Hello everyone,
I haven't blogged in a while (been very busying catching up on uni and exams, etc) so I thought I should give you an update on Dad's latest.
I spent yesterday (being monday) with Dad and it was the first time I had seen him since I was sick last week. He seemed a little lethargic as he didn't get to sleep until 3am but that didn't stop him from having a very active day.
I quite enjoy hanging out with Dad on Mondays, I get to talk to him about how he is feeling, what he is thinking and spend some time working out what his next plan of attack is. We had some high priority admin issues to sort out in the morning with the doc and nursing staff, a few delimmas over the weekend will hopefully be sorted now.
The daily routine took us to OT at 11am where Dad attempted to beat his record at solitaire/chinese checkers game. You have to try and jump all your pegs and end up with the smallest number you can. Dad is currently 2nd on the record board with a score of 3 but this isn't good enough for him, he wants his name in 1st place.
Dad's cousins Karen and Angela came to visit after lunch, they bought with them a happy spirit which cheered Dad up a bit. They bought him a soft crocodile toy, which they said reminded them of Dad, had a bit of a laugh over that. We all talked to Uncle Jeff in China via Skype!
2.30 came quickly and we were nearly late for Dad's physio appointment. Karen and Angela joined us for a little bit and said a lovely prayer for Dad before they left. Erin, Dad's physio, had written up a new program at Dad's request, it will make it easier to keep track of his progress. Dad trailled the automatic bike pedal machine, did weights and dominated the arm pedal machine. I was amazed at just how well he was performing and considering he was already tired.
Mark Harland also came to visit later on in the afternoon. The day seems to pass so quickly when you are kept busy so before I knew, it was time to say goodbye.
One of the OT's was visiting Mum at home in Toowoomba today and I haven't heard how it went yet but hopefully Mum will be able to update on that very soon!
Goodnight and love to you all
Rebecca xox
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Sunday, 30th August
Hi all,
Week six has slowly creeped up on us, alot of progress has been made in this short time; but more is still to come. Just one short week until fathers day Dad is still so keen to persuade us in letting him come home back in Toowoomba! But as this is a little unrealistic just yet, we are talking about taking him on his first outing away from the hospital for a nice juicy rump which his mouth has been watering for, as the last one he had was the night before his accident!
The weekend has been a little frustrating for all of us, with a few mishaps taking place, but once Dad vents his anger he is usually cool calm and collected.
On Tuesday this week, The Occupational Therapist will be meeting Mum (Julie) at our house in Toomoowmba to dicuss what alterartions will need to be made for Dads to come home. As this could take a while, they need to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.
Dad is still trialing the Dragon voice recognition on his new laptop. Once he has mastered it, you'll be hearing from him rather than us ladies.
Dad is in awe of how much support he and the family are reciveing. It's very overwhelming and appreciated. Dad is forever saying he needs to get out of the hospital so he can repay everyone for what they have given.
To wrap it up here are some photos of some visitors and a couple more from his birthday!
Goodnight, Erin & Julie xx
Dad With Derek and his brother.
Karen, Dad and Stacey. They had just ran the Bridge to Brisbane 10km race.
Dad showing off his flowers sent from USQ for his Birthday!
A signed canvas from his friends at Endeavour (Ramsay Street)
A couple of punks who crashed Dads party celebrations! (Craig and John)
Week six has slowly creeped up on us, alot of progress has been made in this short time; but more is still to come. Just one short week until fathers day Dad is still so keen to persuade us in letting him come home back in Toowoomba! But as this is a little unrealistic just yet, we are talking about taking him on his first outing away from the hospital for a nice juicy rump which his mouth has been watering for, as the last one he had was the night before his accident!
The weekend has been a little frustrating for all of us, with a few mishaps taking place, but once Dad vents his anger he is usually cool calm and collected.
On Tuesday this week, The Occupational Therapist will be meeting Mum (Julie) at our house in Toomoowmba to dicuss what alterartions will need to be made for Dads to come home. As this could take a while, they need to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.
Dad is still trialing the Dragon voice recognition on his new laptop. Once he has mastered it, you'll be hearing from him rather than us ladies.
Dad is in awe of how much support he and the family are reciveing. It's very overwhelming and appreciated. Dad is forever saying he needs to get out of the hospital so he can repay everyone for what they have given.
To wrap it up here are some photos of some visitors and a couple more from his birthday!
Goodnight, Erin & Julie xx
Dad With Derek and his brother.
Karen, Dad and Stacey. They had just ran the Bridge to Brisbane 10km race.
Dad showing off his flowers sent from USQ for his Birthday!
A signed canvas from his friends at Endeavour (Ramsay Street)
A couple of punks who crashed Dads party celebrations! (Craig and John)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Thursday 27th August
Hi All,
Bryan is still in isolation and has started on a 10 day course of antibiotics for the bowel infection which has some long name but abbrev to C dyf. One of the symtoms of the infection is nausea as well as a side effect from the antibiotic is nausea, so he is not feeling the best at the moment.
Today he had an xray taken of his knee (the one with the broken ligament from previous accident in 1982) as it has been swollen the last couple of days, don't have results back yet. As I'm typing this he is getting an ultrasound done on his left upper thigh as yesterday it was quite swollen and has a bruise on it, they want to rule out a clot. I'll let you know the results when they are back.
Bryan is still not sleeping very well at night which makes him tired during the day and has little energy also, so they are giving him a sleeping tablet tonight so he gets a descent nights sleep.
Bryan has just been wheeled back from the ultrasound and has been given the all clear, great news! He didn't need any more worries to deal with.
Bye for now,
Julie
Bryan is still in isolation and has started on a 10 day course of antibiotics for the bowel infection which has some long name but abbrev to C dyf. One of the symtoms of the infection is nausea as well as a side effect from the antibiotic is nausea, so he is not feeling the best at the moment.
Today he had an xray taken of his knee (the one with the broken ligament from previous accident in 1982) as it has been swollen the last couple of days, don't have results back yet. As I'm typing this he is getting an ultrasound done on his left upper thigh as yesterday it was quite swollen and has a bruise on it, they want to rule out a clot. I'll let you know the results when they are back.
Bryan is still not sleeping very well at night which makes him tired during the day and has little energy also, so they are giving him a sleeping tablet tonight so he gets a descent nights sleep.
Bryan has just been wheeled back from the ultrasound and has been given the all clear, great news! He didn't need any more worries to deal with.
Bye for now,
Julie
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Tuesday 25th August
Hi All,
Bryan is still in isolation until they do further tests to rule out any bowel infections which could take a couple of days.
He had a good day in physio today, working on being able to roll over onto his side using his arms to help him swing(very tiring). He also did some sitting on the bed with his legs out in front of him and worked on being able to balance on his own and then throw his arms back to prop, (to stop himself falling backwards) and then bring his arms back again, this will aid him when he gets to transfer from bed to a wheelcahir when the time comes.
Both Rebecca and Erin are feeling a bit unwell at the moment, so they won't be visiting for a few days as Bryan's immune system is not that good at the moment and he can't afford to get any new bugs going around.
As Bryan only had a couple of hours sleep last night he is very tired and looking for a good nights sleep tonight, so he is already tucked up in bed with the lights out
(it is 7pm).
Until next time.
Julie
Bryan is still in isolation until they do further tests to rule out any bowel infections which could take a couple of days.
He had a good day in physio today, working on being able to roll over onto his side using his arms to help him swing(very tiring). He also did some sitting on the bed with his legs out in front of him and worked on being able to balance on his own and then throw his arms back to prop, (to stop himself falling backwards) and then bring his arms back again, this will aid him when he gets to transfer from bed to a wheelcahir when the time comes.
Both Rebecca and Erin are feeling a bit unwell at the moment, so they won't be visiting for a few days as Bryan's immune system is not that good at the moment and he can't afford to get any new bugs going around.
As Bryan only had a couple of hours sleep last night he is very tired and looking for a good nights sleep tonight, so he is already tucked up in bed with the lights out
(it is 7pm).
Until next time.
Julie
Monday, August 24, 2009
Hello all,
Due to a what they now know, Bryan has a bowel infection and has been shifted again this time into iscolation for a couple of days. So he has been placed on some more anitbiotics (he is sooo excited) not! Tomorrow he has a meeting with the Doctors, Physios, Occupational Therapists, and Social Worker to discuss the next plans for his recovery, and the requirement needed when it is time for him to come home.
Here is a video Warren recorded of Bryan's first attempt at wheeling his own wheelchair on day 30.
Goodnight from Julie and Erin
(as Bec is down with a vomiting bug she is unable to post tonight)
xxxooo
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Bryan's 46th Birthday!!!
Hello everyone!
Dad's birthday today and he was in great spirits. I arrived at the hospital with Joey this morning and Mum was helping Dad with his shower. Soon after they returned Dad was in his new chair and out in the sun. Such a beautiful day today, Dad didn't even need a jumper! Uncle Ed, Nan and Pop and Erin arrived not long after. We had a nice little picnic out in the sun! Aunty Ros and David came and Ann, Craig, Ellen and John also. We also talked to Uncle Jeff and Aunty Chris via Skype and received many phone calls. Pizza, chips, lollies and carrot cake (Dad's favourite!) I have put a few pics on tonight so that everyone can see how well Dad is doing. His voice is pretty much healed and he looks healthy but still having a little trouble with his bowels.
Just a short post tonight, very enjoyable day had by all. Here are the pics...
Dad eating a pancake that Aunty Kathy made, Ben gave up and Uncle Ed bought all the way from Toowoomba.
The punk party arriving - Craig, John behind Ellen and Ann (Mum's brother Patrick had a dress up 50th birthday party last night and since Dad couldn't go they bought the party to him!)
Dad and us girls :)Hope everyone is well, goodnight, love to all
Bec xoxo
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Wednesday 19th August
Its been four and a half weeks since Bryan's accident and he has come a long way in what seems like an eternity to him but only a short time on his road to recovery.
Since the last blog Bryan has had a few more uncomfortable days coping with pain in his back and shoulders resulting in sleepless nights therefore feeling tired during the days. He did have a good night sleep last night after a very stressful one the night before as he was put on oxygen for a few hours because he was having trouble breathing which could be the result of the pain killer he took (he just can't win). They have just wheeled him away up to x-ray to take a photo of his shoulder and neck to see if there is any underlying problems in this area that is causing such pain.
Bryan's OT sessions are going well. Emily (his OT) has made up a few more gadgets to help with day to day things, one being a washer made into a mitt which he will have a go at today when he has a shower.
In Physio sessions Bryan has been having a few massages on his back, shoulders and neck which has been quite painful at times, but is benefiting him at the same time. He has also stepped up in the travelling world he now has a wheelchair that he can push by himself which his friend Warren videoed yesterday so we will put that on the blog at some stage.
Bryan had a very good day today and also enjoyed a visit from Geoff, Steve, Chris and Garry who talked about bikes and touring around this gave Bryan's voice a rest for a change.
There hasn't been any significant change to the movement or feeling in Bryan's arms and legs, but is experiencing spasms in different areas (back and chest). Bryan is putting 100% in getting his internal functions back on track before he concentrates on the physical side of things because when the internals are doing what they are suppose to do it hinders the physical side (hope that makes sense).
It is now 8pm I started this blog this morning and have only just got back to finishing it.
I will get Bryan to do his own blog very soon.
The visiting hours are ( all the patients were given a reminder about this)
Monday to Friday: 12pm - 2pm and 4pm - 8.30pm
Weekends/Public Holidays: 12pm - 8.30pm
Goodnight all,
Julie
Since the last blog Bryan has had a few more uncomfortable days coping with pain in his back and shoulders resulting in sleepless nights therefore feeling tired during the days. He did have a good night sleep last night after a very stressful one the night before as he was put on oxygen for a few hours because he was having trouble breathing which could be the result of the pain killer he took (he just can't win). They have just wheeled him away up to x-ray to take a photo of his shoulder and neck to see if there is any underlying problems in this area that is causing such pain.
Bryan's OT sessions are going well. Emily (his OT) has made up a few more gadgets to help with day to day things, one being a washer made into a mitt which he will have a go at today when he has a shower.
In Physio sessions Bryan has been having a few massages on his back, shoulders and neck which has been quite painful at times, but is benefiting him at the same time. He has also stepped up in the travelling world he now has a wheelchair that he can push by himself which his friend Warren videoed yesterday so we will put that on the blog at some stage.
Bryan had a very good day today and also enjoyed a visit from Geoff, Steve, Chris and Garry who talked about bikes and touring around this gave Bryan's voice a rest for a change.
There hasn't been any significant change to the movement or feeling in Bryan's arms and legs, but is experiencing spasms in different areas (back and chest). Bryan is putting 100% in getting his internal functions back on track before he concentrates on the physical side of things because when the internals are doing what they are suppose to do it hinders the physical side (hope that makes sense).
It is now 8pm I started this blog this morning and have only just got back to finishing it.
I will get Bryan to do his own blog very soon.
The visiting hours are ( all the patients were given a reminder about this)
Monday to Friday: 12pm - 2pm and 4pm - 8.30pm
Weekends/Public Holidays: 12pm - 8.30pm
Goodnight all,
Julie
Friday, August 14, 2009
Friday 14th
Hi All,
It's me again updating the blog today.
Bryan was going to have a go at updating the blog himself but he has had a rough couple of days trying to deal with the pain in his neck and back which also has kept him awake at night, so he is feeling rather tired and exhausted at the moment. The physio is working on the muscles in his back and neck to try and relieve the pain but it may take awhile. After much deliberation with the physio and nurses Bryan gave in and decided to take a stronger pain killer tonight, so hopefully he will get a better nights sleep.
As Bryan has had a stressful week he may need a bit of quality resting time for the next couple of days. He doesn't like to turn away visitors, but I do think it is taking alot out of him at the moment. So if you are thinking of visiting on the weekend just give myself (0447529182) or Rebecca (0405077806) a call to see how Bryan is feeling and up to having visitors.
Thanks to everyone for your support.
Julie
It's me again updating the blog today.
Bryan was going to have a go at updating the blog himself but he has had a rough couple of days trying to deal with the pain in his neck and back which also has kept him awake at night, so he is feeling rather tired and exhausted at the moment. The physio is working on the muscles in his back and neck to try and relieve the pain but it may take awhile. After much deliberation with the physio and nurses Bryan gave in and decided to take a stronger pain killer tonight, so hopefully he will get a better nights sleep.
As Bryan has had a stressful week he may need a bit of quality resting time for the next couple of days. He doesn't like to turn away visitors, but I do think it is taking alot out of him at the moment. So if you are thinking of visiting on the weekend just give myself (0447529182) or Rebecca (0405077806) a call to see how Bryan is feeling and up to having visitors.
Thanks to everyone for your support.
Julie
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Thursday 13th
Hi All,
It has been a few days since the last update on Bryan's progress so I thought I'd better post a message tonight.
Bryan's had his ups and downs this week. He's had a few sleepless nights, feeling sick and had trouble with his breathing over the last couple of days due to a course of tami flu they started him on (even though he was tested for Swine flu and was given the all clear). Because these are side effects of taking tami flu Bryan told them he didn't want to continue with the course, so today he was feeling a lot better and got a good nights sleep last night.
Bryan is doing well at his OT sessions, he was able to stack 11 blocks with his left hand and 8 blocks with his right hand today which was great (even though Bryan is right handed his left hand/arm seems to be stronger). OT gave him a lesson on shaving with an electric razor on Tuesday, so he has been doing his own shaving, so that's put me out of a job and I was just getting the hang of it. Bryan has been able to drink by himself using a cup with a lid and a straw. By manoeuvring his wrist he is able to hold the cup in his hand and bring it up to his lips to have a drink, it sounds so simple but a bit of a challenge . In physio they have been stretching and massaging his shoulders and the top of his back to loosen the tight muscles in his upper body, this seems to make it easier for Bryan to move his arms and shoulders and relieve some of the pain he is getting in that area.
We have been venturing down to the dining room in the spinal ward for lunch and on Tuesday Bryan was able to eat his meal by himself using his adapted spoon and a plate guard, there were a few claps and cheers going on after he ate his last mouthful. It's amazing what can be achieved if you persist. As it was a big achievement I let him have a rest and fed him his dinner that night. He his going to tackle cleaning his teeth by himself next.
Bryan's been in hospital for three and half weeks and hasn't seen much other then his room and the ceiling in ICU so I decided to take him on a tour of the hospital in his wheelchair and he was amazed that I knew where I was going and where everything was, I told him that for the first couple of weeks in between visiting him in ICU and having coffee down in the cafe I didn't have much else to do other then go exploring.
As it is getting late I'll finish it there and get Bryan to do his own blog tomorrow using the computer that USQ have supplied for him to use, it has the dragon voice recognition program on it so he won't even have to type.
Goodnight all,
Julie
It has been a few days since the last update on Bryan's progress so I thought I'd better post a message tonight.
Bryan's had his ups and downs this week. He's had a few sleepless nights, feeling sick and had trouble with his breathing over the last couple of days due to a course of tami flu they started him on (even though he was tested for Swine flu and was given the all clear). Because these are side effects of taking tami flu Bryan told them he didn't want to continue with the course, so today he was feeling a lot better and got a good nights sleep last night.
Bryan is doing well at his OT sessions, he was able to stack 11 blocks with his left hand and 8 blocks with his right hand today which was great (even though Bryan is right handed his left hand/arm seems to be stronger). OT gave him a lesson on shaving with an electric razor on Tuesday, so he has been doing his own shaving, so that's put me out of a job and I was just getting the hang of it. Bryan has been able to drink by himself using a cup with a lid and a straw. By manoeuvring his wrist he is able to hold the cup in his hand and bring it up to his lips to have a drink, it sounds so simple but a bit of a challenge . In physio they have been stretching and massaging his shoulders and the top of his back to loosen the tight muscles in his upper body, this seems to make it easier for Bryan to move his arms and shoulders and relieve some of the pain he is getting in that area.
We have been venturing down to the dining room in the spinal ward for lunch and on Tuesday Bryan was able to eat his meal by himself using his adapted spoon and a plate guard, there were a few claps and cheers going on after he ate his last mouthful. It's amazing what can be achieved if you persist. As it was a big achievement I let him have a rest and fed him his dinner that night. He his going to tackle cleaning his teeth by himself next.
Bryan's been in hospital for three and half weeks and hasn't seen much other then his room and the ceiling in ICU so I decided to take him on a tour of the hospital in his wheelchair and he was amazed that I knew where I was going and where everything was, I told him that for the first couple of weeks in between visiting him in ICU and having coffee down in the cafe I didn't have much else to do other then go exploring.
As it is getting late I'll finish it there and get Bryan to do his own blog tomorrow using the computer that USQ have supplied for him to use, it has the dragon voice recognition program on it so he won't even have to type.
Goodnight all,
Julie
Monday, August 10, 2009
Room 6
Sitting around Bryan’s bed thinking we should update the blog on this wonderful Monday arvo.
I got to the hospital fairly early this morning just before Dad was going for a shower. Apparently he was keeping the nurses entertain in the shower room by singing a few notes. He looked refreshed and had good colour in his face when he returned. While Dad was in the shower I was setting up his new laptop all ready for him to start training the voice controlled “Dragon” Program.
They popped him back into bed for a brief moment to get dressed and then got him out into his chair for another day out and about. We wheeled out into the sun and found a nice place to set up. We spent about an hour training the new program to recognise Dad’s voice through a headphone/microphone combination. It was amazing that after about 15 minutes of training the computer was able to recognise Dad’s voice and as he spoke it typed into Microsoft Word. Truly incredible technology!
They called Dad inside at about 10.30 to get the last pic line taken out of his arm. So he is now clean skinned, no more cords or devices attached! Phew! Dad could not believe how long the line was when they pulled it out from his elbow. It went all the way to his chest from his elbow and he believes that was causing his shoulder pain on that side.
11am – time for OT!! We ventured off to that side of the building, taking with us the laptop in hopes they could give Bryan a few pointers for his fingers so he is able to type. Emily, his OT was very surprised at what Dad could do with the computer already. She tried some readymade pointers on his fingers to type with, but ended up making some specially to fit his fingers. He is now typing as fast as he used to!! (Dad says: “Don’t say that! They will want me back at work!) Emily is also going to try and chase up a tilt table so Bryan can use the laptop in bed.
From OT we went straight into the dining hall for lunch. Soup and some of my personally made chicken, cheese and tomato toasties were on the menu today. Dad fed himself the soup with the adapted spoon, without spilling a drop! Allan, Donna and Caitlin Dallas came to see Dad while we were at lunch. It was a good catch up with these long time friends who Dad hadn’t seen for a while. They live in Brissy and assured Dad they would try and make some regular visits.
Jeff, Chris and the Boys returned this arvo to spend some more time with Dad. Daniel was flying back to Melbourne this afternoon and they have just left for the airport not long ago. They will be back again tomorrow before they venture down to Sydney.
When we were heading back from lunch, one of the nurses informed us that Bryan had been kicked out of his room. He has been moved out of the Acute section into the “not as cute” area of the ward, where he shares a room with Bill, Peter and Henry. These guys have been in here for a little longer than Dad, so hopefully they will be good mentors and support for Bryan. When we first came into the room, boys being boys, shared all there war stories and compared experiences.
Warmed up in the sun again this arvo before heading in for a training sesh with the Physio. She had him sitting up by himself, balancing using his arms. He lent too far forward and nearly passed out from the smell of his socks. Susie gave Dad’s shoulder a bit of a massage and stretch; this is the first step before he starts exercising.
Not as many spasms today in Dad’s leg but his voice sounds a tiny bit better today. No news on the camera down his nose yet so hopefully they can do it tomorrow.
Quite a big day today, I know I will sleep well and I hope Dad does too.
Love to all
Becca xo
I got to the hospital fairly early this morning just before Dad was going for a shower. Apparently he was keeping the nurses entertain in the shower room by singing a few notes. He looked refreshed and had good colour in his face when he returned. While Dad was in the shower I was setting up his new laptop all ready for him to start training the voice controlled “Dragon” Program.
They popped him back into bed for a brief moment to get dressed and then got him out into his chair for another day out and about. We wheeled out into the sun and found a nice place to set up. We spent about an hour training the new program to recognise Dad’s voice through a headphone/microphone combination. It was amazing that after about 15 minutes of training the computer was able to recognise Dad’s voice and as he spoke it typed into Microsoft Word. Truly incredible technology!
They called Dad inside at about 10.30 to get the last pic line taken out of his arm. So he is now clean skinned, no more cords or devices attached! Phew! Dad could not believe how long the line was when they pulled it out from his elbow. It went all the way to his chest from his elbow and he believes that was causing his shoulder pain on that side.
11am – time for OT!! We ventured off to that side of the building, taking with us the laptop in hopes they could give Bryan a few pointers for his fingers so he is able to type. Emily, his OT was very surprised at what Dad could do with the computer already. She tried some readymade pointers on his fingers to type with, but ended up making some specially to fit his fingers. He is now typing as fast as he used to!! (Dad says: “Don’t say that! They will want me back at work!) Emily is also going to try and chase up a tilt table so Bryan can use the laptop in bed.
From OT we went straight into the dining hall for lunch. Soup and some of my personally made chicken, cheese and tomato toasties were on the menu today. Dad fed himself the soup with the adapted spoon, without spilling a drop! Allan, Donna and Caitlin Dallas came to see Dad while we were at lunch. It was a good catch up with these long time friends who Dad hadn’t seen for a while. They live in Brissy and assured Dad they would try and make some regular visits.
Jeff, Chris and the Boys returned this arvo to spend some more time with Dad. Daniel was flying back to Melbourne this afternoon and they have just left for the airport not long ago. They will be back again tomorrow before they venture down to Sydney.
When we were heading back from lunch, one of the nurses informed us that Bryan had been kicked out of his room. He has been moved out of the Acute section into the “not as cute” area of the ward, where he shares a room with Bill, Peter and Henry. These guys have been in here for a little longer than Dad, so hopefully they will be good mentors and support for Bryan. When we first came into the room, boys being boys, shared all there war stories and compared experiences.
Warmed up in the sun again this arvo before heading in for a training sesh with the Physio. She had him sitting up by himself, balancing using his arms. He lent too far forward and nearly passed out from the smell of his socks. Susie gave Dad’s shoulder a bit of a massage and stretch; this is the first step before he starts exercising.
Not as many spasms today in Dad’s leg but his voice sounds a tiny bit better today. No news on the camera down his nose yet so hopefully they can do it tomorrow.
Quite a big day today, I know I will sleep well and I hope Dad does too.
Love to all
Becca xo
Sunday, August 9, 2009
The family get-together
Hi all,
Yesterday, being Saturday the 8th August, Dad had nearly all of his side of the family to come and visit. Uncle Jeff and Aunty Chris flew over from China, Blake from Perth, Daniel from Melbourne and Lori and the kids from Sydney. Lozen, Kate, Aunty Ros, Ray, Wendy and Cherie all drove up from the south also Dad's cousin Judith and Richard who live in Brissy, the rest came down from Toowoomba.
It was wonderful to see the family that we don't get to see all that often! As you can imagine everyone has lots to catch up on so we were a bit of a rowdy bunch and stuck to the balcony all day. Someone asked me during the day if there was some sort of party going on, I replied "No, thats just what its like when my family are together!".
Dad is making astounding progress, reaching a couple of milestones in the last few days. The occupational therapist made him an adapted pen and spoon that straps to his hands. He signed his name on a form and today fed himself some peach halves from a bowl. Dad has also learnt to hook the jug of water over his hand and lift it up to sip from the straw, so no longer requires someone to help him have a drink of water.
Mum and Erin went back to Toowoomba this afternoon to go to the Friends of Bryan dinner. I decided to stay here and keep Dad company.
Dave and Morgan Wagner came to visit Dad today, along with Mark, Sue and Kate Fitz. Tim, the IT guy from the USQ, went out of his way to bring Dad a laptop from the uni with some specialised voice activated programs. He spent hours searching for all the equipment and setting it all up and then he drove down from Toowoomba this afternoon for a special delivery. Thank you to Michael Flannery and associates for approving all this for Dad, it is very much appreciated. Dad says he thinks they might expect him back at work a little sooner than first thought, which he tells me he would be only to happy to do, given all the positive comments and best wishes from the university staff.
Another extremely exicting occurance has been happening throughout today as well. Dad's legs have been spasming! It has happened about 3 times today and I as I have been typing here tonight, again his knee rose up and back down. Apparently spasms are a good thing, so I hope that they become more frequent. I will do some of my own research and keep you all informed on my findings.
Dad and I went to the dining hall for dinner this afternoon (I wouldn't call it night because dinner is served at Granny hour - 5pm). Its a bit of a laugh for me when I'm giving Dad his mouthfull of food because I find myself opening my mouth and swallowing at the same time as he does. You try scraping food up on your fork, getting it all nicely positioned, raising it up off the plate and not opening your mouth but giving it to someone else.
Dad's voice is still not improving much, he is getting it checked out tomorrow. They will put a camera down his nose and have a look all around his throat and voice box to try and find the cause of his "Darren Lockyer-like" voice. Will let you know how that goes.
Just tucked Dad into bed and will read him a bedtime story before I leave.
Until next time...
Love Bec, Bryan and the family
xoxo
Yesterday, being Saturday the 8th August, Dad had nearly all of his side of the family to come and visit. Uncle Jeff and Aunty Chris flew over from China, Blake from Perth, Daniel from Melbourne and Lori and the kids from Sydney. Lozen, Kate, Aunty Ros, Ray, Wendy and Cherie all drove up from the south also Dad's cousin Judith and Richard who live in Brissy, the rest came down from Toowoomba.
It was wonderful to see the family that we don't get to see all that often! As you can imagine everyone has lots to catch up on so we were a bit of a rowdy bunch and stuck to the balcony all day. Someone asked me during the day if there was some sort of party going on, I replied "No, thats just what its like when my family are together!".
Dad is making astounding progress, reaching a couple of milestones in the last few days. The occupational therapist made him an adapted pen and spoon that straps to his hands. He signed his name on a form and today fed himself some peach halves from a bowl. Dad has also learnt to hook the jug of water over his hand and lift it up to sip from the straw, so no longer requires someone to help him have a drink of water.
Mum and Erin went back to Toowoomba this afternoon to go to the Friends of Bryan dinner. I decided to stay here and keep Dad company.
Dave and Morgan Wagner came to visit Dad today, along with Mark, Sue and Kate Fitz. Tim, the IT guy from the USQ, went out of his way to bring Dad a laptop from the uni with some specialised voice activated programs. He spent hours searching for all the equipment and setting it all up and then he drove down from Toowoomba this afternoon for a special delivery. Thank you to Michael Flannery and associates for approving all this for Dad, it is very much appreciated. Dad says he thinks they might expect him back at work a little sooner than first thought, which he tells me he would be only to happy to do, given all the positive comments and best wishes from the university staff.
Another extremely exicting occurance has been happening throughout today as well. Dad's legs have been spasming! It has happened about 3 times today and I as I have been typing here tonight, again his knee rose up and back down. Apparently spasms are a good thing, so I hope that they become more frequent. I will do some of my own research and keep you all informed on my findings.
Dad and I went to the dining hall for dinner this afternoon (I wouldn't call it night because dinner is served at Granny hour - 5pm). Its a bit of a laugh for me when I'm giving Dad his mouthfull of food because I find myself opening my mouth and swallowing at the same time as he does. You try scraping food up on your fork, getting it all nicely positioned, raising it up off the plate and not opening your mouth but giving it to someone else.
Dad's voice is still not improving much, he is getting it checked out tomorrow. They will put a camera down his nose and have a look all around his throat and voice box to try and find the cause of his "Darren Lockyer-like" voice. Will let you know how that goes.
Just tucked Dad into bed and will read him a bedtime story before I leave.
Until next time...
Love Bec, Bryan and the family
xoxo
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Wednesday 4th August
Hi all, it's me back again for another go at blogging.
The last couple of days have being an experience for me as I have taken on a whole new role in Bryan's life. I arrive at the hospital around 9.00 of a morning in time to help get Bryan out of bed and into a chair that is used for showering. He is strapped into a canvas like harness and hoisted onto a special chair that is used to shower him then wheeled into a big wet room where he is showered. Bryan really enjoys the shower as he loves his head being washed and massaged ( the saying "I'll give you 10 mins to stop that" is getting a bit old). Part of the shower deal is also the shaving job, which took me about 10mins to do but probably only a 3min job for Bryan, I only drew blood once (no stiches required). Bryan must have thought I did an OK job the first time as he let me back at it again today, this time no blood in sight. After his shower he is hoisted back onto his bed where I help him get dressed then he is hoisted back into a chair then wheeled out onto a verandah where we spent most of the day. My next job is feeding Bryan his lunch and giving him drinks of water. Then there is the beauty treatment - moisturising his face, arms and legs as they are very dry and flakey after all the treatment he has been having. I also get the job of cleaning his teeth, which he will learn to do by himself eventually using the same velcro strap that holds his spoon. All of these things I will happily do forever, the only thing I don't like doing is at the end of the day tucking Bryan in and kissing him goodnight and leaving him at the hospital as its not the same going home to an empty bed which we have shared for nearly 22 years.
Today, at his OT session Bryan was given a modified spoon which is placed in a strap which is then velcroed to his hand so that he can start trying to feed himself. He did have a go using it tonight (which I videoed) but I think it will take a bit of practise.
Bryan being Bryan asked the doctors if he could see the xrays of his neck before and after the operation, he wanted to make sure that everything was lined up before they put the plate and screws in and that the screws were the right size etc. The xray after the operation wasn't very clear so he couldn't tell if it lined up or not, but they are doing another xray next week which will show things a bit clearer, he will just have to wait until then.
The doctor indicated to us today that the swelling in the spinal cord could take up to 6 - 8 weeks to go down, so until then they are not sure to what extent his injury will be. 2 and a half weeks of waiting 4 - 5 weeks to go.
On Saturday Bryan's family are coming to the hospital to spent the day with him. His brother and sister-in-law are arriving from China and some of his neices and nephews are travelling from different parts of Australia, so it will be a big day for him.
Bryan's sessions of a day are OT at 11 - 12 Monday to Friday and his physio is from 2.30 - 3.30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, this may help with visiting times.
We would like to thank everyone for all your support and prayers , for the flowers and donations it is truly amazing, it does make it easier to go from day to day knowing that we have such great friends and support out there.
Goodnight.
Julie
The last couple of days have being an experience for me as I have taken on a whole new role in Bryan's life. I arrive at the hospital around 9.00 of a morning in time to help get Bryan out of bed and into a chair that is used for showering. He is strapped into a canvas like harness and hoisted onto a special chair that is used to shower him then wheeled into a big wet room where he is showered. Bryan really enjoys the shower as he loves his head being washed and massaged ( the saying "I'll give you 10 mins to stop that" is getting a bit old). Part of the shower deal is also the shaving job, which took me about 10mins to do but probably only a 3min job for Bryan, I only drew blood once (no stiches required). Bryan must have thought I did an OK job the first time as he let me back at it again today, this time no blood in sight. After his shower he is hoisted back onto his bed where I help him get dressed then he is hoisted back into a chair then wheeled out onto a verandah where we spent most of the day. My next job is feeding Bryan his lunch and giving him drinks of water. Then there is the beauty treatment - moisturising his face, arms and legs as they are very dry and flakey after all the treatment he has been having. I also get the job of cleaning his teeth, which he will learn to do by himself eventually using the same velcro strap that holds his spoon. All of these things I will happily do forever, the only thing I don't like doing is at the end of the day tucking Bryan in and kissing him goodnight and leaving him at the hospital as its not the same going home to an empty bed which we have shared for nearly 22 years.
Today, at his OT session Bryan was given a modified spoon which is placed in a strap which is then velcroed to his hand so that he can start trying to feed himself. He did have a go using it tonight (which I videoed) but I think it will take a bit of practise.
Bryan being Bryan asked the doctors if he could see the xrays of his neck before and after the operation, he wanted to make sure that everything was lined up before they put the plate and screws in and that the screws were the right size etc. The xray after the operation wasn't very clear so he couldn't tell if it lined up or not, but they are doing another xray next week which will show things a bit clearer, he will just have to wait until then.
The doctor indicated to us today that the swelling in the spinal cord could take up to 6 - 8 weeks to go down, so until then they are not sure to what extent his injury will be. 2 and a half weeks of waiting 4 - 5 weeks to go.
On Saturday Bryan's family are coming to the hospital to spent the day with him. His brother and sister-in-law are arriving from China and some of his neices and nephews are travelling from different parts of Australia, so it will be a big day for him.
Bryan's sessions of a day are OT at 11 - 12 Monday to Friday and his physio is from 2.30 - 3.30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, this may help with visiting times.
We would like to thank everyone for all your support and prayers , for the flowers and donations it is truly amazing, it does make it easier to go from day to day knowing that we have such great friends and support out there.
Goodnight.
Julie
Monday, August 3, 2009
Out and About
Rebecca here! Im on the train back to the coast now and before I left Dad told me to do the blog tonight. He is really getting into the whole thing - giving me the orders about what to put on here and what not to.
Firstly, Dad wanted to pass on some messages to a couple of people:
Kath and Pat - Thank you very much for visiting me! I can see that Kath, in her actions has that instinctive nature to care for people. I want to personally thank her for being inquisitive, involved and demostrating excellent personal care. But its a shame that I had to be the excuse for you two to come down to Brissy and have a dirty weekend in a motel.
Warren Suley - What a great mentor you have been to me over the years, in a way like a brother. You have such great leadership qualities and compassion. You know just what to do and what to say. I really enjoyed you company. Thank you! (ps. Thanks heaps for the voice recorder, I think it will take a few practises to get it tuned just right!)
Well today Dad achieved a MASSIVE milestone, which I will continue with a little later. I arrived at the hospital very early this morning. Dad said he had a terrible sleep as his bowels were blocked and making him very nauseated. He hasn't "been" properly in a few days now which is causing him a bit of unwanted stress. They believe its from all the medication and probably a bit of trauma. This will improve with time and he can then establish a "rountine".
The nurses came to give Dad his shower, hoisting him out of bed and into a reclining, wheeling, deck chair sort of thing. Today they gave him some psuedoephydrine - it helps increase heart rate and relieve the initial upset of the blood pooling in the legs. He felt a little bit better than yesterday and will probably feel a little better tomorrow sitting upright. The nurse then asked if I was going to be showering Dad...and as keen as i was (cough)...I thought I might let them do it.
Not long after he came back his new physio Susie dropped in. She told us she would be seeing Dad at 2.30pm on a daily basis for the next few weeks. After this she got Dad up on the hoist again and sitting in a wheelchair for the first time. He loved it! I took him outside for a walk and just for him to be moving and looking around again was amazing, not to mention the sunshine! There was no way I was getting him back inside in any hurry, so we had lunch on the balcony.
I thought Dad was incredible today getting up in a chair but not only that, he stayed up for a good 4 hours! This apparently is a huge feat for his first go. I was so proud, and he was very exhausted.
Dad also has an occupational therapist Emily, that will be helping him adapt to his new mobility over the next few weeks. Dad will be seeing her at 11am daily.
We welcomed some visitors today - Don Murray, Geoff Udy and Peta and Darren Cobby, all of whom Bryan hasn't seen in while. Derek also came down today to hang out with Dad. As Dad is still having a little trouble with his throat, it was difficult for him to really project his voice. Usually I can't stop Dad talking and he is still the same but I think he is enjoying more just listening to people talk. Like tonight before I left Dad, Don and Derek were discussing cars, bikes, old girlfriends, etc. and they were laughing and having a great time. It really lifts his spirits!
Thank you to all those people who have sent flowers. Dad's area is starting to look a little more homey now and it really does brighten the place up a bit.
Goodnight everyone.
xo
A short snippet from a message sent by Bryan's uncle Allan: "God can bring you through situations you think you won't survive, or feel you'll be stuck in forever. He can make you comfortable in the most uncomfortable places, and give you peace in the midst of trauma. Before your life is over you'll live, love, and experience loss."
Firstly, Dad wanted to pass on some messages to a couple of people:
Kath and Pat - Thank you very much for visiting me! I can see that Kath, in her actions has that instinctive nature to care for people. I want to personally thank her for being inquisitive, involved and demostrating excellent personal care. But its a shame that I had to be the excuse for you two to come down to Brissy and have a dirty weekend in a motel.
Warren Suley - What a great mentor you have been to me over the years, in a way like a brother. You have such great leadership qualities and compassion. You know just what to do and what to say. I really enjoyed you company. Thank you! (ps. Thanks heaps for the voice recorder, I think it will take a few practises to get it tuned just right!)
Well today Dad achieved a MASSIVE milestone, which I will continue with a little later. I arrived at the hospital very early this morning. Dad said he had a terrible sleep as his bowels were blocked and making him very nauseated. He hasn't "been" properly in a few days now which is causing him a bit of unwanted stress. They believe its from all the medication and probably a bit of trauma. This will improve with time and he can then establish a "rountine".
The nurses came to give Dad his shower, hoisting him out of bed and into a reclining, wheeling, deck chair sort of thing. Today they gave him some psuedoephydrine - it helps increase heart rate and relieve the initial upset of the blood pooling in the legs. He felt a little bit better than yesterday and will probably feel a little better tomorrow sitting upright. The nurse then asked if I was going to be showering Dad...and as keen as i was (cough)...I thought I might let them do it.
Not long after he came back his new physio Susie dropped in. She told us she would be seeing Dad at 2.30pm on a daily basis for the next few weeks. After this she got Dad up on the hoist again and sitting in a wheelchair for the first time. He loved it! I took him outside for a walk and just for him to be moving and looking around again was amazing, not to mention the sunshine! There was no way I was getting him back inside in any hurry, so we had lunch on the balcony.
I thought Dad was incredible today getting up in a chair but not only that, he stayed up for a good 4 hours! This apparently is a huge feat for his first go. I was so proud, and he was very exhausted.
Dad also has an occupational therapist Emily, that will be helping him adapt to his new mobility over the next few weeks. Dad will be seeing her at 11am daily.
We welcomed some visitors today - Don Murray, Geoff Udy and Peta and Darren Cobby, all of whom Bryan hasn't seen in while. Derek also came down today to hang out with Dad. As Dad is still having a little trouble with his throat, it was difficult for him to really project his voice. Usually I can't stop Dad talking and he is still the same but I think he is enjoying more just listening to people talk. Like tonight before I left Dad, Don and Derek were discussing cars, bikes, old girlfriends, etc. and they were laughing and having a great time. It really lifts his spirits!
Thank you to all those people who have sent flowers. Dad's area is starting to look a little more homey now and it really does brighten the place up a bit.
Goodnight everyone.
xo
A short snippet from a message sent by Bryan's uncle Allan: "God can bring you through situations you think you won't survive, or feel you'll be stuck in forever. He can make you comfortable in the most uncomfortable places, and give you peace in the midst of trauma. Before your life is over you'll live, love, and experience loss."
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Progress in the Flemming Camp
Its been so great to have family and friends visiting to cheer me along and give plenty of encouragement.
I thought I could handle being up all day but unfortunately I was very worn out by the end of Saturday, which hopefully hasn't effected my progress. In saying that it didn't end up being my expended energy entertaining visitors but in fact a medical issue. It turns out my cathater was blocker and I was unable to pass my bodily fluids, which were bloating my tummy. When the new cathater was inserted I expelled 2L of fluid and now have my 6-pack stomach back (pity they are out of the carton).
I finally beat the "longest pee" record currently held by Buck (pilot jet) by peeing from 7pm through till 2am. After that I was feeling a little dehydrated - just like after a night out on the grog. This little episode has reminded me to ask more question about my health...rather than perving on the young nurses looking after me.
Sunday
After another relatively sleepless night, trying to cough up phlegm of my chest and attempting to rehydrate, I did manage to eat my first sandwich. It was sooooo good!!!
I had my first "sitting up" shower in the chair this morning, lifted out of the bed in a hoist. Once sitting in the chair I started to go a little pale and felt a bit faint. The nurse lifted my legs up to stop the blood pooling and I felt much better. I have come to appreciate the sensation of the warm water flowing over my head in the shower.
Feeling much better today and hopefully from now on no more medical issues apart from dealing with the trauma of my spine. I feel much more confident that I will have a speedy recovery.
Julie, Rebecca and Erin were here all day with me, along with my Mum and Dad and brother Ed and then joined by Brett, Many, Dylan and Ashley Ebneter. Mandy being so kind as to give me a professional barber treatment, clipping my hair, eyebrows, sideburns and neck for me. This felt wonderful!! With little sensation in the rest of my body, its amazing how good it feels to be cared for around my head and shoulders. But on the other extreme I'm glad I couldn't feel what my brother was doing to my toenails. All I could see was the debris flying past my face and as a WHSO (Workplace Health and Safety Officer) I suggested we should all wear safety glasses.
My personal carers, Julie, Rebecca and Erin each play a vital role in my progress to recovery. I really extremely appreciate their care!
Tomorrow I start my new training boot camp, I don't think they know what's in store for them when I enter that spinal unit gym. Hopefully they will want to kick me out soon.
For those that didn't understand why I've gone from Flyan to Floater...it is because when I get placed in a chair on my numb lower torso it feels like the top part of my body is floating. It's a weird feeling!
Keep you posted
Floatyn (alias of Floater alias of Flyan Bryan)
I thought I could handle being up all day but unfortunately I was very worn out by the end of Saturday, which hopefully hasn't effected my progress. In saying that it didn't end up being my expended energy entertaining visitors but in fact a medical issue. It turns out my cathater was blocker and I was unable to pass my bodily fluids, which were bloating my tummy. When the new cathater was inserted I expelled 2L of fluid and now have my 6-pack stomach back (pity they are out of the carton).
I finally beat the "longest pee" record currently held by Buck (pilot jet) by peeing from 7pm through till 2am. After that I was feeling a little dehydrated - just like after a night out on the grog. This little episode has reminded me to ask more question about my health...rather than perving on the young nurses looking after me.
Sunday
After another relatively sleepless night, trying to cough up phlegm of my chest and attempting to rehydrate, I did manage to eat my first sandwich. It was sooooo good!!!
I had my first "sitting up" shower in the chair this morning, lifted out of the bed in a hoist. Once sitting in the chair I started to go a little pale and felt a bit faint. The nurse lifted my legs up to stop the blood pooling and I felt much better. I have come to appreciate the sensation of the warm water flowing over my head in the shower.
Feeling much better today and hopefully from now on no more medical issues apart from dealing with the trauma of my spine. I feel much more confident that I will have a speedy recovery.
Julie, Rebecca and Erin were here all day with me, along with my Mum and Dad and brother Ed and then joined by Brett, Many, Dylan and Ashley Ebneter. Mandy being so kind as to give me a professional barber treatment, clipping my hair, eyebrows, sideburns and neck for me. This felt wonderful!! With little sensation in the rest of my body, its amazing how good it feels to be cared for around my head and shoulders. But on the other extreme I'm glad I couldn't feel what my brother was doing to my toenails. All I could see was the debris flying past my face and as a WHSO (Workplace Health and Safety Officer) I suggested we should all wear safety glasses.
My personal carers, Julie, Rebecca and Erin each play a vital role in my progress to recovery. I really extremely appreciate their care!
Tomorrow I start my new training boot camp, I don't think they know what's in store for them when I enter that spinal unit gym. Hopefully they will want to kick me out soon.
For those that didn't understand why I've gone from Flyan to Floater...it is because when I get placed in a chair on my numb lower torso it feels like the top part of my body is floating. It's a weird feeling!
Keep you posted
Floatyn (alias of Floater alias of Flyan Bryan)
1st August
Mum and I went shopping this morning to buy Dad some clothes and other toiletries. He is allowed out of his purple robe now and into some comfy shirts and slacks.
Dad had a fair few visitors yesterday, Kath and Pat from USQ, Warren Sulley, Mark, Sue and Kate and Carmel, plus Mum and I. So as you can imagine he was very worn out by the end of the day. We have decided that we will need some sort of roster/ time limits for visitors. He absolutely loves everyones company so much that he doesn't want to let anyone leave and wears himself out in the process. I am going to attempt to make an online roster for people to select days they would like to come and see Bryan, this way we won't have 10 people coming on one day and one the next day!
This early stage of Dad's recovery is perhaps the most important. His immune system is still on the mend and he still needs a lot of rest, although he may not think so. I will make sure dad has a break from 12-2pm each day while he has visitors.
Warren gave Dad an old voice activated, voice recorder that he was no longer using. Dad says that he has been waking up at all hours of the morning with all these ideas but no way to write them down. So using the recorder was one theory we had. It works alright but maybe better when Dad gets his voice back fully.
Warren also brought his video camera down and took some footage of Dad. Hopefully we will be able to get some more videos in the future for the blog.
Until tomorrow...
Love Bec and Family
xo
P.S. There is another website that has been created by Bryans friends and extended family.
It is:
www.friendsofbryan.com
Dad had a fair few visitors yesterday, Kath and Pat from USQ, Warren Sulley, Mark, Sue and Kate and Carmel, plus Mum and I. So as you can imagine he was very worn out by the end of the day. We have decided that we will need some sort of roster/ time limits for visitors. He absolutely loves everyones company so much that he doesn't want to let anyone leave and wears himself out in the process. I am going to attempt to make an online roster for people to select days they would like to come and see Bryan, this way we won't have 10 people coming on one day and one the next day!
This early stage of Dad's recovery is perhaps the most important. His immune system is still on the mend and he still needs a lot of rest, although he may not think so. I will make sure dad has a break from 12-2pm each day while he has visitors.
Warren gave Dad an old voice activated, voice recorder that he was no longer using. Dad says that he has been waking up at all hours of the morning with all these ideas but no way to write them down. So using the recorder was one theory we had. It works alright but maybe better when Dad gets his voice back fully.
Warren also brought his video camera down and took some footage of Dad. Hopefully we will be able to get some more videos in the future for the blog.
Until tomorrow...
Love Bec and Family
xo
P.S. There is another website that has been created by Bryans friends and extended family.
It is:
www.friendsofbryan.com
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