Day 74 - Visiting Day

Daniel was receiving visitors today. First his grandparents, then S. from S. There was the usual visits from members of Team Daniel - his attending, nurses and PT today as well. There is some concern from the PT/OTs that Daniel's elbows may be getting a build-up of calcium called heterotopic ossification or HO. This is just another fun thing that can happen after a severe burn injury. It can cause painful joints - in his elbow. An x-ray can identify the problem, so that might be the next step to determine if that's what is causing some of his issue with his right elbow. I may revisit this concern in future blog posts.

While the grandparents visited I attended a SOAR meeting with burn recovery victims and asked questions about rehab. I learned some tips and pointers and feel good about this next phase of recovery. While I believe Daniel, Dawn and I will be really challenged by the painful tasks of PT/OT that await him I think Daniel will work hard and surprise us as he has all along. He's such a hard worker, aims to please and never gives up.

Today Daniel sat up the entire day in a chair. He did fall asleep for a bit in his chair, but otherwise stayed awake the entire day. Sitting in a chair is good work for him. "Work" - Seems funny to say that, but if you consider where he was not long ago you'd wonder if he would ever regain the strength to do much of anything. We can build on this and get him back to normal. I can see that, but to reflect back in time it sometimes seems to amaze me with how strong his will is and how far he's come.