Unbelievable!

The progress Jay has made in therapy is phenomenal. On Friday morning he had not yet gotten out of bed. In three days (with no therapy on Sunday) he has graduated from standing, to walking between parallel bars, to walking with a walker, to walking without a walker (with assistance of the physical therapists). He rode a recumbant (sp?) bike for 35 minutes today. He is also regaining the use of his left hand and arm. I was elated last night when he squeezed my hand with his left hand, and squeezed it hard. Everyone is amazed. They believed Jay to have the potential for a full recovery, but they did not dream it would happen this fast.

We have a long way to go, as these are gross movements, but this is only the beginning, and it means his brain is healing and his recovery potential is huge. As the swelling in his brain continues to goes down, we will see more progress. It is fascinating to witness a brain injured person relearn fine and gross motor skills and the activities of daily living.

The staff loves Jay because he works so hard, has so much drive, is so appreciative and interested in those who work with him, and has a great sense of humor. There are many angels of mercy of both genders in this hospital/rehab. "The U" as the University of Utah is referred to, has schools of medicine, nursing, occupational and physical therapy, and all the allied health sciences, and many of these college students take care of and work with Jay. We have a dream team and are very blessed.
Dawn