Formerly "Neil Stone Updates"

Monday, February 16, 2009

Heavy Breathing

Neil has a bit of pneumonia. We are hoping it will clear itself up with the new breathing help he is getting from the nose oxygen, and from the chest PT the nurses give him every two hours. That involves pulling him onto his side and playing the bongos on his back. If this doesn’t work, it’s the breathing tube in his mouth again.

Dr. Danish, Neil’s skull remover, said that Neil’s brain has settled down and he may be putting his bone flap back on very soon—possibly even before he leaves for rehab. When exactly that will be now, we don’t know. Looks like no one’s going anywhere (including to surgery) until his lungs are cleared up.

On the bright side, Neil had a pretty good day as far as making eye contact and interacting with us is concerned. It seems like he is trying to make some controlled movements with his right hand and arm now. The nurse even saw one of his balloon kicks! I don’t think any of the hospital staff has believed that he is doing it purposefully. Now we’ve got a witness. :-)

--Lori

6 comments:

Bethansen said...

Thank you for posting this. I was getting curious when I heard that he might have it at Chloe's house. We were gonna bring some cranes :] there basically done there. Say hi to him for us, and sorry we couldn't come and to get over the pneumonia quick so we can come visit next week.

Anonymous said...

Lori and Scott;

We just wanted you to know that Neil, you and your family are constantly in our thoughts and prayers these days. We keep up with Neil's progress through your blog postings and appreciate the information. You are an amazing family! Right now we will pray for the pneumonia to clear so he can continue his recovery.

Anonymous said...

Two steps forward and one step back...still moving forward, though!! We are pulling for you!

Molly said...

Dang, we are sorry about the pneumonia. Hopefully the therapy will help get it out of his system so things can move forward... Glad you had a witness to the ballooon kicking, now no one will think ya'll are crazy!!! We will pray that this pneumonia will pass quickly, love you!

Meredith said...

I hope the back bongos work well for the lungs. And the bone flap being replaced is great news. Breathe strong Neil!

Anonymous said...

I am so pleased to hear that there is some consistent, measured progress. Prayer DOES work! You are in our hearts, minds and prayers every day....we love and care about each one of you. If you need anything, please know we're here. Love, Ruthi Sean and Lily