Abby update - November 30

Today was just more building on Abby's good steps this week. She had excellent walking practice again in PT--we seem to be making a little progress in stretching those ankles and getting her heels closer to the ground. The daily living activities that she practices in OT are getting better and better--she's quite good now at brushing her teeth, washing her hands (and most of her face), and at feeding herself nearly independently. She also got to visit with another therapy dog today, Chase--a golden retriever who's just the color of Arby--where she got to show off the improvements in her throwing arm in a game of fetch. And for those of you who think she's getting a break from school, she did quite a lot of reading and math today and even some writing--it's fairly basic stuff now, but we're very encouraged that the basics are there.

I realized that I've neglected to mention some other steps forward as well. This week the doctors have been allowing her to have thin fluids again, such as juices, milk, and soft drinks, and she's now doing pretty well with them. This is good news, because it means she might soon be able to have her stomach tube removed. She's also doing very well with her diced foods (except when someone, like her little brother, causes her to crack up laughing while chewing--not a good combination!). In addition, she is no longer on blood pressure medication, as her blood pressure readings have been very good for over a week now.

So, just when I sit down and think there's nothing new to write, I realize that there is so much to be glad for. I also took a little time this evening to read through the early days of Abby's blog, and I realize that it is true that the little steps add up, and we now look back in amazement on where we've been. Now I'm just trusting that one day I'll read the post from November 30 and again give thanks for how far we've come...

Thanks for reading and trusting with us...
-the Linams

Abby update - November 27

(Note: This is the missing post from November 27--you'll have to read below to find the post from November 29)

Today was a full day and a good day for Abby. She had great therapy sessions. In OT she was able to sit unsupported for several minutes (I think that the secret was the OT engaged her in playing mock games of basketball and volleyball!). Before this time she had not been able to overcome her muscles spasms in order to sit unsupported more than a few seconds.

In speech therapy Abby is performing better at tasks that require her to discern and choose between different objects. She was also able to vocalize a few sounds today, and our dear friend Jessie is the lucky recipient of her first vocal "hello" on a telephone! She is constantly mouthing words now (as she went to sleep she was silently singing along with a Michael W. Smith CD), so either we have to get her vocalizing more, or I've got to get better at reading lips!

Physical therapy is still hard work, as Abby's tight tendons still make stretching her ankle joints difficult, but she works hard on her walker, nonetheless. She's also still got a lot of tightness in her neck that the PT hopes to work on.

And then there were the social highlights today. Puffy the Shih Tzu therapy dog paid her a visit, and Abby combed her hair (believe me, there's a lot of it to comb!). And then Abby was visited by therapy horses (or at least it was good therapy for Abby!). Her Aunt Linda and Uncle Greg (and cousin Kayla) stopped by on their way home from Arizona with Holliday and Canuck (sp?). Abby's eyes really lit up at the sight of the horses, and the horses even sensed what they needed to do, as they both gently extended their noses to her. Okay, we also had wonderful visits from some very special human friends today too, but you know Abby and her horses and dogs...

Or if you don't, then I'll try to tell you soon about this girl and her love affair with animals. For now, I'll just let you know that the special thoughts you've shared with us about her have warmed our hearts...

Keeping you close to our hearts,
-the Linams

Abby update - November 29

Yesterday was a wonderful day (thanks to all of you who shared our joy so fully!), but today brought reassurances and joys of its own. Once again the speech therapy sessions get our attention. It still takes a lot of effort, but Abby is producing more and more sounds with our prompting. In addition, today just helped to alleviate some of those fears that always lurk around with a brain injury. Today Abby read! The therapist used written words and asked Abby to identify objects that matched what she was reading. It was just such a reassurance to see our Abby reading again (you'll want to check out the "Who is Abby?" section below to fully appreciate why). Abby also gave answers to some simple addition and multiplication problems and was able to answer lots of questions about pets, family members, her address, birthday, etc. Many of the answers are whispered, and sometimes she gets certain words stuck in her head (this afternoon it was her bird's name "Paquita"), but it's so comforting to see her mind healing and working and so heart-warming to feel that she can finally communicate back to us.

In fact, I'm loving Abby's whispers. Sometimes she'll whisper things that only I will catch (some of which are quite witty, even), and I feel like we're reconnecting in a special way--and I have this surge of hope that once again we will share special moments as a mother and daughter--and I thank God for another petal opening on my lovely blossom.

With love,
Abby (& Paquita's) family

WHO IS ABBY? - page 4
Abby’s a good student. She’s always made Honor Roll at school and often gets many of the top awards for grade-point average, most 100’s, etc. As you might expect, given her parentage, she enjoys and does well in science. She qualified for state-level academic competitions in geography, spelling, and listening (huh?) over the last couple of years, but her first love has become reading and writing. She’s an avid, avid reader (her brother will tell you that she doesn’t like to do anything else…) and really consumes books that interest her—mostly horse books and historical fiction with lots of adventure. She’s also a good writer—though she doesn’t often take the time to sit down and write, she’s good at it when she does. I guess her one academic weakness might be math—although she does well enough at it, she’s like her Dad in putting it pretty low on her list of favorite subjects…

Abby update - November 28

Today was one of those definite "highs" on this ride we're taking. Abby had a great day. She walked over 300' with her walker in physical therapy (although the PT would prefer that she not "tip-toe" the whole way--her achilles tendons are still just really tight...). She sat unassisted in OT for over five minutes (perhaps it was the motivation of having a softball glove on her hand and playing toss that helped!). But the real break-through was in Speech Therapy. Abby found her voice! The therapist got her to voice the "mmmm" sound, and the next thing we knew she was saying Arby, Mom, Dad, Frank, Marissa, Kim, Becky (the therapists all had to have their names included!)..Marissa and I quickly loaded her in her chair and ran all over the hospital--up to her room (she said a quick "Hi" to Frank), through all the sitting areas, past the nurses' station, and through the cafeteria looking for Gordon, all the time touching Abby's throat and making her practice over and over again. Finally we found Gordon sitting outside talking with some work colleagues, and Abby said the words that Gordon's been waiting eight weeks to hear: "Hi Dad." It was a sweet moment.

It's been a fun afternoon, letting Abby say "hi" to all the therapists and nurses who have helped her these five weeks (some "hi's" some out better than others--I'm sure we're still going to have to work to reinforce these sensations), and Abby's whispered several things to me throughout the evening, but the other most touching moment came when Priscilla's mom, Rosa, heard Abby speak. Tears just flowed from her eyes, and she hugged and hugged Abby. Rosa is so genuinely happy for Abby, and Abby is giving her such genuine hope. Please keep praying for Priscilla and Rosa--I want all their joy to be restored as well.

Finally, I noticed that my computer did not pull up my post from November 27 on the blogsite (rather frustrating, since I was at the library creating that post at about 11:00 p.m.), so I apologize if the update did not show up for you. I'll try to recover that update from emails and re-post it, but rest assured, though Monday was a nice day, Tuesday had the big breakthrough news, so you're reading the BIG one.

Trusting in God that more BIG ones are on their way...
Lee Ann & Gordon, Abby & Frank

WHO IS ABBY? - page 3
Abby’s an athlete. Compared to a lot of kids these days, it took her awhile to discover that in herself. She never was interested in trying any sports until, at age 8, she wanted to sign up for (mostly) boys coach-pitch baseball. With encouraging coaches and fun teammates she was hooked and the rest is Wimberley Little League history. After four years in Little League and a couple years on the High Voltage select fastpitch softball team, she’s become a good catcher and utility player and definitely holds her own at the plate. She’s added volleyball and basketball to her first love and was the leading server (by Mom’s count anyway) in a Hill Country Christian School junior high volleyball game on the night of the accident. The interesting thing is that, despite her natural abilities, Abby’s not super-competitive. I think she mostly loves team sports for the camaraderie and fun of playing together as a team. If she ever takes up tennis, I’m sure it will be as a doubles player. She doesn’t really want Center Court all to herself…it wouldn’t be as fun!

Abby update - November 26

Shhhhhh--don't tell anyone, but Abby and I snuck away for an adventure today.  Recently while on a walk I discovered a small campus for Incarnate Word University tucked away beside the Christus Santa Rosa Hospital across the driveway from Warm Springs.  It's a really pretty spot, with large palms, oaks, and ash trees, a fountain, and even a swimming pool that needs some maintenance.  The campus doesn't really appear to be fully utilized any more, but it's a nice spot for walking and reflecting, and I was intrigued by a chapel that was locked when I was there.

 

Anyway, this morning, I told Abby that she, I, and the dogs were going to sneak across the road so that she could see the pretty courtyard area.  I managed to push her uphill across the various parking lots and then onto the campus, where beautiful red, yellow, and brown leaves made the sidewalks colorfully crunchy.  We were enjoying the mild temperatures and nice breeze on the hilltop when I decided to give the chapel door another try.  This time it opened!  And there were people inside!  I tied up the dogs to a tree, and Abby and I went in to join in a Ukranian Orthodox service.  It was only a tiny congregation and I was a little lost in the liturgy, but it was good to be in church again--just to sit and listen and pray and reflect.  So now there's another congregation praying for Abby, and, unknown to the Warm Springs staff, Abby and I (and the dogs) had a wonderful escape and rejuvenation just across the road.   (Well, maybe the dogs didn't think it was so great--I had to sneak out at one point and tell Arby to stop howling--that we were really coming back out for him...but they did enjoy visiting the fountain later.)

 

And that's what Sundays are supposed to be about--reflection and rejuvenation.  We hope that yours today was, and that you and Abby all have a productive and rewarding week coming up...

 

Love,

-the Linam family & dogs

 

WHO IS ABBY? - Page 2

 

Abby is not a "girlie-girl."  She wears her beautiful long blonde hair pulled back into a pony-tail nearly every day (her friends can tell you that, even if she starts out the day with it down, then it's back in a pony-tail by their first break).  Her favorite outfit:  a t-shirt and long basketball shorts with tennis shoes (or flip-flops) and usually a visor.  During her childhood she inherited closets full of beautiful, frilly, recital dresses and would usually only concede to a skirt and a top for "dress-up" occasions.  (In fact, I clearly remember a major battle one Easter morning when she was two and thought that the petticoat was just fine as an outfit--forget the beautiful hand-crocheted dress that went on top!)  Abby loves to be outdoors--whether for sports or spending time with her animals or camping--and I thought we would never make it through some of our hikes in Australia, since she wanted to climb every good climbing tree she saw.  Even now, as I take walks around the Medical Center area in San Antonio, my heart aches as I realize that I'm looking at a tree and thinking that Abby would love to try climbing it.  I will confess, that Abby has a couple of "girlie-girl" concessions--She doesn't like spiders or camping without toilets and she kind of has a thing for painted toenails.  Still, if your toenails are painted lime-green (as they currently are) does that make you a "girlie-girl" or just a typical 12-year-old??

 

 

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Abby update - November 25

I think Abby would say that this Saturday was another nice blend of work and play. During the morning she got to work on walking and on throwing (this time it was a basketball, so more coaches should be pleased...). During the afternoon we had visits from friends and family from Wimberley, Austin, Houston, and Port Neches and from her dogs. The nurses here have decided that this girl is well-loved, and indeed she is!

Abby may have, in fact, said that this was a great day. Today she was mouthing many words--many times she initiated the words without us asking her. Either we are going to have to learn to read lips or she is going to have to figure out how to use her vocal cords, because I think she has many things to say. For now, she just puts on a good-natured grin whenever we can't figure out what she's telling us.

I thought as a final post tonight I would share a little project on which I've been working. We've been asked by many doctors, nurses, and therapists to "tell me some things about Abby." We also know that many compassionate people are reading the blog who have never meet Abby. At the same time, ironically, sometimes Gordon and I get a little scared that we have begun to think of Abby only as the brave beautiful girl in front of us who can't speak and struggles to command her body movements. It's an odd and disturbing sensation to realize that sometimes the other memories seem relatively distant. So, I've just wanted to capture some thoughts about "Who is Abby?" I thought I'd tack a paragraph on to the end of the blog post occasionally for those of you who might like to read it. By the way, I'd also really treasure any special Abby memories that you want to send my way...

Thanks for reading and thanks for praying,
Lee Ann & Gordon, Abby & Frank

WHO IS ABBY? - Page 1
Abigail Faith Linam (Abby) was born on April 2, 1994--on Easter eve. That makes her 12 years old--on the cusp of teen-hood--and a 7th grader at Hill Country Christian School in San Marcos. She was named for her Great, Great Aunt Abbie, a school teacher who lived in Utopia and one of the Linam family's most beloved members. Abby's a blue-eyed, blonde feminine version of her dad. We've always thought that she looked just like Gordon (their baby pictures are nearly interchangeable!), but when she began to shoot up in height over the past year or so, we realized that she's going to have his long legs and arms and (lucky girl!) his slender physique. After a long summer of swimming and playing, she's now fit and tan and (her therapists can testify) very strong.

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Abby update - November 24

Abby's still getting a little "time off" for the holidays.  She only had morning therapy sessions, leaving lots of time in the afternoon for visits with friends and enjoying the beautiful afternoon outdoors.  Her morning sessions were good.  She's getting more adept with her hands and can raise and extend both arms to move objects (and is really working on her throwing actions with her right arm, you softball coaches will be happy to know!).  Walking with the walker and assistance is still difficult, but she is better at moving her legs in response to general requests.  Today she only mouthed words, but she mouthed lots of them and she was able to eat diced meat, vegetables and fruit.  Tonight we enjoyed watching "High School Musical" (a cult classic among young girls, in case you didn't know), while Gordon and Frank attended the Wimberley Texans playoff victory.

It's already late, and I want to go pick up our dogs early tomorrow for their weekend visit, so I'll just close with a note that I'm now able to check emails more consistently, so feel free to drop us a line at lalinam786762@yahoo.com.  (Please feel free to try again, even if previous messages bounced.  There was a faulty link in an earlier post due to a typographical error.)

Hope you are enjoying blessed holidays!
-the Linams

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Abby update - November 23

Happy Thanksgiving!

And what a day of giving thanks to God it is! Today Abby said her very first word with voice (not just mouthed with breath sound). We were gathered with friends and family outside around picnic tables decorated beautifully with items gathered by the Recreation Specialist here and laden with much, much delicious food prepared by the two Grandmas and Aunt Da. The day was beautiful--blue sky, perfect temperatures, slight breeze. Gordon had just finished returning thanks for all the blessings and miracles in our lives over the past two months. After we all said "Amen" Abby then very clearly said "Amen" as well. And then we had to give thanks all over again...!

Just as we had hoped, removing the trach seems to be allowing her to find her voice. She also later said an audible "yes" (to sherbert) and "Da" (I tell you, her beloved Aunt Lynda seems to be the motivation for many new steps). She also silently mouthed many words today, including Paw-paw, Maw-maw, Mom, and the words to some songs. I can't wait until the Speech Therapist arrives tomorrow morning!!

All-in-all, Gordon and I agreed that it was one of the best Thanksgivings ever. And I think it's not just because Abby had some great new milestones today or that we were surrounded by so many loved ones, although those things made the day special. I think it's because we have learned to be thankful for so many small things. I am so thankful for a beautiful day. I am so thankful for a bird's song. I am so thankful for the lick from a dog's tongue. I am so thankful for a phone call from a friend. I am so thankful for a smile and the sound of a laugh. I am so thankful for the sight of a colorful balloon or the smell of a scented lotion. I am so thankful for children. I am so thankful for life. I am so thankful that God has granted us more days with Abby. I am so thankful for hope.

Faith, hope, and love--they have sustained us for these seven weeks and molded us into more than we thought we could ever be. Today we invited the mom of an 18-month-old patient, Priscilla, to join us for our Thanksgiving lunch. Priscilla was a near-drowning victim several weeks ago in El Paso and came to Warm Springs last week. During lunch her mom, Rose, had been watching Abby use her cup and spoon and laugh and was just thinking how good she looked. She took me aside after lunch and asked if Abby had ever been as "bad" as Priscilla. (Although we have seen Priscilla improve over the past week, she still does not have as much muscular control). When I could truthfully answer "oh yes" to her question, it gave her much hope. She has expressed much faith, and I pray we and others here can show her much love. Please pray for Priscilla and Rose with us. They are far from home, and some doctors have tried to temper her hope, but we know the source of hope and the reason for thanksgiving...

And, finally, I cannot close this long Thanksgiving post (I have noticed that my posts have gotten much longer lately--sorry about that--I'll try to promise to only get verbose on holidays from now on...), without giving thanks for you. Simply by reading this message you have shown that you are walking with us in this journey, and we love and appreciate you for that.

Amen!
Abby & family

Abby update - November 22

"Good-bye Trach Song" (sung to the tune of "The Wicked Witch is Dead"--you know, from the Wizard of Oz!)

Ding-dong,
The trach is gone,
The trach is gone,
The trach is gone.

Ding-dong,
That pesky trach is gone!

That's right: After days of wondering where the pulmonologist was, Abby and Gordon went to see the ENT today. And, after hours of sorting out insurance paperwork with the administrative complainant, Gordon and Abby saw a very friendly ENT who took a look and said there was no reason for that tube to stay in Abby's throat! So, this evening Abby has only a small patch of gauze on her neck (not even any stitches--as the hole usually closes on its own). She looks great and is doing great. No words yet, but I can only imagine that it will feel much easier to try now.

Today was another food breakthrough as well. After her great chewing yesterday, today Abby got to eat Cheerios, real scrambled eggs, diced fruit, and diced veggies (well, actually she passed on the diced squash--that's the Abby we know!), along with a few other pureed things. She had a great appetite and is gonna be ready for that stuffing and other goodies tomorrow. She also learned to drink from a straw--even some Dr. Pepper again!

Finally, though it's late, I just want to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving. We have many family members coming to join us and Abby here tomorrow, bringing lots of food, from the sound of it. It will be good to be together with Abby, and we will have many blessings to count. I'm hoping to share some of them with you tomorrow (if the tryptophan doesn't get me first), but just wanted to be sure to close with a note of thanks for the love and support you've all shown to us.

We are thankful for you all...
-the Linam clan (and the Johnson clan too)

Abby update - November 21

Abby continued to take steps down her new recovery paths today, but the work is hard.  It's as if she now knows what she wants her body and voice to do, but when she is unable to do it, she gets so frustrated that she literally cries.  She mouthed a few more words and sounds for the speech therapist, but still gets extremely upset when trying to compose responses such as giving her name or saying "Mom."  She again walked around the gym using a platform walker, but nearly collasped in weariness and perhaps pain at the effort of it.  She is increasing in adeptness at using her hands for occupational therapy tasks, but her body still fights against her in spasms as the therapists try to assist her in sitting outside her wheelchair.  It is a very difficult battle that Abby is fighting.  She is being strong and brave, but I covet your prayers for God to give her strength and will at those difficult times.

 

Still, despite the frustrations, she finds many opportunities to smile.  Today she got to eat a Cheeto and a banana--real Cheetos and bananas, not pureed ones!  The speech therapist was very happy with her chewing and will probably add some diced fruits and cooked veggies to her meals tomorrow.  Abby also seemed very happy to eat Cheetos!  (Cheetos are used because they're very tactile in the mouth, but also dissolve if there were to be some problem.  Who said they're just junk food?  They're therapy food!)  And this evening as I left to come write this post, I left Abby and one of her good friends still giggling in her room.  She's got a good attitude, this girl of ours...

 

So, how can we feel discouraged?  God's eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches her...

 

Sweet dreams,

Abby's biggest fans

 

P.S.  Please keep in mind Abby's appointment with the ENT on Wednesday at 1 p.m.  It's possible they may take out her trach tube for good at that time.

 

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Abby update - November 19-20

So sorry, everyone, for failing to post yesterday.  I gotta admit--we had a wonderful dinner that Gordon's TPWD office fixed at the Ronald McDonald House, and when Gordon went back to stay with Abby, Frank and I just took our full bellies upstairs and went to bed!  Thanks to all the folks involved in that nice meal--the residents and our nurses today really enjoyed it!

 

It's not that I don't have news to post--both Sunday and Monday were good days for Abby.  She had great sessions with speech therapists on both days--whispering some words (we couldn't decipher them) on Sunday and then very clearly mouthing some words, such as "Hey," "Bye," and the names of objects today.  Other therapies are also going well--she's using a tall, walker-type support frame to take lots of steps in PT, while the OTs are finding that she's more adept every day at reaching out for objects and placing and releasing them.  They're also asking her to help with nearly all her daily tasks now, such as dressing, brushing teeth, washing her face, eating, etc.

 

We did have some respiratory concerns (from a parental perspective, anyway) over the weekend.  On Friday afternoon at 5 p.m. the pulmonologist replaced her trach with a smaller one, but on Saturday it became evident that the trach did not fit her very well, and it seemed to want to come out of her neck (not a good sight for the squeamish, like me).  On Sunday the pulmonologist returned and replaced it with another, indicating that it was primarily for our "peace of mind."  Irrespective of peace of mind, this one fits much better, and Abby is adjusting to it very well.  We have an appointment with the ear, nose and throat doctor on Wednesday afternoon, who will probably endoscope her trachea and make a recommendation about whether the trach tube can be removed entirely.  Let's pray that she's ready for that, and that words follow very soon afterwards!

 

So, we're starting our Thanksgiving early, because, even from our very close perspective and our resignation to baby steps, it seems like we've had some very big steps the last couple of days.  And, who could not help but be joyous with a daughter that once could not open her eyes and yet now laughs nearly the whole day long...?

 

With anticipation for tomorrow,

Lee Ann & Gordon and our two joys

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Abby update - November 18

Ever feel wiped out after a tough work week? That appeared to be Abby's case today--she seemed to be pretty tired all day. Short therapy sessions this morning went well, then we had some fun visits with our dogs. Each week we can use their visits to measure some of Abby's progress. While once again she expressed smiles and laughter at interacting with them, this time she actually tried to move her hand to touch them and was able to grip Arby's ball when we gave it to her. Last week she couldn't do those things--more good baby steps...

We also enjoyed a visit from Taylor Schaede, her family, and another friend. The kids were good therapy for Abby--really trying to encourage her to talk and succeeding in at least getting her to move her lips. Who knows? Our well-meaning amateur therapists may have opened one other small door for Abby...we really value Abby's friends who have stood by her so closely during this long recovery...this ordeal has changed many of us in many ways...

Just as a closing note, since I wasn't able to check emails today, in order to get my encouragement fix I paid a visit to Abby's map (the link is in the left column of this blog). Even though I haven't added all the dots that people have sent to me through emails yet, it's neat to see how much the map of the U.S. is filling in, plus our friends in Germany, Mexico, and the Philipines, which, by the way, has been transported into the Atlantic Ocean (don't worry Julie & Brian, my dot was there for a while too...). Wouldn't it be a blessing to have a dot in every state of the U.S.? Maybe you'll want to give yourself a renewed inspiration about the compassion of people by visiting the map and then think about someone you know in one of the empty states who might be willing to pray for Abby. Imagine it--Abby's prayers carrying every state--now there's some politics we can all agree upon...

God bless you all,
-the Linams

Abby update - November 17

Most of today's update for Abby relates to non-therapy issues. The missing pulmonologist finally came by and again down-sized Abby's trach tube. She's still hoping we can see the ENT next week and perhaps even remove the trach tube. At the same time, the respiratory folks are still sleuthing around to see if an infection is causing Abby's cough. A chest x-ray showed no build-up of fluid and a CBC showed normal white blood cell counts, but they'll probably still go ahead and culture a sample from her tracheal fluids. We got in an additional good test result. A CT-scan done on Thursday showed that the fractures of her occipital condyle and, more importantly, the fractures of the skull near her sinuses have healed completely. Hallelujah!

Abby did have a good day in therapy--doing lots of standing and lots of holding things with her hands. Although there didn't seem to be as many attempts at verbal communication, sometimes I think we know just what she's thinking. Today she seemed very aware of the requests that the therapists were making of her and seemed very pleased when she could comply (such as kicking over "Wet Floor" signs in the hall--one of the "fun" games her PT initiates!) and very frustrated when she could not comply (such as the trouble she was having releasing objects from her hands). The frustration even brings her to tears sometimes--something that's hard to see but also indicates to me that she's very aware of what she's trying to do and just angry that her body won't yet comply. I think that means she's on the right track and it's only a matter of time before her determination wins out.

Gordon and I have been enjoying some together time. Frank's in Harlingen with some friends, so both Gordon and I have been staying in Abby's room each night. It's good to be spending so much time together with our girl--how many parents of a pre-teen actually get to say that? I'd better get back up there and make sure the two of them aren't having too much fun without me...

Thanks for your prayers,
Lee Ann & my brood

Abby update - November 16

Today it seemed like Abby was really fighting to break out of her "shell."  I think she wants so much to try to communicate with us, but the parts just aren't fully cooperating yet.  During therapy she was mouthing some of numbers as the therapists were counting during stretches, and when the speech therapist asked her how old she is, you could clearly see her mouth "twelve."  Gordon and I keep working with her, too, to try to help her find a way to tell us things.  I had to smile tonight--I was trying to show her how she could close her eyes to say "yes."  Finally, in response to one request from me, she did.  Then she didn't open them again!  (well, until about 30 seconds later...)  It just goes to show the complexity of the brain--that simple requests aren't really so simple.  (It also goes to show that you can't be in a hurry with head-injury patients...)

 

One thing that will certainly help encourage speech is if we can get her tracheaostomy tube removed.  We are not certain if that is still a possibility next week (we haven't seen the pulmonologist this week).  There are several reasons, besides speech and our emotions, that we are eager to get the trach removed.  The doctors are ever-vigilant about respiratory infections, since the trach is such an easy portal for infection, and we are currently a little worried about a cough that Abby has developed.  It could just be seasonal allergies (Frank also has a cough right now), but we are glad that they want to quickly intercede if any infections are developing.  A white blood cell count will be done in the morning, which should help tell us something.

 

So--always something for you prayer warriors to keep in mind--communication and coughs tonight--we know your prayers help keep us and Abby strong...

 

God's blessings,

Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

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Abby update - November 15

The highlight of Abby's day today was another visit by a therapy dog, "Licky Nicky!"  Nicky is a wonderful yellow lab, and Abby had a really good experience with her.  They started out with Abby getting to lay down by Nicky on the therapy mat, where she was assisted in reaching her arm over to stroke Nicky.  Abby was all smiles, especially when we joked that, if it was Arby, he'd be stretching out his legs to hog all the mat for himself!  Since Abby's grasping a little better now, she also played some tug-of-war with Nicky (and I was impressed with a dog who actually stops tugging when you tell her to stop!), and was encouraged to move her hands to push toys off for Nicky to pick up.  Although I ache for Abby to be able to do more with dogs, today was encouraging, because it let us see that Abby has improved a lot since the pet therapy session last week.

 

Abby's other strong point today was again her ability to assist us in feeding her.  She's especially good holding and moving a cup in her left hand, and we now simply have to provide a minimum amount of support under her hand throughout the whole process of moving from her tray to her mouth.  Her diet still consists of pureed foods and nectars.  One FAQ is why she can't have thin liquids if she can have thicker foods.  That's because the primary issue for her now is if she can control the food in her mouth and move it into the esophagus without allowing any into the trachea.  Because thin liquids flow to the back of the throat very quickly, it is sometimes harder for patients to prevent some entry into the trachea.  Still, I bet she'd love a good, long drink of water!  (Which is actually the last thin liquid to get introduced.)

 

Frank and I had a good day as well.  We attended a Young People's Concert by the San Antonio Symphony.  Frank had severe doubts while walking into the auditorium at Trinity University, but the conductor and the local Fox News weatherman made the session very fun--showing how weather is depicted in some classical music pieces and throwing in a bit of meteorology.  Then we acted like tourists and went to the Buckhorn Museum--I guess that Texas kitzy stuff must have made more of an impression on me as a kid newly arrived from Georgia, 'cause it sure didn't today...oh well, at least I made sure that Frank had this Texan experience...

 

We closed out our evening with Frank and me reading "Hank the Cowdog" out loud to Abby.  That's been a tradition with both our kids, and we really had Abby smiling and laughing.  We've enjoyed our family evenings with Abby lately--watching some favorite shows, visiting with good friends, reading favorite books.  It's been a sweet feeling to have these family times together, but I've really been petitioning God this week to give Abby an ability to communicate back to us.  With brain-injured patients sometimes it's eye movements, sometimes it's hand movements, sometimes it's speech that comes first, but sometimes, with "wires crossed," so to speak, it just takes awhile for the patient to translate their desire into a consistent response.  Pray for Abby that she will find the method that works for her and for us that we will recognize it when she tries...

 

And thank you for communicating with us too--we've had many wonderful responses from so many of you...

 

Love,

Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

 

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Abby update - November 14

Today we don't have much new news to report--Abby's just getting a little better at most things.  So, I thought the FAQ I would address is "Just what sorts of things are the therapists doing with Abby?"

 

As yesterday's post indicated, Abby has three therapists (well four, with the respiratory therapist who provides trach care).  The speech therapist of course works with speech, but also is responsible for working on other levels of cognition and on swallowing.  Abby's therapist Marissa usually meets with Abby during breakfast and lunch, where she can observe how well she is handling the foods and liquids that have been introduced.  She's amazingly patient--prompting Gordon to ask her just how many people she has to feed each day!  Marissa is also encouraging Abby to develop communication skills each day--encouraging her to try sounds or to indicate yes/no responses through some other means; however, we have not yet found a response that Abby can produce consistently.  Although Marissa (and we) have been feeding Abby, we now spend a part of each meal allowing Abby to hold a spoon or cup and assist her in moving it to her mouth.

 

Which brings us to the Occupational Therapist, Kim.  We have decided that OTs must have "attitude"--a way of making things fun and yet challenging the patient to work through those things that are hard--and Kim does have attitude!  She and her student Emily started out basically trying to move Abby's arms and hands through all the various range of motions that should be present in those limbs.  This was supplemented by efforts to strengthen the upper body, such as having Abby lean on her forearms over a wedge support; however, most of her time lately has been spent on encouraging Abby to use her arms and hands to reach, grasp, or push objects.  We are making progress.  Abby still cannot lift her arms to initiate activities, but she is being able to make her hands move a little more each day.

 

Finally, there is the physical therapist, Becky.  Physical therapists have to be STRONG, especially in the case of a patient like Abby where involuntary muscle contractions and extensions are causing the legs and body to be uncooperative in many ways.  Becky's doing a lot of things right now to engage muscles throughout Abby's body that will be needed in walking.  Sometimes Abby is held upright in a standing frame to put weight down throughout her legs.  Sometimes Abby is assisted in a posture called "tall kneeling," where the therapists place her on her knees and then assist her in holding her core weight upright.  Sometimes Becky holds Abby as she stands in place, and sometimes at least two therapists support Abby as she takes steps forward.  Abby has a lot of strength throughout her body and legs, but some of the muscle spasms associated with brain injury work against using that strength effectively, and that makes hard work for the PT!

 

We really, really appreciate these young women who are working with Abby.  They can cause her to make some of the most painful faces and sounds you can imagine (sometimes associated with pain of working contracted muscles, sometimes associated with frustration), but I sense that she really likes them, and I think she'll come to really love them as they help her through this (they can already all make her laugh--except when moving a tight muscle, of course!).  I do have one special prayer request for you this evening.  Today we found out that Abby's speech therapist, Marissa, who was early on in a pregnancy, just lost her baby.  Please keep her in your prayers...

 

And keep us there too if you don't mind...

 

Love,

Abby's folks

 

 

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Abby update - November 13

I've been thinking I need to insert a FAQ section in each day's blog post, and was thinking, that since today is a Monday, maybe you'd like to know what a day in the life of a rehab patient is like; however, I'd really can't wait to post our good news for today, so let's start there!

There were so many wonderful little steps forward today for Abby. Now that she's kissing (every Dad's nightmare for a 12-year-old!), it seems she's able to do lots of things with her lips. Today she drank from a cup very well and was really efficient in removing food from a spoon. To go along with that, we've been helping her hold a spoon and cup in her hands and move them toward her mouth, and at the evening's meal she was accomplishing a fair amount of the movement on her own. The OT was also pleased at her use of her hands to grasp things during therapy. And finally, the nurse's aid, who really dotes on Abby, said that she said "um-hmmm" to her today! I can't believe we missed her first "word," but the speech therapist is convinced that she's going to give us more of them this week!

So, back to the Frequently Asked Questions. I thought you might be interested in Abby's (and thus our) daily schedule:

7:00 - Respiratory medications
7:30 - Wake up; get dressed
8:15 - Breakfast/speech therapy session
9:00 - More medications; tracheaostomy care; brush teeth and hair; wash face
10:00 - Occupational and Physical Therapy
11:30 - Lunch/speech therapy session
12:30 - Free time - brush teeth; freshen up; read a book; take a rest
1:45 - Occupational and Physical Therapy
4:00 - More medications and then outside time or bath time
5:30 - Supper
6:15 - Free time - reading; TV; visitors
8:00 - Snack; trach care; teeth brushing; freshen up; wash face; get ready for bed; read/music
9:30 - Put on splint; lights out
11:00 - Respiratory medications
All night - visits from nurses, who sometimes don't realize that everyone doesn't "work" nights...

So, there you have it--a day in the life of Abby Linam. As you can see, it's no wonder that some days she's just to tired to move that arm the therapist wants to move, but on other days her strength and stamina amaze us...anyway, I know she'd appreciate extra prayers during those 10:00 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. time slots...

Love to you all,
Abby & family

Abby update - November 12

Gordon, Frank and I arrived back in San Antonio a couple hours ago after a wonderful day in Wimberley. We were privileged to be a part of the Taylor and Abby Benefit, or, using the reference we prefer, we were privileged to be a part of what some named "Miracle Sunday." We feel as if we have been hugged by a whole community and beyond. For those of you who were not able to attend, and for those of you who don't know the wonderful blessing of being a part of a small town, it was a day of hope and encouragement and celebration. The new facilities at the Wimberley Community Center hosted a delicious barbecue put on by the 4-H club; an outdoor DJ and games area for younger kids (which eventually expanded to include a volleyball game over the yellow blockade ribbon!); a silent auction, live auction, and raffle that included such prizes as a sailboat, Southwest Airlines tickets, Lasik surgery, a helicopter ride over Wimberley, a week in a time-share, a very special buttermilk pie, a softball signed by the UT girls softball team and Olympian Cat Osterman, and dozens (or hundreds?) of other special items; and an awesome music program that included Suzuki violin students, the Texas Renegades, Sarah Jarosz, the Texas Parks and Wildlife All-Star Band, Andrea Oldmixon, and Ray Wylie Hubbard. It is truly a miracle beyond comprehension that so many people longed to reach out to us, Abby, and the Schaedes, and came together on this day. It is so evident that hearts are being touched and miracles are being worked in every step of this journey we must take. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this very special day.

In truth, this journey is full of miracles--as we think back over what God has brought us through, it's so evident. First, the original accident did not more severely injure either of the two girls--both escaped damage to other internal organs. Second, help was immediately on the scene and, thanks to Wimberley EMS and Star Flight, Abby and Taylor were at a Level One trauma hospital within 40 minutes of the accident. Third, Abby survived that initial threatening period of brain swelling. Fourth, despite initial slowness to arouse, Abby woke up. Fifth, Abby's basic life support functions, like breathing and swallowing are intact. Sixth, despite difficulties in her abilities to respond at this time, Abby understands us and can smile and laugh appropriately... I know I could list more, but that's six miracles in less than six weeks. Thank you God.

And actually, I have one more small, but very, very, very special miracle to report. It was so difficult for both me and Gordon to be away from Abby today; however, we knew she was in good hands with my Mom and the nurses here (of course, the very long and detailed list of guidelines and suggestions I just happened to write out helped me feel better also...), and we knew in our hearts that we needed to be with our friends in Wimberley. All the same, we were hurrying back to Warm Springs at the end of the day to make sure that we had some time with Abby before she went to sleep. Boy, were we glad we made it. After telling Abby about the big day, reading all the notes in her notebook and a couple of chapters in her book, we said evening prayers and kissed Abby and Frank good night. And then, as we each placed our cheeks near her mouth, she, for the first time in nearly six long weeks, kissed each of us goodnight! It is truly a miracle Sunday, and God knew just what miracle we needed most...

With big smiles on our faces and in our hearts,
Gordon & Lee Ann, parents of two very special blessings

Abby update - November 11

I think that Abby would say that today was just what a Saturday should be. She woke up this morning, had some eggs and cereal for breakfast, and then did some light exercise (with the therapists). After lunch when it warmed up, she went outside and played with her dogs. Abby's favorite play activity with the dogs is for us to hide a treat or a ball in her hands and then let Arby jump up and find it, with lots of nuzzling and licking--it really makes Abby smile! (No one at Warm Springs seems to mind that we tether our dogs outside under a tree for the weekend and let them camp out in our station wagon at night).

The day included lots of visits from friends, and several friends played "spa" with her--treating her to a new hairstyle and a very thorough (and apparently wonderfully relaxing, based on the resulting nap) manicure, complete with lime green toe-nail polish! After dinner there was some TV (Disney channel on cable--a real treat!), a few phone calls, getting to hear several chapters out of a good book (we're currently reading Katherine Paterson's Lyddie), and evening prayers. Oh yes, and what's a Saturday without a bath?

All-in-all, I think she'd say the only bad part was seeing the Aggies lose another one in the final minutes of the game, but then, we've all learned to view football in a slightly different perspective these days...life is too precious to be worried about the Aggie football team (especially the Aggie football team)...!

Counting our blessings, and praying for more,
-Abby & the Linams

Abby update - November 10

Maybe a good night's sleep did us all some good. Abby seemed more rested and less frustrated today and we felt likewise. She had good therapy sessions. In her occupational therapy session the OT was working on having her use her hands to reach for or move things. She really has not been able to consistently demonstrate purposeful hand movement to this point. Today was tiny baby steps, but we could observe her moving parts of her arms or fingers in response to requests. She's still a long way from being able to reach her hands out, throw a ball, etc., but these miniscule efforts in response to the OT's requests were important. (And she didn't kick anyone!) She's also showing a lot more core strength--she's sitting up straighter, can lean herself forward, etc.

Several other things are progressing in the right direction. Today her doctor told us that she didn't think Abby needed to wear the neck collar all the time. Removal of that thing makes all the difference in the world in her appearance, and I'm sure it must be a relief to her to feel less encumbered all the time. Also this morning, a pulmonary doctor stopped by and in about four seconds downsized her tracheostomy tube. (It was pretty impressive--snatching the old one out of the hole and inserting the smaller one in one breath!) Downsizing is the first step in ultimately removing the trach tube. We may be able to take that step by the week of November 20. Finally, she's had some high blood pressure all along during her recovery, but her pressure levels have been pretty good during the past day or two.

Again, we appreciate everything you all are doing for us--you never know when it's going to be just the touch we need. Today I was reading a devotional book that one of you friends gave me that talked about the witness we can live through hard times. That gave me strength. Yesterday's reading talked about God pouring love out on us when we really need it, and we sure needed it then...

With gratitude and love,
Abby's family

Abby update - November 9

Today I think Abby was tired, and I was too. She was a little more wobbly than usual in therapy and, even though she got to visit with a really smart little Norwich terrier in a pet-assisted therapy session, she was experiencing so much frustration that I don't think she was as aware as she might have been. Those times are hard for us--especially remembering how very capable and interactive she should be with dogs. Thankfully, God usually provides someone to speak with us at those times, and a mother of a boy in therapy shared how far she and her son have come in their recovery.

I don't blame Abby for being tired. The pace here, with therapy, medical care, and hygiene care, keeps us all busy all day. This evening was a nice change, however. We've noticed that television seems to catch Abby's eye, so, as I was eating my supper, we put the TV on the Disney channel and began to watch "Parent Trap." We noticed that Abby was really watching the movie, so my Mom, Abby, and I just all watched it through its end. The therapists have said that television can be a familiar trigger, and it seemed like Abby was really engaged in the movie. Hopefully it stirred some good memories and sentiments in her...

Well, I suppose one remedy for fatigue is to not stay up too late, so I'd better close with thanks for your love and prayers and then have us all hit the sack! (Abby's already cutting the zzzzz's...)

Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby, and Frank

Abby update - November 8

First, a little blog house-keeping...I heard from several folks today that the map on the blogsite was great, but I also heard from several folks that the addition of the map makes the blogsite really slow to load.  As a primitive dialer-upper at home myself, I'm always sensitive to the frustrations of trying to look at really slow websites.  I'd hate to lose or frustrate any of our readers, so I've decided to move the map to a different blogsite (hopefully soon).  If your connection speed allows it, then I'd really love to have you visit Abby's prayer map at http://abbymap.blogspot.com/ and sort your way through the Frappr software that will allow you to add a pin for your location.  I'm still keeping a hard copy of the map in Abby's room, so I would still welcome emails if you haven't yet told us where you're praying for Abby.

 

Today was another good day with Abby.  I know this is another analogy that is similar to having a newborn child, but I feel like each day recently is like watching a bud of a flower unfurling.  Today it was so easy to make Abby laugh--we talked about so many things that are familiar to our family, and she would join in with laughter.  I'm so happy that Frank is also a big part of interacting with Abby now.  I think he hasn't felt comfortable in the past, but he's sharing in the jokes now, playing his CDs for her--we're really feeling like a family.  Abby's movement and communication skills don't let her participate with us much yet (I'm gaining a great appreciation for the complexity of our body and its movements), but I'm really convinced that she's with us in spirit.

 

We did have to take one small step back today.  Abby was having a little trouble avoiding aspiration with the thin liquids (juice, milk, soft drinks) that we reintroduced this week, so we've gone back to thicker liquids for awhile.  No Dr. Pepper, but her speech therapist highly recommends ice cream, which Abby has really enjoyed!

 

So, keep reading and praying, and I'll keep letting you know how our beautiful flower is progressing...

 

Love,

Abby's whole family

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Abby update - November 7

 

I am having an amazing experience right now.  Well, first, I have a very great praise to report:  We found out today that we can use the computers at the UT Health Science Center library just around the corner from Warm Springs, so I've really enjoyed reading emails from some of you at my leisure.  An added beneift is that, like most colleges, this place is open really late most nights!  Thanks to the folks (my cousin and sister-in-law) who helped me figure this out.

 

But the really neat experience is that I've just posted a map from Frappr on Abby's webpage.  (Another friend turned me on to this idea, as it lets us all view the locations from which people are logging in to read the blog.  Honestly, I'm not really sure how it works for you, the reader, but my hope is that you will be able to pause and enter the locations from which you're reading the blog.)  As I'm watching and working with the site, I'm seeing people log in right now from several cities around the country.  Wow--you're all checking on Abby right now--this is really overwhelming...Anyway, please check the map when you log on and do whatever it asks you to do to identify where you are.  Then, I hope we can all feel overwhelmed at the outpouring of love and prayer.

 

But, I suppose you're checking in to read how Abby's doing, so I'd better get on with that news.  Today was a very touching day with Abby.  For the first time, I felt as if I knew that she was really comprehending nearly everything we were saying to her.  Though she still is unable to formulate specific responses to us, it was as if we could read the whole gamut of emotions she is experiencing.  There were several times today she really, really laughed (in her face and body, but not yet in her voice) in direct response to things we or others were doing.  She cried when physical therapy was hard, she was angry during some parts, and she really seemed to listen as our very special speech therapist explained to her that we know she's trying to communicate, and that one day her body will cooperate with her in that effort.

 

I was so impressed with Abby's determination today too.  Yesterday the therapists were surprised to find that she seemed to want to walk when they had her supported in standing, and today she probably walked about 30 yards total (in three efforts with much, much support).  It was heart-breaking and heart-warming to watch.  Heart-breaking because her body is still so very uncooperative, and in her face and sounds the effort is obviously agonizingly difficult.  Heart-warming because she has such determination and drive somewhere within her body and soul to even want to place one foot in front of the other.

 

May God give us all such courage and determination...and the friends to hold us up...

 

In His love,

the Linams

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Abby update - November 6

We're a little late with the news from Monday, and, believe me, I'm as eager to post the news as you are to read it! So, now that the Warm Springs internet access is back up, I'm happy to share Abby's latest progress with you.

Probably Abby's biggest news is that she got to drink a Dr. Pepper on Monday! She did well on the swallowing test for thin liquids, and the doctor said that something cold and bubbly like a Dr. Pepper was a perfect way to reintroduce liquids. It must have felt so good to have something to drink after all those purees and nectars! She was also given a piece of cracker and a cheerio during the swallowing test, and, although she did some chewing, they'll probably still wait a while for those types of foods.

Abby also had a good day in therapy. She was held in a standing position for a long time in a standing frame and later in the day actually used her legs in taking quite a few steps (with a lot of body support from us and the therapist). She continues to have an occupational therapist aversion. (At one point we thought her first words were going to be some choice ones directed at the OT--she appeared so frustrated with them moving her arms--but those reactions and stimuli are important ones.) I'm a little worried about her malicious sense of humor. She inadvertently kicked the OT with her heavy walking boot, and, as Kim grabbed her shin in pain, Abby laughed. This morning the speech therapist also had her laughing as she told her more stories about how sore she was from teaching her daughter some basketball drills. Basketball stories and OT-abuse--those are the things that Abby seems to enjoy most right now...

Well, I'd better head upstairs. Frank is back from a long weekend--enjoying time with friends, getting started on practicing with his Little Dribblers basketball team (Gordon and some friends are coaching), and visiting the zoo yesterday with the Marcoes--now I get to be the mean one and give him his spelling test. I guess I know how those underappreciated OTs feel...

Keep on praying--God is answering...

Love,
Abby's family

Abby update - November 4/5

Dear friends,

 

I have just finished reading a week's worth of emails at Kinko's and must start this update with a big "thank-you."  I have four pages filled with the names of churches and cities where people are praying for Abby (and that is after I made a mistake in the typing my email address last week that threw some of you off track for awhile).  This list touches our hearts, and, although at 20 cents per minute I didn't have time to reply to many emails, I want you to know how much your love and prayers mean to us.  They literally hold us and Abby up.  Your map is quite a testimony in Warm Springs to everyone who visits our room.  I'd like to explore how to get the results posted on a map online, so it can be a testimony to you as well (but later--not at 20 cents per minute!).

 

I'm sorry we missed posting an update yesterday.  The minimal internet access that we have at Warm Springs was out of commission, so I could not even post to the blog.  The weekend has been a good one for Abby, although she gets some time off from therapy on the weekends, so I don't have any therapist abuse stories.  It's all little increments, but each one is good--she continues to eat very well, she shows more alertness, I believe she showed some responses to our dogs in her facial expressions, she seems to be increasing her movements of her arms and legs, some of her muscular spasticity is relaxing, she has been free of fever and respiratory secretions for a week...no dramatic breakthrough like the movies, but we are taking good, small steps forward.

 

It is a slow pace on a long journey, but we intend to keep moving forward.  We're so glad you're on the journey with us...

 

Love,

Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

 

 

 

 

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Abby update November 3

Today Abby again got to eat, drink, and be merry (for the most part). She was alert and enthusiastic during meals and then actually joined us in another laugh when she kicked really hard in therapy and knocked her occupational therapist off her chair! Her attitude wasn't always so merry during therapy, however. At one point the OT approached her resistant arm (the one on the side with the collarbone fracture) and Abby's face immediately turned very red and angry. She definitely knew who she was and anticipated what was coming up. I have decided that therapists have to possess brilliant minds, compassionate hearts, and very thick skins...

Abby also got to spend a little time outside today visiting with our dogs. I so desperately wish that she could respond to the dogs, but she just isn't able to yet. Still, I think she knows who they are and is happy to see them. It did look like she smiled when Arby jumped up in her lap and licked her on the lips (dog germs--who cares?).

Thanks to those of you who have posted comments to the blog. I still haven't worked out a convenient way to do email access (I'll probably just plan to take an afternoon off occasionally and go to a library), but I do enjoy reading the blog comments (even those that persistently promote the virtues of pureed turnip greens...you know who you are!!). A couple of you have shared how this whole experience has brought people closer together and people closer to God, and I can testify that it's true. You know, Abby is the one in our family that always wants to pull the family together (usually for "Family Fun Night!"), and Gordon noted one afternoon in Austin when the waiting room was full of people supporting and encouraging us and each other that Abby is still pulling people together. We hope that's true for you. And we pray that Abby will one day again purposefully do that for all of us with her own special spirit...

Keep praying...
Abby's family

Abby update - November 2

Not too much more agitation today, but there were some other highlights. Abby ate three full (pureed) meals today. At each meal she shows a lot more control with her tongue and mouth, so I'm hoping she can pass the swallow test for thin liquids next week and we can see an end to the feeding tube sometime soon! All in all, I'd have to say that meals are her favorite part of the day, as today she surprised both Gordon and the speech therapist by actually laughing at one point during the meal. Abby's speech therapist is a former basketball player, so I think she and Gordon were laughing about coaching young kids in basketball when Abby decided to join in!

However, Abby doesn't do much laughing in her other therapy sessions. It's obvious that they are hard work. The x-ray results showed that there are not any fractures in her hips (Thank God!), so perhaps her discomfort in leg work is based on some lingering muscular injuries. The doctors and therapists are hoping that by using some anti-inflammatories they can ease her through the therapy sessions a little more.

As I mentioned yesterday (and I think Gordon originally coined the phrase), these days are both hard and rich. As we feed Abby meals, dress her, encourage her to communicate, etc., it's like a flashback to when our kids were infants. Then we knew that reaching the next developmental milestone was a slow process and we tried to savor each day for what it was. Sometimes I think that these moments of caring for Abby deeply and completely are a gift that lets us re-experience that most intimate period of loving a totally dependent child. As you can imagine, however, my earnest prayer is that, once again, this child will grow and develop into all her beautiful potential. Please pray that with us...

We love you all...
-the Linams

Abby update - November 1

The new month seems to be bringing some welcome changes for us. Today Abby is showing greatly increased activity levels. In fact, tonight we've just put some padding on the rails around her bed, as she's moving around a lot more (you gotta watch out for a wicked kick with her left leg!). We're praying this is the long-awaited "agitated" stage. I don't envy the therapists their work in the next few days, but we're so glad to see so much more life in Abby's movements! In a few days we may be praying for the agitated stage to end, but for now it's great to see...

Abby had another good eating day today--cream of wheat, eggs, juice nectar, thickened milk, mashed potatoes, mystery meat, turkey and gravy, mystery veggies, mixed fruit, and even some cheesecake! It's like you suspect about baby food--apparently those odd-colored veggies don't taste nearly as good as the fruit...

No CT-scan today. The radiologist felt that he would need to hyper-extend Abby's neck to get a good image, and, with the fractures at the base of her skull, the pediatrician felt that the risks of the CT would not be worth the information it might provide, since Abby has not run a fever for several days now. That's another prayer answered! Instead, Abby got to go to x-ray today and have some shots made of her hips and knee. The physical therapist has had a really hard time working with her right leg--it's as if Abby is protecting it because it hurts, so they want to find out if there's any previously undetected injury. That happens sometimes in trauma cases, when the acute injuries overshadow the less obvious ones, so we still have some praying to do that there's not an injury that will slow down rehab.

It's hard to believe that it's been nearly a month since Abby's and Taylor's accident, and yet it's hard to remember anything but staying by Abby's side, praying for and encouraging her. It's been an incredibly hard time, but an incredibly rich time. For those of you who have wondered, Taylor is doing very well. She's back in school, getting around with crutches, and even taking a few unassisted steps. We love you Taylor, and hope you're back to full strength really soon...

Finally, I mentioned that we moved to room 427 here at Warm Springs, but I failed to post the direct phone number into the room. It's 210-595-2427. You might just want to call ahead if you'd like to drop in. If Abby does indeed become very agitated during this recovery period, we might want to keep things quiet for her. However, there are many places where we could visit with you outside her room in some sitting areas--depending on whether we're both around, etc.

Let's get agitated, agitated, agitated...
Love,
Frank, Abby, Gordon & Lee Ann