It’s been over 3 months since Caroll came home and I am in awe of his determination to heal!! He looks amazing and his great spirit, humor and courage are contagious. I have a feeling this is going to be a “magically blessed Christmas!!! 

As we get closer to bringing this unbelievable year to a close, we wanted to check in and update you!! 

Caroll’s Progress Update

We want to share that on Nov 16, Caroll had a surgical procedure and had an internal  cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted. The procedure was fast and very successful. Dr Mazel performed the surgery at the Washington Hospital Center. Caroll was back home the next day 😊

“An ICD is a battery-powered device placed under the skin that keeps track of your heart rate. Thin wires connect the ICD to your heart. If an abnormal heart rhythm is detected the device will deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat if your heart is beating chaotically and much too fast. ICDs have been very useful in preventing sudden death in patients with known, sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Studies have shown that they may have a role in preventing cardiac arrest in high-risk patients who haven't had, but are at risk for, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.”

In simple terms, if he were to have another cardiac arrest episode, this defibrillator will automatically shock him and restart his heart! Just another preventative step. I must admit, after this procedure, my levels of anxiety have slowly decreased! It’s such a relief to know he has this extra protective measure now in place. The recovery time is fast, after 1 month (Dec 16) he goes back to all his normal activities. The new heart technology continues to amaze us! 

Therapies

Caroll has now completed both his Physical and Speech therapies. He is committed to the rigor and disciple of his Occupational Therapy and his Cardio Rehab sessions which continue 3 times a week.  He is doing great and it keeps him in fine form, getting that heart pumping is the goal. He is also practicing walking without his cane and doing really well with that too. 

Eye Therapy 

Most recently he began neurological eye therapy, to address his left vision neglect. We go once a week to see Dr Benshir, who specializes in neurological optometry. She is an expert in helping stroke victims overcome their vision challenges. She explained this is not “an eye thing, rather a brain thing.” Meaning Caroll’s sight is fine, it’s the brain connections signaling to his eyes that are bit off. She saw him during his hospital stay and commented that he has made great progress since then. The brain will continue to heal but added eye rehab will jump start the recovery!! 

A Social Butterfly

Caroll keeps so busy with his social life that I can’t keep up. He recently enjoyed attending his 1976 Good Counsel HS reunion where he reconnected with his buddies. 

He also attended his first Holiday Party at our son Andrew’s home. He cooked his famous Italian Sausages!!  

We enjoyed The Beach Boys in concert with our friends Billie and MaryJo! 

He has has gone to lunches with friends and walks with neighbors. As well as catching up with faraway friends and family by phone. 

He joined me to attend a church holiday luncheon and silent auction. We also attended our friend’s Santa Baby Bazaar! 

The 4 Majors Musketeers also escaped for a week to Bethany Beach for much needed R & R. A special time to heal! 

Back to his Projects

We had new garage doors installed and a new master bedroom closet installed with Caroll overseeing everything! Thank goodness he was there, he is so knowledgeable!  

He has completed several projects such as installing speakers, drywall and painting and purchasing replacement parts for our dishwasher and instant hot!  He also diagnosed an engine warning light in my car and we took it to the shop to get it corrected! He’s back!! 

As you can see Caroll hasn’t missed a beat, he seems to savor life just a little bit more now ❤️

As we welcome this “special” holiday season, it hasn’t escaped me how truly blessed our family is to have Caroll with us. We want to give thanks to everyone for your continued friendship and encouragement for Caroll. This is the true spirit of Christmas, friends and family sharing love and caring for one another.

From the Majors home to yours we wish you Happy Holidays to you and your beautiful families! And we pray for the beginning of a special and joyful New Year!!🎄❤️ 🙏🏻🎄