Well, all good things must come to an end, so today we go back to reality. Mark and Jess left on Saturday after two glorious weeks for us, and I hope, for them. Mark really enjoyed having all his favorite foods and sweets and it will be interesting to see how much weight he has gained during his visit. Jess loved Strongsville and the area, loved meeting Mark's friends, and even enjoyed the snow.
They left from Cleveland with very nice assistance from TSA and the USO. We were met by the Duty Manager for TSA and he escorted us to the Continental counter and we were given security passes so that we could accompany Mark and Jess to the gate. Continental was extremely helpful and had upgraded their seats to first class for the return trip also. Mark was welcomed by the pilot when he arrived and they had a nice discussion about Aviano, where this pilot had been based while in the Air Force.
They returned to the Fisher House and this morning Mark was readmitted to the hospital. He had the day off from therapy to unpack and get resettled. While they were doing this, they came to hook up his television set. He turned it on and to quote him, " I looked up and saw my ugly mug on the screen." The episode of The American Veteran that featured Mark was airing on the Pentagon Channel. You can view it at the link below, just click on the Lokomat episode:
http://www1.va.gov/opa/feature/amervet/index.asp
The story turned out very well and the doctor featured is Dr. Steven Scott, who is the director of the Poly Trauma Rehabilitation Unit and is Mark's doctor. I think I have said before that he is a wonderful man whose ministry in life is getting these young men back to where they were before their injuries.
We think our fifteen minutes of fame, that stretched to forty-five, are finally over and we promise not to bore you any longer!
Monday, January 5, 2009
January 1, 2009
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
We wish each of you a wonderful 2009 full of love, hope, peace and prosperity.
Yesterday Mark and Jess along with PJ and Shelley (Mark's closest friend and his girlfriend) had gone to the movies to see "Marley and Me" and came home with great reviews! Mark came home, took a nap and then it was out to PJs for a small party. Rich and I were also invited by PJs parents, but took advantage of the quiet and stayed home to ring in the new year by watching a "Big Bang" marathon (funny show for those who haven't seen it). The kids called about 12:05 and asked to be picked up. Mark was so funny when he told me they would call to come over for breakfast when he got up this afternoon!
He has been doing so well while he has been home. He has been using his walker to get from room to room and he is improving before our eyes. His appetite is enormous and Rich swears he has gained 10 pounds since he's been here (but haven't we all?). Today we are going to lay low and probably take down the tree. Mark plans to supervise. We'll let you know how that goes. I'll bet he'll do it with his eyes closed!