6.6.12 - 12.6.12 - 6 months Already?!

Already, its been 6 months since the day that changed our lives completely.

I'm glad to say that I never thought we would be here where we are, but I can't tell you how awesome we are doing and how far we all have come since we knew the outcome of that accident.

We are all just blown away at how much Robert is able to do now, and continues to do. He's progressing. It may be slow, but its still happening each day.

We are slowly getting into a usual day "in the life"of the Powell family.

Praying and Hoping everyday that Robert can be even less of a home hermit with a vehicle. There hasn't been any new news on the van, for those of you who've been wondering.

Thank you everyone for all your prayers this past 6 months. Please Keep praying. We welcome them still.

I think its pretty much going to be just the 4 of us the majority of this Christmas Holidays, but we are just going to make the best of it and I plan on keeping everyone busy with activities around the house. (hopefully)

Wishing everyone a Happy Holidays and very MERRY Christmas!

I did not have time for Christmas Cards this year, but I guess it really doesn't matter. I get to see the three people that I love the most everyday. I get to talk to them, see them, hold them and love them. That is the only thing that matters.

 

~Hollie

http://www.lovelikethislife.com/2012/07/this-is-dedicated-to-my-sci-sisters.html#

Happy, Happy, Happy

 

A quick recap:

Things are back to normal after Roberts 6 day stay in the hospital for his 2 different infections in his bladder. He went to a urologist here in town on Tues. that decided to put him on an antibiotic suppressant to help keep the infections at bay for the time being.

When Rob got home, his Nursing care company came out to readmit him and decided to try and get orders for a new bed. He has just a plain foam hospital bed, and the director felt that we could do WAY better than that for Roberts preventative care of pressure sores, etc. This has been ordered and is on its way sometime next week.

We are getting updated here an there on the progression of Personal Transportation. Aka "The Van". Roberts adjuster told me that things are being put together this week to be handed to a panel that will decide if this will happen or not. I'm praying this will happen with all the faith that I have. Hopefully we will hear something positive in the coming weeks.

Please understand that we don't feel we are owed anything. I know that we are just praying that the Lord provides for ALL of our needs. And plainly stated, this is one of those needs. If we can't have something that can safely transport Rob in his wheelchair, then we don't go anywhere. Plain and simple. We could call public transportation, yes, but its not very affordable to do it frequently.If Workers Comp doesn't provide Robert with a vehicle, then we will make the decision to  some how pay for a vehicle. I'm leaving this in Gods hands to provide in this way.

HAPPY

A word that can't begin to describe The way Robert felt on Tues. The excitement was very present in our house that morning. Why?

Roberts Power Chair was being delivered!!! We were beginning to worry because they said that they would be here between 9:30-11:30 a.m...Round 11 a.m. we finally got a knock on the door. yay! He was here.

It was so nice to see Robert so happy for a change. This meant so much for him. So much more independence. Freedom and mobility. I was so happy  for him.

He hasn't slowed down since Tuesday. We went to our churches Fall Festival last night and had a great time. Robert and I decided to go ahead and pay the Taxi fee for us to get him there. It was something that was worth doing to get out as a family. I had earlier in the week asked his Adjuster if Work Comp. would approve that transport and unfortunately they would not. Its upsetting that they won't cover things that would mentally help him as well as medically, but its not my decision in the end. We over all had great time, and the kids were so excited to have their first Taxi ride too.

Its not really how you get there, but that you had a good time where you are going. :)

 

Things have been moving along at a fast pace here in the Powell household. School is almost moving into the second six weeks, we've almost been home for two whole months, and our daughter, Sarah will be celebrating her 4th birthday.

Ok, back to this being about Robs(blog) update....

Things have been going really well at rehab. He's been progressing very well. More work on his trunk and arms. Some days he can almost sit up on his own (with trunk support) for around 30 seconds at a time. That been increasing more and more as we practice sitting on the mat with Robert. Also, working him over by leaning him on his elbows to strengthen certain areas, as well as his trunk. I'm so proud of how far he's come. Yay Rob!



Occupational Therapy has been working with him helping himself lean himself side to side in his chair and bringing his hand to his mouth.

His Left hand has been improving more as well. Being able to lift it up from his lap or from his side in the bed. Vast improvement if I do say so. Seeing as he didn't have that when he got home the first part of August.

Still no movement or sensation in his legs. Some deep pressure sensation but nothing to get too worked up about.

We found out that there has been some news with his power chair. It's on its way to Worker's Compensations Third Party for Authorization to be built and delivered to Robert as we speak. I have heard that this takes a week to two weeks for approval, but we shall see. Just praying it's sooner than later. We have already been waiting 12+ weeks already.

Next Tues., we go to see a PMR (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Dr) in Abilene. I'm excited for this because it's what he really needs. A specialist. Not that we don't appreciate his doctor here, but it will help to have someone who specializes in Roberts injury evaluate him.

A van is still not within our near grasp. They are wanting to send someone out to "evaluate" Robert for a van for modifications to our current one. *sigh* He's way too tall to fit in my van. And there would be no room for the kids if they modified our personal van. There will need to be a van purchased, I believe.

I'm praying for some persistent decision-making from these workers comp case workers. Things are getting rather frustrating around here. Rob just wants a van and his chair. He says it repeatedly. I wish I could make that happen for him. I'm a fixer and want to fix this so badly. Breaks my heart. I think things would be so much better if we could easily make those things possible for him.

 

A Month at Home

Hello all,

Well after a month at home Rob and family are adapting wonderfully to a non-hospital environment. That said there are still many daily struggles. Rob is pretty much homebound due to the challenges of moving him into vehicles for rides to rehab or anywhere else. This process takes 2 people to get him into a vehicle and the lift has to be taken along for exiting, reentering and again exiting at home. Please continue to pray for God to open doors and provide suitable transportation for them.

The house has had some remodeling the carpet was removed from the entry,hall and master bedroom and replaced with tile, and last week a new front door and temp ramp was installed. Thanks be to God.

Rob also has nighttime and daytime help being provided by home health, this is to help him but also help Hollie.

Thanks for your prayers they are felt every day.

Chris

Small Praises and continued prayers

WE HAVE A DOCTOR!! Today we got news that 1 of the only 2 doctors in town that take workers compensation insurance is going to see Robert. This is very much a answered prayer. We were coming up on a fast approaching deadline, and I wanted to have this done almost 3 weeks ago!

Rob also got to get out of the house today. Initially we thought it was going to be a lazy day around the house, until we got a phone call from a new found friend that is a quadriplegic . He wanted to take us to lunch. He has a modified van with a lift, so it made it easier to get out and about. So Robert yells down the hall. "Get me up! I'm going to have company!" My, how his attitude changed. It was fun for us all, and brought all our spirits up a little to leave the house. I will be glad when we hear something on transportation for Robert as well as something about his powered wheelchair. He can't stand the manual he's in currently. Its very uncomfortable for him.

Rehab has already been set up for 12 weeks of Rehab for him, at 2-3 times a week. Whew...they are sure ready to hit the ground running.

Small thanks: Just a small thanks to the few people that have brought food, gone grocery shopping, helped with the kids and eased my worries. You're very appreciated and I know Rob and I are very grateful for everything.

Continued Prayers:

Please continue to pray for Caleb. New school, anger issues we are still dealing with, all the change. It's alot for such a little guy.
Approval for Van and Wheelchair from the insurance
Robert and I, and our marriage. Our relationship.

~Hollie

Two weeks home....

Hey all,

I know that you guys are used to Roberts dad updating this blog. But, Robert, the kids and I are home now as our own little family of four. We got home 8/7, and Robert got home 8/8 around 5. Trying to adjust, get into a routine, learning how things work for us at home. So far, we are learning the small adjustments we will be making here and there around the house. The small modifications that our landlord did were great, but there are still a few more that we are noticing that need to be done to make things more easier for all of us.

• Ramps for the thresholds, removing some carpet so that we can easily move his wheelchair around the house. Rearranging furniture as well.

Robert went to his Outpatient Rehab Evaluation at West Texas Rehabilitation Center here in San Angelo on Monday. Everything went very well. Everyone, therapists included seem really excited and positive about Roberts future return, and the possibilities he could have. He will have his first complete co-treated session with his OT/PT on this upcoming Monday.

Its so awesome to see how encouraged a therapist is after they meet Robert and see his attitude, and his current progress. I have tried to constantly stay hopeful of what I THINK or have FAITH that he can accomplish in the months/years to come. My God is a mighty God, and prayer, and personal faith is an righteous thing. I'm glad I have been doing both, as I know so many of you all have too. I do understand that things will take time, that things don't happen overnight. I am humbled to know that I, as well as so many of you, are right there with me being his cheerleaders, his support. Even if it is through prayer. So many have said that they don't know what else to do BUT pray. That is most definitely MORE than I could ever ask of anyone to do for us.

Continued Prayer needs:

• For Workers Compensation to Approve the Van that we need for Roberts Power Wheelchair that is being delivered withing the next 8 weeks. (we hope)


• Location of a Doctor here in San Angelo and a scheduled appointment for all his needs to stay in place in the future. (Outpatient Rehab, Home Health, Prescriptions)


• Caleb, he starts school next Monday.


• For me. This is by far the most difficult thing I have ever done in my entire life. Emotionally, Physically, and Mentally. Honestly, I have good days and bad. Good hours and bad hours, etc. I can openly admit that I struggle. I don't do this for a living, and I hope that anyone that does wouldn't expect me to swallow this whole, and be able to be superwoman from the get go. I'm doing my best.


• Robert and I are both struggling and I don't think that its a bad thing to admit. Please pray for us and our relationship.

Thanks to everyone.

~Hollie

 

 

 

 

Busy week

Hey guys, it has been very busy around here this week. A lot of activity, training, Instruction, and other related items that surround a tetraplegic person. Rob has had his PT and OT this week and these have included the items in the video below (FES assistive bike, a manual sliding border, and the arm slings with electrical stimulation). In addition there has been practice and training on car transfers, stretching of his muscles, moving from bed to chair and back, dressing, and many other things. This is all to get him ready to tackle a world that really does not understand the challenges of the handicapped. Get in touch with us if you would like to learn a bit we would be glad to chat, especially Rob.

Until next time

Chris

Community Dominos and Launcher?

So Rob has been attending group meetings with 4-5 other patients and at this particular gathering it was decided to play dominoes. Rob was on an arm sling with his dominoes on a tray in front of him, when it came his turn he would attempt to swing his arms and either touch or indicate the domino he wanted to play. One of the therapists said Rob needed a domino launcher, and the head therapist said good idea you have 5 minutes to make it, and he was off to construct.

You can see the resulting launcher in the video below.

Later

Chris

A Day of Outings

Hello again,

So Rob got scheduled for not one but TWO outings in succession. The first was to Target for any shopping that he needed to do, so he spent his time with mom and I following to select a birthday present for Holies birthday. He then had an exercise, the therapist in charge put a 5.00 bill under his hand and told him to get what he wanted from Starbucks, but the catch was that nobody could help him except for the cashier (but I got to be e cup holder since he did not have on on the chair). This was a total success and he is so proud of himself for this seemingly small thing to all of us but it was major for him.

He then got to go to Freebirds for a dinner with 4 other patients and they all got Freedom T-shirts, this is in the video below.

Later Chris

Hand Bike with Stimulation and the Erigo Board

Hello World...

Rob says hey to all of you. He is doing well and they are continuing to get him on different assistive technology for rehab. In the video below the first part is him on a powered hand bike that has built in muscle stimulation through the electrodes, the electrodes are placed two in front and two behind each upper arm and then two on the back of each shoulder. When the therapist presses go it will start sending electric current through the wipers and after a time period the arm peddles start moving. And then the current is set to levels where he can feel it and is comfortable.

In the second part of the video he is on the Erigo standing board again where his feel are peddled by the machine.

Until next time Chris

And on Sunday Rob rested

After a day of utilizing a chin control device to drive around a zoo full of people Rob was tuckered out, he elected to rest all day Sunday. We brought in food, (steak in fact) for a big evening meal and a good dessert and he was set. There is not much to report so until next post...

Chris

What a Saturday

Today started out routine with eating, dressings, and moving to the power chair. Fairly routine except for the cloud of excitement hovering in the room like, well like a child's excitement when they see the lights or an arcade for the first time. there is also an undertone of fear from us and Rob, all of these mixed emotions come from Rob being able to go off of the hospital grounds with just family as the responsible party (no hospital staff). The kids Caleb and Sarah have been wanting to go to the Houston Zoo for a couple of weeks and Rob's Dr gave the ok for an outing.

Rob had been out supervised by staff a couple of times but this was a totally different environment, lots of people (with the vast majority having complete disregard for a person with disability), many turns, backing, dodging, and always with a watchful eye for the child (his or others) that might run in front of the chair, or have a foot close to the tires. All of this with Rob only being able to drive the chair with a chin control due to his injury.

Below is a short video I put together to give you guys a look also.

Until tomorrow

Chris

Ah Thursdays, it would not be a week without them.

Rob had a pretty busy day today,

08:00 - breakfast, dressing, and into chair
10:30 - Neuro
11:00 - OT, measured for a power chair
12:00 - Lunch
01:00 - PT
02:00 - PT
05:00 - Dinner

Here is a short video of a shark in the cafeteria and Rob doing some balancing.

Until Tomorrow

Chris

A very good speaker.

Hey all, Another slow Sunday here at TIRR, Rob went through the daily routine of being dressed, teeth brushed, move to his chair with a lift and sitting around talking. Today there was another guest speaker, the gentleman was instrumental in getting the Americans with Disabilities Act in place along with working for President Bush, it was an eye opening talk.


Until Tomorrow

Chris

An Outing To See A Race Car And Driver With A SCI

Yea, Rob got picked for an outing to see and hear a race driver and his car. The seminar was an open forum where the driver with a C5 SCI answered questions Forman audience of other SCI individuals. Rob spent about 2 hours at the site looking, talking and visiting with others. This driver is driven to accomplish so much and it was very inspiring for all the TIRR patients there. Towards the end of the seminar Robs Grammies (my mother), Uncle Barron (my brother), and Aunt Tess (Donnas sister) showed up all the way from San Angelo for a visit. These two events were again very therapeutic for Rob mentally. The rest of the day was spent visiting with family and sitting outside (hospitals are cold inside burrrrr).

Below is a video of the race car outing.

Until tomorrow

Chris

Can you say road trip???

Rob had a good attitude today, he got to go through his daily routine of exercise and and eating but In addition there was a road trip, actually a sidewalk trip of a few blocks with his therapist. This was a much need therapeutic outing for his mental state. Think about how you would feel being in a hospital lying in bed much of the time and when not in bed being confined to the hospital grounds for the past 7 weeks. Enough said I think. Well tomorrow is another day and I will report as often as I can.

Until then

Chris

Visit from family and friends

Today was another visit day, Brandie (PT sister), Butch and Lisa Hasty came down. Brandie again ran Rob through the paces of exercise and workout, and in between these he visited with Butch and Lisa. Other than the visits and normal classes Rob was able to exercise on a new assistive machine that made him very tired, he also used the computer type machine from yesterday's report. Today Rob was scheduled for an outing (a 6 block trip up and back to the commons) but with the copious amounts of rain falling around here (one area had 11inches in 48hours) it had to be cancelled, and 6 blocks would have been a long way to push a dead power chair as we found out that the one he has used the last couple of days had a charging challenge.

Until tomorrow

Chris

Assistive Technology

Hey all,

Today Rob got to use some assistive technology. With the aid of a big metal arm with lots of moving joints and his therapist he was able to work with a video game that functions within the confines of his limited movement. Take a look at the video below to see what I am talking about.

Busy schedule and standing board

Hey all,

Rob had a full schedule today, here is a snapshot. Any free time is currently spent visiting, exercising arms, or moving about the hospital.

07:30 - breakfast
08:00 - dressed, exercised, moved to chair
09:00 - Neuro/Psych
10:00 - OT, standing board
12:00 - lunch
01:00 - PT
02:30 - OT
03:00 - More OT
05:00 - Dinner

The Standing board was automated and this board has automated leg movements...check it out below.

Until tomorrow

Chris

Big Monday

Today was a big day for Rob. He got a loaner power chair complete with chin control. Hopefully This will greatly increase his neck and shoulder muscles. Then maybe someday the chin control can be removed and switched to a hand control.

Once you have been injured in this way Everything that happens is a forward progression.

Until next time

Chris

Slow Sunday

Hey all, Sundays are really slow here at TIRR, after the normal everyday items (dressing, eating, exercising arms and legs, chapel service) all that is left is roaming the halls and sitting outside. Today was a treat though a guest speaker came in, he was injured many years ago , and then went on to become a lawyer.

Below is a short video of Rob kicking back out in the courtyard.

Until Tomorrow

Chris

Super Saturday

So Rob has been getting excited the last couple of days, Brandie is coming for a visit. For those of you that do not know she is a PT that specializes in spinal injuries, so she has been a great blessing and she helps us a lot also as we are just learning. And she is bringing some chocolate cake, yummy...so we do not if it is a visit from sis or the chocolate cake.

Well he had a good workout with Brandie here, she pushed him to do everything. Rob had a thick slab or grilled beef steak for dinner, he has been waiting for it for a few days now and finally got it, and along with the choco cake he was really stuffed. So after a good nights rest he should be ready for round two with Brandie tomorrow.

Until then

Chris

This is a picture from the wall in the TIRR gym.

No video Friday

Hey Guys,

After a morning of prepping for the day that included, hair trim, shave, clothes on, a lift assist to the chair, Rob is again ready to tackle the day. First was some sling and lift practice, and some leg exercises on a mat. Then a RAPS class (this is a class for patients and caregivers). Next came lunch and a session with Neuro. After that was some OT time with arm, shoulder and neck exercises. Rob got to see Caleb and Sarah today they have been with family (Hollies side) for a few days, this was really uplifting for Rob.

The OT department is working on configuring a power chair for Rob to use that will be controlled by a chin joystick. This will allow him to move about and exercise his neck and shoulder muscles at the same time. And hopefully then he will transition to a hand control.

Well until next time...

Chris

After the Holiday Workout

Rob had a good workout today, he had PT and OT but in addition to these regular items he really worked on his neck muscles a lot and they got pretty tired and sore.

Below are a couple of quick videos showing some of his routine.

The first is Rob sitting on the side of a mat table working on balance by using his head and neck muscles. The gentleman who's hands you can see touching Robs shoulders is really just doing that touching, not holding him up unless he tips too far.

Next we have a video of Rob utilizing what is called a standing board. The standing board is used to get his legs ready for weight, he is strapped to it and slowly raised to a standing position.

Until next time

Chris

July 4th at TIRR

Good Morning Guys,

Rob had a good nights sleep and a hearty of breakfast, bagel, sausage patty, banana, cream of wheat. Then he was prepped for another day, hand wash, clothes and shoes on, lifted and placed in a wheel chair for 9:45 PT (see the PT video below). He then sat outside waiting on 11:15 OT (see that video also below).

Durning PT he was transferred to a mat in a sitting position, with a ball behind then wedges.

After lunch Rob spent some time with Hollie and a friend that came down to visit. Then dinner time.

Until tomorrow...

Chris

Chair Adjustments, lift practice, and a shout out from Rob

Today started out with this schedule below...
08:00 - Breakfast
10:00 - OT, chair adjustments
10:30 - OT, arm sling practice
12:00 - Lunch
01:00 - PT, sling and lift use and practice
02:00 - Break
03:00 - OT
05:00 - Dinner

Rob spent time doing the things above and in addition he got pushed around the hospital and spent some time with Caleb and Sarah and recorded the video below. Since it was outside the audio is a little low.

Until next time...

Chris

OT Chair Practice and Night Hand Braces

Ah Monday...another day for most of the world but here at TIRR everyday is a new adventure.

Here's a snapshot of the day....

07:30 - breakfast
09:00 - PT
10:00 - Neuro Evaluation
10:30 - OT
11:00 - RAPS (training classes for patients and caregivers)
12:00 - Lunch (yea)
01:00 - Stroll around all the floors and hallways
02:30 - Neuro Evaluation continued
03:00 - OT
04:00 - More Strolling around
05:00 - Dinner
06:00 - More strolling or bed depending on how tired he is.

Busy day and we are told it will get busier.

Until Tomorrow...

Chris

Slow Sunday...

After a work and fun filled Saturday, Rob was worn out, he slept for 14 hrs, in fact after waking up this morning he did not even feel like eating, but after a bit of pushing he was able to get enough down for some energy. A short nap then into the chair for a stroll down to the hospital church service, and low and behold a Baptist preacher was bringing the message, God Is so good sending this message to all of us just at the right time.

After church we went to the cafeteria to get some food, ate and sat around for bit just chatting. Please pray for Rob and Hollie as they are starting the process of after discharge planning, what equipment will be needed, housing location for best follow up care. It will not be an easy task thinking about or making the many decisions to come for Rob's long term care, God has already made these decisions but prayer and plans still need to take place to discern His direction.

The rest of the afternoon was sort of lazy, all of us tracked around the hospital exploring, Rob spent some time chatting with other SCI patients. We all went back to the room for nap time, then it was time for our evening prayers and rest.

Until tomorrow

Chris

Cherish every day, do the important things...

Saturday's, are they another day to lounge on a couch or favorite chair watching a show, possibly doing yard work, or how about just doing nothing...

Five short Saturdays ago Rob may have been doing some of these same things. Today he is having to relearn how to move in a way to function in today's world, simple things those of us without a disability take for granted like, touching our hands together, scratching an itch, rubbing our face with both hands, wiping our noses, not to mention thousands of other things that are done each day.

When you get to the end of this post I would challenge you to take a few minutes and think back in time about 30 minutes and try to list all the things you did during that 30 minutes up until finishing reading this post, how about walking to the computer, opening or turning it on, clicking the browser icon, navigating to this post, reading while using the mouse, are you drinking coffee, tea, soda, are you shifting in your chair, did you cross your legs, tap your foot, are you thinking about what is written in this post?

Rob can do none of these by himself currently except the thinking part, he is having to learn how to teach his muscles to work in a way to accomplish these tasks. But he is also thinking about all that has happened since June 6th and what the future holds. He is talking to his Lord and Savior about all of this and much more. Please take the time to do these things above then take a few more minutes and pray for Rob specifically about some of the things you are now thinking about.

Until next time,

Chris

A mountain of firsts... Update 6/30/2012

M
So many firsts this week. A few days ago Rob sat up assisted by his PT and his sister, bedside. He got his first real shower yesterday, since the wreck on 6/6/2012.He got in the tilted wheelchair yesterday for the first time. The same one some of you have seen on Facebook. He needs to be in it 4–6 hours a day.
He got his very first manicure by yours truly. Rob also got to see the Houston rain today while his dad ran him around TIRR in his chair. At two today he had OT for his muscle movement of his shoulders, arms, and hands. He worked so hard.. Which proved true as he was asleep after supper tonight..

Tonight proved firsts for me too.
First time I reached out to hold his hand and he didn't reach out for mine.. I always expect it to be automatic.

First time I have been asked to pick my husbands nose...Yuck, but that's some major love right there.

First time ever in our eleven years of marriage that I have given my husband a manicure.

 

A PT/OT type of day

Well evaluations are over and Rob has a couple of light days before the heavy therapy starts on Monday. I arrived early and spent a couple of hours with him and we worked on arm motions and just chatting. Hollies sister and dad came for a visit, and I went to the apartment to spend some time with Caleb and Sarah (basketball, soccer, and playing in the pool) my arms are killing me. At 1pm Rob had an hour of PT and they put him in a wheel chair and toured the building, then at 2 he had another hour of PT and this was working on his legs and lower body muscles. Then at 3 he had an hour of OT spent working on his arms and upper body muscles.

After all of this mixed with Wed and Thurs evaluations he was worn out. Hopefully after a goods night rest he will be ready to hit it again tomorrow.

TIRR - 1st Full Day

Oh man where to start, today was so busy for Rob, here is a snapshot of today's schedule it was filled with evaluations, instruction, work.

9:00 am - PT SCI Evaluation
9:30 am - SLP Evaluation
11:00 am - SLP Evaluation

2:00 pm - OT SCI Evaluation
3:00 pm - PT SCI Evaluation
3:30 pm - Sat on side of bed with assistance from PT and Brandie video may be coming in a future post.

These items are just the start, tomorrow will be more with being able to sit in a wheelchair for a bit. Here is a short video to show you guys what is going on with Caleb and Sarah helping and loving on their daddy.

Rob's residence for 4-6 weeks

Rob made it to TIRR at about 1230 today. He said it was a really bumpy flight in aero cares backup plane. And it just so happened that the crew was talking about how aero care were the ones that originally flew him from McCamey to Odessa.

He had some evaluations, x-rays, pokes and prods, and these will continue tomorrow. One of top SCI (spinal cord injury) Dr's in the world will be at TIRR tomorrow and Robs Dr said he would try to get him in to see Rob. His Dr also said with what they have seen so far they would consider his sensitivity a C7-T1 type and they have a goal for him to walk out in six weeks, Praise The Lord.

Well I will try to get more out tomorrow, and if you missed the address to send cards and the TIRR video here they are again...

TIRR Memorial Hermann
1333 Moursund Street
Houston, Texas 77030

Robert Powell
Room 512 bed A

Saying goodnight from hot humid Houston

Chris

06/26/2012 - Off He Goes

Hello from San Angelo, this is a remote update.

Rob had a good night, he got some rest and we still wait for the transfer. He also had another good day but it was still frustrating waiting on a 550 mile transfer to another hospital. He is scheduled to be transferred at 0730 in the morning. Brandie will be driving to Houston from Austin to meet Rob at the facility and stay until Hollie , the kids, Donna and I can arrive (it's only around 550 miles from Odessa) and for some reason the airplane is faster than a car.





He will be going to the #4 SCI (Spinal Cord Injury) rehab center in the nation. TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston. The address is below if you would like to send cards or such.

TIRR Memorial Hermann
1333 Moursund Street
Houston, Texas 77030

Room 512 bed A

Here is a link to a TIRR overview video.

Prayer Request: Traverl mercies for Rob and the flight crew. Also for Hollie! Caleb, Sarah, Donna and I as we travel to Houston to be with Rob for the term of the rehab.

There may not be a post tomorrow due to all of us traveling but I will post again as soon as possible.

Until next time

Chris

06/25/2012 - Evening Update

Today was a fairly rough day for all of us. The transfer has not taken place and Hollie was told it could be even Wednesday. The form that was needed was sent to TIRR but due to some miscommunication we all wait. All of this has Rob more than a little upset as he is ready for rehab.

Hollie stayed with Rob this afternoon and through tonight in anticipation for a transfer tomorrow which now may not take place. Her staying is due to Donnas mom having surgery tomorrow so I brought her down for it and we are keeping Caleb and Sarah until we all make the trip to Houston. I will be going back to Odessa tomorrow afternoon if needed to relieve Hollie.

Until next time....Chris

06/25/2012 - Morning Report

Another good night ( my shift), well as good as any night in a hospital can be, I cannot even imagen how Rob feels since this is his 18th night. He got good rest and now to continue waiting for the paper pushers to get their act together so he can get to rehab.

Until this evening.....Chris

06/24/2012 - Evening Report

Hey, good evening from nearly way West Texas,

Rob had a good day of rest today, Donna and I sat with him until Hollie arrived from San Angelo and she finished up the day. He finally got the meds for his ear pain around 9 and is now ready for another night of rest. His spirits were up a bit today, and he and us are just taking it a day at a time.

Continued Prayer Request: That the transfer takes place as soon as possible because Rob is way past ready to get started in rehab.

Until the morning, this is Chris reporting live from Rob's room at MHC in Odessa, Tx

06/24/2012 - Morning Report

Good Lord's day morning to all...

A pretty good night (Donnas Shift) took place last night. Rob got some more rest in between bouts with some ongoing neck muscle pain but overall it was a good night. His Dr came in early this morning and reported all was good but he does have some slight redness in his ear canals and has requested some meds for them. The Dr also,stated that Rob is basically on maintenance here at MCH and they would start as early as possible in the morning to get the transfer scheduled.

Prayer Request: That the transfer takes place as soon as possible because Rob is way past ready to get started in rehab.

Until Evening....

Chris

06/23/2012 - Evening Report

Through the day yesterday (My Shift) Aunt Tess brought Caleb and Sarah to see their dad. It was a really joyous time for all. Rob started out a bit worried about them seeing him, we prayed and turned the worries over to God, a few minutes later the kids arrived and he and they, we're so happy. They had not seen each other (other than Skype) since the morning of the crash, 17 days ago.

They hugged and kissed him, and told him about all the things they had done in a quick 5 minute child's snapshot of time. Caleb prayed for his daddy, before they left to spend time with Hollie for a couple of hours. The kids came back to a surprise, Rob had been wanting his hair cut for quite a few days and Tess brought the clippers so during the break Mom and I cut his hair. they spent a bit more time with Rob and then Aunt Tess took them and Hollie (so she could perp for the trip to Houston Monday or Tuesday) back to San Angelo.

Until tomorrow.....

Chris

06/23/2012 - Morning Report

Good morning all, after a restful night (Hollie's shift) Rob is feeling much better (thanks for the prayers). His sodium is holding at 130 which is very good, I would like to see it about 132 for little bit of a buffer so maybe we can get that to happen.

His spirits seem a little better this morning, as Caleb and Sarah are being brought up by Aunt Tess today and this should help also. We will let you all know how it went in the evening report.

Prayer Request: that Rob's sodium continues to increase to normal, that his fever does not come back, and safe travels for family driving up to visit today.

Later - Chris

06/22/2012 - Evening Report

Good evening from sunny Odessa,

Good news, Rob's sodium is at 130, but due to some obscure form, he could not transfer today. Looks like it will be Tuesday at the earliest. TIRR admissions does not work on weekends, he is having quite a bit of shoulder pain and is really ready to get the heck out of Odessa.

A hi priority prayer request is for his shoulder pain, and apprehension to both lifted to Christ and that all roadblocks be removed for clear transport to TIRR.

Until tomorrow - Chris

06/22/2012 - Morning Report

Good Morning from Odessa, The City of Contrasts

Rob was able to get some rest last night (my shift) from 11 pm to 6 am he was only awake about 1 hour total this will help him a lot. With him sleeping good it was really an uneventful night, and as such not much to report. We are anxiously waiting for the morning blood test to determine his sodium level, come on folks get a move on its a long way to Houston from here.

An Odessa 6:25 am morning pic from the hospital room.

06/21/2012 - Evening Report

Hey from the Permian Basin,

Rob had a pretty good day (Hollie's shift) overall, he is still having some shoulder pain from inactivity, but it was a good day. He ate his food, had a DQ soft serve ice cream, sat up a bit in the chair, got his arms and legs exercised, had a bath, and slept. He has been fever free for over 2 days now, Praise The Lord.

We all have high hopes of a transfer to Houston tomorrow. Please pray for a sodium level of 130 and available airplane for the transfer.

Thanks for all the help locating places to stay in Houston we have been blessed with a place for all of us for 30 days and then have an option on a greatly reduced apartment if needed after that.

After a dinner of beef tips and rice and some meds Rob was ready for some tv and rest.

Until tomorrow...Chris

06/21/2012 - Morning Report

Good morning from MHC Odessa,

Rob had alittle better night lastnight (Donna's shift) he slept on and off through the night. His sodium was still at 128 this morning so no transfer today.

We will wait and see if God is ready to give him a plane ride to Houston tomorrow.

Later, Chris

06/20/2012 - Evening Report

When I arrived this morning for my shift Rob was in good spirits but looked tired. He told me about still not having a fever and the wait for the morning sodium levels (got report and they are at 128 today). He sat in the chair for a couple of hours today then back to bed and slept for 3.5hours. He has been sitting up since then.

After talking to the Dr after lunch we were informed that if his sodium is at 130 tomorrow then shortly after lunch Rob should be on the way to TIRR (Texas Institute for Rehabilitation and Research) Herman Memorial Hospital in Houston.

Since Donna, Hollie, Caleb, Sarah, and I will be going we are in need for housing, as none of us can swing a 2 150 per night for hotels for a month. If you know of any churches in the Houston area (about 5-6 miles south of downtown at S Main and Moursund) please contact them or let me know a contact there.

Send me a private message on Facebook.

06/20/2012 - Good Morning Report

Good morning to all from Odessa, here is a view from the room.





Last night (Hollie's Shift) was another long night, Rob was only able to sleep for 3 hours stright and then just short cat naps, he looks tired this morning. He has gone over 24 hours with no fever (thank you Jesus) and now we await the results of the morning sodium levels (must be 130 to transfer out please pray for this). Once the sodium level is down then the process of accepting and doing paperwork for the transfer.

06/19/2012 - Evening Report

Hey all, another update from the grand metropolis of Odessa.

After a sleepless night backed up by a so far sleepless day (no sleep is a prayer need) Rob actually feels better. His sodium is starting to come up YIPPEE, the fever has left (answered prayer), and his O2 saturation is staying high on low flow O2.

As of today two rehab facilities have a bed available, but he still must wait here in Odessa until his sodium level is at a point where the Dr will release him.

Rob sat in a special chair outside for a few minutes today and then came back in and sat in the sun for a while.

06/19/2012 - Morning Report

Good morning all,

Rob was very comfortable last night (my shift) and relaxed but unable to get a wink of sleep. His meds are changed up a bit to help with getting him back into the world. He was able to eat all 3 of his meals completely yesterday, and here it is 5:30 am and he and I are both hungry...hum what's a couple of boys to do???

He is handling the reduced liquids very well and we have high hopes that his sodium is already on the rise, and he can get to a rehab facility, the sooner the better.

Until later --

Chris

06/18/2012 - Evening Update

Where to begin, Rob's sodium level has continued to drop. His fluid has been again reduced and is now 1000ml every 24hrs. We should start to see some improvements but this setback will delay his transfer to a rehab facility. He has been accepted to UT Southwestern University Hospital Zale Lipshy rehab in Dallas, but he is looking at more days here in Odessa before a transfer can take place.

He has had a ultrasound done on his legs, and a CT scan on his chest but we do not have results back on these yet. The hospital called in a big gun to check on the low sodium level, Texas Tech Health Science Center Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine (aka Big Gun). He said that a combination of some imbalance due to the crash caused Rob's brain to relay mixed or incorrect signals to the kidneys and is causing the drop in sodium, but the drop has leveled off.

Rob is pretty much back to his jovial self this pm, and is hoping he can sleep all night.

Until in the morning

Chris

06/17/2012 - Update

Hello again from the downtown Odessa resort hospital ;-)....

Rob had another long day (my shift). Time was spent on his comfort level, moving pillows, adjusting the bed, moving him from side to side etc. He is feeling some phantom pain (which is expected). They added on some meds for anxiety and sleep. The anxiety med seemed to calm him down quite a bit and he was able to get some short but frequent naps. He hardly ate anything through the day despite us trying to coax him. His sodium levels continue to drop and that is a concern so continued fluid restrictions.

The night (Donna's shift) was the start of his sleeping meds. After a few hours of comfort level challenges he was finally able to get some sleep around 3am.

Chris

06/16/2012 - Update

Rob had another long day and night, not much sleep, but his fever seems to continue to stabilize. He is having a hard time dealing with not being able to move when he feels he needs to. Donna stayed during the day yesterday and worked to keep him comfortable (this is a full time job for us so far). Some friends from San Angelo came up to visit and that was good. Hollie had the night shift and again a long night with comfort level challenges.

Special prayer request would be for the fever to leave and him be able to get some rest.

Until Tomorrow...

Chris

06/15/2012 - Update

Another post from the Odessa resort hospital. ;-)

Through the day yesterday was overall a good day, It was Hollie's day to sit with him. The Dr came in and reported that Robs sodium level had dropped too much so they put him on a fluid restrictions to 1500ml a day, this in its self is a blow to somebody that was drinking about 1.5 gallons of water a day but it is best for his health, he is still battling the fever with it going up and down. He has some swelling still but it should start to subside soon.

The rest of the day was spent working his arms, legs and lungs, to get him ready for a trip to the Southeast or Northeast for placement in a SCI (Spinal Cord Injury) rehab facility. Looks like Rob and Hollie may be able to make a decision on this early next week.

Rob also sat in the special floor chair for close to two hours then (finally) received a new bed that works for his big frame. The bed is working really well as he has been sleeping for the past 4 hours with a few minor nurse interruptions.

In the pm it was my pleasure to again sit with him. They removed all the staples from his neck incision (this in itself made him more comfortable) and also a scalp tear on the side of his head. Fever is back down to correct level YIPPEE...

He was able to cough with help about 7 times through the night and this will strengthen his muscles. He was also able to sleep most of the night. With the breathing treatments, percussion system, and help coughing and rest, I think he and God will be able to overcome this pneumonia, so please pray for this.

The doctors rounds came very early on Saturday at 6am, what's up with that. Any way he said the only item left to clear up was the fever and it was down all night, so all looks good for travel to a rehab facility as soon as it's decided which one.

Until tomorrow

- Chris L Powell

06/14/2012 - Update

Good morning all, here is the update for yesterday and last night.

Rob had a few more visitors yesterday (my shift) and visitors are always uplifting. He is still fighting with the fever it is up and down, but his lungs are sounding better every day. He still has the IV antibiotics and is back on an IV drip of normal saline. We have him on a written schedule (his job to keep us on track), for his arm and leg exercises, his lung exercises, and his rotation from left to right sides.

His Dr said that all is looking good, and that they are watching his intake of water because his sodium levels are low. We cut him back on water some but it may not be enough, next round of tests will let us know, probably in tomorrows post.

Rob did sit in the PT chair again today for about 30 minutes, and then back to bed. He did get to move to a larger room and they have ordered a bigger bed (he is a big boy). Donna spent the night with him and it was long night not much sleep, lots of comfort challenges, fever down to good levels.

Until tomorrow.

- Chris L Powell

06/13/2012 - Update

Well through the day (Donna's Shift) and night (Hollie's shift) Wednesday had its ups and downs. Through the day Rob ate fairly good meals, his fever continues to decrease, he is on a routine to exercise his arms was able to sit up in a special chair. His comfort is still a big item we are continuously finding unique ways to deal with. Some friends visited him two men he used to work with, and a friend from San Angelo, all are welcome just call first.

The night was uneventful, other than the fever and his comfort level. Rob was able to sleep in segments (but we all know that in the hospital every time you sleep the nurses wake you up).

Please continue to pray for Rob and company.

 

Here is a link to a post Brandie put forth.

 

06/12/2012 - Update

Rob's mom stayed with him last night and both got some rest but it was still a long night, he is running a high fever and the iv antibiotics are still running. His comfort is the biggest challenge as when you are unable to control your muscles yourself your body and limbs are very heavy.

He really enjoys being moved around, I would think it is like if you lay or sit in the same position for an extended amount of time without moving you get tired of it and that is what is going on with Rob. So we move his arms, legs torso as much as we can so he is comfortable. We are told that they are getting a different type of bed that will help with the moving around part.

His fever is down to 101 from a high of 103.4, which is a good thing, chest X-ray to my untrained eye looked good considering he has been laying down for 6 days now.

YEA Rob's IV has been disconnected and hep locked, he also has had various other tubes removed.

So a case worker has assigned and the hospital has submitted the case to 4 different rehab facilities in Texas. Now we wait to see which has availability for a move across the state.

Rob's fever is still up and down, with a low of 99.6 he is getting iv antibiotics on a schedule now so we should be able to get this cleared up soon.

Five Minutes 6/12/2012 update

Five minutes. I keep giving myself five minutes for things. Five minutes to cry. Five minutes to scarf down some food before Rob needs me for this or that. Five minutes to be on the phone with some person that needs me. Five minutes. Not much to many, everything to me.

Today was pretty steady. We started with a fever again this morning. Some results came back on the spit culture. (they did more tests today with his blood) They said that there were some signs of infection. They did give him some antibiotics for his fever and such this morning too. They also said that they were concerned about pneumonia flaring up. He has been doing things with Respiratory to prevent this. A motion vest that helps break up the stuff trying to settle in his chest, as well as a breathing treatment with albuterol, twice a day. He gets chest x-rays done every morning to check for this as well.

He's kept a pretty fluctuating temp of between 100-103 degrees today. His appetite has stayed up. He's eating very well. Been resting here and there during the day. He is still getting meds for the pain as needed. But not on the iv pain push.

(Please excuse me for not being correct on medical terminology.) I hope I don't offend the medical field.

Physical Therapy Came in today some and worked a little on his legs this morning. Just to work on flexibility, and circulation. I'm not an expert in this stuff, but I just observe and learn. It's all I can do at this point. I'm very eager to learn everything that I can, and that will in the future be taught to me. They did come back in the afternoon and put him in a chair called a Cardiac Chair. Its to help patients sit up better, and are great for easy transfer. He was in that chair for a good hour, and snored in it for about 30 of those minutes.

Robert also got a new bed today, that better helps his type of injury. It took them till almost 8 to get it here, but before we left you could tell that Robert preferred it a little better than the other one.

Social Worker came to let us know that he is getting the ball rolling for where they will place Rob for a PT facility. We will hopefully know more by the end of this week, or the Monday following.

There is so much that I could keep typing, so much. I'm just not one to type about every detail about every day. The most important things are what matters.

I have heard so many people are reading to stay updated. It warms my heart that so many people care. I'm humbled at the amount of support and prayers that are going up. And those are only the ones I know about. There are more I'm sure than I'll ever know. I'm faithful to my Heavenly Father that has kept my husband alive thus far. I'm only feeling so blessed that he's here breathing. Looking at me the way he always does when I know he just wants to love on me, and he can't. We talk alot with our eyes now. Share a feeling, an emotion. Oh, how I miss his hugs. So warm, safe and loving. He can feel my touch. I'm so grateful for that. I find comfort in knowing the little he does feel me touching him, seems to make him feel better. I also know it will get better with time.

He apologizes to me, and it hurts to hear that. He didn't cause this. I didn't cause this. We don't know why it happened. Only our God knows. There is a reason for everything. If God wanted us to know everything He knows, then we wouldn't really need him would we? I'm glad that I don't because I couldn't handle it all. At times I don't really know how I am going to handle this, but I know I'm not alone. God is right here with us. Guiding us, Holding us, Covering us with his grace, mercy and love. That is why I love Him so very much. My God could have taken Robert home. God doesn't need him yet. Robert has a divine purpose here on Earth. We may not know yet, but it's going to be something that is far greater than any of us could ever fathom.

I left Rob tonight and he was a little weary. Tired. Possibly Broken. He's ready to get out of the hospital, and into a PT facility. I told him he had this. WE had this. WE CAN DO THIS. Give it to God. Let Him Be in control. This is the only way it's going to work. Being present, but letting God be the controller.

I'll try to post more. Chris and Brandie have done awesome trying to help catch you guys up. Thanks again for all the prayers. Love, Hollie.

06/11/2012 - Update

This is the hardest thing I have ever taken on, one never thinks that after they have cared for and raised a child to manhood that this care will be again needed by your child. Rob has stated already that although it is hard to understand this has brought him closer to God. This is also how I feel, and have come to realize that the position God had, only a few weeks back put Donna and I into in our lives was where we can now participate in Rob's care alongside Hollie. Well enough about us here is the update on Rob's journey.

Yesterday was another good day even with the breathing challenges in the previous post. He has had a c-collar of some sort on, well the dr said it could come off but Rob felt safer with it on...well we were able to get him sitting for a few hours without it and then he wanted it back on. Hollie was staying with him over night so Donna and I went to our hotel. I got a call from Hollie telling us that he had a fever so I made a drive to the hospital. All was well and they had him out of the c-collar taking meds for the fever, with an ice pack on the incision on the back of his neck. He had a good nights sleep and this morning ate more than any other meal in the last 6 days (good job Rob).

So today has been really good, he has been moved out of ICU to a room and has been visited by the PT department and he is able to have the bed elevated to around 60 degrees, and will be moved to a chair type bed tomorrow. He is still battling the fever but is now on IV antibiotics to help with this struggle.

Until Tomorrow - CLP

06/10/2012 Status update

Well after a good first couple of days a little setback beset Rob yesterday morning. We arrived at the hospital to news that he was at risk of going back on the vent for assisted breathing. He said he did not have very good care through the previous night and he really got onto the neurosurgeon about it and asked that his sister be allowed to stay the night (last night) to help.

So we prayed, rallied, pulled together and got him to sit up (even though it hurt him) then with cough lessons from Brandie, suctioning, the work of a respiratory therapist and a few hours of us encouraging him to regulate his breathing and lung exercises there is good news.

Rob's breathing steadily improved through the day and he had a good night, his O2 levels stayed 95-99% (they were in the 70-80% range the night before) even with him sleeping really hard for nearly 3 hours. He was able to cough (still with help) but coughing is good for him.

So in the previous post Brandie had put forth a list of current prayer requests, here they are with some answered and in process.

1. That his breathing and heart function stabilize
   
   
   
   1. Breathing much better but not quite good enough to move to rehab yet.
   
   
   
   


2. That he is able to control his pain better
   
   
   
   1. He is really struggling with this one as Rod has always had a fairly low threshold for pain but he is really getting better.
   
   
   
   


3. That we can start raising the head of the bed and it be comfortable
   
   
   
   1. Nearly tilted in bed enough to sit upright
   
   
   
   


4. That he can transfer to Baylor or TIRR soon so that we start rehab


5. That Caleb and Sarah can see their daddy soon
   
   
   
   1. We got a SKYPE session setup yesterday and made this happen.
   
   
   
   


6. Peace for Hollie, my parents and Rob to know that all of this is out of of our control


7. Travel mercies for some of the family has to return home today, and others a traveling here to visit.

Will keep reports coming as much as possible, please continue to pray for Rob.

You never think it can happen

This post was originally done on Brandie's BLOG at the address below.

Brandie is Rob's sister.

Link

Where do I start at a time like this? The last 48 hours have been quite a whirlwind with very little sleep and lots of tears.


On Wednesday morning my brother was leaving for an electrician job in West Texas. As he was telling his kiddos by, Caleb said "daddy don't go because I don't have a good feeling about this". So Robert did what every parent does and said "it's ok buddy I'll be back in a few days".


My brother was driving on of the trucks with one other guy in the passenger seat. Just outside of McCamey, Texas their truck had a tire blowout. Rob lost control of the truck and rolled several times. His passenger was able to crawl out of the truck, but my brother was not. Emergency services were notified. They arrived on the scene and Rob told them that his neck was hurting. He was taken to a small rural hospital and then transferred to a somewhat larger one, where by the grace of God, they had a trauma and neurosurgeon working that evening.
During this time my parents, me, George and the girls were at Walt Disney World. As soon as we were notified we waded (yes waded, as God was dumping sheets of rain in Orlando). We found out soon that we couldn't get flights back to Texas until morning. This, of course, was devastating for my parents.
Back to Rob. At this time he's all alone in Odessa and we are relying on God to hold his hand through the evening. After an MRI and CT scan were concluded we got the devastating news that he had broken his neck. He had bone fragments at C2-3 and at C5-6 the vertebral bodies were jumped. The spinal cord was pinched at C5-6. So he quickly went in for surgery. The bone fragments were easily removed with no damage and the surgeon tried to reposition the vertebrae with traction (Rob has a lovely gash on the side of his skull to show for it), but was unsuccessful. He was turned and had a C4-7 fusion. If you aren't familiar with medical lingo, this procedure is done to stabilize the boney spine, but does nothing for the spinal cord. There is no current procedure to "fix" the spinal cord, but the boney structures are fixed in order to stabilize and prevent further damage.


He came out of surgery on a ventilator and heavily sedated, as your breathing muscles are often involved with injury at the higher cervical levels. Our angels for the evening, Uncle Bubba as Anne, we're the first to arrive at the hospital and hold hands with Rob. There are not words to express how much peace this gave all of us that a loved one was with him.


He had a decent night and by morning the vent was removed and he was breathing on his own. Praise Jesus. Hollie and other family started trickling in throughout the day and were able to give us updates as we were traveling all over the country to get back to him.


I think that Thursday was a good day for him. I can't even begin to imagine how it would feel to lie in a bed, with people surrounding you, but being unable to move. My parents finally arrived in Odessa around 6pm and were able to see him for the first time. This, of course, was very very difficult for them and I wish more than anything that I would have been there to love on them during that time.
He had another decent night on Thursday. I hopped in the car early yesterday and arrived around noon. Man, seeing your only brother lying in that hospital bed is not easy. Seeing that, along with your parents at his bedside crying is one of the hardest things I've done.


I spent the day yesterday just hanging out with my brother and helping with anything he needed. I left to take a small break a few times, but it was so hard to walk out of that room. I'm not saying that I'm an expert by any means, but I think that during this time I have enough knowledge of spinal cord injuries, treatment and rehab that I need to step in and do everything I can to help him. My brother and I have had a rocky relationship, probably since birth or at least the time that I told the principle about a fight in high school so my brother got detention:), but right now I can't sit back without helping him in every way I know possible.
Yesterday, helping him meant brushing his teeth, giving him drinks and my dad and I trying desperately to position him and get him comfortable. It's all I knew to do, along with some pep talks, some crying and just being there.
I was able to talk with the neurosurgeon last night. He spoke to Robert, Hollie, my parents and me. He was very honest and told us everything we needed to hear. He shared the before and after X-rays. As I was leaving the room alone, the dr stopped and asked if I wanted a complete medical rundown of what he was seeing. His exact words were, "you've seen this before and know what's going on so I thought that I would talk to you as a professional instead of family". I wanted to say that I already had him fooled, but instead I listened closely. He showed me the pics of neck at every level before and after and was very open and honest once again.
As a professional, it was gut wrenching to hear, knowing the research and facts, but as a sister it gave me a desire to fight even harder for my brother.
Currently, we awaiting him to stabilize his breathing and heart function and then will be moved to a regular room until a rehab bed becomes available at Baylor in Dallas or at TIRR in Houston.
He has a long road ahead and seems like he is ready for the fight. He has been in wonderful spirits considering the entire situation.


Current prayer requests:
1) that his breathing and heart function stabilize
2) that he is able to control his pain better
3) that we can start raising the head of the bed and it be comfortable
4) that he can transfer to Baylor or TIRR soon so that we start rehab
5) that Caleb and Sarah can see their daddy soon
6) peace for Hollie, my parents and Rob to know that all of this is out of of our control

That's all for now. I will update again in a few days.

Here is a link about spinal cord injury to help answer any questions. This is an issue that's near and dear to my heart before all of this happened. So I have lots more info and lots of new researching any of you would like more info.

The Reeve family has been in the forefront of research and advancement for many years. There is a lot of info on their site.

There has also been a donation fund set up by PaulAnn Baptist Church in San Angelo. It is for Robert Powell at Crockett County National Bank in San Angelo and Abilene. The amount of expenses during this time will be very very great so if you feel inclined to donate please do so. Thanks