Sunday, January 18, 2009

Day 232 - Jan 18, 2009

It was a very relaxing day today. We didn't do anything at all except watch a bunch of tv and movies. We were going to go to Wal-Mart, but I got too lazy and Kevin didn't really want to go either so we just stayed home instead.

I did forget to tell you guys two things that have been going on. First, Kevin has been writing his name without needing to copy it. He has even been trying to write his last name, but still has to copy it (who wouldn't, lol). We did find he is able to read for the most part, but when it's something like "raise your hand", he doesn't understand it or he just can't read it. I do know that he doesn't know his body parts for the most part, so I wonder if it's more that and not that he can't read it. He also doesn't know his letters at all so if you ask him to point at the 'A' - he can't. What he is doing is recognizing whole words. Very strange, huh? I would have thought all of that went together, not realizing you can read without knowing your alphabet.

He is also able to tell time. And even funnier - he will get on the therapists' butts when they are late. When they walk in he will look at the imaginary watch on his arm and then at the clock and then at them as if to yell at them. It is so hilarious. And who knows...maybe now he will get his whole hour of therapy instead of 30 or 40 minutes that is left by the time they get here. I think it's time for me to step up and crack the whip (so to speak).

As to the fluid on his head - today it is nearly all gone. Apparently the shunt is working very well. Now they just need to make sure it doesn't pull too much off because that can be just as bad. I think they intend to do another cat scan tomorrow so we will see.

And I can't begin to tell you how excited my kids are that Pittsburgh will be in the Super Bowl. I sure hope that the Steelers can stop by and visit, but then again Breezy would probably drop dead if Troy came in the room, lol. Oh well, we'll see...

7 comments:

aggie said...

So glad you had a relaxing day, and that Kevin's making progress each day! It's those little things that add up slowly, but surely.

And (I can't believe I am saying this LOL) Go Steelers!!! As a Clevelander, you know that's a struggle for me, ha ha! Actually, I'd rather have the Steelers in the Super Bowl instead of the Ravens anyday!! So, you can tell Kevin that this Clevelander will be rooting right along with him for Pittsburgh!
Thinking of you and praying always for continued daily successes for Kevin and for you and Breezy!

Alison said...

Relaxing days are good days. :D

That is interesting that Kevin can recognize whole words but not letters. The brain is such a complex piece of work, and every injury is different...but I'm sure as time passes more and more pieces will fall back into place.

I'm glad the fluid issue seems to be clearing up now and hope all goes well with the shunt/CT scan tomorrow and that there are no issues with that anymore. It would be such a relief not to worry about that and be able to focus on things like therapy. Speaking of which - crack that whip!

Long-time RN said...

Steelers had a great game, and that's coming from a Bear fan!

Hope the CT shows the shunt is doing the job and Kevin continues progressing and discovering new skills.

Jodi said...

Hi Gang!!

Sounds like you 3 had a fantastic weekend! That is so wonderful to hear. I love all the stories and Kevin's achievments and really love the pic of Kevin eating pizza. Very cool.

Okay, okay, even though I am a Raiders fan (and yes, I know, they suck, lol) I have to say GO STEELERS! I hope they win the Superbowl.

Here is to another great day for all of you today!

Healing and positive thoughts for Kevin.
Strength for Leslie and Breezy.
Safe thoughts for all military personnel and strength for their families.
BIG HUGS AND ALL MY LOVE TO ALL OF YOU!
Andrew's Aunt Jodi

AnnieB said...

Leslie, I am so glad to hear such good news about Kevin. Our prayers are being answered and I am confident that he will continue to improve. Rich and I are coming down in February to see Mark and look forward to seeing all of you too.

Kev, Keep up the great work. We're proud of you!!

Love, Ann

Anonymous said...

Yesterday during the AFC Pittsburgh Baltimore game 20 wounded soldiers were standing on each side of Martina McBride as she sang the National Anthem and all branches of the military were represented holding flags. My son was one of the wounded and said he was standing there for Kevin and all wounded soliders. Wouldn't it be great if some of the Steelers could visit Kevin (I would die seeing Troy also!!)

Kevin and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Anonymous said...

Hey lez... this is Cole Bearfield, Ashtens brother and Connie's son. I'm not sure if you remember me but we used to come in and get movies all the time haha. I just can't put it in words how happy I am for you and kev, im so glad that hes doing this good. Im praying for you guys every single day. Well, thats about all, thanks and cya guys later