Today was a full day of evaluations. She spent time with Occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists and even a psychologist. Their focus was to determine base lines for reflex, swallowing capability, response to commands, eye movement and whole lot more. In total, she had three hours of workouts that just wore her out. In all cases, we saw responses that were encouraging. They will now set goals for her to work toward so we can actually measure her progress.
When it was over, she closed her eyes and was very, very relaxed. We have come to know when she is more active. You can see her eyes move. Her hands move, especially her left and she is active with mouth movements. When she has had enough, she goes to sleep and rests soundly.
Our journey continues. This last week has been filled with many changes all positive. One question I get asked most often is "have you seen changes with her over the last days or weeks"? I find myself stopping and thinking about the question because it has so much meaning to me. Over the past few weeks, we have gone from no response and paralyzing fear to increased movement and hope for an opportunity to spend more time with the most important person in my life. We know unequivocally why this has happened. We have been blessed and guided from the beginning and know the source from where these blessings flow.
We believe that families can be together forever. I have had this belief for many years, but it has never been as important to me as it is now. My pain is buffered by our children, their spouses and our wonderful grandchildren. Just listening every night during our family prayer as one of the grandchildren asks that grandma gets better is one of the special moments I have during the day. While they may not be as articulate as their parents, I believe that their simple and sincere prayer has an express route to heaven.
Sherrie's mom has been with us for a few weeks. I have been impressed with her resolve to do anything she can to make her daughter feel special and know that mom is near. I know Sherrie knows her mom is there and I know it is a force that drives her forward. We lost her father about a year and a half ago. I have no doubt he has been carrying on a lively conversation with his little girl. While we love grandpa Duane, we pray the conversation ends and she begins talking to us! We have been fortunate to have Sherrie's mom her with us during all of Zach's activities and her grandchildren and great grandchildren have benefitted greatly.
Another day has passed and we are one day closer to knowing the outcome to this story. Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers.
When it was over, she closed her eyes and was very, very relaxed. We have come to know when she is more active. You can see her eyes move. Her hands move, especially her left and she is active with mouth movements. When she has had enough, she goes to sleep and rests soundly.
Our journey continues. This last week has been filled with many changes all positive. One question I get asked most often is "have you seen changes with her over the last days or weeks"? I find myself stopping and thinking about the question because it has so much meaning to me. Over the past few weeks, we have gone from no response and paralyzing fear to increased movement and hope for an opportunity to spend more time with the most important person in my life. We know unequivocally why this has happened. We have been blessed and guided from the beginning and know the source from where these blessings flow.
We believe that families can be together forever. I have had this belief for many years, but it has never been as important to me as it is now. My pain is buffered by our children, their spouses and our wonderful grandchildren. Just listening every night during our family prayer as one of the grandchildren asks that grandma gets better is one of the special moments I have during the day. While they may not be as articulate as their parents, I believe that their simple and sincere prayer has an express route to heaven.
Sherrie's mom has been with us for a few weeks. I have been impressed with her resolve to do anything she can to make her daughter feel special and know that mom is near. I know Sherrie knows her mom is there and I know it is a force that drives her forward. We lost her father about a year and a half ago. I have no doubt he has been carrying on a lively conversation with his little girl. While we love grandpa Duane, we pray the conversation ends and she begins talking to us! We have been fortunate to have Sherrie's mom her with us during all of Zach's activities and her grandchildren and great grandchildren have benefitted greatly.
Another day has passed and we are one day closer to knowing the outcome to this story. Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers.
What great progress Sherrie has made in four weeks! It's pretty amazing to read that she is responding to commands - even moving her legs to kick a ball! I have no doubt she will continue to improve, especially now that she is in rehab.
ReplyDeleteWe appreciate the daily posts. Ron's tenderness toward Sherrie and his family are touching and inspiring. All of you are wonderful examples of a celestial family.
Another day of great progress,physically for Sherrie and emotionally for all. It is great to hear how Sherrie is aware of her surroundings and how she is responding. It must be re assuring to each of you to know that she has known of your love, heard all of your words and felt your presence throughout this trial. Our hopes are that the entire Labrum family can also feel those same things from the so many people that feel the same way for each one of you.
ReplyDeleteYou are all loved by so many and we continue to pull and pray for you all. Thank you for being such great friends.
Rob and Judi
How wonderful that Sherrie's mom is with her. I miss my mom & know how good I felt each time we were together.
ReplyDeleteRon you are such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your love for Sherrie with all of us. We love to hear and cheer on her progress. Again, huggs to all. (Big family hug).
Susana & Jerry
I am so happy to hear of Sherrie's steps forward! Thank you all for sharing these things!! If it is possible - once Zach is settled - could his address at school be posted - I know his mom would be sending him care packages and I would love to be a temporary sub on sending brownies until Sherrie can do it herself! Go Team Labrum! We love you, we are praying for you and we are cheering for you!!
ReplyDeleteBunches of love
Noelle Herzig and gang
You don't know me... I live in Utah and have heard about your story through my sister who resides in your stake. It has been very heartwarming to read your posts every night and feel of the love you have towards each other and your beautiful mother. What an example of strength and courage! Trials are never easy and at times can seem impossible. I want to testify that we are never alone. That our Savior Jesus Christ is truly our brother and friend and that God is a God of miracles....... I know this to be true. May he watch over and bless all of you at this time and may the angels be round about you to bear you up!
ReplyDelete