Ok, so yes I know this has been a long time since my last post, but life seems to get in the way of my doing due diligence of keeping everyone updated on what is going on. The last couple of months since we have gotten home fromCraig has been such a whirlwind it seems just like yesterday, but I see such improvements in Peter it is great, however there are still things that need more improvement, and ha is why we do therapy 3 times week at CRMC as well as at home therapy. We have been trying since December to get Peter on what is called the brain waiver program here in Wyoming, however it seems with ever step forward we go we take two steps back...... The red tape makes it extremely time consuming and can almost make a person want to throw your hands up in disgust. I at times wonder if going through the motions and all the paperwork are worth it but I know that for the sake of Peter it is what is needed for the best care and to be able to get some help with taking care of Peter as I didn't realize how much work it was taking care of someone 24/7. I have had some help from our sister Sharleen which has been well needed as without that at this point I probably would have gone crazy with Dora's schedule, trying to work 2 jobs and take care of Peter and help with dad.
These last two weeks have given me cabin fever and really ready for spring with all this snow and being snowed in. It is great to be living in the country again as that is really where my heart has always been, but really!! Driving Dora 1/2 hour to school because there are no openings in her school where we live now in interesting. Just praying one opens up soon, or at least by the beginning of the next school year as she is really looking forward to riding the bus which will stop right at our front door.
Peter is getting stronger, and we are working on getting him more independent, getting dressed, having a schedule of what the day will bring so he knows what to expect and can carry out some task on his own. At which he is getting better at. He is getting stronger and the nearly sessions are getting harder. They are pushing him and it seems to be working well. We had a check up at Craig hospital last week and they were impressed with all the progress than he has made since he has left and just want for it to continue.
Dad has been able to come to town on occasion and it has been interesting to see how much Peter lights up when asked if he would like to go shopping with him of which I say of course. I and the therapist agree as long as it is positive and continues to stay that way, the interaction between them is a good thing so allowing it can only be good for both of them.
Mike and Dora have been spending time up a Chugwater, mike has been helping Uncle Elmer and when Dora gets tired of being with dad she gets lots of grandpa time of which, even though I am not sure if grandpa will admit it, he really enjoys it and she does to. She ant seem to get enough of all the time she gets to spend exploring all the crocks and crannys of grandpas space. She recently made a recycled snail for school and is so proud to as she made it all from grandpas junk pile :). If only you could have heard that conversation. It was and interesting one.
We are finally settled into our new place, which we love, it is wonderful to have much more new space and a better space for Peter and all of us really. We are hoping to have a house warming party at some point but all are welcome to stop by at any point. Just give me a call to make sure we aren't at therapy. We usually do therapy Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays. My number is 307-631-6797
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that information for you.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Latest update on Peter Eickbush 3/19/2013
Here we are again. Our busy lives these days have made it difficult to find the time to do updates. However it is necessary so I found I just have to make the time. I was asked a few days ago and finally I am making the time to do what I should have all ready done.
Peter is doing remarkable. Each and Every day we see improvements after improvements. Since he has been back home with my Sister (Joanna) he has been going to OT, ST, & PT three times a week and the other two days he has Chiropractic treatments and Massage of which has really made a huge improvement in his mobility and his thinking.
He can almost walk with very little assistance. However someone still needs to be right there with their hand on him in case he should stumble or start to fall. When he first came home he used the walker quite a bit, but since then we discovered that he actually does better without it. Also, I gave him showers almost every other day and at first had to do most all of it, but as time has gone on Peter can do most of it by himself with little asisstance. Joanna has been great with it all. It is very wearing on her and at times she feels like this would just be a bad dream and she would wake up and it would never have happened, but reality is that is did and even though those thoughts flood our head and especially hers - She keeps on keeping on. Joanna has also implemented the Therapy exercises outside of Therapy at home and has really been working with Peter at home quite a bit which has really helped him understand that he needs to really do the work in order to keep improving and hopefully one day be able to do it on his own.
Peters personality has really changed since the accident. He has been quite the jokester. Laughs alot and pulls jokes on people. It has really been a joy to see some inner expressions come out and facial expressions show up that he has never had before the accident. Also, he has been doing very remarkable about recognizing when he eats a meal that he has had enough and he is full.
I story was shared about a mule that fell into a hole and was crying crying crying and the farmer came by and decided it was to much trouble the hole and mule so he called all the neighbors together and told them to start filling the hole with dirt and bury the mule get it out of its misery. So they started doing just that, but the mule got to thinking each time a scoop of dirt hit him he would shrug and shake it off and step up. So he did and eventually climbed out of the hole. I likend this to Peter foremost because he could of just given up and let this incident get the best of him but every time something has been thrown at him he has shook it off and kept stepping up and his determination has gotten him this far and has had so much progress. Also, this is for my wonderful sister Joanna who has been there day in and day out and the many times that she could've and probably wanted to just let the dirt bury her - She has just shrugged and shook and stepped up over and over again. SUCH DETERMINATION!!!!
Prayer is such a powerful thing. I would like to thank all for your kind words and thoughtful prayers. We still need them each and every day so please don't stop keep them coming.
If you would like to see Peter please feel free to contact Joanna Lulf and let her know you are coming so that we can make sure Peter is up and ready and not at a therapy appt. or such. He would love to have the company and it is wonderful therapy for him.
I would also like to take a moment and thank my sister Joanna for all the hard work that you have put in to making Peter comfortable and helping improve. It definitely shows and just remember keep shrugging it off and step up eventually it will be easier.
Shar Johnson
Peter is doing remarkable. Each and Every day we see improvements after improvements. Since he has been back home with my Sister (Joanna) he has been going to OT, ST, & PT three times a week and the other two days he has Chiropractic treatments and Massage of which has really made a huge improvement in his mobility and his thinking.
He can almost walk with very little assistance. However someone still needs to be right there with their hand on him in case he should stumble or start to fall. When he first came home he used the walker quite a bit, but since then we discovered that he actually does better without it. Also, I gave him showers almost every other day and at first had to do most all of it, but as time has gone on Peter can do most of it by himself with little asisstance. Joanna has been great with it all. It is very wearing on her and at times she feels like this would just be a bad dream and she would wake up and it would never have happened, but reality is that is did and even though those thoughts flood our head and especially hers - She keeps on keeping on. Joanna has also implemented the Therapy exercises outside of Therapy at home and has really been working with Peter at home quite a bit which has really helped him understand that he needs to really do the work in order to keep improving and hopefully one day be able to do it on his own.
Peters personality has really changed since the accident. He has been quite the jokester. Laughs alot and pulls jokes on people. It has really been a joy to see some inner expressions come out and facial expressions show up that he has never had before the accident. Also, he has been doing very remarkable about recognizing when he eats a meal that he has had enough and he is full.
I story was shared about a mule that fell into a hole and was crying crying crying and the farmer came by and decided it was to much trouble the hole and mule so he called all the neighbors together and told them to start filling the hole with dirt and bury the mule get it out of its misery. So they started doing just that, but the mule got to thinking each time a scoop of dirt hit him he would shrug and shake it off and step up. So he did and eventually climbed out of the hole. I likend this to Peter foremost because he could of just given up and let this incident get the best of him but every time something has been thrown at him he has shook it off and kept stepping up and his determination has gotten him this far and has had so much progress. Also, this is for my wonderful sister Joanna who has been there day in and day out and the many times that she could've and probably wanted to just let the dirt bury her - She has just shrugged and shook and stepped up over and over again. SUCH DETERMINATION!!!!
Prayer is such a powerful thing. I would like to thank all for your kind words and thoughtful prayers. We still need them each and every day so please don't stop keep them coming.
If you would like to see Peter please feel free to contact Joanna Lulf and let her know you are coming so that we can make sure Peter is up and ready and not at a therapy appt. or such. He would love to have the company and it is wonderful therapy for him.
I would also like to take a moment and thank my sister Joanna for all the hard work that you have put in to making Peter comfortable and helping improve. It definitely shows and just remember keep shrugging it off and step up eventually it will be easier.
Shar Johnson
Friday, February 22, 2013
2/22/2013 Update
Well, Peter made it home , and it has been quite the eventful week, We have all got the flu bug and so it has made the transition time quite interesting. We have started the out patient therapy and it seems to be going well. It has been nice to have the continued support of the Craig Hospital staff for any question that I have and we now have some other great doctors here in Cheyenne on board that are also helping to follow Peter's care. For me I had thought things would be easier when we got home but things have been so hectic in getting everything set up and trying to make sure things are safe and getting paperwork done that time for sleep just seems to elude me.
We have been able to take Peter to Dora's basketball games and he has seemed to enjoy them. I treated him to a pedicure and he really enjoyed the experience as well. I have it set up that he gets 3 massage sessions a week as well as chiropractic care and that along with the therapy sessions seems to be making a big difference in how his body is responding to the treatment. His left side is becoming stronger everyday and for that we are thankful.
With just a month until the big moving day, I am trying to make sure we have all he logistic's worked out so there is min. stress on Peter and that things will go smooth. We hopefully will have enough people to help that one day and we will be moved and I can at least get all of his room done and organized so that it is familiar. We will just be moving to the east side of Cheyenne so it won't be such a hard move and it will be better all around once we get a house that is more user friendly for Peter.
Everyone is more then welcome to come by and see Peter and he would welcome visitors. Our current house is easy to find and if you need directions just call or our address is 621 Vista Ln in Cheyenne.
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that information for you
We have been able to take Peter to Dora's basketball games and he has seemed to enjoy them. I treated him to a pedicure and he really enjoyed the experience as well. I have it set up that he gets 3 massage sessions a week as well as chiropractic care and that along with the therapy sessions seems to be making a big difference in how his body is responding to the treatment. His left side is becoming stronger everyday and for that we are thankful.
With just a month until the big moving day, I am trying to make sure we have all he logistic's worked out so there is min. stress on Peter and that things will go smooth. We hopefully will have enough people to help that one day and we will be moved and I can at least get all of his room done and organized so that it is familiar. We will just be moving to the east side of Cheyenne so it won't be such a hard move and it will be better all around once we get a house that is more user friendly for Peter.
Everyone is more then welcome to come by and see Peter and he would welcome visitors. Our current house is easy to find and if you need directions just call or our address is 621 Vista Ln in Cheyenne.
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that information for you
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Peter Update 02/03/2013
Update from Craig hospital 02/03/2013:
It has once again been longer then it should have for an update on Peter. Time seems to get away from me as the days run together as well as the weeks. He is doing really, really well down here and is improving daily.
We will be returning to Cheyenne on the 14th of Feb, to Home. Yay I can't wait to finally have him home. It has been a long haul since the 16th of November. yet it seems like just yesterday since I got the phone call and I couldn't believe that something was wrong.
We had a conference with all the doctors and therapists on the 31st and it went well, they all seem to think that Peter, with time and more out patient rehab will make an almost if not full recovery to the point of what he was prior to the accident. however with ever TBI, there will always be residual issue to deal with like frustration, memory function, anger, etc. all things that we can deal with we just have to learn the right tools and that is what they are teaching me now. It is so nice to be somewhere that knows and only deals with brain injuries as it gives us such a better picture of what is to come.
Peter has become a social butterfly here something that I hope I can help him continue once we get home. He was the "bat chi" ball champion today and has really enjoyed playing ping pong, the WII, and blow darts, so far no one has been able to beat him at blow darts. These are all part of his therapy sessions as they try to make it fun so he doesn't realize he is using that left arm and leg so as not to get him so agitated and it works.
He was able to attend a wonderful gate clinic which enabled them to see that for now he needs a special brace for his left leg in order to stabilize his walking abilities. His walking is doing really well, and he can really cruise in the wheelchair now which is his main mode of transportation.
We have had the honor of meeting people from all over the country from all different types of accidents, but one thing remains in common with all of us, we all pray, we all have hope for a better tomorrow, we all are here for our loved ones, we all have those at home we have left behind to care those who are here, even though I miss my daughter and family at home it helps knowing that I am not suppose to feel sorry for myself because 1.) I am not the one who has to endure hours of therapy every day and 2.) I do have a 2nd family in those who are also here supporting there loved ones.
We will be doing our out patient rehab in Fort Collins 3-4 days a week and hope to get him in some type of pool therapy as well in Cheyenne. It will take up to a year of this in order to complete the process but it will be well worth all the travel and time that it takes to get him back up to speed.
It is great to see Peters new " outlook" you could say as it is a change from what we are all used to. He used to have flat expressions and now he is a real jokster and he has a great smile and laughter, along with letting us know now when he is in pain or not in pain. These are all changes for the best since his accident.
Well that is all for now. :)
Joanna
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that information for you.
OK so the address for the Postal Service is 3425 S. Clarkson St. Engle wood, CO 80113 Attn: Peter Eickbush Room 212 C/O Guest Services
Fed Ex and UPS: 3427 S. Emerson Street EngleWood, CO 80113 Attention: Peter Eickbush Apt: 201
It has once again been longer then it should have for an update on Peter. Time seems to get away from me as the days run together as well as the weeks. He is doing really, really well down here and is improving daily.
We will be returning to Cheyenne on the 14th of Feb, to Home. Yay I can't wait to finally have him home. It has been a long haul since the 16th of November. yet it seems like just yesterday since I got the phone call and I couldn't believe that something was wrong.
We had a conference with all the doctors and therapists on the 31st and it went well, they all seem to think that Peter, with time and more out patient rehab will make an almost if not full recovery to the point of what he was prior to the accident. however with ever TBI, there will always be residual issue to deal with like frustration, memory function, anger, etc. all things that we can deal with we just have to learn the right tools and that is what they are teaching me now. It is so nice to be somewhere that knows and only deals with brain injuries as it gives us such a better picture of what is to come.
Peter has become a social butterfly here something that I hope I can help him continue once we get home. He was the "bat chi" ball champion today and has really enjoyed playing ping pong, the WII, and blow darts, so far no one has been able to beat him at blow darts. These are all part of his therapy sessions as they try to make it fun so he doesn't realize he is using that left arm and leg so as not to get him so agitated and it works.
He was able to attend a wonderful gate clinic which enabled them to see that for now he needs a special brace for his left leg in order to stabilize his walking abilities. His walking is doing really well, and he can really cruise in the wheelchair now which is his main mode of transportation.
We have had the honor of meeting people from all over the country from all different types of accidents, but one thing remains in common with all of us, we all pray, we all have hope for a better tomorrow, we all are here for our loved ones, we all have those at home we have left behind to care those who are here, even though I miss my daughter and family at home it helps knowing that I am not suppose to feel sorry for myself because 1.) I am not the one who has to endure hours of therapy every day and 2.) I do have a 2nd family in those who are also here supporting there loved ones.
We will be doing our out patient rehab in Fort Collins 3-4 days a week and hope to get him in some type of pool therapy as well in Cheyenne. It will take up to a year of this in order to complete the process but it will be well worth all the travel and time that it takes to get him back up to speed.
It is great to see Peters new " outlook" you could say as it is a change from what we are all used to. He used to have flat expressions and now he is a real jokster and he has a great smile and laughter, along with letting us know now when he is in pain or not in pain. These are all changes for the best since his accident.
Well that is all for now. :)
Joanna
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that information for you.
OK so the address for the Postal Service is 3425 S. Clarkson St. Engle wood, CO 80113 Attn: Peter Eickbush Room 212 C/O Guest Services
Fed Ex and UPS: 3427 S. Emerson Street EngleWood, CO 80113 Attention: Peter Eickbush Apt: 201
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Craig Hospital Update 1/25/2013
Here we are 10 days into a great rehab stay at Craig Hospital and things are going great.
After several rounds of testing they had found that pester still had some bleeding on his brain, so we are watching it closely to make sure that it doesn't grow and are doing some Genetic testing to see if there are disorders that we need to be aware of.
On the bright side Peter is adjusting well, as seems to be enjoying his time here, his days are filled with classes that help him to recover his memory and to help his brain build new pathways to what is stored inside. There are lots of activities that we have been able to get him involved in like tie dying, cookie making, he was able to play the WII Bowling game with his left hand all while standing. It is so exciting to see his progress. Craig's moto is to push but not to push to hard that they regress so even though to me it seems they are not pushing very hard but they are the experts at Brian injuries and I have to learn at times to take a step back.
This weekend he was able to go on what that call an outing to the museum in Denver with some of the other patients, of which he seems to be growing friends with a few, he has picked up the game of trash, which is a card game that I don't know. He has taken a fishing class and gardening class, all these things help his thinking skills.
We have a family conference this coming week that will tell us what they expect Peters outcome, stay, ect., to be so we are looking forward to seeing what they all have to say. It has been a great experience seeing that it is not only just us that has hard times and I have learned so much from everyone and all the other families at Craig.
Well that is all for now and Peters says HI to everyone.
We have set up a benefit account at the Oregon Trail Banks in Cheyenne, Chugwater, and Guernsey to help with expenses related to Peters stay in Denver.
Thanks for the continued prayers and more news to come soon
Joanna
After several rounds of testing they had found that pester still had some bleeding on his brain, so we are watching it closely to make sure that it doesn't grow and are doing some Genetic testing to see if there are disorders that we need to be aware of.
On the bright side Peter is adjusting well, as seems to be enjoying his time here, his days are filled with classes that help him to recover his memory and to help his brain build new pathways to what is stored inside. There are lots of activities that we have been able to get him involved in like tie dying, cookie making, he was able to play the WII Bowling game with his left hand all while standing. It is so exciting to see his progress. Craig's moto is to push but not to push to hard that they regress so even though to me it seems they are not pushing very hard but they are the experts at Brian injuries and I have to learn at times to take a step back.
This weekend he was able to go on what that call an outing to the museum in Denver with some of the other patients, of which he seems to be growing friends with a few, he has picked up the game of trash, which is a card game that I don't know. He has taken a fishing class and gardening class, all these things help his thinking skills.
We have a family conference this coming week that will tell us what they expect Peters outcome, stay, ect., to be so we are looking forward to seeing what they all have to say. It has been a great experience seeing that it is not only just us that has hard times and I have learned so much from everyone and all the other families at Craig.
Well that is all for now and Peters says HI to everyone.
We have set up a benefit account at the Oregon Trail Banks in Cheyenne, Chugwater, and Guernsey to help with expenses related to Peters stay in Denver.
Thanks for the continued prayers and more news to come soon
Joanna
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Craig Hospital Update 01/20/2013
Well I know it has been awhile since I have posted an update, but it has been quite a whirlwind of a Trip once we got down here to Craig. We arrived safe and sound on Wednesday the 16th of January 2013. It was sad to leave the comfort of the ARU unit in Cheyenne, but exciting know that we were going to a great facility that deals only with brain injuries. I was extremely worried since I was the only one in the car driving Peter to Denver that we may have issues, but prior to the trip I explained what I expected out of him, i.e. , good behavior, if you need something ask, please don't grab for the door, and then I asked if he would like to watch a DVD, and was so excited that I had an old western and he said " Yes" With enthusiasm, I put it in and put his headphones on and away we went. It was just about noon when we were just a few blocks away and i realized that he would have already missed lunch and I saw a McDonald's, I turned to him and as him if he would like to have a Double Quarter Pounder and some Fries with a Shake and he was all SMILES, I took that as a yes and pulled right in. I waited there for him to finish before, making the short trip down the street to the hospital.
As I pulled into the bay to unload him I asked that he sit there while I find someone to help me get him checked into his new room and he did so without question. Autumn was the nice lady that helped get a chair and told me where I need to park and that she would take him up tot the 2nd floor and he would be in room 212 where I should meet her and him as they were all expecting him and they would all get started right away. Hmmm I said to myself what does that mean.
Well I soon found out that here they waste no time. They get right down to it. OT, PT, Physc, Speech, Rec Therapy, CNA's where all ready to get to know Peters story and take notes so that they know the best way to start and end. He was soon fitted to the bed, (they added padding as Peter said it wasn't very soft), he was fitted to a wheelchair, (although it maybe only temporary it helps him to be more mobile on his own and to use his left leg more by pulling himself around more and that helps with his independence allot more as well), He as adapted very well to this change better than I, his doctors, and anyone could have hoped he would have.
He was soon wheeled off for another round of precautionary test, CT, MRI, Ultrasounds, X-rays, Pictures, etc, they error completely on the side of caution. I even had to take training and test to be able to help him with transfers and to be able to take him, without a CNA or a tech, outside, to the rec center, to his meals, so I was able to do the training in the 1st two days that I have been here and amazingly I passed and have been approved to have the on campus pass, I must do more testing in order to have the off campus pass, I will continue this, this week so that it will only improve my knowledge for when he comes home.
Dad, Mike and Dora were able to come down on Friday night which was very nice to have the company as Peter does ask what dad and Mike are doing on a daily basis,(sometimes I feel like chopped liver lol), it was very nice that they had that time together and Mike, Dora and I were able to spend some family time together as well, we haven't had much of that lately and I am sure Dora feels the effects of that too.
We were able to make it to the Stock show for the Wild West Show which she was overjoyed to Video the whole thing to show to Peter, bless her heart she thinks to much of him and she misses having him at home, she ask all the time when he is coming home and I wish that I had a concrete answer because that would mean I would know when I am going to be home as well. We were also able to make it to the late Rodeo of which we sat in front row by the roping chutes which of course she loved because she was on camera the entire time the ropers, steer wrestlers, or anything else was going on at that end of the arena.
Today was a rough day for me saying goodbye to Mike, Dora and Dad knowing that once again I would be here by myself as I miss my family, but I know that Peter really needs me here and that Sharleen and Mike have it under control and I need to learn to let someone else take on that burden as much as I will let them. I have been attending all of the OT, PT, Rec. Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physc. Therapy, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and it makes for a very long day just for me, Peter seems to be handling it very well, Today he even went to the recreation room and WATCHED FOOTBALL with HIS GUYS, it is great that he is getting to know those on the floor with him, it really makes me smile as he starts to socialize a little bit more, he does get tired and has been getting in rest in between which is good the team says, and they a right on top on anything that we have concerns about, wither it be, hearing, eyes, weight, walking, etc. and they have a wonderful open door policy. All the doctors, nurses, cna's, techs are all great and Nice to work with and are so willing to help us all learn which is what I and our whole family need at this point because this is such a different injury then what he had before that after rehab we will still be dealing with issues at home and having tools in our so called toolbox to take home with us will be worth so much.
I am hoping to be able to pick up Dad and Dora again next Friday in Cheyenne after her basketball game and bring them back to Denver to spend the weekend with Peter as the have a outing to the Museum of Nature History which I am hopeful all will enjoy :) and it really gives dad and Peter that one on one time that Peter is desperately craving at this point from dad.
Peter has a full week already planned out for him which includes recreation time, speech, OT, PT, Physc, rest time, I am fully involved in all of the therapy session as that is what the doctors and staff have asked and I am willing to do as much or ask little as they want just as long as it is a help in getting Peter home sooner and in the best shape that he can be in. They have even been able to upgrade him from having someone in the room with him all the time since he has learned to push the nurse button and talk to them and let them know what he needs to just having them watch him on the camera from a nurses station just a few doors down which is a big big big improvement.
Right now the visiting hours are fairly limited and are from 5pm to 730pm and I would ask that you call me at 307-631-6797 ahead of time just in case we have some rec activities planned so that we can be in the room and can expect you.
A big thank you goes out to the ARU unit in Cheyenne as they did a fabulous job in getting Peter to this point because without that team of doctors, nurses, CNA's, techs Peter would not have been able to make it to Craig hospital and get this level of care so for that I will forever be grateful and once we get back to Cheyenne you can be you will be one of our first stops to show you how much he has improved.
I am staying on campus here at Craig full time for the time being the apartment phone number is 303-789-8477 or my personal cell phone for which I carry all the time is 307-631-6797
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that informaton for you.
OK so the address for the Postal Service is 3425 S. Clarkson St. Engle wood, CO 80113 Attn: Peter Eickbush Room 212 C/O Guest Servies
Fed Ex and UPS: 3427 S. Emerson Street Engle Wood, CO 80113 Attention: Peter Eickbush Apt: 201
As I pulled into the bay to unload him I asked that he sit there while I find someone to help me get him checked into his new room and he did so without question. Autumn was the nice lady that helped get a chair and told me where I need to park and that she would take him up tot the 2nd floor and he would be in room 212 where I should meet her and him as they were all expecting him and they would all get started right away. Hmmm I said to myself what does that mean.
Well I soon found out that here they waste no time. They get right down to it. OT, PT, Physc, Speech, Rec Therapy, CNA's where all ready to get to know Peters story and take notes so that they know the best way to start and end. He was soon fitted to the bed, (they added padding as Peter said it wasn't very soft), he was fitted to a wheelchair, (although it maybe only temporary it helps him to be more mobile on his own and to use his left leg more by pulling himself around more and that helps with his independence allot more as well), He as adapted very well to this change better than I, his doctors, and anyone could have hoped he would have.
He was soon wheeled off for another round of precautionary test, CT, MRI, Ultrasounds, X-rays, Pictures, etc, they error completely on the side of caution. I even had to take training and test to be able to help him with transfers and to be able to take him, without a CNA or a tech, outside, to the rec center, to his meals, so I was able to do the training in the 1st two days that I have been here and amazingly I passed and have been approved to have the on campus pass, I must do more testing in order to have the off campus pass, I will continue this, this week so that it will only improve my knowledge for when he comes home.
Dad, Mike and Dora were able to come down on Friday night which was very nice to have the company as Peter does ask what dad and Mike are doing on a daily basis,(sometimes I feel like chopped liver lol), it was very nice that they had that time together and Mike, Dora and I were able to spend some family time together as well, we haven't had much of that lately and I am sure Dora feels the effects of that too.
We were able to make it to the Stock show for the Wild West Show which she was overjoyed to Video the whole thing to show to Peter, bless her heart she thinks to much of him and she misses having him at home, she ask all the time when he is coming home and I wish that I had a concrete answer because that would mean I would know when I am going to be home as well. We were also able to make it to the late Rodeo of which we sat in front row by the roping chutes which of course she loved because she was on camera the entire time the ropers, steer wrestlers, or anything else was going on at that end of the arena.
Today was a rough day for me saying goodbye to Mike, Dora and Dad knowing that once again I would be here by myself as I miss my family, but I know that Peter really needs me here and that Sharleen and Mike have it under control and I need to learn to let someone else take on that burden as much as I will let them. I have been attending all of the OT, PT, Rec. Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physc. Therapy, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and it makes for a very long day just for me, Peter seems to be handling it very well, Today he even went to the recreation room and WATCHED FOOTBALL with HIS GUYS, it is great that he is getting to know those on the floor with him, it really makes me smile as he starts to socialize a little bit more, he does get tired and has been getting in rest in between which is good the team says, and they a right on top on anything that we have concerns about, wither it be, hearing, eyes, weight, walking, etc. and they have a wonderful open door policy. All the doctors, nurses, cna's, techs are all great and Nice to work with and are so willing to help us all learn which is what I and our whole family need at this point because this is such a different injury then what he had before that after rehab we will still be dealing with issues at home and having tools in our so called toolbox to take home with us will be worth so much.
I am hoping to be able to pick up Dad and Dora again next Friday in Cheyenne after her basketball game and bring them back to Denver to spend the weekend with Peter as the have a outing to the Museum of Nature History which I am hopeful all will enjoy :) and it really gives dad and Peter that one on one time that Peter is desperately craving at this point from dad.
Peter has a full week already planned out for him which includes recreation time, speech, OT, PT, Physc, rest time, I am fully involved in all of the therapy session as that is what the doctors and staff have asked and I am willing to do as much or ask little as they want just as long as it is a help in getting Peter home sooner and in the best shape that he can be in. They have even been able to upgrade him from having someone in the room with him all the time since he has learned to push the nurse button and talk to them and let them know what he needs to just having them watch him on the camera from a nurses station just a few doors down which is a big big big improvement.
Right now the visiting hours are fairly limited and are from 5pm to 730pm and I would ask that you call me at 307-631-6797 ahead of time just in case we have some rec activities planned so that we can be in the room and can expect you.
A big thank you goes out to the ARU unit in Cheyenne as they did a fabulous job in getting Peter to this point because without that team of doctors, nurses, CNA's, techs Peter would not have been able to make it to Craig hospital and get this level of care so for that I will forever be grateful and once we get back to Cheyenne you can be you will be one of our first stops to show you how much he has improved.
I am staying on campus here at Craig full time for the time being the apartment phone number is 303-789-8477 or my personal cell phone for which I carry all the time is 307-631-6797
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute. If you would like to have the account information so you can just transfer please contact Naomi Loomis or Joanna Lulf and we can get that informaton for you.
OK so the address for the Postal Service is 3425 S. Clarkson St. Engle wood, CO 80113 Attn: Peter Eickbush Room 212 C/O Guest Servies
Fed Ex and UPS: 3427 S. Emerson Street Engle Wood, CO 80113 Attention: Peter Eickbush Apt: 201
Sunday, January 13, 2013
01/13/2012
Peter is continuing to make great strides of improvement and I am so excited to see what Craig has in store for us.
Peter and I will make the trip on Wednesday the 16th, to Denver to start the journey with Craig Hospital. I have had the opportunity to talk and meet with several of the team members and they all seem wonderful and I am looking forward to this next adventure for Peter. I have made the decision to stop working full time for the time being so that my efforts can be towards getting Peter the care and treatment that he needs and so that when he comes home there is someone here to take care of him.
We have had some more good news that Peter has been moved up to the top of the brain waiver list, which means once he makes it home we will have more assistance from state in the form of therapy, which we wouldn't have had, had he not made it to the top of the list. It is amazing how much red tape you have to go through in order to get the help for those you love. many times I have asked our wonderful case worker Jennifer at the ARU what happens to those who don't have the family backing that Peter has, and she has only one answer and that is they just slowly disappear, it is so sad to me and makes me want to advocate for each and everyone of them, but I know I don't have the time.
For now my plan is to be in Denver for as much of the time as I can. I also have obligations to my daughter, as she has sports, then being able to take dad to and from Denver to allow him the time to spend with Peter as well, will be time consuming. I am sure hat once we get schedule down it will seem much clearer, but at this point what I know is this, the first week will be a big adjustment period for Peter and the TBI team at Craig, I will be there for the entire 1st week and will be bringing Dad down on Saturday- Monday as well As Dora since Monday is a holiday, and then taking them back to Cheyenne and returning to Denver Monday night for the remainder of the week. After that we will see how Peter is adjusting to the new therapy sessions and how the new program, and will make any adjustment that are needed from there. I am so grateful for my wonderful sisters who help with Dora and for all the family and friend a that have been so diligent with the prayers. Again our family can not thank you enough for everything everyone has done. :) so as of Wednesday Peter will no,longer be here in Cheyenne but will be in Denver, CO as soon as I can get an update out from Denver I will try to do so, but I am not sure how the program works there so I am trying to keep my schedule open so that I to can "go along with the program so to speak" .
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute.
Till next time
Joanna Lulf
Peter and I will make the trip on Wednesday the 16th, to Denver to start the journey with Craig Hospital. I have had the opportunity to talk and meet with several of the team members and they all seem wonderful and I am looking forward to this next adventure for Peter. I have made the decision to stop working full time for the time being so that my efforts can be towards getting Peter the care and treatment that he needs and so that when he comes home there is someone here to take care of him.
We have had some more good news that Peter has been moved up to the top of the brain waiver list, which means once he makes it home we will have more assistance from state in the form of therapy, which we wouldn't have had, had he not made it to the top of the list. It is amazing how much red tape you have to go through in order to get the help for those you love. many times I have asked our wonderful case worker Jennifer at the ARU what happens to those who don't have the family backing that Peter has, and she has only one answer and that is they just slowly disappear, it is so sad to me and makes me want to advocate for each and everyone of them, but I know I don't have the time.
For now my plan is to be in Denver for as much of the time as I can. I also have obligations to my daughter, as she has sports, then being able to take dad to and from Denver to allow him the time to spend with Peter as well, will be time consuming. I am sure hat once we get schedule down it will seem much clearer, but at this point what I know is this, the first week will be a big adjustment period for Peter and the TBI team at Craig, I will be there for the entire 1st week and will be bringing Dad down on Saturday- Monday as well As Dora since Monday is a holiday, and then taking them back to Cheyenne and returning to Denver Monday night for the remainder of the week. After that we will see how Peter is adjusting to the new therapy sessions and how the new program, and will make any adjustment that are needed from there. I am so grateful for my wonderful sisters who help with Dora and for all the family and friend a that have been so diligent with the prayers. Again our family can not thank you enough for everything everyone has done. :) so as of Wednesday Peter will no,longer be here in Cheyenne but will be in Denver, CO as soon as I can get an update out from Denver I will try to do so, but I am not sure how the program works there so I am trying to keep my schedule open so that I to can "go along with the program so to speak" .
We have set up a " For the Benefit Account for Peter Eickbush" at Oregon Trail Bank at any of the branches in Guernsey, Chugwater, and Cheyenne, so those that wish to can contribute.
Till next time
Joanna Lulf
Saturday, January 5, 2013
01/05/2013 Update
Greetings fom a brand new year.
I have been great at procrastination, this past year as well as letting my time get away with me and not managing it very well. I can use every excuse in the book not to keep everyone updated on Peters progress but it wouldn't be a good enough of one.
We have been very blessed to have him in a great facility with excellence doctors, nurses, CNA's, and case managers that have helped our family through this entire process. It was just last week that we thought we would have to move him to a skilled nursing facility so I went and toured the one and only one that had said they wold take him till Craig hospital in Denver had a spot, and I was in total dismay that I was in tears when leaving that this is where someone's loved one would have to be. It was sat at that moment I decided that if no other options opened up and that was where he had to be I would bring my blankets, sanitizers, phone, computer, and stay by his side for the 18 days that he would need to be there as I felt it was not the right place for him, but it was the only way for us to get him to Craig as if we were to bring him home before going to Craig they would not accept him.
I returned to the ARU unit in tears where his case worker stopped me to ask how the visit had went and I had explained, she then Went into the weekly meeting with all the staff and doctors and they had conversations in which they all where in agreement that 2 moves for Peter where just not in his best interests, so my prayers were answered and he as able once again to stay at the ARU unit and continue with all the wonderful folks ther that have given him such love, care and understanding.
Shar made a great New Years dinner for Peter which made all the others in the unit jealous as he sat there and ate it all (wasn't a big fan of her dressing) but was kind enough to try it. He is gaining more and more weight each day and continues to fill out in all areas of the body which is a good sign. Shar also brought up pedicure supplies to work on Peters feet, turned i to an hour and a half project, which he Tolerated really well and now he feet are looking " normal" again and we even got a smaller and a chuckle out of hi over it. He is getting more and more patient with each and every of us and enjoys talking and asking questions. His walking and climbing skills are coming along and is nothing short of a miracle what he has accomplished in such a short amount of time. All of the doctors and nurses say that all the family and friends support has such a HUGE amount to do with his success that we need to keep it up. His short term memory is still failing but will hopefully come with time. He has been switched to a full normal diet and regular liquids which is a big deal for him as he loves orange soda and root beer.
He will be moved to Craig hospital in Englewood Colorado the week of the 15th, the first week or so we will probably be asking that we limit visitors strictly to immediate family, as this will be an adjustment time and very confusing for Peter according to the Traumatic Brain Injury Team at Craig Hospital, my plan is to be there with him for the 1st week and longer is needed during this time as they feel that it is important that family participate in the rehab process and all of his therapy session as well as attend family sessions that they offer for us to better understand how to cope, handle and care for someone with a TBI easier after they return home. The assumption at this time is his stay at Craig old be as short as two weeks or as long as eight weeks it will depend on how well he accepts the treatment plan.
Our lives take such twist and turns and you never know which v in the road is the correct one to take and if you are making the right decision, I often wonder each day if I am making the best decisions for Peter, I have tried every time when making a decision to make it based off of just like he were my own child. WhenPeter is able to come home we have been able to get it set up that we will have home health, speach therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physiological therapy, as well as a few other helpers to come into the home and help with his care as needd which will be great help to me. It has been wonderful to have a team of medical professionals that have gone above what I ever expected them to do and offer a hand in guidance through this entire process.
I want to also say thank you to all the friends and family out there for all your continued prayers and help for without it who knows where we would be today. And lastly tomy sisters for putting up,with me I know sometimes I am not always the easiest to get along with but I just want what is best. Love you all I will try to keep the post coming as more updates come in with when Peters final move dates come in and what his room will be in Denver.
Cheers and a Happy New Year To All
Joanna
I have been great at procrastination, this past year as well as letting my time get away with me and not managing it very well. I can use every excuse in the book not to keep everyone updated on Peters progress but it wouldn't be a good enough of one.
We have been very blessed to have him in a great facility with excellence doctors, nurses, CNA's, and case managers that have helped our family through this entire process. It was just last week that we thought we would have to move him to a skilled nursing facility so I went and toured the one and only one that had said they wold take him till Craig hospital in Denver had a spot, and I was in total dismay that I was in tears when leaving that this is where someone's loved one would have to be. It was sat at that moment I decided that if no other options opened up and that was where he had to be I would bring my blankets, sanitizers, phone, computer, and stay by his side for the 18 days that he would need to be there as I felt it was not the right place for him, but it was the only way for us to get him to Craig as if we were to bring him home before going to Craig they would not accept him.
I returned to the ARU unit in tears where his case worker stopped me to ask how the visit had went and I had explained, she then Went into the weekly meeting with all the staff and doctors and they had conversations in which they all where in agreement that 2 moves for Peter where just not in his best interests, so my prayers were answered and he as able once again to stay at the ARU unit and continue with all the wonderful folks ther that have given him such love, care and understanding.
Shar made a great New Years dinner for Peter which made all the others in the unit jealous as he sat there and ate it all (wasn't a big fan of her dressing) but was kind enough to try it. He is gaining more and more weight each day and continues to fill out in all areas of the body which is a good sign. Shar also brought up pedicure supplies to work on Peters feet, turned i to an hour and a half project, which he Tolerated really well and now he feet are looking " normal" again and we even got a smaller and a chuckle out of hi over it. He is getting more and more patient with each and every of us and enjoys talking and asking questions. His walking and climbing skills are coming along and is nothing short of a miracle what he has accomplished in such a short amount of time. All of the doctors and nurses say that all the family and friends support has such a HUGE amount to do with his success that we need to keep it up. His short term memory is still failing but will hopefully come with time. He has been switched to a full normal diet and regular liquids which is a big deal for him as he loves orange soda and root beer.
He will be moved to Craig hospital in Englewood Colorado the week of the 15th, the first week or so we will probably be asking that we limit visitors strictly to immediate family, as this will be an adjustment time and very confusing for Peter according to the Traumatic Brain Injury Team at Craig Hospital, my plan is to be there with him for the 1st week and longer is needed during this time as they feel that it is important that family participate in the rehab process and all of his therapy session as well as attend family sessions that they offer for us to better understand how to cope, handle and care for someone with a TBI easier after they return home. The assumption at this time is his stay at Craig old be as short as two weeks or as long as eight weeks it will depend on how well he accepts the treatment plan.
I want to also say thank you to all the friends and family out there for all your continued prayers and help for without it who knows where we would be today. And lastly tomy sisters for putting up,with me I know sometimes I am not always the easiest to get along with but I just want what is best. Love you all I will try to keep the post coming as more updates come in with when Peters final move dates come in and what his room will be in Denver.
Cheers and a Happy New Year To All
Joanna
A few videos, pictures and a final post from the cuz!
Howdy Pardners!
I understand Peter may be moved a week from today to Craig Rehab in Denver. Since I haven't had a chance to get up to Cheyenne and see Peter, I thought I would share a few photos, and maybe a video, or two, of the time I spent with Peter while Daren and mom accompanied me.
I think I win the boring blogger award, so this will be my final post as I will let Peter's sisters kinda let everyone know where he is at from here on out!
We wish him a speedy recovery, and a smooth transition into the Craig Rehab hospital. If he makes it there in the next week, I must say for all you Cowboys, and Cowgirls, headed to the Stock show, it is just a hop, skip, and a few jumps from the Coliseum off of I-70 down to the hospital! According to Google maps, he is just 12 miles, or 20 minutes from the Stock show! So, hope a few can make it! :-D
Peter says Hi:
Peter wanted to greet my Grandmother. She was close to his mother, Dora.
Here are a few more photos of our day together ...
Peter & Daren K.
Well, we sure wish Peter a speedy recovery and look forward to the day he returns home and is able to settle down and enjoy life again.
Hope everyone had a wonderful New Years eve, and day! Happy 2013! May it be a year of blessings for all of us, especially Peter!
Here is a poem that has come to my mind as I have thought of Peter - Good to remember that He is not alone, nor is anyone else!
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