Thursday

I visited Richard yesterday afternoon but not today (I had school). He is in this phase (they say its normal) that he doesnt want to do anything. He argues with you about everything. He wants to come home and cant understand why he has to stay there. Says he is 'good enough' to leave but when I bring up ALL the things he cant do yet, he stops arguing. Physically he is making milestones. He can dress himself, tie his shoes, and stand up and get in his wheelchair all with no assistance. He can even push himself in the chair but not for long periods (he gets tired easily). His mind however is still having problems. He doesnt remember EVERYthing from day to day. Some things though. Also things from the past are 'fuzzy' and are coming back slowly. Eating is also a chore. He eats soft foods only that dont require chewing (rice, mashed pots, pudding, oatmeal, etc). This is for two reasons (he broke his jaw and has problems chewing and a filling fell out during his stay in the ICU so it hurts to chew) They say he only eats 25% of his meal and thats with them constantly encouraging him to take "one more bite". I brought him a (1) strawberry yesterday squished up and he was so happy. He said it filled him up. He loves magic cups!!! Not sure what they are but he lights up when they bring one. The nurse says its like sherbert that stays cold but never melts at room temp. It also has 9 grams of protein so he eats several of those a day. Ill spend tomorrow with Christie so Ill update you about that tomorrow.