Ahhh .... Clean

Tyler looks SO amazing.  Just seeing him in street clothing makes a huge difference in his appearance.  Sometimes it is hard to remember that even though he looks so good on the outside, he is still broken almost everywhere.  Some find it surprising that his entire body isn't in a hard cast.  However, he has so much internal hardware holding his bones in place that casting is unnecessary, especially while bedridden.  When asked how he was doing physically he said, “broken”.  However, he also said his ‘hope-a-meter’ is high.   You can tell when the pain medication starts to wear off, his head beads with perspiration and sometimes you can even see his chest quivering as his heart rate rises in response.  We are just so grateful those times are getting farther apart.

Tyler had a sponge bath in bed today!   He commented how great it was to feel and be clean.  He is holding up a stick of deodorant to let everyone know that he is clean and smelling great!  He is also getting his new Insulin pump today since his last one was destroyed in the fall.  This alone is going to be one of the greatest blessings for Tyler.  Tyler has been great at managing his diabetes these past years.  During his hospital stay, staff had to guess how much insulin to give him. His blood sugar spiked and dropped so frequently that he usually felt sick. 

Tyler has a new 3” ball he is using for therapy in his right hand.  He holds and moves his fingers around the ball.  Today, the doctor gave permission for him to start therapy with weight in his right hand.  The weight limit is only 2 pounds, but that means Tyler will soon be able to hold a cup of water with his hand.  One of the coolest things today was when his Stake President was leaving; Tyler reached up and over to shake his hand.  His hand was shaking, but it was a beautiful sight.  Tyler is one strong man!

Karen also brought Tyler's laptop to his room today.  With help from their neighbor, they were able to get the computer hooked up to the TV so he can watch movies.  

This Christmas is taking on a new meaning for me and my family this year.  There has been a decreased focus on presents and decorations and more on seeing the needs of others.  I am certain the greatest gift we can give our Savior this season is the gift of serving others.  “Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Matthew 25.40) We sincerely appreciate all the visitors and support Tyler has received.  Visitors greatly lift his spirits especially when surrounded by the same four walls.