Thursday, May 1, 2008

Good progress

Richard made some milestones today. We arrived this AM to find him sitting up (not by himself) and eyes wide open. He looks around the room although we've determined he isnt focusing on anything, just looking. They also had to put mittens on his hands because he is grabbing things. He keeps scratching his abdominal incision so now he looks like a boxer because thats what they look like. I took a picture! He finally has gotten used to the trach. We worked with him all day on moving his arms and legs. I wouldnt say he does it on command. Sometimes he does but sometimes he moves when you dont tell him to. So we arent sure if he hears us or not. Finally, we let him get some sleep because he looked wore out and aggitated. We came back around 6pm and he appeared to be resting comfortably. They had bathed him and changed all his dressings. Then, Mom noticed the ventilator wasnt "working properly" . After close examination, I realized it wasnt on.....HE IS BREATHING ON HIS OWN!!!!!!!! Its on a back up program to turn on automatically if he stops, struggles, or plain just gets wore out. We stayed for one hour and it never turned on. What a great feeling!!! We decided to leave him and let him rest. Also, the physical therapist came in today and did range of motion exercises with him. He doesnt like that. Tomorrow they will repair his clavicle surgically.
Christie is still unchanged. They will give her through the weekend to see if she changes. If not, then a tough decision lies ahead. :( All this is bitter sweet

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

may god bless all u! be strong and keep the faith. god is good all the time! this is richard and becky neighbor when they lived in s.c. may god touch and heal richard and christie. i keep them and the whole family in my prayes at all times.they are such wonderful people.

love ur friend,
regina ( as known as ) G'G' to christie and richard. :)

John Reames said...

I'm a friend of Mary Ellen and Bill and my heart goes out to all of you during this family crisis. Ann and I will continue our prayers. God is in control... John and Ann Reames

Unknown said...

Although I have not been her friend for long, Christie is kind and genial, truly a splendid person...
A shining jewel amidst the masses.
I extend my very best and ardent wishes to both her and her father's recuperation.

With utmost sincerity,
Dominic Jannuzzi

Anonymous said...

christie is in my 6th hour english class. my family and i have been praying that her and her dad will come through greatly. I'm still praying. I know Christie isn't doing good, her best friend is in that class too and sh has kept me updated. But, i just wanted to say, that i can't wait until she comes back to class, which she will, i know it, and i get to see her shining face next to me.
Christie, get healing, i miss passing your notebook to Courtney =]


Love always,
me'liza

Anonymous said...

(Lauren. L)

Christie, I really miss you, buddy. I have been hug-less for a while now. Even though I told you that hugs are evil, I loved your hugs!

Because I care about you, buddy.

And though I do not know your father, I am glad he is responding to treatment. [:

I hope everyone in your family will continue to be hopefull.

get well^^ see you soon

*hugs*

Love
Lauren. a.k.a.(ichi)

Anonymous said...

(From Christie's friend, Leah)

Christie, you have been my buddy since last year. This is not a very long time, but it is enough for me to miss you and your bone crushing hugs! IT IS SO LONELY IN THE LIBRARY WITHOUT YOU!! I hope for a full recovery, in fact, I demand it! Days are just not the same without your infectious optimism and humor! I wish the best to both you and your dad (who has made progress, hurray!!), and look forward to seeing you healthy and reading Naruto!
with love and lots of hugs
~Leah C.

Anonymous said...

Keep up the positive thoughts and prayers. There is power in prayer!

God is walking with you in your time of need. May you find strength and comfort in his presence and in the presence of those around you. We are all with you and offering a silent prayer, hoping to lift your pain, as well as, encouraging healing for both Richard and Christie.

You are not alone......nor, are Richard and Christie. I will continue my prayers for all.

Your friend,

Wendy (co-worker and friend of Phil's)

Anonymous said...

Hey Christie,
This is Brandie. I just want to tell you that i love you and miss u so much. I miss those hugs you gave me over the years. I love you so much.
Love
Cousin Brandie