Monday, August 30, 2010

August 30, 2010

Spencer's has completed his physical therapy, and still has a few remaining speech therapy sessions.  He had a check-up with his neurosurgeon last week, and was given a long lecture about very fortunate he is!  The doctor also stressed that he is still not fully recovered and needs to be on limited activity for six months.  Spencer has re-enrolled at Mesa Community College, with a fairly light classload.  His reading comprehension and memory could be issues for him, but it is great therapy for him to challenge himself.  The disability office has been notified by Spencer's doctor to allow him extra time for taking tests.   He has been tested and cleared by the occupational therapist to return to driving.
 
Spencer still has no hearing in his left ear, and will be having surgery for that on September 10th.  The ENT will replace a broken bone in the inner ear with a prosthetic one, and is expecting a very positive result.
Spen is continuing to make great progress.  Tomorrow will be six weeks from his injury!

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

After a full week delay due to insurance issues, Spencer has started his therapy.  He "tested out" of Occupational Therapy, and will have twice a week Physical Therapy ( mainly for balance), and Speech Therapy (mostly to help restore his memory).  He remembers most things, but cannot always find the correct word for objects.  He will have another CT scan next week, and another appointment with the ENT to follow-up on his hearing loss.  He continues to do very well.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Today Spencer went to the Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor for evaluation.  As soon as he walked in, the office staff said, "Oh this is the miracle kid that Dr. K. was telling us about!"  I guess Spen is building quite a reputation.  The news at the ENT was mostly good.  He debrided the ear, and said that the eardrum was partially intact.  They will re-evaluate the ear in two weeks and also do a complete hearing test.  Since the accident, Spencer has experienced deafness and almost constant "static" in his left ear.  He felt like the sound was diminishing following the appointment.  We'll continue with the eardrops and hope for the best.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Last photo in the hospital, waiting for discharge paperwork.
Going Home!

It is just twelve days after Spencer's head injury, and we are preparing to take him home today!!! He can't wait. His fantastic progress is enabling us to use outpatient rehabilitation instead of staying here at the hospital. He will be starting at a nuero rehab center soon (hopefully tomorrow).
We gladly complied with the ICU nurses' request to stop by and visit before leaving. They often don't experience a positive outcome with their patients, so they appreciate seeing one who is recovering so well. The doctors, nurses, therapists, and support staff at Scottsdale Osborn have all been fantastic. Spen couldn't have received better care anywhere.
Spen's headaches are becoming less of an issue--no pain medication all day today!
Spencer is alert and mentally sharp at this point. He doesn't mind sharing the photos we have taken in the hospital.
We are counting our infinite blessings. Thanks to all of you who have participated in this miracle with us.