Chatterbox

Judi has finally started to talk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am trying not to get too pumped, but I have waited a long time to hear her speaking voice again and I can't describe the impact this has had on Jessica and me. Before everyone gets too excited, the words she is saying are not understandable so we still have a long way to go. I can tell what she is saying in many cases based on what we are talking about and her response when I repeat it back to her. The key here is that she is mastering the mechanics of talking as opposed to speaking specific words. I have been in full cheerleader mode the last couple of weeks in this area. It appears that the BOTOX shots are helping a great deal with her neck control and very possibly in this area as well. She talks more when she is in bed than in her wheelchair which I believe is related to the strain (or lack of) on the muscles in her neck/jaw. We have been spending an hour or so each night with her in bed and talking about the tremendous accomplishments she has made. I usually walk away with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.

We have still not started outpatient rehab yet, but it typically takes a couple of weeks I have learned before things really get rolling in earnest. I hate waiting, but I have her in the Steve rehab program to prevent her from losing ground from where she was when the home health program came to a conclusion. We actually have a lot of fun doing these things together. The key thing I am looking for here is getting her up and walking with the necessary support equipment as soon as possible. I told her that what I wanted for Christmas was a walking and talking wife and I am holding out hope that we can get there.

The other areas are continuing to improve as previously discussed. She is eating great and continues to improve from an awarenes perspective. Yes/no response is still an area we are struggling in, but is getting better. She had a routine CT scan Tuesday and we have a follow up appointment with her neurosurgeon in a couple weeks to evaluate her progress to date. I suspect he will be surprised at where she is today compared to the last time he saw her.

I'll follow up as soon as we transition to outpatient rehab and the Dr. weighs in. I hate to keep asking, but please keep praying for us. I am convinced more and more every day that God has his hand on Judi's shoulder as a result of all the prayers she is receiving.

Thank you all again!
Steve