Neil got to leave Kessler today to visit the ENT specialist. They scoped his throat to see if there was anything wrong with his vocal chords. Everything seemed to be fine, except that his chords don't close all the way when he talks. That's why we hear nothing but whispers. The doctor said it could be solved with work from the speech therapist. When we got back, the speech therapist pretty much said, "what do you think we've been doing for the last four and a half weeks?" Well, he didn't exactly say it like that, but you get the idea. It's just going to require more time, work, and patience. I think we got that down pretty well.
We can't wait to hear him talk, but we're starting to get a bit of an idea of what he's thinking. Even though it's only whispers, he tries to communicate more. Also, he's getting a few more readable text messages off. What we're finding out is that Neil gets a little bit confused sometimes. He usually thinks we're in Oregon or that we're getting ready to go to Grandma's house. He thinks his sister Alison is still here. At least he doesn't seem stressed by any of his confusion. We know he feels loved and safe with us--another reason why we feel so lucky to be able to be by his side during all his waking hours.
The Family Stone
We started "Neil Stone Updates" in January 2009 as a way to let friends and family know how Neil was faring following a car accident. Neil sustained a truamatic brain injury due to severe head trauma. In the days, weeks, and months that followed, the support we received from readers of this blog comforted and lifted us through the trials and difficulties of his healing. In January 2010 we felt it was time to make a change in the blog, and "Stone Soup" was born. Now, along with updates on Neil's progress, we've included family photos and activities. It's time to get on with life! Thanks for being a part of it!
3 comments:
Maybe he is remembering the family reunion you had in the summer in Oregon? Thanks again for the update.
Carl and Cindy
You know what's interesting... My friend who's sister was in a similar accident (I told you about her Aunt Lori). She remembered very well, things that happened about 6 months previous to her accident. They said it was weird for a long time, she kept going back in tim to 6 months previous. Funny that Neil keeps thinking about Oregon and going to Granny's house. That was 6 months before the accident... Weird.
Hopefully those vocal chords continue to be stregthened!
Just checking in to let you know that your Rich's Family is thinking of Neil everyday and continues to keep up to date on his progress. Keep up the good work Neil!! What a blessing to have Eric's prespective and also to know how grateful you are to have Neil everyday. My best childhood friend died in the flight 3407 plane crash last month and it has changed my perspective on life and has allowed me to see all of the faces of God. People are good!! I will pray that God will continue to show you all of the blessings and life and to give you the strength when things doesn't seem to be going your way!! All the best, Heather Stammler
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