Home Sweet Home

Kevin has had a good few days at home. He hasn’t even gotten in the hospital bed yet because he’s been enjoying being in other comfortable chairs (especially the recliner) instead. Plus, it’s a mental boost to not sit or lie in a hospital bed all day. Two days ago, Dad barbecued Corralitos bratwurst with Kevin by his side. Kevin’s been enjoying eating some different foods besides the ones he’s had to eat in the hospital for several months. While the food in the Santa Cruz hospital was decent, they had a rotation of meals, and Kevin had gone through that rotation a few times. He was ready for something different. Kevin has really been enjoying the food you all have been sending us; time seems to slide away really quickly these days, so it’s extremely convenient for my parents to run to the fridge and heat something up when Kevin is suddenly hungry. Thank you all so much for your wonderful meals!

Kevin has also been enjoying several chocolate (plus some other ingredients) milkshakes. So far, out of the Santa Cruz options, Kevin has enjoyed that rather deluxe milkshake from Cold Stone the best. The chocolate, banana and peanut butter shake from Chill Out Café had just a few too many flavors for Kevin’s taste!

Mom, Dad and Kathlin constructed their own “standing frame” for Kevin to practice standing. This is a device was in the rehab hospital’s gym; the device has support for the patient’s knees and a strap behind their rear to keep them standing. This was one of Kevin’s favorite things to work on in the gym, so they were planning to take him in a few days a week to use the frame. However, that trip may no longer be necessary, since they have created a “frame” using the deck railing, pillows and a strap. Kevin is getting better at standing, and his endurance is improving. He is also able to move his left side a little bit more.

Now that he can move his left side, Kevin wants it to be instantly back to normal, so he’s frustrated that things are going so slowly. Kevin is also constantly worrying about another setback, so it’s hard for him to fully believe in the progress he is currently making. However, he is still continuing to work very hard, and he’s exhausted by the end of each day.