The Boy Is Back (gary/alan Update)

The Boy Is Back (gary/alan Update) Rate Topic:

#1 Gary

Group: Guests

Posted 23 January 2006 - 08:42 AM

Hi Folks

Got home from hospital on Friday - a bit uncomfortable with all the plaster but other than that - alive. Prior to this accident, I was able to everything myself and had (almost) perfect control of B&B, however, since 1st Jan 06, things have been a bit "hit and miss." Having an arm in plaster, together with 2 legs, does not make transfers easy, so, I have returned to the baby stage and most things have to be done by Mum & Dad now. I moved in with them until I get my plasters off in 2 weeks. After that, well, it all starts again with rehab and therapy to regain the independence I have lost. A repeat of 16 years ago.

As regards Alan. He still has severe headaches and neck pain and is on strong painkillers. He is fed through a tube. On 29/1/06, they are talking of getting him into a wheelchair for 10 mins. He'll be in until at least August. Once stronger, he will move to a rehab ward to strengthen muscles and use what he has got - which is not much. He will require 24 hour care on his return home.

The family are still stunned and his Mum & Dad and siblings dont know what day of the week it is. Alan is upbeat but has his moments. The hard part being unable to use his hands. He wants a motorised wheelchair and a laptop!

On a serious note, the family now have to contemplate moving house to a specially adpated one. Quite honestly, the family have not been able to think of that just yet. They have all the info on solicitors, etc, but even I have found that my brain cannot yet function on that score.

If I could change places with ALan I would. I've been half crippled for 16 years but to be without hands makes it 100 times worse.

All I can say is roll on 2007 because it cannot be much worse than 2006!

Thanks for all your thoughts/prayers they are much appreciated.

Gary

#2 gazrobsuk

Member

Group: Members
Posts: 176
Joined: 26-May 05
Country:Wiltshire, UK

Posted 23 January 2006 - 10:10 AM

Hi Gary,

See my reply on Andy's message boards at: http://www.spinal-in...sage-boards.htm but suffice to say it's great to have you back & read your updates. I guess you'll have even more time on the PC now :unsure:

Gaz

http://www.gazrobs.freeuk.com

Incomplete C3-4

Gaz

http://www.gazrobs.freeuk.com

#3 lynne

Newbie

Group: Members
Posts: 96
Joined: 11-July 05
Gender:Female
Country:Dublin, Ireland
Spinal Injury Level / Relationship:C3 Complete - son

Post icon Posted 23 January 2006 - 10:17 AM

Welcome back Gary, its a slow painful process but you will get there - again! Great to hear Alan is doing good, he will be zooming along in a motorised chair before you know it. My son has one and is coming on marvellously. I never thought I would see that day. It is a totally earth shattering experience for everybody to see him the way he is, especially as he was such an active young fellow. My prayers are for you all daily.

Keep up the good work.

Lynne

#4 Gary

Group: Guests

Posted 23 January 2006 - 10:44 AM

Thanks for the message Lynne. I must be honest, for Alan's Mum & Dad the picture of him getting around in a motorised chair is not one they can envisage at the moment. I think it is something they are going to have to come to terms with in their own time. I dont have a lot of knowledge of quad injuries - only what I have learned from the boards - however, I know how long it took me to adjust to my situation 16 years ago - so I can imagine how long it will take Alan. It is fine for him to be so positive however, once his rehab starts and he finds that nothing is returning, that is when he will need us.

I showed him your posting of your son in the hope that it would raise their spirits, however, I think until rehab starts we are all in limbo. As his Uncle I will do all I can to help him naturally, however, I need time myself to recover before I can even think of what needs to be done.

Thanks for your kind message Lynne.

Gary

#5 Joed

Member

Group: Members
Posts: 1,283
Joined: 30-August 04
Country:US of eh/Indiana
Spinal Injury Level / Relationship:Incomplete para

Post icon Posted 23 January 2006 - 06:47 PM

Welcome back, Gary! :unsure:

And thanks for stopping in to give us the update on yourself and Alan. You've suffered a huge setback, but as you already know, it's nothing but forward ho! from here on out. Try and keep the spirits up, and I'll continue the prayers for a strong recovery for the both of you.

* * * * * * * * *

Female. Incomplete para following a cord stroke in '03. Spina-bifida, severe scoliosis. 18 surgeries total...five spine-related: Three fusions w/hardware, two tethered cord releases.