The following is from Sean.
First things first: Please pray for Steve’s fever. It continues. It’s not an extreme fever, but it continues to create discomfort. We’re awaiting lab tests to try to narrow down the source.
Transitioning to a new hospital, with so many new faces and an entirely new rhythm, is also a challenge. It’s also still a continuing challenge to dial in a new pain management cocktail.
Sleep is also an issue, and of course all of this in inter-related… the pain, fever, and difficulty sleeping all combine to create a background context of ongoing discomfort.
Steve has also had a really good day; loving the fact that all three of his nurses were Filipina. He spoke to each of them in tagalog.
The daily regimen is intense. It’s clear this is a place not only to heal, but also to work. In addition to both physical and occupational therapy sessions, Steve had a first weekly consult with the entire rehab team; including the chair of the department. They discussed tangible goals, ways to measure progress, and answered good questions from both Steve and Michelle.
And more progress: Steve brushed his teeth and ate two entire meals by himself. The OT put a small strap around his hand with an insert to hold either a fork or toothbrush, and with that simple set-up Steve was able to, in his words “feel human again.”
Also, after a few brief experiments with visitors today, it has become clear that Steve really needs to conserve every ounce of his strength. It’s simply going to take time to establish a rhythm and regain strength.
We’ll see how he feels as we go, but for now Steve has asked that he simply be given a week before receiving visitors.
The reality remains: it has been a mere two weeks since the accident… two major surgeries… an air ambulance flight across the country… and now a first day of rehab. Let’s give him time, knowing that being able to see and enjoy visitors is actually a good goal to reach for and look forward to.
And… all that said… Steve had a really good day. He’s going for it.