Hello Everyone!!
Alvin had a rough night at the care center last night, another room, different sounds and nurses. Although his room is quite large, made for two patients, and the view isn't so bad either. Looking out his window, there is the archway of the structure and alot of natural light. VERY GOOD FOR THE SOUL!!
I arrived around 10:45 this morning to find the OT specialist doing an evaluation with Al. Hank and I sat quietly to the side and watched their communication. He was able to stitch through a piece of leather with a large needle and yarn, while the OT held it steady for him. He didn't have his glasses so this was a little trickier than need be, but nonetheless, he pulled through and finished the task. Great to see him do these things. She also had him stand for one minute on his own two feet. We were not here to see that, however he was happy to tell us about it. The OT is going to be assisting in the basic life skills and help him regain his composure of where he was on May 13, the date of his fall. This therapy will be a various times, however it is supposed to be M-F; so charting his progress with this OT/PT should show some good results.
Alvin also started some new meds to help with his thrush. Poor guy is having some serious pain in his mouth. Today he had to "swish & spit" that nasty tasting medicine. But it will be a relief once the thrush is gone. He is still using the lollipop type sponge to rinse his tongue and clean his mouth with icy water. Must feel good to him, since he lets out a sigh of relief when he is through. His poor lips are so chapped and peeling again, been using Carmex alot. Try to keep it handy so the nurses also remember to put some on his lips during the night.
Lani and Melissa ordered him a small DVD player/TV that he will be able to set on his tray and watch. He really enjoys those movies....sure it helps him relax, even if it's just a little.
He sure misses home! When Rick came to visit today, she read to him a letter that his sister sent. Sitting across the room, I watched them silently. They are so precious. He watches her so intently it almost brings tears to my eyes. They hold hands and talk close. He always tells her she is his love. Breath taking if you ask me.....
Alot of visitors again today. Melissa, before she heads back towards home, Jan & Gary, Hank & I and of course Mom. Lani also stopped in early with a nice polar fleece blanket. So much lighter weight and fresh. He does get chilled sometimes, but those hospital blankets are pretty heavy on his feet and legs. He was delighted to have a new lightweight one. We also moved his bed around a little. Well, actually the nurse did, I just moved and let her do her thing. Al was facing a blank wall with only a clock on it.....I don't know about you, but that would drive me nuts.....SO, he is now able to see the clock, TV and window. Oh, and the staff no longer has to kneel across his bed to get blood pressures or post notes on the wall.
Over all, we are all taking a breath and just taking one day at a time. I would like to tell Jan THANK YOU SO MUCH for the bagel and Pepsi....the coffee would have tasted wonderful too....but it did make the lobby smell like white chocolate.......thank you so much to Melissa who is EXCELLENT at what she does. I love to watch, listen and take notes of her actions, suggestions and calm demeanor during such trying times. You are an angel...
Thank you to everyone for the Prayers, kind words and support. I really appreciate the feed back. I wish you all a peaceful night and a wonderful Wednesday. Until tomorrow....
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