Hearts, Roses, and Blessings -- 2-15-06

Happy Valentine's Day. The last few days have been very busy and productive. Joseph has been up in the chair progressing with exercise etc. He is spending more and more time off the ventilator. Yesterday, for example, he was off for over 8 hours including during Physical therapy. He also has the speaking valve in from first thing in the morning until he goes to sleep at night. so he can speak. This helps him develop his breathing muscles in preparation for eventually removing the trach and respirator altogether. He is doing so well this afternoon they removed his trach tube and installed a smaller size. This again allows for the trach opening to partially heal. It takes less effort to breath through the tube, and it is another step toward removing it.

Saturday evening Joseph developed a burning pain in his right bicep. (He has previously had no feeling at all there). On Sunday the pain moved down to his forearm as well. It hurts REALLY GOOD! At this stage we like feelings in new places. The sensation continues and we pray more will come as his nerves awaken.

Weston, his former roommate, is doing well. He and his family stopped in to say Hi to Joseph. He’s no longer seeing double and is walking really well. He had a bit of an episode with his feeding tube today, but is improving and we continue to pray for his complete recovery. Joseph has a new roomie, Raymond, mid 50’s from Kearns. He has had recent brain surgery.

This morning Taylorsville City approved the plans for adding a room off the back of the house for a bedroom and bathroom for Joseph. The plans call for a wheelchair lift, in order to get from the garage to the main level of the house. Then with the added room, we’ll have a place for him to come home to. Our daughter Elizabeth and family friends have set up a web site for those who want to help out:

http://www.bringjosephhome.com/ It's just starting out, but you'll get the idea.

We are so unbelievably grateful for so many who have taken upon themselves to do so much. Joseph knew he was loved, but he didn't know it was this much.

Photos:

1&2) Valentine's Day, "Heart Attack" and get well decorations etc.

3) Misty (Physical Therapy) works him out (You should see how she can throw him around. . . verrrry impressive, Mom & Dad are taking notes).

4) Joseph and pals, Lisa and Katie (Nursing).

5) Joseph chases Mom in the powerchair.