12/28/2012 Update on Peter - A special visitor!

Good Evening,

I have been so thankful, and amazed, to see the progress that Peter has made even since a week ago, Sunday.  I walked into the room and informed Peter that he had special visitors today!

Darin K., a brother worker stopped by to say hi.  He used to live and sometimes go to the same meeting as Peter and his family, when they lived south of where they live now, so he stopped in to say hi!  :-D

Peter seemed quite tired, but I politely reminded him that we needed him to open his eyes and wake up, so we could chat with him as we had traveled to see HIM!

Guess what he did!  He said, "Okay." and pushed the button to set up and began chatting with us. 

Mom was with me and she was able to ask questions and get Peter to respond to all of us.




Darin, Peter, and Mom smiling away at the camera.

 I suppose it is only fair if the blogger/photographer join in for a smile or two with Peter & Darin.

I had the vibrant color mode on and it made the pictures blurry.  LOL.  So, black and white is the best viewing option.  I just realized those blinds sure make ones head/hair look somewhat funny!





Peter showed me that he is able to move his left leg some, and his left arm.  It does take alot of work to do so, but that is such a HUGE improvement over the prior visits.  He said his left arm was really hurting, and gave in to my offer of a gentle, massage.  He finally looked at me and politely let me know he was done with the massage after about five minutes!  LOL.  I am so excited to envision the progress that Peter will make as he improves even moreso at Craig Rehab Hospital in Denver.

I asked Peter if he would mind greeting everyone via video and this is his message to everyone!



Even though we have seen progress, Peter has a long ways to go.  His left arm, and leg, will need continuous extensive rehab to see if he can regain the mobility back in his left side as he once had.  We are hoping and praying for a miracle, but have settled it that we will be happy with the best Peter can do!  After all, we realize Peter's life is a miracle to all of us!


Maybe I will just close with a thought or two I have enjoyed lately ...
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~ We would never know the worth of an anchor with out the stress of the storm.

~ Wheat needs to be crushed, leaven would have no power over the whole kernels of wheat.

~ Flowers give the same fragrance no matter where they are planted.

~ Our words are heard, our actions are seen, our spirits are felt.

~ We may be able to hide our thoughts, but we cannot hide results of them.

~ Satan would like us to love the things we will later on hate.  God wants us to love those things we will always love.

~ Jacob's love for Rachel did not measure time.

~ Ruth's love for Naomi did not measure distance.

~ Mary's love for Jesus did not measure cost.

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Thanks again to all who continue to remember Peter, and family, in your thoughts and prayers.

Have a wonderful weekend !!!!

Sugar Cookies, Almond Roca, and ..."Oh yes I can!"

Good Afternoon from windyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy Wyoming!  My drive up to Wyoming was a two hands at the wheel kinda drive.  I think I read winds were about 65 + mph!  Yikes!  That's windy enough to almost blow ones nose, and also, blow a few truckers off of the road too!  Ha ha!

This is the good ole ornery cousin again.  I hope Shar, Joanna, and Naomi won't mind if I share a smile or two today from my visit with Peter.

I haven't been up to see Peter this week at all, and decided to make my debut today with homemade goodies .  I brought with me homemade sugar cookies that I decorated, and some homemade Almond Roca.  Now, I realize I am no Martha Stewart, Paula Deen, or Rachel Ray, mind you, but I do enjoy time spent in the kitchen in hopes of creating smiles on others faces.

The sitter, Tasha, said she really didn't know how Peter's week went.  So, I asked Peter if his diet had been up graded to include cookies this week.  I said, "Peter do you know if it would be okay on your current diet to enjoy a sugar cookie?"  His reply, "Oh yes.  I can enjoy a cookie!"  Hmmm.... it sounds like his diet today didn't really include anything like a cookie, so the staff knows they are sitting in his room and maybe, just maybe, they will let him enjoy one?  I think there is about a dozen, so if you stop in, feel free to enjoy a cookie or the Almond Roca.

I asked Peter how his therapy went this week and he told me it went really well.  I understand he actually sets up so that the aide can help lift him into the wheelchair for potty breaks or a meal.  That was AWESOME progress !!!!!  It sounds like there is still a struggle to use his left arm, but we are hopeful and confident that the folks at Craig Rehab will help get him to the best possible place for one with the injuries he has had to face.

We are grateful for all who remember in your thoughts and prayers.  I wanted to share a thought from special meeting last week that has been good for my heart to remember. 

~ We need to be careful what we love, and what we fill our heart with; because what we love, will stay with us throughout all eternity.  Will we be grateful or full of regret?

 Have a wonderful week!

The Final YES from Craig Hospital

It has been a few days since we have done an update on Peter, so while sitting here telling him how much it has snowed outside and that it sure would have been nice to have another set of hands on a snow shovel I thought I would get in a quick update for you all.

Yesterday, I met with Craig Hospital to give them my after rehab plan for Peter, what my expectations were, and then to listen to what their expectations would be of us as a family.  She was able to watch him during one of his PT therapy sessions and was extremely impressed by his progress. I was more nervous than I had ever been for a job interview,  as for me this was so very important as I have felt very strongly that Craig would be a good fit in getting Peter back to the most active person he can be since the accident.

So today was D day and we got the answer we have been waiting for ALL the doctors and the ENTIRE TEAM has said YES.  He will be going to Craig after the 1st of the year.  They meet on Wednesdays for bed planning so by next Wednesday we should have an exact date that he will be leaving the ARU unit here in Cheyenne and going to Englewood, CO @ Craig Hospital.  He will be staying at Craig for at least 4 weeks and it could be up to 8 weeks.  Craig's rehab process requires that the family participate in the therapy sessions during day which will be a challenge but manageable.

I am excited for Peter to get top notch therapy from a great facility.   When I get the exacts dates of the moves I will post them.

Peter continues to improve everyday, and today he walked 10 times back and forth on the bars,  his left arm is slowing making improvement as the nerves are starting to come to life.  This makes it painful for him and uncomfortable but it is a good sign of activity in his body.

Well that is all I have time for now as I am off to pick up Dora from school.  Thanks again for all the prayers and support.

"Are YOU done yet?"

One thing Peter has never really expressed is his personality.  He's been content to just sit in the background of life and fit in wherever needed. 

Since his brain injury, we are seeing a totally new personality!!!!!  Some days, some moments, the new personality is awesome and other times, well .... it is an adjustment period for all of us!  :-D

Those who have a loved one, or friend, who have gone through TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) know that it is a stage when they have "outbursts".  Please understand if you are there and witness an outburst, he just needs reminded to calm down and be kind.  I witnessed the CNA remind him to be patient as he was really hungry and wanted his dinner ... NOW!  I think we've all been there, done that, when we were STARVING and just wanted something to satisfy our hunger !!!! :-D

Yesterday, I decided to stop by about dinner time 5pmish.  Peter enjoyed his dinner very much, chatted for a few minutes and then informed us he was ready for bed!  So, we asked if he would like to sit in his wheelchair, but he declined.  He went to bed.  I was yacking away with Peter, Joanna and the CNA (cannot remember her name) and all of a sudden he uses his right hand and displays a PAC-man figure at me with his fingers, while relating via his mouth a similar voice I used to hear from my sisters when they wanted someone to be quiet ..... Tssssssssssssshhhhhhhhhht !!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Ha ha ha !!!!!!  Then he said to me, "Are YOU done yet?"  Ha ha ha !!!!!  He is having no problem getting the point of being quiet, especially around bedtime!

Another funny thing that he did to show his latest personality.  Sharleen told him it was time after a meal to brush his teeth and he did not feel moved to do so.  So, he looked at Joanna and said to her while pointing at Sharleen, "Will YOU make HER leave?"  LOL.

Anyway, no complaints from us whatsoever.  We are SO thankful to see SUCH progress over the past month.  Hard to believe that it was ONE MONTH ago TODAY that our lives changed.  We are so grateful for steady progress!  oops.... I said progress right?  PROGRESS !!!!!  Wahoo !!!!!!!!

Today he mentioned that his left arm was tingling and he had sensation, so Joanna rubbed it and he said it felt better.  He was able to use his feet while on the parallel bars with the OT/PT gurus the other day too!

Well, this is long.  I just wanted to share a few laughs on our road to recovery.  I am learning that sometimes our experiences might be difficult, but if we can focus on the funny things too, it sure helps the time fly and keeps our attitude in check!

Have a great week & thanks again for remembering Peter, and family, in your thoughts and prayers !!!!

Peter is Staying Put Till At Least the End of Dec Update 12/14/2012

As the time keeps on passing by it seems like the days are going together and I keep loosing track of what day it is.  It seems like just yesterday that the accident happened and I had gotten the phone call.   Everyday seems like a struggle just to get through and then I remember what Peter must be feeling like on the inside and unable to express but in those brief moments of "outburst's" as we are calling them.

We are glad to say the Craig Hospital in Denver has conditional accepted Peter for their Rehab program, they have a top notch brain injury rehab program and will be keeping him there for 3-6 weeks, however they do not have a bed until the 3rd of January.  This means that he will be staying at his current rehab until Craig has a bed.  Now I say conditional because they will be coming up on Tuesday to review and speak with us and make sure that he fit protocol!!!!!  I am so thankful that we finally have a YES from someone after all the long line of No's from all the other's.  It has been a long road thus far and Peter has come such a long way.
Today Peter was showing of for me on the parallel bars with his walking skills, yes I did say walking skills, now even though he still can not walk without the assistance of an aid beside him or the bars his LEFT leg has started to respond and now his left are is slowing responding as well.  We are so excited for him and I try to show how much I am each and every time I see him as it seems to help lift his spirits. 

As with all brain injury's you never know what to expect so,  this is no different with Peter, he has good times and bad times, and we just keep reminding him of what he can do, and how much he has already accomplished, as he has come so far in such a short amount of time.  He gets agitated very easily and so we are mindful of this in how we are approaching his therapy and care.  We still have to remind him every day of the accident, where he is, who his therapists are, who his nurses are, why he can't go home just yet, why he is not the same as he was before, why yelling is not nice, etc and this does seem to help him understand, but it is a process that does have to be repeated everyday as his short term memory is not working well at this time.

Peter does enjoy visiting for short periods of time and then he likes to rest and then likes to visit or do activities, he remembers things from years ago, and is starting to joke around a little which puts a smile on my face.  I have really learned from him over the last few weeks how the little things in life can be so enjoyable,  how could I have really forgotten them?  Well I sure did,  I am thankful for all the family and friends that have been a great help and continue to be a great help through these times as this is what really matters.

So for now Peter will stay in Room 314 Cheyenne Regional's East Building Acute Rehab Unit
2600 East 18th Street
3rd Floor

One Day at a Time!

Happy Thursday Evening,

It seems safe enough to say that we are in a holding pattern right now as to what the next stages of Peter's journey will be.  So, we will wait patiently, one day at a time until the answer is revealed what is next for Peter. If I understand correctly staff from one of the facility's thought to possibly take Peter as a patient will be visiting with the family next week.

I wanted to share that when we sat with him on Wednesday, he had a short time of agitation and we calmly reminded him to be gentle.  I loved the fact he kept repeating to himself, "I need to be gentle, gentle, gentle, gentle."

Thank you to all who continue to remember Peter, and the family, in your thoughts and prayers!

Update on Peter 12/12/12

I am so happy to see that Peter is completing whole sentences!   He is getting stronger everyday.      PROGRESS!!!  

Today, he asked for a snack and so we offered applesauce ...His response was ... "Can't you get me something better than applesauce, like pizza?"  :-D

Peter is able to help choose his meals  so he let us know that He only wants cheeseburger or pizza from now on!  :-D

Hopefully we should no more answers as to where Peter will go in the next day or so.  He could end up staying at this same facility he is at for a little longer, after all.

Cinnamon rolls and a few minor details

I'm thinking I have learned the secret to getting well!  Change one's diet from pureed to grounded meals & whole CINNAMON ROLLS !!!!!!

Yes, it is me, the ornery old lady at the blogging helm again.  Surely you won't catch that I'm just a tad jealous after spending the afternoon/evening with Peter, Shar, Joanna, Rachel, Dora, and Becky, his CNA?  Ha ha ha !!!!!!

Peter enjoyed his meal very much and when it came time for the dessert, I noticed they gave him 2 HUGE mouth-watering, can't get your eyes of, CINNAMON ROLLS!  So, I decided to see if I could get him to talk to me!  I said, "Hey, Peter."  He replied, "Yes, Laurel"  I then asked a question.  "Can I have one of your cinnamon rolls, please?"  He quickly replied, "No!".  So, I then asked if Joanna or Shar could have his cinnamon roll and he said, "Yes!"  Hmmm.... I am positive had Naomi been there he would have agreed that she could also have his cinnamon roll.  I'm thinking I need in on the secret to Peter saying YES to me!  LOL.

We are elated to see that he does have a great appetite and his vocabulary continues to increase as they days progress onward!  Did I just mention that word ---- PROGRESS?  Yes, we are SO HAPPY for PROGRESS!

I am grateful for the staff's explanation with us about brain injuries.  There are different stages in TBI and right now he appears to be in the agitation stage.  So, if you are there and he begins to get agitated, just remember to stay calm and remind him not to raise his voice.  He does really well when you talk to him calmly.  There is no doubt in my mind that he is a TRUE miracle from God! 

A big thank you to all who continue to remember us in your prayers....

What do you do when you have two lively girls in the room?  They asked if they could sit in Peter's bed while he enjoyed his dinner!  So, here they are:

A couple more things - I am off to work on my notes and hope to share a few thoughts shortly.  The notes are fairly lengthy, so just know that I may continue adding more on as time permits. 

A special thanks to today's visitors!  Peter's speech therapy teacher from second grade stopped in with her husband, and then a buddy from Mike's work stopped in to say hi. 

Peter LOVES visitors! 

Have a great Tuesday!

The countdown has begun!

Did you hear the AWESOME news?  Peter graduated from pureed foods to ground foods a few days ago!  That might not sound newsworthy, but you try eating pureed foods for several weeks and see how much you enjoy your food!  :-D  Believe me, I've actually been on a very similar diet, and though it is tolerable, and can be done, there comes a point when you look forward to something different!  Even if it is just the appearance of the food alone!

The other day, as I sat and watched him enjoy his pureed, chicken fingers, I quickly lost my appetite at the color alone as it kinda looked like someone had not been feeling very well and lost their dinner.  I know that Rachel, Peter's niece, taste tested them and she said they were, "Yummy!"  So, looks can be deceiving!

As it has already been mentioned, we are down to our final week of Peter being in room 314 at the old DePaul hospital.  There is talk that his next step is an acute type rehab facility.  I will let his sisters tell you more about that ... maybe they will update us on Tuesday?  If I understand correctly, his next move might very well mean it would be out of state (to one of two neighboring states).

SO, if you haven't had a chance to go up and see Peter, now is your chance!  He will be leaving on Friday, the 14th!

UPDATE as of 12/10 @ 3pm. -  Peter may or may not still be here on Friday as they try to place him at the best facility for his situation

I plan on sharing the special meeting notes from today's meeting.  Joanna, Dora, and myself all went to Windsor and it was special.

Have a wonderful week!   

Peter Update From Joanna

Well a week away sure does change how much progress you see in someone.   When I left a week ago I was weary and afraid and uncertain if I should even leave Peter as I have stood by his bedside in constant vigil with hope and love, knowing that God works miracles.  I had many, many phone calls and updates as I had "requested" from my sisters, nurses, and anyone else that I could get to talk to me about his progress while I was gone as like a mother looking over her children, I didn't want to miss a thing.  I really don't think that I realized how much of a difference there was going to be though until I walked into his room this morning and he woke up and said for the 1st time good morning Joanna, I Love You,  and then,  Proceeded to ask if he could please come home with me.  I of course told him no and had to turn away for a moment as tears came to my eyes as I so want him home as I miss him so much.

Many of you many not really realize how long of a road this is for him, we are going to be leaving the ARU unit on the 14th of December and will be heading to a different Rehab facility, we are not sure which one yet or where it will be, but this is going to be a long, long process and it takes months, and even years to recover for a TBI, and for Peter it is about consistency, love, family, rehab, and nutrition, making sure that he is getting the best care that we can for him, making sure that US as a family, and family to me is not just "blood" we are all family in God's eyes,  are there for him to pick his spirits up when they fall, making sure that others are there to encourage him a long the way.  It is so important I realized to stay positive and to keep your head up for him because he can sense it even if you try to hide it.

He has gained 5 lbs or so in the last few days, and as always has a great appetite,  he had a bad fall last week and had to go for another CT scan which came back clear but it kept us on our toes.  He is slowing regaining some use of his left leg, still not a lot of movement in his left arm, but after talking with the doctors they say that the sooner we get it moving the better because the longer it goes without moving, the more likely it is that that arm or leg will stay immobile.   We hope that that is not the case but getting him into another Rehab would continue the work that has been started and would most likely continue the progress and increase the chances of him upswing those limbs again.   He ask what he can do to help all the time so hat is so great to see, love it, when he is getting ready to sit up,to eat or needs to go to the chair, his response is what can I do,  the willingness is just unbelievable and shows me what a great spirit he truly does have.  

For now he is still in room 314 at the ARU Unit at the old DePaul hospital in Cheyenne and will be until the 14th.  Visitors are always welcome and he really does enjoy it.   Thanks to everyone for all your love and support.

Peter's Mailing Address for Get Well Cards

I have had requests for an address in the event some would like to send a card to Peter.


Peter Eickbush

621 Vista Lane
Cheyenne, WY
82009

Peter & A few thoughts from Special Meeting

I sat Monday and Tuesday with Peter and spent time also with Sharleen.  Thank you , Shar for your kindness in inviting me to spend two nights so that I would not have to commute the 136 miles round trip.  What I found most amazing in my observation of Peter, is his will to do things on his own.  Right now, he is really only able to do tasks with his right side like stand, eat, wipe his mouth, etc., but I heard him say to the staff, and family, “Let me do it!”.  So, my heart was inspired to see his drive to become independent.  I believe that his positive attitude is also a healthy reminder to all of us to stay positive no matter the experience.  Peter really liked the CNA, Becky, and I am grateful he seems willing to listen to her instructions.  I observed that sometimes when he is instructed to help lift himself up, you can see the amazing strength he carries in his right hand, torso, and legs.  I started wondering if he wasn’t just going to start hopping from the bed, to the wheelchair, to the restroom.  That has not happened, thank goodness!

I went to a special meeting this weekend and felt like the worker knew about our situation when she reminded us that nothing is impossible with God.  I didn’t know the worker, and I was two hours away from home, so was thankful to know, and trust, that the Spirit was just comforting my soul to remember that God is in control of the outcome, as well as the process.   As I was walking back into the afternoon meeting, I met a woman I have known since I was a little girl, and she reminded me that her son had been through a traumatic brain injury several years ago, so her family has been down the road my family is experiencing.  I can’t tell you how thankful I am to know that others walk with us in spirit as we face those days that seem sooooo alone!

As I fill my heart with such wonderful good times of Peter, and his sisters, I cannot help but smile.  His smile radiates even in his walk.  As we have seen his will to fight to live, and his struggle to say a few words, I have been so thankful for the hand of God in our lives.  It has been said that every experience is a preparation ground for the future in which only God can see.  Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for good in the Lord... We want to look for the good in this experience.  I can see, and feel, the good that is being worked into my life.  Perhaps some of that good is to be presently thank-full for ALL that is mine, right now!

I went back through my summer convention notes, and came across some thoughts about the husbandman in the vineyard.  What I see now, I did not see then.  I see that God would prepare me for this experience, though I am not Pete's closest family member, my heart has ached for all of them!   I stand in awe as I look back at times in life when God prepared me for storms.   I am grateful He gives all of us the strength to handle what at times would lmost seem unbearable.    

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The Husbandman’s loving, patient, and yet, diligent care for the entire vineyard.  In the vineyard, the husbandman knows the exact conditions needed in order to produce a prosperous, worthwhile harvest.  His work requires planning the layout of the vineyard, preparing the soil, carefully planting the seed; gently tending to the care of the seed, watering, and keeping the soil fertile in hopes of a mature vineyard, and after harvest, pruning the vines in preparation for the New Year of re-growth.
His work is placid, yet persistent and graciously productive. He realizes his time is precious.   He knows given the right growing conditions, the vineyard has the potential of producing a masterpiece.  He takes great pride in his work though few ever see the never-ending labor of love he gives in hopes of a rich harvest.  He gently works the soil and then evenly places each stake used to support the grapes.  One could look up each vertical or horizontal row to see the perfectly lined up stakes used to stabilize the grapes in the growing process.  He also welcomes the gentle rain as he knows it holds the promise of a fruitful outcome.  Oftentimes the fruits of his labor are unknown until evidence of fruit appears.

In our trials and tribulations God oversees every detail and will never give us more than we can bear.  From our cloudy, tear-filled, restricted view of life; sometimes all we see is the storm, but God, the Husbandman, in his loving-kindness allows others to see the rainbow of love and protection in us, all around us, and over us.  He uses our life to encourage and inspire others.  He allows our storms to strengthen us. We can trust his timing; we can trust every aspect of life as we leave it all in His hands.

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I am realizing that some experiences God allows, some He plans, and others He prepares us for.  I am thankful for all that have reached out to the family, whether known, or unknown.  As we live for others, one of the ways in which we can be a help, and a blessing is remembering them in the secret place.  I am thankful for those who intercede for Pete, Joanna, Naomi, Sharleen, and John.

I am sharing just a few of the thoughts from  this weekend’s special meeting that especially appealed to my soul.  

~ Psalms 23 is the perfect illustration of a perfect relationship between the Shepherd and the sheep.     

~ When the Lord is our Shepherd, we will never have any lack.  Our Shepherd holds all of the riches of Heaven, and always has bread and to spare for us to feed on!

~ Luke 1:37 - For with God nothing shall be impossible.  Remember, EVERYTHING is possible with God, not only for yourself, but also, others! 

~ It is tempting to see things through our human eyes and in disbelief think a situation might not be able to be helped, but we want to remember that God knows the background to the situation, and with Him nothing is impossible!

~ Sometimes we get our eyes off of the goal and start focusing on all that is against us.  The mountains in front of us start seeming so impassable.  God reminded Jeremiah to go forward. God preserved Jeremiah in the midst of a very difficult experience.   

~ Jeremiah 32:27 – Behold, I am the Lord is there anything too hard for me?  God in loving kindness gently reminds us that absolutely nothing is too hard for Him!

~ God allows some experiences to deepen our roots.  He knows that we must be deeply rooted so as the storms of life blow across our pathway, they will not destroy the root system or our faith.

~ God longs for a heart to heart visit with each of us so He can make the impossible, possible.

~God showed the impossible would be made possible when Jesus arose from the dead.

~ What will help make the impossible, possible is the power in prayer.  We might not be able to change a situation, but God can change us! 

 

Pete from My Eyes 2

I thought I would add to the blog a little about Pete from Tuesday. 

I arrived in Cheyenne about 9:30 or so.  I dropped the kids off at school and then went to see Pete.  When I arrived in Pete's room the CNA told me that Pete had a really rough night and that he hadn't slept the night before and so he was resting.  I spoke to Pete, and his eyes barely opened.  I told him that I hadn't drove from Nebraska to watch him sleep.
He then really opened his eyes.

The CNA told me how lucky Pete was because he had such a supportive family and friends.  I could not disagree.  As I was driving to Cheyenne, I was also praying.  Is that wrong?  It was quiet in the car and my thoughts run together like a river.  I had to ask God for his help.   My mind gets so busy that its hard to control.  Do you know how that feels?  Anyway I am thankful for all the support that we have and I am personally thankful for each of YOU.

Pete was scheduled for Speech Therapy.  The Speech therapist said that I could join.  I was pleasantly surprised.  HE WROTE HIS NAME.  I can not lie, I had tears in my eyes.

I have not been able to be there alot, and I have heard about what Pete can do but it just not the same.
He also could pick up things like a hammer, or a comb, when asked to pick it up.  He knew.  He also got to have a pop.  He loved that.  I asked a TON of questions.  I am new at brain injuries. 
I learned that:
Everyone's brain heals different. 
Brain injuries effect everyone differently.  Pete shows a lot of signs of that.  The therapists explained that his jerky movements, his writing things over and over are all signs of that.
That it takes about 10 seconds for Pete to process your questions.
I am very thankful for people like the therapist that are there to help Pete for I know nothing about it.

We then took Pete back to his room and it was lunch time for Pete.  It was mashed potatoes, soup, a fruit and some kind of juice.  It was all liquid.  I helped him eat and he liked the mashed potatoes the best!!! 
After lunch I had some one and one with Pete.  I asked Pete some questions like:
Who am I?
His response-Naomi
Where do I live?
His response-Nebraska
I asked him if he could remember all my kids. 
His response- YEP
I was so Happy that he could remember.  My heart was singing. 
We also got stickers out and I put them on his hands.  I would ask him to give Laurel the football and he could.  He know what the colors were.  We had fun.  And I so enjoyed my time with Pete.  I know that it sound like that we had a long conversation but really it was all about me asking Pete and him answering one word answers and it took time.  But I am thankful that I had time to sit and wait and listen.
Pete still can not move his left arm and leg.  I tried to put a sticker on his right side and see if he would try to pull off the sticker but he couldn't. 
Cody, the kids and I went to Chadron Special Meeting last Sunday and we heard that we are not on a straight road.  The road has curves but we have someone that can help us thru the curves.  I feel like as a family we have a curve right now and I am so thankful that we have someone on our side to help us thru.  I can not imagine what it is to be Pete right now.  But I do know that he has shown me so much that I need to improve.  He doesn't even know.

As I left that afternoon to return to Nebraska I had a rush of emotions. I can say that Pete still needs prayers and that our family need them also.
Pete has a long road ahead of him. 

It's about LOVE
It's about compassion
It's about kindness & Faith
IT has nothing to do with luck
You get what you give so give it all.

Naomi

12/3/12 (Peter) Update from Hwy 314!

Howdy!

It has now went from a long road to a speedy highway!

We have seen a lot of p-r-o-g-r-e-s-s!!!!

Peter says, "Hello!" from room 314.  He just vocalized it to all of us! (John, Shar, Rachel, Becky, his CNA, and myself.)

Peter had a few workers stop in and visit him over the past few days.  A special thank you to Angie L, Justin R., and today, Loren C.  Also, a few friends have stopped in!  Tim and Myrna, Elmer, Nolene & Laramie, Art and Dolly, and his ornery cousin, yours truly!  :D

Becky, the bestest CNA ever, changed out Peter's bed and he has been able to sleep so much better! 

Peter has had a very busy schedule these past few days with Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, and Speech therapy up to three hours each day.

Peter has done a whole lot of talking today!  

Rachel, Peter's four year-old niece, was spying his pureed corn yesterday, and asked Peter if she could have a bite.  He agreed, and she went home trying to convince mommy to "Cook her corn just like Peter's!"  :-D

This evening, Rachel again asked Peter if she could have a bite of his food. He agreed, and so she tried his Potato soup and also, his pureed mixed veggies.  She says it was tasty, however, she likes the corn better!  So, maybe, just maybe, mommy will get a hint and make more pureed corn for Rachel? :-D 

UPDATE:  Rachel convinced Mommy to cook pureed corn and tried about two bites and she was done!  LOL  Isn't it funny how our taste buds trick us into thinking that something so delicious can be re-created? 

Peter is now relaxing in bed watching Disney with his niece Rachel laying in the bed next to him!



A special thank you to all who continue to remember us in your prayers.









 

addntl update 12-1-2012 on Peter Eickbush

Laurel put very nicely the events of today.  Thank you Laurel!  In addition to what Laurel mentioned.  I might add that after Laurel left that Joanna called me and I was standing right next to Peter while he was still sitting in his chair after eating his very filling dinner of Philly cheesesteak Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Corn and Vanilla Pudding and Chocolate Pudding and a variety of drinks.  He heard Joanna on my phone and he raised his hand up wanting my phone so I put Joanna on speaker and let him talk to her and he did speak to her and he spoke to Dora as well and even said Doras name.  I have to tell you after the last couple days of not wanting to do much he sure did a great deal today and I found the nich to get him to start talking more just give him the phone and he will talk to just about anyone I think.  When Rachel and I got ready to leave I told him that he needed to really concentrate on doing the excercises that they ask and get that left arm and leg working so he could come home and we could take trips and he said "OK I Will".  Becky the CNA in his room also showed me a picture that he colored today in one of his cars coloring books and I asked Peter did you color this picture?  It is very nice and he responded, "Yes," and nodded his head.  Well let this be all for now as I am getting sleepy and I need to get some rest so I can go to Peters room in the AM and see some more positive things happening.

12/1/2012 - Afternoon Update on Peter

Shar asked me to update everyone on how Peter is tonight.

Peter was moved to a room a few doors down.  He is now in 314.  I decided to stop in and see how he was doing today, and I didn't read the blog to see he had moved.  So, you can imagine the surprise when I walked in what I thought was his room, and an older lady smiled at me from the bed!  I know I looked a little confused, because she said, "I bet your looking for that younger man?  He's a few doors down from me!"  :-D

I sat with the CNA for about three hours this afternoon as we both tried to talk to Peter.  The nurses and doctors have changed a few things today.  They feel that the fact he is on anti-seizure medication warrants bumper-like pads and a special cover over his bed.  It seems silly to me, but what do I know? I noticed Peter appeared as though he didn't really like it and he slides fairly easily down on the new slippery covering over the bed.  I guess if it makes the staff feel a bit safer, than maybe that is a good thing?  :-)

My mom called as I was sitting in the room with Peter, Shar and Becky, the CNA.  I asked her to talk to Peter and see if he would respond.  I had tried everything and he was just really quiet today.  A massage, tickling his toes, massaging his shoulders, etc., just didn't seem to cause any reaction.

My mom asked Peter via speakerphone on the cell how he was.  His reply was, 'fine!'.  She than told him she was glad that she could hear his voice and he said, "You too!".  Sharleen encouraged him to say thank you, and he did!  She then encouraged him to say I love you and he did!  Mom's response was thank you and he responded, "Welcome, Dolly".  So, now I know who to put on the phone if I want him to talk and he's not talking to me, or perhaps kinda tired! :-D

Another thing I thought was special was that Peter was able to facially recognize certain family members as Shar pointed out photos from her cell phone.  It is a very special thing to see p-r-o-g-r-e-s-s!


Becky, his CNA, told us that he fed himself today and even took off the lids of the containers all by himself!  PROGRESS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!


We are working on helping him get his smile back.  Did I mention that I LOVE Peter's smile?  He's sure a special young man to ALL of us!

12-1-2012 Peter Update

Today I went up to see Peter.  He spoke a little but then he went to sleep and was taking a little nap before therapy at 11am.  They moved him to another room.  He is in room #314 now.  He seems to be improving each and everyday.  I will report more later today but I wanted to make sure everyone new his new room number.

11/30/2012 Update on Peter

Yesterday when I was sitting with Peter during his lunch.  He ate really well, then I asked him to say HI and he did verbally than I said Peter," Say, I Love You" and he said it.  Then he leaned over to me and said verbally "I need to use the restroom"  That sent shivers down my spine as that is the first time that Peter has spoken verbally to me since his accident.  Then he tried to get out of the chair to go to the restroom and I said Peter you need to wait until they come help you I don't want you to fall and He said "OK" verbally.

I just wanted to cry - It made me so happy to hear him speak.  Then the nurses and aides told me that they have yet to hear him put a sentence together but he did it for me and I was so proud of his hard work.
Peter has been such a trooper.

Today was somewhat of a quite day Peter had alot of therapy this morning so when I got there early in the afternoon he was pretty well tuckered out.  He has been eating real well so hope to get his weight back up.  They removed his staples this afternoon which did not make him real happy that they were messing with his head.  When I got there this evening he was ignoring me and didn't want to look at me still a little upset that they messed with his head until I mentioned a good friend of his and then he rolled over on his back, raised his eyebrows and was a bit more alert to what I was saying.

Peter has been such an inspiration to me as well  as my sisters.  I really have to say Amen and Thank you Joanna and Naomi and even to our dear cousin Laurel.  They have said things so good that it has left me in aaawww!  I could not have said any of it better myself.  I tell you Peter has made me start appreciating the finer things in life and how fragile life is.  I do not leave his side with out saying "I Love You" because I have come to realize say it while you can cause you may not get another chance to.  Also, He has taught me that no matter how hard the path may be or what it takes to keep going that we just need to keep on keeping on and tho they may be baby steps none the less they are steps that keep us going forward.

Thank you so much to everyone that has shown support and given us their prayers.  There is alot of power in prayer and we do appreciate them.  Also, we are thankful for the visitors that keep us motivated.

Just a thought before I let this be all for now:  "When the path is rough and there seems no hope Don't give up Keep on going even if they are baby steps"

Little Steps

I wanted to show how elated I have been to see Peter continue taking forward steps. Yes, we have days where the steps are slow, but, we remember that' "slow and steady ends the race!" Such a great reminder for all of us!

 A week ago or so, we heard him say yes, and no. Now, he is on to bigger and better heart wrenching words! I was with Sharleen yesterday as he audibly said, "I love you!", and a few other short sentences. I wish you could have felt the power in those three simple words. It took some effort to speak to us.  How often do express your love to those closest to you? We often take those closest to us for granted, don't we?

A great lesson.

Make sure you take the time to let others know you love them as none of us are guaranteed of tomorrow, so we want to live each day and fill our hearts with thank-fullness! 

I plan on spending Monday & Tuesday with Pete.   Rumor has it he might get spoiled!  I am thinking a foot massage might be kind of relaxing, or maybe a shoulder massage instead?  We might have to pull out a few books and read stories, turn on the CD and listen to music, or sing along! I might even try and tickle his toes as I did when he was in ICU!

 Laurel

Peter 11/29/2012

I know that I have not been as great as I was about keeping everyone update about Peter as I should, but life happens and between 4 jobs, a daughter, a dad, Peter, and trying to stay sane it has been hard to even get sleep so here goes.
    Peter is improving every day, his left side is still not responding but we are still hopeful that it will.  They say it can take quite a by of time before we see real progress with it.  Every day he speaks new words and it is great to hear.  Today Elmer and Noaleen stopped by which was so nice to see them.  Peter does at least 3 hours of therapy a day but he does enjoy having company even though he does tire out easy.

I leave tomorrow for a trip that was planned prior to Peters accident and it has been a struggle for me but I have chosen to go ahead and go as I know he is in good hands.  Laurel plans to spend Monday and Tuesday with him and Sharleen has been great about seeing him in the afternoons.  Dad has caught a virus from when Peter was at the hospital and hasn't been feeling well so it is hard to have him around Peter as we don't want him to get sick.

Each week the doctors and therapist do evaluations to determine where he is at in the rehab process and if he is still benefiting from being in the rehab unit or if a different venue is in order......... At this point we are still at the rehab unit as they are still seeing improvement............... We pray for a full recovery and hope for the best.  As I get reports from everyone this next week I will try to plots hem in the blog or ask them to update it so everyone can stay updated.

He is still in room 317 which is on the 3rd floor of the old DePaul hospital, visitors are welcome from 830 to 730 and all are welcome to visit.

Thanks for all the prayers and support.

Joanna

Pete from My Eyes

Joanna has done such a good job in keeping this blog updated and for that I want to tell her "Thank YOU.'  But I decided that I could also write a little about Pete.  So here it goes.

As I sat with Pete last week I was thinking about how lucky we are to have Pete and how much I have learned from Pete. 

Last Sunday as Cody and I sat in Pete's room I saw peace and I found comfort.  We were not sure if Pete would be with us come the next morning.  I prayed that I would let God be in control and I would have peace with what ever God discussion would be.  The nurses that day said that we should prepare our selves to make a life or death discussion.  I had a flood of emotions and left there that night with a "Pete, I love YOU."  I felt peace and reassurance that God is in Control and I didn't need to worry.

The next morning as I prayed, I felt the need that I need to be more "Simple" like Pete.  When I arrived in Cheyenne and Pete was doing so much better I knew that I need to be more like Pete.

So what have I learned from Pete?
Here is my list:

Willingness- Pete is always so willing to please and to do what you ask him to do.  I would like to be more like this.

Be Tough- Pete is the only person that I know that can hit his hand with a hammer and never say a thing.  He IS TOUGH.  He has shown that in the last week.

Keep Trying- Pete always tries.  And he tries again and again.  I love that about him.  I would like to be one that keeps trying.

It's Important to be A Buddy- Pete is a Awsome Buddy.  Just ask Mike, Cody and Dad.  I think that life is all about having buddies.  Buddies are so important.  It's important to have someone that listens.  And Pete is a good listener.  You can talk and talk and Pete just keeps shaking his head.  I want to be a better buddy.

It's ok to Be Different-  If you know Pete, then you know that Pete loves ranch dressing and Ketchup on EVERYTHING.  I have seen him but ranch and ketchup on salad, potatoes, in his soup, on his sandwiches and the list goes on and on.  And you know what I think, If it puts a smile on your face, then go FOR IT! 

Be Simple- As I talked to the workers the other Sunday about Pete.  I thought about how simple we need life to be.  Pete likes simple things like a old yearbook and a pencil and paper to write a letter.  I think that we get so carried away with life that we make it way more harder than it should be.  When have I sat down and wrote an old fashioned letter?  Or when have I stopped and looked at a old yearbook?  Well to be honest with you I can not remember.  What I do know is that, I have been trying to be more "simple".  I believe that are service to God can also be Simple and I want to strive for that.

It's Ok to take a Nap- Pete likes a Nap.  I think that naps are good for you.  (I sometimes wish I had time to take a nap but you know last time I tried, the twins had gotten into markers, and candy and and the list goes on.  I learned my lesson.  I had to clean and clean)

You are Never to Old to "Play"- I always loved to see Pete play with the kids.  And he played and played.  It made me smile and all the giggles from Pete and the kids are priceless.

God is in Control- So we all know that there are life lessons.  These past couple of weeks have been a lesson for me spiritually and real life.  It was so hard on me to see Pete lying in a bed, a machine breathing for him and wishing that I could take his place.  But I know that God has a plan for each one of us.  We do not know what that is but I am grateful that we don't have to fear for he knows.  Like Joanna has said in posts before, we are very lucky to have family and friends that help us.  That don't give up and that keep praying.  I have been reading in Proverbs.  I love that message there.  It says,"whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil."

Have you learned anything from Pete?  I would like to know.

Thanks again, each and everyone of you that has shown our family what love, care and praying can do.  I am humbled by the phone calls, texts, and messages that I have received.  I think that I can also speak for my sisters as well.

Naomi

11/25/2012 Update

Peter was moved to the ARU unit on the 3rd floor room 317 at the old DePAul hospital in Cheyenne . It is great to see him making improvements everyday little that they may be they are improvements none the less.   They have asked that if you visit it is best to do so either in the mornings or after 4 pm so that he has all the therapy done for the day or you can contact Shar, or Joanna and if you don't have our numbers just message us on Facebook and we will respond with what his therapy schedule is for the day is so you fit in your visit in around the therapy.....  Naomi, Cary, Laurel, Dolly, Mike, Dora, and I all got to visit with Peter today and he said his first words...... Yes and No...... So exciting and it gets our hopes up that we only have higher to go. He has such a willingness to please that I think big things are to come.    Yay .
This type of rehab unit is Intense and they expect them to be outa there within two weeks is the goal, however if they don't make that goal and are still making progress they will stay until hay have reached there full potential which is great for Peter because he will receive , OT, ST, and PT for a max of 5 hrs of therapy per day, he will interact will all the others in the unit , like eating and other activities,  he has lost enough weight that Naomi went to Wal-Mart and got him comfy cloths and shoes and some awesome boys toys to play with to stimulate him with.   It is so wonderful when you have a family that u can communicate with, love with, and feel that you are all on the same page.  It makes things so much easier and for happier times.  Thank you sisters we have each others backs and thats what family is about!
Today I am so great full  for my two wonderful sisters for without them this last two weeks would have been extremely difficult, I am great full for the workers the were there everyday for the first week for encouragement as that was just what we needed, I am ever so great full for Laurel and Dolly and of course Dolly's husband for allowing them to be here and help us in our great time of need, today I really needed it. Thank you Art I really Appreciate it, you don't know how much it means to have them here.

I am thankful to for Uncle Elmer for Walking our sister down the aisle at her wedding when our dad had to,stay with Peter in the hospital that means so much and that is something I will never forget. It means the world to me that even when others were having hard times, Noaleen you set them aside and you came running to our rescue, thank you so much for that, just knowing that we are a family and we can lean on each other means a lot. LaDawana thank you for stepping in when we needed the help with the girls and I needed to be by Peters side, I knew she was in good hands it was blessing g to know that you were here.

We still have a ways to go in Peters recover process but I believe God has answered a lot of prayers, and. Pray every day that his will to be done and for myself to be doing what he want me to do,  it is not always the easiest thing for me, and I am trying,  Dad seems to be faltering a little with Peter at his time so a few prayers his way may be in order, he seems to be exhausted and not among this as well as in times past, I am pray. For his peace and hoping that with the all progress that Peter has made maybe that will lift his spirts and will help him some.

Well that is all for tonight as I think this is long enough and if I have forgotten to thank anyone I apologize n advance as it has been a whirlwind of a couple weeks.

Joanna

11/24/2012 Peter Eickbush Update

Today was a day for more improvements,  as usual I was late in showing up as I was extra tired but was in time to help the therapist with his session.  He was able to hold his own trunk up which he wasn't able to do yesterday.  His left side is still weak but seems to be improving every day.  We got the good word today ....... He will being to ARU at the old DePaul hospital here in Cheyenne starting next week as long as his CAT scan tomorrow shows everything is still fine.  All of the doctors and nurses here at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center have been great and we could not have asked for better care then what they have given Peter.
I decided that Peter was in good hands and went to work and unexpectedly got a phone call from Laurel Sweazy that she was in Peters room what a surprise and a great relief.  She was able to sit with him for almost the entire day, experiencing quite a few interesting things that Peter had to offer.
1.) Lunch time he sure got her number ,  he knows not to mess with me when it comes to eating but boy he sure had her going as he made her feed him, hint hint he has been feeding himself now for a few days , must have the beautiful face that he wanted to see closer!
2.) She tried to feed him the cranberries that've ate and just fine for us last night but for some reason today he thought that she should where them instead.  Musta thought she looked better with a little purple on her.

He had a double portion for dinner as we are trying to put some weight back on him as he has lot over 20lbs, and it is so important for him to start gaining some of it back.  When he gets over to the rehab unit it will be intense but will also be important for him to continue to have visitors.

It has been an over all good day for us all, Nurses have been good and it is wonderful to have all this support from everyone.

 I have learned that when I first started this blog I had some of the permissions for comments set pretty strong, I have since changed that so anyone and everyone can comment and post without logging in, so feel free to leave your comments also I had transposed his room number last night he is on the 4th floor room number 4206.

Peter 11/23/2012

Today was a good day, Peter was moved from ICU to a regular private room on the 4th floor 4206.  His left side is still weak but is improving every day.  It seems that all the doctors and therapist are in agreement that intense therapy is needed and we are just waiting the word APPROVED so the he can go to ACU starting next week.   This will mean that he will be moved to the old hospital and begin a 5 day a week with 24/7 nursing care therapy setting.  He continues to improving his eating skills and seems to enjoy it more and is gaining more control over is movements on his right side.  Dad, Mike, Sharleen, Rachel, Dora, and I were all able to visit for quite a while.  THe workers stopped in for a few min. This morning before heading out.

I am hopeful that on the end of this journey we will have our old Peter back, but at times my faith waivers as I wonder how it can be possible.  I just have to remember that God has a plan and keep the faith. I will try to keep the updates coming as things happen.  Peter enjoys visitors so if you are in town feel free to stop in.

11/22/2012 Peter Eickbush Update

Today is Thanksgiving and we have a lot to be thankful for.
1.) Peter is doing much better and making great strides in recovery.  Great strides that is for a brain injury, they are baby steps but none the less for him they are big.
2.) We have wonderful family and friends that have been a great support system and the prayers have been a great help.

Today Peter was able to take his own spoon and pick up the food him self and eat which is an improvement from yesterday, every meal he has cleaned up his plate.  He even tried cleaning off the fork that I was using to help portion control what he was taking........made Shar and I have a good laugh.  We brought up apple cinnamon applesauce and he slurped it all down.   That part of him hasn't changed a bit.  Hint hint maybe this will be. Good tool to use to get him to do other things during recovery. Hmmmmmm.  Aunt Noaleen you better get your mixer ready as we are going to need lots of potatoes :).
Even today they did PT which went well for him, they assisted him in standing for the first time and it seemed to have gone as well as could be expected.   I have asked him several times for high fives and he has given me them so he is understanding me pretty well.

Sharleen made a fab. Thanksgiving dinner for which I was grateful, I went over there and promptly fell asleep. Hmmm must have been tired, but it was good eating afterward .

Tomorrow Peter will be moved from ICU to a regular surgical floor so I will post that information as soon as I know what that is, the doctors feel that he will need several weeks of intense therapy to see how much he will be able to regain,  he is still not verbalizing vocally, I feel this may be a little bit of stubbornness as he looks right at us and has that look like I just don't want to do it right now. When we are stern with him he will do what's asked. And when we are not stern he will not.
He is still slow with his left side but every day it seems to improve little by little.

Well that is all for tonight as I am going to head home and get some rest for the day tomorrow.

Keep the prayers coming as we all know God works wonders for all.


Joanna

Peter Eickbush

Here I am creating this blog for our dear brother Peter, so that that wish can follow his recovery.

On Thursday the 15th of November Peter took a tumble out of a pickup while trying to remove an air tank helping Mike.  It wasn't until Friday morning that we realized that something was terribly wrong with him.  As many of us would have we check him all through the night, making sure that all was well and that he was responding in the proper manner,  Friday morning he stopped responding and was rushed to the hospital.

Friday the 16th.  The doctors did an CT scan and determined that there was bleeding in the brain and that there were large hematomas that required emergency surgery as his stat's were dropping rapidly and we did not want to loose Peter.  We were lucky to have a Doctor from Colorado ON CALL that did the surgery and has been following him ever since.

Saturday the 17th.  The swelling in the brain continued and the doctors ordered another CT scan as the Shunt that was in place was not working, and to make for sure that all the bleeding had stopped at this point. They had no idea of the prognosis at this point and we were all on pins and needles waiting for the answer that we all wanted that Peter was going to be just fine.  We have still yet to hear that answer.:(

Sunday the 18th.  Peter has not responded at all at this point and the doctors are not giving us any Hope that he will recovery at this point and we are all in disbelief. Naomi and I(Joanna) sit vigil at his beside while the rest of the family goes off to meeting to meet with all the Friends and be in the presence of GOD with hopes that God's will be done. After meeting Elmer and Noaleen stop by for a quick visit and to say goodbye before their trip, as we do not know if this will be the last time or not.  We are hopeful but with not improvement and no good word from the doctors or the nurses it is hard to keep your spirits and hopes up.  his blood pressure and heart rate are out of control so we are asked not to talk or touch, which is hard for when a loved one is hurting that is what we want to to the most.

Monday the 19th: Prayers are working and GOD has worked miracles. Peter Has started to respond and Naomi is here to see some of the improvements, not as much as we had hoped for but baby steps at last.

Tuesday the 20th.  The big day has arrived.  During the night Peter has started to over breath the vent machine and the doctors are all in agreement that it is time for him to be off the stinking machine........ Sharleen, Dolly, Laurel, and I sit with him as the nurses remove him from the vent machine all the while he is still a little groggy but his eyes wide open knowingly that they are helping him.  The doctors say that most times you will have to train someone to cough after being on a vent for those many days, not Peter he starts coughing right away and we start talking and encouraging him right away. amazing that he does not have to be on any O2 as on his own he is holding 99-100 O2 stats. His breathing is staying right where it should be.  He gets tired easy but that they say is normal for a brain injury.

Wednesday the 21st.  8am Peter is bright eyed and bushy tailed when I walk into the room.  the doctors are taking out the Cath today and we are excited as we are going to try to get him to eat on his own as we don;t want to have to put in a feeding tube as that is a step backwards,  in brain injury's they feel they can sometimes become "lazy" and let others or other things do the work and so pushing is a great way to stimulate and make sure that doesn't happen. So today Peter was able to eat Pudding, His fav... mashed potato's and gravy and was able to take a few drinks on his own.   We got him sitting up in the chair and was able to keep him stimulated with cartoons of all things....... Dad came down and watched over him for me while I went to work in the afternoon and in the morning Sharleen is going to take the early morning shift while I have a brief break before she cooks Thanksgiving dinner for us all.  I will be spending my day with Peter.  All the doctors are now very impressed with the progress made and we just hope to keep it moving forward at this point.