Monday July 30

Well there are good days and then there are days that just fill you full of hope.  Today was one of those fill you full of hope kind of days.   All of those of you who feel like you may be Donna’s number 1 will now have to take a back seat to her new favorite, Katrina the speech therapist.  Katrina got in early and had another banner session with Donna in which Donna smiled at her the whole time and did much of what she asked which involved much non-verbal communication.  We are so pleased with her progress.

Little could prepare me for the afternoon when Donna suddenly became very clear and aware.   The frustrations of her not understanding what is going on has been tough on us both the last two days, it gave way to calm and coherence.   I was able sit and talk with her while she kept confirming that she understood.  I got to reassure her of all the help and support she is getting and that she is doing so well.  Despite all the nods of her following me, I asked if she understood me at the end and she solidified my excitement when she said a single word “Understand”.    I don’t think we are done with the frustration of the pace of progress but it was great to feel she understood.  Her awareness continued throughout the afternoon, it was awesome to have her fully there.  Later as the evening took over she lost that focus but our tanks were fully charged with hope and potential.  It sure felt like we were turning a corner.  We’ll take it a little at a time and hope it can stay steady.  She had one more tidbit for us when at 8 pm she told the nurses “ go to bed” which served as a dismissal to turn out the lights and beat it.

Now I know this is a bit confusing so let me try to explain.  The process of regaining consciousness isn’t a light switch.  It is very common for a person to start to have periods of consciousness between time spans of less.  What we want to see during this stretch are increasing periods of consciousness but it is rarely a straight line, more of a trend.  Several days ago we were overjoyed at very short spurts of awareness.   The last few days we have seen this grow and for a while today it was very clear.  We just look for continued progress and a good trend.   I personally believe some of the therapy she has received in recent days has made a big difference.

We also got the word today that Donna is moving to the Medical Center (TIRR).  All things seem to work out.  We are very blessed.  With the progress she has made here with limited therapy, we are very excited for her to have the chance to drink from the therapy fountain.  This is a  living example of the power of prayer.  Thank God.  Our move could come as soon as tomorrow and we’ll throw the support model out the window and redraft it.  Nothing could make us happier.  I pulled rank tonight and insisted I would spend the night with our girl.  It may be my last night for a while as I won't have that option at TIRR.  She sleeps well at night now but as they work her hard, I'm sure that will continue.

Much work left but days like today are sure easy to swallow.

Thank you all for the many prayers and the undying support.  We have great faith and know Donna is clearly in God’s great hands.

Bob