Sunday, December 23, 2007

Today was a busy one. We got to the hospital early and Rich gave Mark a shave! He was getting a little scruffy. We're not sure he actually agreed to stay still for it, but we bribed him with ice chips! Such a pushover for a little frozen water. It's amazing.

He has been running a fever on and off and sweats a lot when that happens. The doctor told us that they continue to run cultures to be sure, but there is no infection. It's just that his brain doesn't regulate his temperature properly. He gets very frustrated since he can't wipe his face when this happens. They have an arm restraint on him ever since the "pull out the tubes" incident. It's not tight or anything and he has mobility, but he could do quite a bit of damage to himself if he pulls them out again and no one wants that. Other than that he is doing well. He does have "spacey" moments and moments that are clearer, but all in all his speech is a bit better and he does recognize people quickly.

Speaking of visitors, he knew his Aunt Steff, Uncle Jim and cousins Brian and Chris when they came today. He also had a nice visit with his good friends Mike and Melissa from Strongsville who drove down for the afternoon, will stay overnight and visit again in the morning. He has a strong group of very supportive friends, with more planning to visit during the week. We would like to thank all of them for their unfailing support.

We will give everyone an update again on Wednesday. Until then, may you all have a wonderful Christmas.

All our love, Ann and Rich

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ann,
Thank you for creating this blog. So many of us in Strongsville have Mark and your family in our thoughts and prayers. It's so good to hear of Mark's progress.
Maria Bloom

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Lalli,
I teach English at SHS and had both Mark and Pete in class. Thank you so much for creating this blog. I've been reading the email updates with interest. You've raised two wonderful sons, and I wish you and your family the best on Christmas Day. Tell Pete and Mark I said hello.
Take care,
Diane Rezny

Anonymous said...

Hello Mr. and Mrs. Lalli,
I am an art teacher at SHS and had Mark in class. I am so pleased with the blog you have created. I gave Mark and angel for his pocket and he brought it back on his return home. He said he wouldn't need it anymore. Tell him, I am holding it temporarily but when he comes home I am returning it to him for keeps. Tell Mark the angel flies with him still. I have great hope that 2008 will bring all of you great joy in Mark's recovery.
Sincerely,
Joanne Pusti

Anonymous said...

Mr and Mrs Lalli
We had Mark when he was at Chapman Elementary in Strongsville, Mrs. Weir in 1st grade and Mr. Weir for physical education. We have Mark and your family in our prayers and are glad to hear of his progress. Please give him our best.
Dan and Karen Weir