July 06, 2011

Night Time Challenges

So the trach is out. We are still very happy about that. But Garren now faces some new challenges - breathing while he's sleeping. Apparently it's pretty important! He does great when he first goes to sleep. But it seems that when he gets into a really deep sleep, he holds his breath for several minutes at a time - like he has some kind of apnea. Apnea is pretty common with brain injury. We have a nurse that stays with him overnight - and she makes sure he does continue breathing. We just need to figure out the next piece of this big puzzle. What can we do? Who do we talk to? What are the next steps? We'll be figuring that one out over the next several days.

The good news is that Garren continues to get stronger. I helped him walk, with his walker, from his bed, out the door, down the ramp to the end of the driveway. Then we turned around and walked to the front door, up the steps, and into the living room. His steps are getting stronger, his core is getting stronger. It's so amazing to see him progress.

He told us the other day that he has 3 things he needs to work on: swallowing, talking, and walking. A boy with goals - I love it!

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Swallowing, walking and talking - all things we take for granted and always think we'll be able to do without thinking. One never knows what we'll be called on to endure. My heart goes out to all of you, for Garren as he struggles to overcome these obstacles and for the family who had to watch Garren's struggle and not be able to do anything. God is faithful, hang on to that like an anchor in the storm. We will continue to stand in the gap for all of you.
Donna Lochridge on behalf of Metrocrest Presbyterian Church.

Anonymous said...

*has to watch*

Anonymous said...

Garren, so glad that you have goals!!! We will pray that you will be able to obtain those goals, all for the glory of our mighty GOD!! love & prayers, SAndy and Russ

Anonymous said...

That's my GRAND SON! Go Garren,
Grandpa Janes

Kitty @ Four Toms and a Mom said...

A mentor of mine early in a corporate career I had would say that a successful person keeps only three goals. We know what three to keep in our prayers for Garren.

Taylor Helms(: said...

Me and my friend Madison Laney saw Garren at the Acuatic Center today. We were very happy at all the progress he has made. He seems he is getting much stronger and having fun. I pray for him as much as I can. We all Love you Garren<3
-Taylor Helms (PDMS)