Monday, October 5, 2009

Day 13 (SDH+12, PAO+7)

Matt's doing awesome with physical therapy.  He's learned how to walk with a walker and crutches, how to pivot into a bathtub to take a shower, how to put on socks and pants, etc.



He had his catheter removed for good today, and was able to pee normally.  He also doesn't have to be hooked up to an IV anymore.  He's able to drink liquids and eat solid food again.  And the last time he took any pain medication was yesterday morning. 

He still needs more gas to be emptied from his bowels.  The nurses want to see several regular bowel movements before he's safe to go home.   We were hoping to leave tomorrow, but I think more realistically it will be Wednesday at the earliest. 


Since Matt's been completely off of pain medications today, his skin is rapidly clearing up from the rashes.  He also hasn't had as many muscle spasms.  His speech is clearer and he's not sleeping as much during the day.  His face isn't pale and has some color in it again.  It seems all the problems have been due to his body not liking the pain medications.  At home he rarely takes anything for pain so his body just isn't used to them.  Thankfully, things are gradually returning to normal for him now.


We had a visit from Howard and Doris Spear today.  And my sister, Kari, is coming to see us tonight.  It's nice to see friends and family and be reminded that this isn't our life here.  We'll sure be glad to return home.

5 comments:

  1. What an encouraging post. No pain meds since yesterday morning? That seems amazing. You must have a high pain threshold, Matt. In the scheme of things, it's probably a pretty wise choice to get off them so quickly.

    Have a restful evening. We're praying for you and hope you'll be able to return home in the next couple days.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm so happy & relieved for you all, that his pain is easing, so he can focus on healing. What a blessing that you have so many willing & helping hands. I love reading your humorous anecdotes, great way to lighten what has been a trying situation. Happy Healing :D

    Burlington Cousin,
    Cris .L. Reimer

    ReplyDelete
  3. Just found out about the blog Sunday night. Wow! What a journey this has been for you! So glad you were able to keep a written journal of God's faithfulness during this time.

    I'm praying for you, Matt. when ya get done, we'll go play volleyball. ;-) Rick B

    ReplyDelete
  4. So glad things are going better! It will feel so good for you all to be home together again.

    ReplyDelete
  5. super! great to hear that things are getting better so quickly. I like the photo. who's teddy bear is that? :-)

    -joe

    ReplyDelete