Hello family & friends, 

We're almost 7 months into our journey with Andy and what a journey it's been! He has made a lot of progress and we couldn't be more grateful.  But it's also challenging at times because we want him to get better now, like right now! We really try to keep things light at home, taking advantage of every opportunity to tease and laugh...seeing Andy laugh or roll his eyes is the best! We still have a sad day about once a week and like always, we talk through it and give lots of hugs.  

Regarding PCA care, I looked into private care and it was thousands of dollars through the end of the school year. So then I appealed Health Partners coverage, requesting that they cover his PCA services.  They expedited my request and it was reviewed by a medical director who then denied it.  I was so incredibly disappointed and surprised, we can't be the only family needing this kind of care.  I spoke to their nurse navigator but that didn't bring anything knew to the table.  They will only provide a Home Health Aide if he's homebound, which he isn't and will never be, he needs to get out and live life! He's been attending outpatient therapy at Courage Kenny in Buffalo 2-3 times a week for speech, physical therapy and occupational therapy.  It's going well and the therapists are wonderful.  He's saying some words spontaneously and still walks with a cane, safety belt and assistance.  He does a great job on the stairs at home too! 

In the meantime, our oldest son Carson, who graduated from college last summer, stepped in to help out while I returned to work.  He knew how disappointed I was with the lack of PCA coverage and that paying a full-time private PCA was not an option.  So he, without hesitation, decided he would take care of Andy during the day.  I was speechless, I would never ask that of him, but he insisted.  I was overwhelmed with such gratitude and love...and then came the tears, lots of happy tears.  Then of course, I wanted to make sure he could get paid to be Andy's PCA, but that's only possible if Andy's on medical assistance.  So I applied for medical assistance for Andy, as was suggested by the county and he didn't qualify.  Now the county is coming to the house to assess Andy and they'll see if there are any services that he may qualify for.  He is currently on long term disability and qualifies for Social Security Disability at this time.  Carson is coaching an AAU basketball team and is an assistant coach for the Monticello 9th grade and JV baseball team.  We're so happy he is able to pursue other opportunities during this time.  Once I'm done working in mid June, we'll reassess Andy's care during the day and plan for the fall.  

We also had a follow-up appointment last week with Dr. Idiculla at Courage Kenny Golden Valley.  I asked him if he thought Andy was on track with his recovery and he agreed that he was.  I know they can't make promises or give specifics, but not knowing is really hard sometimes.  I kept hearing "Give it a year, wait a year", and in the beginning I thought that Andy would probably be much better by September.  That was me being optimistic, being the problem solver and not knowing what I don't know.  The reality is, progress is slow.  I also asked his doctor if it was possible that Andy could be a principal again, the answer was "not likely".   I needed to ask this, it's been on my mind and I'm sure it's been on Andy's.  Hearing this news makes me incredibly sad.  I wanted so badly for him to be himself again and go back to a job that he truly enjoys and with people he really cares about.  I think he knew deep down inside, because he didn't seem surprised by the answer.  This doesn't mean he can't work again someday, it will just be different.  So, as always, we will remain hopeful and positive! 

Thank you for your continued prayers and love, we feel it everyday! We're also continuing the Meal Train through May, so I'll include the link if you're interested in helping.  The kids and I appreciate this so much! Text me if you'd like to visit Andy too.  

Meal Train link:

Sawatzke Meal Train

Love always, 

Andy, Lisa, Carson, Wyatt, Drew & Dane