It is one of those times when I feel like making a list is the best (and easiest) way to cover all the things that are happening. I also get the impression that you like this every once-in-a-while too. It’s the best way I found to synch up with you and give a snapshot of life in the Diviney household therapuetic hospital.
So, here you go:
- Chick Magnet Article. Although not formally announce, the author told me it did not make it into the running as a finalist. Sure, this is disappointing, but the article did bring more attention to Ryan and the struggles he faces each day. It helped keep him relevant. Please know how thankful I am for all the support. You guys are the best!
- Kari. It felt like just yesterday that she came bursting through the door to begin her winter break. Sadly, she returned to WVU yesterday morning to begin the spring semester on Monday. I miss her… so much.
- Anniversary. Today marks the two-year and two-month anniversary of the night Ryan was senselessly surrounded then beaten by Austin Vantrease and Jonathan May. I miss him… so much.
- Baclofen. Ryan will get another reduction on Thursday, January 12th. The dosage will be decrease from 155mcg to 135mcg (12.9%). If he tolerates this well, I plan on his next one taking him to at least 120mcg.
- Concrete Project. It is poured and set-up enough for foot (or paw) traffic. It looks better than I imagined. I’ll post pictures after the landscape is graded.
- HBOT. Ryan started his thirty-day cycle back in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber two days ago. He spends two sessions of ninety minutes each (three hours total) every day.
- Chick Magnet. What can I say? It’s still in the shop. I’m beginning to forget exactly when it went in, but I seem to recall it was before or around Thanksgiving. No word on when it will be ready.
- Kitchenette. It’s wonderful! Thank you Blue Moon Construction.
- Respiratory. Ryan’s was fighting a cough for three weeks. I could tell it wasn’t in the lungs and must have been coming from higher-up in the airway. Initially, I thought he might not be managing his saliva well. Then I was concerned he had something happening with his sinuses. Now, I think it might have been poinsettias that were in the house over the holiday. They were removed yesterday and he had his best night in weeks. We’ll just have to see how the next few days go. Anyhow, just add this to the list of reasons I now despise Christmas (including bins of decorations blocking doorways (or just put into piles), a wreath blowing through my yard, and an undecorated tree still up in the family room). Buh-humbug seems appropriate.
I suppose that covers all the major events.
Ken, So sorry article didn’t make it to finals ,but Ryan will always be relevant to us. So glad everything is going good outside and you’ll be able to get out there soon. Sure hope Ryan’s breathing keeps improving. What’s holding up Ryan’s van ?… It has been awhile 🙁 Thinking of you all today and thanks so much for updates. love Gail
I’m guessing there will be no poinsettias next year. Glad Ryan resting well. Also, happy to hear the concrete job went so well and look forward to the pictures later.
Ken,
I am really allergic to pointsettia plants and have trouble breathing around them. I just read up on them and see that people with latex allergies can have a cross-reaction as the pointsettia contains a compound similar to that found in rubber latex. While I’m not allergic to latex, and I don’t think Ryan is, I thought I’d put it out there since other caregivers who read your blog may be unaware of this.
So sorry to hear about the chick magnet article not making it into the finals. That really shocks me!
Hope you and Ryan & Sue can get out this afternoon for some fresh air – sending love and hugs from across town!
Love, carla
OH NO! We didn’t win! This is very disappointing, but there will be others and other ways to get the story out there. Put on your thinking caps, Ryan’s Rally. Let’s see what we can come up with next!
This is some list up there! I think you are right, Ken; we do like these lists to keep us informed.
Ryan may be sensitive to other blossoms, too. I know you will keep a sharp eye on it.
Love and prayers. Did you happen to see Anderson Cooper yesterday? If you “Like” Anderson on FB, some of the video is there, and you can check it out on my page. Gloria, his mom, has been through a lot, as has Anderson when his brother committed suicide. The program was very informative and inspirational. Love and prayers always.
This has nothing to do with your list, but I read yesterday that apple cider vinegar (with the mother… Bragg’s is the best) can stop urinary tract infections (1 tablespoon in 8 oz. of water daily). We are adding this to Jonathan’s protocol.
Continue to read and pray.
my grandmother’s favorite remedy for many things!
Thank you. Started with it immediately after reading your comment.