Monday Sept. 17th

Today we continue our fight against an upset stomach, Christopher has been uncomfortable most of the day. Our biggest worry, at the moment, is with him losing more weight if he continues to expel the calories he is taking in. Unfortunately this is one of the common complications with extended hospital stays. Its chances of occurring are increased with the use of antibiotics, which can destroy the good bacteria in the system while attacking the infections they were prescribed for. Even with his discomfort Debbie was able to take Christopher to the garden this morning to enjoy the fresh air. He really likes being outside.

He continues to go through the stretching and range of motion activities during his therapy sessions, which he also seems to enjoy. He is learning to propel himself in the wheelchair by pushing with his legs. He is currently able to push himself backwards, they will continue to work on his motor skills to use his legs to pull himself along with his feet. You see so many of the patients moving around the unit, it seems like such a simple thing. The spasticity in his arms continues even with the splints he wears at night, the constant contraction is pulling the arms up to his chest. I know it has to be painful.

It is so good to see him in the evenings finally relax as he goes off to sleep. The muscles relax and he just seems to melt into the bed, so peaceful.

We were able to watch some of the Australian cricket matches on the TV today, Debbie even watched earlier in the day. It was a reminder of home. We had planned to go visit Deb’s mother around Thanksgiving this year. We will make it, as soon as we get Christopher back on his feet. As they say in my south, if the Lords willing and the creek don’t rise. We’ll be in Australia soon.