July 5, 2014 ~ Day 55 at Bethesda Hospital in St. Paul, MN and 92 Days Since Jake's Accident

It has been a marvelous week of great wellness gains for Jacob and his personal interests showing through. Jake's PT/OT/Speech/Music therapy schedules have been increased to 5 times a week instead of three times a week. This health wellness increase of participation is assisting him to build his core and leg strength to eventually walk, his daily personal daily living skills, increased speech and communication dialogue, and the beginning stages of drumming and playing the keyboard. We are so proud of Jake's wellness and personal interests gains and he is so determined to walk again and be independent.

He is able to brush his own teeth, wash his own face, put on his own deo with one hand, and the biggest accomplishment this week is starting to feed himself with a spoon and fork. He is now switched to to stage three foods where regular food is cut up into bite size pieces and he is able to chew and swallow with ease.  

His speech has increased dramatically with full sentences and interjecting and joining in on the conversation. Yes, he still gets things mixed up and appears confused sometimes, and there are individuals that he still does not recognize or remember from his past, but he is aware of where he is at, what season we are, and he is fully aware that Jeff and I are there to support him every day. He in return provides us with these thoughtful words of kindness of "Thank You Mom and Dad, and I love you for taking care of me Mom and Dad." These words are music to our ears and are said and stated at the appropriate times with true and genuine sincerity. He has also stated "I want to go home to Brownsville"  and we have promised him we will take him home and care for him to continue the healing process to assist him to be independent.

We have also promised a coming home party for Jacob, and we have asked him who would he like to invite to his celebration. He noted the following: My brothers Ryan and Darin, Krissy (Ryan's wife),  Sgt. Harris, Jake Erickson, Shane Lokken, Kevin Beckman, Elizabeth Risty, Kati Ernest, Devon, Grandma Jane, Steven, Renee and Rick. This will happen! And can not wait for this day to celebrate with Jake, with all of his friends and personal family members.

His brothers diligently visit often and this past week Grandma Jane and Uncle Steve made the journey to St. Paul to spend the day with Jake. Grandma Jane loved and comforted him and fed him ice-cream, played the baby grand piano in the main reception area for Jacob, and made the best homemade cookies for the entire nursing staff. The nurses loved her for her kindness and genuine care for her grandson Jacob. Uncle Steve enjoyed the visit as well and had an opportunity to catch up with Jeff and support Jacob and celebrate his wellness gains.

The pictures showcased in this post reflect the new Vic Firth drumsticks and new drum practice pad I purchased for Jake this past week. Jeff takes time each day to work with Jacob on drumming techniques and to support his musical interests and passion. Jake loves the drumsticks and drum pad- and even the first night wanted to sleep with the drum sticks. He totally remembers his musical talents and loves the opportunity to show off his skills to the nurses.

Happy 4th everyone and we will keep you posted!