Update #31

Nick has been home a few days now, and lots to report!

It's been a big adjustment for Lisa and Dwight, as Nick requires constant care that others use to do (in the hospital). That, along with the constant care needed by Connor, has been a juggling act. They feel like it'll take a couple weeks to adjust to it all.

After they got him home, they decided that Nick needed a place that he could move around on his own. So Dwight got a couple tumbling mats at a sporting goods store. They lay those in the living room and put him on them. At that point he can move and stretch and wiggle all he wants...which he does! And they can get down on the floor to work with him.

Plus, Nick has found his voice! He can speak the following words:

• Mom
• Dad
• Hi
• Bye
• Nick

Is that cool, or what???!!!

He's also able to move his head, which means they can ask Yes/No questions and he can answer with his head movements! They feel like he is now fully cognitive.

Through those Yes/No questions, they've also determined that he can read fine. And he can add, subtract, multiply, and divide.

Wow.

They're also trying to expand his taste buds. He's doing pretty good with a sucker.

To start rehab, he'll need to develop some stamina, which he doesn't have now.

They're currently looking at a van to accommodate a wheelchair, so they can get Nick around.

The family is so thankful for everyone’s support! They ask for continued prayer for strength and courage. Every now and then they can tell that Nick is struggling with all this. They're doing the best they can to comfort him, but it must be so hard.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Let's keep that constant stream of gift cards to the family for food and gas. I’ve listed the ones needed below. Please either take them or mail them to the church:

Community Covenant Church
ATTN: Brinkerhoffs
1835 Granite Hills Dr
El Cajon CA 92019

(619) 447-2675

Here are the main places they go:

FOR FOOD:

• Costco
• Vons/Safeway
• Whole Foods (only available in stores)

FOR GAS:

• Arco
• 7/11 (gas): You can buy a Convenience Card at a store and put any amount on it