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GOOD NEWS TODAY....July 11, 2007
It's been exactly 24 weeks since Alex's accident, and he had not regained any function…. UNTIL
TODAY! During the examination for his transition from inpatient to outpatient, he was able to move
certain muscles in his right leg: toes, quadriceps, and hamstrings. He could move his toes, and abduct his leg, although he
still does not have sensation in his leg. Even the medical staff were surprised, since typically, regaining function is more
sequential, i.e., he would regain triceps before quadriceps. But as the Craig staff have said all along, each person's injury
is unique, and one should never give up hope. The magnitude of this is huge-- because now Alex has function below the level
of injury, and this means some nerve pathways are functioning. Anything is possible! We will keep you posted. Alex is scheduled
to move into the outpatient apartment with Cliff tomorrow and come home July 19.
June 8, 2007
(from Cliff)
Alex has been
at Craig
Hospital for about 16 weeks. He has made substantial progress and continues
to get stronger and learn how to utilize the function he currently has.
Over the past few weeks, we have attended seminars given by former Craig
patients. Some of these
people are quite amazing and are referred to as “super-quads” because of their accomplishments. It is extraordinary
what a person can do with drive and ingenuity. The key to their success is having the will and determination to figure-out
how to do something. Most routine tasks need to be done in a different manner and typically take more time to do… Nevertheless,
they can be done! For instance, how does a person pay for items, pick-up something that is dropped on the floor, get
dressed, open doors, write their name, use a computer, cook, eat, tie shoes, shave, travel on an airplane, turn pages when
reading a book? :The list goes on and on. In addition, many quad patients can double their strength year after year, thus,
they able to competently transfer with no assistance (transfer refers to going from wheel-chair to: couch, bed, car, etc).
Craig Hospital is just the beginning of
Alex's rehabilitation process; he will enter the true recovery phase when he returns to Phoenix
and needs to use his mind and determination to become independent and productive. Alex truly wants to do what it takes to
reach this goal.
As stated
in past updates, the one-level house Ruth and I purchased is currently being renovated and it looks like it will be finished
just in time for Alex’s return to the valley. The house needed the following changes to accommodate Alex’s current disability:
1. A new enlarged
bathroom to accommodate a power wheelchair, roll-in shower (with special water control features including multiple shower
heads and hand-held shower wands), sink that can accommodate wheelchair, lowered mirrors, heat lamp, etc.
2. All carpet
was removed and replaced with tile floors or laminate flooring.
3. Gradual ramps
for entrance into the house and exit to the back patio.
4. 36 inch doors
(which replaced narrower doorways), and door levers installed to replace doorknobs.
5. Miscellaneous
other conveniences include: an open closet with a lowered clothing bar so Alex can reach his clothes from
wheelchair height, remote control devices, computer accommodations, etc.
We will post
photos of some of the renovations to provide ideas to others in similar situations.
NOTE: Though Alex was due to return
to Phoenix at the end of June, his return is now sheduled
for mid July.
May
3 - Update from Cliff (Alex’s father)
It’s
been over 10 weeks since Alex’s accident. Most of his medical complications have been resolved and he is fully entrenched
in an intense rehabilitation schedule. He no longer has any trouble breathing, no fever or nausea, the trach was removed (thus
he can talk and eat). Alex still is on pain meds to curtail persistent pain in his neck and shoulders; this has a side-effect
of “slowing-down” digestion. Some of the pain is a result of the intense rehabilitation of his shoulder muscles
and the presence of the neck brace. The pain will continue to subside as he gains more strength and flexibility in his shoulders,
and he is scheduled to have his neck brace removed next week. The doctors are very satisfied with the surgery he had on his
neck when he was in Pittsburgh, so no more surgery will be required.
Alex’s
strength and dexterity has been increasing substantially. He has over 5-6 hours of assorted rehabilitation classes every week
day. These classes include: physical therapy, occupational therapy, be-fit classes (to get stronger), functional classes (leaning
to everyday things), wheelchair skill class, pool therapy, electro stimulation bicycle class, and spinal cord education class.
He has control over his shoulders, biceps, and some wrist movement. Though this may not seem like much, these muscles enable
him to: use a manual wheelchair, eat, groom, open doors, use a computer, and drive a wheelchair modified van. Of course, the
injury is still in its early stages and we all praying for and looking for the recovery of additional sensory and motor function.
Recently, Alex regained relatively normal sensation (but not movement) in his index and thumb fingers of each hand.
We
have all been getting ready for Alex’s discharge from the hospital and return to Phoenix
on June 28th. He recently selected his personal power wheel chair and a manual wheel chair. I’ve been looking
for a wheelchair accessible van and will likely have one before he returns to the desert. Alex will need to use his power
chair if he is traveling long distances, but will be able to use his manual wheel chair if the terrain is relatively flat
and the surface is smooth. He does not have use of his triceps, back, or chest muscles, however, his shoulder and bicep muscles
will be strong enough to use the manual chair on “good” surfaces. Eventually, he will be able to go-up the ramp
of the van in the power or manual wheelchair, latch-in, and drive off!
Mentally,
Alex is coping very well with the disability. His courage and dedication to getting better is very inspirational. His favorite
thing to do has been watching the NBA playoffs. Like most Phoenicians, he is enamored with the skills of Steve Nash and the
exciting style of the Suns. We both agree that it will take a very aggressive Amare Stoudemire
and some help from Kurt Thomas to offset the likes of Tim Duncan, when they play the Spurs. This past weekend Alex
received his first “friend” visitor from Phoenix,
Matt Meyerhoff, who stayed for a few days. They really had a good time and it was great to see Alex being Alex.
I
could tell that Alex is getting much more independent and we discussed my leaving him during the week. However, classes are
not scheduled on Saturday and Sunday, so it’s good to have family members, and possibly some friends visit him over
the weekend. As some of you know, Ruth and I purchased a single level house in the old Ahwatukee area and we are very busy
getting the house ready. Many modifications need to be made to the house. Perhaps the most comprehensive alteration is the
conversion of a standard bathroom to a handicapped equipped bathroom. I need to do numerous things before Alex’s return
home. By the way, our current house if up for sale, in case you know anyone who might be interested.
Note:
Alex
will be trying to wear his Bluetooth cell phone device over the weekend, so this will probably be the best time to reach him.
As previously mentioned, Alex is very busy during the weekdays and typically tied-up in the evening. It takes a long time
for him to eat, shower, and get ready for bed.
Note:
Oh-yes…one
more thing. There have been numerous donations posted to the Chase Bank account on Alex’s website. Unfortunately, we
are not able to identify identity the people who made the donations. If you made a donation, please send Ruth an e-mail to
tell her that you made a contribution. We would like to thank you personally.
Sincerely,
Cliff
Friday April 20, 2007
Alex is doing well and was moved yesterday to the
other wing where he can be more independent and functional. He may be ready
to have visitors (other than family) in a few weeks. It is heartwarming and inspirational
to observe
his courage and faith as he is going through these
difficult times. He is gaining strength and developing dexterity in his shoulders, biceps, and wrists. He did
regain some sensation in this thumb and index fingers on both hands, but no confirmed movement in his fingers. In general, his
spirits are good, and he spends his time trying to improve and accept were he is at the current time. Now that
Alex has his blue-tooth phone, he will be able to receive and make phone calls easier. If he
is wearing the earpiece, he can answer by touching a button on the ear piece, and he can make calls through
voice activation. On weekdays he is often out of his room--in rehab, occupational
therapy, at activities, etc, and he is pretty worn out by evening. So, it is probably best to call him over
the weekend. His phone number is 480-695-0040.
Sunday, April 15.
Thank you for supporting the fundraiser in Tucson yesterday. It was a great success, the weather was beautiful, and everyone had
fun! We will keep you posted on how your generosity will help Alex.
Alex is getting stronger every day. The trach was removed Friday and he no longer feels sick.
This coming Wednesday he will be moved to a new wing where his room will have a small kitchen, computer, and
tv. He is learning to get around in a manual wheel chair; his wrists, biceps and shoulders are getting
stronger; and he is improving at learning how to use utensils, brush his teeth, work the computer, etc. Now that
he's feeling better, his participation in physical and occupational therapy will be stepped up. We so look forward to
seeing his progress.
4.9.2007
Hello everyone:
Alex's pneumonia is clearing up, he is off the ventilator
and breathing on his own, and can talk (finally). The trach was downsized and will remain in a few more weeks so that he can
receive some supplemental oxygen. He has his new cell phone with "blue tooth" and soon will be able to receive and send phone
calls. Every day he is getting stronger but is still in ICU due to some digestive and a few other issues. Hopefully he will
be moved out of ICU soon.
We continue to receive donations for Alex's rehab needs. Please let potential donors know
that we encourage them to let us know who they are because neither we nor the bank can identify them. We would like to be
able to thank people for their gifts, and we would honor requests for anonymity if desired. The donor of an extremely generous
recent donation is unknown, and we would very much like to be able to send our personal thanks.
Fundraiser Information: Friends of Alex's mother, Jan Abington, have organized a benefit
concert for Alex in Tucson on Saturday, April 14, 2007, 4 - 8 p.m., 5807 S. Randall Blvd, Tucson, 85706. For more info. call
520-990-9701. There will be music, food, cash bar, and special guest AZ Daily Star Cartoonist David Fitzsimmons.
Thank
you so much for your continued support. Alex loves the cards and reading the print outs of the messages on the web site.
4.1.2007
Good
news-- Alex is off the vent and breathing well on his own. The trach will stay in for a few weeks just as a precaution. Also,
his pneumonia is clearing up. The only medical issues now are some digestive problems. In a few weeks he should be moved out
of intensive care to another part of the clinic. Cliff will be home this Sunday for a week while his brother and sister,
and then Jan are in Denver.
I was interviewed by Doug Murphy from the Ahwatukee News this morning-- so look for the article. Thanks to Denise for setting
this up. Aaron is going to add some photos of Alex to the web site-- so email him if you have any--aaronthomas@cox.net.
3.23.2007
It has been 5 weeks since the accident, and Alex has been at Craig Hospital for 2.5 weeks. He is breathing 12 hours/ day
on his own, so he is essentially off the ventilator during his waking hours. When off the ventilator, he is able to speak.
In a couple of weeks, Cliff (Alex's father), will be back in Phoenix for a few days and is going to purchase a blue-tooth
cell phone so Alex will be able to receive phone calls and call people himself. All l phone calls that Alex makes will be
free from 6 pm on (Phoenix time) and all day on weekends.
Alex is out of bed and in a motorized wheelchair for about 8 hrs/day.
Eventually, as his muscles get stronger and his motor skills improve, he wants to use a manual wheel chair with motorized
assist wheels.
Next week he will begin using a special bicycle to keep his leg muscles toned. This is also good for his cardiovascular
system. As you may have noticed in a recent picture, Alex wears a neck support collar when he is in the chair. This is precautionary
and he won't have to wear it in a few months.
On March 23, we had our first family conference and over 10 people called in
to participate. The team of doctors and specialists who are taking care of
Alex gave their assessments, prognosis, and answered questions. They were very pleased with the surgery and care Alex
received in Pittsburgh, and stated that they think Alex is progressing very well. There are still some medical issues with
pneumonia and his digestion, but these are being dealt with and should resolve. At this time Alex's anticipated discharge
date is June 28.
3.18.2007
Hi everyone,
Here is some exciting news: yesterday (and today) Alex has been able to move his index and middle finger of his left hand
at the joint. We hope this is only the beginning of function returning! The vent weaning program is coming along, and every
day the amount of time he spends breathing on his own is increased. The concept is steady progress, not speed. He is able
to swallow around the trach, and has been eating regular food for a week. As soon as Alex is off the vent, family and friends
will be visiting mainly on the weekends, as Alex is kept very busy during the week. We request that visits be coordinated
with Cliff, Ruth, Jan, or me, and we will continue to update the site. Thank you all for your continued support.
3.14.2007
Please visit
“how to help” for new updates on helping Alex.
This marks
the first week that Alex has spent at Craig’s Hospital. His transition to the spinal cord rehabilitation unit went very
well last week. They flew Alex via lear jet from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center to Craig’s Hospital in
Denver. Currently, they are still working on Alex’s respiratory issues (small case of congestion, pneumonia, and still
on ventilator). The medical team is very confident that his breathing situation will only become stronger and more independent
with time.
Alex
has also started the first stages of physical therapy: Sitting up in a wheel chair 2-3 hours per day, range of motion exercises,
and general occupational therapies. He is now starting on solid foods after passing a swallowing test done last week.
We learned that the next 5 months will be very telling about how much he regains,
but that even at today's level, he will be able to use a non motorized wheel chair, drive, feed himself, return to school
and be pretty independent. It was very reassuring that Craig Hospital is so experienced and have the infrastructure and services
to help Alex. Check out their website-- it is very informative. Alex's spirits are good -- he is smart, funny and strong ---
despite all of this.
Thank you for your continued
support, Alex enjoys very much hearing all of your notes and positive messages.
3.04.2007
I haven’t updated
Alex’s page in the last week because his condition hasn’t changed very much. But there are some huge changes for
him this week: Alex was accepted into Craig’s Hospital in Denver, CO for his rehabilitation. He will be flying via air
ambulance on Tuesday to the spinal cord rehabilitation center in Denver. Craig’s hospital was recommended by many healthcare
professionals, and carried such a strong reputation that we know it’s the best spinal cord rehabilitation center for
Alex. I am including a tab link to Craig’s hospital on the left side of the web page for those interested. This is going
to be such a welcome change for Alex and his family because we finally have a timeline for Alex’s rehabilitation.
Alex’s condition:
Currently Alex is still being weaned off of the ventilator (breathing machine). His reversible tracheostomy went well and
is much more comfortable for him. He is still trying to fight off his low-grade fever and case of pneumonia. His oxygen saturation
levels are strong, and Craig’s hospital is skilled at helping with getting him breathing on his own.
With these types of injuries
even the specialist’s say, “we just don’t know”. One spinal rehabilitation doctor said that the landmarks
for spinal cord injuries are: the first day, the first week, the first month, and three months. Alex’s program at Craig’s
will last for three months, afterwards we will have a very good idea the extent he is able to rehabilitate himself. If Alex
keeps improving through the program then he could stay there for longer.
Alex’s recovery is
going to be one small piece at a time. We can't look too far into the future, and take his recovery minute by minute. It’s
the small successes that everyone must celebrate not the final results.
Please continue to send
Alex your thoughts and prayers. The messages in the guest book have been incredible, and Alex appreciates it very much. Family
is printing out your thoughts and prayers and reading them to Alex every couple of days so please keep them coming.
We are currently
setting up a donation fund for Alex, and will have details very shortly.
Craig's Hospital
2.23.2007
Our family just wanted thank everyone for there support and considerations for Alex. Your involvement, prayers, tears,
and love are greatly appreciated!
This last week has been more of an adjustment period and fine tuning of sorts for Alex's condition. Since the last update
Alex has been in recovery mode. He has sustained so much aggravation to his system from being hurt and fighting through all
of the surgeries that he has had some small complications: minor infections, low grade fevers, and some pulmonary issues (These
are normal variances when someone sustains such injuries).
The major concern right now is Alex's breathing. His injury has affected the normal muscles that we use to push air in
and out from our lungs. He has to learn how to breathe using his shoulders and chest. For the last week Alex has been intubated
(breathing tube in his mouth), this has been extremely agitating for him because he can't communicate and it's very uncomfortable.
Today Alex had a reversible tracheostomy procedure (attached a breath tube into his neck) done. This will be much more comfortable
for him and he will be able to communicate much easier. This will also allow Alex to eventually have a communication tube
attachment and aid in weaning him off of the breathing machine.
This week has been tough for Alex but he's a fighter. The medical team has been very considerate and is treating Alex
with great care."I am constantly amazed at the caring and upbeat attitude of the nurses, respiratory therapists and others.
They really treat Alex as an individual and with so much caring" Ruth).
As soon as I have more information on Alex's status I will post it on the site. Please keep visiting and leaving Alex
postings of your thoughts and prayers.
2.19.2007
Alex's surgery was a success! He is recovering well and they were able to successfully
fuse his cervical spine. Pre-Surgery they discovered that Alex had also fractured his right femur and were not aware of the
break. Usually they see clinical signs of further injury-- swelling, discoloration, etc- but everything looked OK and they
don't like to do excessive x-rays on patients. After the repair of his spine today the orthopedic surgeons fixed his leg with
a rod. This doesn't impede his rehab or cause any serious problems.
He is currently on a respirator breathing tube
because his cough was too weak to clear his lungs. Hopefully they will wean Alex off of the respirator so he can breathe on
his own in the next day or two. He hates it - can't communicate and it bothers him. So the next step in his recovery is stabilizing
his breathing. The doctors have a general order in which they treat trauma patients: Head, Spine, Heart, Lungs, and then everything
else. So once his breathing is restored Alex will begin the healing process.
A ray of hope that gleamed on Alex's
status today is that the posterior (back) of his spine didn't sustain much trauma. That means there is a possibility of some
pathways still being open for his body to "re-route" communication signals. With spinal cord injuries no one knows exactly
what's going to happen. The next three months are critical for seeing how he does.
Currently we are seeking out the
absolute best rehabilitation programs available in the United States. Alex will receive only the most prestigious care and
cutting edge programs available.
Thank you all for your love, support, and prayers! We can't express our gratitude
enough for everyone's thoughtfulness and involvement!
2.18.2007
As many of you
already have heard Alex has been in a terrible snowboarding accident. His neck was broken at his cervical spine C-5 through
C-7 (lower part of your neck). This occurred last week, and he is currently at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Alex is recovering well from his first wave of surgery that fused the back portion of his vertebrae together. After that procedure
a miracle occurred and he was actually able to lift his arms! He has little control of his upper extremities but with therapy
might regain a large percentage of mobility with them. On Monday Alex will go in for his second wave of surgery where they
will fuse the front portion of his vertebrae together. Please give your thoughts and prayers for Alex as he must embrace another
surgery to prepare him for rehabilitation.
Our family is very strong, supportive, and is fully dedicated to getting
our Alex back. We have a lot to learn and a long way to go but things will work out.
As of right now the next step
is transporting Alex via air ambulance to a rehabilitation center. We are either considering Denver, Co or Barrows Neurological
in Phoenix.
*We will be setting up a donation fund and perhaps a golf tournament in Alex's honor so please stay tuned*
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