Tuesday, April 2, 2013

April 2, 2013

I know...it's been forever since I have written!!  Things are always hectic, but running a business and taking care of Kevin are both full time jobs and trying to do both is exhausting.

Anyway, so many things to share.  First (and you might want to sit down for this one) - Kevin actually has a JOB!!  I got a call from a producer doing a PBS special and he came down for an interview.  We went to lunch at a little cafe just a few minutes from the house and I noticed how well the employees treated Kevin (apparently he eats there often with Johnnie),  As we were leaving, I asked the manager if there was anything that Kevin could do there.  She discussed it with the owner and sure enough - they had Kevin go in for an 'interview' and offered him the job.  He is working about 5 hours a week and I am so excited for him.  He is doing so well in his recovery and needs to do 'normal' things.  This is a huge step for him and I am hoping it works out long term. 

I think the most awesome thing is how well Kevin is talking.  We recently went to the BAMC Burn Unit's 10th Anniversary Event and people even commented on how well he is speaking.  New things are just popping out of his mouth all the time and it's funny because even he will be surprised that he can say something.

I really think that his talking better has a LOT to do with the WWP's (wounded warrior project) Independence Program that Kevin is partaking in.  We have a speech therapist come a couple times a week and he works with Kevin.  He has made amazing strides in the last couple of months.

Things aren't just perfect though.  We were supposed to go home to East Brady for the Easter weekend and Kevin ended up in the hospital for a few days.  It was the same as last time - intestinal blockage.  I guess we will be having this issue the rest of Kevin's life.  They told me his insides are just a mess (no surprise really) and he has so many adhesions that his intestines can have problems constantly.

Kevin is also still having 'seizures'.  The docs can't find evidence of this because they don't occur often enough to be seen on his already messed up EEG.  Obviously no brain study on Kevin is going to be normal, so the neuro-seizure specialist told me he 'assumes' they are seizures and wants to put Kevin on an anti-seizure medication.

My first instinct was 'absolutely not' as they are so altering of a person's personality.  But I recently read on article that stated that 1 in 3 epileptics die not from the seizure - but of the fall during one.  Crikes.  I called the doc right away and had them send the meds.

We haven't started them yet though. I was waiting until we came home from Pittsburgh.  I guess I should do it now...

And I think I'll end with some pics of things that we have been doing.

Here's Kevin and Johnnie with the Harlem Globetrotters:


Here is Christian at his 2nd birthday party:


And hunting eggs on Easter Sunday;


Here's Kevin goofing off with my friend, Aggie, who came down over Christmas break:


Here is a photo of Breezy and her family at Christmas:


And last, here is Christian taking a nap on uncle Kevin:


I will try so hard to come back more often.  I hope everyone is doing well!

10 comments:

karen said...

I love this Leslie, this snapshot of where your life is right now. Mine is pretty crazy, so I don't even get to check who's blogs have new posts ... I just *happened* to check today. =) I must have had a feeling.

Anyway, I believe a lot of recovery comes from love and determination shown by those around an injured person. Of course sometimes all of the love in the world can't turn around somethings, but I think the changes in Kevin are as much you and Breezy and the people around you as they are about him. He sure comes from amazing stock.

Congratulations to Kevin for the job and for the language skills that even surprise him. So awesome!

Jan said...

So glad to see an update on Kevin and new pics of Christian...looks like they are both doing well!

Pat said...

I check periodically to see if you have posted anything and was pleasantly surprised today. I think of you and Kevin frequently and wonder how you are doing. I am so happy for you that Kevin is making progress in speaking...great news! And I hope the job works out for him...so important in his rehabilitation and regaining his life!

Anonymous said...

So happy that Kevin is doing well! A job,no less! I always pass along any info from your posts with your friends at the American legion in Brady's bend. You and Kevin are thought of often. Please take care and god bless.

Aunt Judy said...

tell Kevin we said congratulations on his job. It truly is a blessing. Take care and know we love you all.

Michelle Long said...

So happy you gave us an update. I have been wondering how everyone is doing.

Kris said...

Hey Leslie, Kevin, Breezy and Family! So wonderful to read this update!!! Congratulations on the job, I sure hope it has been working out. I can't even imagine how wonderful an impact that must have on Kevin, and you!! And to hear that his speech is improving like mad is awesome and amazing. Just like Kevin! You are all in my thoughts and my prayers each and every day, and you always will be. Big huge hugs from RI!!

- Kris, your biggest fan from RI

PS O.M.G is Christian the most adorable little thing!! :D Love the pic with Uncle Kevin!!

Kris said...

Happy Mother's Day to you and Breezy! Leslie, you are one of the best, one of the strongest, one of the most amazing moms EVER. Hope you have a wonderful day!!

- Kris

Pat said...

Hi Leslie and Kev! I know you aren't posting any longer, but I wanted to let you guys know I think of you often! Kevin I remain thankful for your service to our Country...even if a bunch of dimwits are running it!...and always will be! Leslie, I hope you are well and continuing to enjoy that adorable little grandson! Prayers continually being said for you both!

Shadow said...

Ma'am, it breaks my heart to read this blog. I went to basic with Kevin G795 2007. Ever since I heard about what happened I think about him most days. It breaks my heart to know that Kevin believes that everyone has forgotten about him. Please relay to him that we have not. He is an American hero. On a side note I run a Facebook page that is a community for those of us that have either PTSD or TBI and I would love it if you would join and chat with us.