Making Progress Slow and Steady

Judi continues to grow stronger physically and mentally.

The standing frame is already paying benefits. She enjoys standing and is able to work on other skills at the work table simultaneously. I think this allows her to stand longer since she is focused on other things and her body goes to its natural position.

Judi's awareness level continues to improve as evidenced by her reaction to things that go on and/or are said around her. We are also starting to have some success with yes/no responses using the new switch system with audible feedback. We still have a long way to go there, but we are encouraged by what we are seeing.

Judi is eating well and she has no difficulty swallowing or managing what she is eating now. I suspect we will do another swallow study in the next week or so and I believe the restriction on having to thicken her liquids will be removed. I think she will also be able to begin eating foods that have not been "chopped up" quite so much. She does a good job feeding herself and the independence is obviously good for her. We'll also evaluate what to do with the PEG after the next study. There are some distinct advantages to keeping it, but it does present a source of infection still and she has become increasingly interested in pulling on it.

Thanx to everyone for the continued support and prayers.

Steve