Six weeks and 18 trips to the O.R. later my son is about to begin actual physical therapy tommorrow. A week ago yesterday the plan was to close his wounds and begin the recovery and rehab process. On that day the doctors found yet more infection and he required two more trips to the O.R. Finnally this past Thursday they closed him up. They left wound vacs on the incessions, and we were told they would remove them this Monday morning.
Not having to go to the O.R. since last Thursday has really been a blessing for Thomas. He has gotten stronger and more michevious each day since. This morning my wife and I came into his room and the doctors had removed his wound vacs and cathider, a sure sign that they do not expect to take him back to O.R. in the immediate future anyway. The Fisher House which is a very beautiful facility they have here for the family of the wounded service members to stay while their loved ones are healing has a huge community kitchen, and two large BBQ grills. My wife prepared the side dishes in the kitchen while I grilled four steaks, we made an extra plate for the soldier across from Thomas who can't get out of bed yet. After our steak dinner, he got out of his hospital gown, put on his Dallas Cowboys tee-shirt, and a pair of shorts. He decided not to wait on the physical therapy folks Monday morning. He hoisted himself into his wheelchair and outside we went for about 40 minutes of fresh air.
He then rolled himself into the computer room and checked his e-mail, which he hasn't had a chance to check since February 4th.
This was the best day he or any of us has had since this all started. He's feeling good, and having very little pain since the last surgery. There are a lot of challeneges ahead, with more good days and bad days. However today watching him roll himself out of the hospital, stop and look at the trees, and sky........... It was like I could actually see him sitting at the top of the first mountain he had to conquer. This old fart had a few tears well up in my eyes. I'm so grateful to have him visably healing. I'm grateful to this facility and it's staff. I'm grateful to all the people who have sent cards, letters and words of encouragment to him. I'm grateful to this communty who has shown it's support. It's good to feel this way for a change. It's wonderful to see Thomas feeling good.
If all goes well this week I'm planning to return home next Saturday, and some other family members will come and watch over him now that the worst has past. I'm looking forward to flying again when possible. It's really amazing how much you can miss your normal day to day life. You guys have been fantastic. Thank you all again.
