Paul's Update - 09/01/06

Dear Friends:

The last few days have been pretty quiet. Wednesday was discouraging since the occupational therapist came and Paul wasn't willing to work with him. He actually pulled himself away from Steve and rolled back onto the bed and repositioned himself into place. Steve decided he would put Paul on "medical hold" until he is ready to work again. Thursday was another medicine reduction day. The reductions seem to make Paul more aware of his surroundings. It also makes him more determined to make decisions for himself. If he doesn't want to do something he DOESN'T and there is NO making him! Since he hasn't been feeling well for so long he also hasn't been getting up much. It is difficult for Dad to move him around too. He doesn't do well with walking and standing. So far he hasn't had any adverse effects from the medicine reductions which we are extremely grateful for. Max is just as cute as he can be. He smiles all the time and really likes playing with his crib mobile. He kicks and hits the toys and will play for about 20 minutes at a time! We so enjoy him ... what a blessing he is! Tabby finally got paid from her AD&D insurance. This really takes a lot of stress off her. At least now she won't have to worry about losing her house. She has signed Max up for Social Security benefits but she won't hear anything for 45 days. Unfortunately she has to pay part of the benefits that Paul & Max get from Social Security back to Medicaid. I don't really get that ... but they tell her that is how it works. She calls it "stealing from a baby"! I must agree! My mother and sister came for the holiday weekend. They got to enjoy Max when we went out for a "girls lunch". Tabby (and Max) & Carolyn got to join Nana, Aunt Ann, Aunt Cathy, Cousin Lizzie and me for lunch on Friday. It was a great opportunity for all of us to get out! Dad stayed with Paul and they had a quiet day! Our focus is a little better this week. It has been difficult to come to grips with the emotions we are feeling. The reality of a lifetime doing this is hard to imagine. We are thankful that our God has brought us this far ... and we continue to pray that Paul will have complete healing. We are also thankful that you have been there to support us and pray for us.

Have a great weekend, Lynne & Carl