So much progress the past couple of days that it's fun to be able to choose what you'll share...
We do want to again thank each one of you for the incredible ways that you've chosen to support and love our Mom, her children and our families. It means the world to us that God knit together this amazing bond of people from all over the world who faithfully pray and send their warmest thoughts. We have relatives and friends from Boston to Canada to Hawaii to Hong Kong and in between...
Mom had a chance to speak to Auntie Lane, who I believe, called from Hong Kong! They chatted in chinese for a bit and both were so happy and encouraged afterwards! Then she talked with Uncle Tony yesterday and Auntie Diane and Auntie Wendy today. Every day, Mom connects with one of her siblings. Ming, Mom's friend and neighbor, came by and visited with her in the lounge, talking more chinese and bringing the remaining beautiful flowers from her garden - sunflowers and hydrangea. Then as a fun surprise that just tickled Mom, Auntie Berit showed up yesterday, and they so enjoyed their time together!!
As far as progress, Mom has practiced swallowing thickened cranberry juice this week, along with eating tsps of apple sauce. On Monday, a Modified Barium Test will be given to her to see how she does with food, and whether she is swallowing it down her throat. This will be a definitive next step in the process of her eating! At therapy, she took a huge leap in walking today with a walker down the hall, and a therapist by her side, guiding her in balance and in speed. Balance exercises include standing up, relying on one arm for weight adjustment, while throwing the bean bag in the 'bean bag toss game'. She is conversing so well with all of us in chinese, but there are still many moments, when she won't answer you, or drifts in her own thoughts or get caught up with the surrounding distractions around her.
To think that it's only been 2 weeks from today that she was wheeled into the hospital, unable to stay awake, much less, move her limbs, turn over, nod or the simple things in life that we've done for decades.
She continues to encourage us with her words that 'God arranged everything'. You can really see it in her eyes how much she loves having her family around her and how she so appreciates our presence. Typical Mom, the nurses tell us that she is such a sweet, appreciative patient, and she really is...taking their hand with both her hands to thank them, asking them if they've eaten yet, asking questions about them and giving them a thank you smile and nod. God wastes nothing. We gather together every evening in praise and thanksgiving, and then pray for her, the nurses, doctors, patients, our families, friends and one another.
We wish you all the most wonderful weekend with your loved ones.
Enjoy every moment you have together!
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Revelation 22:13
To send cards or letters, please address them to:
Ramona Chin (Room 224)
c/o Whittier Rehabilitation
150 Flanders Road
Westborough, Massachusetts 01581
Tel 508.870.2222 (Ramona Chin Room 224)
Friday, September 30, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Rock 'n Roll Wednesday....
Aloha all,
So much has gone on the last couple of days...
First thing this morning, Mom received the most beautiful, beautiful, 3 dozen bouquet of roses, with colors from yellow to burnt orange, with autumn leaves surrounding them. It came from dear friends and Ray's co-workers from Maui. They are stunning and Mom loves them. Not only are they gorgeous, but the roses smell just as beautiful! Sweet cards from Al and Alex (Reta's ohana from Maui), Mrs. K, (Mom's dear old friend of over 40 years), Goobie (Mary Beth), and Mrs. Capite (one of Ray's old friends) arrived, lifting Mom's spirits and reminding her that she's not on this journey alone. She's surrounded by the love, prayers and thoughtfulness of others around the globe.
It occurred to Ray yesterday that while we spend hours here with Mom, we can do more for her to stimulate her brain activity, especially with both Reta and Ray's finite time here. After googling some 'brain injured activities', we took a bunch of games and cards from Rena's house, to begin additional work with her. (Cards, Memory Games, Paint Set, Bingo, etc) Ray introduced a fun card game with Renee, Jeff, Reta and Mom. Each person was a dealt a card, turned it over, read the card and the highest card wins the pile! At first, Mom looked at us with disbelief that we were actually asking her to play such a simple (stupid!) game. But in the end, it was a great time had by all.....even Jeff ended up winning a couple of hands, just a couple :).
She did very well in Speech Therapy and the main objectives are to encourage her to 'initiate' conversations and 'staying focus on specific tasks'. She easily gets distracted and her mind wanders off. In PT, you can see her getting stronger, as she is now able to wiggle herself back into the chair and she's able to provide more strength and greater self-help in standing up and sitting back down. She walked the entire length of the parallel bars, taking each step gingerly. We find that Mom tends to close her eyes during the physical therapy, which is something that she gets to figure out why she's doing so, and work on not doing it during the sessions.
Today, there was another swallowing session, and she was able to successfully swallow 3 tsps of thickened cranberry juice and 3 tsps of apple sauce. They will continue to test her to see if she's able to stay awake during these times and swallow appropriately, ensuring it's going down the correct pipe. For today, she did super well in swallowing quicker each time. We are another day closer to Mom eating!!
This afternoon, Renee, Ray and I spent a great time with her, getting her in the chair, and stopping in the Physical Therapy room, which was empty. There, Mom actually participated in coordination exercises (hitting the balloon), Speech therapy (Renee's questions and conversation), and best of all, Mom actually was able to throw the balls on the wall (strength and balance). We are placing our energy on encouraging Mom to initiate conversations and staying focused on tasks and speech. She had tremendous growth today. God is really pouring His love and strength into her!
Renee wheeled her outside, where we enjoyed warm, fall day, and she asked more questions about the flowers around her. She was engaged and focused. The great things about Mom sitting up in her chair are that it causes her body to be upright, to safeguard against pneumonia, strengthen her butt and abs as she has to continually get comfortable, and allow the natural flow of blood throughout her body.
All in all, once again, we see changes everyday that remind us that this is a process and a journey that we are all part of. And as Mom reminded Reta last evening, in the quiet moments that they share most every night connecting, she said..."Well, God arranged this whole thing to happen". Yes He did!
Peace, Joy, Forgiveness, Grace and Love to all of you.
Psalms 121:1-8
I lift up my eyes to the hills-- from where will my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
PLEASE NOTE: Moms room # has changed to Room 224 and as today, she now has a roomie!
So much has gone on the last couple of days...
First thing this morning, Mom received the most beautiful, beautiful, 3 dozen bouquet of roses, with colors from yellow to burnt orange, with autumn leaves surrounding them. It came from dear friends and Ray's co-workers from Maui. They are stunning and Mom loves them. Not only are they gorgeous, but the roses smell just as beautiful! Sweet cards from Al and Alex (Reta's ohana from Maui), Mrs. K, (Mom's dear old friend of over 40 years), Goobie (Mary Beth), and Mrs. Capite (one of Ray's old friends) arrived, lifting Mom's spirits and reminding her that she's not on this journey alone. She's surrounded by the love, prayers and thoughtfulness of others around the globe.
It occurred to Ray yesterday that while we spend hours here with Mom, we can do more for her to stimulate her brain activity, especially with both Reta and Ray's finite time here. After googling some 'brain injured activities', we took a bunch of games and cards from Rena's house, to begin additional work with her. (Cards, Memory Games, Paint Set, Bingo, etc) Ray introduced a fun card game with Renee, Jeff, Reta and Mom. Each person was a dealt a card, turned it over, read the card and the highest card wins the pile! At first, Mom looked at us with disbelief that we were actually asking her to play such a simple (stupid!) game. But in the end, it was a great time had by all.....even Jeff ended up winning a couple of hands, just a couple :).
She did very well in Speech Therapy and the main objectives are to encourage her to 'initiate' conversations and 'staying focus on specific tasks'. She easily gets distracted and her mind wanders off. In PT, you can see her getting stronger, as she is now able to wiggle herself back into the chair and she's able to provide more strength and greater self-help in standing up and sitting back down. She walked the entire length of the parallel bars, taking each step gingerly. We find that Mom tends to close her eyes during the physical therapy, which is something that she gets to figure out why she's doing so, and work on not doing it during the sessions.
Today, there was another swallowing session, and she was able to successfully swallow 3 tsps of thickened cranberry juice and 3 tsps of apple sauce. They will continue to test her to see if she's able to stay awake during these times and swallow appropriately, ensuring it's going down the correct pipe. For today, she did super well in swallowing quicker each time. We are another day closer to Mom eating!!
This afternoon, Renee, Ray and I spent a great time with her, getting her in the chair, and stopping in the Physical Therapy room, which was empty. There, Mom actually participated in coordination exercises (hitting the balloon), Speech therapy (Renee's questions and conversation), and best of all, Mom actually was able to throw the balls on the wall (strength and balance). We are placing our energy on encouraging Mom to initiate conversations and staying focused on tasks and speech. She had tremendous growth today. God is really pouring His love and strength into her!
Renee wheeled her outside, where we enjoyed warm, fall day, and she asked more questions about the flowers around her. She was engaged and focused. The great things about Mom sitting up in her chair are that it causes her body to be upright, to safeguard against pneumonia, strengthen her butt and abs as she has to continually get comfortable, and allow the natural flow of blood throughout her body.
All in all, once again, we see changes everyday that remind us that this is a process and a journey that we are all part of. And as Mom reminded Reta last evening, in the quiet moments that they share most every night connecting, she said..."Well, God arranged this whole thing to happen". Yes He did!
Peace, Joy, Forgiveness, Grace and Love to all of you.
I lift up my eyes to the hills-- from where will my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
PLEASE NOTE: Moms room # has changed to Room 224 and as today, she now has a roomie!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Happy Anniversary!
Today was the perfect day!
It was a sunny, fall, warm New England Day and we are with our Mom at Whittier Rehab!
Today marks Mom's one month anniversary of being found in bed during Hurricane Irene. We thank God for His grace and His perfect timing because if not for the hurricane, we don't know if Rena and Renee would have responded with such urgency to be sure Mom was well....His plans are perfect.
Today, we can call Mom..."Miss Chatty Crackers" as she was so verbal and carried on short conversations with us, as well as with others. She spoke early this a.m. to Alex (Reta's son) on Maui, which absolutely blew him away and so encouraged him. As always, she gave God the glory, telling Alex that God gave her the strength to speak to him today....what a grandmother!
Then at Speech Therapy, she answered most all questions, met logical commands and tasks and was able to swallow thickened cranberry juice (on an impromptu test) three times, and successfully do a sipping test. This is such a great sign of Mom improving in strength, as her voice box is stronger and the clearing of her throat deeper. They will continue to keep giving her swallow tests daily, until they feel she is stronger to begin eating, which will then of course, provide her with greater strength. At her Occupational and Physical therapy, she fidgeted in her chair for hours before being brought to the gym. With support and use of the parallel bars, she stood and took 8 careful steps forward! She was also able to stand up and remaining standing with a walker for moments. This was an incredibly successful day.....Thank you, Father, for your continued answering of prayers....
This afternoon, "Miss Chatty Crackers" was up and alert, and we called loved ones who she has not yet talked with....she spoke on the phone to Al (Reta's husband), Auntie Mary (moms dear dear friend who she would see so often enjoying the flowers together), Auntie Berit and Uncle Milton (they've known Mom since approx. 1962!), Renee, Rena, Goobie (Mary Beth, Ray's rockin' wife), and Karen (her Cape Cod daughter)! Ray and Reta spent so long connecting with her throughout the day, answering questions she had on what's happened (even tho we explain it to her every day). Even, Dr. Semenov, her incredible neurologist, is so pleased with her progress. The nurses and the nurses aid are also thrilled that finally, their patient, is smiling, answering, and responding as she did today.
We will see what tomorrow brings, as we realize the ebb and flow of a circumstance, but we hold on to today and give God all the credit for what He is doing in her!
We thank you all so much for caring enough to read about Mom's recovery and for sending the most thoughtful cards, gifts and love. We hope, through this blog, the greatest thing you take away from it, is that no matter what your circumstance is, regardless of how difficult a situation that you find yourself in, God is always in control, and He never leaves our side. His ways are not our ways, His plans are perfect and His promises prove true. Keep your eyes on the prize, which is Christ, and He will get you through whatever you may be going through. God bless you all.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Ramona Chin
c/o Whittier Rehabilitation Room 228
150 Flanders Road
Westborough, MA 01581
508.871.2000
It was a sunny, fall, warm New England Day and we are with our Mom at Whittier Rehab!
Today marks Mom's one month anniversary of being found in bed during Hurricane Irene. We thank God for His grace and His perfect timing because if not for the hurricane, we don't know if Rena and Renee would have responded with such urgency to be sure Mom was well....His plans are perfect.
Today, we can call Mom..."Miss Chatty Crackers" as she was so verbal and carried on short conversations with us, as well as with others. She spoke early this a.m. to Alex (Reta's son) on Maui, which absolutely blew him away and so encouraged him. As always, she gave God the glory, telling Alex that God gave her the strength to speak to him today....what a grandmother!
Then at Speech Therapy, she answered most all questions, met logical commands and tasks and was able to swallow thickened cranberry juice (on an impromptu test) three times, and successfully do a sipping test. This is such a great sign of Mom improving in strength, as her voice box is stronger and the clearing of her throat deeper. They will continue to keep giving her swallow tests daily, until they feel she is stronger to begin eating, which will then of course, provide her with greater strength. At her Occupational and Physical therapy, she fidgeted in her chair for hours before being brought to the gym. With support and use of the parallel bars, she stood and took 8 careful steps forward! She was also able to stand up and remaining standing with a walker for moments. This was an incredibly successful day.....Thank you, Father, for your continued answering of prayers....
This afternoon, "Miss Chatty Crackers" was up and alert, and we called loved ones who she has not yet talked with....she spoke on the phone to Al (Reta's husband), Auntie Mary (moms dear dear friend who she would see so often enjoying the flowers together), Auntie Berit and Uncle Milton (they've known Mom since approx. 1962!), Renee, Rena, Goobie (Mary Beth, Ray's rockin' wife), and Karen (her Cape Cod daughter)! Ray and Reta spent so long connecting with her throughout the day, answering questions she had on what's happened (even tho we explain it to her every day). Even, Dr. Semenov, her incredible neurologist, is so pleased with her progress. The nurses and the nurses aid are also thrilled that finally, their patient, is smiling, answering, and responding as she did today.
We will see what tomorrow brings, as we realize the ebb and flow of a circumstance, but we hold on to today and give God all the credit for what He is doing in her!
We thank you all so much for caring enough to read about Mom's recovery and for sending the most thoughtful cards, gifts and love. We hope, through this blog, the greatest thing you take away from it, is that no matter what your circumstance is, regardless of how difficult a situation that you find yourself in, God is always in control, and He never leaves our side. His ways are not our ways, His plans are perfect and His promises prove true. Keep your eyes on the prize, which is Christ, and He will get you through whatever you may be going through. God bless you all.
Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Ramona Chin
c/o Whittier Rehabilitation Room 228
150 Flanders Road
Westborough, MA 01581
508.871.2000
Sunday, September 25, 2011
The Ebb and Flow of Circumstances...
As humans, it's easy to list the moments in the day that caused the opportunity to get angry, be fearful, or experience frustration. We usually instinctively spew the negative stuff, rather than share the many blessings that God bestows upon us. You realize God always gives us the opportunity to see His hand in our day. It's a gift to be able to share with others, and a it's a blessing to hear what He's doing.
Mom was certainly not as talkative as yesterday, and at times, seemed confused with questions posed to her, but we get to accept the ebb and flow of a challenging journey. And we know that she is healing. She spoke, participated in Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy by sitting upright in her chair for 3 hours, smiled and squeezed her pink sponge. Additionally, with great interest, she seemingly read the Chinese Christian Newspaper that Rena brought her, holding the paper with two hands. (Tho none of her kids had a clue what the Chinese characters read)!
She spoke on the phone with Auntie Diane and you can tell she is getting stronger with her tone and inflection. Tomorrow she will begin another week of therapy sessions and in the next day or so, we are to receive a written report that provides us with all the therapists assessments and projected length of therapy stay. Additionally, in the next day or so, Mom will be tested on her ability to swallow. We are hopeful that sometime soon, Mom will gain the strength to swallow, so that she will be able to eat again.
We forgot to let you know that Mom's roomie only stayed overnight as she left the facility.
So Mom and our family have been incredibly blessed that she is again in her own private room - where so many of us go in and out, play classical and Hawaiian music, and sometimes talk loudly and too much! We are super appreciative of a single, private room!
All in all, Mom is progessing nicely, and we are together with her.
We believe in His plans and His promises:
Mom was certainly not as talkative as yesterday, and at times, seemed confused with questions posed to her, but we get to accept the ebb and flow of a challenging journey. And we know that she is healing. She spoke, participated in Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy by sitting upright in her chair for 3 hours, smiled and squeezed her pink sponge. Additionally, with great interest, she seemingly read the Chinese Christian Newspaper that Rena brought her, holding the paper with two hands. (Tho none of her kids had a clue what the Chinese characters read)!
She spoke on the phone with Auntie Diane and you can tell she is getting stronger with her tone and inflection. Tomorrow she will begin another week of therapy sessions and in the next day or so, we are to receive a written report that provides us with all the therapists assessments and projected length of therapy stay. Additionally, in the next day or so, Mom will be tested on her ability to swallow. We are hopeful that sometime soon, Mom will gain the strength to swallow, so that she will be able to eat again.
We forgot to let you know that Mom's roomie only stayed overnight as she left the facility.
So Mom and our family have been incredibly blessed that she is again in her own private room - where so many of us go in and out, play classical and Hawaiian music, and sometimes talk loudly and too much! We are super appreciative of a single, private room!
All in all, Mom is progessing nicely, and we are together with her.
We believe in His plans and His promises:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.
Much love.
Much love.
On the Mountaintop....
The Mountaintop....
The last couple of days, it was determined that Mom was most likely depressed with what's transpired the past month and it was recommended by the neurologist that either an anti-depressant or neuro-stimulant be given to her, at a very lose dose. Since Thursday, we noticed that Mom closed her eyes through therapy and hardly responded to us, the doctors, or even her siblings phone calls. Therefore, as a family, we decided to take the doctor's suggestion and allow them to give her a neuro-stimulant to increase the neural activity.
What a noticeable difference in her!
Today, Mom said so many things to us! She said sentences to each one of us, acknowledging everyone, asked questions, smiled, and seemed more awake today, than ever! She was attentive and so happy to see us, as we were all able to spend some great time with her. She spoke at greatly to Uncle Tony and Auntie Shirley - in Chinese - which thrilled them and us, smiling throughout. And for the first time, she actually listened to us and began squeezing her pink sponge, exercising her hand and arm, to strengthen her right side. At physical therapy, they were able to support her and move her into the chair, and she spent another 3 hours in a sitting position!
What a blessing!
The love keeps pouring in from all over....
A very thoughtful card from the Leonard's (Ray's clients), a kind one from Auntie MaryAnne, Raymond & Ohana, and lastly, one from Uncle Tony and Auntie Shirley which included one of Mom's childhood favorite songs. He requested that we sing it to her and speak the words, which would bring back wonderful memories for Mom, so Inspector Gadget (Ray), downloaded on his IPAD some sort of piano application, that allowed Renee to read the music and play for her....super sweet.
At one point, she stated that she is recovering and asked if we thought she could leave on Wednesday?
What a funny duck! :)
That's a negative, Mom, but the more you squeeze that pink sponge and keep your eyes open during therapy, the faster, you are outta here!
She squeezed!
We are all focused on Mom's healing, coming together as one on the decisions that are before us, while saying strong as we are away from our families, juggling work and/or juggling our kids and their schedules. God knows our hearts so well that Mom's responses today seemed more for us. It was so exciting to connect with her in a way that we haven't been able to at this point! We are so grateful and so appreciative.
Thank you for your prayers and we do ask that you continue to pray for Auntie Wendy as she journeys in her cancer battle. We ask that you also cover in prayer Ray and Reta's spouses, Mary Beth and Al, who are holding down the fort at home and parenting/loving our Hawaii children alone at this time (Chloe, Tessa and Alex).
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6.
What a noticeable difference in her!
Today, Mom said so many things to us! She said sentences to each one of us, acknowledging everyone, asked questions, smiled, and seemed more awake today, than ever! She was attentive and so happy to see us, as we were all able to spend some great time with her. She spoke at greatly to Uncle Tony and Auntie Shirley - in Chinese - which thrilled them and us, smiling throughout. And for the first time, she actually listened to us and began squeezing her pink sponge, exercising her hand and arm, to strengthen her right side. At physical therapy, they were able to support her and move her into the chair, and she spent another 3 hours in a sitting position!
What a blessing!
The love keeps pouring in from all over....
A very thoughtful card from the Leonard's (Ray's clients), a kind one from Auntie MaryAnne, Raymond & Ohana, and lastly, one from Uncle Tony and Auntie Shirley which included one of Mom's childhood favorite songs. He requested that we sing it to her and speak the words, which would bring back wonderful memories for Mom, so Inspector Gadget (Ray), downloaded on his IPAD some sort of piano application, that allowed Renee to read the music and play for her....super sweet.
At one point, she stated that she is recovering and asked if we thought she could leave on Wednesday?
What a funny duck! :)
That's a negative, Mom, but the more you squeeze that pink sponge and keep your eyes open during therapy, the faster, you are outta here!
She squeezed!
We are all focused on Mom's healing, coming together as one on the decisions that are before us, while saying strong as we are away from our families, juggling work and/or juggling our kids and their schedules. God knows our hearts so well that Mom's responses today seemed more for us. It was so exciting to connect with her in a way that we haven't been able to at this point! We are so grateful and so appreciative.
Thank you for your prayers and we do ask that you continue to pray for Auntie Wendy as she journeys in her cancer battle. We ask that you also cover in prayer Ray and Reta's spouses, Mary Beth and Al, who are holding down the fort at home and parenting/loving our Hawaii children alone at this time (Chloe, Tessa and Alex).
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Our 1 Week anniversary here at Whittier!
"It's Aloha Friday, no work 'til Monday"....well, Mom's got some work this weekend...
One week ago, Whitter Rehab became Mom's temporary home!
So much has happened the last couple of days, with such improvements, in just a week.
Mom's receiving so much love and support from all over....Yesterday, Mom had her first visitors...!
Her dear, dear friends, Uncle Milton, Auntie Berit and Ed spent a very short time visiting with Mom, but a greater time with all of us, connecting and touching base. It was an encouraging time for all to be able to share her progress amongst loved ones, who have supported Mom for decades, and know her so intimately.
An absolute beautiful fall bouquet of flowers with a thoughtful card arrived from Cousin John. She so loves them! Rena arranged them and they sit at the center of her table for her to view. Tessa colored Por Por a beautiful card and Chloe made the most beautiful, detailed, cardboard and paper town to help Por Por with her physical therapy! She's able to place the paper buildings anywhere on the board as she pleases! (There's 'God's Church, School Bus, the Kids Broadcasting Center, Memorial Hospital, the Museum of Art and Sciences, and a slew of others). Of course, Mary Beth typed Mom an encouraging letter and included yet another video of the girls dancing and singing! A card from Auntie Mary Anne & Ohana arrived today and Mom was able to open the card and turn it to read it herself! Mary Beth's Mom and Dad, Oma and Opa (a.k.a. Bonnie and Fred), sent mom a Garden Gate Magazine for her to read as she begins to think about her spring garden! So incredibly thoughtful of so many of you! How can't she heal with all the love and prayers that are being poured into her?!
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
Mom had a number of therapy sessions today and she made great strides, especially, in Physical Therapy. They got her in her chair and we moved into the gym room, where, using a harness on her okole, they powered her up in a standing position, as she got to lean on her arms for support. She stood, supported, for 3 minutes!! That was a feat! That pretty much wiped her so to treat her, Ray and Reta, wheeled her to the salon and washed her and blow dried her hair! She continued to sit up in her chair for the next 3.5 hours, which is great for her circulation and endurance! Leaps of progress!
It's a weekend, so the therapy won't be so intense, but we've all picked up some exercises from the therapists this week and unbeknownst to Mom, she's gonna be working hard this weekend. :)
We thank God for all that He is doing in each one of us, but most especially, that our Mom is with us, in her own journey, continuing to praise Jesus!
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10.
Have a wonderful weekend!
One week ago, Whitter Rehab became Mom's temporary home!
So much has happened the last couple of days, with such improvements, in just a week.
Mom's receiving so much love and support from all over....Yesterday, Mom had her first visitors...!
Her dear, dear friends, Uncle Milton, Auntie Berit and Ed spent a very short time visiting with Mom, but a greater time with all of us, connecting and touching base. It was an encouraging time for all to be able to share her progress amongst loved ones, who have supported Mom for decades, and know her so intimately.
An absolute beautiful fall bouquet of flowers with a thoughtful card arrived from Cousin John. She so loves them! Rena arranged them and they sit at the center of her table for her to view. Tessa colored Por Por a beautiful card and Chloe made the most beautiful, detailed, cardboard and paper town to help Por Por with her physical therapy! She's able to place the paper buildings anywhere on the board as she pleases! (There's 'God's Church, School Bus, the Kids Broadcasting Center, Memorial Hospital, the Museum of Art and Sciences, and a slew of others). Of course, Mary Beth typed Mom an encouraging letter and included yet another video of the girls dancing and singing! A card from Auntie Mary Anne & Ohana arrived today and Mom was able to open the card and turn it to read it herself! Mary Beth's Mom and Dad, Oma and Opa (a.k.a. Bonnie and Fred), sent mom a Garden Gate Magazine for her to read as she begins to think about her spring garden! So incredibly thoughtful of so many of you! How can't she heal with all the love and prayers that are being poured into her?!
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
Mom had a number of therapy sessions today and she made great strides, especially, in Physical Therapy. They got her in her chair and we moved into the gym room, where, using a harness on her okole, they powered her up in a standing position, as she got to lean on her arms for support. She stood, supported, for 3 minutes!! That was a feat! That pretty much wiped her so to treat her, Ray and Reta, wheeled her to the salon and washed her and blow dried her hair! She continued to sit up in her chair for the next 3.5 hours, which is great for her circulation and endurance! Leaps of progress!
It's a weekend, so the therapy won't be so intense, but we've all picked up some exercises from the therapists this week and unbeknownst to Mom, she's gonna be working hard this weekend. :)
We thank God for all that He is doing in each one of us, but most especially, that our Mom is with us, in her own journey, continuing to praise Jesus!
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
What a Wednesday!!
Today was a leap of a day!
You actually think about the timing...this Saturday will be one month since Mom's aneurysm. She has gone through so very much. Healing begins with resting your body and this woman has not experienced uninterrupted sleep for almost a month. Here at Whittier, the standard of care is high. She tries to get some sleep, but in between the small chunks of time, they change her position every 2 - 3 hours to avoid bed sores, check her blood pressure manually, scan her stomach for waste, check her blood/sugar, assess her food intake via feeding tube, give her all her med's via IV, all the bodily checks, and in between 3 therapists comes in to re-teach her. A-mazing woman.
Be encouraged!
Finally, since Friday, Mom's had high blood pressure, which has really exhausted her body. However, as of yesteday afternoon, with the right concoction of meds, her body is in greater rest and healing mode, hence, she did well in her therapy sessions. In speech therapy, after getting her upright, Alison asked a bunch of questions, using the beautiful 180 page book Ray made, she said all of her children's names and some grandchildren's names. On the telephone later, she said hello to Al and Alex and I'm better, so for them to hear Mom speaking, was so awesome! This evening, as Reta walked in the room, she turned and asked...did you eat dinner yet?....
In her Occupational Therapy this afternoon, they had her sit up with help of course, and shift her into the chair and she sat for 3 hours. The Physical Therapy nurse worked on her range of motion for her upper body as her right side is tighter than the left. Rena and Reta were able to get permission to open up the salon, and we wheeled her in, washing her hair with warm water. Rena then dried her hair with a blowdryer, while mom looked at herself in the mirror. She looked a thousand times more herself and we know that she FELT FABULOUS. When Rena left (to celebrate Jeremy's birthday today), Mom said, "Thank You", which were her first words to Rena, in person, so Rena's eyes welled up in complete joy and gratefulness to the Lord! :) Big leaps....
Another Speech therapy round occurred this afternoon, as she works towards the strengthening of swallowing, so Mom can begin eating, and when that happens, she will be able to take in additional calories using the feeding tube.
She viewed photos with Ray this p.m,, and was up, alert, amused and pretty much stuck, unable to respond to Ray's comical comments and assessments of all the photos in his IPAD......
Additionally, Mom spoke - again minimally, but again in Chinese, to Auntie Wendy, Cousin Rudy, Auntie Diana, Uncle Ron and Auntie Pamela!...To Uncle Ron, she said, how are you doing? (in english) We've always admired the incredibly tight bond and love that Mom's siblings and cousins have for one another.
We received a beautiful and awesome singing card from Danny and Helene Kennedy's ohana - THANK YOU GUYS!!!, another Goobie fun and loving packet from the beautiful Chloe, Tessa and Goobie, and a lovely card from Uncle Rocky's family. THANK YOU for taking the time to send Mom your love with the cards, and allowing us more opportunities to turn it into a therapy moment - we make her take it from us :).
It's funny how the last couple of days, I've (Reta) personally correlated the weather with Mom's healing. Yesterday was dreary, raining and cold, and Mom slept much throughout the day. Today, was sunny, warm and beautiful, and Mom spoke, moved, and connected with us greater than she has in a week.
But the reality is, that God is healing her then, now and always.
Thankfully, He is in control and has her in His grip!
And we know His hand is upon her and moving in each one of us as we journey together.
Mahalo nui loa.
God bless you all!
You actually think about the timing...this Saturday will be one month since Mom's aneurysm. She has gone through so very much. Healing begins with resting your body and this woman has not experienced uninterrupted sleep for almost a month. Here at Whittier, the standard of care is high. She tries to get some sleep, but in between the small chunks of time, they change her position every 2 - 3 hours to avoid bed sores, check her blood pressure manually, scan her stomach for waste, check her blood/sugar, assess her food intake via feeding tube, give her all her med's via IV, all the bodily checks, and in between 3 therapists comes in to re-teach her. A-mazing woman.
Be encouraged!
Finally, since Friday, Mom's had high blood pressure, which has really exhausted her body. However, as of yesteday afternoon, with the right concoction of meds, her body is in greater rest and healing mode, hence, she did well in her therapy sessions. In speech therapy, after getting her upright, Alison asked a bunch of questions, using the beautiful 180 page book Ray made, she said all of her children's names and some grandchildren's names. On the telephone later, she said hello to Al and Alex and I'm better, so for them to hear Mom speaking, was so awesome! This evening, as Reta walked in the room, she turned and asked...did you eat dinner yet?....
In her Occupational Therapy this afternoon, they had her sit up with help of course, and shift her into the chair and she sat for 3 hours. The Physical Therapy nurse worked on her range of motion for her upper body as her right side is tighter than the left. Rena and Reta were able to get permission to open up the salon, and we wheeled her in, washing her hair with warm water. Rena then dried her hair with a blowdryer, while mom looked at herself in the mirror. She looked a thousand times more herself and we know that she FELT FABULOUS. When Rena left (to celebrate Jeremy's birthday today), Mom said, "Thank You", which were her first words to Rena, in person, so Rena's eyes welled up in complete joy and gratefulness to the Lord! :) Big leaps....
Another Speech therapy round occurred this afternoon, as she works towards the strengthening of swallowing, so Mom can begin eating, and when that happens, she will be able to take in additional calories using the feeding tube.
She viewed photos with Ray this p.m,, and was up, alert, amused and pretty much stuck, unable to respond to Ray's comical comments and assessments of all the photos in his IPAD......
Additionally, Mom spoke - again minimally, but again in Chinese, to Auntie Wendy, Cousin Rudy, Auntie Diana, Uncle Ron and Auntie Pamela!...To Uncle Ron, she said, how are you doing? (in english) We've always admired the incredibly tight bond and love that Mom's siblings and cousins have for one another.
We received a beautiful and awesome singing card from Danny and Helene Kennedy's ohana - THANK YOU GUYS!!!, another Goobie fun and loving packet from the beautiful Chloe, Tessa and Goobie, and a lovely card from Uncle Rocky's family. THANK YOU for taking the time to send Mom your love with the cards, and allowing us more opportunities to turn it into a therapy moment - we make her take it from us :).
It's funny how the last couple of days, I've (Reta) personally correlated the weather with Mom's healing. Yesterday was dreary, raining and cold, and Mom slept much throughout the day. Today, was sunny, warm and beautiful, and Mom spoke, moved, and connected with us greater than she has in a week.
But the reality is, that God is healing her then, now and always.
Thankfully, He is in control and has her in His grip!
And we know His hand is upon her and moving in each one of us as we journey together.
Mahalo nui loa.
God bless you all!
Monday, September 19, 2011
A cool, sunny, fall Monday....
The last couple of days, Mom's adjusting to the routine of her new home at Whittier, and we celebrate that this is the third day that Mom has not roomie...yet! That is super huge because we go in and out of that room so often, and we're a bit of a loud family, well, Ray is.... :).
Mom had her 2nd speech therapy session today which lasted about 40 minutes. She inconsistently participated in the therapy session and was responding in the physical and verbal (whisper) activities but it appeared that she continues to be physically weak or in pain. While she does respond to commands, her verbal replies, while minimal, happens during casual conversation. Mom’s apparent comprehension (in English and Chinese) continues to be positive and a good indication of progress.
Mom responds most always to her siblings and both Auntie Wendy and Auntie Diane, spoke to her on the phone the last couple of days. She holds the phone with her left hand and responds to them in chinese, and seemingly understands what they are saying to her. She closes by telling them, I love you, and you can see on her face, that she is frustrated, wanting so badly to tell them more. It will come, we remind her, as she gets to be even more patient during this time.
Once again, she slept most of the day, in between the Speech Therapy and the Occupational Therapy.
For her therapy lessons, Ray made the most incredible 170 page, (or so), 8.5 x 11 color picture bounded booklet, with large fonts, that provides her with pictures of her, her children, her family, her grandchildren, her garden, and angles of all the parts of her home can only help her in her healing! It's an amazing gift for her that will be used to help her speak, as well as remembering the goal, to get her back to her beloved home and the lifestyle that she has been blessed with! Mom will see it for the first time tomorrow!
We thank you for your constant prayers for both our Mom and her Sister, Auntie Wendy.
Mahalo!
These Moms are so loved by their children and their siblings.
God is carrying each of them, in their own health journey and difficult circumstance. In every season of life, whether joy or sorrow, God is with us. His grace carries us in each season of our lives. May each of your feel His presence and grace on this day.
In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
love love love
Mom had her 2nd speech therapy session today which lasted about 40 minutes. She inconsistently participated in the therapy session and was responding in the physical and verbal (whisper) activities but it appeared that she continues to be physically weak or in pain. While she does respond to commands, her verbal replies, while minimal, happens during casual conversation. Mom’s apparent comprehension (in English and Chinese) continues to be positive and a good indication of progress.
Mom responds most always to her siblings and both Auntie Wendy and Auntie Diane, spoke to her on the phone the last couple of days. She holds the phone with her left hand and responds to them in chinese, and seemingly understands what they are saying to her. She closes by telling them, I love you, and you can see on her face, that she is frustrated, wanting so badly to tell them more. It will come, we remind her, as she gets to be even more patient during this time.
Once again, she slept most of the day, in between the Speech Therapy and the Occupational Therapy.
For her therapy lessons, Ray made the most incredible 170 page, (or so), 8.5 x 11 color picture bounded booklet, with large fonts, that provides her with pictures of her, her children, her family, her grandchildren, her garden, and angles of all the parts of her home can only help her in her healing! It's an amazing gift for her that will be used to help her speak, as well as remembering the goal, to get her back to her beloved home and the lifestyle that she has been blessed with! Mom will see it for the first time tomorrow!
We thank you for your constant prayers for both our Mom and her Sister, Auntie Wendy.
Mahalo!
These Moms are so loved by their children and their siblings.
God is carrying each of them, in their own health journey and difficult circumstance. In every season of life, whether joy or sorrow, God is with us. His grace carries us in each season of our lives. May each of your feel His presence and grace on this day.
In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
love love love
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Super Sushi Saturday!
Today, was a brisk, fall Saturday in New England, and Ray and Reta were sooooooo cold, wearing hats, sweatpants, socks and it didn't help much! :)
Mom was visited by the lovely Occupational, Physical and Speech Language Therapist to do an evaluation and complied to each of them when she could, and when she couldn't, she simply smiled! She's a great patient. We learned some exercises to work with her on, which strengthens her limbs and legs. She will really begin to work hard beginning Monday! We made her room more her home by bringing some clothes from home to her, fresh plants for her window sil, homemade plant bouquet and Get well cards (by Jared & Jeremy), and a flower bouquet (by Chloe and Tessa)! :)
Super exciting development happened this afternoon -
The hospital phone rang and Reta picked it up, but handed it to Mom and said, 'you have a phone call'.
Mom took the phone with her left hand and said, "Hello".
She then responded, in Chinese, saying "How are you?"
"I'm fine".
"My family and children are all here".
"I love you" (in English)
Then she listened....
Mind you, at this point, Renee, Reta, Tyler and Jeff's mouths dropped, with our eyes bulging out. It was another remarkable moment that blew us away! Reta then took the phone and spoke to Auntie MaryAnne because we were all so incredibly encouraged and thrilled! Thank you Auntie Mary Anne for picking up the phone, encouraging our Mom, and sending us consistent love and prayers.
If any of you wish to speak to Ramona, you can try calling the following number: Phone: (508) 870-2222. ** Visiting hours end Massachusetts time at 8:00 p.m.. Please note time difference. If she is up and awake, we will definitely give the phone to her and hopefully, she will just yack and yack with you :).
For the second straight day here at Whittier, Mom was the rare patient to be in her own room! Is that super wonderful? At some point, we expect Mom to get a roomie, but for now, we do not take it for granted that she has as much silence as she chooses to have!
After spending the day with her, all of her four kids and families (except for the Hawaii spouses and kids), were generously taken out for Sushi by Ray (and Beth)! We had a wonderful time together, feasting, and appreciating how this time has brought us together. We also gives thanks to God, as we are all in agreement how we will continue to move forward together, supporting Mom's healing and believing that she will once again be able to live the full, independent life, that God has provided her.
Our goal is to assist her in whatever ways we can so that come November, she will be back on the plane to Maui to escape the cold and be with her Maui ohana, and return back in the spring to care for her flowers, her yard, her home and her New England family.
All is well.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight
Mom was visited by the lovely Occupational, Physical and Speech Language Therapist to do an evaluation and complied to each of them when she could, and when she couldn't, she simply smiled! She's a great patient. We learned some exercises to work with her on, which strengthens her limbs and legs. She will really begin to work hard beginning Monday! We made her room more her home by bringing some clothes from home to her, fresh plants for her window sil, homemade plant bouquet and Get well cards (by Jared & Jeremy), and a flower bouquet (by Chloe and Tessa)! :)
Super exciting development happened this afternoon -
The hospital phone rang and Reta picked it up, but handed it to Mom and said, 'you have a phone call'.
Mom took the phone with her left hand and said, "Hello".
She then responded, in Chinese, saying "How are you?"
"I'm fine".
"My family and children are all here".
"I love you" (in English)
Then she listened....
Mind you, at this point, Renee, Reta, Tyler and Jeff's mouths dropped, with our eyes bulging out. It was another remarkable moment that blew us away! Reta then took the phone and spoke to Auntie MaryAnne because we were all so incredibly encouraged and thrilled! Thank you Auntie Mary Anne for picking up the phone, encouraging our Mom, and sending us consistent love and prayers.
If any of you wish to speak to Ramona, you can try calling the following number: Phone: (508) 870-2222. ** Visiting hours end Massachusetts time at 8:00 p.m.. Please note time difference. If she is up and awake, we will definitely give the phone to her and hopefully, she will just yack and yack with you :).
For the second straight day here at Whittier, Mom was the rare patient to be in her own room! Is that super wonderful? At some point, we expect Mom to get a roomie, but for now, we do not take it for granted that she has as much silence as she chooses to have!
After spending the day with her, all of her four kids and families (except for the Hawaii spouses and kids), were generously taken out for Sushi by Ray (and Beth)! We had a wonderful time together, feasting, and appreciating how this time has brought us together. We also gives thanks to God, as we are all in agreement how we will continue to move forward together, supporting Mom's healing and believing that she will once again be able to live the full, independent life, that God has provided her.
Our goal is to assist her in whatever ways we can so that come November, she will be back on the plane to Maui to escape the cold and be with her Maui ohana, and return back in the spring to care for her flowers, her yard, her home and her New England family.
All is well.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight
Friday, September 16, 2011
3 weeks ago tomorrow...and today we're outta here.....
Mom's feeding tube feedings that began at 8:00 p.m. last night went well, along with her body response to the reduction of body fluid. Therefore, Mom was discharged as of 4:00 p.m. today and on a fall, cool, sunny September day, she and Reta took the scenic route in the ambulance to her next destination.....
As a family, we made a decision last night to choose WHITTIER REHABILITATION, as the acute rehabilitation center, which she will live at full time, for the next 3 weeks or so. There again, she receives Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Speech/Language Therapy.
Exciting progress du jour:
When Ray and Reta arrived this morning, we woke her and she SAID..."both of you together".
It was startling and super super exciting! Next, the physical therapist arrived and she placed mom in a sitting chair upright, and mom was able to sit, without help, for about 20 seconds or so. Additionally, when Kathy asked - Did you have a nice sleep, mom said "yes". She mouthed 'good morning' and then she said 'won ton'....Yes, you guessed it, Ray brought the topic up again about getting Mom well enough to make Won Ton, hence, Won Ton Therapy, and when Kathy asked what she enjoyed cooking, mom said, "won ton"....! I do believe Ray is taking full advantage of this time and mom's progress to assure himself of a batch of homemade won ton....
At one point, she start twitching her nose, as if it was itchy and with her right hand, she lifted her arm and moved it towards her nose. Reta intently watched, not saying a word! She stopped mid-air, keeping her arm held up, and you could see her eyes wander to the side. Reta then asked, Mom does your nose itch? Why don't you scratch it? She then began moving her arm and hand (which were still in the air) towards her nose again. About one inch away from the nose, she stopped again, as you could see her eyes wander and she became distracted. She stopped and held her arm and hand up. Reta asked again, Mom, are you going to scratch your nose? She looked, and then placed her arm back down. Guess not! It was actually a very sweet moment and an uplifting one, because the right side of her body has been predominately weaker and she purposely moved successfully her arm.
A loving card was sent by Cindy, Kenny, Kevin and Kimberly (MAHALO!), and we handed the card to mom (on the right side, weaker). With her right hand, she very slowly moved her hands and fingers toward the card, took it and with her left hand, opened it!! When asked if she could read it, she nodded yes! Another awesome moment...
At the rehabilitation center, Rena called, and we handed the phone to Mom, telling her Rena was on the phone and if she wanted to say hi? With the phone held at her ear, Mom then said "Hi Rena, how are you?". At that point, Renee busted out crying, and an overwhelmed Rena had to be assured, it was actually Mom speaking.... It was beautiful!!!!!
As you can see, Mom's not only healing, she's making leaps in progress every single day.
Please keep the prayers coming as we can feel His hand in the moments of the day and we see how much He is working in our mom. Blessed by His Name!
love, Goomba's keiki
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28 - 30.
As a family, we made a decision last night to choose WHITTIER REHABILITATION, as the acute rehabilitation center, which she will live at full time, for the next 3 weeks or so. There again, she receives Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Speech/Language Therapy.
For get-well cards and other mailing, which allow us to hand the cards to Mom (great therapy!):
Attention: Ramona M. Chin, Guest/Patient
Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital, Westborough
150 Flanders Road, Westborough MA 01581
Phone: (508) 870-2222
Exciting progress du jour:
When Ray and Reta arrived this morning, we woke her and she SAID..."both of you together".
It was startling and super super exciting! Next, the physical therapist arrived and she placed mom in a sitting chair upright, and mom was able to sit, without help, for about 20 seconds or so. Additionally, when Kathy asked - Did you have a nice sleep, mom said "yes". She mouthed 'good morning' and then she said 'won ton'....Yes, you guessed it, Ray brought the topic up again about getting Mom well enough to make Won Ton, hence, Won Ton Therapy, and when Kathy asked what she enjoyed cooking, mom said, "won ton"....! I do believe Ray is taking full advantage of this time and mom's progress to assure himself of a batch of homemade won ton....
At one point, she start twitching her nose, as if it was itchy and with her right hand, she lifted her arm and moved it towards her nose. Reta intently watched, not saying a word! She stopped mid-air, keeping her arm held up, and you could see her eyes wander to the side. Reta then asked, Mom does your nose itch? Why don't you scratch it? She then began moving her arm and hand (which were still in the air) towards her nose again. About one inch away from the nose, she stopped again, as you could see her eyes wander and she became distracted. She stopped and held her arm and hand up. Reta asked again, Mom, are you going to scratch your nose? She looked, and then placed her arm back down. Guess not! It was actually a very sweet moment and an uplifting one, because the right side of her body has been predominately weaker and she purposely moved successfully her arm.
A loving card was sent by Cindy, Kenny, Kevin and Kimberly (MAHALO!), and we handed the card to mom (on the right side, weaker). With her right hand, she very slowly moved her hands and fingers toward the card, took it and with her left hand, opened it!! When asked if she could read it, she nodded yes! Another awesome moment...
At the rehabilitation center, Rena called, and we handed the phone to Mom, telling her Rena was on the phone and if she wanted to say hi? With the phone held at her ear, Mom then said "Hi Rena, how are you?". At that point, Renee busted out crying, and an overwhelmed Rena had to be assured, it was actually Mom speaking.... It was beautiful!!!!!
As you can see, Mom's not only healing, she's making leaps in progress every single day.
Please keep the prayers coming as we can feel His hand in the moments of the day and we see how much He is working in our mom. Blessed by His Name!
love, Goomba's keiki
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28 - 30.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
p.s....
Only God.
Mom was moved into a regular hospital room.
She got a single room.
The nurse said it is so rare, but Ramona Chin, got her own room.
Only God.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
Matthew 7:7.
Mom was moved into a regular hospital room.
She got a single room.
The nurse said it is so rare, but Ramona Chin, got her own room.
Only God.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
Matthew 7:7.
Leaping Big here on Day 19!
Hello loved ones!
God's timing is always perfect.
Since the moment we stepped into this place, we receive the most updated reports from the neurology surgeons to the trauma doctors, down to the doctors and nurses, which prompted Rena, Ray and Reta to take the morning to visit both Rehabilitation Centers, while Ray took Renee late this afternoon after she was done teaching.
When we arrived to visit Mom this afternoon, she woke up and was so with us in every way - except in speech and great movements, but that will come. This morning at her home, we took a bunch of photos of the things that we knew that she would love to look at - pictures of her flowers, her garden, the fresh tomatoes, the cucumbers, the view sitting from the kitchen where she has her breakfast, and the collage of photos of her family on the refrigerator. It worked...she smiled looking at her garden and her ripe tomatoes (which we explained were quickly eaten after taking the picture!). Then, Ray pulled out videos of Tessa singing (a-dorable!) and the videos of this past summer during their trip to visit Mom. She thoroughly enjoyed....at one point, her glasses were not on correctly, so using her left arm and hand, she adjusted them herself! She's nodding, gesturing, eye-balling us, and smiling at her ridiculous children!
Since we talked so much today about 'physical therapy', Ray began to tell her many times, how making Won Ton would be great therapy! Hence, he has now coined the term - Won Ton Therapy! (which drew a big smile on her face) and explaining, "Praise the Lord, I'm going to get the Goomba won ton again".
As each of us are so different, we are drawn to loving mom in so many varying ways...here are some examples...
Renee comes in, speaks her chinese talk to Mom, (which Ray and Reta have no clue what she's saying), massages mom and provides everything that Ray and Reta needs while we stay at her house. (and then she takes super care of Reta and Ray by buying honkin' lobster, steamed and fried clams and corn!)
Rena provides bodily care - washes her hair, teeth and face, assists the nurses in any physical help that gives mom comfort - and handles all of Mom's finances which provides huge relief for all of us.
Ray gives Mom (and anyone who walks in the door) comic relief. :) Seriously, Ray is Inspector Gadget (according to Al, Reta's husband), bringing in the videos, photos, etc, and the loving firm instructions to Mom to meet the command requirements. Additionally, he's handling the house issues, gathering and keeping all medical information and coordinating the research and visitation for the rehab centers.
Reta provides the Daily Devotional Bible reading, Classical and Hawaiian music laptop playing, photo watching and back, head and feet massages. Additionally, she updates the daily blog.
While each of us, especially Mom, would never choose these circumstances, we know wholeheartedly, that God allows all things to happen and that blessings flow from even the most difficult times. Hearts transform, faith grows, and love overcomes. As siblings, we are spending time together for the first time in almost 8 or so years, reminiscing, sharing, and most importantly, coming together, united, to rally for a mother who sacrificed her entire life, to make ours better.
She's healing.
She's progressing.
She's with us.
Thank you Lord.
Take the Glory with You.
Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous. 1 Peter 3:8.
Did I not say that we must go into the valley together? I have given you the enjoyment of My fellowship on the mountaintop to prepare you for the ministry in the valley of service. Take the glory of the mountaintop with you; take My presence, May light, My love. This is not the valley of personal darkness - this is the valley where you will find those who need the touch of blessing you can bring.
May God bless all of you.
BREAKING NEWS! (6:25 p.m.)
Mom's being moved into a regular hospital room! She's leaving ICU and into a regular room!
Isn't God's timing just perfect? This breaking news wasn't planned, but as I was typing, He blessed us with this news...Mom will have a roomie, but hey, she's progressing! There is talk of discharging her in the next day or so - CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? - and into a rehab center, so we will keep you all posted.
Have a blessed evening as you know we will! :)
God's timing is always perfect.
Since the moment we stepped into this place, we receive the most updated reports from the neurology surgeons to the trauma doctors, down to the doctors and nurses, which prompted Rena, Ray and Reta to take the morning to visit both Rehabilitation Centers, while Ray took Renee late this afternoon after she was done teaching.
When we arrived to visit Mom this afternoon, she woke up and was so with us in every way - except in speech and great movements, but that will come. This morning at her home, we took a bunch of photos of the things that we knew that she would love to look at - pictures of her flowers, her garden, the fresh tomatoes, the cucumbers, the view sitting from the kitchen where she has her breakfast, and the collage of photos of her family on the refrigerator. It worked...she smiled looking at her garden and her ripe tomatoes (which we explained were quickly eaten after taking the picture!). Then, Ray pulled out videos of Tessa singing (a-dorable!) and the videos of this past summer during their trip to visit Mom. She thoroughly enjoyed....at one point, her glasses were not on correctly, so using her left arm and hand, she adjusted them herself! She's nodding, gesturing, eye-balling us, and smiling at her ridiculous children!
Since we talked so much today about 'physical therapy', Ray began to tell her many times, how making Won Ton would be great therapy! Hence, he has now coined the term - Won Ton Therapy! (which drew a big smile on her face) and explaining, "Praise the Lord, I'm going to get the Goomba won ton again".
As each of us are so different, we are drawn to loving mom in so many varying ways...here are some examples...
Renee comes in, speaks her chinese talk to Mom, (which Ray and Reta have no clue what she's saying), massages mom and provides everything that Ray and Reta needs while we stay at her house. (and then she takes super care of Reta and Ray by buying honkin' lobster, steamed and fried clams and corn!)
Rena provides bodily care - washes her hair, teeth and face, assists the nurses in any physical help that gives mom comfort - and handles all of Mom's finances which provides huge relief for all of us.
Ray gives Mom (and anyone who walks in the door) comic relief. :) Seriously, Ray is Inspector Gadget (according to Al, Reta's husband), bringing in the videos, photos, etc, and the loving firm instructions to Mom to meet the command requirements. Additionally, he's handling the house issues, gathering and keeping all medical information and coordinating the research and visitation for the rehab centers.
Reta provides the Daily Devotional Bible reading, Classical and Hawaiian music laptop playing, photo watching and back, head and feet massages. Additionally, she updates the daily blog.
While each of us, especially Mom, would never choose these circumstances, we know wholeheartedly, that God allows all things to happen and that blessings flow from even the most difficult times. Hearts transform, faith grows, and love overcomes. As siblings, we are spending time together for the first time in almost 8 or so years, reminiscing, sharing, and most importantly, coming together, united, to rally for a mother who sacrificed her entire life, to make ours better.
She's healing.
She's progressing.
She's with us.
Thank you Lord.
Take the Glory with You.
Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous. 1 Peter 3:8.
Did I not say that we must go into the valley together? I have given you the enjoyment of My fellowship on the mountaintop to prepare you for the ministry in the valley of service. Take the glory of the mountaintop with you; take My presence, May light, My love. This is not the valley of personal darkness - this is the valley where you will find those who need the touch of blessing you can bring.
May God bless all of you.
BREAKING NEWS! (6:25 p.m.)
Mom's being moved into a regular hospital room! She's leaving ICU and into a regular room!
Isn't God's timing just perfect? This breaking news wasn't planned, but as I was typing, He blessed us with this news...Mom will have a roomie, but hey, she's progressing! There is talk of discharging her in the next day or so - CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? - and into a rehab center, so we will keep you all posted.
Have a blessed evening as you know we will! :)
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
WEDNESDAY'S NEWS....
Hi all,
As usual, Mom was super alert and up this morning when we got here, so we were able to again go through and show her some pictures of the family. Also, we showed her and read two cards sent by our Cousin Oliver and Cousin Rudy's family and his girls! She enjoyed looking at and reading your cards, so thank you both so much!!! :) You can tell how much she appreciates it with her sighs. We are keeping all of the cards received so when she fully recovers, she will get to re-read them, read this blog, and view our photos. She will then get to fully understand how much love and prayers she received and how God moved the hearts of so many incredible people.
It was a beautiful, late summer day here in Worcester, with the temperatures around 80 degrees and humid. The sun shined through her room, and we had her sitting upright and looking out at the view.
Because Mom's a bit of weight, having not eaten, and since she failed her swallow tests, she is having the feeding tube from her nose removed later this evening (after 7:00 p.m. MA time), and a feeding tube placed in her stomach. While Mom may be able to be able to eat next week, the feeding tube allows her to receive the additional calories necessary to strengthen her and get her closer to complete healing. We are thrilled for her to be able to get that tube out of her nose and throat!
We have met with the representatives from the acute rehabilitation centers, and together as a family, we will decide which one we feel meets her needs best. Thankfully, at this point, her insurance will cover the costs entirely.
The goal is that once Mom is stable with her health conditions, she is immediately placed in rehabilitation center/hospital, which may be as early as mid-week, next week. It's best for Mom's recovery to get her into rehabilitation sooner rather than later. There, she will live full time approx. 3 - 4 weeks, or longer if necessary, to go through daily, extensive and aggressive, 3 hour therapy, which will include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech/Language Therapy. At this point, tentatively, Ray will stay through the rehabilitation period.
Additionally, we ask that you please add in your prayers, our Auntie Wendy (Mom's youngest sister), who is now in the hospital, battling an effect of her lung cancer. We cover in prayer Auntie Wendy, June, and Rudy/Kim ohana, asking God for a supernatural healing, His hand upon each one, and His peace and comfort, that only He provides.
That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10.
love,
Renee/Jeff
Rena/Mark
Ray/Mary Beth
Reta/Al
and their 'honey-boos' :)
As usual, Mom was super alert and up this morning when we got here, so we were able to again go through and show her some pictures of the family. Also, we showed her and read two cards sent by our Cousin Oliver and Cousin Rudy's family and his girls! She enjoyed looking at and reading your cards, so thank you both so much!!! :) You can tell how much she appreciates it with her sighs. We are keeping all of the cards received so when she fully recovers, she will get to re-read them, read this blog, and view our photos. She will then get to fully understand how much love and prayers she received and how God moved the hearts of so many incredible people.
It was a beautiful, late summer day here in Worcester, with the temperatures around 80 degrees and humid. The sun shined through her room, and we had her sitting upright and looking out at the view.
Because Mom's a bit of weight, having not eaten, and since she failed her swallow tests, she is having the feeding tube from her nose removed later this evening (after 7:00 p.m. MA time), and a feeding tube placed in her stomach. While Mom may be able to be able to eat next week, the feeding tube allows her to receive the additional calories necessary to strengthen her and get her closer to complete healing. We are thrilled for her to be able to get that tube out of her nose and throat!
We have met with the representatives from the acute rehabilitation centers, and together as a family, we will decide which one we feel meets her needs best. Thankfully, at this point, her insurance will cover the costs entirely.
The goal is that once Mom is stable with her health conditions, she is immediately placed in rehabilitation center/hospital, which may be as early as mid-week, next week. It's best for Mom's recovery to get her into rehabilitation sooner rather than later. There, she will live full time approx. 3 - 4 weeks, or longer if necessary, to go through daily, extensive and aggressive, 3 hour therapy, which will include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech/Language Therapy. At this point, tentatively, Ray will stay through the rehabilitation period.
Additionally, we ask that you please add in your prayers, our Auntie Wendy (Mom's youngest sister), who is now in the hospital, battling an effect of her lung cancer. We cover in prayer Auntie Wendy, June, and Rudy/Kim ohana, asking God for a supernatural healing, His hand upon each one, and His peace and comfort, that only He provides.
That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10.
love,
Renee/Jeff
Rena/Mark
Ray/Mary Beth
Reta/Al
and their 'honey-boos' :)
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Great Strides in the P.M.!
We just had to post an updated blog for this afternoon because we left this evening feeling so encouraged by Mom's alertness and time spent with her.
This was super cool...at around 3:00 p.m., Uncle Ron (Auntie Diane's husband, who never ages, by the way), sent us an email, encouraging us to speak to Mom in Cantonese. He told us that Mom would appreciate it so say to her: (for those who can't speak it: 'Ya Soo Yee Ho Nea' (Ya Soo = Jesus, Yee Ho = Heal, Nea = Me"). Mind you, she had been sleeping since about 8:00 a.m. in the morning, so I went over and began massaging her and saying it aloud - Ya Soo Yee Ho Nea....by the 5th time, she opened her eyes, and gave me a smile!!! From that moment on, she spent a couple of hours up with us, looking at Ray's million photos of the family, watching the Red Sox on TV, and watching intently Mary Beth (Goobie, Ray's wife) and the Guerin Ohana (Rena's family) as they skyped Mom! Additionally, she briefly listened to Auntie Diane, Uncle Tony and Uncle Pete on the phone and we asked her to squeeze our hands if she understood them, and so she did! Thank you Uncle Ron for your email suggestion which was FABULOUS and thank you Lord!
Many moments this afternoon, she's nodded, sighed, moaned out of frustration, used her left hand to move her blankets away, reached for Ray's IPAD to view photos, and displayed genuine, responsive, facial expressions and "Mom" looks that her kids are all familiar with....
It was such fun!
Mom is healing.
THANK YOU GOD.
love you all.
This was super cool...at around 3:00 p.m., Uncle Ron (Auntie Diane's husband, who never ages, by the way), sent us an email, encouraging us to speak to Mom in Cantonese. He told us that Mom would appreciate it so say to her: (for those who can't speak it: 'Ya Soo Yee Ho Nea' (Ya Soo = Jesus, Yee Ho = Heal, Nea = Me"). Mind you, she had been sleeping since about 8:00 a.m. in the morning, so I went over and began massaging her and saying it aloud - Ya Soo Yee Ho Nea....by the 5th time, she opened her eyes, and gave me a smile!!! From that moment on, she spent a couple of hours up with us, looking at Ray's million photos of the family, watching the Red Sox on TV, and watching intently Mary Beth (Goobie, Ray's wife) and the Guerin Ohana (Rena's family) as they skyped Mom! Additionally, she briefly listened to Auntie Diane, Uncle Tony and Uncle Pete on the phone and we asked her to squeeze our hands if she understood them, and so she did! Thank you Uncle Ron for your email suggestion which was FABULOUS and thank you Lord!
Many moments this afternoon, she's nodded, sighed, moaned out of frustration, used her left hand to move her blankets away, reached for Ray's IPAD to view photos, and displayed genuine, responsive, facial expressions and "Mom" looks that her kids are all familiar with....
It was such fun!
Mom is healing.
THANK YOU GOD.
love you all.
Steppin' Down on Day 17....
Aloha all,
Mom failed the swallow test this a.m. as she was unable to swallow the apple sauce.
This is fairly normal for patients with head injuries and so it's been decided that
Mom will have a feeding tube placed directly in her stomach, which is about an hour process,
done at her bedside.
Because of her continued improvements in all other ways (blood pressure, markers in nutritional status testing, blood levels, blood/sugar), she has just been moved to the "Step Down" ICU room. This is an indication of slow progress...we're steppin' down!
She has slept most of the day with a dose of pain medication as yesterday's exciting events of watching
videos and photos may have pooped her out! :) We will continue to update you all daily and covet your prayers.
Faith Brings Joy.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5: 3 - 5
Blessings,
Ramona's ohana
Mom failed the swallow test this a.m. as she was unable to swallow the apple sauce.
This is fairly normal for patients with head injuries and so it's been decided that
Mom will have a feeding tube placed directly in her stomach, which is about an hour process,
done at her bedside.
Because of her continued improvements in all other ways (blood pressure, markers in nutritional status testing, blood levels, blood/sugar), she has just been moved to the "Step Down" ICU room. This is an indication of slow progress...we're steppin' down!
She has slept most of the day with a dose of pain medication as yesterday's exciting events of watching
videos and photos may have pooped her out! :) We will continue to update you all daily and covet your prayers.
Faith Brings Joy.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5: 3 - 5
Blessings,
Ramona's ohana
Monday, September 12, 2011
Mighty Monday
Today was a great day!
Because mom's brain tests are now every 2 hours, instead of 1, and every 4 hours at night, she was so well rested. She was very responsive since Ray’s arrival on Sunday, opening her eyes and spending a great amount of time this afternoon viewing photos and videos shown to her off our laptops.
The last blood infusion was a success and her blood levels remain consistent (indicating no more internal bleeding). A swallow-test was cancelled today as she was too sleepy. This test checks for Mom’s ability to eat orally. We expect a rescheduling for tomorrow.
Today, she reached for and held Ray's business card (with her left hand), and later, scratched her nose. Her right side was still not as strong as her left, but it's getting there, and much stronger compared to days past! There was a brief window of alertness when we wanted her to be encouraged by her own siblings, so we were able to make telephone contact with Auntie Yvonne and Auntie Wendy.
By early evening, she received her first dose of pain meds for the day, just to take the edge off and give her a restful sleep.
The medical staff is positive on her progress thus far. Our family is very appreciative & blessed for the quality and care of the UMASS ICU neurology staff. Her children and extended family are constantly at her bedside. We take the opportunity to talk with her during her conscious periods, giving her leg, foot, back and head massages and Rena washes her hair the best! Her family is prepared and open to the next phase of her recovery process.
At prayer time this evening before leaving, we prayed that God would bless every caregiver of Mom's, and bless abundantly all of you, who are part of this journey. :)
Love,
Ramona's family
Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary;
Praise Him in his mighty heavens.
Praise Him for his acts of power;
Praise Him for his surpassing greatness.
Praise Him with the sounding of the trumpet,
Praise Him with the harp and lyre,
Praise Him with timbrel and dancing,
Praise Him with the strings and pipe,
Praise Him with the clash of cymbals,
Praise Him with resounding cymbals.
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD.
Psalm 150
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Sunday, September 11
We lift up our nation, God's children, as we remember the significance of this day.
Yesterday, Mom rested, after undergoing her 4th angiogram and as the last blog indicated, it seems that the vasospasm risk is diminishing. Therefore, Mom spent most yesterday sleeping. They continue to monitor and adjust her blood pressure, blood/sugar, temperature, etc.
She had a very restful evening and pain medications have been weened for now.
She's done very well with doing the commands this morning which includes, squeezing hands from both sides, and wiggling her toes. The right side continues to be weaker than the left, but stronger today, than in days past.
Because of her improvement, it was decided this morning, that they will only come in to do the brain monitoring testing every 2 hours, rather than 1, creating an opportunity for more uninterrupted rest.
Mom has so many pokey holes in her fingers (from the blood sugar tests); her body bloated from the additional fluids provided her; but is healing beautifully, being more alert longer and wrestling in bed (which is a good thing).
Ray arrived from Maui very early this a.m. and caught just a couple of zzzzz's at Rena's, allthough, they are headed over to the hospital now. Mom will have all of her children loving and helping her and we are so appreciative of all the blessings that God pours into Mom and each one of us. We are also grateful for the spouses that we married because of how supportive they are!! Every single person who has stepped into this room - neurologist, surgeon, Physician's Assistant, nurse, janitor, everyone - has been nothing but incredibly loving, understanding and devoted to providing the best care for our mother.
Even in the midst of the most difficult moments, God shows us how much He is here with us, and how He loves us through the kind acts of others. Thank you God.
"Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done." 1 Chronicles 16:8.
Grace and Peace,
Ramona's ohana
Yesterday, Mom rested, after undergoing her 4th angiogram and as the last blog indicated, it seems that the vasospasm risk is diminishing. Therefore, Mom spent most yesterday sleeping. They continue to monitor and adjust her blood pressure, blood/sugar, temperature, etc.
She had a very restful evening and pain medications have been weened for now.
She's done very well with doing the commands this morning which includes, squeezing hands from both sides, and wiggling her toes. The right side continues to be weaker than the left, but stronger today, than in days past.
Because of her improvement, it was decided this morning, that they will only come in to do the brain monitoring testing every 2 hours, rather than 1, creating an opportunity for more uninterrupted rest.
Mom has so many pokey holes in her fingers (from the blood sugar tests); her body bloated from the additional fluids provided her; but is healing beautifully, being more alert longer and wrestling in bed (which is a good thing).
Ray arrived from Maui very early this a.m. and caught just a couple of zzzzz's at Rena's, allthough, they are headed over to the hospital now. Mom will have all of her children loving and helping her and we are so appreciative of all the blessings that God pours into Mom and each one of us. We are also grateful for the spouses that we married because of how supportive they are!! Every single person who has stepped into this room - neurologist, surgeon, Physician's Assistant, nurse, janitor, everyone - has been nothing but incredibly loving, understanding and devoted to providing the best care for our mother.
Even in the midst of the most difficult moments, God shows us how much He is here with us, and how He loves us through the kind acts of others. Thank you God.
"Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done." 1 Chronicles 16:8.
Grace and Peace,
Ramona's ohana
Friday, September 9, 2011
September 9
Most of the morning, Mom slept and was given pain medication.
We received great news that the blood level report again showed no drop in her blood, hence, her bleeding has stopped! By early afternoon, she was fairly alert and they sat her up to see if she would take commands to move the right hand side of her body. Unfortunately, she was unable to move the right side (hand and foot) as she is far weaker on this side, and the doctors decided to perform another angiogram.
During the procedure, they found that there was a mild narrowing of the vessels- far less than the last one - determining the dwindling risk from vasospasm! Hoorah! They did place medicine in the vessel and Mom is now once again resting and sleeping. They will continue to monitor her blood levels twice a day, while checking her blood pressure, sugar level and all the rest. You can't imagine how strong of a woman our mother is with all the poking and prodding that she's endured. Her strength is amazing and we are so proud of her!
With the lowering risk of vasospasms, we trust that Mom is well on her way to continue healing.
Lastly, Mom has really good health insurance and we have begun looking into the rehabilitation centers that will assist her in getting back to true form in the coming weeks.
"Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7
love,
Ramona's biggest fans, her children!
We received great news that the blood level report again showed no drop in her blood, hence, her bleeding has stopped! By early afternoon, she was fairly alert and they sat her up to see if she would take commands to move the right hand side of her body. Unfortunately, she was unable to move the right side (hand and foot) as she is far weaker on this side, and the doctors decided to perform another angiogram.
During the procedure, they found that there was a mild narrowing of the vessels- far less than the last one - determining the dwindling risk from vasospasm! Hoorah! They did place medicine in the vessel and Mom is now once again resting and sleeping. They will continue to monitor her blood levels twice a day, while checking her blood pressure, sugar level and all the rest. You can't imagine how strong of a woman our mother is with all the poking and prodding that she's endured. Her strength is amazing and we are so proud of her!
With the lowering risk of vasospasms, we trust that Mom is well on her way to continue healing.
Lastly, Mom has really good health insurance and we have begun looking into the rehabilitation centers that will assist her in getting back to true form in the coming weeks.
"Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7
love,
Ramona's biggest fans, her children!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
One Step Back....Two Steps Forward
Hi all,
Mom had a rather difficult evening as she lost quite a significant amount of blood and this morning, they replenished her with 4 pints of blood. Therefore, she was very lethargic and sleepy most of the day. As the blood was circulated back into her body, there was a noticeable improvement physically. Late this afternoon after returning from eating some food and walking some laps around the hospital, Rena and I received the greatest nugget of great news - Mom's blood level report came back "shockingly great", and the physicians were amazed at the results! For this evening to provide her greater comfort, pain meds were given to her with no near plans of doing anything but letting her rest and continue to heal!
We ask that you please pray specifically in these ways:
Mom had a rather difficult evening as she lost quite a significant amount of blood and this morning, they replenished her with 4 pints of blood. Therefore, she was very lethargic and sleepy most of the day. As the blood was circulated back into her body, there was a noticeable improvement physically. Late this afternoon after returning from eating some food and walking some laps around the hospital, Rena and I received the greatest nugget of great news - Mom's blood level report came back "shockingly great", and the physicians were amazed at the results! For this evening to provide her greater comfort, pain meds were given to her with no near plans of doing anything but letting her rest and continue to heal!
We ask that you please pray specifically in these ways:
- There would be no more vasospasms
- That the bleeding would stop and that all the blood in her would circulate in perfect order
- That mom would be able to meet all the commands that are physically asked of her each hour
- That the doctors, nurses and surgeons would receive the Lord's discernment and guidance
- That Mom would have no pain and any further negative affects of her healing
We thank you all for praying...
In His Grip,
All of Ramona's children
"Pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Update
Mom was super alert this morning, more than yesterday, but unfortunately she wasn't able to speak or do the commands that the neurology asked of her. (i.e. squeezing her hands and lifting her arms). Therefore, the neurology team felt it best to go in and perform another angiogram to see if she was having vasospasms. They did find that her vessel was narrowed (vasospasm) on the left hand side of her brain, which then would make sense why she's been having a more difficult time with movement on her right side. Once they went in, they gave her medicine and immediately, her vessel opened. Vasospasms risk reduces after 14 days and we are around this window time. They are choosing to be proactive in doing angiograms.
Doctors and all nurses continue to provide Mom with such loving care and immediate attention and we are super grateful that she is here.
Thank you for all the prayers and the love.
We trust the Lord in His plans.
God bless you all.
Doctors and all nurses continue to provide Mom with such loving care and immediate attention and we are super grateful that she is here.
Thank you for all the prayers and the love.
We trust the Lord in His plans.
God bless you all.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Day 10 at UMASS...
It's the typical, New England, rainy, cool, blucky day (no offense NE residents) and it seems to me that the Red Sox are always, always on tv.......and losing, no less....
Anyways, this a.m. when I arrived, Mom was alert and when I asked what my name is, she said
'Reta'. It brought me such joy! Jeff arrived shortly after I did and he found us looking at more photos on my laptop. When I asked her who it that, Mom?....she was unable to say, 'Jeff', but the warm smile and look told both of us, she was saying 'Hi Jeff, you know I know who you are and I love you'. I found some videos on my laptop to show her, and one was of her playing piano at my home...she intently watched that one and stayed awake for over an hour - at least - to view photos sent by Ray & family and those on my computer. When a family picture came up on screen, I pointed and asked her, who is that, Mom? She said, "Mark". Yippeee!
Mom spent at least 3 hours sitting up (great for circulation) and that, along with watching photos, wiped her out. She spent most of the day resting and sleeping....
Today's visitors included the EEG gentlemen, the Speech Therapist doc, and the Occupational doc.
Steve, the EEG man, took great time in placing 25 or so wires on her head (that did not hurt her at all), only to find out that they had cancelled the test because she was so alert yesterday. But since everyone was on her, they went ahead and monitored her brainwaves for 20 minutes. This test is performed to make sure there are no seizures or neurological abnormalities. We await the results to be read by the neurologist tomorrow.
The speech therapist came in to perform some verbal and command tests with the goal of checking her swallowing abilities and her. They test her by giving her a piece of ice and listening to any swallowing activities. Unfortunately, she failed the test today, as she was very lethargic, tired and unable to say any words, however, tomorrow is another day!
Our next guest of the day was the Occupational Therapist, who came in to assess her movement and response to physical commands. Mom was super tired, super lethargic, and again for her, she did very minor commands, with no speaking at all.....but she will be back tomorrow to assess Mom's improvement.
She was fairly alert this evening after 6:30 p.m. and she watched more photos from the laptop and listened to her favorite, "How Great Thou Art" (in Hawaiian) and "Amazing Grace" (in Hawaiian) on youtube. Lastly, Aunty Diana, Aunty Wendy and Uncle Peter each spoke to her as she listened intently and was super alert. We'll try to contact more of you to speak to you in the coming days so long as she is alert and nods 'yes' when I ask her if we ought to call.... :)
That's it for now all...
Have a wonderful day and keep praising, praying and worshipping!
love, reta
My soul finds rest in God alone
my salvation comes from Him
He alone is my rock and my salvation
He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
Psalm 62:1 -2
Anyways, this a.m. when I arrived, Mom was alert and when I asked what my name is, she said
'Reta'. It brought me such joy! Jeff arrived shortly after I did and he found us looking at more photos on my laptop. When I asked her who it that, Mom?....she was unable to say, 'Jeff', but the warm smile and look told both of us, she was saying 'Hi Jeff, you know I know who you are and I love you'. I found some videos on my laptop to show her, and one was of her playing piano at my home...she intently watched that one and stayed awake for over an hour - at least - to view photos sent by Ray & family and those on my computer. When a family picture came up on screen, I pointed and asked her, who is that, Mom? She said, "Mark". Yippeee!
Mom spent at least 3 hours sitting up (great for circulation) and that, along with watching photos, wiped her out. She spent most of the day resting and sleeping....
Today's visitors included the EEG gentlemen, the Speech Therapist doc, and the Occupational doc.
Steve, the EEG man, took great time in placing 25 or so wires on her head (that did not hurt her at all), only to find out that they had cancelled the test because she was so alert yesterday. But since everyone was on her, they went ahead and monitored her brainwaves for 20 minutes. This test is performed to make sure there are no seizures or neurological abnormalities. We await the results to be read by the neurologist tomorrow.
The speech therapist came in to perform some verbal and command tests with the goal of checking her swallowing abilities and her. They test her by giving her a piece of ice and listening to any swallowing activities. Unfortunately, she failed the test today, as she was very lethargic, tired and unable to say any words, however, tomorrow is another day!
Our next guest of the day was the Occupational Therapist, who came in to assess her movement and response to physical commands. Mom was super tired, super lethargic, and again for her, she did very minor commands, with no speaking at all.....but she will be back tomorrow to assess Mom's improvement.
She was fairly alert this evening after 6:30 p.m. and she watched more photos from the laptop and listened to her favorite, "How Great Thou Art" (in Hawaiian) and "Amazing Grace" (in Hawaiian) on youtube. Lastly, Aunty Diana, Aunty Wendy and Uncle Peter each spoke to her as she listened intently and was super alert. We'll try to contact more of you to speak to you in the coming days so long as she is alert and nods 'yes' when I ask her if we ought to call.... :)
That's it for now all...
Have a wonderful day and keep praising, praying and worshipping!
love, reta
My soul finds rest in God alone
my salvation comes from Him
He alone is my rock and my salvation
He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
Psalm 62:1 -2
Monday, September 5, 2011
LABOR DAY BLESSINGS!
Aloha everyone from the Deluxe Suite at the ICU room here at UMASS!
I (Reta) arrived here late last night and was able to join Rena to see Mom today at the hospital!
Today was a good day as she stayed awake for about 3 hours with us, as I showed her some wonderful family photos and videos I took, traveling east to see her. She so enjoyed seeing pictures of Denise and Brandon, Auntie Wendy, Auntie Diana, Uncle Ron, Kenny, Cindy, Kevin and Kimberly, and viewing the encouraging and loving videos from Auntie Diana, Auntie Wendy and Uncle Peter!!! She smiled throughout, groaned at times, and squeezed our hands.
Because she was so alert today and responded to many of the commands and questions, the EEG was cancelled!! She fell fast asleep for hours in the afternoon, while the amazing Guerin boys loved her up and played quietly...no wonder Mom loves living back here, to be surrounded by sweet Aria, amazing Tyler, super outgoing Jeremy, and precious Jared. They are only as wonderful as their parents! :)
Throughout the day, she was awake and asleep, and she has lots of bruises on her body, because pinching her body is a way to get her up and respond! She answered some questions today...She couldn't answer what year it is, nor who the president was, or even say my name "Reta", tho she looked at me as if it was a ludicrous question...but when I asked, where I was from? She immediately quietly answered, "Hawaii". What's my son's name? "Alex". What's his favorite sport? "Golf"....the simple questions of yesterday means everything today.
We thank you all sincerely for praising our God for all of the blessings and encourage you to keep it coming for the prayers are blanketing our awesome, strong, mom! Be encouraged as we are as our faith in our Lord gets stronger every day - as we stand on the mountains and travel through the valley!
We love you all.
The Hatfield's, The Guerin's, The Chin's and the The Chiarella's
From Come My Beloved:
I WILL BRING THE VICTORY
Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57
O My child, have I ever failed you?
Have I ever turned My back on you or forsaken you?
Have I not been your refuge and your strong defense?
I have protected you and kept you in sickness and in health.
Yes, I am with you to help you. Fear not. My purposes will be
fulfilled in spite of your weaknesses, if in your need you rely on My strength.
My will shall be done regardless of the flaws in your life, if you count on the power of My righteousness.
I do not work only in cases where there are no obstacles; but I glory in overruling the
prevailing circumstances, and I take pleasure in bringing victories in those places where no victory is anywhere in sight.
Count on My coming.
Know that whenever faith brings Me on the scene, everything is changed.
Darkness is turned to light.
Grief is turned to joy.
Sickness to health.
Poverty to My sufficient supply. Doubt to faith. Anxiety to trust.
No negative force can occupy the same place as My Spirit.
When My Spirit comes in, all these things must go. Yes, they shall go!
Ask for the victory, I will come and bring it.
Don't look for the victory - look for Me, and you will see the victory that I will bring with Me.
After I have come, you shall behold the Miracles I will do.
I (Reta) arrived here late last night and was able to join Rena to see Mom today at the hospital!
Today was a good day as she stayed awake for about 3 hours with us, as I showed her some wonderful family photos and videos I took, traveling east to see her. She so enjoyed seeing pictures of Denise and Brandon, Auntie Wendy, Auntie Diana, Uncle Ron, Kenny, Cindy, Kevin and Kimberly, and viewing the encouraging and loving videos from Auntie Diana, Auntie Wendy and Uncle Peter!!! She smiled throughout, groaned at times, and squeezed our hands.
Because she was so alert today and responded to many of the commands and questions, the EEG was cancelled!! She fell fast asleep for hours in the afternoon, while the amazing Guerin boys loved her up and played quietly...no wonder Mom loves living back here, to be surrounded by sweet Aria, amazing Tyler, super outgoing Jeremy, and precious Jared. They are only as wonderful as their parents! :)
Throughout the day, she was awake and asleep, and she has lots of bruises on her body, because pinching her body is a way to get her up and respond! She answered some questions today...She couldn't answer what year it is, nor who the president was, or even say my name "Reta", tho she looked at me as if it was a ludicrous question...but when I asked, where I was from? She immediately quietly answered, "Hawaii". What's my son's name? "Alex". What's his favorite sport? "Golf"....the simple questions of yesterday means everything today.
We thank you all sincerely for praising our God for all of the blessings and encourage you to keep it coming for the prayers are blanketing our awesome, strong, mom! Be encouraged as we are as our faith in our Lord gets stronger every day - as we stand on the mountains and travel through the valley!
We love you all.
The Hatfield's, The Guerin's, The Chin's and the The Chiarella's
From Come My Beloved:
I WILL BRING THE VICTORY
Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57
O My child, have I ever failed you?
Have I ever turned My back on you or forsaken you?
Have I not been your refuge and your strong defense?
I have protected you and kept you in sickness and in health.
Yes, I am with you to help you. Fear not. My purposes will be
fulfilled in spite of your weaknesses, if in your need you rely on My strength.
My will shall be done regardless of the flaws in your life, if you count on the power of My righteousness.
I do not work only in cases where there are no obstacles; but I glory in overruling the
prevailing circumstances, and I take pleasure in bringing victories in those places where no victory is anywhere in sight.
Count on My coming.
Know that whenever faith brings Me on the scene, everything is changed.
Darkness is turned to light.
Grief is turned to joy.
Sickness to health.
Poverty to My sufficient supply. Doubt to faith. Anxiety to trust.
No negative force can occupy the same place as My Spirit.
When My Spirit comes in, all these things must go. Yes, they shall go!
Ask for the victory, I will come and bring it.
Don't look for the victory - look for Me, and you will see the victory that I will bring with Me.
After I have come, you shall behold the Miracles I will do.
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