November 2, 2011

Things are getting better here, and it feels like we are starting to develop a rhythm in our activities. We were able to meet several members of the medical staff, both yesterday and today (beyond those we met when we first arrived), and they seem to be some very bright people. A big difference here is that there are fewer Wounded Warriors for them to have to focus on, and there is a definite effort being put forth, insuring that Jason and his family (me right now) are being taken care of. I will be getting a rental vehicle in the next couple of days, and like in Bethesda, I won't have to deal with any cost associated with it, except for fuel. There are several other support groups here, and some familiar ones, and that makes it a little more comfortable. Also, Jason has told the Marines that Balboa is where he would like to do his rehab, so that means he will be here for probably more than a year. With that, they have already located a home for him and his family to live while he goes through the rehabilitation, AND he can bring his pets.

Jason had several visitors today, with most of them being "new" medical personnel that we are getting to know. There were also some celebrity types that came by and visited with Jason, and the other Wounded Warriors who are here. Chuck Liddell, KJ Noons, and Dominick Cruz from the UFC were here with their manager and a few other folks (I assume they were support). We got them to sign the Red Book and Mr. Liddell's wife (she was here too) offered to take pictures with my camera, so that I could be in the photo. They also had their own photographer with them, and she was taking a bunch of shots too. For a while today, it seemed like there was going to be a steady stream of people coming in to Jason's room, and he wasn't going to get much of a break - it did stop though, after about an hour. One other visitor that Jason had today was Bridgette. Well, she didn't actually come in to his room, she called him and they got to speak. They talked for a while and it sure did make Jason happy, so I can only assume that it made Bridgette happy too.

Jason also had a dressing change, and will be getting changes daily until such time as they are happy that his wounds are free of bacterial influence. I have been in the room these past two days, when the changes have been done. I have been involved with the medical staff and provided some instruction on where they needed to focus and to apply the bandages. So far it has been very good for Jason, and the wounds are continuing to progress. Jason also did a little work with the Physical Therapist, from his bed, where she said she was going to be working on his core and arms right now, and then progress to other areas over the next couple of days and weeks. The biggest thing they want to see is Jason being able to transfer from his bed to the chair, and then back again.

That was the day, and I would guess there are going to be others just like it over these next few days. Thank you, all for all the support and prayers you continue to send. God has a plan for Jason, and we're just going to have to wait to see what it is.