When Brian visited this summer (yes, I am doing a fast-forward here), he referred to himself as a "Buddhist by accident". I love this idea. It describes him perfectly, in his "be here now" life. It was not a choice, he did not convert. It just happened one day. Overall, he has become more accepting of what happened, as well. For the first time since the cardiac arrest, he was able to discuss the future and what it means for him, instead of responding to questions with stony silence. A graceful acceptance has come over him.
From the beginning, Brian has maintained that he did not see "a big bright white light" like that described in so much of the near-death experiences of others. Of course, the joke has always been that he wouldn't remember if he had. Be that as it may, Brian was a confirmed atheist and somewhat irreverent about it. He has not been fearful of offending others, but was careful to infuse humor. One of his favorite movies is Monty Python's Life of Brian,which you should watch if you never have. This summer, he told me he is now an agnostic, having decided that there must be something out there - and, perhaps, having embraced his Accidental Buddhism.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Sunday, July 7, 2013
End of Journals
From this point on, Brian has been recording his own life in his Planner/Log/Brain Book. All the pages from the (so far) two versions of this book have been saved in other notebooks. There are also numerous photographs, and Brian's mother's notes and diary entries.
maybe Brian would like to record more of his recovery in this book, on the following blank pages, someday.
Martha Hammann
Brian's mother
11 August 2002
This is how the hospital journals end. Brian did have his own planners that he used for some time, and they are in a box where the hospital journals are kept, along with other mementos. He stopped using a planner for a long time after he finished school, because he never used one voluntarily and it wasn't a tool he used prior to the brain injury. In the past couple of years he has started to use small planners that he carries around in his pockets, and he has resumed writing in a journal (which he DID do before) and drawing. When he visits here each year, I always buy a supply of planners and pens for him; they are on this year's list for his upcoming visit. I was pleased when he took up recording his life, and it seems to help him. He loses the planners periodically (hence the need for a supply), but they seem to reinforce his memory. When he visits, I can ask him about events from the past months and he can refer to the planner and tell me what he has been doing.
I am excited about his imminent visit. I would like to see if he wants to continue the recovery journal. I gave him the notebooks years ago, but he wan't interested. He has been more interested in moving on with his life, and learning to accept what happened. I hope to talk to him about these things during our visit. We also need to discuss the future, as a family.
I will continue this blog. I will post the photos promised, then I plan to access my own diaries and more photos. It may be a while before I return, depending on time during Brian's stay here.
I may also just write about how he seems to be doing right now, and post new photos.
We'll see. Stay tuned.
maybe Brian would like to record more of his recovery in this book, on the following blank pages, someday.
Martha Hammann
Brian's mother
11 August 2002
This is how the hospital journals end. Brian did have his own planners that he used for some time, and they are in a box where the hospital journals are kept, along with other mementos. He stopped using a planner for a long time after he finished school, because he never used one voluntarily and it wasn't a tool he used prior to the brain injury. In the past couple of years he has started to use small planners that he carries around in his pockets, and he has resumed writing in a journal (which he DID do before) and drawing. When he visits here each year, I always buy a supply of planners and pens for him; they are on this year's list for his upcoming visit. I was pleased when he took up recording his life, and it seems to help him. He loses the planners periodically (hence the need for a supply), but they seem to reinforce his memory. When he visits, I can ask him about events from the past months and he can refer to the planner and tell me what he has been doing.
I am excited about his imminent visit. I would like to see if he wants to continue the recovery journal. I gave him the notebooks years ago, but he wan't interested. He has been more interested in moving on with his life, and learning to accept what happened. I hope to talk to him about these things during our visit. We also need to discuss the future, as a family.
I will continue this blog. I will post the photos promised, then I plan to access my own diaries and more photos. It may be a while before I return, depending on time during Brian's stay here.
I may also just write about how he seems to be doing right now, and post new photos.
We'll see. Stay tuned.
Friday, July 5, 2013
The End of December, 2001
Sunday 30 December 2001
Today was a cold day of many walks. We all walked to Glenwood Park, where Brian went down. Brian had trouble finding the "Bouncy Tree". We discovered that several branches had been cut. Mom took pictures.
Brian and Dave walked to North Mountain Park. They have started "bench jumping" as physical therapy, on some split-log benches there.
Two other walks were to Jeff's Harvest Market, at Pioneer and 'A' Streets.
Monday 31 December 2001
Today was a cold day of many walks. We all walked to Glenwood Park, where Brian went down. Brian had trouble finding the "Bouncy Tree". We discovered that several branches had been cut. Mom took pictures.
Brian and Dave walked to North Mountain Park. They have started "bench jumping" as physical therapy, on some split-log benches there.
Two other walks were to Jeff's Harvest Market, at Pioneer and 'A' Streets.
Monday 31 December 2001
End of Brian's ten days with Mom and Dave. Brian and Dave visited Suzi and Justin. (one of her sons)
Brian went to Marshall's in the evening. They went to dinner at Primavera. Brian got to spend a brief time with Randy in his car, and visiting a small party of friends.
 |
| Brian and the Bouncy Tree Click on the image to enlarge it |
Thursday, July 4, 2013
December Continues
Friday 28 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked on the bike path today, in the cold. Brian had OT and PT in the afternoon. Dave, Brian, and Mom watched "Conflict Resolution - Small World", the video of plays that Suzi (Aufderheide) gave Martha for Mother's Day, 1990. It features Brian and Jesse prominently. Sara Golden called from Pennsylvania again!
I remember that frosty bike path walk. I was worried that Brian might slip and fall, and he finally told me to stop being so jumpy about it. He was amused at my nervousness. I was like that for a long time, concerned that he could fall or get injured in some other way and I would lose him.
Suzi was a long-time friend who took care of Brian and Jesse when I worked full-time. She was beginning to get into video production, and did these wonderful plays and activities with her kids and the others who were there, and filmed them. I only have a VHS version of the film mentioned, or I would try to add it here.
Saturday 29 December 2001
Brian and Dave walked the bike path to shop at Bi Mart, and had burgers at Goodtimes. Mom, Brian, and Dave walked to and through downtown. We saw Cheyenne, Nick, Nate Orf, and others, and visited the Green Man and Plaza Cafe. max visited and brought Brian a Pink Floyd poster. They put it up in Brian's room. Jesse called, and Brian talked to him.
As you can see, we did a lot of walking. It helped Brian in many ways: coordination, balance, vision - and speech and cognition, because walking and talking helped him stutter less and kept his brain active. The physical activity helped stimulate his brain, and work it harder so he could focus more.
The Green Man, as I may have mentioned before, was the coffee shop above Bloomsbury Books downtown, where Brian and I used to meet. The Plaza Cafe was where he had worked.
Obviously, Ashland is a very walk-friendly town, which was perfect for us with Brian.
Brian and Mom walked on the bike path today, in the cold. Brian had OT and PT in the afternoon. Dave, Brian, and Mom watched "Conflict Resolution - Small World", the video of plays that Suzi (Aufderheide) gave Martha for Mother's Day, 1990. It features Brian and Jesse prominently. Sara Golden called from Pennsylvania again!
I remember that frosty bike path walk. I was worried that Brian might slip and fall, and he finally told me to stop being so jumpy about it. He was amused at my nervousness. I was like that for a long time, concerned that he could fall or get injured in some other way and I would lose him.
Suzi was a long-time friend who took care of Brian and Jesse when I worked full-time. She was beginning to get into video production, and did these wonderful plays and activities with her kids and the others who were there, and filmed them. I only have a VHS version of the film mentioned, or I would try to add it here.
Saturday 29 December 2001
Brian and Dave walked the bike path to shop at Bi Mart, and had burgers at Goodtimes. Mom, Brian, and Dave walked to and through downtown. We saw Cheyenne, Nick, Nate Orf, and others, and visited the Green Man and Plaza Cafe. max visited and brought Brian a Pink Floyd poster. They put it up in Brian's room. Jesse called, and Brian talked to him.
As you can see, we did a lot of walking. It helped Brian in many ways: coordination, balance, vision - and speech and cognition, because walking and talking helped him stutter less and kept his brain active. The physical activity helped stimulate his brain, and work it harder so he could focus more.
The Green Man, as I may have mentioned before, was the coffee shop above Bloomsbury Books downtown, where Brian and I used to meet. The Plaza Cafe was where he had worked.
Obviously, Ashland is a very walk-friendly town, which was perfect for us with Brian.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Our Visit Continues
Wednesday 26 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked to the Library today, to check out books for Brian to start reading out loud. Brian had all three therapies this afternoon, which Mom attended with him.
In the evening we had a wild little pizza party with Kate, Vanessa Dudley and Marc. Lots of pictures! Sara Golden called from her boyfriends' in Pennsylvania!
In order to help Brian return to reading and practice speech, we thought reading aloud would be helpful.
His three therapies were speech, physical and occupational.
I will publish photos from this time later.
Thursday 27 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked up to the high school today, so he could walk through the Quad, and had tea at the Roasting Co. on 8th Street. Brian spent the afternoon with his dad. Marc and Kate visited in the evening.
The Quad is the area outside where the kids hang out. It's like the indoors Commons at schools like South Kitsap. The Roasting Co. is the coffee place down the street where the kids, and others, like to hang out. There is an open campus, so the students can go there for lunch. When Brian and Jesse were little, it was a little corner grocery store. It's only a block from our house, and the boys used to walk there to buy treats.
Here's a link to the high school website:
http://www.ashland.k12.or.us/sectionindex.asp?sectionid=41
A link to the Roasting Co.:
http://ashlandcoffee.com/
Brian and Mom walked to the Library today, to check out books for Brian to start reading out loud. Brian had all three therapies this afternoon, which Mom attended with him.
In the evening we had a wild little pizza party with Kate, Vanessa Dudley and Marc. Lots of pictures! Sara Golden called from her boyfriends' in Pennsylvania!
In order to help Brian return to reading and practice speech, we thought reading aloud would be helpful.
His three therapies were speech, physical and occupational.
I will publish photos from this time later.
Thursday 27 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked up to the high school today, so he could walk through the Quad, and had tea at the Roasting Co. on 8th Street. Brian spent the afternoon with his dad. Marc and Kate visited in the evening.
The Quad is the area outside where the kids hang out. It's like the indoors Commons at schools like South Kitsap. The Roasting Co. is the coffee place down the street where the kids, and others, like to hang out. There is an open campus, so the students can go there for lunch. When Brian and Jesse were little, it was a little corner grocery store. It's only a block from our house, and the boys used to walk there to buy treats.
Here's a link to the high school website:
http://www.ashland.k12.or.us/sectionindex.asp?sectionid=41
A link to the Roasting Co.:
http://ashlandcoffee.com/
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Christmas Day 2001
Tuesday 25 December 2001
We opened gifts in the morning with Mary and Terry. Mom took lots of pictures. Max, his mom Mary, and David Voeller visited in the morning. Mary and Terry left in the early afternoon. Jesse called, and Brian got to talk with him.
Dave, Mom and Brian went to a dinner party on Diane Street, at the home of Thom Little's friend, David Hoye. Thom was also there.Brian decided that Thom and David are lovers (he constantly asks why Thom has no girlfriend), and called David "Guillermo" (Brian's older brother Jeff's partner's name). It was the joke of the night (and months to come). Also attending the party was Reagan Burrell, who brought us gifts, but left before we got there. She gave Brian a card and one of her favorite stories, written by David James Duncan.
A woman named Dee was also there, and spent a lot of time talking with Brian.
Brian was very hyper and perseverating more than usual. He also overate (there was a great deal of food) and almost threw up. he realized he had eaten too much and stopped, then spent some time in the bathroom until his stomach settled. He had a good time at the party.
The overeating was something we had to monitor until Brian became more aware of his body's signals. Since it was connected to the perserveration, that behavior had to subside as well. Over time, it has. He still has some obsessive behaviors, but not like then.
The hyperactivity was a result of so much stimulation: people, music, food, play. We all had to learn how to monitor this. Again, it subsided over time.
We opened gifts in the morning with Mary and Terry. Mom took lots of pictures. Max, his mom Mary, and David Voeller visited in the morning. Mary and Terry left in the early afternoon. Jesse called, and Brian got to talk with him.
Dave, Mom and Brian went to a dinner party on Diane Street, at the home of Thom Little's friend, David Hoye. Thom was also there.Brian decided that Thom and David are lovers (he constantly asks why Thom has no girlfriend), and called David "Guillermo" (Brian's older brother Jeff's partner's name). It was the joke of the night (and months to come). Also attending the party was Reagan Burrell, who brought us gifts, but left before we got there. She gave Brian a card and one of her favorite stories, written by David James Duncan.
A woman named Dee was also there, and spent a lot of time talking with Brian.
Brian was very hyper and perseverating more than usual. He also overate (there was a great deal of food) and almost threw up. he realized he had eaten too much and stopped, then spent some time in the bathroom until his stomach settled. He had a good time at the party.
The overeating was something we had to monitor until Brian became more aware of his body's signals. Since it was connected to the perserveration, that behavior had to subside as well. Over time, it has. He still has some obsessive behaviors, but not like then.
The hyperactivity was a result of so much stimulation: people, music, food, play. We all had to learn how to monitor this. Again, it subsided over time.
 |
| Brian opening gifts; wearing his new cap; with David (in hat) and Max |
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Christmas Eve
Monday 24 December 2001
Mary and Terry arrived to celebrate Christmas with us. They stayed in the Royal Suite, the big room in front of our little part of the Cottage. We all went to The House of Thai for dinner.
Brian visited Marshall and Kellie for a Christmas celebration and gift-opening. He got a great watch that has the day and date on it.
The watch was the first in a long line of such timepieces. This is the only way Brian can keep track of the day and date.
Stay tuned for Christmas and photos!
Mary and Terry arrived to celebrate Christmas with us. They stayed in the Royal Suite, the big room in front of our little part of the Cottage. We all went to The House of Thai for dinner.
Brian visited Marshall and Kellie for a Christmas celebration and gift-opening. He got a great watch that has the day and date on it.
The watch was the first in a long line of such timepieces. This is the only way Brian can keep track of the day and date.
Stay tuned for Christmas and photos!
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Brian Stays with Mom and Dave
Friday 21 December 2001
Brian had Outpatient Therapy.
In the evening, Brian came to stay with Mom and Dave at 868 'A' Street. Dave was on the Greensprings for the day and night. Brian and Mom put up Christmas stuff, watched a little video/tv.
Brian got to have his bedtime story, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone!
Saturday 22 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked around the old neighborhood and past 84 Emerick (where he grew up). They put up Christmas lights and decorations, too. Brian settled into his room: he has the single bedroom, which opens into the living room/kitchen area in front. Mom and Dave sleep on the futon in the living room. The bathroom is next to Brian's room at the end of the hall. (Dave and I used the bedroom when Brian was not there).
Dave arrived and everyone watched the Marx Brothers. It was difficult for Brian to follow.
Marshall called in the evening. He did so daily through December.
Sunday 23 December 2001
Today Kate Lewis, David Voeller and Marc Likens visited. Kate is in town for the holidays. Laurie Grupe, a teacher at Pinehurst School, brought a basket of goodies, including: teas, a handmade Christmas "spray" of evergreens, dried flowers, two handmade ornaments, tangerines, sweets and candles.
Brian and Dave took a long walk.
Dave had gone up to our place on the Greensprings to do some work and check on things.
Pinehurst is the little school up there, attached to the "town" of Lincoln. I used to substitute there, for Laurie as well as the other two teachers. I had been there on 9/11.
This is a photo of Brian with Kate Lewis when she visited.
Brian had Outpatient Therapy.
In the evening, Brian came to stay with Mom and Dave at 868 'A' Street. Dave was on the Greensprings for the day and night. Brian and Mom put up Christmas stuff, watched a little video/tv.
Brian got to have his bedtime story, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone!
Saturday 22 December 2001
Brian and Mom walked around the old neighborhood and past 84 Emerick (where he grew up). They put up Christmas lights and decorations, too. Brian settled into his room: he has the single bedroom, which opens into the living room/kitchen area in front. Mom and Dave sleep on the futon in the living room. The bathroom is next to Brian's room at the end of the hall. (Dave and I used the bedroom when Brian was not there).
Dave arrived and everyone watched the Marx Brothers. It was difficult for Brian to follow.
Marshall called in the evening. He did so daily through December.
Sunday 23 December 2001
Today Kate Lewis, David Voeller and Marc Likens visited. Kate is in town for the holidays. Laurie Grupe, a teacher at Pinehurst School, brought a basket of goodies, including: teas, a handmade Christmas "spray" of evergreens, dried flowers, two handmade ornaments, tangerines, sweets and candles.
Brian and Dave took a long walk.
Dave had gone up to our place on the Greensprings to do some work and check on things.
Pinehurst is the little school up there, attached to the "town" of Lincoln. I used to substitute there, for Laurie as well as the other two teachers. I had been there on 9/11.
This is a photo of Brian with Kate Lewis when she visited.
Monday, June 24, 2013
Brian's Pages of Information
These are from Brian's Memory Book from Providence.
Notice his correction of the words "Heart Attack". Once we realized the proper term, Brian always made sure to correct anyone who used the improper language. They are different types of events.
The list of Phone Numbers is written by Brian in post-cardiac arrest handwriting.
Notice his correction of the words "Heart Attack". Once we realized the proper term, Brian always made sure to correct anyone who used the improper language. They are different types of events.
The list of Phone Numbers is written by Brian in post-cardiac arrest handwriting.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Mid-December 2001
There are no notes for December 16th, which probably means there was nothing written on the calendar at Marshall's that day. I know I talked to Brian on the phone, as usual.
I am going to combine a few days in this entry, since they are shorter. I will also include another short page of the "About Brian" information pages from when he was in Providence.
Thank you for sticking with me while I work my way through this. Now that summer is here, I will have more time to complete the journals. The format will change after that.
Monday 17 December 2001
Kellie arranged for meditation lessons, and yoga, for Brian, for calming and focus. Today was the first (and probably only) lesson/session with Barbara Lee, a local astrologer. Brian has several "affirmation" sheets, as a result of this, written by Kellie. One reads, "I gives thanks for my perfect health now." (It was the only one that survived, until July).
Brian had his first Outpatient Therapy sessions today.
Tuesday 18 December 2001
Brian had another cranial-sacral session today. He also had a check-up with Dr. Dee Christlieb. It was the first time Dee had seen Brian since October 8th.
Marshall and Brian visited Ali Gardiner today. Max Young and Casey Galusha visited, as did Marc Likens.
Wednesday 19 December 2001
HOME ONE WEEK!
Brian had Outpatient Therapy today, and an appointment with Dr. Gary Foster.
Brian went for two walks "around the block", one with Marshall and one with Randy Fitzpatrick.
Thursday 20 December 2001
Brian had cranial-sacral therapy with Dr. Wedlake again today.
Brian walked and got his own breakfast (cereal).
He had visitors in the evening, and visited Mom and Dave.
At dinner at Marshall and Kellie's, Brian ate too much food and threw up. He perseverates with food, forgetting how much he has eaten, and needs to be monitored.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Fixing His Own Food
Saturday 15 December 2001
Brian fixed his own breakfast: got the dishes, cereal and milk, and fixed it all himself. He also cleaned up afterwards. This was the first time he had "prepared" a meal!
Brian helped walk the dogs (Laurie, Shy Moon, Josie).
Laurie was the Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mix who technically belonged to Jesse. Shy Moon was a sweet black Lab "inherited" from Eagle Mill Farm ("Geppetto's Farm"). Josie was Kellie's part-Chow mix.
Brian fixed his own breakfast: got the dishes, cereal and milk, and fixed it all himself. He also cleaned up afterwards. This was the first time he had "prepared" a meal!
Brian helped walk the dogs (Laurie, Shy Moon, Josie).
Laurie was the Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mix who technically belonged to Jesse. Shy Moon was a sweet black Lab "inherited" from Eagle Mill Farm ("Geppetto's Farm"). Josie was Kellie's part-Chow mix.
Page Three, with family information
Click on the image to see it all
A New Therapy
Friday 14 December 2001
Marshall and Kellie arranged for Brian to have cranial-sacral therapy sessions with Dr. Patrick Westlake. He had his first session today, and he fell asleep. The purpose is to "relax" his brain so he can focus more easily. He is normally very hyper.
Brian went with Marshall to get their Christmas tree.
Chris Newton and Emily Robbins visited.
The therapy was controversial and was not discussed with anyone beforehand. No one knows if it did any good, but Brian enjoyed it, and he obviously relaxed.
Marshall and Kellie arranged for Brian to have cranial-sacral therapy sessions with Dr. Patrick Westlake. He had his first session today, and he fell asleep. The purpose is to "relax" his brain so he can focus more easily. He is normally very hyper.
Brian went with Marshall to get their Christmas tree.
Chris Newton and Emily Robbins visited.
The therapy was controversial and was not discussed with anyone beforehand. No one knows if it did any good, but Brian enjoyed it, and he obviously relaxed.
Page Two of the information pages
Click on the image to see the whole thing
Brian's First Day Home
Thursday 13 December 2001
Brian was very happy to be home; he was especially glad to see Conan, his cat, and the other animals. (Dogs, chickens, horses)
His cousin Brittany came to visit.
Mom called in the evening, as she did every evening (or day). Dave also talked to Brian when Mom called, maintaining the daily contact established since October 8th.
These daily calls were "check-ins" as well as "good night" calls.
There was no bedtime story reading while Brian was at Marshall and Kellie's, because Brian didn't want Marshall reading to him, only Mom.
Brian was very happy to be home; he was especially glad to see Conan, his cat, and the other animals. (Dogs, chickens, horses)
His cousin Brittany came to visit.
Mom called in the evening, as she did every evening (or day). Dave also talked to Brian when Mom called, maintaining the daily contact established since October 8th.
These daily calls were "check-ins" as well as "good night" calls.
There was no bedtime story reading while Brian was at Marshall and Kellie's, because Brian didn't want Marshall reading to him, only Mom.
First page of Brian's information pages from his Memory Book/Planner
Click on the image to see the whole thing
Sunday, May 19, 2013
The Day of Freedom
Wednesday 12 December 2001
(NOTES)
BRIAN'S LAST DAY : HIS DAY OF FREEDOM
Brian had therapies in the morning: Marcy for OT, Amy for PT, and Julie for Speech.
After packing and paperwork and many farewells, Brian got to leave in the early afternoon.
We walked out the door together, carefully crossing the street, and Brian got into Kellie's van to go home to Marshall and Kellie's. He was very excited about going home. Thin, with "long" curly reddish hair and an awkward gait, he was "alive, well and awake" - and walking and talking and out of the hospital.
The following pages are from notes on calendars and other sources. When Brian was at Marshall and Kellie's, they wrote notes on his Planner calendar. I did the same when he was with us. These notes extend through the end of December.
As I was typing this brief entry, the memory, the tears, were right here with me. Relief and pain and sadness and joy. I feel them all.
The December Planner Calendar. Some of the notes were written by Brian. Click on it to enlarge to read the notes better.
(NOTES)
BRIAN'S LAST DAY : HIS DAY OF FREEDOM
Brian had therapies in the morning: Marcy for OT, Amy for PT, and Julie for Speech.
After packing and paperwork and many farewells, Brian got to leave in the early afternoon.
We walked out the door together, carefully crossing the street, and Brian got into Kellie's van to go home to Marshall and Kellie's. He was very excited about going home. Thin, with "long" curly reddish hair and an awkward gait, he was "alive, well and awake" - and walking and talking and out of the hospital.
The following pages are from notes on calendars and other sources. When Brian was at Marshall and Kellie's, they wrote notes on his Planner calendar. I did the same when he was with us. These notes extend through the end of December.
As I was typing this brief entry, the memory, the tears, were right here with me. Relief and pain and sadness and joy. I feel them all.
The December Planner Calendar. Some of the notes were written by Brian. Click on it to enlarge to read the notes better.
The Last Hospital Day
Tuesday 11 December 2001
(NOTES)
Mom and Dave were with Brian as usual. Brian and Mom got to walk outside and work on watching for cars, crossing streets carefully, and orienteering.
Brian and Amy went downstairs together, using directions Brian wrote. He needed fewer cues this time!
Because Brian will be going home first with Marshall and Kellie, Joyce (OT) met with them to discuss what Brian's needs will be, and the safety of their home.
It has been agreed that Brian will spend ten days at a time at each home, at first.
Mom read Harry Potter, as usual.
Brain can stand alone, can be alone in his room now! (He was never allowed to be alone, for safety reasons)
He leaves tomorrow!
It was hard to let him go to Marshall and Kellie's first, after being with him every day, participating so intensely in his recovery. We adjusted the schedule as time went on.
(NOTES)
Mom and Dave were with Brian as usual. Brian and Mom got to walk outside and work on watching for cars, crossing streets carefully, and orienteering.
Brian and Amy went downstairs together, using directions Brian wrote. He needed fewer cues this time!
Because Brian will be going home first with Marshall and Kellie, Joyce (OT) met with them to discuss what Brian's needs will be, and the safety of their home.
It has been agreed that Brian will spend ten days at a time at each home, at first.
Mom read Harry Potter, as usual.
Brain can stand alone, can be alone in his room now! (He was never allowed to be alone, for safety reasons)
He leaves tomorrow!
It was hard to let him go to Marshall and Kellie's first, after being with him every day, participating so intensely in his recovery. We adjusted the schedule as time went on.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
A New SLP
Monday 10 December 2001
(NOTES)
Brian's weight today is 154.44 pounds. He is still very thin compared with his weight prior to the event. His face is particularly gaunt still, bony.
Mom and Dave spent the day at the hospital. Mom read Harry Potter to Brian during an afternoon rest time at 1 pm. Brian was tired out after his busy weekend.
During PT in the afternoon, Brian visited the Outpatient Therapy offices, and met Larissa Sweeney, his new Speech and Language therapist. He went down the stairs instead of the elevator; stairs present a challenge for depth perception and balance.
Marshall visited.
Mom read at night.
Larissa remained his SLP until he graduated from services. She was a tiny young woman with a big heart and infinite patience. She was wonderful with Brian and helped him as much as she possibly could. Thank you, Larissa!!
(NOTES)
Brian's weight today is 154.44 pounds. He is still very thin compared with his weight prior to the event. His face is particularly gaunt still, bony.
Mom and Dave spent the day at the hospital. Mom read Harry Potter to Brian during an afternoon rest time at 1 pm. Brian was tired out after his busy weekend.
During PT in the afternoon, Brian visited the Outpatient Therapy offices, and met Larissa Sweeney, his new Speech and Language therapist. He went down the stairs instead of the elevator; stairs present a challenge for depth perception and balance.
Marshall visited.
Mom read at night.
Larissa remained his SLP until he graduated from services. She was a tiny young woman with a big heart and infinite patience. She was wonderful with Brian and helped him as much as she possibly could. Thank you, Larissa!!
18th Birthday
Sunday 9 December 2001
BRIAN'S 18TH BIRTHDAY!!!
Dave and Mom did not visit in the morning. Brian stayed at Marshall and Kellie's for the same amount of time as he did with us. he got a digital watch, a beautiful long-sleeved tie-dye shirt (which disappeared at the hospital) and ANOTHER carrot cake. Some of his friends stopped by, too. There were no notes kept in his Memory Book, unfortunately. In the evening, Mom and Dave came to the hospital, to see Brian on his birthday, see how the day went, and to read him his bedtime story book.
Two more days! (until he was released from the hospital)
BRIAN'S 18TH BIRTHDAY!!!
Dave and Mom did not visit in the morning. Brian stayed at Marshall and Kellie's for the same amount of time as he did with us. he got a digital watch, a beautiful long-sleeved tie-dye shirt (which disappeared at the hospital) and ANOTHER carrot cake. Some of his friends stopped by, too. There were no notes kept in his Memory Book, unfortunately. In the evening, Mom and Dave came to the hospital, to see Brian on his birthday, see how the day went, and to read him his bedtime story book.
Two more days! (until he was released from the hospital)
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Birthday Home Visit
Saturday 8 December 2001
NOTES: TWO MONTHS SINCE EVENT
Brian had his usual morning today, but without Mom and Dave because they were coming to pick him up at 1 pm for his Birthday Home Visit. He did laundry and exercises.
At 1 pm, Mom and Dave picked Brian up. All the way in the truck, he wanted the window open so he could yell out, "It's my first day out of the hospital in two months!!" He was bouncy, excited, exuberantly happy to be OUT.
Mom and Dave have a new place to live, 868 A Street, in Ashland. It's a one-bedroom suite at a place called Clarity Cottage, owned by the parents of Brian's friend Chris Newton. It's around the back, on the alley, one house north of 8th Street and across from Railroad Park.
Aunt Mary and Uncle Terry were there, with balloons, a pin for Brian that lights up, plates, cups, and gifts. Zack from the Green Man (coffeehouse where Brian and I used to meet) made one of his awesome carrot cakes (Brian's request). We all ate hamburgers, onion rings and chips, too!
Brian got art supplies as gifts: pens, pencils, pastels, paper. We all walked on the bike path in the cold. Brian was continuously exuberant and greeted everyone we saw. He wasn't at all interested in the scenery around him, except for the fact that it was in his old neighborhood in Ashland. He was extremely affectionate and wanted to kiss us all constantly. It was delightful to have him out, in our own little space in Ashland.
He had to return to the hospital at 8 pm. Mary and Terry followed us in their car, because they were going to stay with Brian while Mom and Dave chaperoned the Sadie Hawkins Dance at the High School (with Thom Little). So they helped settle Brian down after his big day, and read him Harry Potter.
Mom drove to the high school and met Thom and Dave. We watched, listened and played with balloons, while Randy Fitzpatrick spun the discs. He is a great deejay! The dance was a fundraiser for the Brian Kinkead Medical Fund, and was the best-attended Sadie Hawkins Dance ever! I got up and expressed my thanks to the crowd at one point. A great birthday gift to Brian!
Re: night vision: Coming around the corner leaving Clarity Cottage, Brian encountered the darkness. "Oh shit!" he exclaimed, and grabbed Dave. Night lights in the apartment are a must.
This was THE most wonderful day. Brian was so excited and happy! It was very sweet to be in the old neighborhood, near the house where he grew up. The Newtons let us stay in the cottage rent-free, too. It was our little home for about four months. Our first home with Brian.
Below are photos taken that day. Featured are Brian, Martha, Dave, Mary and Terry. Notice how thin Brian is and his curly reddish hair!
NOTES: TWO MONTHS SINCE EVENT
Brian had his usual morning today, but without Mom and Dave because they were coming to pick him up at 1 pm for his Birthday Home Visit. He did laundry and exercises.
At 1 pm, Mom and Dave picked Brian up. All the way in the truck, he wanted the window open so he could yell out, "It's my first day out of the hospital in two months!!" He was bouncy, excited, exuberantly happy to be OUT.
Mom and Dave have a new place to live, 868 A Street, in Ashland. It's a one-bedroom suite at a place called Clarity Cottage, owned by the parents of Brian's friend Chris Newton. It's around the back, on the alley, one house north of 8th Street and across from Railroad Park.
Aunt Mary and Uncle Terry were there, with balloons, a pin for Brian that lights up, plates, cups, and gifts. Zack from the Green Man (coffeehouse where Brian and I used to meet) made one of his awesome carrot cakes (Brian's request). We all ate hamburgers, onion rings and chips, too!
Brian got art supplies as gifts: pens, pencils, pastels, paper. We all walked on the bike path in the cold. Brian was continuously exuberant and greeted everyone we saw. He wasn't at all interested in the scenery around him, except for the fact that it was in his old neighborhood in Ashland. He was extremely affectionate and wanted to kiss us all constantly. It was delightful to have him out, in our own little space in Ashland.
He had to return to the hospital at 8 pm. Mary and Terry followed us in their car, because they were going to stay with Brian while Mom and Dave chaperoned the Sadie Hawkins Dance at the High School (with Thom Little). So they helped settle Brian down after his big day, and read him Harry Potter.
Mom drove to the high school and met Thom and Dave. We watched, listened and played with balloons, while Randy Fitzpatrick spun the discs. He is a great deejay! The dance was a fundraiser for the Brian Kinkead Medical Fund, and was the best-attended Sadie Hawkins Dance ever! I got up and expressed my thanks to the crowd at one point. A great birthday gift to Brian!
Re: night vision: Coming around the corner leaving Clarity Cottage, Brian encountered the darkness. "Oh shit!" he exclaimed, and grabbed Dave. Night lights in the apartment are a must.
This was THE most wonderful day. Brian was so excited and happy! It was very sweet to be in the old neighborhood, near the house where he grew up. The Newtons let us stay in the cottage rent-free, too. It was our little home for about four months. Our first home with Brian.
Below are photos taken that day. Featured are Brian, Martha, Dave, Mary and Terry. Notice how thin Brian is and his curly reddish hair!
 |
| Walking the bike path |
 |
| Kisses for Mom and Dave |
 |
| The Birthday Boy at 18 |
 |
| Brian is holding the stuffed tiger from the senior class |
 |
| In the bottom photo he is writing a birthday card for his friend, David Silverman |
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Growing Independence
Friday 7 December 2001
(NOTES):
Tomorrow Brian gets to go on his first Home Visit, with Mom and Dave, for his 18th Birthday! On Sunday he will go with Marshall and Kellie, for his real birthday. More independent work : he cut his own fingernails (first time since ICU), made his bed, did laundry. To help with memory, he is writing down what he eats for meals.
Thom Little visited this afternoon at 3 pm!
Marshall and Kellie visited at 5 to 7 pm.
Mom read Harry Potter at night. (Sorcerer's Stone)
(NOTES):
Tomorrow Brian gets to go on his first Home Visit, with Mom and Dave, for his 18th Birthday! On Sunday he will go with Marshall and Kellie, for his real birthday. More independent work : he cut his own fingernails (first time since ICU), made his bed, did laundry. To help with memory, he is writing down what he eats for meals.
Thom Little visited this afternoon at 3 pm!
Marshall and Kellie visited at 5 to 7 pm.
Mom read Harry Potter at night. (Sorcerer's Stone)
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Door to Remain Open
Thursday 6 December 2001
(NOTES):
more work on independence today. He worked on balance and memory, getting dressed. For the first time, Marshall and Kellie came to see how Brian's therapy works. Since he will be going home soon, they need to know how to work with him. Brian also played soccer and walked outside later in the day, and worked on the computer. Comprehension skills and memory work are ongoing.
In the evening, Dave and Brian were doing the usual hike around and around the Unit hallways (Brian's boundless energy requires these endless circuits). At one point, outside the closed gym doors, Brian noted the sign that read: "Door to remain closed when room is unoccupied". Thinking this utterly ridiculous, he responded, "Then how do you get in?" He and Dave returned to Brian's room, got paper and pens, and Brian wrote his question as a sign. He signed it, and the two of them, giggling madly, taped the sign to the door. It remained there until Brian left, when I retrieved it so it wouldn't get thrown out. The doors remained open thereafter, and Dr. Byers, the head psychiatrist, wrote on it, "Yeh?!"
Brian weighs 154 pounds.
Here is the original sign from that evening. Click on it to enlarge.
This is still one of my favorite rehab moments. They were so funny, and this joke dragged on for months after Brian left. He eventually created his own version of a proper sign for the door, and printed it up with the help of his speech therapist. If I can find a copy, I will post it at a later date.
(NOTES):
more work on independence today. He worked on balance and memory, getting dressed. For the first time, Marshall and Kellie came to see how Brian's therapy works. Since he will be going home soon, they need to know how to work with him. Brian also played soccer and walked outside later in the day, and worked on the computer. Comprehension skills and memory work are ongoing.
In the evening, Dave and Brian were doing the usual hike around and around the Unit hallways (Brian's boundless energy requires these endless circuits). At one point, outside the closed gym doors, Brian noted the sign that read: "Door to remain closed when room is unoccupied". Thinking this utterly ridiculous, he responded, "Then how do you get in?" He and Dave returned to Brian's room, got paper and pens, and Brian wrote his question as a sign. He signed it, and the two of them, giggling madly, taped the sign to the door. It remained there until Brian left, when I retrieved it so it wouldn't get thrown out. The doors remained open thereafter, and Dr. Byers, the head psychiatrist, wrote on it, "Yeh?!"
Brian weighs 154 pounds.
This is still one of my favorite rehab moments. They were so funny, and this joke dragged on for months after Brian left. He eventually created his own version of a proper sign for the door, and printed it up with the help of his speech therapist. If I can find a copy, I will post it at a later date.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Mother's Day
Mother's Day was begun by Julia Ward Howe in 1872 as an anti-war holiday. When I learned this, it felt okay to celebrate the day. I tend to resist a bit because I always think of it as another commercial holiday created for businesses to make money. I like the idea of the mothers resisting war. I also like honoring us.
My sons won't go to war. Their fathers didn't either. My father did, but his own mother was no longer alive to worry about his safety. Although I have been through a huge loss with Brian, although I lost my eldest for 24 years, I don't know what it's like to have a son taken in combat - or taken permanently at all. I never want to know that feeling.
I am returning to this blog as of today. I have taken a much longer break than I ever intended. Brian is on my mind because he will be visiting in two months. It is time to complete the hospital diaries and move on to the next phase.
Stay tuned.
My sons won't go to war. Their fathers didn't either. My father did, but his own mother was no longer alive to worry about his safety. Although I have been through a huge loss with Brian, although I lost my eldest for 24 years, I don't know what it's like to have a son taken in combat - or taken permanently at all. I never want to know that feeling.
I am returning to this blog as of today. I have taken a much longer break than I ever intended. Brian is on my mind because he will be visiting in two months. It is time to complete the hospital diaries and move on to the next phase.
Stay tuned.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Using the Memory Book
Wednesday 5 December 2001
(NOTES):
More entries by Brian are being made in the Memory Book pages. Today he notes that he "worked with Memory Book", and "Dressed and Shaved". This was the first time he had shaved. His hair is getting long; it is red and curly!
Brian played piano and basketball during PT in the morning, and horseshoes in the afternoon. During his combination PT/OT, he found the Outpatient Therapy rooms downstairs, using directions he wrote himself. He will be doing therapy in those rooms once he is released.
This afternoon was another "Show N Tell" session, during which Brian once again "wowed" everyone.
Marshall and Kellie visited, 5-7 pm.
Mom read at night.
(NOTES):
More entries by Brian are being made in the Memory Book pages. Today he notes that he "worked with Memory Book", and "Dressed and Shaved". This was the first time he had shaved. His hair is getting long; it is red and curly!
Brian played piano and basketball during PT in the morning, and horseshoes in the afternoon. During his combination PT/OT, he found the Outpatient Therapy rooms downstairs, using directions he wrote himself. He will be doing therapy in those rooms once he is released.
This afternoon was another "Show N Tell" session, during which Brian once again "wowed" everyone.
Marshall and Kellie visited, 5-7 pm.
Mom read at night.
The Memory Book page for today
Click on the image to enlarge
Outside
Tuesday 4 December 2001
(FROM NOTES):
Today's big event was Brian going outside and to the cafeteria, with Marcy and Amy! We watched him outside, leading the way.
With Julie he is doing a lot of worksheets (Speech and Language) for concentration, handwriting, language use. It is hard for Brian to sit and focus on a worksheet.
Brian's memory Book/Journal is being used to help him remember what he is doing from day to day, and who visits.
Marshall and Kellie visited as usual, from five to seven.
Mom read to Brian at night. We are on Harry Potter still.
(FROM NOTES):
Today's big event was Brian going outside and to the cafeteria, with Marcy and Amy! We watched him outside, leading the way.
With Julie he is doing a lot of worksheets (Speech and Language) for concentration, handwriting, language use. It is hard for Brian to sit and focus on a worksheet.
Brian's memory Book/Journal is being used to help him remember what he is doing from day to day, and who visits.
Marshall and Kellie visited as usual, from five to seven.
Mom read to Brian at night. We are on Harry Potter still.
Off the Unit
Monday 3 December 2001
FROM NOTES/SCHEDULE:
(These entries are sketchy because during this week there was a court hearing regarding guardianship, and I was not at the hospital as much as I used to be).
Brian took a shower, got dressed, brushed his teeth, did his hair today, during Occupational Therapy. The staff is working on increasing independent life skills for when Brian goes home.
With Amy during PT, Brian walked off the Unit for the first time, going down the elevator. It was very exciting to watch! He played Uno and Hi-Q later in the day; games are good for concentration.
In the evening, Marshall visited.
I read to Brian at night.
FROM NOTES/SCHEDULE:
(These entries are sketchy because during this week there was a court hearing regarding guardianship, and I was not at the hospital as much as I used to be).
Brian took a shower, got dressed, brushed his teeth, did his hair today, during Occupational Therapy. The staff is working on increasing independent life skills for when Brian goes home.
With Amy during PT, Brian walked off the Unit for the first time, going down the elevator. It was very exciting to watch! He played Uno and Hi-Q later in the day; games are good for concentration.
In the evening, Marshall visited.
I read to Brian at night.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Brian Jeopardy
Sunday 2 December 2001
(FROM NOTES/SCHEDULE):
Brian spent the day with Dave. At breakfast they created the "No more questions" rule, which led into the new game of "Brian Jeopardy". They worked on this game until lunch, writing the whole thing on a sheet of paper and posting it on Brian's bulletin board so anyone can play. It goes like this: "Heart Attack for $500". Answer: Risa, Jessica, Evan, Max, Joel, Duncan. The question for Brian: "Who was there when I had my heart attack?" Categories are: Heart Attack, Coma, Girlfriend, People To People, and About Me. It's a great memory game!
In the afternoon, Dave and Brian did homework. While reading it, Brian returned to the "left neglect", until he was prompted by blocking all but the first word.
(Brian at first could not see what was in the left side of what he was looking at. For example, if you held up your two hands with fingers up, with him looking at you, he could only see your right hand, which was in his left field. When reading, he would only see the right side of the page. If you held up a two-digit number on a card, he only saw the ones column.)
Brian had dinner with other rehab patients.
I started reading Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone to Brian.
(FROM NOTES/SCHEDULE):
Brian spent the day with Dave. At breakfast they created the "No more questions" rule, which led into the new game of "Brian Jeopardy". They worked on this game until lunch, writing the whole thing on a sheet of paper and posting it on Brian's bulletin board so anyone can play. It goes like this: "Heart Attack for $500". Answer: Risa, Jessica, Evan, Max, Joel, Duncan. The question for Brian: "Who was there when I had my heart attack?" Categories are: Heart Attack, Coma, Girlfriend, People To People, and About Me. It's a great memory game!
In the afternoon, Dave and Brian did homework. While reading it, Brian returned to the "left neglect", until he was prompted by blocking all but the first word.
(Brian at first could not see what was in the left side of what he was looking at. For example, if you held up your two hands with fingers up, with him looking at you, he could only see your right hand, which was in his left field. When reading, he would only see the right side of the page. If you held up a two-digit number on a card, he only saw the ones column.)
Brian had dinner with other rehab patients.
I started reading Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone to Brian.
Brian's Jeopardy
Click on the picture to enlarge it
A Day With Dave
Saturday 1 December 2001
FROM MY NOTES (from B's schedule):
Dave spent the day with Brian. I stayed in Ashland, making phone calls and walking. I talked to Robin, Tony Henthorn, John Linton, and Zak of The Greenman. All sent love and best wishes to Brian! Dave's friend George, too!
(I was beginning my search for a place for Dave and I to live in town, too)
Dave and Brian had breakfast together together, and worked on remembering what Brian ate to write in the Journal. According to the Journal, during Brian's ST sessions with Maria-Mercedes, he "talked and wrote Colombia" and did puzzles with Maria (puzzles/mazes on paper, following lines with colored pens and matching shapes). Brian also worked on these with Dave. (Maria-Mercedes was from Colombia)
Brian had PT with Sharla, with whom he waltzed (?!) and walked in the hall tossing a beachball. He was finishing the latter when I called Dave, and I got to talk to Brian on the phone! He asked me the usual remembering questions, said "I love you, Mom", and was off.
Brian had lunch with Dave, and brad from school. Dave cut the visit short, because seemed a bit fragmented and tired. After lunch, Dave once again helped Brian work on remembering what he ate. Brian got weighed : 150 pounds.Dave left Brian alone a bit, to work on his puzzle homework, but it didn't work very well: Brian was having trouble concentrating all day.
During OT with Erin, Brian was very tired and lost at checkers. Dave left Brian alone a while, in bed, but Brian never did nap.
They talked about sex a bit, with Brian asking, "Am I a virgin?" Dave said, "I know you are," and Brian responded, "Yeah, I'm a shy guy." He believes orgasms are the most intimate expression between two people.
David Voeller and Randy Fitzpatrick visited. Randy had a difficult time with Brian's perseveration, and said, "This is the hardest part ever. I don't know if I can do this."
Emily Robbins and her mom, Bonny, visited into dinnertime. Marshall was there for dinner; it was his birthday. Dave set up Brian's December calendar on the wall next to his bed.
I was with Brian from a bit after seven, until nearly ten. He was a bit agitated, and focused on the themes of Alana and how long he'd been in a coma and in the hospital. Mostly we talked about the latter. When I told him he'd been in the hospital eight weeks ("How long ago did I have my heart attack?") he wanted to know what he'd been doing since he woke up ("What have I been doing for 5 weeks? Why am I still in the hospital?") I explained that it has taken a long time to recover from the coma, and that he is still recovering. Another question was, "Did you think I was going to die?" I replied that yes, I was afraid he might, at first.
We walked several laps around the Unit, and, though he was tired, his gait was more even, he could talk and walk some, and his steps were longer.
We got to bed about 9-9:15. I read him to sleep, finishing Looking Glass. he was very calm for the last 45 minutes.
FROM MY NOTES (from B's schedule):
Dave spent the day with Brian. I stayed in Ashland, making phone calls and walking. I talked to Robin, Tony Henthorn, John Linton, and Zak of The Greenman. All sent love and best wishes to Brian! Dave's friend George, too!
(I was beginning my search for a place for Dave and I to live in town, too)
Dave and Brian had breakfast together together, and worked on remembering what Brian ate to write in the Journal. According to the Journal, during Brian's ST sessions with Maria-Mercedes, he "talked and wrote Colombia" and did puzzles with Maria (puzzles/mazes on paper, following lines with colored pens and matching shapes). Brian also worked on these with Dave. (Maria-Mercedes was from Colombia)
Brian had PT with Sharla, with whom he waltzed (?!) and walked in the hall tossing a beachball. He was finishing the latter when I called Dave, and I got to talk to Brian on the phone! He asked me the usual remembering questions, said "I love you, Mom", and was off.
Brian had lunch with Dave, and brad from school. Dave cut the visit short, because seemed a bit fragmented and tired. After lunch, Dave once again helped Brian work on remembering what he ate. Brian got weighed : 150 pounds.Dave left Brian alone a bit, to work on his puzzle homework, but it didn't work very well: Brian was having trouble concentrating all day.
During OT with Erin, Brian was very tired and lost at checkers. Dave left Brian alone a while, in bed, but Brian never did nap.
They talked about sex a bit, with Brian asking, "Am I a virgin?" Dave said, "I know you are," and Brian responded, "Yeah, I'm a shy guy." He believes orgasms are the most intimate expression between two people.
David Voeller and Randy Fitzpatrick visited. Randy had a difficult time with Brian's perseveration, and said, "This is the hardest part ever. I don't know if I can do this."
Emily Robbins and her mom, Bonny, visited into dinnertime. Marshall was there for dinner; it was his birthday. Dave set up Brian's December calendar on the wall next to his bed.
I was with Brian from a bit after seven, until nearly ten. He was a bit agitated, and focused on the themes of Alana and how long he'd been in a coma and in the hospital. Mostly we talked about the latter. When I told him he'd been in the hospital eight weeks ("How long ago did I have my heart attack?") he wanted to know what he'd been doing since he woke up ("What have I been doing for 5 weeks? Why am I still in the hospital?") I explained that it has taken a long time to recover from the coma, and that he is still recovering. Another question was, "Did you think I was going to die?" I replied that yes, I was afraid he might, at first.
We walked several laps around the Unit, and, though he was tired, his gait was more even, he could talk and walk some, and his steps were longer.
We got to bed about 9-9:15. I read him to sleep, finishing Looking Glass. he was very calm for the last 45 minutes.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
We Walk With Brian
Friday 30 November 2001
FROM MY NOTES:
There were no early morning calls today, but Brian DID wake up at 5 am.
I arrived about 8:15 and Brian was finished eating. He had gotten his breakfast first, and was nearly done with his cocoa. He and I worked on remembering what he ate, for his Journal (one of the things ST Julie wants us to work on).
Brian had a shower at 8:30, walking there and back again with CNA Megan (Certified Nursing Assistant; CNA's work directly with the patients, while the nurses administer meds and run the floor). He was dressed in hospital pj's when he returned, because he was going to get dressed during OT. He got to sit in a regular chair in the room with me when he returned!
During OT with Erin, Brian picked out his own clothes, got dressed, and brushed his teeth and hair. His hair is very curly!
Brian had PT with Susan at 10 am. She was amazed at his improvement since she last worked with him, earlier in the week. They walked to and from the gym; Brian worked on balance exercises on the mat and standing. Between 10:30 and noon, Brian worked on his ST homework, and finished it perfectly. I found that leaving him alone worked best for keeping him on task. I went to the Dining Room and did my own "homework", letting Brian know where I was.
All day long, Brian wanted to WALK! I helped him stand up to pee and shit. (rolled to the toilet, I closed the curtain, he did everything on his own, I stood nearby, ready to help) (I remember when we first visited the Unit and I saw the toilet set-up, I wondered how long it would be before Brian would be able to use it.) Brian is wearing only his boxers now - no more diapers! This happened a couple days ago.
Brian and I ate lunch together. Dave couldn't make it because he was at our home, shoveling 2+ feet of snow off the trailer roof. He had gone home Thursday evening, to check on things, and more snow fell. He arrived after 1 pm.
After lunch, Brian and I worked on remembering what he ate again, for the Journal. "Why are we doing this?" he wanted to know. I explained that it was practice to get his short-term memory working right again.
At 1 pm, Brian had his combination PT/OT session with Amy and Erin. he worked on soccer ball kicking; played volleyball with the beachball; and started a game of checkers with Erin, which he was winning.
Dave and I gave him some time alone, while we talked.
During his next OT session, he played checkers with Erin again.
At the 3:30 PT session with Amy, Dave And I learned how to walk with Brian, by staying behind/beside him, hand near his back, keeping him focused, not conversing because it's distracting. We also learned how to walk up and down stairs, and how to catch him if he starts to fall. All these activities are done with Brian wearing a wide, white canvas "gate belt", which is used to help him if he loses his balance and/or starts to fall. Amy also taught Brian how to get up. The Rules were discussed, and written out by me, to be put up on the wall next to Brian's bed, and in his Journal. He can only stand with an adult, must be wearing shoes and the gate belt, and can only walk with a parent or a staff member (after training). Now, we have to impress upon Brian that the Rules must be followed, for his own safety! He needs to be watched and reminded constantly. From four to five, we worked on using the Journal for Remembering, looked at pictures, and talked about his friends and their passions (Dave's idea). Marc was the only described as having a passion: playing piano. Brian's passion is drawing: "I love to draw!" Describing his friend Chris: " He's really smart and he's a dork." (Chris has a reputation for this; he is also a sweetheart).
Vanessa Dudley and Ahsa arrived about 4:50. I walked with Brian to show them, and they joined Dave, Brian and I for dinner (they had already eaten). Dave got Chinese food for he and I and brought it in. We had a laughing good meal. Ahsa is very calm and intuitive with Brian, careful about not talking to him when someone else is, and directing him to use the Remembering Journal. After dinner, we all worked with the Journal and looked at Europe photos. The girls left at 6:15 pm.
Dave walked with Brian a bit, as did I. Brian and Dave visited June briefly.
We got Brian into bed around 7:30, because he was tired, disjointed, getting wobbly. We had spent some time looking at art books I brought in - Vermeer paintings, Van Gogh sketchbooks - and Brian asked, "Are you guys showing me these because you think I could be a professional artist?" We told him "Yes!" and he was thrilled, kept thanking us. He said he liked using colored pencils the most, and "can't paint". Dave suggested he not say he "can't", that there is time to practice. Brian continued on the theme of "Do you really think I can be a professional artist?" for the rest of the evening. He was especially amazed that we thought he could be one if he only did pencil drawings. Dave engaged him in describing the self-portrait with the skull, which Brian did not describe as a self-portrait, but as something that "came out of my head". He was able to describe the basic process of drawing the picture, but not any of the emotions. The self-portrait the cards were made from elicited a description of the look on his face that appeared accurate: " Angry and confused". He also commented that he doesn't have a "6-pack" like indicated in the drawing, then explained to us that "6-pack" refers to well-developed abdominal muscles.
In the morning, I met with Janet Murphy, who reported that, as a result of their staffing Thursday morning, it has been determined that Brian MIGHT be released on December 11th! This necessitates a family meeting as soon as possible; Dave and I will meet with Marshall, Janet and Shelley on Wednesday afternoon at 1 pm. We will discuss discharge plans and try to work out arrangements with Marshall and Kellie (Kellie will not be available for the meeting). The re-hab team wants Dave and I to continue our work with Brian, and Janet told me there is a possibility Dave and I could be paid by Medicaid to be Brian's caregivers. Everyone thinks we are doing a great job.
Even though Brian was very tired, he was still awake when I had to quit reading at 8:30 pm. I left him peaceful.
FROM MY NOTES:
There were no early morning calls today, but Brian DID wake up at 5 am.
I arrived about 8:15 and Brian was finished eating. He had gotten his breakfast first, and was nearly done with his cocoa. He and I worked on remembering what he ate, for his Journal (one of the things ST Julie wants us to work on).
Brian had a shower at 8:30, walking there and back again with CNA Megan (Certified Nursing Assistant; CNA's work directly with the patients, while the nurses administer meds and run the floor). He was dressed in hospital pj's when he returned, because he was going to get dressed during OT. He got to sit in a regular chair in the room with me when he returned!
During OT with Erin, Brian picked out his own clothes, got dressed, and brushed his teeth and hair. His hair is very curly!
Brian had PT with Susan at 10 am. She was amazed at his improvement since she last worked with him, earlier in the week. They walked to and from the gym; Brian worked on balance exercises on the mat and standing. Between 10:30 and noon, Brian worked on his ST homework, and finished it perfectly. I found that leaving him alone worked best for keeping him on task. I went to the Dining Room and did my own "homework", letting Brian know where I was.
All day long, Brian wanted to WALK! I helped him stand up to pee and shit. (rolled to the toilet, I closed the curtain, he did everything on his own, I stood nearby, ready to help) (I remember when we first visited the Unit and I saw the toilet set-up, I wondered how long it would be before Brian would be able to use it.) Brian is wearing only his boxers now - no more diapers! This happened a couple days ago.
Brian and I ate lunch together. Dave couldn't make it because he was at our home, shoveling 2+ feet of snow off the trailer roof. He had gone home Thursday evening, to check on things, and more snow fell. He arrived after 1 pm.
After lunch, Brian and I worked on remembering what he ate again, for the Journal. "Why are we doing this?" he wanted to know. I explained that it was practice to get his short-term memory working right again.
At 1 pm, Brian had his combination PT/OT session with Amy and Erin. he worked on soccer ball kicking; played volleyball with the beachball; and started a game of checkers with Erin, which he was winning.
Dave and I gave him some time alone, while we talked.
During his next OT session, he played checkers with Erin again.
At the 3:30 PT session with Amy, Dave And I learned how to walk with Brian, by staying behind/beside him, hand near his back, keeping him focused, not conversing because it's distracting. We also learned how to walk up and down stairs, and how to catch him if he starts to fall. All these activities are done with Brian wearing a wide, white canvas "gate belt", which is used to help him if he loses his balance and/or starts to fall. Amy also taught Brian how to get up. The Rules were discussed, and written out by me, to be put up on the wall next to Brian's bed, and in his Journal. He can only stand with an adult, must be wearing shoes and the gate belt, and can only walk with a parent or a staff member (after training). Now, we have to impress upon Brian that the Rules must be followed, for his own safety! He needs to be watched and reminded constantly. From four to five, we worked on using the Journal for Remembering, looked at pictures, and talked about his friends and their passions (Dave's idea). Marc was the only described as having a passion: playing piano. Brian's passion is drawing: "I love to draw!" Describing his friend Chris: " He's really smart and he's a dork." (Chris has a reputation for this; he is also a sweetheart).
Vanessa Dudley and Ahsa arrived about 4:50. I walked with Brian to show them, and they joined Dave, Brian and I for dinner (they had already eaten). Dave got Chinese food for he and I and brought it in. We had a laughing good meal. Ahsa is very calm and intuitive with Brian, careful about not talking to him when someone else is, and directing him to use the Remembering Journal. After dinner, we all worked with the Journal and looked at Europe photos. The girls left at 6:15 pm.
Dave walked with Brian a bit, as did I. Brian and Dave visited June briefly.
We got Brian into bed around 7:30, because he was tired, disjointed, getting wobbly. We had spent some time looking at art books I brought in - Vermeer paintings, Van Gogh sketchbooks - and Brian asked, "Are you guys showing me these because you think I could be a professional artist?" We told him "Yes!" and he was thrilled, kept thanking us. He said he liked using colored pencils the most, and "can't paint". Dave suggested he not say he "can't", that there is time to practice. Brian continued on the theme of "Do you really think I can be a professional artist?" for the rest of the evening. He was especially amazed that we thought he could be one if he only did pencil drawings. Dave engaged him in describing the self-portrait with the skull, which Brian did not describe as a self-portrait, but as something that "came out of my head". He was able to describe the basic process of drawing the picture, but not any of the emotions. The self-portrait the cards were made from elicited a description of the look on his face that appeared accurate: " Angry and confused". He also commented that he doesn't have a "6-pack" like indicated in the drawing, then explained to us that "6-pack" refers to well-developed abdominal muscles.
In the morning, I met with Janet Murphy, who reported that, as a result of their staffing Thursday morning, it has been determined that Brian MIGHT be released on December 11th! This necessitates a family meeting as soon as possible; Dave and I will meet with Marshall, Janet and Shelley on Wednesday afternoon at 1 pm. We will discuss discharge plans and try to work out arrangements with Marshall and Kellie (Kellie will not be available for the meeting). The re-hab team wants Dave and I to continue our work with Brian, and Janet told me there is a possibility Dave and I could be paid by Medicaid to be Brian's caregivers. Everyone thinks we are doing a great job.
Even though Brian was very tired, he was still awake when I had to quit reading at 8:30 pm. I left him peaceful.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
The Question of Driving
Thursday 29 November 2001
I got another early morning call, but this time I thought I would see if Brian could go back to sleep. I was called at 3:45 am and he had been awake for less than an hour. My intuition was correct; Brian fell back to sleep. I had suspected that if I left him alone to entertain himself and answer his questions on his own with his Journal, he might get tired instead of distracted. I was correct.
FROM MY NOTES:
Dave was on morning duty. He had breakfast with Brian, and was going to help Brian dress but was told that dressing was part of morning OT. During OT, Marcy "helped" Brian get dressed, brush his teeth and spike his hair (Brian did it all). He also started his laundry.
At one point in the morning, while Brian was in his wheelchair, Dave turned his back and Brian stood up (his seat belt was undone) and started walking. Amy rushed over and reminded Brian that he isn't supposed to walk alone, but with her. "You're right here!" he said. "But I was over there," she replied. Brian just gave her "The Look": raised brow, lowered head, looking out at her from under the brow.
During his combination OT/PT with Marcy and Amy, Brian played horseshoes and beat Marcy 11-4.
Brian had lunch with Dave, after spending some time alone so he could focus on his writing.
I arrived at 1 pm.
Brian worked on writing with Julie, who gave him some worksheets to complete for maria Mercedes on Saturday (homework!). Brian does not have ST on Fridays.
Brian had OT with Marcy again at 1:30. He shaved, put his laundry away, and even hung up some of his shirts.
During PT with Amy, Brian did a Balance Test in preparation for walking with staff and parents. He scored 49/56, meaning he has a slight risk of falling. Distractions are his biggest problem, although his feet tangle occasionally due to the pigeon-toed gait. He should be able to start walking with others on Friday.
After PT I tried to get him to work on some homework, but he was tired an distracted, so I had him lie down and I left him to rest alone. I thought he might sleep, but he didn't.
At 4 pm Brian had another PT session with Amy. He is having trouble remembering her name and keeps calling her "Kate". They walked to the gym to work, with Brian leading the way. Brian did various types of leg lifts, with the "magic number" being 18 because he will soon be 18. When they finished, we all discussed the driver's license issue, because Brian has been asking, "Do I have a driver's license? Do I have a car? What kind of car do I have?" (and memorizing the answers). By Oregon law, the doctors have to send documents to the DMV to inform them whenever a person suffers a loss of consciousness. The person's license is automatically suspended. So Brian's license is temporarily suspended, until such time as he passes a battery of tests with Dr. Villanueva (neuropsychologist), is okayed by the therapists in Outpatient Therapy, and probably passes written and road driving tests. Brian does not seem distressed by not being able to drive for a while - he just seems to want to be sure he has a license and a car. he doesn't remember getting his license, and thinks he still owns his old Toyota Corolla wagon, so we are working on remembering his new car.
(Brian never did regain his license. Although he drove a little up in the mountains on back roads, he was not able to regain any skill that would allow him to drive or regain his license. We had his little Nissan wagon while he lived with us in Ashland, with its great stereo, and it took us on trips around the state. Brian always got to pick the music. The car was called "The Boognish", after Ween, his favorite band)
One of Brian's "themes" is that he feels "sleazy" or "scummy" for going out with a girl who is so much younger than he. "Do you think I'm sleazy?" he will ask. He fear people will think he is taking advantage of Alana. He knows she is "more mature" than other girls her age, but he is still concerned.
Dr. Fennel came in to visit Brian around 4:45. Brian was pleased to see him, and tried to remember his name. First he guessed "Foster", then tried "Fe...", then reached out his hand and burst out with, "Dr. Fudgesicle!" Fennel laughed and told Brian he could call him "Dr. Dan". "Dr. Dan Fennel", Brian repeated. Fennel is very pleased at how well Brian is doing.
Brian and Nurse Bryan (3 - 11 shift) have a great bantering relationship, teasing about names.
In the evening Brian was very lively. We walked and rolled around the Unit, and sat in his room, discussing nice vs mean people, his desires to be a teacher, Alana and beauty. He said,"Nice is NOT a compliment. It just IS," and that "Mean people can't help being mean. They were raised that way." He wants to "raise kids", as a parent AND a teacher. He knows he is nice, but "I can't help it - the people who raised me were all nice", including teachers. He said, "Alana is 'BEAUTIFUL' (with fingers raised as quote marks) on the outside, but she's beautiful inside, too." He again expressed concerns over being "sleazy" and told me he was attracted to her physically when they met. It was fun just talking with him about what is important to him.
I read to him as usual, and he fell asleep by 9:30.
I got another early morning call, but this time I thought I would see if Brian could go back to sleep. I was called at 3:45 am and he had been awake for less than an hour. My intuition was correct; Brian fell back to sleep. I had suspected that if I left him alone to entertain himself and answer his questions on his own with his Journal, he might get tired instead of distracted. I was correct.
FROM MY NOTES:
Dave was on morning duty. He had breakfast with Brian, and was going to help Brian dress but was told that dressing was part of morning OT. During OT, Marcy "helped" Brian get dressed, brush his teeth and spike his hair (Brian did it all). He also started his laundry.
At one point in the morning, while Brian was in his wheelchair, Dave turned his back and Brian stood up (his seat belt was undone) and started walking. Amy rushed over and reminded Brian that he isn't supposed to walk alone, but with her. "You're right here!" he said. "But I was over there," she replied. Brian just gave her "The Look": raised brow, lowered head, looking out at her from under the brow.
During his combination OT/PT with Marcy and Amy, Brian played horseshoes and beat Marcy 11-4.
Brian had lunch with Dave, after spending some time alone so he could focus on his writing.
I arrived at 1 pm.
Brian worked on writing with Julie, who gave him some worksheets to complete for maria Mercedes on Saturday (homework!). Brian does not have ST on Fridays.
Brian had OT with Marcy again at 1:30. He shaved, put his laundry away, and even hung up some of his shirts.
During PT with Amy, Brian did a Balance Test in preparation for walking with staff and parents. He scored 49/56, meaning he has a slight risk of falling. Distractions are his biggest problem, although his feet tangle occasionally due to the pigeon-toed gait. He should be able to start walking with others on Friday.
After PT I tried to get him to work on some homework, but he was tired an distracted, so I had him lie down and I left him to rest alone. I thought he might sleep, but he didn't.
At 4 pm Brian had another PT session with Amy. He is having trouble remembering her name and keeps calling her "Kate". They walked to the gym to work, with Brian leading the way. Brian did various types of leg lifts, with the "magic number" being 18 because he will soon be 18. When they finished, we all discussed the driver's license issue, because Brian has been asking, "Do I have a driver's license? Do I have a car? What kind of car do I have?" (and memorizing the answers). By Oregon law, the doctors have to send documents to the DMV to inform them whenever a person suffers a loss of consciousness. The person's license is automatically suspended. So Brian's license is temporarily suspended, until such time as he passes a battery of tests with Dr. Villanueva (neuropsychologist), is okayed by the therapists in Outpatient Therapy, and probably passes written and road driving tests. Brian does not seem distressed by not being able to drive for a while - he just seems to want to be sure he has a license and a car. he doesn't remember getting his license, and thinks he still owns his old Toyota Corolla wagon, so we are working on remembering his new car.
(Brian never did regain his license. Although he drove a little up in the mountains on back roads, he was not able to regain any skill that would allow him to drive or regain his license. We had his little Nissan wagon while he lived with us in Ashland, with its great stereo, and it took us on trips around the state. Brian always got to pick the music. The car was called "The Boognish", after Ween, his favorite band)
One of Brian's "themes" is that he feels "sleazy" or "scummy" for going out with a girl who is so much younger than he. "Do you think I'm sleazy?" he will ask. He fear people will think he is taking advantage of Alana. He knows she is "more mature" than other girls her age, but he is still concerned.
Dr. Fennel came in to visit Brian around 4:45. Brian was pleased to see him, and tried to remember his name. First he guessed "Foster", then tried "Fe...", then reached out his hand and burst out with, "Dr. Fudgesicle!" Fennel laughed and told Brian he could call him "Dr. Dan". "Dr. Dan Fennel", Brian repeated. Fennel is very pleased at how well Brian is doing.
Brian and Nurse Bryan (3 - 11 shift) have a great bantering relationship, teasing about names.
In the evening Brian was very lively. We walked and rolled around the Unit, and sat in his room, discussing nice vs mean people, his desires to be a teacher, Alana and beauty. He said,"Nice is NOT a compliment. It just IS," and that "Mean people can't help being mean. They were raised that way." He wants to "raise kids", as a parent AND a teacher. He knows he is nice, but "I can't help it - the people who raised me were all nice", including teachers. He said, "Alana is 'BEAUTIFUL' (with fingers raised as quote marks) on the outside, but she's beautiful inside, too." He again expressed concerns over being "sleazy" and told me he was attracted to her physically when they met. It was fun just talking with him about what is important to him.
I read to him as usual, and he fell asleep by 9:30.
Monday, January 21, 2013
We All Get A's
Wednesday 28 November 2001
FROM MY NOTES:
I was awakened by a 4:30 am phone call from the Unit: Brian was awake and asking for "someone he loved" to come see him. So I got up, dressed, and got there by 5:30. He was in bed, peacefully looking at his notebook calendar. This was a good thing, and I didn't really want to interrupt. But I sat with him and we talked. He immediately wanted to see Alana and walk, neither of which he could do at that moment.
The themes/questions/statements of the morning and later:
"What is reality? You're born, you walk, you die."
"When I was in a coma, I thought I was dead."
"I know more about dying than you do." (singing)
"I feel like I know what it's like to be dead."
"I want to see my girlfriend!" (he didn't remember seeing Alana the evening before)
One thing I did to try to distract him was to give him a pad and a colored pen to write "I can walk" several times. As he lost focus, the writing and spelling disintegrated. But his writing is larger, and he writes his small 'a' in the familiar manner: a. I also walked around the Unit with him - he was in the wheelchair - when it was late enough that we wouldn't disturb people. And I helped him stand to pee!
Dave came during breakfast. I left to go ready myself for working at Lincoln School in the afternoon. I didn't return until 7 pm, for the evening shift. Dave reported the day's activities verbally and in notes. Dave stood Brian up while Brian dressed himself. later on, Brian had a shower.
A quote Dave noted: " When I was in a coma I realized how pointless life was. (a silly look at shocked Dave) Just kidding. I'm so glad (to be alive)!"
With Marcy, Brian sorted puzzle pieces, pee'd standing, and started his laundry (which he and I put away in the evening).
Later on, Brian worked with Marcy and Amy together. He walked to the gym, stood to work on puzzle and card sorting, and they noted he is "Doing great!"
Brian and Dave had lunch together. During Brian's afternoon session with Julie, he practiced writing words in phrases, and checking his work. He worked more on this later on. Dave also had him copying sentences, such as, "Dave makes me work too hard." Brian apparently got a big kick out of that one.
Dave also took Brian around to visit with June, and they shared artwork. June Smith is an Ashland resident and Peace House figure, who had a stroke right after Brian's heart attack. She is also an artist.
In Brian's final PT session of the day, he worked with Sharla. She had him walking, working on math skills, sorting cards and balancing on his knees.
Wednesday afternoon from 2 to 3 is Show and Tell time for everyone. Dr. Solomon, Janet Murphy, therapists and family are a part of it. Brian wowed everyone, put together the puzzle faster than he ever has, and told Jeff Solomon he is "an awesome doctor!" (which he is).
Dave, Brian and I all got straight As; the therapists are pleased to have Dave and I on the team, Joyce wants to hire us, and Julie is amazed at how we are a step ahead of her. They all stressed that our work with Brian is helping him progress as quickly as he has. YAY Brian!!
Brian was obviously tired when all this was over, and Dave insisted he get in bed. Brian protested; Dave left for ten minutes and Brian fell asleep. He was allowed to sleep through a 4 pm therapy slot with Amy, and through his regular dinner time at 5 pm; Nurse John held Brian's dinner till 6 pm. Apparently Marshall got stuck on the mountain and couldn't make it to dinner with Brian. (Marshall was managing the restaurant at Mt. Ashland) Marshall called, spoke to a nurse, spoke to Brian, but didn't make certain that the message got to Dave (who had to ask the nurse). Brian did not remember that it was Marshall he had just talked to, so he was unable to relay any message. Kellie also did not show up.
Dave left Brian asleep. I returned at 7 pm and Brian was wide awake and talking. Apparently Sarah Golden had tried to visit, but Brian was asleep. She left a note. Brian was a bit distractable, fixating on the usual themes. Alana did not visit, nor did anyone else. Brian told me he had had a dream during the coma in which he had walked on the moon and his helmet broke and he died from lack of oxygen. He had asked me earlier if anyone had walked on the moon yet. Brian also told me he had dreamed that Alana broke up with him, and he cried about it this morning.
Brian is noticing how thin he is.
I read in Looking Glass and Brian fell asleep by 9:30 pm.
FROM MY NOTES:
I was awakened by a 4:30 am phone call from the Unit: Brian was awake and asking for "someone he loved" to come see him. So I got up, dressed, and got there by 5:30. He was in bed, peacefully looking at his notebook calendar. This was a good thing, and I didn't really want to interrupt. But I sat with him and we talked. He immediately wanted to see Alana and walk, neither of which he could do at that moment.
The themes/questions/statements of the morning and later:
"What is reality? You're born, you walk, you die."
"When I was in a coma, I thought I was dead."
"I know more about dying than you do." (singing)
"I feel like I know what it's like to be dead."
"I want to see my girlfriend!" (he didn't remember seeing Alana the evening before)
One thing I did to try to distract him was to give him a pad and a colored pen to write "I can walk" several times. As he lost focus, the writing and spelling disintegrated. But his writing is larger, and he writes his small 'a' in the familiar manner: a. I also walked around the Unit with him - he was in the wheelchair - when it was late enough that we wouldn't disturb people. And I helped him stand to pee!
Dave came during breakfast. I left to go ready myself for working at Lincoln School in the afternoon. I didn't return until 7 pm, for the evening shift. Dave reported the day's activities verbally and in notes. Dave stood Brian up while Brian dressed himself. later on, Brian had a shower.
A quote Dave noted: " When I was in a coma I realized how pointless life was. (a silly look at shocked Dave) Just kidding. I'm so glad (to be alive)!"
With Marcy, Brian sorted puzzle pieces, pee'd standing, and started his laundry (which he and I put away in the evening).
Later on, Brian worked with Marcy and Amy together. He walked to the gym, stood to work on puzzle and card sorting, and they noted he is "Doing great!"
Brian and Dave had lunch together. During Brian's afternoon session with Julie, he practiced writing words in phrases, and checking his work. He worked more on this later on. Dave also had him copying sentences, such as, "Dave makes me work too hard." Brian apparently got a big kick out of that one.
Dave also took Brian around to visit with June, and they shared artwork. June Smith is an Ashland resident and Peace House figure, who had a stroke right after Brian's heart attack. She is also an artist.
In Brian's final PT session of the day, he worked with Sharla. She had him walking, working on math skills, sorting cards and balancing on his knees.
Wednesday afternoon from 2 to 3 is Show and Tell time for everyone. Dr. Solomon, Janet Murphy, therapists and family are a part of it. Brian wowed everyone, put together the puzzle faster than he ever has, and told Jeff Solomon he is "an awesome doctor!" (which he is).
Dave, Brian and I all got straight As; the therapists are pleased to have Dave and I on the team, Joyce wants to hire us, and Julie is amazed at how we are a step ahead of her. They all stressed that our work with Brian is helping him progress as quickly as he has. YAY Brian!!
Brian was obviously tired when all this was over, and Dave insisted he get in bed. Brian protested; Dave left for ten minutes and Brian fell asleep. He was allowed to sleep through a 4 pm therapy slot with Amy, and through his regular dinner time at 5 pm; Nurse John held Brian's dinner till 6 pm. Apparently Marshall got stuck on the mountain and couldn't make it to dinner with Brian. (Marshall was managing the restaurant at Mt. Ashland) Marshall called, spoke to a nurse, spoke to Brian, but didn't make certain that the message got to Dave (who had to ask the nurse). Brian did not remember that it was Marshall he had just talked to, so he was unable to relay any message. Kellie also did not show up.
Dave left Brian asleep. I returned at 7 pm and Brian was wide awake and talking. Apparently Sarah Golden had tried to visit, but Brian was asleep. She left a note. Brian was a bit distractable, fixating on the usual themes. Alana did not visit, nor did anyone else. Brian told me he had had a dream during the coma in which he had walked on the moon and his helmet broke and he died from lack of oxygen. He had asked me earlier if anyone had walked on the moon yet. Brian also told me he had dreamed that Alana broke up with him, and he cried about it this morning.
Brian is noticing how thin he is.
I read in Looking Glass and Brian fell asleep by 9:30 pm.
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