We are Home

Sorry it has been a bit since I gave an update.  I needed a secretary with me to do my typing.  The end of the week was busy, obviously, or would have written because I have much to share.

He began physical therapy Friday.  This was the first glimpse of the work that is ahead for Keenan.  His muscles were so weak.  The first two sessions amounted to teaching us how to move him safely, getting him in the wheelchair, and helping him sit on the edge of bed.  He required a great deal of support to be held in an upright position.  Holding his own head up was even a major feat of strength. 

Saturday he began a multitude of attempts to help get his bowel working.  He battles this issue anyway, and with all of the medications he was given, it compounded the problem for him.  This became as bothersome for Keenan as his sore back I think.  Then, on top of that, all of the laying he had to do, even though he was turned from side-to-side, he developed a pimply, red rash on his back from the harsh sheets that are on hospital beds.  We got him some that were "ivory washed", but the damage had already been done and his back was itching him like crazy.  That poor guy, just could not catch a break.  (To make matters worse for his back, they would not put a steriod creme on it because it can slow incision healing.)  Our only option was Eucerin creme.

Sunday finally arrived and there was a bit of worry that we would not be able to leave the hospital, due to his bowel troubles, but they gave him more "help" and sent us on our way.  We had one more physical therapy session and he looked a bit stronger.  He could sit on the edge of a bench and support himself.  That was a good thing.  We also had him attempt to walk to his wheelchair, but he was not ready for that yet.  So, it was time to make the journey to the airport to begin our trip back home.  We had two flights and a long day ahead of us.  Kids who have this procedure are encouraged not to sit in the same position more than two hours without a break.  Our first flight was an hour, but with a very short layover and a big airport, when we landed in Atlanta, we were worried we would even make the flight, let alone allow him some time to lay down for a break.  Well, to our surprise, the flight to Wichita had been delayed about 1/2 hour, which gave Keenan about 15 minutes to lay down.  God knew he needed a break and provided it!!!!  How cool.

All three of us could not wait to get off the plane in Wichita, to see if anyone would be there to greet us.  (I knew Mom and Kaylee, and probably my sister would be there.)  What I witnessed when we turned that corner and headed down that ramp was one of the sweetest sight as a mommy I would ever hope to see.  Mom, Kaylee, Teresa, J.M., Susan, and Chance were standing there with balloons and an awesome sign that had flashing lights!  Once Kaylee noticed us, she walked up that ramp, looked at Keenan and smiled, turned around and took his hand and proceeded to walk with him down the ramp to join the rest of the family.  As long as I live I will treasure that moment!!!  There was such a sweet innocence and I am so lucky I was able to witness it.

Monday morning brought a potential bump in the road.  The rash I mentioned earlier has been an irritation for Kee almost non-stop.  For the most part, he does a great job leaving his back alone, and I had him sleep with me in hopes of catching him if he started to scratch in his sleep.  Well, this morning, he had some seeping that had occured at some point during the night.  It appeared to have been confined to the dressing under the tape that is covering the wound, but having had issues with leakage from wounds before, I became nervous.  Following the discharge orders from the hospital, I called to report the situation and the doctor I spoke to said having a little leakage is not terribly uncommon and to keep an eye on it, but to report if the situation got worse.  Great, the thing that is hardest for me to do... wait and not worry when it involves Keenan.  You would think I would have cleared that hurdle by now, but it is new and fresh every time.  So, I earnestly prayed that our Great Physician would heal that wound completely and that I would be cautious, but not consumed with worry.  My desire is truly to lay it as God's feet, trust, and move forward, but that is just sooo very hard to do as a parent, isn't it????

I know this one is long, but I have saved the best for last.  Keenan made some awesome strides today!!!  This morning he asked to be put on the floor so he could be down with Kaylee.  We helped him get down and then he got up onto all fours.  This was a big step for him in just a day.  But wait, there is more!!!  We had Brad's family over for dinner and at one point, Keenan and my nephew Chance had been building with Legos in my bedroom.  Chance reported that they were done and Keenan wanted to come back and join the rest of the family in the hearth room.  I went to get him, so he could be carried, and he proceeded to let me know he wanted onto the floor so he could crawl.  I was a bit nervous, but remembered that he could move about as he felt comfortable.  So, I helped him to the floor and he crawled from my room to the hearth room.  That was quite a little bit for his first journey.  It was awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Hard to believe it was the same kid that could not hold up his own head Friday morning.  Thank you Lord for allowing all of us to end this day with such a reward.  May you be praised for your faithfulness in our lives. 

I need to try to post a few pictures of him, but this one has gotten quite long. 

If you want to continue to pray for him, it would be in the area of his back being healed of this irritation from the bedding and that his incision site would heal safe and sound, with no more drainage.

Thanks again for your support and being a part of this incredible journey.

Love,
Tammy