Keep Smiling

Well, things here are starting to makes a bit more sense. Dov had a wonderful nurse who figured out that his agitation and distress was directly linked to his pain level, and that although he wasn't asking for medication he was much calmer and clear headed when not in pain. He is now on a 6 hour routine and is much calmer and receptive.

Dov's day consists of half hour increments of physical, speech, and occupational therapy, in between meals and resting. We are able to take him outside into the cafeteria eating area where there is a pond and waterfall, as well as to the playground where he watches Lucia slide and climb as he wheels himself around.

Today he was very alert and smiling as we spent awhile outside taking pictures and chatting. He was looking at pictures of family that mom has in a little album and he said, " All these people in here are making me depressed..." when we asked him why he said "The longer they (meaning family?) are in the album the longer I will be in HERE". We reassured him that he was making great progress and that everyone at home as well as his dog Brain were eagerly awaiting his return. He had a big smile and said "My dog is going to freak out when he smells me"! he then resumed looking at pictures and in a very happy voice told Lucia "As soon as I can smile like that (pointing to a picture of mom and Chicane laughing together) they will let me out"!