My son Mitchell

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

You are welcome to vent here all you need and we will listen and support you.

Hang in there, Jeff.

[birdonawire]

Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.

I think its pretty normal for them to get agitated when they are moved to a different room I know mine did and he expressed his anger and frustration in a very colorful way. :lol:

I will pray a special prayer for him wanting to go home when they are that age they think they dont need the extra help with the therapy they think they can do it on their own.

Still praying hugs to all of you. :hug::hug::hug:

[Seanachie]

Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.

My Prayers to the 'Big Guy' are 'in' that Mitch be relieved of that which frustrates him.

He will find many things that will frustrate him to the point of beligerence. All human beings need to vent at times. As long as Mitch does not hurt himself; you will have to bear with it. To a point.

Frustration like most things is a double edged sword. It can help to find ways to overcome that which is causing the frustratiom. Find ways to positively channel Mitch's emotional and corresponding physical characteristics to a goal set for a period of time. Short term goals are important as to achieving the long term solution. They will change and vary, sometimes greatly, as Mitch progresses. There are boundries that must be set and times when the goal post must be moved. The Hospital Staff and the Rehab Staff will be of great assistence. Their jobs are tremendously different.

Keep in mind that this is where 'Team Mitch' will excell. You know this Boy so well, it's a learning curve for Hospital Staffs. You and Team Mitch will be invaluable here and will have to step to home plate and take some mighty swings sometimes. Bunting is also a skill that can be mastered and sometimes this is the wisest method of moving a 'Runner' forward along the bases in many cases.

No one expects a batter to hit a Home Run every time he is at bat. Set realistic goals and push when necessary to surpass them. Mitch has already surpassed that which was expected. He is a Young Man with solid determination and I have no doubt that He will continue to 'surprise' the heck out of everyone.

Again, these 'goals' will change all the time. That's why we have referees and officials, one to enforce rules, one to change them as necessary.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[blackcatrun]

UPDATE!
Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL

Crappy news I wasnt going to comment on, but instead root for ALL in the back ground. The news he has made it this far is great to see.

It needs to mentioned thou so you know what to expect,
Dont get upset if unexplianed emotions and some harsh things come out of your son.
It wont be easy for you to hear at times but it means nothing...until healing is complete his emotional state will be erratic.
As the brain trys to rebuild connections the emotional state is effected. Out bursts and some times swinging out in anger can happen. Saddness and absalute love joy ect...all extreme and with out warning.
It will take a while but while this hard time now on going is emotional wreckage for you...it will pass as he heals and stablizes.

[nortman]

Praying for you and your family, jwil. Hang in there, brother.

[roger teekell]

Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.

With respect...

Not his decision to go home...

Let him know that he needs to take advantage of all the resources God has made available to him...

Stay positive Jeff...And stay on your knees before God demanding he fullfill his promise to answer the prayers offered up....

I am praying daily for Mitch's FULL recovery...As is everyone else here...

Love you much my friend...:hug::hug:

[Remus Lupin]

Ditto!

[aep1974]

UPDATE!
Oh my how things can change on a dime around here. I don't have much time but have a short story to explain our day here.

Shortly after my last update the ICU nurse taking care of Mitch said that the vent was only giving him 1 breath per minute and he was doing the rest on his own. They did all the tests to make sure his levels were right and turned the vent completely off earlier this morning but left the tube. Well the trauma surgeon comes to see him and thinks judgringf from all his levels that they won't need the vent anymore and wants to take the tube completely out. They call us to tell us and we say have at it. About an hour before the 4:30 visit the same nurse calls my cell and say, "Hey Jeff why don't you guys come up and talk to your son". I could not believe it so I took off to see. She had asked him where he was and he told her. Then she asked him where he went to school and he told her that. He can't talk very well cause trhat tube has been in his throat since Saturday night, but he can think and talk. That is something that has haunted me every minute, would he have any brain capacity at all. Well I now have my answer. I know there are some health care people posting here and they can tell you how absolutely remarkable this is. When I first heard his weak voice I fell on my face before God and my wife had to step over me. This isn't a baby step, this is a big step.

I don't need yall to stop praying. We still have a lot of uncertainty here. He isn't moving very much at all on his left side and I have not seen his legs move at all. Before we pray for further progress though, we must praise and thank God for what has happened today. YOu would have had to hear all Drs reports and stuff to know how big this is. Still not out of the woods my friends, but this is the greatest day of my life thus far.

You people are the greatest. Anything that might ever be accomplished politically on this board will only pale in comparison to the love that has been shown me on this forum this week. If the whole world treated each other this way then things would be different. Gezz yall I cannot even begin to say what this has meant, and I now ask you not to stop but keep going. I love you all more than you can ever know.

I gotta go for now
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

I have been reading this thread and I had to respond to this; I just have to stay, I started crying with this post. What wonderful news! God is answering your prayers! I will continue to pray for Mitch, you, and your family.

[USMCmom]

Jeff...have faith as I believe now is the time to get him into rehab and channel that aggression!
Stay strong & we will keep praying,
Luv ya & God Bless

[stoked]

Pain meds could be messing with him.

[Mustang JEB]

It's great to see that he's doing much better.

I'll keep ya'll in my prayers.

[JenyEliza]

Pain meds could be messing with him.

Actually agitation and combativeness is VERY common in patients who survive spinal cord and head injuries.

It's more likely the result of healing taking place within his damaged brain, with neurons reforming connections that were disrupted and disconnected by the bullet that passed through his brain.

Time to heal more, rehab, physical and occcupational therapy will help Mitch with the agitation and frustration.

It also will likely improve once he is able to get out of bed--even in a wheel chair and increase his activity level.

Remember--this is a 17 year old boy who is used to expending great deals of energy in his daily life, who has now become bedridden. Emotionally, that's devastating and physically challenging for anyone, much less a 17 year old.

[Seanachie]

Hello Jeff,

Something has been nagging at me a bit. Mitch is 17. You and your Wife have full dominion over everything that is going on including where his Rehab Treatment will occur. I don't know when Mitch turns 18. At that point the whole scenerio changes. He becomes in charge of Himself legally if he is competant to do so.

This is something You and your Wife as the 'HEADS' of 'Team Mitch' need to be prepared for. Counselors there or in a Rehab are well versed in all the ins and outs. This is one of several things that only You and your Wife should address. No delagating here. This begins with YOU. I'm very confident that You will have it under control and act Wisely on Mitch's behalf..

A short story: My Children were ready to go into Court to obtain 'Power of Attorney'. My SIL is a Practicing Attorney in Jersey and PA. They hired another Lawer because of the conflict of interests issue. Had I remained the way I was for the 1st two weeks in the Hospital; I have no doubt that the Court would have declared me incompetant and granted their petition. Competancy hearings are drawn out affairs and expensive to boot. Thankfully that didn't happen. I thank God for sparing my Children that ordeal.

However, when I 'came out of it' we all had lengthy discussions on the subject. I decided that it was in my best interests to 'grant' my Children 'Power of Attorney'. They still have it. I can still recind it by notification at any time. I choose not to. It's two years later and I still have 'issues'. If I were to have a major relapse they would be in the same position if I recinded it. Not the way to go at least in my case. I wouldn't want to put them through that ordeal again.

Planning is the key. You have a wealth of things that will go into that. Depending on Competant Professionals is part of that necessary mix. Counselors at the Hospital or Rehab will be invaluable to You and Your Wife. You need to get a 'game book' developed and put into play. I apoligize for using sports cliches. It's just the only thing I can draw on to explain myself at this time.

I don't wish to put any more burdens on You or your Family. But I think this will diminish some burdens further down the road. I apoligize if this is already in the works.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[Seanachie]

Hello again Jeff,

Sorry I didn't put this in my previous post. On Meds; I was on several from pain to anti-seizure, others that don't come to mind. As soon as I was able to drive after I got out of the Hospital. I went to Borders Book Store and sought any book that would help me. I 1st purchased the Consumer Reports Drug report. It was good to a point but not alot of detail. It was about $50. Bucks.

I went back and purchased The Physicians Desk Reference (Full version) and it was $95. Bucks, It contained voluminous content which helped to satisfy what I was looking for. I worked for a Pharma Co. many years ago and was familiar with the PDR. The version I purchased is usually only for Physicians.

It was tough to read and comprehend but I kept at it. I purchased This PDR because it had a disk that I could put on my puter only to find that the progarm wouldn't load up on Vista. They gave me a workthrough by right clicking the mouse on the Icon and running it as administrator. In any event, that program was renewable for a year. (Expired now). Doesn't mean it's useless. New books and programs come out every year due to 'New' drugs that come on the market.

These 'tools' will be invaluable to 'Team Mitch' in evaluating the drugs he is prescribed to take.

Opiate pain killers are very addictive as are some others. They MUST be dealt with very carefully. Just be aware and monitor any changes in Mitch after taking a 'new' med. They do have side-effects. The PDR is superior in dealing with that aspect. Remember also; The PDR depends on Manufacturer's supplied info. Some compounds are so new that there isn't any other source for definitive information.

I hope this may help.

Be well Jeff,

Jim

[blazer]

And I never thought I'd feel this way
And as far as I'm concerned
I'm glad I got the chance to say
That I do believe I love you

And if I should ever go away
Well, then close your eyes and try to feel
The way we do today
And then if you can remember

Keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for

Well, you came and opened me
And now there's so much more I see
And so by the way I thank you

Whoa, and then for the times when we're apart
Well, then close your eyes and know
These words are comin' from my heart
And then if you can remember, oh

Keep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
In good times, in bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
Oh, that's what friends are for

Whoa... oh... oh... keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for

Keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, oh, for sure
'Cause I tell you that's what friends are for
For good times and for bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for (That's what friends are for)

On me, for sure
That's what friends are for
Keep smilin', keep shinin'

[Calibabe]

Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.

Jeff,

We are here for you to lean on and to vent when necessary. As I said prior, there are so many times that I wish the medical community would be more optomistic than it is when dealing with situations. However, all those "won't, don't and not's" have been tuned into "will, can and do". That shows how strong not only prayer is but how strong your son is as well.

I can't imagine your grief immediatly upon that call but I can certainly appreciate your bedside vigil and not wanting to leave his side. My heart ached each day my son had to go through a dressing change which caused him tremendous pain. He would never tell me, he just said it was uncomfortable. Now, having changed those type of wounds myself I knew darn well how painful it was.

We will continue to pray for you, Darlene and Mitchell. There will be setbacks from time to time. Don't let that get you down or think that progress is not being made. A major brain injury can take months if not years to recover from. The fact that he is talking and making sense to me is a miracle in itself. He will have good days and bad days. Take the good wrap them in gold and keep them in your heart. Discard the bad as we would discard trash. The good times will keep you and Mitchell working that much harder for him to recover.

We will continue our prayers and will keep you always close to our hearts for we are now all family. We will all fight with our prayers and our talks with our pastors and priests and church leaders to continue to keep Mitchell in their thoughts and prayers as well. We will also talk to Our Lord and ask him for those small things that in the long run add up to big things for Mitchell.

We will wait for updates and check frequently. My son will also check when I am working to let me know. However I will never be far away that I can't send a quick message to you. On that you can count.

God bless you all.

[Hadassah]

Mitch had a bad night. He was very agiatated and restless, even a little belligerant. No spell check here. I need yall to pray about that today. Not that much more to report. Thanks for the carpages messages yall.

I do not have unlimited access to these computers any more cause he is out of ICU which is good but I am going to try to get home today an get my wife's laptop maybe. I will update when I can. This is kinda my vent place away from the rest of my family and what not so thanks for the posts.

God bless you and please keep praying. maybe we will get some more info on Spain Rehab vs. Shepards today. Both are very good. he isn't gonna wanna go though, he is already wanting to go home. Please pray about that too.


My first instinct was that it could be due to the change in his room. I's not uncommon. Also, rhet 2 and JenyEliza make very good points, as well.


He's going to have his good and his bad days, just like my son does. Be at peace, my friend. We are all praying. :hug:

[Mrs Chug]

Hi Jeff, hope Mitch has a better day and at least got some sleep.

[jet]

As others have already said, vent away. You are on a tough road but you are surrounded by many people that care for you and are lifting up your son moment by moment. I would be he has a prayer being said for him just about every minute of every hour.
Day by day, one day at a time, sometimes one moment at a time.

God bless and the prayers continue.

[jwil59]

The hospital folks tell us that Mitch's agitation and such is a result of the injury like jeny said. Mitch isn't 18 until June so that might be an issue but I doubt it. I have made a note of that though so we can discuss it. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your posts. It has really helped me tons. I really don't have the words to describe my felling so I am not going to try cause we are going to bed early

I am posting this from my house. I came home one day to get some clothes and we came home Christmas Eve to give our oldest son his gifts but that has been it. My sister is staying tonight so we will be sleeping in our own bed for the first time since the night before the accident. This is gonna be cool. It's hard for me to leave but we will do him no good if we are brain dead. I think we are looking at going to rehab Monday or Tuesday because of the holiday. If not for that it would have been probably Friday to one of two facilities. The rehab thing brings on a whole new set or prayer needs.

Some things transpired today that makes it more than obvious where all the professionals at the hospital, who do this for a living every week, want Mitch to go to rehab. We have narrowed it down to Spain or Shepards. The social workers and physical and occupational folks say that they are not allowed to come straight out and reccomend a facility. I almost broke down in the hallway cause I was expecting some serious help. It's a decesion of epic proportion. They started to speak in a different way. Marcus made a comparsion about cars and Shepards is a Mercedes. My wife said well what is Spain, is it a Buick? he said not really a Buick but I think you get my point. The head occupational therapy woman was talking to darlene and darlene told her that we are looking seriously at Shepards. She said that was a great idea. I said that we have heard that Spain is also great and she that yes it is but she thought my wife had a great idea. LOL. Our first choice is Shepards but we will take Spain if we don't get into Shepards. When I told Marcus that they all grabbed their cell phones and went to work. They really want him to go there but there are no gaurantees we will get in. I also appreciate all the offers of help from my Atlanta hannity friends. We might need to tap into that if we can go there. If nothing else I might need some face to feace vent time.
1 - Please pray we get in, marcus said he thinks my insurance will work but cannot be sure. Marcus said it will probably be Monday before we can meet with the Shepards lady. I am thinking she has seen the referral he sent and is willing to meet with us. I hope that is a good sign
2 - Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

I addition to all you thoughts and prayer I really need to add those 2 things. This is mega important. I cannot stress how important that is. This could be the most important decesion of my life thus far. We want to go to Shepards. This is also consistent with what many of you guys seem to think. There might be problems though so we need God to intervene now.

My sister says Mitch is doing ok for now. Please pray they have a good night. My sister Joni is a dear soul so please just pray for her in general. She is driving the carepages site. Gezz I love that woman, and she loves me too. My parents and my best buddy Mike are also on the team but my parents are old and not able to do too much. They do pray and worry alot. People have been so good to us. I had an old farternity brother come by today I have not seen in 28 years. My Chuch family is awesome and so are you guys. Please hang with me here, we might be turning a corner. I love you guys.

I also wanted to take just another sec and update you guys on a couple of other people I asked you to pray for. gary said a doctor and a couple nurses came into their room today and said she wasn't a very good candidate for any rehab facility because she wasn't speaking and making and new steps for the last little while. Another nurse came in and started to brush Brittney hair. Brittney says stop that hurts. She spoke for the first time and is off to the races according to gary. praise God. I also asked you at one point to pray for Mr Hurst I think. I do not remember if I listed him as Mr Hurst or Sandy. Either way, they took him off his ventilator last night and he is talking to his wife for the first time too.

Thanks and please do not stop.

[blazer]

UPDATE!
The hospital folks tell us that Mitch's agitation and such is a result of the injury like jeny said. Mitch isn't 18 until June so that might be an issue but I doubt it. I have made a note of that though so we can discuss it. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your posts. It has really helped me tons. I really don't have the words to describe my felling so I am not going to try cause we are going to bed early

I am posting this from my house. I came home one day to get some clothes and we came home Christmas Eve to give our oldest son his gifts but that has been it. My sister is staying tonight so we will be sleeping in our own bed for the first time since the night before the accident. This is gonna be cool. It's hard for me to leave but we will do him no good if we are brain dead. I think we are looking at going to rehab Monday or Tuesday because of the holiday. If not for that it would have been probably Friday to one of two facilities. The rehab thing brings on a whole new set or prayer needs.

Some things transpired today that makes it more than obvious where all the professionals at the hospital, who do this for a living every week, want Mitch to go to rehab. We have narrowed it down to Spain or Shepards. The social workers and physical and occupational folks say that they are not allowed to come straight out and reccomend a facility. I almost broke down in the hallway cause I was expecting some serious help. It's a decesion of epic proportion. They started to speak in a different way. Marcus made a comparsion about cars and Shepards is a Mercedes. My wife said well what is Spain, is it a Buick? he said not really a Buick but I think you get my point. The head occupational therapy woman was talking to darlene and darlene told her that we are looking seriously at Shepards. She said that was a great idea. I said that we have heard that Spain is also great and she that yes it is but she thought my wife had a great idea. LOL. Our first choice is Shepards but we will take Spain if we don't get into Shepards. When I told Marcus that they all grabbed their cell phones and went to work. They really want him to go there but there are no gaurantees we will get in. I also appreciate all the offers of help from my Atlanta hannity friends. We might need to tap into that if we can go there. If nothing else I might need some face to feace vent time.
1 - Please pray we get in, marcus said he thinks my insurance will work but cannot be sure. Marcus said it will probably be Monday before we can meet with the Shepards lady. I am thinking she has seen the referral he sent and is willing to meet with us. I hope that is a good sign
2 - Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

I addition to all you thoughts and prayer I really need to add those 2 things. This is mega important. I cannot stress how important that is. This could be the most important decesion of my life thus far. We want to go to Shepards. This is also consistent with what many of you guys seem to think. There might be problems though so we need God to intervene now.

My sister says Mitch is doing ok for now. Please pray they have a good night. My sister Joni is a dear soul so please just pray for her in general. She is driving the carepages site. Gezz I love that woman, and she loves me too. My parents and my best buddy Mike are also on the team but my parents are old and not able to do too much. They do pray and worry alot. People have been so good to us. I had an old farternity brother come by today I have not seen in 28 years. My Chuch family is awesome and so are you guys. Please hang with me here, we might be turning a corner. I love you guys.

I also wanted to take just another sec and update you guys on a couple of other people I asked you to pray for. gary said a doctor and a couple nurses came into their room today and said she wasn't a very good candidate for any rehab facility because she wasn't speaking and making and new steps for the last little while. Another nurse came in and started to brush Brittney hair. Brittney says stop that hurts. She spoke for the first time and is off to the races according to gary. praise God. I also asked you at one point to pray for Mr Hurst I think. I do not remember if I listed him as Mr Hurst or Sandy. Either way, they took him off his ventilator last night and he is talking to his wife for the first time too.

Thanks and please do not stop.
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

Thanks for the updates, Jeff.

I'm glad Mitch and the others at the hospital are all making progress! You go and try to relax with your wife for a little down time at your home.

Prayers and well wishes are streaming out in hopes that you can get the best care possible for your boy.

Hang in there, we all love you!

:hug:

[blazer]

I am so glad you went home tonight! I hope and pray you and your wife get some much needed sleep and rest! Praying about all of this! :hug:

[gb2004]

Still praying, Jeff. :pray:

[bella-day]

Thank you for the update Jeff.

Its great that you are getting a little down time tonight. I'm sure you and Darlene have loads to discuss in the quiet of your home and I'm equally sure that a comfortably deep sleep in your own bed is in order.

Prayers of thanks for the progress Britney and Mr. Hurst are making.

Prayers for guidance, strength, peace, and wisdom for you and Darlene and of course prayers for Mitch's continued progress.

[BasicGreatGuy]

The hospital folks tell us that Mitch's agitation and such is a result of the injury like jeny said. Mitch isn't 18 until June so that might be an issue but I doubt it. I have made a note of that though so we can discuss it. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your posts. It has really helped me tons. I really don't have the words to describe my felling so I am not going to try cause we are going to bed early

I am posting this from my house. I came home one day to get some clothes and we came home Christmas Eve to give our oldest son his gifts but that has been it. My sister is staying tonight so we will be sleeping in our own bed for the first time since the night before the accident. This is gonna be cool. It's hard for me to leave but we will do him no good if we are brain dead. I think we are looking at going to rehab Monday or Tuesday because of the holiday. If not for that it would have been probably Friday to one of two facilities. The rehab thing brings on a whole new set or prayer needs.

Some things transpired today that makes it more than obvious where all the professionals at the hospital, who do this for a living every week, want Mitch to go to rehab. We have narrowed it down to Spain or Shepards. The social workers and physical and occupational folks say that they are not allowed to come straight out and reccomend a facility. I almost broke down in the hallway cause I was expecting some serious help. It's a decesion of epic proportion. They started to speak in a different way. Marcus made a comparsion about cars and Shepards is a Mercedes. My wife said well what is Spain, is it a Buick? he said not really a Buick but I think you get my point. The head occupational therapy woman was talking to darlene and darlene told her that we are looking seriously at Shepards. She said that was a great idea. I said that we have heard that Spain is also great and she that yes it is but she thought my wife had a great idea. LOL. Our first choice is Shepards but we will take Spain if we don't get into Shepards. When I told Marcus that they all grabbed their cell phones and went to work. They really want him to go there but there are no gaurantees we will get in. I also appreciate all the offers of help from my Atlanta hannity friends. We might need to tap into that if we can go there. If nothing else I might need some face to feace vent time.
1 - Please pray we get in, marcus said he thinks my insurance will work but cannot be sure. Marcus said it will probably be Monday before we can meet with the Shepards lady. I am thinking she has seen the referral he sent and is willing to meet with us. I hope that is a good sign
2 - Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

I addition to all you thoughts and prayer I really need to add those 2 things. This is mega important. I cannot stress how important that is. This could be the most important decesion of my life thus far. We want to go to Shepards. This is also consistent with what many of you guys seem to think. There might be problems though so we need God to intervene now.

My sister says Mitch is doing ok for now. Please pray they have a good night. My sister Joni is a dear soul so please just pray for her in general. She is driving the carepages site. Gezz I love that woman, and she loves me too. My parents and my best buddy Mike are also on the team but my parents are old and not able to do too much. They do pray and worry alot. People have been so good to us. I had an old farternity brother come by today I have not seen in 28 years. My Chuch family is awesome and so are you guys. Please hang with me here, we might be turning a corner. I love you guys.

I also wanted to take just another sec and update you guys on a couple of other people I asked you to pray for. gary said a doctor and a couple nurses came into their room today and said she wasn't a very good candidate for any rehab facility because she wasn't speaking and making and new steps for the last little while. Another nurse came in and started to brush Brittney hair. Brittney says stop that hurts. She spoke for the first time and is off to the races according to gary. praise God. I also asked you at one point to pray for Mr Hurst I think. I do not remember if I listed him as Mr Hurst or Sandy. Either way, they took him off his ventilator last night and he is talking to his wife for the first time too.

Thanks and please do not stop.

Thank you for taking the time to update us Jeff. I will continue to pray my friend. I truly believe that you will be able to get Mitch into Shepherd. It is a top notch facility. They do wonderful work there.

Seeing how I am 40 mins or so from Shepherd, if there is any thing at all that I can do, to be a help to you in any way, please don't hesitate to ask Jeff.

[JenyEliza]

The hospital folks tell us that Mitch's agitation and such is a result of the injury like jeny said. Mitch isn't 18 until June so that might be an issue but I doubt it. I have made a note of that though so we can discuss it. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your posts. It has really helped me tons. I really don't have the words to describe my felling so I am not going to try cause we are going to bed early

I am posting this from my house. I came home one day to get some clothes and we came home Christmas Eve to give our oldest son his gifts but that has been it. My sister is staying tonight so we will be sleeping in our own bed for the first time since the night before the accident. This is gonna be cool. It's hard for me to leave but we will do him no good if we are brain dead. I think we are looking at going to rehab Monday or Tuesday because of the holiday. If not for that it would have been probably Friday to one of two facilities. The rehab thing brings on a whole new set or prayer needs.

Some things transpired today that makes it more than obvious where all the professionals at the hospital, who do this for a living every week, want Mitch to go to rehab. We have narrowed it down to Spain or Shepards. The social workers and physical and occupational folks say that they are not allowed to come straight out and reccomend a facility. I almost broke down in the hallway cause I was expecting some serious help. It's a decesion of epic proportion. They started to speak in a different way. Marcus made a comparsion about cars and Shepards is a Mercedes. My wife said well what is Spain, is it a Buick? he said not really a Buick but I think you get my point. The head occupational therapy woman was talking to darlene and darlene told her that we are looking seriously at Shepards. She said that was a great idea. I said that we have heard that Spain is also great and she that yes it is but she thought my wife had a great idea. LOL. Our first choice is Shepards but we will take Spain if we don't get into Shepards. When I told Marcus that they all grabbed their cell phones and went to work. They really want him to go there but there are no gaurantees we will get in. I also appreciate all the offers of help from my Atlanta hannity friends. We might need to tap into that if we can go there. If nothing else I might need some face to feace vent time.
1 - Please pray we get in, marcus said he thinks my insurance will work but cannot be sure. Marcus said it will probably be Monday before we can meet with the Shepards lady. I am thinking she has seen the referral he sent and is willing to meet with us. I hope that is a good sign
2 - Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

I addition to all you thoughts and prayer I really need to add those 2 things. This is mega important. I cannot stress how important that is. This could be the most important decesion of my life thus far. We want to go to Shepards. This is also consistent with what many of you guys seem to think. There might be problems though so we need God to intervene now.

My sister says Mitch is doing ok for now. Please pray they have a good night. My sister Joni is a dear soul so please just pray for her in general. She is driving the carepages site. Gezz I love that woman, and she loves me too. My parents and my best buddy Mike are also on the team but my parents are old and not able to do too much. They do pray and worry alot. People have been so good to us. I had an old farternity brother come by today I have not seen in 28 years. My Chuch family is awesome and so are you guys. Please hang with me here, we might be turning a corner. I love you guys.

I also wanted to take just another sec and update you guys on a couple of other people I asked you to pray for. gary said a doctor and a couple nurses came into their room today and said she wasn't a very good candidate for any rehab facility because she wasn't speaking and making and new steps for the last little while. Another nurse came in and started to brush Brittney hair. Brittney says stop that hurts. She spoke for the first time and is off to the races according to gary. praise God. I also asked you at one point to pray for Mr Hurst I think. I do not remember if I listed him as Mr Hurst or Sandy. Either way, they took him off his ventilator last night and he is talking to his wife for the first time too.

Thanks and please do not stop.

Awesome miracles are happening over there in Alabama, Jeff!

Atlanta is ready whenever you guys are! Shepherd Spinal Center IS the Mercedes of treatment centers for Mitch's type of injury.

If he were MINE, there is no question I would move heaven and earth, the stars and the sun to make sure he got in.

He seems to be a textbook case--and you have private pay insurance--that is in your favor.

My mother worked as an RN in Atlanta for years before she retired. She cared for many GSW patients in all her years (and almost became one herself when she was held hostage by a nutcase with a gun in the ER).

I will ask her if she has any connections left at Shepherd. She used to work ER, so she knows a lot the good trauma surgeons and the like. If any of those guys are still practicing and still have privileges at Shepherd, I'll let you know. Maybe she can pull some strings (I can't promise she can, but I WILL ask)? The worst that can happen is she's lost these valued connections. Won't hurt to ask. Right?

I will keep praying for you all. Shepherd is a GOOD decision--the best possible for Mitch! By the way---a famous WWE wrestler (I shall not name him publicly) is currently a patient at Shepherd. Too many hits to the head and spine left him with a ****tered vertebrae that pierced his spinal cord on a cross-country flight. He is LUCKY to be alive. The wrestler visits young patients in Shepherd's program to lift their spirits and encourage them. He has lost everything during this time in his life---but he found the most important thing. The Lord.

I hope you get a chance to meet him. He's met my neighbor's husband and her two boys. Always a smile on his face as he tries to rebuild his broken body and minister to the patients!

Sending you much love and hugs! :hug:

Please let me know how I can help TEAM MITCH!

Jeny

[JenyEliza]

Thank you for taking the time to update us Jeff. I will continue to pray my friend. I truly believe that you will be able to get Mitch into Shepherd. It is a top notch facility. They do wonderful work there.

Seeing how I am 40 mins or so from Shepherd, if there is any thing at all that I can do, to be a help to you in any way, please don't hesitate to ask Jeff.

BGG--maybe we can make our Atlanta get-together a TEAM MITCH Rally?

What do you think? Cutiepie? You in?

Anyone else from Atlanta want to help?

Let us know....

[BasicGreatGuy]

BGG--maybe we can make our Atlanta get-together a TEAM MITCH Rally?

What do you think? Cutiepie? You in?

Anyone else from Atlanta want to help?

Let us know....

That is a wonderful idea Jeny. :dance:

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

BGG--maybe we can make our Atlanta get-together a TEAM MITCH Rally?

What do you think? Cutiepie? You in?

Anyone else from Atlanta want to help?

Let us know....

Count Smibbo and I in.

[rckirby]

I just saw the sticky.....

Wow, I can't express my sorrow......but I have hope and faith in all of our prayers.

We that have children need to know that a disaster could confront us at any moment.

My prayers are with jwil and mitch.

[czzzaar]

Jeff, I'll be praying tonight that you get Mitch into Shepards.

May God continue to bless your family through this trial, and may He continue to work His miracles for Mitchell.

[czzzaar]

BGG--maybe we can make our Atlanta get-together a TEAM MITCH Rally?

What do you think? Cutiepie? You in?

Anyone else from Atlanta want to help?

Let us know....

I can't join you in Atlanta but I will be there in spirit.

[tinydancer]

Here is a direct link:

http://www.carepages.com/carepages/MitchellWillingham/updates/1894714

Thank you for the link. I've been posting prayers in the WP styky and I had wondered what the care pages were.

Thanks again,
tinydancer

[countzero123]

Some encouraging news about Mitch, and Brittney and Mr.Hurst too. So glad to hear it. I hope things work out the best for rehab.

Great that you're getting to sleep at home finally - sounds like you've got a good team on your side there. I'll say a prayer for them all, and especially that your sister finds some extra blessings from all this. It sounds like she deserves it.

[birdonawire]

Checking in for the updates we are now praying for the new specific needs. :hug: :pray:

[Cutiepie]

UPDATE!
The hospital folks tell us that Mitch's agitation and such is a result of the injury like jeny said. Mitch isn't 18 until June so that might be an issue but I doubt it. I have made a note of that though so we can discuss it. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your posts. It has really helped me tons. I really don't have the words to describe my felling so I am not going to try cause we are going to bed early

I am posting this from my house. I came home one day to get some clothes and we came home Christmas Eve to give our oldest son his gifts but that has been it. My sister is staying tonight so we will be sleeping in our own bed for the first time since the night before the accident. This is gonna be cool. It's hard for me to leave but we will do him no good if we are brain dead. I think we are looking at going to rehab Monday or Tuesday because of the holiday. If not for that it would have been probably Friday to one of two facilities. The rehab thing brings on a whole new set or prayer needs.

Some things transpired today that makes it more than obvious where all the professionals at the hospital, who do this for a living every week, want Mitch to go to rehab. We have narrowed it down to Spain or Shepards. The social workers and physical and occupational folks say that they are not allowed to come straight out and reccomend a facility. I almost broke down in the hallway cause I was expecting some serious help. It's a decesion of epic proportion. They started to speak in a different way. Marcus made a comparsion about cars and Shepards is a Mercedes. My wife said well what is Spain, is it a Buick? he said not really a Buick but I think you get my point. The head occupational therapy woman was talking to darlene and darlene told her that we are looking seriously at Shepards. She said that was a great idea. I said that we have heard that Spain is also great and she that yes it is but she thought my wife had a great idea. LOL. Our first choice is Shepards but we will take Spain if we don't get into Shepards. When I told Marcus that they all grabbed their cell phones and went to work. They really want him to go there but there are no gaurantees we will get in. I also appreciate all the offers of help from my Atlanta hannity friends. We might need to tap into that if we can go there. If nothing else I might need some face to feace vent time.
1 - Please pray we get in, marcus said he thinks my insurance will work but cannot be sure. Marcus said it will probably be Monday before we can meet with the Shepards lady. I am thinking she has seen the referral he sent and is willing to meet with us. I hope that is a good sign
2 - Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

I addition to all you thoughts and prayer I really need to add those 2 things. This is mega important. I cannot stress how important that is. This could be the most important decesion of my life thus far. We want to go to Shepards. This is also consistent with what many of you guys seem to think. There might be problems though so we need God to intervene now.

My sister says Mitch is doing ok for now. Please pray they have a good night. My sister Joni is a dear soul so please just pray for her in general. She is driving the carepages site. Gezz I love that woman, and she loves me too. My parents and my best buddy Mike are also on the team but my parents are old and not able to do too much. They do pray and worry alot. People have been so good to us. I had an old farternity brother come by today I have not seen in 28 years. My Chuch family is awesome and so are you guys. Please hang with me here, we might be turning a corner. I love you guys.

I also wanted to take just another sec and update you guys on a couple of other people I asked you to pray for. gary said a doctor and a couple nurses came into their room today and said she wasn't a very good candidate for any rehab facility because she wasn't speaking and making and new steps for the last little while. Another nurse came in and started to brush Brittney hair. Brittney says stop that hurts. She spoke for the first time and is off to the races according to gary. praise God. I also asked you at one point to pray for Mr Hurst I think. I do not remember if I listed him as Mr Hurst or Sandy. Either way, they took him off his ventilator last night and he is talking to his wife for the first time too.

Thanks and please do not stop.
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL



Jeff, you have my cell phone number and like I said, either call or text me. I am here to help you.

[Gregor]

It was good to see your son's face so that now I can visualize him when I pray. You have a beautiful family, Jeff.

[JenyEliza]

Count Smibbo and I in.

You're counted! Once we get the confirmation that our boy Mitch is coming to Atlanta, I'll send some PM's to the Atlantans and others (including non-Atlantans) on the list to let you know what Mitch and his family need in the way of support.

Thanks for raising your hand(s). :hug:

Jen

[JenyEliza]

It was good to see your son's face so that now I can visualize him when I pray. You have a beautiful family, Jeff.

I quite agree. Thanks for the kind PM.

I'm only doing what I would hope someone would do for me, if these shoes were on my feet.

I can't even imagine all Mitch and his family have been through. But one thing is for certain, he *is* our miracle boy. Not quite two weeks ago, his life hung in the balance and it wasn't certain he would survive, much less be talking and thinking and joking and getting agitated and cussing!

He's come a long way, baby! With a bit longer to go, and that's why we're gonna help get him the rest of the way there. ;)

:hug:

[JenyEliza]

I can't join you in Atlanta but I will be there in spirit.

Awesome. If there's something you can do from afar, we'll let you know.

TEAM MITCH IS GROWING! :dance:

Thanks for raising your hand in support of Mitch and his family.

[Gregor]

I quite agree. Thanks for the kind PM.

I'm only doing what I would hope someone would do for me, if these shoes were on my feet.

I can't even imagine all Mitch and his family have been through. But one thing is for certain, he *is* our miracle boy. Not quite two weeks ago, his life hung in the balance and it wasn't certain he would survive, much less be talking and thinking and joking and getting agitated and cussing!

He's come a long way, baby! With a bit longer to go, and that's why we're gonna help get him the rest of the way there. ;)

:hug:
You have the experience to make a huge difference, and that's what you've done here.

Amazing how when you mentioned when Jeff made his first post, how my eyes filled with tears again, just as they did that first morning I read is message. I know both, father and son, have a long road ahead of them, but this road is a good road.

[czzzaar]

Awesome. If there's something you can do from afar, we'll let you know.

TEAM MITCH IS GROWING! :dance:

Thanks for raising your hand in support of Mitch and his family.

That would be great.

Ever since I became a father 8 years ago anything bad that happens to children really gets to me, and when you feel a connection to someone that intensifies those feelings even more.

[Seanachie]

Hello Jeff,

My prayers are with Mitch and urgently 'in' with the 'Big Guy' that He bring him a peaceful night of rest and his 'light' of Hope at today's dawning. My prayers are also offered 'up' for Joni standing watch over Mitch and for Yours and Darlene's peaceful slumber.

I have to leave for Jersey in the morning for pressing Family 'stuff' but I will try to be in touch with my Daughter's puter. Just know that my prayers are 'in' for Mitch in every waking moment. That Young Lad is most definately a marvel and a fighter. I'm in his corner in every step and every 'fight' he will have to fight.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[EmmanuelGoldstein]

Please pray that we can swing it. We have to keep our jobs and house so he will have a house to come home to. We do have a short term plan for that

Jeff, both you and your wife should file for FMLA. That gives each of you 120 days per year and it will protect your jobs. You don't have to take it all at once, it can be divided up as a day here or there, even as hours or a shortened workday. It is also per event. Please have Mitch's doc sign the papers and file them with your employers. That will be at least one thing off your minds as you move forward.

[crystalclear]

Actually agitation and combativeness is VERY common in patients who survive spinal cord and head injuries.

It's more likely the result of healing taking place within his damaged brain, with neurons reforming connections that were disrupted and disconnected by the bullet that passed through his brain.

Time to heal more, rehab, physical and occcupational therapy will help Mitch with the agitation and frustration.

It also will likely improve once he is able to get out of bed--even in a wheel chair and increase his activity level.

Remember--this is a 17 year old boy who is used to expending great deals of energy in his daily life, who has now become bedridden. Emotionally, that's devastating and physically challenging for anyone, much less a 17 year old.
Exactly!!

[crystalclear]

Jeff, both you and your wife should file for FMLA. That gives each of you 120 days per year and it will protect your jobs. You don't have to take it all at once, it can be divided up as a day here or there, even as hours or a shortened workday. It is also per event. Please have Mitch's doc sign the papers and file them with your employers. That will be at least one thing off your minds as you move forward.
Great idea and I pray their company honors this.

[Seanachie]

Good Morning Jeff,

I hope and pray that this Irish Blessing might bring you some strength today;

This day I call to me:
God's strength to direct me,
God's power to sustain me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's vision to light me,
God's ear to my hearing,
God's word to my speaking,
God's hand to uphold me,
God's pathway before me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's legions to save me.

I'll be on the road in a couple of hours. I hope and pray that this Blessing helps you through the day and the days ahead.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[outfromunder]

Great idea and I pray their company honors this.

Their company has no choice but to honor the FMLA. Its Jeff's right federally protected to take how he chooses.

Jeff, I hope you are well and am glad to hear of the progress Mitch is making.

Praying for you bro and thinking of you daily.

JD

[EmmanuelGoldstein]

Great idea and I pray their company honors this.

They have to, it's the law.

[repchick]

Count me in even though I don't live in Atlanta I'll do what I can here In VA.

Still praying for Mitch. Jeff you and Mrs. Jeff hang in there.:hug::hug:

[mgifford]

You're counted! Once we get the confirmation that our boy Mitch is coming to Atlanta, I'll send some PM's to the Atlantans and others (including non-Atlantans) on the list to let you know what Mitch and his family need in the way of support.

Thanks for raising your hand(s). :hug:

Jen

In that case I'll be there!

[mgifford]

BGG--maybe we can make our Atlanta get-together a TEAM MITCH Rally?

What do you think? Cutiepie? You in?

Anyone else from Atlanta want to help?

Let us know....


Of course.

[curtis123]

Said a prayer for Mitchell and yourself this morning.

Hang in there, bro. Trust Him completely.

Curt

[itsrea]

You are probably already up and off to the hospital but just in case not I wanted to say hi my friend, you are all still in my prayers and heart. I am heartened by your post and thanking the Lord for steps already taken as he holds Mitchell close.

hugs.
rea

[jwil59]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

[rhet 2]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

Have been -- for the last two days.

God give you both wisdom -- wisdom for you to explain and wisdom for him to accept. And a whole lot more.

[blazer]

UPDATE
I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL

[Cutiepie]

UPDATE
I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL



Jeff, I will do that.

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

Good to hear! I hope you and the Missus had a good night's sleep as well!

Many prayers for you that you find the wisdom you need.

[JenyEliza]

Of course.

Oh, that's AWESOME Mr. Gifford. I can't wait to meet you and Mrs. Gifford in real life!

God bless you both for offering to help support Mitch's family while they're our guests in Atlanta.

:hug:

Jeny

[JenyEliza]

Anyone know of a good venue nearby Shepherd that we could hold our Rally?

I'm not so familar with the area nearby. I could ask my neighbor (if she ever stops her mini-van between trips to Shepherd herself).

Jeff: Give us the heads up when the decision is made to move Mitch to Shepherd. We'll be here to support you all!

Love,

Jeny

[Freefreq]

TY for the updates Jeff I personally appreciate it. Mitch is coming along and God is there with him. Im praying about him making it into Shepherd also.

[roger teekell]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

Will do my friend...

Give Mitch our love...

Prayers going up daily...:hug:

[blazer]

I would love to come down to hot lanta to show my support but I will be there in spirit! :hug:

[Mrs Chug]

I wish, we were so much closer, but it's really a bit far for us to travel, but if you ever head to the UK, give us the heads up and we will be happy to show you our country.

Still thinking of you jeff and family.

[USMCmom]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

Stay strong dear friend....
Sending prayers & hugs for the task at hand!
Luv ya...:hug:

[murphy]

Jeff:

So very glad to hear that Mitchell had a good night last night...as always, he will remain in my prayers.

Prayers today for you and your wife to find the strength and words necessary to explain to Mitchell how this tragedy took place. I can only say, that in light of what you've told us, be careful to not divulge anything that might "trip" his memory one way or another. Only give him what facts you are certain of. Hope all goes well, we'll be with you in spirit.

God Bless, take care,
Murphy

[Gregor]

So ends 2008. Wishing Mitchell total recover in '09, and for you dear Jeff, all that you deserve.:hug::hug::hug:

[birdonawire]

Still praying. :pray:

[DarthBush]

My youngest 17 year old son has suffered an accidental gun shot wound to the head. I am posting this from Hunstville Hospital ICU waithing room. The foklks are very nice here. he was transfered here from a smaller hospital. He has undergone brain surgery and all they will tell us at this point is that things are not looking good, and that if he does survive there is certainly severe brain damage. The good part is the bullet only passed through about 1/3 to 1/2 of his brain but there is damage.

It doesn't get any worse than this my friends. THis is the worst life has to offer. He was with friends and there was a firarm is all we really know. The cops say there is not foul play and I have spoken to the boys present. Yall I'm sorry I can't talk about it right now.

Please pray for Mitchell, things are not looking good for him.

God bless,

Jeff

OMG Jeff

I'm so sorry to hear your son was hurt. I will pray for him and your family. If you dont mind, I would like to submit his name to my church elders to hold him up in prayer.

Again, I'm truly sorry you and your family are going through this.

[melinda]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

already been praying for that...and thank God he had a good night; I hope you did as well.
I loved all the pictures on the care pages ...
prayers will continue.

thank you also for the update on Brittney.

[nortman]

I will continue to pray that all works out well.

[tha malcontent™]

I don't have tim eto read everything right now cause I gotta get back to the hospital. Joni says Mitch had a pretty good night last night. please pray for her.

he is wanting badly to know what happened so I am going to have tp tell him. I ask that you pray about that thid morning.

Jeff

Godspeed, Brother...

Continued Prayers your way...

:)

peace...

[Remus Lupin]

Still praying here too!

[jwil59]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff

[CID_0687]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff
That's great Jeff...It's good that he took you telling him so well...Still praying for a full recovery, and God's leading for which rehab facility.

God Bless you all my friend.

[jet]

Great news, Jeff! Prayers keep going up. You keep hanging in there, dear one.

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

AWESOME!

That is fantastic new, Jeff. I am so happy for all of you!

[Buffalo]

That is great news Jeff and I hope and pray it continues to improve for Mitchell and your family.

[blazer]

UPDATE!
Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL

[melinda]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff

I am so happy that you finally told Mitch about the accident. I know that has been weighing heavily on both of y'all. I understand his worry that people might judge him, but the thing is he also just learned a very important lesson a very hard way. He now might be the perfect person for his cousins and friends to talk to about guns. As horrible as this has been and has hard as it is for Mitch and all of y'all, God might just use him and his experience to save someone else's life later. We never know...
I know he has such a long, long way to go, but everything has just been so wonderful and so miraculous so far. God is amazing and so great and so merciful.

[agent_86]

UPDATE!
Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL

Tell him the most important thing is that he learn from whatever happens. Then people will judge him as a wise person.

Everyone makes mistakes and has accidents or gets into trouble. The wise person learns from it.

He sounds like he's already thinking and learning, so i have faith he'll be the wiser for it.

We just want him alive, and I'm sure most people feel the same. Everything else is elementary.

Keep strong. I know you will.

[blazer]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

[Cutiepie]

UPDATE!
Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff
__________________
Please pray hard for my son Mitch

WHEN YOU FIND SOMEONE TO LOVE IN THIS WORLD YOU BETTER HANG ON TOOTH AND NAIL




Praise the Lord!!! I will continue to pray Jeff.

[rhet 2]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Amen and again, AMEN in humongous huge letters across the heavens!

Those are cleansing words and tears Mitch shed this day. Healing, huge emotional healing to match the physical we've seen.

Jeff, relax about the Rehab decision a bit, 'k?

God knows exactly which therapists are going to do him the most good -- and we're praying our hearts out that He lets you folks in on the news.

And then, there's this: nothing is set in concrete. If one doesn't work out, the next one will -- and God is in the business of correcting human errors.

He will NOT let you make the wrong decisions, because, Rms. 8:28, whatever you decide, He'll MAKE IT WORK for Mitch's benefit and for your own at one and the same time.

He led Israel into the Promised Land, despite everything they did to mess up -- and He'll lead you and Mitch through this one, too, you bet.

Just try to relax and wait on His leadership. He knows where the pastures of still water are located, and He's even more determined to get your family installed in one of them than you are.

[bella-day]

Awesome news!

This is indeed a good day for all of you.

Prayers continue.

[Spiked101]

Still sending prayers your way.

[JenyEliza]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff

Jeff,

Here's some info on Sheherd's Center. I hope it helps.
http://www.shepherd.org/admref/hosadm.asp


Hospital Admissions

At Shepherd Center, our team approach starts the moment you call. Our staff of admissions liaisons can assess patients anywhere in the United States within 24 hours of referral. We offer this service free of charge and often serve as the referring hospital's primary educator and resource for family members.

We will help you through this with an action plan that identifies important next steps for your family to take.

Contact our Admissions Department
Please call our Admissions Department to refer a patient with a catastrophic spinal cord injury, acquired brain injury or neuromuscular diagnosis.

By phone or fax 1-800-SHEPHERD (800-743-7437) or 404-350-7345 (within metro Atlanta area), or fax 404-350-7360. (8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday-Friday)
To refer a patient in the evening, early morning or on weekends, call the ICU directly at 404-350-7665 or fax 404-350-7658.

By email Email admissions at admissions@shepherd.org (admissions@shepherd.org).
You will be asked for basic information. Please be prepared to answer questions regarding: Patient's current location
Potential date of transfer
The individual's date of injury or onset of illness
The level of injury or type of illness
Other medical history
Individual's assigned case manager/discharge planner
Insurance provider, policy number and customer service number.
If no medical coverage is available, you will be able to speak with a financial counselor.

Admissions Process
The admissions process includes the assessment of the medical, clinical and psychosocial needs of each patient and family to ensure the most appropriate level of care. The initial assessment process may be completed by phone or on-site visit by a Shepherd Center clinical evaluator.

Workers' Compensation
Patients who are seeking admission to Shepherd Center under workers compensation and need assistance or information are welcome to contact Colleen McCrory, Shepherd Center's National Workers Compensation Liaison, at 404-423-7142 or email Colleen McCrory (colleen_mccrory@shepherd.org).

Diagnoses Treated at Shepherd Center
Shepherd Center offers acute medical and rehabilitation treatment to patients with a new injury or a recent onset of illness for the following diagnoses: Traumatic spinal cord injury for patients age 12 and above that has resulted in paraplegia, tetraplegia, high tetraplegia (including ventilator-dependent patients)
Acquired brain injury for patients age 12 and above (including traumatic brain injury, encephalitis, anoxia, tumor(s) and stroke patients up to age 65) and patients who are semi-comatose or minimally conscious
Dual diagnosis (spinal cord and acquired brain injury)
Non-traumatic spinal cord injury, such as spinal cord infarction, aneurysm
Multiple Sclerosis
Transverse Myelitis
Guillian-Barré syndrome
Spina bifida
Spinal tumors
Medical complications arising from any of the above conditions, such as: Scoliosis

Complications associated with spinal cord and brain injury
Wound/skin care
Septicemia
Urinary tract infection
Pneumonia and other pulmonary disorders
Symptoms of neurogenic bladder
Unstable spinal column (non-neuro deficit)
Pain, spasticity and restorative procedures for better hand function and bladder and bowel control

[countzero123]

Awesome! :clap:

[mryukon]

Jeff, although I have followed this tragedy from the beginning, I hesitated to post. First, I am glad you shared your sorrow with us, all tasks become easier with more doers. Second, I am grateful for young Mitch's fantastic progress over the past few days. Hang in there, pray, and do not forget to take care of yourselves as well. I will continue praying for ya'all.

Bob

[Mrs Chug]

That is great news Jeff, another step completed.

[Hadassah]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff


I am so thrilled. God is so amazing and so faithful.


And about the rehab decision.........we can always pray that God opens the door to the place He wants Mitch to go and closes the door to the other, if that will help. :hug:

[blazer]

I am so thrilled. God is so amazing and so faithful.


And about the rehab decision.........we can always pray that God opens the door to the place He wants Mitch to go and closes the door to the other, if that will help. :hug:

Good idea haddie!:hug:

[who]

I am thunderstruck by the miraculous light and power that has enabled this recovery Jeff. I have been following the updates and it has been so very emotional.

My warmest, deepest and most sincere wishes for you and your family at this time, and I do wish you a very Blessed New Year.

With love and light,
warmly,
who.

[foxgurrrl]

I truly hope for the best for everyone involved in this situation!

:hug:

[birdonawire]

Thank and praise the Lord! :hug:

Still praying for all you guys. :pray:

[crystalclear]

They have to, it's the law.

I don't want to derail this tender post. But not knowing if Jeff contracts his services is the reason why I said what I said. From what I understand...and I may be wrong, if you are a contractor some companys do not have to honor that law.

praying for your son Jeff...

Edited: Also if Jeffs company employs less than 24 people they do not fall under FMLA.

God bless!!

[Gregor]

You must feel so much relief knowing you got over that hurdle as difficult as it is. Congrats on so many positive developments in such a short amount of time. Happy New Year, indeed!!!

[czzzaar]

Glad to hear the continuing good news on Mitchell.

Y'all have a great New Years Eve and know that we are all still praying for more miracles.

[crystalclear]

I am so thrilled. God is so amazing and so faithful.


And about the rehab decision.........we can always pray that God opens the door to the place He wants Mitch to go and closes the door to the other, if that will help. :hug:

silly me! wrong post!

[outfromunder]

YES SIR! God is good all the time!

[jwil59]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

[Gregor]

So much progress my sweet man. The condition of the phone is just heartbreaking, but you were so wise to give him what he needs most. He's come such a great distance in a short time. My prayers and love are with you and yours. Happy New Year Jeff.

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

:hug:

Hugs and prayers for Mitch and your family.

The New Year is starting off better than the old one ended!

[crystalclear]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff

I can only imagine the joy you felt when you saw that picture of your son sitting up!:hug: How awesone is that?
Things are progressing so quickly! He'll be fine...just you wait and see.

God Bless!

[Cav Scout]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

Jeff, I have not much to offer, but I can and have given prayer and would like to leave you with my favorite from Numbers.

The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:The LORD make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace

God Bless

[blazer]

QUOTE=jwil59;45694381]Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

[animalnut]

What progress! I continue to pray for Mitch and for your family.

I have a friend whose son had a terrible brain injury. He was in intensive care for 7 weeks, and transferred to Bryn Mawr (sp. wrong) in Phila., which is an outstanding rehab facility. Brett's injury was more severe - he was thrown from a 4 wheel ATV. He and a buddy were going full blast down hill, when their ATV's hit a ditch. Both were thrown violently. One hit the ground, but Brett was thrown against a tree, where he hit the base of his neck, and had a severe brain stem injury. My friend and her husband were too distraught to even hear what the doctors were telling them, so I went through the whole process with them, so I could later tell them everything the doctors were saying. Brett had to have brain surgery. There were about 3 times we thought we'd lose him. When he was transferred to the rehab facility, miracles happened. He learned to walk again, talk, and made tremendous strides. We then moved to Florida, so I was no longer as involved. When I think of what Brett went through, I'm so optimistic for Mitch. Mitch is already talking some! He already grasps the danger of guns. I will continue to pray that things will work out well. I have faith that God is guiding all of you through this tragedy. God bless you!

[czzzaar]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

My heart breaks for you, Jeff. My thoughts and prayers are with you for the long haul.

I pray to God, in the name of his son Jesus Christ, our Savior, that the miracle will continue to grow and that Mitch will be healed so that he can live a normal, productive life, and experience fatherhood for himself one day.

God bless you and heal you all.

[blazer]

Still thinking and praying for you all! :hug:

[curtis123]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated coming out of ICU because of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans a lot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is coming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings a lot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. This is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone and she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused a lot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers coming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

Said a prayer for you and and your family this morning. I asked him to give you strength, but I think he already has.

I hope the new year brings you, Mitch and your family many more miracles.

Curt

[JenyEliza]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

God bless you and Darlene and Mitch! You have been thru something nobody should ever have to go thru.

I hope you get the rehab decision sorted out soon and get Mitch there and on the road to recovery.

Been studying the Shepherd website and found this about their Adolescent Acquired Brain Injury program. They have a secured unit devored *solely* to treating brain injured teens and getting them ready to go back to school and return their lives as "normally" as possible.

Shepherd's doesn't treat only the comatose or minimally consious patient. Also, they will send someone to your hospital to assess Mitch free of charge and determine if Shepherd is the right place for Mitch. All you have to do is have your case worker reach out to them.

I know you must think I am somehow associated with Shepherd's, but I'm not. I've spoken with my Mom (ER/Trauma RN) and she said if she had to decide between Spain or Shepherd for one of her kids, it wouldn't even be a question for her, she would pick Shepherd.

I know this is yoru decision....and I'm not trying to make it for you. But something bugged me about one of your posts when you said that Shepherd doesn't treat Mitch's kind of injury. They DO, and they do it VERY WELL. In fact, with their adolscent unit, thats become quiet a specialty for them, because sadly all too many teens end up brain injured through accidents, shootings and what not.

At any rate.....I will pray that God will place Mitch in the rehab facility that God chooses! :pray:

You just let us know if you need anything. Ok?

Love to you all,
Jeny

http://www.shepherd.org/patcare/brain/inpat/adol.asp

Adolescent Rehabilitation

Adolescents who sustain a brain injury have developmental and emotional needs that are distinct from adults who have experienced a brain injury.


Shepherd Center has more experience treating teenagers with these kinds of injuries than general rehabilitation facilities. Shepherd's adolescent program focuses on a healthy, quality lifestyle with the highest level of functioning and independence possible. It includes:

An interdisciplinary approach to addressing the teen patient's special need for independence, socialization, age-appropriate activities, security and privacy

A high priority on involving family and friends
An emphasis on private rooms or rooming teen patients together
Education and training in self care, problem solving, self esteem, self-advocacy, drug and alcohol awareness, self-care and sexuality
Read more about Shepherd Center's adolescent rehabilitation program and profiles of some of our former teen patients at our iRehab site (http://www.shepherd.org/irehab).


Returning to School
Approximately 95 percent of adolescents in the brain injury program return to school within three to six months of discharge. Shepherd's treatment teams begin working with the patient's school from the day they enter the hospital. This helps therapists establish an individual's pre-injury academic status and integrate class assignments into treatment as recovery continues.

Neuropsychologists and speech therapists conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify cognitive deficits and create treatment goals. Goals can include improving reading comprehension, listening skills, speech, writing and memory. Shepherd Center also provides strategies for patients, families, teachers and classmates necessary to help overcome problems that could interfere with academic success.

Shepherd's back-to-school efforts continue even after discharge. For teens with brain injuries, a specially-trained speech therapist assists school systems in preparing individual education plans. This interaction enables the therapist to educate teachers and school administrators on cognitive, social and behavioral issues related to the injury.

What's more, teens may be followed for up to a year after discharge through Shepherd's Marcus Community Bridge Program, which helps ensure that rehabilitation goals accomplished at Shepherd Center are sustained and built upon. Click here to view our Returning To School Guide (http://www.shepherd.org/patcare/brain/inpat/files/Back%20to%20School%20Guide.pdf)

Peer Support
Shepherd Center understands the need for adolescent patients to have positive peer interaction post-injury. Shepherd Center organizes teen "group time" that is dedicated to discussion of issues such as going out with friends, planning and organizing outings, and going back to school.

Family and Sibling Support
Educating family members about brain injuries and rehabilitation goes a long way in helping both the patient and the family adjust emotionally. A Shepherd Center psychologist with extensive adolescent treatment experience is available to meet with family members for this purpose.

Outings
Shepherd Center's community outings for teens, which include going to restaurants, shopping malls, sports arenas and even camping, promote problem solving and the experience of being out in the community in a supportive group. Therapists are always on hand to provide logistical and moral support.

[bella-day]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff


Prayers for you, your family, especially Mitch keep coming.

[StoneScratcher]

Dear Jeff,

Prayers go out for Mitchell, you and your family, for this brand New Year 2009!

Mitchell's agitation can be put to good use--you, the general, will have to make him a soldier for the battles he'll face ahead. He's on a mission--and you're going to have to be tough at times to re-focus him--a tough love, bit by bit, tiny pushes until he's over one summit, to perhaps face another. It is a long battle, but each progressive move ahead builds strength and character. Cradled in prayer, general and soldier, father and son, the mission becomes all the more meaningful--that summit, no matter what, is obtainable because God's Light guides all who seek Him.

The progress Mitchell has made is wonderful!

Jeff, I wonder if Mitchell is worrying about how others are judging him because he is uncertain of how he should judge himself? I speak this only in comparison to a similar happening in my own personal life, where I had found myself in an ICU and felt bad about myself because others were around me--I felt unworthy of such support (I was about Mitchell's age). Mitchell should not feel judged or unworthy of any support--he is one of God's children, as we all are! His focus should be to fight for what he sees himself doing--to not look back and mourn or regret, to not say "what if's" but to say, think, sing, pray, "What's next!" and to move ahead and cheer for each accomplishment, no matter how small, no matter how great!

I wish you, Mitchell, and your entire family and friends, a Happy and Blessed New Year!

[foxgurrrl]

QUOTE=jwil59;45694381]Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you allWow, very touching and sweet and awesome news. I am so happy he is talking! A miracle indeed!

Congrats! More healing and blessings on the way for you and yours! I know it!

:hug:

[Freefreq]

Wow Jeff.....My daughters name is Ashley and last night our waitress at LongHorn name was Ashley and now Mitch talked to a girl named Ashley.

Is something telling me something or what ??

Will continue to pray for your son. He has come so far I sit in Awwww..

GO Mitch GO

[rhet 2]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

Hey, now, we're not about to quit on you, brother dear. Mitch isn't some dumb celeb, here today and gone tomorrow. He's as dear to me as one of my own kids, very much like one of my nephews. I've got a lot of personal invested in that boy, now, since long before this crisis. Like it or not, that's how family works.

Told you, night time is always the worst. When you're not busy doing something, the brain cogitates on memories of what you did and did not do yesterday. It's the Coulda-Woulda-Shoulda Time.

Even in our sleep, our brains are busy sorting and shifting and organizing, tapping into and arranging what we know -- including stuff we don't even know we know. And all that verbalization is MARVELOUS: his brain is putting itself back into working order.

Man is a three part critter: body, heart -- the emotions -- and mind, thought processes, both conscious and subconscious. What happens to one, whether pleasant and deliberately sought or unpleasant and something we wish we had avoided -- well, all three have to deal with it in different ways. The moaning and the complaining that he hurts, the memory of Ashley -- that's all his emotional and subconscious Self sorting out and beginning to come to grips with what happened to his body, the singing and the yammering -- and the serious talk about being rejected and blamed for what happened -- that's Sort It Out and Get a Handle on Me, Myself, and I. It's Mind getting a grip on Heart and Body. It's memory returning -- and awareness of Self in a social matrix where others exist, too -- and a search for balance that is never-ending for any of us.

If he were NOT tossing and turning and having a hard time at night, then you'd have cause to worry.

And talking out his greatest fear -- his own guilt -- all that fear about being blamed -- with you, his father, MAN, that's positive. It means he trusts you with all three parts of himself, especially with his Heart. Kids his age often don't trust their dads that much, with cause, and would bottle all that stuff up to dump on a close friend, instead, hoping Dad would never find out.

That's one strong relationship you've got with your son, one he's going to need big time in the coming weeks. That he CAN and WILL let you see his biggest fear -- and Ashley, his biggest hope-for dream of possibilities -- that's the most positive recovery sign, yet.

Silence and bottle it up, hide it syndrome -- that would be far worse, psychologically speaking.

He's using his Dad as a sounding board to help him sort out the pre- and the post-trauma existence of Self and find new balances and perspectives on what happened and where he goes from here -- and there's nobody he could trust more than you.

[smyrna]

May this new year be filled with the Lord's blessings for your son, your family and you.

[USMCmom]

Happy New Year dear Friend...
The miracles and blessings from 2008 have been amazing...we have every intention of making 2009 even better!:hug:
Each and everyone of you are in my thoughts and prayers Jeff--
Stay strong & have faith...:hug:
Luv ya and God Bless

[gb2004]

Wow Jeff.....My daughters name is Ashley and last night our waitress at LongHorn name was Ashley and now Mitch talked to a girl named Ashley.

Is something telling me something or what ??

Will continue to pray for your son. He has come so far I sit in Awwww..

GO Mitch GO

My daughter's name is Ashley, also.

[XTankLt]

Jeff....

My prayers are off to you and your family. I've been off the boards during the past few weeks due to the holidays, so I didn't see this thread until now.

[Ballygrl]

Hey yall. Mitch is resting for now. The nurse explained to me tonight that he was going to be very agitated comming out of ICU becuse of the cutback on the meds. I am seeing some things that I didn't see in ICU. He moans alot and sometimes very loud and complains that he doesn't feel good. They have put him back on his Aspergers meds tonight and that is helping him sleep. I hope he is comming to terms with what has happened but I don't know. We had another talk tonight and he is still worried about being judged. He talks and sings alot when he sleeps. He has been calling a girl's name, Ashley. THis is a girl we have never met. My wife checked the messages on his phone ansd she has called him most every day. Tonight we copied the number from his phone(which is blood stained) and called her on my wife's phone. I held the phone up to his ear and they talked awhile. He seemed to like that. He gets agitated and confused alot. I hope we can get to a rehab soon.

I cannot begin to thank you guys for all this support. It means the world to me. Please keep the thoughts and prayers comming. So far that has helped create a miracle, an absolute miracle. I need you long haul though, this isn't over yet.

God bless you all

Jeff

Still praying Jeff! :pray:

[-American-]

Keep strong jwill, I know first hand you have to be strong and patient. I'll keep praying for your son, and I firmly believe he'll be okay.

[jwil59]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff

[Gregor]

Oh Jeff. It was just such a short time ago that the only thing you were hanging on to was hope, and it was a longshot at that. WOW. Such wonderful news!!!!

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff

[blazer]

UPDATE! [QUOTE=jwil59;45721731]Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

[blazer]

Another thing to praise God for! He is so good!

[crystalclear]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff
You have a heart of gold!! I have been praying for you all and Rep's Mom.

But what good news! He can swallow now!:dance: God is good!

[terri910]

continued prayers for your son and your family!

[gb2004]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff


More great news!

[countzero123]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless


Totally awesome! :clap: Good news about Mitch to start the new year. :)

Sorry to hear about Repchick's mom - will add her to my prayers.

[bella-day]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff


Another big leap.

WTG Mitch!

Prayers for Mitch and all of you continue as they do for rep's Mom also.

[sybilll]

Fabulous news! Happy New Year indeed!

And, I will gladly add Repchick to my prayer list.

[birdonawire]

That great news Jeff God is so good! :dance:

Still praying for full recovery.

[smyrna]

Thank you Father.

[Seanachie]

Hello Jeff,

Back Home from my sojourn on 'Family stuff'. I just want Mitch, You, Darlene and all of your Family to know that All of you were in my 'urgent' prayers today.

The 1st place I prayed was on the 'Promenade' in Long Branch NJ. This walkway is right on the Atlantic Ocean and a place I've 'talked' with the 'Big Guy' on many occasions. Something about the vastness of the Ocean that humbles most anyone. I've seen it calm and fast and furious. Today was a bitter cold, wind driven Day. The white caps danced across the Ocean like Ballerinas. I hope all of my prayers danced with them right to the 'Big Guy's' immediate attention. One need only witness this awesome power to know that God is the all Powerful Being who created it.

The second was was about 20 miles North on Sandy Hook where the inlet to NY Harbor begins. There is an Observation Deck there that overlooks the Varrazanno Narrows Bridge, Brooklyn, NY and the Atlantic Ocean. My prayers were offered 'up' there again to the 'Big Guy'. I pray that my voice will echo for days across the vast Atlantic. I pray God took particular notice of the urgency of some of my pleas to Him.

I've read the updates on Mitch and the Boy is still fighting hard and making good progress, That to me is as Awesome as that Awesome Ocean.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[crystalclear]

Hello Jeff,

Back Home from my sojourn on 'Family stuff'. I just want Mitch, You, Darlene and all of your Family to know that All of you were in my 'urgent' prayers today.

The 1st place I prayed was on the 'Promenade' in Long Branch NJ. This walkway is right on the Atlantic Ocean and a place I've 'talked' with the 'Big Guy' on many occasions. Something about the vastness of the Ocean that humbles most anyone. I've seen it calm and fast and furious. Today was a bitter cold, wind driven Day. The white caps danced across the Ocean like Ballerinas. I hope all of my prayers danced with them right to the 'Big Guy's' immediate attention. One need only witness this awesome power to know that God is the all Powerful Being who created it.

The second was was about 20 miles North on Sandy Hook where the inlet to NY Harbor begins. There is an Observation Deck there that overlooks the Varrazanno Narrows Bridge, Brooklyn, NY and the Atlantic Ocean. My prayers were offered 'up' there again to the 'Big Guy'. I pray that my voice will echo for days across the vast Atlantic. I pray God took particular notice of the urgency of some of my pleas to Him.

I've read the updates on Mitch and the Boy is still fighting hard and making good progress, That to me is as Awesome as that Awesome Ocean.

Be well my Friend,

Jim
Now that was beautiful! Especially this... "The white caps danced across the Ocean like Ballerinas. I hope all of my prayers danced with them right to the 'Big Guy's' immediate attention."

[czzzaar]

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff

As you wish, my friend. :pray:

[jwil59]

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

[rhet 2]

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

Like you could stop us from praying for the others? :))

God give you and mother sweet healing rest against the exigencies of tomorrow.

And I rejoice to hear that Ashley's father is a decent sort of guy who sounds like he can be trusted to love your son, too.

And congratulations, Mitch! WAY TO GO!

[blazer]

UPDATE
[QUOTE=jwil59;45735471]We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

[doodle5]

My dear Jeff,

You have been through so much and all your family!!

My prayers as always!!

Praise God for all the answered prayers!! More to come!!

Carlene

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

I bet that was a major boost for Mitch.

Thanks for the update and many hugs and prayers to you.

[lsue]

Thanks so much for keeping us updated on Mitch's condition. It sounds
very very encouraging.

Hang in there, ya'll!

[Gregor]

With so much good news everyday, I can always count on you Jeff to re-hydrate my contact lenses. You brought tears to my eyes and now I can see more clearly!!!!

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

[melinda]

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff

oh, Jeff, how big I smiled when I got to the part where Mitch wanted to be bathed and spiffed up for Ashley's visit. I am so very happy for both Mitch and Ashley that she was able to get to him. to visit with him. to see him.
I am so thankful that Mitch had a good day and that not only was he happy, but that you got to witness his happiness.
God is great.
Rest well.......many prayers still continuing.

and hello Mrs. Jeff. :hug:
God be with you through all of this.....

[birdonawire]

Jeff tell your sweet wife she has had my prayers from the beginning! :hug:

Will continue to pray! :pray:

[Sun]

We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff


Wow, I can't believe Mitch's rapid progress each and every day.

It goes to show what so many folks praying can do!

May God continue to bless all of you!

[stoked]

That's such a cute story about Ashley.

[JenyEliza]

Still holding you all up in prayer, and sending lots of love your way!

:pray: :hug:

Jeny


Ps. repchick said to send her love to you, Darlene, Mitch and your entire family and to thank you for worrying about her and her mom--especially considering all that's on your plate.

Just before repchick left the hospital tonight, her mom was given a dose of Dilaudid, a nice bath, a change of sheets and gown and was resting comfortably for the first night in a while. The pain medication is making a big difference for her, although she is no where near out of the woods. The prayers seem to be working so far..... :D

I'll send you a PM with more info next update I get from repchick.

[BigBear]

Mitchell took another big step this morning physically. The therapists got him up sitting on the side of the bed. I was on the interstate driving toward the hospital when Joni sent me a pitchure message on my phone. I had to pull off the road cause I could not see to drive. That was cool. A phyc doc was here earler (finally) and talked to me about telling Mitch what happened. A short time later Mitch asked again to be told exactly what happened so I did it. We just kept stressing the fact that it was an accident. The doc said I should not go with any "I told you so" at this point and I didn't. He said later that us as parents could deal with that stuff but not now. The first thing he said when I told him was that he didn't want any more guns. he said maybe someday when he got older he would have a gun in his house for protection and I said that would be fine at that point. Praise God, that is the reaction we have been praying for. he is concerned about people judging him and we keep telling him that isn't the case. Not sure he believes that. He mentioned people at our Church and the folks he worked with judging him in particular. He was also concerned that Joni would not allow his cousins to be around him any more too. She made it clear that is not the case. There were some tears from him and me both. I told him it was ok to cry. He then drifted off to sleep and tht is where we are at this moment

We met with the Spain Rehab people today and they are very impressive. They told us what we already knew that their specality is closer to Mitch's injury than Shepards but I will have to talk to the Shepards people about that. They say from looking at Mitch's chart that the head docs say he isn't quite ready to go anyway. I don't think the social workers and the like would steer us wrong about Shepards either. With brain injuries, Shepards specializes more with patients that have much less mental function than Mitch, for instance patients that cannot talk. It would sure be much better for our family to go to Birmingham but we will just pray and think about it cause our main concern is his full recovery. I am mixed up something terrible again. Another consideration we have decided that will be important will be how many young people are in the population at the facility for work out partners and that kind of thing. The Spain lady's next appt today is with Brittney.

Please keep praying. I do not know how to thank you folks. This is an absolute miracle my friends. One of the elders from our Church was here today and he and could not believe the progress since they came to pray in the ICU. God is good my friends. I'll check back later

Jeff

Jeff, I'm so glad to read the amazing progress Mitch is making. My prayers have been with you and Mitch and family this New Year, and will continue to be. Your updates are the only reason i'm here this holiday season, thanks so much for them.

[USMCmom]

LOL...nothing like a young lady to get a young man's attention!:D It is so good to hear how much better he is doing...although I suspect that we are just beginning to witness the blessings that Mitchell will receive!:pray:

It has indeed been a wonderful beginning to our new year...
God Bless Dear Friend,
am sending hugs & prayers for you and yours!
Luv ya...:hug:

[bella-day]

Jeff,
What wonderful news! It must have been quite a treat to hear Mitch laugh again. There's nothing like the sight of your child smiling and the sound of their laughter to brightest even the darkest of days.

Progress is a beautiful thing.

You and Darlene are very fortunate to have caring family members that are willing and able to stay with Mitch. It's good to know that you will both be able to gently fall asleep in your own bed tonight. The much needed rest will do wonders for both of you.

And if you don't mind I'd like to say something to Darlene now.

Your family has been in our prayers since day one of this detour in the road of life for all of you.

I pray that Mitch keeps continuously progressing down the road to complete recovery and that God blesses your family with many happy days to come.

May he shine the warm light of his love on you and Jeff and give you both the strength, wisdom, and guidance needed to make the best decisions for Mitch's care.

Hold tight to one another. Your love and commitment to one another and your family along with God's loving mercy and compassion is a combination that has carried you all through this chapter of your lives and will not let down.

Stay strong in the faith that has sustained you.

Bella

[StoneScratcher]

Dear Darlene (Mrs. Jeff),

When you are with your thoughts and prayers, know you are not alone Darlene. The prayers from other mothers are also with you.

How your mother's heart must break, as you see your dear child, Mitchell, in a physical place you had nursed him from, so long ago. How you must yearn to pick him up and cradle him close to rock away all his pain and fear, while you comfort and assure him. Mother and son, you are cupped in the palms of God, together and you are cherished. Together, mother and child, you are loved and cared for, as it was when you cradled him in your womb.

With a mother's heart myself, Darlene, I want you to know how much I understand the want of turning back the hands of time to bring things to what they once were. But a mother's heart knows this cannot be--it's time to carry your child. The road mothers find themselves on, with others there or while alone, brings crossroads--where some may refuse to walk with you; merges--where some may join in the journey with you; turns to left, to right--where some may choose to veer in another direction. But for mothers, there are never any U-turns--mothers see they can't turn back; there are never any stop signs--mothers will always go on. The mother's journey, carrying her child close, has God as her Guide. Mothers are never abandoned by God at any point of that journey. When a mother aches for her child, whether awakened alone in the night or while patting her child in comfort, God is there as He cradles both the child and mother together in His hands.

Mitchell is making wonderful progress! Praise God above for the strides Mitchell is making with you by his side. God Bless you Darlene.

I pray for you, Darlene and for your dear son Mitchell, in a special prayer for just the two of you. You are strong, dear mother.

God Bless you both.

[murphy]

Jeff:

The progress Mitchell has made thus far is such a wondrous miracle, one cannot help but see the hand of God in it.
May you, your wife, and your precious son continue to experience God's miraculous plan for your lives. You can continue to count on us for prayers and support for His continued blessings.

So very glad to hear how Mitchell took the news of his accident. It is very normal and appropriate for kids to feel they have let others down when "bad" things happen. Most importantly, Mitchell can feel and see the unconditional love and support from his parents, family, and friends. This will go a long way in helping him, emotionally.

This new year has already brought new beginnings to your family, I am certain that this will continue, as God continues to work his miracle.
Take care. Rest easy, knowing God is holding your family,
Murphy

[curtis123]

Said a prayer for you and your family again this morning.

You will hear Mitch laugh and see him smile for many years to come.

Curt

[Cutiepie]

UPDATE
[quote=jwil59;45735471]We are home again tonight and my sister is at the hospital. We especially try to sllep weel the night before we know there will be events at the hospital that require decesion making and that sort of thing. We had a pretty good day overall. he seems to be much less agitated and that is good.

We finally got to meet the girl Ashley he has been talking about. She called my wife this afternoon asking for directions and what not to the hospital and the room. When Mitch found this out he wanted to be bathed and spiffied up a little. The nurses and techs rushed in to accomplish that before she got there. he was even asking for a pair of pants to put on but we finally convinced him that wasn't possible. My sisters family was there too and when Ashley arrived with her parents we all went into the hall to give the kids some privacy. There we all stood for about an hour or so until Ashley's dad and I decided enough was enough and we all piled into the room. I was afraid her parents would judge him but it was just the opposite. her dad sat on a stoll beside his bed and asked Mitch why he had never came to their house. He laughed and said "I dunno". The visit was good for him. he was laughing and smiling the whole time and that was cool. Her dad is in the remodeling business and I need a storage room turned into a bedroom so he said he would bring me his card tommorrow. The therapists want us to do some things like try to keep his wrists straight and Ahsley helped us with that. It was great to see him happy.

I cannot thank you folks enough. My wife also reads alot of this and she cannot believe the love we are being shown here. God bless you guys, I'm gonna get some sleep. I will be praying and thinking about Repchick's and her mom tonight and I ask that you all do the same.

Thank you guys for putting these updates in the other thread. Happy New Year


jeff




Awww it sounds like Ashley is a sweet girl. I am still praying for y'all. Hang in there.

I know it seems like forever but, one day y'all will look back at this and talk about it. This too shall pass.

[gb2004]

Dear Darlene (Mrs. Jeff),

When you are with your thoughts and prayers, know you are not alone Darlene. The prayers from other mothers are also with you.

How your mother's heart must break, as you see your dear child, Mitchell, in a physical place you had nursed him from, so long ago. How you must yearn to pick him up and cradle him close to rock away all his pain and fear, while you comfort and assure him. Mother and son, you are cupped in the palms of God, together and you are cherished. Together, mother and child, you are loved and cared for, as it was when you cradled him in your womb.

With a mother's heart myself, Darlene, I want you to know how much I understand the want of turning back the hands of time to bring things to what they once were. But a mother's heart knows this cannot be--it's time to carry your child. The road mothers find themselves on, with others there or while alone, brings crossroads--where some may refuse to walk with you; merges--where some may join in the journey with you; turns to left, to right--where some may choose to veer in another direction. But for mothers, there are never any U-turns--mothers see they can't turn back; there are never any stop signs--mothers will always go on. The mother's journey, carrying her child close, has God as her Guide. Mothers are never abandoned by God at any point of that journey. When a mother aches for her child, whether awakened alone in the night or while patting her child in comfort, God is there as He cradles both the child and mother together in His hands.

Mitchell is making wonderful progress! Praise God above for the strides Mitchell is making with you by his side. God Bless you Darlene.

I pray for you, Darlene and for your dear son Mitchell, in a special prayer for just the two of you. You are strong, dear mother.

God Bless you both.

What a beautiful post. It brought tears to my eyes.

[Seanachie]

Hello Jeff,

A Blessing for Yours and Mitch's Day and all of your Family;

http://www.irishcultureandcustoms.com/Blessings/goodmorning.jpgA Blessing for the Day
May the God of the dawn awaken you
May the God of sunrise stir you up
May the God of morning bless your work
May the God of noon renew your strength
May the God of sunset bring you home
May the God of dusk soothe your soul
May the God of night bring you rest.

I hope this may bring You some peace today my Friend.


Jim

[blazer]

still here and praying! :hug:

[crystalclear]

Dear Darlene (Mrs. Jeff),

When you are with your thoughts and prayers, know you are not alone Darlene. The prayers from other mothers are also with you.

How your mother's heart must break, as you see your dear child, Mitchell, in a physical place you had nursed him from, so long ago. How you must yearn to pick him up and cradle him close to rock away all his pain and fear, while you comfort and assure him. Mother and son, you are cupped in the palms of God, together and you are cherished. Together, mother and child, you are loved and cared for, as it was when you cradled him in your womb.

With a mother's heart myself, Darlene, I want you to know how much I understand the want of turning back the hands of time to bring things to what they once were. But a mother's heart knows this cannot be--it's time to carry your child. The road mothers find themselves on, with others there or while alone, brings crossroads--where some may refuse to walk with you; merges--where some may join in the journey with you; turns to left, to right--where some may choose to veer in another direction. But for mothers, there are never any U-turns--mothers see they can't turn back; there are never any stop signs--mothers will always go on. The mother's journey, carrying her child close, has God as her Guide. Mothers are never abandoned by God at any point of that journey. When a mother aches for her child, whether awakened alone in the night or while patting her child in comfort, God is there as He cradles both the child and mother together in His hands.

Mitchell is making wonderful progress! Praise God above for the strides Mitchell is making with you by his side. God Bless you Darlene.

I pray for you, Darlene and for your dear son Mitchell, in a special prayer for just the two of you. You are strong, dear mother.

God Bless you both.That truley made my heart ache...but with love

We are here for you Darlene and we hold you up in prayer.

God Bless your love and your family.

[Calibabe]

Another goal has been met today. Mitch passed his swallow test which means he can now start eating solid food. We will start slow and work our way up. Maybe by tonight or tommorrow we can go out and get him something he wants. He is less agitated today too so far.

Happy New Year my friends.

I have been notified today that Repchick's mom isn't doing too well. I ask that if you pray for Mitch today that you also pray for her and her family.

God bless

Jeff

Done deal Jeff. I will email her as well.

Great news on that swallow test. I knew when he was able to do the ice chips in Pepsi without any problems that he would be alright however just to make sure the swallow test is a necessary one. We certainly don't want to go two steps forward and 20 back at this point. Aspiration was the biggest fear there. Glad that solid food will becoming his way. I am sure that even though it is hospital food it will taste like a buffet at this point to him. Also don't get upset if he gets frustrated and throws the tray or attempts to knock it down at some point. He will have good days and bad temperment wise. This is just another side effect of the accident.

I will continue to light candles and pray while at church and at home for your strong young man. I also will offer prayers for you and Darlene as well. May Our Lord continue to bless you with the little things in Mitchell's progress. Those are the ones that count.

As always, if you need ANYTHING, PM me and I will do whatever I can. If you at any time have any problems with your insurance company let me know. I work with over 875 different insurance companies all over the country. If they try to pull any shennanigans, let me know and I will be more than happy to do battle with them. It is my speciality and in my blood as my husband tells me. They tried pulling it here with me in CA over my son's second surgery. I then blasted them with a 4 page fax and took apart their contract and questionnaire like no tomorrow and guess what, they paid for the $20K in surgery that he had. It helps when you know what you are talking about. I also have helped my husband's company from time to time when they have questions about insurance as well. With 20 years of medical experience and now doing billing for the last several, they find it very hard to challenge me with my credentials. I also have several national certifications on my CV as well. So let me know if they give you grief. This is not the time for that.

We will be at Mass tonight (First Friday) so we will definately say a prayer for your son and your family. You are never far from our thoughts.

God bless:pray::hug:

[Miss America]

Oh Dear Lord...I can't even imagine...that's horrible...definately in my prayers...

[Miss America]

Oh...Jeff, I'm so sorry to hear of this horrible accident...I can't even imagine what you and your family are feeling...your son Mitchell and all of you are in my prayers...and you can count on those prayers including the request for an exceptional recovery..

[cmorlan]

Praise god for the speed with which he is recovering I will let my fellow prayer warriors know how things are going and we will continue to pray for your familly and your son's recovery.

[birdonawire]

Still praying. :pray:

[tinydancer]

This is a whole thread of miracles. :angel:

My husband even calls me from work to get an update on Mitchell (no outside company computer use).

We are still praying for you Jeff, Darlene and Mitchell and family. I will add repchick to our prayers.

[Seanachie]

Done deal Jeff. I will email her as well.

Great news on that swallow test. I knew when he was able to do the ice chips in Pepsi without any problems that he would be alright however just to make sure the swallow test is a necessary one. We certainly don't want to go two steps forward and 20 back at this point. Aspiration was the biggest fear there. Glad that solid food will becoming his way. I am sure that even though it is hospital food it will taste like a buffet at this point to him. Also don't get upset if he gets frustrated and throws the tray or attempts to knock it down at some point. He will have good days and bad temperment wise. This is just another side effect of the accident.




Calibabe is absolutely on the mark; Eating can be a problem at times. I wouldn't eat after a time. My Family members tried to conjole me into it which just made my anger worse. It took a Staff Member to explain it all to me and the complications this would cause if I didn't eat. NO ONE wants to feel helpless in anything; I suppose that's where my anger came from with Family members. Hopefully Mitch won't have this problem and he will wolf down what's served. Going outside His prescribed diet is NOT the way to go until his digestive system is evaluated.

Mitch and You and Your Family are in my prayers to the 'Big Guy'.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[Mrs Chug]

Way to go Calibabe:D:D:D

Still thinking of you!!!!! I did wonder about suggesting Ashley went in to see Mitch, but glad she did and glad he enjoyed it, hope she visits Mitch again soon. Could their be other friends that could come in and see Mitch to help get him through this time????

Obviously none involved with the accident.

[LindaLR]

I am praying for you to have calm thoughts and be able to make the decisions you have to make. If you focus on what Mitch needs, every thing else will fall into place as it needs to, God will make sure of it. Again, thanks for keeping us up to date on Mitch, he is my first prayer each day.

[Calibabe]

Way to go Calibabe:D:D:D

Still thinking of you!!!!! I did wonder about suggesting Ashley went in to see Mitch, but glad she did and glad he enjoyed it, hope she visits Mitch again soon. Could their be other friends that could come in and see Mitch to help get him through this time????

Obviously none involved with the accident.

Absolutely...no one from the accident should be allowed within 20 feet of his hospital room at any time. In fact he should be right in front of the nursing station so that they can keep track of who comes and goes. The questions that remain would certainly have me suspicious of the father of the other boy who's house Mitchell was at when the accident happened. I hope for everyone's sake, especially Mitchell's that this truly was an accident. I would hate to think it would be anything worse. That would just be an unthinkable and unspeakable thing to do to someone.

Also having friends in could also frustrate Mitchell as well as they can come and go and he is stuck in a hospital bed for the time being. So I think Jeff and Darlene really have to think who is best for him to see at this point and to keep that list very short. He has made such great progress from what the first diagnosis was, that I would at this point hate to see any set back at all. If I could I would move both heaven and earth for that young man to just get out of bed and begin walking. However with brain injuries that is something depending upon which hemisphere of the brain was injuried heals. Different hemisphere's make us do different things. For instance:

The frontal lobe - This is at the front of the brain. It contains areas that control your personality, thought, memory and behaviour. Towards the back of the frontal lobe are areas that control movement and feeling. Our sense of smell is also controlled here.
Parietal lobe - This is just behind the frontal lobe and deals with sensations like touch, pain and temperature.
Temporal lobe - This is underneath the frontal lobe just above your ear. It helps us recognise sounds, speech and memory.
Occipital lobe - This is at the back of the cerebrum and deals with how we work out what we are seeing.
Between the two hemispheres just above the cerebellum are the thalamus and the hypothalamus, where the thalamus controls where in the brain information goes to be interpreted and the hyopothalamus deals with things like body temperature, hunger and thirst, and the hormones associated with fertility and maturity.

cerebellum
This is responsible for our balance and co-ordination. These activities are carried out automatically (we don’t have to think about them) by this area of the brain.

the brain stem
This is our life support control and responsible for body functions, including blood pressure, breathing, heart beat, eye movements and swallowing.

The brain is a very complicated organ and neurosurgeons are continually finding out different things about the brain and how brain injuries differ from patient to patient. Even 10 years ago an injury like Mitchell's would have not only been considered catastrophic, but most likely survival would have been very difficult. Today because treatments change and trauma centers are in many different hospitals, patients with these catastrophic injuries are surviving. It is called the "Golden Hour". If you can get a patient into a trauma center, evaluated, and then begin surgery once diagnostic testing reveals where (in Mitchell's case) there may be an object that needs removal, that patient has a much better chance for survival than waiting as was done many years ago. The brain like the rest of the body it is made up of cells. There are different types of cells in the brain including nerve cells. There are around 40 billion neurons - these cells conduct the nerve impulses which are behind every brain function. We are all born with these cells. One of the differences between nerve cells and other cells in the body is that they can’t reproduce and when they are worn out they can’t produce more so the number of cells in the brain gradually decreases as we get older! There are a trillion connections, called dendrites, linking the brain's neurons, which adds up to more connections around the brain than there are stars in the entire universe.

To keep all of these nerve cells in place there are different types of cells called supportive cells or glial cells. The different types of glial cells are: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and ependymal cells. These all have the ability to replace or reproduce themselves if they need to. So as you can see, that is why there is such uncertainty with such an injury as Mitchell had happen to him. Thankfully his age has a lot to do with that. It a documented fact that the body heals much faster the younger the person is. Remember when you were younger and you would pull muscle and the next day you would almost be back to normal. Now that we are all older it takes longer for that muscle to heal.

Just recently I had a pain management doctor who does my injections, miss and hit my lining around the spinal cord causing a leak in CSF (cerebro spinal fluid) and I am still having effects (very bad headaches, dizziness, nausea, etc.) I have been told this may last as long as 2-4 months and possibly it could be permanent depending upon how deeply the needle penetrated both the lining and the spinal cord itself. This happened to me on Nov. 17th. Needless to say I have spoken to an attorney and am planning upon filing suit against the doctor. If he had been doing this procedure blind without any aid of fluroscopy then I would say, well no one can see, but he had the fluroscopy and still did it. That is inexcusiable to me. My other pain management doctor who I still see (he takes care of my medications while the other doctor does the procedures because my insurance co won't pay to have my original doctor do the procedures) used to give me injections without any fluroscopy and never once in 5 years ever hit me in the wrong place. I also have quite a large whole from the injection from where the needle went in meaning that this doctor used the wrong gauge needle. Most pain management doctors use very fine needles to avoid just such accidents. However the doctor that injuried me used between a 14-16 gauge needle. My original doctor used to use 26-28 gauge (which are used on pediatric patients when you draw blood). I have to go back to the doctor who screwed up on Monday for a checkup and I am going to tell them that no way am I going for any injections and that they have to do something about these headaches. It almost incapacitates me to the point where I can't drive even around town.

I hope the brain info helps people understand how the brain works and just exactly what part does what and what controls what. That might help aid those who post in understanding his condition a little better.

God bless.

[Freefreq]

Jeff its amazing what girls can do to a 17 year old huh ?

Its a good thing Ashley came. Her presence will make him try even harder now to accomplish what he wants.

This whole ordeal is overwhelming just if you read it all more less have to live it.

We are still praying in this house for your son and his quick recovery.

[merlin704]

I haven't spoken to God in a LOOOOOOOOOOOONG time but what happened to jwil's son really touched me. For the first time in 10yrs. I got on my knees and said a prayer for Mitch.

[Seanachie]

Thank You Calibabe for your previous post. It helps a great deal.

God Bless,

Jim

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

Thank You Calibabe for your previous post. It helps a great deal.

God Bless,

Jim

IMO... You have been a true angel in this thread

[Sun]

I haven't spoken to God in a LOOOOOOOOOOOONG time but what happened to jwil's son really touched me. For the first time in 10yrs. I got on my knees and said a prayer for Mitch.

That is so wonderful, and please keep praying.

[Seanachie]

Good Morning Jeff,

I hope this Irish Blessing gives you strength throughout this Day;

May God give you...
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.

God Bless my Friend,

Jim

[Seanachie]

IMO... You have been a true angel in this thread

Thank You Kind Sir. Methinks I have a long way to go to earn any Angel's wings at all. My sincere thanks nonetheless.

Jim

[tinydancer]

I haven't spoken to God in a LOOOOOOOOOOOONG time but what happened to jwil's son really touched me. For the first time in 10yrs. I got on my knees and said a prayer for Mitch.

Wow:angel:just wow. I think this is a miracle thread and as much about all of Hannityland as it is about Mitch.

Hannity people are just unreal. They are made from the "right stuff". My husband calls me for updates on Mitch. His guys (horrible grammar I know) ask him about Mitch. Trucking company and the word has spread far and wide over Mitch.

Then Hannityland. People/posters on a board really really truly care. I'm thrilled. Hope comes in strange ways. I'm honestly and wonderously THUNDERSTRUCK at all the good people here.


It thrilled me to my core that you could fall on your knees. I don't know you, but I'll say thank you for unabashedly putting yourself before God and saying a prayer for Mitch.

Bless your soul.

Yours forever,
tinydancer

Edit to add: I was crying. I forgot this:hug:

[curtis123]

Prayed for you and Mitchell again this morning.

Hang in there, bro.

Curt

[Canadian Jane]

So happy to hear that Mitch is coming along. Every day he'll get stronger and stronger. Keep the faith and never give up.

I'll continue my prayers for you and your family Jeff. Take care.

:hug:

[jwil59]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

[blazer]

[QUOTE=jwil59;45824921]Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

[Stuball]

Thanks for the update Jeff
Your son has the most important medicine or therapy one can have.
A loving family.

[Hadassah]

Dear Darlene (Mrs. Jeff),

When you are with your thoughts and prayers, know you are not alone Darlene. The prayers from other mothers are also with you.

How your mother's heart must break, as you see your dear child, Mitchell, in a physical place you had nursed him from, so long ago. How you must yearn to pick him up and cradle him close to rock away all his pain and fear, while you comfort and assure him. Mother and son, you are cupped in the palms of God, together and you are cherished. Together, mother and child, you are loved and cared for, as it was when you cradled him in your womb.

With a mother's heart myself, Darlene, I want you to know how much I understand the want of turning back the hands of time to bring things to what they once were. But a mother's heart knows this cannot be--it's time to carry your child. The road mothers find themselves on, with others there or while alone, brings crossroads--where some may refuse to walk with you; merges--where some may join in the journey with you; turns to left, to right--where some may choose to veer in another direction. But for mothers, there are never any U-turns--mothers see they can't turn back; there are never any stop signs--mothers will always go on. The mother's journey, carrying her child close, has God as her Guide. Mothers are never abandoned by God at any point of that journey. When a mother aches for her child, whether awakened alone in the night or while patting her child in comfort, God is there as He cradles both the child and mother together in His hands.

Mitchell is making wonderful progress! Praise God above for the strides Mitchell is making with you by his side. God Bless you Darlene.

I pray for you, Darlene and for your dear son Mitchell, in a special prayer for just the two of you. You are strong, dear mother.

God Bless you both.


that is absolutely beautiful.

[rhet 2]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

Oh, sweet brother.

The poor boy just got handed one of life's most nasty emotional overloads -- and he's barely been conscious for how many days now? NOT ENOUGH TIME yet to deal with all that's landed on his poor soul.

When he gets angry, it's just an emotional explosion from a whole lot of built up stress.

Like a pressure cooker, that emotional steam has got to go somewhere -- and, if he bottles the rage and frustration up inside himself, you won't like the delayed reaction at all at all.

Better small explosions followed by apologies than that he bottle it up until you see a HUGE explosion of totally destructive power later on.

And I think that's what the shrinks would tell you, too: he's got HUGE adjustments to make, not just physically but emotionally -- especially emotionally.

I just thank God he's exploding with trustworthy counselors -- like his own family -- there to listen while he dumps the stress overloads.

As long as he's willing to let his dad see those explosions -- like most teens are NOT able to do at all -- he'll be okay.

It just takes a huge amount of time to establish an emotional balance after the kind of horrible trauma he's just undergone.

[birdonawire]

My prayers are still with you all, I do have to disagree with you Jeff I dont believe you were talking out your butt :naughty:, you were talking out your heart. :hug:

As parents nothing can make our hearts hurt like a child that is down.

Hugs and prayers .

[Hadassah]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

Denial is absolutely normal. And so is anger. They're all part of learning to accept what happened. Hopefully, he will channel that denial and anger into positive things, like continuing to defeat the odds. We are all still praying for him, for you and your family, and for those others you have asked us to pray for.


You're right, things can always be worse, but you still have to deal with your pain, your grief, your questions of why. Don't suppress them because "Things could always be worse".



I'm not sure I am saying exactly what I am trying to say, so I'll stop now as I have to get ready for work. I hope you understand what I am trying to say. God bless.

[dittoheadAZ]

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.


Jeff - you don't have to apologize for ANYTHING. You just take care of your family and be there for your son; that's your job. We'll keep praying; that's our job. I keep this thread open on my computer as a reminder every morning to say a prayer for all of you.

Take care,
dAZ

[bella-day]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

I pray that with therapy Mitch will regain some of his mobility. I'm sure its way too early to know for sure what he will and will not be able to do in the future.

There's no need to apologize for anything you have said. You and your family have been dealt a major blow and you have dealt with it in a way that is a testament to your faith in God and your love for your family.

IMHO, your words have been no less than inspiring.

I respected you as a poster before but have come to respect you for the man you are since this all took place...and that my friend is due to your words and your ability to think of others even while you are dealing with this tragic accident.

Prayers for Mitch's continued emotional and physical progress. I pray that the Lord continues to bless you and your wife strength and wisdom to make the best decisions in Mitch's behalf and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you both have his best interests at heart.

[czzzaar]

I'm going to head out to the mountains again today, Jeff, and I'll be praying for you and for Mitch's continued improvement. My thoughts are with you everyday.

[Seanachie]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff


Coming to terms with what has happened will take a substantial ammount of time. The denial stage is a tough thing for all of you to deal with. Appealing to Mitch's sense of reasoning will help overcome this. I would do this in a calm matter of fact way. I think you will be surprised that Mitch will respond as his reasoning overcomes the denial.

A short story; Many years ago a friend and I were painting his apartment. My friend pointed out that another friend of his was on his way over to help. I was shocked when he showed up. This fellow was born with no arms past the elbows. I watched him pull up on his motorcycle and I found out later he was a truck driver.
So there we are painting when 'Mike No Arms' decides we take a break and have some beers. I offer to open a bottle for him which brought on a rebuke which was a bit of a shock; "Now listen up *******...I can do anything you can do and probably more". I stood there in shock for a minute or so and replied; "ok *******...scratch your back"! Mike cracked up and we all tapped beers and went on with the work a few minutes later.

It may take a bit of 'stern stuff' to get through to Mitch. My Father taught me many years ago that 'you catch more flys with honey than you do with vinegar'. It's a good philosophy but there are exceptions. You will have to decide which tack to take with Mitch. Challenging him also helps to an extent. He may or may not respond to that well but will eventually get over that if you are persistent.

As far as the bedpan stuff; I gather I wouldn't eat because I wanted to get up and do my own business privately. Not eating would decrease the embarrasment of 'using' one of those. The stern lecture I got (and please recognize that this is a reconstruction for me. I have no memory of this) again appealed to my sense of reasoning; If I did as instructed I would be relieved of that dang catheter and those lovely IV's not to mention the restraints that sometimes had to be put on me. That's how belligerent I got sometimes. (Hospital Staff and Family Members helped me to piece all of this together). I still have the restraints that were put in a bag with my personal belongings. I kept them to remind me that I should never have that type anger again to require their use.

Apparently my sense of reason eventually won the battle after 2 weeks and a couple of days. What a relief to get that stuff off my body and out of it.

I will be praying to the 'Big Guy' today that Mitch find some comfort in the direction God will send him. I will also pray that the 'Big Guy' give You and Your Family the strength and sheer will to overcome the things that must be overcome.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

PS: I seriously believe that any mollycoddeling of Mitch is counterproductive. Sometimes you just have to take the young bull by the horns. Be prepared for a heck of a ride though.

[blazer]

:hug:Thanks for the update! You could never talk from your butt! Like the others have said, you were a concerned father talking from your heart! :hug:

[JenyEliza]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

Your initial reaction to your son's shooting and Mitch's reaction now to what he is and isn't able to do are all VERY normal.

Your son's case is really following the same path as many who have gone before you.

You have nothing to feel ashamed or embarrassed about.

Learning your child is in a life or death situation *is* about as bad as it gets for any parent. I know--I've been there with my own children.

We will continue to hold you all up in prayer.

Any clue yet when they will release Mitch to rehab? The sooner he gets there, the sooner they can help him with accepting his situation, learning new ways to do normal daily living activities and how to take care of them himself (ie, so he doesn't need a bedpan).

If there's anything any of us can do....let us know. Team Mitch in Atlanta is ready if this is where you're coming!

:hug:

Jeny

[itsrea]

Oh, sweet brother.

The poor boy just got handed one of life's most nasty emotional overloads -- and he's barely been conscious for how many days now? NOT ENOUGH TIME yet to deal with all that's landed on his poor soul.

When he gets angry, it's just an emotional explosion from a whole lot of built up stress.

Like a pressure cooker, that emotional steam has got to go somewhere -- and, if he bottles the rage and frustration up inside himself, you won't like the delayed reaction at all at all.

Better small explosions followed by apologies than that he bottle it up until you see a HUGE explosion of totally destructive power later on.

And I think that's what the shrinks would tell you, too: he's got HUGE adjustments to make, not just physically but emotionally -- especially emotionally.

I just thank God he's exploding with trustworthy counselors -- like his own family -- there to listen while he dumps the stress overloads.

As long as he's willing to let his dad see those explosions -- like most teens are NOT able to do at all -- he'll be okay.

It just takes a huge amount of time to establish an emotional balance after the kind of horrible trauma he's just undergone.I'm going to add to this that your example as his father and as a Christain is going to help him even if it doesn't seem to... and as an example I'm talking about letting him talk to you and crying your pain for and about him WITH him. I'm talking about it's being ok to explode, to be angry (examples of righteous indignation and anger are all through the bible)... that was an important lesson I learned as my oldest learned to deal with his disability... to be able to be angry, to be able to cry, to offer support and sympathy when asked for or needed - - don't be tempted to BE who you THINK God wants you to be towards and for Mitchell... be sure to pray first and ask God how HE'D want you to act and react.

In other words you are a human dealing with a impossible situation and your continuing to BE a human who is turning to God as much as he can and as often as he remembers will set the example that it's ok for Mitchell to BE a human too.. and will help him cling to God if he is able and/or to turn back to Him if he tends towards being angry and blaming God.

You all continue in my prayers my friend.

hugs,
Rea

[czzzaar]

"ok *******...scratch your back"!

Now THAT is funny, (LOL!) I don't care who you are.

[Cutiepie]

[quote=jwil59;45824921]Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff


Jeff, thanks for the update. I am still praying. You will still have valley's but, keep leaning on Him and trusting in Him.

[Gregor]

Hi sweetie and sweetie Darlene (BTW: Do you know the strength your husband gave me when my husband was being treated for cancer??? Of course you do, because that's the man he is....)

A few things I noticed at Sloan. Young people, in particular, but it could be anyone, really, can get very, very, nasty toward their parents and people they love the most. I was in the waiting room one day and a young man who was diagnosed with lymphoma was ranting and raving at his parents. As a teacher, I'm used to butting in when kids are out of line, but clearly it was not my place to interfere; instead I listened closely to everything the boy said. He was worried about money, he was worried about scheduling treatments, he was worried about transportation, in short, he was worried about his life. The ONLY thing he had "control" over was speaking his angry mind. He was at the doctor's mercy when it came to his illness, and his pride at being his own man who called his own shots had suffered as much as his body was suffering from the disease. So he transferred all that lack of control into things he could somehow gain control over: money, schedules, transportation. And he inflicted his anger on people he knew were safe: his parents, because no matter what he said or did, their love was unconditional; they were not going to leave him. I know this is easier said than done, but if you recognize that when he gets nasty toward you, it's actually a sign that he feels safe with you and for those moments, as unfair as it is, as illogical as it is, it gives him some control, when he knows he has none, it could help give you strength. Then as soon as you leave the room, you can look at each other, roll your eyes and shake your heads.

Also: DEMAND ANSWERS. Politely, yes...but you are polite people...but DEMAND THEM. And if they say, "Well, we really don't know..." ask them what they do know. And finally, the question I kept asking my mother's doctors and my husband's doctors were, "If this was YOUR mother..." or "If this was YOUR wife..." It's amazing how much more honest they will be when you put them in the scenario and remove yourself. It was a pulmonologist I asked, "If this was your mother what would you decide," who FINALLY told me the truth about where my mother was headed if we continued to keep her alive by machines. It was my husband's doctor who told me how aggressively he would treat his wife if she had my husband's illness at stage III. In both cases, those truths were turning points.

Much love and an abundance of strength to you both.

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

[AmeriWoman]

Jeff, I dont say much, I read a lot and think too much. This whole thread
always brings me back to earth and makes me realize how much in life
I have to be thankful for. You especially remind me of how important
God is to all of us and how much his gifts to us mean. Know that many
of us here are walking with you and keeping you each in our hearts and
prayers across the miles. Mega hugs, aw

[Calibabe]

IMO... You have been a true angel in this thread

No angel, just trying to ease the fears and give hope to those in need, especially Jeff and his family. As I had previously said, his words of encouragement and comfort and support while my son went through 2 series of operations was instrumental in his recovery. I could do no less for him than he did for me. Our children are the best thing that we have ever done and when one hurts we all hurt. That is why this thread has exploded like it did. Someone was in need and we all responded. There have been many angels in this thread. I just physically wish there was something I could do to comfort both Jeff and Darlene and Mitchell and the rest of the family.

Thank you for your compliment. I accept it with humility and grace. I hope that I can continue to help from this end whenever needed or called upon.

God bless you.

[Calibabe]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

My dear friend, you have nothing, nothing to apologize for. We, all of us that are parents have hugged our kids more, have told them we love them more and just in general have looked at how blessed we all are and even you, with Mitchell, are also blessed as you have your son still with you, while not whole, he will be one day. That I know in my very soul. He is our miracle, our true belief that God, while having bad things happen, makes them right. Who could ask for more.

It will be hard for Mitchell to understand this so I will tell you. If he does not have a normal bowel movement, they will do a mechanical bowel movement on him, as constipation is one thing they don't want to have set in. That would truly be an embarrassement for him to have a nurses hand, literally up his butt, pulling out what is there. I know because I have done them on people and it is no fun, either for the nurse or the patient. So in whatever way you have to tell him, explain to him that for now, just for now, that he has to use this method. Give him the urging and praise for doing it and then maybe he will be more agreeable. Tell him you will be there when he has to do it so maybe that will help. Tell him you changed his diapers when he was a baby so there is nothing to be ashamed about. It is just a temporary situation.

As for his mood swings that is also completely normal. I would expect nothing less. They can sometimes be very unsociable. It will pass.

You tell those doctors to go to hell or give them hell one way or the other. Sometimes all the degrees in the world are no guarantee for what the future will bring. Mitchell has beaten their odds since his arrival. He will continue to. I can't wait for the day when you tell us he walks back into that hospital. Then those doctors might, just maybe they will learn to not be so down on recovery. Sometimes I would like to put my foot where the sun doesn't shine on them.

Take care my friend and remember we are all here for you. We always will be. Yes, Mitchell has a long road to hoe, but so do we all. Every step of the way we will be there. We will not go away.

God bless you and Darlene. We will keep the prayers flowing on this side of the coast. God truly has large arms to hold us all. He has Mitchell in his arms now. He will make him whole. Time is what is needed at this point. Time is a hard concept for a 17 yr old when they think every second counts.

[Purperov]

Payers for JW's son. Strength to him and his family.

[countzero123]

[...]
Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

Jeff, I think most if not all people can understand this and there's no need to explain. We all have challenges and no matter what they are, they always seem like the worst thing that could possibly happen at the time. Later when we re-assess or come face to face with someone else with a greater challenge, we realize we've let our minds carry us too far. It's only natural.

I remember when I found out that my newborn daughter had Down Syndrome....I went to some new depths in my mind but didn't show it on the outside. But eventually I realized she was the greatest blessing in my life and there was no reason to feel that way.

You still have your son and that's what matters most right now. :pray:

[Lera]

jwil59,

I've been following your post and have shed some tears with you. My prayers are always with you and your family.

I know the long tough road that your family will be going through for my brother lost all feeling from the waste down when he was 20 and now 55 years old. He is wheel chair bound. It's not easy for anyone and each year that passes makes it harder not easier.

I'm sorry for that bad news my prayers are that you son and your family will be better prepared then my family was.

God Bless and all are in my prayers.

PS: Please watch the rehab exercises they give him for his muscles and duplicate that at home because rehab will not last forever and my experience is that a lot of people need more rehab then that is offered.

[Larry, Curly & Mohamed]

A Catholic Prayer for the sick:

O God, your Son accepted our sufferings to teach us the virtue of patience in human illness. Hear the prayers we offer for our sick brother. May all who suffer pain, illness or disease realize that they are chosen to be saints, and know that they are joined to Christ in his suffering for the salvation of the world, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

I'm praying for you both.

[USMCmom]

Jeff am glad to hear that Mitchell is doing better...
Am keeping all of you in my prayers dear friend!
God Bless

[lsue]

Jeff, I think most if not all people can understand this and there's no need to explain. We all have challenges and no matter what they are, they always seem like the worst thing that could possibly happen at the time. Later when we re-assess or come face to face with someone else with a greater challenge, we realize we've let our minds carry us too far. It's only natural.

I remember when I found out that my newborn daughter had Down Syndrome....I went to some new depths in my mind but didn't show it on the outside. But eventually I realized she was the greatest blessing in my life and there was no reason to feel that way.

You still have your son and that's what matters most right now. :pray:



amen.

[Sun]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

I'm not a medical person, and I don't know all the facts, but I think it's way too early to know Mitch's prognosis. The brain can heal, and the body can heal.

They told my family that my father would never be able to get out of his wheel chair. My brother wouldn't accept that, and demanded more therapy, and even talked with a therapist and gave my father more therapy by working with dad himself. While dad never could walk without holding on to a railing, dad loved being able to at least walk, he DID get out of the wheelchair, thanks to my brother.

[smibbo]

Thank you for all the information. It helps us to be able to aske the right questions of the experts. Some of them act as if they don't want to answer questions but tuff **** for them.

Mitch isn't comming to terms with what has happened and how it has effected him. Some professionals have told us that he will deny that he cannot walk or do the things he wants to do, like use a cell phone or computer. I hope he can realize the truth, I guess for now he has blocked it. He gets pretty nasty at times and later always apologizes. He also refuses to use the bed pan and that is going to cause him even more embarrassment and discomfort down the line if they have to force that. That is something that I have prayed for though, that he would have control of that aspect of his body. Praise God

Medically speaking he is still doing great. I am in awe of God's goodness when I think about where we were two weeks ago. My heart still breaks though because of the uncertainty.

Now that I have our laptop I ofetn read through these threads and I want to say something here. There are some things in my first post that I want to explain to you guys. I said at that time that this is as bad as life can get, and that what I was going through was the worst that life has to offer. I want you all to understand that was just a scared father talking out his butt. Fact is, it can always be worse and it is only because of God's grace that it isn't worse. God is good and He is my rock. I cannot fathom where I would be wothout Him.

Please keep the thoughts ansd prayers comming yall. This is an absolute miracle yall, a true act of God. God bless you and I wil, check back later.

Jeff

Jeff, in some ways, its heartening to hear the trouble Mitch is giving you all: he's a fighter and he's stubborn and he's determined to have some semblence of control. Now if you can turn that in the right direction... until then you have to remind yourself that his emotional state and his responses are all good signs.

As to what you said; hon you weren't being doubtful of God's goodness when you said what you said. You were expressing how distraught with fear and anxiety you were. God made parents because he couldn't keep up with all the stress himself (haha that was a joke) and Lord knows it's a lot sometimes. But I don't think there's anything worse for a parent than sitting in limbo, wondering what will become of your child, whether you will even HAVE a child anymore. It's that limbo of not knowing that is the worst it can be for any parent.

We know you weren't talking about the specific situation. You were talking about how it feels to be in that special place in your heart where no parent wants to ever be. Yes, specifically speaking it could always be "worse" but what difference does the situation make when you are in that emotional horror movie called "uncertainty" as a parent?

I'm so glad things are moving so well.

*warm hugs*

[Seanachie]

Good Morning Jeff,

Some Blessings to start your Day,

Always remember to forget
The troubles that passed away.
But never forget to remember
The blessings that come each day.

May the flower of love never be nipped by the frost of disappointment, nor shadow of grief fall among your family and friends.

Be the eye of God dwelling with you
The foot of Christ in guidance with you
The shower of the Spirit pouring on you
Richly and generously.

My earnest prayers are with Mitch, You and your entire Family on this Day and offered to the Good Lord for His Healing Inspiration and unbounded Love.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[EmmanuelGoldstein]

Jeff, thanks again for the updates. I'm glad to hear he is doing better, and that he's fighting. Like smibbo said, that is a good thing ;)

My prayers continue for you all .

[sybilll]

You owe us no explanation, much less an apology. Many of us have never walked in your shoes, and your initial reaction is a personal one. I would have been the same. Would I expect my soldiers in Christ to rally as we have? Of course. And we have. The number of prayer lists upon which Mitch has been added is immeasurable, and growing. God Bless You.

[doodle5]

Jeff,

Have you asked for a series of meetings with the experts to instruct you and your wife? You are going to need instructions as each day progresses and to have the right words and reactions.

Maybe they have groups in the hospital where Mitch is or a group therapy.

Demand answers!! Doctors sometimes do not like to answer to the family.

Carlene

[curtis123]

Prayed for you and Mitchell again this morning. I prayed for strength and wisdom for yourself for the long road you, your family and Mitch have ahead of you.

You'll get through it.

[kat]

Wonderful news here! Jwil........ don't feel guilty or have second thoughts about what you've felt and thought......... whatever gets ya through the the night, it's alright!

Still sending prayers your way. May God continue to bless you and your family with His grace and strength.

[CID_0687]

Still praying Jeff.

God bless you guys.

[blazer]

Thinking about you all and praying! :hug:

[roger teekell]

I am continuing to lift you and your son up to heaven...As well as the rest of your family...

Stay strong and on your knees...

This is a miracle in the making...

I truly believe that ...

Love you my brother..

[mboncher]

Jwil, I'm praying for you and your family. I hope God's will and favor is shown upon you, and may he comfort you in such a time of deep sorrow.

[Sun]

ps: Please watch the rehab exercises they give him for his muscles and duplicate that at home because rehab will not last forever and my experience is that a lot of people need more rehab then that is offered.

i agree, lera!

[birdonawire]

Still praying. :pray:

[rhet 2]

Still praying. :pray:

Without ceasing.

Mitchell now dwells constantly just behind every conscious thought, my soul locked to his in everlasting prayer and deep concern for his well-being.

I could no more stop praying for him than I could swim to the moon on fairy wings.

[Momma]

My daughter and I have been praying for your son and your family every night, so that you may have the strength to carry on.

If you have not done this I would recommend that you keep a Journal. Especially, of any thoughts, questions, concerns, and comments that your have. It is helpful is if you will write down anything that they (the rehab team) tells you. That way when you go to careplanning you are prepared and organized, as best that you can be under the circumstance.

I find this is extremely helpful when families are overwhelmed with a large amount of new information.

God Bless!

[czzzaar]

Still praying. :pray:

Me too, Jeff. Every day and night, and sometimes when I'm underwater.

[Single Dad]

Your current dilemna makes me realize how blessed I am with my little girl. At times I may temporarily forget just how lucky I am to have her in my life. Thank you for helping me to remember just how much I should thank God each and every day for her. May Mitchell heal better than any expert claims is possible. May you and your family be rewarded with God's loving touch now and always. I pray for you Jeff, for your son Mitchell, and for all of your friends and loved ones. May the love of my prayers find your heart and warm your life.

[jwil59]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

[blazer]

UPDATE!

[QUOTE=jwil59;45911111]It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

[blazer]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff
We look forward to your updates and the progress! :hug:

[Gregor]

Great news! Wow, the progress has been incredible. I'm glad you started posting here, because you have a diary for those rough days you can back to as a reminder of how far you've come!!!! Much love, sweet man.

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

[Freefreq]

With the way things are going Mitch will be running around in a month or 2 it seems. Im so happy that he has come so far in such a short amount of time.

We are still praying here.

[StoneScratcher]

Wonderful news, Jeff!

My prayers continue for Mitchell, you and Darlene, your family, and those around you in thoughts and prayer.

If Mitchell sees himself doing something, and visualizes it, with prayer and alot of work and practice on his part, he just may obtain it. He's so young, no one is certain. God Bless him for not giving up, but wanting what is out of reach today hoping to grab it tomorrow!

God Bless you and thank you for the updates.

[agent_86]

UPDATE!

[QUOTE=jwil59;45911111]It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

Just don't fight him on what he THINKS he will be able to do. I say tell him it will a fight on his part - struggle to get there. He may surprise you. Will is a strong part of recovery.

But man, things sound like they are progressing. progress is good.

Let him know we are all pulling for the quickest and most complete recovery possible.

[rhet 2]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

That's great progress, my brother.

Yes, we are with you, heart and mind, and not just through the one crisis but always, no matter what.

May the LORD give all of you sweet healing rest this evening that you wake energized and ready to conquer whatever life throws at you tomorrow -- and may tomorrow's trials be even greater victories than you've seen today.

:hug: and :pray: and :pray: a bit more just for good measure

[mboncher]

This has nothing to do with politics Jwil. This is about doing the right thing for a family in need. God will get you through. You were there for me, praying, I'm gonna be doing the same for you.

[Hoobeedoo Bejesus]

Thanks for the update, Jeff. I can't imagine the heartbreak you and your wife must be going though. We are still praying for you.

You might want to try and contact Shepards directly about the insurance as they may know of a work around.

[gb2004]

More encouraging progress!! That's so great! God Bless.

[Cutiepie]

UPDATE!

[quote=jwil59;45911111]It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff



Jeff, Praise the Lord!!! I know you have probably have heard that a thousand times but, this is definitely a miracle.

Don't fight him on what he can't do. He will surprise you on that. Keep encouraging him and remind him that with God all things are possible.

I am still praying for y'all!!!

[Ballygrl]

Still praying Jeff!

And that's great news that he was able to stand for a bit, it's actually a pretty big step.

:pray:

[Spiked101]

Praising the Lord for the fact that your son is alive, aware, sitting up, talking and with you and your family. Miracles do happen. We will continue to steadfastly pray for you and your family Jeff.

[Seanachie]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff


Hello Jeff,

I took a bit of a sojourn to the upper Delaware River in NY State yesterday afternoon to a place called the Hawks Nest. The roadway and its overlooks of the River are carved out of the side of the mountain. I find this a very peaceful place to 'talk' with God.

And talk I did. I asked the Good Lord to send help to Mitch for his complete healing. My prayers are still 'urgent' prayers cause Mitch has a ways to go and will need all the help God will send him.

I remember the day they took stictches out of the side of my head. I remember feeling them with my hand and just thought it was hair stubble sticking out. It never dawned on me that the Doc was removing them until the following day when another Doc came in and removed the remainder. That got my curiousity and the Doc explained to me what they were doing. This was a University Teaching Trauma Hospital I was in and it was commonplace for all kinds of Doctors to be in and out much of the day.

When I 'came out of it', I was freaked out when 8 or 10 Doctors would come in my room and I completely clammed up. It was just too overwhelming to deal with. I'm sure Mitch feels the same way when a bunch of people are around him. It just hard to deal with when some of your brain circuits are still bolloxed up. A wonderful Nurse explained to me that this was a teaching Hospital and it's routine for this to happen. It kind'uve sucks nonetheless when you are the 'specimen' they are examining. They kept it in smaller bunches after my heart to heart with that Nurse.

On balance: Vertigo is commonplace with brain injuries. I can remember not being able to bend over without getting dizzy, ready to keel over. The Therapists explained this all to me and I became and still am very much aware of the effects and take necessary precautions. Thankfully the worst is over for me I think. When it does happen I know that I have to get immediate rest. If that doesn't work; it's back to the Neuro Man for evaluation. It may take a long while for these effects to pass for Mitch. It's over two years for me and the effects are still there just much less pronounced.

On Mitch feeling that he can still use the puter, cell phone: I am attaching some links on the 'Hawks Nest' below. The 1st two have still pics. The next is a vid of a motorcyclist with a camera in his helmet traversing the curves. It's a wild ride in a car never mind a motorcycle if you are doing over 30 MPH.

Mitch might be interested in seeing the Motorcycle ride if you are able to rig up your laptop to show him. This may also be an aid on the computer stuff and give him the impetus to try and use it. Check with the Staff 1st. They'll give Ya some guidence. It may be to early for that anyways. That I have no answer for.

http://www.upperdelawarescenicbyway.org/history/towns/deerpark/deerpark.php

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_State_Route_97

This is the one that may interest Mitch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJHSRipGfSc&feature=related

If Mitch isn't able or interested now; he may be later. Gregor earlier mentioned that this thread is somewhat of a diary for you. It will also be for Mitch when he is able and wants to piece some things together. My e-mails and the threads here are a wealth of info for me and sometimes I will go back to them when I 1st used this puter to find something that is nagging at me or just as a refresher course. I can see progress or lack of it concerning memory this way.

I want you to know that in my 'talk' with the 'Big Guy' yesterday that many prayers were offered 'up' for Mich. They were also offered 'up' for You, Darlene, Joni and every member of your Family and your friends that are so dedicated to seeing Mitch through this. They were also offered up for the Hospital Staff and every person you have asked us to pray for.

Your words to me that your prayers were an Honor and a Privelge to offer will stay etched in my hippocampus. I thank You for those words. It has taught me a great deal about how and why to pray and the 'Honor and Privelege' it is to do so.

Be well my Friend,

Jim

[itsrea]

I, personally, have never had staples - Aubery did after the removal of his brain tumor, and Rick did after his rotator cuff surgery and I, personally, think they are about as barbaric :hand: as the lobotomies they used to do on women :snooty: so I can imagine that it was not easy to see them in your son, and/or being removed from your son... :redface:

Considering all that you are going through you sound to me like you're doing great Jeff... still gonna pray for all of you tho :)
I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close.:eek:Don't tell your pastor that one of your prayer partners met her domestic partner online then....

:))

[Sun]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

Everytime you post, Jeff, we can see more improvement. Thank you dear God!

[USMCmom]

Excellent news dear friend...
Hope all is well with you and the missus! Sounds like our Mitchell is improving by leaps and bounds! As for the staples...sounds like that was miserable. Am praying that he is feeling better with them out!

Keep up the good work...
am sending hugs & prayers,
Luv ya...

[JustMan]

Praising the Lord for the fact that your son is alive, aware, sitting up, talking and with you and your family. Miracles do happen. We will continue to steadfastly pray for you and your family Jeff.
I dont know you Jeff but I wish your son all the best of health. I agree with spiked thank the Lord that your son is alive. I hope he gets better soon and my prayers are with you

[bella-day]

Thank you for the update Jeff.

Prayers for Mitch, you, and the rest of your family continue.

[repchick]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

Dear Jeff you and your family have not left my thoughts. Mitch is still in my prayers.
You dear man, Thank you for taking time out to not only pray for me and my family but to ask others to pray for us too. :hug:

[tha malcontent™]

It has been a whirlwind day in our world today. The low point was the removal of all those staples in his head which was very painfull. I would estimate maybe 40-50 staples for the surgery then another 8 or so for the bullet entry and exit. He took it like a man, better than me and mom. LOL. We had lots of visitors today too. he likes that as long as we don't get too many people in the room at once.

During his PT today they sat him on the edge of his bed and he actually balanced himself for a few seconds without help. That's a few seconds more than yesterday. praise God for his progress. He is less agitated but still wants to go home, and he also thinks he can use a cell phone and computer and get up to go to the bathroom and he still can't. IT breaks my heart for him. He is doing really well though yall.

The social worker sayd there might be a glitch with my insurance and out of state rehab at Shepards. I'm not going to stress, just pray that it works out. If it don't then Spain is still an excellent facility, but Shepards is our fist choice for sure.

Thank you guys for the all the support and prayer. We are all humbled. I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close. You guys are the best. I love you all and please keep praying. I will update as soon as I can.

My sincere condolonces and prayers for Repchick and Chuck. God bless you guys. I am praying for you.

Jeff

It's Good to Hear Good News, Jeff...

Stay Strong, Brother...

:)

peace...

[smibbo]

Staples sure are disturbing, aren't they? I think it's because we're used to seeing them in inanimate objects, like paper and cardboard. To see them sticking out of a person is... surreal. I have to tell you I prefer them to fiber stitches though; they hurt a LOT less coming out than stitching because they don't go through the flesh, just in a ways.

They are less invasive but don't they look strange!

You know, you might want to mention to Mitch that some of his difficulties might also be due to medication - especially any pain meds he's taken. Some people (myself definitely included) can be very hard hit mentally by pain meds and it can take some time to get it out of the system and think normally.
In fact, its well known among my loved ones that when I'm hit up with morphine I will ramble incessantly and tell long stories! My best friend was sure to call me up last time I was bedridden and ask me for a story! Apparently I told her about the Queen Hand who wanted cheetos. I swear I am not making this up. Well I guess I was making it up at the time...

ANyway, do keep in mind that trauma, stress/anxiety and pain meds can make people act just as odd as a brain injury and so don't place too much worry on odd behavior right now. The real tests will be once all the meds leave his system and he can think clearly.

*warm hugs*

[countzero123]

Great to hear Mitch is making more progress. :clap:

I, personally, have never had staples - Aubery did after the removal of his brain tumor, and Rick did after his rotator cuff surgery and I, personally, think they are about as barbaric :hand: as the lobotomies they used to do on women :snooty: so I can imagine that it was not easy to see them in your son, and/or being removed from your son... :redface:

I had staples in my arm after surgery to repair a pulled bicep tendon. I'm still not sure if I'd prefer them over stitches.

Originally Posted by jwil59 http://forums.hannity.com/firestorm/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://forums.hannity.com/showthread.php?p=45911111#post45911111)
I was talking to my pastor about yall today and he was shocked that we could all be this close.Considering all that you are going through you sound to me like you're doing great Jeff... still gonna pray for all of you tho :)
:eek:Don't tell your pastor that one of your prayer partners met her domestic partner online then....

:))

Had to comment on this....someone I got friendly with a while back over the Internet said this: "When you meet people this way, you're getting to know them from the inside-out" (as opposed to the 'normal' way, with all our prejudices....). I thought this was a very significant point...maybe it's better to meet people first this way, without all the visual and social baggage.