The Brian Sargent Update

Saturday to Friday, April 30th to May 6th

2005-05-07T16:32:00.000-06:00

Saturday and Sunday
-Well we are here. The first night home. Andy and Nathan moved Ian's bed into the computer room for Brian. This is his new bedroom.
We wake every 3 hours during the night to turn him (to prevent pressure sores) and to relieve his bladder. These will be life long tasks that we will have to get used to. Getting up is not so bad, but back to sleep is the tough part.
-Home Care arrives at 9:00 am to help Brian. Carol is here for about an hour and a half.
-navigating around our tight doorways is not easy. The carpet is also difficult to maneuver on.
-Saturday we watch a movie and eat popcorn with Nathan, Andy and Mark Milne.
-later on Sunday Gene and Debbie stop by for a visit and bring fresh veggies for us.
Monday
-Home Care arrives at 9:00 am to help Brian. Carol is here for about an hour and a half.
-the day has a slow start as everything is still very new and very difficult.
-Brian still is coughing like crazy.
Tuesday
-Home Care arrives at 9:00 am to help Brian. Carol is here for about an hour and a half.
-trying to be ready for the day and have lunch by 12 noon. We need to depart for SCH for an outpatient appointment with Ian the Physio from the 8th floor Kinetics Department.
-we are slow.
-Shelley embarrasses Brian by sleeping through the physio session with Ian. I hope I did not snore. I guess those long nights are catching up with me.
-Ian works on Brian’s very sore shoulders. They do feel better after.
-then we go to Beehive Flooring to see what is available in laminates and hardwood flooring. Lots to choose from. Tough decisions!
-when Gene and Debbie were over the other night, Brian mentioned how low our loveseat was. It is not so bad to transfer onto but to get back into the wheel chair is very hard. Especially with sore shoulders. So the creative German made "risers" for the loveseat. It now sits up 6 inches higher. This makes transferring much easier for Brian. Thanks so much Gene, these are GREAT!
Wednesday
-Home Care arrives at 9:30 am to help Brian. Kate suggests this new time, so Brian can have a coffee and some breakfast before she arrives. This means Shelley must get up earlier to have Brian ready...YIKES! Kate is here for about an hour.
-lunch then to Dr. Enweani's office for chest x-rays as the cough is not getting much better.
-blood tests follow and the doctor thinks Brian has a mild case of bronchitis.
-this takes most of the afternoon.
-supper then Rick Rowley and Larry Hounjet arrive. The Hounjet family has generously given to Brian a motorized wheel chair and the battery charger. The Hounjet family’s father past away in February and they said they no longer had need of the motorized wheel chair. What a wonderful thing to do! You are a great group of people, Hounjets!!!! Boy can that chair move! Shelley wheels up the ramps in the garage to give it a try. I think this will be an outside toy, not an inside toy. It will be great for long walks, or at the lake for longer distances, or just when Brian's shoulder is so sore and we would like to be outside. Thank you so much!
Thursday
-Shelley tries to get Brian ready for Home care but alas we have a fall to the floor! Shelley screams for Andrea (who is sleeping) but the two of us cannot get him back on the bed.
-We get him sitting on the floor, give him a coffee and wait for Kate. Home care has a "no lift" policy so we then call MD Ambulance to come and lift Brian back into the chair. Lets just add a little more stress..............very scary!
-Home Care arrives at 9:30 am to help Brian. Kate suggests this new time, so Brian can have a coffee and some breakfast before she arrives. This means Shelley must get up earlier to have Brian ready...YIKES! Kate is here for about an hour.
-Murray Hunter from Edmonton and Tony Berg from Saskatoon (Uni-Select) arrive for coffee.
-Shelley and Andrea go to buy a bed topper foam mattress for Brian's bed to help with pressure relief during the night. We hope it works
-Survivor night and Bonnie Rowley comes for pizza and to watch Gregg being bamboozled and then voted off. Surprise for Gregg!
-Shelley attempts to push Brian up the ramp from the family room to the kitchen, but over he goes onto his back. Shelley screams for Nathan, who helps to right Brian, Bonnie watches in horror from the front angle of the kitchen. No MD Ambulance required but very very scary again! How much scary can two people take in one day! Shelley needs a drink!
Friday
-Home Care arrives at 9:30 am to help Brian. Today it is Bev.
-Shelley, Brian and Andrea leave around 12:30 for SCH for an outpatient appointment with Janice the PT.
-we are a little early so Brian does a short round of stretches sin the gym with Lucy.
-Janice knows of our fall and Brian works on transfers most of the time. Shelley and Andy want to know how to help in a crazy situation. Janice says that we are better to get Brian settled on the floor and then call MD then to try it ourselves. We would only get hurt.
-Brian's transfer goes well. We learn we must be more patient and not try to go on and off things so quickly.
-this method seems to be working for us now.
-Nathan and Andrea, Rick and Bonnie, Ruth and Larry, and Denise and Roger stop by for a drink.
-It is a nice evening
-this has been a very hard week. Lets hope next week goes better.

Thursday & Friday, April 28th & 29th

2005-05-05T14:23:00.000-06:00

Thursday Visitors:
Shelley, Andy, Brent Sadoway, Randy Dittmar, Tim McDougall, Rick & Bonnie Rowley

Friday Visitors:
Shelley, Doug & Myra, Rick & Bonnie, Susan & Pat Donovan, Nathan, Andy

Progress and Actitivies:
Thursday
-this was the last day of stretches with Lucy
-then gym with Lucy and the wholes gammet of exercises were done even with a sore shoulder
-PT with Janice was about the transfers and new range of motion exercises to do at home.
-OT was a reveiw of what will be done on an out patient basis. Dressing practise, additional equipment needed and Brian would like to see some more videos if they are available.
-lunch then PT with Janice and they did more lifting. They also worked on Brian's shoulder with massage and ultra sound.
-Rupal had to cancel as she had a funeral to attend
-the last supper at SCH was A & W from Rick & Bonnie. Shelley, Brian, Andy, Rick and Bonnie ate in the TV room so we could be ready to watch Survivor.
-Tim M joined us as we watched poor Stephenie get voted off
Friday
-the last morning at SCH started with a bath
-then PT with Janice was a review of Janice's goals for Brian and Brian's goals for himself. Also a review of exercises to do on the theraband at home (these are arm exercises done with a very strong elastic that is tied to a railing). The intent is to keep the upper body muscles strong and to not tax the sore shoulder muscles.
-had his last lunch at SCH then we packed up that last of the "stuff" in room 7137.
-time to depart for home.There were hugs and a few tears from the nurses on duty. Everyone wished Brian well (but he will be back on an out patient basis so he can still harass them)
-went to Sargnet's Auto Electric to pickup some paper work from the office and have a quick chat with the staff. Then over to the service department to look at the Ski Doo 2005 GSX 600 HO SDI. This is the first time Brian has seen the sled. It did not look as bad as Brian did. He plans to get it fixed and modified so he can ride next year. I do think groomed trails are a safer bet than the farmers fields. We will see how things go.
-we finally arrive home - it feels good to be here.
-Then there was a surprise visit from Brian's parents! They brought a Shepard's Pie casserole for us. What a great treat!
-Susan & Pat then Rick and Bonnie stopped by.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Rick & Bonnie thanks for the food from the Dubs. It was very good. It has been quite a while since any of us have had those onion rings.
-Doug & Myra, thanks for the casserole and the gift certificates for Medi-Chair. Those will be SO helpful in the near future.

Notes:
So this ends Brian's stay at the hospital. The rehab team on the 7th floor at SCH are amazing. We have been very lucky to have them all on our side.
It is very scary to leave the comfort zone they have created for us. I hope we can take all they have taught us and do things right at home.

Thank you is a small word

2005-05-01T13:49:00.000-06:00

Thank you is such a small word for the enormous support Brian and I have had from our family and friends.

From the moment that this journey began on January 17^th ,you have been the cornerstone to Brian’s healing, and our learning and optimism.

Friends and family have got us this far with love, support, encouragement and the very important, sense of humor.

We thank you very, very much. I cannot imagine that we could have done this without you. We are overwhelmed!

Now that we are at home for this part of the journey, please feel free to call and see if we are free for a coffee!

Thank you again!

Love,
Shelley and Brian

SARGENT FAMILY BENEFIT UPDATE

2005-04-28T21:31:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone

For the last time we have "hacked" into the Sargent family blog. The benefit was a HUGE success. We told you that we would update you on what was raised from the benefit.

We are pleased to announce that the total raised from Saturday night is ...

$17,475.00!!

On behalf of the organizing committee, we would like to thank all of you for your generous contribution to a very successful evening. Your support has assisted a family that is important to us all.

THANK YOU!

Tuesday, April 26th

2005-04-27T21:56:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Pat Child, Mike Thompson, Kathy O'Brien, Gene & Debbie, George L and Gary Jakeman (sorry Brian was busy George and Gary)

Progress and Activities:
-Brian woke up with a sore throat and stuffed head, chills etc.
-stretches with Lucy around 8:00
-a bit of lap topping - some automotive work I assume......or maybe solitaire
-Pt with Michelle -they worked on transfers - back and forth on and off the mat. Brian's shoulders are very sore, and so is his whole body with this flu/cold thing going on. They took it rather easy this morning.
-lunch then the gym. Brian was going to "skip out" because he felt sick but once he was there he got a short burst of energy.
-PT with Michelle was again about transfers. Also they were doing more balance work.
Then Michelle gave him the deep neck and shoulder massage.
-we went up to the 8th floor Kinetics Department to make an appointment next week with Ian the PT so he can work on Brian's shoulders. Brian will be an outpatient next week.
-back down to the physio room for ultra sound on the shoulders.
-then there was an appointment with the chest physio lady (I do not know her name). She is seeing Brian because when he has a cold he cannot cough like most of us. It is sort of a half cough with out any "oomph" to it. I call it a wooosie cough. The reason for this is at Brian's level of injury, his diaphragm muscles do not work fully. They are partially paralyzed. The chest physio lady does this cool pounding on the front and back of his chest with her hands cupped, and he can cough up whatever has been waiting to be coughed up. We learned how to do a chest motion ourselves that can help Brian to have a big cough when it is just the 2 of us. It is similar to the Heimlich maneuver. The chest physio lady also gave Brian a peace pipe looking thing to blow into. This also brings on a cough. Very interesting things she does!
-then the nurse put some moisture in the room with a steam contraption (alias humidifier). The air is so dry in the hospital.
-Brian needs some sleep but he begs all the nurses for a hot bath before bed.
-I think they will be very glad to not hear the phrase "is it bath night?" when Brian goes home. He asks each nurse on duty almost every night. He is getting good at suckering them in.
-he got his hot bath and then into bed with the bad cold

Monday, April 25th

2005-04-25T22:00:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Randy Dittmar, Doug & Myra

Progress & Activities:
-stretches with Lucy around 8:30
-PT with Michelle and they worked on Brian's sore shoulders. Then they did some lifts and transfer practise. As we discovered this weekend we still need the transfer practise. Then a shoulder massage and some ice on the shoulder.
-OT with Jackie was talk about ramps for the home. We hope to rent some longer ones for the month of May
-Shelley leaves work for a bit to take Andy to the medi clinic. She now has pink eye in both eyes so she will not be visiting her Dad for a couple of days.
-lunch then to the gym where he tried all the weights, pulleys and even the arm bike. There was a golf club in the gym today and Brian tried swinging it. His "balance gear" was not working so well. He also said that at the height he sits, makes the angle of the club (which is regular length)
not the correct spot to get any power or height on the ball. I think he discribed it as the heel of the club would hit the ball. This is only playing around in the gym, so maybe we will make a trip to Silverwood Golf course so Brian can hack up the driving range while he gets balance with a club in hand (just kidding Mike!).
-PT again with Michelle and we worked on transfers again. On the weekend we had a delima that we could not get Brian's butt from the loveseat (which is lower that the wheel chair) to the chair. We (Nathan and Shelley) fianlly just lifted him into the chair. Michelle helped us problem solve that issue with a couple of solutions other than 2 people lifting Brian. That was so helpful. If only we had thought of it!
-paid a few bills on line then to ultra sound with Michelle
-Brian's parents (Doug & Myra) treated us to supper tonight. They wanted to take us out but Brian thought his shoulders were not up to it. So we ordered in Szechuan Kitchen and ate in the Atrium. It was very good. They sent some along home for Andy (she is banned from the hosp for a few days) and Nathan (he is studying).

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Myra and Doug thanks so much for supper it was delicious. Also Brian loved the fresh radishes that you brought! I do not think he has had any in months!
-Happy Birthday Mom and Aunt Marg!

Sunday, April 24th

2005-04-24T23:05:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Susan the Home Care nurse, Murray Powis, Barry Powis & Christine Kuchor, Brenda, Nathan, Denise, Andy (she is home!!!!!!!)

Progress and Activities:
-Susan from Home Care arrives at 9:00, to help us out. This morning does not go quite like yesterday, but I guess after yeasterday we thought the second day would go better. Susan gives Shelley some tips and pointers, and even writes them down in a note book for her!
-very emotionally tiring morning............but it is a beautiful day.
-Murray, Barry, Christine and Brenda all head home to their respective cities. It was so good to see everyone, even though the visits were shorter than we would have liked.
-a nap on the love seat for Brian and the couch for Shelley as the night was a long one!
-supper at home - not a gourmet feast - sorry Nathan and Brian - I will try to polish my culinary skills. I guess I left them somewhere January 17th.
-after supper we take Brian back to SCH so he can have a bath
-Shelley and Nathan head to the airport to meet Denise so we can greet Andy!
-she is home from Toronto! She is done 4 years of University. Brian and I are very proud and lucky parents!
-we head to the hosp. to visit but Andrea's ears have gone crazy painful on the decent into Saskatoon from the dreadful cold she has. So we head off to the Emergency Room to get her checked out. Her ears are so inflammed that the Doctor warns her the ear drums could burst. Well, antibiotics and Tyleno 3 should help the pain.....lets hope!
-back to the rehab ward to see the newly clean Brian!
-it sure is not home.....but there is more help there than home......soon we will be on our own!

Saturday, April 23rd

2005-04-24T22:50:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Susan from Home Care (she is very nice and helpful), Denise, Pat Donovan, Murray Powis, Nathan, Denise, Brenda (from Calgary), Dave & Carrie Wagman (from Leader SK), Fritz & Wendy & Amanda, Bob and Cindy Sinclair (from Red Deer), Steve and Monica (from Winnipeg)

Progress and Activities:
-at 9:00 am we had the help of Susan from Home Care this morning. It is still way harder than we thought it would be. We have so much to learn about the new way that Brian's body functions (or in some cases does not function). She stays for over an hour.
-cleaning up the house for Open House again and Murray picked up Brenda at the airport.
-We have not seen Brenda since February and it is so nice. Brian and Brenda are very close and we had a good visit!!
-the house empties out around 5:00
-Shelley rakes leaves, Brian watches, and then the neighbours pop over for a visit.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Murray thanks for getting Brenda at the airport! Much appreciated!
-Pat Donovan thanks for hanging the signs out for us!!
-Brian and I are so overwhelmed with the people that have unexpectedly poppped in that are from so far away. That is just the tip of the being overwhelmed iceberg , we hear!
- we are so lucky to have family and friends that do so much for us and do not even think twice about it. People just do things with out being asked. Things that may be small to them but for us they are so important and helpful. We are VERY VERY lucky !

Wednesday, April 20th

2005-04-21T22:21:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Denise, Rick R., Susan & Brent Sadoway, Dr. Enweani

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8:45
-then on to OT with Jackie
-Jackie and Brian went up to the 8th floor which is where the Kinetiks department is . This is another rehab area of SCH. On the 8th floor is the hand control simulator. Which Brian has been itching to do. But..............he claims the simulator is from the 1970's. He said it reminds him (now some of you might remember this) of the old driver training simulators that he learned on. Anyway he transfered onto the machine and played around a bit.
-then it was time for PT and his parents - Doug and Myra were there to watch. Brian did more transfers to the mat -as you can probably guess these are becoming more and more important to get right. Janice raised the mat and Brian tried to transfer up to the mat. He is building up to be able to transfer into his van. This is a short term goal of his. The Plymouth Acclaim is 23 inches high from ground to the seeat. The van is 30 inches high from ground to seat. So that is another 7 inches he has to get his butt in the air and over at the same time to get into the van and at the same time his legs need to be put into place so they do not get left behind. Then they worked with the blocks on either side lifting his body up with his feet in front.
-lunch then the gym for a short while. He was not feeling well.
-so he had a nap. he had an appoinment with a fellow to check out hand controls but we did not go as he was not feeling well. Next week we hope to get over there.
-supper then Susan Sadoway called. She must be able to read Brian's mind.....she said she would be right over to give him a hair cut. I was ready to cut his hair myself with the clipper side of his electric razor! So off to the sun room and Brian got his head shaved again but it looks good. Then great timing........ nurses Donna and Ted took Brian for a bath - to get all that hair off his neck. Then Brent arrived. We chatted for a bit then Susan cut Brent's hair too. He said she does not have time at home.........I do not know where Brent will get his hair cut when Brian is released!
-Brian gets into bed after a very hot bath and a long soak. His feet were even wrinkled.
-Dr. Enweani arrives and eases some of our fears of going home, or to a respite bed etc. he is such a good doctor!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Doug and Myra thanks so much for the new golf shirt from Palm Desert!
-Susan thanks for the decaf Tims and the much needed haircut!

Sunday, April 17th

2005-04-18T22:15:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, at the house - Denise Morden, Nathan McKinnon, Rick & Bonnie Rowley

Progress and Activities:
-Brian slept in at the hospital while Shelley was at home cleaning the house (must be nice)
-the ADL visit and Saturday's outing took a lot out of the both of us
-picked Brian up at SCH around noon and we came to the house for Open House. Lots of lookers came by.
-Nathan was nice enough to come by and help bump Brian up and down the stairs - thanks so much Nathan! You are a great help!
-Brian had coffee with Denise and Nathan while Shelley did house tours.
-later in the afternoon Brian transferred to the couch for a nap. This is his usual Sunday afternoon thing to do and he said it was good to nap on his own couch!
-then Rick and Bonnie arrived and we were off to the Off Broadway Dinner Theatre to see a Perfect Wedding. Brian and Shelley missed the February show so it was nice to get out. The food was good, the play was funny, and the company was great. It was a nice night.
-then back to the hospital
-this transferring in and out of the Plymouth Acclaim is getting better but wow it is tiring!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks Nathan!!!!

Saturday, April 16th

2005-04-17T16:52:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Nathan, Denise

Progress and Activities:
-well we did it. This time went MUCH better than last time in the ADL Suite.
-there were still glitches (more learning required) and Brian now has a sore shoulder from so much transferring.
-Saturday we loaded up and went to Home Depot to see what is available for flooring, and accessble fixtures etc. Shelley used the disabled parking sticker for the first time! We have been told to buy laminate flooring when using a wheel chair. We much prefer the hardwood. So we have some homework to do. Also we have been told that you should not have a tiled floor but vinyl or cork in a kitchen or bathroom.
-after Home Depot we went to the house, Shelley ran in and made sandwiches and we had a picnic in the car (how romantic) , to save the energy of the transfer in and out of the car.
-once again we drove around to the dealerships to look at vehicle. This is becoming very boring for me.............a vehicle is a vehicle but the colors are nice. Brian however, could do this everyday!
-then we popped in on Ruth and Larry and had coffee in their backyard (they have too many stairs for Brian to tackle just yet) in the sunshine. It was very nice. Larry checked the oil and the power steering fluid in my car, thanks Larry!
-then back to the suite for a nap (Brian got onto the couch) then supper
-watched some TV, cleaned up, then Brian went to the Rehab Ward and Shelley went home.
-we were both exhausted but it was nice to spend the weekend together

Friday, April 15th

2005-04-17T16:35:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Randy Dittmar

Progress and Activities:
-8:45 stretches with Lucy
-lap topping to try to get caught up with "automotive" work
- OT with Janine. In the ADL suite (where we are headed for most of the wekend) they worked on transfers in the bathroom. This is coming, but some of the logistics of it all are not worked out yet.
-lunch then gym with Lucy. Working with the weights and the arm bike still using both shoulders!
-then PT with Janice PT. Worked on the mat but, got onto the mat without the transfer board! This takes a big lift with the upper body to "clear" the tire and the brakes of the wheel chair. On the mat they worked on the lifts again. Using the shoulders and upper body Brian lifted on the blocks that are about 10 inches high. Then Janice explained the process of getting into the wheel chair if you have fallen out. None of this was actually tried yet but soon I guess. There are a few ways to get back in, if you are alone. All of which require upper body strength. They will be working on these in the near future. There is also the method of getting back in when there is someone with you. If the person is laying on the ground, you put the wheel chair on its' back. Then you slide the wheel chair under their butt until the legs hang over and the butt is in the spot of the seat (picture someone in a chair and they have fallen straight back). Then you gently tip the wheel chair using the front wheels and foot pedals into an upright position. This takes some strength also. Shelley will have to beef it up in the gym along with Brian to be able to do this manouever. I think 911 might work best in the falling out situation (just joking).
-then it was into the ADL Suite, TransitionalLiving Suite or Honeymoon Suite (whatever you want to call it) until Saturday night.
-we have so many supplies....you would think we were going for a month! We had supper in the suite, had coffee in the Atrium, wheeled around for a bit inside (as the winds were gale force outside) then headed up to the suite and watched TV.
-a lazy Friday night at SCH

Wednesday &Thursday, April 13th & 14th

2005-04-14T22:38:00.000-06:00

Wednesday Visitors:
Patti & Chris Pettit, Lyle Ruf, Shelley, Dr. Enweani, Randy Dittmar, Corrine (at Brian’s' parents house)

Thursday Visitors:
Shelley, Rick & Bonnie Rowley, Roddy, Corrine (at Brian’s' parents house)

Progress and Activities:
Wednesday
-stretches with Lucy at 8ish
-then there were morning visitors.....Patti and Chris. No time for coffee just a quick hello.
-OT with Jackie in the ADL suite. They did the paperwork for our trip to the ADL suite on Friday night. This is the paperwork that the whole hospital knows where we are, what we are doing and when. I guess this time I bring my own sheets, towels and groceries. Not like the first time. I guess they were trying to sucker us in the first time. Now it is do it ALL yourself! Then Brian and Jackie spoke about the transfers to the toilet but ran out of time so the practicing did not happen.
-Janice was sick today so Kathy took over the PT. Kathy is Joanne Trainor's sister for those of you know us from way back. Brian said they worked on balance on the edge and then his shoulders too.
-lunch then gym with Lucy
-off to the second PT session. But Brian fell asleep in the waiting room. He awoke with a start to see Lyle sitting beside him. Lyle had come to watch PT but it was cancelled for the afternoon because Janice was sick. So the two went to the Atrium for Mocha and a coffee.
-Shelley was at the Saskatchewan Abilities Council picking up the commode chair and the tub chair. Dropped them off at Brian's parents for the big test tomorrow. Thanks for letting me in the house Corrine!
-went for a wheel around outside but the wind was crazy. Sat in the Atrium and saw Manfred and Lori Gerber
Thursday
-stretches with Lucy @ 8:45
-OT was about transfers in the suite which Brian will work on this weekend with his beautiful assistant Shelley
-PT with Janice (she is better now) was about balance again. Brian transferred to the mat himself. Then he sat at the edge of the mat and was leaning forward. This is very hard, as he has no control of his trunk muscles. He balances with his head shoulders and arms. This move is used by most of us to pick things up off the floor while sitting, or to reach forward for things that are just out of reach. He does not want to fall forward out of the wheel chair so gaining the balance is very important. He is doing it very well. He is also more confident too in his abilities, which is also important.
-lunch then to the gym with Lucy for weights, stretches and the arm bike.
-then a meeting with Rupal. Just Rupal and Brian.
-then back to the gym to finish
-then met Janice PT and we were off to meet Corrine so she could let us all in at Brian's parents house.
-this visit went OK. The bathroom is very narrow, for all the things that need to be in there when Brian is first released from the hospital. He was able to maneuver onto the equipment. But he will have to decide how frustrating it will or will not ultimately be.
-we missed supper at the hospital (it is at 5:00 sharp) so we had take out at Fuddruckers
-then Rick and Bonnie arrived and so did Roddy to watch Survivor. That Coby got himself in a mess and now he is gone! He talked too much!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Roddy thanks for the short transfer board. Roddy made this one too. It is used for the chair to toilet transfers or in narrow spots. It is very practical. Thanks!

SARGENT FAMILY BENEFIT REMINDER

2005-04-12T21:23:00.000-06:00

Hi - once again we hacked in to Brian and Shelley's site to remind people of the upcoming "steak night" benefit for the Sargent family. The event is at the Odeon night club on Saturday April 23rd from 5:00-9:30. Cost is $15.00/ticket and the meal for the evening will be a Greek buffet. If you are planning to attend, we need to know numbers by this Friday April 15th. Please contact one of the following people for tickets and donation information:

Rick and Bonnie Rowley (242-2060) rickrowley@shaw.ca

Mike and Corlene Jacobs (h-955-2192 0r
w- 975-3314) mikejacobs@sasktel.net

Melissa and Tom Boehm (492-2324) mboehm@venmarces.com

We appreciate the response we have had to date and look forward to seeing everyone on the 23rd. Thank you to the many individuals and companies who have generously donated prizes for raffles and silent auction.

Rick and Bonnie

Tuesday, April 12th

2005-04-12T21:18:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Rick S., Shelley, Mike Thompson, Tim McDougall

Progress and Activities:
-8:45 stretches with Lucy
-working on the dressing again. Practice make perfect they say.
-OT with Jeanette they spoke about the home visit to Brian's parent place on Thursday. We will take some equipment with us to see if it fits in the bathroom.
-PT with Michelle was about transfers once again (this is so important in having a mobile lifestyle). They also worked on body lifting and working on the neck and shoulders with massage so they do not get overworked.
-lunch then to the gym with Lucy for weights and fun!
-PT with Michelle this afternoon was again about the lifting of the body. But this time, Brian had to roll on his belly then using only his arms and shoulders. He had to get to the position of being on his hands and knees. This took a whole lot of strength. Michelle helped hold his hips in place and his pants had to be pushed up to his knees to get "grip" on the mat. Brian did this twice. Then Michelle had Brian sit with his legs outstretched in front between two 10-inch high foam blocks. Brian had to lift his body up and his butt off the mat. This butt of his was about 5 inches off the mat. I could never do that. Way to go Brian!
-then down in the Atrium we ran into Mike Thompson that we met a few weeks ago. His injury is a T12 . We sat with him from 3:30 until 7:00 and Brian (and I) learned so much. He is a very nice guy and willing to answer so many of Brian's questions. Then when he was departing we went out to the parking lot and he showed us how he gets in and out of his car. Good ideas for next time for us to try.
-Since we missed supper, Brian and Tim McDougall ate in the Courtyard cafe and Shelley went home

Monday, April 11th

2005-04-12T20:50:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Denise Morden (the cake and present fairy), Shelley, Bill Neufeld, Brent Sadoway, Keith Adams, Patti Pettit, Dale & Wanda Andreen, Bonnie Rowley, Rick S.

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-then dressing by himself. The pants are tough when you cannot lift your hips up. He did manage to wiggle them almost all the way up then he got a little help.
-OT with Jeanette. They reviewed what Mandy had done and what paper work has been completed. Also went through the equipment lists again.
-PT with Michelle. Mat work and Brian again transferred to the mat without the transfer board.
Lifting the upper body and torso up using only the arms to get as much height as possible.
-lunch then to the gym. Michelle has had Lucy up the weight amounts and the repetitions. Instead of 30 of each rep now it is 10 reps, move to another machine then another 10 and so on.
Brian is using the arm bike each day now for the cardio component.
-back to PT with Michelle and they worked on Brian's shoulders. They did transfers with the emphasis on the shoulder strength. Then they did lifting on the mat getting as much extension from the shoulders as they can. It is surprising what that last little bit of "oomph" can do for the height of the body lift.
-Brian met a fellow - Troy- who is a paraplegic - who is lucky enough to have regained some strength in his right leg. But Troy spoke with Brian about transfers, in particular about car transfers (as ours do not go too smoothly). Brian said Troy was a great help.

-Brian had a meeting with Keith and Rick in the Atrium

-supper then cheesecake made by Denise (the nurses love you Denise!)
-down to the Atrium for a nice visit with Patti, Wanda and Dale.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Denise thanks for the wonderful cheesecake and all the work to bring everything up to the hospital for me! You are very sweet.

Saturday & Sunday, April 9th & 10th

2005-04-10T21:59:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
Tom & Marge Seufert (sorry we were on our way out), Corrine & Charlie (at Brian's parents house)

Sunday Visitors:
Tim & Steven McDougall (at the hospital), Laura Donovan, Denise, Shelley, Gene & Debbie, Pat Donovan, Nathan McKinnon

Progress and Activities:
Saturday:
-today Brian and Shelley did the car transfer (using the new 'Roddy" transfer board) by ourselves. We took the phone number of the nursing desk just in case, but we did not use it. The first transfer went rather smoothly, gale force winds and all.
-so off we went to Brian's parents house to see if Brian was able to maneuver well enough to live there for a month. (we received a very generous offer from them, also offers from Denise & Roger Morden and Tim & Monique McDougall - thank you!)We took the portable ramps (thanks Diane) and put them in the garage, Charlie wheeled Brian up, as it was quite steep. We will have to have the new Occupational Therapist in to check it out next week.
-we had a nice visit with Corrine and Charlie then we were off for a drive
-of course we went to the Auto Mall................ did you know there is a chartreuse Copper Mini? Brian did not know that chartreuse is a color.
-then we chose badly and had McDonalds for supper
-back to the hospital, transfer went not so smooth (but still did not call the nurses) and Brian got into bed and Shelley went home............or so she said!
-actually Shelley stopped at Gene and Debbie's and bummed a cold beer. As always the snacks are great there, so Shelley ate and ate! Thanks guys!

Sunday
-Steven and Tim stopped by but Brian was busy. They left behind a Tim Horton’s coffee for Brian!
-lunch then Shelley picked Brian up (again transferring into the Plymouth Acclaim) and went to our house for Open House in the wind, snow and rain.
-we had coffee visitors at home which was very nice.............but we have not seen a new offer on the house yet.
-Gene and Debbie BBQ'd sausage and potatoes and brought them over before we went back to the hospital.........watched the end of the Masters ..........you all know how Gene loves golf ....I am glad Tiger won...........
-back to the hospital for all the meds Brian missed and again into bed. It is exhausting these outings.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Tom and Marge it was so nice of you to stop on your way home from Arizona when you haven't even been to your own house yet. We hope you can stop in again soon. Welcome back to the snow and wind!
-McDougall's thanks for coffee
-Susan Donovan thanks for the flowers that brightened our house on this gloomy day, and Pat your granola is great!
-Gene and Debbie thanks for the BBQ again! Wonderful food!
-Denise Bowden thanks for the Chicken Fettuccini – that was so nice – and Happy Birthday on the 9^th Denise!!!!!

Friday, April 8th

2005-04-10T20:52:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Darryl Ulmer, Rick S., Shelley, Ruth & Larry, Rick & Bonnie

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy around 8 am
-then "learning to dress yourself" the socks, shoes and shirt, are the easy parts now (in comparison to the pants). This takes a fair bit of time, as most things it gets easier each time.
-Brian got a new antibiotic for his bladder infection this morning after the "three suits" (as Brian calls them), actually they are doctors but he does not know their names, spoke to him about his many infections. So I guess we will wait to see what happens.
-lunch then to OT with Mandy. Today is her last day at SCH. As I said before we will miss her very much. We wish her well at Parkridge. She gave us some insight as to what is upcoming in the next few weeks. Lots to learn! YIKES!
-then off for an ultra sound on the bladder so half of PT was missed.
-we caught up with Tanis PT student for the last half of PT. Today was also Tanis's last day. We think she will make a great Physiotherapist. Best of luck to you and Troy!
-Tanis had Brian practicing wheelies again. He held a wheelie for 7 seconds. He should be bumping up curbs in no time.
-then Ruth and Larry arrived and we walked the two blocks to Earls for supper. The weather was wonderful (24 degrees above!), the food was wonderful, and so was the company!
-we did not sit on the deck at Earl's as we noticed the PT and OT department out there and Dr. Fourney, Brian's Neurosurgeon out there. What a popular place for hospital types.
-it was a very nice evening

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Ruth and Larry thanks for supper; next time at The Keg it is our turn! And there will be no arguing Ruth!

Wednesday & Thursday, April 6th & 7th

2005-04-07T22:12:00.000-06:00

Wednesday Visitors:
Corrine & Charlie & Joey, Shelley, Lyle, Ada & George, Dr. Enweanie, Rick S.

Thursday Visitors:
Shelley, Mark Milne, Pat & Susan, Roddy

Progress and Activities:
Wednesday
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-then gym with Lucy. It was good to get those muscles going again. The shoulder seems to be cooperating.
-lunch
-then PT with Janice PT and Tanis PT student. Lyle Ruf and Shelley were today's audience and cheer team. Brian started out very tired (this bladder infection is really dragging him down this time), but once he got going he did all right. Janice and Tanis had Brian lift with his body up using the blocks to get extra height to get his butt off the mat. Brian did the balance exercises and this time the ball they used was a tennis ball (usually it is a beach ball). He found the tennis ball easier to catch and keep his balance, as it was smaller. He found the beach ball needed two hands to catch and would throw him off balance. Then Brian tried to lift himself from the sitting position (with legs stretched out in front of him) on the one mat to a higher mat. He tried the lift that they have worked on and lifted and pushed his body back and up to the other mat. A lot of work but he did it. He also did the same move but instead of straight back he did it from the side. More work but the same result. He took his shoes off for these and then had to put them on again when they were done. He transferred back to the chair by himself.
-Lyle took Brian's lap top with him to get serviced
-Shelley H (Social Work) stopped by with some places to call that might have possible vacancies for a months stay for Brian's interim care. Checked out a couple on the internet and will make some calls to see what they might be like. Thanks Shelley!
-supper then...Shelley S. went home early as the bladder infection seemed to be getting the best of Brian today and he was tired. But then visitors arrived and he felt good!

Thursday
-stretches with Lucy
-then a quick lesson on how to dress ones self. This is so difficult when your lower body does not move. The shirt is easy. The pants and socks are another story. Right now Brian's bed has a nylon cover over the air baffles (to relieve pressure) and it is slippery. Our bed is not slippery (I guess I could get satin sheets), so it will be even harder. Pants do not pull up very easily when you cannot swing your hips from side to side. Practice will make perfect in this situation.
-gym with Lucy. Doing the arm bike each day now, which is a bit of a cardio work out.
-lunch then did some "manual" work for Sargent's as the laptop is getting "serviced".
- then PT with Janice. Down to the front entrance and Shelley is there with the Acclaim, to do car transfers. The first transfer went very smoothly. The second a little slower but he got in fairly well. So he stayed in the car and we went for a drive (we left Janice behind to attend a meeting).
We drove by the river, our old house, new house, the Silverwood Golf course, the Meidl Honda car lot to check out the new Honda truck (I cannot remember the name but they have a gray one and a black one), then picked up Quiznos for supper. It was nice to get outside and see some thing different, on such a nice day!
-back to SCH to meet Janice in front to get out of the car. Brian did it well.
-Sue & Pat stopped by then it was supper.
-then watched Survivor with Roddy.............poor Stephenie all alone in a tribe of one! What will she do???

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-from Janis and Gary Gallant Tim Horton's gift certificates and tow new hand held games. those will be great while he is one the ______. Janis do you have a high score to beat on these games too? Thanks so much!
-Thanks Lyle for being Lyle and for taking care of the laptop. It means a lot.
-Susan and Pat.......just in time for the Masters this weekend a PGA Tour book. Thank you!
-Roddy Edwards - thanks for the wonderful transfer boards that you made for Brian. They are perfect. They are smooth and glossy and Brian used it tonight and it works great! What a creative and necessary item. Great idea......thanks for all the hard work that went into making them.

Monday & Tuesday, April 4th & 5th

2005-04-05T21:18:00.000-06:00

Monday Visitors:
Shelley (for one hour), Gene & Debbie

Tuesday Visitors:
Rick S., Shelley

Progress and Activities:
Monday
-Lucy is still away ill - I hope she feels better soon
-PT on Monday with Michelle PT and Tanis PT student was mat transfers, balance and lifting of the body. The transfers on and off the mat Brian did from both sides of the mat. The body lifting is very hard to do and Brian is getting better at it.
-lunch then OT (no gym today)
-Shelley arrived then was sent away and went home to the couch with the flu/cold
-Brian and Mandy OT worked on getting his new wheel chair balanced. They apparently had it all apart but in the end got it going for Brian. Based on a persons weight and height there is a center of balance, which makes the wheel chair ride better, and once it is centered it does not have the tipping feeling.
-Brian worked on the lap top after supper - getting his PO's done -then had a nice visit with Gene and Debbie
Tuesday
-Lucy is still away ill - she must be quite ill - poor Lucy
-PT with Michelle and Tanis
- Rick Sargent came to Brian's PT session for the first time to see what it is all about. I think he saw how hard Brian works and how difficult things really are to do. I do not think he had seen Brian transfer before. Brian transferred to the mat with out the transfer board today. That is a huge accomplishment. They then worked on balance throwing the ball. Then Brian was lifting his body up off the mat and doing the forward backward moves.
-lunch then OT with Mandy. Brian met Mandy's replacement Margaret. We sure will miss you Mandy you have been so great. If we mention something you do your homework and have the answers the next day. If you do not know the answer you hunt it down. You are also patient and kind. We wish you well.
-then we had a "family conference” about Brian's release date. We were told April 14th and Brian and I do not feel his body is ready. But I guess they think otherwise. So at the meeting today .....Shelley & Brian, Shelley H. (Social Worker), Colette (Head Nurse), Dr. Li Pi Shen, Rupal B. (Physciatrist), Michelle PT, Tanis PT Student, Mandy OT (and Margaret), Margaret CPAS. They each spoke of Brian's progress. Then they gave us a date of April 22nd. Later Dr. Li Pi Shen said we have until the end of the month.
-so we look for a place for Brian to live in the interim, until we move into our new house June 1st.
-I really hope his body functions cooperate for this release date.
-supper, bath then lap topping

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks Gene and Debbie for running my errands to Sears, much appreciated!

Sunday, April 3rd

2005-04-03T21:10:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Corrine & Charlie, TimMcDougall (the working boy), Amber & Bev & Skip Vermeulen, Ken & Wendy Bernhard, Lyle & Diane Ruf

Progress and Activities:
- breakfast, a bath then visitors
- Tim arrived while Brian was still in the tub. So he ran to Tim Horton’s and bought coffee for everyone. Donna and Grace the nurses on duty were thrilled!
-Ken and Wendy brought some information and brochures about "barrier free" bathrooms. There are very user-friendly shower stalls, and many to pick from. Very interesting!
- Brian got his "own" Quickie wheel chair and RoHo cushion today. The RoHo cushion looks like an egg carton made of rubber. The bumps are filled with air. When Brian sits on the cushion it helps ease the pressure and prevents pressure sores. He is using one now, but this is his own.
he has not tried the new chair yet, but tomorrow!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks to Ken and Wendy for all the information- that is great!
-thanks to Lyle and Diane for delivering the Quickie II and the RoHo cushion. That saved Shelley a lot of time! Very kind people you are!

Saturday, April 2nd

2005-04-03T20:48:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
Shelley, Hulgar Mausch, Tim Richardson, Randy Dittmar, Ruth (Larry I hope you are feeling better soon), Rick & Bonnie - sorry Arden and Landon that we missed you!

Progress and Activities:
- so about the ADL Suite..........lets just say that we did it. We were there from 5 pm Friday and we went back to the ward around 10 pm Saturday night.
-the ADL Suite is a suite where you try to do everything yourself, with out the help of doctors and nurses. They are just a "call bell: away (the call bells are in each room in the suite). The good news is we did not have to call them.
-but........it was very hard. Brian and I did not sleep more that 3 hours Friday night so we decided not to stay Saturday night in the suite. We did get to sleep in the same bed for the first time in 11 weeks, that was very nice.
- we had breakfast, lunch and supper in the suite and Brian worked on the computer up there.
-Ruth popped in as I happened too see her at the elevator and so did Rick and Bonnie Rowley.
-so all in all it was very, very tough, but nice to be together.

Wednesday & Thursday, March 30th & 31st

2005-03-31T21:42:00.000-06:00

Wednesday Visitors:
Shelley, Pat Kychula, George, Tim & Monique, Dale & Wanda, Patti (Al I hope your gout is gone today) Silverwood Men's Section: Mike, Peter, Jack, Rick R. Dennis, Brian C., Robert, Izzie, Arlo, Harold, Ray

Thursday Visitors:
Shelley, Vivian, Carol B., Tim, Mark, Rick & Bonnie, Roddy, Wade T., Rick S.

Progress and Activities:
Wednesday
-stretches with Lucy at 8:00
- spent some time with the hand held Yahtzee - high score 624 - did you get that Janis!
-PT with Janice PT and Tanis PT student. Transferred to the mat then worked on balance, rolling over and sitting up. Brian has decided that he still needs the dreaded Jewitt Brace. He wore it for physio today. They are working on balance a lot. Brian feels like he sits on a beach ball all the time. As he has no feeling from the chest down, the trunk muscles do not do their job well at all. So balance with he shoulders, head and arms is key. They also worked on those shoulders to keep them strong.
-lunch then to the gym with Lucy - did all the required repetitions with both arms!
-then a meeting with Rupal. Poor Rupal had to listen to us for an hour. She is such a nice person.
-Mandy from OT came by to get a grocery list from us. Brian and I are spending Friday night in the ADL suite. I kept the list simple. For example: Brian has not had Kraft Dinner since he has been in the hospital so Kraft Dinner it is for lunch on Saturday. I hope all goes well!
-supper then a few visitors then Brian was off to his Silverwood Golf Course Men's Section Meeting and Shelley went for a haircut
-the Silverwood Men's Section guys were kind enough to come to the hospital for their meeting.

Thursday
-stretches with Lucy at 8:00
-a bit of lap topping
-then PT with Janice and Tanis. Brian transferred on and off the mat twice. Then they again worked on rolling over and balance. They also worked on Brian lifting his butt off the matt (in a sitting position - legs stretched straight out front) and moving his body forward and then back ward.
-lunch then to OT with Mandy OT. They went to the ADL suite and worked on the bathroom transfers. In particular the wheel chair to toilet transfers. This was not very easy, but Brian keeps working on it.
-gym with Lucy the work out lady.
-down for a quick coffee in the Atrium
-super then Survivor night with Rick & Bonnie, Wade T. and Roddy. We ate junk food (don't tell Sharon the Dietician) Ibraham finally got voted off......and then there were two!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-just a big thanks to Rick and Bonnie for everything!

Monday & Tuesday, March 28th & 29th

2005-03-29T20:25:00.000-06:00

Monday Visitors:
Shelley, Denise, Sean Tucker, Donna Draude, Eugene Harms (I think I have that right)

Tuesday Visitors:
Shelley, Gary Jakeman, Gene & Debbie, John & Denise & Tanner & Alicia

Progress and Activities:
-Monday was Easter Monday so the hospital staff were not really around
-Donna Draude brought us supper....... it was great!

-Tuesday was a busy day
-no time for stretches with Lucy as Brian had to be downstairs waiting for the wheel chair taxi by 8:00 am - thanks to nurses Carol and Lynette for all your help this morning
-Shelley met Brian just before 8:00 am at SCH to take the taxi to Royal University Hospital to see Dr. Fourney for the follow up appointment from his back surgery, January 20th.
-the appointment was for 8:45 but first x-rays (used the medi lift machine to get on the x-ray table) then we waited (and waited)
-Dr. Fourney was very pleased the way Brian's back has healed. He has the 2 rods (about 8 inches long), the 8 screws (each, about 2 inches long) and two braces at the top and bottom of each rod. He said everything is where it should be and T11 and T12 vertebrae have healed into place well. Good news! But the best news Brian got today was that he could start "weaning" himself off of wearing the dreaded Jewitt Brace. He was so excited! He cannot go without it all the time but a few hours at a time. His mobility should increase a lot now!
-back to SCH and we made it in time for the 11:00 physio with Michelle PT and Tanis PT student.
-without wearing the brace....... they worked on the chair to mat transfers, balance, and rolling over and sitting up. For the first time Brian rolled onto his stomach. He can only do this without the brace on. He said it felt strange.
-lunch then -Brian put the brace on as he felt his back needed the support after physio.
-OT with Mandy at 1:00 was in the ADL suite. Brian tried to get onto the bed. He had a very hard time. He did do it twice. On and then off. He worked very hard.
-then the gym with Lucy at 2:00. Brian did all his exercises and almost all his repetitions with both arms. Then he tried the arm machine, which is like a stationary bike but for your arms. This works additional muscles in the upper body.
-2:30 we saw the Dietician Sharon and the Dietary student Courtney. They accessed Brian's current menu choices and made a few modifications. We will see what happens.
-then ultrasound with Tanis at 3:00 for his shoulders.

-Dr. Li Pi Shan and Dr. El Maadawy stopped by to check on things
-a visit with Gary then supper
-a bit of lap topping then a few evening visitors
-a very busy day

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks so much Donna Draude for the turkey sandwiches, pickles, veggies and dip and the lemon cheesecake (don't tell Sharon the Dietician) everything was so good!

Saturday & Sunday, March 26th & 27th

2005-03-27T21:23:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
at the house - Donna & Jim Kilmister, Rick & Bonnie Rowley, Ian, Hannah, Nathan, Shelley
Jerome Vinnish stopped by the hospital - sorry we missed you Jerome

Sunday Visitors:
Denise, Shelley, Ian, Hannah

Progress & Activities:
-Saturday is the first day since January 17th that Shelley did not go to the hospital!
-Brian came home via wheel chair taxi. He arrived around 1:00 and stayed until 10:00 pm. A lot of coordination, thanks to nurses Ed and Elaine!
-Donna and Jim Kilmister were in Saskatoon and we had a visit at the house this afternoon. It was great to see you both! It has been far too long!
-Nathan, Ian and Hannah were here for supper. Shelley actually cooked. I thought I might have forgotten how....
-after supper the Rowley’s came over for Yahtzee! Rick kicked b_tt.........just barely!
-I think Brian really enjoyed being at home for the day. There were a few "glitches", but I guess that is to be expected as we learn.
-all in all the day flew by!

Easter Sunday - hope the Easter Bunny was good to you!
-Denise arrived with Easter presents for everyone! Chocolate, and more chocolate plus a few other goodies. Thanks so much. You are so thoughtful Denise!
-had coffee in the Atrium with Ian and Hannah then Hannah, Shelley and Ian departed for the airport. Such a fast trip for Ian. We miss you already!
-back to SCH for Shelley, had supper with Brian, a visit and then a tired Brian got into bed
-Saturday was 12 hours in the dreaded Jewitt Brace. That is far too long. So Sunday his body paid the price.
-stretches with Shelley

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks to Donna and Jim for the magnetic dart board. Brian can practice his aim from bed even!
-Easter chocolates from Jerome and the Sargents Service Staff - how nice of you!
-thanks to Denise for the Easter surprises for us all! Thanks Mom for the bunny!
-thanks to Dave and Rae Bourns for having Andy for a sleepover weekend in Burlington ON. That is so nice of you! It is a well needed break for Andy and I know the home cooking there is GREAT! Thanks!

Friday, March 25th - Good Friday

2005-03-26T09:15:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Ian (Ian is home from Vancouver for the weekend! Yeah!!), Hannah, Ruth & Larry

Progress and Activities:
-no stretches with Lucy, no PT, no OT, no gym, no Social Worker, no Physiologist..........for four days!
-breakfast, bath and lap topping before lunch ( I think it was Solitaire not "work")

-Shelley, Denise and Hannah greeting Ian at the airport this morning.
-lunch then Ian arrived!!!!!!!!!! Ian has not been home since the trauma part of this ordeal and right after the surgery. It is different having a new job than it is going to University. You do not get many days off.
-Shelley, Brian, Ian and Hannah wheeled around the hospital. Ian wheeled in the Quickie II and Brian was in the aluminum chair (there was not racing). But Ian stayed in the chair for the afternoon and seemed to get a feel for what Brian goes through. There was a wee bit of cheating of course. Brian and Ian went in the public washrooms, into the stalls, around tables, and navigated the hospital together. Shelley and Hannah pushed them in the chairs from time to time.
-ordered pizza for supper and Ian worked on Brian's new laptop to get the screen clarity problem fixed with Dell.
-Ian and Hannah left after supper to visit with friends. Ruth and Larry came by and we had a good evening visiting.

-to Andy....I hope you are feeling better........... Love Mom!

Wednesday, March 23rd

2005-03-23T23:10:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Gary Jakeman, Sherri, Patti & Al, Shane H., Rick R., Rick & Bonnie, Lyle & Diane & Logan, Dr. Enweanie, Rick S.

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8 bells
-lap topping
-PT with Janice PT and Tanis PT student. Brian transferred to the "stand up" machine and was ready to stand up again when they noticed that he was not wearing his "binder". The binder is a girdle of sorts that wraps around his belly under his shirt. The Jewitt Brace is worn overtop. the job of the binder is to help regulate blood flow (aka blood pressure). the regulation of the blood pressure is very important when using the stand up machine. Maybe next week they will try again. Instead Tanis and Brian worked on learning how o do "wheelies" in the wheel chair. Sounds like fun right? It probably is........ but it is also important to know for bumping up curbs, bumping into a home doorway etc. The key is not to tip over backwards. The wheel chair Brian is using now has "anti tipper" bars on the back, now we know why. Then both shoulders got the ultrasound machine.
-lunch then off to OT with Mandy. We were again in the ADL suite. Brian transferred on and off the couch, with much more ease that yesterday. Well-done Brian!
-we were on the way to the gym but Janice introduced us to two "fellows" that have been out of SCH Rehab for just over one year now. They seem to be around our age. Gary has a T6 injury from falling off his roof and Mike has a T12 injury from (I am not sure how but) moving a round bale of hay. It was very encouraging meeting them and seeing how independent they are. They do not even wear their seatbelts! I hope we meet them again in the future.
-then down to the Atrium for coffee with a group of afternoon coffee drinkers! Had a good visit.
-supper then Shelley took Mary (Mom) to the airport (so sad, but thanks for all of your help Mom!!!)
-Brian watched Survivor with Rick & Bonnie, Lyle & Diane & Logan.

Shelley

Tuesday, March 22nd

2005-03-23T22:44:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Tony & Kimberly

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8:30
-breakfast, bathroom, then lap topping for short while
-the off to PT with Michelle PT and Tanis PT student. Once again they were in the Transitional Living Suite working on the bed transfers. They say that Brian did the transfer almost without help. The girls are still close by, but most of the strength came from Brian.
-lunch then a PO or two to get the auto parts ordered then off to the gym.
-Brian worked both sides of his upper body today. That is great progress! Then ultra sound on both shouldrs
-then RT (recreational therapy) with Donna. We watched a video about golfing and how the disabled person can learn to adapt. I must say they make it look easy, but it sure can be done! Those guys in the video with their big glasses, long hair and plaid pants ( the video was made in the eighties) had great ideas. Progress since then has made golf even more accessible and that is wonderful news for Brian.
-for OT with Mandy it was back to the ADL suite or the Transitional Living Suite. Michelle and Tanis were also there. Brian did transfers to the bed ALL BY HIMSELF! So much physical work for something we do not really think about on a daily basis. Next was the transfer to the couch. the couch is about 5 inches lower than the wheel chair so getting on was fairly easy. But getting back into the chair was another story. Those nylon wind pants he had on kept slipping on the transfer board so this was a very tiring task, but he did it!
-suppertime then...Brian and I spent the evening in the ADL suite by ourselves. No nurses, no doctors, no PT, OT or RT. YIKES! We were nervous but Mandy OT left a list of emergency numbers for us, and there is nurses "call bell" in each room. We tried some of these transfers ourselves - no falling happened! Also tried the stuff in the kitchen.... access to cupboards, dishwasher etc. Then we made popcorn and watched the Survivor tape that Rick and Bonnie had from last weeks show. The evening started out a bit scary but it was very nice.
-10:00 and back to the ward and Brian went to the bathtub and Shelley went home.

That is it folks!

Monday, March 21st

2005-03-21T20:18:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Tim, Shelley, Keith Adams, Mary, Denise, Gene & Debbie, Kay & Keith Johnston, Roddy, Rick S.

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy - welcome back Lucy
-a little lap topping then PT
-Janice PT (I think Tanis the PT student was there also) and Brian were in the Transitional Living Suite. Brian learned a new way to transfer onto the bed. He had so much trouble with this the other day. Basically he went feet first. That entails lifting each foot onto the bed and inching the chair forward, then pushing his legs onto the bed further each time he pushes the chair. Then he slides the transfer board under his bottom and slides onto the bed. I think that is an original way to do it, but whatever works. It is even harder because he has his shoes on (the PT and OT girls call the rubber bottom runners "rubber stoppers") most people don't wear their shoes to bed but I guess Brian does. Well, Brian has new tricks in the bedroom ......... wearing his shoes to bed!
-lunch then gym where things are progressing slowly with the left shoulder. it gets better each time...thank goodness.
-then Brian, Shelley, Tim and Mandy OT went to the Transitional Living Suite again. This time we were in the bathroom. Brian was trying to figure the best way to get into the bathtub. He was trying feet first (he seems to like that move) then slide the butt over to the seat across the tub, and slide down into the tub. Once again he was wearing his shoes. There are various seats and bars for this he will have to try this a few times to see which piece of equipment works best for him. Then it was over to the toilet. This will take some practise. Once again there are various commodes etc. But the OT and PT girls do not think he will need one. We will see how strong he gets. It takes alot to move ones butt from a wheel chair onto a toilet seat using only your arms. Also the toilet set is lower than the chair seat.
-a meeting with Keith and Rick then supper
-down to the Atrium for coffee with Gene & Debbie and we watched Denise and Mom (Mary) eat poutine. They thought we would not see them.

Happy Spring to all!
Shelley
P.S. to Phil and Dave.........I guess I am just feeling and looking so old these days that I thought I would take you two ahead a year with me!

Saturday & Sunday, March 19th & 20th

2005-03-20T22:07:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
Peter Goertz, Shelley, Mary, Denise, Shaun & Joanne & Logan Johnson, Lyle & Diane & Logan Ruf, Hulgar Mausch, Jack & Delores Keck

Sunday Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Rick & Bonnie (at the house), Susan & Brent Sadoway (at the hospital)

Progress and Activities:
-Saturday morning Brian went for an X ray on his shoulder. This was requested by Dr. Mark Ernst so they can see what is what. The cortisone shot Friday seems be helping somewhat so that is good news.
-We finally saw the new member of the Johnson family, Logan (boy). He is a cutie. I don't think he cries as he did not make a sound the whole visit. Lyle & Diane & Logan (girl) arrived and Lyle was working on Brian's new laptop.
-coffee in the Atrium after supper with, Hulgar, Jack & Delores, Denise, Shelley and Mary

-Sunday morning Brian had to get "all his ducks in a row" ( Donna the nurse uses this term all the time) for visit to our house. The wheel chair taxi picked him up at 1:00. Shelley had borrowed portable ramps for Brian to wheel into the house. Rick Rowley was on hand to bump Brian up the stairs into the living room kitchen area, and down to the family room. Brian spent until 4:00 at the house, when the taxi picked him up again. He found that we were right ( and Shelley's measurements were correct) that some of our doorways are just not wide enough for the Quickie II wheel chair to fit through. It is a little sad, as there are parts of our home he just cannot get to.
-he enjoyed being home, as you all know, home is one’s comfort place. It was his first visit since January 17th. Hopefully he can come home for a longer window of time as his body heals and we can BBQ or visit with friends at home.
-returned to the hospital and Susan and Brent were there with hot Lasagne, Caesar Salad, warm buns, real plates and cutlery, and a great dessert. Thanks so much it was delicious!
-then another haircut for Brian. Those low maintenance buzz cuts are very hospital friendly!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks Lyle for all the time you spend helping Brian - it is priceless.
-thanks to Susan and Brent for the gourmet feast and the haircut for Brian. It is so kind of you. Congrats to Susan on the Grand Opening of her Hair Salon that is wheel chair accessible, located in the Saskatoon Convalescent Home!

Happy Birthday Phil today and Happy Birthday Dave tomorrow............ 48....wow that is old!
Good Night
SAS

Thursday & Friday, March 17th & 18th

2005-03-18T21:32:00.000-06:00

Thursday Visitors:
Dwight Ruf, Shelley, Mary, Wade Tkachuk

Friday Visitors:
Tim McDougall, Mark Millard, Shelley, Mary, Rick & Bonnie, Lyle & Diane & Logan

Progress and Activities:
Thursday
-stretches with Tanis at 8:00
-Dwight Ruf arrived this morning with Brian's new laptop that Lyle and Brian ordered. We understand that Dwight and Lyle (the brothers Ruf) spent most of the night - close to 3:00 am - working on the new laptop to get it ready with all the programming that Brian needs. Thanks so much. This computer works so well. I understand there was a third party helping the brothers Ruf - his name is Barcardi. Thanks to all three of you!
-lunch - then OT with Mandy. Brian and Mandy were in the Transitional Suite and Mandy was showing Brian how to do transfers from the wheel chair onto a bed. Brian said it is quite hard as the sheets move and he has to so a lot more lifting of his legs, as they do not slide. The bed is a bit different height that the bed in his room (which is adjustable) and than the mats in the physio room.
-then it was on to PT with Tanis the PT student. Shelley and Mary got to watch. Balance was the theme here and Shelley was throwing the ball to Brian and he tossed it back. His balance has come a long way since I saw this last. He also did the rolling over with quite a bit of ease. He still has to watch the shoulder. Then in one fairly quick and smooth movement ....Brian rolled on his side, placed his right elbow on the mat lifted his right side and then his left side and got into a sitting position. I was very impressed! Back into the chair for some stretching exercises then had an ultra sound treatment on his shoulder.
- supper then a visit in the Atrium
-a visit with Wade T. then a tired Brian "hit the hay" as he has to get up early (early for Brian these days is 7:00 am - which is sleeping in for the rest of us on a work day).
Friday
-up early - Brian and the nurse Leona had a plan that Brian would be washed, bathroomed and fed by 8:00 ish as he had a date for breakfast at the Broadway Cafe. Thanks for all your help Leona, you are great!
- Tim McDougall and Mark Millard were at the hospital by 8:30 to have a lesson on” how to put Brian into a truck". Tanis PT student and Janice PT were the instructors.
-as I understand it Tim pulled his truck up to the front of the hospital. Janice and Tanis plus Mark and Tim determined that the distance was too far from the height of the wheel chair to the truck to get Brian in (without him having to wear a helmet for safety). Janice volunteered her car but instead they borrowed Rick Sargent's car from the shop. Once loaded in the car ( I bet the ride was worse for Mark as I am sure his knees were up around his ears sitting in the back seat) away they went for the Friday morning breakfast to Broadway Cafe.
This Friday breakfast thing has been going on for many years.....I will guess 10 years....so this was a big deal. Tim, Mark, Neil McGregor and Shaun Johnston were there. Nicole the waitress gave Brian a hug. Brian missed not having bacon - it has been a 7 week withdrawal I think. They did not even make Brian pay for breakfast - (that Murray, from Calgary, had to pay when he went in January)
-Brian did say that he realizes there are some things he just is not ready for yet. This mornings' outing was a big event that took a lot of coordination - Thanks everyone!
-returned to the hospital and off to PT with Janice and Tanis for more balance work.
-lunch then Brian lap topped on the Dell
-Shelley and Mary arrived and noticed that Ted the nurse is back from holidays. He did not forget where Brian's chocolates are though!
-Dr. Mark Ernest arrived and accessed Brian's shoulder. He gave him another cortisone shot but in a different muscle than the previous shot a few weeks back. Let's hope this one does the trick!
-we had McDonalds for supper. Tasted good at the time but later......
-visiting in the Nourishment Center with Rick & Bonnie, Lyle & Diane & Logan!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Mom, Brenda and Denise a huge thank you for the new bedside tables for our bedroom. They are AWESOME. Thanks!
-thanks to Dwight Ruf for the loan of the laptop for the last two months. It was so generous of you. Thanks to you and your brother Lyle for all the work you did setting up the new laptop, you guys are great!
-thanks to Wade Kullman for the great scarf that you made for Shelley. It is SO soft.
-Logan thanks for the "puppy" he is also very soft and snuggly. Logan your cookies were great! Thank you.
-Thanks to Tim and Mark (and Tanis, Janice and Leona) for making Brian's Friday outing a great one!
-Thanks to the snow angels Laura Donovan and Lindsay Geerheardt for shovelling our driveway. What a nice surprise.

TGIF - again!
Shelley

Tuesday & Wednesday, March 15th & 16th

2005-03-16T22:49:00.000-06:00

Tuesday Visitors:
Shelley, Denise Roddy, George, Dr. Enweanie

Wednesday Visitors:
Ian McIntyre, Tim McDougall, Shelley, Mary (Shelley's Mom is back... Yeah!), Denise, Ruth & Larry, Ken & Wendy

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Tanis both days
-Tuesday PT with Michelle PT and Tanis PT student was about balance. Tossing a ball and catching a ball. Not easy to do with only your upper chest, arms and head for balance. Brian said he did quite well. Brian is also transferring again with out the use of the "medi lift". This is great news as the shoulder seems to be on the mend and then the physio can progress at a pace that produces the results that Brian is looking for. Brian also did some upper body/arm exercises sitting on the mat in the physio room.
-Wednesday PT was a session with "Ian" the physio God. Brian said that his shoulder felt good after Ian was finished his deep, strong yet painful massge of all the knots in his neck, shoulder and upper arm. After that Tanis PT student worked with Brian on the mat. He tried to roll over again but has not done it for some time so was a little disappointed that he has lost a bit of momentum. He will get it back soon enough.
-Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon Mandy brought some more pricing that we had asked about. Truck/vehicle lifts and different bed options. It would be best if we could get a bed that has air like the one he has now,but there are other options. There is the NASA type foam bed etc. All these varieties are to help to prevent pressure sores. Brian still has to be turned every 2 to 3 hours when in bed to prevent this from happening. This is to continue so if the bed is recommended to prevent pressure sores...all the better.
-Tuesday we met with Rupal for an hour. She was very informative, as always.
-Tuesday Denise and I broke down and ordered Poutine from the Courtyard Cafe. In all the weeks at the hospital that was the first time I have had it. Actually if you can believe this...Brian had not had poutine ever before!!! It was quite tasty.....but hardly calorie free.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks to Denise Bowden for the great chicken dinner...what a treat!
-thanks to Tim for fixing our computer.....that crazy crazy computer! Thanks!
-thanks to Brenda, Graham and Leanne for the cookies, pistachios and candies all the way from Calgary...I hope Brian does not eat all the cookies tonight while I am gone!
-thanks to Mom for coming for another visit (or is she here to babysit Shelley?)

Thanks, Thanks, Thanks!
Shelley

Monday, March 14th

2005-03-14T22:03:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Pat Kychula, Susan & Brent, Wayne Wilson, Kathy & Krista, Shelley

Progress and Activities:
-no stretches with Lucy she is away for the week
-Michelle PT and Tanis PT student filled in for Lucy
-breakfast then lap topping doing a some work - or is he really playing solitaire??
-then to the physio room with Michelle, Tanis and Janice PT to try a new machine.
-I have seen this machine in the hallway. It is at SCH on loan. So it is called a "standing machine". They asked Brian if he would like to try it and as always he said sure!
-Brian was strapped in from a sitting position. Then they slowly stand him up so that his chest presses against a padded board and the front of his calves also press against a padded board. There is not real pressure on his feet but more of a forward leaning on the front of the body. It is a huge adjustment for the circulatory system when they do this, so his blood pressure was monitored. This first time up (just a couple of minutes) he was very light headed and nauseous. The second time up ( a few minutes longer) was a little bit better. Then the third time he felt well enough to do his arm exercises in this position. He said he thought it would be more exciting. But there are a lot of medical things going on just to be in a standing position for a few moments. Way to go Brian!
-lunch then a bit of work again
-then an afternoon and evening of visitors

Until tomorrow
Shelley

Saturday & Sunday, March 12th & 13th

2005-03-13T21:14:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
Corrine & Charlie, Shelley, Robert & Tammy Hergott, Susan & Pat, Denise

Sunday Visitors:
Tim McDougall, Gary Jakeman, Ken Rowley, Shelley, Rick & Bonnie

Progress and Activities:
-all in all a fairly quiet weekend. Brian slept well both nights which was much needed
-Brian's shoulder is slowly getting better. Janice PT said Friday that they would be "working" on Monday in physio so I hope the shoulder holds up
-the three guys in the accident on January 17th, Brian, Tim and Gary had a visit for the first time on Sunday.
-no PT, OT, or other "professionals" on the weekend, just the hard working nurses and the on call Doctor.
-not much else actually.....don't they say........ no news is good news!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks so much Robert and Tammy for the inspirational book about Mount Everest
-a coffee weekend.....Starbucks for Brian from Corrine and Charlie, decaf Tim's for Shelley and Brian from Denise, Tim's coffee for Tim, Brian and Gary from Gary......Thanks to all
-Thanks for the fresh fruit Donovans!

Yellehs

Thursday, March 10th

2005-03-10T22:30:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Steve Petruskavic (from Dixie Winnipeg), Ada & George, Rick R., Bill Restall, Randy B., Rick S.

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8:00
-breakfast then neck stretches (new exercise)
-then off to physio with Janice PT to see "Ian". Brian said that Ian really worked his neck muscles and in and around his shoulder. Everything is connected....the neck muscles to the shoulder muscle and the shoulder muscle to the upper chest muscles etc. So when one is strained badly the others take over. What is quite common is for a person (like Brian) to compensate for the pain by using the other muscles incorrectly. That is why they are also working on his neck and front and back of his chest. He now has a neck thing (it wraps around his neck like one of those bathtub neck pillows) that he is to wear in bed. That guy has so much STUFF it is difficult to remember to do all these things. The TENS, the ice, the neck thing, the leg exercises.....blah blah blah.
-near the end of the physio session Brian had a flushing incident (another body sign) where his head, neck, arms and torso were very red and itchy for about a half an hour. Physio must have mentioned this to the nurses and in turn the nurse to Dr. El Maadway.
-Brian had lunch then a nap as he was not feeling great and he has not slept for the last three nights.
-after the nap Dr. El Maadawy came in and asked about the "episode" and they will be doing blood work in the morning to see what is what............or if it was just a one time thing.
-supper - Shelley ordered double everything on the menu so she did not have to have a sandwich for supper. It did not taste too bad.
-tonight was Survivor night. Rick was there but Bonnie was unable to attend. Bonnie went to see Kalan Porter............yes, I said Kalan Porter. I hope she does not spend too much money on t-shirts and glow sticks! This time Kim really did get voted off Survivor, the lazy bum!

Thanks for listening
Shelley

Wednesday, March 9th

2005-03-09T21:50:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Gary Girling, Randy Dittmar, Shelley, Brian Amundrud, Rick R., Gene & Debbie, Wayne & Sal

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-PT with Michelle, working still on balance and the mat, until the shoulder improves
-a couple of visitors then lunch
-off to the gym with Lucy. Worked on the right side but a little on the left. Modified some of the exercise so the left shoulder muscle would not be strained. Actually the tear in the shoulder muscle seems to be getting better...ever so slowly. Brian meets with "Ian" again tomorrow.
-we had a meeting with Rupal but she had a conflicting appointment so she will rebook.
-this actually worked out well because Brian Amundrud came for a visit. Brian has been living in Japan for the last 8 years and is home visiting family and friends. It was great to get caught up and hear how life is in Kobe Japan!
-supper, then out for a wheel around
-Shelley left the hospital at 7:00 - a new record - washed the van, straightened a bit, put in some wash and watched Gilmore Girls.
-Brian had a bath tonight as his physio appointment is a little earlier tomorrow than usual.
-there were a few more visitors, then watched CSI - NY

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thanks Brian for driving in from Craik to visit and for bringing the lovely flowers
-thanks to Wayne and Sal for the Family Pzza gift certificates - how nice of you!

Early to bed......G'night
Shelley

Monday, March 7th

2005-03-07T21:44:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Bonnie, Al & Patti, Trent & Arlene

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8:30
-blood work -just to be on the safe side - things are always being tested
-PT with Michelle and they worked on Brian's shoulder a bit, only a bit, and did some balance tricks.
-lunch then a visit in the Atrium over coffee with Shelley before gym
-in the gym with Lucy the amount of pulls and pumps and pushes were upped in number today on the right side. Brian did only a few on the left side. Shelley rode the exercise bike that Lucy tried to set on hills and valleys....Yikes!
-hooked up the TENS for Brian and he had his shoulder muscles stimulated. Then put some ice on it
-his shoulder is very sore now. This is a huge set back for him as he cannot even do the "transfers" himself now from the bed to the wheel chair and back again. He does transfer to the mat in pyhsio but that is about it. There is a sling like machine that can carry him from the bed to the wheel chair. This looks similar to a stork carrying a baby and setting it down. He does not need his shoulder at all for this.....
-let’s hope that the special physio guy Ian can work some wonders tomorrow on the shoulder.
- had a good evening and good visits with friends.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Just a note to you blogger readers.............. B&S...that would be Brent and Susan not Brian and Shelley left the comment that was left under the Friday Blog about the Benefit. There seems to be a little confusion over that. Rick and Bonnie really did make me sign over my password and write the note about the Benefit.
-I forgot to mention yesterday that Nathan (Nate Dog) Draude, vacuumed our basement for me...........how nice....especially since that is my least favorite job. Thanks Nathan.
-thanks to Trent and Arlene Knoblauch for the yummy DQ brownie smothered in ice cream and whipped cream.............calorie free????? I think not..... but delicious

Saturday & Sunday, March 5th & 6th

2005-03-06T22:14:00.000-06:00

Visitors Saturday:
Corrine & Kathy, Rick R., Mike Jacobs, Brent S., Larry, Shelley

Visitors Sunday:
Shelley, Sandra & Darwin & Kenzie & Savanna,Lyle & Diane & Logan, (we also think Sherri and Greg, but the nurses had Brian doing other stuff so they did not get to visit)

Progress and Activities:
-Brian slept in until 9:00 - Lucy must have the day off
-Saturday was a visiting day for Brian. He had a nice afternoon visiting with his friends.
-Shelley was at home house cleaning with a fabulous crew of volunteers
-Sunday Brian worked on the lap top the latter part of the morning and into the afternoon then he had a nap
-Kenzie Taylor (Sandra & Darwin's 2 year old) seems to thing hospitals are good, there is a kitchen, nice nurses and LOTS of candy.
-Shelley cooked for the first time in 7 weeks and ate in the room with Brian. This could have been a mistake as he quite enjoyed it. Lyle and Diane brought HOT BBQ'd shish la quy (I have no idea how to spell this famous dish from the garlic curtain region near Yorkton) for Brian but unfortunatly he had eaten supper. We should have spoken on the phone prior to cooking. But the shish la quy will be heated up for Brian's lunch tomorrow!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Thanks tons to the "Molly Maid" crew of Ruth Heisler, Melissa Boehm, Leona Tkachuk and Bonnie Rowley for the wonderful help they gave cleaning our house on Saturday. What seemed like an overwhelming task was made so much easier with your help. I would not have got near that much done by myself! Thanks so much!
-Thanks to Lyle and Diane for the Shish La Quy , Brian will feast tomorrrow at lunch!

Thanks everyone!
Shelley

Friday, March 4th

2005-03-06T14:02:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Corrine, Kathy, Rick S.,Rod Ashley, Neil MacGregor, Shelley, Rick & Bonnie

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-then Brian had a bit of a fever going on so they took the required samples and sent them off to the lab
-good news that the mystery fellow from the 8th floor (we think his name is Ian) will be working on Brian's shoulder next Tuesday and Thursday. That is far better any surgery (we still have not seen the surgeon)
-PT with Janice was about balance. Brian is really getting good at balance and is always "testing" himself.
-lunch then gym with Lucy. Brian worked on the right side and a few on the left so things are coming. Shelley rode the exercise bike.
-OT with Mandy and she brought us the pricing on bathroom items we requested and then we have her getting pricing on bedroom items (these would not be private items but accessability for Brian items)
-later this afternoon Dr. El Maadway said that the samples they took in the morning showed a urinary tract infection so he is on antibiotic for 7 days.
-I think I have mentioned about reading "body signs". Brian cannot feel what is going on in his belly etc. so some of the signs that something is not right are: slight fever (like he felt today) chills, light headed, and a bit of a sweat. Brian acted on the fever by telling the nurse today and he was right. It showed infection. Way to go Brian! Way to go nurses on 7th floor for taking the samples and running off to the lab. They are a great team up there on 7th.
-supper which Shelley ate most of then we had a good visit with Rick and Bonnie

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks Rick and Bonnie for the "calorie free" ice cream for dessert

I Hacked Into the Sargent Blog

2005-03-04T20:20:00.000-06:00

SARGENT FAMILY BENEFIT

Hello everyone - I comandeered Shelley and Brian's computer to pass on some information about a fundraiser that we are organizing. We are holding a "Steak Night" on Saturday April 23rd at The Odeon Night Club from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $15.00 each. If you would like to purchase tickets and/or could donate a prize to be used as a door prize or silent auction item, please contact one of us.

Rick and Bonnie Rowley (242-2060)
rickrowley@shaw.ca

Melissa and Tom Boehm (492-2324)
mboehm@venmarces.com

Mike and Corlene Jacobs (h-955-2192 or w-975-3314)
mikejacobs@sasktel.net

Thanks for your anticipated support.

Rick & Bonnie

Thursday, March 3rd

2005-03-03T21:36:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mark W., John & Denise & Tanner, Randy B.

Progress and Activities:

-Brian had his first good sleep in 3 nights....last night
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
- then around 10:00 Michelle PT took Brian to the physio room and they saw a "specialist" about Brian's shoulder. I have no clue what kind of doctor this fellow was (he is not the doctor I spoke of a few days ago) but his name is Ian. Ian said that he thinks the shoulder can be "worked" to improve it, instead of surgery. So that is news we like to hear but it is the first opinion. We are waiting for the second opinion.
-then around 11:00 Brian took the United Blueline wheel chair taxi to Sargent's Auto Electric. He has been planning this visit for a few days. It was his first time at "the shop" since January 14th. Geoff greeted him at the overhead door and the taxi drove right in. The staff had the mats moved and floor all clean. Sherri had the desk turned around for Brian to work at. Rick even cleaned his desk off, Brian said! Brian was happy to see everyone. Brian had pre ordered pizza for everyone to have for lunch while they visited.
-then it was back in the wheel chair taxi and over to view the house we saw last week, once again this week. Decisions, decisions. It was a rough ride on the side streets of Saskatoon.
-we got back to SCH about 2:30. So it was a huge day of outings.
-Dr.'s Li Pi Shen and El Maadawy came to see Brian to do some sensory level testing. The levels have not changed in a week or so.
-we missed supper as we were discussing and visiting so for the second day in a row Shelley ate at the Courtyard Cafe (Brian did too).
- Shelley put the TENS muscle stimulant on Brian's shoulder and that felt good
-it was a long day

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Tanner Bowden (Thing 2) thanks for the piece of your Sponge Bob birthday cake. It was very good!!

Until tomorrow
Shelley

Wednesday, March 2nd

2005-03-02T22:08:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Rick S., Ron Sercon (Winnipeg), Glen Roy (Toronto - otherwise known as the Center of the Universe), Shelley, Tim McDougall (Tim and Monique are back from their month in Australia), Rick Rowley, Lyle Hassen (who did not get to actually visit as we had a meeting)

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-Brian ate breakfast and got what he ordered off the menu
- a bit of lap topping again the off to PT
-Janice PT and Brian were doing balancing acts again. Brian was sitting right on the mat and on the edge doing various balance exercises using his head and arms. He is getting much better at using his arms and head in a smoother motion. He can also bend forward in his chair to do the pressure relief. He can almost have his chest touch his thighs (I do not recall him doing these moves before the accident so this is new to me). The learning part here is that a few weeks ago he would not even think of bending forward like that for fear of falling out of the wheel chair. The confidence he has gained in his own strength and the new things he can do are wonderful!
-then it was lunch......once again he got what he ordered
- then Mandy OT met with us and we talked about the bathroom aids we will need. There are many kinds of bars for the walls, and seats for bathtubs. Mandy is checking out some suppliers for us to see what fancy bars are available. Some, although permanent, can be lifted out of the way, the same with the bath seats. This makes it easier for the bathroom users who are not in a wheel chair.
-Tanis a PT student then arrived to put the contraption I spoke of yesterday on Brian's shoulder. This is called a TENS machine which pulsates the muscle in his shoulder. He has it on for 90 minutes at a time. I put it on Brian twice this afternoon. He says it "feels good". I guess because it is a muscle stimulant.
-then we met with Rupal and student Shondra. Brian, Rupal and I talked about possibly moving and the changes that will come with that.
-supper for Brian......three times in one day he got what he ordered. Then Shelley and Tim went to the Courtyard Cafe for a bite, and we all visited in the Atrium, and we heard about their great trip to Australia.

Too da Loo
Shelley

Tuesday, March 1st

2005-03-01T22:08:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Rick S., Gene & Debbie, Al (Patti, we hope you are feeling better soon), Lyle & Logan, Ruth & Larry

Progress and Activities:
-8:30....... you guessed it....... stretches with Lucy
- worked on the lap top a bit then off to PT
-Michelle PT and Brian mostly did balance exercises this morning. Then they worked on Brian's shoulder. Michelle hooked up an electrode contraption (I have no clue what it might be called) to his shoulder that Brian said felt pretty good. We think the batteries went dead shortly after lunch as the "cool sensations" stopped. No sign of the Orthopedic Surgeon yet.
-then we had a meeting with Shelley the Social Worker. She is very helpful to us. She is helping us understand the steps that patients/caregivers/familes go through when a trauma has happened in their lives. There is a "normal" range of emotions and then there seems to be a path that one follows. Either a negative path or a positive forward path. Brian and I hope we are on the positive forward path and with the help of all our family and friends how could it not be the positive forward path. Thanks everyone!
- supper, which looked terrible. They called it Shepards Pie but I am not sure. I did order two chocolate ice cream and they were great!
-we had a visit in the Atrium with friends tonight
-Lyle brought back the snowmobile this past weekend - thanks tons Mr. Lyle! Brian can hardly wait to get to the shop to look at it for himself. Lyle took pictures of the sled and put them on CD for us to see.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks to Lyle for the binder of information on house specs for wheel chairs. We sure will use that if we renovate or build.
Thanks again to Lyle for the CD with the photos and for picking up Brians sled, much appreciated!

G'night

Yellehs

Monday, February 28th

2005-02-28T21:16:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Rick S., Lyle, Roddy, Bill Restall

Progress and Activities:
-8:20 stretches with Lucy - she was early - that is great for a Monday morning
-did a bit of automotive stuff on the lap top then off to PT
-Michelle PT and Brian did a bit of balance work then worked the ultrasound machine on Brian's shoulder. The cortisone shot did not do what Dr. El Maadawy hoped it would. The pain seems to be lessened by only about 25%.
-so...Dr. Enweanie and Dr. El Maadawy have an Orthopedic Surgeon scheduled to see Brian in the next few days. Dr. Mark Ernest apparently will look at Brian's torn shoulder muscle with a scope and determine the next course of action to get it healing.
-lunch then the gym where he worked only mostly the right side. He did a few pulleys with the left.
-then Mandy OT brought us another video to watch on people with SCI (spinal cord injury) doing transfers. Mastering the transfer seems to be the key to a fuller lifestyle. The easier it is to move yourself from one thing to another, the more freedom one seems to have. In order to master the transfer, Brian needs to get the upper body in shape and we hope that can continue once his shoulder is healing. This video was also about transfers in the situations outside the home. The explanations were very good. There was a fellow getting onto his workout machine, a fellow getting on to and driving his pontoon boat (or poontang boat as some call it). There was even a guy who put siding on his house. He actually pulled himself up a ladder and went onto his roof and then went down again. Now that is something Brian will NOT be doing.
-supper, then a wheel around then a few visitors.

Good night
Shelley

Saturday & Sunday, February 26th & 27th

2005-02-27T20:56:00.000-06:00

Visitors Saturday:
Sherri, Shelley, Rick S. Keith Adams, Margo Bowman, Susan S., Rick & Bonnie, Susan & Pat

Visitors Sunday:
Shelley, Tom Bissnette, Mike Coote, Denise, Melissa

Progress and Activities:
-Saturday Brian got a hair cut from Susan...and he looks great! It does not look like he combed his hair with a pillow anymore.....
-visited most of the afternoon then Rick & Bonnie arrived for supper.
-we ordered in and ate in the visitors lounge overlooking Saskatoon. Rick and Bonnie brought real plates, real cutlery and glass glasses. Brian's favorite was the real ice cubes for the drinks. No crushed ice from the hospital machine. It was like a real meal at home.
-played Yahtzee and we quit just before we were done as Brian had enough time in the dreaded Jewitt Brace. Actually I think he used that as an excuse as Bonnie was kicking our b___s!
-Sunday was a fairly quiet day with a few visitors and we watched the last game of the curling....great shot by Manitoba!
-Melissa joined us for a gourmet feast in the "Courtyard Cafe" for supper. All three of us had a greasy meal with fries. I know we will be sorry we ate that way later this evening.
-Brian used his new techniques for pressure release this weekend to give his shoulder a rest after the cortisone shot he received Thursday. We will see how he does Monday as he is back in physio and the gym.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Susan thanks so much for Brian's hair cut.....it is so great that you come to the hospital to do that for him (us).
-Rick and Bonnie thanks the the real meal deal. It was so very nice.
-Melissa thank you for the mag and the very healthy treats. Healthy treats are a great change of pace for Brian. Much appreciated!
-Denise thank you for the turkey you cooked for us and for picking up my groceries! What a great sister!

I will go for now. I hope you all had a great weekend!
Shelley

Friday, February 25th

2005-02-25T22:08:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Gary Girling, Pat Hope, Shelley, Gary & Leann & Amanda & Robyn & Chad, George, Keith Adams, Corrine & Charlie (they are back from Maui), Rick S., Mark M., Shaun J., Randy B.

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-breakfast, Corrine is back and brought a Sausage McMuffin but Brian had eaten already.
-Brian did not have PT but he had RT (Recreational Therapy) ....he has now joined the wheel chair basketball team......just kidding.
-RT with Donna was about doing the things one used to do but in a new way. Brian has discovered that most of the things he likes include a motor...driving (in general), golf with (or sometimes without) a power cart, boating and snowmobiling. These things can certainly be done in the future but in new ways we have yet to research. Maybe Donna can help, it was only the first meeting.
-busy morning with visitors then lunch
-Brian did go to OT and learned a few new tricks to lift his body out of the wheel chair. The new tricks were needed as his shoulder that got the cortisone treatment yesterday is not to be used for 2 or 3 days. Brian needs to lift or shift his body in the wheel chair every 10 minutes or so. This prevents pressure sores which apparently, from everything we have been told and that we have read, you never never want to get one.
-Brian then went to the gym but worked only his right side with the weights and pulleys.
-more visitors then supper.
-Brian and I wheeled around for a while then the two of us visisted in the room. A quiet night. -then Friday Night Boxing was on and that was my que to depart.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-just a note about the Survivor Blog from yesterday.......I was just testing you Rick, to see if you were actually reading this or not. Apparently you are.

Thursday, February 24th

2005-02-24T22:11:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Bonnie & Rick, Roddy

Progress and Activities:
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-breakfast, then paid some bills then did a little work on the lap top
-then physio with Michelle PT. Brian and Michelle worked on the balancing again as Brian's ribs and shoulder are still very sore. Brian said they took things quite easy this morning.
-lunch then videos to watch with Mandy OT. We watched the videos in the Transitional Living Suite. I made popcorn and the three of us watched. We saw how persons with basically two injury levels - C6 / C7 and T11/ T12 did things. We saw transfers (that is moving form one place to another) These people moved from chair to bed and back, chair to bathtub and back, chair to floor mat and back, and in and out of a truck. It is amazing to me how they move their bodies. There is such strength required in the upper body. We also watched these people go up and down a small flight of stairs. The up part ideally requires two people. But these fellows bounced down the stairs with ease. Brian better not try the stair trick at home or I will have a fit. All of the videos that we saw were persons who have been through the City Hospital Rehab Program. They say that Brian will be able to do most if not all of these things. He is learning. Brain has determination and a positive attitude and to me that is half the battle.

-Brian missed gym due to pain.
-we then had a visit from Brenda McDonald from the Canadian Paraplegic Association. Ironically Brenda's car accident happened many years ago just outside the town of Doremy...the same place as Brian's snowmobile accident.......very odd. Anyway, she was very informative and helpful. The CPA offers many services and medical aids for para patients. There is a great amount of support.
-then Dr. El Maadawy came with the Cortisone. He froze the area of Brian's shoulder first and then gave the injection. He said it would not hurt , but Brian said it did. Lets hope the Cortisone will do its magic on the shoulder.
-Rick and Bonnie arrived for Survivor Night. Kim who did not help her team in the immunity challenge got voted off. The ripple chips and dip with Pepsi were great!

Adios!

Wednesday, February 23rd

2005-02-23T22:27:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Gene & Debbie, Denise, Lyle & Diane & Logan

Progress and Activities:
-bath then breakfast then....
-8:30 stretches with Lucy
-then PT with Janice. Janice and Brian worked on more balance activities today to give his shoulder and ribs a bit of a rest. I assume most of you know that Brian only has "sensation" from his chest up (to be exact the feeling starts at two and a half inches below his nipples and goes up - which is a two and a half inch improvement from his fever/infection/MRI episode), anyway, he can only balance the part of his body that is not "participating" by using his arms, shoulders and head. Once he has his hands in place -usually on either side of his body if he is sitting on the side of a bed or mat - the feeling and reality of falling forward onto the floor is great. So to counter this forward motion he uses his head to regain the balance. This is not a quick movement but a slower methodical movement until his "center" is found. I am sure you have heard that the human head weighs about 10 pounds....so that 10 pounds can move to make Brian stay centered as he moves from position to position. Brian is getting better at this each day. He uses this movement with his head and shoulders in his wheel chair too when he reaches forward for something, so he will not bend right over. I hope I explained the balance lesson of the day well enough. More about balance in the future.
-lunch, then Brenda RN helped us get ready for our big outing
-Shelley and Brian went in a wheel chair taxi - United Blueline. This was Brian's first time out of the hospital in 36 days. We were nervous leaving our security of Doctors and nurses..... but then we met Curtis our driver. He was very helpful.
-Brian was wheeled and the chair was strapped into the back of the van (now here is where Brian will get annoyed as I have no clue what kind of van....but it was blue) with his coffee in hand. I hopped in the back seat and away we went. We were off to view a wheel chair assessable home. The lines are drawn on whether we like the house or not ......but I won't get into that.
-Saskatoon has a few pot holes and bumpy roads that I never noticed before. Brian has a new appreciation for the dreaded Jewitt Brace. He said he could feel things moving in his back that he has not felt before (maybe all the new metal they installed at RUH during surgery). I guess that brace really does work to hold his back steady!
-we were only gone for an hour and a half. Even though I had told him... he could not believe how much snow we have. We will not be doing that again for a while but it was a great adventure.
-supper, then down to the Atrium and we had some visitors. The Floridians have returned..... the Ruf's and the Bowden's.

Thats all folks!

Tuesday, February 22nd

2005-02-22T22:04:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Rick R. Brent S. Carrie (from CenAve)

Progress and Activities:
-stretches with Lucy at 8:30
-breakfast.....Brian actually got what he ordered all day today.... wow!
-a little lap topping then PT
-Michelle PT and Brian worked on his "transfers". Brian said he went from his wheel chair to the mat (which is about the height of a bed but a harder surface) almost all by himself. He was quite thrilled as this is one of his short term goals. He wants to be able to do this by himself soon. His shoulder troubles and rib annoyances do not help his progress.
-lunch , then to the gym to do what he can with the weights and machines
-Shelley is late as she can not find a parking spot for half an hour......it is crazy at City Hospital trying to park!
-down to the Atrium for coffee then out of the brace and the chair as Brian was in it for 5 hours.
-Dr. El Maadawy said that they will give Brian's shoulder a cortisone treatment on Friday morning. This should give it a bit of time to work before physio begins again on Monday (no PT or OT on weekends). Dr. El Maadawy is from Cairo and is having a hard time in the cold winter. Brian tried to sell him a snowmobile today but alas....no sale!

Goodnight from SCH 7138

Saturday & Sunday, February 19th & 20th

2005-02-20T21:47:00.000-06:00

Visitors Saturday:
Shelley, Andy, Nathan, Mark, Denise, Erin & Nolan & Andrew (in town for a hockey tournament), Rick S., Bill Neufeld, Hope & Nicole

Visitors Sunday:
Sherri, Tim R., Shelley, Andy, Pat & Bob & Hailey

Progress and Activities:
-Andy & Big D showed up for a morning visit with Tim Horton's and McDonald's on Saturday
-Mark got lost on his way to school and made an impromptu appearance
-Shelley shook things up by dropping "Nebmix" in Brian's Eye instead of his ventilin mask. Fortunately, Brian's eye suffered no permanent damage. In fact, Nebmix gives you x-ray vision and the capacity to travel through time. Try it at home!
-We feasted like kings on Chiantis with Hope & Nicole
-Brian had a quiet Sunday morning- a nice visit with Sherri & Tim
-A nap after lunch
-Sore, sore ribs all day; that Jewitt brace hurts real bad
-Brian hit the sack early

Food, Gifts & Other Stuff:
-Massage gift certificate for Shelley from Kelly at Unique Look
-A 40 Gig ipod from Murray Hunter, Ron Kolody, Sean Kercielli and Rod Ashley at Uniselect
-An exquisite Chiantis dinner for 6 from Hope & Nicole
-A groper (for all Brian's groping needs) from Sherri
-An extraordinary blanket from Tim R.
-Tantalizing chocolates (e.g. Almondillos) from the Childs

Your Friend,

Nat-Dog.

Friday, February 18th

2005-02-18T23:13:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Andy, Shelley, Rick R., Dale, Dwight Ruf, Nathan

Progress and Activities:
-Andy arrived in the morning. Maybe cappucinos and made the mistake of giving one to the not so nice guy who stays in the room across from Dad
-Dad had PT at 11am and Andy left
-Rick Rowley brought Dad Quiznos for lunch. They had a good time.
-Later Dad tried the weights but his shoulder and ribs hurt too much so they iced the shoulder.
-Had a quiet evening with Shelley, Andy and Nathan. Gail took us for a tour of the emergency room and then we searched for the supposed pool that City Hospital has. We didn't find it.

Gifts and Food and Other Stuff
-A nice fruit basket from Steve from Dixie. Thanks!
-Sweats and coffee mugs from Doug Micashew
-Thanks to Joanne for the Herbal Healing goodies! The All Heal Salve will be great for Dad's skin!

Thanks everyone.

Night

Thursday February 17th

2005-02-17T22:06:00.000-06:00

Visitors
Andy, Shelley, Louise Tremblath, Clinton stopped by but Dad had gone for an ultrasound, Peter Goertz stopped by, Rick and Bonnie

Progress and Activities
-I got to the hospital at about 9:30. First I stopped by the shop to see everyone and to get a basket that Tim Richardson had left for Dad.
-Dad and I went to his meeting with his occupational therapist and finally ordered him his own chair so now he just has to wait and hope that they approve it!
-We went and had a mocha in the atrium.
-Then Dad had his gym time. His chest was very sore this morning.
-I left and Dad had lunch and then was supposed to have a meeting with Rupal but missed it because they decided to give him an ultrasound since his chest was hurting so badly
-Mom arrives!
-The ultrasound told us that he has a torn muscle in his shoulder. He needs to treat it with ice and gentle massage only because he's allergic to NSAIDS. Whatever that is. I ain't no pharmacist.
-His chest still hurts though. Could be his hurt ribs from the accident.
-Had physio with Janice. With the results of the ultrasound they needed to determine a new course of action for the physio but it will continue.
-Supper time. Left over Chinese food mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Louise was there for a nice visit over dinner.
-Then it was survivor time with Rick and Bonnie. First episode of the season is a big deal I guess. But I think every episode is a big deal with these weirdos!

Gifts and Food and Other Stuff
-Giant fruit basket and MORE turtles from Tim Richardson. Thanks Tim!! I had to carry that to the 7th floor!
-A balloon bouquet from Auntie Kathy, Jeff, Kim, Krista and Joey. Now Dad will have nightmares about giant ladybugs. Thanks guys!!!
-Thanks Clinton for the nice note. Hopefully we'll see you soon!
-Also thanks for the well wishes from Juan Veldez aka Bob Sinclair of Buck Naked Resorts International.

G'night!

Andy

Also:
It's been exactly a week since I put that counter on the page and it's at 606! Dad is a popular guy and mom is feeling the pressure to entertain. We're glad so many people are "tuning in." Thanks!

Wednesday February 16th

2005-02-17T09:44:00.000-06:00

Visitors
Andy, Shelley, Nathan, Jack and Delores Keck, Ruth and Larry

Progress and Activities
-Not too much to report for today, stretches in the morning
-I (Andy) arrived at 11am to watch my Dad do work stuff on his laptop. Thanks for the exciting morning Dad!!
-Had a turkey sandwich and soup for lunch. I ate half of it. They should provide for guests of patients!
-Mom arrived at 1:30 and Dad had gym.
-Jack and Delores came for a visit in the evening. Ruth and Larry also arrived and everyone hung out downstairs in the atrium. Nathan and I came later.
-Pretty uneventful but I guess that's good. Everyone is looking forward to survivor tomorrow night!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff
-Lotto Tickets from Ruth and Larry. Won $4!!!! Thanks! Now we're rolling in it!
-A generous gift from the Venmar staff who held a chili and bun fundraiser for my parents

Thanks everyone

Andy

Tuesday, February 15th

2005-02-15T22:05:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Andy, Nathan, Mark, Donna Draude, Susan & Brent, Susan D., Brian A. (BA) & Debbie

Progress and Activities:
-Brian started with stretches with Lucy
-then it was OT/PT time with Sandra and Jackie. Brian's newly used muscles are very sore and his ribs are also sore. Therefore the dreaded Jewitt Brace gives him pain. He is not his chair as many hours these past few days. He still works hard at Physio though! Way to tough it out Brian!
-Brian does not yet care for the titanium wheel chair. He might like it more when his balance improves. He still prefers the "Quickie LX".
-a bit of "automotive work" then lunch
-then off to the gym for the upper body work out
- a quiet afternoon, which is a treat so a nap seemed in order.
- a supper date in the nourishment center, then visiting in the Atrium until the Jewitt Brace drives Brian crazy!!!!!!!!!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-thank you Donna Draude so much for the Pizza Hut supper which was thoroughly enjoyed by Shelley, Brian, Nathan, Andy and Mark.....a great change of pace from Shelley's sandwiches and Brian's hospital food
-thank you to Perry's Automotive in Prince Albert for the beautiful bouquet of flowers!

Monday February 14 (Valentine's)

2005-02-15T00:07:00.000-06:00

Visitors
Andy, Shelley, Nathan, Rick S., Keith Adams, Dale and Wanda, Trent and Arlene, Roddy, Randy B.

Progress and Activities
-Brian got up and had stretches at 8:30
-I arrived at 10:30ish to watch Dad do his physio. He had some new girls helping him out because the others are on holidays. They seemed pretty nice. Sandy and Jackie I think. It was the first time that I had seen the physio and it was great to see my Dad's progress. Even though I had read about it, I was amazed to see his strength.
-The physio girls gave him a new chair to try out. So far not good. He feels "tippy" in it. It has a much lower back. But the nurses said that once his balance gets better that won't be a problem at all. He's going to try it out.
-Had gym in the afternoon
-Nathan and I had a romantic dinner with Mom and Dad up in the lunch room. We ordered Szechuan Kitchen and it was grrrrrrrrrrreat! Shelley put 10 chicken balls in her mouth!
-Went for a ride and met a man (also named Brian) who is a paraplegic and he gave Dad some good tips about alternative therapy, wheelchairs and keeping positive.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff
-new gloves from Dale and Wanda. Thanks!!
-Steak and cheesetoast (still warm!) from Roddy.
-Valentine's Cookies from Randy B.
-And the best V-day gifts from Andy, a wonderful daughter.

Note:
A thanks to everyone who has been writing Dad emails to his sargentbrian@gmail.com address. He DOES read them, my mom prints them all out for him. He just hasn't had time to write back to everyone. But they are much appreciated!!!

I'll be here all week folks!

Andy

Saturday & Sunday February 12 & 13th

2005-02-13T21:02:00.000-06:00

Saturday Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Randy D., Bonnie, Denise, Peggy & Hulgar, Landon, Randy B.

Sunday Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Keith Adams (Brian was napping - Keith did not get in), Andy, Rick S. & Patricia, Rick & Bonnie, Leona, Gene & Debbie, Roy & Ann, Pat and Laura, Nathan

Progress and Activities:
-aside from the visitors the weekend was fairly quiet
-there are no appointments, PT or OT on the weekend
-Brian's chest and his right side are very sore. That dreaded Jewitt Brace hurts when he wears it too long these past few days.
-Dr. Yip saw him Sunday and said it is more than likely muscle pain and or the broken and dislocated ribs that Brian suffered from the accident have been aggravated (this could maybe have happened during physio or during gym time) or just from goofing off!
-Brian also has a bladder infection which they are treating with anitbiotics. They expect it to begin to clear up in a couple of days.
- he had a nap each day in the afternoon. He could be a little run down from the infection.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
- home made "nut free" cookies from Bonnie Rowley - delicious, thanks!
-from Peggy and Hulgar Mausch - a wonderful basket filled with a huge assortment of goodies from mags, to candies to a stock car model car - thanks so much!
- a great basket from Ann and Roy Carrie - that once again had a bit of everything.....I did not open that beautiful gold box in there........thanks so much and it was nice to see you again.
- Gene and Debbie BBQ'd sausage and potatoes, brought pie and ice cream and we had a feast in the visitors room. Brian has not eaten that much in one sitting in quite a few days. It was delicious! They brought all the fixins - thanks so so much!

Hope you all had a nice weekend and hello to those of you in Vancouver, Orlando, Maui, Australia and Wakaw!
Shelley

Friday, February 11th

2005-02-11T22:41:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Randy Dittmar, Brent McDougall (also know as the Dougaller by Ian and Andy), Mark Millard, Rick S., Nathan, Andy (she is home for a week from the U of T - Yeh!), Shelley, Brent S.

People that Shelley and Brian Visited:
Gail (Brian's cousin) and Lois - we saw them in the Emergency Dept when we were on tour. Lois mentioned that her friends dropped off a Fish Picture at the hospital.....that makes me curious....

Progress and Activities:
- Brian had a bath - not a shower but a bath. They lowered him into the tub. He said it felt great but it was too short. This was followed by a heat lamp then warm blankets......just like at home....right Brian?
- a visit from Rupal this morning then off to Physio
- Janice PT and Brian worked on the mat again. She must have worked him hard today as his muscles are sore......I think Tylenol before bed tonight will be one of his requests.
-Brian did not try the titanium chair today as the tires were flat - maybe Monday
- lunch, then Brent McDougall from Calgary arrived for a visit - it was great to see you Brent!
-a few more visitors then.....
-Andy arrived from Toronto for "reading week". We will see how much reading she does. It is great to have her home!
- visiting, then supper in the nutrition center, then a wheel around the hospital
- basically a visiting afternoon - but he had a work out in the morning - which must have been some work out!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-from Sharon and Dale Johnson - gift certificates for the Cheese Toast Restaurant - thank you so much!
- Lisa from Uni Select in Calgary - "Hugs and Kisses" thanks!
-Brent and Nance - thanks for the basket of....books ,candies and the blanket for Brian and the candle and goodies for Shelley - so kind of you!
- Brent Sadoway - thank you and I hope we / you get lucky tonight (you know what I mean)

Signing off from 7138
Shelley

Thursday, February 10th

2005-02-10T21:00:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Randy Pshebylo, Rick S., Rick Rowley, Arlene & Jim, Randy B.

Progress and Activites:
-today was a busy day physically for Brian, the work out king
- leg stretches at 8:00 am
-visit with his Mom and Dad
-then into the gym at 10:30 for an hour using the weights and pulleys for his arms
-lunch, then OT with Mandy at 1:30. Mandy is leaving for Cuba tomorrow for a week.......enjoy!
-Mandy talked about wheel chair options....there is a chair (most people have two or three chairs) that is titanium and very light weight. Brian did not try it yet (tomorrow) but I did and it is very easy to manouver.
He will be test driving a few wheel chairs before he decides which ones are right for him. There will be a chair that folds easily - for when he is in and out of a car or truck (which he will drive with hand controls) and another main chair - like the titanium one that will be for everyday use. The third chairs are ones that you would use at home or upstairs only etc. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
-then at 3:00 there was PT with Janice. My opinion is that Janice is very good for Brian because she gets him to do "just a lttle bit more" and that makes him accomplish more. He is doing very well.........and he trys very hard....way to go!!!
- after that Shelley went off to an appointment and Rick S was there during supper then Rick R. stopped by in between basketball games at St. Joseph's

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Jim and Arlene those chocolates are wonderful - Brian and Rick R. had way more tha n one........I think it was the first layer of the box - thank you!
Judy and Richard - thank you so much for the gift certificate for the 2nd Ave Grill.....today we were just talking about an outing soon.
Graham and Leanne thanks so much for the YAHTZEE HEAD letters that you made for Uncle Brian's window. What a lot of work you went to. We will put them up tomorrow, thanks!!

Thanks all you bloggers!
Shelley

Wepage Counter

2005-02-10T10:29:00.000-06:00

So I finally added a webcounter to the site so that we can see how many people have visited. It doesn't keep track of per-day numbers, just the total number of people but oh well. It's at the very very bottom of the site and the number starts from early morning February10th.

Andy

Wednesday, February 9th

2005-02-09T21:35:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mike Coote, Randy Dittmar, Rick S., Garrett Boyer, Glen C, Colin, Monte, Denise, Bill Restall

Progress and Activities:
-today was a busy day......
-Brian wheeled to physio with Janice PT and Mandy OT and worked on his transfers (to and from the Quickie LX II- I had that wrong earlier I am sorry) and they worked on building his arm strength by lifting himself from the sitting position (with legs outstretched) to hold himself about 6 inches off the mat, holding onto blocks to get the height required. Once again....sounds easy but not so easy to do. Brian also did the turn onto the side exercise much easier today that in days previous. He also is down from three persons to two, to get into the wheel chair.
-at 11:00 we had a "Family Meeting" which was more hospital family, than Sargent family as it was just Brian and I. Andrea is in Toronto at U of T and Ian is working in Vancouver.
-so back to the meeting....Dr. El Maadawy, Mandy OT, Janice PT, Dr. Li Pi Shan, Shondra a Psychology student, Rupal - Psychologist, Collette - Head Nurse, and Shelley the Social Worker plus Brian and I were in attendance. This group of professionals are a great cohesive team that are there for us when we need them. Each gave a summary of where things are at for Brian. Basically we did not have many questions as they have kept us informed every step of the way. They have come to us with information. It is so reassuring to know that if you ask questions (and we do - mostly Shelley asks questions) they will give you the answer or find out the answer and get back to you.
- then it was lunch in the nourishment center, then a quick lay down for Brian, then he was off to the gym at 1:30 to work with the weights for his arms and upper body.
- he also made the trek alone to the Atrium to buy a Pepsi using his new carry bag from Bonnie. Way to go Brian!
-at 2:15 Shelley and Mandy OT, headed for our house to meet Gene Wagman (a good friend ours) for the "Sargent House Assessment". Mandy brought the wheel chair and we tried it in the house. Good news....Brian will still be able to load and unload the dishwasher!
-we have some figuring to do about lifts and rails and bathrooms but the final decision is not made on whether we have to move or not. I need to get some specs on the rails for the upstairs of our home. We will wait for the pros to determine if we can do this or not. Also if we do convert it will have to be done in 6 to 8 weeks before Brian comes home....
-then supper in the nourishment center - where Brian ate Debra Friesen's dinner not his own. We will blame this on Ted the super nurse. Good thing Debra likes chicken burgers and Brian likes salmon.
- a few evening visitors then home for Shelley

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
- Gene Wagman thanks so much for coming to the house with your expert opinion - much appreciated
-Garrett Boyer and the S S& M team for the Turtles x2, the McDonalds gift certificates and the movie, wow, thanks!
-Michael Poitras thank you for the calorie free Tim Horton's doughnuts!
-thanks to Bill Restall for the largest ever Tim Horton's "go cup".....which was full of vanilla cappuccino....this also came with the mix to refill that "go cup" - thanks again - I hope we can all sleep tonight!

A busy day on the 7th floor........

yellehs

Tuesday, February 8th

2005-02-08T21:27:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Jerome, Randy, Rick S., Brent S., Bonnie, Dale & Wanda, Al & Patti, Roddy

Progress and Activities:
-had a shower this morning (using the new Avon shampoo and bodywash) then they removed the rest of the staples from the long incision in Brian's back.
-Michelle the PT had Brian at the gym this morning working on his arms. He will be "buff" before you know it.
-Shelley went to work for the morning (1st time in 3 weeks) and accomplished the goal of responding to the emails and the mail.
- Brian had lunch then we had an OT appointment with Mandy. She showed us some videos of transfers.That is when a person transfers to a wheel chair from....the floor, from a bed or from another location to and from the wheel chair. There are different sensory levels in each person (which is the level of feeling that they have) and it is amazing to see what they have accomplished.
- back in bed for a bit then in the brace and the wheel chair (Quickie II) for supper. Brian is to dine in the common kitchen area with the rest of the rehab patients. So we mixed it up a bit and sat with all the ladies and not at the men's table................what rebels.
-a few visitors and good bye to Shelley
-hopefully a night with a good sleep for Brian as he is back in the gym tomorrow while Shelley is at the house with Mandy OT for the house assessment.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-from Bonnie Rowley, a carry bag of sorts. for beside the bed or to carry with him on the wheel chair, good thinking Bonnie thank you!

Shelley

Monday, February 7th

2005-02-07T21:58:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Phil, Dave, Brittani, Gary & Leann, Shelley, Myra, Rick S. Sherri, Ruth & Larry, Hope

Progress and Activties:
-Phil and Dave brought the Sausage McMuffin for breakfast - thank you
-then they departed for their drive to Calgary
-Mary departed for Calgary via Westjet - thanks for everything Mom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Mandy OT and Michelle PT had a physio session with Brian and balance was the focus of the day. This time they added leaning back on the elbows to get to the laying position. Once again this is harder than it sounds, but he did very well.
-Mandy and Michelle also had a smaller wheel chair for Brian to try it is the Quickie II. He finds it much easier to manouver, and it is lighter in weight. The tire sits a little higher than the other one so Brian needs quite the arm strength to clear the tire with his behind.
-Brian had lunch with his Mom (Myra)
- we had a visit from Rupal, she is a very helpful and kind lady
-then we had an OT session with Mandy. She showed us the "mock apartment" set up they have in the rehab area. They recommend we spend a weekend unassisted in there before we head home. We are not near that step yet but it was very interesting.
-Brian changed rooms today new # is 7138. This room looks on to the Parktown Hotel and Kinsmen Park.
-Gary and Leann returned from their RUH Dr. appointment (Gary was the other rider injured in the accident)
Gary has four more weeks in his leg brace and arm cast before he begins his physio. He has a lot of work ahead of him also.
-I treated Brian to supper in the cafeteria - the menu was limited but it was a change of scenery.
-Dr. El Maadawy and the Dr. of Internal Medicine (I never did get his name) took Brian off the antibiotic today as they say his white blood cell count is at a good level. That is good news.
-they still hope to do another MRI late this week or next week at RUH
- thanks to Colin the nurse for the light reading material you left for Brian
-a quiet night in the new room........I hope those sleeping pills can quit leaving Brian with a sleeping pill hang over.
-the week ahead is going to be a busy one with appointments and physio so being awake is a good thing

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-from Phil and Dave - a can of Klik - yes Klik the lunch meat in a can- a joke from way back
-also Phil and Dave thank you for the Nascar Mags and the Nascar game. Thanks so much for the visit this weekend, that was so nice.
-Gary and Leann thank you for the games and the many many candy treats!
-Thanks to the Vermeulens for the "Book of Inspiration", that was very thoughtful
-Hope Stampe thanks for the mag, the candies, chips and drinks that was very nice

Well goodnight from room 7138

Shelley

Sunday, February 6th

2005-02-06T21:32:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Phil, Dave, Mary, Shelley, Gene & Debbie, Ken, Ken (no, I did not type Ken twice - there are two Kens), Kathy, Pat D., Denise

Progress and Activities:
-Phil and Dave went to the hospital early with Tim Horton's coffee, while Shelley and Mary went to Costco - I must say,we sure have saved some money not going there for a month
-Brian had lunch in the visitor's room with Phil and Dave- that means with the dreaded Jewitt Brace and in a wheel chair - apparently the chili bun he ordered from the menu was not quite as tasty as he hoped
- had a nap, then in the brace and the chair and again in the visitor's room for supper. We had Pizza Hut which looked much more appealing than the "lazy perogie" casserole and chicken.
-went for a wheel around the hospital with Dave as the driver
-into bed and Shelley broke the light over Brian's bed so the nurse will have to take out the bulbs when it is lights out. I am very sorry.
-after that............ Shelley and Mary left around 8:30 and "the boys", Phil, Dave and Brian watched the rest of the Super Bowl game

Food and Gifts and other Stuff:
-Phil and Dave once again shovelled our driveway - I thank you so much for saving my back....do you really have to go home tomorrow?
-Kathy thanks for the pink marshmallow candies
- Denise thanks for the "Yahtzee Head" pillow cases and homemade cookies. Those pillow cases are too cute! Brian can dream of a Yahtzee in 6's maybe????
- Mary (Mom) thanks for the Pizza Hut supper it was delicious. I am sure you are very sick and tired of my sandwiches...........do you really have to leave tomorrow???
- also Mary (Mom) thank you for the new black shorts for Brian. They will be so much cooler than the thick sweats when he is in bed visiting with us all!

That is it for Sunday

Shelley

Saturday, February 5th

2005-02-05T21:32:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Mary, Susan & Brent, Rick S., Phil (from Red Deer), Dave (from the Center of the Universe - which is Toronto not Regina Debbie)

Progress and Activies:
- Lyle & Diane & Logan, John & Denise & Alisha & Tanner, all left for Orlando FL
-Ada & George left for Maui
- all the Venmar CES boys are in Orlando FL for the ASHRAE Show - I hope all goes well tomorrow at the Breakfast Meeting, Rep Council Meeting and then at the Super Bowl "get together". I am sure you will not miss me at that event! Good luck at the trade show next week, and I hope Rob has you all color coded with your pants and shirts (ha ha)
-today there were more activities than progress....there are not any PT or OT or Social Workers or Dieticians or Chest Therapists working on weekends (unless there is an emergency)
- Brian's Mom and Dad dug out their winter wear (even Myra's 28 year old snow boots from her snowmobiling days) braved the storm, and were there early in the morning. It is a tough change from California to snow storm.
-Brian had a nap then lunch and Susan arrived for the much needed haircut. In the dreaded Jewitt Brace then in the wheel chair and into the visitors lounge which became the hair salon. Brian got a buzz cut and Lawrence another patient was hanging out and Susan cut his hair too. Very generous of you Susan and Lawrence was thrilled.
-after the hair cut we did a wheel around the hospital and Brian had a closer look at all the snow and the mess outside
- after that was a shower (this would be the 2nd one in 19 days) which was great after a haircut!
-Brian was groggy until mid afternoon when Susan gave him Tim Horton's. He must get a handle on the sleeping pill thing!
- nap then supper then............Saturday night yahtzee night in room 7237.
-Bonnie brought chips, dip and popcorn plus there were candies (of course).
-Bonnie, Rick, Phil, Dave, Shelley, Brian and Mary played one game and Bonnie kicked our ----- with a score of 456 with 3 Yahtzees!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Marilyn the nurse had to break it up for a while to look for a vien then the game continued. We call that a D.O.G. ......delay of game against Brian
- all in all a good day and we hope the antiboitic is doing its thing to fight the crazy infection!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-home made carrot cake from Myra.....he was saving that for a late night snack - thank you!
-haircut, Tim Horton's coffee and Jam Jam cookies (delivered to our mailbox) - thanks so much Susan for getting rid of the mohawk look. Now Brian will not look like he combs his hair with a pillow.
-Bonnie and Rick thanks so much for the lotto tickets, chocolates, shampoo, lotion, bodywash, chips & dip and popcorn
- Phil and Dave thank you so much for shovelling our driveway...I was going to wait for spring or for the army to arrive
-Rick S. thanks for fixing the command start fob for me

Thanks everyone............Susan D., I hope you have a chance to read this before your bedtime

Shelley

Friday, February 4th

2005-02-04T22:14:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Doug & Myra, Shelley, Mary, Denise, Maury & Tracey & Jeremy, Lyle & Diane & Logan

Visitors who did not see Brian (due to his long afternoon nap):
Susan & Laura, Doug Michasiw, Rick S.

Progress & Activities:
-Brian did some work from the lap top for a while this morning .........the auto parts must go through, rain or shine or snow!
-Physio with Mandy OT and Janice PT....Nancy the PT student is now finished this part of her practicum.
-thanks Nancy, and the best of luck in the future.
-Janice and Mandy had Brian balancing again - this is coming along well- and laying on his back and turning himself onto each side. This is far more difficult than I make it sound as the momentum to roll to his whole body on his side comes only from mid chest and up. Janice and Mandy are very knowlegable, helpful and encouraging.
-had lunch in the visitors room and we watched the snow. We still love the snow!
-Shelley had a preliminary meeting with Mandy the OT (Brian was getting much needed sleep during this meeting) as to what is available in the way of vehicle hand controls, ramps, rails, chairs and bathroom accessories. Mandy will be doing a home assessment next week with us to determine our needs.
-Supper, then a few visitors, then there appeared to be a good boxing match on TV so we went home.
-I hope I have this next part right..........the scans from Nuclear Medicine yesterday showed nothing. We were dissapointed but Dr. El Maadawy was relieved. I guess I did not undertand that the scans could possibly show things like tumors or abcessess. So later we were also relieved. I am not sure what is next in the way of tests...........I will have to ask.
-all in all a much better day than yesterday

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks Doug & Val Michasiw for the "Yahtzee " t-shirts. Brian wears t-shirts each day now and these sassy little numbers will be great. Also thank you from Shelley for the fancy journal. I guess my messy scribbler of daily notes can stay home and I will take notes in the nicely bound book...we thank you
Les Kun for the Far Side Gallery Book - those are always so funny - Thank you
From Maury, Tracey, Lindsay and Jeremy Wawryk a book called "Still Lives" about Spinal Cord Injury and inspiration. As I have said before, we have so much to learn and this is another avenue, we thank you.
Susan and Laura Donovan thanks for the magazines for Shelley! I'll share with Brian if he wants.

Goodnight
Shelley

Thursday, February 3rd

2005-02-03T20:43:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Denise, Brent S.

Mall Visitors:
Delores

Progress and Activities:
-Tim and Monique left for Australia today for a month - enjoy!
-today was RUH Nuclear Medicine day........ a very long day
-Brian arrived at 9:00 via MD Ambulance and Shelley arrived at 8:30 via Chevy Venture
-they took his blood at 9:30, added some "radioactive product" (think Homer Simpson) and injected the new concoction at 11:30. At 12:30 they did the first scan, and another at 2:30, tracing the "radioactive product" that has clung to the white blood cells to trace their path. I hope that path led them to the site of the infection Brian is fighting
- we hope there is an answer in the next day or so.
-Nurse Julieann arrived from City Hosp at 11:00 to give Brian his antibiotic and bring his lunch - thanks Julieann! Once he was comfortable she was on her way!
-4:00 MD Ambulance arrived to get Brian as he had more than enough being on a skinny gurney all day, he actually missed his hospital bed.
-big surprise for Brian when he returned..............a shower! The first one in 17 days!!!!!!!!! He felt like a new guy! I thought he smelled like a new guy too!
- they also removed half of the staples from the incision in his back
-he seems to be getting caught up on his sleep finally!!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks so much to Donna and Dean Wright for the subscription to the Wakaw Recorder! Great idea to be kept up to date with what the happenings are at the lake!
Thanks to Susan and Brent for the beautiful fish picture. All the nurses love it. It is a work of art!

Wednesday, February 2nd

2005-02-02T20:50:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Tim, Mary, Denise, Denise & John & Tanner (Thing 2)

Progress and Activities:
-Brian was very tired when I arrived to watch the physio with - Janice PT, Mandy OT and Nancy PT student.
- He sat in the chair then headed for the physio room. The girls had him on the mat for a short time then Brian called it quits. He was so tired. Back in the chair and to the room.
-we then determined that the dose of sleeping pill that Brian took Tuesday night (which was the recommended dose) was far too much for him. Lets just say he had a sleeping pill hang over.
-lunch then a nap. Tim worked on the computer while Brian snored. Brian had a meeting with Rupal in the afternoon and Shelley had a meeting with Shelley the SCH Rehab Social Worker.
- a visit from Dr. Enwaenie always brightens one's day!
- all in all it was a day of resting
- there was no trip to RUH today but tomorrow................
-MD ambulance will pick him up at 8:00 and I will meet him at 8:30 in Admitting at RUH. It will be an all day event we are told. He should return to SCH late afternoon...........I can assume he will be very tired as the series of tests are run in intervals.
-so a long day ahead tomorrow but lets hope they find the crazy infection that is dragging him down.................once again...patience grasshopper!

That is all for tonight.....except, I would like to apologize for the amount of spelling errors last night. There is not a "spell checker" in this program and I was very tired. Sorry to all you English Teachers and University students out there!
Until tomorrow

Shelley

Tuesday, February 1st

2005-02-01T22:16:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Doug & Myra, Tim, Rick S. Doug Jr.,Joanne Eldstrom, Bonnie & Rick, Hannah, Tony, Brent (Bart), Ada & George, Debbie & Gene, Sandra & Darwin & Savanna, Dale & Wanda

Progress & Activities:
-Corrine and Charlie left for Maui today - Aloha!
-Gene the electrician (actually he is a finishing carpenter) came to repair my broken switch on the wall that was sparking (more about that later)
-physio with an audience of Shelley, Mary, Doug & Myra. He put on a great performance for us. Today was about balance and the girls - Mandy OT, Michelle PT and Nancy PT student - did an acessment of his upper body (mostly arms) strength. He was sitting and getting his blance using his arms.
- he then had lunch in the wheel chair with his Mom and Dad in the visitors room with a great view of the city.
- nap time, then Tim came to play on the lap top before he departs on his vaction.
- up again in the wheel chair for supper. Then George, Ada, Hannah, Mary and Shelley went on a tour of the hospital for Brian to see the Atrium etc. George drives a wheel chair like he drives a golf cart! (just kidding)
- a bevy of visitors and then a very tired Brian got ready to go to bed. After his sleepless night on Monday I sure hope Tuesday night is better for him
-Wednesday (we hope) Brian is going on a road trip via ambulance to RUH for a test in the Nuclear Medicine department. This is a blood test that they hope will trace the white blood cells to the "bad guys" and then pin point the location of the infection (I sure hope I have that right Dr. El Maadawy)
-another busy day in room7237
- so about Gene the electrian/carpenter.....when I left this morning Gene was here and I said - turn off the breakers and departed...........when we arrived home there was a body in my kitchen with a flashing light ....scared the wits out of me and my Mom..........it was only a stuffed body put there by Gene. Good one Gene..........I bet you didn't even turn off the breaker anyway!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-From Tony, Kim, Kimberly and Krista - chocolates - Ferrero Roche, and two books thanks so much!
-From the group at USI AGI a Tiger Woods computer game and magazines - thanks and great timing with the new laptop in the room
- fruit and treat/goodie basket from Railway Automotive in Davidson it is very nice
- more chocolates - thanks Rowleys
-fresh banana and chocolate chip muffins they look great, I am sure Brian will ring the nurse to get him one during the night
-"The Man Basket" from Dale and Wanda wonderful fun guy things thanks so much! Very creative Dale!

Goodnight friends!
Shelley

Monday, January 31st

2005-01-31T20:53:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Mary, Dwight Ruf, Arlene, Corrine & Charlie, Al & Patti, Susan & Brent, Tim, Lyle, Denise, Wade Tkachuk (Wade made it in this time)

Activities and Progress:
-CT scan #2 on Brian's chest & lungs was completed this morning. Dr. El Maadawy reports they found nothing.....that is good but still looking for the infection
-Shelley took the Chevy Venture to the shop (Sargent's Auto Electric) for a check up and wash! Thanks Jerome, Brian and Leonard! Now Brian does not have to bug me anymore (until maybe Wednesday)about the dirty vehicle.
-the am started with leg physio then a sponge bath (thank goodness- actually he is unable to have a real bath until Friday when they remove the staples from his incision), followed by lunch then a nap then..........
-Brian feels well enough to try the dreaded Jewitt Brace. It does not hurt as much as before and he is pleasantly surprised. So he decides to continue and aims to sit in the wheel chair.
-BRIAN SITS IN THE WHEEL CHAIR FOR 35 MINUTES!!!!!!!. We go for a wheel around (Shelley is an awesome driver) the ward to see where he will be lifting weights and doing crafts........see photos that Andy put up on the site
-Mandy OT, Nancy PT Student and Michelle PT were great! Those 3 little women got Brian in and out of that chair with ease. We had Turtles to celebrate the wheel chair event as I did not bring champagne!
-after the tour Brian keeps the dreaded Jewitt Brace on until 6 pm, so he fed himself supper in bed
- also this afternoon Lyle and Tim (yes there are male angels) brought a laptop for Brian with all the software he will need to be in touch with his automotive world and the rest of us. He can work from his bed (or soon from the wheel chair)
-Brian kicks Shelley and Mary out around 8:00 so he can watch, Everybody Loves Raymond, Two and a Half Men and CSI Miami........how rude!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
Thanks Sue and Brent for the fresh cinnamon buns, candies and the thermos of Tim Horton's coffee. I will be booking a haircut real soon for Brian as I am tired of his mohawk look.
The cutest stuffed monkey from Hope, Derek and Nicole Stampe, thank you. Brian has not named him yet but he sits beside Thing 3 the bear
Lyle, Tim and Dwight Ruf for the lap top and all the hours spent to get it up and running for Brian. Awesome is a little word for such a big gift of communication!

Thanks for watching..........
Shelley

Sunday, January 30th

2005-01-30T21:57:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Kathy, Corrine, Doug & Myra, Nathan, Denise, Shelley and Mary (Shelley's Mom)
Wade Tkachuk stopped by and left a note. Sorry we missed you Wade, we were probably just in the "Atrium" getting high on coffee, while Brian had a nap.

Activities and Progress:
-Kathy and Corrine were there this morning without the Egg McMuffin.
-Brian was very tired today as he had 2 or 3 fights with the high fever thoughout the night
-His white blood cell count had been very high (to fight infection) over the past few days but today it dropped ( I understand this to mean that there are not enough white blood cells to fight off the bad guys, which are the infection)
-so another battery of tests requested of the Internal Medicine Dr. plus a CT scan of his lungs and chest
-the CT scan was not completed fully as they thought that Brian might be allergic to the dye they inject.....so, Monday they will do it again as he is now on different drugs prior to the scan, that he is not allergic to.
-had a homemade turkey sandwich and fruit sent by Donovan's and Ruf's....see Shelley does share
-Nathan had his first visit to the Atrium today to keep me company - thanks Nathan
-about the Atrium at City Hospital...we, Shelley, Nathan, Mark, Tim, Denise and Diane all agree that the Atrium does not have the same atmosphere as "The Mall" at RUH. We decided we miss The Mall to pass the time while Brian has a nap.
-Brian finally wanted his TV hooked up.....he can watch Coronation Street now
-tonight's supper was beef stew, carrots and bannock
-after supper Brian had to use his new ventilin contraption to clear his lungs.....this looked like a peace pipe with the smoke (actuallty a light mist)
-so we mentioned the theme of the bannock and the pipe to the nurse Leona and she was going to look for some moccasins for Brian
-Shelley and Mary left the hospital at 8:30 pm
- I forgot to mention.......I know the complete name of the resident Dr.. He is.......Dr. Sherif El Maadawy, and he is very very nice. He explains things to us, which I need as some days this is a little over whelming. Plus Dr. El Maadwy now has the Blog address and is probably reading this about himself. Happy 4th Wedding Anniversay Dr. and sorry the nurses had to interrupt your dinner with your wife last night.

Signing off for Sunday, January 30th

Shelley

Saturday, January 29th

2005-01-30T11:06:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Kathy, Corrine, Doug & Myra, Rick R, Doug M, Diane, Tim & Monique, Denise, Shelley, Debbie, Rick S.

Activities and Progress:
-Kathy and Corrine did the breakfast shift again, an Egg McMuffin was once again on the menu, thank you
-Doug and Myra had a little visit around lunch then Shelley arrived
-Brian had a nap in the morning, a nap after lunch then a visit with Rick Rowley and Doug Michasiw. Returned to the room, noticed the box (not a small box either) of Turtles was half gone. Brian denied having them , but those boys were not smart enough to hide the evidence of wrappers in the garbage
- Diane and Shelley went up again around 4:30 and the fever goes CRAZY! Diane and Shelley do the "Massage et duex" for quite some time until the chills went away.
-now a note about the Ruf's (Lyle and Diane) and massage. Shelley and Brian think they are doing tag team massage on Brian so they can learn the Sargent technique for their own personal enjoyment.
-Saturday Night Fever continued around 7:00 pm but Shelley and Denise handled this one.
-Shelley and Denise left the hospital around 10:30 - (that is early) thinking he was done this fever pitch for the night but alas the nurses - Phyllis and Darci tell me it continued throught the night.
- he finally slept
- we wait still for the Doctor team to find the source of this infection...........

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Doug and Val Michasiw - thanks for the big box of Turtles, obviously Brian loves them.......
- Thanks Lyle Diane and Logan for the basket of goodies, candies, fruit nuts.......are you trying to pay Brian off for the massge lessons???
- Great Basket of stuff from Jim Betourney and Alf Olivier - Thank you

DM

Friday January 28th

2005-01-29T11:35:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Myra, Corrine, Shelley, Mark, Sherri, Rick S, Susan & Pat, Diane, Denise, Candace & Quincy with Lexie, Callandra and Adeline

Activities and Progress:
- Myra and Corrine gave orders to Shelley not to arrive until noon - she obeyed (that is the Sargent military way)
-Corrine brought Brian an Egg McMuffin for breakfast
-Myra and Corrine had coffee in the Atrium while Brian went for an ultra sound on his legs - that came back all clear!
- Shelley arrived in time for lunch but Brian was still full from his cholestoral free breakfast, he just had some fruit and a Pepsi!
- waiting for the Neuro Radiologist to read the MRI (interesting fact: Saskatchewan has only 1 Neuro Radiologist)
- Doctors on the case are: Dr. Fourney - Neurosurgeon - he repaired Brian's vertabrae, Dr. Li Pi Chen, Dr. "Shurriff" (that would be his first name as he is from Cairo and we have yet to understand his last name)
- had a nap, saw a few visitors , squeezed his balls for exercise (hey you with the dirty minds....these are stress balls) then had supper and another short nap then.................
-the fever GOES CRAZY!!!!!!!!
- we did not have Lyle on the scene but Shelley and Denise did "Massage et duex" once again until 11:00ish when the fever settled.
-waiting and waiting to here the source of the infection that is causing the fevers.............patience grasshopper!

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Thank you to John Bowden for taking the sick computer home to fix it.... we are told 591 viruses and 20,000 spyware entries were found. Thank you so much Dr. Bowden
-Thanks to Mark for picking up the patient (computer) and taking it home to rest - that was a great help!
-Laura Donovan your cookies are awesome - thank you- maybe you could bake for your brother when he opens a restaurant/bar in Costa Rica!
- McNally Robinson gift certificate from the Bosovich's.....thanks as we will be reading as much as possible about this road we are now on!

Denisey Menisey

Thursday January 27

2005-01-29T10:55:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Brenda, Denise, Doug & Myra, Corrine, John B.,Dale & Wanda, Ruth & Larry and Lyle.

Visitors who were not allowed to visit:
Trent K., Gene & Debbie, Tim, John & Denise & Tanner.

Activities and Progress:
-Brian slept pretty well Wed night - this was confirmed by Ted the super nurse.
-has a low grade fever and a chill in the am but still ate breakfast
-drank his decaf Tims
-Chest xrays, then...
-ECG, then...
- blood work, then....
-chest culture (that means spit in a jar)......
-new staff for physio , Mandy OT, Janice PT and Nancy PT student - very nice girls
-Brian thinks they are too young to be done University
-B leaves for airport - Leanne and Graham will be happy to have their Mom at home
-then at 3:00 pm .....all goes crazy......lack of sensations spreads up to chest level
- MRI - STAT at 4:00 pm
-back to the room by 5:30 and still managed to eat the potatoes, beef and beans!
-6:30ish turned the visitors mentioned earlier away. Brian said he wanted to visit but Ted said NO WAY!
-then the fever goes crazy
-Lyle and Densie did not manage to escape when Ted told them to so......
to keep the fever down and the chills away it was a long night of warming Brian up.
-We decided to call it.....Massage et trois! Shelley, Lyle and Denise.
-Lyle did not want this to get out to the general population but too bad.....everyone knows now!
-Fever settles we go home at 11:30

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
- beautiful flowers from the Tenneco Automotive -Ray and Lisa,Brian and Tanya,Rod and Claudia, thank you very much!
-more beautiful flowers from the Farris Family in Nova Scotia-John, Terry, Jillian and Matthew, thank you!
-fruit basket with cool magazine - from Rick Olmstead and Sylvia Martini - thanks
- Hot Rod Mags from the vehicle restoration guy... Larry (and Ruth) thank you!
-Treat Basket - cookies, cheese, candies (Shelley will like those)and other surprises from the staff at Sargent's Auto Electric - Great assortment of stuff - thanks everyone!
-Housecoat and "lounge wear" (no it is not polyester) from Doug and Myra - that will be very uselful - thanks!
-Stuffed Bear - his name is "Thing 3" - Thank you Thing 1 and Thing 2!
- Thanks to Leanne and Graham for letting their Mom come and babysit thier Aunty Shelley for 5 days!

Big D

Accident Site Photos

2005-01-27T10:39:00.000-06:00

OK THEY WORK NOW

Tim was a big help and posted the pictures of the accident site with captions for me.

CLICK HERE NOW!

Thanks Tim!!

Andy

Wednesday, January 26th

2005-01-26T20:47:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
- Shelley, Denise, Nathan, Brenda, Bonnie Rowley, Rick Sproule

Mall Friends:
- Nathan, Randy, Brenda McBain

- Pat and Susan Donovan actually caught Shelley at home before 10p.m. and had a quick visit.

Activities and Progress:
- after some indecision on the part of the RUH staff, Brian was moved via M.D. Ambulance to his new digs at City Hospital about 2:30 p.m. today. A tiring trip and tiring day, especially since Brian hasn't had any sleep for two nights.
- a real hub of activity over there. He got settled in and met one of his nurses, Ted (Ted has it goin on!).
- supper was served on real plates, but still hospital food.
- Brian was asleep by 6:30 p.m. (I've known him to party and stay up until 6:30 a.m., but this??)
- Shelley actually had a chance to get a haircut!! She looks maaaaavelous! Now she won't have to wake up at 5:30 a.m. to be at the hospital by 10! She just has her makeup to do, so she can get up at 6!
- We hope Brian will have a good night sleep so he can heal faster and so he will be able to out wit his visitors when he sees them next.
- Brian will very soon be set up on a schedule at City, for physio and lots of other stuff - they know what they are doin over there. Take a look at the photos of City starring Andy to get an idea of the facility.

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
- Pat and Susan - thanks for the quiche and the fruit platter. It was great for Shelley to have a hug from both of you.
- Bonnie is off to Victoria tomorrow, so Shelley and Brian will see you next week - have a great trip!
- some kind soul had flowers delivered to City Hospital - Ted, the nurse called Shelley to let her know although she does not know who they are from, but thank you so much..... you know who you are.
- thanks for the book Nathan - hope is an incredible thing!!

Again, I am amazed at what incredible and supportive friends and family these guys have!!

Brenda

Photos

2005-01-26T09:31:00.000-06:00

I set up a photo album to post some pictures.
On Sunday my Auntie B and I went to City Hospital to check out where my Dad was going to be. Since I had to go back to Toronto, I wanted to know what the place was like. We took a few pictures which you can see

HERE

We're working on putting up the pictures of the accident site, I've asked Tim if he could do that and put captions on them so that they make some sense.

If anyone has any pictures they want to share, let me know! andysargent@gmail.com
or at my dad's sargentbrian@gmail.com.

Andy

Monday January 24th

2005-01-24T23:07:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Brenda, Denise, Andy, Nathan, Hannah, Mark, Rob & Denise.

Progress and Activities:
-one hour of physio with Joanne and Sarah
-leg exercises, wearing the dreaded Jewitt Brace (this acts as his cast to keep his incision safe)
-big news.....Brian wore his brace, then Joanne and Sarah sat him up in the bed, had his legs over the side of the bed
- this was a 20 minute event that went very well
-he is a very willing student
-we were proud
-Brian gave up his morphine pump ( but still gets the occasional shot)
-Shelley was the police person at room 6302 as sleep was need by Brian
-the visitors got stuck visiting with Shelley today at "The Mall"
-sore chest muscles kept him from sitting much after the physio
-that high tech bed can be moved in many positions......control is a great thing
-Nathan had gas in 6302
-so sad, Andy had to go back to Toronto today
-Andy send this site to your Prof so you can get an extension on your paper that is due tomorrow am
-Jody (then Jody again), Sandra V, Faye and a few other Xray types were in the mall (do they ever work?)

Food and Gifts and Other Stuff:
-Sherry and Glen Luther - roast beef and buns - looks yummy but we will dive into that tomorrow
-Peter Fung and Kim Evans - beautiful flowers!
-Bruce and Terry - Competition Muffler and staff - beautiful flowers!
-Davies Electric Staff - more beautiful flowers!

Thanks everyone for your thoughts, well wishes and prayers. Shelley and Brian are loving them all!

Feel free to send an email, a joke is great (keep it sorta clean), we will print them and take them to him!
Brian asks each day to see his cards from all of the well wishers, they lift his spirits

Beezil and Nate Dogg

Sunday, Jan 23rd

2005-01-24T01:22:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Ian, Hannah, Myra and Doug, Kathy, Corrine, Andy, Nathan, Brenda, Denise, Tim, Rowleys, Denise Bowden, Rick S., Rufs, Ruth and Herb from Watrous thanks for coming out.

Progress and Activities:
-Sat with brace on for one and a half hours until it hurt
-Got a phone in his room
-Auntie Denise wouldn't eat her sandwich
-Got a DVD player and DVD's from Uncle Rick
-Stupid nurses freaked mom out all day
-Auntie Denise still won't eat her sandwich
-Dad's chest was congested, he couldn't cough hard enough to clear it out. We were told that this is very common after surgery.
-Finally near the end of visiting hours the great nurse Pam saved the day. She tipped Dad on his head ahaha and cleared him out!
-Ian went back to Vancouver
-That Murray went back to Cow Town
-Supper was chicken breast, potatoes and carrot. Butterscotch pudding for dessert, thanks to me.
-Auntie Denise doesn't eat her sandwich at all, we're pretty sure. Her stomach was keeping Dad awake.
-Auntie B and I visited City Hospital to see Dad's new digs. We met a very friendly nurse named Ted who, after he caught us trespassing, showed us around the patient area. It's very bright and comfortable, much better then University. We took pictures which we'll hopefully post soon.

Gifts and Other Things:
-Glad you caught us Susan Donovan and thanks for the gift bag which included Ferrero Rocher (Dad's favorite).
-From Ruth and Herb Kornelsen (of Watrous Acme Service): carnations.
-The Rufs brought a giant teddy bear.
-Sadoways brought soup and a card and did some phantom shovelling we suspect.

BYE!

Andy, Brenda and Nathan

Saturday, Jan. 22nd

2005-01-22T23:20:00.000-06:00

Visitors:
Shelley, Ian, Andy, Nathan, Brenda, Denise, Mark, Doug and Myra, Corrine, that Murray, Rick S., Tom Bissenette and Mike Coote, Gene and Debbie, Thanks everyone for coming!

Progress and Activities:
- Brian's "pessimistic, stick to the facts" doctor, was optimistic!!
- some tubes were removed
- bowels are moving on their own
- able to sit up in bed with his brace on at about 32 degree angle.
- had X-rays today
- Dad's brace was hurting, Mom and a nurse seemed to adjust it somewhat to make it more comfortable.
- Turkey Sandwiches - yum yum - thanks for the Turkey, Goldie, Jody and Carla!
- Dad was moved to his own room tonight!
- Nathan was a little tired about noon, so we took him outside for some fresh air. He's fine now (no need to send cards or gifts to him). ha ha - we need some humour.

Gifts and Food and Other Stuff:
From Sandra in X-ray: ham and cinnamon rolls
From Mike Coote: Fruit/food basket
From Sherri at Sargent's: Lots of lasagne
From Jody, Carla and Goldie Blummers: Potatoe salad and turkey
AND THE BEST LASAGNE FROM AUNTIE KATHY. I HOPE YOUR NOSE FEELS BETTER!

Brenda, Andy and Nathan

The Day After Surgery

2005-01-21T22:06:00.000-06:00

Quick Update:

The surgery went as planned. Dad is in a lot of pain but he's looking a bit better. They are still not saying anything about the spinal cord so we have no idea what is going on with that, but he doesn't have any feeling still from the waist down.
He met physio today and they already started giving him exercises. He got his back brace as well and was finally able to sit up a bit today but no more then 45 degrees.
The incision (spelling?) is bigger then we thought, it's almost a foot long! So you can imagine how painful that is since it's right down his back and he is laying on it.

We aren't able to go to the hospital until 2pm tomorrow but maybe there will be more news, we'll let you know.

Andy