as far but he did better. He held his head up and looked at Dad the whole time he was walking. The Speech therapist mostly worked with swallowing and exercising his tongue and cheeks. She tried to get him to lick a spoon but he wouldn't do it. She tried to reach and grab his tongue to get it to come out. He pulls his tongue back from her. But later she saw him lick his lips ... she knows he CAN do it. The Speech therapist told the doctor that the swallowing action seems to be almost completely absent and she feels that it is drug related but she told the him that Paul is doing so much better in so many other things that she doesn't want him to change any meds. Later in the afternoon Dad took Paul outside. They were sitting under the pavilion (near the emergency room) and Dad asked Paul if he wanted him to move the wheelchair into the sun. He said "if you want me to move you all you have to do it hold your thumb up". He took his hand and showed him how to do it. Then he asked him again and Paul just sat there with his thumb tucked in, but when he asked "do you want to go back to the room?" he turned his hand up and gave him a "thumbs up". Tonight we had a visitor ... Uncle Jimmy came by. Every time Uncle Jimmy talked to Paul he looked up at him and paid attention. Then when Uncle Jimmy was leaving he said "next time I see you it will be at your house" and Paul got a big smile on his face. Later Dad & Paul were watching a funny commercial where the husband was fixing tiles in the bathroom with a deer head. Dad asked Paul if he would put a deer head in the shower and Paul smiled!! I saved the best for last ... when Tabby called the hospital tonight to get an update on how the day went she told Dad to tell Paul she loved him. Dad suggested she talk to Paul and held the phone to his ear. She said "hey babe" and HE made a noise that sounded like "hi". It is the first time he has made noise with his voice that appeared that he was trying to say something. Tuesday the hospital bed will be delivered. We are almost ready for Paul to come home on Thursday. It seems a shame that Paul is finally doing well in therapy just in time to go home! But we are hopeful that he will do even better in his own environment!! It appears that God has orchestrated things that make us more ready for Paul to come home. Our prayers have been answered over and over ... God is so good!!
Blessings, Lynne & Carl
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Paul's Update - 03/31/06
Hi all, this e-mail coming to you courtesy of Bobby, as mom is out of town ... again ... o here we go.
Most of the details in this report have been taken through third party information (through Dad, I couldn't make it up there today)
Sound like we had a real good day today. Paul kept his head up ALL DAY today. He typically slouches or hangs his head especiallly when concentrating on some physical task (or on just about anything that takes his focus away from holding his head up).
He seems to still be having trouble with his vision on the right side. He's able to track things from left to right, but not from right to left. ("track things" refers to an object being passed through his field of vision. "Tracking" can be done either by just the eyes, and/or by turning the head to follow the object as it passes through the visual field.). When presented with two objects (his hat, and a cup) he was able to look at the object requested, but only when the object was held up higher than the non requested item (i.e. he could look at his hat, but only when it was held up higher than the cup).
OT (occupational Therapy) worked with him on moving into a sitting position. From a sitting position they would lay him onto his side and have him lift himself back into a sitting position. This is a little more complicated than it sounds (try it). He apparently did pretty good with it, even using his right arm (the weaker arm) to push himself up at one point.
PT (Physical Therapy) worked on trying to relax the upper arm and shoulder muscles. He was able to raise his shoulders (in kind of a shrugging motion) up to nearly ear level (which is about normal, I know, your're trying it, I'll wait ...)
It looks like things are set for him to come home on the 6th (that's this Thursday). I personally wanted to thank everyone that's helped out on helping get the house ready for him. I don't want to forget anyone (and I would), so I'll just say you know who you are. We are almost finished, just a few more details (paint this, move that, clean up, install bathroom fixtures, etc.) and we'll be all set. I'm not sure who all will be here this weekend, but anyone wanting to help should e-mail Tabby at tabitha.johnson@comcast.net
The pending court case for "Failure to Yeild" is this Wednesday. I believe this will probably only be where she enters a guilty/not guilty plea as to my knowledge, no witnesses have been contacted. We will keep everybody posted.
Well, that about sums up the day. I'm not sure how long mom is out of town as I only just found out prior to this e-mail that she was gone (I really should stay in touch more)
Thanks again for all your prayers and support.
-----Bobby
Most of the details in this report have been taken through third party information (through Dad, I couldn't make it up there today)
Sound like we had a real good day today. Paul kept his head up ALL DAY today. He typically slouches or hangs his head especiallly when concentrating on some physical task (or on just about anything that takes his focus away from holding his head up).
He seems to still be having trouble with his vision on the right side. He's able to track things from left to right, but not from right to left. ("track things" refers to an object being passed through his field of vision. "Tracking" can be done either by just the eyes, and/or by turning the head to follow the object as it passes through the visual field.). When presented with two objects (his hat, and a cup) he was able to look at the object requested, but only when the object was held up higher than the non requested item (i.e. he could look at his hat, but only when it was held up higher than the cup).
OT (occupational Therapy) worked with him on moving into a sitting position. From a sitting position they would lay him onto his side and have him lift himself back into a sitting position. This is a little more complicated than it sounds (try it). He apparently did pretty good with it, even using his right arm (the weaker arm) to push himself up at one point.
PT (Physical Therapy) worked on trying to relax the upper arm and shoulder muscles. He was able to raise his shoulders (in kind of a shrugging motion) up to nearly ear level (which is about normal, I know, your're trying it, I'll wait ...)
It looks like things are set for him to come home on the 6th (that's this Thursday). I personally wanted to thank everyone that's helped out on helping get the house ready for him. I don't want to forget anyone (and I would), so I'll just say you know who you are. We are almost finished, just a few more details (paint this, move that, clean up, install bathroom fixtures, etc.) and we'll be all set. I'm not sure who all will be here this weekend, but anyone wanting to help should e-mail Tabby at tabitha.johnson@comcast.net
The pending court case for "Failure to Yeild" is this Wednesday. I believe this will probably only be where she enters a guilty/not guilty plea as to my knowledge, no witnesses have been contacted. We will keep everybody posted.
Well, that about sums up the day. I'm not sure how long mom is out of town as I only just found out prior to this e-mail that she was gone (I really should stay in touch more)
Thanks again for all your prayers and support.
-----Bobby
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