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.