March 22, 2009

We are so lucky to have Steven with us. One year ago today, at 8:07 p.m., I got a phone call from my sister. Steven was in an accident. It's been a year that cannot be put into words.

But it's also been a year where I've seen Steve laugh, smile and show his deep appreciation for the enduring friendships of those who've stood by him. And to be beside him as he makes jokes or perhaps even makes fun of you, you see the measure of his indomitable spirit. He's given us a profound lesson of courage and hope. And although a year has passed, I am compelled to point out that this is still the beginning. We were told early on, that it could take as long as 18 months for the swelling to go down, due to severity of the trauma to the body. It's still early.

This past week was a reminder of the instability of Steven's condition. Twice he was taken to the hospital. The issues were related to his stomach. He had to have his feeding tube changed and he's still feeling discomfort. We don't know yet if he will need to have the tube changed again, which could require a medical procedure.

Perhaps you, like me, find yourself struggling sometimes to find a way to bring optimism to Steve. Words feel empty; how can you speak to his experience having no idea what it might be like to not eat, speak, move or really see for a year? But as I write this, I am reminded that the message is not in the words, it's in the act of talking and being there. The act of expressing or even just trying to—even if the words are awkward—is giving. What can we give Steven? Time, friendship, encouragement, and love, always with recognition of the severity of his last year. It's our job to remind him that light is ahead, perhaps not visible yet, but waiting in tomorrow.

In the midst of such an intense week, Steve also had a meeting with his pulmonolgist. The doctor told Steve that in just examining his lungs, he would never know that he was on a trache. His lungs are in great shape. Awesome news.

I know that some of you check this blog everyday. Thank you. Know that every message here has been shared with Steve. MaryAnn and Joe asked for me to thank you today for your ongoing prayers, love, and support.

xo Aunt Jean

3.17.09

I know I said that I would be back in two weeks, but with the upcoming on year mark since the accident, Steve has just been on my mind pretty much non-stop. I got to chat with him a little tonight, I told him about the drunk revelers overflowing (literally) from the St.Patrick's Day parade. I hope I made him laugh.

Steve's been comforted by a consistent flow of company recently. It seems that every time I talk to MaryAnn, there is someone there visiting with Steve. It's awesome. Unfortunately, he hasn't been feeling great the last couple of days. He might have a little of the stomach bug that's been going around. And Mare and Joe have needed to suction his lung much more frequently. Hopefully, it's just the spring air getting to his sinuses.

Okay, I'll be back on Sunday. Thanks everyone. xo AJ

Second of two posts for 3.7.09

President Obama will announce Monday that he is reversing Bush administration limits on federal financing for embryonic stem cell research. Keep an eye out for a presidential address on the issue on Monday around 11 (check local listings). The really thrilling aspect is that, if researchers are able to submit grants by September 2010, they can try to obtain some of the $10.4 billion given to the National Institute of Health as part of the economic stimulus program, according to the New York Times. HOOOOO YAAAAAA! The sun is shining and there's promise on the horizon.

3.7.09

Hey all, I was waiting for Steve's dentist appointment yesterday to give you an update. I'm sorry for the delay, I know you've been so loyal.

Unfortunately, Steve seems to have a little bug right now; his stomach was bothering him yesterday. He went to bed early last night. I just got off the phone with those guys and he's feeling better this morning.

As for the dentist, we learned that the tooth that was recovered by the surgeon (found lodged in his esophagus immediately after the accident) cannot be fit back into his mouth. However, they will be able to create a crown which will restore Steve's beautiful, tooth-filled smile. Of course, he's a handsome bugger either way, but I'm sure he's eager to have a full set of pearly-whites again.

Steve's been having a steady flow of company recently, which helps pass the days and lifts his spirits. And he loves hearing how everyone is doing and just staying connected to friends.

Steps are being taken to obtain a different trache for Steve. We are all so hopefully that this trache will work. Please, please, please, pray for this.

New parts are expected for his wheelchair. The powered leg rest that's expected soon will hopefully relieve his leg pain and allow for easier transport in and out of the van.

Maryann was able to visit Lynn Fanning last week (this was the school that she used to work at). It was wonderful to see everyone again.

You've been an amazing crew with the comments here, please keep them coming!

Unless anything changes, I'll be back with a new post in two weeks. xo aunt jean