Day 9 in Sanford Trauma

Every day Dean has shown some progress in healing one way or another. We have many months ahead of us, but we are taking this day by day.

I realize I haven't shared in a while, and partly it's because there are many unknowns.

This is what we do know:

1. Dean was conscious & breathing at the scene. He was able to tell me how the accident happened.

Following surgery, he was sedated and intubated for recovery.

They slowly weaned him off sedation so he can be more alert for therapy (PT, OT, RT & the Docs).

It has been wonderful being able to interact with him more, although he is still slightly confused. We remind him daily where he is and why. He tells us frequently that he wants us to get him out of the hospital.

Dean was given a temporary trach and is still slightly intubated through that. The ventilator is on a very low setting and it is one that lets him control more of his breathing rather than the machine. The goal is for Dean to breathe 100% on his own, so that he can talk with the trach still in place.

2. Dean was able to move his shoulders right after the accident, and he still can. In fact, when asked to shrug his shoulders, he exaggerates it and continues to do it until we tell him he can stop.

At the time of the accident, Dean could not feel or move his arms or legs. He underwent spinal fusion surgery the night of the accident because of the severity of injury. Surgeons placed titanium rods with screws from the base of his skull to his mid-back to stabilize his neck and spine.

The trauma from the accident and the surgery has caused a lot of swelling throughout his body, which is a good thing for his body to heal.

Dean has been showing improvement in his muscle tone! PT, OT, and nurses can feel his muscles straining a bit when asked to move his arms, flex his muscles, etc., so he's really trying! He also has shown a little movement in his hands and feet. These are not big movements by any means, but they are wins for us!

Dean has been accepted to Craig Hospital outside of Denver, CO. Dean and I will fly out there Thursday, Aug 14th. His stay could be anywhere from 90 to 120 days, all depends on how recovery is going and what strides he's able to make. We are so excited for this transition! I've heard nothing but amazing things from families, patients at Craig and medical staff.

Thank you again for all your thoughts, prayers & well wishes. Dean is feeling your love, and the kids and I are too.

As one of Dean's favorite co-workers stated. "Dean has a continent supporting him!" That is exactly what it feels like. 🥰