Leaps and bounds!

Mom continues to improve this week. She went to the grocery store with Dad on Thursday and didn't need a wheelchair or even one of those riding carts. She just walked through the store with him! She's doing extremely well getting around the house and can even get up and down off the floor by herself. When you talk to her on the phone it sounds as if she's back to normal.

However, some basic skills still need relearning, and at times she's a bit of a danger to herself because she's in a familiar environment and wants to do all the things she's used to doing. For instance, she decided she wanted a toast, so she put a piece of bread in the microwave and turned it on for a very long time. Dad didn't realize what she had done until smoke started pouring out of the kitchen! She also decided she wanted to change the sheets on the bed, (despite the fact that Dad just did it on Thursday) so she took them all off and stuffed EVERYTHING in the washing machine at once - mattress pad, sheets AND blanket!!! Needless to say, they didn't quite fit and it took awhile to get everything laundered and back in place so they could go to bed!

But she is definitely improving in so many ways. I've been out of town since Wednesday and could hardly believe how well she did tonight at dinner using her RIGHT hand! And she is trying to work on her photos (although in a few weeks from now she will probably be frustrated with her current efforts!) She is also practicing how to write her name and is making pretty good progress. Dad writes her name in cursive at the top of the paper, and then she practices writing it below his example. In addition, she is lifting her weights several times each day in an effort to strengthen her arms. The best part of all is that she can laugh when things don't go well, instead of getting upset.

Medically she is improving as well. We are hoping to have the PEG line removed in the near future and are so glad she hasn't really needed it. Although her appetite is still not very great, she eats small portions at every meal and food hasn't been a struggle since we've gotten home.

The one big concern is Mom's right eye which has been infected on and off since the end of August. She has been on eye drops all this time, and her eye would seem to get better for a few days and then get red again. We just thought it was because she kept rubbing her eye and reinfecting it. However, Dad got her in to their ophthalmologist on Thursday, who said the drops actually caused a dangerous situation within her eye to where she currently has almost no vision at all on the right side. He put a special medicated contact in that eye, prescribed two different kinds of eyedrops, and wants to see her every 3 days. He feels everything will be fine, but is frustrated at the treatment she received. We are just grateful he knows what to do!!!

This week will be full of doctor appointments. Outpatient physical therapy begins on Wednesday, and will probably be three times a week, for three hours each time. In addition, there will be eye appointments as well as a visit with her regular internist who will be taking over Mom's care from all the inpatient physicians. Dad's becoming quite the scheduling genius, as well as a full time chauffeur!

The hospital has also agreed to provide ten more days of transitional care, where they pay for someone to come in and help out in any way needed for three hours each day. They will be coming in the afternoons, which will give Dad a bit of a break so he can run errands or work out in his shop for a bit, which will be so nice for him.

Thanks for keeping us in your prayers. Although this is a bit tricky at times, Mom is progressing in leaps and bounds now that she is home. It's wonderful to have her back!

"Grammie's out of the woods!"

What a fun evening! Mom came over to my house to eat cake and ice cream for Alan's birthday celebration. She hasn't been here since the 24th of July, so it seemed like old times. She was talking to Heidi on the phone and when Heidi asked how she was doing, Mom replied, "I think Grammie's out of the woods!" It was pretty cute.

Each day Mom is getting more and more aware, and trying to figure out new things. Today she and Dad went for a walk around the culdesac together. She also looked through her pictures for a bit this morning, so she's slowly getting back into the swing of things.

Now that Mom's home and things are going well, I've been toying with the idea of just updating the blog every few days. It's a hard thing to give up after 88 days of daily posts, as I consider you all dear friends who have sustained us with your faith and testimony throughout the ups and downs of our beautiful Mother's recovery. Thanks for joining our family on this journey, and watch for a new entry in a few days! I promise to keep you posted!

Twelve weeks!

It seems like forever ago that we walked into the hospital at 5:30 a.m., with the sky still dark, and Mom excited about finally getting new knees. I can still picture her walking down the hall to her room in her cute light blue jeans and matching sparkly shirt, and I can still remember saying goodbye to her as they wheeled her away, all snuggled under a warm blanket. Bit by bit and day by day, she's making progress towards where she used to be.

Today Mom worked at holding a fork and getting food to her mouth, and wanted to do it without help. Dad is so cute to help her just enough so she is successful. She is actually eating more than she did in the hospital, and the PEG line is not really necessary. Her sweet personality shines through, and also her independent streak! And there is no reasoning with her when she has her mind made up about something. But that just shows that she is making great improvements, so we'll take it. She is doing amazingly well getting up from a sitting position, and since she gets up every few minutes to move to a different seat or walk to a different room, she's getting lots and lots of practice! She is also getting more steady walking around, so we don't feel as if we need to hover near as much as we did on Saturday - for which I'm sure she's grateful!

Mom also enjoyed looking through some of her photos which were taken in the early summer. She had them all packed up to work on during her supposed 3 day stay after surgery. I guess 84 days later is a bit of a stretch, but it's exciting to see her doing something she loved to do before.

We're still trying to figure out options to give Dad a bit of a break, but he is hanging in there. He deserves the Nobel peace prize for all his efforts, and I learn so much just watching him. Way to go, Dad!!!

I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand!

Today Mom was able to make it to Sacrament Meeting. When we drove up to the Church, she didn't want to park in the handicapped stalls even though we had a permit. Mom enjoyed being at Church again, and seeing her dear neighbors and friends who have been so kind and thoughtful and helpful! She commented on the way home about how special her ward is. We couldn't agree more!!!

We have seen much improvement in Mom just since yesterday. She is alot more stable walking around the house, and we don't worry quite as much about her getting up and down. Good thing too, since she doesn't sit in one place for long! When Jim Jr. came to visit he remarked that she is probably getting more therapy at home than she ever would in the hospital! She is working very hard to be independent, and even tried to do the dishes tonight. At dinner she laboriously tried to eat with her right hand, which is quite a bit weaker than her left. She said she needs to learn how to do things, so she didn't want any help. It is frustrating to her, but she is definitely trying.

Although she is improving, it remains a full time job for Dad to keep up with everything. We need to find some way for him to have a break for a bit each day, since this is non stop. As I said yesterday, Mom can do a LOT of things, but some steps are just plain missing, and she needs constant supervision. Although we are thrilled beyond measure to have her home and can see daily improvement, this will be a long process.

Despite the enormity of the task, we know things will work out. Today as I sat in Sacrament Meeting I was very touched by the words to a familiar hymn - How Firm a Foundation. I've sung it hundreds of times throughout my life, but it has never had more meaning than today:

Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

He has truly strengthened and helped Mom, and caused her to stand. We know He will continue to be at her side.

HOME SWEET HOME!!!

SHE'S HOME!!! Just like we have been hoping and praying and fasting for, Mom walked out of the hospital today, completely on her own!!! It was so exciting and amazing and wonderful! After 82 days in the hospital, it was time for a change of scenery, and what better place to go than HOME!!!

We all arrived at the hospital at 9:00 a.m., and Mom was dressed and ready to go. The therapy staff had one more physical therapy session scheduled at 9:30, so they had Mom help load all her personal belongings on a cart, as a sort of "real life" practice. We would never have thought to have her do any of that, but the physical therapist wanted Mom to realize that she could do most anything she wants to do. (She needn't have worried because Mom pretty much ran circles around us the rest of the day!)

Then the nurse went over the discharge papers, and Mom signed them herself! (It didn't look anything like her previous signature, but hey, it's a new life!!!) Then we posed for pictures in Mom's room and walked out! It was just that simple!

When we pulled up at Mom and Dad's house, it was decorated with two banners - one from the ward welcoming Sister Whitehead home, and another from us kids. The banners brought even more smiles to our faces, if that were possible! We helped Mom into the house and she collapsed on the couch -- but only for a minute. After that she wanted to see things, and even went for a walk around the backyard. I think she felt a bit like Rip Van Winkle - when she left in July, her garden was in full bloom, and today it's the middle of October and everything is harvested.

We had a flurry of things to do - adding more safety rails in the shower and getting a slew of prescriptions filled, but Mom was right in the thick of things. She decided she wanted a BLT sandwich and then visited with the neighbors. Then it was time for a nap.

The rest of the afternoon and evening have been quite the whirlwind. Dad and I aren't sure we can keep up with Mom. She didn't sit still for more than a couple of minutes at at time, and we exhausted ourselves trying to keep her safe, so much so that she commented on the phone to one of her granddaughters that she was being corralled on the farm!

Realistically, this will be a full-time operation to keep track of Mom. She can do so much, but still can't quite remember all the steps for many basic tasks. We are mostly worried about her falling, but have had to realize that despite our best efforts, there is no possible way to watch her every second. Hopefully she will sleep soundly so Dad can get some rest as well.

As we look back on this three month journey, we are in awe of the overwhelming love and concern we have been shown. The yard has been mowed and the garden tended. Visitors have come to buoy us up and we have received many sweet cards and emails. But it hasn't stopped there. Mom and Dad's next door neighbor built a beautiful railing for the stairs in the garage, and several people have offered to build one for the front porch. People are literally waiting in the wings to do whatever needs to be done. We are humbled and grateful for such an outpouring of kindness. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and faith and fasting. The Lord has heard your prayers and blessed us beyond measure. We can never repay your generosity and Christ-like love.

Jim Jr Comments. I went over to IMC and had breakfast with mom 1 last time this morning. I bought scrambled eggs w/cheese, sausage & bacon with hashbrowns and we ate somewhat similar breakfasts! (The food is actually very good here, and is made out of the same kitchen that visitors frequent. After all this time, we haven't tired of eating here --- I am speaking for myself, of course!)

Then Mom was ready to go. Dad, Diane and Randy showed up shortly thereafter, we said goodbyes, mom signed her discharge papers and we were on our way. We spent the rest of the afternoon putting up the rest of the fancy shower heads and safety grab bars, and thoroughly enjoying mom back at home. She was up and down and all over, but soon wore out from all the excitement! What an incredible last 12 weeks! We are so grateful for all your attentiveness, prayers and support. Isn't that what friends and family are all about? ....

All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go!

Today was Mom's last full day at the hospital. Therapists, nurses and other staff members came to tell Mom goodbye, as many of them won't be working tomorrow. This is one of the sweetest parts of their job -- seeing someone get well enough to go back to their life! Mom is grateful for each one of them and comments often how kind everyone has been to her. She truly appreciates everything that every single person has done to help her progress.

Last night Mom was anxious about getting her things packed up. It's amazing how much stuff you can accumulate in a little hospital room! Today we brought a couple boxes and got everything emptied out, leaving only the bare essentials necessary to make it until the morning. She was very concerned that we not forget anything and supervised the entire process. Then she took a nap!

For lunch Mom had one of her favorite meals ever -- an avocado toast! I brought some yummy bread, which we toasted super crisp, (she actually likes it black on the edges!!!) buttered generously, and added sliced avocados on top. We sprinkled lemon juice over the avocados and added salt and pepper. She ate the entire thing! That had to have added some serious calories to her day, but it was actually quite nutritious. I think once she gets home and can eat what she's used to eating, it will make a big difference.

Well, as little kids often say when counting down to an exciting event: ONLY ONE MORE WAKE-UP! All we have to do is go to sleep and the next thing we know it will be time to pick her up! Who says miracles cease to exist?!

T minus 2

The countdown continues and things are still looking incredibly great. Today I had to drop my car off at a shop just down the road from the hospital, so Dad said he would pick me up. Imagine my surprise when Mom came along for the ride!!! When they pulled up, it looked so natural to see Mom sitting in the front seat of their cute white car. In the days after Mom's surgery, I often rode back and forth to the hospital with Dad, and I always sat in Mom's place. It almost felt sacred to be sitting in her seat, and I used to wonder if she would ever sit there again. And now, here we are! (I never knew it could feel so good to ride in the back seat!)

Randy came along for the ride as well, and after picking me up, we all continued on to his house so Mom could see the new carpet they had installed a couple weeks ago. Mom was able to go down all the stairs into the basement, and then back up again. Jim and Ruth stopped over for the excitement, and it was great fun to all be together again at a place other than the hospital!

Earlier in the day I talked to Mom on the phone and she told me we needed to start packing up all the things from her hospital room to take home. It was so natural to be talking with her that way and planning all the things we need to do. She talks and acts just like she always has, and it is thrilling.

Things are falling into place for the big day. Everyone is so happy for us and we have received such generous offers to help. We're still trying to figure out exactly what we need, but it is heartwarming to know that people care so much. We know it won't be easy, but we're excited to have made it this far. Thank you again for everything.

MOM'S GOING HOME!!!

SURPRISE!!!

HAPPY DAY!!!

INCREDIBLE NEWS!!!

MOM'S GOING HOME ON SATURDAY!!!

We can hardly believe it, but Mom has progressed so quickly these past few days that she is about to achieve the goal which has been posted in her room for weeks: Walk out of the hospital and GO HOME!!! It will be thrilling to see her fulfill the miracle that so many people all over the world have been fasting and praying for. (Don't worry, we'll take video!) You all are part of this miracle and we owe so much to you for your love and support in our behalf. We can never thank you enough.

Just a few short days ago, although Mom was making great progress, we still felt that going home was several weeks away. However, since discontinuing several meds last week, Mom has progressed in leaps and bounds. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you don't feel sick! Despite what happens or doesn't happen with the insurance appeal, Mom has come so far that there is nowhere to go but home. The therapists feel she is ready and doesn't need further inpatient therapy. She will continue to receive outpatient therapy up at LDS hospital, but starting Saturday, she will be living at HOME! Dad is going to shoulder the greatest load, but since Mom can do so many more things on her own, the task doesn't seem quite so overwhelming.

We have a list of things that need to be done at home before Saturday morning, but most of them aren't too difficult. Dad, Randy and I went shopping and got some handrails, a shower chair, and a handheld shower for the bathrooms. We also need to remove all throw rugs from the house and anything else that is a potential tripping hazard. In the near future we need to install a hand rail on the steps from the garage into the house, but for now we can just help her maneuver them with our support. THIS IS EXCITING!!!

Today Mom ate most of her breakfast, which was a miracle in and of itself! She ate a few bites of lunch and dinner, but we're not complaining. Since Mom and Dad's house is literally 5 minutes away from my school, I'm planning on going straight there after school and making dinner with Mom's own recipes. Hopefully that will get her eating again. It will give Dad a break for a bit too, so that should work out well.

This is more exciting than Christmas!!! We have our Mother back!!! Wahoo!!! I jokingly commented this afternoon that had we known at the beginning that Mom would be able to go home in 11 weeks and 5 days, it would have made things a whole lot easier. Isn't that the way it is with any trial? Alas, the Lord wants us to exercise faith and look to Him. We humbly acknowledge His hand in this unbelievable miracle. Thank you for traveling this journey with us.

My life in pictures

Tonight we three kids enjoyed a delightful time with Mom showing her pictures and video of the past 78 days of her life. (Actually, I'm sure all four kids were there -- Lynn wouldn't have missed this for anything!) Thanks to Jim Jr.'s love of photojournalism and his dedication to documenting Mom's progress, on the spur of the moment he was able to hook up his camera to the TV in Mom's room so we could witness together the journey she has travelled these past 3 months. It was humbling to relive the miracles that have been bestowed on our family and finally be able to share them with Mom. She was so coherent and marveled at how far she has come. In addition, she was able to provide some enlightening commentary from her point of view, which was fascinating. It was difficult to watch the situation unfold in the early weeks, and then equally thrilling to see her exponential progress these past two weeks. We are in awe of the way the Lord has blessed our Mother and each one of us. We have not walked this path alone.

Mom had a great day in therapy. She accompanied the therapists downstairs to the cafeteria on the first floor, without her wheelchair -- walking completely on her own, taking the elevator and all! Ruth, Alycia, Parker and Breck met Mom downstairs and she had a fun time visiting with them.

Although she went down to the cafeteria, Mom didn't want anything to eat. However, tonight we were able to discuss the reasons why food is so unappealing to her, and ask what would make the situation better. She gave us some suggestions as to things she would enjoy eating, but made it clear that food has never been something she cared too much about. (Goodness, I certainly didn't inherit that trait!!!) We are going to bring some items from home that she requested, and see if that helps.

Mobility wise, Mom is getting more steady by the day. Other skills are coming back as well. This afternoon she practiced writing her name, and tonight she stood at the sink in the bathroom and brushed her own teeth. Things are really clicking and it is so exciting to watch our Mother come back!

Thanks for all your love and prayers and support. Still no word about the appeal. Keep us in your prayers!

Jim Jr's comments. This morning, mom was alert as she has ever been. Speech therapy was right on task. Before physical therapy, after eating acceptably (she's not a huge breakfast person, but that's what arrives on her plate every morming) -- mom had to go the bathroom. She stood straight up, walked right to the bathroom, sat down, did her thing, got up, dressed herself, walked over to the sink, washed her hands and dried them and walked back into the room just like nothing! This is absolutely incredible!

She fussed with her shoe laces a bit. The physical therapist walked in, and she stood straight up for Alex. He just about lost it, because he hasn't been around for a few days. When we told him she had walked up and down a whole flight of stairs he couldn't believe it. Well, she started walking out of the room and right down the hall to the gym (some 220+ feet) without any complaint. She even walked fast for part of it! Alex checked out her knees and motion in walking and shook his head in disbelief that this could even be the same person he saw late last week (who was struggling to even get up off the bed or out of the chair).

This evening, though, mom didn't eat but a morsel or two at best -- and, as Diane mentioned, during our discussion about her lack of appetite (with we 3+1 kids), I gave her a bowl of grapes and Lays potato chips, which she promptly devoured and munched down before our very eyes! We ate a Big Cherry just before leaving and all had a good laugh. A most incredible day! Astounding! Amazing!

Mom, your goal of walking out of the hospital and going home will be realized sooner than you think!

A whole new world! Happy Columbus Day!

Mom is still doing great today! For therapy, she walked up and down an entire flight of real stairs - from the 12th floor to the 11th floor and back up again. She did super! Also today, she used a fork to eat some salad, completely on her own. She did it left-handed, as that hand is more advanced than her right one, so perhaps she'll be ambidextrous when this is all over. She only ate a couple bites of salad, but the skill was definitely there.

As far as eating is concerned, it is still not on Mom's tops list, although her stomach is feeling better. The vitamins and/or acid-reducers must have been the culprits, since she is not in discomfort since discontinuing them. Dad got some training today in how to use the PEG line to supplement Mom's calories, so he knows how to do it, but hopefully her eating will pick up soon so he doesn't have to. We've tried every tempting food we can think of, to no avail. It doesn't do ANY good to push, so we just let her take the lead.

Still no decision from the insurance appeal. Jim Jr. found out today that the package he had overnighted to New York was actually delivered and signed for on Saturday morning as promised, but never taken upstairs to the appeals committee. Jim Jr. talked to them today and they are supposedly going to look everything over before making their decision. I just wish they could see the videos from yesterday. If a picture's worth a thousand words, those videos speak volumes!

The hospital instituted some new visiting rules because of the H1N1 influenza. Beginning today only two visitors are allowed at any one time in a patient's room, with visiting hours ending at 8 p.m. That doesn't really put a crimp in our style too much, because we can just go out onto the couches at the end of the hall if we have more than 2 visitors, or some of us can go get a bite to eat in the cafeteria downstairs. Kind of sobering to think about, however.

Anyhow, Mom's making fabulous progress. Thanks for the fasting and prayers!

No more mothers getting out of bed!

Here are some amazing videos of Mom today. The first one is my absolute favorite and will bring tears to your eyes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOcxKMPC26o

The second one is pretty cute and shows that Mom still has muscles despite the fact that she's basically been in bed for 11 weeks tomorrow! It will make you smile!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78Nqx8cTCJo

As you can see from the videos, Mom's progress is absolutely breathtaking! Today for the first time, she got out of bed completely by herself, stood up, and walked out into the hall to sit on the couches and visit. Later when some of us were going home, she insisted on getting out of bed again and hugging each person who was leaving. It was vintage Mom, as she always accompanies you outside when you are leaving her home, and waves in the driveway until you are gone. Other than the hug she gave me personally, the one I really enjoyed was her hugging Dad! Pretty sweet!

Yesterday, Mom started laying on the couch in her room for a change of pace from the bed. She has always enjoyed taking a little cat nap on the couch at home, so it's fun to see her doing something familiar.

She also said her stomach is feeling much better, but alas, is still not eating more than a few bites each meal. At least she doesn't feel sick, so perhaps the eating will come. Alan brought her a Sees chocolate and she did eat that, but when he asked what kind she would like tomorrow, she didn't want another!

I was able to visit with her one on one for a few minutes tonight, and told her my theory that it might be hard for her to recognize how much progress she is making since she doesn't have the perspective of remembering how far she has come. She told me she does realize she is making progress and actually seemed quite upbeat. It was so reassuring to hear her express herself like my Mother!

Now that she's so mobile, it will be a real challenge to keep her from getting up on her own at night. She assured us that she doesn't want to fall and that she will call the nurse if she needs to get up. We teased her about the poem Five little monkeys, jumping on the bed, and reminded her that one fell out and broke his head. We certainly don't want that to happen! Sleep tight tonight, Mom, and remember, No more mothers getting out of bed!!!

Soccer Mom

Today was a pretty good day physically for Mom. After walking all the way down the hall, she went up and down the steep steps in the therapy room. Then on the way back to her room, she kicked a ball down the hall, soccer style! Who knew we had a soccer Mom?

She also said her stomach felt better today, and she ate a bit more food than usual, although not nearly as much as we would have hoped. (However, anything is better than last night's half a roll.) Actually today at lunch she ate an entire roll with butter along with some baby tomatoes and cucumbers. She also had some popcorn this evening, so we're making a bit of progress. We'll take it all!

Mom's spirits seemed to be somewhat better today as well, although she did say that her condition was "dismal." When we asked what she meant, she said she can't do much and it's kind of disconcerting. We told her that the ICU doctor said we would be surprised at her progress at the year mark, and she was heartened by such a prognosis. As we analyze her feelings, it is easy to see her perspective. She told us that she has absolutely no memory of anything since her surgery, and in fact, can't even remember as recently as her birthday (Sept. 3rd). When we tell her how great she is doing, it is somewhat confusing to her since she doesn't have the perspective of knowing where she's been. All she knows is that she can't remember how to do even the simplest of tasks and that her hands don't work very well. It would be quite disconcerting from that point of view, to say the least!

But it is truly heartening to see her progress week by week. When we look back even two weeks, her progress is absolutely astounding. We'll just keep hoping and praying for miracles in her heart and mind as well as her feet and hands!

Tonight as she said the family prayer she prayed that ,"Our eyes might be enlightened and our souls be filled with Thy love." Well said, sweet Mother, well said.

p.s. Nothing from the insurance company. The appeal can take up to 72 hours, so it sounds as if we may not know until Monday. Keep praying!!!

I was wearing the blue socks!

One of our biggest fears came to pass last night. Despite the bed alarm, Mom got herself up and out of bed in the middle of the night and ended up on the floor. She was not upset, and fortunately did not seem to be hurt. Her comment to the doctor about it this morning was, "I was wearing the blue socks." We had to smile, because yesterday we had a discussion with her about being sure to wear the blue socks with the grippy white stripes on them when she stands up so her feet won't slide out from under her. Her short term memory is definitely improving!

Early this morning Alan stopped by the hospital on his way to work to refuse the vitamins before they had a chance to give them to Mom. When Jim Jr. arrived he was able to speak with Mom's doctor about our desire to discontinue some of Mom's meds - namely the vitamins and stomach-acid reducers. Although the doctor did not agree with our theory, Mom did not receive any of those medications today. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to make much of an immediate difference, as she still did not eat much today. Dinner consisted of half a roll. Consequently, they are giving Mom supplemental nourishment through her PEG line tonight. However, we want to give our theory a few days to see if it has any positive effect. We don't have much to lose!

This morning Mom participated in therapy, but was pretty sleepy this afternoon. When I arrived at dinnertime, she finished her dinner (all half of a roll!) and wanted a shower. I'm happy to announce that I redeemed myself this time around and it was not too traumatic of an experience! (It's amazing what you can do when you practice with the funky shower equipment BEFORE wheeling Mom into the shower!) Dad found the blow dryer and we got some warm blankets, so Mom ended the day snuggled into bed, all clean and cozy.

Still no word on the appeal of the appeal of the denial of continuing insurance. (How's that for a mouthful?) Jim Jr. put together a packet of information along with video footage of Mom's progress, and overnighted it to New York where the appeals committee will be meeting tomorrow. It's hard to believe that anyone who sees the videos could say Mom is not progressing. We trust that Heavenly Father will intervene if necessary. Please join us in praying for their hearts to be softened.

And for Mom to STAY IN BED!!!

Light at the end of the tunnel!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0yI9vaZEf8

Mom going down stairs (this week)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfbwOMH10Ls

Mom walking (Sept. 27)

Here are the links to some video of Mom that you will enjoy. The one of her walking is almost 2 weeks old, and she can get around even better than that. She now only needs one person at her side instead of two, and she is doing most of the support all on her own. So, as you can see, Mom is really making progress.

The hope is to get her home a week from Saturday, but we have a LOT to do before then. Although she is quite mobile, she is very fragile, and hasn't re-learned many of the simple tasks we take for granted. We feel she needs a bit longer on the 12th floor, and the staff all agrees, but the insurance company has once again denied further coverage. This time we also lost the appeal, but it is being sent to an independent group for a further appeal, so we'll see. Their comment is that she is not making enough progress. Jim Jr. sent them the above videos which show tremendous progress, but we're not sure they viewed them before making their decision. What a crazy game we're playing, and we don't even know the rules! It's been quite the education, to say the least.

We're working hard to get to the bottom of Mom's stomach pain and have narrowed it down to a couple of simple meds she is receiving. Believe it or not, one of the suspected culprits is her multi-vitamin, so we feel there is nothing to lose by taking her off it for a few days. Unfortunately the doctor needs to sign off in order to discontinue a medication and he was at another clinic today. The other option is for the family to refuse it, so Jim Jr. is going to be there at the right time first thing in the morning to do just that. Hopefully it could be something as simple as that! If not, at least we tried.

Thanks for your continued prayers. We're getting there!!!

There's no place like home!

Today Mom went on a field trip home!!! The physical therapist and assistant accompanied Mom and Dad and gave recommendations on items that need to be done around the house so Mom can function at home. Mom was able to lay on her very own bed, sit at her computer desk, and rest on the couch in her very own living room! She said it felt so good, but she was understandably exhausted when she arrived back at the hospital.

It's so exciting to see Mom this mobile, but it also has some drawbacks. Today Dad and I went to talk to someone on the floor about insurance, and when we got back to Mom's room, she was sitting up on the side of the bed ready to push herself to a standing position. While Mom can get around quite well, she always has at least one person by her side for support, so we are a bit anxious about her trying to get out of bed alone. The last thing she needs is to fall and injure herself.

Our next hurdle to overcome is Mom's stomach pain. If we look back on the blog we can pinpoint the exact day she stopped eating - Sept. 12th. She has consistently complained of stomach pain since then, and unfortunately, it seems to be getting worse. She can't say exactly what or where the pain is, only that her stomach hurts and she doesn't feel like eating. It's all a vicious circle, because if she could feel better, and feel like eating, she could have more strength. Currently she is getting most of her calories from drinks like Ensure, Boost, and instant breakfast. We're going to put on our detective hats and see if we can't get to the bottom of this. If it's not one thing, it's another!

But all in all, it's been a great day! Like Dorothy says, "There's no place like home!"

She's baaaaaack!!!

WOW is all we can say! We had a real glimpse of Mom/Grammie today. She had that special twinkle in her eye as she visited with some of her grandkids and asked how they were doing and what they were up to. As we gathered around her bed for family prayer, it felt like old times (except that Brady offered the prayer in Chinese!) Everyone was so thrilled to see the Mom/Grammie we know and love! Although she is weak and tires easily, her sweet personality shone through.

Mom accomplished much today in the way of therapy. She can get out of bed, stand up from a seated position, and walk, all with minimal assistance. She is also able to go up and down stairs in the therapy room. Wahoo!

But our biggest excitement of all is the "field trip" home, which is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. Alex, Mom's physical therapist, will accompany Mom and Dad in a hospital van on a visit to Mom and Dad's house. The purpose of the visit is to check out what accommodations will be necessary for Mom to function at home. We are so excited for her to go home, if only for a short time, and remember what her life is really like!

With progress like this, it is easy to picture Mom going home in the near future. Although she still has a long road ahead of her, she is traveling in the right direction! This is getting exciting!

Magnificent Monday - 10 Weeks!

Today was a wonderful day of progress for Mom and a terrific way to pass the 10 week mark. Mom walked quite a bit today, and even went up and down several stairs in the therapy room, which is especially exciting since there are 3 steps into Mom and Dad's house. In addition, Mom was able to get from a sitting to a standing position several times today with only minimal help. She also got herself down from a low table onto a mat on the floor, and then up back onto the table almost completely on her own! She even supported herself for a brief time while standing in a doorway. The day's efforts were pretty exhausting, but she enjoyed a back and neck massage before bed. All in all it was a giant step forward. It's starting to feel like she is firmly on the path to recovery and independence, and gaining momentum each day. Here's hoping we are done with setbacks!!!

This is exciting!!!

Popcorn and lemonade!

Thank heavens Mom is feeling better today!!! Although we didn't get to take her home on an outing like we had hoped, she enjoyed watching Conference in her room with Dad. At dinnertime she didn't eat too much, but said she wanted some popcorn, her favorite. So, we popped a small bag and she surprised us all by feeding it to herself! Then she went on to drink a cup of lemonade and munch on some apple slices ALL BY HERSELF! How exciting that she has enough control of her hands to manage lifting a glass and picking up popcorn on her own. This is a great step towards independence!

The nurse had some interesting insights about eating. She pointed out that an entire tray of food might be overwhelming to Mom. That really rang true to me, especially since Mom has never been a very big eater. In fact, she has always taken small portions of food, so the large quantities very well might be an issue. Perhaps smaller portions spread throughout the day might be the trick. Now, just how to go about that is a mystery, but it might be worth pursuing. Never a dull moment!

We are grateful for this improvement, and while it might seem small, to us it is HUGE! As we look back over the past TEN weeks (tomorrow, believe it or not) we can definitely see a pattern of good days followed by not so good days, and some downright awful ones as well. However, the sun always comes out again and we take comfort in knowing that Heavenly Father is in charge. We can't thank you enough for all your support and prayers on her behalf.

Eat some popcorn and lemonade in celebration!

Ouch!

Mom was in a lot of pain today despite the pain meds she is receiving. It was hard to watch her be so upset and not be able to do anything to help. To me, that is the most difficult part of caregiving - that you can't fix things, and sometimes nothing you do helps. I tell myself that I just need to show love and support. Today I told her I loved her, and she said she already knew. I guess that's good.

As I was leaving, I spoke to the nurse and mentioned that we had no idea this procedure would be so painful. She replied, "It's not. Your mother is just choosing to focus on it." I almost decked her, but decided to just turn and walk out so she wouldn't see me burst into tears. Let's poke a quarter inch hole through her abdomen, muscle wall and stomach and then see if she chooses to focus on it or not. (Thanks for letting me work off steam.) (Sorry.)

Anyhow, Mom had conference on TV when I arrived, but she wasn't able to take much of it in. She told me she wished she could concentrate more on the talks, but I'm sure Heavenly Father will give her credit for trying! Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day. It doesn't look too positive for a field trip home tomorrow, but we'll just take it how it comes.

I still love you, Mom, even though I've already told you!

PEGS are NOT fun!

Mom had the PEG line inserted today. We were under the impression that it was a simple 15 minute procedure. Maybe it didn't take a long time, but it sure has been miserable. Her throat hurts from the tube/camera they put down into her stomach and her lips are swollen and sore, not to mention the wound in her stomach where the device was inserted. They have been giving her pain meds, but the thing that brought her the most relief was when Randy and RJ gave her a blessing tonight. After that she rested comfortably. Hopefully she will feel better rapidly. We were hoping to take her home to watch a session of conference, but she'll have to make a pretty big turn around for that to happen.

At least with the PEG line the pressure is off to get Mom to eat and drink enough. The staff has asked the family to be less involved at mealtimes and during Mom's therapy in order to allow her more control over her progress. We feel good about their request, as it will allow us to just focus on loving Mom and celebrating her progress instead of feeling pressure to have her perform.

Tonight Mom said that we don't always understand what we have to go through but that Heavenly Father knows the reasons why. What a woman of faith she is! Love ya, Mom!

Round and round and round she goes!

So Mom walked all the way around the floor one and a half times today! Way to go, Mom! The therapists have asked that we don't attend therapy with her anymore so she doesn't get distracted. I guess that means she's making progress, since they used to want us to come. Either that, or we're a bit over the top . . . (Hey, we're just trying to help!!!)

The PEG placement procedure is scheduled for tomorrow morning. While they're in there, the doctor will be checking to see what might be bothering Mom's stomach. If we can figure out what's hurting, maybe she will feel more like eating. Keep her in your prayers tomorrow!

Mom said the family prayer again tonight. It is always so wonderful to hear her talk to Heavenly Father! Jim Jr. is usually there to help feed Mom breakfast and he said she says the prayer on the food most every morning as well. That's our sweet Mom!

Tonight as I said goodbye to Mom I whispered to her that I pray for her all the time. She replied that she does the same for me! How sweet is that?!