Today was pretty much the same as yesterday. Again, they couldn't do the spinal tap due to his blood being too thin. They took him off of the thinner earlier tonight, so maybe tomorrow.
Breezy pretty much got the same response when she blew Kev a kiss tonight too. He pulled his head back and she just laughed. I really don't know if he is aware - I don't think so all the time anyway - but if he is, he is going to be mad at us for all the kisses. That's for sure, lol.
And if he is aware - he has got to be so bored. Some days I sit there and struggle with what to say. I have heard Breeze - she just goes on and on - she is so good with him. But I have always been more the quiet one and can't just babble. And it's sad, but when I'm in there sometimes I can't even remember things that we have all done in the past. I can right now. But when I am in there, I just draw a blank sometimes. I did buy Harry Potter to read to him, but the more I was reading about fire and stuff, the more I thought we needed to change books. Just in case he only hears every few words or something. We just don't know.
If any of Kevin's friends have any ideas on something he might want to read, let me know. I know his favs are war stories and things like that, but under the circumstances I think something lighter is best.
Also, the Leader Times in Kittanning did a story on Kevin today. Here is a direct link: Leader Times.
I just want to say that when I read all of these articles/watch the news reports my first thoughts have always been 'Wow. That is so dramatic'. And in the next second I think - 'but I guess our lives have become dramatic'. It's just odd to think that this is all really happening when you are reading about it. It's different when you are living it - it's just the way it is. But reading about it? It really puts it out there. Slaps you in the face, kinda. I guess it goes back to doing what you have to do and not realizing all the time exactly how terrifying the whole situation is. Does this make any sense? I am really struggling to get the right words out tonight because I have a bit of a headache so...
I think on that note - I am going to bed. Love y'all!
First 2 from the Nov kit!
12 years ago
32 comments:
I just wanted to let you know that Kevin is in my prayers. I am sending him a paper crane to bring him hope, strength and courage as I know he will need it. I have challenged myself to make 1,000 paper cranes to send 1,000 wounded soldiers and Kevin will receive #2.
http://mygardenblue.wordpress.com
With love and well wishes,
Donna
P.s. Take care of yourself too. You are a strong woman, even if you don't think so.
Waited up again. You sound exhausted.
I don't know how you guys are doing it...but you are. Keep up the good work.
Somehow when you are going through crap...our inner strength just keeps us going. Sometimes as we are with someone that we are caring for and we watch them be so weak...somehow it makes us stronger. It's almost as if they give us some of their strength to help us get through. Don't forget..God is right by our side every step of the way keeping you strong too.
Rest your weary head and get a good night sleep. You two both are so deserving of a very good rest.
Thank you and yes, I'm sure I can speak for everyone...for taking the time. Not only do you care about Kevin and Brianna..but you care about us too.
You've got a bad headache, you are tired and you still post in this blog very late at night. Thank you for caring about all of us...but especially our hero, Kevin. : )
Kevin is in our prayers and you are so brave and strong take care and god bless you guys.
Sending hugs to you friend!
rest ... feel better Les. Hang in there.. we're all thinking of you!
Dear Leslie and Breeze ~ I am sending just two little things to read to Kevin. One, you may think is silly, but it is inspiration at its best, and he has heard it before. Velveteen Rabbit. Breeze will laugh, no doubt, since I have a habit of reading it in class. The other is just a small book about courage and hope and it is light and easy. Just don't tell him they are from his English teacher! As with everyone else, I send you love and prayers. Pat Bell
Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday Dear Mama Leslie Happy Birthday to you!!! I miss you three I'm always thinking and praying for Kevin. Brianna can not wait to see you next month. Sending all of my love your way!!
Jess
Kevin, Leslie & Brianna -
Just stopping by to let you all know that you are in my thoughts and my prayers, and those prayers are coming in massive amounts for you all! God bless you Kevin, Leslie & Brianna and give you the massive amounts of strength, peace and comfort that you need each day.
Stay strong, brave warrior - stay strong Leslie & Briana! Please know and please never forget that thoughts, prayers, support and load upon load of Angel Hugs are always on their way to you all!
- Kris, a Soldiers' Angel from RI
Happy Birthday Leslie, hope you'll take a little bit of time for yourself today and do something nice/good for just YOU!! Love you!
Leslie, I think that it's wonderful for you to read to him. If there is awareness on some level, your voice must surely soothe and comfort him, because of the knowledge that you are there. As always, keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Also, a very happy and peaceful birthday to you. Some really great people share your birthday. ;)
Leslie, Happy Birthday. Wish I could get a cake to you (you know what kind) and watch you make a wish and blow out the candles. And see some raspberry filling on your nose as you dig in..... Take a moment today, you, Breezy and your Mom and celebrate your life....it's okay. I know Kevin would want you to. He may respond to the singing especially if it's bad singing, lol. Laugh today as a jesture of hope for all the progress Kevin has made. Kevin is used to making people laugh and may really enjoy hearing the sound of his mothers own laughter today. I love you Leslie, and again HBD!!!!!
Have I told you how wonderful this blog is?
Les, Happy Birthday! Hope you have a great day with Kevin today and my suggestion is tell him some jokes. He's a jokester and that'll help. Love you all and glad to hear good news.
Love, Diana
Hi Leslie,
I ran into Louise in Walmart the other day and she told me about Kevin, but she didn't know much. That was the first time I heard anything, until I read the Leader Times story. Do you remember us from years ago when you lived near Trade City? Our son Clark is currently with the Army in Baghdad. I have put Kevin on two prayer lists, I hope you don't mind.
Mary (wife of Bud) Neal
Les, Happy Birthday dear friend. I have a book in mind and I will try to find it and send it to you. I just keep thinking what a wonderful Mom and Sister that Kevin has a how very strong all three of you are. I don't know what I do wrong but sometime my comments to you don't show up.(Stop laughing at me)If I am not mistaken Kev will have to be off those blood thinners at least 3-5 days before they feel comfortable doing anything maybe longer if the amounts are great. Take care Honey and I will call soon I just don't want to be a pest. Love ya all bunches. Pam Moore
Leslie, Today is your birthday and I want to wish it to be a good day for you ...that Kevin has a good day or at least a better day today cause that would be a good birthday I know under the circumstances you are not thinking of yourself but others are thinking of you...loving you and praying for you and for Kevin and for Breezy. Love ya, Paul @ Armstrong
I'm just a stranger to you but your family has become something special in my heart. I pray for Kevin's recovery every day.
There was an author I wanted to suggest to read to Kevin--David Sedaris. He writes about his life growing up; its really light humor.
Best wishes and many prayers...
Here's something Kevin might like to hear:
Airborne Ranger
A little boy was standing in front of a mirror in the restroom at John F. Kennedy Airport, when in walked a Marine staff sergeant, dressed in his dress blues. The little boy turned to the Marine and said, "Wow! Are you a Marine?"
The Marine replied, "Why, yes I am, young man. Would you like to wear my hat?"
"Boy, would I!," said the little boy. He took the hat and placed it on his head and turned to admire himself in the mirror.
As he was looking in the mirror, he heard the door open and through a ray of bright light, a man entered the room. But, this was not just a man -- he was more than a man. He was an Airborne Ranger.
The little boy turned and went over to the soldier. As he approached him, he could see the reflection in his boots. His eyes widened as he stared up at the soldier's chest full of medals and combat ribbons.
He tried to speak, but he couldn't. Finally, he took a deep breath, and managed to say, "Excuse me, Sir. Are you an Airborne Ranger?"
The Ranger replied with a thunderous voice, "Why yes, I am!! Would you like to shine my boots?"
The little boy smiled, and said, "Oh, no sir!! I'm not a Marine. I'm just wearing his hat!"
Dear Leslie and Breeze,
I just wanted you to know that Kevin and both of you are in my prayers for his complete recovery. Your blog was passed on to me by Mary Neal.
Deacon Walter Corrigan
Sacred Heart Church
Seward, Alaska
Here' another one for Kev:
Army Airborne Vs. Marines
A marine recon platoon was on patrol when the Lt. noticed a lone Paratrooper standing on a hilltop in their area. The Lt. told two of his men to go take out that man.
They promptly ran as fast as they could toward the Paratrooper. Just before they got to the top, the paratrooper ran over the other side of the hill. The two marines followed.
For the next few minutes there were bloody screams and dust flying in the air. Then as
quick as it had started, it stopped and the Paratrooper came up on the hilltop. He brushed off his BDU's, straightened his beret, crossed his arms and stood there looking at the marines.
The Lt., pissed, called for a squad to go get that Paratrooper. They promptly ran as fast as they could toward the paratrooper. Just before they got to the top, the paratrooper ran over the other side of the hill. The marine squad followed.
For the next few minutes there were bloody screams and dust flying in the air. Then as
quick as it had started, it stopped and the paratrooper came up on the hilltop. He brushed off his BDU's, straightened his beret, crossed his arms and stood there looking at the marines.
The Lt. was really hot now. He ordered the rest of his platoon to
attack the paratrooper. Determined that the recon was far superior to the one paratrooper they had blood in their eyes as they ran up the hill. Just before they got to the top, the Paratrooper ran over the other side of the hill. The marines followed.
For many minutes there were bloody screams and dust flying in the air. It continued and continued.
Finally there was one lone marine crawling back to the lt., all bloody and beat about
the head and shoulders. His BDU's were torn, cuts were all over his body. The Lt. asked
for a sit. rep. The lone marine, bloody and beaten replied in a forceful and fearful
voice "Sir, run, its a trick. There are TWO of them!!"
Just thinking of you all and sending hugs...
hi leslie,
Evan wiles and I want to come down and see kevin like mid julyish but i was wondering if you could email me so we could make plans and get the right information from you. Evan and I would really appreciate this, but only when you get a chance i know you have a lot going on, but if you could email me at nkm3117@sur.edu so we could talk that would great! stay strong!
Nikki McElroy
I didn't know it was your birthday, Leslie.
You get to spend it with your kids.
What a wonderful gift. : )
Happy Birthday.
I always found Chicken Soup for the ____ soul as a great read for any situation. Those books are always uplifting and filled with hope, and it may be good for him to hear. ANd there are so many titles/different souls per book so you could find one particular to the situation or just one about healing.
Keep holding in there :)
Bonnie W
Hi Leslie,
My name is Jodi, and I am Andrew's aunt. Andrew was one of the soldiers that was killed in the humvee that Kevin was in. First of all, I want to say thank you for your blog and keeping us updated on Kevin's status. I am so so sorry that you and your family are going thru this horrible event. But you and your family sound like a strong bunch of people, and you will make it thru this, together! Please know that ALL of Andrew's family are keeping Kevin, Dan, James and the boys families in our thoughts and prayers!
If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know! My email is jodi19692003@yahoo.com.
Take care, and please give Kevin and yourself, and Breezy a hug for us!!!
Jodi Shields
Leslie,
Happy Birthday and Best Wishes to you! My thooughts and prayers are with you and breezy and esp. Kevin. Keep up the good work! You and Breezy are phenominal in your strength and courage and besdie vigil you are keeping.
Shari Goodyear
Hang in there, Leslie! Love you, girl!
Kevin is still in our thoughts and prayers daily. Travis and I pray for him every night. We pray for you and Breezy and your family, too. I miss you at work!!!
Keep up the good work. I am so proud and in awe of how you and Breezy are holding strong. You have more strength than you realize....more than ANYTHING I have ever seen.
Take care!!!
Kristen M.
I wanted to wish you a happy birthday and I think Kevin gave you one! His response to you is just nothing short of a miracle. God is with you and your family. You will always be in our prayers.
M
Hi leslie,
My name is Suzanne (Albie's sister) I have been checking in everyday at your posts, and everyday I pray for you and your family to get through this. Albie said to me the other day that he thought that your Bday was soon...so I said an extra prayer for God to give you some kind of gift for you...that of course must have been Kevin with the blow kiss. I must admit I was curious and checked out THAT other blog and was not impressed with it at all. your blog is so much informative. Oh and by the way, I showed Albie how to get to this blog the other night. That guy needs to be taught how to use a computer.LOL 2 days later my printer error light was blinking and it turns out that he was printing out your blog and tried to shut it down but didn't know how. So when I fixed the error on the printer it started printing. He gets impatient I guess, because I have told him that my computer is slow because its getting too old and all he had to do was wait a little longer.
I hope and pray that Kevin awakes and tells you and your family that he's going to be ok. Positive vibes, outstanding prayers and millions and millions of well wishes are going to find you, Kevin and Breezy in the days to come.
So take care and God Bless you,
Suzanne
Hello,
I just wanted to let you know how inspiring your story is to so many people. I am an Army brat and I volunteer at Walter Reed. It never ceases to amaze me the strength and courage that Soldiers and their families possess. Your presence, no matter how much of it he is able to process, must be a comfort to Kevin. You and your daughter are a crucial part of his treatment - and for that reason you MUST take care of yourself!
You should know that you are touching stranger's lives and hearts.
Hi Leslie. Just wanted to let you know that I'm still thinking of you and Kevin and praying. I always find the book of Psalms in the Bible to be very comforting and soothing. I also like to read Calvin and Hobbes to lift my spirits, but that's not exactly a book you can read to someone, unless you get into explaining frame by frame. At least it would keep you entertained. Or how about a book by Jeff Foxworthy or another comedian? That would be more up a 19 year-old's alley.
Hope you get some good rest tonight, take care.
Leslie and Breezy,
For starters, Happy Birthday, Leslie. I hope today went well for you, Breezy, and Kevin.
I wanted to thank you for keeping up such a great blog to allow each one of us to read how yunz are coping and about Kevin's progress. I guess I should, also, thank you for the blog so I can find out what my son and his friends are planning !! I'm very glad that Evan and Nikki are planning to come visit yunz.
I get up each morning and Kevin is the first thing in my thoughts. Normally, the first thing in my mind in the morning is "I hope no one is in the bathroom getting a shower or I'll pee my pants ! ", so now that thought has taken second place. I get up each morning and read your blog from the night before, head to work, and then come home and read some more. I must say that I laughed about you and Breezy blowing kisses to Kevin and then he 'flinches'. I can't imagine what he'd say to either one of you because he comes up with some off-the-wall hysterical stuff !
I have a funny story to tell you that I'm not sure if you know it or not. This story defines Kevin's character to me. If I get anything incorrect, I'm sure Evan will set me straight !
This incident happened about two or three years ago, the 'skater boys' (names withheld) were still in high school. Considering the boys always got kicked out of every nook and cranny, for skate boarding, here in town, I know they wound up at Cogley's this one night. I know this fact because I received a phone call, aahh, probably at the reasonable time of 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM...not positive of 2 or 3 but it was definitely, AM. (Keep in mind that I am not the most pleasant individual when awakened from slumber during the AM hours) Anyways, on the other end of the phone was a nice man I will refer to as State Trooper. Evan pleaded with the State Trooper to not call me, not for Evan's sake, but for the State Troopers. I didn't care if it was the Pope calling, I wasn't impressed with the hour of day. He inquired as to if I knew where my son was and of course I did and was highly upset that he'd ask me a stupid question like that in the AM hours. I yipped that he was at his friend's house for a birthday party over by Cogley's. Well, the State Trooper (he really was nice and calm) informed me that my son and some others were caught setting off 'fireworks'. "REALLY?" I gruffed. "I'LL BE RIGHT OVER." click....They'll see some fireworks all right ...
So, within about two minutes I was over at the friend's house and no sign of Evan, he was hiding out inside the house. The other friends, minus Kevin, took the blame stating Evan didn't participate and yada yada. The main reason the State Troopers were even in the area was because they had a complaint regarding someone harrassing the campers along the river and thought their suspect was within the group of the boys. This was just a case of mistaken identity for the boys. BTW...no one got in trouble for the fireworks...just the calling of the parents.
Well, Evan, eventually emerged from the house sanctuary and explained to me his version of what happened and that there were at least four State Troopers (I did see four driving off) that came upon the group of boys setting off firecrackers in the park. When the State Troopers identified themselves, the boys took off in all directions like a cue ball breaking the balls on a billiards table ! Picture the solid balls with flashlights chasing the striped balls all over ! ha aha ! Evan stated that they were yelling for them to 'STOP' 'STOP' ! And of course, the State Troopers caught up with all but one of them, whether be by default that the boys gave up or whatever. No one knew where Kevin was, he just disappeared. I eventually asked Kevin, while he was at my home days later, why he didn't get caught and he said "I ran and climbed up a tree. I watched everything." I laughed until I couldn't any longer.
That, Leslie, was probably one of the wittiest things Kevin has ever told me. I'm sure he's full of more !
I continue to pray for Kevin to heal. I, also, pray for the continued strength for you and Breezy. Take care as better days are to come.
Julie (Evan's Mommy)
Post a Comment