Report

Terry and I went to Kadlec to see Keith. We spent several hours there and learned a few things. I'll try to share what we observed.

We watched the physical therapy he had, which consisted of arm and leg movement and trying to sit up and stand up. It was interesting to see his movement, because for the most part, he just lays in bed and doesn't move a muscle. When asked, he did slowly lift his arms, etc. He showed great strength when asked to hold his arm (or feet, etc) when the doctor put pressure on it. The therapists moved his legs over and off the bed for him and helped him sit up. He needed someone to be there, but did help hold himself up as he sat there for a minute or two (or however long it was). They also pulled him to a standing position. He didn't stand straight and tall, but he was on his feet. It didn't take long before he began to lower himself to sit again. They got him back in bed and he had a good nap after a hard workout. We were all encouraged by his efforts and by the therapists words after his session. They have high hopes for him.

He keeps his eyes closed most of the time, and his communication skills are quite limited, so we didn't converse much. He did try to speak a couple times, but we could not tell what he was trying to say. Of course, we can think we hear a word here or there, but who really knows when it's so jumbled up. We know that he really wanted to say something a few times, and it hurts me to not understand and be able to respond in a manner that he might expect. A couple times throughout the day he seemed wide awake and that was a pleasant time for all. He raised his eyebrows several times in play with Idris and others a time or two, which was a fun and exciting thing to see. He can slowly nod his head when asked a question.

He does not feed himself, and continues to eat small amounts, slowly, and all the food is soft food because he has a hard time swallowing. Even the fluid he drinks is thickened to help it go down better.

Someone (family) stays with him round the clock so they can be there just in case he has a need. The nurse says that often times the patients in this condition need someone there to help calm them, especially through the night when they wake up. The rooms are equipped with a pullout bed for guests, making that a bit easier than it sounds.

We don't yet know what the future holds in store for him, other than therapy everyday for awhile, but things are improving slowly. We got a call last night after leaving, and were told that Keith said the name of each of his children...though we are certain it wasn't completely clear. Progress is slow, but it is taking place.