Monday, August 6, 2007

Recovery Progress

Well, things seem almost too good to be true. There is talk that Austin may be discharged tomorrow from the hospital (I am trying not to get my hopes up too much, though). I suspect that once the regular staff doctors return from their long weekend off, they will debate whether to send Austin to the Ronald McDonald House or not. Although he is drinking very well and keeping in some calories (thanks to a medical meal supplement called Resource that is specially formulated to maximize calories, fat and protein - along with all other essential nutrients) he still needs platelet transfusions every 2 or 3 days. Apparently, this can be done as an outpatient at clinic visits (which will be 3 times/week). The goal is to get him out of the hospital - he has been in for such a long time.
Yesterday Austin was walking down the hallway of the hospital and he fell on the hard floor and bruised his hip. He is working really hard to get his legs working again, but it is quite difficult. His leg muscles are very weak, and his balance is limited. My little solider is still as tough as nails, though. He keeps pushing forward.
Uncle Richy is visiting right now - and he is a breathe of fresh air! Austin received a 6-hour day pass on Saturday, Sunday, and today - so we have all been hangin' out at the Ronald McDonald House having fun! Yesterday we played an intense game of Risk. Austin and Uncle Richy are playing Ultimate Alliance on the Playstation 3 right now as I type this blog posting. It is so nice to see Austin getting back to himself as he starts feeling better.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Okay I am sitting here in tears reading this post. I am so happy that this is almost over! Can't wait to read that you are heading home!All my love, thoughts & prayers Angie & Family.

Anonymous said...

What wonderful news we are hearing about you Austin!!!! Keep up the great work getting better. Prayers are going out that they can discharge you to Ronald McDonald House to be with your mom there tomorrow.
Glad you uncle could make it for a visit, especially during such a positive time for you.

Patty and Brad Wood

Anonymous said...

Congratulations, on Kicking Cancer's Butt!!! Now that is something you can't get on your playstation 3 but you just made it to the top level Buddy, with the highest score. Way to go, you're done!! I am so happy :0) Get strong, and enjoy getting back to being a kid. Take Care, Carolyn

Anonymous said...

This is such good news! I'll be smiling all day now! Every post just keeps getting better and better! Have fun with your uncle. I look so forward to reading these blogs, you are by far the strongest kid I know! Keep up the excellent work!

Love Sue & Ben

Joanne and Dave said...

What GREAT news...one step at a time and you'll get there buddy. We are so proud of you...in no time we'll see your smiling face again soon...keep up the great work. We love you both...XOXO Dave and Jo.

Anonymous said...

Wow, I've just updated myself on the news. (Been away for a few weeks). Way to go Austin. You're really strong and brave. I'm glad to see that you're getting back to your old self. I'm so happy for you and your mom that your treatments are over for now. That's fantastic.

Get those little legs and muscles moving (at your pace of course) and you'll be up and running in no time. :)

Love Elaine, Steve and Christian

Anonymous said...

Well said.