Sailing!

Ryan got to stay in bed until 1:00 pm today!! Although staying in bed for Ryan is not all that restful!! He was taken down to Swedish for an MRI around 9:00 and returned to the room about 10:15. I guess during the imagining, the portable vent is not compatible with the equipment in the imaging room so they have to use the “ambu” bag or “bag” him when they transferred him from his bed to the imaging table, then they “plug” him in to a vent there. Then, the process is reversed!! It really takes a toll on him when he has to be bagged.

But, when he got back to his room, he had a visitor. Chuck Thompson with Meadow Gold, Grand Junction Office, was here with a #16 Broncos Jersey signed by Jake Plummer! Ryan was in awe and was thrilled to get it; although, he did not show a lot of expression when Chuck was here, being he had just come from Swedish Hospital, the rest of the day he told everyone about it. His Doctor was jealous and wanted to know how he got it!! He is so grateful for all those who have supported him thru these last couple of months. He continues to be amazed at all those who have helped sustain him thru this injury – it means so much to him.

Tomorrow, two nurses from Farmington will be here for training. They will work with Ryan’s head nurse, tech’s and therapists to learn all they need to know in order to help care for Ryan when we take him home. I am grateful that they will meet Ryan before we get to Farmington, so that he feels somewhat comfortable with them in our home.

We have two weeks to finalize all the arrangements. Dean is still in Farmington trying to finish up the remodeling efforts. He was going to come back to Denver to help with Ryan, but decided he needed to stay there and wrap up the loose ends. We are glad he stayed; Michelle went into the emergency room last night having troubles with her pregnancy. She ended up miscarrying her baby; we all feel so bad about that. Sometimes life is just not fun!!

After Ryan got up and went to his occupational therapy class, he got dizzy and passed out, again. We are so hoping that these episodes end or the Docs figure out what is causing them before we go home. Doctor Balazy has said at least we know what to do when he turns white in the face, but I worry that it only takes “one time” to NOT know what to do!! We should know the results of the MRI tomorrow; maybe that will give the docs some insight.

I bought him a “memory foam” pillow to see if that will help him sleep at night. The bed that he likes has “air cells” that fill with different pressures at timed intervals and because he doesn’t have any neck muscles, sometimes his head would fall into an uncomfortable position. Hopefully this new pillow will help. Dr. Balazy came in today and said that he was going to have Dr. Falci, the neurosurgeon, look at the C-Scan that was done the other day and see if they could go to a “soft” collar as well as do some neck exercises to see how much movement he actually has in his neck. With the hard collar on, some of the therapists have said that he has pretty good neck movement, so we are hopeful that he will be able to regain some neck muscle and have good movement.

Here are some pictures of our outing at Cherry Creek Reservoir. It was great being out of the hospital and in the nice Denver sunshine. Again, the therapeutic recreation group goes “all out” in trying to help their patients get back into life. You can click on an image for a larger version, it may take some time if you have a slow connection.

The Sailboats


Ryan, Meredith, one other patient and all the “support” team!


Helping Ryan get off the boat.


Team Work!


We are so grateful for the continued love and support. We realize that there are so many who are struggling with concerns of their own – we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Love to all,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Footprints

Weekends at Craig slow way down!! The staffing is at a minimum and I think the cafeteria serves leftovers!! We had planned on going on a “family” outing yesterday, but Ryan is having a tough time with all his friends getting on with their lives; i.e., school, etc. We were able to go out and have a nice dinner at Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant. When we were in Idaho Falls, Geralyn, Keith and Dean and I found Garcia’s. I had never eaten there, we were sure glad when driving around Denver with Dean’s and my parents we came across one. We went around 2:00 pm so there were no crowds, it was great!!

As we were eating, we watched the sky’s of Denver cloud over and get darker and darker. We finished up just before the clouds opened up and starting hammering us with rain. The area sure has had a lot of moisture in the last couple of weeks, almost every day – late afternoon or evening; keeping things lusciously green. Some of our visitors ask us where we are from, we let them know Farmington, New Mexico, and then they ask what the landscape is like there. We tell them it is very “brown”!!

We were able to go to Sacrament Meeting this morning. You should have seen me trying to tell Ryan how to back his chair into the van!! It was pretty comical – he is so tolerant. When we pulled out of the driveway, he said, “Its OK mom, we will get it!!”

Ryan always looks forward to going to church, although this morning he wasn’t feeling real well, he got dizzy during the meeting and we had to go out for a few minutes. He also has a lot of secretions so we ended up suctioning him in the cultural hall. This building has hardwood floors in the cultural hall, so when I suctioned him the suctioning machine echoed. After we got done, he said we couldn’t suction in there again. I didn’t understand why, no one was in there and I only turned on one light trying to be discrete. He informed me that the flooring made it to loud – he hates to have any attention drawn to him!!

Since we are becoming more confident in taking him out by ourselves I purchased a crock-pot to try and fix a couple of “home-made” meals. He asked if I would cook a roast and potatoes for dinner today; so we had a nice “Sunday” meal! After we got back from Church, we went over to the apartment and ate and took a nap – it felt great! He got dizzy again, but we made it thru it without any help. Progress!!

Dr. Balazy came in yesterday and said that the C-Scan they had done on Friday showed that the C1-C2 vertebrae are continuing to heal but are not quiet where they want them in order to exchange the hard neck collar for a soft collar. He said that they would watch to see what healing there was in the next week or so. We are without a doubt learning patience thru this process.

As we sat and ate lunch today, my heart continually aches to see this tall, dark and handsome (or at least I think so) young man not able to do anything, scratch his eyebrow, change the channel on the TV, feed himself, etc. etc. We continue to pray that the Lord will see us thru this. I am reminded of the poem “Footprints” written by Mary Stevenson.

Footprints

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed
he was walking along the beach with the LORD.

Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.
For each scene he noticed two sets of
footprints in the sand: one belonging
to him, and the other to the LORD.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him,
he looked back at the footprints in the sand.

He noticed that many times along the path of
his life there was only one set of footprints.

He also noticed that it happened at the very
lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he
questioned the LORD about it:

"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow
you, you'd walk with me all the way.
But I have noticed that during the most
troublesome times in my life,
there is only one set of footprints.
I don't understand why when
I needed you most you would leave me."

The LORD replied:

"My son, my precious child,
I love you and I would never leave you.
During your times of trial and suffering,
when you see only one set of footprints,
it was then that I carried you."

As hard as this trail is and with the numbness and anguish we sometimes feel, we are also reassured with a very calming peace that He is by our side and will see us thru. We continually pray for Ryan’s health, emotional state, sweet spirit and testimony; that all will continue to be strong and he will be able to bear this burden.

May the Lord bless each of you in your daily endeavors. We pray that each of us may live our lives in such a way that we will be able to return to His presence.

With Love,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Life Vests

We have wheels to transport Ryan’s wheels!! Ryan’s van was delivered yesterday. Since Dean is in Farmington, the gentleman who delivered the van wanted to go thru the details of the van with me; so we started at the dashboard and then he asked me if I was aware of the type of chassis it had! I must have had a blank look on my face because he said, “Dean probably knows all about that!” I agreed and then told him all I do is drive – if Dean keeps the gas tank full!! After we went thru the power lift, we took it for a spin and took Mr. Zach back to the airport to catch a flight back to Omaha.

As you can imagine, this is going to be a whole new experience; me and Ryan and the van!! The whole time I was driving, I was looking at the road then in the rearview mirror to make sure that he was still breathing. We picked up Meredith from work on our way to the airport; I was relieved to have someone sitting in the back, keeping an eye on him. He thinks I am paranoid!!

He has a new type of tracheostomy tube. It is supposed to be better for home use, it is a Bivona type and uses silicone to fill the cuff, rather than air. Because we are getting ready to go home, Lonnie, the respiratory director, wanted me to help him remove the old trach and replace it with the Bivona. I guess my stomach is getting a little stronger or I am realizing that we are going home with a trach, because this time around it wasn’t so bad! Since we replace the trach, he has had a lot more secretions in his lungs; which means more suctioning, which means pain. We are told that his body has to adapt to the new trach since it is a different type of material and then the secretions should decrease. We also went to a different type of inhalant which (I think) is not keeping the airways in the lungs open. The new inhalant is supposed to be easier for home use; we have talked to the Docs about going back to the nebulizer, even if it is harder to use at home!

We are working with a great group of caregivers in Farmington. We have spoken with the home health care group and the group which will take care of Ryan’s respiratory needs and they want to come in to our “new” home and get things all set up before we bring Ryan home, rather than having boxes of supplies all over the place. I am so grateful for that, since all of our “stuff” is in boxes in the garage; at least Ryan’s room will be organized. We are grateful to the contractor and all the sub’s that are remodeling the bathroom to accommodate Ryan’s needs; so he will be pretty well set up!

Michelle is working on getting the kitchen organized so that we can have a home-cooked meal when we get there. We are very tired of hospital food and fast food restaurants!! Although, Ryan has gained about 8 pounds!! Each day he seems to get a little more energy, it is surely helping to get some fat on his bones!!

A special THANKS to all who helped pack-up our house, etc. etc. and get us moved. From what I hear, there were many many helping hands. Again, THANKS, hopefully one day we will be able to repay the kindness.

We had a nice day today; we went out to Cherry Creek Reservoir State Park. Each year, Craig has "Hobie Days". For those of you that don’t know (which I didn’t) Hobie Cat is a manufacturer of catamarans, sailboats, fishing float cats and sit-on-top kayaks. There were approximately 38 in-patients and six out-patients that enjoyed sail boating, motor boating, kayaking, and pontooning. There were about 35 volunteers and a good number of staff who helped “transfer” paraplegics, quadriplegics, and brain injury patients on and off the boats. I believe some of the volunteers brought their own boats for patients to ride on and then Hobie Cat provided some. There were about ten sail boats, two motor boats, a pontoon boat and a couple of kayaks. A great deal of effort went in to planning and organizing and then pulling off the event. It was wonderful.

The day started at eight this morning, they had buses or vans scheduled every 45 minutes to shuttle patients to and from the reservoir so we could come and go at our leisure. Ryan was schedule for the 10:00 am shuttle, but they didn’t have room for him so he went on the 11:30 shuttle. He was the last one to take a ride on the pontoon boat at about 3:15 pm. Most of the patients were transferred in a four-man sling, but when it got to be Ryan’s turn, they rigged up a steel grate for a ramp and loaded him in his chair. After he got on the boat and it left shore, the staff and volunteers started clapping; it was pretty amazing to watch. I will post some pictures when we get them.

He had a “spotter,” a respiratory therapist and Meredith all on board with him in the event that he needed assistance with breathing. It is quiet an ordeal for him to be mobile, although we are so grateful he is.

The funniest part of the ride was when they put an orange life vest on Ryan. Several of us on shore chuckled and Ryan asked if it was really necessary to wear the vest, he commented that if the boat went under he was strapped to a 500lb wheel chair and he didn’t think the life vest would help!! OSHA laws (or the water equivalent – I don’t know what the acronym is– being that I was not brave enough to get on board, you can tell I don’t care for water sports)!!

After we got back to the hospital, he was worn out and so was I – but I didn’t do anything!! He is talking more and more about when we get home. He is wondering what he is going to do. Tonight he said that he wanted to get a job for a few hours each day. Hopefully we can find something for him to do, so that he feels that he is contributing to society.

We continue to be thankful to all for the e-mails, cards, letters of encouragement and phone calls. We truly appreciate your kindness.

With love,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Endure

Well, we’re not moving – at least here at Craig!!! The nursing administrators are having a hard time making up their minds! We were told today that they are understaffed and so they can’t accommodate us on the east side; so, we are going to stay put!

That is not all bad as there is a lot going on tomorrow – we are closing on the sale of our home in Farmington and will be completely moved out, but I am sure we will not be completely moved into the townhouse we are renting!! I just spoke with Dean and he said, tiredly, “There is a lot to do.” I feel bad that we are not there to help him!! Although, I know that there is a lot of friends and family helping there – I don’t know how we will ever repay all those who have lent a hand over the last couple of months and especially the last several days.

Thanks to Uncle John and Cousin Matt for helping us to find a van that we will take delivery on tomorrow as well; it is coming from Omaha, Nebraska. It will be nice to have “wheels” at our disposal, albeit expensive ones. Having a van that we can transport Ryan will be nice – we will be able to “come and go” at our pleasure rather than having to rely on so many others to carry us to and fro! While we truly appreciate those who have aided in our travels, being from the West and so dependent on personal vehicles it will be nice to have a little bit of “normalcy” in our lives.

Ryan enjoyed a visit from a couple of his roommates from BYU-I. Isaac and Dan wanted to take a road-trip, so they decided to drive to Denver and visit Ryan. He was so surprised to see them and they had a great time reminiscing about old times. He also had a nice visit from one of his missionary companions, Elder Philip Harvey, as well. He has made so many awesome friends the last few years.

He was a little bit gloomy this morning; as is seeing and hearing of his friends “getting” on with their lives, he is trying to accept the fact that he can’t move. One of his best friends and one of his cousins was married over the weekend and he was upset that he wasn’t able to attend their weddings. With Meredith leaving this weekend, to go back to school, I think we are going to have an emotional crash. I hope that Dean and I can buoy him up and help him get thru this challenge. We will try to be strong for him; hopefully we can endure this – “well!”

Michelle called last night and told us of all the things that are going on in Farmington. We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family to “carry us thru” this difficult test.

Love to all,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Moving

We have had a busy weekend. They are trying to “kick” us out and in so doing we have to cram years worth of knowledge into a couple of weeks. Yikes!!! We are learning more and more about tidal volumes, PEEP rates, oxygen levels, back pressure, etc. etc. My brain can’t soak-up any more!!

I guess we will be moving to the East side, they wanted us to do a “modified” version of caring for Ryan on the West side, meaning we would be required to complete all of his care with a staff member looking over our shoulder from about 8:00 am to 11:00 pm each day. I told the Ryan that if I had to dole out meds at 8:00 am, I was going to do it in my pj’s!! Therefore, we will go to the East side and live with Ryan for the remainder of our stay here. We were hoping to stay on the West side just because we feel so displaced; this side is the only thing that is “normal” in our lives right now.

Dean is heading home tomorrow to finish packing and moving. We have to be out of our house on Thursday. We have a contractor who is going to remodel the master bathroom in the place we found to rent to accommodate Ryan. I hope that we can get the carpet replaced to hardwood floors before we bring Ryan home as well.

We were able to go to the Bronco/49ers game, thanks to Billy Thompson. We had a great time. Ryan did awesome maneuvering his chair thru the huge crowd. I think people have figured out that he is much bigger than they are so they had better get out of the way!! Tristen stole the lime-light; we dressed him in a Bronco sweat suit – he looked so cute! A lot of fans stopped us and commented on how cute he looked and were impressed that he was a Bronco fan from birth – we told them he gets it from his Uncle!! The kids had to leave to go to their various destinations on Sunday so it was a short visit, but Ryan was glad they were able to come.

When we got back to Ryan’s room the night shift tech, who is an avid Raider fan and has bantered with Ryan since the football season started, was on duty. As she was undressing Ryan she was concentrating so hard on not “popping off” his trach she tossed his Bronco jersey across the bed; Ryan asked her if she would kindly respect the jersey. She rolled her eyes and took of his Bronco T-shirt and then facetiously paid homage to both shirts. It was quite funny! It is fun to see the relationship that Ryan has with most of the caregivers here. He is liked by all!

Ryan is being fitted for his new chair. It is quite an ordeal, getting the head rest and feet rests just right, the lap and chest belts adjusted, the elbow pads and laterals place correctly, etc. Interestingly enough, he can’t actually use it until 48-hours prior to his discharge, so we won’t have much time to make sure it is going to work!! The red-tape that we have to go thru is unbelievable. Good thing for wheelchair maintenance class!!

We had a wonderful home-cooked meal tonight. Dan Leslie and his family invited us out to their home to eat dinner; I thought Ryan was going to eat the table!! We had steak, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, and three different kinds of deserts! Ryan had two or three helpings of each. I can’t believe how homesick we all are for a good home-cooked meal. Lisa went with us and she said, “It was good to see a family who has lived thru this and how they function just like a normal family.” She went on to say, “I can’t wait till we can function normally again!”

I had a good friend who had children that were about ten years older than mine, so when mine were in grade school hers were in high school. One day I was having a hectic day and told her that I would be glad when things “got back to normal.” She wisely said, “You just have to keep redefining normal!” It is so true. We continue to try and stay optimistic and hope that Heavenly Father will continue to hold our hand and lead us thru this.

Thanks to all for all the help and support that we have received. We are truly blessed.

Love,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

The Big Game

We had two or three days without any dizziness or fainting spells. But, they’re back!! Ryan has passed out several times (8 to be exact!) over the last two days. We continue to hope that the physicians can figure out what is causing the blackouts. Ryan saw an Ear, Nose & Throat doctor earlier in the week, but he didn’t find anything that he thought would cause the problem. Dr. Balazy has ordered an MRI of the brain stem to see if they can tell anything from that. I hope they find something before we go home, because I don’t want to take him home with these problems. Especially, if Dean and I are supposed to know more than the doctors at home!!

We are working with a great network at home, trying to put together a “plan” to help us care for Ryan when we are able to go home. It is reassuring to know that there are wonderful people out there who are willing to administer the care that is required for Ryan, while assisting Dean and I to make the best out of a challenging situation.

Dan Leslie and his mother, Laurie, came to visit us yesterday. Dan is the young man that was injured a little over a year ago in a diving accident; he also came through the Craig experience. It was great to talk with him and to see his undaunted spirit and hear how he is dealing with his new life as a quad. He started back to school this summer at BYU in Provo. For those of you that know the Provo area and the “Y” mountain will be impressed with the fact that Dan hiked to the “Y.” Actually, some friends of his put him in his manual wheelchair and drug him up the mountain to the “Y.” He said there were 13 or 14 switchbacks and all involved were worn-out by the time they made the climb, but he said, “It was great.” Dean has hiked the mountain (when he was younger) and said it can wear you out when you have legs!!

I received a call from Laurie this morning asking me to go to lunch; she said, “We need to talk, I will take you far away (we went down the block!!) and we can have some quiet time!” It was really nice to hear from someone who has been thru what we are going thru and get some “hints” to make things easier. We shed a few tears, knowing that our “boys” (Dan is 25) have a tough road ahead of them, but recognize their wonderful spirits and know that, with the Lord’s help, we will all be okay.

The “big” day is finally here. Tomorrow we are going to the Bronco/49ers football game. It will be the first home pre-season game for the Broncos’ this year. We also have all of our kids coming, Lisa from Idaho, Michelle, Steve and Tristen from Aztec, and Scott and Becky from Albuquerque, to see the game as well. Scott is a big 49ers fan, so we will have to sit them together and watch the fireworks! When they were both home, we would have to sit them across the room from each other and referee!!

We received a call from one of Ryan’s roommates from BYU-I today. A couple of them are planning to come see Ryan during their semester break. We are so grateful to all of the friends that we have made since we have been here and are so appreciative to them for taking the time to come, visit and encourage Ryan. We wish it was under better circumstances, but we are realizing that he has a great support system. We are constantly praying for peace and assurance that we can “endure this well.” Some days it is much bigger than we are. We are grateful for our knowledge of the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ and know that He will carry us thru.

Love to all,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Get the Bag!

We had an exciting day today – another respiratory STAT – except this time it was parent induced!! The RT’s have told us that we need to get to know the respirator “in and out.” Dean took the directive seriously! He was sitting behind Ryan’s wheelchair trying to become familiar with this life support machine, while Ryan was on the mat for physical therapy. We were all visiting when we heard Dean say, “Get the bag!” We tried to get the bag off the chair, but Dean saw an ambu bag hanging on the wall, so he grabbed it. We started bagging him and as usual, fourteen to fifteen staff members come running. I looked over at Dean in horror, thinking the new vent that Ryan was trialing had malfunctioned. Dean had a guilty-mortified look on his face. He was “getting to know” the machine and pressed the “stand-by” mode! Well, the vent was standing-by while Ryan was laying there very calmly hoping that someone would get him some air!! It took a few seconds but we got the vent off of stand-by and Ryan starting breathing again. Never a dull moment! I told Lonnie it was a good thing it happened here rather than home. He agreed!

Ryan had a class today on re-entry into college and the work force. It will take a few months, hopefully no longer than a year to get back in school. He wants to finish his degree and then hopefully find employment. It will be challenging, but he has the willpower to get it done! We were told of several resources that are available, but Ryan needs to come up with some goals and then a comprehensive plan. He is not quite ready to think that far ahead, but we will get there.

We received a message from Ryan’s mission president, President Osmond, who was released from his call this past July. Dean returned his call and had a very nice visit with him. Wonderful leaders have surrounded Ryan throughout his life. We as parents truly appreciate their love and concern for Ryan.

Tonight Ryan was scheduled to go on an outing to Dairy Queen. He had been looking forward to the outing for a few days – a Mint Oreo Blizzard!! The recreational department changed the time of the outing, but forgot to let Ryan know! He was somewhat disappointed although he wasn’t feeling real well so he forgave them!! Dean, Seth, Meredith and I ran and got him a blizzard and he ate it in bed, so not all was lost!

Seth is leaving tomorrow and we are going to miss his fun lively personality. It won’t be long before the day we go home arrives! Some hours it is too soon, some hours it can’t come soon enough!! We keep in touch with Michelle and Steve in Farmington; Michelle gives us updates on getting things packed and ready to move. She said that it was really hard to see our home in boxes. She stated that the adage is true, “Home is where the heart is.” She has been a trooper thus this, taking on responsibilities that most don’t ever go thru in their life time, let alone a young married girl! We want to thank all those that have helped her get our house and all our “stuff” packed up. We love you all.

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Learning

Ryan has had some infection and the antibiotics that the Doc put him on make him really groggy. He slept most of the day yesterday and had a hard time staying awake today. He still has the pain that he describes as “buried in sand” feeling in his arms and legs. The Doc has “upped” the Neurontin to the maximum dosage but still can’t figure out why he is in so much pain. We haven’t had the dizziness to worry about the last couple of days, so hopefully the pain will soon subside!!

We are pushing the envelope to go home and so the staff is trying to teach us all they learned in four or six years in two weeks. We are learning the ventilator “ins and outs,” trach care, transfers, positioning, turnings, skin care, wheelchair maintenance, etc. etc. I hope we can remember it all!!

Ryan is trying out another bed tonight, our insurance would not cover the one that he likes and sleeps best on; it was an airbed that helped keep him from getting skin sores. With the loss of use of his arms and legs; I just wish he could get the things he needs to make his life a little better.

Ryan and Meredith were reading in Mosiah 4:27.

"And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order."

They found it quite humorous and likened it to Ryan’s situation when Linda, a respiratory therapist, came in to check on him. Linda wanted to know what was so funny. Meredith and Ryan told her they were reading a scripture. She asked what the reference was so Meredith told her and then read her the scripture. She said that she did not recognize the reference and Ryan told her that it was the Book of Mormon. A missionary moment!!

We have had a lot of visitors this week, which has been really nice. Ryan enjoys seeing family and friends. Our friend Seth will be leaving on Thursday; that will be a hard day! In some ways, we are looking forward to the day we get to leave. It will be nice to have a home cooked meal and sleep in our own bed!!

We are grateful for the blessings we have received, although we continue to hope and pray that Ryan can get off the ventilator.

Love to all,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

All Is Well

Ryan was up and ready to go to Sacrament Meeting at 8:30 a.m. this morning. The staff were in shock to see him up so early. He has been given the nickname of “Prince” since he usually doesn’t get up until 11:00 a.m. or later. He gives the staff a hard time when they schedule a class before eleven – because it ruins his beauty sleep!!

As he came out of his room in a white shirt and dress pants, he definately “stood out” but he looked very handsome. We were running a little late due to the staff not used to getting him up so early and the rented van was a bit late in picking us up. Typically this is not a problem, but Ryan hates to be late – especially to a church meeting. It will be nice when we get our own “ride” then we will not have to count on so many others.

When we arrived at the meeting, Luke Mease, Single Ward Elders’ Quorum President, came over to Ryan and asked him if he would like to assist with the blessing and passing of the Sacrament. Ryan accepted. It is very humbling to know that the gospel is true and Ryan can participate as he did before, although in a different chair. There were quite a few tears, not only from his mom and dad, but also from Meredith, his grandparents, and several members of the ward.

The kids in this Singles Ward are phenomenal. They have opened their arms, but more so their hearts and have accepted Ryan unconditionally. As hard as this is, it is remarkable to see these kids truly living Christ’s teachings.

Our testimonies were strengthened. We know that “all is well.”

Love,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

What Bus System?

It has been a busy couple of days!! I don’t think I have ever been this tired, not even when I had babies up in the night. I am sure my age doesn’t have anything to do with it!

We went on a PT/OT (Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy) outing yesterday. They want to give their patients every opportunity they can to experience the real world, under somewhat controlled conditions. The Denver Transit System (Regional Transportation District or RTD) was training new bus drivers on how to assist handicap folks to load/unload on their bus and light rail system and Craig wanted to help their patients to become familiar with loading and unloading; so, Craig and RTD teamed up.

We loaded onto the RTD bus, there were four buses and eight patients, so each driver helped only two patients! The bus took us to the RTD Light Rail system and we loaded onto the rail car and went to Littleton to an outdoor shopping mall. Ryan had about five back seat drivers! He actually is a pretty good driver, but “all the help” wanted to give him their opinion. By the time we got to the mall, he wanted to “ditch” everyone, but they wouldn’t let us. Then, to make matters worse, he had three women helping him shop!

We are going to go watch the Bronco/49er game next weekend and so I wanted to get him a shirt that he could wear with the “hard collar” and the trach. As we “drove” around the store, the PT’s would move racks or clothing displays so that he could maneuver thru the stores. He was mortified to say the least!! Then, they all wanted to give their opinion as to what color, what style and what size of shirt he should get. Those of you who know Ryan know how particular he is about his clothing and he is like most men, he hates to shop, so needless to say he was glad when I finally “read between the lines” and we got out of there!!!

After we got back to the hospital, the nurse that went with us asked Ryan if he had signed up for the outing. Ryan told her, “No.” She said, “I wondered why you were on this trip, aren’t you from New Mexico?” They both laughed knowing that Ryan would probably never get on another bus or rail system!! They did agree that it was a good learning experience for “tight entries.”

I am reading Christopher Reeves’ book, “Still Me.” If any have read it, you could change Mr. Reeves’ name to Ryan; Ryan is having some of the very same experiences – except for the celebrity status, the me, me, me attitude and the swearing! In his story, he tells of the vent tubing “popping off” of the trach and being scared that no one would take notice or be near by to assist him. The vent tube is attached to the trach by slipping the tubing onto the opening of the trach that goes into the throat, which provides air to the lungs to keep breathing. As I was reading about this, I thought, “Boy am I glad they have made some advancements in that technology!!” I was sorely mistaken. Ryan’s vent tubing “popped off” twice while we were at the mall. When that happens, he can no longer get air to his lungs or thru his voice box to say anything. With all the background noise of people shopping, cars parking, etc., it is very hard to hear the “clicking” sound that he makes with his tongue to get someone’s attention. It scared me to death – I don’t think I will ever rest!!

I spoke with a woman whose husband was here last year and went home on a vent. I asked her how she manages sleeping!! She said that the good Lord could have taken her husband when he broke his neck and was being resuscitated – if He wants to take him because of a problem with the vent, I guess that it will be his time to go. At the time, I thought that that was pretty callous, but I have come to realize she probably can sleep at night!

It was a beautiful misty morning this morning. It rained most of the night last night and cooled things off here in Denver. Actually it is quite chilly! We went to the Denver Nature and Science Museum today, this time in a Craig van. Ryan was cold most of the day, even inside. But, he has a nice warm Denver Bronco blanket that we put over him. He does not stand out at all. Everywhere we go there is Bronco Orange and Blue. We were able to go to the IMAX theatre at the museum and saw a Lewis and Clark Documentary. It was really great.

The staff today thought it would be a good idea to give the patients “some space” and let them go off on their own. Ryan really enjoyed that, in fact he and Meredith took off and at times we didn’t even know where they were!! Seth and Kirsti (sp) went on the outing too. Ryan sure has enjoyed Seth’s friendship. Seth is going home next week; Ryan will sure miss him. Kirsti starts Law School at BYU-Provo Monday; she keeps telling Ryan to come to Provo and they will have a great time!!

The outings wear him out, when we get back to the hospital he sleeps for three or four hours.

Both my parents and Dean’s parents came to visit this weekend. We are enjoying their stay. It is so nice to have great families to help see us thru this ordeal. We sure have great friends too. Dean was home a couple of days this week getting started on packing up the house and moving. When I talked with him Thursday, he said that several of our friends from our ward and the community came over and have about 80% of the “junk” packed up. I said, “Everyone is going to know what a lousy house keeper I am,” he said, “Yes, but they are kind enough not to say anything!!” After I hung up the phone, I though my friends are so nice – but, does Dean think I keep a dirty house?? A women’s mind!!

We truly express our deep appreciation for all the love, support and help that we are receiving. Each day when I look at Ryan I cannot believe this is even happening. One day it will sink in!!

Love to all.

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Efforts from Friends and Family

Update: The account mentioned has been closed. We want to thank you for your generous support. Please contact the family directly with any questions:

1825 South 1200 West
Mapleton, UT 84664

Tele 801-494-2057
Fax 801-494-1464

Additionally the article mentioned in the Daily Times is no longer available for free. The article titled "'Normal' expectations remain optimistic" was in the August 7, 2005 edition of the Farmington Daily Times, and can be purchase from their website.

Again we thank you for your generosity.

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Recently the Farmington Daily Times ran a very nice article on Ryan. You can read it here. This article discusses a donation account and some fund raising activities that have been set up on Ryan's behalf. Following are a couple of letters from the people who have coordinated these efforts. We truly appreciate their efforts.

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Dear Family and Friends:

We have received several calls from individuals who have a desire to assist Ryan over and above the phone calls, visits, emails, fasting, prayers, encouragement, etc. As his extended family, we know that Dean and Terry will continue to have many needs for Ryan’s care. To ease a little of their burden, a donation account has been set up in behalf of Ryan that will assist with his long term care.

Please send all contributions to:

Citizens Bank
Animas Valley Branch
4220 Hudson St.
Farmington, NM 87402

With "Ryan Griffin Donation Account" as the recipient.

Thanks to all of you for your love and support.
Marshall Jones

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This is just a quick note to make all aware of the various fund raising events that are going to take place in Farmington. August 13th at Daylight Donuts there is a car wash. August 23rd there is a dinner at the Lakeshore Reception Center and tickets must be purchased in advance--can be purchased from Kristen Tracy, 326-5780 or 402-1796.

Just know that all of these events have been setup out of love for Ryan and his family. He has always been a beckon of light to all who know him and even in his confined situation he still lives up to his phenomenal reputation.

I know the family was hesitant in allowing us the opportunity to serve them but they have conceded and I know all who have helped whether monetarily or by donating their time have all been blessed for their efforts.

Many Thanks
Kristen Tracy

Stumping the Doctors

The “turning” bed or the correct medical terminology – cycling bed – didn’t work. The bed would roll Ryan from side to side, but his legs or arms weren’t getting moved. He was in a lot of pain this morning; he said from just not being moved. We are going to try another bed tonight!

He went to a wheelchair-positioning clinic this morning to be fitted for his new chair. I have been really struggling with my emotions for a week or so and can’t seem to keep the tears under control! As the tech’s were aligning his knees, heals, elbows, shoulder blades, etc., I just started crying (again) and had to leave the room for a minute to regain my composure. It is so hard to see just skin and bones. He has lost over 35 pounds. The doctor came in with good news though; his weight has at least stabilized this past week. Yeah!! Dr. Balazy reassured us that he would put on some “fat” if he would keep eating as he has the last little while. That is encouraging.

This afternoon, he went to a “re-entry” class. The re-entry classes are intended to help current patients go back out into the real world. Previous patients or employees that have had spinal cord injuries teach most of the classes. It is nice to know that life will go on – even in a wheelchair, albeit very difficult. The class today was on reproduction and family life. Ryan is really struggling with the feeling that he will never marry or be able to raise a family. It is so unbelievable how this injury affects every aspect of ones life.

After we got back from the class, I asked Ryan what he thought. He really didn’t want to talk; I couldn’t hold back the tears (again) and I expressed some of my feelings telling him that I was so sorry that he was having to deal with all aspects of this injury, not just the physical. He said, “Mom, it is ok. It is for my own growth.” I said, “Ryan you are already 6 feet 4 inches tall!!” We had a good laugh. It was good to lighten things up a bit. He continues to carry me thru this trial.

After his physical therapy class, he was transferred from the mat to his wheelchair and we said good-bye to Audrey and left the gym. He was so tired and didn’t want to drive his chair so I was pushing him and telling him that I would go over to the apartment after he was transferred to his bed to check on the dinner that I was preparing. I know, it is unbelievable that I am cooking!! I couldn’t see his face, so I just kept talking about the evening plans and I could hear him groan, thinking he was responding to “all my great ideas!!” When I got him into the room, I went around to the front of his chair to start preparing him for bed – low and behold, his eyes were completely dilated and had started rolling to the back of his head. He was “white” as a ghost. I immediately called for “nurse’s stat” and then reclined his chair and was trying to raise his legs when about five nurses ran into the room. The head nurse, Grace, was talking to him, trying to keep him somewhat coherent. He would just groan, but we knew he was hearing her. They started getting the “ambu” bag out, but he was breathing ok. He told Grace, “I’m breathing, just not feeling good.” Another nurse took his blood pressure, which was in the “normal” range and a third nurse was trying to get his oxygen count, which was also normal. Finally, he started to get some color back into his face and after about 10-15 minutes, he was back with us. Dr. Balazy came in a little later and talked to Ryan; asking him questions about what he was feeling, how long he had felt that way, was it any different from other times, etc. etc. Ryan finally said, “Dr. Balazy, I am just trying to stump you.” Dr. Balazy was actually standing with his arms crossed and one hand on his chin looking perplexed!! We all got a good laugh. The good Doc is going to have the Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist come in and run some extensive tests on Ryan to see if they can figure out what is going on. They will us electrodes for some of the tests (I am not sure I understand what they will be doing – actually I know I don’t understand) and run other tests to make sure that the blood flow thru the brain stem is what it should be. Dr. Balazy said that, “It is sure easier to tell you what it isn’t, than what it is!!” Hopefully these tests will show something very minor(!), so we can fix whatever is causing him to pass out. Later Ryan said that he didn’t even remember leaving the gym. I hope that we will figure out the cause of this before we go home

After they all left the room, I thought when this happens at home and I call for “nurse stat” I wonder who will come. Oh yeah, that will be Dean and I!!! Scary thought!! .

We know the Lord’s hand is in this. We know that He will bless us to know what to do to take care of Ryan; he is such a great kid, always trying to lighten someone else’s load.

We talked to Dean today and he told us of all those that are helping to pack up our house and get us ready to move. Ryan wants to thank each of you – he wishes he could do it personally. Dean and I are also so grateful for all of you and all that you are doing for us.

With love,

Dean, Terry and Ryan

Christmas Presents

Today started out way to early!! Dean needed to fly home today; we need to be moved out of our garage by Monday, so the family who is purchasing our home (we will be renting their townhouse) can start moving their "stuff" in! Dean wanted to tell Ryan that he was leaving, so he went to Ryan’s room at 7:10 a.m. while I waited down in front to take him to the airport. When Dean came into the room, Ryan was having a hard time breathing. Ryan asked to be suctioned. After a couple of tries, Dean ended up "bagging" him. He had a lot of secretions last evening and thru the night. After Dean was able to get help, a nurse, a respiratory therapist, and two techs he was able to leave. I tried to call him a couple of times thinking, "What is he doing, we are going to get into rush hour traffic and be late to the airport." Dean came running out to the car at 7:50 – it is a 35 minute drive to the airport in no traffic and his flight was at 9:00!! Luckily, we made it!! Dean said that Ryan was not a "happy camper", but didn’t have time to find out what the problem was.

After I got back, I was wondering what kind of state of mind I would find Ryan in. He was resting peacefully when I got to his room. He said "Good Morning" and asked if I wanted to know what had happened: the short version or long version. I told him that the long version would be great! He said, "Come on Mom, I am a guy, I wanted to tell you the short version!" He said he had tried to get respiratory help at 6:55 a.m. and no one came in until after Dean got there and was bagging him. He was not happy and after he "caught his breath", he kicked all the staff out of his room! After he kicked them all out, he felt so bad, so as they came into his room throughout the day, he apologized to them!!

I cannot even imagine how it would feel to lie in a bed and think that you next breath may be your last. I cannot even explain the anguish that Dean and I feel; we cannot do anything to help him – other than be here and let him know that we love him and that it is all going to be OK.

It was like Christmas this afternoon; he got a new bed, new ventilator and a new wheelchair. Just what every kid wants!! They are trying to get us ready to go home. He is trying a "turning" bed. The bed is an airbed that moves him from side to side so that a caregiver does not physically have to turn him during the night. The only problem with the bed is that if he is watching TV or talking with someone, he keeps moving – kind of like a sailboat floating on a calm sea!! He does not care for that but we will see how it works out.

As to the vent, Ryan requires a high volume of air. The new vent is high tech but the bigger the volume of air it pushes, the louder it gets. It sounded like a jet trying to take off, but could never get off the ground. After about 30-minutes, Ryan couldn’t handle it anymore as he is very sensitive to loud noises, so we will try a different one tomorrow!!

His wheelchair came in and they are trying to get it fitted for him. One of the things that they do is "seat" mapping, to see where the pressure points are. It is crucial that there are no, or as few as possible, pressure points for skin care. The arm and leg rests have to be adjusted, the laterals have to be fitted, the headrest set just right, etc. etc. Once we were done with all the "new" equipment, he was ready for a nap. Me too!!

We continue to look for the "silver lining" in all of this. He is going to have a lot of changes and adjustments in the next couple of weeks. We continue to pray for the strength to endure and overcome. We are grateful for the knowledge of the Gospel and Christ’s Atonement – and we realize that this is nothing compared to what He went thru.

As I mentioned earlier, Dean is home starting the moving process. We are truly grateful to those who are helping on that end. We are so blessed to have so many friends and family who are so willing and anxious to help us weather this storm.

Love to all,
Dean, Terry and Ryan

Going East

Well, it has been busy the last couple of days. Sorry that we have been lax on the updates. Wednesday night, we decided to take our house off the real estate market (we listed our house on the 20th of July) and take Ryan to Farmington and find a way to take care of him in our home. When I called the real estate agent Thursday morning she said she had been trying to get in contact with us to let us know that we had an offer on our house. When Terry and I spoke, we decided that I should fly home and talk about what we should do. She has been there for the past week meeting with medical people, government agencies, etc., etc. etc. etc.... trying to figure out how we can make the transition from the Craig Hospital to home. Sounds like a great vacation time, right? Not! On the way home Thursday we received another offer to buy our home. Well that put the pressure on. If we really were going to sell, where would we live and HOW IN THE WORLD WILL WE BE READY TO GIVE OUR SON THE CARE HE NEEDS 24 / 7 !!!!!!!!

Thursday night we looked at several rentals trying to find somewhere to move to and find one that could accommodate a wheel chair and the person in it. How many of us even give thought to what kind of space a disabled person requires and what kind of needs they might have? We didn’t 5 years ago when we built our home. Even though it was open and spacious, it takes some very specific specifications for it all to work – that is the reason we decided to sell our house rather than remodel.

Friday morning we had a meeting with Social Security trying to make sure everything was in the works for Ryan. Earlier Terry had met with the Medicaid people to check on that process. We had several other appointments and it turned out to be a very busy and hectic day. Late in the afternoon, we stopped by the realtor’s office to finalize the deal on the house. I know everyone there was stressing out waiting for us to decide what we were going to do. The deadline was 6:00 p.m. to accept the offers. Finally, at 5:59 we faxed the agreement to sell our house. What is usually a great experience, selling or buying a home, came loaded with a huge dose of reality. We are now HOMELESS !!!!!! And we are expected to bring our paralyzed, ventilator dependant son home in 3 weeks.

So, now we have to find a place to live, pack up everything in our house and move to a location that will need some remodeling to be able to fit Ryan.

Yesterday morning (Saturday), I flew back to Denver, so that Ryan would not have to spend the weekend alone. Meredith went home Friday to spend some time with her family and I was so bored at home with nothing going on (a little humor here) I thought it would be nice to see Denver again. When I got back he was just getting up out of bed for the day, around 1:00 p.m. He seemed to be feeling well. At least for a while. We spent some time outside and then downstairs with the air conditioner. It was a nice summer day, but a little warm for Ryan after awhile. Then, the dizziness began and he started to feel bad. By the time I got him back upstairs he was groaning and complaining about his head and throat hurting. They changed his trach, and I am sure that did not help the situation any.

One of the other things I discovered when I returned was a letter entitled “Going East”. It is our official notification that they want Ryan to move to the East building next Friday. We are not sure if that is the best plan, so we will have to talk this week and see what will work best for us.

Today, Ryan had a number of visitors. The singles ward came and gave him the Sacrament. It is wonderful to feel of their spirit and the peace they bring. Especially when they began to sing a hymn. It is a very peaceful feeling and a great comfort to us. One of the young men that came by today brought back a hat that they had borrowed from Ryan a few days ago. On Saturday, the singles ward had an activity that included a hike up GRAYS PEAK. The elevation is 14,270 feet and when the 30 or so hikers reached the top they took a picture and they all signed the hat and brought it back for Ryan. For those of you that are hikers, I understand that Colorado has 7 peaks all over 14,000 feet and it is a nice achievement to have hiked all of them. So, Ryan has made the first one (in his own way). It was a great gesture to include Ryan in any way that they could. We are going to miss these young people when we leave Denver. Bishop Hatch and Brother Perry came today also. Don Digby and his wife also came to visit. I think he makes the rounds to visit people that he has met trying to lift the spirits of those he meets.

Ryan mentioned that last Thursday he was in the gym working with physical therapy when a film crew came around and asked him if he would like to be in their video. They use it show potential new patients. PT was giving him his range of motion and Meredith was speaking with a nurse when they filmed him. Later that night they went on their outing that should have been to the outdoor concert but it was rained out. So they went to a shopping mall instead. Ryan said it was a good experience to practice with his chair in the real world. I also heard something about Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Sounds like they had a good time.

Well, I feel as though I am rambling trying to combine the past few day and all that has been going on. I have had the feeling the last while that TIME can be a great factor as we strive to deal with all that is going on, including Ryan’s health. We wrote a couple of weeks ago that this last month would be on of the toughest because we now have a pretty good idea of what most of the issues are and now we are trying to figure everything out. But everyday we proceed on with faith that all will work out, somehow.

Dean, Terry, Ryan

Preparations

Tuesday, Ryan had a visit from Don Digby. He was a graduate from Craig Hospital 4 years ago. Ryan met him last Saturday down at the ice cream shop and had a nice conversation with him. He is the man who owns Navajo Trucking and donated the Friendship Center here at Craig that we have used several times. It was great to meet him and hear of his encouragement to Ryan. It is wonderful to meet these types of people and see some of the improvements that they have made.

This morning Ryan was getting ready for his 11:00 class when he was told that he needed to go to Swedish for a GU, something about his kidney-routine I think. We waited and waited and finally they came and informed him that the nurses had it on their log sheet but Swedish had no record. So we waited for nothing. He has the patience of Job.

We needed some encouragement after the family conference that we had at 1:00 o’clock. Ryan asked some questions concerning his injury to Doc. Balazy. After he was done explaining some of the medical issues, (Ryan is classified as a complete C-2 level injury); he made the comment that if a patient has made some neurological improvement it usually happens within 8 – 12 weeks. Ryan is at 12 ½ weeks out of his injury on May 4th. After that time period, according to Doc. Balazy there is not much hope for improvement. There have been several minor improvements, but we still have hope and pray for two big changes: some movement and sensations below his chin, and the ability to breathe on his own.

They were talking about moving us to the east side, in preparation for going home. The east side is a building east of the one we are in now, appropriately called the west building. They like to keep things simple for our simple minds. On the east side, the plan is to have a family member stay in the same room 24 / 7 to get used to providing the care necessary to take care of the patient. There is a nursing staff, and the techs etc. but they function in a diminished capacity. In fact, we have been told that it is almost as if they do not exist. In our overwhelmed state it is hard to see any benefits of moving to the other side. First of all we will have to hire a moving company to help us load all of Ryan’s card and posters to another room. Secondly, we know that taking care of Ryan will be an enormous job, requiring 24-hour attention. Thirdly, we will miss a number of the nurses, techs, and staff that have become so involved in caring for Ryan. Maybe that is part of the reason to move patients to the other side, to begin adjusting to a new routine and help develop some confidence. Yeah right!

Gale from OT said that she received an e-mail today that told her that Ryan’s power chair is in and they are assembling it now. It should be ready on Monday. Then it will take about two weeks to make all of the necessary adjustments to custom fit it to Ryan. In addition, they were talking about a shower chair, his manual chair, (a back up in case his power chair does not work or will not fit somewhere), the lift to help get him out of bed and a number of other things. We will have to add an addition to the house just to fit all of the new pieces of equipment that he will need.

We had a nice visit from a woman that lives in Colorado Springs; a member of our ward in Farmington asked her to come and visit us. Her father was suffered a spinal cord injury and she had some good insight for us. They were here for a tune-up and she took a few minutes to share some of her experiences with us. As difficult as this is, it helps to see other people with similar situations and learn how they have dealt with some of the challenges. Her visit was helpful and she offered to let us come to her home, which had been built with her father in mind, to give us some ideas as to what we might need to do to accommodate Ryan needs. It really is a blessing to have people give of their time and support to help us deal with all that is going on here. Thank you to all of you for your love and support. It makes a difference and we are so appreciative.

Dean, Terry, and Ryan

A Word from Meredith!

Dean and Terry keep insisting that I write the blog sometime, my first disclaimer is that I am not here all day long so I don’t have the day-to-day information. My second disclaimer is that I apologize ahead of time if I don’t do a good job.

When I got back from work today amazingly, Ryan was awake! I have to laugh at myself because I hurry back from work so that I can be with Ryan and then when I get here he is usually asleep. Poor kid, he is wiped out! He keeps saying “its ok I don’t have to do anything all day, I don’t know why I am so tired.” That is not true. They really work him all day long. Of course, it is “work” just to get out of bed some days. I asked him how his day was today and he told me it wasn’t so good. He kind of jokingly informed me that he had been dizzy ALL day long and had passed out once. He seemed pretty upbeat about it when he told me that, later on I got the story from Dean. Ryan was actually really frustrated because he was so dizzy today. Of course, Ryan is too conscientious to bother others with his problems. We talked more about how work was for me than we did about him.

The other night after Dean and Terry had left to go to bed we were visiting and some of the nurses and respiratory therapists came in to Ryan’s room. It is funny that when people aren’t assigned Ryan as a patient they still have to come and visit. He is so positive, upbeat, and quick to crack a joke that people can’t stay away! The RT’s (you probably know the lingo by now but just in case...respiratory therapists) were talking about how Ryan is just so fun to be around and the fistfight they got in over who was the lucky one to have Ryan on their rounds. One of them made the comment that Ryan should teach a patient etiquette class here at the hospital. They said that it would be so worth it that they would pay his salary out of their own pockets!!! I don’t think that is such a bad idea. I think everyone has a lot to learn from Ryan, and I’m not just talking manners.

I know most of you probably don’t want to hear about anyone but Ryan but I think that Dean and Terry deserve a lot of credit for being so amazing. I’m not a parent but I’m willing to bet that some of you (parents) are wondering how Dean and Terry are handling all of this. They are always writing the blog so that is never addressed. Terry is a typical mom, she is worried 24/7 about Ryan (as most moms are) and she just wants to fix everything. It is toughest on her I think but she is doing well. She has courage and faith to know that everything will work out (somehow!). Dean is...well, he’s Dean! His method of relieving stress and worry is to make a joke out of it. As much as I tease him about making jokes at the drop of a hat, (don’t tell him this...) I actually appreciate his jokes and usually I have to force myself not to feed the fire by laughing. Laughing to relieve stress is something that is familiar to me because my own family does it too. I remember one particular HORRIBLE trip and my dad kept saying, “Kids, someday you will look back at this and say, wow! What an adventure! I promise you, you will laugh later.” He was right! Sometimes it helps to remember that although this is really tough and not particularly funny at all, it is an adventure. Everything is new territory and we press on in faith, knowing that we will and are being led through the tough times by a guide that has charted the unknown territory many times before and has felt all the same emotions.

Ryan, Dean and Terry really appreciate all of the letters, cards, emails, etc that have been sent. Just the other night Ryan made the comment that it is amazing to him to see just how many people are behind him in this trial. He is one amazing guy!

Meredith Pratt

Going to Church

Yesterday, we had a good day. We were able to go to church with Ryan to the Maplewood Singles Ward. Their Sacrament meeting started at 9:00 a.m., so we had an early start. We were able to rent a van that was able to accommodate a wheelchair. It was a tight fit, but we were able to get him in, wheelchair and all. It had a raised roof, so that he was able to sit upright in the chair but he couldn't see out of the windows. (Hopefully a lowered floor will give him more of a view.) It was the first time that we were away from Craig Hospital without any staff for support. It was nice to be able to control our own time and surprisingly enough we felt ok with the responsibility. Sometimes we feel like there is so much to learn and the consequences are very severe if we mess up, and they push families from the very beginning to take control and learn all that we can to assist with his care. But, even with our advanced age and slow memories we have learned something of what it takes to keep him going. Still very scary!!!!

The members of the Singles Ward have been so supportive to Ryan and us. They have made us feel so welcome and have reached out to us repeatedly. A huge thanks to them, and the Bishopric. Ryan looked pretty sharp in his Sunday clothes, new haircut, and no halo. We were unable to button his top button on his shirt because the neck brace is a bit too large for the collar. He really enjoyed the meeting and stayed for Sunday School and the combined Priesthood / Relief Society meeting. After it was over, he was pretty tired and slept the afternoon away. (Isn't that what Sunday afternoons are for???).

We have enjoyed having Keith, Geralyn and Brett visiting this weekend. (Terry's sister). They are busy planning a wedding in a few weeks. Brett was probably glad to leave town after all the advice we gave him. Meredith was teasing Ryan that Brett would be a real bore not having his girlfriend here, and sure enough he spent plenty of time talking to her on the phone, but I know that Ryan enjoyed having him here. They lived together last year and really enjoyed hanging out together. Today Doctor Balazy came in and told Ryan that the results of his x-ray over the weekend looked good and that his "pot-hole" head jerking experience has no adverse effects. Everything looked the same as when the halo came off. Since the halo, we have had to be much more careful about supporting his head and being much more aware of "this bowling ball" on top of his neck. During his OT class today they have put some laterals on the side of his chair to assist in keeping him positioned in the chair, when he has his spasms. They also put him in a corset. This will help to maintain posture. It has soft and hard supports that go around the top of his waist and abdomen and lower chest.

Ryan had a surprise visit from Vivian Miller (and her sister). Sister Miller and her husband served in the Philippines as senior couple missionaries, the same time that Ryan was there as a missionary. They came during one of his classes, but still had a good visit. (They even called this morning to check his schedule so that they would not interfere, but Ryan's schedule was changed at the last minute). Oh, well.... It was great to have her come and share some memories with Ryan. After this class, we went to his first re-entry class. Ryan slept through most of it and I must admit it was pretty boring (finance and insurance). These classes are designed for those patients that are scheduled to go home this month to give them more information to help with the transition back to the real world. Ryan said that he had a short night last night. He wasn't able to go to sleep until around 5 this morning, so guess what.... he slept all afternoon. I wish that I could sleep as much as Ryan. But we know that sleeping is good for the healing of our bodies. With all of his sleeping you would think he would be up running around. But that is what prayers are for. Right??? Thank you for all of the prayers and support that we have received. It is a real power.

Love, Dean, Terry, and Ryan