Thursday evening...Another week gone by...jam-packed with activity ! On Monday, we were introduced to Mrs. May, wound specialist. The area(s) on the skin graft that had broken down still did not look good, actually worse. So Mrs. May's expertise was called upon...she is wonderful ! Such a teacher...she explained clearly what was going on, was definitely not intimidated by the wound and basically "took control". As a result, at dressing change on Wednesday (she required one day in between, undisturbed), there was a distinct improvement !! She re-dressed, using the same items, and we are so excited to see the improvement tomorrow !! As a result, we had a meeting today with the social worker, head nurse, doctors, physical therapy, prosthetics, and wound care...a full table !!! This was to align everyone on the plan of action for the next three weeks...Alex needs to accomplish some goals in physical/occupational therapy, the wound needs to heal completely, but we are sure that all of these items can be accomplished in the next three weeks. We are planning, on June 09, to move Alex to "outpatient" status. More than likely we will be moving to the Mologne House, and quite possibly I will move before Alex, and as we near the June 09 date, he will have overnight passes that will allow him to stay there so that we can iron out any "bumps" before he is discharged. As an outpatient, he still spends most of the day in the hospital, just leaves in between (if he wants to) and at night. it is within walking distance and "on post". The Mologne house is very similar to a hotel, with a cafeteria and lobby..and a beautiful new courtyard bbq patio. Most of the same guys that Alex "rehabs" with live there, so it will be good for him. It is an answer to my prayers that Alex will continue to heal in the hospital, and not rush this transition and have a setback (as does happen!)...but at the same time, we are looking forward to this next step towards the ultimate goal of new legs !! Alex was also visited this week by Cpl. Carter (and dad!) who was part of his unit in Iraq and was with him when he was wounded. He is on leave, and Alex was so happy to see him. Also, some of Alex's very best friends in Germany, Jamie and Brendan, also came to visit for two days. It was so good to see him socializing with his "buds"...and able to get out of the hospital. All in all - a good (stressful, but good) week. Alex was also, finally, able to talk on the phone with Sgt. Hackemer (his team leader in the vehicle) ... he cannot wait to see him !! Please pray that his wounds continue to heal, your prayers have gotten him where he is so far !!! We love and miss everybody - Eric, Jeannette & Alex
|