Greetings Everyone,
Progress! Lots of progress to report, she's been moving fast here in the past several days. I'm going to report in a 'bullet list' format:
- She can step! She can actually walk 10 steps while holding onto something for stability, and with some assistance with helping her right leg move forward.
- Her facial muscles are getting stronger. Previously, all she could do was smile, but now, she has more control over her expressions, lips, chewing, etc.
- She is working on learning how to brush her own teeth.
- She is working with the physical therapist on sitting upright for 1-2 minutes without any assistance.
- She has been feeding herself with her left hand. Her right hand is still lagging a little, but she can eat with no assistance with her left. Rachel is eating all three meals a day.
- Speaking of eating, right now she is eating 'pureed' food (which is food that has been through a blender), but they are considering upgrading her to a diet of more challenging texture. They will be doing the endoscope (video down her nose) in the next day or two and assess whether her diet can be upgraded.
- Even though she has been given an electronic tool (keyboard) to help with communication, she is required attempt the word or phrase verbally before using that tool so as to encourage vocal strengthening and development. When RuthAnne is around, Rachel will sign letters to her to form words.
- THIS IS THE KICKER - As of right now, Rachel has accomplished many of the goals that were originally set for her for November 14th.
Whew, that's a heckuva list. The bottom line: Rachel has been working her tail off...and it's showing. We're quite grateful that she is progressing so quickly, and only encourages more prayer, even as we see prayers answered.
Today, the family was able to move into a 2 bedroom unit close to the Madonna facility. It has been offered for use of Rachel's friends/family for the duration of her stay at a very discounted price.
I always like to keep these posts 'down to earth', but answered prayer is answered prayer, and at this point, she has more ability than some of the Doctors thought she might EVER regain.
All The Best,
- Josh
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15 comments:
WOOHOO!!! Way to go Rachel! It is great to hear you blowing away the doctors' expectations. Reach for your own expectations and don't let anyone tell you you can't reach them. Sounds like you are in a great place and moving forward. I'll be praying specifically for your right side to start catching up with your left side!
~Gretchen
As a member of the "We've Never Met Rachel But We're Praying Like She's Our Own Child" fan club, I have been eagerly awaiting today's report and it is beyond anything I could have expected or imagined. Praise our magnificent and gracious Lord!!
Judy P.
way to go Rachel!
i love to read your progress reports! they make me smile and want to laugh (and since i'm at the library people are probably wondering who the crazy girl is who's grinning at her computer).
Still praying for Rachel every day and thanking God for His wonderful answers to prayer. Thanks for today's update. Vicki Sherman
GOD IS SO GOOD! I look forward to every progress report and praise GOD for all that HE is doing! And for Rachel and the whole familys love and trust in Christ this day and always! Go GOD! And go Rachel!
We love you and admire your strength and courage! Much love in Christ! Shellie, Jav, and Carles Kids
Praising God with all of you! It is wonderful to hear such a "miraculous" report! Three cheers for Rachel - all that work and determination! Praise God for His goodness and strength!
Blessings always! May God continue to be glorified!
Awesome!! Wonderful!!! Fantastic!!! Praise the Lord!!! To Rachel and her loved ones - we'll keep praying!!!!!
S Prater and family
GREAT job girlie! Keep using that strentgh the LORD gives to you everyday to WOW those doctors.
You'll be back in the kitchen in no time...making me some cinnamon rolls. ;)
LOVE LOVE LOVE you,
Jen
Hallelujah! Praise the Lamb! You and your family are in our prayers. What a mighty God we serve! Our church family at Grace Tabernacle have been and still will continue to pray on your behalf.
know what? sometimes i cry when i read your posts. it just makes me see and remember that God is not bound to human term. our God is so awsome. He has done wonderfull things in your life Rachel. your an amazing woman, i know you love the Lord with all your heart mind and soul.
i continue to pray for your recovery
love in Christ
beth pancake in ohio
We still serve the same God Who parted the sea, and Who calmed the storm. What a MIGHTY GOD WE SERVE!
Praying for you, to that God.
"...count it all joy..."
"...that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
You are on our minds, in our prayers, and under His wing.
So good to hear :) God is powerful!
Awesome to hear you are making soo much progress Rachel. I am sure you are planning to do a lot more of that. I will pray for that catch to leave your get-along.
:) Take care Rachel and family!
Luke K.
I have spoken to your dad, Rachel, and just received a note from him today with your website...God Bless you and your struggle, and stay strong! If there is anything anyone at Pella Regional can do, please let us know! Karen - Business Office/PRHC
Yes Praise the Lord you are doing so well Rachel and we are so proud of you! Good job! Keep it up! We continue to pray for you every day! Love you girl!
Allison
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