|
||||||||||||
Click here to go back to the main page.
Saturday, June 18, 2005 10:46 AM CDT
Hello friends and family,
I just wanted to post a quick note to let you all know that the transition from hospital to home has begun. Matt has started physical therapy here at the house and will start speech therapy and occupational therapy here next week. At some point, he will do his therapies in Bangor as an outpatient, but for now, it's easier to have the therapists come to our house.
We've set up a bedroom for him in our den complete with his Xbox system, and he does quite well getting to the living room if he wants to watch movies. Hopefully, the weather will clear soon and he can get outside. I really appreciate all of Matt's friends who have come to visit. While we need to keep his visits low key and not too many people at a time, he really needs his close friends now to help occupy his free time. Because of his head injury, Matt will not be able to drive for awhile (the state suspends the license of everyone who has a severe head injury until a doctor releases you and you retake your road test) and he needs to be supervised by us at all times. Also because of the head injury, this is very difficult for him to understand. He wants to leave and hang out with his friends, but it could really hurt his chances of recovery if he does. This is for his own safety until his brain has healed, and I really would appreciate all of your help with this. You are all welcome to visit him here at the house - just give him a call to be sure he's not busy with therapy or doctor's appointments (we have quite a few next week) or doesn't already have visitors planned. Pace yourselves - I'm going to need your help all summer to keep him occupied!
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to give Bob or me a call.
Heather
Tuesday, June 14, 2005 6:10 PM CDT
Hello friends and family! This is Heather, and I am pleased to tell you that after 30 days of being at EMMC, Matthew Robert Peasley is finally HOME!!! We just finished our first dinner, sitting at our own kitchen table, and it was definitely the best meal I've had in a long time.
I wanted to take a quick moment to thank all of you for the love and support you've given us this past month. I can quite easily say that this was the hardest thing Bobby and I have ever faced, and all of the e-mails, cards, and notes on this site helped us more than you'll ever know. I couldn't even imagine facing something like this alone. I especially want to thank our family for being so supportive - my mom, Sara, who travelled from Portsmouth, NH to EMMC in 2 1/2 hours the morning of the accident and then lived at the Riverside Inn for 28 days so she could be at our side the moment we called; my motherinlaw, Maryann, who also spent many hours in the hospital waiting room in case we needed her and who took care of our house including planting my flower beds so we would have something pretty to look at when we came home; my sisterinlaw, Nancy, who spent several nights sleeping on the couch in the ICU waiting room and who, as you all know, did a wonderful job maintaining this website to keep everyone connected; my brothers and sisters in law, Billy and Val, who kept us well fed when we couldn't leave the ICU (and kept Yogi fed when he felt like travelling) and who made sure our house was handicapped-accessible for Matt's return; and David and Val, who received the call from us at 6:00 a.m. (they live the closest to EMMC) to please get to the hospital to meet the helicopter flying Matt in so he wouldn't be alone when he got there, and who also kept us well fed with home cooked meals; my nephews, Billy, Lee and Mitchell for taking care of the heavy-lifting around our house to get ready for Matt's return; my dad, Norman, for his visits to the hospital as well as his help around our house doing things we just didn't have time to do; my aunt Kelly, who can stand next to a bedside longer than anyone I know - she spent several nights in the ICU trying to keep Matt from removing his various tubes/monitors so that we could sleep; our neighbors, Royce and Nancy Morrison, for taking wonderful care of our dog and cat; my good friend, Elaine, who so generously paid my bills for the month when I couldn't get to the bank; my co-workers, April, Staci, Kristi, Theresa, Linda, Elaine,and Ashley for cooking our anniversary dinner at the office and serving it to us at the hospital (and to Ben, Dave, and Jamie for having to smell the aroma and not getting to eat any of it!) ; our employers, Bangor Hydro and Macdonald, Chase & Dufour, for allowing us the time off to deal with this crisis; our friends from Otis, Mariaville, and Ellsworth for supplying us with cookies, snacks, and goodies; and all of our nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, co-workers and friends who came to the hospital to support us when we needed you most. We love you all.
Although Matt is out of the hospital, he will be continuing with various therapies here at our house. I know everyone is anxious to visit with him, but we will need to take it slow for awhile. We still need to keep visitors to one or two at a time, and I'm not sure yet what his therapy schedule will be. Please call my cell phone - 460-5733 to see if Matt is up for visitors. We'll keep you posted.
Friday, June 10, 2005 9:06 AM I'm sorry to say, in our excitement we may have jumped the gun a little bit with Matthew being released today. Yesterday Matt's doctors and parents made a mutual decision to keep Matthew at the hospital for a short while longer in order to have some precautionary testing. Tuesday, June 7, 2005 6:45 PM It is a wonderful day with wonderful NEWS!!!! Monday, June 6, 2005 10:25 AM Matthew had a very good weekend. He continued his rehabilitation, slept restfully through the nights, and even entertained a few guests. Friday, June 3, 2005 8:52 PM Matthew's condition is unchanged, which is wonderful! He is continuing to do well in rehabilitation, learning to walk on crutches, speech therapy and so on. He has real busy days now which should tire him out so he will sleep much better at night....Heather and Bob too! Wednesday, June 1, 2005 5:38 PM Matthew is doing very well. He has been moved to the rehabilitation floor where it is much quieter. His condition is unchanged (which is a good thing, meaning no further brain bleeding or changes), but his spirits and rehab are improving with each passing day! More good news! Monday, May 30, 2005 5:13 PM Matthew had a good day recovering from his operation. He had the stitches removed from the earlier operation to his leg. Chick's dig "war wounds" and Matt will be showing them off in no time!!!
Friday, May 27, 2005 6:40 PM Hello Friends and Family of Matthew Peasley Thursday, May 26, 2005 6:45 PM The Defination for TOUGH 1. Strong and resilient; able to withstand great strain without breaking. 2. Hard to cut. 3. Physically hardy; rugged. 4. Strong-minded. Wednesday, May 25, 2005 8:31 PM Another obstacle crossed..Matthew had a rough night (last night) with a fever. The doctors found fluid in his abdomen today and around 3pm took Matthew to the operating room. The operation was a success. What they found was some old blood and new blood which was released from a bruise near his small intestines. Apparently, the bruised area became inflamed and burst, causing the new bleeding. Not a lot of blood, but added to the old, it started an infection. This area has been cleaned and he is doing well. While inside, the doctors took the opportunity to check all his vital organs and found everything to be fine. His ruptured spleen has healed, which is further good news. Wednesday, May 25, 2005 10:52 AM The family is together at the hospital, Matthew has had a set back. At this time we are requesting and pleading with everyone to PRAY FOR MATTHEW. Monday, May 23, 2005 8:08 PM Matthew spent the day working hard with physical therapy. His Dad said he had a good day. His condition isn't expected to change over night, so it is going to be a long healing process. Sunday, May 22, 2005 5:45 PM Matthew is doing about the same. I'm afraid we are going to get real boring in the updates (starting now).....but, that is GOOD NEWS! His condition hasn't changed, his attitude remains all "Peasley" and determined as ever! He has started physical therapy. The physcial therapy is expected to take up most of his time, we were told he would be so busy it would wear him out! So, it looks like Matt's going to be working hard and only stopping to eat and sleep! Saturday, May 21, 2005 2:21 PM Today Matthew's condition is relatively the same as yesterday. Again, a reminder it will be a slow process of healing. Friday, May 20, 2005 9:33 PM I am sure everyone is waiting patiently for an update! Sorry for the delay. Thursday, May 19, 2005 6:49 PM Matthew's family is very thankful for your understanding and for respecting their wishes for no visitors to the hospital. They are with Matthew and concentrating all their efforts on him. Thursday, May 19, 2005 7:17 PM Hello Friends and Family of Matthew, Bobby and Heather Wednesday, May 18, 2005 12:44 PM Matthew has been doing well. His neurologist was in to see him this morning, he said he is progressing as expected at this stage. Matthew is seeing out of his left eye now and did follow instructions with the doctor and repeated what was asked of him. He grew tired of it after a few minutes and told the doctor he was done, then fell back to sleep. He is resting a lot, which is great. He wakes periodically and is speaking to his parents and the hospital staff in short responses, a few words at a time. Tuesday, May 17, 2005 2:30 PM Matthew is speaking! He has said, "it hurts," "No Dad"--like that's anything new!!!! Except this time it is bringing a smile to Dad's face!!! (Matt also showed Dad and Mom a bit of sign language! He's back!) Tuesday, May 17, 2005 11:48 AM GREAT NEWS!!!! A miracle and answer to our prayers! Monday, May 16, 2005 8:52 PM Matthew had a good day today. His doctors turned off the respirator and allowed him to breath on his own. The respirator was put in place, not because he couldn't breath on his own, but to assist him to conserve energy. Now that he has had his leg operation and there have been no complications the doctors are planning to remove the breathing tube tomorrow. Again, everything hinges on Matthew's condition either improving or remaining the same. Monday, May 16, 2005 9:58 AM Good morning everyone. Just a short message this morning to let you all know that there has been no change to Matt's condition, which is good news. His brain swelling has NOT increased and that is a good sign at this point in his recovery. Right now we will just have to be patient and support his family. When there is further information regarding Matt's condition, you will be notified as soon as possible. We know you all are monitoring this web page and want you to remember that now it is a waiting game. The updates may not be as frequent as the first few days and even when there isn't information, it isn't necessarily a bad thing. At this point, no change is good news, please keep that in mind as you wait for updates. We will keep in touch morning and night with or without changes in his condition to let you know were he is at in his recovery. We care about you and your concerns for Matthew and want you to have peace of mind too. Take care, God Bless and keep Matt in your prayers! Sunday, May 15, 2005 9:26 PM Matthew has had a very busy and productive day. He received so many wonderful messages and prayers, we can't thank you all enough! Sunday, May 15, 2005 2:19 PM Matthew has returned from the operating room with his new ironman leg! He did great and the operation went smoothly. He is one tough cookie! Sunday, May 15, 2005 11:45 AM @ 1100 Matthew was taken to the operating room to have his right leg and ankle repaired with rods, pins and screws to secure/support the bone structure. The operation is expected to last 3 to 4 hours. At this time, his parents are taking advantage of the opportunity to grab some much needed sleep. Although exhausted, they are doing well. Pray for Matt's successful operation, thank you. Sunday, May 15, 2005 7:24AM The CT scan results are in, his condition is unchanged, which is good news. It means there has not been any further swelling to the brain. The neurologist has given the go ahead for the orthopedic surgeon to operate, should he decide to do so today. It may not seem very important, compared to all his other injuries, but repairing the damage to his leg will greatly reduce a lot of Matt's pain, as well as reduce the chances of complications in that area of his body. He is still not out of the woods, the next few days are critical and he is being constantly monitored. The neurologist stated that if Matt's condition continues to do well over next few days, they will remove the breathing tube. (Matthew will be happy about that! He has consistently attempted to remove it himself.) Please keep Matthew in your prayers. We will update you as we receive the information. Sunday, May 15, 2005 06:41 AM At approx. 9pm last evening the nurse backed off Matthew's meds to evaluate his responsiveness. She asked him to wiggle his toes and Matt wiggled his toes! She asked him to give the "thumbs up" and up went his thumbs! This is a very encouraging sign. The nurse continued to monitor him every two hours throughout the night with the same results. She contacted the neurologist who gave the go ahead for Matthew to have surgery today to repair his right leg on the condition his CT scan remain the same or better. We are waiting for the results of the scan and the final decision regarding surgery now.
Saturday, May 14, 2005 1:59 PM CDT This page has just been created. Please check back for additional updates.
Click here to go back to the main page.
We will continue the website to keep everyone informed.
Matthew and his parents are doing well, but need to tie up some loose ends and be certain that Matthew is ready to come home. Otis is a long way from the hospital, so it is best he remain there until everything is taken care of.
Please be patient with us and keep Matthew and his family in your prayers. All visits will have to wait until a later date when Matt's parents feel it is appropriate. Please respect the no visit request.
We continue to appreciate all you letters of support and kindness. It is nice to have such wonderful friends and family.
Thank you for your understanding.
God Bless!
On Friday, June 10th after four weeks at Eastern Maine Medical Center Matthew R. Peasley will be released and going home!!!!!!
We are all so thankful for this day, for the blessings of friends and family, and most of all for the blessings which God has given Matthew!!!!
Although, our dear Matthew will be coming home on Friday, we want everyone to realize that the journey of healing is still very much on going. Matthew will still have a very intensive schedule with therapy within the home and also a few days per week in Bangor. He is still not completely up to par and needs all the rest he can acquire between doctor and therapist calls.
I just got off the phone with Bobby and he would like everyone to know how much they have appreciated all your love and support, and your understanding of Matthew's care by honoring the request of no visitor's to the hospital. And, either though Matthew is going home, we really need to insist that anyone wishing to visit to CALL HIS HOME PRIOR TO VISITING to arrange a time. PLEASE NO UNANNOUNCED VISITS TO THE HOME. It is critical that everyone understand that too much activity will be overwhelming for Matthew, as well as his parents at this time. It has been one month since they have been home as a family and they all need time to readjust to daily living, plus attend to Matthew's medical needs. They do wish to hear from you, yet just request you call them rather than stop by unannounced. Thank you for being such caring friends.
We have had over 10,000 hits on Matthew's website! It is incredible how much love Matthew has in his corner. We are putting together a Memory book for Matthew, as a reminder of how much his friends and family pulled together out of love for him. He will be able to carry this throughout his life and always know how much he is loved by all! He has touched so many lives for such a young man. He is God's Gift to us all.
If you have any messages which you wish to include in the Memory book for Matthew, please enter them on the website between now and Friday. After Friday, we will not continue this website. There will be only one more update and that will be Friday evening. Until then, please continue to keep Matthew in your daily prayers. We all love him and will continue to pray for his good health until he makes a complete recovery!
One more note about Matthew, tomorrow he and his parents are taking a tour of the LifeFlight facility and helicopter! No more rides on it, just a tour! What an amazing group of people at LifeFlight. Let's not forget to include all the public service and medical personnel in our prayers of thanks. These people make it possible for loved ones to come home again. May God Bless them for their strength and care for others.
Once again, we can't thank you all enough. No words can fully express how grateful we are to have had all your support throughout this time. It won't be forgotten or go unnoticed. You are appreciated and loved in return!
God Bless You!!!!
Mimmie, Matt's grandmother, was surprised to receive a phone call from Matthew over the weekend. It made her day!
Matt's Aunt Val and cousin, Keeley stopped in to see Matt and had a nice visit with him. Seeing Matthew's big, beautiful smile warms anyone's heart!
Matt is continuing his busy schedule with physical and speech therapy. It is going well, but will be a long process even once he gets home. Speaking of getting Matthew home, tomorrow Matthew has another CT scan to check in on his brain to make sure everything there is continuing to do well. We may get a better indication after tomorrow as to when Matthew may be expected to come home!
He also must master crutches or a walker before he can be released. Because of the operation on his leg/ankle he is not to put any pressure on the right foot for about 6 more weeks or so.
So for now, all is going very well and we are awaiting a good review tomorrow with hopes of making plans to get Matthew home soon! And, to get Bobby and Heather home too!
We pray today for Matthew's continued good health and results on his test tomorrow. Thank you for keeping your prayers with Matthew and his family.
God Bless!
Matthew's Uncle David had a treat today. Bobby called him and Matthew wanted to speak with his Uncle David! We are all so jealous of David for being Matt's first phone call!!! See David. No, Matthew is not taking calls just yet, hopefully in the near future.
What a difference a week makes! Even better, two weeks! It is truly amazing how the human body can recover so well in so little time...or at least for our miracle Matt! We are all so proud of you Matthew and are anxiously awaiting your arrival home! Yogi (the dog) and the cat (Sweetpea?) are hanging in there waiting for you too!
Your improved recovery has brought the sunshine not only to our hearts, but into the skies! We all love you!
Thank you to everyone for the daily prayers, support and love. This is still going to be a long journey for Matthew and his family, but it sure would feel longer without you there cheering them on. So many of you have shown what true friendship and family means. There is nothing that can give more comfort than what you have already done. We can't thank you enough.
Please continue to send messages and prayer to Matthew.
Take care and God Bless!
Matthew picked out new glasses today....thank you Libby Morse for all your assistance and generosity! We continue to be touched by all God's living angels who make such a difference each day!
Matthew took another big step today, he is learning to use crutches! He is doing very well in rehabilitation and we expect he will continue to amaze us as the days pass.
We must remember that it was only last week that Matthew had a set back and surgery, his recovery is still in the early stages, although he is making such improvements! We are all delighted, needless to say!
He still is unable to have visitors to the hospital. We request no visitors at all. He needs to maintain his focus on his rehabilitation and needs quiet with little stimulation from outside sources at this time. Bobby and Heather are even taking turns being with him to keep his focus limited to one person at a time and so he can get all the rest he needs to heal.
His recovery will be a slow process and we hope that everyone who loves him will understand how important it is to his overall recovery that you continue to be so respectful in the families request for no visitors, keeping messages coming through the website for Matthew and last but certainly not least, in keeping Matthew in your daily prayers.
I want to share one last thought for everyone to reflect on when thinking about where we were just over two weeks ago and up to this point in Matthew's recovery. Keeping in mind the limited medical treatment he has received and the wealth in prayers that have been sent his way.....
In the Bible, the Gospel of Matthew is about Christ's miracles of healing. This Gospel of Matthew celebrates Christ's victory over evil and death. It is a message of how to live! Even the name, Matthew is so perfect....Matthew means "Gift from God."
God Bless!
Matthew was back in rehabilitation today. He was wheeling himself around in his wheel chair, (no better therapy for a young man than chasing down cute nurses!) Matt's back on track after a little bump (but big scare, no minimizing that day) in the road last week. We all pray that there will be NO MORE BUMPS in the road....there are enough on the West Shore Road in Otis for him to deal with when he rides home.
Again, a reminder, that todays activities are small strides in a long haul. Matt's recovery and rehabilitation will be a long process, and after last week, we are starting all over again. Matt is still in need of low stimulation and we are still requesting NO VISITORS at the hospital until further notice.
We love to hear from all of you. It makes the days go by a little faster and with a lot more comfort. Just knowing there are so many people ready to help, is a huge comfort. And, in time, in due time, many, many of you will be called upon. Get your rest while you can!
Thank you again to all those who keep Matthew and his family in their daily prayers. Until Wednesday, keep your prayers with Matthew's recovery and the bumps on the West Shore Road! Love to all and God Bless!
Another day of recovery from the surgery and Matthew is doing well.
Today, he had a few words for his Uncle Bill, which not only made Bill's day, but Mimmie's as well. We are proud of Matthew and his parents. Bob and Heather are doing well too. Sometimes they get a bit lost in the dust of the journal entries, but they are every bit in our prayers and thoughts as is Matthew. Matthew is blessed to have such loving and caring parents as Bobby and Heather.
We've reached that time again....no news is good news!!!
And just a reminder that there are still NO VISITORS to the hospital as Matthew and his family continue his recovery together.
Unless there is something new, the updates will go back to every other day beginning Monday. So, don't worry if you do not hear any news over the weekend. (If something comes up, you will be updated, otherwise we will take the weekend to wind down from the week and start fresh on Monday.) Thank you for all of your support, understanding, love and care of Matthew and his family.
Have a wonderful weekend with your families! God Bless.
To remain unyielding in adverse circumstances.
Yes, that would define Matthew R. Peasley. He is doing very well, resting and recovering from his long day yesterday. What strength Matthew has shown us all. Whenever we feel life has thrown us a bit more than we can handle, before you even think about giving up...look towards Matthew's show of strength and live by his example.
God has his hand on Matthew's shoulder, all your prayers for Matthew are being heard and answers do follow.
Thank you for your immediate response yesterday to our request for prayer. We realize how difficult it must have been for you to not know the reason behind the request, but you had faith and you let it shine through in prayer just the same. God Bless You!
We are glad to report that there have been no changes in Matthew's condition today, he is recovering from surgery and will be back to rehab as soon as possible. We are grateful for all the blessings we have received throughout this time. The blessing of friendship is the glue that is keeping us all together, no matter what the day should bring, the love and encouragement of our friends is where we gather our support.
You too are in our prayers each day, as we are grateful to have you in our lives, and here each day supporting our every need. Thank you for all you have done and are continuing to do for the Peasley family.
Have a wonderful night and God Bless!
(P.S. It has rained every day that Matthew has been in the hospital. If this continues throughout the duration of his stay, I think it only reasonable we call him "Noah" and request an ark! Maybe once again, Matthew has found a way to get out of splitting wood. At this rate all those logs are about to be called sponge.)
Matthew has been moved back to ICU in Pediatrics as a precautionary messure and to recover from his operation. All the doctors are keeping a close watch over him, so he is in the best of care at this time.
He is resting and now will be recovering from his surgery, so I am assuming he will not be in rehab for a few days until he has regained his strength again.
We are blessed to have your immediate support, with prayers and messages. The family wants you to know that all you are doing is so important and appreciated, words can not express the gratitude the family feels for such loving friends and family.
Keep your prayers with Matthew. We knew it would be a long road of recovery and little bumps along the way. We all would prefer no bumps, but we are thankful to have so many people ready to support when the support is needed. Thank you.
We will update tomorrow whether his condition has changed or not just so you too may have peace of mind.
Thank you for loving Matthew and his family. Take care and God Bless you!
Matthew is being taken for testing. At this time, how extensive or severe of the set back is not predictable.
Please allow the doctors, family and Matthew this time. No visitors please. Keep checking this site, it will be updated as soon as we have more information as to Matthew's condition. Until then, the family expresses their gratitutde for loving and supportive friends and family as you. Please PRAY. Prayer has gotten us this far and we need every prayer you can offer on this day.
Please take comfort that we will notify you of any further information as it comes available to us. We do not want you to worry unnecessarily, and understand this message is a cause for worry and are sorry we need to send out this urgent request. We just need your prayers now. Thank you for all your loving kindness. God Bless!
We want to thank everyone for being so patient and understanding, and continue to encourage you, that even though we aren't able to give more substance in the updates right now, we hope you keep the messages coming for Matthew to read when he is feeling better.
After tonight, we will update every other day until or unless we have more in the way of changes. No news is good news, please keep that in mind as you patiently wait. We are waiting right along side of you too, so please don't be discouraged, we were told it would be a long and slow healing process.
A reminder that Matthew will not be able to have visitors at the hospital. Everyone has been so respectful and understanding of the need for Matt and his parents to have this time to concentrate on the healing process.
Your messages have been wonderful for Bobby and Heather and I encourage you to keep in touch with them too. They are remaining at Matt's side throughout this time, and do receive your messages.
The power of prayer has been evident here and we hope you will continue to keep Matthew close in your heart and prayers. Thank you for all the love and support you are giving Matt and his parents. It is the best medicine! God Bless!
I hope Bobby and Heather can take advantage of this time and get some rest themselves. They have been such wonderful parents providing around the clock love and support for Matt since day one. They are wonderful people and obviously, that strength must have rubbed off on Mr. Matthew Robert Peasley! The three of them have been amazing to say the least. God Bless them all and please keep them in your prayers.
Please continue writing messages, they are so welcome and appreciated. The family receives so much comfort from your words.
Thank you!
I need to address this issue of his healing process more clearly than I have, I believe it has lead to some confusion as to his condition and I don't want the updates to be presented in a form that they may be misleading.
Matthew has sustained a serious head injury. Although, his progress has exceeded expectations, that doesn't imply he will be up and running in a few weeks. His progress will be slow and take time. Head injuries are serious and are expected to be a slow, on going process. We are pleased with Matthew's progress to this point, but we also realize we have a long way to go.
He has made such great strides in such a short period of time and we don't want to down play those steps, yet we don't want to mislead you in his recovery either. He is still in the early stages of recovery.
We love Matthew and need to give him and his parents the time needed to work through the healing process. Time is the key factor, and we all need to be patient and understanding that it is going to be a slow process.
Thank you so much for the love, support and prayers you send to Matthew on a daily basis. His parents are lifted up with such great encouragement and kindness that is expressed from your hearts.
Again, there will be no visitors allowed to the hospital or home until such time it is posted on this webpage. The family wants you to know, we realize how difficult it is to not be able to visit or make direct contact, but at this time it is best that they are able to focus on Matthew's healing. We are making every effort to keep you informed and comforted in some small way.
Thank you so much for all your understanding and for helping Matthew recover through your prayers and support.
Please continue to keep Matthew and his family in your prayers.
God Bless!
Matthew is doing exceptionally well considering his accident was only one week ago tomorrow morning. It is a miracle we are even having so many updates so early in his recovery. We have a lot to be grateful to God for.
Today, Matthew took another step in his recovery, he was able to be removed from his IV and pain machine. I can't believe I'm even so blessed at this date to be writing this...Matthew is out of ICU!! and started rehabilitation today, he is not only eating and drinking, but doing it on his own, he (being so handsome) wanted his electric shaver and shaved himself this morning! I'm in absolute awe at Matthew and so grateful to God for such blessings in our life after such a tragic event just 6 days ago! If all goes well in the next few weeks with rehab, Matthew may be able to move to the comfort of his own home and continue his rehab and recovery there! How sweet is that!!!
Having said all these wonderful things, I can't stress enough how important it is to continue to seek your support through prayer and allowing quiet time to continue at the hospital. It is vital there be NO VISITORS to the hospital.
Even though he is out of ICU and in a private room, it doesn't mean he is ready for visitors. In fact, it is critical at this point for Matthew to progress in his rehabilitation with his Mom and Dad, and at his own pace. It is exciting news to hear all these wonderful things so early, but he is still in the midst of a slow progression of recovery.
It will be some time before visiting will be introduced. He, unlike all of us, has not had this time to understand and heal from his wounds. He is still healing internally from his injuries and it will take time, even if he is "tougher than a boiled owl!" He still has a long road ahead of him, as well as his parents.
You all have been great in respecting their wishes and helping Matthew recover. Thank you just isn't enough to express how appreciative the family is for all the support you have given. We understand your need for information and hope these updates comfort you. It is difficult at times waiting, but remember the updates will be less detailed and fewer per day in the weeks to come. We will update once per day, and hopefully in the future before 6pm each evening.
Keep Matthew in your prayers and on your church prayer lists, he still has a great deal of recovery and obstacles he must cross.
Thank you and God Bless!
His progress is slow at this point, which is expected. The updates will be once a day after tonight, unless something developes which his parents request to be posted immediately. Otherwise, please be patient and understand that Matthew's recovery process will be a long journey and a slow process.
Thank you for honoring their request to have this quiet time of no interruptions at the hospital as they care for their son, Matthew. They love your support, but with every visit they feel the need to leave Matt's side to bring comfort to their friends and family too. They care so much about each and every one of you, as you do them. They have been touched by all the kindness and support, and are deeply grateful to have such wonderful, caring and loving friends and family in their lives. Yet now, it is important for them to be able to remain with Matthew and visit with all others at a later date.
Please continue your messages on the website, it is a great comfort to them to know you are with them. Your prayers are needed now just as much as early on, please continue to pray for Matthews recovery.
God Bless!
The family has requested that there be NO VISITORS TO THE HOSPITAL, including family today.
Matt had a restless night due to having his pain medications reduced, consequently he is feeling more pain. Bobby and Heather had a long night and are understandably exhausted and need of a day with no disturbances of any kind. They want you to know how much they love you and do need your support, but their rest is vital to Matt's recovery also.
Later this afternoon, I will give a more detailed update to this point. Please know that yesterday was a wonderful day for Matthew, Bobby and Heather. Matt did great, Bob and Heather had a special anniversay. I will talk more later regarding that too.
Until then, keep Matthew in your prayers, he still has a long way to go, but again, has been doing better than expected. Thank you!
From what I understand he told a nurse last night that HE was in charge!
Today he is resting. There are no tests expected in the near future, just plenty of rest and healing.
When we have more, you will be the first to know. Your prayers are doing wonders and please don't stop now, we have a long way to go still. Like Matthew said, he is in charge and I guess we'll just leave the rest up to him!
Thank you to all who brought food (Heather's friend from work, sorry I can't remember your name, but you know who you are....Bob's right, you're a great cook!) coffee & tea (Karen & Dave, thanks for providing Bob with his special tea! Such a nice comfort- and for bringing Katrina and her blue teeth to lighten the mood! ), snacks and lots of love to the hospital during those first few long days. And, a special thank you to Bobby and Heather's combined family members for being the most loving family anyone could ever want. David and Val, you have given when you were in need yourselves. We are all amazed at how you keep going and are still able to give so much to others.
Matthews friends are more than friends, they have gone beyond the call of duty with all the messages and love. Matt needs you and we realize you need him too. As soon as it is possible, you will be visiting him in person rather than through the keyboard on your computers!
Heather's mom, Sarah, has been like the energizer bunny! She has been fierce in her dedication to her grandson, daughter and son-in-law. She has not left their side and has been a great comfort to everyone around, not just the family. Thanks Gammy!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BOBBY AND HEATHER! The hospital staff put on a special lunch for them today in honor of their 20th anniversary. How heartwarming to be at a facility that goes beyond medical care!
Bobby and Heather have remained strong and upright, even with just a few hours of sleep here and there since Saturday. They are wonderful people and loving parents. Keep them and Matthew in your prayers, until Matt says otherwise! (He's calling the shots now! It won't be long before Matthew takes charge of his own updates!)
God Bless
God is listening to all your prayers! Bobby and Heather want to thank everyone for their prayers and encouraging messages.
A special thank you and appreciation to Bangor Hydro Board of Directors and Colleagues...your support is overwhelming. The family is grateful for such a gift of time to heal together. Thank you.
Keep up the prayers! WHAT A WONDERFUL DAY!!!
P.S. tomorrow is Bobby and Heather's 20th Anniversary...they received the best gift ever today!!!!
This morning the breathing tube was removed and the meds cut back to see if Matt could breath and swallow on his own...............Matt did better than that and better than anyone expected.....He recognized his parents voices and followed there commands! He wanted to scratch his nose, his Dad asked Matt if he wanted him to do it, Matt raised his hand and Bobby asked Matt if he wanted to do it himself...Matt shook his head YES and reached up with his fingers and scratched his nose! Later, he tried to undo one of the restraints from his wrist with his free hand....he didn't just grab, he used his fingers as if to unbuckle the restraint! He then wanted to scratch his eye area, his Dad asked Matt if he wanted him to do it and Matt shook his head YES again. Bobby rubbed Matt's eye and then asked Matt if he wanted him to do it again and Matt shook his head NO. He is alert, he is there and responding!
The doctors said they would be "shocked" if he responded...guess what, bring on the shock and awe! Matthew is unbelievable and God is working through all your prayers. Needless to say, this is a very emotional time for us all. Many tears of relief that Matthew is there and able to accomplish tasks using his fine motor skills!
Your prayers are at work and please don't stop praying for Matt! Thank you so very much, we love you all and will never be able to fully express how much we appreciate the support you have given.
Again, Matt is at a critical stage right now and visitors won't be allowed in, but please keep your messages and prayers coming on this website for Matt and his family!
I guess Matt is anxious to get home to that wood pile!!!
This is another small step in his recovery. Please understand it is just that, a small step.
Tomorrow is going to be one of the most difficult days for Matthew and his parents. His pain meds will be reduce to allow for him to respond. He will be able to experience more physical sensations which, unfortunately, includes pain.
The doctors have stated firmly that he is to be isolated from stimulus, noises of all sorts, including conversations and sunlight (like that is an issue! Sun? Maine?) This means THERE WILL BE NO VISITS to even Matthew's parents at this time, unless requested by them. (Other than immediate family, and maybe not even some of them...unless they bring good food-like Billy & Val-which by the way, thank you so much!) Matthew's parents understand the need everyone feels to be close to them, but please understand they must concentrate 100% on Matthew's needs, as well as their own. They are understandably exhausted at this point and need time too. Please be patient, there will come a day when we won't be turning anyone away at the door, but for now, it is in Matthew's best interest that all visits stop.
Your messages and prayers on this website are the best visits and encouragement the family could receive. They look forward to them. It's a great boost to their spirits knowing you are there supporting them every step of the way. It is truly amazing what an impact your messages have. Thank you for all your kindness, patience, love, support and constant prayer!
And just one last thought for the day....Matthew was due to split wood with his Dad at noon on the day of his accident. His Dad understood Matthew was capable of doing just about anything to get out of having to split wood...(Never under estimate Matt's determination!).....well, Bob has been doing some thinking and has decided Matt isn't getting off the hook. Matt's getting a welcome home party.... instead of cake and all that other useless fun stuff....Matt's getting a truck load of wood and a woodsplitter! (no underlying issues there) Bob also believes that there is no better physical therapy than a day spent at the woodpile.
I would say all joking aside, but I'm not too certain this is really a joke? Anyhow, please keep your encouraging messages and prayers coming. The family not only appreciates every single one of you, but needs you to help Matthew in his recovery. God Bless!
Tonight, his cousin, Mitchell spoke to him and Matt's lips moved. We believe wholeheartedly that this response was in recognition of Mitchell's voice. Later, the nurse asked Matt to wiggle his toes and once again, he responded appropriately. And, early this morning he did respond to his Dad's voice. We take these small signs as great encouragement, although we still walk with caution. Matthew has a long road ahead of him and the journey has just begun. The road the family is walking is a great deal smoother and easier due to one reason, and one reason only.....YOU. Every person who has reached out to the family has lightened the load with their love, prayers and support. Thank you for keeping Matthew in your prayers and God Bless You All.
Thanks to all who have left messages & prayers for Matthew and his family!
Your love and support gives the family great comfort, so please do not hesitate to leave a message on this site or sign the guest book expressing your thoughts and well wishes. Matthew and his family need to know you are there and this site keeps that connection going. Thank you.
The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers, well wishes and support at this time.
It is very important for everyone to understand, especially Matt's friends, that although we understand how much you love Matt and he you, we need to keep everyone other than immediate family out of his room. Matt not only needs the quiet and rest, but it is vital that we guard against exposing him to possible infection or illness during the next few weeks. Please honor the families request at this time for no visitors. Please email or call the contact numbers should have any questions. Thank you so much!
At this time, until further notification we would kindly request friends to check here for updates regarding Matt's condition, or contact Nancy @ 537-2283 or Bill @ 537-3056 if you need to speak with a family member. We hope you will honor our request so Matthew's family will not be overwhelmed with calls at this time. We will do everything possible to keep you updated with the latest information available. The family wishes to extend many thanks to all the individuals who came to the hospital, called, and reached out during this first day. It was deeply appreciated. Again, thank you and it has been a great comfort to the family. Keep Matthew in your prayers. Thank you and God Bless!
----End of History----
| Donate | How To Help | Partnerships | Contact Us | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | |
|
Copyright © 1997 - 2004 CaringBridge, a nonprofit organization, All rights reserved. |