|
||||||||||||
Click here to go back to the main page.
Click here to view older journal history entries.
Friday, May 22, 2009 7:18 AM CDT
We have been busy since our return from Rancho Los Amigos in CA. No sooner had we got Dena set up on therapy we drove back to CA. This time for a wedding in Sonama. Dena's very good friend from high school and collage, Dana Clark. Dana also listed Dena as an honorary brides maid. Dena was very good and I am sure she knew everything that was taking place. Therapy is not as aggressive as I would like but we are getting one day with the fes bike and two days of speech and soon will start horseback riding. I went to CT for a memorial service for my 96 year old aunt and had time to visit with my cousins and some high school friends and our son Rob, Sarah and their new baby Kingston. I am now in FL taking care of business and will be back in Park City in July. Yesterday Eva left the car keys in the car and when she got out and closed the door all the doors locked with Dena inside. A call to AAA to help but Eva did some talking to Dena and Dena lifted the latch to open the door. No AAA needed when we have a pilot in the right seat. Have a great Memorial day weekend.
All our love, Dena, Eva, Bob
Tuesday, April 28, 2009 2:08 PM CDT
April 28, 2005 It has been four years since Dena's accident. I will never forget the phone call and the trip to Egypt. Dena after surgary, in a coma and my impression of her near death. Well I am happy to say that she is healthy, smilling and a delight to be around. I promise never to loose hope and to continue to seek out anything that will help her. Tomorrow we meet with a dietician to review her food intake to be sure she is getting the proper nutrients. Friday she will get an evaluation for water therapy. Then we will start a two day a week therapy of fes bike, gait training, water therapy, and PT. Then one day of horse back riding. This along with her every morning excersize with Sarah. Should keep all of us busy. Dena is doing well at eating, some meals are 6oz. Next is to find a doctor that will review her medications and continue to adjust to her present needs. Eva and I are well and Caden is a delight and helps to keep our heads on straight. Please write and let us know what you are doing. It is too easy for us to get caught up in a shell Remember Dena today with a special prayer that this coming year will see great improvements.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden
Thursday, April 9, 2009 9:47 AM CDT We are back home in Park City. What a trip, tough on all of us but worthwhile. Dena had many sessions of gait training (harness to hold her up and treadmill for walking). Speech therapy encourged Eva and me to feed Dena and she is eating 4oz of baby food three times a day. After three days of therapy at Rancho we drove to Solona Beach near San Diego for more therapy on wed. afternoon and two sessions morning and afternoon on thur.and fri. this facility "The Awakenings" is great, the FES bike will I believe improve Dena's right leg. (I have located one in the Salt Lake area.)Also their care and attention is outstanding. We were able to visit with some of our friends and many of Dena's high school and college friends. Dena is easy to travel with and seems to enjoy the drive and looking out the window, but no radio. I think it is the traffic and wind noise that bothers her.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009 9:46 AM CST We are continuing treatment and are getting more appointments for therapy. PT are trying new approaches with walkers and braces. Nothing new as to results but they are trying. Speech has us on a path to have Dena eating. She can swallow and is doing quite well at eating yougart, apple sauce, oatmeal and mashed potatoes. Not enough to take her off the feeding tube but still encourging. We have an appointment next week for a swallowing test. Everything is so new for Dena and she becomes very anxious and at times difficult to work with. We were also able to visit with three men we met in China two for stem cell therapy and a care giver. They are living in San Diego area. We made a visit to the rehab clinic they attend and were impressed. We have taken Dena there to work on a special electronic bike which stimulates her right (bad) leg with electric impulse while peddeling. She tolerated it quite well. We are going again this week. Please keep Dena in your thoughts and prayers to work hard on her road to recovery. Friday, February 13, 2009 3:44 PM CST All the therapies are going well. The staff is very committed and seem to care about Dena's progress. Physical therapy is in full swing and Dena is on the treadmill with a harness holding her up. We have had two sessions and the therapist says she is doing much better than expected. It takes three persons plus Eva and me to accomplish this. We had a wonderfull session with a neuro psychologist. He spent a lot of time with Dena and reviewed her medications. The first doctor to do this in three years. He said Dena is over medicated and this is probably what is causing her anxiety. He recommended taking her off some of the medication gradualy. He also ordered a EEG and blood work up which we did yesterday. This may also take her off seizure med. He also ordered an appointment with the orthopedic dept to look at her shoulder. Last week was busy. Overall I am pleased with the level of care but would like it more if we had more sessions per week. Thursday, February 5, 2009 7:15 PM CST Greetings from Calif. We drove from Park City with a stop in Mesquite, NV. Dena did very well and seems to enjoy the ride. We are staying at a friends apt in Manhattan Beach. He graciously gave it to us and he moved out. How do you repay this kind of friendship? Eva's aunt passed and we did not feel comfortable staying there as we have no rights to the house. Dena is sure loved by all she has ever met. We have had several sessions of therapy which were mostly information gathering. Dena did well at speech, and occupational was advising us how to help Dena with stretching her right hand and arm. We start physical therapy next week and I am looking forward to it. The therapist feels she may be able to get Dena walking better then she is doing now, but will still need assistance. It may be up to how well she tolerates the treadmill. More later as things develop. Sunday, January 18, 2009 5:43 PM CST We had a very nice Christmas and New Year. Caden received way too many presents, but santa must have liked him. Dena also received many presents and phone calls. She seems to enjoy listening to the calls. Thank you very much for keeping Dena in your thoughts. We are still on track to go to Rancho for therapy. However we are not able to stay near the hospital as the foundation that runs the "Home" accomodations will not allow out patient to stay there. Eva made an emergency trip to CA as her aunt is in a nursing home,quite unexpectantly. Her aunt is in her mid 80's and not doing well. We will be staying at her house in Torrance as it is about a 30-45 min drive to Downey. One door closes and another opens. I am excited to try something new for Dena. As I told one person I have no plan B, it is a straight line of all A plan. Dena still shows a lot of potential for improvement. I am not ready to leave the denial mode. Towards the end of the month I will post how the initial therapy went.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008 11:48 AM CST I am back in Park City and it is great to be with Dena, Eva and Caden. We are having a white Christmas and cold. We have our dates for Dena's therapy at Rancho Los Amigos in Downey, CA. We will be leaving for CA on Sat. Jan 24, 2009. Therapy is scheduled for Jan 26,27,28. At that time we will get the times and dates for future therapy. Dena will also have a neurology exam on Feb 9th. I am excited that Dena will get what I hope will be extensive therapy and a new approach for her recovery. External therapy here is shut down for the holidays. Thankfully we have Sarah who is here every day. no Sunday, to help and stimulate Dena with exercise. Saturday, December 6, 2008 6:36 AM CST It has been awhile since last update. Nothing new to report. Eva was in Florida for a few days and now I am in Florida. We both have had some time with our son Rob and it is great visiting. I have not heard from Rancho as to our dates for Dena. Dena continues a daily routine and I love to be optimistic and see little changes of improvement. Caden is a delight and very much the little man. Dena enjoys watching him and smiles and laughs at his antics. Dena continues with speech and horse back riding.. These activites will be coming on hold soon as the programs shut down for the Christmas holidays.
Sunday, November 9, 2008 11:13 AM CST This past week has been busy for all of us. Last Sat nov. 1, we left Park City and drove to Downey, Calif. We stopped in Mesquite, NV Sat night and then on to CA and Rancho Los Amigos National Rehab. Center. Monday we had an appointment for Dena's evaluation. All went well and now Dena is in the system waiting for therapy time. We requested that all the therapys, speech, occupational and physical be grouped together as we are from out of state and will be relocating for at least two months. It appears that it will be in mid to late January 2009. We left on tue morning for the return trip. The facility where we stayed is on the hospital grounds and very nice. The picture of Dena was taken in the courtyard. We also had a pleasant surprise when Margot and Brian Sullivan arrived with a cake to help us celebrate Denas birthday which was Nov. 2. Also a big thank you for the many that called to wish Dean birthday wishes. It made the Sunday drive more interesting as Dena listened to every conversation. We arrived home on wed. evening to snow and a cold house. It was a very worthwile trip and another step towards Dena's recovery.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008 7:28 PM CDT Our routine continues, although horse therapy has been on fall break. Dena is doing well and seems to be doing better at decision making. I have been in contact with Rancho Los Amigos therapy facility in Downy, Calif. since last April. We, Dena, Eva and Bob, will be driving there this Sat. We have an appointment on Monday afternoon for Dena's evaluation. This I am told is to determine the extent of the therapies she will need and weather she will be an inpatient or an outpatient. It could be another 30 days or more before therapy begins. I have been told she has been accepted in their program, we shall see. It is about 700 miles or 14 hour drive each way for about a one hour evaluation. Rancho is internationally known for their success in treating spinal and brain injuries. The Rancho scale was developed there which is the scale every doctor uses to determine the level of a brain injured person. I am excited to be able to make this trip and pray Dena can tolerate the long drive. Our plan is to be back in Park City the following Friday or sooner. Wish us luck.
Monday, October 20, 2008 8:27 PM CDT As the saying goes no news is good news. The good news is that all of us are fine and Dena continues with her therapy. We have had some off days as the U is on fall break. Speech last week and horse this week, These are usually two week breaks. Dena can be fiesty and upset, as she has a right to be, but I enjoy being with her. She laughs at my jokes and goofing around, Eva thinks i am being silly. We were mentioned in an artical in the Salt Lake Tribune today in referance to a family that is planning to go to China with ther 11 month year old blind at birth daughter. Of course I am optimistic as I am encouriging stem cell research. Friday, October 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT Fall has hit us fast and the trees are turning, a beautiful sight. I believe Dena can appreciate the view as she sits up and looks out the car window. Many times she just looks down. Caden finished his last socor game last night and the first thing he asked me is where is mommy. It was a 6pm game and getting cold and Dena does not take to cold to well. We had a long day at the PC silly market last sunday with Dena and Barbara and Mike Sullivan who were visiting from Fallbrook, CA. only for one night much too quick but very enjoyable and much appriciated. Dena continues her daily routine and has some good days and some not so good. She continues to smile and laugh and it just makes my day. Eva has promised some new pictures. Thursday, September 25, 2008 10:04 AM CDT This last week has been busy for me. I drove our son's car to Redondo Beach, CA to help him with his boat and trailer it back to UT to store. He does not get a chance to use it much any more as his work keeps him on the East coast. Our storage fees are a lot less (free). A busy three days did not leave any time to visit friends, sorry. Dena continues her daily routine and still smiles and laughs a lot. I really enjoy hanging out with her and helping her. She enjoys seeing her brother and we all will miss him when he leaves on friday. Dena continues to improve at speech and at horseback riding. Tuesday, September 9, 2008 9:57 AM CDT Every time I sign in I wish I had some new and breakthrough news. But not this time. Our daily routine has picked up a notch. Dena is back in speech therapy and yesterday she did very well, she was calm and responded well to the questions, she is about 70% on answering questions acuratly. Tuesdays she has horse therapy, and is tolerating it much better. Wendsday evening she has water therapy. This, she does not like at all even though the water is warm. I may have to get my cousin Frank the Yale swim coach out here to help. The weather is still nice and we get out with Dena on weekends to fairs and markets. Dena is expecting some former roommates and flight attendants to be in town shortly. I know she will be happy to see them. We love company, so don't be shy stop by to say hello. Saturday, August 23, 2008 11:50 AM CDT I am back in Park City and what a change from FL. It is so good to see Dena, Eva and Caden. Dena was doing three mornings a week of water therapy. She does not enjoy it but it appears to be helping her with balance and motion. The session ended but will start up again soon. Dena is doing well at horseback riding and sitting up straight. Speech therapy will start again on Sept 3rd. She continues with PT and range of motion. We take her to the market and picnics. We bought her a stroller, much like you see for twins. It is much more comfortable than a wheel chair. She continues to turn off the radio in the car. Either she does not like the sound or it has become a game. It is great seeing her make a decision. She smiles and laughes and is enjoying watching Caden play and run around. This gets her laughing a lot. We are trying to get her to eat more oraly but it is still an effort. The daily routine continues, but it is great getting outside.
Saturday, August 9, 2008 3:18 PM CDT I am a little lax on the updates. Dena continues with horseback riding and daily excersise. Eva has added water therapy on a weekly basis. Dena is tolerating this as she is never happy when we introduce her to something new. Dena continues to answer the phone when it is next to her. When the plumber called Dena answered. I talk to her every day and according to Eva she grabs the phone to "talk" to me. Although I love to her voice I can tell she is getting frustrated and must ask her to say goodnight and to hang up the phone. I am trying to leave FL this coming week but may have to extend into the following week. I am anxious to see my "girls" and the little guy. Tuesday, July 22, 2008 7:19 AM CDT Last week I told you of Dena answering the phone. Yesterday while Eva was driving to speech therapy she had a talk station on the radio, Dena did not like it so she turned it down. Eva put on Dr. Laura an Dena turned this down, so Eva puts on a soft music station and Dena turns this down. Eva says ok so now I will sing and proceeds to sing "oh what a beautiful morning..." Dena now turns the radio up and smiles at Eva. If anyone has ever heard Eva sing you would appreicate what Dena did. Speech is over until Sept. as the students are on vacation. Dena still continues with PT and horse back riding, and her morning activities with Sarah. Dena's speech therapist feels that Dena should be able to eat oraly. This is an area that I will make my mission when I get back to P.C. Saturday, July 5, 2008 5:42 PM CDT Happy Fourth of July. Eva took Dena and Caden to the park to celebrate the 4th and view the fire works. Dena did well but then got a little annoyed when the noise began. Monday, June 30, 2008 7:35 AM CDT As you can see our son Rob was in Park City to visit with Mom and Dena and Caden. Be sure to view the other pictures. Rob is/was in FL and is now on his way to New Orleans. I was able to visit with him quite a bit and enjoyed having dinner with him and hearing the stories of keeping a 135 ft yacht operating with limited crew. Caden had his 4 year old birthday and celebrated it at the pool in Kamas, UT with about 15 children. Dena was there to enjoy the activities. It is sad that she is missing the joys of participating in Caden's growing years. Dena continues to do her daily therapies and Eva never complains about taking her to the various clinics. Although Dena can help in transferring herself it is still a burden for Eva to secure Dena in the car and load the wheelchair in the rear of the car. I can not wait to get back to see my "girls" and help out, but it looks like I will be here in FL for a few more weeks. Thursday, June 12, 2008 6:23 AM CDT I am back in FL after a hetic 10 days in CT. It was great to visit with my 95 year old aunt and my cousins and high school friends. Reunion weekend at U-Conn was fun and what a change 50 years does to a campus. We toured the new 49 million dollar football complex. This has to be on par with the NFL. Dena is doing well and horse back riding seems to be improving. It may be that they are able to get outside. I talk and listen to Dena most nights and she is eager to make her sounds, which I think some of the time is frustration. Our son Rob will be in town shortly for a visit with Mom and Dena. I will miss him in Park City but hope to see him in FL. I will get more detail from Eva on Dena's activities, but we are in a daily routine and unfortunatly there are no major break throughs.
Sunday, May 25, 2008 11:32 AM CDT I am still in Florida so my update is from Eva. Dena has started back with speech therapy with a new clinician and Eva likes her. Dena is doing much better at eating as she is taking many more bites of apple sauce and yougart. Monday and Thursday it is speech therapy and additional physical therapy. Tuesday she does the horse back riding which she seems to do better each week. Eva tell me that when she and I are talking that Dena keeps looking at her as much to say I want to talk also. Dena's awarness is improving remakably. I will be going to Connecticut this coming Sat. to visit relatives and close friends from high school. Then there is also a college, U-Conn, reunion and a get together of my Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. It pains me to say this but some people I havent seen in 50 years. I know I will have fun but I feel gulity leaving my chores here in FL and not being with Dena and Eva. I will update if something exciting happens otherwise I will update after June 10th. Saturday, May 10, 2008 7:53 AM CDT Dena continues her daily routine. Speech therapy has been on semester break and will resume on May 14th. Horse back riding continues and although I am not sure how much she enjoys it, she sits straight and completes the session. The movement of the horse strains her muscles and tires her. She had wounderful company this week. Two college freinds, Erin from Dallas,TX and Melinda from Phoenix,AZ came for just two days to visit their dear friend Dena. All to short a visit but very much appriciated. I am in FL doing the many projects I have neglected over the past 4+ months I was away. I miss Eva, Caden and caring for Dena. There is so much I want to do for her, but at times it is so overwhelming I do not know where to start. I talk to her each evening and she makes sounds as if talking in response. The other night she kept me on the phone for 80 minutes. I pray that sometime she will say a word. May all you Mom's have a wounderful Mothers Day.
Monday, April 28, 2008 8:06 PM CDT April 28, 2005. The year and day we got the information that Dena was seriously injured. It has been a long three years and the difference from that first day in Egypt and now has seen a tremendous difference in Dena's recovery. Still we are saddened that her recovery has been so slow. Although awake and alert, smilling and laughing and knows every thing that is going around her. She still does not eat,feeding tube, talk or walk. But the good news she appears to have some feeling in her right leg and my optimisem is that she will kick it forward soon. She does walk with the help of an aid. I find it difficult to write this update on Dena's third anniversary. So I ask you to say a special prayer for her continued recovery. Sunday, April 13, 2008 12:46 AM CDT The weather last week improved so we did not miss speech therapy. Horse back riding starts up this tuesday. We are doing well and may be able to start walking with Dena outside. Her walking is going well and although she gets very agitated she is able to move her right leg. When walking, with an aid and with Adam her OP she is capabel of draging her leg 3 to 6 inches. A great move for a paralized right side. Dena continues to smile and laugh. What a great change in this past year. This only makes me want to find and put her through some sort of rehab "boot camp" my words for intinsive therapy. Today is the last day for skiing as the the ski resorts get ready for spring and summer. Eva is taking the day to enjoy some skiing. Monday, April 7, 2008 10:38 AM CDT Spring has sprung, or so I thought. A few days of 50f weather and melting snow. This morning it is a white out snow storm. Not much to report, Dena did very well at horse back last tuesday and is showing steady progress at speech therapy,doing some swallowing and identifying pictures with words. We went to a bbq on sat. put on by the ability center. After a rough start as Dena was very upset, but we felt it best for her to be out with people and crowds rather than go home. She calmed down and sat in with the group and started laughing and smiling at the silly things the kids were doing.She just seems to get upset with new surroundings and noise. I can't blame my party girl for being upset when she realizes she can not have a burger and a beer. I keep telling her to work hard and we will be back to having fun together. We may have to cancel speech as the canyon is chains only and there is no reason to ask for trouble. Sunday, March 30, 2008 5:37 PM CDT We are back to our weekly routine with speech therapy and horseback riding in full swing. Our new aid Sarah is working out well and I should be able to go to Florida in a few weeks. I have been gone over 4 months and although everything is well there are a few details needing attention. Chuck and Megan Detrick, from San Francisco paid us a visit and their first response was how much better Dena looked and responded. Their last visit was six months ago. Eva and I don't always see the improvements, but Dena is smiling and laughing a lot more. We are looking into going to a rehab clinic where Dena will get extensive therapy, perhaps five hours a day for five days and for as long as eight weeks. There are several I am researching and all are out of state. Dena has come a long way and we feel she needs a "push" for her to go to the next level. Sunday, March 23, 2008 1:59 PM CDT Happy Easter. We are all doing well and Dena keeps working hard. Her speech therapy has been on spring break and will start up tomorrow. Horse Back riding has been just ok, Dena is sitting up straight and physicaly doing well but emotionaly not doing so well, those working with her are pleased with her progress. We were thrilled last week when Liz and Matt Tucker, from San Francisco,spent the night with us and got to see Dena work out on the Nu-Step, which they so generously bought for her. It was a great visit. Our new aid is working out well and fitting into the routine. Dena has some new soft braces for her hand and foot. She tolerates them, especially if we keep them out of sight, otherwise velco is not her friend, she keeps trying to undo them. Dena still has a chest cough and an exam has produced again some additional medicine. Thanks to a neighbor we may have come up with a cure which seems to be working (before starting the new medicine) equal parts of honey and cinnamon taken by mouth on a teaspoon. Dena makes a face but swallows, which in itself is good news. Check out the new pictures. Sunday, March 9, 2008 3:22 PM CDT Dena has a new aid, Sarah. She is 20 years old and a recent CNA graduate and is studying to be a nurse. She and Dena are getting to know each other and it seems to be going well. Dena at times last week was very agitated, once at speech and then with horse back riding, although she had been off the horse for two weeks. The good news is that she is smiling and laughing a lot more and spontaneous. Caden makes her laugh with his running around. We bought her a new lift chair. It will give her a few positions for increased comfort and make it easier for caregivers to lift her out of the chair. We are also looking into a new bed, one with a few positions and a temper-pedic matteress. No decision yet as we are concerned about the mattress. Anyone using this type of matteress let us know what you think of it. Eva has posted some new pictures. It looks as if spring is on our doorstep, the snow is melting and it has been a balmy 40f. It is now time to get Dena on the nu-step, she thinks sunday is a day off but mean dad keeps her busy. Saturday, March 1, 2008 11:28 AM CST Another week. I only wish I had some break through news but not this week. The horses were still on vacation, we start up this tuesday. Speech is going well and Dena is very much alert and is aware of her surroundings. The other day on our way home from speech we stopped in a mall parking lot to feed her. Eva decided to shop while I fed Dena, having already released her seat belt I started to drive closer to the store. Dena immediatly reached for her seat belt. Better awarness than most of us. On this same day Dena got tired of my listening to talk radio and reached and shut the radio off. I guesss I must be tolerant no matter her political leanings. Medicare has come through, thanks to a health care worker, with two new braces, one for her hand and one for her foot to be worn during the day when she is resting. We may have an aid for morniings, we interviewed her on friday, young but a recent CNA graduate. Chris found her and has agreed to stay on a few days to train Sara.
Thursday, February 21, 2008 3:23 PM CST This sure is snow country, it snowed again last night, but this time only a small amount. Dena continues to do well at speech and they have her taking small bites of apple sauce. The horses are on vacation so the next session starts next week. We are still looking for an aid. We had a lady we tried but she was not able to handle Dena as she was small, and had difficulty lifting Dena. Eva did a great job looking into madicare and we are getting some help, 1hr three days a week. For some reason we cannot explain, Dena seem more alert, looks better, eating a little and is interacting more with Caden. Dena has a small ear infection and is on antibiotics. This may explain that she is feeling better, although she still has chest congestion. Eva has some new pictures to put on the web but the cat ate the cord. (Sounds like a homework excuse) We now have a new cord, so this is her today project, which can take a few "Eva days". Thursday, February 7, 2008 7:14 PM CST The snow keeps falling and it is getting a little old, but the ski resorts are loving it. Dena continues to do well at speech and is doing better at horse back riding. She continues to complain but is sittng up straight and completing the session. Chris our aid gave notice today and will be leaving at the end of the month. Eva and I are scrambling to come up with another aid or some other alternative. Anyone that can help by knowing an aid or student in the Park City area please call. We are also considering a live in. We are adaptable and can always go for outpatient therapy, but such a hassel especially if we have to drive to Salt Lake City. We love getting guest sign ins even a quick hi. Thursday, January 31, 2008 2:29 PM CST Another week has passed and the routine continues. Dena gets her excercise each morning, speech therapy on mon. & wed. which she is doing very well, although sad when you consider she was a commercial air line pilot and now has difficulty identifing a word with a picture. On tue she has horse back riding and I am sure it helps her balance but she does not seem to injoy it at all. Perhaps it is just too cold. Three nights a week a young lady comes to help stretch Dena's hand and walk with her. We are looking for some help on weekends but have had no response to our ad. We have had a lot of snow and cold weather, we missed last mondays speech therapy because of blizzard conditions, such is living in the mountains. Dena and I are doing fine and Eva will be back in a few days, from 80f to teens. Sunday, January 20, 2008 2:09 PM CST This past week has been very cold so we bundled up Dena including a ski shell for her legs and heavy socks and of course her down jacket for the horse back riding session. I am sure she was warmer but she still complained. The aids said she was much more responsive and were impressed. I am outside the ring so I don't see everything that is going on and also busy trying to stay warm. We went to Health South Rehab Hospital to try a new device,Bioness L 3000 to stimulate her leg to help her walk. Unfortunatly she could not tolerate it. She is not receptive to new people and surroundings so this may have been most of the problem. We will try again with a different approach. Eva is in Fl to check on our apt. and also has a chance to visit with our son Rob. She is enjoying her stay and she sure deserves to get away. Dena and I are doing fine,unfortunatly our conversations are a little one sided, but she is a good listner. So now we are watching the NE and San Diego game. Monday, January 14, 2008 6:03 PM CST Dena is doing well in speech therapy and have her eating small amounts of apple sauce. Last week at horse back riding she complained the whole time but sat up straight and completed the session. We were inside the barn, the weather outside was 17f and inside a nice 30f. I know I was uncomfortable so Dena may have also been cold. This week we will bundle her up good. We had some guests, Dave & Laura La Forest our neighbors from CA. It is always enjoyable to visit with ole friends. It has been routine but Dena stays alert and focased. We have had plenty of snow so no walking outside but move her around inside. Saturday, January 5, 2008 4:13 PM CST HAPPY NEW YEAR. Well the hectic Christmas season is over and the never ending football games begin. Next week the routine for Dena starts with speech therapy and horse back riding. We will see a new doctor a GP who is local and hopefully get rid of her congestion. Dena uses her NU-Step daily and I think her right leg is getting stronger, but it really is too early to tell.
Monday, December 24, 2007 12:56 AM CST MERRY CHRISTMAS, Dena continues to do well at speech therapy and she seems much more aware latly. Dena had surgery on thursday to replace her feeding tube. Dena did well and the new tube is easier to use. We also have a kitten which Caden named Macky. Dena has mixed emotions sometimes petting him other times pushes him away. Friday, December 14, 2007 6:09 PM CST I leave early tomorrow to be with Dena and Eva. I can not wait to be with them and give Eva some well deserved rest. I had an unexpected visit and lunch with my cousin Frank Keefe. I had not seen him in over two years. We are very close as we grew up together as kids.
Monday, December 10, 2007 3:50 PM CST Dena continues to do well in all her therapys, speech and horse back riding and of course her daily streching and walking. I can not say she always enjoys these activities but she is a good sport and trys hard. I am looking forward to getting out to see "my girls." The plan is not latter then Sat. 12/15, hopefully sooner. It will be busy with Christmas and entertaining Caden. Dena still has a cough and chest congestian, so Eva and I will be setting up an appointment with a local GP doctor. Also we plan to schedule a MRI and have it evaluated with the previous one to see if the stem cells made any change/improvement. Be sure to view the photos as Eva has become very good at posting. She will try to post new ones more often. Friday, November 30, 2007 12:20 AM CST What a beautiful recap from Glenn regarding Thanksgiving. Yes Glenn I am looking forward to coffee in the morning. Dena is very aware of her surroundings. I tell her each evening about my day and listen to her response, which can be quite lenghty. Thursday, November 22, 2007 9:02 AM CST HAPPY THANKSGIVING I am still in Florida but I am happy to say that Dena and Eva will be having dinner at the Cogan's, so they will not be alone. Dena did well at speech on tuesday and very well at horseback riding on wednesday. She had a new trainer who kept telling her how important it is to sit up straight and the benefits of doing so. Dena was listening and rode well. Eva took some pictures and will try to get them on the web site. It is a long four days for Eva as Chris left on wed. to be with her family. That leves Eva alone to care for Dena wed.night through sunday. This is when Eva could use my help. We are looking into getting additional help for evenings and weekends, but as you know good people are hard to find. Keep us posted if you know of anyone. Thursday, November 15, 2007 6:13 AM CST I am back in Florida and leaving was the hardest yet. Dena and I both cried at the airport. She definatly knows what is going on. It must be terrible being trapped in your own body. We spoke last night and she kept making sounds for at least ten minutes before hanging up. She is making every effort to talk. There was no horse back riding yesterday because of a mix up on the part of the ability center regarding time, but they are making it up next week which was scheduled as an off day. We are planning to purchase a Nu-Step recumbent exercise machine. It is expensive, but will enable Dena to exercise her legs and arms at home. She used this machine at South Davis hospital and did well on it. Latly Eva has been driving about 40 miles round trip to a health facility for Dena to use. With their schedule it has been sparadic. Check out the picture page. There are a few pictures of Dena's birthday. Eva is working on how to post pictures. You may have noticed there is no picture on the home page. This is part of the learning process.
Saturday, November 10, 2007 4:28 PM CST We went to the UofU hospital for Dena to have an upper GI but not much came of it. Dena still has a cough, Eva will try a GP doctor, maby some common sense is all that is needed. There was no horse back riding this week, dont know why, guess the horses needed to chill out. Some of Dena's friends stopped by and when three ladys start talking it is confusion to say the least. Dena loved every minute and tried to stay focused, she was better at it than me. Dena seems to have leveled off a bit but has some very good days at speech therapy. I leave for FL tonight and will be there for 3 to 4 weeks and then back here for the holidays. Dena and I had a good heart to heart talk this morning and both ended up crying. It is tough to leave both Eva and Dena and such a joy to return. Caden is such a delight and keeps Eva on her toes. He is a wonderful distraction from the daily routine.
Saturday, November 3, 2007 12:24 AM CDT What a busy week we have had. Caden had many haloween parties and lots of candy. We went to the big haloween party on main street in Park City, there was a big crowd and Dena enjoyed it very much. Every time I stopped to look around Dena would indicate to keep moving. Her birthday was exciting as there were many phone calls from friends and many presents. Thank you to all. We went to lunch and Dena and Caden were on their best behavor. It was most enjoyable. My neice and sister in law are here and we are enjoying their visit, although too short as they leave Sunday. Dena did well at horse back but got tired towards the end of the session. Dena still has a cough and the swallow test did not show much as Dena had trouble swallowing the liquid. We go back next week for an upper GI. Let's hope we can cure this cough as she is very uncomfortable. Friday, October 26, 2007 5:00 PM CDT A busy week. On Friday I left FL and flew to San Francisco, Eva left Salt Lake and met up with me. We went to the wedding of very close friends daughter. It was a great weekend meeting old friends from CA and a good time for Eva to get some time for herself. Chris, Denas aid and her husband stayed with Dena at our house. On tuesday we went to the UofU and Dena had her teeth cleaned. She did well, then on to speech therapy, then on to a Dr appointment as a follow up and some advice regarding her cough. More tests next week. Then we went to a brain injury meeting. It was almost 9pm when we got home. We all were exhausted. Dena did real well. On wed. it was horse back riding, my first chance to see her ride. She did well with the grooming and the first part of the ride but then just gave up and laid down on the horse. No particular reason, just a bad day. Thursday it was speech therapy and she is doing well recognizing pictures and the other activities. We checked out a bio-step machine at the Utah VA nursing home. The folks there were very helpful. A trip to Coscto was interesting as this was never her favorit store. Any chance she got she wheeled her chair toward the exit. We would bring her back and then off she would go again. Caden is with us on Fri and Sat and Eva and he are busy with halloween partys. This is always Dena's best time of year, she always seemed to enjoy the best, also her birthday is Nov. 2nd. Dena's cousin, Karen and my brothers wife Connie are coming to visit on Nov.1st. Karen from Georga and Connie from Florida. Sunday, October 14, 2007 1:24 PM CDT Dena is fighting a chest cough again and it makes her very uncomfortable. She is tough and continues to do well at speech. Last week with the horse back riding she did real well. She starts with grooming the horse and then rides inside in the arena. The week before when they went outside she laid down on the horse. Not this week, she rode tall and straight. I guess she just has to get used to something new. Eva continues to take Dena to a health club so she can ride the nu-step machine. It is a fair distance and not too convenient. We are looking into a nu-step or a bio-step. These are known as Semi-Recumbent trainers, for her to use at home. Monday, October 8, 2007 7:17 AM CDT Dena continues to do well at speech therapy. The therapist is trying to desensitive her mouth to encourage her to swallow more easly and feel more comfortable eating. Last Wed. at horseback riding Dena did real well for the first part while in the arena. She sat up straight and had preety good balance. Then they went outside and Dena laid down on the horse. It seems that anything different she has to get used to it. I hope the weather holds so they can go outside again. I speak to her every night and encourage her to respond by making her sounds. She actually does quite well and for a good period of time. I keep responding to let her know that I am still on the line. When she is through she hangs up. Thank you to her friends that have called and encouraged her to respond. Friday, September 28, 2007 7:48 PM CDT Another week and the routine continues. Dena continues to do well at speech. Last wed. she went horse back riding. This was her second time and will continue weekly. She seems to do ok on the horse and only time will tell of any benifits. I am still optimistic that this will help her. I talk to her every night and she responds and even continues the conversation with her sounds. I am convinced that making her make her sounds will help her to talk. Anyone wanting to talk to Dena please do so and just tell her what you are doing, just every day conversation and encourage her to respond. You can call her on Eva's phone 239-560-1555. Afternoons and evening is best as Chris works her hard in the morning. Have a great weekend. Sunday, September 23, 2007 8:19 PM CDT Dena is doing well at speech therapy, she is calm and very co-operative. She has now become a soccer mom as Caden is "playing" at soccer on saturday morning, ie running around in circles. Caden attends pre school two days a week and his favorite part of school is standing in line. Oh to be a three year old. Dena will start this Wed. on the horse back riding. I am very excited for her and looking forward to some positive results. Every night I talk to her and encourage her to respond, my thinking is it strengthens her vocal cords. Eva will bring this up at speech therapy and see what the experts say. Eva trys to get Dena to the health center (gym) and have her spend about 45 min on the nu-step machine, recumbent bicycle. It is quite a drive to Heber City so we are looking into getting one for home. Think horses. Thursday, September 13, 2007 4:24 PM CDT SHE DID IT. Yesterday Dena had her horseback riding evaluation at the National Ability Center in Park City. They had her, while in her wheel chair, groom the horse, then pick out any stones in its hoof. A get to know each other sort of thing. Then to a ramp that is horse high and helped aboard. She was a little frightened for a while but then settled down. Dena rode for about 30 minutes. A great start. Eva signed her up for a sessiion of about ten weeks. I am not there so a little fuzzy on the details. I am so excited for Dena as I have read how helpful this type of therapy is. Dena is trying so hard to talk, when I talk to her on the phone instead of just listening as before she is now making sounds and not just to answer a question bur initiating the "conversation". It seems that every day she gives us a little treat. Please keep her in your prayers and positive thoughts. Saturday, September 1, 2007 1:58 PM CDT We have been busy finding new things for Dena to do. Chris works with her 5 days a week in the mornings streatching and walking. Que-Ena comes in two nights a week and works on her hands and also walks with her. Adam comes on Sunday morning and strtches her and walks with her. Tues & Thur we go to speech therapy at the U of U. Dena has shown a great deal of improvement in her communication with yes and no hand signals and her tolarence of the speech activities. This week we are going to a health and physical therapy club to see if there is anything Dena can do to help. Next week we have an appointment at the National Ability Center for an evaluation to see if Dena can handle horse back riding. This will help her balance and the movement is similar to her actual walking. This would be great if she can handle it. Tuesday, August 21, 2007 8:44 AM CDT Another wonderful week with our darling Dena. No breakthrough news but every day she seem more alert. Chris our CNA is back after being out for a week very sick, but now much better and rested. It is good for Dena to be back getting exercise. We had some friends Bob & Loretta Morris from CA now living in AZ visit us for a week, they were RVing for a few months. It was great visiting with them and Dena did recogignise them. Dena was interacting with Caden doing a little sword fight. It was great seeing them play. We went to the "park silly market" Sunday and We all enjoyed a day out among the people. Someone always regognizes Dena and stops to say hello. Monday, August 13, 2007 9:14 AM CDT Last week we went to the throat docter thinking Dena had thrush. The good news is her problem is not thrush and not a problem at all, only what he called white tonge. She is not eating solid foods and the taste buds build up and appear white. We are now encourageing her to eat more. Adam, her PT came by on Sunday to walk with Dena and is impressed with how easy it is to walk with her. Dena continues to smile and then can be mean. She knows what she likes and dislikes. Our days are routine and the weather is very pleasant so Dena is outside alot as we go for walks, I walk she rides, good for both of us. Caden was with us for a few days and he sure knows his mommy, Dena even gave a smile and laugh at one of his antics. Sunday, August 5, 2007 10:19 PM CDT Thank you to all that sent information on deep stimulation brain surgery. This is something to keep abreast of. Hope you had a chance to read the article on Dena and our trip to China. If not go to journal entry and about three down by Matt Newell there is a link to the article.
Sunday, July 29, 2007 9:38 AM CDT Good morning, Not much news this week, Dena is about the same and is walking, with help, very well. She bends her right leg without help but can't pull it through just yet. We all enjoy getting outside and today, Sunday, we will go to the "silly market" on main street. Dena seems to enjoy it as do Eva and I. Saturday, July 21, 2007 1:23 PM CDT Dena is still showing signs of awarness and is easier to walk with according to both Chris, Adam, and Que-anna who helps some nights. Monday, July 16, 2007 9:36 AM CDT First I must thank Jen Kilroy and her dedicated helpers for putting on a very succesful fund raiser for Dena. Also a much appreciated thank you for all those who supported the fund raiser. Eva and I are always in awe at the many friends that care for Dena. These funds are put into Dena's special needs trust and only used for her needs, such as equiptment or as just happened our trip to China. The days are flying by and we have been back from China for three weeks. Last week we went with Dena to the Park City Silly Market, a street fare and small farmers market. It was fun and Dena enjoyed being out. Everyone that has stopped by says they see a great improvement in Dena. Anita, a Delta flight attendant who lived in Park City area and has since moved to WA, came by on Sunday and spent the night. She used to see Dena weekly and this is the first time in about three months and she was amazed at Dena's responsivness and accuracy with answering questions with yes and no hand signals. Well I hear Dena not liking that Chris has started her daily routine of exercise. I am glad it is Chris helping her as I am a softy to my little girl and her cries.
Saturday, July 7, 2007 2:05 PM CDT We are getting settled in , back in Park City. 4th of July was very nice as we went to the parade and hung out at the park with Dena and Caden. Dena's brother (our son) Rob was here for a few days. Dena, as well as the rest of us, enjoyed being with him. This may be just parent optimism but Dena seems much more alert. When two people are talking she will follow the conversation with her eyes. Her hand signals for yes and no are more acuret and her walking, with assistance, is good. Chris, our CNA is working very hard with Dena in the morning. It may be time to bring in, or go out for speech and occupational therapy in the afternoon. It is important to keep up the progress that has been made. However there is only so much Eva can do as she is on top of it 7/24. I am pleased with the trip to China and look for further improvement. Many freinds have come by the house to visit. I can tell Dena enjoys it as do Eva and I, keep it up. If I can ever figure out how to put pictures on this web site I have pleanty to share. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 10:36 PM CDT At home in Park City, UT. We arrived around 7pm on Sat. Christian and Caden met us and Eva was excited to see Caden and he remembered both of us. To China and back and we had one bag lost on the trip from LA to Salt Lake. Chris, our CNA was here on Monday to assist with Dena. So now her therapy continues. The gettogether in CA was great and about 50 people showed up to visit with Dena and Bob & Eva. We are most greatfull to Brian & Margot Sullivan for their hospitality. It was a blast to visit with all our friends and some we havent seen for many years. Some think that Dena is more alert and she is improving with her hand signals of yes and no. I hope this is the start of continued improvement. We had a very impressive visit with a Dr at UCLA. She spent 2 hours with us and recorded a history of Dena from before her accident, her education, carrier, etc, through her accident and the China experience. She hopes to see Dena in three to six months to record her improvements. Wednesday, June 20, 2007 7:49 PM CDT We made it to LA. It was a long flight but very comfortable. Brian and Margot Sullivan met us at the airport and we are resting at their home. Jet lag took its toll on all of us. We are excited to see all that can make it to the Sullivan's on friday. Their address is: 708 Ave D, Redondo Beach, CA home phone 310-316-7916. Bob cell phone is 561-254-6670. Give a call for directions or just to say hello. As Brian said before , it is an open house from 12 noon to whenever. They are dear friends of over 40 years. Sunday, June 17, 2007 2:04 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA 3:00PM Thursday, June 14, 2007 6:44 AM CDT STILL IN SMENYANG, CHINA Monday, June 11, 2007 0:21 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA. THINGS HAVE BEEN A LITTLE GOOFY HERE, THE INTERNET HAS BEEN DOWN FOR A FEW DAYS AND THEN ONE OF THE TWO COMPUTERS HAS BEEN REMOVED, SO GETTING ACCESS HAS BEEN DIFFICULT. DENA HAS HAD HER SIXTH STEM CELL INJECTION, AND WILL HAVE HER SEVENTH AND FINAL THIS FRIDAY. WE WILL BE LEAVING THE FOLLOWING WED THE 20TH AND WILL SPEND A FEW DAYS IN REDONDO BEACH, CA. Sunday, June 3, 2007 4:53 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA DENA NOW HAS HAD 5 STEM CELL INJECTIONS AND TWO MORE ARE SCHEDULED. SHE WORKS HARD AT THERAPY AND DOES NOT LIKE IT A BIT. WE KEEP LOOKING FOR SIGNS OF IMPROVEMENT BUT KNOW IT IS TOO SOON FOR THE STEM CELLS TO WORK. SHE DOES SEEM MORE ALERT AND SHE IS A PLEASURE TO BE WITH WHEN WE GO OUT. SOME OF OUR AMERICAN FRIENDS ARE LEAVING THIS WEEK AND WE WILL MISS THEM, BUT NEW PEOPLE WILL BE COMING IN. ALL HAVE SPINAL CORD INJURY. I AM NOT TOO CREATIVE TODAY BUT DID WANT TO SIGN IN. DENA IS SITTING WITH ME AND GIVING ME HINTS THAT IT IS TIME TO SIGN OFF. Wednesday, May 30, 2007 3:56 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA. I HAVE BEEN BEHIND IN THE UPDATES, BUT GETTING ON THE COMPUTER IS TOUGH. AS LAST REPORTED DENA HAD HER THIRD STEM CELL INJECTION. LAST MONDAY SHE HAD A FOURTH STEM CELL BY IV. SHE IS SCHEDULED FOR HER FIFTH BY LUMBAR INJECTION ON FRIDAY. SHE HANDELS THEM WELL AND IS TIRED AFTERWARD. SHE HAS BEEN VERY FIESTY AND SEEMS ANGRY, JUST ABOUT THE TIME I HAVE HAD IT WITH HER SHE PULLS A 180 AND ALL IS WELL. SHE WAS GREAT TODAY AND HER STANDING IS MUCH BETTER. HER THERAPIST THINKS SHE CAN STAND ALONE IF SHE TRYS, BUT DENA SEEMS AFRAID. THIS IS WHAT WE ARE WORKING ON. EVA, IN CHINA. A WEEK AGO SAT EVA LEAVES THE HOSPITAL AT 2PM TO GO TO WAL-MART. OF COURSE THERE IS MUCH TO SEE ON THE WAY SUCH AS THE IMPERIAL PALACE IN THE FORBIDDEN CITY AND SHOPS. ABOUT 7PM I GET CONCERNED, AT 10PM I AM VERY CONCERNED AND CALL OUR REP. SID, HE CALL THE LOCAL POLICE AND AN AMERICAN HERE AT THE HOSPITAL GOES TO WAL-MART LOOKING FOR EVA. I AM AT THE NURSES STATION WITH THE POLICE FILLING OUT A MISSING PERSONS REPORT WHEN SHE AND KEN WALK IN. EVA CAN'T IMAGINE WHAT ALL THE FUSS IS ABOUT. LIFE WITH EVA IS ANYTHING BUT DULL. Monday, May 21, 2007 4:46 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA 5:45PM NO I AM NOT UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. THAT LAST UPDATE WAS SOMETHING USING THE CHINESE COMPUTER. SUNDAY WE WENT FOR BREAKFAST AT THE INTERCONTINTAL HOTEL IN THE CENTER OF SHENYANG. IT WAS VERY NICE AND DENA WAS ALERT AND BEHAVED FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS BEFORE GETTING RESTLESS. EVERY DAY IS ROUTINE WITH THEREPY. DENA WILL GET HER THIRD STEM CELL INJECTION ON WED. TODAY SHE WAS VERY AGITATED AND DID NOT WORK VERY WELL WITH THE THEREPISTS. MAYBE SHE IS FEELING MORE IN HER RIGHT SIDE, LETS HOPE SO. THE WEATHER IS VERY NICE, WARM WITH LOW HUMIDITY. SOME DAYS ARE OVERCAST. Thursday, May 17, 2007 3:29 AM CDT SHENYANGCCHINA 4F30PM SECOND STEM CELL INJECTIONC WHICH WAS FROM HER OWN BONE MARROWC WENT WELL AND WAS DONE IN A REMODELD ROOM FOR THIS PURPOSE ON THE 8TH FLOORB WE ARE ON THE 10TH FLOORBDENA IS VERY TIRED AFTER THE INJECTIONB IT IS MUCH TOO EARLY TO SEE ANY IMPROVEMENTB WE ARE OPTIMISTIC AND KEEP LOOKING FOR MORE ALERTNESSC WHICH AT TIMES THINK IS THEREB TODAY SHE WAS A LITTLE LESS AGITATEDBUSING CHINESE COMPUTER MANY ERRORSB Tuesday, May 15, 2007 3:34 AM CDT SHENYANG, CHINA 4:35PM A SHORT NOTE TO LET YOU KNOW WE ARE DOING WELL. DENA SEEMS LESS AGITATED WITH THE THEREPY AND THE THERESPTS IS REALLY WORKING HER RIGHT ARM AND LEG. IT HURTS HER, WHICH TO ME MEANS THERE IS FEELING THERE. SHE DOES NOT LIKE ACUPUNCTURE AND WITH 10 PINS STIKING OUT OF HER HEAD AND ARMS I WOUNDER WHY? TOMORROW, WED. SHE IS TO GET HER SECOND STEM CELL INJECTION. THE PROCEDURE ROOM IS NOW AVAILABLE SO NO MAKESHIFT COMPUTER ROOM.(AS OF TODAY, THINGS CHANGE VERY FAST AROUND HERE) THE WEATHER HAS BEEN CLOUDY AND AT TIMES A LIGHT MIST. THE WEEKEND WAS GREAT, SUNNY AND WARM. WE WENT WITH DENA TO THE CENTER OF SHENYANG. MANY TALL AND MODERN BUILDINGS. ON SUNDAY WE HAD A MOTHERS DAY LUNCH AT THE HOLIDAY INN AND THEN A STARBUCKS COFFEE AND CAKE. A VERY PLEASENT DAY AS IT IS A DAY OFF FOR EVERYONE. Thursday, May 10, 2007 11:36 PM CDT GREATINGS FROM SHENYANG, CHINA. ALL IS WELL AND WE ARE IN A DAILY ROUTINE. DENA HAD HER FIRST STEM CELL INJECTION ON TUESDAY AND BONE MARROW EXTRACTED FROM HER ON THURSDAY. BOB ASSISTED IN THE PROCEDURE TO KEEP HER CALM. THE CHINESE DO THINGS A LITTLE DIFFERENTLY AND DON'T MAKE A BIG DEAL OUT OF THINGS. THE REASON I COULD NOT USE THE COMPUTER WAS THAT THIS IS THE ROOM THAT THE STEM CELL TREATMENT WAS CONDUCTED, ABOUT TWENTY PEOPLE HAD THE TREATMENT, FOUR AMERICANS AND THE REST CHINESE. ALSO THE BONE MARROW TREATMENT WAS CONDUCTED HERE. A SANITARY AREA WAS ESTABLISHED AND A DOCTOR AND FOUR ASSISTANTS. IT REMINDED ME OF THE TV SHOW MASH. EVERYONE IS VERY PLEASENT AND EFFFICENT AND SPEAK ENOUGH ENGLISH TO GET BY. WE ALSO HAVE AN ASSISTANT, SID, FROM THE BIOTECH CO TO ASSIST US. HERE IS OUR SCHEDULE; 7;30AM GET DENA UP AND FED, CLEANING LADY COMES IN , 9:30 /10:00 ELEC STEM ON DENA SHOULDER; 10:15/ 11:00 ACCUPUNCTURE, REST AND LUNCH, 2:00/2:45 PT ON SHOULDER, 3:00/3:45 STANDING IN MACHINE. I TRY TO WALK WITH HER OFTEN AND THEN ONE DAY A WEEK SHE HAS STEM CELL INJECTION. SHE IS ALSO FED AT 8AM 12NOON 4PM AND 8PM SQUEESE IN A SHOWER BETWEEN 7AM/8AM FOR DENA HOT WATER THREE TIMES A DAY 7/8AM; 3/4PM; 8:30/9:30PM. THANKFULLY THERE ARE TWO OF US SO ONE CAN GET AWAY FOR A FEW HOURS TO SHOP. WE ARE GLAD TO BE HERE AND WE BOTH THINK THAT DENA IS LOOKING BETTER AND IS MORE ALERT ALTHOUGH SHE DOES NOT LIKE ALL THE POKING AND PULLING. Thursday, May 3, 2007 5:04 PM CDT WE MADE IT. NOT MUCH TO TELL AS IT IS A CHINESE HOLIDAY. THE FACILITIES ARE POOR BUT ADEQUITE. OTHER US PATIENTS ARE PLEASED WITH MEDICAL PROCEDURE. DENA HAS SOME CONGESTION SO NOT HAPPY. THE FLIGHT WAS GOOD AND NO PROBLEMS WITH TSA OR CUSTOMS. WE WERE ESCORTED RIGHT THROUGH. IT WAS GREAT SEEING EVERYONE AT LAX. WE SHOULD HAVE SOME THEREPY TODAY. ALL MEDICAL WORKUP WILL BE NEXT WEEK ALONG WITH FIRST STEM CELL INJECTION. THE CITY IS BUSY, HOT AND DUSTY. ONE ENGLISH TV STATION THAT PLAYS THE PROGRAMS OVER AND OVER GLAD FOR DVD'S. EVA MADE TRIP TO WAL-MART. I STAYED WITH DENA. SHE SAYS IT WAS OVERWHELMING LARGE AND CONFUSING LOTS OF CHINESE. ALSO MANY CHINESE PATIENTS HERE MOST WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY. DIFFERENT WITH ALL THE CAREGIVERS IN THE ROOMS AND COOKING AND FOOD SMEELS BUT NOT BAD. ONE FAMILY FROM FL HERE SINCE FEB WIFE WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY. HE IS PLEASED WITH HER CARE AND DR GIVE REASSURANCE SHE WILL WALK. NO US DR WOULD EVEN SUGGEST THAT. I AM TOLD THAT THERE IS A 30% IMPROVEMENT AFTER ACCUPUNCTURE. I CAN'T WAIT TO GET DENA STARTED. IT WAS 5:30AM WHEN I GOT STARTED ON THIS AS IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO GET ON THE COMPUTER. THE NURSE LET ME IN THE ROOM EARLY AS IT IS ONLY OPEN CERTAIN HOURS. HOT WATER AVALIBLE FOR ONE HOUR THREE TIMES A DAY. WHAT A LUXURY. HEY, "WHEN IN CHINA." Friday, April 27, 2007 2:22 PM CDT It has been two years since the accident. We heard the news on the 28th. It is getting exciting and nervous time as we leave for Los Angeles Monday the 30th and to China at 12:30 am Tues May 1st. Saturday, April 21, 2007 12:44 AM CDT Time is getting short only 10 days to D-day. The following is the treatment Dena will be getting as provided by Beike Biotech. Our treatment is a holistic one. We not only provide patients with stem cell transplants but we also put each patient into a complete rehabilitation program. The treatment for Dena includes six stem cell injections of over 10 million stem cells each over a 35 to 40 day period with rehabilitation 6 days per week. The stem cells are transfused into the patients via the blood stream (Intravenous Transfusion)and into the Cerabral Spinal Fluid via an Epidural Cather placed in the lumbar region of the spinal column. With each Stem Cell Transplant we also give the patients a transfusion of Neural Growth Factors to encourage the stem cells to find their targets and transform into new neurons.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 10:00 PM CDT My debut on the local radio talk show is over. It was fun and I hope I got the message out about stem cell therepy and the ordeal that Dena is going through. I was also able to thank the community for their past support and how their generosity is helping to making this trip possible.
Sunday, April 15, 2007 12:47 AM CDT I arrived in Park City Sat and was met at the airport by Eva, Caden and Dena. It was great to see them and my greatest surprise was how alert Dena is. She is sitting tall and looking around. At home she followes my every movement. She is an absolute delight and seems to know that we are going on a long trip to help her. I keep reinforcing the trip and procedure so there will be no surprises and anything to upset her. The next two weeks will be busy such as getting a doctor to give us a letter as to the necessity to carry on board the plane liquid food. Monday, April 9, 2007 6:26 AM CDT Happy belated Easter. Bob is still in Florida. I had a nice surprise as our son Rob, who is working on a 134 ft boat in Miami as second in command, stopped in Sat night. We had a nice Easter together but missed being with Eva and Dena. Eva says that Dena was somewhat upset but showing her "spunk", meaning she is showing her likes and dislikes. I take this as a good sign. I will leave for Utah this week. It is getting close to leaving for China, only 22 days as we leave for Los Angeles on April 30. It seems as though that there is a ton of things to do but I know everything will fall into place as Eva has a way of getting things done. Dena is healthy and we are making every effort to keep her that way. Thursday, March 29, 2007 8:52 AM CDT Thank you Laurn for your posting. I have been somewhat of a slaker. Chris our CNA is is off for a week, she had family obligations. Eva's shoulder is healing and today, thur, she is to have her stiches removed. She cannot lift Dena so we have Dena back at South Davis Hospital in Bountiful,UT. Eva will be with her most of the days, but anyone in the area please stop by as Dena loves company. Dena will be back home April 3rd. I am still in FL getting things organized for what will amount to a two month absence. It is difficult for me to tell you of Dena's progress as I am not there. But Eva tells me she is walking better, especially outside and has good and not so good days at speech therapy. As always keep Dena in your prayers.
Friday, March 23, 2007 5:08 PM CDT Hi all, this is Lauren writing an update after being a slacker for a while. This has been a busy week here at Chez Dena. I was here on monday with our friend Dirt who has not seen Dena in a long time. Dena was a bit tired, she had worked hard in pt with chris earlier in the day walking outside in the sun. Her improvement continues, more motion in the hip and swing thru of the knee and leg. As well she is on a food change, mostly liquid protein, fiber and yogurt. More of a wild oats diet which dena would appreciate. Saturday, March 17, 2007 7:52 AM CDT Dena is being a sweetheart,only complains when she is being worked hard at physical therapy. Two weeks ago she went in for a EEG and an MRI as a follow up to her seizure. All seems well and she has not had any more seizures that we know of. We are weining her off of her liquid food and on to a powder form that according to "wild oats" is much healther for her. Friday, March 2, 2007 3:08 PM CST Dena is on a new medication, keppra, which made her very tired. Today she is coming back to being more alert, the side effect is that it takes several weeks for her body to adapt. Today we had an MRI scheduled at 8:00am but had to cancel as a snow storm came through and made the mtn pass dangerous. Life in Utah! Eva is still on the mend and doing fine. Friday, February 23, 2007 9:46 AM CST Dena is doing well after giving us a scare on Sunday. After resting on monday,she was the most alert I have seen her in some time on tuesday. She kept her head up staight and looked all around taking in all the sights. In speech therapy she answered everything correctly 100%. She is still doing well but not quite like tuesday. This morning she gave Eva the biggest smile which I saw. When this happens it makes our day, nothing can go wrong, it lifts the heart to no ends. Tuesday, February 20, 2007 9:09 AM CST Eva is on the mend and will have several pins removed this week. Keeping her from lifting is a shore in itself. Friday, February 9, 2007 3:44 PM CST Dena had a great day yesterday... Caden and Eva and Bob are holding tough, Eva's shoulder is making a remarkable comeback!! Surgery went well Tuesday and they sent her on her way in 4 hours!! Bob will be in town for at least 4-6 weeks. It was great to see everyone and to see Dena doing so great. The family encourages everyone to (please) stop by whenever possible to say hello!
Friday, February 9, 2007 3:44 PM CST My last entry was a major problem. Lets try again. Friday, February 9, 2007 3:31 PM CST As most know Eva fell tuesday a week ago and broke her left shoulder. She was operated on last tuesday and came home the same night. She is limited as to lifting Dena and will be so for about six weeks. Rob is here to help out and doing a great job. I am in Park City and Rob will be going back to CA in a few days. Dena is doing well, small improvements and works hard at getting better. No major breakthrough, wish I could tell you something great happened. Keep up your prayers and positive thoughts. Saturday, January 27, 2007 7:28 AM CST I just returned to FL from six weeks in Park City. Dena has changed quite a bit. She seems more aware and puts up with PT much better, where as in the past she would screem out when streched. She still does when really pushed or a new position. There is some feeling in her right side as she seems to favor it a bit. Walking is ok but only with the help of someone holding and helping her. Speech therapy is helping and we are pushing her to use thumbs up and down for yes and no which she is doing fairly consistantly. She is taking some soft food by mouth. All this is good news but she still cannot walk, talk and is fed by G-tube four times a day with medication. Diaper changing is an ongoing duty.
Sunday, January 14, 2007 2:23 PM CST Greetings from Utah where this morning it was -7f.This Florida guy is just loving it(?) But Dena is well and so are Eva and Bob. Dena has started speech therapy again after a long Christmas break. Last Thur. was a get aquanted session with a new student teacher which went well. Dena is showing signs of awareness and consistantly answers yes and no correctly. She can move her right leg with the aid of her O Therapist (when she wants to) I am following with great interest a 16 year old Utah girl who just left for China for umbilical stem cell treatment her web site is pray4tori.com Dena is a delight to care for as she never complains and helps however she can. Caden is interacting with Dena as he climbs up on her chair and lap for hugs and kisses. It is inspiring and sad as Dena is missing the wonderful growing up years. We are blessed with her progress and look forward to each day for her to give us a new surprise.
Saturday, December 30, 2006 4:01 PM CST HAPPY NEW YEAR from Dena Sunday, December 24, 2006 9:45 AM CST MERRY CHRISTMAS from Dena. Saturday, December 16, 2006 9:35 PM CST Hello from Utah. Yes I made it on Thur night. It snowed last night (Fri.) and cold 20F. Dena has changed for the better since I last saw her. Sitting together and me talking to her she gave me the bigist smile. This was the first smile since last Christmas. The next day after reminding her of firing me from painting her house she gave another smile. Her brother Rob surprised us with a quick trip and arrived Fri night. He went in to her bedroom to see her and she lit up with a great smile. This is great news for us as she is showing a lot of emotion even crying when frustrated. Dena is very aware and seems to know what is going on around her. She is aswering yes and no questions with the help of a board correctly. Caden is loving the Christmas season and entertaining everyone.
Sunday, December 3, 2006 7:08 AM CST Another week and the weather has become winter in Park City. The storms have prevented help from getting to Eva and Dena but they both did well. Other days are sunny and a winter wonderland and fun to get out and feel the crisp weather .. Dena enjoys getting outside. Last week she went in for am MRI and Dr. MacDonald said there was no change from the Last MRI ,good news. Dena continues to eat, and drink. She is doing well at speech therapy, answering questions correctly, with the help of a board. I talk to Dena every day and she seems to be very alert. Last week after hanging up from talking to Eva, Eva called back in about 30 seconds saying how selfish she was. After hanging up Dena started pointing to the phone as to say "what about me". I talked to her and I always try to ask a question. Her response was very loud and strong, although gutteral, no words but it is obvious she is trying hard. I try to get her to say MOM, as Eva deserves the first word. Caden is a delight and climbs up on Dena and Dena holds him tightly, he and she certainly know each other as mother and son. I have had 5 responses of offers to do research and articles on new medicines that have been used for memory loss, etc. Thanks, Love Dena, Eva & Bob bbrehm1@adelphia.net. 561-254-6670 Sunday, November 26, 2006 10:22 AM CST Happy Thanksgiving. Dena and Eva had a few guests Thanksgiving morning and it was a nice visit and company for both of them. They then went off to Chris and Dave's home ( Dena's CNA) for dinner. Dena ate some potatoes and apple sauce (apple sauce and yogurt on a daily basis). She is now drinking juice from a glass. Eva has to control her sipping as she wants to drink and eat too much and too fast. I am told Dena is making some remarkable progress by people who only see her every month or so. Sunday, November 19, 2006 10:48 AM CST I know how family and friends tune in to know the latest with Dena. Please have patience with me as I am still in FL. Eva and I talk several times a day and I talk to Dena every day. She definatly is aware of what I am saying and responds with a sigh or other sound. No words but boy is she trying. Eva and Dena will be at Chris, her CNA, home for thanksgiving as Christian and Caden will be in San Diego with his parents and brother and wife. I will be in Park City in early Dec. Dena's progress is slow but steady. She responds well to surrounding activity and on many occasions likes to get out side. Wish I could tell you of some great breakthrough but not yet. Stem Cell Therapy has been put on hold for a while to do some further research. Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Sunday, November 5, 2006 2:45 PM CST I want to thank everyone for their prayers, goodwishes and gifts given to Dena on her birthday. In typical Dena fashion she is giving us the gifts. Last week at speech therapy she consistantly answered all the questions asked of her, correctly 100%. She is using her standing machine for 30 to 45 minutes at a time. This is strengthening her body. Adam, her physical therapist, has noticed an improvment in her tone and she is walking better. Today she consistantly moved her right leg (6 inches at a time) about 20 times while walking on a hard surface, ie kitchen floor. Before this she would, maybe, move her leg once or twice during the hour session. Friday, November 3, 2006 6:53 PM CST Tuesday, October 31, 2006 6:15 AM CST Today is Dena's favorite holiday even though her berthday is in a few days on Nov. 2. Dena had her last hyberbaric therapy last week, 40 sessions. The Dr reccomended 40 is enough and to let the benifits work and to take a rest for 2 to 3 months. Eva sees that she is more alert. She is much more comfortable in her new recliner chair and will even take a nap , where as before she would figitt(sp) and not rest. She continues with speech therapy twice a week at the U of U. Chris works with her every day with different exercises and Adam comes in once a week to moniter her progress and walk with her, Chris also walks with Dena daily. Dena also now has a standing machine, looks much like a podium, helps her stand for longer periods to help strengthen her legs. Umbilical cord stem cell therapy is looking promising as there is a new state of the art hospital in Tijuana, Mexico. Monday, October 16, 2006 5:22 AM CDT It has been a while since the last update. As I mentioned there is now a daily routine. However Dena is getting daily therapy with the aid of Chris her CNA. We have Adam her physical therapist see Dena once a week and he was very pleased with her progress. Her balance is much better. It is still sad to see this once very active women in a situation where she cannot walk, talk or eat. Her nutrition comes from a feeding tube (G-tube) in her stomach. Upon Eva's suggestion she bought Dena a comfortable tilt chair where her posture is much better than lying on a couch. Christian and friend Dave delivered it yesterday. It will take a little time for Dena to get used to it. Caden is adorable and very active, and is always taking things to mommy and lying on her lap. He does brighten up our lives. Dena continues with speech therapy and hyperbaric chamber therapy and I do believe these are helping. I am still researching stem cell therapy. Keep Dena in your prayers. We love you for your continued support. Wednesday, October 4, 2006 5:21 AM CDT The activity with Dena has become routine with speech therapy twice a week at the U of U hospital and hyperbaric chamber therapy four days a week. Monday night and all day tuesday Eva spends with Caden. This is her joy and something she looks forward to. Caden is interacting with Dena and Dena is reaching out to Caden. Last week a flight attendant, who is also a nurse came to visit with Dena. She had not seen Dena for about six months and could not believe the improvement. Dena's complexion and eye movement, her attention when spoken to and allaround awarness, something we take for granted as we don't see the subtle changes on a daily basis. Yesterday Eva called , as I am in Florida, quite excited. Dena was lying down with her legs extended. She brought her RIGHT leg up to a bent position on her own, no help. Chris the CNA also saw this. I talk to Dena daily and she listen intently and when I say goodby she hands the phone to Eva without any prompting. I have to believe that the hyperbaric therapy is helping. Keep us in your prayers and hug your children and love ones. Monday, September 25, 2006 7:53 PM CDT Eva and I went to CA on Sept 9th for a wedding of a son of some very dear friends. We left Dena at South Davis Hospital in respite care for the weekend. She was in familiar sourrendings, and we felt comfortable leaving her, I only pray she felt the same way and not abanded. Eva returned on Monday and I stayed on in CA. On Tuesday our son Rob and I drove to Mission Viejo, Ca to visit with Dr. Steenblock,( www.stemcelltherapies.org) regarding Umbilical Stem Cell Therapy. This type of stem cell therepy is approved by the FDA for some bloodborne diseases such as leukemia, but not for TBI as there has not been enough papers written as to success. If deemed safe why not human trials? Later that day Rob and I traveled to Tijuana, Mexico to visit the clinic where the procedure would be performed. We missed seeing the Dr by about 5 min. I tried to make an appointment earlier (several days but no response by phone) Old building old facility but clean and I am told they never had an infection. I haven't ruled it out but doing a lot of research. I am now calling people that have put their children through this procedure which involves a catheter via her cartoid artery. ( Serious) If anyone knows anything about Umbilical cord sem cell let us know. Keep us in your prayers as we want to help Dena but sure don't want to hurt her. Tuesday, September 19, 2006 5:00 PM CDT Bonjour-Hi to all, I am here at chez Dena along with Eva and Pam. We are waiting to see Amy and her daughter who are here visiting.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006 7:27 PM CDT Hello all, Lauren and Pam here sitting with Dena,Eva and Caden. Dena is starring at me taking in all of the conversation while Caden snoozes on grandma. Dena returned yesterday from a stay in SLC while Eva went to Ca. for a much needed and deserved visit for a wedding. She and Bob even got to spend time with Rawb, if you consider one breakfast good amount of time!!
Thursday, September 7, 2006 8:21 PM CDT Things are very much routine. Chris the CNA is working out great, she provides Dena with much needed therapy on a regular basis. Dena is tolerating the HBO much better. She is also having speech therapy twice a week at the U of U hospital and is eating better ( still very little) and wants to drink from a cup. This weekend Eva and I are going to Redondo Beach, CA to attend a wedding of the older son Tim of a very dear couple Brian & Margot Sullivan. Dena will be at South Davis Hospital (Respite Care) Room 107, in Bountiful, UT from afternoon Fri until afternoon Monday 9/11/. Anyone in the Salt Lake area please visit her as she will be alone. It will take a great deal of effort for Eva to leave her, but I hope she does as Eva needs to get away every once in a while. I am in FL now but will be in Park City next week for a few days and will give a first hand report.
Thursday, September 7, 2006 8:21 PM CDT Things are very much routine. Chris the CNA is working out great, she provides Dena with much needed therapy on a regular basis. Dena is tolerating the HBO much better. She is also having speech therapy twice a week at the U of U hospital and is eating better ( still very little) and wants to drink from a cup. This weekend Eva and I are going to Redondo Beach, CA to attend a wedding of the older son Tim of a very dear couple Brian & Margot Sullivan. Dena will be at South Davis Hospital (Respite Care) Room 107, in Bountiful, UT from afternoon Fri until afternoon Monday 9/11/. Anyone in the Salt Lake area please visit her as she will be alone. It will take a great deal of effort for Eva to leave her, but I hope she does as Eva needs to get away every once in a while. I am in FL now but will be in Park City next week for a few days and will give a first hand report. Sunday, August 27, 2006 9:28 AM CDT Good Morning, The CNA is working out great and is a very nice and caring woman (Chris). Dena will be getting daily therapy such as streching etc. Dena has had 14 HBO "dives'. At about the same time as HBO started we put her back on a memory medicine, NAMENDA. Dena is much more aware and tries to do different things, like putting on her shoes and tying them also attempting to eat. So we don't know which is working, so we are thinking both are helping. She will be going to the U of U hospital for outpatient speech therapy twice a week. We are pleased with her progress and keep praying for continued and faster results. Thank you for your support. Sunday, August 20, 2006 10:23 AM CDT Good morning, We have hired a CNA, she starts on monday and will be trained by the therepists. This should help Eva mornings and keep Dena on track with therpy. Dena continues daily to have hyperbaric therpy, she now has had 9 "dives", still too early to see any positive results. Her knee seems ok but we had an MRI done last week and are seeing an orthopedic doctor on monday just to be sure everything is ok. We want to keep her trying to walk. Dena is very aware of her surroundings and attempts to eat by reaching out to pick up food but not at home only at resturants. We are taking Dena to an outdoor concert this evening with some friends from CA. Sometimes she enjoys other times not. Must be the music, last time I had to agree with her and was glad to leave. Monday, August 14, 2006 9:09 PM CDT Dena's week has been preety much routine. The therapists are on hold until we get a CNA aid, so he/she can be trained. We are interviewing but no one for sure just yet. We have started Dena with hyperbaric therepy (100% oxyigen under pressure for one hour) used on divers for the "bends" and for healing open wounds. For TBI there have not been many studies but there have been some positive results. She has had 5 treatments on her way to 40. She has been acting differently, much more fiesty, we take this as a good sign. Thank's for staying with us and being patient with my lack of updates. Saturday, August 5, 2006 9:18 AM CDT Good Morning, Computer problems kept me off line. There have been no new breakthroughs. The substitute PT was not as strong as Adam, so walking was at a minimum but she did have Dena standing quite a bit and it is an exercise that Eva and I can do with Dena. We are still looking for an aid and the insurance has only allowed us two more weeks of therepy which is to be used training the aid. Sunday, July 23, 2006 10:09 PM CDT Saturday and Sunday showed some new improvements with Dena's right leg. She is able to lift it from a couch position on command. Her walking is improved with a lot less agrivation and moves her right leg consistantly with encourgement from Adam her PT. Adam will be on vacation for a week. Lets hope the stand in PT keeps up the progress. We take Dena out quite a bit, today to the bagel shop and sat outside with Caden, she seems to enjoy being around people (always did). I can understand her frustration not being able to participate. I would love to report some wounderful breakthrough, but her small accomplishments are big for her. She works hard and we are all very proud of her. Thursday, July 20, 2006 10:36 AM CDT Good morning, I know how many of you watch this site for updates. I mentioned before that we have settled into a daily routine. When therepy is not scheduled Eva and I take Dena to the Alpine sport (therepy center) and have her work on the stationary bike, she will do 15--20minutes of actual peddling. Christian also has her walking on days that the PT is not here. The PT comes three days a week (insurance cutback). Saturday, July 15, 2006 9:30 PM CDT Dena had a good day. Previously her knees were bothering her. The PT thought it might be the skiing that was putting to much stress on her knees. We stopped skiing for a few days and some ice and she is back to normal. We are stopping the skiing for a while and concentrating on walking. Dena had a good work out today and draged her right leg many times. The PT was very pleased. Some electrical stimulation to her right leg showed terrific movement. Today sure lifited our spirits. Wednesday, July 12, 2006 7:13 AM CDT Good Morning. The days are becoming routine. Monday Dena had speech therpy, primarly trying to get the muscles in her face and tonge active. In the evening she went to the ski studio and did well having been her second time after not doing it for a while. This may be affecting her knees as she is not walking as well. Always adjustiments. Saturday, July 8, 2006 4:52 PM CDT Hello all, Lauren here for an update. I am here at Dena's watching some physical therapy. Adam is having Dena stand up and sit down, she is doing a good job. Earlier today Bob and Eva had Dena riding the bike, and yesterday she was skiing. The concensus is continued PT is the key for now. Keep up the good work Dena. Friday, July 7, 2006 8:11 PM CDT A short update from Bob. The 4th of July was a busy day, we took Dena to the park at 10:30am to watch the parade. She enjoyed the parade and many friends that stopped by to say hello, Caden was playing and keeping Christian and Eva busy. WE went to watch and hear the music until the rain came. Dena has,with her PT, moved her right leg just a few inches, but good hip movement. Today she rode the bike for a good 20 minutes and then at 6pm went skiing, which she did very well on both accounts. Tuesday, June 27, 2006 6:44 PM CDT Greetings from the Gennerman residence. This past sunday we had a second birthday party for Caden. Lots of fun was had by all, especially the cake eating. Caden's cake, ordered by Jarett was a huge success and much of the green frosting was on Caden's face. This years present theme turned out to be water-many fun toys to play with water in, we hope outside. Sunday, June 4, 2006 6:34 PM CDT Hello,
Saturday, May 20, 2006 11:55 PM CDT Hello, Sunday, May 14, 2006 6:11 PM CDT Hello Everyone, Monday, May 8, 2006 10:04 PM CDT Hello Everyone, Tuesday, April 25, 2006 9:48 PM CDT Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, April 13, 2006 9:53 AM CDT Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, April 6, 2006 7:57 PM CDT Hello Everyone,
Tuesday, March 28, 2006 9:51 PM CST Good Evening, Wednesday, March 22, 2006 7:58 AM CST Good Moring EVeryone,
Saturday, March 18, 2006 10:39 PM CST Hello Everyone, Friday, March 17, 2006 10:29 PM CST Hello Everyone,
Thursday, March 9, 2006 10:04 PM CST Saturday 9:37am
Tuesday, March 7, 2006 10:36 PM CST Hello Everyone, Friday, March 3, 2006 7:53 PM CST Hello Everyone, Tuesday, February 28, 2006 9:25 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, February 23, 2006 7:35 AM CST Hello Everyone, Saturday, February 18, 2006 0:12 AM CST Hello Everyone, Wednesday, February 15, 2006 9:38 AM CST Hello Everyone,
Tuesday, February 7, 2006 10:13 PM CST Hello Everyone, Saturday, February 4, 2006 11:42 AM CST Hello Friends and Family,
Thursday, February 2, 2006 7:23 PM CST Hello Everyone, Saturday, January 28, 2006 9:41 PM CST Hello Everyone, Tuesday, January 17, 2006 9:58 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Sunday, January 15, 2006 6:10 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Tuesday, January 3, 2006 8:54 PM CST Wednesday January 4, 11:01 MTN
Thursday, December 29, 2005 11:21 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, December 29, 2005 11:21 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Tuesday, December 27, 2005 10:13 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Saturday, December 24, 2005 6:57 PM CST Hello Friends and Family,
Thursday, December 22, 2005 10:29 AM CST Hello Friends and Family, Saturday, December 17, 2005 2:35 PM CST Hi All, Saturday, December 10, 2005 10:36 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Wednesday, December 7, 2005 10:44 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Wednesday, November 30, 2005 9:22 PM CST Hello FRiends and Family, Tuesday, November 29, 2005 9:13 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Friday, November 25, 2005 5:29 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Wednesday, November 23, 2005 9:38 AM CST Hello Friends and Family, Friday, November 18, 2005 9:35 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, November 17, 2005 11:35 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Friday, November 11, 2005 8:47 PM CST Hello FRiends and Family, Thursday, November 10, 2005 9:45 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Tuesday, November 8, 2005 7:35 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Tuesday, November 8, 2005 7:35 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Sunday, November 6, 2005 10:39 PM CST Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, November 3, 2005 7:45 PM CST Hello Friends and Family,
Click here to go back to the main page.
Click here to view older journal history entries.
Dena's donation account received a $1,000 donation but with no name attached. We thank you very much for your generosity. We would love to thank you personally so please e-mail bbrehm1@comcast.net
Eva will update the pictures soon.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena,Eva,Bob
Caden is anxiously waiting for Santa. He is definitely the bright spot in our lives, as he keeps us laughing and "on our toes" with his energy and entertains Dena as she follows his moves.
We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Thank you for your support, positive thoughts and prayers.
Love to all. Dena, Eva, Bob, Caden
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Never forgotten but not mentioned enough are the many friends that continue to support and donate to Dena's donation account. Although I get a bank statement each month most people do not identify themselfs. Unfortunatly I can not send a personal thank you. We do appreciate your thoughtfulness and a BIG THANK YOU from all of us. One person,and I don't mean to embarass anyone so I will give the initials of JG. Please send me an e-mail.
Fall is beautiful here with snow and 30degree one day and high 70 and sunny the next day.
With love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden who makes Dena laugh.
Make every day a great day.
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Eva posted some new pictures.
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
All our love, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
I am still in FL and had the opportunity this past weekend to join the family reunion which this year was held in Naples, FL. It was great visiting with my neices and nephews and their children, and all of the relatives and friends. Even after two days I still wish I had spent more time with some I do not know so well.
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Last thursday after Eva took Dena to speech therapy, Eva stoped at Costco for gas. Eva left her phone and Dena in the car . A person from the National Rehab. Center was returning Eva's call. Eva is outside gasing the car. Dena picks up the phone, opens it, puts it to her ear and listens and is answering with her own sounds. I can't tell you how excited this made me feel. Maybe Dena needs more everyday type chalenge. She certanly seems to know what is happening around her. Please keep Dena in your prayers and positive thoughts.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
All our love,
Dena, Eva, Bob
All our love, Dena, Eva, Bob
God bless, and love to all.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all. Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
All our love,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Another negative comment regarding Dena's business. We have enough negatisim in our lives without our "friend" bashing Glenn. Please read his detailed explanation of the business on 12/20/07. Dear friend call me at 561-254-6670 if you have any further comments or questions. If you live in the area, be positive and stop by for a visit Dena loves company. By the way Dena earned $118.00 in two weeks. Thank you for supporting her. I have several projects in the works, but too new to go into any detail. Of course I will keep you informed.
Love, Dena, Eva, Bob
Many have inquired regarding Dena's new business. Glen proposed this to us and after much concern to how our friends would accept this endevor, Eva and I agreed that it would be a way to earn some money and yet give back in the form of a nutritional drink. We agreed to a retail business and not to MLM. Should you belive in the product please buy through Dena, if not that is ok. After a few negative comments on the web I almost cancelled the arrangement. Then one person purchased and another stated that she researched the product and was only waiting to purchase from someone she knew.
I am disappointed that the negative postings were eliminated, and because of that inconsiderate person who eliminated the postings, I have changed the password. Eva and I hope we have not offended anyone. Please research the product, Mona Vie, it must stand on it's own merits. Glen posted a very detailed report on how Dena will benifit and that he receives no compensation for his efforts. We all have some reservations on MLM. Dena's situation is somewhat unique. Enough said. Please remember that it had been over two years since her accident and she still cannot eat, speak or walk. This is her third Christmas in this condition. Gosh how I miss her.
Dena's picture will again be front and center, and look at the new photos.
Merry Christmas and may God bless all of us.
All our love, Dena, Eva, Bob
I am pleased to announce that we received delivery of the Nu-Step excerise machine for Dena. After hearing of our intention of purchasing this machine, Liz (White)and Matt Tucker very generously bought it for Dena. Liz and Dena grew up together on Chelsea Rd. in Palos Verdes, CA. Liz said this to me " I hope everybody realizes the importance of not where it came from, but how remakable Dena strides towards mobilization have come over the past years. Dena is truly a bright and shining star in our lives."
Thank you Liz and Matt. Dena's first use on the Nu-Step was planned to be about 10 min for her to get used to it. She pedaled for 30 min. It is such a delight to have it in house.
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Eva and I cannot begin to express our thanks to everyone who has been so helpfull, financially, spirtually and just being friends through visits, phone calls and postings.
A big thank you to Jeannine Kilroy and her very supportive group and her brother for donating his house for the fund raiser "Diamonds for Dena", as they raised over $15,000.00 which is in Dena's trust account. This helps to make alternative therapy possible.
Dena's therapy has gone very well this past week. In speech she responded and answered all questions, thumbs up and down, acurtaly and she sat up straught on the horse. I am so proud of her, she has worked hard for all she ever achieved especially becoming a commercial air line pilot. Now for her biggest challange the long road to recovery.
Thank you to all who told us about 60 min and the use of Ambian. We will discuss this with her doctor. We must be carefull of adding new medication in regards to the side affects of her current medications, but it looks promising. This is the type of feedback that I appreciate.
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all and be thankfull for what you have, health and family and not to worry as to what you do not have.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Happy Halloween.
Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden
Enjoy the fall season,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love, Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden
Love, Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Next week I will be returning to FL, it has been over four months that I have been away. I will miss Eva,Dena and Caden and all the activity, but will return as soon as possible.
Love to all and have a great labor day holiday.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Have a wonderful week.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Take care, all our love.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Dena continues to surprise us every day. In the past two years we were lucky to get an occasional smile. We now get a smile every day and her version of a laugh. Just tonight something funny was said and Dena gave out the biggest smile and chuckel. When you seldom get a smile from your daughter in two years and now get several a day that is a big thing. Dena has thrush and is inhibitig her from eating, we have an appointment tomorrow with a throut doctor, but if anyone has a grandparents remedy please let us know. We are now swabing with garlic, too early to see any results. Please keep Dena in your prayers, I know it helps.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
The reporter from the Salt Lake Tribune told me the article on Dena will appear on Monday in the Local section. I can't seem to find a Local section on the internet so try health & fitness. For those of us internet impared go to google, Salt Lake Tribune. Good Luck.
Dena is still our star and a joy to be with.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
Yesterday, Friday, a reporter and photographer, from the Salt Lake Tribune came to interview Eva and me regarding Dena's accident and her life before the accident and our trip to China. She is very interested in stem cell treatment. The article will be published next week. Although about 20 pictures were taken only one will be in the paper. Lets hope she is positive in her writing. I pray for the day I can tell you of some great breakthrough. I can not even imagine what Dena must be feeling. I know at times it is very frustating for her as she cries out. As the saying goes, one day at a time.
Love to all,
Dena, Eva, Bob
We love to all of you.
Dena, Eva, Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob ok even Caden
I will be back in CA this weekend for a memorial service for a very close friend, Bob Kirby, who passed while we were in China. We had many laughs over the years (40) as our families grew up together. Then back to Utah for a few weeks before going to FL.
Enjoy each day, love, Dena, Eva, Bob
from Shenyang, China to USA, Dena Star
IT IS COUNT DOWN TIME. DENA HAD HER 7TH AND FINAL STEM CELL INJECTION ON FRIDAY. SHE ALWAYS HURTS A BIT AFTER THE TREATMENT, SO WE WENT EASY ON HER ON SAT. THERAPY. TODAY, SUNDAY WE WENT TO BREAKFAST AT THE SHERATON HOTEL. IT IS NICE TO GET AWAY FROM THE HOSPITAL FOR A FEW HOURS. MONDAY AND TUESDAY WILL BE FULL DAYS WITH THERAPY AND ACUPUNCTURE. WED. WE WILL LEAVE THE HOSPITAL AT 8AM TO GO TO THE AIRPORT FOR THE FLIGHT TO SEOUL, KOREA, THEN ON TO LA. OUR FLIGHT LEAVES AT 10:20AM WED. AND ARRIVES AT LA AT 10AM WED. WE GET TO LA 20MIN BEFORE WE LEAVE. TALK ABOUT A TIME MACHINE. WISH ME LUCK TRYING TO GET TWO WOMEN UP AND OUT ON TIME, AND DENA IS THE EASY ONE.
DENA HAS SHOWED SMALL IMPROVEMENTS AND I ATTRIBUTE THIS TO THE THERAPY AND PERHAPS ACUPUNCTURE. WE WILL STAY IN TOUCH WITH THE AMERICANS THAT WE MET HERE. A YOUNG MAN FROM GA CAME HERE WITH HIS MRI AND THE DOCTORS RECOMMEND A OPERATION TO OPEN UP A BLOCKAGE IN HIS SPINAL FLUID. THEY TOLD HIM HE WOULD SEE IMMEDIATE IMPROVEMENT, AND HE DID. THE AMERICAN DOCTORS TOLD HIM IT WAS NOTHING AND WOULD NOT OPERATE. IT SEEMS THAT US DR'S SAY LIVE WITH IT, NOTHING CAN HELP YOU, WHERE AS CHINA SAYS LETS TRY TO GET YOU BETTER. BEN, IS THE MOST POSITIVE PERSON I HAVE MET AND HE HAS BEEN LIVING WITH THIS CONDITION FOR NINE YEARS.
WE WILL BE IN LA AREA, REDONDO BEACH, FOR A FEW DAYS. WE HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A DR. AT UCLA WHO IS DOING RESEARCH ON STEM CELL AND INTERVIEWING PATIENTS BEFORE OR SOON AFTER TREATMENT AND THEN FOLLOW UP IN THREE TO SIX MONTHS AFTER TREATMENT AND DOCUMENTING THE RESULTS. WE ARE PLEASED TO BE A PART OF THIS RESEARCH.
WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU ON FRI. JUNE 22 AT THE SULLIVANS HOME. MY CELL PHONE IS 561-254-6670 AND BRIAN SULLIVAN IS 310-316-7916.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND PRAYERS, LOVE TO ALL
DENA, EVA, BOB
PS THIS MAY BE MY LAST UPDATE UNTIL WE HIT THE USA
DENA WILL HAVE HER 7TH AND FINAL STEM CELL INJECTION TOMORROW(FRI). WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO RETURNING TO USA.
THE FOLLOWING IS EVA'S THOUGHTS:
WE HAVE BEEN IN CHINA FOR OVER A MONTH AND WE ARE FINALY LEARNING HOW TO DEAL WITH DAILY ACTIVITIES AND INCONVIENCES. WE MISS EVERYONE AT HOME ESPECIALLY CADEN. I LOOK AT THE MOON EACH EVENING AND WE HOPE THAT HE AND ROBBY ARE LOOKING AT IT ALSO, ALTHOUGH THE TIME DIFFERENCE IS 8 TO 12 HOURS. WE HAVE MADE SOME PHONE CALLS TO TO THE US WITHOUT ANY PROBLEM EXCEPT WE HAVE TO DO IT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. WE ARE CAMPING IN OUR STARK SEMI CLEAN HOSPITAL ROOM WITH 3 BEDS, EXTREMLY HARD, CLOSET, REFER(SMALL) CROCK POT, MICROWAVE, WATER DISPENSER, KITCHEN UTENCILS, SOME OF WHICH WAS PURCHASED AT WAL-MART THAT IS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE AND A TAXI BACK FOR 8 YUAN TO CARRY STUFF $1.25USD. THE HOSPITAL IS BIG. BUILT IN THE 70'S AND CLEAN. THE NURSES, DOCTORS AND PT STAFF WEARE WHITE UNIFORMS OR COATS AND THE NURSES WEAR WHITE HATS. EVERYONE IS VERY FRIENDLY AND A FEW TRY TO SPEAK ENGLISH. THE ELEVATORS ARE VERY CROWEDED. IT IS NOT UNCOMMON TO FIND FAMILY MEMBERS PUSHING A PATIENT IN BED INTO THE ELEVATOR WITH 10 PEOPLE CROWEDING AROUND IT. OF COURSE THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM FOR A PERSON IN A WHEEL CHAIR, AND STOP FOR ONE MORE PASSENGER ON THE NEXT FLOOR. IN CHINA YOUR PERSONAL SPACE IS VIOLATED IN SO MANY DIFFERENT WAYS. THE HOSPITAL IS LOCATED ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF DOWNTOWN SHENYANG NEAR THE IMPERIAL PALACE, SHOPING, WALK STREET AND WAL-MART. ACCROSS THE STREET IS A LARGE PARK (A FORMER ZOO) WHICH IS VERY WELL UTILIZED BY THE LOCAL PEOPLE. EARLY IN THE MORNING THEY EXERCISE AND SNAP THEIR WHIPS. LATER IN THE DAY GROUPS GATHER AND PLAY TRADITIONAL MUSIC INSTRUMENTS AND SING. LATER THE FOOT AND OTHER HEALERS STAKE THEIR SPOTS. CHILDREN AND PARENTS ENJOY THE RENTED SWAN BOATS ON THE LAKE AS WELL AS VERY RICKETY CARNIVAL RIDES. SOME PARTS OF THE PARK ARE IN DISREPAIR BUT THE TREES AND SHRUBS ARE WELL CARED FOR.THE PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY AND CURIOUS AND LIKE TO STARE. THE TRFFIC IS VERY BAD WITH BUSES, CARS MOTOR BIKES, BIKES, PUSH CARTS ALL WANTING THE SAME SPACE. SURPRISSING THAT THERE ARE NOT MORE ACCIDENTS.
ANYONE IN THE SO. CA AREA PLEASE STOP BY AND SAY HELLO (SEE ENTRY IN GUEST AREA)
LOVE TO ALL, DENA, EVA, BOB
LIFE HERE IN THE HOSPITAL IS INTERESTING. IT IS KNOWN AS THE 463 PEOPLES LIBERATION ARMY HOSPITAL. THERE ARE THREE FLOORS 8,9,10, DEDICATED TO STEM CELL RECEIPIENTS MOSTLY CHINESE. THERE MUST BE 100. THE 10TH FLOOR HAS FOREIGHNERS PRESENTLY ALL AMERICANS, FIVE. THE 10TH FLOOR IS ALSO WHERE ALL THE THERAPY TAKES PLACE AND THE 8TH FLOOR HAS A DEDICATED STEM CELL PROCEDURE ROOM. DENA IS THE ONLY ONE WITH BRAIN INJURY THE REST ARE SPINAL CORD INJURY. DENA WAS SENT HERE BECAUSE WE ELECTED FOR HER TO HAVE ONE BONE MARROW PROCEDURE USING HERE OWN STEM CELLS. THIS HOSPITAL HAS THERE OWN LAB AND IS TOPS IN THIS FIELD. OF THE AMERICANS HERE THREE FROM FL, SPINAL CORD; ONE FROM IND, MS; AND DENA. THE TWO THAT JUST LEFT ONE FROM GA, SPINAL CORD AND ONE FROM CA, SPINAL CORD, DR BIGGS, PSYCOLOGY, FELL FROM A BALCONY WHILE VACATIONING IN INDIA AND AIR VAC BACK TO USA, SOUND FAMILIAR? THE LAST TWO AND THEIR CARE GIVERS WERE A FUN BUNCH. WE MANAGED TO HAVE A FEW BEERS AND TELL SOME STORIES. I AM TOLD IT IS RUDE TO WRITE IN CAPS, BUT THIS IS THE ONLY WAY TO GET THIS COMPUTER TO SPEAK ENGLISH OTHERWISE WE GET SOME CHINESE THROWN IN. ALSO ALL THE MISPELLED WORDS ARE THE FAULT OF THE CHINESE COMPUTER, NOT ME. (RIGHT)
DENA IS DOING WELL AND EVA SEES SOME SMALL IMPROVEMENTS, DENA DOES SEEM MUCH MORE ALERT. YESTERDAY WHEN WE WERE OUT AND SHE HAD ENOUGH WE CALLED A CAB AND SHE JUST ABOUT JUMPED IN ON HER OWN, HER LEG WAS IN BEFORE I COULD LIFT HERE. I WILL TRY TO GET ON MORE OFTEN AS EVA HAS A SOME NOTES TO TELL.
LOVE TO ALL, DENA, EVA. BOB
LOVE TO ALL, DENA, EVA, BOB
THIS PAST SUNDAY BILL AND ELLIOT BIKALES THE SISTER OF MY COUSINS WIFE, SEAN AND MARY KEEFE OF BRANFORD, CT WHO LIVE IN BIEJING CAME TO VISIT US. WE ALL WENT OUT TO A NICE BRUNCH. ELLIOT, EVA AND DENA WENT TO THE PARK ACCROSS FROM THE HOSPITAL AND BILL AND I WENT TO THE IMPERIAL PALACE. IT WAS A GREAT VISIT AND VERY ENJOYABLE DAY.
I CAN NOT THANK EVERYONE ENOUGH FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR US.
LOVE FROM, DENA EVA, BOB
LOVE, DENA, EVA, BOB
DENAC EVAC BOB
LOVE TO ALL, DENA, EVA, BOB
LOVE TO ALL, DENA, EVA, BOB
BOB, EVA AND DENA
We will be at the Los Angeles International Termanal (Bradely) Monday April 30 after 5:00pm. WE will hang out upstairs in the resturant area for as long as Dena can tolerate the situatiion. If any locals would like to visit please do.
We also plan to spend a few days at our good friends the Sullivans home in Redondo Beach, 708 Ave D when we return and would love to have you visit on Friday June 22. We will be leaving for Utah on the 23rd. For info and directions call me (Bob) on my cell phone 561-254-6670.
Dena is doing great, eating yogurt and baby food by mouth and walking, with help, much better. I am optimistic that a small improvement in China will provide major results.
I will try to keep this site updated from China.
Please keep us in your prayers and positive thoughts.
Dena, Eva, Bob
In addition Dena will have a Bone Marrow Transplant during her stay. This involves removing Dena's own bone marrow, culturing, expanding and purifying the stem cells from it and then transfusing it back into Dena.
The rehabilitation program consists of a tailored mix of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Acupuncture, Manipulation, ADL (Activities of Daily Life) education and Chinese massage. It is this holistic approach combined with the incredible power of the stem cells that gives our clients the best chance for improvements. An on site evaluation will be done upon arrival and at that time you and the rehabilitation specialists will determine what the right mix will be.
Hope this helps as to what Dena will be going through.
Love to all.
Dena had an interesting day. It started out by greeting me with a smile and a laugh. Then it went down hill from there. Lots of frustration, but some of it brought on by the exercise and elec. stimulation on her leg, which showed some good movement. Dena knows it is all for her benefit but dosen't like it. In the evening she accepted her feet and hand massage and did very well at walking. Alls well that ends well.
We received a letter from the doctor stating Dena is fit for travel and liquid food is necessary for her feeding. Korean Air says no problem, lets hope TSA feels the same way. 12 days till D-day. (Departure day)
For those in the Los Angeles area: it appears that we will have a wait of several hours on Monday April 30. I will update as plans finalise. Also we may plan a few days at the end of the trip in Redondo Beach when we return on June 20. I will update as I have not told the host yet. Stay tuned, it is getting exciting.
Love to all. Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden
Love to all, Eva,Dena,Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob and Caden
As i write this caden is beginning to build a fort, he so good at playing and entertaining himself. He is an adorable little guy, almost three years old. He is getting more inquisative every week. Tonite he will enjoy friday night sleepover with mom and Eva. Caden has been busy skiing, all decked out in his top of the line ski gear with Christian on the weekends. He will be a little shredder for sure!!!
Eva had shoulder surgery to remove the pins on wed, all went well and she is busy as a bee already. Pam was her chauffeur and companion--thanks!! The shoulder hurts but she will not quit. Rehab starts soon to strengthen it!!!
Early spring has arrived here in PC, good for Dena so she can get outside!! As for other news, Dena's hair is growing out, no more cutting allowed according to brother Robby. The Brehms will be off beginning of May to China for stem cell and rehab for Dena. I anticipate it will be exhausting, emotional and exciting for all of them.
Much love from Caden Dena Eva and Lauren
This may also help us carrying food to China as liquid is much heavier. We are still on target to arrive in China on May 2. It looks like the best route is on Korean Air Lines. Los Angeles to Seoul,Korea; Seoul, Korea to Shenyang, China. Six weeks of umblical stem cell injections and intense therapy. It will be gruling for Dena. Eva and I are both nervious and excited but we want/have to do all we can to improve Dena's well being.
Eva is on the mend and has outpatient surgery scheduled for March 21 to remove the pins and then she will start therapy. I only hope she is as co-operative as Dena. Friends in Park City constantly stop by to visit and help out. It is much appreciated,and we look forward to your visits. Caden is a joy and is in the "why" stage, so much fun. Love to all.
Eva, Bob Dena and Caden
We have made our decision and have a date of May 2nd to go to Shenyang, China for six weeks of therapy including injections of umbelical cord stem cell. Now the work of logistics to get ready. Keep up your positive thoughts and prayers.
Bob bbrehm1@adelphia.net cell 561-254-6670
Eva is on the mend, the pins were not removed, next apointment in March. Xray showed all is well and in place. She is uncomfortable and no lifting.
Love to all
On Sunday evening Dena had a sesiure and the EMT crew took her to the U of U emergency room. Eva went with them and I followed. It was a long night 6:30pm to 3:00am. Dena is fine, a lot of tests, blood work up, cat scan, and is scheduled for a MRI and an appointment with the sesiure clinic. We gave her monday as a rest day and she seems fiesty as ever, so today back to the excersize routine. When in the area stop by and say hello.
bbrehm1@adelphia.net 561-254-6670cell
Dena, Eva, Bob & of course Caden
Love to all.
Dena, Eva, Bob, Caden
My worst oh my gosh feeling happened yesterday. Eva fell and on first x-ray appears to have broken her shoulder and may require surgery. Fotunatly our son Rob is there to help out until I can return. Eva claims not to be in any pain. ( She is a tough ole bird) The plan is to double up on help and hope Chris the CNA can put in some extra hours. Anyone in the Park City area that can help out please stop by or call Eva at 239-560-1555 cell phone. Love to all.
Dena, Eva , Bob
Love to all, Dena, Eva, Bob
We had a nice Christmas and enjoyed Caden as he opened his presents. He had more fun with the big boxes than anything. We, Eva , Bob, Dena and Caden want to take this opportunity to Thank everyone for your prayers, kind thoughts and wounderful gifts given to all of us. It overwhelms Eva and I of the many friends, many of whom we have never met, that consistantly check the web site and give us words of encourgment. Dena is feeling better but has become very stingy with her smiles. Although she seems to be improving, it is at a very slow pace. As her father I want to push her improvement along. I am still looking to alternative medicine such as umbilical stem cell. I am praying that 2007 will be a breakthrough year.
May you all be blessed in the new year.
Eva, Bob and Dena.
On a positive note, we were at a support group Christmas party with Dena and as a response for something I said she gave the biggest smile and a laughing sound. It was fantastic. Dena is not feeling very well and has congestion. She is very unconfortable and it is difficult to know how to help her. Nothing serious. She is a fighter and will get over this.
It is cold here in Park City but beautiful with sunshine and snow.
We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.
With much love for your positive thoughts and prayers.
Dena, Eva, Bob, Christian and Caden
Love to all. Bob, Eva, Dena
bbrehm1@adelphia.net
I have been in contact with a woman who took her son, 27 years old, to Mexico for umbilical cord stem cell treatment two months ago. She is very pleased with the results and is planning to go back in about four months. Just a reminder, umbilical cord is NOT embryonic and was first used 18 years ago for a blood disorder. Why not for brain injury? ask the FDA, not enough testing and written papers is their answer. Human results don't count that is why we have to search other countries. Keep me informed of any articles you read, good or not so good as I need to be informed. There are many human interest stories in local newspapers. Thank's for your positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Dena, Eva and Bob bbrehm1@adelphia.net
Love, Bob,Eva, Dena
I am still in FL and when Eva calls excited I know good things are happening. I will be there for Thanksgiving and for an extended stay. Can't wait. God bless, Love Bob & Eva
Here is a little update on what is happening over at Dena’s house. I decided to go by and see if anyone was around I know that it has been a busy weekend with Dena’s favorite holiday and her birthday. Soon after I arrived Caden and Anita showed up. Caden is changing so quickly. He had on his workman overalls and was busy directing the girls in the house. He is also talking up a storm. Eve made a wonderful lunch and we all sat at the dinning room table. Dena seems to get frustrated when we are at the table. I think she gets upset that she wants to join in at eat just like all of us. I know that it is hard for her but we just have to be patient because she does process exactly what needs to happen. She puts things in her mouth but then she gets frustrated. I think that her mouth is sensitive due to all of the medications. If anyone has any information on this it would be helpful. It is called thrush. Not to sure about the spelling but we could use any information on what might make it more enjoyable and less sensitive for her to eat. Other than the eating issues Dena seems like she is making some amazing strides. I have been out of town for a few weeks and a few things that I have noticed were she has some new devices that I thought were great. One thing was a standing device. It helps her stand and it gives her body a chance to stretch and strengthen the muscles that have atrophied. I think that it must feel good for her to lengthen her lean athletic body. Eve is still working so hard on the recovery of her lovely daughter. She has so much energy thank god. I found out that Bob and Robby went to a big boat show. I can only imagine what some of the boats look like. Oh and Caden told me he was a shark for Halloween. That must have been a great costume for him. He must have been so cute with a shark fin on his head. Well keep positive and please make sure that you send you love to the family. With the cold weather approaching stop by and warm up with the new addition to the living room a great fire place. I know that Eva, Dena and Bob love friends to stop by so please continue to do this. Thanks for a great day!
Pamela
Should anyone want to contact me directly my e-mail bbrehm1@adelphia.net or cell 561-254-6670.
Love, Bob and Eva ( Eva birthday is Oct 18).
Bob & Eva
Love to all, Bob and Eva
Dena is doing well, resting on the couch, after a morning workout with her PT aid doing exercise ball work. Amy was here cheering her on. Dena continues her hyperbaric chamber work in SLC, she goes daily for a session. The purpose is to push more oxygen into her body cells.
Christian just called from SD, he and Caden are having a great time. They have been busy at the beach and visiting all the animals at the wildlife park.
Pam is now giving Dena a little foot massage, she seems to be loving it--who wouldn't!!! The expression on her face is really relaxed.
Spending time here with Eva and Dena is always fun
Feel free to stop by and say hello.
Dena has an aide who comes each morning and does PT and OT with her. They are walking to the circle at the end of the street. As long as you keep the wheelchair far away she will do it and not try to sit down. We have discovered Dena likes chicken at KFC too, a new favorite spot when out and about.
Christian and Dave just came in, to pick up Caden and show Dena the new cool tshirts for Caden. They send alohas to all. Rooka is running around too and Caden is blowing bubbles, he is as cute as ever.
Amy Fry will be here next weekend, and Bob later this week, so feel free to stop by and say hello. Eva and Dena love visitors either during therapy or to just sit and chat. Hope you all are enjoying the leaves changing, Dena is getting out to see it-- hope you are too. See you soon we hope!!!
Love to all, Bob
Love to all, Bob
Bob and Eva
Stay positive, we are.
Bob
Bob
Yesterday (Friday) Dena had a real good day, we went to one of her favorit stores, Home Depot, she enjoyed looking around. Adam worked with her in the evening and she did remarkably well moving her right leg best ever.
Last week Dena went in for an MRI and there has been no change, which is good, as we feared there may have been fluid that would have had to be drained.
Thank's for thinking of us, keep Dena in your prayers.
Eva and Bob
I am not as eloquent as Christian but just trying to fill in as he is quite busy with a new position at work.
Love from Bob and Eva
We are looking for an aid (CNA) to help out in the mornings. Eva needs some help and I will be going back to FL in AUG. If anyone in Park City knows of a CNA( certified nurses aid) please let us know.
Yesterday after a slow start, Dena had her best day walking, with consistancy pulling her right leg forward, and this from the PT not dad wishfull thinking.
Thank' for tuning in. Bob & Eva
Bob & Eva
Tuesday Dena had nuro feed back and a trip to some stores in SLC, then PT in the evening. This is when we noticed Dena seemed in pain while trying to walk. Some iceing and calming and she walked fine and even draged her right leg. We are waiting for the big event when she pulls her leg all the way forward. No skiing today, so we will see how she does on Thursday with PT.
Bob,her dad.
The fourth of july was a fun filled day for all. Christian and Caden watched the parade then stopped by my house for a BBQ. Caden enjoyed the hula hoop and many treats, including popsicles, lollipops and cookies. We even let Christian have a few cookies.
Jared was in town for a few days so the boys got to hang out together. Feel free to stop by and visit Dena, Eva, and Bob or Christian and Caden---_remember visitors are always welcome.
We have inquired into Hyperbaric therepy. LDS hospital has a TBI test case study ongoing but Dena does not qualify because she cannot paticipate fully, ie: speak or walk. We keep looking for alternate therepy while continuing with traditional therpy.
Any suggestions are always welcome.
Dean sends her love.
Dena continues to do physical therapy, both with therapists at the house and at Alpine, where she rides the bike with her parents. Getting outside for walks around the neighborhood is a benefit with the sunny weathers arrival. Rooka, the beloved dog, has a boo boo so is forced to wear a collar, or lampshade as we call it. Dena reached out to remove it today, she clearly does not think Rooka should endure this.
Caden, along with Eva, Bob and Rawb went to Disney land last week. A well deserved break for Eva. FloJo, Fritz and Christian held down the fort here in PC.
Christian is busy with work,and getting some exercise with bike outings with the boys. His trip to Mexico for a good friends wedding was a much needed time away.
Eva is currently making Dena comfortable on her lounger in the livingroom, where she can watch the action.
Hope you are all well and enjoying the summer. Please feel free to stop by and say hello any time, visitors are encouraged, and you can see how long Dena's hair has grown. Even with the kitchen shear trimming by Eva.
Take care, Lauren and Pamela
I figured I should leave a few posts up since I haven't been doing a great job of keeping you posted.
I have taken Dena to the gym the last four nights to get her on the recumbant bike. We do about 45 minutes granted it's not continous but I think she is improving on it.
It really is tough to keep a consistent schedule for Dena with therapy etc. Dena seems to be voicing uh huh as a yes and uh uh as no. She is better at the no. She seems more aware. When Dena first got home she hated it when I tried to hold her or cuddle with her but this week it seems she really enjoys it so I am trying to spend as much time as I can holding her. After we did some cuddling this morning I came back to give her a kiss and she scratched my head. Now I need for her to start giving Caden some affection.
Should be an interesting day. My mother is sick so I have to check on her. I need to get to work for a bit. I need to give Eva a break. I need to take Dena to the gym againg tonite. I have already given Dena a shower and Caden a bath and I just showered.
Well I'm off to do what I have to do.
People--look what I do in a morning what can you do today to change the world or improve yours. Sieze the moment and charge!
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Hello Friends and Family,
I left Dana's post for perspective.
Thanks Dana for posting and for being an amazing friend to so many people.
I thought about posting but you know sometimes I shouldn't post. It's tough when all you do everyday is question the decisions you make. And let me tell you I'm not batting 100
I was just at the most amazing wedding with a gathering of some of the most beautiful, caring, sharing people you can imagine. People I just met for the first time but have heard of me. Whew! That's a tough first encounter. They feel the need to say sorry and I understand that but with each feeling of sorrow they express I feel all of it weld up inside me. Emotionally drained, now the expression makes sense.
Dena and I went to the hospital today to have her leg examined. The x-rays and analysis were negative. What a tremendous relief! I imagined Dena having surgery and then…..
Dena was really great in the hospital. There are times like this where I feel she is just right there and others….
Dena is getting good therapy but with the leg scare we kind of pulled back. The doctor’s did say that Dena dose have some osteoporosis in her right leg. That’s from not putting weight on it. Hopefully she can fight through and get the leg moving. There are some good signs of movement.
Good night.
Love, Christian, Dena and Caden.
Hi Everyone..this is Dena's friend Dana...I see that you are anxious to know what is going on over here, so I will attempt to do an update and hopefully Christian won't mind..I have been here just 5 days, so that is what this update is based on...
DENA:
She seems to be doing as well as expected. She definitely knows what is going on around her and tries to convey her feelings, wants, needs, likes and dislikes by doing thumbs up for yes, a closed fist for no, her pointer finger for something specific, a shove, a groan or a yell for disapproval etc..She gets extremely frustrated at appropriate times, which they say is a good sign.
Christian and Eva have done a great job of making her room very homey and comfortable and the people who built the bathroom also did a great job. She can roll in there in her wheelchair to use the shower, sink and toilet.
She has had some type of therapy each day and they really work her hard..She was making progress walking with her walker, but seems to have hurt her knee a little bit and the last two days she has had a very tough time. She just finished with OT and PT about a half an hour ago and is sound asleep now.
We have taken her on several walks around the neighborhood and today we all had lunch together outside in the front yard, which she seemed to enjoy. She eats a few things on her own but the majority of her feeding is still done through the feeding tube. Keep the prayers, visits and phone calls coming...I think she really enjoys the attention.
CADEN:
He is an amazing, adorable little boy and such a bright spot in everyone's day. He is running around and talking up a storm. Christian's mom, FloJo, only talks to him in French so now he understands and speaks French as well as English. He calls the cat "Rouge" instead of his name Red. Eva bought him a little toy lawnmower which he is now obsessed with...all day long he says "coupe (cut in French) lawnmower". He has mowed their lawn and all the neighbors lawn everyday since I got here:)
He is very sweet to Dena. He talks about "mommy" all the time. We picked lilacs the other day and he said "these are for mommy" and then ran into the house and brought them to Dena...For whatever reason he thinks my name is "Joe" so I now answer to that too...Maybe he thinks I look like a man ?! I took a bunch of pictures of him today. I will send them to Christian and hopefully he can post some of them, so you can see how cute he is..
EVA:
Remains a pillar of strength...she downplays her tremendous roll in Dena's recovery as "It is what any mother would do"....that might be true, but I think she is incredible. She is a constant source of love and devotion to Dena and always has a cute little smile on her face... We would all be lucky to have a mom like Eva.
My mom, Judy, Eva and I had a great evening on Thursday. With the help of a little wine (ok maybe a lot) we told old stories and laughed so hard we cried until 1:30 AM...It was lot's of fun and seemed to be a much needed break for Eva.
CHRISTIAN:
Has been away at Chuck and Megan's wedding since I arrived, so I haven't seen him yet. Hopefully he has enjoyed a few days off, which I know he must have needed and certainly deserved. He will be home this evening, so I will catch up with him then.
That is about all I know...not quite as inspiring as Christian's updates, but at least it gives you all some idea of what is going on. :) Love, Dana
I have had a great weekend. Caden and I went to a bbq and had a ball tonite. Both he and Dena are asleep. He was up til 10:30pm, I think it is so great to have him out that late once in a while. He is so beautiful when it's late. He was riding a bouncy horse or "Wonder Horse" if you have one I will buy it. Caden makes me thoughtless, I am absorbed.
Friday was a strange night, Dena skied below her potential but there were quite a few people present and I don't think she liked that...too much for her, bad call on my part. Her two therapists were there OT and PT and they came back to the house and worked Dena over for an hour plus.
I had a big one way talk at Dena on the way back from skiing. And when she came home she seemed to be more there and then the therapists got her which was good.
Dena is walking with less effort from me but still with a walker and my support....but it's better. I tickle her right foot and she moves it or? It feels like her right leg is coming back from the top down. Slow but forward progression. Eva said that Dena ate a couple bowls of ice cream. Strange things are a foot....but?
You know I want to be positive but the valleys and crests are constant and I just can't jump up and then have the ground ripped from my feet. So I'm keeping my feet on the ground and pushing Dena as hard as I can.
I guess I keep looking for words to keep me rolling so I use caringbridge.
Thought:
I may be wrong.
Love,
Dena, Christian and Caden.
It seems some of you may think from my last posting that Dena is going back to the hospital. That's the last thing I want to do. I don't think that would be healthy for anyone.
Those were thoughts running through my head. That's all. I just want to share with you what is really going on around here.
Last week the new therapy group started and they are amazing. I finally got a therapist to go see Dena ski and the therapist was excited.
Dena has a busy week coming up. Neurofeedback, skiing, therapy and things we are doing at home as well. I hope this is a great week for Dena. I hope the therapists continue to see improvement as they did last week. And hopefully our insurance company will agree and continue with more therapy.
I appreciate all your thoughts, prayers and energy.
Thank you!
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
There are so many things I wish I could write.
We are still skiing 3 nights a week. Dena has her good nights and her bad nights. Our friends continue to give their time to help us get Dena there. It takes 5 people to do it. Two people to make sure Dena is safe. One person, myself, in front of Dena making sure she is upright. One person, Alan, who is amazing and owns the machine, assists Dena in making turns. And one person to run the machine.
NeuroFeedback continues as well. This week the doctor was out of town. So next week we have two sessions. We are trying something new were Dena gets a small shock similar to what you might feel putting the cellphone to your ear. This will hopefully stimulate her brain.
The therapy group that was working with Dena closed for business and they didn't tell us. So now I am onto our third company. Our insurance company has given Dena two weeks to improve or no more therapy. Basically the doctor and insurance company have written Dena off believing she will not improve.
Dena is up and down. She spends too much time in bed or wanting to be in bed. Eva is still amazing and we are all trying to give her breaks. And she is taking them. I keep wondering how long we can continue like this. I fear Eva may just wear out. I fear I may wear out.
I wonder what is best for Dena? Is it this house or is it a hospital where they can give here more? Eva and I seem to get under each others skin all to often. I wonder if it is best for us to have Dena home? I just don't know about any of this. I wonder when I need to think about what is best for Caden and me?
If I didn't have to work I wonder if I could make more of a difference? Doubts fill my mind these days. I think you can understand why I haven't updated as often as I once did.
Sometimes Dena looks so clear and there and then it goes away. I wish I could write so many things but they just can't be written. I have not given up hope in Dena and never will. I'm afraid I will give up hope in myself before I do in Dena.
Thoughts:
Until you have walked in their shoes and lived their lives you don't have the right to judge them.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Two weeks from the last update, honestly they are just hard to do. I feel when I am positive things change to a negative. I am still trying everything that comes our way and I feel myself being cautious about expectations and then reprimanding myself for not believing that anything is possible.
So PT, Voice and OT are few and far between. We are using up the insurance allotted visits but there is a second group of allotted visits available which was what we first tried. Dena was not ready the first time according the program directors hopefully she is now.
Thursday is the evaluation to see if Dena is ready.
Ski Therapy is going really well. We went three times last week and will do the same this week. We went last night and Dena continues to improve. She helps put her wrist protector on and sticks her foot into the ski boot. Dena will make turns and last night it seemed she was moving her right leg. It's pretty cool to watch and even more incredible to watch her improve from the first time.
NFB-neuro feedback happened today and Dena went from 12-18 minutes of sporadic concentration to 30 minutes of intense concentration. The Dr Hammond asked her to stop and was beside himself. Bob, Dena's Dad, was really excited. Dena is in the kitchen sitting at the table right now and the house is quiet except for the typing. We have NFB Thursday and then next week Tues, Wed,Thurs.
So last week we had Hector Lopez in town. He works for my brother and is a healer. He came Friday and left Sunday. He was a very big man but was an amazing and kind soul. He worked with Dena and he said to expect great things from Dena this week. Dena has had her best NFB and Ski sessions this week. I hope she can keep rising.
We are looking to buy an exercise bike that has both arm and leg movement. If you know of a deal email or call me please. If you have time and want to come by and hang with Dena please email or call me. If you are up to it please tell Eva to go take a break and come back in a few hours. She will listen.
Thanks for all your support and I hope I can write sooner. Sometimes I just need to see something positive from Dena and tonite I have.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
It seems the entries are getting further apart. You can only imagine how busy it is around here. The doubts we have about the caregiving we are providing to Dena. Sleep is hit and miss sometimes but I am moving forward.
Dena started Nuerofeedback yesterday. She focused on keeping a yellow bar down below a line for almost 20 minutes. If she kept it below the line a bell would ring. She did pretty good and I am confident that this is something she can do. Will it help? I don't know but I wouldn't feel right if I didn't give it a chance.
We have had three ski sessions and let's just say the third time Dena was into it. She was moving her hips and looking at her skis while turning. Alan, her coach, was amazed at the progress. Our friends that have helped are helping her less because Dena is doing more. We have another session on Friday and I can't wait.
How am I doing? Good question, but it's really not about me right now. It's about Dena and Caden and giving them love, happiness and stability. I know Caden is doing great. Dena, well, it's hard to tell sometimes.
Thought:
Stress: I don't believe in stress and even in this situation stress does not get to me.
If you dwell on something that leads to stress if you do something that eliminates the need to dwell and any stress associated with that something. Do don't dwell.
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
We just got back from taking Dena skiing again.
Here is the correct website: http://www.studioskiing.com/
It was night and day from last time. She wasn't as scared at all. She was ready to put her left leg into the ski boot. She didn't hold on nearly as tight.
Bob, her Dad, is her to give you an update.
Here from FL, first time seeing Dena in her home for an extended time since the accident. She is very comfortable and settleing into a routine. Eva is awsome and I don't know how she does it every day, but then she is the Mom. Therepy could be more often and more intense. I saw the ski machine tonight,this being the second time Dena has done this and Allen, the man that runs the studio, saw a great improvement and is anxious to continue the excersize. Dena's new bedroom and bath is absoulutly great. The bath is very professional and was built in eight days. (Fl contractors take note. It is taking over a year to get our roof completed.) Dena is eating better and sat with us last night with her cousin Karen and her husband Steve who came from Georgia for a visit, she did not want to be left out of the social atmosphire and eat apple sauce for almost two hours. Mind you small bites and lots of pausing between bites. Christian continues to find new ways to stimulate Dena, I guess he needs Dena to chalange him skiing. He really is dedicated to her recovery and will look into anything that he thinks will help. Thats it long winded Bob. This may be a quite weekend. Wewill see.
By from Bob, Eva,Christian, Dena, Caden
I see it's been awhile since I have written. I honestly think about writing and then I do something else. It's tough to get on her and write. And it's hard to try and stay positive.
Today was pretty cool. I got to work by 9am and had already bathed Caden and showered myself. Gotten Dena up made breakfast and a few other things. I worked til 12:30 because that's when the new admittance nurse came over. Dena was, umm, well, Dena was, I guess not up to working with them. I was not there during those sessions. Perhaps I should have been. So anyways the new group of therapists I like and Dena likes them as well. They are young and cool people.
Dena had OT and we did a few things and she surprised me. She is pretty strong and get from bed to the wheelchair with just some assistance. We are developing a plan with a group of excercises that others can do with Dena. Same thing with PT and during Dena's PT session she road this bike thing that Eva bought her awhile ago. Dena was into hard core, it was pretty intense. We walked a bit. Then Dena went to sleep, a little nap.
Finally I took Dena skiing with Bart, Eric, and Alan at the www.skistudio.com. Synapsis: carpet skiing. We Sorry Bart, Eric and I were planning the next ski outing for Dena.
Nueromapping: Basically looking at the damaged brain matter and training it. We are going to start that soon as well. I'm trying to get the doctor to prescribe it so insurance may cover it. Gotta try.
Well that's a quick update.
Good Night and thanks for the support.
Love,
Our Family.
The last few nights have been tough. Caden and/or Dena have been up in the middle of the night. I don't know how many hours of sleep I am getting but I don't think it is enough.
Therapies are in full swing. I visited something called the Ski Studio last night. Basically it is an indoor training facility for skiing. It has a moving carpet where you stand with skis. The owner told me a story about how they are helping a woman with a spinal cord injury that was told she would never walk again. She know is able to lift both of her legs. I am planning on getting Dena in there in the next two weeks. Eric and Max have both committed to helping and Dena has given me the thumbs up. The goal is to tap into Dena's muscles and their memory. Hopefully it will give her some leg strength and some movement in her right leg.
Monday Dena and I head to the U of U for Neuromapping appointment. The goal is to teach Dena to normalize her brainwaves by seeing on a screen what is going on her head.
Chuck has just begun some preliminary research into a TBI program in Denver. More to come later.
Dena seems to be communicating better at home and more at ease. Her eating is still hit and miss. I have been trying to get some hours in at work to cover some bills so I have not been to any of the in home therapy sessions.
After this week all the evaluations will be done and we should have some short and long term goals in therapy.
Make it a great day,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
PS: I have been writing all three of our names for some time and now it feels like I am really signing all of our names because we are together.
Whew! I can't believe we are here. I can't believe we are all at home. I can't believe I am sleeping with Dena tonite. I can't believe Dena gets to see her son everyday. I can't believe all the support that continues to come our way.
Chuck, Eva and I picked Dena up this morning. The hospital needs to figure out how to better empower people when they discharge someone. They have no clue and instill absolutely no confidence.
Max and Chuck helped us get through the day. They got us organized.
Max, Chuck, Sun, Pam, Elzabeth and myself put our new bedroom and bath together last night. It was a late one. Then Caden couldn't sleep so he slept with me and then I couldn't sleep. I don't think Dena slept in anticipation of coming home.
It was a rough ride up here Dena was ticked at the seatbelt it was a bit tight. I hate those things when they get tight too. She always hated elastic and called it yackets, I'm glad some things never change.
Eva said at lunch today that it was the best Dena had ever eaten and I must agree. She seemed quicker with her communication and just seemed more beatiful then ever. I really feel like something is happening here.
My schedule continues to be crazy. I have some new leads on additional therapies for Dena as well. I will keep you posted as it is time for me to go relax.
Thought:
Trust your heart, trust your instincts and believe in yourself.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
All my friends have rallied and we have Dena's room ready for her. It looks brights and feels like home.
Dena will be coming home tomorrow. It's another milestone in Dena's recovery. I am excited and nervous.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Hey Everyone,
Sorry no update last night. We got back late from working with Dena. Eva got a session late last night and we were all tired so we went to bed. Shar is working with Dena this morning and this evening. She is excited about the progress so please keep the prayers coming.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Hello Friends and Family,
I feel like I am in an avalanche and everything is surreal. And just so you know I have been in an avalanche before.
Yesterday Dena was in a tough mood. But Eva said that Dena was doing better today. I picked up Shar at the airport and her flight was 1.5 hours late, you can imagine the thoughts going through my head.
We went from the airport straight to Dena. Dena was willing to do the therapy with Char and it was amazing to watch happen. I really can't explain it but here is Shar's website: http://www.tibetancranial.org/
The stories she tells me of the things she has done make you believe anything is possible. And we are looking for a miracle over the next 5 days. She will be doing an update for you tomorrow.
The bathroom status: The walls are up. The first layer of the floor is done. Others have volunteered to build a ramp for Dena on saturday. I wish you could see the wonderful people doing what they are doing. I feel so honored and lucky to be living along side so many incredible people right now.
Shar, Eva and I will be doing a session with Dena again tomorrow. Right now Shar is going to work on me. She says that I need a boost and I must agree.
Thought:
If we all just keep to ourselves and don't get involved just think of the things we will miss. The oppurtunities that abound everyday in our lives are only a eye, ear, nose shot away. Pay attention and you will become enlightened.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Dena is coming home March 18th. Shar is here on March 9th and leaves March 14th. Dena will have sessions each day as will others that I have been able to network.
The bathroom is under construction. John, Eric, Bart, Jeff, Sun and myself gutted the walls to studs on Sunday. Monday we got framing materials, met with the plumber, Chris and Dave the electrician and another Jeff the tile guy. I have the mud and tape guy lined up when we are ready. All of these guys are friends and are making it work. These guys are giving so much and are going to make it happen.
Bart and Gary are working on a ramp to the house as well. We may have that done in time as well. That would be awesome.
I have the therapy ready to go for Dena at home on March 20th. I will know tomorrow what type of in home assitance the insurance will provide.
Dena was a bit tired today. I think she is having some sleeping problems. It's time for her to come home she has worked so hard to get here.
In physical therapy Dena was standing up on her own. She wasn't straight up but nonetheless Dena was giving it her best shot. I think she was trying to impress the doctor.
Caden got his first pair of skis today. He made me take him out on them right away and he was glowing with life. His cheecks so red, his eyes so blue and his smile go big I got completely lost in him. He is such an old soul and takes incredible care of me.
Love,
Dena, Christian and Caden.
So I had a great morning with Dena and just got off the phone with Eva. Dena is eating quite a bit on her own this evening and when I left her today she was eating. Great stuff..her reaction is much quicker once she gets the food into her mouth than before.
She was reacting nicely in speech therapy as well. During OT she was very limber and working hard. They are doing all sorts of crazy stretches with her. She is able to bend down while in a chair and reach the floor and untie her shoe. She remembers how to tie a shoe but she still needs her right hand but she is trying.
Please remember I have been living this so I might be a bit more positive about things as I have seen them come from nothing. So you might see Dena and think that I have overstated things.
Other stuff:
I am meeting with a friend who is an incredible builder to talk bathrooms tomorrow at 9am. I have asked the hospital and insurance companies to consider having Dena stay longer at the hospital. The only reason I want that is to have more time to outfit the house and ensure that when she comes home that everything is ready. I don't want her to miss any therapy time. And I don't feel I can do all this in the next week or two.
I just feel good today and positive. I see Dena improving and I know that anything is possible.
Shar will be here on the 9th and I am excited to see what she can do for both Dena and others.
Thought:
You know sometimes you just have to stand up straight and take what life throws at you. Don't get slumped over because no matter what it can always be worse, really it can get worse.
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
I know there are many of you out there that check this site everyday and I apologize to you for not being more consistent on my updates. I know I have apologized before and I am sorry that I am unable to keep updates going everyday.
I was with Dena today and when I walked into speech therapy she noticed me immediately and reached out for me. I can't tell you how that felt. It both made my day and broke my heart at the same time. I don't know if you can understand that or not but this seems to be where everything is right now.
Dena is reacting much quicker then ever. She is improving in all areas. She is able to get around quicker in her wheel chair, since last Wednesday it amazes me how much she has improved. They are trying new drugs to stimulate her response time.
We had our team meeting today and it seems that Dena sometime after March 8th will be coming home. I am so nervous and scared by this. I don't know how I will handle all of this. Yes it seems quick and no she is not going to be able to do much on her own. But there is assistance that will be available in all areas and we will be using them. As we get closer I will keep you posted. I am so stressed out by this and the fact that I will have to build a bathroom in a short amount of time to accomdate Dena's needs.
The doctors say that her oral improvement from both eating, managing secretions and control is huge. They all feel that she continues to improve. They say that in 6-12 months we should have a better idea of where this is going.
They really have a great team at the U of U and they have been through this much more than we have.
Tomorrow I am going on the local radio to enlighten people about medical insurance of what they can expect and not expect. I will also be sharing what is going on with Dena, this will be at 4:30pm on KPCW. I have just booked the tickets for Char, the tibetan cranial specialist, to come here from March 9-14th. I don't if it will help Dena but I couldn't live with myself if I didn't try everything for her. I know she would do this for me.
I just got a phone call from a mother that their 14 year old son just suffered a TBI. They are at South Davis and came in to the facility right after we left. I will be calling her as well and having Char work on their son. I hope she make a difference for them because I would never wish what we are dealing with on anyone.
If you can learn anything from the above writing is this:
It is not about me, it is not about what I want, it is about what I can do for others. This is what defines us what we do for others and what we don't do for others. Are you reaching out and helping anyone that asks or doesn't ask? Don't you want to be a leader? Don't you want to set the example instead of following it?
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
It seems that the smallest thing can throw my schedule off. And it happened a few times over the last 7 days.
I was with Dena yesterday she is getting stronger. She is getting better at moving herself around in her wheel chair, she is slow but determined. She has some movement in her right leg whether it comes from her hip or quads we don't know but she is getting her right leg to move.
She is improving on using her thumb to communicate yes and no and uses her pointing finger for numerous tasks.
Yesterday Dena and I were looking at the keychain that I saved a ton of images on of all of us. She really looked focused and relaxed. Dena is looking more and more like Dena everyday.
We still have a long road ahead of us. Please keep the support and prayers coming.
This morning I am heading out with friends to go winter camping and skiing. A much needed break from everything. I will be with Dena again on Tuesday and will do my best to give an update. I will be having a team meeting on that day as well.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.,
Since we have been at the U of U the physical therapists and us have been working hard to get Dena's right leg going. Over the past Dena has made it move but today was a great phone call from Eva.
The scene is such: Dena lays on her left side, which is her mobil side. A table is slid between Dena's leg so her right leg, which is her impaired leg, lays on this table. Then a mini skateboard of sorts is strapped to her inner calf this creates minimal amounts of friction for Dena to move her leg. Eva told me that Dena was moving her leg over the table while on this skateboard. Now we need to work that leg to gain strength and memory. When I see Dena this weekend I hope to see her in action with this.
I am ask Dena to move herself around on her wheel chair. She moves slow and needs to be shown how to move but she is learning it. Ask her to get herself around in the chair if you visit. Make Dena do everything with minimal amounts of assistance.
Basically during normal business hours if Dena is not in a physical therapy or occupational we can be down there. We can be asking her to answer questions with a thumbs up or down. We can use any of the equipment if it is not occupied. So if you have time let me know and I will start a schedule.
It's a positive place to be. People are really working hard down there to recover and to help recover.
Thougth:
I think I spelled it wrong. Never claimed to be perfect.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I swear my short term memory is gone. I keep telling myself to do an update then I get home start running around and forget. And then I remember when I am in bed. Then I forget to do it in the morning. Well, today I was out the door and came back in to write to you. Sorry about the past week and not updating you.
Dena is working hard at the U of U. She runs an intense schedule. Yesterday morning we did all three therapies. They are working her so hard on getting her right leg to move and it just hasn't happened yet. Dena is learning to move around on her wheel chair. I am concerned about her lack of vision in her right eye.
She is learning to dress herself and getting more flexibility in her body.
Speech is a strange area right now. She is on some new drugs to help with memory and speech but I'm not sure if it is doing anything.
Yesterday at noon after a round of therapy Dena wanted to eat apple sauce. She ate over 10 spoonfuls her best effort yet. Granted she ate because she didn't have breakfast. But the good thing was hunger motivated her to eat.
I'm off to be with Dena right now.
I will try to do better.
Please come and visit and support Dena right now!
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
It seems I just can't get all the crazy busy stuff out of the way. Just when I feel like I am ahead something else comes up.
I was with Dena this morning. She seems to be changing on a daily basis. I am very happy with the new place as the people there are focused on her getting better not just her care.
Dena is using her thumb to respond yes and no. Up for yes down for no, I couldn't believe it when she was doing it. She is learning to point to her body parts as well. Today getting her out of bed she did most of it on her own. She grabbed the side rail, pulled herself up then sat up, then grabbed the side of the bed and got her feet onto the ground with minimal help. They are pushing her so hard and I love it as does she. She just looks different. And she is building on each day.
I hope to be with her tomorrow but I need to help a friend who needs some serious help. I asked Dena if it was ok to help this person and she gave me a thumbs up.
Thought:
It's your attitude that stops you from being successful. Change your attitude and life's challenges will seem insignificant.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena yesterday. We met the physical therapist and met with the social worker as well. I am excited about the new place and nervous as well.
We have a tough couple a weeks ahead of us. We need to make sure they understand Dena's needs to make her comfortable. Already they have made mistakes so it is a learning process.
I know they will make a difference in Dena's rehab. My goal right now is to give Dena all the positive energy I can and to give her every chance to get back as much as she can of what she has lost.
It's much easier to be optimistic as it makes Caden and my days much happier.
We still have a long way to go and we don't know what the road looks like. Please keep the positive energy coming our way and please feel free to visit Dena at any time.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Dena was finally moved into the new hospital. I will be with her tomorrow morning. My father and Eva managed the move today.
She will have therapy from 9am to 5pm. I will give you more info after tomorrow as to visiting hours etc. But the info I have read states that all visitors are welcome and they are encouraged to help. I have been working with our friend Patti and Dena will have a state of the art communication board very soon. It will have plenty of things to say and stories that she can read Caden. It will also have tons of pictures of all of us.
I also put together a digital picture keychain that I bought with 56 images. I will be bringing that to Dena tomorrow.
I will post the new address on the site tomorrow.
Love,
Christian, DEna and Caden.
Been a bit busy lately. I have been to Las Vegas for a tradeshow from Sun-Thurs. Things went great. We have an incredible crew at work. Today I started a tradeshow in SLC. And that goes until Thurs. Yeah, a bit hectic this time of year.
Dena is moving to the UofU on Tues. I will be taking that day off to help her with the transition. Dena graduated from Physical Therapy and they gave her a diploma, a t-shirt to both her and her mother. I haven't been to see Dena in too long.
I kind of want Dena to meet Dr. McDonald, he received Dena from Egypt. Strange words being typed, many I want to forget. I think Dena would appreciate it and he would be excited to see Dena's determination and will.
So too say the least things continue to be busy. But feel free to call, email or come over and visit. Caden and I love company.
Thought:
As long as you do tasks for a positive outcome, maybe not immediate, don't fret about tasks left undone.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Great news! Dena and I had our team meeting today with all of her therapists.
We have decided that it's time for Dena to move onto the next step in her recovery. She will be heading back the Univ of Utah for acute therapy. This means intense therapy. The fact that they feel she is ready is huge. I can't believe it myself. I needed some good news and it came.
So at the end of the month or early February she is headed to the U of U. I will be touring the facility soon and making sure all is in order. The therapists will send their reports and I will also read them to make sure everyone is on the same page.
The fact that the doctors and anyone who has read Dena's injury report believed that she would only lie in a bed with a trach in her throat demonstrates her strength. This is also a testament to all of your support throughout this time. Thank you!
Thought:
Everyday we live with bad news and trying tasks. Our hearts are broken our love, our passion, our willingness to succeed is tested. When good news comes along, when humor, laughter and positive experiences happen upon us we must embrace them. We need to take these diamonds in the ruff and cement them into our subconscious. We need to pull from them to rise above the things that try to bring us down.
Keep rising never get taken down by anything. You can do it you just have to believe in your human spirit.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena yesterday along with Rooka and Caden. Bob showed up later.
We did PT together and it was great to see Dena working so hard at walking. She is gaining some control of her right leg.
The cool thing was after PT when we sat down and had a yogurt. Dena opened the yogurt and took the spoon to her mouth. She opened her mouth to meet the spoon, this is big because she is learning the cycle to eat. She then would move her mouth in an attempt to close it around the spoon. She would hold it in her mouth with her teeth. She is so close to making the whole cycle of eating.
I was so excited that we kept high fiving. Then I told her to make a fist and we touched fists. She kept doing this with me upon request. She can learn, she can remember and she can build. She is moving forward right now and making it happen.
As we were leaving I asked her to raise her arm and say goodbye. She had never done this until yesterday. It was very exciting.
I hope if you have time you can visit Dena she needs us all more than ever.
Love,
Christian Dena, and CAden.
FYI: I'm heading out of town for a working vacation and will be back on Monday. So don't get frustrated if I don't update.
Hello Everyone,
I was with Dena today. We had an amazing morning. For weeks, maybe months, hard saying when anything has happened, we have been working on her brushing her teeth and applying her 3 step facial creams.
Today we started with her brushing her teeth. She did it better then I have ever seen her do it. I had to finish it up but she was receptive to it. Then we did her face. We started with a warm wash cloth to wet her face and she made sure her whole face was touched. Next, we started with the cotton pads and the first of 3 lotions. Each time she went around her entire face, she remained focused, and didn't miss a spot and she didn't leave excess anywhere. This is the first time this has happened. Dena is learning and building on experience. She would then throw away the pads into the trash. After the 3 lotions she used the wash cloth again. To see the effort we have put in together to allow her this return to normalcy, this ritual, this independence was so rewarding. I kept telling her how monumental it was. I hope she understood.
Next she cleaned her own ears both of them with q-tips. We did all this in the morning. I hope you can all understand the significance of this.
We also worked in speech therapy and she performed great. I couldn't believe she was able to do so well after all we did before speech therapy.
Thought:
We can learn anything, we can be great at anything. We have the ability to do whatever we want. All we have to do is commit the time and energy to what we want and it will soon be ours. Never quit.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Happy New Year Friends and Family,
I hope you had a great weekend and are glad to be back at work.
I was with Dena on Friday and she continues to learn and build her skills. She worked so hard on the Go Talk and was hitting buttons when asked. When she made mistakes she tried again. Now we just need her to use it as a tool to communicate.
Today Dena was working on eating. She is so close. She seems to be scared of both how difficult things are to do and how injured she is. She had a big breakdown today and it was very emotional for the both of us. I calmed her down by telling her she must continue to work and if it is easy she should be doing something that is challenging. And that is why we are doing what we are doing because it is challenging. Julie, the speech therapist, was very excited for Dena today. Julie is a huge supporter of Dena and myself. She is incredible.
It is so difficult to see Dena upset and so far away from where she wants to be. I love her so much it hurts me everyday. I just want to hear her voice. She communicates with me in so many ways but I long to hear her voice.
Thought:
Sometimes we get lost in our own needs and they lead us down a path of frustration. We then outwardly show this frustration. This is where we begin to hurt people. We must realize that everyone is frustrated with something. They all want to express themselves and take it out on someone. If we focus on each other and work to fix their frustration it will lead us back to ourselves and we will fix our own frustrations. We will be complete in knowing that we have helped someone and in turn have helped ourselves.
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
Rob and Heather are here in town and they are going to give an update on Dena.
Bob, Dena's dad, was with her today and is also going to give an update.
We arrived this morning to find Dena fully attentive to her environment and looking fresh and strong. She appeared determined and looked focused on giving her all today. She gave "plenty percent" over all in her efforts to make the most of her every task. Dena is definitely a trooper and chooses the more difficult of her options at times. When sitting across the table from her she is very aware of what is in front of her and responsive to everything. She appears to be waiting for the perfect moment to shake off her current state. Every visit she has gained more clarity to the world she loves and those around her. Determined and Beautiful - that is what's happening in Dena's world.
-Dena's Little Brother
From Bob:
Dena did great in walking, with aid of PT, a full length of the hallway. OT had Dena play a game throwing bean bags into holes in a board. She did great picking a bag and throwing and continues without really having to give great thought, she just knew what to do. The OT was very pleased with her reaction. We then watched the Utah football game which she seemed to enjoy.
From Heather:
Robby and I arrived just in time to watch Dena with her Speech Therapist today. She mouthed "hi" to the therapist when she saw her, and answered almost every question correctly with her "talking board". We could see her concentrating, and really thinking about each question before answering: she has made so much progress from the last time I saw her during Thanksgiving! Before we left, Robby and I both got to enjoy hugs from Dena.
What a great visit!
Have a Great Day,
Love,
Rob, Heather, Bob, Christian, Dena and Caden.
Rob and Heather are here in town and they are going to give an update on Dena.
Bob, Dena's dad, was with her today and is also going to give an update.
We arrived this morning to find Dena fully attentive to her environment and looking fresh and strong. She appeared determined and looked focused on giving her all today. She gave "plenty percent" over all in her efforts to make the most of her every task. Dena is definitely a trooper and chooses the more difficult of her options at times. When sitting across the table from her she is very aware of what is in front of her and responsive to everything. She appears to be waiting for the perfect moment to shake off her current state. Every visit she has gained more clarity to the world she loves and those around her. Determined and Beautiful - that is what's happening in Dena's world.
-Dena's Little Brother
From Bob:
Dena did great in walking, with aid of PT, a full length of the hallway. OT had Dena play a game throwing bean bags into holes in a board. She did great picking a bag and throwing and continues without really having to give great thought, she just knew what to do. The OT was very pleased with her reaction. We then watched the Utah football game which she seemed to enjoy.
From Heather:
Robby and I arrived just in time to watch Dena with her Speech Therapist today. She mouthed "hi" to the therapist when she saw her, and answered almost every question correctly with her "talking board". We could see her concentrating, and really thinking about each question before answering: she has made so much progress from the last time I saw her during Thanksgiving! Before we left, Robby and I both got to enjoy hugs from Dena.
What a great visit!
Have a Great Day,
Love,
Rob, Heather, Bob, Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena this morning. I watched her brush her teeth on her own with out getting upset. She cleaned her face the best yet. It's amazing to see her continue to improve.
Today was the first time she choose to eat at speech therapy. She grabbed the ice water and set it aside and went for the yogurt. I held the container while she opened it. She then took a spoonful and put it in her mouth. It took some time but she got her swallow going. She did this twice. It was a huge day. She wants to eat she just needs a safe environment and today she had it.
She is so close on talking and eating right now and we just have to coax her and give her a loving trusting environment.
Thought:
Right now I am expecting people to be patient with me and they are. I need to do the same for others. When they don't meet my expectations I have to understand that they have lives to live as well.
When people start to complain about others I am quick to jump and say perhaps they have something going on that we are unaware of at this time. I find myself defending those I don't know.
I need to do the same with the people I know and love.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
The holidays are here and I hope you are spending them with the people you love.
We brought Dena home today and it has been great. The ride up was uneventful. But since we have been home it has been full of surprises. Dena smiled again today while Anita was telling her about the time Dena through a dog birthday party for Anita's dog. I have a picture of it and I will be posting it on the home page tonite.
We have had plenty of friends stop by and call thank you to all of you. You are the ones that keep me going through the tears the heartache and the loneliness. Thank you for your constant inspiration and love.
We will be opening gifts tonite and I expect Dena to play an active role. She has been giving hugs and paying close attention during conversation. She is settling right into her home. I am nervous about tonite and how comfortable she will find her own bed.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all and to all a good night.
Thought:
Yes the holidays are a stressful time but this is the time of the year where you can shine brightest for the people who love and need you. Look towards the new year as a new beginning and take charge and become the person you dream about being.
12/25/2005 5:49PM
Hello Friends and Family,
Dena just left with her parents. She slept great last night and it was wonderful to have in our bed. She reached over for me in the morning as well.
Later on I said something wise and then told Dena that she could punch me in the face. Well, she reached and play punched me in the face. She gets what is going on and continues to make progress.
She was opening presents today and having a great time.
Thanks for all the calls, cards, gifts and well wishes. I hope you had a great day.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
With Love and Thanks,
Christian, Dena, Caden and all the Brehm and Gennerman Families
I was with Dena yesterday. She continues to gain strength and coordination. She brushes her own hair, helps put her pants and shoes on herself.
We opened Christmas cards and took things out of her purse to name them. It was strange she had a card the writing was upside down and she turned it upside right. I wonder if she can read, or she just knows what to do.
We are planning on having Dena home Sunday and spending the night. It will be her first overnite stay at home since this all started. To say the least I am a bit worried and stressed out.
The real improvement for Dena is how calm she is. She no longer screams unless she is cold. She is in control. She leans in for kisses. We shared a good five minute hug where she grabbed my head and held me close. She did this without prompting.
Happy Holidays to everyone.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
We (Max, Christian and Chuck) are updating from Dena' room. It's Friday.
Here is a quick message from Dena:
Fjvjjjjjhhmhd
This is Chuck writing now: I am so excited by Dena progress. I was a bit nervous about seeing her as it had been 3 months since I had last seen her. But, upon walking into her room, I was shocked and overjoyed by her greeting. She focused on me from across the room as I walked in. I smiled and said hello, and she return my greeting with a big smile and arms open to give me a big hug. I must have received no less than 10 hugs during my visit. Each one came with a noticable squeeze and Dena snuzzling her head against mine. Her eyes were expressive and intent as I filled her in on my life. It's wonderful to see these signs of recognition and comprehension! And, as frustrating as this condition must be for Dena, she seems intent and patient to listen and work with everyone.
Coming back tonight, again Dena seems calm and intent on focusing on the three of us. Christian offered her lip balm and she quickly applied it. She's been taking her gloves on and off and listening to our stories. She's watching the Simpson right now and shares the same expression as Max. She is giving hugs, grabbing our hands, fixing her hair, rearranging her blanket and seems very curious and aware of the surroundings. All these signs represent Dena's progress and awakening. It's very encouraging and very moving.
Each day Dena gives her visitors new presents in the form of her progress and recovery. I wish I could advance time many months and receive the presents she'll be giving in 3 or 6 months. Like Dena, I will have to be patient!
Back to get some hugs from Dena.
Here's Christian:
I wanted Chuck to share so you could have a different perspective. And yes that was Dena's first smile since this all started. Eva was here to share the joy that Chuck saw and took a picture and called many friends. She called me as I was traveling on an airplane home. To hear Eva's voice and the excitement in it was overwhelming. Dena is brushing Chuck's hair.
I'm going to hang out with Dena.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I have been with Dena the last two nights. Eva went back to Florida to take care of a few things. I'm so proud of Eva that she was able to take a break. I know it is tough on her and she continues to amaze me with her dedication to Dena's recovery and well being.
Dena's physical body is getting stronger. Last week she had her best day walking. I notice her strength improving by allowing her to do things on her own. Her control over her left arm continues to improve. Dena shakes hands with people. She will high five me. She is able to reach further than ever before. She can use her strength to basically grab my arm from a laying down position and pull herself to a sitting up position. I just supply an anchor and she pulls herself up. Yesterday I asked her to grab my chin and she did it so fast that it spooked me. She heard me say it, told her body to do it, and it reacted without delay. It was the fastest I have seen her body move since this started.
Her mental state and her facial control are different in that she communicates different emotions through her eyes and face. She more often than not answers via the talk board. She hates that thing but I think she gets why she has to do it.
Thought:
It amazes me how busy we all are. I have fallen into it myself. But we still need to be held accountable. We have to set our own standards. And if we meet those standards have we set them to low?
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
So I haven't written since the 30th. Honestly, I don't know where time goes. It doesn't seem like I'm living day to day it's more week to week. That's just how life is being lived right now.
I haven't forgotten about you I am thinking of all of you.
Dena just continues to improve gradually. She is not at a standstill, she is so close in so many areas. Time is our friend and perhaps I'm looking at it differently. And maybe that is why I haven't written recently, although it seems recent to me. Excuses, everyone has one.
I will be in touch.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
We had our team meeting today and Pati came down with us. Pati met with Julie our speech therapist. They have some good plans going forward they are going to make a great team for Dena.
We will be researching purchasing a machine that will help Dena develop her muscles in her shoulder. Our friend Jeff, a dentist, will be visiting Dena to see if there is any issues with her mouth.
I hope to have Char, the tibetan cranial therapist here sometime in February.
Dena was at her team meeting today and was very attentive. She is developing more and more facial movement and she just looks beautiful. She looks like herself. She is my girl.
We didn't do much therapy together but Dena was very into the new tool, a interactive laptop, that Pati brought down.
Pati had been prepared for anything and she was excited to see Dena making choices and doing actions. She said that is the most difficult thing for TBI patients.
Our friends Dave and Suzanne are sending some positive and negative patches to us that help people gain body and brain strength. I hope this get here soon.
Julie reiterated today that Dena really shouldn't be doing anything except laying in a bed based upon the injury report. For her to be where she is at is nothing short of amazing. It is such a far cry from the plane ride that brought us home from Egypt. It's a testament to all of the support and to Dena herself. Her drive, her will, her determination will not be stopped or derailed.
Thought:
What stops you from achieving your goals? Look deeper it may not be what is on the surface but something that you don't see at first.
Love,
Dena, Christian, and Caden.
Sorry I haven't talked since this weekend. I have been with Dena on Sunday and today.
On Sunday Dena and I took it easy. She wanted to stay in bed for sometime and then she decided she wanted to get up. Right now she just grabs my hand and pulls herself up to sit up. She can sit up on her own as well. We then hung out and Eva/Bob and Caden showed up. Dena fed Caden yogurt and animal crackers. She gave Rooka animal crackers as well. Caden was loving having mom feed him and Dena loved it as well.
Please, please, please ask Dena to do everything and don't be afraid to assist her in doing something. It would be better for you to help her do something instead of doing it for her.
Today we did Dena's face and cleaned her up. We did speech therapy and she was a bit furstrated. All the therapists think she is improving in all areas. They all feel she is close to a breakthrough in so many areas.
Tomorrow we will be having a team meeting with the doctors, nurses and therapists. We will discussing the next steps in Dena's recovery. We will have our friend Patti who specializes in helping people with learning disabilities to commuincate. I'm excited to see what ideas she can bring to the table.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I hope you had a great day yesterday with friends and family.
We did it up right at our house. We have some amazing friends that put together a great dinner for us.
Dena came home and was with us from 1pm to 6pm. She definitly doesn't like the cold. So if you take her outside please over dress her for warmth.
Max and I picked Dena up at the hospital at 12pm. She was calm the whole ride up as we sat together in the back seat. She was annoyed with my back seat driving as usual.
We got her home and she needed a bit to adjust. But we spent some quality time sitting on the couch. Dena wants to eat as she tried to serve food and put it in her mouth. Alas, she is so close on so many things right now. She just has to break through and things will start clicking.
Dena sat with her brother for sometime and other friends. She got pretty upset when Caden was crying upstairs as Eva was trying to get him to sleep. I could feel her wanting to help and being pissed that she couldn't.
I'm hoping to bring Dena home more and more now. It's pretty demanding with both Dena and Caden but with all the support we have I know we can do it together.
I talked to Eva today and they said Dena is comfortable. That was good to hear. Rob thinks she realized that she was home and what she needed to do to get back home full time.
Thought:
The greatest people are the ones that don't know what personal time is. They help, coach, inspire and motivate in their personal time. Their personal time is spent doing things for others and not themselves.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena on Saturday, Tuesday and will be heading down after I finish this.
Dena was a bit frustrated on Saturday. Yesterday we worked together on a number of things. I feel she is so close right now to talking yet there exists a barrier. Julie, the speech therapist, has ordered Dena a special device that hopefully will help her talk. Her physical strength continues to build.
Dena and I have been working on holding each others face as a focusing excercise. And for the first time yesterday Dena grabbed my chin and held it. It was awesome. She leans into me when I ask for a kiss.
Tomorrow we will be bringing Dena home for Thanksgiving. Dena's family and some of our friends will be gathering together. I am very nervous about it. I hope she enjoys it. My concern is when we have to take her back to the hospital that it doesn't break her heart.
Thought:
Tomorrow when you are doing your Thanksgiving blessing at dinner take a moment of silence and be thankful for what you have. We all have to much and we need to remind ourselves of how lucky and wealthy we are.
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
I was with Dena this morning. We worked together in speech therapy. She is using her voice board more and more. Please remember to use it when asking her questions. She is concentrating so hard on getting her words and voice going. You can see her trying. She had minimal frustration and stayed focused for sometime.
I just found out that due to the fact that Dena hasn't been using her right arm that it fell out of her arm/shoulder socket. They say this is normal but I don't like and it scares the hell out of me.
I talked with Chuck and we are going to look into getting her a machine that will stimulate her muscles. I'm going to go over that with the doctors on monday. Also, I have contacted a woman that specializes in Tibetian Cranial Therapy. She has done amazing things and she has shared the results and I have seen them. I'm hoping to fly her out in the next few weeks.
Eva and Bob just stopped by with some great news. Today Dena had her best day walking. She didn't scream or get frustrated. She also spend 20 minutes on the new step. She would drop her arm and then move her legs only and she was pushing with her right leg. The therapists also think that she should be using her right arm soon and that we shouldn't worry about her arm slipping out of socket. That is tough for me to stomach. I also remember Dena not screaming in Speech Therapy. Perhaps we have turned a corner.
Thought:
Never assume because of your one experiences with one person that it can be a blanket statement about similar people. Always look for the good in people and don't let previous experiences taint your judgement.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Well I haven't talked in a bit, sorry. Everything is ok. I was out of town on business. I was with Dena today.
Dena and I went to PT together and she walked. She is getting part of the whole walking motion back. She still needs assistance. We worked on kneeling as well. It's amazing to see her strength grow. It really is. I watched on her the new step, which you sit at and pull with your arms and push with your legs. She did it for 15 minutes. She is making small to medium sized movements.
We then did speech therapy and Dena is getting used to the speech board. Please use it when you are with Dena. She answered a number of questions via the board.
As always when you are with Dena ask her to do things. Don't let her lay or just sit there. Ask her to do things that you are doing for her.
LOve,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena today. I got there a bit late as CAden had a rough night and thus I did too.
Dena and I went to the 2nd floor day room where we looked through our wedding album page by page. I gave Dena a foot massage which she enjoyed. We then worked on leg presses against my chest. She was pushing and pulling upon command. We did it for both legs.
I asked her to hold my face and she did. I did the same thing for her. We held hands and shared hugs as well. As she did certain things I would ask for a high five. She would turn her hand palm up and I would give her five. I would then ask her to give me five and she would.
When I left she was in the hallway next to the nurses station paging through a magazine.
I wish I could do more for everyone but I can only do so much. It's just my nature to want to do more so I do the best I can. I feel Dena is doing the best she can right now and working hard to improve upon her abilities.
Thought:
We always want to know what the finish line will look like. Sometimes we will never know. It's what we do before the finish line that will determine what it looks like.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
My father, Eva and Anita were with Dena today.
My dad said that the PT people said it was the best Dena has walked yet. She was also on the sit down bike and pedaled for 11 minutes by herself. She has never done this before. And she did this while she had a pretty big cough and some congestion.
Dena knows what she needs to do and continues to work hard. I will be with her tomorrow and will give you another update tomorrow night.
Love,
Christian, Dena and CAden.
I was with Dena this morning and we opened birtday cards and gifts. I would hold the envelope and she would tear it open and take the card out. She would open the card and read it. Then I would read the card to her. I would then have her put the card on the table.
We opened gifts where I would have Dena take the items out of the bags. I would hold them while she would tear the wrapping off of them. I would then ask her to put the trash into the trash can and she would. She would then set the items on the table. After we were all done I lined everything up for her and she picked up each item and put it in the bag.
Dena then had speech therapy. She made choices today and they were: no ice cream or sherbert. She wanted water and tried to drink it via a spoon. She then pressed her communication board as well to communicate. She worked on counting and she is so close to getting words out. You can see it.
After all this we went back to her room. She wanted her shoes and socks off. I helped take her shoes off and she took her socks off.
Dena continues to improve everyday and by no means has she plataued. It's awesome to watch her efforts.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
I was with Dena this morning and we opened birtday cards and gifts. I would hold the envelope and she would tear it open and take the card out. She would open the card and read it. Then I would read the card to her. I would then have her put the card on the table.
We opened gifts where I would have Dena take the items out of the bags. I would hold them while she would tear the wrapping off of them. I would then ask her to put the trash into the trash can and she would. She would then set the items on the table. After we were all done I lined everything up for her and she picked up each item and put it in the bag.
Dena then had speech therapy. She made choices today and they were: no ice cream or sherbert. She wanted water and tried to drink it via a spoon. She then pressed her communication board as well to communicate. She worked on counting and she is so close to getting words out. You can see it.
After all this we went back to her room. She wanted her shoes and socks off. I helped take her shoes off and she took her socks off.
Dena continues to improve everyday and by no means has she plataued. It's awesome to watch her efforts.
Love,
Christian, Dena and Caden.
Another week has come to a close. It's hard to believe how far we have come and how many weeks have passed.
I was with Dena this morning and our friend Paula showed up. I asked Paula if she when the last time she was there. She said she hadn't because she was scared. I think that goes through everyone's mind including my own. I think it would happen to anyone as they deal with some life changing event where they don't have control. I told her as I tell many people, "It's not about you or your emotions. It's about Dena and what you can do for Dena. What would Dena do for you? Keep yourself out of it and look to make a difference."
Dena got a pedicure, manicure and a facial today. Marc came by and took care of her. Thanks Marc!
Dena reached for CAden when he showed up. Dena is rolling right now and I believe great things will be happening.
I apologize for the intermitten reports but things have been a bit emotional and busy lately.
I hope you all make a differenc this week.
Thought:
Try saying this every morning, "Today is going to be a great day! I will positive and make a positive impact on everything and everyone I touch today." I do it every morning and it keeps me going.
Love,
Christian, DEna and Caden.
I am writing this with a smile and laughter and noise in the house. Robbie, Dena's brother, is playing the guitar for CAden while he is in the jumping chair. CAden loves this. If he is in the chair you have to play the guitar he demands it.
We had a great party for Dena. I think over 40 people came through and saw Dena. She was a bit nervous going tot the party and was crying a bit. We entered the room and Jarrett had prepared a great plate of food for her. She grabbed the fork and dove right in. She struggles with the food once it is in her mouth. It's tough for her to stay on task.
Dena sat in a chair surrounded by friends and family. She gave out tons of hugs. There were tears in her eyes and she wiped them away. She was overwhelmed with the support as I was.
People that hadn't seen Dena in some time were impressed with her improvement. She continues to amaze me and so many people.
We had food, music, drinks and a lot of laughs. To everyone that posted a happy birthday message and/or came to the party: Thank you.
Dena was a bit frustrated perhaps from a party hangover and having to go back to work.
Thought:
Put away your emotions and apprehensions, it doesn't matter what you think or want it's what the other person needs to get through their day.
Love,
Christian, Dena, CAden and Robbie.
----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. |