Dec. 3, 2024
We received a beautiful gift of family. Dave’s sister, her husband, youngest daughter, and their dog came from Texas for the Thanksgiving weekend! It was such a relaxing visit. Every just clicked. Decisions were easy. Conversation came easily Laughter was at its best. I know that we all needed to be together. Barb and Larry were just coming out of a medical jounery of their own. I am a believer that family is the best medicine.
The laughter at Denny’s and just hanging out in the camper with Miley in my lap are memories I will cherish. Life’s simple pleasures…mmm.
We had to do at least “touristy”, so we made a stop at the market in the French Quarter. I was shopping for a silver chain. But this little turtle caught my eye. It reminded me of the discussion we had with doctors at University Medical Center when I made a comment about Billy’s recovery taking baby steps. I said something about not realize the taking turtle baby steps. I intend to wear it throughout Billy’s recovery.
December & Christmas Travels
We combined our holiday travels with a little work in Jacksonville, Florida. Dave needed to work out of that office the week before Christmas. The incentive for me to go along was to check out Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital. Nurses at the University Medical Center in New Orleans recommend Brooks to us because they specialize in Traumatic Brain Injuries. Unfortunately we were not able to make connection with anyone in the Admissions Department despite multiple text messages, emails, phone calls and a drop-in visit. I don’t want to cross them off the list because we hear so many good reviews. Perhaps we will get connected when if /the time is right.
It took us 2 days to drive to NJ, specifically to Nan’s house. It was good to be home and be spoiled by our favorite snacks and meals (except Kluski.) We stayed with Alyssa & Brian till the end of our stay and were back in Florida by Dec 30th.
That was a long time to be away from Billy, and it was hard. But it was necessary for Dave and me be away for a little while to reconnect with family and re-charge our bodies, hearts, and souls.
When did get back to New Orleans Billy was such a sight for our tired eyes. His hair had grown back and with that came the curls. I think this is the first time he’s had a full head of hair since the accident. His cheeks were rosy. He opened his eyes as soon as he heard Dave’s voice. AND he was not hooked up to any machines or tubing! The treach has not been removed, but it is capped. They will connect the tubing when they suction him, but even that has slowed down. His arms and fingers are not at “locked up” as they had been.
We are still waiting for a decision on the Medicaid, but we are getting closer to getting him home.
Luv Y’all. Keep up the good work!
