Seth continues to fight, making small but meaningful improvements each day. Yesterday, the speech therapist came by to test his eye tracking. She slammed cabinet doors and played a few rounds of “peekaboo” with him—and noted some progress. He’s started looking to his left a few times a day now, which is huge, considering that’s something he’s hardly ever done before.
We’re also seeing more facial expressions from him lately. My personal favorite is when his eyebrows furrow and he looks angry—probably because I (Ben) had the nerve to put on the Bee Movie for the tenth time. I can just imagine him thinking, not this again.
His blood pressure and heart rate are still being managed with dermal pain patches and a not-so-fun cocktail of medications. But even amidst all that, Seth hasn’t needed to use his trach for breathing these past couple of weeks. It’s been capped off and he’s been breathing on his own through his nose, with just a bit of oxygen support. The pulmonologist wants to keep the trach in place for now, just in case, until Seth becomes a little more responsive.
Another encouraging sign—Seth has started making facial expressions in response to pain. As difficult as that is to see, it’s actually a step forward, since he hadn’t really shown those kinds of responses before.
I remember back in the ICU when the team was worried because he wasn’t sleeping at all. Now, the medications he’s on are helping him sleep around 80% of the day. And honestly, I’m thankful. His body and brain need that rest to heal, to rewire. He’s getting the relief he needs.
God’s got you, buddy.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
-Ben
You’re invited to help us create a memory book for Seth! We’ll be making scrapbook pages filled with love, stories, and photos to share with Seth. Join us on June 8 at 2pm in the ALA gym lobby. Snacks and supplies will be provided. Feel free to bring your own pictures. Please RSVP to one of the Meyers if you plan to come.
Picture for cuteness 🙂
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