DAY 297

It was a great day. The swimming was fabulous! When we were at Baylor, Rick got in the pool and had to be put in the pool by a hoist. Today he got in and out by walking up and down the stairs. He did several laps of walking...the water is 4ft deep and warm. But then wanted to swim. Laura wanted him to show her that he could hold his breath first. He acted like it was a stupid request, but slowly lowered himself under the water and held his breath for about 5 seconds. So, they put a noodle under his chest and he would put his face under water and kick his legs and use his arms to swim. One time he even held his breath for 17 seconds! He said he really enjoyed swimming so maybe that will be a regular thing. We had a team meating today and each therapist had great things to say. His strength in his knees has improved a whole muscle grade and in his hips a half muscle grade. Emily (OT) has seen improvements in all his ADL's...daily living activities such as dressing, shaving and brushing his teeth. Meridith (ST) is still considering a move to thin liquids and is pushing Rick to speak louder.

Again, as long as they see progress they will keep him, if/when he plateus is when they will consider discharging him. Please keep praying for him...he's doing so good...praise the Lord!

Love,
Crystal