Progress report: three weeks of blessings

It's Thursday afternoon, 2:15 p.m., and Karina and I are having a quiet time in Josh's room reflecting on the past weeks. Today marks the third week since Josh's accident. When we recall recent events we feel overwhelmed by all that has happened. To think that Josh may not have survived or awoken from the deep coma... we stand amazed at how Josh has progressed. Even the medical staff is shocked at how quickly Josh has moved from a deep coma to the state he is in now. (Yes, for those who have been asking, Josh is no longer in a coma. We apologize for not clarifying this earlier)

As of today, he can walk down the hall with the assistance of one physiotherapist, he can read some words and can eat by himself. In addition, Josh has started a cognitive class where he participates in a 45 minute session of brain stimulating activities. This has been a daily routine for the past three days.

Josh also continues to have daily physio sessions. Today he walked to the gym where he practiced some leg exercises and walked between the parallel bars. Although his walking is still staggered, it was such a great sight to see. The occupational therapist and speech language pathologist have also been working with Josh daily to work on simple tasks and brain stimulation. Josh has been talking a lot, he greets and recognizes faces and can carry on simple conversations. Although he often shows signs of confusion or does not always understand or remember certain things, he is always compliant and has a gentle spirit.

Josh has also enjoyed being able to feed himself. He has been upgraded from eating pureed food to minced food such as rice and ground beef. Josh eats all his food and enjoys it thoroughly. We have to keep reminding him to take little bites and to eat slowly, although he often chooses to quickly gobble it all down.

Josh has also appreciated his visits with family, close friends and co-workers. He is able to recognize them and greets them by name and a handshake. He also is ready to give a hug when asked.

Karina and I took Josh outside this afternoon as it was such a beautiful day. Josh seemed to enjoy the busy surroundings. We sat outside the church and enjoyed the church bells ringing, the pigeons, people and traffic. We even stopped to pat a dog.

Phil returned to work on Monday night and is able to visit with Josh in the early evenings before going to work.

We thank you all for the continued prayers and support. We feel so comforted at this time and give praise to the Lord for helping us along this journey.

Phil, Terri and the family