The Roller Coaster Continues

Today was a "good" day. Sebastian was moved out of the PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit). Sebastian is now in a regular room in the step down unit of the hospital. He's not under normal care but not under immediate danger. He is closely monitored by his nurses but has a bit more privacy and less frenetic activity around him.

We met with the Physical Therapist today, and she began working with Sebastian to help him recover full use and strength in his right arm and leg. He has movement, which is good. He has weakness, which is not so good. But we have just started rehab, and the drugs he's on can make him lethargic; so, we don't know exactly what the extent of his injuries are.

The Rehabilitation Physician met with us today and she seemed guardedly optimistic about his rehabilitation. She remarked that he "looked better in person than on paper." Hopefully this means that he will be able to make a full recovery. HOWEVER, the neurologist is less optimistic. Sebastian suffered a stroke during his ordeal and the seizures he had shortly after his surgery have damaged his brain. It is still too early to tell how much damage will be permanent but there is permanent damage.

"Time is on our side...because of his age." That's what all the doctor's keep telling us. We have to believe that this is true. Already we have seen marked improvements in his reactions and movements, but it's still a long uphill climb to recovery and rehabilitation.

He is opening his eyes and responding to our touch and voice. He is sleeping better, and that gives us hope that he is working hard towards healing his injured brain.

He is such a sweet and precious gift, and we can't wait to get him out of the hospital and working full time towards his rehabilitation.

One hour at a time. That's how we're dealing with this devastation...One hour at a time.