Although this year had been good up until seven weeks ago, we are happy to see it end. The new year brings with it new challenges, to say the least, but we are going to go into it with a positive attitude because to do anything else would be pointless.
Mark had a much better day today. He just wore himself out over the previous 36 hours. He did not sleep again last night, and this morning was still agitated, but the medication worked and he was calm through his physical and occupational therapy sessions. He was given new "boots" for his legs, which he calls moon boots or UGHs. He then had breakfast and slept, slept, slept (except during lunch and dinner). He got a little agitated around dinner time, but fortunately it didn't last long. We had him up in his wheelchair for a while tonight and with a full tummy and a ride, he fell fast asleep again.
We discussed what happened yesterday with the doctor. He told us that this is common. He explained that the brain is actually rewiring when this happens. It has to go through phases of up and down before it can regulate itself. He told us Mark has progressed so quickly over the last two weeks, that it has been amazing. He said that although it was so difficult to watch, it is actually better than if he were lethargic which would be a sign that the brain wasn't healing as it should. He thinks that the fact that Mark realizes he is keyed up and can't relax is remarkable. This made us feel a lot better. His physical therapy went very well and the doctor was very happy about his progress there too, although we can't see a lot of improvement. His left arm which is the one that had the Botox is being moved slowly, but is already in a much better position.
We wish everyone a wonderful, blessed New Year and again our thanks for all your support.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Unfortunately, today was not as good a day for Mark as yesterday. This was to be expected, but it is difficult nevertheless.
He was extremely agitated all night we were told, and didn't sleep. This continued for the remainder of today. He fidgets, sweats, experiences pain, talks constantly and is just overall restless. Nothing really worked today to calm him down. He did have a visit with a friend who was in the area, and he was better then. It is very difficult to see him like this when his personality is usually so quiet and calm. Hopefully, the medication can be adjusted and these episodes controlled. He finally calmed down after dinner and was quiet when we left him.
We are told this is typical for his type of injury. We have spoken to other parents, and many of the soldiers here are experiencing the same thing in various degrees. The worst thing is that he knows this is happening and cannot control it. That only adds to the frustration.
Tomorrow is the end of this year and hopefully, we will see continued improvement in the next. I guess for every three steps forward, there is one back. We just need to step away and let the experts handle things as they should and be there for the next step. Of course, all these steps seem to be uphill. Hopefully, we will get to the top before long.