Today Clare was very agitated. The doctor made his rounds late afternoon and assessed what she was doing, then they gave her pain medication. She calmed down. An hour or so later we went to dinner. Kris ate better than we have seen him do in a long time. It is good to see him eating again.
We went back to the hospital and talked to Clare for a couple of hours. We started preparing to leave around 9:00 pm and she again showed her displeasure with the whole situation. But something was different. When we asked her to open her eyes she did. When the nurse had asked her to squeeze her hand, she did. And more importantly, when she asked her to release her hand, she did. Kris got in Clare's face and talked to her. As her eyes were open and gazing at him, he told her how much he loved her. Clare's mouth started moving like she was trying to talk. She did make some noise but as long as she is on the ventilator she can not talk.
It is difficult to explain exactly what happened tonight, but we were definitely communicating with Clare and she was trying to communicate with us. It was a very big step. Things are changing and appear to be changing rapidly in just the day since she was moved to the speciality hospital. We are so grateful for all of your prayers. They are working.
Oh My Goodness!!! I got chills as I read this post! I read the one earlier tonight and thought something is happening! I remember as Nick was waking up he wanted that thing out of his mouth. He had to get a doctor to order it after he tested him with his responses to make sure he was well enough to breathe on his own... While we were waiting for that to happen, we tried to guess what he was saying and he let us know when we were right with his eyes or by squeezing our hand. I think it is frightening to wake up and not know where you are, why you are there, and why you can't talk or move (being restrained). We had all of those things with Nick and about the only thing we could say was that he was safe and being taken care of. All we could do was reassure him and encourage him to be calm so he didn't hurt himself. Please call if you need any one to talk to. We Love You Guys! So happy to read this before heading to bed. Still praying. :)
ReplyDeleteMuch Love, Shelly
How exciting!! We love you guys!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Melissa
Great to hear about the progress. I'm still praying for a miracle for Clare. Love her and wish her the best. She's such a hard worker; I'm sure she's doing all she can to get better too. I want you to know your family is in my prayers as well. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteThat is so great! We love you all and will continue to send prayers your way from Arizona!
ReplyDeleteMichelle (Mabey) Brooks
It was very very special to be with you tonight! Thanks for sharing this with us. Brad & I both felt very encouraged after we left! She is a very determined person - always has been & this quality is exactly what she needs to get better!!
ReplyDeleteLove, Marianne & Brad
I don't know your family, but I am a neighbor/friend of the Peterson's (Rick & Rachelle). I have been following your incredible story, and am keeping these two kids in my thoughts and prayers. Reading this latest post gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes... continued hope and prayers for your sweet girl.
ReplyDeleteDitto "I got chills." I am so encouraged. Clare is obviously trying to communicate and frustrated with her inability to do so. I am so excited. I look forward to each post. Thank you for your detailed reports. I will continue to update Jennifer and keep everyone, especially Clare, in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDelete