Week of July 6, 2009

Bob visiting with Suzy at Wendy's

Although Bob was packed up and ready to go home last week, unfortunately the plans were changed.  Bob was very disappointed with the change of plans.  He was really looking forward to getting home to be with his family and back to Wendy's.  The doctor felt that Bob could benefit from another week at Pinecrest.  Bob was very happy that the doctor did agree to let him take trips out of the hospital to go home and to Wendy's.  Bob continues to spend his morning in therapy sessions and then goes on his trips in the afternoon.  

Bob continues to make improvements all around.  He is now able to sit up in bed and stand up on his own.  He does require a wheelchair to get around now, but he continues to work hard on walking with a walker.  Thank you for your continued prayers.

Week of June 29, 2009

Spending my last Sunday at Pinecrest

To my Friends and Family,

Thank you to everyone for all your support. It gave me motivation and meant a lot to me. I want to go out and restart my life. I will be going home on Wednesday. After 3 months of being at the hospital I am excited to go home and also back to Wendy's.

Bob

Week of June 22, 2009

Bob chatting with a friend

This week was a difficult one for Bob.  In addition to instability with his blood pressure, Bob was in severe pain due to a kidney stone.  The doctors had planned on taking Bob to his home for a visit in order to see how he would function in the home setting.  The trip had to be cancelled due to the amount of pain Bob was in.  Bob and the team of doctors are hoping that they will be able to reschedule the trip for next week.  

Continued thanks for the love, support and prayers you have all shown Bob and the entire family.  Be sure to check back next week for an update from a special person. 

Week of June 15, 2009

Bob with Michael (Suzie's son), Shannon and Brandon

Although Bob has not been feeling his best, the physical therapist said that there is no one more motivated and hard working than Bob, even when he's not 100%.  Bob continues to be busy with his various therapies.  He walked 124 feet last week with a specialized walker.  Bob's speech continues to get better.  He is also getting better at sitting up, transferring to a wheelchair and standing (all with the help of a nurse or therapist for now).  

There is still concern about Bob's blood pressure.  He has had problems with it dropping and has been confined to staying in his bed when it is low.  Even though the therapists have told Bob he can have the day off on these days, Bob insists on doing the therapies from his bed.  Please continue to pray for Bob.  We hope that he continues to gain strength, that his blood pressure stays at a consistent and safe level, that he has patience with the speed of his progress and that he feels God's presence surrounding him. 

Week of June 8, 2009

Bob and sister Laurie (my mom)

Bob and I outside for the first time since the stroke

Bob continues to amaze us all.  He continues to receive 3 hours of therapy each day.  In occupational therapy he is getting much more independent with daily activities and slowly gaining more range of motion in his arms and legs.  In speech therapy he has really been working hard at saying what he wants to say.  The therapist believes that Bob has a form of apraxia from the stroke.  With apraxia Bob knows what he wants to say, but he can't always verbalize the right words.  This really frustrates Bob.  With time and repetition Bob's brain will continue to make "connections" and the words will start to come back.  In physical therapy Bob is making huge gains.   On Wednesday he took his first steps.  As I mentioned in the previous post Bob walked 18 feet with the help of the therapist.  On Thursday Bob walked a total of 47 feet (20 feet and 27 feet).  He is now walking in PT with the help of a specialized walker.  Yesterday was another big day because he walked 75 feet with shoes on.  

For now phone calls (on his cell) and cards are the best way to contact Bob.  He does have his cell phone with him at Pinecrest.  He is continuing to ask for no visitors next week so he can focus on his therapy sessions.  After 3 hours of therapy he is exhausted.  Bob is also asking for no visitors because he is very worried about germs and infection.  I did have a chance to share the blog with him when I was with him this week.  He was extremely touched and emotional about the comments left on the blog and everyone that is praying for him.  In the 4 days that I spent with him he mentioned the blog at least 5 times a day.  He thought it was so cool to tell the nurses how many hits he had on his blog.  

Quick Wednesday Update

I have big news to share. Today during physical therapy Bob walked 18 feet with the help of the therapist. He was very happy when he was finished and made sure to call and share the good news. Bob has been doing really well at Pinecrest. He continues to have daily therapy sessions. He has made improvement in all areas. I was amazed today when the doctor came in and asked if he could lift his right leg (stroke side) off the bed. Bob not only lifted his right leg, but held it in the air for 5 seconds. Keep the prayers coming...they are working!!!!

Sunday Update

Bill, Laurie, Dad, Mom, Sue, Debbie and Bob in front

The Morden Family

Bob had another day filled of therapy.  When not in therapy sessions he spent most of the day sleeping.  He is really exhausted from all of the work the therapists are making him do.  Although in the past we mentioned how much he has enjoyed visitors, Bob is asking for no visitors over the next 7 days.  In order to help his rehabilitation and acclimation of his body doing more, Bob has requested a week of privacy.  He is hoping that a week of rest will give him enough energy to welcome visitors the following week.  Thank you for understanding.  

Saturday Update

Bob and his buddy Mike

Bob worked with therapists today for almost 6 hours.  He's working hard at recovering so that he can get back to his family and friends as soon as he can.  Bob is making progress and feeling better now that he is able to do things, instead of being in bed all day.  The catheter is now gone and the feeding tube should be out soon (he is not using it).  Bob ate a barbecue chicken sandwich for dinner and chicken with mashed potatoes for lunch.  He is ecstatic to be eating "normal" now!  

While in rehab Bob's days will consist of much of the same...therapy, therapy and more therapy.  Although I have enjoyed giving daily updates throughout this journey, while in rehab the updates  will come on a less frequent basis.  Now that Bob is at a place for his recovery where he will be for an extended period of time, I will post on a weekly basis, instead of daily.  If you visit Bob please feel free to post a comment on the blog about your visit.  I just finished putting together a scrapbook that includes all the blog posts and comments up until this point.  One day, when Bob is ready, I know he will really enjoy reading all 128 pages!  The comments, prayers and positive thoughts from each one of you will definitely show Bob just how much we all love him.

We are very encouraged by the signs of improvement that Bob is continuing to make.  The Pinecrest staff is going to help Bob become more independent and Bob is ready for the challenge.  We ask that you continue to keep Bob in your prayers.  Your prayers continue to make a difference to Bob and his family.  Thank you.

Friday Update

Bob, Agnes and the kids

Today marked another huge step forward for Bob.  He was moved from Select to Pinecrest Rehabilitation Hospital in Delray Beach.  Immediate plans are to remove the Foley/catheter and the Peg/Feeding tube.  Bob got weighed today and was surprised to hear that he now weighs 215 pounds.  He is much happier with the food at Pinecrest.  He is still on a soft diet, but will be gradually getting back to a regular healthy diet.  A wound specialist examined Bob and felt that a skin graph won't be necessary.  He plans to treat them aggressively and believe they will heal.  

Please feel free to send Bob a card or a note.  He is most appreciative hearing from and visiting with his friends and family.  His address is:

Pinecrest Rehabilitation Hospital

Robert Morden, Room 2040A

5360 Linton Blvd.

Delray Beach, FL  33484

Visiting hours at Pinecrest are from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, however he has various therapy sessions throughout the day and may be unavailable for a visit.  For example, tomorrow he has OT 7:30-8:30 am, PT 1:00-2:00 pm and Speech 2:00-3:00 pm.  Pinecrest does not allow visitors during scheduled therapy times.  His schedule will change on a daily basis.  If I notice a pattern in therapy times I will be sure to let everyone know so that you are able to see him when you stop by.

Thursday Update

Bob in Ft. Lauderdale

Bob continues to struggle with the protein solution that he gets twice a day.  He gets very sick and feels awful after it is administered.  The doctor said it will need to be changed and the nurse said that she will have to talk to the dietitian who orders it.  It's all a process that sometimes takes longer than we would like.  

Bob has had a sibling watching over him every day since his stroke on March 25, as well as family and friends stopping in to see how he is doing.  Today Bob sat in a chair for an hour.  He continues to feed himself mashed potatoes and other soft foods that they will give him at this point.  

We are reminded of the patience and strength he needs, through our prayers and encouragement as he is challenged with the constant ups and downs in his healing process.  We are thrilled to see his progress, but it is difficult to see Bob frustrated and sometimes angry.  It upsets him when his words don't come out right, the bedsores are very painful to him, the nausea comes from the protein going into his feeding tube, the desire of sitting up/getting up and when he wants to call someone on the telephone. With all of these challenges Bob is very grateful for the love, prayers and support of everyone.

Wednesday Update

Today was an uneventful day for Bob.  His low blood pressure is still frustrating him.  Bob has expressed that he feels bad. He seems to be very tired.  Bob did eat 2 meals today plus his regular nourishment through the feeding line into his stomach.  He did not have energy today to do much physical therapy due to discomfort and weakness.  Hopefully he will be moving to Pinecrest tomorrow to begin rehabilitation.  

Tuesday Update

Bob and I

Bill and Mary Gay's Wedding

Bob's struggle with his low blood pressure is beginning to wear on him. He knows that he is not feeling as well as he had been last week, and he is frustrated. He seemed to be doing a little better mid day, but by evening he felt worse. His medications are being adjusted. As soon as he gets this under control he will move to Pinecrest for rehab. Bob continues to need all our prayers.

Monday Update

Bob and CiCi

Although Bob continued to have some problems with low blood pressure, he managed to get in 2 physical therapy sessions.  After the 2nd session he showed improvement in his right arm and hand (stroke side).  At lunch Bob ate a bit more than he did yesterday.  He ate almost half of his mashed potatoes and 1/3 of his meat.  Bob also received a dinner tray.  He seemed to really enjoy the potatoes, corn, meat and vanilla pudding.  He fed himself at both meals.  

Bob's culture came back on his bedsores.  Unfortunately, the culture came back positive.  If you visit Bob please wash your hands before and after the visit.  You will also need to wear a gown and gloves if you come in contact with Bob.  This is all in an effort to get him on the right track and his bedsores healing.  We are waiting daily for the word that he can move to Pinecrest for acute rehab.

Sunday Update

Bob as Best Man at Bill and Mary Gay's Wedding

Today was a quiet day for Bob.  The highlight of his day was again his lunch.  Today was even better because he fed himself with his left hand.  This made him very tired.  He spent a lot of today sleeping from the combination of hard work from feeding himself and low blood pressure.  Please pray for continued progress this week as he prepares for rehab.

Saturday Update

Bill and Bob climbing at the Cottage

1966

Bob had another great day. Today he was able to eat his first "meal" for lunch!!!!  Although he had other options on his tray, he went right for the mashed potatoes, gravy and chicken.  The lunch was purred to the consistency of pate, but Bob ate it right up.  He enjoyed it so much that he was looking for a dinner tray.  Bob will have to wait for this until Monday when his speech therapist will work with him.  For those of you who haven't had a chance to visit Bob I wanted to let you all know that he now hears and understands everything that is said to him.  He is able to read as well.  As soon as I get the new address I will post it so that those who want to can send him a card.  Every day his speech is getting better and he is able to say more.  We are so thankful for the love, support and prayers of each and every one of you.  

Friday Update

Morden Family

Today was a big day for Bob because he got out of bed!  He sat in a chair this morning for about an hour and ate some applesauce.  Later in the day he did some range of motion exercises.  Tomorrow he will be getting a "real meal" for lunch.  For the time being, he will need to have the food that he eats pureed.  

It has been indicated that he will be ready to move on to acute rehab at Pinecrest in Delray in the near future.  I will make his new address available as soon as we get it.  I know he would love to hear from all of his friends.  The recent visits have meant so much to him.  Bob is working so hard so that he can get back to see everyone.

Thursday Update

Bob on the beach in Sarasota

Most of today was spent focusing on Bob's sores.  His sores were cleaned out to the bottom.  The remaining tissue looks healthy, and thankfully there were no signs of further infection.  Bob may have a plastic surgeon check them to see if he is a candidate for a "skin flap."  This procedure would expedite the healing process.  He will resume his regular schedule of therapy tomorrow.

Wednesday Update

Bob on the land where Wendy's sits today

Today was a day of physical therapy for Bob.  He only had range of motion sessions today as they will be assessing his sores tomorrow.  The past few days Bob has had a "vac" on his sores to help clean them out.  They were careful during physical therapy today because they did not want to risk the seal of the "vac" to be broken.  The plan is to kick start the healing of the sores so that Bob can move onto Rehab.  He will begin to receive some pretty high doses of strong antibiotics.  The doctors decided to put a new "pic" line back in his right arm so that they do not have to keep placing a new IV line every three days.  

Tuesday Update

Young Bill and Bob

Bob had another good day today.  For the first time since the stroke Bob was able to eat.  While sitting up he ate applesauce and ice chips.  Although Bob made a comment that it didn't fill him up, he was very happy to eat.  Bob had a special treat today when he was able to talk to his dear Aunt Sally.  Bob had the biggest smile on his face when she was talking to him.  Continued thanks for the visits, prayers and positive thoughts.  Bob would not be where he is today without each one of you.

Monday Update

Bob and his nephew, Billy

Today was a big day for Bob.  As of early today Bob is breathing without a trach!!!  He is very happy about the change and is having an easier time talking.  Bob's day went fast today as he had a lot of visitors.  Bob will resume his therapy sessions tomorrow after the holiday weekend comes to an end.  

For the third time this month Bob has become a great uncle.  William James Morden V was born this evening at 6:50.  Congrats to Billy, Sheryl and big sister Emily.

Sunday Update

Today was another quiet day for Bob due to the holiday weekend.  Bob really enjoyed his repeat visit from his friend Allan.  Bob was able to sit up with the help of his nurse today.  They removed the cap to his trach so that he could receive continuous misting to treat his throat.  Hopefully this will enable them to remove the trach tomorrow without having to wait for the ENT to do it.  Bob is still very anxious to start rehab.  Please focus your prayers on a successful removal of Bob's trach and healing of his bed sores.

Saturday Update

Laurie, Bob and Agnes

Bob and his mother, Joan

Bob is anxious to get out of Select and onto rehab.  His trach was scheduled to be removed today, but they have rescheduled it until an ENT can do it next week.  The initial attempt to remove it had to be stopped when they found some adhesion making it harder to come out that what it should have.  The ENT will be removing the trach next week to guarantee that there is no residual damage because they do not  want anything to delay Bob's next goal of rehab.  

As it is a holiday weekend, things are quiet around Select.  Bob enjoyed a couple of visitors.  He was very excited when James brought the belt he won in a recent Jujitsu competition.  His brother Bill reported that Bob was able to gently squeeze with his right hand (stroke side).  We are very grateful for your prayers and the progress that Bob continues to make.

Friday Update

Mustache today...gone tomorrow

Today was a good day for Bob.  He did an excellent job tolerating the capped trach.  He went all day yesterday, through Thursday night and today with it capped.  The trach will continue to be capped tonight.  If all goes well tonight most likely the trach altogether will be removed this weekend. 

Bob received more therapy today.  He continues to stand for short periods of time with the assistance of staff.  Bob did a little Occupational therapy of his own today when he shaved his mustache off.  Now that he is more aware of what is going on, he has realized that mustaches just are cool.

Bob became a great uncle again today when his niece, Adrienne, had a baby boy.  I called Bob on the way to the hospital and he was very happy and wanted to know how everyone was doing.  Adrienne and Todd welcomed Graham Henry Stratman at 12:28 this afternoon.

Please continue to pray for Bob's progress and healing.

Today Bob had a special visit from his daughter, Laurie. She lettered in Track and Field in Pole Vaulting and was also awarded for scholastic achievement. Bob is very proud and was happy to see her and share in her excitement.
The Physical Therapist had Bob standing twice today for a little longer period of time than yesterday. He didn't get dizzy from standing but did get fatigued and had to sit down. Tonight is the first night he will sleep with the trach being capped. He has been successful in having it capped all day so now they will see how he does day and night. Once he's successful at this, they will remove the trach all together.
Bob is very appreciative of people coming to see him. The days are becoming long for him now. Even though he can't talk much and still needs his rest, he smiles when a familiar face walks in the door.

Wednesday Update-BIG DAY!!!!

Bob and Debbie Lyonnais

Today Bob took some huge steps on his road to recovery.  I can't believe what I am about to write.  Bob stood up for the first time today. Yes, you read it right, BOB STOOD UP!!!! Bob stood up during physical therapy.  It was only for a minute or two, but it is definitely a very important step.  At this time he is only able to stand with staff.  

Dr. Schwartz from Pinecrest Rehab facility in Delray stopped by to see Bob.  He had seen Bob when he first arrived at Select.  He did an assessment on Bob and was impressed at the progress that he has made in just one week.  He said that Bob should be ready for rehab in a week or so.  Bob was able to show Dr. Schwartz some movement in his right foot and leg(stroke side).  He also exhibited some downward resistance in his right arm.  When the doctor asked Bob what he did for a living Bob said that he "had a Wendy's."  

On top of all of this, they were also able to cap his trach for the day.  Bob tolerated the capping excellently.  He didn't even need the oxygen tube in his nose! Tonight Bob returned to the regular trach.  He did so well that they are planning on capping the trach both day and night starting Thursday which will lead him to having no trach at all.

Today's progress is proof that miracles can happen.  One month ago the doctors were telling us of the 90% mortality rate.  The power of prayer is AMAZING! 

Tuesday Update

Morden Siblings

Today was another good day for Bob.  Bob had visitors at both the start and end of the day.  In between he continued with visits from the Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist.  He also continued with his respiratory treatments.  

Bob continues to make progress with his speech valve.  He definitely made my day today when I got to talk to him on the phone.  Aside from saying hello to me, he also made quite a few comments during our conversation.  Although Bob does speak some, he doesn't always articulate what he wants to say.  This is very frustrating for him.  

The wound care team came again to tend to his bedsores.  They will come again on Thursday.  This evening Bob made great progress when he sat up with the help of his wife, Agnes.  Please continue to pray for Bob, he has a long way to go.  

Monday Update

After a very social weekend for Bob today he settled down for business.  Today Bob worked with both the physical therapist and the occupational therapist.  The Respiratory Tech also came in to change his trach to accommodate a speech valve that Bob will now have on a more regular basis.  He had the valve in all day with no problems. At one point today he even said, "Good Morning," when prompted and also his sister's name.  When another nurse came in later in the day Bob was able to say his sister's first and last name when asked who she was.  

Bob still has a long way to go before carrying on a conversation, but this is the first step in giving him a "voice."  In a short time they will put in the next smaller size trach and cap it.  If everything goes well after the trach is capped the trach will be removed.  Continued thanks for the ongoing positive thoughts, prayers and support from each and every one of you. Bob has such wonderful friends and has truly enjoyed seeing those who have visited who mean so much to him.

Sunday Update

Morden Siblings

Bob, Sue, Bill, Debbie, Joan (mom) and Laurie

Each day seems to bring a little more improvement for Bob.  Today a few different visits made Bob's day go fast.  Bob really enjoyed watching the Detroit Red Wings win their first playoff game....Bob has always been a big fan.  As Bob has become more aware and awake he has really enjoyed looking at pictures.  Bob proudly displays a photo he recently received of James holding a belt he just won.  Thank you for your prayers.  Bob is not only getting stronger, but is starting to let us know, through actions, what he wants and doesn't want.  Pray for continued improvement.

Saturday Update

James, Bob, Joan and Laurie

Bob spent most of today looking through pictures and visiting with family.  There is not therapy over the weekend, so the visits helped pass the time for him.  Although Bob is not able to speak right now he seems to understand what people say to him.  Today Bob had a culture done on his trach and bedsores.  We should get the information back next week.  Thank you for your continued prayers.

Friday update

Bob with newborn Laurie

Bob had a busy day today with physical, speech and occupational therapy sessions. A special visit from his daughter Laurie brought a smile to his face, he wouldn't let go of her hand for her entire visit. Bob's sister Debbie has reported that Bob has no trouble understanding what is said to him, but he still cannot speak and sometimes cannot make the actions that he is asked to do. This can be frustrating for him.

They are working to get him off the trach, which will get him one step closer to rehab.

Thursday Update

Bob had a busy night last night.  As he is more aware of things, he is also more aware of things that bother him.  His trach must have been bothering him last night because he pulled it out.  It was replaced, going from an 8 to a 6 a little earlier than the doctors had planned.  

This morning Bob had visits from the physical therapist and the speech therapist.  After the busy night last night Bob took a really long nap today.  Mid afternoon brought a visit from his mom and brother.  Bob's mom was happy that he took hold of her hand as she sat by his side.  Please pray for Bob's continued progress and the healing of his bed sores.  

Wednesday Update

Bob and James

After being under observation for 24 hours Bob has been moved from the ICU to a regular room at Select.  As the days go by, Bob continues to get stronger and more alert.  Today Bob had a very special visit with his son James.  Bob's sister Debbie said that when Bob saw James he smiled.  Up until this point we have not been able to see Bob smile.  Bob kept his eyes on James the entire time he was in the room. Although Bob is not ready to give a "High Five" yet, he was able to bump fists with James.  Bob was also able to visit with some of his extended family which made him continue to smile.  

Tuesday Update

Bob and Brandon (Suzy's grandson)

Bob has been moved from Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami to Select Specialty Hospital-Palm Beach in Lake Worth. Please continue your prayers for Bob's recovery.

Monday Update

Bob, Agnes, Laurie, Boo and Bailey

Bob was up and alert for a good part of the day today.  We are pleased that his heart rate remained at a good level during the day.  He continues to receive the various different types of therapies.  Bob seemed to enjoy listening to the voices of Suzie, his sister Laurie and brother Bill while on the phone.  We are also happy that he was able to follow a few different commands during the day.  Please pray for Bob's continued progress.

Sunday Update

In honor of Mother's Day

Bob and his mother, Joan

Bob had a restful day today.  The doctors were happy to see that Bob's heart rate was better today, staying below 100 for most of the day.  The doctors mentioned that we needed to be very diligent in making sure not to do anything to cause it to spike.  This is a delicate balance when trying to do range of motion exercises, changing his dressings and shifting his position in the bed.  The doctors said that it is important to do things in an easy manner and give Bob plenty of time to recover before doing something else.  Bob has made great progress since coming to Jackson Memorial.  We are thankful for the hard work of all the doctors, nurses and therapists.

Saturday Update

Bob and Agnes

Bob spent a good part of today resting.  Rest is very important at this time.  Bob's white count is up.  This could be because he is fighting the infection in the bedsores.  Bob was coughing quite a bit today, but currently there are no signs of pneumonia which we are thankful for.  He did get several respiratory treatments throughout the day.

Bob's sister Debbie brought in a dry erase board for him to use to communicate, but he didn't show any interest in it.  He continues to communicate through nodding.  We have tried to use pictures for Bob to communicate through pointing.  When Bob gestures with his left hand he is showing signs of a tremor.  This could be due to him struggling to get control of fine motor movements.  

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Friday Update

Bob and Jason (my husband)

Not much to report today.  Bob spent the day doing therapy, watching TV with his sister and sleeping.  He seemed to be pretty tired.  The big news of the day is that Bob is ready for visitors, but the doctors stressed the importance of not overdoing it.  We know how much Bob would love to visit with everyone, and how many people want to see him, but we are going to need to spread the visits out to a few people a week.  

If you would like to visit Bob at Miami please email me your name, phone number and days/times that work for you.  Visiting hours are from 9am-9pm.  Also let me know if you would be willing to carpool with a member of Bob's family.  Once I get information from those who want to visit someone from the family will contact you.

Please email LEV35@aol.com if you would like to visit Bob.

Thursday Update

Bob in middle, Bill on right with friend Doug

Last night Bob was uncomfortable with the catheter and trach so they gave him some pain medication. Bob is more agitated as he becomes aware of his condition. This is a good thing but it's also a difficult thing for him. We know he is feeling pain and frustration, however, we can't help but be encouraged by his nodding in response to questions (more frequently). We're certain he is making more purposeful actions. Today his sister saw him reach to move the curtain at the window next to his bed. His brother showed him a sign that had a TV on one side and a pillow with a person sleeping on the other side. He told Bob that he was leaving and asked him to point to the TV if he wanted the TV left on or point to the pillow if he wanted to go to sleep. Bob reached for the paper and brought it closer to his face and clearly pointed to the TV side. Mom (age 83) visited him this evening and sat by his side talking to him and holding his hand. She is always so very grateful to be with him and felt better after seeing him this evening.
Please keep your prayers coming. We know God is listening. Praise God.

Wednesday Update

Bill and Bob

Bob had a good day today.  The doctors were able to put the speech valve in his trach.  It seemed like the valve made it much easier for Bob to cough and swallow.  Bob continues to make purposeful movements (nodding and turning his head).  Again, he did show interest in the TV.  When asked if he wanted to watch the hockey game Bob nodded yes. 

Tuesday Update

Bob with brother in law, Carl and nephew, Britain

Bob's day was again fill with therapy.  He continues to actively move his left side.  His physical therapist, George, visited him today and was able to show Bob's sister, Debbie, some exercises that the family can do with him.  Rest between Bob's therapy is very important.  During this "rest" time Bob again watched FOX news.  He also seemed to take an interest in the new view he has.  His new room is on a higher floor and has a window.  At times it appears that Bob turns his head to look out the window. 

Bob also had several visits from the Wound Care Specialist and Trauma Team to evaluate his bedsores.  The decision was made to do the procedure to remove the dead tissue around the sores and continue with medication.  We should have word in the next few days if this has helped the situation.  Jessica from Speech Therapy also came in and informed the family that they are going to put in a speech valve on his trach.  This valve will allow Bob to cough and swallow better.   In addition to the other therapy he is receiving, Bob will now  also be getting therapy for help coughing and swallowing.  When Bob is ready, this valve will help him make verbal responses.  The valve is the first step for the removal of the trach. 

For those of you who know Bob well, you know how important his restaurant is and everyone that works there.  To Bob, they are an extension of his family.  Suzie and the rest of the team have been working day in and day out since Bob's stroke to keep the Wendy's moving.  Today Bob had a special treat when he was able to listen to Suzie talk to him on the phone.  When a phone was held to Bob's ear it seemed as if he was trying to smile as she spoke to him.   It is reassuring to him, and the entire family, that Wendy's is in such good hands.  

Please focus your prayers on the healing of Bob's sores and strength with his breathing so that he can continue to progress enough to be taken off the trach completely.

Monday Update

Bob in Wyoming

1972

Bob's Monday was focused on physical therapy.  The therapist worked with Bob on his range of motion. At this point, therapy will be at an easy pace.  The therapists are being very mindful about Bob's bedsores while working with him.  They have been working diligently in hopes that Bob will be able to sit up as soon as his sores are healed. Getting Bob to sit up will be a big step in his rehabilitation, but for now it will cause more harm than good.  The entire staff at Jackson Memorial continues to do an amazing job caring for Bob and helping him progress.

Bob spent most of the day with his sister, Debbie.  She said that he was active for much of the day with therapy.  At one break she turned FOX on his TV and he seemed to be watching.   

A special congratulations to Bob's niece, Shawn, on the birth of her son.  Shawn, TK and Campbell welcomed Beckett Thomas into the world at 6:55 tonight.  

Sunday Update...Moving Day!

Today was another big day for Bob.  After 39 days in the ICU, today Bob was transferred to the Stroke Unit.  The objective of being in the stroke unit is to increase his physical therapy and start the initial stages of rehabilitation.  Bob has been the most active these past few days.  He continues to make more eye contact each day.  Again today he nodded to answer questions.  

Although we are all extremely excited about Bob's new location in the hospital, he still is too weak for visitors.  I know there are many of you that want to visit Bob and tell him that you are thinking about him, but for now we ask that you wait until he has more strength and energy.  I will continue to give daily updates on his progress and will definitely let you know as soon as he is able to have visitors.  For now, please use the comment section of the blog.  Family members at the hospital will continue to read them to Bob and ultimately all comments and blog posts will end up in a book made for Bob to look back on this journey.

Continued thanks for all the positive thoughts and prayers...they are all so powerful.

Saturday Update

Bob and brother-in-law, Doug (my dad)

Today brings big news...Bob is off the ventilator and respirator!!! He remains on the trach with 30% oxygen, but we are ecstatic with the huge progress.  He is breathing on his own!  Bob no longer has a temperature or lung infection.  His blood gasses have been good as well.

Up until now we were unable to say if movements were voluntary, or involuntary.  Today Bob responded with a nod to a few questions with what appeared to be voluntary movements.  When the nurse asked him if he was in pain Bob nodded "no."  His sister, Sue, asked him a question and he nodded, "yes."  He might only do this once or twice a day, not consistently.  He is more consistent with nodding in response after he wakes up from a nap.  At one point today he even grabbed his mom's arm and had eye contact with her, which delighted her!

Friday Update

Bob and nephew, Billy (Bill's Son)

I am happy to report that Bob continues to do well with the changes in his breathing support.  All of today he was able to breathe on his own for 10 hours segments, while only being on the vent for 2 hours.  The doctors will continue to have Bob breathe on his own in longer segments of time.    

Thursday Update

Morden Siblings 

Sue holding Bob, Bill, Laurie and Debbie

There is not much to report for today.  Bob continues to make progress with his breathing.  I am happy to report that this afternoon he was breathing in a cycle of 10 hours without the vent and 2 hours with!  Please focus your prayers on Bob safely coming off the ventilator and an increase in his ability to follow simple commands.   

Wednesday Update

Today was a good day for Bob.  There isn't much to report due to the fact that today was another day of changing Bob's breathing treatments.  Bob has been successful at being on the vent 3 hours and off for 3 hours throughout the day.  We call that progress!!! We thank each one of you for your continuing prayers.

Tuesday Update

Bob and his mother, Joan

Today was a quiet day for Bob as the team of doctors and nurses made adjustments with his breathing support.  During the day Bob's vent/trach was in a cycle of 3 hours on and 1 hour off.  Bob did a really nice job with the change and was able to breathe on his own for an hour at a time.  We are still waiting for the results of the CAT scan.  Thanks again for all the positive thoughts and comments on the blog.  The entire Morden family appreciates the support.

Monday Update

North Farmington Prom
1979

Today was a big day for Bob. This evening he was taken off the vent. They are doing a trial tonight and tomorrow to check if he is ready to be off the vent completely. Although Bob is not yet responsive or able to speak, he is showing signs of improvement. His eye contact seems to have gotten better. At one point today he even reached up and itched his nose. He still is not too happy about doing physical therapy, but he does show strength when doing it. The doctors hope to move Bob to the stroke floor by the end of he week when hopefully he is off the vent.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and positive thoughts...it makes a huge difference!

Sunday update

Today Sue, Bill, Marie, Agnes, Laurie and James were able to see him. It was the first visit to Miami for Laurie and James. Bob's eyes are tracking and he's resisting physical therapy seemingly because of discomfort. I believe we will have test results the beginning of this week which will be helpful in understanding what Bob has in front of him.