Thanks again to everyone for their prayers and support as Will recovers from encephalitis. Stupid encephalitis !
Will has been in the hospital for 4 weeks now. He probably has several more to go before he is discharged. Even after returning home, he will have many challenges and further rehabilitation.
When Will was moved to the rehab unit at Phoenix Children's Hospital 2 weeks ago - he had pretty limited movement with his arms, head and legs - could not speak, swallow, etc.
After 2 weeks of pretty intense therapy he is making huge improvements!
Talking: No talking yet, but he is making noises in this throat and is trying SO hard to talk. If he cries, he does say "mom" (heartbreaking for sure). He communicates with a speach board - pointing to words/pictures and uses thumbs up and down for yes or no. He also SMILES all the time. He is very positive and will do whatever the therapists ask of him. He is LOVING all the attention from the female nurses/staff. They love him too.
Eating: Will can swallow pureed food and thickened drinks. He still has an ng feeding tube, but if he continues doing well, the tube may be removed as early as Tuesday! This will be a huge step and make it even easier for him to swallow. They will puree anything for him - chicken nuggets and fries last night for dinner :)
Upper body: This seems to be the most impacted area for Will. His head control is getting better and he can keep his head upright and centered when up in bed or in his wheelchair. He moves his arms very well, has a good grip and is working on controlling his arm movements. His trunk (core) is weak, but improving rapidly. He can sit on the side of the bed, balanced, without assistance for about 30 seconds.
Walking: Will stands very well with assistance - his legs are strong and he does very well with lower body therapy. They hooked him up to a "light rider" harness thingy - that supports his weight and upper body - he then walked down the hall.
The program at the hospital is awesome - he does 30 mintues EACH of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech, school, rec therapy every morning and then again in the afternoon. He works hard and seems to be happy and motivated.
Not sure how much longer he will be in the hospital, but the doctors feel he will make a 90% recovery - it will take time and patience though.
Thanks again for all of your prayers and healing energy!!
Love
Craig, Sylvia, Paige and William
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To our dear Friends who are so far away... Wonderful to see pictures of Will - tell him he looks marvellous!!! Kepp up the strong wrok buddy. Paige your a wonderful big sister and I'm sure Will takes comfort in that. Syl & Craig if there is anything at all please let us know, we are here for you. Be strong and our love and prayers are with you all. A huge HUG is on the way.
Love Dale, Sue & Cody
Love what you have done, great way to keep updated. We hope to see Will one more time before we leave on vacation, but if not we will come up as soon as we get back. Glad to hear things are progressing every day and can't wait to see you again.
Love
Rob, Tammy, Autumn & Lexi
Hi guys. This is Tracy Dodd, I only met Craig last year at the Thursday morning First Wave Tri ride, then meeting and talking some more at Tour de Tucson and lastly at the Swiss bike shop prior to Tuseday night loops. It is so inspiring to see Will's progress. Wishing you and your family all the best, keeping you guys in our thoughts and prayers. I look forward to checking back here routinely to see Will's conintued recovery- please wish him well from the Dodd family. Best
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