Happy 80th Birthday!

It has been 3 years since my last post and 4 years since that fateful day in July when Mom had her surgery and subsequent stroke.  Much has happened in the intervening years, most of it a testament to the wonderful woman she is!  Mom underwent a corneal transplant and has recovered quite well.  She finished all her therapy and relearned how to use her computer.  She is back making scrapbooks for the grandkids and sewing baby blankets for the new great grandkids. Things are more frustrating for her than before, but she persists, and enjoys learning and relearning new things.  She was even cleared to renew her driver's license and does an amazing job behind the wheel.  In short, she is a remarkable Whitehead Woman, feisty and independent as ever!

This Tuesday, September 3rd, will be her 80th birthday.  I vividly remember her 76th birthday, right after she was moved to the 12th floor for rehab at IMC.  Who would ever have thought she would come this far?!  I invite any of you who would like to send birthday wishes her way to leave a comment on the blog.  I will be sure she sees them all!

When I think back to those difficult months 4 years ago, I am humbled and grateful for all your love and support.  I'm not sure we could have made it through without your prayers.  They carried us through some incredibly difficult times.  We love you!

Happy Anniversary!

It's hard to believe it's been one year since that fateful day Mom received her new knees. In some ways it seems only yesterday that we rode to the hospital in the dark early morning hours, full of excitement that Mom would finally be free from the pain which had plagued her for years. I vividly remember walking through the halls of the hospital with Mom and Dad to the room where Mom was prepped for surgery, and giving Mom a hug as she snuggled under warm blankets while they wheeled her off to the operating room. Dad and I spent the next couple hours just hanging out together in Mom's room, anticipating better days ahead for her. We welcomed the doctor's visit after the surgery explaining that everything had gone well. I called everyone to let them know the good news and that Mom would be back in the room within an hour or two.

Little did we know.

This past week as I contemplated the events that transpired that day and the tragedy that unfolded before our eyes, I couldn't help but shed some tears at those terrifying memories. However, my sadness was soon washed away by a flood of memories of the countless miracles we were privileged to witness over the next few months, and I was once again keenly aware of Heavenly Father's tender care throughout this ordeal.

Our family knows in a very personal way that miracles aren't always granted in the way we desire, but we also have deep and abiding testimonies that no matter what we are called to pass through, we will be sustained every step of the way. In a few short weeks, August 19th will arrive, marking 10 years since Lynn passed away from cancer. Although we petitioned Heavenly Father fervently for her to be healed, we each have a firm testimony that He is in charge, and have been granted that peace which surpasseth all understanding. Therefore, despite the uncertainty of Mom's situation we were comforted by our knowledge that somehow all would be well. Just as with Lynn, we again witnessed countless miracles. This blog is a testament to His hand in our lives.

Last Saturday we gathered together as a family to celebrate Matthew's baptism, and Mom was asked to give the opening prayer. It was unbelieveable to contemplate where she has come from and where she is now. On Sunday we had a family party and Mom was taking pictures, just like she always did. Despite the fact that she has the world's slowest camera (some things never change!) we were all happy to smile and were thankful to have our Mom and Grammie back. I couldn't help but picture her lying in Intensive Care, hooked up to countless machines, blind and in a coma. What a contrast to the sweet, feisty, vibrant woman we have now!

It's a good thing Mom has a bit of feistiness in her because it has been a long road. Back in the earliest days, only one doctor gave us any real hope. After we had received countless conflicting medical opinions, one of the ICU neurospecialists, Dr. Roller, ventured to say that although he didn't have a crystal ball, it was his opinion that in a year we would be pleasantly surprised to see the progress Mom would make. We clung to his words despite the grim situation, and are thrilled to report that his prediction has come to pass beyond our wildest dreams.

Mom was a dedicated therapy patient, traveling to downtown SLC twice a week for physical, occupational and speech therapy. Dad was a trooper, driving her there and patiently sitting through three hours of therapy with her each day. In May she finally graduated from all three therapies, having made dear friends with her therapists along the way!

Her biggest worry right now is her eye, which became infected in the hospital. After a few months of constant drops and medications, the angry redness finally subsided. However, because of the severity of the infection, the eye has been permanently damaged and will most likely require a cornea transplant. Unfortunately last month the infection returned, which will postpone the transplant for another 6 months or so. It seems that sunlight exacerbates the condition and in June she spent a few days out in the yard, determined to get the flowerbeds weeded. Not only did her eye regress from the intense sunlight, but she also injured her back and found herself in physical therapy again. Thankfully she is mostly recovered from that and hopefully will let us help out with the weeding a bit more in the future!!!

But for the most part, things are wonderful. Mom wishes she could drive, but is enjoying her newfound freedom from pain. She can do stairs like a champ and her knee surgeon said Mom has more range of motion than many of his "regular" patients! She finished a life history for Jim Jr. and is working on one for Randy. She also made a baby quilt for her two newest great-grandsons. The computer is another of Mom's hobbies and she diligently relearned how to use it. And of course she is working on her photos. In short, we have our Mom back!

How grateful we are for the many tender mercies we have been shown by countless loved ones, friends, and the medical community over this past year. We are overcome with gratitude for the love and kindness shown to us and humbly give thanks for all the blessings we have received. Thank you once again for all your faith and prayers. How blessed we are to have such wonderful friends and family.

Happy New Year!

When I asked Mom what she would like me to say on the blog today, her eyes lit up and she said to be sure and thank everyone for all they have done for her. Although she cannot remember the first weeks and months of her ordeal, she is keenly aware that she has been served and blessed in so many ways and she is overwhelmed to think of all the kindnesses shown to her and our family. Over the years Mom has written hundreds (probably thousands) of thank you notes and it is frustrating for her to be unable to express her gratitude in that way. Although this is more impersonal than she would like, please know how much your thoughts, prayers and numerous acts of kindness are appreciated!

How special it was to celebrate Christmas Eve in the usual way, gathering for dinner at Mom and Dad's house, reading the Christmas story and opening gifts. Shopping for everyone was too overwhelming to consider, so we convinced Mom to be satisfied giving gift cards this year. She spent many hours making lists and figuring out how many gift cards she needed to purchase, then putting them in envelopes and writing names on the outside. Simple tasks we take for granted must be relearned, and Mom was determined to figure it all out! Way to go, Mom!

Mom continues to improve day by day, and although she still has a ways to go, she has come so very far. Yesterday she visited the cornea specialist who was thrilled with the improvement in her eye. The severe redness is subsiding and the vision is clearing. Best of all, the area of scar tissue is smaller than first suspected and a transplant may not be necessary. Although the final verdict won't be known for a few months, once again we acknowledge the Lord's hand in this process.

Looking back over 2009 we are humbled at the many blessings we have received. Despite the trials we have faced we have seen the Lord's hand each step of the way. Our testimonies have grown and our love for each other has been strengthened and deepened. Lynn told me once that despite all her trials with cancer she wouldn't trade what she had learned for anything. I think we can understand her feelings a bit more after traveling this road over the past several months.

We sincerely wish each of you a wonderful new year! Happy 2010!!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

It's December already and Christmas is almost here. Four months ago we never could have envisioned the progress Mom has made and we are so grateful for all the miracles we have received. Mom goes to speech, occupational and physical therapy twice a week for three hours each time. The therapists encourage Mom to do as much as possible around the house. Her right side is still quite a bit weaker than the left, so she is supposed to wear an oven mitt on her left hand during the day so her right hand will do most of the work. But she is able to cook simple meals, and do the dishes as well as the laundry. Her handwriting is coming along, although it is quite a chore. She is also working on the computer more and trying to create cards like she used to enjoy doing. Each card takes several hours to create, but Mom is determined!!! Although she gets around quite well, she trips easily and, in fact, fell twice this week. Slow down, sweet mother, and remember, "No more mothers jumping on the bed!"

Medically things are going well except for her right eye. Despite intense care from her ophthalmologist, the infection is not quite gone, so he sent Mom to a cornea specialist. The sobering news is that Mom will need a cornea transplant because the infection was not treated adequately in the hospital, which allowed for extensive scar tissue formation. Mom is praying for another miracle, but feels as if the Lord has already granted so many in her behalf that she shouldn't ask for more. However, we know He is very aware of our dear mother, so we are joining our faith with hers in requesting His help once again. We humbly ask for your faith and prayers as well.

We are so grateful to be celebrating this special Christmas season with Mom. We wish each of you a joyous holiday!

Happy Thanksgiving!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving together. We ate at Mom and Dad's house, but everyone helped out so Mom and Dad could just relax and enjoy the time together with family. Mom received a cute little treat from a neighbor called Blessing Mix, which contains different snack items such as m&m's, bugles, pretzels, etc. She enjoyed it so much that she wanted to make one for each family member. She and Dad spent quite a lot of time shopping for all the ingredients and then Mom carefully assembled a bag of goodies for each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild.

After dinner we had a special Thanksgiving program. Everyone gathered in the living room to watch a beautiful DVD put together by Jim Jr, set to the song, "The Climb," by Miley Cyrus. He included a few photos from the early days after the stroke, and then focused the rest on all the progress Mom has made. It was sobering to see where Mom started, and exhilarating to see the miracle of her recovery unfold before our eyes. After watching the DVD, everyone was invited to share their thoughts and feelings about the ordeal. Our focus was on the many miracles showered down upon us by the Lord, who opened countless doors so Mom could get the help she needed to recover. Mom then expressed her gratitude for everyone's love and support and we ended the program with yummy desserts. It was a wonderful evening.

This week brought several more miracles as well. On Monday Mom went to the hearing specialist where they discovered that her hearing loss was just a wax buildup, so now she can hear again!!! Her eyesight is getting better as well, and she continues to regain more and more fine motor function through diligent practice and her wonderful therapists.

As we begin this holiday season, we continue to be full of gratitude to have Mom with us, and in awe of all the progress she has made and continues to make. We are also thankful for each of you for the love and support shown us through this long process. Most of all we are grateful to a loving Heavenly Father who has been with us every step of the way!

November updates

Sorry it's been so long since I've updated the blog. (Can you spell SWINE FLU? I can!)

Mom has made absolutely amazing progress these past few weeks. She has been trying to cook more, and after one LONG afternoon in the kitchen that left her exhausted and still hungry, she has since had better luck. Mom has made her yummy macaroni and cheese along with her fabulous spaghetti, and although it takes a lot out of her, she wants to do the things she used to do.

To her delight, she finally figured out how to get down in the tub so she can take a bath as opposed to a shower. (Who ever knew it was so far DOWN from a standing position, not to mention equally as far back UP when you're finished?) She also washes her own hair and is maneuvering the blow dryer as well.

Mom continues to faithfully do her exercises and practice writing her name. In addition, she has begun using her computer again, typing with both hands! It is very, very slow and painstaking, but she is equally as determined. Early on, Mom couldn't remember where all the keys were on the keyboard, and several of them were worn off which made it extra hard to type. Undaunted, Mom carefully went downstairs and found her old typing textbook from high school (she knew right where it was!) and brought it up to the computer room so she could find the right keys. Thankfully, Randy had an extra keyboard, so now Mom can actually see the keys she is trying to use. Since handwriting is still a challenge, Mom is determined to use the computer to keep up with her correspondence. One of the things she feels the worst about these past few months is that she hasn't been able to write Jace his weekly missionary letter. She is determined to remedy that situation!

Mom's eye is finally getting a bit better. Her eye doctor admitted today that when he first saw her 3 weeks ago, he wasn't sure her eyesight would return because of the severity of the infection. Although it will take another two or three months, he is quite confident her vision will return. Whew!

We are also thrilled to report that the PEG line has been removed. HURRAH!!! It was a simple process done in the office, and other than a bit of discomfort at the time of removal, there was no pain involved. That's good, because all the pain at the time of insertion should have counted for alot!

New this week is the discovery that Mom has lost much of the hearing in her right ear. This wouldn't be unusual as a result of the stroke, so she has an appointment on Monday with a specialist to check things out more thoroughly.

This week Mom's sister, Louise, has been up from California to visit and help out. It has been so fun for them to spend time together laughing and reminiscing, and the week has gone by all too fast. As Mary Engelbreit says, "There is no friend like a sister in calm or stormy weather!" Mom is extra blessed in the sister department on both sides of the family!

As Thanksgiving approaches, we are especially grateful to have our dear Mother home again, and are in awe of the progress she has made. We are also grateful for each of you who have cried and rejoiced along with us these past four months. We couldn't have done it alone!

A Fast of Gratitude

Today has been a sweet day of fasting in gratitude for the miraculous events that have occurred over the past three months. We are in awe of the progress Mom has made. We know that Heavenly Father has been there for us through all the ups and downs, and has caused many miracles to occur. The highlight of the day was that Mom bore her testimony in Sacrament Meeting. Although I wasn't there, I heard from several people that it was beautiful. I would imagine it was kind of like hearing from Lazarus!

This week Mom has continued to improve and can now do many things on her own. The various therapists have assigned "homework" and Mom is faithfully working at her assignments. She is supposed to do everything possible for herself, such as washing her own hair, doing the dishes, unloading the dishwasher and keeping track of her appointments on a calendar. She can eat well with her right hand and even helps with simple cooking tasks. Yesterday Mom and I went shopping for some new bed sheets and she walked around the entire store without even leaning on the shopping cart!!! She is diligently practicing writing her name and even signed the check when we went shopping. Although progress seems slow to her, cumulatively is is astounding, and she has come so far from where she was two weeks ago when she first came home!

Mom's right eye continues to slowly improve. This week the doctor removed the medicated patch and instructed Dad to put several different (EXPENSIVE!) eye drops in three times per day. He explained that Mom's eye is numb because of the stroke, which is actually a blessing at this point, as her condition would be excruciating to a normal eye. However, he still expects that the eye will recover and that Mom's vision will return.

We would like to sincerely thank each of you for your interest, prayers, fasting and kind acts too numerous to mention. Mom has been so eager to hear her story and thank each person who has helped her in any way. She wants to write thank you notes (now that's definitely our Mom!), so we're slowly and painstakingly working on letter writing! In the meantime, please know of our love and appreciation for all you have done for our family! We are so grateful!

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!!!