A Quick Update

Mike continues to get settled in at Brinlee Ranch. The kids and I are going back again this weekend to see him. He has had a severe respiratory infection since he arrived from New Orleans. His doctor at the ranch has him on several medications to help dry up the congestion. Mike is still coughing but is doing well. Mike still tires easily and sleeps a lot but looks great. We love the new place. On August 30th and 31st, I took Mike outside and even though he was asleep, the kids were able to ride their bikes and they loved being able to say “look at me dad!” Inside, Audrey worked puzzles, Baylee got to watch TV and Wes played with some toys that we brought and it was great because each one of them got to have Mike with them whether it was at the table, by the couch, or in his room. For me, I just got to sit and hold his hand, rub his shoulders, and talk to him. Whether he was asleep or awake, we all left saying that we couldn’t wait to go back. WOW, so much better than New Orleans.

I know everyone wants BIG news but this is a very slow process. Please remember that. Mike continues to not be aware of time or place. He can not speak. He can not eat. He is in a wheelchair. He is totally dependent on others. BUT I do feel that at times, he does know that we are there and he is aware of us.

The ranch offers Mike a home and us a place to visit that is set up like a house. He has a private room that we have decorated just for him. We have brought so much of his personal stuff and artwork that the kids have done for him to make it “his” room. He has a great staff of therapists, physicians, nurses, and caregivers. They set small goals that he can reach instead of setting large goals that are out of reach. Right now, we are focusing on him being healthy, getting over his respiratory infection, and being able to participate in therapy Monday through Friday and getting stronger.