Thursday, November 28, 2013

Thanksgiving Day and So Much to be Thankful For - How about YOU?

Happy Thanksgiving Day Everyone! 


So it's been a couple of weeks since I sent everyone an update.  Today seems appropriate. It's a day of giving thanks and remembering all the blessing we have in our lives.  Mike has been home for 5 weeks and he is 17 weeks post accident. The heeling continues and here's where we are today. 

This morning we went to Mike's Dad's house to return all the rugs and towels we laundered yesterday.  Jim is out of town visiting his brother and so we did a little house cleaning for him while he was a way.  It's quite a trek from the car, but a wonderful sunny day and a little exercise is just what the doctor ordered. ( I really don't know what takes him so long )  :-) 


Mike seems to have found a new favorite spot in the living room.  With the sunshine pouring in, book in hand he seems to be in his element.  "The Foot" is elevated and he couldn't ask for much more other than a little food and drink from time to time.  It's nice to see him reading!! 


So now let's back up 9 days ago.  Mike was in to see Dr. Frome due to a small blood like pocket on his lower leg that burst. ( any concern needs to be addressed)  While in with Dr. F. and Just Craig, Dr. Gellman also stuck his head in.  Now that's when you can usually get some real answers because all heads are on deck.  However it was still pretty much a hurry up and wait situation.  


Dr. Frome did say she was very happy with how the flap is healing.  She also admitted that it was not her most attractive flap.  She then assured us that she really does know her business very well despite the look of the flap.  She also talked about the timing of the debulking that will need to happen.  Most likely within the next 6-12 months.  Right now Mike's foot will not even fit in a orthopedic boot.  He will eventually have to have a special boot made just for him.  We thought that might be the case. 
BTW this is the first and only time Mike has been on his tummy since July.  It was a weird experience for him, but the only way Dr. F. could get a good look at the bottom of his foot. 


The next visit a couple of days later was to Dr. Phisner - the Heart Doctor.  Dr. P checked MC out and it appears his heart is still pounding away.  :-)   he eliminated one of his drugs and sent him on his way for the next 6 months. 


MC and "The Foot" taking a break with makeshift props. 


The 2 week check with Dr. Gellman was just yesterday.  Here's MC waiting for some good news to come his way after just have x-rays taken.  Fingers are crossed for some sort of Frame removal date. 
Mike is defiantly Mr. Optimist when it comes to his foot. 


Dr. Gellman doing some contemplating, but the bottom line is this.  The bones in the ankle that were broken have not quite healed.  Once the frame is OFF he wants Mike walking on the foot so that it will maintain it's new position. (the position the strut tightening has created over the past 6 weeks)  Since Mike can't walk yet, with unhealed bones, and the flap is not quite ready - the word on the street is that MC has another 4-6 weeks before he may be ready for removal.  We'll know more at the end of December.  S I G H.........   MC left the office with a sadness.  He is so DONE with this beast of a frame.  


After a few errands and even a little Mexican Food out, MC and I stopped at the grocery store.  Oh wow, first time in a store in months and they had a fun cart for him.  Yes he ran into a few things, but for the most part, bounced about the store dropping items in his cute little basket as he waved at the other electric chair riders.  It's as if they had their own little communication going - and back up BEEPS.  You'd think it was a semi backing up.  It was cute and he loved being there - I could tell. 


So thankful for the Ballard Family
Here are some photos of Mike's oldest daughter Katelyn, her hubby Codi and their 3 month old son (MC's first Grandchild) Brayden.  They live in Colorado Springs, CO and will be here for about 2 weeks during the holidays.  Mike is only slightly excited about their visit.  OH BOY - he's counting the days. 

So Thankful for Madison and Zach

Madison is Mike's younger daughter and she has an extra special (super serious) BF and that would be Zach.  We are so happy that Zach is in her life.  Here are some photos of Maddie most recent "good times" It looks like she has much to be thankful for with the addition of Brayden, some fun trips she was able to take and for all the healthy family she has.  Not to mention that her daddy is doing well. 



S & M out for today - please come by for a visit - Mike and I would love to see you!!!
503-778-0190  just give MC a quick call or text. 


PS:  Please email Sherry your MC Angel T-Shirt if you bought one.  I am still complying them.  Once I have them gathered up, I will create something fun with them for all to see.   

Email to: contactme@mycoachsherry.com

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