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.
What you both Matt and your family are going through has to be difficult. I can't even begin to imagine how it must be, I can feel your frustration and fears about his condition with each up date. Does Matt enjoy any kind of hobby? Like maybe putting models together, painting, or jigsaw puzzles? Something like that might distract or entertain him, or at least hold his interest for a period of time. It sounds as though Matt doesn't really understand the depth of his injuries and what happened. I am praying for all of you...I'm sure it must be overwhelming for every member of the family. Jan Lahey
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