There hasn't been a lot to report on Matt's progress lately and I'm not sure if anyone is even reading this anymore.
We have spent a lot of time on the road to doctors and therapies but I think it is coming to an end soon.
He is so much better. The bald spot is his biggest worry!
I broke a rib a few weeks back and it hurts like crazy and I feel stupid complaining knowing that Matt broke numerous ribs along with everything else and hardly ever mentions pain. I am just a big baby.
I think Matt made a great discovery here. Matt said it was upsetting him that people were always telling him how lucky he was and he said he didn't feel lucky. He had broken leg, hand, ribs and brain injury, etc. He couldn't drive, couldn't work, etc. We are not a highly religious family so his response surprised me. He said, "Mom, I feel blessed." Matt, we all do for your survival was a miracle. We love you.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Wed. Oct.26 Matt
Hand cast is gone and Matt can now walk on that funny black boot. Probably one more trip to wound clinic for fixups. Therapy family meeting went well. I am beginning to think like Matt. They sit there and say how wonderful he did on all the tests,etc. Showing definate improvement, etc. But...low and behold, a few more sessions and he will be at the top of his game. I thought he was there already. Are they really keeping him in therapy for the money?
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Wed. Oct 19 One Month Update
One month, its been one month. Unbelievable. Not sure if it seems like so much longer or if it was just yesterday the world tilted on its axis.
Matt is progressing. He just seems so tired. Six hours of therapy a day will do that to you. At this stage, mmentally Matt is nothing like I expected, thank goodness. He is calmer, and not frantic. At one point, I thought that was what Matt would be like that for the rest of his life. Thank God, its nothing like that. My biggest worry is he is pushing himself so hard.
From what I understand about brain injuries is it can still all change. Right now, I feel I have the old Matt back. I don't see much difference in him other than the broken leg, the broken hand, the trouble he has with chest and back pain, the effort it takes to get around by walker or wheelchair, the visits to the wound clinic for unhealing sores, all the trips to therapy, trips for blood work. Yea, life has changed for all of us.
Its a big week of tests for him. When we discuss the therapy tests they are giving him, I can assure you, even a normal person wouldn't pass them. He is doing well but the tests just sound outrageous. Today and Friday will be a major days for Matt so keep him in your thoughts.
It's hardly worth writing on the blog when there is nothing new but I will keep posting updates periodically.
Matt is progressing. He just seems so tired. Six hours of therapy a day will do that to you. At this stage, mmentally Matt is nothing like I expected, thank goodness. He is calmer, and not frantic. At one point, I thought that was what Matt would be like that for the rest of his life. Thank God, its nothing like that. My biggest worry is he is pushing himself so hard.
From what I understand about brain injuries is it can still all change. Right now, I feel I have the old Matt back. I don't see much difference in him other than the broken leg, the broken hand, the trouble he has with chest and back pain, the effort it takes to get around by walker or wheelchair, the visits to the wound clinic for unhealing sores, all the trips to therapy, trips for blood work. Yea, life has changed for all of us.
Its a big week of tests for him. When we discuss the therapy tests they are giving him, I can assure you, even a normal person wouldn't pass them. He is doing well but the tests just sound outrageous. Today and Friday will be a major days for Matt so keep him in your thoughts.
It's hardly worth writing on the blog when there is nothing new but I will keep posting updates periodically.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thur. Oct 13 Matt update.
Matt may be out of the hospital but there is so much to do with the different doctor appoints and therapies. We are on the road a lot!
His therapy on Wednesday was a far cry from the attention he was getting from the therapists at the hospital. Their take on Matt's condition was totally different. One of them went so far to tell Matt he was surprised he wasn't already back to work, at least part time, because he had progressed so far so quickly and seemed so normal. They all agreed the reports they received from the hospital, they thought Matt would be in far worse condition.
I am looking forward to his sessions on Friday. Matt feels he will get some real answers about what is really ahead for him in the immediate future.
His therapy on Wednesday was a far cry from the attention he was getting from the therapists at the hospital. Their take on Matt's condition was totally different. One of them went so far to tell Matt he was surprised he wasn't already back to work, at least part time, because he had progressed so far so quickly and seemed so normal. They all agreed the reports they received from the hospital, they thought Matt would be in far worse condition.
I am looking forward to his sessions on Friday. Matt feels he will get some real answers about what is really ahead for him in the immediate future.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Tuesday, Oct 11 Matt's home
MATT'S HOME! Right now, its like the same old Matt. He finally got his new cell phone and is receiving calls. He is thrilled with having a phone again. He's sacked out watching TV.
After I picked him up from the hospital, we ran a few errands like getting his medications and he found getting around with the walker was more of a challenge than he thought it would be. My wonderful neighbors borrowed a wheelchair to make his outings easier. Thank you, thank you.
Tomorrow he has therapy and we have to run a few errands to locate necessary paperwork to file on the medical bills.
He is tired but settling in. Its like the flip side to how he was in the hospital. If it could just stay like this.....
After I picked him up from the hospital, we ran a few errands like getting his medications and he found getting around with the walker was more of a challenge than he thought it would be. My wonderful neighbors borrowed a wheelchair to make his outings easier. Thank you, thank you.
Tomorrow he has therapy and we have to run a few errands to locate necessary paperwork to file on the medical bills.
He is tired but settling in. Its like the flip side to how he was in the hospital. If it could just stay like this.....
Monday, October 10, 2011
Monday, Sept 10
Just got back from the hospital. Matt will be released tomorrow. I should be thrilled, I know he is, but he was so anxious again tonight. His mind races. Sadly, Matt does not recognize that he has a TBI. This kid can rationalize about everything and why he is the sane one and everyone else isn't.
He is upset that at the hospital he was not allowed cruise the hallway in his wheelchair. Once he gets home, it will be about the same. He cannot go up and down stairs, he can't put weight on his leg, the restrictions go on and on. I know he will still have the same anxieties, fears, concerns, whatever you want to call it.
This is going to be a massive change in our household. I appreciated all the friends who took the time to visit Matt in the hospital but am asking for no visitors at home for at least a week. We will be coming to South Bend at least three times a week for therapy and Matt will be exhausted. We need to come up with a routine and I don't really want visitors. If you feel the need to come, I ask that you call first. That is a must.
Once we get our act together, I have no problem making arrangements for Matt to spend some time with friends. He gets a new cell phone tomorrow so he will be easy to contact.
I think I too am in denial of just how serious this is. It is overwhelming to try to rationalize with Matt or try to point out a different point of view when it comes to his medical condition. He wants to drive. He can't. He wants to work. He can't. He wants not to have to answer to anyone. He can't. For all the things he can't do, I am having a difficult time coming up with something he can do or would even want to do. I am open to suggestions.
Back to baseball analogies....The game is just beginning and all we seem to hit are foul balls.
He is upset that at the hospital he was not allowed cruise the hallway in his wheelchair. Once he gets home, it will be about the same. He cannot go up and down stairs, he can't put weight on his leg, the restrictions go on and on. I know he will still have the same anxieties, fears, concerns, whatever you want to call it.
This is going to be a massive change in our household. I appreciated all the friends who took the time to visit Matt in the hospital but am asking for no visitors at home for at least a week. We will be coming to South Bend at least three times a week for therapy and Matt will be exhausted. We need to come up with a routine and I don't really want visitors. If you feel the need to come, I ask that you call first. That is a must.
Once we get our act together, I have no problem making arrangements for Matt to spend some time with friends. He gets a new cell phone tomorrow so he will be easy to contact.
I think I too am in denial of just how serious this is. It is overwhelming to try to rationalize with Matt or try to point out a different point of view when it comes to his medical condition. He wants to drive. He can't. He wants to work. He can't. He wants not to have to answer to anyone. He can't. For all the things he can't do, I am having a difficult time coming up with something he can do or would even want to do. I am open to suggestions.
Back to baseball analogies....The game is just beginning and all we seem to hit are foul balls.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Saturday Oct 8
I took Matt out to dinner yesterday at Lonestar. He was very quiet, something he hasn't been here lately. He seemed depressed. Today, his dad and I went up with the idea of taking him out to dinner, an opportunity to get out again, but he was too tired, in pain and very sleepy. He took a long nap while we were there and worry he won't sleep tonight.
I was trying to pin down the hospital on the plan of therapy once he was released. No straight answers available. Not sure if we are talking weeks, months, etc. Matt has shown definite progress. He still is under the impression he will be returning to work next week (wishful thinking on his part) but according to the nurses, it will be at least six weeks.
One thing is for certain, for a year, he is to have no alcohol, no smoking and no drugs. I would appreciate the help of his friends to police him. That's unfair of me but it doesn't hurt to ask.
I was trying to pin down the hospital on the plan of therapy once he was released. No straight answers available. Not sure if we are talking weeks, months, etc. Matt has shown definite progress. He still is under the impression he will be returning to work next week (wishful thinking on his part) but according to the nurses, it will be at least six weeks.
One thing is for certain, for a year, he is to have no alcohol, no smoking and no drugs. I would appreciate the help of his friends to police him. That's unfair of me but it doesn't hurt to ask.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
I don't know how to respond to comments
I have had some encouraging posts and comments to my blog. I appreciate the notes but for the life of me, I cannot figure out how to answer a post. Seems like they want you to sign your life away to do this so I will just say thank you to all. Your comments have touched my heart.
Oct.6, Thursday
The bad thing about a traumatic brain injury is you can't see it. On TV, a person with a coma or concussion, wake up alert and go on with everyday life. Not with a brain injury. It isn't something you can physically see but Matt's friends are finally able to see the symptoms of this TBI and are beginning to understand. Matt is the same guy but different.
We had our meeting with the medical staff yesterday. I think there was a total of seven doctors, therapists, etc. They went around the table and explained what each was doing to help and assess Matt. Everyone agreed that Matt is charismatic, personable, etc. (Mom flashback..When Eric, Matt's oldest brother, was in second grade, he was having trouble reading so I can remember talking with his teachers and them saying the saying the same thing, He is so nice, sweet, cooperative but oh yeah, he can't read. They never mentioned the reading until I brought it up.I immediately got him a tutor and I was furious that they hadn't address the problem sooner.) I felt that way in this meeting because no one was addressing his nonstop talking, his frantic emotions, his reasoning, his memory loss.
I know that all the tests they give him are driving the kid nuts. They sited a person with a without a brain injury should be able to put a puzzle together in 5 minutes, it took Matt 20. I watched Matt in one session duplicate a playing card that was turned into frog. He did this in record time. There are numerous number or word memorization exercises. Many of these, I know I couldn't accomplish and am beginning to wonder if I at some point had a TBI!! I want to say these are some of the stupidest exercises I have ever seen but I know in my heart that these help to evaluate mood, frustration, thinking process, coordination, etc. But it is zipping Matt off the deep end.
Matt is demanding proof of a brain injury. He wants tangible evidence that he has a TBI. "Can't show him anything" so how can they be sure? He feels the hospital is keeping him to make money to support the hospital and keep it working. Now he sounds crazy but for what its worth, in Matt's mind, this is his line of thinking and for as bazaar as that sounds, his verbal rationalisation makes perfect sense but it's the brain injury talking, not someone who is being kept there against their will for no good reason.
As it stands now, Matt will be discharged next Wednesday. Some of my concerns were all the stimulation of TV, phone and visitors and was surprised that the doctor felt this was good for Matt. She said he was high functioning and needed the stimulation. Personally, Matt is high maintenance and wants to be entertained 24/7 but I am just his mother. That is what scares me about coming home, his boredom. He will continue to go to the hospital for outpatient therapy of all kinds on a daily basis in the beginning so if someone wants to meet for coffee and a visit, I can make that happen, just call.
Matt is frantic about his job and it is going to be difficult to keep him calmed down so wish me luck.
Matt's "patters" on and on and I feel I am doing the same but figure as the "Mom" I can do that. I want to quote something at the end of an article I was reading.
We had our meeting with the medical staff yesterday. I think there was a total of seven doctors, therapists, etc. They went around the table and explained what each was doing to help and assess Matt. Everyone agreed that Matt is charismatic, personable, etc. (Mom flashback..When Eric, Matt's oldest brother, was in second grade, he was having trouble reading so I can remember talking with his teachers and them saying the saying the same thing, He is so nice, sweet, cooperative but oh yeah, he can't read. They never mentioned the reading until I brought it up.I immediately got him a tutor and I was furious that they hadn't address the problem sooner.) I felt that way in this meeting because no one was addressing his nonstop talking, his frantic emotions, his reasoning, his memory loss.
I know that all the tests they give him are driving the kid nuts. They sited a person with a without a brain injury should be able to put a puzzle together in 5 minutes, it took Matt 20. I watched Matt in one session duplicate a playing card that was turned into frog. He did this in record time. There are numerous number or word memorization exercises. Many of these, I know I couldn't accomplish and am beginning to wonder if I at some point had a TBI!! I want to say these are some of the stupidest exercises I have ever seen but I know in my heart that these help to evaluate mood, frustration, thinking process, coordination, etc. But it is zipping Matt off the deep end.
Matt is demanding proof of a brain injury. He wants tangible evidence that he has a TBI. "Can't show him anything" so how can they be sure? He feels the hospital is keeping him to make money to support the hospital and keep it working. Now he sounds crazy but for what its worth, in Matt's mind, this is his line of thinking and for as bazaar as that sounds, his verbal rationalisation makes perfect sense but it's the brain injury talking, not someone who is being kept there against their will for no good reason.
As it stands now, Matt will be discharged next Wednesday. Some of my concerns were all the stimulation of TV, phone and visitors and was surprised that the doctor felt this was good for Matt. She said he was high functioning and needed the stimulation. Personally, Matt is high maintenance and wants to be entertained 24/7 but I am just his mother. That is what scares me about coming home, his boredom. He will continue to go to the hospital for outpatient therapy of all kinds on a daily basis in the beginning so if someone wants to meet for coffee and a visit, I can make that happen, just call.
Matt is frantic about his job and it is going to be difficult to keep him calmed down so wish me luck.
Matt's "patters" on and on and I feel I am doing the same but figure as the "Mom" I can do that. I want to quote something at the end of an article I was reading.
Bottom line, loving someone's a heck of a lot of work, can be painful and thankless sometimes,
requires us to put our own needs aside and certainly not all hearts in our eyes.
But if someone else does that for us when we're in need, because they in turn love us...well, then its all worth it, isn't it?
I think that Matt has so many loving friends who have given so much of themselves to do whatever they can for Matt that I pray my son is as loving friend to them when the time comes, no, not just when the time comes but everyday. May this be the worse thing any of us have to deal with.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Sunday, Oct 2 Matt Update
I did not go to the hospital today. Travis, Matt's younger brother spent the day. According to Travis, Matt had a lot of visitors. I appreciated the day off.
Therapy kicks into high gear tomorrow and I appreciate people giving Matt a break and let him get into his new routine and give him time to rest and heal.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day for all of us. Travis leaves tomorrows, Tuesday we have a meeting with the staff about Matt.
Matt is still trying to break out. His friends have spent a few nights which has been major help to me. Apparently Matt wakes up confused and tryes to get out of bed, a big no no.
We'll see how tomorrow goes.
Therapy kicks into high gear tomorrow and I appreciate people giving Matt a break and let him get into his new routine and give him time to rest and heal.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day for all of us. Travis leaves tomorrows, Tuesday we have a meeting with the staff about Matt.
Matt is still trying to break out. His friends have spent a few nights which has been major help to me. Apparently Matt wakes up confused and tryes to get out of bed, a big no no.
We'll see how tomorrow goes.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Quick note on Oct.1
I had a question on one of the comments on the blog. I could not figure out how to post an answer! You had to pick a profile, what is that?
The question was if Matt remembers the accident. People have told him their versions of what they heard in the way of accident and I have heard him repeat that but I don't believe he has much memory of it other than what was told to him.
The question was if Matt remembers the accident. People have told him their versions of what they heard in the way of accident and I have heard him repeat that but I don't believe he has much memory of it other than what was told to him.
Saturday Oct 1
Matt is still determined to break out of the hospital. He has decided the place has made him claustrophobic. He was saying if the hospital has made him claustrophobic, and, because he was not claustrophobic before the accident, that alone should give him the right to leave RIGHT NOW! Leaving the hospital is one subject that he can give a list of reasons why he should be allowed to leave and yet an hour later, he does not remember even talking about it.
He is constantly trying to negotiate even the littlest break from the place. Maybe just a quick trip outside for a breath of fresh air, a quick trip up and and down in the elevator, or to swearing if they let him leave, he promises to be back for therapy. Matt is DEFINATELY not allowed to leave the floor for any reason but he can't help but try and does this a lot all day long.
He is very frustrated by the nursing staff. Every time a nurse, aid or tech comes in, they ask his name, birthday, if he knows where he is, etc. He has gotten to the point that when someone walks in the room, he automatically lists all this information off. Don't laugh, they do this to him all day long. I explained to him that this is the way the nursing staff can assess his condition. They don't just look for the correct information but the way his says it and his attitude at the time. Now this is where Matt is getting himself into trouble. The sarcastic Matt is rearing his head and butting it with the nurses and they are not happy. Trying to explain to the nurses that he was, to some degree, like this BEFORE the accident, frustrates them even more.
The nurses aren't too happy with the "charming" Matt either. I know Matt was personable and friendly before but he is even more so if you can believe it, and it is just short of obnoxious. Na, not just short, its downright annoying.
It does not help that the nurses use "therapeutic conversation" when they speak to Matt. This normally pushes him over the deep end. My sisters may have completed their years of nursing training but I only survived four months of mine and that is one of the first thing they teach a nursing student, how to talk to a patient. In Matt's case, he is affronted by the tone, objects to being talked down to, etc. Today, a nurse was talking very loud and was bent over his wheelchair talking to him face to face AND I wanted to step in. I was waiting for Matt to get really pissed off but instead, he has begun talking back to them by recapping everything they have said to him and then adding, "but if you look at this from MY prospective.........". Yep, not endearing himself to the staff.
What is sad is all these things point to a traumatic brain injury. Matt had numerous visitors today and I asked a few if they could tell the difference of the 'before and after' Matt. Everyone said that he seemed a little more hyper, but pretty normal. Even his Dad and visiting brother from California agreed. As the MOTHER, I could see many instances where Matt's thinking is impaired or his judgement is not on track.
Matt has said a few things that are not right and hurt my feelings. My sisters explained that I too have to realize that it is the brain talking, not Matt. I find it hard to accept sometimes and worry if he has said anything to hurt anyones feelings that they too have to accept that this is his brain trama is affecting his actions or reactions to whatever is going on at that time.
Remember, no visitors before 4:30 during the week. As normal as he may seem to everyone, he needs time to recoperate and I would appreciate limiting your visiting time.
He is constantly trying to negotiate even the littlest break from the place. Maybe just a quick trip outside for a breath of fresh air, a quick trip up and and down in the elevator, or to swearing if they let him leave, he promises to be back for therapy. Matt is DEFINATELY not allowed to leave the floor for any reason but he can't help but try and does this a lot all day long.
He is very frustrated by the nursing staff. Every time a nurse, aid or tech comes in, they ask his name, birthday, if he knows where he is, etc. He has gotten to the point that when someone walks in the room, he automatically lists all this information off. Don't laugh, they do this to him all day long. I explained to him that this is the way the nursing staff can assess his condition. They don't just look for the correct information but the way his says it and his attitude at the time. Now this is where Matt is getting himself into trouble. The sarcastic Matt is rearing his head and butting it with the nurses and they are not happy. Trying to explain to the nurses that he was, to some degree, like this BEFORE the accident, frustrates them even more.
The nurses aren't too happy with the "charming" Matt either. I know Matt was personable and friendly before but he is even more so if you can believe it, and it is just short of obnoxious. Na, not just short, its downright annoying.
It does not help that the nurses use "therapeutic conversation" when they speak to Matt. This normally pushes him over the deep end. My sisters may have completed their years of nursing training but I only survived four months of mine and that is one of the first thing they teach a nursing student, how to talk to a patient. In Matt's case, he is affronted by the tone, objects to being talked down to, etc. Today, a nurse was talking very loud and was bent over his wheelchair talking to him face to face AND I wanted to step in. I was waiting for Matt to get really pissed off but instead, he has begun talking back to them by recapping everything they have said to him and then adding, "but if you look at this from MY prospective.........". Yep, not endearing himself to the staff.
What is sad is all these things point to a traumatic brain injury. Matt had numerous visitors today and I asked a few if they could tell the difference of the 'before and after' Matt. Everyone said that he seemed a little more hyper, but pretty normal. Even his Dad and visiting brother from California agreed. As the MOTHER, I could see many instances where Matt's thinking is impaired or his judgement is not on track.
Matt has said a few things that are not right and hurt my feelings. My sisters explained that I too have to realize that it is the brain talking, not Matt. I find it hard to accept sometimes and worry if he has said anything to hurt anyones feelings that they too have to accept that this is his brain trama is affecting his actions or reactions to whatever is going on at that time.
Remember, no visitors before 4:30 during the week. As normal as he may seem to everyone, he needs time to recoperate and I would appreciate limiting your visiting time.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Friday, Sept. 30
The rules have changed, its a whole new game. Matt has been moved to room 522 on the fifth floor. This is the rehab floor where they will work with Matt on all levels of thinking and coping strategies.
Again, if you speak to him, it sounds like the same old Matt but make no mistake, Matt has a traumatic brain injury and he is in the best place that can cope with a brain injury of this magnitude. We have dealt with so many strange medical problems in this family but there was no prep to dealing with a brain injury.
This hospital floor is the same as the other floors, each has its own rules and regulations. Here, visiting hours are from 4:30 to 8:30 during the week and 11 to 8 on the weekend. Over stimulation is a major concern. It can come from so many directions... TV, phone, friends, nurses, everything.
They ask that Matt's visitors are one or two at a time, staying just 15 to 30 minutes. That's not saying someone can't stay longer if its OK with the nurses and as long as Matt is not overtaxed. I think many of you seen me leave the room when you come to give you chatting time with Matt and I don't mind doing that, Matt needs the break from me! Funny thing here is that they want to limit visitations but that Matt has to have someone with him at all times.
We will know a lot more on Tuesday after a special meeting with his doctors, therapists and nurses. This should help us set a course of action. Maybe we will get a better idea just how severe this is but I am telling you now, it could have been much worse and yet this is so much worse than anything I could foresee.
Thank you for caring enough for Matt to read the blog.
Again, if you speak to him, it sounds like the same old Matt but make no mistake, Matt has a traumatic brain injury and he is in the best place that can cope with a brain injury of this magnitude. We have dealt with so many strange medical problems in this family but there was no prep to dealing with a brain injury.
This hospital floor is the same as the other floors, each has its own rules and regulations. Here, visiting hours are from 4:30 to 8:30 during the week and 11 to 8 on the weekend. Over stimulation is a major concern. It can come from so many directions... TV, phone, friends, nurses, everything.
They ask that Matt's visitors are one or two at a time, staying just 15 to 30 minutes. That's not saying someone can't stay longer if its OK with the nurses and as long as Matt is not overtaxed. I think many of you seen me leave the room when you come to give you chatting time with Matt and I don't mind doing that, Matt needs the break from me! Funny thing here is that they want to limit visitations but that Matt has to have someone with him at all times.
We will know a lot more on Tuesday after a special meeting with his doctors, therapists and nurses. This should help us set a course of action. Maybe we will get a better idea just how severe this is but I am telling you now, it could have been much worse and yet this is so much worse than anything I could foresee.
Thank you for caring enough for Matt to read the blog.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thursday update 9/29
Matt's Aunt Barbara arrived today from California. Aunt Carla from Maine was here last week. For those of you who know Matt, his two aunts are nurses with training and education that would qualify them to help in any medical situation. This is one of those things where they know what the possible outcomes of Matt's condition and where it becomes a toss up of what to share with their baby sister. Do they prepare me for the possibilities and have me scared shitless or help me on a day to day basis just to understand the meaning of having a head trauma?
Each day I learn more and more of what having a bruised brain means. All these are kinda of "it might be this way or turn out that way," finding nothing is written in stone on head trauma and each case is different.
Matt's demeanor sometimes reminds me of a manic person. Talks fast, nonstop. His memory is greatly effected. Having to have an alarm on him to stop him from getting out of bed without proper supervision to prevent injuries, in his mind, has now included them nailing the windows shut to stop him from leaving.
As much as I am learning here, his friends have to be as aware and concerned as we are. I don't want to make it sound like Matt has gone crazy. He has a head injury which affects his cognitive things on all levels. This is a curable condition where time is the cure. We are looking at six months to a year before Matt is his old self but it has been explained to me, it will be the same old Matt but there may be some changes to his personality. We will have to wait and see.
Today seemed to be the day that he realized some of his odd thinking and behavior were not normal and was very confused. I can now see where some of the therapies they are suggesting are not an option but a necessity.
Matt has told me more in the last few days of each of his friends and it makes me see just how important friends are in a persons life. I would hate to see him lose friends just because they don't understand what is happening to him or choose to stay away because they are frightened of what he is like now. Just know, what he is saying is his perception what is going on, what he remembers. Doesn't mean its right, its just how he sees or remembers something. If you have any doubts or concerns about what he is saying, call me or his Dad.
I worry my posts say too much about Matt's condition and yet worry it is not enough. My stupidity was when they told me he had some light swelling on the brain that I thought it would be healed and gone away by the time the broken bones heal. There's a reason I am not a nurse. This is one. I wish I would have known and understood earlier but not knowing is what has kept me sane since this freak accident occurred. What will be will be. My job now is going through the coming months with him and do my best to love and support him in anyway I can. I ask his friends to do the same.
Each day I learn more and more of what having a bruised brain means. All these are kinda of "it might be this way or turn out that way," finding nothing is written in stone on head trauma and each case is different.
Matt's demeanor sometimes reminds me of a manic person. Talks fast, nonstop. His memory is greatly effected. Having to have an alarm on him to stop him from getting out of bed without proper supervision to prevent injuries, in his mind, has now included them nailing the windows shut to stop him from leaving.
As much as I am learning here, his friends have to be as aware and concerned as we are. I don't want to make it sound like Matt has gone crazy. He has a head injury which affects his cognitive things on all levels. This is a curable condition where time is the cure. We are looking at six months to a year before Matt is his old self but it has been explained to me, it will be the same old Matt but there may be some changes to his personality. We will have to wait and see.
Today seemed to be the day that he realized some of his odd thinking and behavior were not normal and was very confused. I can now see where some of the therapies they are suggesting are not an option but a necessity.
Matt has told me more in the last few days of each of his friends and it makes me see just how important friends are in a persons life. I would hate to see him lose friends just because they don't understand what is happening to him or choose to stay away because they are frightened of what he is like now. Just know, what he is saying is his perception what is going on, what he remembers. Doesn't mean its right, its just how he sees or remembers something. If you have any doubts or concerns about what he is saying, call me or his Dad.
I worry my posts say too much about Matt's condition and yet worry it is not enough. My stupidity was when they told me he had some light swelling on the brain that I thought it would be healed and gone away by the time the broken bones heal. There's a reason I am not a nurse. This is one. I wish I would have known and understood earlier but not knowing is what has kept me sane since this freak accident occurred. What will be will be. My job now is going through the coming months with him and do my best to love and support him in anyway I can. I ask his friends to do the same.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wednesday Sept.28
Matt and I had a very good day. You can still see changes. He's extra chatty, has mixed memories, and time gaps, but you can tell this was a whole new day, a whole new ballgame. They took out the last chest tube, he still has IV's. He had a few visitors and thanks to Trevor, a trip around the eighth floor in a wheelchair. They are teaching him to walk with a modified walker but he will need to build up coordination. Little steps, little steps.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tuesday 9/27
I thought we were home free when Matt came around demanding to be discharged only to find out we are barely to second base. I figured when the brain brusing was healed, you were done, go home but no. The brusing causes all sorts of cognitive thinking problems, memory, etc, Everything is affected.
When Matt would be voicing his displeasure at any little thing, I blamed it on med withdrawal but it is all part of this brain malfunction. It is making him agitated, flightly, impulsive, etc. In other words, down right mean but I keep telling myself its the bruise, but it is hard after he rags on you for awhile.
Stimulation like tv, visitors, nurses, etc just excites him and wears him out. We found absolutely two people couldn't be in the room at the same time, too much stimulation for him.
He looks fine, speech is clear but memory and time is something he cannot grasp and causes major frustration. Again, unneeded frustration.
He thinks he's getting out NOW and he is so upset and his mind is making up reasons they are keeping him there like because everyone wants to buy a car from him! You can take the man from the job but not the job from the man.
Visitors.....I don't know which is worse, seeing Matt with tubes and respirator or seeing this manic behavior. We taked a little about his visitors and I think he is embarassed and its going to be worse with later stories of his current situtation. If you feel the need to visit, keep it short. I request SHORT. Topics to avoid, cigarettes, work, and cars. He will bring them up. The nurse suggested when he starts a tangent, just to change the subject or gently leave the room.
This is worse for us as his family than the immediate accident aftermath. This is a whole different ballgame.
I will ask again, Matt is friends with so many people but I would appreciate if everyone would just give him time. I think he will be so much better when he is sent to the rehab ward next week. We aren't talking a few days but a week or better.
There is a phone in his room but I am thinking of having it removed. Besides exciting him, he is saying hurtful things and I don't think any of us understood what a brain injury meant.
We have talked to numerous therpists and specialists and they all say that there is more damage, though not major or non repairable, he definately needs thearpy and when he goes home, in three weeks or three months, he will need 24 hours care. Again, due to the interupted thinking process but he will get better.
It is hard to really grasp all of this and I will share more later as we have time to process and accept the reality, learn to adjust and making sure Matt is getting all the needed help.
This whole letter seems so drama filled. Matt will be fine, he is still the charming guy with the big smile but he needs time to control the attitude change, learn to walk with whatever they give him, etc. Its just going to take longer than any of us anticipated.
Thank you for caring.
When Matt would be voicing his displeasure at any little thing, I blamed it on med withdrawal but it is all part of this brain malfunction. It is making him agitated, flightly, impulsive, etc. In other words, down right mean but I keep telling myself its the bruise, but it is hard after he rags on you for awhile.
Stimulation like tv, visitors, nurses, etc just excites him and wears him out. We found absolutely two people couldn't be in the room at the same time, too much stimulation for him.
He looks fine, speech is clear but memory and time is something he cannot grasp and causes major frustration. Again, unneeded frustration.
He thinks he's getting out NOW and he is so upset and his mind is making up reasons they are keeping him there like because everyone wants to buy a car from him! You can take the man from the job but not the job from the man.
Visitors.....I don't know which is worse, seeing Matt with tubes and respirator or seeing this manic behavior. We taked a little about his visitors and I think he is embarassed and its going to be worse with later stories of his current situtation. If you feel the need to visit, keep it short. I request SHORT. Topics to avoid, cigarettes, work, and cars. He will bring them up. The nurse suggested when he starts a tangent, just to change the subject or gently leave the room.
This is worse for us as his family than the immediate accident aftermath. This is a whole different ballgame.
I will ask again, Matt is friends with so many people but I would appreciate if everyone would just give him time. I think he will be so much better when he is sent to the rehab ward next week. We aren't talking a few days but a week or better.
There is a phone in his room but I am thinking of having it removed. Besides exciting him, he is saying hurtful things and I don't think any of us understood what a brain injury meant.
We have talked to numerous therpists and specialists and they all say that there is more damage, though not major or non repairable, he definately needs thearpy and when he goes home, in three weeks or three months, he will need 24 hours care. Again, due to the interupted thinking process but he will get better.
It is hard to really grasp all of this and I will share more later as we have time to process and accept the reality, learn to adjust and making sure Matt is getting all the needed help.
This whole letter seems so drama filled. Matt will be fine, he is still the charming guy with the big smile but he needs time to control the attitude change, learn to walk with whatever they give him, etc. Its just going to take longer than any of us anticipated.
Thank you for caring.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday 26th of September
We're making progress! Today's had its ups and downs. Matthew has been moved to a room up on the 8th floor, room number 831. He had one of the tubes from his lungs removed this morning, but he still has one in his left lung. Matt is ready to go home already and can't grasp why he has to stay. He sounds great when you're talking to him but he's still very disoriented and stressed.
Earlier this morning he had a fall, but is okay. They took x-rays of his arm and leg again and we believe it is all okay.
At the time being he may not be totally aware of his situation, but he sure can talk up a storm. He has given Mom and I a lecture on how to be good at selling cars, along with how the hospital is only keeping him to get more money out of him, and I believe at one point he mentioned how the "pictures" (x-rays) of his leg and arm are for his Indiana and Michigan drivers licenses.
Visitors are more than welcome to come see Matt, but please refrain from having large numbers of people in his room and to keep the visits short. Rest is a most important part of his recovery. Also, it is important to note that because of the medicines he is on and the head trauma he sustained, do not believe every word he says. Matt is convinced that he is leaving the hospital any hour now or that he about to go do this thing or that, but we ask that when you visit please help us re-enforce the need that he absolutely must stay in the hospital.
Thank you all, we will post again tomorrow as usual. Have a pleasant evening.
By: Kelsey
Earlier this morning he had a fall, but is okay. They took x-rays of his arm and leg again and we believe it is all okay.
At the time being he may not be totally aware of his situation, but he sure can talk up a storm. He has given Mom and I a lecture on how to be good at selling cars, along with how the hospital is only keeping him to get more money out of him, and I believe at one point he mentioned how the "pictures" (x-rays) of his leg and arm are for his Indiana and Michigan drivers licenses.
Visitors are more than welcome to come see Matt, but please refrain from having large numbers of people in his room and to keep the visits short. Rest is a most important part of his recovery. Also, it is important to note that because of the medicines he is on and the head trauma he sustained, do not believe every word he says. Matt is convinced that he is leaving the hospital any hour now or that he about to go do this thing or that, but we ask that when you visit please help us re-enforce the need that he absolutely must stay in the hospital.
Thank you all, we will post again tomorrow as usual. Have a pleasant evening.
By: Kelsey
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday 25
Matt is still confused and disoriented. Last night he was able to get out of his hand restraints to take out all his own tubes and IVs much to the dismay of the nursing staff. They put in a new central line for meds, etc but are not going to replace the tubes.
He was able to have a clear lunch of jello, sherbert, apple juice and a sprite. If you ask him what he ate, he says a big sandwich, pudding, etc.
They just took his neck brace off and he is so thrilled.
Matt is still not up to much company at the moment, so please try and allow him some more time for recovery this is going to be a slow and long process for him, but he's making great strides daily. We anticipate that by Tuesday he should be transferred out of the ICU and into a different room. At that point he should be up for more company.
He was able to have a clear lunch of jello, sherbert, apple juice and a sprite. If you ask him what he ate, he says a big sandwich, pudding, etc.
They just took his neck brace off and he is so thrilled.
Matt is still not up to much company at the moment, so please try and allow him some more time for recovery this is going to be a slow and long process for him, but he's making great strides daily. We anticipate that by Tuesday he should be transferred out of the ICU and into a different room. At that point he should be up for more company.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Saturday 24 September 2011
Just a quick little update on Matthew.
I am unable to be with him at the hospital today, but both my parents have been there since early this morning. They said that his breathing tube was removed and he's breathing on his own and they've stopped the sedation so he is awake and alert. However, Matt has no memory of the accident and is very confused and stressed about all that's happened. It's a lot for a man to take in. My mother is trying to stay the night at the hospital and be with him through the night. He's receiving pain medication through his feeding tube, but he is still uncomfortable.
Because of Matt's frustration and the need for him to rest we'd really appreciate if he did not receive any visitors until Monday. We understand you all just want to show him your love and support, but with this amazing change for the better he needs some time to adjust.
All things considered, Matt is doing wonderful and making great strides in his recovery. We all appreciate the love and support of all his family and friends and Matt will just be thrilled when is able to see everything that everyone has done for him. We keep saying it, but he is truly a wealthy man to be loved by so many. On behalf of my entire family, thank you all so much.
From Matt's little sister, Kelsey.
I am unable to be with him at the hospital today, but both my parents have been there since early this morning. They said that his breathing tube was removed and he's breathing on his own and they've stopped the sedation so he is awake and alert. However, Matt has no memory of the accident and is very confused and stressed about all that's happened. It's a lot for a man to take in. My mother is trying to stay the night at the hospital and be with him through the night. He's receiving pain medication through his feeding tube, but he is still uncomfortable.
Because of Matt's frustration and the need for him to rest we'd really appreciate if he did not receive any visitors until Monday. We understand you all just want to show him your love and support, but with this amazing change for the better he needs some time to adjust.
All things considered, Matt is doing wonderful and making great strides in his recovery. We all appreciate the love and support of all his family and friends and Matt will just be thrilled when is able to see everything that everyone has done for him. We keep saying it, but he is truly a wealthy man to be loved by so many. On behalf of my entire family, thank you all so much.
From Matt's little sister, Kelsey.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Friday Night
This was a bumper day for Matt.
Matt tries to rise out of bed when he hears our voices. Not the best idea.
We were sharing stories with a nurse in his room and you can see him smile, squrim around in bed, try to get up and last, try to laugh. Even knocked out on meds, he has not lost his sense of humor and thank God, and none of us have lost ours either.
As they reduce his medications and he becomes alert, I worry that laughing will hurt with the broken ribs. What a great relief to have something so good to worry us.
Good night to all. Robin
Matt tries to rise out of bed when he hears our voices. Not the best idea.
We were sharing stories with a nurse in his room and you can see him smile, squrim around in bed, try to get up and last, try to laugh. Even knocked out on meds, he has not lost his sense of humor and thank God, and none of us have lost ours either.
As they reduce his medications and he becomes alert, I worry that laughing will hurt with the broken ribs. What a great relief to have something so good to worry us.
Good night to all. Robin
Friday 23, Sept.
An early post! Matt is doing fabulous! This morning when I walked in, his eyes were open, or as open and alert one can be under this sedation. I said, " Hi Matt, do you know who I am?" He got a slight grin and nodded his head. To put it to the test, I said, "Am I your father?" A huge grin came across his face and he shook his head no and then the nurse rushed in to sedate him. I told him there would be more tests later. It was wonderful.
They did surgery and put pins in his legs. He is doing fine.
They have xrayed his hand and are happy with the healing and don't plan on doing anything but keeping the splint on.
BIG NEWS!! They are weaning him off the ventilator. They will see how it goes and there is a possibility it will be gone tomorrow.
I will update again this evening when we get home. Thank you to all the caring and loving friends and families.
They did surgery and put pins in his legs. He is doing fine.
They have xrayed his hand and are happy with the healing and don't plan on doing anything but keeping the splint on.
BIG NEWS!! They are weaning him off the ventilator. They will see how it goes and there is a possibility it will be gone tomorrow.
I will update again this evening when we get home. Thank you to all the caring and loving friends and families.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Thursday update
Sorry for the late night post. It was a long day.
Matt may not be full awake because of the medicines but today the nurse was bathing and shaving him and she said he opened his eyes, grinned at her and winked! I take that as a sign of improvement.
He is in restraints because they don't want him to pull out the breathing tubes, but he is stretching and moving around more in his sleep. I see all of this as major improvement.
They took out the stitches on his forehead laceration. Amazing how fast the body heals.
Matt will have surgery on Friday to pin his broken leg. Please keep him in your prayers and in your heart.
I have told the nursing staff that everyone has has family permission to visit. One of the nurses has been giving visitors a hard time, not only for our family but a few other people in the waiting room said the same nurse was stopping family from coming in.
The evening nurse asked if we could stop visitation by 9:00 at night. Tonight got all screwed up, partly because the nursing staff was updating his tubes, etc and cut into "our time" by about 40 minutes. And on top of that, Stephen's Uncle and his family from Knox stopped in. Come to find out, their daughter in laws niece was air lifted from Knox because of a car accident. It was late but I appreciated the nursing staff letting everyone have a chance to visit with Matt.
I haven't been able to talk with Matt's doctors. I wish I could somehow know how long he will be in ICU and then in a regular room. I will post as soon as I know. Good night to all!
Matt may not be full awake because of the medicines but today the nurse was bathing and shaving him and she said he opened his eyes, grinned at her and winked! I take that as a sign of improvement.
He is in restraints because they don't want him to pull out the breathing tubes, but he is stretching and moving around more in his sleep. I see all of this as major improvement.
They took out the stitches on his forehead laceration. Amazing how fast the body heals.
Matt will have surgery on Friday to pin his broken leg. Please keep him in your prayers and in your heart.
I have told the nursing staff that everyone has has family permission to visit. One of the nurses has been giving visitors a hard time, not only for our family but a few other people in the waiting room said the same nurse was stopping family from coming in.
The evening nurse asked if we could stop visitation by 9:00 at night. Tonight got all screwed up, partly because the nursing staff was updating his tubes, etc and cut into "our time" by about 40 minutes. And on top of that, Stephen's Uncle and his family from Knox stopped in. Come to find out, their daughter in laws niece was air lifted from Knox because of a car accident. It was late but I appreciated the nursing staff letting everyone have a chance to visit with Matt.
I haven't been able to talk with Matt's doctors. I wish I could somehow know how long he will be in ICU and then in a regular room. I will post as soon as I know. Good night to all!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Wednesday, Matt Update
Matt had a quiet day. No big changes. Just looking at him he looks stronger. There's a possibility they will set his leg on Friday.
Just a reminder, the unit closes to visitors from 7 to 830 p.m. Tonight it is all catching up with me so we left at 7:00. I was thrilled to find friends showed up after we left and was glad they were able to go back for a visit. We don't like leaving that early but since he is resting and things are stable, it was time to call it a day. I feel better knowing someone was there after us. Thank you to everyone.
Just a reminder, the unit closes to visitors from 7 to 830 p.m. Tonight it is all catching up with me so we left at 7:00. I was thrilled to find friends showed up after we left and was glad they were able to go back for a visit. We don't like leaving that early but since he is resting and things are stable, it was time to call it a day. I feel better knowing someone was there after us. Thank you to everyone.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Tuesday Update On Matt
Matt had a few changes made today, all in effort to keep him as comfortable as possible. He is moving his legs around in his sleep and that's a good thing. The CT scan they did showed there is no change on the swelling which I feel is good news.
There are a few who ask questions about his care and I think its the respirator that gets the most questions. Yes, Matt could breath on his own if he had to but because of the painful rib fractures, keeping him sedated helps him through the pain and the respirator just helps him expand his lungs more. If he didn't have the respirator, he would just be breathing very shallow and would be set up for lung complications.
It is my understanding that they will cast his broken leg soon. It was low on the list of the priorities.Not sure what they will do with his hand. They have it in a splint now but again, low priority.
I want to express my gratitude of no visitors yesterday. It was good to get Matt more settled in his meds and routine and time for Steve and I to adjust too.
Things seem to be leveling out and if anyone would like to visit for a few minutes, please do. We just ask you to keep the visit short. We had a few people stop by today and say some words of encouragement to Matt and us, sign his visitor log and drop off some photos.
If you decide you want to wait to visit till Matt is stronger, more alert, that works too.
I will continue my evening logins here. If there is any big change, I will text people whose numbers I have and they can share the word with others.
I am horrible at texting and was pretty frustrated by it all. If I was texting and call came in, by the time I finished and relocated my document, the thing would ring again and the cycle continued. Who invented the cell phone should be shot. So, I find I have deleted calls, missed calls, etc. because of my lack of high tech abilities and if you have called and I have not returned your text or call, Its not because I am ignoring you, I just lost you!
Stay positive and send good thoughts Matt's direction.
There are a few who ask questions about his care and I think its the respirator that gets the most questions. Yes, Matt could breath on his own if he had to but because of the painful rib fractures, keeping him sedated helps him through the pain and the respirator just helps him expand his lungs more. If he didn't have the respirator, he would just be breathing very shallow and would be set up for lung complications.
It is my understanding that they will cast his broken leg soon. It was low on the list of the priorities.Not sure what they will do with his hand. They have it in a splint now but again, low priority.
I want to express my gratitude of no visitors yesterday. It was good to get Matt more settled in his meds and routine and time for Steve and I to adjust too.
Things seem to be leveling out and if anyone would like to visit for a few minutes, please do. We just ask you to keep the visit short. We had a few people stop by today and say some words of encouragement to Matt and us, sign his visitor log and drop off some photos.
If you decide you want to wait to visit till Matt is stronger, more alert, that works too.
I will continue my evening logins here. If there is any big change, I will text people whose numbers I have and they can share the word with others.
I am horrible at texting and was pretty frustrated by it all. If I was texting and call came in, by the time I finished and relocated my document, the thing would ring again and the cycle continued. Who invented the cell phone should be shot. So, I find I have deleted calls, missed calls, etc. because of my lack of high tech abilities and if you have called and I have not returned your text or call, Its not because I am ignoring you, I just lost you!
Stay positive and send good thoughts Matt's direction.
Matt Sitek's Medical Updates 9/19/2011
We are hoping to post Matt's condition, any news, or notes to share with Matt's friends and extended family. We have had so many requests for updates and I am worried I will forget someone who is on my growing list of loving and caring friends. Please share this web site with anyone we haven't had a chance to talk to or meet. Everyone is welcome.
Stephen and I are grateful to each and everyone for the outpour of concern and love for Matt. Jessie brought a notebook to the hospital for friends to write greetings, well wishes, love and encouragement notes we can share with him, if they would like. Thank you, Jessie. Just little notes to say hello and that you stopped by or whatever you want. My sister had a great idea to ask people for photos we can post around the room. If you put your name on the back, I will do my best to get then back to you at a later date.
Matt is holding his own. Not sure how much detail to go inti here. Broken Hans, leg, numerous broken ribs, punctured both lungs, lacerations and stitches here and there, the list goes on. The main concern is he has some bleeding in the brain and they are watching that very closely. He is in critical condition.
He is on a respirator for breathing assistance and has all the tubes and beeping machines you would expect to find on someone who just survived a train wreck.
We are staying positive. He is heavily sedated but it is a miracle when prodded he can move his fingers and toes.
It's a blessing that the girl in the car with Matt has already been released from the hospital. Our thoughts are with her and her family. No matter how you look at this, it is a major traumatic event.
Again, Matt is strong, he is holding his own. Hold him in your heart and hopefully he will be up to visitors soon. My love and appreciation to everyone.
- Robin Sitek
Stephen and I are grateful to each and everyone for the outpour of concern and love for Matt. Jessie brought a notebook to the hospital for friends to write greetings, well wishes, love and encouragement notes we can share with him, if they would like. Thank you, Jessie. Just little notes to say hello and that you stopped by or whatever you want. My sister had a great idea to ask people for photos we can post around the room. If you put your name on the back, I will do my best to get then back to you at a later date.
Matt is holding his own. Not sure how much detail to go inti here. Broken Hans, leg, numerous broken ribs, punctured both lungs, lacerations and stitches here and there, the list goes on. The main concern is he has some bleeding in the brain and they are watching that very closely. He is in critical condition.
He is on a respirator for breathing assistance and has all the tubes and beeping machines you would expect to find on someone who just survived a train wreck.
We are staying positive. He is heavily sedated but it is a miracle when prodded he can move his fingers and toes.
It's a blessing that the girl in the car with Matt has already been released from the hospital. Our thoughts are with her and her family. No matter how you look at this, it is a major traumatic event.
Again, Matt is strong, he is holding his own. Hold him in your heart and hopefully he will be up to visitors soon. My love and appreciation to everyone.
- Robin Sitek
Monday, September 19, 2011
New blog for info and updates about Matt
This web site / blog is being set up so mom can post info and updates about Matt and everyone has a central place to come and get the information since visits are being limited right now to allow Matt to rest and heal. I am primarily leaving the updates to mom since she is in contact with the doctors and nurses more than anyone else so that the information stays correct and consistent.
Since I am posting the first entry though I will share this: Matt is still in the ICU but is in stable condition. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you everyone for your love and support!
Keep checking this site often for updates about Matt!
Matt's Big Brother - Eric
Since I am posting the first entry though I will share this: Matt is still in the ICU but is in stable condition. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you everyone for your love and support!
Keep checking this site often for updates about Matt!
Matt's Big Brother - Eric
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