We are now going through the options of continued therapy for Jeff. We are considering both long term and short term options. Do we get him a gym membership? a treadmill? or as my co-workers and Gayle are opting for, is a dog.
The daily walks would be good for Jeff and the dog. But as I have no problems telling everyone, in the pecking order of the Wadas, I consider myself number 5 in a family of 5. With a dog, I fall to number 6. My co worker says, don't worry about it because in the dog's eyes, I will be number 1. Somehow I am not buying into this yet. I am envisioning a treadmill with a video screen and a dvd of UP.
In converting the web page to the blog, I noticed I start repeating certain topics. The main reason for the switch over is to provide a broader view of Jeff's condition through other modes whether it be pictures or links. It is from my "unique" perspective and more appropriate as a blog.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Thurs. Oct. 29th Recovery: They did what?
Since Gayle went off her family leave, I took Jeff to his appointments last week. One was his check up with his neurosurgeon and the other for disability. The neurosurgeon greeted Jeff cheerfully and was generally upbeat on his progress. I mention this because he is not known for his cheerful disposition. He was encouraging and generally pleased with Jeff's progress. Being the curious type, I asked what exactly was done during surgery.
Not knowing what the terminology means, it was explained that one disk was removed and the other trimmed. In order to do that, they have to remove part of the lumbar vertabrae on either side of the disks. I was trying to better describe the process, but after looking it up in google, I am better off just saying they had to remove sections of the vertabrae to get to the disks. So he is missing one disk.
When asked what that means in terms of his functioning and long term affect, his disposition returned to normal and gave me a vague doctor-ish answer, which means you just don't know. But he should be able to function ok with those parts missing and modified.
One observation, while in the waiting room for both doctors, it was obvious that Jeff is an anomaly. The average age of the patients waiting made me feel quite young. Most of them thought I was the patient until they saw jeff walk with the cane. The look of surprise was familiar even from the drs. staff. One of his doctors described his condition as one of those you read about in text books but never see. Another doctor modified that statement by saying you don't read about this even in textbooks. Im not sure what to make of those statements.
Not knowing what the terminology means, it was explained that one disk was removed and the other trimmed. In order to do that, they have to remove part of the lumbar vertabrae on either side of the disks. I was trying to better describe the process, but after looking it up in google, I am better off just saying they had to remove sections of the vertabrae to get to the disks. So he is missing one disk.
When asked what that means in terms of his functioning and long term affect, his disposition returned to normal and gave me a vague doctor-ish answer, which means you just don't know. But he should be able to function ok with those parts missing and modified.
One observation, while in the waiting room for both doctors, it was obvious that Jeff is an anomaly. The average age of the patients waiting made me feel quite young. Most of them thought I was the patient until they saw jeff walk with the cane. The look of surprise was familiar even from the drs. staff. One of his doctors described his condition as one of those you read about in text books but never see. Another doctor modified that statement by saying you don't read about this even in textbooks. Im not sure what to make of those statements.
Weds. Oct 14th, Recovery: Another Grey Hair
I forgot to mention the significance of Pastor Carl in Jeff's life. He was responsible for us naming him Jeff. For some reason we had plenty of girls' names. He would come in each day with suggestions. Names were eliminated by repetition (too many Wada's) or association (Gayle's students that did not leave a positive impression). Jeff is the name of his second son, Jordan his third.
A few entries ago, I talked about how in the back of our (Gayle and myself) minds' is a fear that something else will occur. Yesterday Gayle and I drove Jeff to school. His first class was cancelled, so it was a later start. Since the remaining class was only for 3 hours, we decided to go eat dinner out in Fullerton. After dinner, we just figured we would wait in the parking lot.
As we drove up to the parking lot to pick him up, a Campus Police car came driving by with lights flashing. He pulls up to the building and runs up the stairs. Right after that a second Campus police drives up with lights flashing and she runs up the stairs. We get out of the car to observe and Gayle has that look on her face. To reassure her, I said "I would not be too concerned unless a paramedic pulls up, then I would worry". As soon as I say that we hear sirens.
A fire truck pulls up, and shortly thereafter an ambulance. I turn around and Gayle is texting Jeff.
What goes through my mind is, is that why both of us came tonight? Something happaned to Jeff and we were there to be with him?
I told Gayle that I would follow the paramedics to see what was happaning. So giving them a little distance, I tailed them up the stairs and to a classroom. I could not see into the room due to the small opening and people surrounding the person. But I did hear some of the students refer to the person as "her". A sigh of relief, briefly. As I headed back down the stairs, the two campus police take off running for another emergency call. I decide to follow them just in case. But shortly after losing sight of them, I came across some other students refering to the student in need as female.
A sign of relief on Gayle's face as I told her and the burden of a shortened life span due to stress slowly faded away. A few minutes later Jeff comes strolling out between the police cars, fire truck and abulance wondering whats going on. He shrugs and gets into the car.
A few entries ago, I talked about how in the back of our (Gayle and myself) minds' is a fear that something else will occur. Yesterday Gayle and I drove Jeff to school. His first class was cancelled, so it was a later start. Since the remaining class was only for 3 hours, we decided to go eat dinner out in Fullerton. After dinner, we just figured we would wait in the parking lot.
As we drove up to the parking lot to pick him up, a Campus Police car came driving by with lights flashing. He pulls up to the building and runs up the stairs. Right after that a second Campus police drives up with lights flashing and she runs up the stairs. We get out of the car to observe and Gayle has that look on her face. To reassure her, I said "I would not be too concerned unless a paramedic pulls up, then I would worry". As soon as I say that we hear sirens.
A fire truck pulls up, and shortly thereafter an ambulance. I turn around and Gayle is texting Jeff.
What goes through my mind is, is that why both of us came tonight? Something happaned to Jeff and we were there to be with him?
I told Gayle that I would follow the paramedics to see what was happaning. So giving them a little distance, I tailed them up the stairs and to a classroom. I could not see into the room due to the small opening and people surrounding the person. But I did hear some of the students refer to the person as "her". A sigh of relief, briefly. As I headed back down the stairs, the two campus police take off running for another emergency call. I decide to follow them just in case. But shortly after losing sight of them, I came across some other students refering to the student in need as female.
A sign of relief on Gayle's face as I told her and the burden of a shortened life span due to stress slowly faded away. A few minutes later Jeff comes strolling out between the police cars, fire truck and abulance wondering whats going on. He shrugs and gets into the car.
Monday Sept. 21st Recovery: Parental Paranoia
Monday Sept. 21st
I am continually amazed at how Jeff handles the injury. He continually comes across someone he hasn't seen in awhile and the question is always what happaned? Kind of hard to hide as he walks by with a cane (his walking reminds me of the old string puppet shows when I was growing up like the Thunderbirds, only slower). It's always interesting to watch people's reactions as he walks past them. Its one of those situations where they see him and don't say anything, but turn their heads after he passes by. The look of curiosity in their eyes. I would be paranoid by now, but Jeff takes it in stride.
Our neighbors across the street have been very supportive of Jeff. For all these years we have not had much contact with them. But when they noticed Jeff and the walker, they came over to ask what happaned. Ever since then, they make sure when they see him, they ask how he is doing and offer words of encouragement.
One benefit of his return to school is that he sometimes stays up and studies with Jared. Jared's school schedule is tough with honors classes, band and now cross country (long story).
Being the big brother never ends and we see the influence of Jeff and Jordan on Jared. Mostly good...........
I still catch myself being a paranoid parent. I used to get mad at Gayle for being over protective. But I catch myself every now and then. The other day he score kept at a basketball game. I was concerned about the chair he would be sitting on. Did it have enough back support? Did I need to bring one from home? What kind of pillow or support did he need? Did he have enough drinks? Was the rest room close enough where he could take a break during half time?. I ended up going home to get a cushion and ice chest of drinks. There is always something in the back of the mind that worries something else will occur..........or more accurately a fear deep seated in the heart.
The one benefit of Jeff's injury is that it has reunited us with many friends we have had not seen in a while. Pastor Carl Yoshimine called the other day when he found out about Jeff. Pastor Carl performed our marriage and did our pre marital counseling. That is another story....... He is by far the most caring pastor we have ever met. Everyone has a pastor Carl story. When Gayle's mom was in the hospital, he would come out from Anaheim to Gardena to visit her. On the day of her surgery we got a phone call from him wondering why we were not there yet. He beat us to the hospital on the day of her surgery and we live only minutes away. He would be sitting in the waiting room and soon strike up a conversation with a stranger and soon they would be laughing and telling him about their life.
I am continually amazed at how Jeff handles the injury. He continually comes across someone he hasn't seen in awhile and the question is always what happaned? Kind of hard to hide as he walks by with a cane (his walking reminds me of the old string puppet shows when I was growing up like the Thunderbirds, only slower). It's always interesting to watch people's reactions as he walks past them. Its one of those situations where they see him and don't say anything, but turn their heads after he passes by. The look of curiosity in their eyes. I would be paranoid by now, but Jeff takes it in stride.
Our neighbors across the street have been very supportive of Jeff. For all these years we have not had much contact with them. But when they noticed Jeff and the walker, they came over to ask what happaned. Ever since then, they make sure when they see him, they ask how he is doing and offer words of encouragement.
One benefit of his return to school is that he sometimes stays up and studies with Jared. Jared's school schedule is tough with honors classes, band and now cross country (long story).
Being the big brother never ends and we see the influence of Jeff and Jordan on Jared. Mostly good...........
I still catch myself being a paranoid parent. I used to get mad at Gayle for being over protective. But I catch myself every now and then. The other day he score kept at a basketball game. I was concerned about the chair he would be sitting on. Did it have enough back support? Did I need to bring one from home? What kind of pillow or support did he need? Did he have enough drinks? Was the rest room close enough where he could take a break during half time?. I ended up going home to get a cushion and ice chest of drinks. There is always something in the back of the mind that worries something else will occur..........or more accurately a fear deep seated in the heart.
The one benefit of Jeff's injury is that it has reunited us with many friends we have had not seen in a while. Pastor Carl Yoshimine called the other day when he found out about Jeff. Pastor Carl performed our marriage and did our pre marital counseling. That is another story....... He is by far the most caring pastor we have ever met. Everyone has a pastor Carl story. When Gayle's mom was in the hospital, he would come out from Anaheim to Gardena to visit her. On the day of her surgery we got a phone call from him wondering why we were not there yet. He beat us to the hospital on the day of her surgery and we live only minutes away. He would be sitting in the waiting room and soon strike up a conversation with a stranger and soon they would be laughing and telling him about their life.
Tuesday Sept 16th Recovery: Foot Pain Panic
Who would have thought that they do sell canes with flames? Apparantly the tv series House has spawned a cane revival. The Ashcrafts even sent a link to ebay where you can custom order canes..... I find myself looking at other people's canes (mostly the retired type) and asking where they got them. Most are standard hospital issue. We were told of Robert who decided to create his own with a shift knob from his Porche.
Well after going through the past events as a parent, you get a little paranoid. Last week one morning Jeff was complaining about pain in his right foot. This put us in a panic mode. Our thinking was what did he do to cause this? Was he out too long, is his school backpack too heavy, did he tweak his back doing something, is the car ride to school too long? Of course someone forgot to tell us he had a dr. appointment that afternoon. According to Dr. Long it is indicative of nerve regeneration in the area. We didn't realize that it was in the area of numbness since the surgery. The left foot still has problems with drop foot, but he is trying to wean himself off of the braces on at least the right foot. While all of this is good, the Dr. did extend his handicap placard another 6 months.
I have a difficult time describing how he walks. He uses his hips more than he should to compensate for his legs and his feet tend to point out. These are the things we will continue to work on in addition to strengthening the legs.
He drives short distances while we take turns driving him to school and back two times a week. The time in travel and in class does seem to tire him out more. I went with Gayle on Monday to accompany her to Fullerton and back using the carpool lane. Her only comment was that we were not much company as we slept (she says snored) as she drove. Traffic has gotten worse these past weeks as everyone is back in school.
Well after going through the past events as a parent, you get a little paranoid. Last week one morning Jeff was complaining about pain in his right foot. This put us in a panic mode. Our thinking was what did he do to cause this? Was he out too long, is his school backpack too heavy, did he tweak his back doing something, is the car ride to school too long? Of course someone forgot to tell us he had a dr. appointment that afternoon. According to Dr. Long it is indicative of nerve regeneration in the area. We didn't realize that it was in the area of numbness since the surgery. The left foot still has problems with drop foot, but he is trying to wean himself off of the braces on at least the right foot. While all of this is good, the Dr. did extend his handicap placard another 6 months.
I have a difficult time describing how he walks. He uses his hips more than he should to compensate for his legs and his feet tend to point out. These are the things we will continue to work on in addition to strengthening the legs.
He drives short distances while we take turns driving him to school and back two times a week. The time in travel and in class does seem to tire him out more. I went with Gayle on Monday to accompany her to Fullerton and back using the carpool lane. Her only comment was that we were not much company as we slept (she says snored) as she drove. Traffic has gotten worse these past weeks as everyone is back in school.
Monday Aug. 31st Recovery: Flames
I figured that Sat. was as good a day as any to see how Jeff does driving. I was still in the jet lag mode, therefore in a perfect state of mind for a test drive. He hasn't driven since May, but to my surprise he did not show it. I even suspected he has been taking the car out on his own practicing but he assured me he has not. He drove around the streets of Torrance and on the freeway (did I tell Gayle that part?) with no signs of difficulty or fatigue. He was a bit tired afterwards, but I didn't have to jam my foot on my imaginary brake pedal on my side. Another step towards independence.
I have been looking on line for a cane for Jeff. He can use a normal cane instead of the quad cane now. Who would have thought that there were so many types, styles and materials. So I am looking at function, yet something that does not say octogenarian. Other than the light weight carbon fiber canes (OK,its the engineering side of me), they don't design for the under 30 crowd. Not that I am looking for skull and crossbones or flames (OK, I was), but something a little bit more youthful. Or is that a oxymoron.
I have been looking on line for a cane for Jeff. He can use a normal cane instead of the quad cane now. Who would have thought that there were so many types, styles and materials. So I am looking at function, yet something that does not say octogenarian. Other than the light weight carbon fiber canes (OK,its the engineering side of me), they don't design for the under 30 crowd. Not that I am looking for skull and crossbones or flames (OK, I was), but something a little bit more youthful. Or is that a oxymoron.
Friday Aug. 28th Recovery: Happy Birthday
Well it has been a month since the last update. Gayle and I were able to see him finish his last PT and OT yesterday. He has made a lot of progress these pasts months but has to continue his exercises. He will still get checked by his doctors periodically for the next year. When you look at him, he looks like he is doing well. But his walking is still not quite there yet and and his strength is lacking. Jeff should be progressing to a regular cane as soon as I can find one that in not endorsed by AARP.
We now have to figure out what course to take in continuing his PT which will now be out of pocket. We are fortunate that my work will now pick him up on my health insurance due to his being a full time student again and will cover the pre existing condition... His work has been great in extending his coverage to the end of this month.
We can tell he is progressing due to his independence. Gayle is finding that he needs her physical help less and less. So the timing is good as she gets off of her leave of absence and goes back to work in late Sept. Being the mother, she still worries about his falling, setbacks, overall health, etc. as the son, who hit 23, he is craving his independence from a slightly over protective mom. The dad just makes sure he keeps them from strangling each other, physically and emotionally.
The goal was to minimize the affect of the surgery and recovery on his life. The doctors were adamant about him not abandoning his educational and career goals. Well when Jared and I were in Japan for the Yonsei basketball cultural exchange, Gayle and Jordan had the task of figuring out how to get him to school, around school, plot a course to his classes, find out what handicap services were available, figure out areas where he can rest, get his books, get him to orientation, etc. Well it went smoother than they could ever imagine.
He started his masters program in accounting at CSU Fullerton on Monday. We were concerned about him being able to get from class to class each night. He has two classes per night (Mon and Tues) all in the same building. It turns out it is a brand new building that just opened. It includes new ergonomic chairs with high backs and lumbar support so he is able to sit for the 4 hours with no problems. He gets dropped off at 4pm, then picked up at 9:45. The first night Gayle got delayed and a couple of his classmates stayed with him until she got there.
Gayle and Jordan have been driving him out there which has been no problems due to the use of the carpool lane. The challenge will be when Jordan goes back to San Diego and Gayle goes back to work. The doctor has ok 'd him to start driving. Gayle and I are flipping a coin see who takes him out. Hmmm.... forgot to include Jordan. The problem is that it is a long drive without the carpool lane, then 3 hour classes. We are shooting for next semester to get him driving to school.
Jeff did turn 23 on the 20th of August. It was somewhat uneventful as Jared and I were out of the country and they made their way to McCormick and Schmidts. Gayle and I were trying to figure out what we were doing at 23. But it somehow progressed as to how Jeff was born. Other than being on one of the hottest day's of August, remembering hearing Joyce Miyamoto across the hall in labor, the emergency C section due to Jeff being posterior and me falling asleep between contractions. Jeff has been a blessing. Were we ready for parenthood? Pastor Carl Yoshimine kept having to come back to the hospital with name suggestions and the threat from the hospital that we were not being discharged unless we came up with a name. Now that I think about it, Gayle did want to stay a little longer......
We now have to figure out what course to take in continuing his PT which will now be out of pocket. We are fortunate that my work will now pick him up on my health insurance due to his being a full time student again and will cover the pre existing condition... His work has been great in extending his coverage to the end of this month.
We can tell he is progressing due to his independence. Gayle is finding that he needs her physical help less and less. So the timing is good as she gets off of her leave of absence and goes back to work in late Sept. Being the mother, she still worries about his falling, setbacks, overall health, etc. as the son, who hit 23, he is craving his independence from a slightly over protective mom. The dad just makes sure he keeps them from strangling each other, physically and emotionally.
The goal was to minimize the affect of the surgery and recovery on his life. The doctors were adamant about him not abandoning his educational and career goals. Well when Jared and I were in Japan for the Yonsei basketball cultural exchange, Gayle and Jordan had the task of figuring out how to get him to school, around school, plot a course to his classes, find out what handicap services were available, figure out areas where he can rest, get his books, get him to orientation, etc. Well it went smoother than they could ever imagine.
He started his masters program in accounting at CSU Fullerton on Monday. We were concerned about him being able to get from class to class each night. He has two classes per night (Mon and Tues) all in the same building. It turns out it is a brand new building that just opened. It includes new ergonomic chairs with high backs and lumbar support so he is able to sit for the 4 hours with no problems. He gets dropped off at 4pm, then picked up at 9:45. The first night Gayle got delayed and a couple of his classmates stayed with him until she got there.
Gayle and Jordan have been driving him out there which has been no problems due to the use of the carpool lane. The challenge will be when Jordan goes back to San Diego and Gayle goes back to work. The doctor has ok 'd him to start driving. Gayle and I are flipping a coin see who takes him out. Hmmm.... forgot to include Jordan. The problem is that it is a long drive without the carpool lane, then 3 hour classes. We are shooting for next semester to get him driving to school.
Jeff did turn 23 on the 20th of August. It was somewhat uneventful as Jared and I were out of the country and they made their way to McCormick and Schmidts. Gayle and I were trying to figure out what we were doing at 23. But it somehow progressed as to how Jeff was born. Other than being on one of the hottest day's of August, remembering hearing Joyce Miyamoto across the hall in labor, the emergency C section due to Jeff being posterior and me falling asleep between contractions. Jeff has been a blessing. Were we ready for parenthood? Pastor Carl Yoshimine kept having to come back to the hospital with name suggestions and the threat from the hospital that we were not being discharged unless we came up with a name. Now that I think about it, Gayle did want to stay a little longer......
Sun. July 26th Recovery: Jeff Sandwich
Jeff is getting out more frequently. The problem becomes his stamina. If it involves walking or being out for extended periods of time, he becomes exhausted. Last night we ventured out to a Dodger game. That was a pain. The Dodgers and Dodger Stadium are not built for the handicap.
Ordering tickets was like stabbing a needle into my eye. They have made the process painful, long and after various emails and phone calls, a trip to the box office not knowing if there will be seats available. I won't get into parking. Lets just say we did not have to find a handicap space. We won't even mention the one set of elevators of which only one was in use for the 45,000 fans. We ended up taking our chances on the escalator with a Jeff sandwich. One in front, one behind and a mother biting her nails. The only benefit was the parking lot was empty. Sitting for that long of a period was also a bit of a problem for him.
His friend asked him to help him coach the T3 basketball league sponsored by the Victory and Lighthouse churches. It is mainly little kids in 1st and 2nd grades. We will have to go see it to describe it next week.
The other therapy we are starting to try is the water therapy. He did some exercises in the pool on Friday. We are looking into a local community college course and looking into private arrangements. None of the boys loved the water whether at the beach or the pool. So we will see how he responds to the therapy.
We are constantly appreciative of the words of encouragement and support. The Lighthouse church has graciously provided meals twice a week. People we don't know drop off great meals that we greatly appreciate. It usually comes on the days where Jeff has PT and Dr.s appointment. So both Gayle and Jeff are exhausted at the end of the day.
Ordering tickets was like stabbing a needle into my eye. They have made the process painful, long and after various emails and phone calls, a trip to the box office not knowing if there will be seats available. I won't get into parking. Lets just say we did not have to find a handicap space. We won't even mention the one set of elevators of which only one was in use for the 45,000 fans. We ended up taking our chances on the escalator with a Jeff sandwich. One in front, one behind and a mother biting her nails. The only benefit was the parking lot was empty. Sitting for that long of a period was also a bit of a problem for him.
His friend asked him to help him coach the T3 basketball league sponsored by the Victory and Lighthouse churches. It is mainly little kids in 1st and 2nd grades. We will have to go see it to describe it next week.
The other therapy we are starting to try is the water therapy. He did some exercises in the pool on Friday. We are looking into a local community college course and looking into private arrangements. None of the boys loved the water whether at the beach or the pool. So we will see how he responds to the therapy.
We are constantly appreciative of the words of encouragement and support. The Lighthouse church has graciously provided meals twice a week. People we don't know drop off great meals that we greatly appreciate. It usually comes on the days where Jeff has PT and Dr.s appointment. So both Gayle and Jeff are exhausted at the end of the day.
Sun. July 19th Recovery: Graduation Road Trip
We took Jeff down to San Diego to see Tiff give her Master's presentation. It was a test to see how he will do on a long drive. He did pretty well, but it was an exhausting trip for him. We were impressed with the PowerPoint and video presentation she gave. It occurred to us that instead of overhead sheets, you now have to be computer and video literate. It is now a combination of content, style and presentation. I have trouble answering my cell phone. We had a nice lunch in La Jolla with her family before heading back. He did have to walk far to get to the classroom. He did with the walker. We are trying to build up his muscle strength in anticipation of his nerves growing back. It is encouraging to see him step over things at home instead of maneuvering around things.
Jeff has a temp. handicap placard. It comes in handy at times. You can park at meters without paying and in certain loading zones with no penalty. Finding a vacant handicap parking space is another story. We still end up dropping him off and searching for any vacant parking spot. But any trip takes me back to when the boys were infants. You load up the car with strollers, bags of diapers, portable cribs, etc. It is now wheelchair, walker, cane and emergency supplies.
Gayle happened to come across her mom's old quad cane from the 70's. Its amazing in 40 years, the design has not changed. It is only lighter. Everything else is the same. Sometimes designs endure the test of time. Between Jeff and Jared, we are collecting a vast assortment of medical devices and exercise equipment.
Jeff has a temp. handicap placard. It comes in handy at times. You can park at meters without paying and in certain loading zones with no penalty. Finding a vacant handicap parking space is another story. We still end up dropping him off and searching for any vacant parking spot. But any trip takes me back to when the boys were infants. You load up the car with strollers, bags of diapers, portable cribs, etc. It is now wheelchair, walker, cane and emergency supplies.
Gayle happened to come across her mom's old quad cane from the 70's. Its amazing in 40 years, the design has not changed. It is only lighter. Everything else is the same. Sometimes designs endure the test of time. Between Jeff and Jared, we are collecting a vast assortment of medical devices and exercise equipment.
Sun. July 5th Recovery: Martin Crane
Friday Jeff was given the use of a quad cane to use instead of the walker. Picture TV's Fraser Crane's father (Martin) with his cane and you have an accurate visual of Jeff walking around the house. Plus it is painted bright yellow. I am anticipating that all these aides will be used at one time or another in our future. Did we go out to see the fireworks? Well we all pooped out. BBQd hamburgers and hot dogs with chili seemed more in line with our mood.
We have a gym mat where he does his exercises. I'm not sure how to describe it, but imagine being on all 4s then extending opposite limbs without falling. Gayle is looking into water therapy for Jeff. One thought was to purchase one of the above ground pools. When you add it up, it seems to be more effective cost and practical wise to find a program vs. the pool.
One side benefit to this is that we are spending more time as a family together. The boys congregate in Jeff's room to watch either the Simpson's or Dodgers. We eat more meals together and do more chores together. We still worry about his jaunts out of the house without us. Tiff takes him out for errands to make him walk. They gradually take longer trips. Judy pops in to take them to dinner. We hope by the end of the month he can take longer trips. But the parental pangs of protectiveness often creeps up. What if he falls and we are not there? Do they know what to do? Of course most of the time we are over reacting.
Gayle is in need of her breaks. Spending all day with the boys sometimes drives her crazy (and vice versa). Her buddies from high school all have these pedometers and the goal is 10,000 steps per day. Her diversion is to reach her daily goal. One of her friends hit 115 yesterday. They did better today with their weekend walk at the beach.
We have a gym mat where he does his exercises. I'm not sure how to describe it, but imagine being on all 4s then extending opposite limbs without falling. Gayle is looking into water therapy for Jeff. One thought was to purchase one of the above ground pools. When you add it up, it seems to be more effective cost and practical wise to find a program vs. the pool.
One side benefit to this is that we are spending more time as a family together. The boys congregate in Jeff's room to watch either the Simpson's or Dodgers. We eat more meals together and do more chores together. We still worry about his jaunts out of the house without us. Tiff takes him out for errands to make him walk. They gradually take longer trips. Judy pops in to take them to dinner. We hope by the end of the month he can take longer trips. But the parental pangs of protectiveness often creeps up. What if he falls and we are not there? Do they know what to do? Of course most of the time we are over reacting.
Gayle is in need of her breaks. Spending all day with the boys sometimes drives her crazy (and vice versa). Her buddies from high school all have these pedometers and the goal is 10,000 steps per day. Her diversion is to reach her daily goal. One of her friends hit 115 yesterday. They did better today with their weekend walk at the beach.
Sun. June 29th Recovery: Sounds late at night
As time goes on, Jeff is venturing out on various errands and eating places. We are learning that even though he has a handicap placard, most spaces are taken. The longer walk is not a bad thing.....of course when you forget the placard, he has no choice. At times as he walks through the house, it is like a horror movie. The noise of his walker goes, plunk, clunk-scrape. Early in the morning, in the middle of the night. It is the sound of his walker being set down, a step, then pushing of the walker, over and over again. Once he reaches his destination, there is a lull until he decides to return to his room. plunk, clunk-scrape, plunk, clunk-scrape. Until Jeff asked me to put those ubiquitous yellow tennis balls at the end of the walker. So I sacrificed a few of Gayle's good tennis balls. I have been getting more uninterrupted sleep since then.
Jared is back from Mt. Hermon so we have a full house again. One person alters the cosmic forces of our Wada universe. We are trying to decide what to do for the 4th of July. The time he was sick when he was young, we climbed to the roof to watch the various fire work shows (I don't think I ever revealed that to Gayle). I don't think that will work this time. Thanks to all of you for your concern and prayers.
Jared is back from Mt. Hermon so we have a full house again. One person alters the cosmic forces of our Wada universe. We are trying to decide what to do for the 4th of July. The time he was sick when he was young, we climbed to the roof to watch the various fire work shows (I don't think I ever revealed that to Gayle). I don't think that will work this time. Thanks to all of you for your concern and prayers.
Sat. June 20th Recovery: Inch by Inch, step by step
Next week most of Jeff's friends will be at Mt. Hermon serving as counselors. Jeff was originally scheduled to be with them. He has been walking with a walker everyday down to the corner and back. Each day he goes a bit farther. I was able to watch him at Physical Therapy yesterday and now have a better understanding of what Gayle sees every week. It hit home how much work he needs to accomplish the next two months. He still cannot stand without assistance. Nor can he walk on his own, meaning that he still cannot move his feet effectively. He has two more weeks with the Bioness electrical stimulus contraption that straps to his left leg. There is a constant push from his supervising recovery doctor. No wheel chair, force him to walk, exercise, etc.
The nurse that oversaw his surgical recovery has suggested a few things to help him along. It is a constant process of collecting all this information and trying to figure out how to incorporate it into his regimen and recovery. The body is a strange unique organism. What works for one person will not work for another. Combinations sometimes work, sometimes not. He is off prescription meds at this point.
He has been cleared by his neurosurgeon as far as his surgery. His healing has been a long process due to infections, but it looks as though he is finally over that hurdle.He goes to Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Monday and Thursdays in San Pedro. Yesterday OT had him balancing on a exercise ball while catching various balls Gayle and I were throwing at him. It gave him the opportunity to nail us when he returned the ball. Hmmm...... In PT they recalibrate the Bioness contraption (http://www.bioness.com/Home.php). He now wears it everyday when he walks.
The nurse that oversaw his surgical recovery has suggested a few things to help him along. It is a constant process of collecting all this information and trying to figure out how to incorporate it into his regimen and recovery. The body is a strange unique organism. What works for one person will not work for another. Combinations sometimes work, sometimes not. He is off prescription meds at this point.
He has been cleared by his neurosurgeon as far as his surgery. His healing has been a long process due to infections, but it looks as though he is finally over that hurdle.He goes to Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Monday and Thursdays in San Pedro. Yesterday OT had him balancing on a exercise ball while catching various balls Gayle and I were throwing at him. It gave him the opportunity to nail us when he returned the ball. Hmmm...... In PT they recalibrate the Bioness contraption (http://www.bioness.com/Home.php). He now wears it everyday when he walks.
Monday June 15th Recovery: Freedom, sort of
His wound is still not completely healed, but he is off anti-biotics. He is officially off home care and is in the out patient program. So they make (Gayle and Jeff) a trip twice a week to San Pedro for OT and PT for the next 10 weeks. Insurance is a strange concept to comprehend at times. The Drs. try to arrange therapy around the many restrictions and conditions of the individuals policy. After 10 weeks we figure out what the next course of action will be based on his condition.
His friends are anxious to break him out of the house.
His friends are anxious to break him out of the house.
Tuesday June 9th Recovery: Beam me up Scotty
Jeff went to his neurosurgeon for his check up. For some reason his surgical wound is still not healed. He is now in the thick of Dr. appointments and PT and OT sessions. His daily walk is to the corner and back (about 3 houses down). Jeff's cousins (auntie Karen, Cedar and Sierra) from Wisconsin are out for a visit. He is also wading through the myriad of forms from insurance, work, hospital and doctors. He is fortunate to be covered with insurance to cover most of his expenses so far. I still have not figured out how to store the wheel chair. I am contemplating the modification of a bike rack that mounts externally to the trunk. The Internet search shows contraptions that either require a trailer hitch or a large box that mounts on the roof. The engineer in me thinks this can be done, but the fear in Gayle's eyes prevent me from proceeding. My prior projects come to her mind..... The alternative is a Star Trek type transporter.......
Friday June 5th Recovery: Within plain sight
Well, we survived the first week at home. Jeff is pretty much restricted to the house except for his short walks outside for his physical therapy. It will probably be like this for at least a few more weeks. Even though it drives him batty, we still have to keep a close eye on him. That means never leaving him walk around the house by himself, always checking up on him, etc. His legs are still weak and he can easily buckle. We constantly track him, but with the walker it is fairly easy with the wood floors. You can hear him coming all through the house. This may be a good idea for a horror flick.
At times he uses the wheel chair when he is tired. At other times we all sneak a spin in the chair when he is in his bed. The strain of lifting the wheel chair in and out of the car is starting to take a toll on Gayle. It is obvious that wheel chairs are not necessarily designed for ease of transport. I envision bungee cords, and trailer lights attached to the wheel chair as it is being towed by the back of the car. We can't use the van yet due the height of the seats.
Cliff came in again and put up the last of the support bars in the bath tub. Still can't figure out how he did it without studs. I gave up after drilling about ten holes in to the wall. You can stand on them and they won't budge.Essentially from here on out, it will be slow progress and hard work for Jeff for the next year. They (the Drs, PT and OTs) have been happy with his progress, but from here on out it will be a grind.
Jeff had some of his friends over to watch the Laker game which was a nice diversion for him. Jordan for some reason cooked hot dogs on the George Foreman grill with an extension cord on the front porch. We suspect so he would not be far from the game. He heads back to San Diego for finals next week. His help has been appreciated in moving things around the house. One thing we again learn to appreciate is the help from friends and family, the constant calls of support and offers of help and most important of all, prayers for Jeff's recovery process. Our deepest
Thanks and gratitude to everyone.
At times he uses the wheel chair when he is tired. At other times we all sneak a spin in the chair when he is in his bed. The strain of lifting the wheel chair in and out of the car is starting to take a toll on Gayle. It is obvious that wheel chairs are not necessarily designed for ease of transport. I envision bungee cords, and trailer lights attached to the wheel chair as it is being towed by the back of the car. We can't use the van yet due the height of the seats.
Cliff came in again and put up the last of the support bars in the bath tub. Still can't figure out how he did it without studs. I gave up after drilling about ten holes in to the wall. You can stand on them and they won't budge.Essentially from here on out, it will be slow progress and hard work for Jeff for the next year. They (the Drs, PT and OTs) have been happy with his progress, but from here on out it will be a grind.
Jeff had some of his friends over to watch the Laker game which was a nice diversion for him. Jordan for some reason cooked hot dogs on the George Foreman grill with an extension cord on the front porch. We suspect so he would not be far from the game. He heads back to San Diego for finals next week. His help has been appreciated in moving things around the house. One thing we again learn to appreciate is the help from friends and family, the constant calls of support and offers of help and most important of all, prayers for Jeff's recovery process. Our deepest
Thanks and gratitude to everyone.
Monday June 1st Recovery: Adjustment to home
The visiting nurse came out Sat. to check on his surgical wound (?). It should be healed by this week. He was visited by his PT today. He got up and walked around outside for the first time since Friday (two houses down and back). We are not quite as stern (unbending, strict, ) with him as his San Pedro PTs. They would come and force him to do the exercises. If he was not feeling well, they gave him a few hours of a break, then came and got him. We need to be of the same mind.
The trick is to clear everything out of the way so he can freely get around. That means the elimination if clutter. Our trash cans are full each week and deliveries to salvation army are becoming frequent. The engineer and teacher in both of us are slowly adjusting to a non collective mindset. Rolling furniture and rocking chairs are out, folding heavy duty camp chairs with arms are temporarily in. The little things that I have neglected over the years have become potential obstacles to a walker.
Most things are supposed to be temporary. The wheels chair is on a 6 month lease, the bio feedback contraption is month to month. The doctors are expecting him to improve and eventually not need some of the equipment. So as we say goodbye to some of our stuff, it is a process of letting go, vs. temporarily moving it to storage.
The trick is to clear everything out of the way so he can freely get around. That means the elimination if clutter. Our trash cans are full each week and deliveries to salvation army are becoming frequent. The engineer and teacher in both of us are slowly adjusting to a non collective mindset. Rolling furniture and rocking chairs are out, folding heavy duty camp chairs with arms are temporarily in. The little things that I have neglected over the years have become potential obstacles to a walker.
Most things are supposed to be temporary. The wheels chair is on a 6 month lease, the bio feedback contraption is month to month. The doctors are expecting him to improve and eventually not need some of the equipment. So as we say goodbye to some of our stuff, it is a process of letting go, vs. temporarily moving it to storage.
Friday May 29th Recovery: Home at last
Jeff is home. They felt that through OT, he was able to function by himself (dress, bathe, get up around the house, etc.). The task now is to get him walking everyday. The goal is to get him back to work and driving.OK, we survived our first day. No falls, he takes off when we are not looking. He had a slight fever that went away. One observation: Even after he no longer needs the grab bars, they will remain. I find myself using them.
Monday May 25th Rehab: Home visit
Jeff cleared all his tests, chemical stress, EKG, echo cardio gram, blood tests, etc. But he has a slightly elevated heart rate. Therefore they are doing an angiogram tomorow. Jeff is getting tired of all these tests.......
He came home for his second 8 hr.leave today. I am not sure he gets a lot of rest, as everyone congregates in his little room. He then went to see Star Trek with Gayle and Tiff. According to Gayle, they have spots for wheelchairs, but they are located in the front row of the theater. She has a sore neck and a headache from the sound system. He made it back to the hospital in time for the Laker game. Sometimes it is a sight to see, Jeff, Jordan, Jared and Tiffany, spread all over the room watching a 19" screen near the cieling, while Gayle, her sister Judy and I are in the dining room watching a large screen TV. Go figure.
We still have a lot to plan for. They have recommended we continue the biofeedback pack for his left leg after he is discharged. Some of his insurance will cover the wheel chair, walker and a few other things, but not some of the recommended items such as grab bars.
Then we figure in disability, short term leave, family leave, insurance coverage, etc.
We are continually working on the house, clearing things out, moving stuff around, preparing for Jeff's homecoming. We are planning to install a small screen TV in his room at home, but the fear is he will not leave the room. He will not get a refrigerator so we know he will come out periodically........Jared is extremely jealous. Jeff gets a tv, computer and a room of his own.
Jordan came home to help out. He is in the process of finals and moving out to an apt. in San Diego. He comes in and keeps Jeff amused with his rants and observations on life. His favorite subjects are baseball (dodgers), Lakers and the prospect of Darvish coming to the majors. Needless to say, he has been frustrated lately......
Thank you for your continued prayers. From the Wadas we hope that you all have had a safe restful and great Memorial weekend.
He came home for his second 8 hr.leave today. I am not sure he gets a lot of rest, as everyone congregates in his little room. He then went to see Star Trek with Gayle and Tiff. According to Gayle, they have spots for wheelchairs, but they are located in the front row of the theater. She has a sore neck and a headache from the sound system. He made it back to the hospital in time for the Laker game. Sometimes it is a sight to see, Jeff, Jordan, Jared and Tiffany, spread all over the room watching a 19" screen near the cieling, while Gayle, her sister Judy and I are in the dining room watching a large screen TV. Go figure.
We still have a lot to plan for. They have recommended we continue the biofeedback pack for his left leg after he is discharged. Some of his insurance will cover the wheel chair, walker and a few other things, but not some of the recommended items such as grab bars.
Then we figure in disability, short term leave, family leave, insurance coverage, etc.
We are continually working on the house, clearing things out, moving stuff around, preparing for Jeff's homecoming. We are planning to install a small screen TV in his room at home, but the fear is he will not leave the room. He will not get a refrigerator so we know he will come out periodically........Jared is extremely jealous. Jeff gets a tv, computer and a room of his own.
Jordan came home to help out. He is in the process of finals and moving out to an apt. in San Diego. He comes in and keeps Jeff amused with his rants and observations on life. His favorite subjects are baseball (dodgers), Lakers and the prospect of Darvish coming to the majors. Needless to say, he has been frustrated lately......
Thank you for your continued prayers. From the Wadas we hope that you all have had a safe restful and great Memorial weekend.
Sunday May 24th Rehab: Day Pass
It is 11pm, We took Jeff to Jared's basketball game in San Gabriel earlier this evening then to Ladybug in Gardena for some Japanese food. This was his first authorized 8 hour leave from the hospital.
Jared had a pretty good game, most of scoring occurring before Jeff got there. As usual, being in a wheelchair did not hold Jeff back in his comments about the game or Jared. Brothers........
He did pretty well, both physically and socially. He was pretty good in interacting with everyone. He was not embarrassed to be out in public in a wheelchair. The hard part for his knucklehead family is how to put a wheelchair in the car. We had a wheel chair, and two squished adults in the back seat. We now have plenty of bungee cords in each car.
Which brings up we now have to make sure we have enough emergency supplies in all cars (Diane, our MREs are part of it) and at the house. Jeff has gone through two earthquakes during his stay at the hospital. Boy scout training: Always be prepared.....Jared will use this to get his emergency preparedness merit badge.
The part we have to be careful about is getting too complacent with him walking. Due to limited function of his feet, he can easily trip and fall. A fall will easily set him back. So even when he looks like he is doing quite well, we have to be on our toes. Part of it is that we have to position ourselves behind him and to the side at all times while he is walking. We also have to grab the rear waist of his shorts. All of this is to ensure if he buckles, we can use our grip to pull him to keep him from falling away, and our bent leg behind him to help support him up. It is deceptive watching him walk with the walker.
It is 3pm and Jeff is at home for a 8 hour leave. He will be back at SP LCMH at 8pm. We went to Lunch at a local SP Italian place, then came home to try out the modifications. Gayle and Tiff are trying to figure out if the Star Trek movie or Jared's basketball game is on the schedule. But it looks like he is finally getting some rest here at home. He has another leave tomorrow.
He underwent a stress test yesterday and this morning. They were concerned about any anomalies in his EKG and the most recent infection. His infection has cleared for the most part, and his test results look good. The Dr. is optimistic for his long term recovery.
The team will do another assessment on Tuesday to determine if he goes home next Friday.
On Friday the OT at the hospital came out with Jeff to look at the house. They decided to not go with a ramp (if anyone ever needs a ramp, give Brett McKee a call at AmRamp.com). He cannot lift the front of his foot well, therefore making walking up a ramp difficult, steps are easier. They prefer him to walk and not use a wheelchair. The wheelchair is only for traveling and long distances. Gayle's brother Cliff came out yesterday and in 4 hrs made the modifications. Two rails on the front porch leading up to the door, blocking off the over hang on the steps, one rail next to the toilet and one in the tub. I had to order two rails on line for installation next week. Overall, a minimal amount of modifications were needed. We were afraid we were going to have to widen the doorways for a wheel chair. As stated, Cliff did what would take me two days to do.
Which brings up the subject of his progress. He is able to get out of bed on his own and into a wheel chair or walker. He is able to dress himself. He can walk short distances with the walker. The drs. say he is making good progress. Hopefully after he gets home and walks more, he will gain more strength. He does require the braces for his legs, but they look unobtrusive. Modern materials make it minimal with high strength. Hopefully with time he will not need them.
We on the other hand are working on the house to minimize stuff. Thanks to all who have helped. Shirlee has been great in dealing with our penchant to keep all things. She is like a magician, diverting our attention while things disappear!.
Jared had a pretty good game, most of scoring occurring before Jeff got there. As usual, being in a wheelchair did not hold Jeff back in his comments about the game or Jared. Brothers........
He did pretty well, both physically and socially. He was pretty good in interacting with everyone. He was not embarrassed to be out in public in a wheelchair. The hard part for his knucklehead family is how to put a wheelchair in the car. We had a wheel chair, and two squished adults in the back seat. We now have plenty of bungee cords in each car.
Which brings up we now have to make sure we have enough emergency supplies in all cars (Diane, our MREs are part of it) and at the house. Jeff has gone through two earthquakes during his stay at the hospital. Boy scout training: Always be prepared.....Jared will use this to get his emergency preparedness merit badge.
The part we have to be careful about is getting too complacent with him walking. Due to limited function of his feet, he can easily trip and fall. A fall will easily set him back. So even when he looks like he is doing quite well, we have to be on our toes. Part of it is that we have to position ourselves behind him and to the side at all times while he is walking. We also have to grab the rear waist of his shorts. All of this is to ensure if he buckles, we can use our grip to pull him to keep him from falling away, and our bent leg behind him to help support him up. It is deceptive watching him walk with the walker.
It is 3pm and Jeff is at home for a 8 hour leave. He will be back at SP LCMH at 8pm. We went to Lunch at a local SP Italian place, then came home to try out the modifications. Gayle and Tiff are trying to figure out if the Star Trek movie or Jared's basketball game is on the schedule. But it looks like he is finally getting some rest here at home. He has another leave tomorrow.
He underwent a stress test yesterday and this morning. They were concerned about any anomalies in his EKG and the most recent infection. His infection has cleared for the most part, and his test results look good. The Dr. is optimistic for his long term recovery.
The team will do another assessment on Tuesday to determine if he goes home next Friday.
On Friday the OT at the hospital came out with Jeff to look at the house. They decided to not go with a ramp (if anyone ever needs a ramp, give Brett McKee a call at AmRamp.com). He cannot lift the front of his foot well, therefore making walking up a ramp difficult, steps are easier. They prefer him to walk and not use a wheelchair. The wheelchair is only for traveling and long distances. Gayle's brother Cliff came out yesterday and in 4 hrs made the modifications. Two rails on the front porch leading up to the door, blocking off the over hang on the steps, one rail next to the toilet and one in the tub. I had to order two rails on line for installation next week. Overall, a minimal amount of modifications were needed. We were afraid we were going to have to widen the doorways for a wheel chair. As stated, Cliff did what would take me two days to do.
Which brings up the subject of his progress. He is able to get out of bed on his own and into a wheel chair or walker. He is able to dress himself. He can walk short distances with the walker. The drs. say he is making good progress. Hopefully after he gets home and walks more, he will gain more strength. He does require the braces for his legs, but they look unobtrusive. Modern materials make it minimal with high strength. Hopefully with time he will not need them.
We on the other hand are working on the house to minimize stuff. Thanks to all who have helped. Shirlee has been great in dealing with our penchant to keep all things. She is like a magician, diverting our attention while things disappear!.
Thursday May 21 Rehab: Anticipation-Home Prep
Jeff is doing a lot better. He seems to be over the infection and back to his routine. He is scheduled to visit home tomorrow for an assessment of the house and to practice getting into a car, etc. He might be given a few 8 hr. leaves this weekend if he does well.
We on the other hand are preparing the house for his eventual homecoming. In some ways it is difficult in that we are not sure what to do. We anticipate somethings (bars in the shower, ramp in front) but the others are questionable. Will he be in a wheelchair, will he use a walker. That determines his mobility within the house.
We are fortunate that my cousin's husband Brett owns a ramp company (AmRamp.com) that installs metal ramps with rails. You may have seen them at various polling places. He is installing one this coming week. Gayle's brother Cliff has been over daily working on various tasks, and Jordan is home today to help move stuff around.
We want to thank all of you with your offers of help. But as you can tell, we still are not sure until tomorrow what needs to be done.
Jeff's attitude has been good. He tries hard in PT. They have been hooking up these bio-feedback modules that strap to his Calve's to help stimulate his nerves and hopefully retrain them to help him walk. He briefly stood up by himself for the first time yesterday.
Progress in small steps. Thank you for your continual prayers and support.
We on the other hand are preparing the house for his eventual homecoming. In some ways it is difficult in that we are not sure what to do. We anticipate somethings (bars in the shower, ramp in front) but the others are questionable. Will he be in a wheelchair, will he use a walker. That determines his mobility within the house.
We are fortunate that my cousin's husband Brett owns a ramp company (AmRamp.com) that installs metal ramps with rails. You may have seen them at various polling places. He is installing one this coming week. Gayle's brother Cliff has been over daily working on various tasks, and Jordan is home today to help move stuff around.
We want to thank all of you with your offers of help. But as you can tell, we still are not sure until tomorrow what needs to be done.
Jeff's attitude has been good. He tries hard in PT. They have been hooking up these bio-feedback modules that strap to his Calve's to help stimulate his nerves and hopefully retrain them to help him walk. He briefly stood up by himself for the first time yesterday.
Progress in small steps. Thank you for your continual prayers and support.
Monday May18th Rehab: Slight setback
A slight setback as of yesterday. To us, Jeff looked a little pale, was extremely tired and his heart rate up. Drs. eventually determined that an infection has set in and he needed mega type antibiotics. They were concerned about allergic reactions, etc. It appears his surgery wounds are of concern. Gayle stayed overnight.
This morning he is still exhausted. He was able to skip the morning OT and postpone his PT to get some additional sleep. He is looking a little better, but will be on the antibiotics for two more days. They said the earthquake did not affect anything. Jared said the hospital was swaying back and forth. For those of you from outside of southern cal, it was a jolt and a few seconds of watching the walls move back and forth.
This morning he is still exhausted. He was able to skip the morning OT and postpone his PT to get some additional sleep. He is looking a little better, but will be on the antibiotics for two more days. They said the earthquake did not affect anything. Jared said the hospital was swaying back and forth. For those of you from outside of southern cal, it was a jolt and a few seconds of watching the walls move back and forth.
Sat. May 16th Rehab: PT, OT and equipment
Jeff is able to get out of the bed and into the wheelchair by himself. There is a process he goes through to prepare himself for Physical Therapy. Getting out of the bed, putting on his shoes and socks, wheeling himself down to the PT room. He was fitted with braces that fit into his shoes yesterday which helps him walk with a walker. Technology has made improvements in the equipment. Right now he has these electronic modules that strap to his legs that provide electrical pulses to stimulate his nerves. Saturdays are light with one PT and one OT session in the morning. Monday through Friday are 2 sessions each. Sunday is a day of rest. They put him through a pretty strenuous PT session.
This is a learning hospital, so we see a lot of student nurses from Harbor College. Jeff seems to adjust to each one. He ends up explaining his condition to each one. He seems to put them more at ease than the other way around.
Gayle is here every morning, monitoring his progress, ensuring he gets the proper care and going for sandwich runs to Busy Bee. We are slowly finding out the eating places around here. She takes breaks by walking down then back up the hill on 7th St. She is usually here to the late evening. She will be taking a leave from work until Jeff gets settled in his routine at home.
This is a learning hospital, so we see a lot of student nurses from Harbor College. Jeff seems to adjust to each one. He ends up explaining his condition to each one. He seems to put them more at ease than the other way around.
Gayle is here every morning, monitoring his progress, ensuring he gets the proper care and going for sandwich runs to Busy Bee. We are slowly finding out the eating places around here. She takes breaks by walking down then back up the hill on 7th St. She is usually here to the late evening. She will be taking a leave from work until Jeff gets settled in his routine at home.
Weds. May 13th Rehab: Words to live by
We didn't get much from the doctors yesterday other than Jeff will be in rehab until May 29th. A lot is still unknown.
They are asking for home information and preparing for his eventual return.
After hours visiting is always interesting. We enter thru ER and they call up to let us through. Then we walk thru ER to the elevators then wind our way through to his room on the opposite end. So it depends on the activity in ER at the time of arrival. Getting out is easy through the front lobby, but there is usually someone out there waiting to sneak in when you go out.
His uncle Todd went home today, his daughter Michelle is graduating from Smith college this week. His words of wisdom to Jeff was, No matter what happens, how do you use this experience to affect other peoples' lives.
They are asking for home information and preparing for his eventual return.
After hours visiting is always interesting. We enter thru ER and they call up to let us through. Then we walk thru ER to the elevators then wind our way through to his room on the opposite end. So it depends on the activity in ER at the time of arrival. Getting out is easy through the front lobby, but there is usually someone out there waiting to sneak in when you go out.
His uncle Todd went home today, his daughter Michelle is graduating from Smith college this week. His words of wisdom to Jeff was, No matter what happens, how do you use this experience to affect other peoples' lives.
Tuesday may 12th Rehab: Visitors
This entry is prompted due to the reaction of Jeff's basketball coach when he came by last night.
When he came by, Jeff was sitting up in a wheel chair with his leg crossed while his uncle was laid out on the hospital bed (yes Todd is in town).
There was Mexican food from Burnt Tortilla spread out and the game on TV. He was expecting Jeff to be laid out half drugged out and in major pain.
Other than the beard, Jeff looks good. sometimes his lack of sleep is due to being a night owl and hitting his emails after everyone leaves at night.
When he came by, Jeff was sitting up in a wheel chair with his leg crossed while his uncle was laid out on the hospital bed (yes Todd is in town).
There was Mexican food from Burnt Tortilla spread out and the game on TV. He was expecting Jeff to be laid out half drugged out and in major pain.
Other than the beard, Jeff looks good. sometimes his lack of sleep is due to being a night owl and hitting his emails after everyone leaves at night.
Monday May 11th Rehab: Rest and Agony
Sunday was a day of rest and agony (the Lakers and Dodgers lost and Boston won) for Jeff.
Today he started his full regimen of PT and OT. 2 sessions each. This will become his daily routine in addition to the LA Times sports section.
He is getting a little spoiled from all the food everyone is bringing him (Thank you). Somehow the Hospital food does not seem that appetizing....... He is thankful he is not on a restricted diet. The cafeteria on the first floor menu tends towards the healthy side......
The new room is a little bigger and secluded, with a view of the hospital rooftop. It reminds me of a spy movie, a sparse room not far from the elevator with just a number on the door, no name, and when the door is closed, you could easily mistake it for a supply room.
Jeff is not into talk shows or soaps. But I am sure Gayle will coerce him to watch 24 instead of ESPN with her tonight. His favorite show is the Office.
San Pedro is an interesting town. We are slowly finding the places to eat. But Starbucks on Gaffey closes at 9pm......no Peets.
Tomorrow (Tuesday) we sit down with the team of Doctors and Therapists to get their initial assessment and plan forward for the next week.
Today he started his full regimen of PT and OT. 2 sessions each. This will become his daily routine in addition to the LA Times sports section.
He is getting a little spoiled from all the food everyone is bringing him (Thank you). Somehow the Hospital food does not seem that appetizing....... He is thankful he is not on a restricted diet. The cafeteria on the first floor menu tends towards the healthy side......
The new room is a little bigger and secluded, with a view of the hospital rooftop. It reminds me of a spy movie, a sparse room not far from the elevator with just a number on the door, no name, and when the door is closed, you could easily mistake it for a supply room.
Jeff is not into talk shows or soaps. But I am sure Gayle will coerce him to watch 24 instead of ESPN with her tonight. His favorite show is the Office.
San Pedro is an interesting town. We are slowly finding the places to eat. But Starbucks on Gaffey closes at 9pm......no Peets.
Tomorrow (Tuesday) we sit down with the team of Doctors and Therapists to get their initial assessment and plan forward for the next week.
Sat. May 9th Rehab: Change of Address
Sat. May 9th
Jeff has been moved to room 304. His former immediate neighbor in the next room was not happy with his situation. he was very vocal about it and needed to be sedated frequently.
It is a lot quieter down there by the elevator.
He started his Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy sessions today. One constant theme that is heard among the staff is that he has his youth on his side.
We were able to meet his Dr. that will be overseeing his recovery. As parents, we tend to want to know everything now and what to do now.
He has the day off tomorrow. Sunday is a day of rest and worship. We know that there are churches that have him on their prayer list.
We appreciate every one of you who have offered their support and prayers.
Jeff has been moved to room 304. His former immediate neighbor in the next room was not happy with his situation. he was very vocal about it and needed to be sedated frequently.
It is a lot quieter down there by the elevator.
He started his Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy sessions today. One constant theme that is heard among the staff is that he has his youth on his side.
We were able to meet his Dr. that will be overseeing his recovery. As parents, we tend to want to know everything now and what to do now.
He has the day off tomorrow. Sunday is a day of rest and worship. We know that there are churches that have him on their prayer list.
We appreciate every one of you who have offered their support and prayers.
Friday May8th 3pm Rehab
Jeff is checked into rehab at the San Pedro Little Company of Mary Hospital
It is located 1300 West 7th st. San Pedro 90732
He is in room 319 304. Visiting hours are from 8am to 8pm.
The phone number for the hospital is 310.832-3311 rm 319 304
He will be here for one to two weeks.
The good:
He is in a room by himself.
His TV has ESPN so he gets to watch the Laker game tonight (Go Rockets,,, don't tell Jeff)
There is wifi so he has his laptop.
There are plenty of food places close by. We just fed him In and Out.
On behalf of Jeff, Gayle, Jordan, Jared and myself, Thank you for all that have visited, called, etc.
We appreciate the love and concern. We will try to update periodically.
You can reach Jeff at jeffreywada@gmail.com or us at wadabros@verizon.net or
It is located 1300 West 7th st. San Pedro 90732
He is in room 319 304. Visiting hours are from 8am to 8pm.
The phone number for the hospital is 310.832-3311 rm 319 304
He will be here for one to two weeks.
The good:
He is in a room by himself.
His TV has ESPN so he gets to watch the Laker game tonight (Go Rockets,,, don't tell Jeff)
There is wifi so he has his laptop.
There are plenty of food places close by. We just fed him In and Out.
On behalf of Jeff, Gayle, Jordan, Jared and myself, Thank you for all that have visited, called, etc.
We appreciate the love and concern. We will try to update periodically.
You can reach Jeff at jeffreywada@gmail.com or us at wadabros@verizon.net or
Friday May 8th, How it all started
Jeff was taken to the Dr. on Monday May 4th due to back pain and difficulty walking. He was sent to ER for a MRI. After being in ER, the evaluation of the MRI determined that he had two bulging disks that were pressing into his spinal cord that required surgery. They scheduled surgery the next morning.
In surgery they had to shave one disk and remove the other. Due to the surgery there are residual affects that will take time to determine if he can regain full function.
We were fortunate to run into two people we know that were able to explain some of the things going on. One is a pharmacist on staff and the other a PT on staff.
One of Jeff's care nurse had a son that went through a similar injury two years ago and had him come in to talk to Jeff.
At this point, only time will tell what will recover. It can be some or most of his mobility.
Projected rehab time will take up to one year. He is currently in rehab in San Pedro.
The goal is to get him up and functioning in life asap.
As you can imagine, this has been devastating for both Gayle and I. We thank you for your notes of support and prayers at this time.
Jeff is a remarkable young man who has been strong in coping with this. He has a tremendous faith in God that is carrying him. He has also a strong set of support in his family and friends.
In surgery they had to shave one disk and remove the other. Due to the surgery there are residual affects that will take time to determine if he can regain full function.
We were fortunate to run into two people we know that were able to explain some of the things going on. One is a pharmacist on staff and the other a PT on staff.
One of Jeff's care nurse had a son that went through a similar injury two years ago and had him come in to talk to Jeff.
At this point, only time will tell what will recover. It can be some or most of his mobility.
Projected rehab time will take up to one year. He is currently in rehab in San Pedro.
The goal is to get him up and functioning in life asap.
As you can imagine, this has been devastating for both Gayle and I. We thank you for your notes of support and prayers at this time.
Jeff is a remarkable young man who has been strong in coping with this. He has a tremendous faith in God that is carrying him. He has also a strong set of support in his family and friends.
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