Day 5 & 6 Update from Pat

Sorry for the delay in updating, but Pat has had her hands full.

Don was moved to the Rehab unit Wednesday PM. He spent his first night there, and started the rehab evaluation process this morning at 6AM. He is being encouraged to dress and bathe himself ( with help as needed). He is transported to therapy sessions and meals in the cafeteria via wheelchair. The purpose of the rehab evaluation is to establish a baseline from which they will work, and goals for him to achieve by certain times. He is going through physical therapy, speech therapy, head trauma evaluation, and mentality therapy. They will probably have his evaluation and base line done by tomorrow PM. Pat says this therapy is rigorous and wears him out. He works with each therapist for 30 minutes 2 times a day or more. His two doctors are Dr. Solomon and Dr. O'Brien. They are both very upbeat about Don and his ability and desire to work toward recovery. They state that his mental acuity is very good at this point.

Don's situation can certainly change, but the goal and hope at this point is that he will go home in two weeks. Pat is cautiously optimistic, and continues to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and continued support. As most of you know, they do not want anyone to dote, but she does ask that any cards be sent to their home, and not to Wake Med. Also, food and flowers are not the best idea now, as she is spending most of the time at the hospital, and goes home at unpredictable times. Food and meals will be much better appreciated when Don comes home.

Pat feels that attempts to visit right now is not a good plan, as his initial therapy schedule is intense, and she feels he will go right to sleep between all the activity. Therapy is seven days a week.

Today was the first interview with the neuropsychologist who was very encouraging. Assessments were performed so that there is a baseline to measure his progress.

Don is going to have to work really hard, and today’s news is the most encouragement they have had so far.

Don and Pat continue to express their gratefulness for all of your loving concern and prayers.