August 24

The meeting went well.  The doctor was very helpful, and also very hopeful in Tom's recovery.  Tom has made good progress in the past week, and the doctor said he sees it as just getting better.  He did not guarantee that Tom would be the same he was on July 15th, the day before the aneursym, but he was encouraged by his progress so far.  What a difference from the meeting we had 3 weeks ago at Loyola, where the doctor did not know if Tom would ever be conscious because of the severity of the aneurysm.  Praise God for miracles!!!

The doctor suggested that we look at 2 places where Tom could go next since he is almost completely breathing on his own.  These places are acute rehab facilities where he would get 3 hours of therapy a day, 7 days a week.  He would stay there 3 weeks or so, and then we would see if he is ready to come home.  He will need constant care when he comes home, but the doctor was still encouraged by the progress he has made in the last week.

We will be looking into these two places this weekend.  One is located in Wheaton.  The other is downtown Chicago.  The one in Wheaton seems to be more particular on who they take, but would be much more convenient for all of us.

Please pray for these visits, and for the possibility that he would be accepted at the facility in Wheaton!  He may move there as early as next week.

Please also pray for Tom as he continues to regain his memory, both of family and friends, as well as how to do things.  Every day he makes progress, but it is still hard when he realizes what he can't do.  He took 5 steps with a walker today.  He also asked Bryan when he walked in his room,  "How are the boys?"  That is basically how he used to greet Bryan everyday, asking about the grandsons, so it was amazing to hear.  He had not asked a question like that yet.  He also knew Max (his oldest grandson) by name when some of his friends visited tonight and were looking at pictures. 

Please also pray for Tom to continue to be free from complications from the aneurysm and the recovery.   The doctor reminded us of those risks today, which they are constantly monitoring for patients like Tom.  Please pray for continued protection from blood clots and infections.

Thanks for praying for the meeting today and for your continued prayers for Tom,

Brenna

P.S. 

Tom gets to go outside in a wheelchair tomorrow for therapy.  Hopefully he won't try to make a break for it! :)