Hi Friends,

Jen here. Just taking a moment to tell you (on Allison’s behalf) that today was a good day. I journeyed with Allison from San Clemente on up to Vernon’s new space at Kindred Hospital in Brea. Yeah, it is about 30 minutes additional driving (beyond Mission Hospital), but the benefits of this new environment were readily clear to us.

We walked into the lovely facility and within minutes were greeted by many staff, including a social worker who had Vernon’s file in hand and was ready to answer Ali’s questions and offer resources of support. He exuded the respect and care that you would hope for in this setting. The physical therapist was equally kind and knowledgeable. The nurses were respectful, and made space for our concerns and questions, and joined us in hope. OK, well we just met, but that’s what I felt anyway. 🙂

Vernon was mostly-awake for a good portion of the time we were there. He seems like he’s getting in gear for the work that’s ahead of him. He was moving his legs, drawing one knee up toward his body. He was able to transfer a squishy ball gently from one hand to another. And when I tried to play a little video of a comedian for him, which I thought was funny…Allison asked him if he thought it was funny also, and there was what we saw as the nod of ‘no’. Oh well, I tried!

I’m so happy to know that in the right timing, the right spot became available for our friend. He’s lined up for the trio of physical, occupational and speech therapy Monday – Friday each week. How nice, they give him a break on the weekends! The photo below was taken while exploring the physical therapy area within the hospital. Looks like they are well equipped to do everything they can to get Vernon moving again. And that soccer ball is sure to trigger some great memories, right San Clemente Soccer Club?

September is nearly here, and Vernon’s not the only one starting a new routine. Allison will be getting prepared for the new school year with Maki and Justine, while making many trips to Brea to encourage her husband. I will be sure and post some new and practical ways that you can support Allison and family in the near future.

I’m blessed to be part of this community that loves this family so very much. Thanks for reading.

– Jen

Kindred Hospital Physical Therapy

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