[CH] Fw: Russ' Progress
Chilechick19 (chilechick19@chello.nl)
Sat, 2 Oct 2004 17:08:26 +0200
Thursday, September 30th
Good progress today -- The tubes in his mouth are out!!! Russ is breathing
on his own and looks more like himself. There is still some swelling in his
eyes and forehead from the surgery on Monday. Russ opens his right eye to
look at us and we believe that he hears us. His Mom asked him to give her
his hand and he mouthed "Sure," and gave it to her. He throat must be very
sore from the tubes (two weeks!) and this is why it is difficult for him to
talk.
Friday morning he will be tested for his ability to swallow -- it he passes
the test he'll be able to eat and drink again. We can't wait to bring him a
chocolate milkshake. Russ is completely off sedation so he is awake and more
alert. He scratches his head, rubs his nose, and toe taps to the music on
the television (at least that what it looked like to us!). We have heard
many times from the nursing staff, "He is very strong."
This was a very good day for us. We are hopeful and look forward to the
recovery ahead. The doctors and nursing staff have told us that the
recovery will be a slow one, as is common with this type of injury.