Dawson's Hope

Update: Tuesday, August 22, 2023. 20 days post accident, and he is making strides that  his medical team is amazed by. Today, he was able to get in the shower and take a full shower along with putting "human" clothes on. Catheter is still out, but bladder/brain signal is still a struggle, but doctors are looking at some options. In the meantime, the nurse will do bladder scans every 4 hours and straight cath to drain as needed.  Downsized trach 2 sizes today, Dawson says he is having some pain with the new trach. The team will monitor closely as they round every 2 hours on him. OT started at 7 am. with a shower, dressing, and initial intake assessment. SPT came in right after and  evaluated swallowing and gave him some pudding, thickened apple juice, and ice. Did fair with those. SPT is going to work on some exercises and swallow muscle training to better prepare for swallow eavl. PT is

 working on standing, balance, and initial intake assessment today. They also discussed his goals and plans. PT said he walked 10 feet, holding the railing with full assistance. They have a mechanical walking machine that will allow more repetitions and longer distance, plan on starting that in therapy end of the week. The doctor changed his feedings to bolus feeds 4-5 times daily so he can be off the pump during therapy times, Dawson just wants to eat real food. He has a fancy red wheelchair that still needs adjustments due to his long legs. He is being his charming self and making friends with staff already. The left side continues to have decreased sensation and coordination/control. Hearing is muffled on right and very limited on the left. Vision continues to be blurry and double vision at certain depths. Consults have been made for special neuro optometrists and audiologist.