Kerry is a Rockstar! 2/6/09

2/6/09

Kerry is a Rock Star!

So many colossal events took place today!

1. Kerry had her first sips of coffee this morning (as most of you know, Kerry loves her java!). Unfortunately, it had to come from the hospital cafeteria-- but John promised her that tomorrow he will bring her Starbucks (her fav: cafe latte!). Some of you may not think that this is a big event, but for us coffee lovers we know better!

2. She did 300 lower leg lifts, 150 knee bends, and 50 ankle pumps. She also stretched and worked on the motility of her arms-- her right arm still must be manipulated gingerly, and her left arm must be exercised more since an x-ray has shown heterotrophic ossification. This means an abnormal growth of bone tissue has formed in the soft tissue of her elbow and needs to be closely watched. This may be resolved through exercise, but worse case scenario she will have to have surgery to remove the abnormal tissue.

And now the REAL biggies....

3. Kerry got strapped into her back brace, and we put sneakers on her. Then, the PT ('tough love' Jan), John, Lynn and I helped Kerry off the bed to her feet. She promised the PT that she would stand up just once. But she went beyond our expectations (with just a little coercion) and straightened up shakily to her feet TWICE! She bore weight on her feet only for seconds, and it was extremely difficult for her-- but she did it!

4. As of this evening, Kerry is off the naso-gatric feeding tube!!! From now on, her food and medication will be taken orally. Another tube bites the dust!

Oh, I almost forgot... Kerry wanted all of you to know that "when your husband is willing to pick your nose for you, that is True Love!" Perhaps this quote is not as profound as her previous ones, but she is right.

Well, everyone, this is my last day here in Florida. It wasn't a vacation-- but it was the most meaningful trip of my life!

Love,
Jen