A Change of Plans

We have received some messages asking if Judi has made it to Shepherd and how she is doing there. Unfortunately, a great number of things have changed since our good news was posted, and were changing right up through yesterday afternoon.

Because of where Judi is on the cognitive scale, she is deemed to be unprepared for the level of rehabilitation at an acute rehab facility like Shepherd or Walton. We believe she is very close, but there is a big delta between "not ready" and "ready." After a lot of deliberation, we have come to realize in our own hearts that she just isn't ready. We very badly wanted her to be - wanted her to head right up to Atlanta and have them work their miracles. But the bottom line is that she is not consistently aware enough to handle the strenous therapy she would receive in an acute rehab facility.

Unfortunately (or not, depending on your view), she also cannot continue to stay at the hospital. With the level of care she still needs, we are not able to safely care for her at home. We are currently looking for a skilled nursing facility for her to get strong enough to go to Shepherd. Some of the ones we have been recommended are Kentwood, Westwood, and Windemere. If anyone has experience with these places or has any contacts there, please comment or email Steve at swilk@knology.net.

So, it's been a disheartening week on that front. We had a lot of hope pinned on that little journey west to Atlanta. But going now would probably have set everyone up for failure. Better to wait a little longer until she is going to have the best chances for success. Judi herself is doing great. She wears the trach cap for most of the day now, though it is opened up at night. She is getting close to having the thing taken out entirely. She is really vocalizing now and testing out those tired vocal cords. And she has been increasingly aware and responsive over the last week. So her recovery is continuing, even if our hearts and hopes are a little worn right now.

Thanks for your continued concern and prayers, and let us know what you know about those places. :)