Vernon continues to have dialysis for 3 hours a day, releasing 3 liters of fluids from his system. I understand that his kidneys may work properly again when he comes through, but he will be on regular dialysis for some time. Our bodies are amazing machines filled with incredibly efficient albeit small organs, which are tucked discreetly inside. The man-made version of the kidney is giant box, as big as a refrigerator, connected by awkward tubes through the neck. Be thankful we all don’t have to lug those around everywhere just to help us pee…the world is crowded enough!
One interesting thing that happened while I was at the hospital today is that the Physical Therapists came by for the first time. They moved Vernon’s legs a bit to getting some motion going through the joints. I’m glad he was asleep for it, this first time, as it would certainly be painful after a month of lying still…let alone because his injuries. But this is what I found so funny: when the Physical Therapist worked his broken leg, Vernon managed to react with one eye half opening. I doubt he could see anything or was even aware of what was happening, but the look of ‘stink-eye’ he seemed to direct at the PT was so awesome. Vernon in his waking best, is still often a man of few words, but a well directed eyebrow can convey much. So to see something close to this expression was great.
I’ve been learning to live in the moment, the hour, and at most, the DAY. And so little motions like this I hold dear to my heart as signs of recovery. Its been 26 days since I’ve seen my husband even move, so I’ll take what I can get. And he can take his time.
Now, one more thing I want to share…
This picture is of the plaque outside his room. At first I didn’t think it was as profound as some of the other quotes and scriptures I’ve seen outside SICU rooms. But now I think it is absolutely the best and most appropriate message for his story. The Spirit of Giving from the doctors and nurses…and YOU, his community…has certainly lifted him and us, his family, beyond what we could have imagined. Thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, gifts, and help…it is changing us all for good.
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I am glad that you had an encouraging moment. We continue to pray for each baby step in Vernons healing. Praying for peace and strength for you and the family. ♡ the Jones family
Thanks, its kind of fun to watch for these things now. What a strange time. Thank you again for your commitment! It means so much, truly.
Pain and love and hope and fear and joy and strength and awe and gratitude . . . So many emotions are expressed in your writings, Allison. They show us all what an amazing woman you are.
Praying with you for your dear husband.
I enjoyed hearing about the Stink eye 🙂 and the physical therapy. He is making progress-that’s so great to hear! There is so much love around you and Vernon-
this tragity truly has brought out the best in everyone. I see what community is in action. It’s full of hope and love and even laughter through tears… Outside of The importance of Vernon being well and making a full recovery -not much else seems – that big a deal…I love you Vernon and Allison
i think Vern is at “his waking best” ,Allison you made me giggle this morning… i can see that eyebrow move in my mind, that eyebrow can speak a million words…. and Kirsten your words are so very touching … the “community” have been just amazing xx thankyou everyone, when i cannot be with my brother and family, it is so touching to know everyone is giving them so much love xx
thank you for this encouraging post. here’s to all the signs of recovery ahead. prayers…
We look forward to your daily updates. They always take our breath away, put a lump in our throat, tears in our eyes, awe in our hearts for your amazing strength and outlook, and constantly remind us to pray for Vernon’s complete recovery. We know it is not easy sometimes keeping us updated on his progress, especially when all you want to do is get some sleep, but I hope you know how much we appreciate it. It is a beautiful thing, watching everyone come together ~ people you don’t know, people who haven’t seen for awhile, close friends that are even closer now ~ to help you in any way possible. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family as each day brings new progress and challenges.
good to see your humor ali…love
every update touches my heart, Allison. ……. and this one touches me so personally as I know the importance of loving and holding dear the littlest things that mean so much. Some day I will share with you :-)……continued praying for you and Vernon & family. <3
Can’t think of any other moment when a stink eye is a sign of encouragement! Good news Ali, my dear! 🙂
Allison,
So glad to see that Vernon is responding even a little bit. Those raised eyebrows and the stink eye for the therpist was great. PTL God is there with him and the rest of the family.
Becky
When my mom was in the hospital, she was unable to speak because of the ventilator, but she also used the stink eye (very) often. Even though she couldn’t communicate as she used to, her stink eyes and smiles showed us she was still all there. Moment by m
Moment by moment, my dear. Sending you love and light.
Moment by moment, indeed. Progress is in those “little” things–which make them big things. Continued love and prayers to you all.