Hello again and on time,
It has been an eventful day, starting with Chris having his first seizure during the night although it was caught and recorded the reasons are still unclear but being looked into.
I will be taking Chris for a CT scan next week to rule out any problems and medication s are being reviewed to figure out what if any part they may have played.
As he was up most of the night and sleep deprived we opted out of the pool for a chance to gain more rest.
The rest of the day consisted some mild stretching and a couple long walks in the 26 degree temperature.
He will be watched very closely over the weekend and the plan will be to get him rested up and start fresh again on Monday.
We were hoping to be able to alter the house and make it satisfactory to meet Chris' needs.
This option is not going to be possible and therefore we must be prepared to move and alter a residence by the end of summer. This daunting task I had hoped would give more time but most of the trials we are doing here will be done by mid August if we are successful in obtaining all the rest of the approvals and hoop jumping that is required to stay the additional time. Hopefully it comes together as I feel it should.
If any one reading this blog has any suggestions as to fund-raisers or other means of raising funds Chris will be in need by the end of July as the ICBC funds can only be used for medical equipment and very specific alterations. Meaning we will have to cover most of the alterations and special needs ourselves. My pride has stopped me from posting anything to do with money or assistance. But we are left with no alternative as the government has a catch 22 scenario with the medical assistance, in that, as long as ICBC (a government controlled entity) has funds in Chris' name the Province will not grant him disability status enabling him to access funds for his basic needs (no money). Trouble is ICBC medical money will only be paid out for medical necessities as ICBC sees fit which are completely out of line with what Chris needs. All therapies and extras except for the water therapy at home have had to be paid personally.
I will be happy to follow up and explore any suggestions you have.
Thank you all for your time and concern,
Sincerely,
Kevin
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Thursday, May 29, 2009
Hello everyone,
Yes I've managed to skip day again, during therapy we managed an hour and a half in the pool on Wednesday and it was great relaxation for Chris it seemed to loosen up all of the extra phlegm that he built up over the weekend.
The afternoon therapy went well and at the end we went outside for a long walk which was extremely warm and comfortable. After dinner on Wednesday we went down to the gymnasium where one of the nurses and his two sons both play guitar, they played music for all of the residents and people here, quite the change from the boring evenings. It was very warm so we only managed to stay for about a half hour. We missed the middle of the game while going outside for a walk, a very nice evening at 18°. We made it back inside to catch the tail end of the third period and watch the overtime, the whole evening Chris seemed to be wide awake and noticing things in a little bit more detail than usual, showing signs of very strong movements to the left side and more direction.
Tuesday, May 30 this morning started out wide awake and ready to go, we proceeded to head to the pool a little earlier that usual as the therapist was going to have extra people in the water during our session. We ended up doing a full hour session with the rec-therapist and stayed an additional half hour just relaxing to take it easy. We then ended up back having lunch and resting which then led into his physio-appointment they did quite a bit stretching and mobility, which really tired Chris out. Speech therapy didn't start till 330 they worked at swallowing with different liquids which he seemed to take to quite well by the end of this session he was pretty much sound asleep.
We then went outside into the sunshine for a predinner walk while he relaxed, did a little bit of suntanning and then back inside before dinner.
He's now sound asleep and it really were wiped out which makes me feel great, I do think it's doing him a world of good in the pool. I believe it provides the best simulation and the most noticeable difference.
Friday morning I will be meeting the OT therapist at the pool he has agreed to come and to the water and give it a try as well, so that will give us a pool session every day of the week if we are able to make use of it.
This has been the extremely tiring and exhausting week emotionally not knowing what the outcome in Alberta will be, hopefully by next week we will have a meeting and discuss all the possibilities that have not yet been tried.
This evening Thursday night I believe there's a tour of the Centennial Center by the Minister of health, it's a shame we couldn't have the Minister of health for British Columbia join him so he could see the work that is being done here. Maybe even see the need to have a facility in British Columbia so that we could be closer to home and family.
Goodbye and goodnight will update tomorrow thank you.
Kevin
Monday, May 25, 2009
Tuesday May 24, 2009
Thank you Helen for the update and spending the weekend with Chris. A change of voice and view is probably needed by now he hears me all to much sometimes I am sure.
Back swimming on Wednesday morning will update after the day is over bye for now.
Kevin
Back swimming on Wednesday morning will update after the day is over bye for now.
Kevin
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
May 20, 2009 Wednesday
Hi everyone,
We were back in the pool today, which was a good thing as Chris was quite uptight and irritated for most of the morning. We stayed in for an hour and a half, it took the first hour just to get him to let go and relax, but it paid off later with some pretty sound sleep.
Then I found out his drugs had been accelerated and increased over the last two days, lots of weird changes some good some not.
Starting to question some of the things being done and not followed up the way I would like to see them done.
I am beginning to feel like a squeaky wheel that they would rather change than oil?
Found out our time here is being questioned everyday. Kind of like waiting to get fired from your job with nowhere to go. Sure is an uneasy and very uncomfortable day to day existence knowing time is winding down.
We are now waiting to see the outcome of the drugs that have been increased and sped up because of our time restriction here.
There is still a glimmer of hope for a partial extension, but it will take some negotiating and convincing of things that are yet to be tried.
Nothing makes you learn and research like necessity, and there is no shortage of that.
In fact without me having that intimate knowledge about the line of drugs commonly used or in fact not commonly used in treating the brain, makes you feel like your cramming for an exam.
If you don't understand what you are asking for or understand why things work the way they do nobody has the time to tell you as it is new to most of them as well. Remember most of the new research is done in the U.S.
We will be in the water tomorrow and hopefully he can relax as well as today, the water is a great release even if just to relax and let go of tension. Chris' aunt will be visiting him Friday and through the weekend, a change for him and break for me.(thank you Helen)
Stay tuned will keep you informed as things unfold.
Kevin
We were back in the pool today, which was a good thing as Chris was quite uptight and irritated for most of the morning. We stayed in for an hour and a half, it took the first hour just to get him to let go and relax, but it paid off later with some pretty sound sleep.
Then I found out his drugs had been accelerated and increased over the last two days, lots of weird changes some good some not.
Starting to question some of the things being done and not followed up the way I would like to see them done.
I am beginning to feel like a squeaky wheel that they would rather change than oil?
Found out our time here is being questioned everyday. Kind of like waiting to get fired from your job with nowhere to go. Sure is an uneasy and very uncomfortable day to day existence knowing time is winding down.
We are now waiting to see the outcome of the drugs that have been increased and sped up because of our time restriction here.
There is still a glimmer of hope for a partial extension, but it will take some negotiating and convincing of things that are yet to be tried.
Nothing makes you learn and research like necessity, and there is no shortage of that.
In fact without me having that intimate knowledge about the line of drugs commonly used or in fact not commonly used in treating the brain, makes you feel like your cramming for an exam.
If you don't understand what you are asking for or understand why things work the way they do nobody has the time to tell you as it is new to most of them as well. Remember most of the new research is done in the U.S.
We will be in the water tomorrow and hopefully he can relax as well as today, the water is a great release even if just to relax and let go of tension. Chris' aunt will be visiting him Friday and through the weekend, a change for him and break for me.(thank you Helen)
Stay tuned will keep you informed as things unfold.
Kevin
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
WEDNESDAY MAY 13, 2009
Hello,
Some trying days, lots of discussions about upcoming funding by BC for Chris to be able to stay another 90 days and if we will get it.
Alberta Government is thinking of canceling the out of province beds, but we have not heard anything about this yet just crossing our fingers and planning for positive outcome.
It really takes away from all the positive stuff going on and cant help but have a lingering feeling hanging in your head all day. We have the doctors support and we are trying to get in all the different trails we can in the short time left just in case.
The Docs have tried to be positive and they too have not written anything in stone. It may come down to the incoming doctor Dr. R to write and convince an already backward system in BC to allow another 3 months to really try what we came here for.
Seeing as how we have nothing even remotely close to this at home.
Anyway on to the positive, we started a new drug on Wednesday it will be a couple of days to see any results the first day was pretty tiring and laid back.
Our pool times have increased to Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and today I was able to convince them to open up a Tuesday session in the morning.
Mondays and Tuesdays I will have to take Chris in by myself and Wednesday and Thursday the Rec Therapist will assist with the time in the water. Kinda sucks with all these victories in the access to the water, is that if I am not here he won't get in at all. Just appreciate the ability to use it and make the most of it!
We are in the water first thing in the morning and several therapies will be going tomorrow. With the long weekend though we will not be able to use the pool again until Wednesday, but Shelley and the kids will be here with him over the weekend and into the start of next week so that will keep his moral up.
Some trying days, lots of discussions about upcoming funding by BC for Chris to be able to stay another 90 days and if we will get it.
Alberta Government is thinking of canceling the out of province beds, but we have not heard anything about this yet just crossing our fingers and planning for positive outcome.
It really takes away from all the positive stuff going on and cant help but have a lingering feeling hanging in your head all day. We have the doctors support and we are trying to get in all the different trails we can in the short time left just in case.
The Docs have tried to be positive and they too have not written anything in stone. It may come down to the incoming doctor Dr. R to write and convince an already backward system in BC to allow another 3 months to really try what we came here for.
Seeing as how we have nothing even remotely close to this at home.
Anyway on to the positive, we started a new drug on Wednesday it will be a couple of days to see any results the first day was pretty tiring and laid back.
Our pool times have increased to Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and today I was able to convince them to open up a Tuesday session in the morning.
Mondays and Tuesdays I will have to take Chris in by myself and Wednesday and Thursday the Rec Therapist will assist with the time in the water. Kinda sucks with all these victories in the access to the water, is that if I am not here he won't get in at all. Just appreciate the ability to use it and make the most of it!
We are in the water first thing in the morning and several therapies will be going tomorrow. With the long weekend though we will not be able to use the pool again until Wednesday, but Shelley and the kids will be here with him over the weekend and into the start of next week so that will keep his moral up.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Monday May 11,2009
Hello,
Friday, we got in a short physio session and a walk as the other two therapies were cancelled.
The weekend was quiet one, one of the nurses on shift both days took Chris out for a walk as the weather here was pretty good all weekend.
Monday I got back at lunch, OT had him out this morning early and he had just finished lunch so he was at Physio, but as usual different people never pass on the info on splints and bracing so they were trying to get Chris up on the Tilt table but his frustration level was incredible.
When I got here he was in pain. After adjusting his braces and giving another show me seminar he did calm down and was able to have a productive session.
We hustled to the pool right after because Physio started late and ate away 45 minutes of our pool time that pisses me off , Oh well what can you do!!!!!
The sad part is he still responds more to the pool and it is the toughest to get into. We did get to spend a little better than an hour in the water, gonna have to see if we can just sneak down when it is quiet and go in unannounced.
Even a half hour of laying straight out in the water doing light stretches is better than having to be in the chair. Another day tomorrow so we will look forward to it and do the best we can maybe get some cycling time in.
See ya tomorrow right here.
Kevin
Friday, we got in a short physio session and a walk as the other two therapies were cancelled.
The weekend was quiet one, one of the nurses on shift both days took Chris out for a walk as the weather here was pretty good all weekend.
Monday I got back at lunch, OT had him out this morning early and he had just finished lunch so he was at Physio, but as usual different people never pass on the info on splints and bracing so they were trying to get Chris up on the Tilt table but his frustration level was incredible.
When I got here he was in pain. After adjusting his braces and giving another show me seminar he did calm down and was able to have a productive session.
We hustled to the pool right after because Physio started late and ate away 45 minutes of our pool time that pisses me off , Oh well what can you do!!!!!
The sad part is he still responds more to the pool and it is the toughest to get into. We did get to spend a little better than an hour in the water, gonna have to see if we can just sneak down when it is quiet and go in unannounced.
Even a half hour of laying straight out in the water doing light stretches is better than having to be in the chair. Another day tomorrow so we will look forward to it and do the best we can maybe get some cycling time in.
See ya tomorrow right here.
Kevin
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Wednesday May 6, 2009 Evening
Hi ,
It is now almost 11 o'clock and I didn't want to write but here it is.
Quiet morning Chris got to sleep in until I woke him so we could get washed and shaved before the pool. The pool session was great as the rec therapist is now getting more involved as she sees the movement and sounds Chris makes when in the water so instead of her only staying in for a half hour she stayed the whole hour and it worked out perfect for Chris.
They have hot showers on deck so upon leaving the pool you can shampoo and shower the chlorine and crap off before going to get changed.
Got back to his unit and proceeded to have lunch and sleep while eating then that crazy cough of his started and kept him up and awake all of the lunch time and then left him wiped out for the afternoon therapies, Oh well being tired from working out can not be all bad.
Chris and I managed to stay awake for most of the Pittsburgh game. When he fell asleep during the second period I stayed and watch the overtime then drove back to Edmonton.
Another pool session in the morning so better sign off and get some sleep as I will have to be down there early.
Till tomorrow good night.
Kevin
It is now almost 11 o'clock and I didn't want to write but here it is.
Quiet morning Chris got to sleep in until I woke him so we could get washed and shaved before the pool. The pool session was great as the rec therapist is now getting more involved as she sees the movement and sounds Chris makes when in the water so instead of her only staying in for a half hour she stayed the whole hour and it worked out perfect for Chris.
They have hot showers on deck so upon leaving the pool you can shampoo and shower the chlorine and crap off before going to get changed.
Got back to his unit and proceeded to have lunch and sleep while eating then that crazy cough of his started and kept him up and awake all of the lunch time and then left him wiped out for the afternoon therapies, Oh well being tired from working out can not be all bad.
Chris and I managed to stay awake for most of the Pittsburgh game. When he fell asleep during the second period I stayed and watch the overtime then drove back to Edmonton.
Another pool session in the morning so better sign off and get some sleep as I will have to be down there early.
Till tomorrow good night.
Kevin
Wednesday May 6, 2009
Hello,
Delayed again I was home for the weekend and Shelley, Scott and kids were here to visit Chris over the weekend. Chris was pretty responsive to Kylan's voice and the touch and holding of Gwen. To bad he could not be closer to home to get more emotional support in these ways.
Chris and I got to use to pool to ourselves on Monday afternoon and it was great after not having any really therapies since early Friday. He really moved and let you know how the water is so relaxing. We spent an hour and a quarter in the water and by the end he was extremely tired. It was an early night.
Tuesday turned out to be a bit of a slow one as Chris was plugged up a bit, think it maybe the start of a cold. It made for a frustrating day as sleep was the preferred method of therapy for most of the day. He was able to stay awake for the first period of the hockey game.
Wednesday we are back in the water and will continue the updates after today has finished.
Sorry for the delays but by the time I drive back to Edmonton each night I am tired and just cant think straight to update. I am trying to remember how many of you only have this link for updates. Hope to put a few new pictures up later today. Thanks to all of you for reminders and for being so patient.
More later today.
Kevin
Delayed again I was home for the weekend and Shelley, Scott and kids were here to visit Chris over the weekend. Chris was pretty responsive to Kylan's voice and the touch and holding of Gwen. To bad he could not be closer to home to get more emotional support in these ways.
Chris and I got to use to pool to ourselves on Monday afternoon and it was great after not having any really therapies since early Friday. He really moved and let you know how the water is so relaxing. We spent an hour and a quarter in the water and by the end he was extremely tired. It was an early night.
Tuesday turned out to be a bit of a slow one as Chris was plugged up a bit, think it maybe the start of a cold. It made for a frustrating day as sleep was the preferred method of therapy for most of the day. He was able to stay awake for the first period of the hockey game.
Wednesday we are back in the water and will continue the updates after today has finished.
Sorry for the delays but by the time I drive back to Edmonton each night I am tired and just cant think straight to update. I am trying to remember how many of you only have this link for updates. Hope to put a few new pictures up later today. Thanks to all of you for reminders and for being so patient.
More later today.
Kevin
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Wednesday April 29, 2009
Good Evening,
A very tiresome day today we only managed two sessions and was pretty tired through them as well. It was a very sunny day today and fairly warm out of the wind, so we took a few walks all the way around the complex to get lots of fresh air.
New drugs tried and old ones up a little so adjustments are expected.
Along with the bike and exercise area, we also have Monday afternoons to ourselves in the pool and now a Wednesday morning session with Rec therapist helping out! It does pay to not give up, just be persistent. Couple of things planned for tomorrow then Shelley will be here in the afternoon and Chris will get to see his new niece and the old nephew!!!
Looking forward to tomorrow and more change?
Good Night,
Kevin
A very tiresome day today we only managed two sessions and was pretty tired through them as well. It was a very sunny day today and fairly warm out of the wind, so we took a few walks all the way around the complex to get lots of fresh air.
New drugs tried and old ones up a little so adjustments are expected.
Along with the bike and exercise area, we also have Monday afternoons to ourselves in the pool and now a Wednesday morning session with Rec therapist helping out! It does pay to not give up, just be persistent. Couple of things planned for tomorrow then Shelley will be here in the afternoon and Chris will get to see his new niece and the old nephew!!!
Looking forward to tomorrow and more change?
Good Night,
Kevin
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tuesday April 28, 2009
Hello,
Tuesday was a rather quiet day, Chris has a bit of a cold or stuffy nose keeping him a little more subdued than usual. Still got to some Ot /Physio today but most was passive and quiet. Tomorrow will be a busier day with the bike and a full day ahead.
Just let me add in here, that as and when I refer to time spent at home and not getting any treatment that amounted to anything, I refer to our system and lack of foresight and general common sense thinking when it comes to rehab. ( the system sucks) I did not want to paint all of the nurses and aides that gave so much of their time caring for Chris with the same brush I use to refer to the disdain for the outdated facilities and the inept, archaic way of running medical rehab system.
You all know who you are and how much we appreciated your contributions to Chris' healing and providing piece of mind for us when we could not be there for him.
Just wanted all to know the human factor in all of this is what keeps us going. Credit should be placed where due, so thank you all again for your caring touch and thoughts they have changed me in an unexplainable way and has really made me a more compassionate and understanding individual.
It has also made me a stronger and take no crap person when caring for Chris' well being.
Had to add this today, it may mean something to a few of you and nothing to the rest but I feel much better having said it. It has also pushed me to help more people than just Chris and will continue to do so.
Back to matters at hand Chris will be able to use the pool for a two hour window with me on Mondays and we will have the pool to ourselves hard to believe but persistence pays off.
We also have open authority to use the exercise room when not in use and to use the equipment, so no more down time with nothing to do.
It is so true, some days you move forward with strides and some days you stand still. It is important not to judge by the day nor by the week or month but to just keep moving forward and taking in all the little wonders that happen keeping in mind how quickly they can be taken from us.
Kevin
Tuesday was a rather quiet day, Chris has a bit of a cold or stuffy nose keeping him a little more subdued than usual. Still got to some Ot /Physio today but most was passive and quiet. Tomorrow will be a busier day with the bike and a full day ahead.
Just let me add in here, that as and when I refer to time spent at home and not getting any treatment that amounted to anything, I refer to our system and lack of foresight and general common sense thinking when it comes to rehab. ( the system sucks) I did not want to paint all of the nurses and aides that gave so much of their time caring for Chris with the same brush I use to refer to the disdain for the outdated facilities and the inept, archaic way of running medical rehab system.
You all know who you are and how much we appreciated your contributions to Chris' healing and providing piece of mind for us when we could not be there for him.
Just wanted all to know the human factor in all of this is what keeps us going. Credit should be placed where due, so thank you all again for your caring touch and thoughts they have changed me in an unexplainable way and has really made me a more compassionate and understanding individual.
It has also made me a stronger and take no crap person when caring for Chris' well being.
Had to add this today, it may mean something to a few of you and nothing to the rest but I feel much better having said it. It has also pushed me to help more people than just Chris and will continue to do so.
Back to matters at hand Chris will be able to use the pool for a two hour window with me on Mondays and we will have the pool to ourselves hard to believe but persistence pays off.
We also have open authority to use the exercise room when not in use and to use the equipment, so no more down time with nothing to do.
It is so true, some days you move forward with strides and some days you stand still. It is important not to judge by the day nor by the week or month but to just keep moving forward and taking in all the little wonders that happen keeping in mind how quickly they can be taken from us.
Kevin
Monday, April 27, 2009
MondayApril 27,2009
Hey everyone,
Good day today started with getting familiar with the cycle equipment which Chris spent 40 minutes on and we tried all the different configurations and looks like it is going to be a welcome addition to the workout regime. Snow storms all day today after lunch we went out side in warm sunshine and stood in the snow fall letting it cover our faces and shoulders quite a sensory awakening experience. We had a great session on the tilt table and have worked out a few changes with custom cut foam supports and Auntie Helen's head band. I will be cutting a custom arm support out of wood in their shop tomorrow and getting it to fit properly so it will support his upper body. Had talk with Dr Gray re: some other drugs that were recommended by some of the docs Chris worked with and Dr. Gray is willing to give it a try. The pool thing I think is now going to work out as I ended up talking to the head of the Unit and she is happy with my ability to handle Chris in the water, so it looks like I can get in when ever open pool time permits. I left him asleep with the game on and having dinner a bit late, but he was completely wiped out with activity today. So we look forward to another day the same tomorrow.
Good Night
Kevin
Good day today started with getting familiar with the cycle equipment which Chris spent 40 minutes on and we tried all the different configurations and looks like it is going to be a welcome addition to the workout regime. Snow storms all day today after lunch we went out side in warm sunshine and stood in the snow fall letting it cover our faces and shoulders quite a sensory awakening experience. We had a great session on the tilt table and have worked out a few changes with custom cut foam supports and Auntie Helen's head band. I will be cutting a custom arm support out of wood in their shop tomorrow and getting it to fit properly so it will support his upper body. Had talk with Dr Gray re: some other drugs that were recommended by some of the docs Chris worked with and Dr. Gray is willing to give it a try. The pool thing I think is now going to work out as I ended up talking to the head of the Unit and she is happy with my ability to handle Chris in the water, so it looks like I can get in when ever open pool time permits. I left him asleep with the game on and having dinner a bit late, but he was completely wiped out with activity today. So we look forward to another day the same tomorrow.
Good Night
Kevin
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sunday April 26, 2009
Hello,
Sorry for the delay in posting but my week was cut short here in Ponoka with the birth of my granddaughter and Chris' niece.
Chris has had a pretty mild week with the typical therapies going on. The water therapy apparently didn't happen because I was not here, so I guess I am really going to have to push the access issues this week.
Still waiting for the OT to deliver the cycle machine that we can use to get his legs and arms moving on a regular basis. Chris has been pretty tired all weekend and and slept most of it other than watching hockey, walking the hall ways and skipping outside for 5 minute intervals to be refreshed by the snow and wind in our face.
More updates after the new week gets rolling.
Thank you
Kevin
Sorry for the delay in posting but my week was cut short here in Ponoka with the birth of my granddaughter and Chris' niece.
Chris has had a pretty mild week with the typical therapies going on. The water therapy apparently didn't happen because I was not here, so I guess I am really going to have to push the access issues this week.
Still waiting for the OT to deliver the cycle machine that we can use to get his legs and arms moving on a regular basis. Chris has been pretty tired all weekend and and slept most of it other than watching hockey, walking the hall ways and skipping outside for 5 minute intervals to be refreshed by the snow and wind in our face.
More updates after the new week gets rolling.
Thank you
Kevin
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Thursday April 16, 2009
Good Thursday afternoon,
Early start to the day today, I could not sleep so headed down at 530 to see Chris and the good things we have been working on. I see how and when things get going in the morning it is not always as told. But it all worked out and moved forward very fast.
We started leaving him in bed a little longer in the mornings so he has more energy when Therapies start. Then a mid day break while having lunch then up for afternoon therapy and stay up for dinner and the game of the evening (hockey that is) we watched the Montreal game while having dinner and then went to bed and watched the Calgary game to fall asleep to.
We did make it in the pool today, a very good thing, I am glad I paid attention to Joyce and Holly when in the pool because it was me today to do it all and I so appreciate all the moves and techniques they shared with me while in the water with Chris. Really makes me see the patience and willingness to be there day after day methodically providing the aqua-therapy the way they did.
(Thank you again Joyce and Holly)
Bev the Rec-therapist did come in the water with us but she is still quite uncertain about all that is possible, but she is learning the over cautious can be carried to far.
I can see that I will have to get a water access chair of our own in order to gain another day in the water as it is not having access to the chair when the open water times are available.
I am tired and my thoughts are not coming in order so anything I missed I will update tomorrow.
Thank you
Kevin
Early start to the day today, I could not sleep so headed down at 530 to see Chris and the good things we have been working on. I see how and when things get going in the morning it is not always as told. But it all worked out and moved forward very fast.
We started leaving him in bed a little longer in the mornings so he has more energy when Therapies start. Then a mid day break while having lunch then up for afternoon therapy and stay up for dinner and the game of the evening (hockey that is) we watched the Montreal game while having dinner and then went to bed and watched the Calgary game to fall asleep to.
We did make it in the pool today, a very good thing, I am glad I paid attention to Joyce and Holly when in the pool because it was me today to do it all and I so appreciate all the moves and techniques they shared with me while in the water with Chris. Really makes me see the patience and willingness to be there day after day methodically providing the aqua-therapy the way they did.
(Thank you again Joyce and Holly)
Bev the Rec-therapist did come in the water with us but she is still quite uncertain about all that is possible, but she is learning the over cautious can be carried to far.
I can see that I will have to get a water access chair of our own in order to gain another day in the water as it is not having access to the chair when the open water times are available.
I am tired and my thoughts are not coming in order so anything I missed I will update tomorrow.
Thank you
Kevin
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Wednesday April 15, 2009
Hello,
Today was a good day we started out with rec-therapy and then went for a walk. It was a bright Sunny day today and fairly warm out of the wind.
Had lunch in his room and watched the noon news and the hockey highlights.
Slept for an hour or so and then went for another walk and really woke up just prior to Speech therapy. Speech was great today hitting about 70% of the things that were asked of him. We watched the Pittsburg game while having dinner as it was on the big screen. Then went to bed and watched the Canucks play until falling asleep.
Pool session in the morning tomorrow getting really excited about that will let you know how it went tomorrow, Hopefully we will be doing all rec therapy in the pool from now on!!!!
Bye for now.
Today was a good day we started out with rec-therapy and then went for a walk. It was a bright Sunny day today and fairly warm out of the wind.
Had lunch in his room and watched the noon news and the hockey highlights.
Slept for an hour or so and then went for another walk and really woke up just prior to Speech therapy. Speech was great today hitting about 70% of the things that were asked of him. We watched the Pittsburg game while having dinner as it was on the big screen. Then went to bed and watched the Canucks play until falling asleep.
Pool session in the morning tomorrow getting really excited about that will let you know how it went tomorrow, Hopefully we will be doing all rec therapy in the pool from now on!!!!
Bye for now.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tuesday April 14, 2009
Hello,
It's now Tuesday, April 14 I got back to Ponoka yesterday. Progression is definitely slow but there is always a little something to move forward on. Today was the meeting for family with the therapists and the doctor, all went well in general and everyone has seen an increase in mobility and response's.
The challenge now will be to get more direct responses that are consistent to questions and related activities. Physio had him out right after lunch and gave him a good workout.
We then had the meeting and Chris decided to take a couple hours of nap time was great because he was a little more attentive with the directions of the speech therapist.
Will be changing his meals and times up in the chair to be more effective to take advantage of his alertness.
The Drugs and other tweaking will continue over the next couple of weeks so patience is the order of the day. Water therapy is back sort of although he will not be in the water tomorrow during rec-therapy he will be going in on Thursday so I will have to be persistent and keep tugging and pushing until all rec-therapyis taking place in the water.
Will keep you informed as it happens. Did not get out for a walk today as there was quite a snowstorm happening here all day, we did however have several walks through the facility down to the lunchroom cafeteria and then back here to to his room to watch a little bit of hockey highlights. We watched the Canada game and then the draft take place. Chris is looking forward to a nicer day tomorrow with some warmth from the sun to enjoy a walk along pathways.
Thank you,
Kevin
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thursday April 9, 2009
Well after a little break, I am posting again. The treatments continue some get delayed with meetings and such but they are good when they are being done. Delays in access to the pool as each therapist has thier own worries and concerns as they have not dealt with some in the water before. I have tried reassuring them but it will only happen as fast as they think appropriate. I do believe that with a little more pushing and the talk with the doctor about addressing some of the therapists concerns it will be back on track very soon.
One of the regular nurses on Thursday night heard us talking about not being able to watch the hockey playoffs. So she found and extra TV that was not being used, it was left over from a donated TV in the main room. So she brought it in and set it up. He now is all set for the playoffs.
Attching new photo's.
Bye for now
Kevin
One of the regular nurses on Thursday night heard us talking about not being able to watch the hockey playoffs. So she found and extra TV that was not being used, it was left over from a donated TV in the main room. So she brought it in and set it up. He now is all set for the playoffs.
Attching new photo's.
Bye for now
Kevin
Monday, April 6, 2009
Thursday April 2, 2009
Got here at 10:40 this morning, just as Anthony and Kristi were putting Chris back into his chair after a "good workout", to quote Anthony and Kristi. They did much the same as yesterday. He is good shape today again. As he was quite tired after the morning, he was put back into bed for his lunch and a rest. The Education Centre was cancelled again today. Alanna will be working on some swallowing and communication with him at 3:30. She said that when she came yesterday at 3:30, he was sound asleep so she did not wake him. Tara and Roberta will get him up and in his chair again very soon. He had a good nap after his lunch. A couple of good big coughs and he was able to clear his throat. It's only 2:25 now, so we'll have time to got outside for a little bit before the 3:30 appointment with Alanna. The sun is now shining and it's pretty nice.
Bye for now.
U Larry
New posts will not be done until April 7th sorry!
Bye for now.
U Larry
New posts will not be done until April 7th sorry!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Monday, March 30:
Hello from sunny Ponoka. Chris had a good night sleep and was up and in his chair when we arrived about 10:00 this morning.
The OT was in at 10:30 and did a half-hour workout with him, focusing on hand and arm movement. Afterwards, Chris got into his chair and brought his lunch with Uncle Larry and me to the cafeteria and we all had lunch together. He had a brief rest before it was time for his first session in the pool with the Physio and Rec therapists. I was able to get in the pool with them and show them the exercises we were doing at aquatherapy. They were interested in learning about aquatherapy he had been doing in Aldergrove with Joyce and Holly. As it is relatively new to them to work with someone who cannot get in and out on their own, it was a learning experience for them as well. Chris seemed to feel right at home in the water!
It was a busy day and he was soon fast asleep after getting back into bed about 4:15. We didn't get outside to enjoy the sunshine today as it was a little too busy. Hopefully, we'll be out for some sun tanning tomorrow if the weather holds. Anthony, the OT stopped by to see how the water session went and was quite amazed at the responsiveness Chris showed today since the last session he had with him. There will be a meeting of all therapists and doctors tomorrow to talk over the effects of the drugs they have been trying since last Thursday!
All in all, it has been a very good day.
Cheers to you all!
Kevin
The OT was in at 10:30 and did a half-hour workout with him, focusing on hand and arm movement. Afterwards, Chris got into his chair and brought his lunch with Uncle Larry and me to the cafeteria and we all had lunch together. He had a brief rest before it was time for his first session in the pool with the Physio and Rec therapists. I was able to get in the pool with them and show them the exercises we were doing at aquatherapy. They were interested in learning about aquatherapy he had been doing in Aldergrove with Joyce and Holly. As it is relatively new to them to work with someone who cannot get in and out on their own, it was a learning experience for them as well. Chris seemed to feel right at home in the water!
It was a busy day and he was soon fast asleep after getting back into bed about 4:15. We didn't get outside to enjoy the sunshine today as it was a little too busy. Hopefully, we'll be out for some sun tanning tomorrow if the weather holds. Anthony, the OT stopped by to see how the water session went and was quite amazed at the responsiveness Chris showed today since the last session he had with him. There will be a meeting of all therapists and doctors tomorrow to talk over the effects of the drugs they have been trying since last Thursday!
All in all, it has been a very good day.
Cheers to you all!
Kevin
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sunday
Hello on a sunny Sunday.
Chris seems to have a lot of energy today, awake and wanting to look around. We had lunch and then a long walk outside around the ground. It is all covered with snow and ice but the sun is out and bright with all the reflection off the snow it is quite nice.
Something has gotten into him because he just won't sleep today. He was up for 5 hourss and outside for an hour in fresh air but now keeps looking around and fighting sleep. It's about 5:30 now and he is having his dinner and slowing down a little, so maybe now he will drift off into a comfortable sleep. Tomorrow is the start of Chris' 4th week here. Wow. It is passing by fast. Lots to do. Will post another update tomorrow after the day is done.
Bye.
Kevin
Chris seems to have a lot of energy today, awake and wanting to look around. We had lunch and then a long walk outside around the ground. It is all covered with snow and ice but the sun is out and bright with all the reflection off the snow it is quite nice.
Something has gotten into him because he just won't sleep today. He was up for 5 hourss and outside for an hour in fresh air but now keeps looking around and fighting sleep. It's about 5:30 now and he is having his dinner and slowing down a little, so maybe now he will drift off into a comfortable sleep. Tomorrow is the start of Chris' 4th week here. Wow. It is passing by fast. Lots to do. Will post another update tomorrow after the day is done.
Bye.
Kevin
Friday - Saturday March 27-28, 2009
Hello,
It's now Friday, March 27. I got back to Ponoka yesterday. Things are progressing. Chris was looking a little worn and frustrated today, I think because the physio/occupational therapist appointments were cancelled due to meetings and other stuff happening. Recreational and speech therapy stilll proceeded as usual. Maybe lack of challenge bored him yesterday? Definitely get the feeling he did not want us to go lastg night. Uncle Larry is here visiting this week as well.
Physio had him up and out at 9:30 this morning. After fixing the braces and adejusting the chair again we were able to get his lunch and take it with us to the cafeteria for our lunch. Meet the full time Charge Nurse Lorna. Nice lady seems to be in charge with everybody knowing their jobs. She was telling me of the drug now being tried and the observations they were doing and recording. This afternoon is speech again. Going to get him back to bed for a sleep now before this afternoon sessions stgart. Speech therapist was in and got some good swallows happening even though we had to wake him with a warm cloth se he wasn't drowsy. As 4:30 to 5:30 rolled around his dinner was started and he was asleep for most of it and ready for a good night.
Saturday morning Chris got sick but think it was due to his feed being sped up and a little coughing and uneasy feeling that gets him red and aggravated. He was in bed most of the morning relaxing and taking it easy. We got him up and in the chair for lunch. All went well. He has now been sleeping for most of the afternoon. U. Larry found a set of Legends of Hockey VHS but we cannot get access to the big screen. We will keep trying to get in on the TV.
Thanks.
Kevin
It's now Friday, March 27. I got back to Ponoka yesterday. Things are progressing. Chris was looking a little worn and frustrated today, I think because the physio/occupational therapist appointments were cancelled due to meetings and other stuff happening. Recreational and speech therapy stilll proceeded as usual. Maybe lack of challenge bored him yesterday? Definitely get the feeling he did not want us to go lastg night. Uncle Larry is here visiting this week as well.
Physio had him up and out at 9:30 this morning. After fixing the braces and adejusting the chair again we were able to get his lunch and take it with us to the cafeteria for our lunch. Meet the full time Charge Nurse Lorna. Nice lady seems to be in charge with everybody knowing their jobs. She was telling me of the drug now being tried and the observations they were doing and recording. This afternoon is speech again. Going to get him back to bed for a sleep now before this afternoon sessions stgart. Speech therapist was in and got some good swallows happening even though we had to wake him with a warm cloth se he wasn't drowsy. As 4:30 to 5:30 rolled around his dinner was started and he was asleep for most of it and ready for a good night.
Saturday morning Chris got sick but think it was due to his feed being sped up and a little coughing and uneasy feeling that gets him red and aggravated. He was in bed most of the morning relaxing and taking it easy. We got him up and in the chair for lunch. All went well. He has now been sleeping for most of the afternoon. U. Larry found a set of Legends of Hockey VHS but we cannot get access to the big screen. We will keep trying to get in on the TV.
Thanks.
Kevin
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