September 8, 2011 - A night out.

Today was a day that I think Jason will remember for a long while. It started out like so many others, with an early trip down to the PACU, and then back again to his room with new dressings and bandages. The wound is looking better and the doctors are happy with its progress. He wasn't feeling uncomfortable, like he has in the past, and in fact he was feeling pretty good. There were some folks from the Red Cross and from Wounded Warrior Project, and they stopped by to chat for a little while. A couple of them had come over from Walter Reed so they were effectively new... even though one of the ladies told me she was 86 years old (I hope I'm in as good a shape when I'm 86).

We went down to the PT gym on the 3rd floor and got a chance to work with the therapists there, with Cpt. Murphy taking the lead. He is, apparently, there expert on shoulders, arms and hands, and since Jason needs some work in those areas they have asked him to assist. We were both very aware about the trip to the Art Gallery tonight, so both Jason and I kept a good focus on time. It was important to make sure that Jason had time to rest and eat before getting ready to go, and there was only so much time to work with.

Jason ordered his dinner from the "new" room service feature they offer, and I had to take care of a couple of small errands. Because of the weather here (heavy rain) those two small tasks were still small, though now time consuming. I had to hurry back to his room to make sure he was ready in time to get to the transportation that had been set up. The mistake I made was that I didn't plan for bad weather and didn't add any extra travel time to get to the gallery. It all worked out though, as we arrived with plenty of time to view the gallery (Edison Place Gallery) and talk with both Victor, the artist and Michael the writer. Jason also spoke with several of the other guests and they brought him food and drink, and he handed it to me. I was able to take a few pictures and put one of them on this blog already, so look for new ones to be showing up. We were able to go with Tim Brown and his mom, and we all had a good time. Jason and Tim were very popular with everyone and I think they all enjoyed the attention.

We were out for nearly four hours, and while he was out Jason had to take extra medication. I think this is good experience for him, as it seems he is learning how to deal with his pain a little more effectively and how to keep it under control. By the time we had him back in his bed he was ready for the bed and felt a bit worn out. I was worn out too.

Thank you, all for your continued support and all the prayers that you have continued to send our way.

Comments

  1. AnonymousSeptember 8, 2011 at 10:25 PM

    Wonderful picture Jason and George!! Jason, you look really great. You certainly are amazing and I can't wait to meet you in person. I look forward to sharing with you. George & Linda, congratulations, your son has made tremendous strides with your support and care. You ought to feel really good about this. It is exciting that you guys get to leave the hospital for outings. Dr. Malone, keep up the good work with your teams!! We're praying that the colonization goes NOW. Heros all of you!!

    Karen & Rob Weaver
    Friends from Livermore

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousSeptember 8, 2011 at 11:33 PM

    Oh WOW what a terrific picture!
    Congratulations on a successful outing and evening. I'm only sorry that your wife and mom weren't able to bask in a little glory with you, Jason. (Happy Anniversary to you & Bridgette!). My prayers are for them, as they are far away ffrom you, your girls as well as for your continued amazing recovery and tremendous support from your dad. May you continue in strength and faith in the days ahead. Jennifer Geiger

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousSeptember 9, 2011 at 12:18 AM

    Jason, You look great! Look how far you've come since they did that portrait of you!

    George, Thanks for putting up the new picture!

    Love, "Other Mom", Terry

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousSeptember 9, 2011 at 4:11 PM

    Hi Jason - you look fantastic! What a great outing for you, it must have meant so much to the artist for you to attend. You have come a long way in just the past couple of weeks makes me so happy to see.

    Wishing a Happy Anniversary to you and your lovely bride.

    Katie
    a Marine Mom

    ReplyDelete
  5. AnonymousSeptember 9, 2011 at 8:52 PM

    That is an awesome picture of you, Jason, your dad and the artist, Victor. You look great. I can only imagine how exciting it must have been to be part of the exhibit. I think of you constantly and wish you the very best with your recovery. Tell your dad hello for me, too, please.
    Peace,
    Bill Buchanan

    ReplyDelete
  6. VICTORSeptember 10, 2011 at 8:27 AM

    No exaggeration- as terrific as the reception was, the presence of Jason and Tim jacked the impact factor up huge and moved many of the attendees. It was an honor to be in their company. Thanks to everyone who made it happen. Jason was looking the best I've seen him.

    ReplyDelete

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January 2017

January 2017
Jason gets a visit from Gen. Jon Monett

January 2017

January 2017
With Gary at the GSF Office

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