Monday – 10/4/2010

Hello!

It was a very busy, yet productive, weekend. Everything went great on Friday with the Cough Assist System. I was able to cough as expected once the device was activated. It was pretty cool to hear myself cough again for the first time in 15 months. The first time we tried it out, I was a little unsure as to what to expect. I was told it wouldn’t hurt, but didn’t know how it would feel. Once we activated it, I took a breath and waited about 2 seconds and then tried to cough, and with the help of the device, let out a forceful cough! The device triggered quite a contraction in my abdominal muscles which forced the air to be expelled from my lungs, thus generating the cough. It felt like a punch to the gut without the pain, in much the same way a typical spasm feels. My cough is so strong that it causes my legs to jump a little bit. Over the next several weeks I will need to cough 10 times every hour in order to strengthen my abdominal muscles and become familiar with the system. So far, nothing of interest has surfaced from the depths of my lungs — but who knows when that might change!

It was quite an event to see. The Plain Dealer was there to document everything for their story. I called Kristy, Lindsey and my dad to cough for each of them since they could not be there. As you can imagine, they were all pretty amazed by the noises I was making. It has been a long time since any of them had heard me make those sounds. Whoever thought so many people would get so excited about something as simple as a cough! It really is amazing just how far technology has evolved when you think about the fact that a paralyzed person now has the ability to cough and clear his or her throat. I am excited to think about what else the future holds. It can’t come soon enough!

Sunday was a pretty exciting day as well, but for different reasons. Bob, Amanda and little baby Anna paid me a surprise visit. Earlier in the week Kristy and I had made plans to go to the apartment for the day. And even though it was raining and dreary, I would not be stopped! Around 3:30 PM there was a break in the rain and we headed out to embark upon our 1.6 mile adventure. It was a relatively smooth and uneventful 25 minute journey to the apartment. Bob, Amanda and Anna were waiting for us when we arrived. We spent most of the afternoon watching football, eating homemade chili and just hanging out. I did spend a fair amount of time maneuvering throughout the entire apartment. I was determined to see every room and fit myself into every room — which I’m proud to say I was able to do!  When I had been back at the apartment last December with Kristy and Bryan for my home visit, my maneuverability was not as refined as it is now. At that time, I was unable to see any other rooms besides the living room. This time was different, though. I was able to move wherever I wanted to with relative ease. I was also able to spend quality time with Kingsley in her environment, which made her much more comfortable. I’ve attached a picture of the two of us from yesterday.

Finally, it was 8:30 PM and time to head back… and so too the adventure began! At this time, it was dark outside and pouring!  The rain did not stay away and show no sign of letting up. In order to get back to the nursing home, I was going to have to get wet. We bundled me up with garbage bags, scarves, jackets and hats. Yes, there were multiples of each. I looked like a cross between a Russian Bolshevik and a homeless man, especially with the beard I have growing on my face. Kristy and I said goodbye to Bob, Amanda and cute little Anna. It was then time to head out. Kristy grabbed an umbrella, and out the door we went. We were immediately smacked in the face with the wind and stinging rain. This continued the whole trip back, which seemed to take twice as long. At one point I mentioned to Kristy that this was near the top of the list of stupid things I have done in my life! But it was so worth it due to how great of a day it was! It really was a good weekend and I was able to enjoy it with those I love. I am looking forward to tomorrow as well when I get to meet my new nephew, Brady, for the first time! I also have another appointment with Dr. Nemeh. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Thank you for your prayers and support! It is appreciated!

Scott