Heal Nick

I just finished watching the Academy Awards and for some unknown reason was able to stay awake to the end, a first in many years. In keeping with the spirit of recognition of excellence I would like award my own “oscar” to the terrific support team of therapists who have done and, I suspect, will continue to do wonderful things with and for Nicholas over the past years: Pat, Cathy, Maria, Christine and Rob…. Thank you for your dedication.

Nicholas had an OK week. He had a very mild cold and, as with all of us, lost a little energy and looked forward to his afternoon naps. He did have his first good fall in a long time. I think the last one was about 3 years ago, resulting in 4 stitches in his lip. This one wasn’t nearly as bad but of immediate concern. He lost is balance in the driveway, went over backwards, tried to save himself but hit he back top of his head. Fortunately, he had a heavy wool hat on and basically came-up smiling. I was reminded by his PT to be a little more attentive when he has a cold and is walking with the walker or crutches, as his balance will be a little off. Lesson learned.

The high point of the week was last night. I took him to his 1st hockey game since the accident. It was a sold-out collegiate game. Lots of noise from competing bands & zealous fans. Nicholas loved it. Even with his sight impairment he was able to follow the game. He really got into it and was animated all evening and continued to be so today. I’m looking forward to doing more of the same. The effect of this type of stimulation is extremely positive.

OK. Didn’t forget this week. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the improvement in Nicholas’ communication skills isn’t an aberration. Thanks to his speech therapist he’s become a more outspoken and his word retrieval is getting better. She even had him reading simple sentences the other day. This is something he hasn’t been able to do since the accident.

News Flash (for those who missed it):

February 2, 2009 - around 7:30 am ET - Punxsutawney, PA
Phil saw his shadow and thus we are headed for 6 more weeks of winter!

Apologies for not posting Sunday. I was away, just returned and, obviously, forgot. All’s well. Will be more diligent next Sunday.