We are getting so ready to come home. I told Jay I see the light at the end of the tunnel, and he replied "I want to be in the light!" The surgeon who will replace Jay's bone flap is available on Feb 20th, so that's the next big hurdle. Once that is done, we'll be discharged from the hospital, and have chosen to stay in Salt Lake City for a few weeks to do outpatient therapy.
The farther Jay goes on the road to recovery, obviously the more ready he is to leave the rehab setting. We are both starting to long for peace and quiet, more privacy, and more environmental control. We are ready to join our community, our co-workers and our friends, and get back to Gunnison in time for spring. (well, mud season anyways)
Jay continues to progress and grow stronger on his feet daily. He has had to face the challenge of another round of c-diff, the intestinal bacteria. It's been very frustrating, but not as bad as the first time. We are both relieved and thrilled about the function he has gained in his left hand and arm. Working your way back from a stroke is very hard work, and Jay has become my hero as he steps up to meet each challenge. I am aware that not everyone who has a stroke is as lucky as Jay, and I am grateful for his recovery.
We have been touched and amazed by the oupouring of love and support from all of you. Your thoughts, prayers, gifts, and cards have made a fierce situation much gentler. Thank you.
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I've been following this blog for awhile now and am embarrassed but not too proud to admit that I've just now figured out how to post my thoughts. Maybe not the sharpest pencil in the box as Jay may attest!
ReplyDeleteJay, I've thought about you often since Big John and I happened upon each other here in Santa Cruz and it brings back such great and real memories from the SCU days to frolicking throughout western europe. For now, I only wish you strength in your recovery and the peace of mind that further great things are ahead for you and your family. I look forward to possibly reconnecting with you in the future.
Dawn, although we've never met, it's easy to see that Jay couldn't have done any better in choosing a partner for life! I anxiously anticipate each of your updates on Jays daily adventure. You've chosen a tremendous teammate for your life and I know this because I've had so many in mine and your husband is right at the top of my all-time list! I was particularly amused by your remarks from awhile back about forgetting about Jays size and sleepy left side. I can relate as I had to carry both his left and right side all over the court back in the day @ SCU. Kidding!
Dev, I hope that God also gives you the peace of mind that your Dad will be fine and the strength to keep up your wondefully loving support.
From the looks of it Jay, you've got an incredible family and group of friends and you couldn't be in better hands. It's enviable. I pray for your continued improvement big fella!
KC
Hey, this is great news. I was looking at your entry from yesterday as Orma and I were troubleshooting some problems with her computer. Yes, Jay is really fortunate that he is progressing so beautifully, but it sounds like he is working very, very hard at it--and so are you, Dawn.
ReplyDeleteJay and Dawn, We've been away for a while. Now catching up; this is wonderful news. Jay, your resolve and energy is incredible. Dawn, he's a lucky man to have you as his coach and spirit. We look forward to having you both back in the valley with all of us. Malte and Pam
ReplyDeleteNot a day goes by without one or another CFGV board member asking me how you are doing . . . and it is wonderful to be able to report such consistent progress. You're on the minds and in the thoughts and prrayers of so many! As an old friend of mine used to say -- "keep on keepin' on." Pam
ReplyDeleteThanks for the updates, Dawn.
ReplyDeleteIt is a relief for us to know what is happening from so far away. I am glad for the progress and that you feel so comfortable with the hospital team! Life goes on here in Gunni. We just had a 4 day weekend and enjoying the winter skies and skis.
Are you getting out into the area there? Have you gone up Cottonwood Canyon yet? or Park City? or a park or ?
I am glad that you can chat with us so you don't get so homesick.
Much strength to you all and wishing you well. Barb
Jay,
ReplyDeleteYou are so inspiring to us. Each and every time we read your blog or talk with Dawn about your updates it is such incredible news. I'll never forget when this first happened I was so down and out about your situation and Kyle told me, "Come on Lisa, have positive thoughts, Jay will come out of this with flying colors, he's strong and has a reason to live!" It's not too often I tell Kyle that he was right. Thank God he was right in this situation. Jay, we love you and continue to send love and prayers your way.
I love you Jay,
Lisa
Hey Jay & Dawn,
ReplyDeleteWe have been following your blog and thinking of you both during your ordeal. So glad to hear of Jay's amazing progress! Squeezie...you are an incredible support...no surprise. What a writer you are too! We feel like we have been with you every step of the way. We have wanted to write sooner, but it took us a while to figure out how to post... I told the Budman to write Jay earlier on and tell him to "take off the dress" and get moving...wasn't that the expression they used to always use at PSU?! Sounds like he certainly has and is working harder than ever...We continue to have you in our thoughts.
Love, Cindy
Hi Helman Family-
ReplyDeleteWow, what a rollercoaster you have been on. It sounds like the Hawk is well on his way to a full recovery! You are amazing Jay. And Squeezie, your blogs are riveting - you are so detailed with your information. We both wish you a speedy recovery so that you can return to some "normalcy" back home. The Budman