Onto Rehab
The stars aligned and Joel was able to be transfered to Mercy for rehab sooner than we expected!
He's free of all ports and attachments, is not in any pain, and has a gnarly scar- over 20 sutures, and 8+ inches. He's more subdued, able to sleep a bit more, and feeling generally okay.
Last night, he got settled in the Rehab unit, and today he has already had hours of therapy. He's putting everything he has into it- both in therapies and in resting. He has PT, OT, and will have a speech and cognition evaluation soon. He's doing exercises in his #1 Dad shirt and generally making everyone coo with the sweetness of his love for the girls and I. Sunday is the only day without 3+ hours of therapies, and we'll have a meeting in Tuesday to talk about progress and estimated discharge day. He will likely spend a whole week here, but we'll see!
His gait is already much improved, his coordination, and his strength. It's encouraging and amazing to see. Brains, man.
Joel wants everyone to know that he is deeply grateful for all of your encouragement, comments, vibes, prayers, gifts, and love. He's been profusely thanking and complimenting the staff at every turn (which are many), and satisfied with his care at each place we've been in the past two weeks.
It's jarring how fast everything has changed. Two weeks ago, we were all unaware of the tumor and all the risks, his skull was intact, he could walk and run and type with no problems. Joel is doing an excellent job trying to adjust to life as we now know it, and focusing on possibilities (true to himself), but it's hard. It's really hard.
I didn't think I could be more proud of Joel, but even that continues to expand.
Comments (21)
Love to you all! So glad to read this quick progress! Hugs
Incredible. Keep up the steady progress and have faith JDH. Take that Sunday rest day and love it!
Amazing indeed! You’re an inspiration, my friend. We are all cheering you on!
Love evey bit of this!!
We love you too, Darin thank you for your visit! Jean & Jack Harris 😊
So happy for this news. Praying for strength, courage, and rest for you all . . . and especially for healing.
We go to church with your parents, Joy. We are continuing to pray daily for Joel and your whole family. Asking God for complete healing...and until that time strength and hope and comfort and peace. I His name.
Prayers continue and lots of praises for all the progress.
Go, Joel, Go!!! I dont have adequate words but I am amazed by all that you are doing and having to process. Glad that you are one step closer to home and making epic forts again. We are cheering you on and continuing to pray each day!! Love, the Dawsons
You dwell under the shadow of the Almighty! Keeping you in prayer.
Thanks Joy for this progress report, I've been waiting! It should be amazing to hear speech & cognition therapy responses. Rest and relax
Outstanding news! You’ve always been a shining star!! Praying for your continued healing & strength, Joel! And for Joy, the girls, your fam & med team!
Thank you for the updates. Please know you and the girls are also in my prayers. Joel is a man of strong faith. God bless you.
I so appreciate the updates as you all have been on my mind and in my prayers. Give Joel our well wishes and healing thoughts from everyone at Massillon Museum ❤️ I have always admired his drive and positive outlook; this report of his hard work and perseverance in this challenging time does not surprise me :) If your daughter ever needs a ride to gymnastics, please let me know.
Joy-*
What a testimony of Joel’s character and resilience. I’m so proud of all of you. I’m sure this has been equally difficult for you as well Joy. Please know I appreciate the updates and will keep you Al lifted in pray. Literally typing this with tears due to your beautiful support and admiration of your Joel. Love and hugs! ♥️
Love you boy. God told me Hés got this.
God bless you all in this road of recovery.
Blessings, Jean Harris
We continue to pray for your sweet family. You both are warriors in this fight. We are amazed at your strength and grace.
Joel and Joy, praying for you and your girls as you move to recovery. Sending much love.