Formerly "Neil Stone Updates"

Friday, February 20, 2009

Reality

I've been accused of being overly enthusiastic, or maybe just too positive in my postings about Neil's progress by those who have seen him. Perhaps I have been, because we celebrate the smallest of achievements. Just so you know, Neil is still in what is called a minimally conscious state. He shows no facial expression or emotion. He may, or may not look at you. His movements are still quite spastic and he doesn't respond to promptings consistently. His doctor expects he will be more awake by the end of a week but, as I've been saying all along, this is going to take a long time. Still hoping for continued progress, but we see every step forward as a gift from God.

7 comments:

Meredith said...

Absolutely. What you describe is exactly what I would have expected. We spent a lot of time in a rehab hospital like this with mom and got to know the patients and processes and therapies that help bring people back. Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps. And every baby step forward is a gift, you are right.

Love and prayers, Mer

nikki said...

Stone Family,
I thank you once again for the continued updates of all the small steps your son is taking. I don't personally think that anything that you have posted is coming across as enthusiastic or too postive. Every step forward is a good step and you should be able to tell it how you see it. It is fantastic that Neil is doing the things he is from how serious of a brain injury he has sustained. And i'm sure as a mother you are speaking from your heart and of course you should be excited about any baby step your son takes. My sister in law sustained a brain injury in a car accident and we too celebrated any little thing she did no matter how small it was. Please remain postive and know that you have many people thinking and praying for your family. I hope all goes well!
Take care,
Nikki
(Canada)

Molly said...

I think it is wonderful to see how positive you are. On the other hand, I can imagine in my mind what Neil is like right now, having been through similar things with my mom and I know how hard it must be to see him this way. Your positive attitude and spirit will help in his awakening. We know he is not fully awake, the little things are the first steps in helping him recover. I imagine it is like a newborn baby in many ways. You wait for those first reactions to what you do, the smiles that aren't just caused by gas, the deliberate movements, the first babbles, sitting up, standing, walking, etc... This takes time, nothing happens overnight and you are well aware of that.

We appreciate all of the little miracles which are happening with Neil daily. Love you all!

Anonymous said...

Scott Stone and Family,
It's tremendous to read Lori's updates on a regular basis and it's exciting to find Neil moving forward each day. Our prayers are with your entire family and know that God is watching over Neil and helping him make advancements.
You are a strong family and we all admire the strength and courage you bring to Neil so that he can continue his progress.
God Blees each of you,
Joel

Anonymous said...

Lori,
I don't think you been overly enthusiastic at all; your positive outlook is what will see you all through! I'm also glad you were able to take a break, because I am sure that you need it. Keep up the excellent work you are doing being a devoted mom.

Sarah Anne said...

we don't think you've been too enthusiastic, we love to hear all the little improvements, we treat them as big things as well. when we saw him today we were amazed at his progress since the last time we saw him, baffled really.

-sarah

Meghan, Carson and the Kiddos said...

Never for one second did I ever think you were sugar coating anything or being too positive. I totally pictured exactly what you described. Positive thinking is always a great thing and I totally admire you for having such a positive attitude during a situation like this. Of course this is all going to take time and it's not going to happen overnight. I also admire you for being able to see the small miracles that happen everyday and being willing to share those with all of us. We will continue to pray for any improvment. Those baby steps are what lead to the giant leaps forward. You can't do the leap without the step first!
Love,
Meghan