HOWARD IS FINALLY HOME ! ! !

Apologies for the long awaited blog post about Howard's arrival home....we've been a little distracted....... and downloading pictures has frustrated the whole blog writing team. So enjoy the shots we got and just imagine the rest!!! Thanks.

Four months and eight days later, Howard is ready to come HOME !

And lest you think that is the only miracle of the this blog post, imagine him at home, walking up and down the hallway wearing real shoes!!! Yes, it's true - on Friday morning, the foot surgeon unfettered our father and he's free-form flying around the house, while the big black boots sit in a far away corner.

Last Tuesday, Dad took his first ride up the stairs on the "rocket," checked out the newly remodeled bathroom and paint job, and landed in his very own bed.

As mom climbed in beside him to rest from their busy morning of moving out of the hospital rehab, Dad said, "This is the best part! You just bein' right there."

A picnic lunch on the sunny deck, scarfin' down sandwiches and 3 diet cokes, Dad proclaimed, "This is the closest you get to heaven!

It has been 2 weeks already! And now, it's just Howard and me at home.

Jan and Loyd, Howard's sister and husband from Boise, Idaho helped us settle in that first week. What a big help they were with laundry, organizing and preparing a clear path for Howard to navigate. It was good to have a big, strong man around during that busy week.

One adventure we could have done without was when Howard slipped to the floor and broke his collar bone. It's been a painful adjustment for his independence, but his physical therapist, Kathy, says it will only slow him down a little - he's on the fast track for rehabilitation and continues to make several laps around the top floor of the house on his own two feet!

Thanks to the hard work of Kathi, Mike, Kenny and Joe,the new bathroom is beautiful and just right for us. Howard recently enjoyed his first luxurious shower. Ahhhhhhhhh.......
Afterwards, he slid into fresh clean sheets and promptly slept the whole night through.

To further his independence, Joe rigged up Howard's well-worn easy chair with a 6 inch platform, so now he can get in and out of it on his own. He is currently lounging comfortably in his old spot, looking contented, with an obvious appreciation for a bit of normalcy returning to his life.

I think it might be time for us to have some ice cream and watch an episode of "The Closer."
Car accident? What car accident?

WHEN A GOOD DRUG TURNS BAD

Vicodin helped Howard deal with the persistent pain in the hip area and then the number of pills had to gradually be increased to do the job. Even then the pain was always there. When he wasn't able to sleep for two days and nights he began to lose touch with who we were and tried to get off the bed and run, we gave him one Ambian to maybe calm him down. It was the WRONG thing to do for it produced convulsive like spasms and he was terrified by something we couldn't see. Next call was to 911. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the hospital put him into their detoxification process and in just a few days he was himself again and had no pain. His medical records now have a warning on them -NO NARCOTICS.

The doctors evaluated him and decided he was a good candidate for the Acute Rehabilitation Program. This was the BLESSING for real! He has done so well in this intense physical, speech, and occupational sessions (it takes 8 hours a day) that he will be coming HOME on tuesday the 22nd of September. He uses a little tylenol patch on the hip when needed.

Kenny has been here all week putting the tile in the bathroom, cooking breakfast and more. Sophie is helping me weed out things that would be a hazard to Howard while walking using the walker and is driving me around as we do errands and clean a bit after the construction. Kathi and Mike will be here today finishing lots of odds and ends

Howard is doing great and so anxious to be home.

BUSY BUSY BUSY

Too long a time between posts but let me tell you why.   Howard continues to improve and is planning  his "escape".  He is actively putting those feet to the floor to stand and turn, to walk using the walker, to propel himself around in the wheelchair by using his feet, eating a few meals at the dining table and figuring out how to use the bathroom.  It is far from easy but he tries hard.  Today was his first full body shower since May 13.  He loved it!  We got a prescription for a muscle relaxer at the physical therapist's request to help the hip muscles relax and stretch but we suspect the dosage is too high for his body was like a wet noodle this morning and he lacked his usual strength.  Or maybe both a shower and a therapy is too much for one day.  He dutifully does his weight lifting and leg lifts every day.

The home action is preparing to empty and remove the bookcase nearest the top of the stairs which stirs up a lot of dust.  The next time someone says what do you need help with I will say please move these books to Goodwill or the salvation army.  Until then they are in paper grocery bags lined up at the back of the sofa.  There is a lot of time spent watching and consulting with Kathi as she adds color to the bedroom and bath.  I attend therapy sessions each day so I can do a better job helping him in the weeks to come.  I am gaining a better appreciation for him as I grapple with which bills have been paid and which not.  Providence is covering all but a copay now and then.  He is a lot better at juggling appointments than I am and is great at helping me solve problems.  Found out about an agency who will give us information on a home assistant a few days a week for awhile.  

The Bruno stair climbing seat and rail is in town and will be installed next tuesday.  If I've not gotten rid of the books by then I could just put them on my lap and push GO on the remote. The big new toilet is in the garage, I wonder how much it weighs?  Things are happening and going well.  Don't think it would without God's liberal assistance.  Thank you !  Last but not least the generous gift of the garage door opener from the family is truly wonderful.  I never knew how much we needed it until it was installed.

NEW FEAT FOR THE FEET

That is right everyone -- He walked into the bathroom and back, then walked from his room down the length of the hall to the living room using a walker and those big black boots for support.  His therapist congratulated him and told him to be ready to do it again tomorrow.  It is an exciting sign of progress but makes for some serious muscle pain later natural though after all these weeks of laying flat.

The main work on the new ADA bathroom is finished and now starts the addition of paint and tile to be done by a new crew.  Howard can hardly wait, he is getting more anxious all the time to be home again.  It shouldn't be long now until the new bathroom is ready for him to shower for hours and the Bruno stair chair is delivered and installed.

A Great Time Was Had by All

The birthday party was a great success and when I arrived with Sunday paper in hand to visit Howard he was cheerfully doing his leg lifts and strengthening exercises.

The previous posts give lots of info about Howard's daily experiences as he continues to get better so  I thought you all might like to have a little update on what is happening at home.  This week has been a whirlwind of activity as well.  It began with Joe, Jon and Mario wielding big hammers to remove some of a bedroom wall and the walls of the linen closet (leaving the door and it's frame to form a closet with a one inch depth) and we are accepting ideas for how to use the space. Joe's design called for lowering the level of the space before adding waterproofing and concrete layer.  They have already vetoed a glass wall looking into the new shower or making it a display spot for very special art.  It might be just too practical to hang a broom and dustpan in there.  Mike came along to help carry enough buckets of concrete up the stairs to lay a new floor.  He cleaned up after and continues to make order out of chaos.

Then came new waterproof sheetrock walls, additional wiring and plumbing to turn the space into a wheelchair accessible room size shower with a mirrored medicene cabinet, lights with fans and heat bulbs and just the TOP of the line TOTO toilet and sink.  The wiring, taping and mudding was about finished today.  And everyone is grateful that Deb prepared lunches every day for the crew.  Mike has been here everyday and he and Kathi are turning an old cabinet into an older looking new linen cupboard that will hold all sorts of items.  The next big job will be sanding and painting the walls and then tile on walls and floor.  We will have a great wheelchair accessible shower room with a drain in the floor.

Abbie took party pictures and we soon will get one or more into this blog.  Thanks Abbie ! ! !

A Very Merry Birthday!

Good morning everybody! 

As a special treat for Grandpa's birthday celebration, they've imported a special guest blogger all the way from New York City! I even managed to get all the way through the party yesterday and the after-party nachos without collapsing from jet lag- a marvelous feat. 

But the party! Yesterday, in honor of not only Howard's birthday but his marvelous recovery progress (he can stand up in the dreaded boots!!) the family gathered at his new home to sip a little bubbly and eat an enormous cake made by mother dearest, Kelli. Grandpa was up in his chair, which had been decked out with an enormous singing balloon (a gift from his caretakers, Esther and Marian) and was greeting his guests at the door. We all adjourned to the deck for the party proper. A few highlights: the wind continually activated grandpa's balloon, providing us with some lovely background music. Grandpa had his first glass of bubbly  and declared it to be "mighty fine". The Drake family had been in Spokane the week before, and had compiled a photo album of Deer Park photos, so we could all see how the old place was doing now. We were all shocked to discover that they have their very own computer store now! Before cutting the cake, we recreated the grandchild photograph that hangs in grandpa's bedroom and on the home page of this blog (Aaron miraculously walked in just as we said "cheese"). 

For me, personally, it's been difficult to be on the other side of the country during this whole journey, although being able to read this blog has certainly helped. I was so grateful that I got to have a little time to catch up with grandpa and see for myself just how very much like himself he truly is nowadays. I wish I could stick around for a little while longer and help out more, but it's back to the big apple with me tonight (I have my own blog of New York life, if any of you aren't already reading it, at newcoastadventure.blogspot.com). All in all it's been a lovely visit, and I'm so happy that Grandpa's doing so very well!!

-- Amy 

Want Ad Posting by Howard

Dad asked me to post a request on the blog today - He's looking for someone to come and do his therapy exercises for him 3 times a day.  He can't pay you, but would cheer you on from his bed. No experience necessary.  Upper body strength workouts begin ASAP, with  leg strengthening routines to begin early next week.  Only cheerful exercisers need apply.

Submitted by Howard Shepherd

Dad stood up today!

What a day!  With the help and encouragement of Angela, a mild-mannered occupational therapist, Dad put his boots back on and pulled himself up to version of standing on his own two feet!!!  And he not only used his feet to stand, but he also put those booted feet on the floor for balance  as he slid into and out of his wheelchair with minimal help!  He also had a good time "walking" his wheelchair around the room with his feet, realizing how quickly he could maneuver himself out into the hallway, or into the kitchen or the deck on a future adventure... tomorrow maybe?? 

 So many possibilities for independence have opened up for Dad this week.  And with his amazing rate of healing and these first successful attempts at ambulation, the stair chair installation and bathroom remodel have jumped into full swing!  All bets are off as to the date Dad might be able to come home.  God knows when his homecoming will happen and we think it will be sooner than later.  

Please continue to pray for Dad as he works to strengthen his muscles and increase his endurance so he can move to a walker.  Surprisingly, Dad felt no pain in his feet or his wrists during today's activities.  But that dog-gone hip was the pain culprit.  Not being able to rehab his hip until two months after surgery makes the therapy pretty painful.  Hang in there, Dad!

On a personal note, I am so thankful to have witnessed today's major milestones with my dad.  I drove over to his care house this morning only because he wasn't answering his cell phone and I wondered if he'd run away or something!  Alas, the volume had been muted, which one more lesson on cell phone operation corrected easily.  Soon after my arrival, Angela the therapist arrived  for her first visit and the happy miracles began to take place.  To see Dad's face as he moved on his own, and put weight on his feet for the first time in months is a site I will never forget.  And I think that he didn't mind me doing a "happy dance" in the corner and shedding a few tears of happiness in honor of his successes today.  It won't be long until he joins me in the "happy dance" using his own two feet!   Kelli

  

A ride of a lifetime

Okay, I have to admit this story is mostly about ME/Kate, Grandpa is in it sometimes, it isn't all about me! Today Grandpa had his big appointment which you can read all about below this! I got to ride in the front seat of an Ambulance today that Grandpa got transported in. The gurney was a auto one so it was a way easier to pull up wheels by the press of a button. The driver was talkative and respectful. We talked about traveling back and forth Seattle to Portland, weather, and traffic. I know such fun and exciting topics. During all this Grandpa was usually talking to the guy in the back with him or just laying there on a gurney. At one time she got confused or lost and Grandpa tried to help, he did a little. It ended up that she was going the right way. Thank goodness I was there otherwise she would have missed the turn onto his wall. Guess how I knew? Aunt Kelli, she is wonderful, this is how she remembers which road it is. She remembers by a retaining wall that is being built, Thanks Auntie. We successfully arrived at the house. I had a super-duper, first ride in an ambulance. I bet my daddy's proud! 

~Kate =p

WOW, he's free!!!

Today started with slightly limited expectations, but it really was a big, triumphant day!  Another field trip in an ambulance took Grandpa to the OHSU center on the river to see the orthopedic surgeon who operated on his feet and wrists.  His main caretaker, Estera, said, as he was being wheeled out the door by the very kind paramedics, "Maybe you'll get your leg braces off."  We were very quick to not get anyone's hopes up, but we didn't have to!  

Sitting in the large exam room full of family with Grandpa in the middle, the surgeon's physician's assistant came in and took off the wrist braces and boots, and when arms and legs were all "naked," as Grandpa would say, "They stinketh!"  Then, all of our jaws dropped and eyes lit up when she said that he could move around his wrists and ankles and ........ put weight on his feet!!!  We were all cheering, clapping, and dancing, especially because we all thought that the process would take a lot longer! With a written statement from the very nice woman (the surgeon's P.A.), Grandpa can put as much weight on his legs as he can take and he can sleep without his boots!  With some more physical therapy on Thursday, the prospect of getting around by himself, by strengthening his muscles in his arms and legs, is now tangibly within reach!  He can walk around in the boots and lift himself with his wrist braces on, but his range of motion and "independence" is very much improving!  

 

While Grandpa was getting x-rayed, Kate, Aunt Kelli, and I rode the tram up to the main campus of OHSU and back down!  It was so cool - a mix of a funicular, the London Eye pod that you ride in, and the elevators of the Eiffel Tower!  It was very fun to see, and it would be very fun for Grandpa too!  When we came back down to see Grandpa, we got to see those x-rays for the first time, and it was very interesting - all of those screws and pins, it was kind of cool-looking! 

 

After that big excursion, we returned to his care house to a very lovely and relaxing meal, which even included a big hunk of chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream!  If it hadn't been raining, it would have been a nice picnic on the lovely deck, but Kate wheeled Grandpa outside anyway.  He didn't even melt!  When it got toward bedtime, Kate wheeled him back into his room to wait for Estera to get him from his wheelchair to his bed.  When she came in, he hugged her around the neck, and he got up on his feet to pivot onto his bed!  The first weight on those feet in 3 whole months!  It was relatively smooth, and we left him to read his book, listening to the rain fall on the leaves outside his window!  What a big day, and a great answer to all of our prayers!  Who'da thunk that Grandpa would be able to walk this soon?!?

~ Sophie : )

Since ICU...

Yesterday I drove to Portland, OR from Seattle and I went to pick up my Grandma who was with my Grandpa. I walked into the house and... WOW! The house was so beautiful and large. The last time I saw Grandpa was in ICU when he wasn't talking. I was so excited and happy to see him, because he was going to be more like the Grandpa I know! I walked in and gave him a hug. I cried I was so happy, I gave him another hug. He said he got a new cell-phone, I looked at it and it was a nice phone! I added my sister's number who stayed at home and my other sister added herself. He looked so good and healthy and himself! He said that he gets hot chocolate and cookies at 10:00 p.m. if they are awake. I said I smell something chocolate, he said "The kitchen is down the hall 2 and a half miles and then you turn left!" I started laughing, and said I agree this is a big house! We said we would visit him today, he said "I'll give you a tour!" I can't wait! I gave him a big hug and kiss and I went to stay at my Grandma's house.

~Kate (Granddaughter)

A NEW ROUTINE

Time is settling in to a routine that will be good for all of us.  Howard gets to spend time on the terrace in the open air and surrounded by trees.  We can join him there whenever his developing schedule allows.  He is being well served by Providence Home Care and they have already supplied a registrar/nurse (who came to his bedside) to get him all checked in for the benefits they offer such as physical therapy beginning monday.  More on this later.

Tuesday we will join him in the ambulance or in the chase car to keep back to back appointments with the surgeons who did the great work on his feet, ankles,and wrists.  For the much shorter trip to our beloved Dr. Hrbek (our primary physician) on Wed. for a check on all the meds he has been taking.  For this much shorter trip he will be carried by wheelchair van and be able to see out the windows.  At last someone who knows him well is taking a good long look at all that suspicious stuff like anti-anxiety drugs and find out just what he needs.

The Castle on the Mountain

A week and a half of furious wrangling, haggling, telephoning, meeting, phoning and faxing reached a tumultuous climax today when the MetroWest cabulance rolled into a driveway on Mt. Scott and delivered Howard to a new home. And we're not talking "rehab facility" here; we're talking about honest-to-goodness front doors, carpets, bedrooms, kitchen and best of all, a deck with a view. Forget about the fake flower bouquets and no Hallmark channel (we'll fix that); this is a castle fit for a rehabbing prince. It's run by two Romanian ex-patriots who must have trained in a rock quarry, if their impressive "lift and carry" routine to get Howard into bed is any indication. These ladies are tough, and we think Howard has met his match in more ways than one. He's in good hands! The "Peaceful Care House" sits in bucolic Happy Valley in a neighborhood of million dollar homes with views to match. There's no welcome sign or any other indication of a "facility". It's just a big, beautiful house with five private rooms, gorgeous landscaping, and a sterling local reputation. Getting Howard there over the past few days is the real story, an HBO mini-series of dramatic conflict featuring Medicare, Providence Insurance, the Town Center Village care facility, and the Shepherd extended family. We'll save you all the gory details and leave it with a victory for the mysterious workings of our God, common sense and a better future. And our Rehabbing Prince?  Let's just say that when Joe, Deb and the whole clan showed up at the new digs with chocolate birthday cake for Debbie and Andrew, Howard lit up like his old self and enjoyed the family for three hours in his new wheelchair! He's got his first-ever cell phone, and he may give you a call just as soon as he learns how to use it. If you're in the card-sending frame of mind, he'll take his mail care of Peaceful Care House, 10254 SE Isaac Drive, Happy Valley, Oregon, 97086. We think it's no coincidence that he's arrived at "Happy Valley", and Howard's eyes were  showing his old sparkle and a  "bring it on" attitude toward the physical therapy to come. PS - There's a certain birthday coming up on the 21st, and the new deck comes with a propane grill. Burgers, anyone?

Rehab Soap Opera

Forget the soaps on TV, just tune in to the daily saga of Howard's room at Town Center Rehab. Don't believe me?  Here is a typical day in room 145:  Norma arrives for the morning shift to find out she's been assigned to the other side of the rehab section, but she sneaks over to Howard's room anyway, just to wake him up and make sure he's ready for the parade to breakfast.  She knows what she's risking to give her special morning greeting to Howard....a tongue lashing from the supervisor for being out of her section and dirty looks from the aide who finally got her chance to get Dad ready for his day.  

Within a few minutes, another staff member comes by with pictures of her children to show Dad.  Howard is careful to ooh and ahh equally for all the photos he's shown but he has a special spot in his heart for a young aide who recently confided in him that she uses her breaks to pump for her infant at home.  Too personal you say?  This same young lady takes pride in giving Howard a full "shower" in his bed, without getting his hands or feet wet, but successfully scrubbing and polishing him so he almost sparkles.  

It's not long until the youngest of the aides slides into Howard's room to see if he needs anything and then proceeds to stand just out of view of the hallway traffic to send a few text messages.  She chats with Dad while texting, demonstrating her multi-tasking abilities.  Dad is pretty sure this texting young'n is getting to be more than friends with the strong young man who lifts him in and out of bed to his wheelchair.  They make up Dad's favorite lifting team.  It seems the only time she smiles is when she's in room 145, and Dad's pretty sure it isn't just his charming personality that makes her happy....  

The nurses qualified to give medicines usually get Howard's best flattery, as he is quite proud of his ability to talk them into an extra pain killer or sleeping pill when it's needed.  ALL of the meds nurses think Howard likes them best!  If they ever stop and compare stories, Dad's drug supply may decrease dramatically.  

We didn't even tell you any roommate stories on this post...stay tuned for the next episode of Rehab Soap Opera.  

With this ring I thee wed

The wedding ring has returned to its place.  Yesterday Mom slipped Dad's ring back on his finger.  It was a sharp contrast to the day Mom received the ring from a young orthopedic surgeon - handing it to her carefully in a plastic ziplock bag - who seemed to understand the significance of this ring which had not been off Dad's hand for nearly 60 years.

Several times during Dad's recovery he would ask about the ring - worrying that it had been cut off his finger.  But as Mom placed it back on - with the grooves worn only on one side - there was a look between the two that showed the love built with so many years together and perhaps a memory of that first day when she slipped it on.  Dad began to play with the ring like a new groom does.  It won't take him long to get use to it again.  

NEW BOOTS AT LAST

Sophie did such a great job reporting on the trip to see the surgeon who did the surgery on the hip that visiting the foot surgeon is almost a replay.  A few more of these trips will give us new friends among the EMT's.  This time we got to see the new OHSU building on the riverbank.  Joe and Kathi saw the parking garage and a beautiful lobby.  Howard and I were with the ambulance and entered via the loading dock and mail room.  They had a gurney waiting in the doctor's office so that transfer was easy.  Craig, one of the crew gave us his card so we could call him directly when ready for a pickup. 

Then it was time to get down to business and watch the removal of the casts so they could take xrays.  The little battery operated saw doesn't cut, it just vibrates and breaks a smooth cut the length of the cast on each side.  We saw the 8 inch incisions and the smaller incisions on each foot.  There are metal plates to hold it together in both feet and one reinforcing the ankle and lower leg in one of the feet.  So often Howard (when he was still on serious drugs)would ask each of us to measure his feet so he could get a new pair of boots.  Now he has new boots, the big black padded ones and he tells me they are a lot of trouble as he must keep them on 24 hours a day.  Dr. Veri said the boots can be removed for a shower occasionally but never put any weight on them.  After we saw the xrays we understood why.

Howard wanted to celebrate by eating outside at the center so Kathi trekked to Arbys and picked up sandwiches and milkshakes that we consumed out in a parklike area behind the rehab center.  By then he was more than ready to be put back on the bed for a nap and dismissed all of us.  We are encouraged by the healing in his body and his mind even if he orders us around.  His sense of humor is better than ever.

We are so grateful for what God is doing !!!

The big field trip

The big thing today was Grandpa's doctor's appointment at OHSU.  The whole thing started at about 11 am when Aunt Kelli and I taxi-ed Grandma to Town Center Village (the rehab center) to make sure that he was all ready to go.  Everyone was helping him get lunch and get dressed up all nice for the big excursion, and then the paramedics came for his "luxurious" transport.  They were so great -- it was the easiest move that Grandpa has ever had from the wheelchair to the stretcher!  Slicker than a whistle, as he would say.  From there, we piled into Uncle Joe's truck to follow Grandma and the ambulance to the hospital, and we got up to the office, right on time, only to wait.  Grandpa always says that we have to wait, and we did today - even in the hospital.  Once we got in to see the very nice physician's assistant, it all went pretty smoothly.  She was very helpful, and her bedside manner was great!  She leaned on the side of the gurney that he was laying on and explained all about what's going on with his hip and pelvis.  He got x-rayed, and we could see really how big the titanium hip piece is and how far it goes into his bone!  I guess the next time he goes through airport security, he and Uncle Jim, with the titanium rod in his arm, can beep together!  Because they only addressed the hip today, Grandpa only got one of his four big questions answered, but that was very helpful.  The pain that he feels is due to some bone matter that has formed around the titanium piece and that rubs and disrupts the tendons and nerves around there that go up and down his leg.  It doesn't do any damage, though, and the pain will lessen as the body adapts to it.  The rest of the information will be given tomorrow when he goes there again to see the doctor who operated on the feet and wrists.  In a conversation with Aunt Kelli, Grandpa talked about having expectations that often set us up for disappointment, and despite some of the unmet expectations of today, we did get some very valuable information as to Grandpa's healing process.  We even learned about the "Hover Mat," which is like an air mattress with handles that should make hoisting Grandpa from bed to chair much easier!

After we all got back to the rehab center and got Grandpa all settled again in his bed, with yet another set of very great paramedics, all he wanted was a Jumbo Jack and "the biggest milkshake you can get!"  We happily sought out to find the local Jack in the Box, and he was very satisfied!  When we left, Grandpa and Grandma were chatting over their Jumbo Jacks and drinks.  Throughout the day, Grandpa was very much himself - with his quick wit - and he was upbeat all day!  It's hard to leave tonight when everything is going so well, but we'll be back soon, and we know that Grandpa is continuing to heal!  The rest of the saga continues tomorrow, including more answered questions and more reassuring, encouraging news about Grandpa's amazing progress thus far!

~ Sophie : )

Bone Checkin' Tomorrow!

Today, the main topic of conversation with Howard's visitors was his field trip tomorrow to OHSU.  I think he is looking forward to busting out of the rehab center for a few hours and getting some answers to questions about his recovery, along with a glimpse of what the future holds for the long road back to his house on Huron St.  Transportation arrangements were a bit of a challenge, since he needs to travel on a stretcher.  Joe offered to throw him in the back of his pick-up truck, but Howard agreed that a medical transport might be a better idea. 

Howard has written out a small list of questions he has for the doctor and the rest of the family will be coming along with lists of their own.  The doctor may be a little surprised when the Shepherd Clan arrives tomorrow.  The goal of the appointment is to check his rate of healing and most importantly, find out the next steps for physical therapy at the rehab center.

Howard's mental clarity continues to improve.  He's remembering specific details from previous conversations over this past week.  Tonight, we all noticed when Howard finished a sentence for Kristi when she couldn't find a word!  He also signed off on quarterly taxes for his clients and enjoyed talking about each of his clients who have become friends over the many years of Shepherd Accounting. (Thanks to Kristi for keeping his business in action!) 

I'll update the blog tomorrow after the "bone-check'n" field trip.  Thank you for your prayers and support.   

You can't eat Jello laying in bed.

The last time I saw Grandpa was the weekend of my birthday more than a month ago, and seeing him at the rehab facility today was like visiting Grandpa any old time - like "normal!"  He was talking about all different things and making jokes, complaining and admitting that he is grumpy sometimes...  We also learned that you can't eat Jello laying in bed - it just falls all over your shirt.  Next time, maybe we'll try it with a straw.  I did like the fancy plastic silverware, though - I had to look twice to see that it was actually plastic!  Overall, it was a very fun visit!  The amount of progress that he has made is just incredible - just think: his first shower, reading books in his bed, eating as much ice cream as he likes, saying funny things that only Grandpa can say, and moving around (almost) comfortably in his bed!  I can't wait to see him again tomorrow!  And it's so funny that he's so excited about his big field trip on Monday to OHSU!  He's going to get dressed up and everything!  It's always good to have something interesting and exciting to look forward to!  

~ Sophie : )

Things are really clicking!

It's always been good advice to celebrate the good days....so get out your dancin' shoes for today! Howard's day was full to the brim, with therapy, watching a war documentary with Brian, a REAL SHOWER, and lots of conversations with visitors!  Not only is Dad's sense of humor back in full swing, he's better able to join in conversations and sustain the same topic over a longer period of time.  Mom, Brian and Kelli joined Dad for dinner tonight in the dining room and I think he would have had us spend the whole evening chatting, but WE were too tired!   

Truly though, the highlight of the day may have been the shower.  Thanks to Kathi's long-range planning, Dad was able to tell us in full detail about sitting in a PVC pipe chair in the shower stall, wearing the plastic cast protectors she purchased and enjoying the warm spray of water all over his body for the first time since May 14th!  Maybe we should all appreciate our next shower a little more?

While the rest of Portland melted in 90+ degree heat today, Dad's air conditioner seemed to have a mind of its own and we found Dad shivering under 3 blankets when we arrived.  Not a bad way to beat the heat.  

Brian saw Dad today for the first time in a month and he says, "Visiting with Grandpa today was like talking with him in his black chair in the living room, including the jokes!" It's been a day worth celebrating, but I think we will wait until the sun goes down to do the dancing! It's too hot!  (Kelli)

What a difference a few days make!

I wish Dad had my perspective on his recovery journey....He would be so proud of himself!!!!  After my 3 week absence due to an anniversary trip to Italy/New York, I arrived in Portland to see Dad in new digs at the rehab center and experienced a bit of "shock & awe" at his progress!!  When I said a tearful good-bye to Dad at OHSU before our trip, he had feeding and oxygen tubes in his nose, his arms and legs were in casts, he slept most of the time due to heavy sedation and he was still confused about who we were exactly.  Just 3 weeks later, I drove only a short distance to a rehab center by the mall, was greeted with, "Hey sweetpea!  How was your trip, Kelli Jack? Is Brian here?" from a Dad who was sitting up, wearing real clothes and eating real food with wrists protected only by fabric splints!!!  My amazement continued as we sat together discussing his progress and my trip until it was dinner time.  Dad invited me to join him in the dining room where he ate a full plate of food and had room for ice cream for dessert!  Amazing!!!

We enjoyed a few days together, visiting and playing a few games until I had to leave again for a 3-day conference at the Portland Marriott.  Today, as I stopped by for a quick visit with Dad after the conference, I was again pleasantly surprised by Dad's progress!  His ability to carry on our conversation for two hours, sharing his thoughts, feelings, concerns and questions with clarity was incredibly heart warming.  He sent me on a few "fact finding missions"at the rehab center, as he is beginning to advocate for his needs with the staff.  Dad's ability to charm his way into getting what he wants is working it's way back.  He is well liked by nurses and the staff for his sense of humor and it also helps that he tells the nurses how good they are at their job or how pretty they are!  Works every time! 

I'm so proud of my Dad.  He's beginning to embrace his new future with challenges he never imagined he would be facing.  Resting and healing is a full time job at this point, and he's working hard to keep a positive attitude when the boredom is overwhelming or the constant pain wears him out.  He appreciates the prayers and letters, but he is most grateful for the love and concern everyone has shown Mom.  That's my Dad....taking care of his family, even when we are trying to care for him!  It's a long road, but every single day he gets better and stronger...I just wish he could see it for himself!!!

PEOPLE FILLED WEEKEND

It was a people filled weekend for sure.  Kelli and Brian returned from Italy and Kelli came for time with Dad,  Brian will be joining us on thursday.   Howard's sister Jan and Loyd Englehorn came from Boise for a visit.  Kristi came to do business things for Howard's clients and Abbie came along to cheer us up,  she can also do a great French toast breakfast.  We took turns visiting Howard at the rehab center.

Exciting call from Howard tonite!  He was operating a wheel chair by himself and Kristi and Abbie found him traveling around the halls and dining room.  His overall goal for rehab is to learn to get himself into a wheelchair.  He has had a roommate the past few days and neither of them seem to be happy about that.  Personality conflict?

This writer has been strongly encouraged to get more rest by the children so perhaps I should get started on that since Howard has already called to say goodnight.  An encouraging bit has been that the replacement car is legal, insured and parked in the driveway.  Howard is pleased about that. 

MAIL FOR HOWARD

Howard is relearning skills every day.  Had been having trouble with the sequence of numbers but Kathi's coaching is helping him get a handle on more of that.  He does well with eating meals in the dining room and his appetite is improving.  He can hold and use the utensils with his hands for most foods but is a whizz at eating dixie cups of ice cream from the snack food cart that comes around three times a day with treats for both patients and guests.  This ought to help him gain back some of that lost weight.

Visiting this week has been his sister Jan and brother-in-law Loyd Englehorn from Idaho.  Kelli is here also with stories to tell of her and Brian's trip to Italy.  We take turns showing up for visits as the long expected roommate arrived yesterday.  Our family had been putting the extra space to use for noisy visits etc but must now share the room with another man and his family.

Good news for anyone who wishes to send cards and letters directly to Howard.  We have an address for him that will be listed here.  He will be surprised to have mail coming in to him instead of me pulling it from my purse.

Howard Shepherd  Room 145

Fountains: 8607 S E Causey Avenue 

Happy Valley OR    97086

SOCIAL LIFE

Howard and Kathi had a date for dinner this evening but since Deb and Anna were my drivers today we were all in the room when dinner time came.  Howard graciously invited us to stay as well and became a very gracious host.  We trooped to the dining room together and the hostess seated us at a large table and gave each a menu. This is a class act and the food is good. We ordered the creamed asparagus soup with a salmon sandwich on the side.  We had a fun time together.

Howard is improving day by day and getting really anxious for those bones to heal so he can use those feet again.  Someone on the staff told him it might be a year or two before he can walk so he was checking with me to see if that was true.  I told him that the foot surgeon had said three to six months minimum and it may be a year.  He is frustrated of course but determined to do every thing he can to hurry the process which means eating more food for the nutrients to help build bone.  Also needs to gain some weight but isn't interested in sweet things.  He also found out how easy it is to call me for a chat from his bedside phone so he feels more in touch with home.

Anna saw a poster on the wall that told about the weekly bingo game on thursday so she made a date for them to go together.  He wasn't sure about that but her enthusiasm is carrying them along.  They may win big or not.

IN A BIT

When you ring the bell for the nurse she comes to ask you what you want, after you tell her she says "In a bit".   When you ask if it is time for dinner she says, "In a bit".  When you call to a staff member as they are going by your door they say, "I'll be back in a bit".   Howard had a whole list of things that is responded to with "In a bit".  Actually they seem pretty quick to return but I wonder if that administrator part of him is emerging again and in an attempt to organize his routine, "In a bit" only works sometimes.  When Kris and I arrived this evening he and Kathi were working on his recognition of the basic schedule that the staff follows.  He said he was relieved that he didn't have to be responsible - he would just wait.  Actually Kathi was helping him with therapy that the speech therapist asked her to do.  He is still having a hard time remembering the sequence of things and wonders if he might have to go back to OHSU again.  We assured him that he is in the very best place for now.   It is a much closer step to home.  The staff in this rehab is doing a terrific job for him.

He asked Kris how his clients are doing and for us to bring a really good book for him to read before he goes to bed.  That is something he has done for years.   It should be comforting for him to slip into an old routine.  He described his old favorite schedule to a tee.  Perhaps, in a bit, he will be able to follow it.

Independence. Only in America.

We took the Grandpa-led, 45-minute, dime tour of the rehab facility today.  We have decided that it is in his, and everyone else's, best interest for him to become the resident billiard shark/bookmaker of Town Center Terrace.  The pool table is at the perfect height for Grandpa in his wheelchair and we observed no shortage of potential marks as we wandered the grounds.  We are confident that he will do very well there.

Kathi has been his acting roommate for the past couple of nights and has observed that Grandpa has been having some trouble sleeping.  He is no doubt experiencing these difficulties as he is contemplating the various advantages and drawbacks associated with hosting a regular, high-stakes card game in his suite.  Tonight, however, all such planning will be put on hold as he will be administered a dose of Ambien ostensibly to help him sleep.  It seems to me, however, that the administration has gotten wind of his hijinx and is trying to subtly nip his shenanigans in the bud.  I bid them good luck.  They have no idea who they're dealing with!

Tonight for dinner: crab.  Tomorrow night: leftover crab.  By this time next week Grandpa will no doubt be enjoying filet mignon paid for with the proceeds of illicit activities.  Only in America!

As we celebrate our national independence, the scheming continues.  Soon the patriarch of the great Shepherd clan will own the Town Center Terrace Rehabilitation Facility.

Jon, Sarah, Andrew, and...... and........ and......... oh yeah, Anna!

On to REHAB!

So the events in the post yesterday entitled "The Native is Restless" actually happened on Monday, June 29th.

I note this because June 30th was his OFFICIAL MOVING DAY to the Rehab Center! We have to mark this one on the calendar and say a prayer of thanks! Mom gets a call on Tuesday morning from Dad saying that "I am moving today." Mom hustles down to the hospital and by the time she arrives, he doesn't want to go. He says he wants to stay with all the nice nurses. . .

But guess who comes to Mom's rescue - "3 of the tallest and handsomest EMTs that I have ever seen." Where are Anna and Sarah when things like this go on? Mom says they swooped in, surrounded the bed and said, "Mr. Shepherd, you ready to take a little ride?" They even offered Mom a ride. And they packed up and took all of Dad's things with them. Mom just had to take her purse and meet them there. She met them again in the ambulance bay, and they lowered the stretcher, so she could give hugs and kisses.

When she arrived in his new room, they had him all settled, and he was making friends with one of the nurses and 2 of the nurses' aids. Mom settled in with him for a bit, and they even served her snacks and dinner. His room is right across from the Physical Therapy area, so it will be a quick trip. He has had a few rides in a wheelchair - a bit uncomfortable because of the hip - but okay. Mom tucked him in, and he was in good spirits. He had a small adventure with staying in bed just after Mom came home, and Kathi got worried and decided to stay the night with him through his first night. Apparently, he did some moving and some talking, so Kathi must have need a nap.

Mom has discovered that they bring around a snack tray in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Dad's favorite so far is jello!

To life at REHAB! It was a big day - a day to celebrate - and now the work begins on all those muscles.

Kris

The Native is Restless

What amazing improvement today. And with that improvement comes the frustration of being in a bed for 6 weeks. Restlessness is a nice, quiet way to describe his constant motion to get comfortable or just the sensation of doing something! Restless is an understatement - the man can slip from one end of the bed to the other, trying to get comfortable!

Mom received a call on her cell phone - while we were shopping for pots and bird baths - from Dad, wondering when we were arriving. To someone from the outside, that seems like a normal action, but to us, it is absolutely great and represents so much. We hustled to the hospital and found him with the cast off his leg for a brief time while they removed the stitches. No more stitches - just tape and a regular cast. We watched in amazement as they made the new cast right while he was in bed.

The goal now is getting him set to go to the rehab center, but he must prove that he won't try to stand on the feet, and he needs to eat more. They don't want him coming back to the ER because he has fallen. Before he leaves the hospital, they will x-ray the feet to check the mending process, and this will help determine when he will be able to put any weight on them.

Meanwhile, he needs to exercise in the bed. I had him doing yoga breathing and movements. He enjoyed the motion for a bit and stayed so focused.

And the other good news of the day - he knew he had called Juan "Dominic" and was so sorry! Another big thing as we are watching the brain heal.

What is a 39?

What a treat to see Dad this afternoon.  As I said hello and gave him a kiss on the cheek - he looked behind me to see who else had come with me.  He was ready to see all the grandchildren!  They were to arrive later for an evening visit.  So he had to be content with me.  We talked for a while about whatever he wanted and I answered questions about hospital bills, insurance . . .  the boring things.  But then he wanted to go for a ride.  He was just wanted some different scenery.  The great nursing staff helped get him into his big chair and we went for a stroll. Actually the chair is made out of solid steel I think and weighs a ton to push.  But I knew he was safe in it. He also wanted to go 55 - maybe possible but not with me driving. The nurse said we could go anywhere so we hopped on the elevator and went to see the tram and the gorgeous view of Mt. Hood.  He has taken this trip with Kath and Mike and just enjoys it so much.

And now the funny line of the day.  The nurses were helping get him settled back into his own bed when they asked me how many children he had.  I said 5.  How many grand children? Etc. The questions went on until a sweet nurses aid named Juan (Dad calls him Dominic and likes him very much) said, "Excuse me, may I ask a question?  What is a 39?"  So I filled Juan in on the farm story of old #39 and the mention of the poor thing every time the beef is tough. . .

Juan was relieved to know that 39 is part of the real world and to find out that Dad was a dairy farmer.  He smiled a sweet smile at Dad and said thank you to me.

Kris

He is planning for the future

Howard was so happy to see Anna, Andrew and Bonnie today.  He was so happy to have someone to talk to, didn't remember I was there yesterday but soon drew us in to his latest escape plan.  Anna and Andrew were really good about asking questions that brought out the problems so he moved on to other things.

He requested that we bring his real reading glasses and something to read so Anna will deliver those tomorrow.  The nurses want him to have the TV on part of the day hoping that will help focus his thoughts more.  He does have a nice VCR in the room so I will find some tapes he would like and that might help with the boredom.

For the first time that I have heard he wanted to talk about individual clients and told us he plans to ask the young woman who took over his tax practice if she will take certain ones as clients.  It shows that the logic in him is still working.  He asked specifically about other clients and when I told him that Kristi was taking care of them and she is doing good work.  He was pleased.

Progress in small ways

The first of this week brought changes for the better with Howard.  He seems less confused, for the most part and interacts with the nurses as they care for him.  He still insists that he must get off the bed and walk coming up with a new scenario each time for assisting him in the escape.  I wonder if the prospect of not getting on his feet for a few more weeks or months is an idea he just can't take in right now.  No matter who restates the reality he doesn't take it in.  

Yet today when Jan and John McDonald (our friends) walked in his door he knew them rightaway and told the nurse their names visiting with them just as he does here in the neighborhood.  John asked him if he is getting along with the nurses and he replied with this,  there are a lot of beautiful nurses here and if you lined them up together you would have one great big nurse and then laughed.  I wonder if the joker is coming back.  For his daughters it evokes memories for he used to wander by when they were watching a Miss America Pageant and tell them who the winner would be as he went off to bed.  He was always right and they couldn't believe it.

He is making progress every day.  Yesterday he wanted to talk to me about financial things such as are the bills getting paid.  He was worried because none of the car insurance people had been in to interview him.  I counted off for him which bills have been paid by which company and he relaxed a bit.  We pray he will soon be well enough to move to the rehab for a change of scene but we are thrilled with every sign of progress.

A new visitor

Yesterday Kris and I joined Kathy and Mike in an evening visit.  Kris and I got the wrong room and were confronted by the gloves, gowns, and masks to prevent infection warning signs.  We snuck around and peeked into other people's rooms until we finally saw Mike and Kathy, in a room conveniently situated across from the nurse's station.  He hasn't been sleeping well lately, so they put him on camera surveillance during the evening with a nifty hidden spy camera in the TV.  They've got him pretty well staked out there.

Since this was my first visit, I wasn't sure what to expect, mostly because it seems that every day a new improvement is made or something has changed.  But, to continue in the tradition of constant surprises, Howard took one look at me and said, "Sorry I couldn't be there to stir up the pot", referring to my college graduation last Saturday.  Grandpa was really shining through.  Happily for us, that poignant comment seemed to set the tone for the whole visit.

Howard-isms, as Anna calls them, were coming up like crazy.  "What does the vet say about this?" Howard asked the nurse, who was understandably confused by the question.  "No", we explained, "That's what he's always called Doctors".  "You're a good boy" was a popular one today, even with the nurses, who smiled at the compliment.

Howard mentioned to the nurse that I'm my way to be a Doctor and seemed very proud.  While the nurse was working Howard asked me, "Is he doing this right?  Is he a good one?"

"Of course he is", I said, "he's a good one.  You should trust him".  Maybe the extra motivation helped him swallow two large tylenol pills with water---a big step and advancement from what I had heard about his eating habits even a week ago.  The young nurse was very patient and kind with all of us.  Howard was full of sass for him, but the nurse was pretty quick and was able to keep him on track with the daily nursing routine. 

Lots of winks and smiles came my way today, showing me that the real grandpa is starting to re-emerge.  He seemed to be in high spirits overall and was more smiles than winces.  He was able to wiggle toes on both feet and could feel the nurse touching his toes.  

From what I've seen from my time at the UW speech clinic, he's doing incredibly well.  He recalled the name of Kris's bakery (though he said it was Chinese food), knew that he went to college at U of I and knew it was 2009.  He quickly recognized us and knew our names.  His brain is obviously churning hard with thought and working overtime to recover from 5 weeks of non-use.  He does particularly well when we stay on topic, especially with things he cares about, like his clients or the family.  Jumping around too quickly trips him up, but he gets there if we give him enough time to respond.  

I think a time will come soon that the dynamics of the situation will change for the better.  Today, he was more often than not in the present moment.  Getting over the hump of regaining orientation is tough, but once that happens we'll be able to start working on the little things and have longer, more meaningful conversations.  

It was a good visit and we'll back back a few more times before we leave.  Here's to a speedy recovery.

---Sarah

"I've got to get out of here."

Howard was in his prime today! He had several plans for escape and one was actually a little sneaky, but it didn't quite work in his favor. It went a little something like this:

Howard: "Granny, take my hand."

Bonnie: "Okay, here it is."

He then proceeds to reach for my hand (almost smacking me in the face). We thought he was just being sweet...we should have known better. 

Howard: Determined, he sits up. "Now, here we go."

Me: "Ummm...yeah, I don't think so." (in a very sweet voice of course) ;)

Every few minutes, there was a new plan, or just a "Where are my clothes? Time to go." We're taking this as a very good sign! We're hoping this attitude will get him out of the hospital that much faster. The nurses seem to like him and enjoy his feistiness. 

There is good news to report!

1. His feeding tube was removed (by him, which is not so surprising, but the doctor decided that he didn't need it anymore, so they left it out). Apparently he even had a bite of a blueberry pancake this morning. 

2. As a result of #1, no more restraints!!! Two funny stories that must be told--about a week ago, we came in the room and he had his restraints on, held up his arms and said, "Joe, did you bring your Leatherman knife?" Then a few days ago, we walked in the room and he greeted us by asking, "Did any of you bring some scissors?" He is now happily waving his arms around every which way and we really have to watch out for them--especially the casted hand.

3. They are hoping to have him transferred to a rehab/care facility in the next week or two, so keep praying that he really gets eating. At this point, they're just waiting for his digestive system to get back on track.

4. The swelling has gone down in his hands significantly.

5. He is off of the oxygen and wasn't connected to any IVs!

6. He's started physical therapy, which understandably is not enjoyable, but is good news nonetheless.

Howardisms that are resurfacing:

"Anna Marie, you're a good boy."

After being greeted by the nurse. "Nobody's home."

Our whole family is grateful for the cards, flowers, thoughts and prayers. I read several cards to Howard today and he recognized many of you and the messages brought a smile to his face. Thank you for being a wonderful support system!

~Anna

Physical Exercise Day

If yesterday was ice cream day then today must be physical exercise day.  About midday the occupational therapist, the physical therapist and two assistants came to help Howard sit on the side of the bed and "dangle" his legs over the side.  Howard wasn't in favor of it but being outnumbered he hadn't a lot of choice.  Moving from arms to legs and neck they gently moved and stretched each joint.  When Howard realized he really was sitting on the side of the bed he really looked surprised but a little pleased too.  When he was back lying almost flat on the bed with the legs again elevated he was exhausted and settled in for a nap.

We are finding our way to his room again and he really does have a view out the windows of the top of the glass walkway (interesting) that leads to the Veterans Hospital from the main hospital as well as the forest and some sky.  

It was a day for ice cream!

Yes - Dad had ice cream today.  The speech/respiratory therapist was testing him for the ability to handle food.  YAH!  She saw great improvement and we think he will be enjoying solid food soon.

As Kris and I entered the room - set to ask questions about Howard - three lady doctors were gathered around Dad's bed.  We got a chance to ask them many questions.  Here is what we heard.  First, they are happy with his progress.  Right now is a waiting game as he gets his wits about him again.  Conversation is very good for him - even to prompt him to repeat the entire dialogue again.  This will help immensely with the recovery.  I guess it is sort of a memory game. When he is tired with the effort of this - he just dozes off and rests for a while.

The doctors were loving Howard's funny lines and were charmed by him.  

We asked if he really had a broken pelvis - they are going to get back to us on that one. They said the list of broken bones was pretty long. . . 

According to the sweet nurse that took over this afternoon - he will be moved from the drab room to a nice single room with a window - perhaps even tonight - after another patient is released.  The nurse is really great with him and wants to make sure he is comfortable.

He had a little "rehab" with Kris.  She was moving his arms and loosening up the joints a bit.  She gave him a soft back rub and then did some more exercises.  I think the movement made him feel a bit better.  

We learned that this floor (thirteenth) is a part of the trahma department and basically means each nurse is responsible for 4 patients instead of two.  Looking forward to seeing his new room tomorrow.

The Room with a view didn't last

The lovely room with a view was like a quick vacation.  Now he has been moved up a few floors to a blah room.  But with some urging, he will likely be moved again tomorrow.  And to think he doesn't like moving . . .  Hospital moving requires quite a procession of people, single file behind him on his big bed following the nurses' orders and each of us carrying some of his orthopedic props and the various decorations from his room.

As you remember, yesterday Kelli was playing the role of me in Dad's mind.  This continued today when both Kelli and I walked in at the same time.  He looked up with a big smile to see who was visiting and then a puzzled look came on his face.  He wasn't sure which one was his wife.  He didn't say anything.  He just watched as we both walked across the room.  I took his hand and Kelli started to explain she was Kelli.  He finally focused in and Kelli got a  "Kelli Jack" and clutched my hand so tight - he wasn't going to let go.  As Brian came through the door - he recognized him right away and by name.  What a nice Bon Voyage gift as they are set to celebrate their 25th Anniversary in Italy beginning this week.

Kath and Mike arrived and they joined the group as we prepared for the move out of the luxury suite. . .   Joe, Deb, Anna, Jon and Andrew arrived just after Howard was settled in the new room.  We said our goodbyes and let them have a nice visit.

Hey, you're the good lookin' one!

Howard has moved into his new room in the Kohler building at OHSU.  With the new room, he seems to spend more time awake, happy to chat with nurses and family.  He still has a natural eye for beauty, just like he did years ago when he'd see the Miss America candidates on TV, pick the winner and go to bed.  We'd watch the whole pageant and the winner always turned out to be the one he picked!  So today, when a cute little nurse walked in, he pointed at her and said, "Hey, you're the good lookin' one!"  

Howard is keeping us all entertained with snippets that appear to be from the past and moments of clarity in the present now and then. We were kept laughing for several hours Saturday with jewels like this:  twice he looked right at us and said "Kenny, I need you to help me" (Kenny, of course, was laying sod at his house in Seattle and was nowhere near the hospital); we had a ball game on tv and Howard said "now just how much is ol' Cal making this year?" (we think he was referring to Cal Ripken Jr., who retired six years ago and wasn't being shown on tv. At least he got the sport and the issue right!); his new hospital room is "an uptown place"; and when we were encouraging him to say his wife's name he smiled and said "she's a mighty fine woman" (which, of course, she is!).  He laughed, giggled, and made countless other mannerisms which encourage us to believe that he's really on the way back! We can't wait for today's visit!

Room With A View

Howard moved into the orthopedic wing this morning and really seemed to enjoy the move says Mike who was on one of his early morning visits and got to help settle him in his new digs.  There really is a fantastic view eastward over the city from a wall of windows.  This afternoon he was talking more though it is sometimes difficult for us to understand what he is saying.  But we knew the old logical side of his brain is getting better when he asked Joe if he had his leatherman with him and held up the restricting ties that keep him from reaching and dislodging the feeding tube in his nose.  He is looking more and more like himself these days as swelling goes down in his neck and face.  There were no head, neck or spinal injuries other than those to the neck skin by the seatbelt strap and that has healed. 

His whole demeanor changed when Anna walked in the door today.  He knew her and he just lights up at sight of a grandchild, then told her that her eyes are really so beautiful.  Can't wait to see if he has a similar reaction to Andrew's identical eyes.  These are such encouraging things for all of us.  When Joe and I left Anna pulled a chair close to the bed and the two of them looked cozy as Anna had a book to read and he wanted to hear it.

I'd rather see it on TV

I visited Grandpa for the first time a few weeks ago during Memorial Day weekend when I came down with Mom.  It was hard because I had never seen someone so close to me laying in a hospital bed and creasing his forehead, trying to figure who people were.  I said it then, and I'll say it again, "I'd rather see it on TV."  It's so interesting to see the intriguing cases in hospital shows like ER and Grey's Anatomy, but it's different when the patient is someone you know, especially your grandpa.  The changes in the couple weeks between my visits was very encouraging, though!  When I saw him the first time, he was still trying to figure things out, like who Grandma was and what we were saying; now, he can speak more clearly and make jokes like Grandpa is supposed to!  He's becoming more himself now, which is great!  Grandpa is supposed to be sitting in his big green duct taped recliner wearing his yellow-brown house slippers, and making jokes and faces!  Seeing him yesterday reassured me that eventually he'll get back there.  He may have to work hard to recover, but he'll get there, especially surrounded by all the people who love him, encouraging him the whole way!  After seeing Grandpa the first time with Mom and Uncle Mike, I wasn't sure I wanted to see him again this time.  I'm glad I did, though, even if it was still pretty hard.  He was groggy and going back and forth between being awake and being asleep.  He was more aware this time, though, recognizing us more.  I also saw more glimpses of the old Grandpa too: snoring, chuckling, making funny jokes, and saying funny things - even more funny things now that he is on pain medication.  You just can't help but laugh at some of the nonsensical things that he says!  To know that we are all in this together is very helpful too: shoulders to cry on, people to give big hugs to, and lots of love!  We all missed him at my birthday party yesterday, but we all know that he's in very good hands, and he'll be back soon!  I still would rather see something like this on TV, though!    ~Sophie : )

When is the Surgery?

Grandpa is going to have surgery today on his other foot and maybe a wrist. It was supposed to be at 11:30 a.m., and of course that changed to 2:00 p.m.. First Dad drove Grandma to the hospital, thinking it was at 11:30 at the time. When they got there, they found out it was going to be at 2:00. Later, Aunt Debbie visited and still is there. 

I am so happy that everything is going well! Yesterday, my family and I went to visit Poppy/Grandpa. He was asleep most of the time, but every once in a while talking. It was funny because sometimes he would just fall asleep for 30 seconds and then wake up. Once or twice, he would look like he was really awake but then would conk out! The nurse he had yesterday was very nice and cares about him! I just like the hospital because everyone seems so nice, friendly and caring - I then know he is in a great atmosphere!

~Kate Drake =p, (the granddaughter of Howard and Bonnie, and daughter of Kristi and Kenny)

Rental Shoes

Rental shoes.  This is the new name Howard has given for the fancy casts on his feet.  He did wonder how long it would be before he could take them off . . .  

He sat up for a long time today and enjoyed being able to look outside and see trees and sky.

Kelli and I had a nice visit with him.  He enjoyed the conversation, chuckling from time to time and gaining ground on longer conversations before he needs to rest.  He even dared asked how much all this was going to cost.  When told the first bill has been received - he wanted to know how much it was.  $22,000 was the answer.  He said "That's okay." And then he changed the subject.  Good idea.

As each day brings good news - we continue to laugh and joke together.  It is a wonderful way we can cope with all of this.  Here is the latest funny one.  We were thinking about how long it has been since Howard has eaten.  And Mike said - you know - the next time he says, "I'm hungry.  I haven't eaten for month."  Well, now it is really true.  Time is coming closer for "real food".  He will enjoy that.

The family gathered at home for Sophie's birthday. Much laughter of course.  We all had cake and ice cream for Sophie and Howard!

Tomorrow is the surgery for the other foot.  We will find out early in the day if the schedule is still that same.  We sure hope so.

Sitting up and lookin' out the window!

Okay, so not quite sitting up, but Howard was moved to a chair-like bed for 3 hours today that was facing toward the window.  We asked him if he could see the trees and cloudy sky, and he clearly responded, "Yes."  We were able to have several conversations with him today, although  not for very long.  He told Kelli he wants to watch M.A.S.H with Amy, and that she needed to find a really big pie for Mom...with lots of ice cream.  

Speaking of food, he continues to get nourishment from a feeding tube, but a therapist has come in the last two mornings to give him small drinks and tastes of pudding, to see if he is getting closer to being able to eat on his own.  

It really wears him out to sit up and concentrate hard enough to converse.  So when we left, he was sound asleep, back on his comfy airbed. 

With his surgery for his other foot/ankle scheduled for Monday, we are enjoying these short bursts conversation before he is once again heavily sedated.  But our hopes are high that he'll soon be out of ICU and be about the work of recovering so he can come home.  It was a good day.

Things are looking up!

The theme for today....OUT!  The breathing tube from the Thursday's surgery....OUT!  The chest tube that's been in his left lung since the beginning....OUT!  Stitches in his right arm where a plate was put in....OUT!  Staples from the hip surgery incision....OUT!  

We requested to see a surgeon to ask about the status of Howard's feet.  Again, the helpful staff contacted one of the orthopedic surgeons and he answered our questions.  He explained a little more about what they did on the left foot and gave us more information regarding the upcoming surgery on Monday to work on his right foot and ankle.  We have a better idea of the healing and physical therapy it's going to take to get him walking normally.  

Yesterday's surgery inserted a plate of sorts in Howard's foot that will serve as a stabilizing surface to which the bones will attach.  His foot will essentially become a single bone, with no joints. With time and rehabilitation, he will be able to walk again.  He may need to use a walker or other supportive device to stabilize himself until he gets used to walking with his new single-boned feet. We assured the doctor that Howard is a man of determination and we know he will be up and walking sooner than we think.

When we left today, we knew he would sleep peacefully tonight. Without so many tubes and hoses, we really saw Howard/Dad/Grandpa sitting up in that bed.  We are all grateful for this kind of day.  We have hope that tomorrow he may be able to talk to us.  Things are looking up.

  

Promises, Promises.....

Well, we were promised that Howard would be first in line for surgery today.  But since this hospital is the biggest trauma center in the state of Oregon, by 7AM he was 4th line!  So, the waiting began.  But waiting wasn't a bad thing.  We talked and listened to Howard reminisce.  As Howard was escorted to surgery, Joe and I grabbed some food and proceeded to the 9th floor waiting room.  We found this new waiting area fascinating.  The tram takes off from this floor and the view is expansive.  We settled into comfy chairs which became a grandstand view of the approaching weather that overtook Portland with a tremendous storm.  We heard there were tornadoes in the area so we walked to glassed in walkway to try and catch a peek.  We did some see pretty spectacular lightening strikes!

The surgeon came to talk with us and explained what had been done in today's almost 3 hours of surgery.  They removed both of the external fixators from his feet and inserted a plate in his left foot that will be permanent.  The doctors will fix the other foot next Monday along with his left wrist.  They just found that break this week and it will need a plate as well.  Next time he flies in an airplane, everyone at the security station will know he is made of steel.

Thursday is the day !

Joe got a face to face meeting last night with the head of Howard's surgical team.  He assured Joe that his dad had been kept waiting much too long so they would definitely put him on the schedule for thursday.  When I arrived this morning I was told that Howard's foot surgery would be the first on the schedule at seven a.m.  He was feeling so good this morning that he whistled at me when I walked into the room.

They have discovered another injury too.  It must be the wrist or near there because the new cast covers part of the palm of his hand and reaches to his elbow.  So much for a quick return to the computer.  There is an odd foam brace between his lower legs.  We always thought that contraption was to hold the feet but actually it keeps his legs lined up straight as the pelvis break heals.  We are learning interesting medical trivia as we go along.

He has been sitting up in a cardiac chair which is really a gurney that bends in many places.  He appears quite comfortable there awake or napping.  He can be turned toward the windows and see that the hospital buildings rise right out of the forest on Marquam Hill.  It is a pretty drive just to get up there as well.  The nurse (Jen) has been exceptionally helpful to him.  She gives the greatest toothbrushing I've ever seen

Will let you know when the repairs to his feet are done.  

Things Happen Or Not

A call to Howard's nurse this morning gave us the info that his surgery had once again been bumped by another person whose need was so much greater.  Some of us went to the hospital hoping to continue the conversation but he had been sedated in order for them to put in a new port so he would have fewer needle pricks.  

 

Soon they will reschedule the foot surgery, but in a big trauma center like this one never knows.   We had a bit of the Howard we all know and love and we want more.  He talked, laughed at Jon's jokes, ate ice chips and even sassed the nurse yesterday.  Today he slept peacefully and that is good too.  Tomorrow will be a new day.

Today Was a Very Great Day!!!!!

Today was a great day because Howard was comfortable without the heavy drugs he has been given for pain control.  He greeted me with outstretched arms for hugs and kisses.  Then he began to talk and the words were so much easier to understand.  Asking what are these he held up his wrists so the bandages and restraints were next to my face.  I explained that the bandages covered spots that had been hurt and the restraints were so he wouldn't remove the oxygen and nutrition lines.  He then moved on to the wrist splint, the big wrap around brace on his knee and finally sat up straighter and said "What are those?" about the external fixators on his feet.  It was as though a fog had lifted today and he was putting things together in real time.  

The  payrolls he does in the business was on his mind as well but I assured him that John McDonald was doing one and Kristi would be coming this afternoon to do the rest.  He rested a bit and then pulled me closer and said, "you are going to have to get a new one."  He then repeated those words and I realised he was talking about the car.  We have been wondering for days how much of the accident he will remember.  Joe arrived for a short visit and they talked a bit before the "turn crew" came to gently ease him into a different position.  He was a bit tired.

Kristi and Jon timed their visit to be together.  He greeted them and then asked where Sophie was, she visited him with Kristi just one week ago but he remembers.  Jon and Kristi report that he talked with them and laughed at Jon's jokes.  Apparently they all had a good time.

Tomorrow is foot surgery day.  Will keep you posted.  It may be late in the day, a lot of new patients checked in this weekend on they operate on an as needed basis.

A Usual Day

Howard was resting quietly this afternoon.  His body is healing but the medical staff keeps his medication levels high enough to let him escape the pain and as a result he is groggy when awake.  He tries to talk but it is hard for him to organize his thoughts and form the words.  His brow creases like always and frowns when he is figuring things out.  He asked us again, "What happened?"  Sleeping is just much easier so that he does.  Joe and I sat beside his bed all afternoon watching the pattern of his sleep cycles but jumping up if he stirred so he could see us.  We learned a couple of things we didn't know, they are trying to get him more into the normal night/day schedule to orient him back into the rhythum of the rest of us.  We also learned that what they are feeding him through a tube in his nose is Ensure with some added nutrients.  He really is just resting and waiting for the surgery on his feet now set for monday.  We continue to see improvement in color and swelling of his hands and feet.  We continue to pray for those caring for him and thank God for the healing happening all the time.

In answer to those of you who inquire about when you can visit, it will be only one or two family members at a time until he is transferred out of the tramah unit to another floor of the hospital.

What wasn't included on wednesdays blog is that Anna and I walked into Howard's room just as he tried to clear his throat and couldn't, was obviously in distress.  Anna raced down the hall to locate help and shortly we backed out of the way of many people and machines for he had stopped breathing.  When next we saw him he was back on the breathing machine and heavily sedated again.  The care he has been getting has been first rate but this shook all of us.  God's timing has been incredible and we are grateful.

Now to the present:  Mike just called from the hospital and says Howard can answer questions about who he is and who we are but continues to struggle with saying words clearly.  He responds to funny things with a smile and creases his brow when he is sorting out what to say.  What good news!   We are planning an evening visit tonight and look forward to seeing him.  We will gather in the waiting room and go in one or two at a time.  

Howard was to be the "add on" patient if there was time, but once again more serious cases came to the trahma center so his foot surgery has been rescheduled for monday.  The bones are healing, the swelling is still going down and his color is much better.

As you can see, I have a little problem with adding one of Howard's favorite photos to the blog heading.  Amy and I have a plan to fix that (and I will learn something new) tomorrow when we coordinate NYC and Pacific time to work.  Then hopefully both photo and text will stand separately.

Anna accompanied me today and she was most helpful.  Joe brought me home and we had a chance to look at a replacement car for the Hartford Insurance Co will soon stop providing the rental car.  What's not to like, it is a well-cared for low mileage Buick?  Belongs to the mother of good friends.

Today I spent some hours at the hospital, watching Howard sleep but every now and then he would wake and try to sit up and talk.  It is hard to tell how much he understands of what happened to him.  We continue to ask him for his name and to wiggle his toes.  He usually responds to those requests then goes right back to sleep.  Gets cranky because we tell him he can't get off the bed and go to the bathroom.  He is off the heavy drugs but much tylenol is added to the feeding tube.  

Tomorrow they will do the surgery on his feet.  If they get enough of the bones in the feet and left ankle stabilized the External Fixators can be removed.  We are getting closer to the time when he will be able to move around in the bed and even sit up straight.   

Mike has figured out that he responds more to the grandchildren than to the middle generation.  But then hasn't it always been that way?

Today was an encouraging day.  Joe, Deb, Jon and Anna visited Howard this morning and he was able to laugh at little jokes and seemed to understand who they were.  This afternoon Kristi, Sophie, Mike, Kathi and I journeyed up the "hill" and visited two at a time.  He seemed much more able to understand who we are.  His words were easier for us to understand and he smiled more than we had yet seen.  His feet looked so much better with less swelling and normal color. His surgeon is very pleased by his progress but has not yet scheduled the surgery for them.  They have discontinued the drugs that kept mostly sedated so that his mind can clear.

Kristi worked in Shepherd Accounting and the rest of the above family worked here in our yard to clean up some areas and repair our garden drip system 

Enlightening info today

A conference with one of Howard's surgeons helped us understand some things better.  This doctor attended him from the time he arrived in the emergency room and so knew him before the heavy sedation was even started.  They got to talk together and this same orthopedic surgeon has been part of the team from the beginning, he understands more of what Howard is really like and that sure makes us feel better.  The bones are healing and the huge bruises are being reabsorbed (is that really a word).  Swelling is down a lot, especially in hands and feet and that will make the pain be less.  

We have about all of the information necessary for the car insurance etc. but have looked in vain for the title of the car.  Howard's files are immaculate and orderly going back to his student days at Portland State University studying accounting.  It startled me to be reminded that he started on this new career when he was 54 years old.  We were very careful to put everything back the way we found it.

Kelli and Brian have been here this week and have driven me, fed me, planted my deck pots and garden things, and made up the beds for Kris and Sophie who arrive tomorrow.  The family continues to function like a team.

I got a phone call....

It's been a whirlwind of a week!  It began with a phone call from OHSU Trauma Center.  Howard had been injured in a car accident and needed surgery.  Right away, the help began to come. Needing a ride to the hospital, Jan MacDonald quickly offered to drive me.  Jan and I were greeted at the emergency room door by a social worker who took us right to the trauma center.  This would be the first of many times the excellent service of OHSU helped us through a difficult situation. The whirlwind began spinning with papers to sign, surgery to authorize, calling family and seeing Howard briefly, as the doctors were compiling the list of broken bones.  (The final total is still not finished!) The surgery was pushed back to the next day as more critical cases came into the trauma unit. Finally, the anesthesiologist began his pre-surgery prep and as Howard's bed was being rolled toward surgery, one of the nurses said, "It's time for hugs and kisses," and he chimed in, "Hugs and kisses," as he squeezed my hand.   The first surgery took 7  hours, with teams of doctors working on different parts of Howard's body.  His feet were bolted to a metal halo to stabilize them until he can tolerate another surgery to set the broken bones in both feet and right ankle.  The doctors cleaned a deep gash on his left knee and replaced the ball of his femur with a metal ball.  Finally, his right wrist was splinted, awaiting pins and a plate in a future surgery.  The family gathered at the Trauma waiting room during his long surgery.  Being together helped to pass the anxious time and when Howard was rolled back into his ICU room, we took turns going into his room 2 at a time.  They had sedated Howard deeply after the surgery, but when we got there we found that they had lightened up the sedation on the chance he might respond to us.  Anna was the only one who really got a response.  He tried to raise his arms and shoulders to give her the customary hug.  He squeezed my fingers, and then by the time Joe and Deb took the last turn in the room he could wiggle his big toes.  He is kept pretty heavily sedated so that he can stand to lie still and heal between turnings and that keeps him groggy almost all the time lets him rest in spite of the pain.
Joe and I went to see and clean out the car and we are evermore grateful that he survived the crash.  About all that survived of the car was the leather seats which are in perfect condition except for the glass laying around them and the back tires and trunk look the same as always.  The guys at the impound lot said the trunk couldn't be opened but I had my little clicker in hand and it responded instantly.  My fancy Safeway bags were in there and my emergency bag.  The jaws of life really lifted the whole roof and the drivers door in order to get him out.
We waited for 4 days hoping Howard would wake up and talk to us.  But between the breathing tube and the pain, we all knew he was better off sleeping. Each day, our visits to Howard's room, we noticed that fewer machines and hoses were needed, less swelling, lightening of the eggplant colored bruises and he began to look more like himself.  Of course, if he's getting stronger, it must be time for another surgery!  So I got a call from OHSU, asking for authorization for more surgery, this time to put pins and a plate in his wrist, drain and clean his knee and hip incisions.  Kelli and I had just finished our early morning project of washing the deck, a good change in activity and useful as people gather here at home.  We barely changed clothes and jumped in the car hoping to get to the hospital in time to give him a hug before surgery.  But the whirlwind continued to keep us off balance, as his surgery was delayed 3 hours and the day turned out to be a 10 hour wait in the ICU waiting room.  But the wait was worth it, as we were escorted back to see Howard and he recognized us!  He looked me straight in the eye and said, "Get me out of here!"  Kelli was greeted with "Hi, daughter."  And Howard tracked Joe as he walked across the room and said, "I gotta go!"  Not a dry eye in the room as we celebrated the first conversation in almost a week.  
Today Howard is sleeping peacefully and resting for until the next surgery to do some of the same cleaning and dressing of hip, knees and begin work on the ankle and feet.  They have not said anything yet about the broken pelvis and torn ribs. He looks so much better as the swelling goes down and the bruises are beginning to fade a bit and will be allowed to rest and gather strength.  We will make our visits shorter and quieter.
It has been so great to have such support from family and friends.  Howard would be so pleased to see that his children are all helping do what they do so well and it results in a strong team to work together and get everything done.
We so appreciate your prayer and the many offers of help.

Howard's fancy new bed!

Today, Howard was resting well on his new air bed.  The new mattress puts less friction and stress on his skin, hopefully making him more comfortable.  He was able to stay awake a little longer today, but continues to have trouble focusing long enough to interact with his nurse or family members. I can tell he is trying to communicate and one day soon, he'll be successful!  

Still no date set for the surgery on his feet.  But we are encouraged that he is no longer on IV drug doses, but every 4 hours they actually crush up pills in water and inject the liquid into his feeding tube.  

Tomorrow is a new day.  Thank you for your prayers and concern.