Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Ward 81

Jim is now in his own room in Ward 81. He is still only allowed to see visitors from his immediate family in pairs. We had a brief visit with him this evening, and he was the most alert I have seen him, although he gets very tired and floats in and out of what seems like sleep.

In his alert phases Jim has been quite communicative. Soon after we arrived, he mouthed "what happened?" to me. I explained the accident and aftermath in simple terms, and reassured him that all was well. Though he found my answer distressing, we all found this episode immensely encouraging - that he can formulate and ask a question without prompting is enormous progress in his recovery. Another major step forward was some stirring in his right hand, that he clenched a bit in response to a command. He also gave each of us a smile.

So again it is all good news, and we move into the next phase of his treatment with great optimism.

8 comments:

  1. That is extraordinary - I have been away for a few days, and my first port of call on return was to check in on the blog. It seems that mountains have been climbed in just a few days, and that his progress daily is staggering. I am so pleased for all of you, especially Jim, and am confident that every day will be leaps and bounds. Thank you again for the amazing blog. XXXX

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  2. Dear Andy and family,
    It is so heartening to hear of Jim's day-by-day progress. Wishing you all much strength and courage through these challenging times. Jim will draw from this pool throughout his steady climb.
    Kia kaha, Marty Nash.

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  3. Dear Philpotts

    This is truly excellent news and we are sure Jim will progress well with the excellent treatment he is getting. You made us very happy this morning! We are here to help the family in whatever way we can and you think appropriate.

    Golbon Mark Yusef Yahya

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  4. Andy Brigi and the girls, that is wonderful news; our hearts go out to you all as you get closer to Christmas and he improves every day - it could not be a better present. All my love,

    Emmet

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  5. This is great news. The fact that he can ask a question as he is waking up portends an excellent recovery. It's also great that he is moving the right side. Lots of work ahead still, but I do not think the news could be any better. Lots of love from the Bermans

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  6. Sending you all our love and best wishes.
    the Schultz/McGlashan family

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  7. Excellent news on the progress - very encouraging

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  8. very, very glad to read this news Brigie & Andy, and sending our thoughts to all of you. Please tell Jim that so many people are out there thinking of him and wishing him a good recovery - even distant parental friends he hasn't actually met (like us lot in Tassie). love Matt & Sarah

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