Janary 28 thorugh February 5, 1999 update

Due to problems with my webhost company this email has been delayed much later than I would have like, good news should always go out ASAP.

Su has been making leaps and bounds this week, I will just list her accomplishments:

1. She went from the largest trach insert to the smallest. She went from 40% Oxygen to room air. They started deflating the cuff on the trach periodically to allow her to start breathing through the normal path.

2. Once the cuff was deflated she was able to say her first word!!!!! And no it wasn't unprintable but it was pretty private so I don't think I will share it.

3. She was able to walk 28 feet on 2/5. She is using a Swedish walker with minimal support (mostly just for balance). It tired her out enormously but the fact that she was able to walk for that distance right from the start is incredible. Nola of the NGG was lucky enough to see it, I unfortunately missed it.

4. She was able to prove to the speech and occupational therapists that she can read. Still having fine motor skill problems but that will return in time.

Based on all her accomplishments this week she was accept medically by Riverside Rehab in Hampton (about 20 mins away from home and 10 min away from work). They are anticipating her transfer sometime next week when a bed becomes available. The facility is supposedly right on the river and has lots of outside grounds for strolls etc which Su will love. Going to check it out this weekend.

She is still pretty frustrated with the lack of communication problem but once her fine motor skills start to improve she will either be able to talk or use a communication board.

I realise this is a bit short but I need to run and check out the Riverside facility and do some prep work for Suze's birthday/anniversary party.

take care

lawrence