Day 73 - April 27, 2007 Friday

Lynn came in fairly early today. Terry went to therapy for awhile at 9:10 am. The therapists are being replaced (contract wasn't renewed with their company) on May 1, so they were busy packing their stuff while treating patients. Terry and Lynn will miss them. It has only been 2 weeks, but they have come to like them very much. After lunch, he had another therapy session. They work with him for about 2 1/2 hours each day. They can see his progress so well, that they enjoy it, too (Terry's great attitude also helps). They got a special tool to work on Terry's scars. It is supposed to break them up and make them more supple. This will help with his mobility. Lynn says they will use it often on his left arm. During the 5 pm news tonight, they started showing clips of his story with Debby Knox. It is going to air Monday night at 11 pm on Channel 8. A couple of the CNA's at HH saw it, too. Tonight when Lynn got home the bath tub was in and framed. The hall way had been widened. They are working very quickly.

Day 72 - April 26, 2007 Thursday

Lynn got to HH around 7:30 am. Terry had breakfast and got dressed for the day. He had therapy fairly early because of the special trip. His therapy is going great. They are seeing improvement every day. A special van is coming to pick him up around 12 pm but he needs to meet with the doctor at the nursing home before leaving. The doctor hasn't meet Terry yet and he wanted, too. They finally got to the New Castle Motorsports Park around 1:15 pm. This is where Michael (son) works there, and it is about 10 miles from the nursing home. Michael was very pleased to see them. Tony (another son) happen to be in the area for delivery and he stopped by too. Donna (Michael's mother-in-law) had a special feast planned for Terry. He ate very well. They had a good time visiting with people away from the nursing home. Esteina (Michael's ), Garrett (grandson), and Logan (grandson) also came by to visit. Terry and Lynn left around 5:30 pm to head back to the nursing home. It was a wonderful afternoon for them - just a little escape to "regular" life for Terry. He was pretty tired when they got back to HH. He went to bed right away. Lynn left for the day by 7:45 pm. Terry wanted Lynn to call when she got home to give him an update on the remodeling. They are combining the half-bath and master bath into one and widening the hallway. They had gotten almost all of the walls torn down. They also had taken off the bedroom door and most of the tile was gone. They had done a lot of work in one day.

Day 71 - April 25, 2007 Wednesday

Lynn is not coming in until around 5:30 pm today. She is getting the house ready for the remodeling. Her mother is coming over to help her. They will be starting on it tomorrow. Arlyne (daughter) came and stayed with Terry until Lynn gets there. He ate a good breakfast today but did not eat that well at lunch time. OT and PT started around 10:30 in his bed. They worked on both hands and his right leg. He does some squeezing exercises with his hands. He also uses some weights (3 lb hand held on the right and 1 lb wrapped around his left). They do stretching exercises with his leg. They bend the leg in the air. Then Terry pushes against them and straightens the leg. They also bent the leg at the knee and tried to have him hold it up with his foot on the bed. At first it kept falling over. Terry was finally able to hold it up for about 10 seconds before it fell. He was also able to slow it down some when it fell over. He is slowly starting to get the use of his leg muscles back. Jimmy (son) came to visit. They walked Terry around the nursing home and listened to some gospel music (a group was entertaining in the cafeteria). Lynn arrived around 5:30 pm. Lynn was going to stop at Walmart on the way but she was bringing Terry his dinner - crab legs. Arlyne went to Walmart for them. Lynn and Terry talked about the remodeling at the house and the special trip they are taking tomorrow. She went home around 9:30 pm.

Day 70 - April 24, 2007 Tuesday

Lynn came in early today for the big day - haircut and shower. They had breakfast (he is still eating pretty well), and then they went for Terry's haircut. After that he had PT and OT. When that was done he shaved, so he would be all cleaned up after his shower. It was time for lunch when he was done shaving. Finally at 1:30 pm, they headed for the shower. They have a special wheelchairs (made of PVC) for residents to take showers. For residents who can't get out of wheelchairs, they have a huge room that is tiled and has a drain. Terry didn't enjoy the shower that much. He said it was uncomfortable during the whole process, but when he was comfortably back in his bed, he enjoyed the afterglow. He was warm, tingly, and RELAXED! They may try another shower on Friday. Around 2:30, they heard about the riot at New Castle prison just down the road. The nursing home went into lock down mode in the event some prisoners escaped. They turned on the news to watch what was going on at the prison. One of the young CNA's came in crying, her father works in the prison. She wanted Terry to pray for him. Terry, Lynn, and the young lady started praying for him right away. She calmed down, thanked them, and returned to work. They asked her to keep them updated. She ended up leaving at 3:30 pm to go be with her mother. They hope to hear from her later. The rest of the day was fairly quiet. Lynn left early tonight to have dinner with Michael (son) and family. She is also going to spend the day at home tomorrow - preparing the house for the remodeling of the bathroom and hallway on Thursday.

Day 69 - April 23, 2007 Monday

Lynn arrived around 9 am. She is wanting to check on some things today. She isn't to sure about the new wheelchair. It seems to be fairly awkward (not sure if it is the wheelchair or her). She wants to check with someone about a possible change to Terry's medicines to help relieve his nausea. She is also wanting to see if it is possible for Terry to have a shower. The staff member at HH seems to think that the wheelchair is not a problem (and they can't get anything else from their suppliers). Lynn will just need to get use to it. The nurse practitioner talk to her about the meds. They are going to lower Terry's dosage and see if that helps him. Lynn will also bring in some multi-vitamins from home. He will get his first shower since the accident tomorrow. He will have an early haircut and then get his shower. Hopefully that will make Terry feel good! He ate part of all three meals today (YEAH!). He also drank fairly well. The best thing was he wasn't nauseous! He was pretty good all day. Lynn left earlier than usual, so she can come in early tomorrow for the haircut and shower.

Day 68 - April 22, 2007 Sunday

Lynn slept in today. She didn't make it to HH until 9:30 am. They had planned a haircut for Terry around 11 am, but the barber called about an hour before the appointment. He wasn't feeling well and wouldn't be coming. They decided to try getting a haircut with the barber at the nursing home. There were several visitors who came to visit today. They really enjoy having the company and spending time with other people. Terry has a little therapy on Sundays. It is different than what he gets during the week. It is a nice change. Lynn is starting to feel a cold possibly coming on (or its allergies), so she left fairly early today. Terry said she needed to go home and rest.

Day 66 - April 20, 2007 Friday

Lynn arrived at HH around 8 am today. She and Terry worked on getting him ready for the day. Since it was such a nice day, they went outside. Terry is scheduled to have a CAT scan today at Henry Memorial Hospital. It is right next door to the nursing home. There were plans to take him their by ambulance, but Terry and Lynn decided to walk there instead. They left around 12:30 pm for the appointment. It was scheduled for 1:15 pm. It was a beautiful day and they thought they could wait at the hospital (no different than waiting at the nursing home). It was fairly easy on the way there (downhill). They had no problems and arrived early. Terry went back for the CAT scan at his scheduled time. They will get the results sometime next week. After finishing with the appointment, they started back to the nursing home. It was UPHILL all the way. They stopped to rest for a few minutes about halfway back to the nursing home. They felt like they had accomplished something on their own (the independence felt good). The rest of the day was quiet.

Day 65 - April 19, 2007 Thursday

Today was a pretty quiet day. Terry did drink a little better, but he is still dehydrated.

Day 64 - April 18, 2007 Wednesday

Lynn arrived around 8 am this morning. They started getting Terry ready for the day (sponge bath, shaving, dressing, etc.). He ate a little better today, and they are very hopeful for continuous improvement. He is showing some signs of dehydration, so they are working on getting more fluids in him. Terry received his new wheelchair today. It seems to be pretty good. It pivots and reclines.

Day 63 - April 17, 2007 Tuesday

Terry has an eye appointment today. He will have to go by ambulance to get there (it is way over on the west side of Indianapolis). They left around 8:30 and got there around 10:15. He was taken in on the gurney for his appointment. They were hoping to get him in a wheelchair in the office. The only kind they had was a straight one and the transfer would have been difficult at best. Finally they decided they should be able to do most of their tests with Terry on the gurney. The doctor used a chart to test his vision and determined his eyesight in his right eye was 20/200 with his glasses. He has been complaining about pain in his right eye socket as well as blurred vision. The doctor could not see anything physically wrong but could not explain the vision loss either. He ordered a CAT scan. They took the ambulance back to HH. They arrived their at 1:45 pm - what a long day! Terry was put back in his bed and he napped. The nursing home tried to get him a different wheelchair but the arm was not removable. So that one would not work. The rest of the day was fairly calm. Lynn stayed late again. They are feeling better about HH as each day goes by but they are just not too comfortable with it yet.

Day 62 - April 16, 2007 Monday

Terry had PT today. The therapists started getting to know Terry. They worked on transfers, arm strengthening, left arm ranging, etc. Terry and Lynn are looking forward to working with them. He has had a lot of nausea today. They are hoping and praying that he will get over this soon. He is not eating or drinking nearly enough. They talked to the nurse practitioner and she suggested Reglan. Lynn believes they have tried that before but it can't hurt to try it again. They have also asked about a different wheelchair. The one he has only reclines on the back. What he really needs is one that pivots back. The staff is looking into getting a new one. He did get a new bed today - it has an air mattress. It circulates the air all around continuously. It's pretty comfortable (although fairly loud). HH has a couple of pets that live on site - a yellow lab mix named Mellow Yellow and some kind of bird. They seem to be settling in here. Lynn went home in a much better mood today.

Day - 61 April 15, 2007 Sunday

Lynn talked to a good friend (who does assisted/nursing home type care). She helped Lynn to calm down and reconsider the idea of bringing Terry home ASAP. Lynn realized that she was being a bit premature in thinking his was ready. He needs to progress further before he can come home. When Lynn got to HH, she relayed that conversation with Terry and they both tried to settle down. The nurses, etc. aren't in charge of procedures (like chairs, transfers, filling prescriptions, etc), and they do seem to be good people. In addition to drinking more today, they are also trying to work on getting him to eat a little more. She has been encouraging him to eat just a few bites at a time but very often. He feels like he could handle cereal that way, so they will try it. Well the eating went fairly well at first but fell apart too early (try again tomorrow). Lynn went home with a much better attitude today - this will only be for a time and then he will be able to go home.

Day 60 - April 14, 2007 Saturday

After Lynn arrived this morning, they got Terry shaved and ready for a new day in bed. He couldn't get in the wheelchair yet. They did have the right one for him finally but it didn't have a soft enough pad. The pads all felt like concrete, so they tried to get the softest (and best) one they could find. He had lunch in bed, too. Around 1 pm, they brought him a new pad, and he got in his wheelchair. It was a "dead lift", as PT had not okayed sliding board transfers yet. They talked about the possibility of bringing him home. He saw many of the obstacles, but Lynn tried to contradict them. She says she will try and come up with a plan. He did not eat hardly at all today, but did try to drink more. Lynn told him she was concerned about him becoming dehydrated. He said he would work harder at drinking. The rest of the day was okay. Lynn stayed fairly late again tonight (not as far a drive - it takes about 35 minutes).

Day 59 - April 13, 2007 Friday

Terry has another doctor's (ENT) appointment today, so Lynn got there early. After the doctor's appointment they will be heading to Heritage House in New Castle. She is trying to get everything finished up in his room and get him ready for his appointment. It was tough to maneuver Terry around at the doctor's office with his wheelchair. They did a hearing test on him and then they saw the doctor. He asked several questions and documented his findings. He felt that a CAT scan might be a good idea. They went back to RHI after the appointment. It was about time for lunch when they got there. Lynn had asked for some pamphlets on the PT and those were on his bed when they got to his room. She has also kept a couple of his PT/OT schedules (with notes), the description of his progress (and goals) from the conference, and now the pamphlets. Hopefully it will help her to keep up with his progress. After lunch, the ambulance came to take Terry to Heritage House. Lynn followed in her car. It was a very long drive. When they got to HH, Cindy (admissions) was there to greet them. HH did not realize they were going to be arriving so late. PT/OT were also there right away. Lynn had to go with Cindy to fill out paperwork, while Terry was doing PT. 4 pm was when Terry's pain medication was due and HH did not have them yet. HH ordered them from the pharmacy but they weren't sure how long it would take to get them. HH only had a normal straight-back wheelchair, which would not work for Terry (later they said they were told that wheelchair would be ok). They started to look for a wheelchair that would work (had to ordered one). There was no bedside commode, either. Lynn was getting a little upset as time went and still no pain medication arrived. This had not been a smooth transition at all. HH was too much a nursing home (smells and all). Finally around 7:30 pm Terry's medicine arrived. By then everyone was flustered (Terry, Lynn, and the nurse). Terry said a prayer for her. Lynn was very upset and all she could see were the errors and bad points. She was ready to bring him homes ASAP. She wasn't sure how but it was going to happen. Lynn could not talk Terry into eating or drinking very much, which has been the case most of the time lately. They have begun to pray about it more regularly, as well as asking other to pray. He needs to be able to eat and drink to help him get better faster. She went home fairly late this night, feeling discouraged but determined to try and get him home.

Day 58 - April 12, 2007 Thursday

Terry has two doctors appointments today - one with the infectious disease doctor and the other with the cardiovascular surgeon. Lynn will also tell Greg that they have chosen to go to the Heritage House in New Castle. Lynn's friend Karen (she went with Lynn on the earlier visits)and her husband went to check it out for them. In Karen's opinion, she would rank it in between the Shelbyville place and the Morristown place. Terry likes it because it is a shorter drive for a lot of the family and it is close to the go-cart track in New Castle that Michael (son) runs. Terry went to the infectious disease doctor first. He thought Terry was doing great and discontinued his antibiotic five days early. Yeah! Terry has been on it for about five weeks. There has been some thought that it was contributing to his nausea. We will have to wait and see now. The next stop was the cardiovascular surgeon (he is the one who operated on Terry's lungs). He did some x-rays and looked at the results. He wanted to see how Terry's lungs were doing. He said it definitely looked as if one lung was shorter than the other one, but he wasn't concerned. He also thought Terry looked good. Both doctors released Terry from their care. When they got back to RHI, Greg told them that it was all arranged - Terry would be moving to tomorrow around 1 pm. He will be going to the Heritage House in New Castle. Lynn is beginning to see this as an adventure - this is the next step. She began packing everything up in from his room at RHI, trying to get all of their stuff out there tonight. She left late, taking all she could carry with her. There is not much left to take tomorrow.

Day 57 - April 11, 2007 Wednesday

When Lynn arrived this morning, Terry was again feeling very bad. He was in pain, nauseous, and tired. He did not want to go to PT. Lynn had to force him to go. He was not happy with her for doing that. He had three therapists working on him at once - one on the left arm, one on the right leg, and one on the left leg. They would stretch and bend his arm and legs until he was uncomfortable. Terry would wince in pain but he was taking it well - joking, etc. They continued to work him hard knowing that it was helping him. He felt better after all of the PT was over (good thing Lynn made him go). The stretching and moving is good for him. He doesn't have much of an appetite (or drink much). They keep trying different things, but nothing seems to be working. Terry's isolation has been lifted now - don't have to worry about passing something to someone with low immune system. He also might get a roommate. He ended up getting a roommate later on that day. His name is Brandon. Terry and Lynn spent rest of the evening chatting about the next few days. They had no idea what to expect but they were trying to be open to the next adventure.

Day 56 - April 10, 2007 Tuesday

Terry was still in bed when Lynn arrived today. He was feeling quite nauseated this morning. He could not eat that much of his breakfast. Debby Knox is suppose to come today to do another segment. Amanda Garrison (the young lady Terry stopped to help)was coming for the segment too. Debby interviewed Terry and Amanda together. It lasted for several minutes. They all stayed and chatted for a little while longer. The series Debby is doing on Terry is scheduled to air sometime in May (when an exact date is know it will be put on this blog). Around 2 pm the doctor's new orders came that Terry could be moved. They wanted aggressive therapy on the left hand and right leg, but still no weight bearing activities. Stretching and clenching his muscles is IMPERATIVE! Lynn and Terry are still trying to decide on a nursing home (also availability at the homes).

Day 55 - April 9, 2007 Monday

Today Terry was brushing his teeth when Lynn came in the room. It is good to see him doing simple activies on his own. Then he shaved. He is getting his picture taken today for a RHI brochure. After breakfast, Terry headed to rehab. He had mat work first. They did leg ranging first. Then one of the therapist noticed one of the bars on his external fixator was loose. They immediately stopped all work and called the doctor. The doctor said to put Terry in bed and call his orthopedic surgeon's office. Terry's doctor wasn't in but his partner was. He wanted Terry brought to the office. Transportation arrangements were made. When Terry got to the office, they took x-rays of his hip and arm. Then he and Lynn waited for the results. The doctor said the fixator could come off. YEAH!! Then he told them that the two bones in his arm were growing together somehow. This will prevent him from being able to twist his arm very well. When the bones are mature they could fix, but he may choose not to. They finally got back to RHI around 3 pm. The doctor unfortunately did not write any new orders for care or therapy. This meant the staff at RHI had no idea what was safe. They all "think" the normal routine should be okay but without the doctor's orders, they won't take any chances. Terry and Lynn are glad they are doing that, but it means he has to stay in bed 24/7 until they know. They also met with the claims adjuster for the man that hit Terry. Lynn left early but had to drop her car off so Thomas (son-in-law) could fix the brakes. She didn't get home until late.

Day 54 - April 8, 2007 Easter Sunday Pictures

Here is Terry with his uncle Jimmy & Aunt Shirley. Next he is with his friend Herb and granddaughter Rylee. Then he is with Grandson Chase and great-nephew Jacob.

And of course we needed a picture of the princess - Amanda (daughter) is below:

Day 54 - April 8, 2007 Easter Sunday

Arlyne went to Terry and Lynn's church today. The had a video of Terry talking about his accident. It was pretty special. Mark (pastor) used Terry a lot in his sermon. He mentioned how the Chaplin (who he knew) told him that they did not believe Terry would make it through the day. The Chaplin also told Mark that the neurosurgeon said he never sees this type of back injury.. This is the type the corner sees. It was a very good service. Terry was having a difficult morning. Between pain, tiredness, frustration, and feeling helpless, it was a tough time. Lynn and Terry talked and prayed, listened to Tennessee Ernie, and talked some more. It seemed to help. They both also took a nap. Easter dinner was set to start at 5 pm. Everyone was bringing their assigned food item. There were over thirty people attending (mainly family and a few close friends). It was very crowded but they had a WONDERFUL time.

Day 53 - April 7, 2007 Saturday

Jimmy (son) is staying with Terry today. While Lynn is checking out nursing homes. The first place was in Shelbyville - it was pretty, classy, and had a friendly and helpful atmosphere. Next they went to Morristown - it was also very nice. The PT/OT rooms we not large but seemed to have all of the necessary equipment (so did the place in Shelbyville). Terry would have to share a room at both of those places but that might be ok at this point. The next two places were in Greenfield and Shelbyville - not impressed with either one of these. They really seemed to be nursing homes in the truest sense. They smelled and the staff didn't seemed to be as good. Just a bad overall impression. Lynn has a few days to think over which one to pick. Tomorrow is Easter Sunday. Today was a fairly normal day for Terry (not much to report since Lynn was out looking for a new place). The hospital has let the family use a conference room to have Easter dinner with Terry.

Day 52 - April 6, 2007 Friday

Terry has a special visitor coming today - Amanda Garrison, the young lady he stopped to help. Terry got all cleaned up for the visit with his nurse's help. He had PT at 9 am. It has been changed this week - the transfer and sitting work are from 9-10. He sat unassisted for twenty-five minutes. His balance just keeps getting better and better. He also received a new wheelchair today. This one reclines differently - the seat stays at a ninety degree angle (the other one laid almost completely flat). The whole seat reclines together. The therapist thinks that Terry might be more comfortable in this chair. Lynn called several nursing homes turning to gather information. She is going to look at them tomorrow with her friend Karen. The doctor discontinued Terry's anxiety medication. All it seemed to do was make him sleep. If he does need it, he can ask for it. Amanda was unable to come today because her baby was sick. She will try on Tuesday. Debby Knox was supposed to come too, but she didn't make it either. Terry spent the rest of the day sleeping quite a bit.

Day 51 - April 5, 2007 Thursday

Lynn woke up in a much better frame of mind. She got to RHI ready to deal with things as needed. She believes God knows the best answer for them and it will be made clear in the proper time frame. The staff took Terry's catheter out this morning. Now everyone hopes he has a smooth transition to normalcy. Partially because of Terry's reaction yesterday and observations from his physical therapists, they started him on an anti-depressant. Unfortunately they gave him too high a dose, and he has been very sleepy today. He slept through most of his morning PT. His speech is slurred. He is basically having a poor morning. By afternoon most of the drug's effects had worn off. The rest of the day was spent trying to gather information on nursing homes - pros of being closer to home, plans for the future, etc. They are looking ahead more - what a big step! Not being concerned about today's pain is a MAJOR accomplishment.

Day 50 - April 4, 2007 Wednesday

Today is conference day (there has been a few rumblings that Terry might have to leave soon). Lynn is coming in late today - Jimmy (son) was there early. Terry had a fair amount of pain earlier in the morning. His catheter wasn't working well. The staff changed his catheter to a new one. That made a big difference. Terry still is not eating well (this has been an on-going problem since his feeding tube was removed). He has a fullness in his lower abdomen and also feels nauseated. Hopefully his normal functions will become normal soon. This should help him to feel better. PT went fantastic today. Terry sat unassisted for nineteen minutes. His balance is improving greatly. After PT it was time for the conference. The doctor told them that insurance was calling for this Friday to be Terry's last day at RHI. Lynn and Terry became upset about the uncertainty that came with this news. Terry thought he would be going home and didn't feel he, Lynn, or the house was ready. The doctor explained more, because of Terry's limitations he has reached a plateau in his rehab. He is limited because his bones are still healing. Until they are completely healed, Terry can't bear any weight on them. He said that they would be able to extend the date to early next week. This would give Lynn time to find an extended care or nursing facility for Terry. After the meeting Terry and Lynn went back to his room and prayed. They were very overwhelmed. Then they started calling people to help them find a place for him. They were given a list of facilities by the staff at RHI with some questions to ask. That night when Lynn went home, she started looking around on the Internet for answers.

Day 49 - April 3, 2007 Tuesday

The day started again with Terry not feeling well. He almost threw-up and then felt like he had to use the bathroom. He missed the morning PT sessions. The doctor said that all of his symptoms are common for someone with a spinal cord injury. It will just take time to get everything sorted out. At the afternoon PT session, Terry sat unassisted for twenty minutes. YEAH!!! The therapists are starting to push him harder and harder. The rest of the evening was spent talking, reading the Bible, and making phone calls.

Day 48 - April 2, 2007 Monday

Terry was not feeling well this morning (this has been an on-going problem). His stomach was upset, bloated, and painful. He has also been dizzy quite often. He went to PT thirty minutes late. He did quite well at all of his exercises. He sat for seven minutes unassisted. He also had some practice time in a power wheelchair. A doctor came into to discuss how Terry has been feeling. She wants him to go see an ENT. She thinks his eardrum might be punctured. She is also talking about changing some of his medications. His therapist thinks he might be experiencing some anxiety/depression. Lynn doesn't think he is though.

Day 47 - April 1, 2007 Sunday

Today is a lazy day for Terry. Bobby (son) and Patty (girlfriend) stopped by after he was released from Methodist (broken ankle). He has had one surgery and has another scheduled in two weeks. Terry has been napping a lot today. Lynn has been doing some massaging and stretching exercises on him. There were several visitors today. Mark (pastor) and Angela (his wife) came to visit. They brought a love offering for Terry and Lynn that the church had collected. Terry was overwhelmed with emotion. Everyone have been so caring and continue to bless Lynn and Terry with their generosity.

Day 46 - March 31, 2007 Saturday

Terry was having leg exercises in bed when Lynn got to the hospital this morning. It is a very relaxing exercise for him. After lunch, Terry went for a PT session in the gym. He sat unassisted for FIVE MINUTES!! It was wonderful. A few visitors came later in the day. It was another quiet day.

Day 45 - March 30, 2007 Friday

Terry called Lynn fairly early this morning. He dropped his glasses, and he needed her to bring him another pair from home. He felt much better today - good! PT started at 9 am as usual. The first session went fine. The second session did not. He was working with a new therapist who began with giving him a hard time for not having his back brace on. Then she felt like Terry wasn't working hard enough when trying to sit. Lynn and Terry did not like her. They read her report later, and she said that Terry had an attitude throughout the session. Lynn felt like she was the one with the attitude and bad manners. Terry did not attend his last PT of the day because of her. He will not have her as a therapist again. The rest of the day was fairly quiet.

Day 44 - March 29, 2007 Thursday

Warren (grandson) and Jimmy (son) came to the hospital early this morning because Lynn had some things to do at home. She wouldn't be there until after 10 am. Terry was dizzy, nauseous, and had a headache. He just felt blah. PT went ok but he was uncomfortable. Terry has been shifting his own weight while sitting. His therapist is working on his posture and wants him to be more upright (with breaks in between to rest his bottom). She is also working on his trunk strength - which is part of the reason why he can shift better. He is learning and getting stronger. The therapists have also been transferring him in various different positions. Terry's favorite transfer is laying down. His therapist only wants him to have sitting up transfers. The rest of the day was pretty much normal except that Terry wasn't feeling well. He got back in bed after dinner and started feeling okay.

Day 43 - March 28, 2007 Wednesday

When Lynn arrived at RHI today, they were starting Terry's wound care. His wounds are healing nicely. There are only one or two trouble spots at this time. Just a few days ago it took about an hour to dress all of his wounds. Now it only takes thirty minutes or less. Today is conference day - each Wednesday the staff conferences on patients to determine release dates. Last week they decided to re-conference on Terry today. Later on Terry and Lynn found out that they postponed the conference again to the following Wednesday. Terry is improving so much each week.

Day 42 - March 27, 2007 Tuesday

The day started very early for Terry and Lynn. She had to be at RHI by 6:30 to be able to follow Terry to his doctor's appointment. By the time she got there, the staff already had him dressed. They want to give him his medicine but he wanted to eat something first to settle his stomach. They put Terry in his wheelchair and loaded him up in a special yellow cab. Then he was taken to St. Vincents. Once they got to the hospital, he had to have some x-rays taken. Then he saw the doctor. The doctor had them sit Terry up in the chair. They took off his back brace. Then the doctor removed the rest of the staples in Terry's back. He was pleased with the healing of Terry's incision. Terry's brace was put back on. The doctor said that Terry did not need to wear his brace all the time if he was above a 30 degree angle anymore. He could wear it when he wanted but it is not necessary all the time. He only has to wear it with weight bearing activities - PT. The doctor showed them the x-ray. Terry has two rods and ten or twelve pins. The doctor said all was healing well. When they got back to RHI, they were in time for some PT. The session lasted ninety minutes. After PT, they had lunch. Then the visitors started coming. Two very special visitors (Rebecca Chapple and Tom Sullivan) came today and sang several hymns and christian songs to Terry and Lynn for 45 minutes. Well Rebecca sang and Tom played his guitar. Terry and Lynn thought that was WONDERFUL! They have missed church so much and it was almost like being there. Terry had his last PT session at 2:30 pm. They had some bad news from Bobby (son) - he had fallen off his roof and broke his foot. He was going to Methodist for surgery. Grant (son) also called today to say some more caring people were going to concrete part of their drive way (this would make it easier for a wheelchair). Terry's gratefulness was immediately evident. They feel like they have been so blessed through all of this. Lynn left early to stop and see Bobby at Methodist. He still had not had his surgery yet. They were working on the trauma surgeries first. He would also need a second operation. After spending some time with Bobby and Patty(girlfriend), Lynn went home.

Day 41 - March 26, 2007 Monday

Terry had PT on his arms from 9 to 10 am today. The therapists are very pleased with his progress. He is stretching his fingers a little farther each day and gaining more endurance, too. After a thirty minute break it was time for transfer practice. Terry is helping with the transfers more and more each day - using his right arm to hold on or balance. He is also using his stomach muscles more. After that they went to lunch and made a few phone calls. At 2:30 pm, Terry had his upper extremities group session. As that session was ending, his visitors started to come. Terry will have a doctor's appointment tomorrow morning at 8 am. RHI will provide transportation to get him there. Lynn will follow in her car. The rest of the day went fairly well.

Day 40 - March 25, 2007 Sunday

Lynn got to the hospital around 8 am today. Terry had a glass of OJ waiting for her. He was already in his wheelchair. His one and only PT session for the day was scheduled at 1:30 pm. Terry had several visitors today including someone from Tony's church (who have been very attentive). He brought communion for Terry and Lynn. They were very touched by his gesture. The day was very pretty and warm so they went outside for a very few short minutes right before dinner.

Day 39 - March 24, 2007 Saturday

Today Lynn did not go to the hospital in the morning. She had to go to the carnival. Jimmy went to the hospital to stay with Terry. Terry had PT in bed fairly early and then he was put in his wheelchair. Later on he went to the gym for more PT. Finally the last session of PT was conducted in his bed again. They sat him up on the edge of his bed for quite a bit. He sat unsupported for 90 seconds on his own. He had several visitors today since everyone knew Lynn couldn't be there until later on in the afternoon. He had one special little visitor as shown here in the picture - that is Terry's youngest grandson Logan. Lynn finally got there around 5 pm and spent the rest of the evening with Terry.

Day 38 - March 23, 2007 Friday

Lynn got to the hospital at 7:30 today. The staff was in the process of getting Terry ready for the day. They put him in the wheelchair. He felt very uncomfortable today. He was dizzy and tired all morning and eating breakfast did not help. He went to PT at 9 am (ranging his hand). The therapist didn't think that he looked very good. She asked how he felt - was he hot? dizzy? She took his blood pressure. It was low 90/52. She finished with her therapy and told the next therapist to watch him. Next up was the PT on his arm. He seemed to come through that okay. He had a break at 10 for thirty minutes. When he went back for PT, his blood pressure was still low. So they took him back to his room and put him in bed. They did some PT in his bed. He stayed in bed for the rest of the day. He had PT scheduled at 2:30 pm but did not go because he got his trach taken out instead. After that he did not have any more PT. He spent the rest of the resting and relaxing. His blood pressure was pretty much ok for the rest of the day.

Day 37 - March 22, 2007 Thursday

Terry was in his wheelchair by 7:30 am. He wanted to tour his bathroom. After looking it over Lynn positioned him in front of the sink. She then used an electric razor and trimmer to trim his beard up on the neck and shave his face. Then he put on his aftershave and brushed his teeth. She dampened his hair and combed it. He looked better than he had in five weeks. They had breakfast in the unit and then went to PT. Generally the morning starts fairly easy with arm exercises. They "range" his left hand for half hour (that part usually gets his blood moving and he sweats). Then he is allowed a half hour for resting. At 10:30 they usually start working on transfers and leg exercises. This is the hard and scary part for Terry. They are trying to determine the easiest way for him to be transferred, as well as encouraging him to use his right arm and strengthen his stomach muscles. He spent eleven hours in his wheelchair today. Lynn left early tonight so she could start getting stuff ready for the carnival on Saturday. She and Esteina (D-I-L) were going to make the cotton candy. Warren (grandson) has been a very big help. He feeds the beavers everyday. He also helped Lynn get ready for the carnival and he is clearing out the bathrooms so the are ready when it is time for the remodeling to start.

Day 36 - March 21, 2007 Wednesday

Lynn meet with the builder doing the remodeling of the master bath this morning. They did some measuring and talked about the requirements for a wheelchair safe bathroom. She had a couple sheets from a physical therapist that described a few things needed. When she finally got to the hospital that day, Terry was dressed, shaved, and had his smell goods on. He still had a beard on his neck (can't get to that yet because of trach) but it was a great improvement. He even did the shaving himself! Debby Knox came again for another segment on Terry. This one was strictly while he was doing PT. They also interviewed his therapist. Debby mentioned that she would like to do a segment when Terry is at home with the girl - Amanda Garrison - he stopped to help. During therapy today, he sat on the edge of therapy table (he calls it the Grand Canyon) all by himself for ten seconds. YEAH!!! He supported himself with his right arm. The PT girls positioned him, and then let go keeping their hands right by him. Terry and Lynn had all of their meals outside of his room today. He spent ten hours in the wheelchair today. He had several visitors today. One even came to cut his hair (one of his son's arranged for the lady who cuts his hair to come up). She did a great job. Terry felt so much better after that.

Day 35 - March 20, 2007 Tuesday

When Lynn got to the hospital today, Terry was very upset. His valve on his trach was off and he couldn't talk. There was also a mix-up with his pain medication, which basically made everything seem out of order to him. After some discussion with the nurse and Lynn's input, Terry was able to calm down. Between his PT sessions today, he had several visitors. It was a little awkward because he couldn't talk (valve wasn't working). They ended up just taking the cap off of the valve. He would put his finger over the trach to talk which seemed to work. He was in his wheelchair from 8 to 12 and 2:30 to 6 pm for a total of eight hours. His endurance is improving.

Day 34 - March 19, 2007 Monday

Lynn got to the hospital early today. They are starting a "ramp up". It is a 10-day course of PT designed to help Terry adjust to 3-3 1/2 hours of PT per day. Today it was broken up quite a bit. He would have half hour of PT and half hour resting or whatever. They also did some of the therapy in the bed. Lynn contacted the person who will be remodeling their bathroom for them to schedule an appointment with him. Terry is still in isolation (been about two or three weeks now) but not to the extent at Methodist.

Day 33 - March 18, 2007 Sunday

Terry had a fairly easy morning. He had breakfast in bed. Terry and Lynn spent the time relaxing. They talked about the accident and its aftermath. He also had lunch in bed. Around 1:45 pm they put him in his wheelchair for a short round of PT. After PT, they walked around the hospital for a short while. Then they went back to his room - a haven of comfort and familiarity. They went out for dinner - in the center court. It was a nice sunny day. After dinner they headed back to the room, and Terry got back in bed - another day with four hours in the wheelchair. Terry had some special visitors this evening. A very special friend said he wanted to do something for Lynn and Terry. He is going to have their master bathroom remodeled. Friends from church will help with the plumbing and electrical, and a family member will finish the drywall and paint. That night Lynn headed home with a light and grateful heart. There are so many caring people who want to help in anyway they can.

Day 32 - March 17, 2007 Saturday

Terry had a much better night. He is still fearful but is getting used to RHI. Around 1 pm, they put him in his wheelchair for the first time. He was terrified, dizzy, and slightly nausea. Then slowly they proceeded to the therapy gym with him. They had him join an upper extremities group. He did fairly well, but was very tired when it was over. After that they went back to his room. His wheelchair was reclined and he fell asleep. Around 3:15 pm, they headed back to therapy. PT was easier that time - the therapist was just stretching and bending his right leg. At 5 pm Terry was put back in his bed. He was in his wheelchair for four hours today.

Day 31 - March 16, 2007 Friday

When Lynn got to RHI today, Terry told her he had a bad night. His food tube had gotten clogged. When the were attempting to clear it, they water and Coke on him. He felt like the staff there was inept as well as being "out to get him". Things definitely go smoother when Lynn is there. This is such a huge blessing for Terry to have someone there to look out for him. They did a lot of assessments to determine how best to help Terry. This included having him sit on the edge of the bed (supported) which made him dizzy. It also made him sick to his stomach. They told him to focus on one thing and breathe through it. That seemed to help him. They took his feeding tube out. They will do a calorie count over the next three days to decide if he is all right without it. Terry decided he would eat whatever they bring him. Lynn is still hopeful about this place. She tells Terry that to reassure him, but the newness, dizziness, nausea, and lack of trust in the nurses keep him fearful. She keeps telling Terry to lean on God and believe He has put Terry in the right place.

Day 30 - March 15, 2007 Thursday

Terry and Lynn slept well through the night. They even managed to take a nap, before hearing the news that Terry was going to RHI today. The orthopedic doctor came by and told them about the break in Terry's arm. The doctor said that it was just above one of the plates they had put in his arm. It appears to have been there from the very beginning but was missed by the initial x-rays. The break would not require any surgery just restrictions on therapy. Lynn and the nurse started packing all of his and her stuff up to go to RHI. The ambulance would be there to pick him up soon. Lynn followed the ambulance in her car. When they got to RHI, Terry was immediately put in his bed and they started collecting information for insurance and hospital purposes. Then they explained about RHI. Their goal is to make Terry safe to come home. They aren't sure when or if he will be in a wheelchair but they will do all they can. The talked about a special wheelchair that he will be able to shower and use the restroom with. Terry was pretty scared that night but Lynn reminded him to think of and pray to God.

Day 29 - March 14, 2007 Wednesday

Today marks the one month anniversary of the accident that changed Terry and Lynn's lives forever. Everyone is amazed by Terry's progress. His chest tubes were taken out today. He said it was like an elephant had gotten off of his chest. The doctor said that after the removal of the tubes a patients progress improves rapidly. They took some chest and pelvic x-rays. OT came and did some massaging of the scar on your arm. When they did the pelvic x-ray, they also took one of his arm. They found another break in his arm. Lynn hopes to find out more about that break. When PT came, Terry did not want to do anything because of the break. They said they would only work on his right side and promised to be very careful. They sat him up on the edge of the bed again. They only did it for about a minute because he was real dizzy again. The rest of the day was normal. Lynn stayed with him through the night again.

Day 28 - March 13, 2007 Tuesday

Today a nurse removed some more of the staples in Terry's arm and leg. She also removed some from your back surgery. OT came in and showed some arm and hand exercises to be performed on Terry. They tied some straps to the bed for him to stretch - this strengthens his arm. They also should Lynn how to care for his scar on his arm. They said that needed to be done 5-6 times a day. Debby Knox came today to due a five minute camera interview with Terry and Lynn. Terry gave Debby the Benny hat he promised her. Debby said she wanted to follow his progress over the next few months and do a special report on him in May. After that a nurse from RHI (Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana) came by and explained about the campus and their program. It sounds fairly aggressive. Their goal is to get Terry well and home ASAP. Again Lynn spent the night with him.

Day 27 - March 12, 2007 Monday

PT came to work with Terry. They wanted to sit him on the edge of the bed. He needed his back brace and a little cleaning up; so that was taken care of first. Then PT sat him up on the edge of the bed with support for about one minute. This exercise made him feel very dizzy. Later he said it was like he was on the edge of a very tall cliff - very scary for him. PT checked his right leg and left arm. They said that he was having less movement in his foot and his fingers. Lynn also noticed that he has more swelling in those places too - not sure why. After PT Terry slept. Lynn talked to the nurse for Terry's orthopedic doctor. The nurse said the only thing keeping him from going to the rehab hospital was his chest tubes. Hopefully those will be out within the week and he will be off to the rehab hospital. There was a slight problem getting his pain medication this evening. He finally got it three hours later than the scheduled time. Lynn spent the night at the hospital again.

Day 26 - March 11, 2007 Sunday

One of Terry's doctors came to see him today and talk about his injuries. The doctor told Terry about all of his injuries again. The doctor also stated the fact that when Terry first arrived at Methodist he was barely alive (in fact the doctors really did not think he would make it through that first day). The doctor said that Terry was fighting an infection right now and would probably be on antibiotics for another week (and continue with the isolation - gowns and gloves for visitors). Then the doctor gave him some good news - he would be moving to a regular room today. A nurse came in and got Terry in his back brace. Then she put him in his chair. Once he was in the chair his bottom started hurting. He want to get back in the bed. The nurse made him stay in the chair for about one and half hours - it was good for him to be out of the bed. They said it would be several hours before the regular room would be ready. Finally Terry began the move to his new room around 1:00 pm. They packed everything out of his PCU room (pictures of grandkids, scripture verses, and all his other miscellaneous stuff). His new room was 5091. They were working on getting him all settled in and Lynn was starting to put up pictures and scriptures. The new bed had a bar across it and was connected to the head and foot of the bed. As they were lowering the bed the bar caught on the light fixture. The florescent tube exploded. Tiny shards of glass were everywhere, including all over Terry. It scared everyone. A sliver of glass cut his nose a little. They told Terry not to move and started cleaning up the big pieces of glass. Someone from maintenance came in and started cleaning up the floor. They finally decided to use a vacuum to clean up all of the tiny pieces off of Terry. He enjoyed the massage provided by the canister vacuum. After they got it all cleaned up they put new sheets on and gave him a sponge bath. Then he was moved to a new bed (the bar on this bed had a curve in it to fit with the light fixture other bed's bar was straight) and a new room - 5095. This whole ordeal took about 2-3 hours total and was very exhausting for everyone. Lynn ended up staying with Terry that night. They tried to get a cot but weren't able to. She ended up sleeping in the chairs.

Day 25 - March 10, 2007 Saturday

This was a fairly normal day for Terry. He had PT today. He didn't think he was doing that well but the therapist was pleased with his progress. He is getting little butterfly movements when trying to flex his leg muscles. This should get better with time and more PT. Terry was very talkative this morning (when he was awake). There were several visitors today.

Day 24 - March 9, 2007 Friday

Lynn can see even more improve in Terry's mind clearing. He is 98% normal in the morning hours but as the day wears on he gets weirder. Mark (pastor) came again today with the scripture cards he promised you. Terry had surgery today to remove the sponge and clean the wound up again. The doctor said all went fine. He is leaving the drain tube there for a few more days and then it will be fine. Terry was fairly sleepy for the rest of the day.

Day 23 - March 8, 2007 Thursday

Lynn's cell phone was ringing at 8:30 today on her way into the hospital building. Terry had the nurse call her. She told the nurse she was on her way up. When she got up there, Terry was talking. They had put the special valve on his trach and that made it possible for him to talk and swallow better. Lynn said it was so wonderful to hear his voice! Terry is able to have conversations and people can understand which causes a lot less frustration on every one's part. OT came in and checked on Terry's splint. She stressed how important it is for his fingers to be worked when they aren't in the splint. Debby Knox from Channel 8 came by today to meet with Terry and Lynn. They are interested in doing a follow-up story on the "Good Samaritan". Terry told her about his beaver - Benny. He told Debby he would give her one of his white Benny hats (baseball cap with a beaver on it). After Debby left, Terry asked to use the phone. He wanted to call his good friend Herb Snow. Herb had been up at the hospital the first couple of days but was unable to be there since he was sick. He didn't want to spread his germs to Terry. It was a good thing for both of them to talk. Lynn started to check with the staff about giving him a sleeping pill at night in hopes of him getting more rest. The nurse said she would check into it. Around 5:30 pm the Terry started having bad chest pains. He reacted as if it was a jabbing pain. He said it was like a hot poker. All of his signs were still good according to the monitors but he was in a lot of pain. He wanted to be put out of his misery. The pain lasted quite awhile so the hospital staff ordered a chest x-ray and EKG. Both were good - they said the had never seen an EKG quite so good in a 67 year old man. The pain seemed to subsided after he was moved around for the x-ray and EKG. Terry had a few visitors that evening.

Day 22 - March 7, 2007 Wednesday

Terry was feeling better today. The lung surgery really caused a lot of pain for him and wore him out. His mind also seems to be clearing. It is better in the morning. As the day goes on he gets tired, and he becomes less clear-headed. Mark (their pastor) came by today and Terry asked him for some cards with scripture verses on them. Terry wants to be able to focus on them when he is scared. Mark said he would bring them by on Friday. The occupational therapy (OT) staff made a splint for Terry's left arm. They are trying to bet his fingers straighten - the fingers want to curl about halfway. They have been doing some bending and straightening during therapy but he needs more help. He will wear the splint 2 hours on and 2 hours off throughout the day and then all night long. When it is off Lynn continues to work the fingers. Physical therapy (PT) wanted Terry to sit on the edge of the bed but he put them off for awhile. All in all it was a pretty normal day.

Day 21 - March 6, 2007 Tuesday

When Lynn got to the hospital today, Terry told her he was scared. She tried to reassure him but it didn't seem to help. The hospital chaplain (Chaplain Bailey) came by. She told the chaplain that Terry was scared. He came in and talked to Terry. He also had lung surgery and was very scared after that too. He prayed with Terry and Lynn. Then he left to go see other patients. Terry was in a lot of pain from the lung surgery. It was very hard on him. He was also upset because he couldn't talk. The trach hole was to big for the value they gave him. Lynn talked to the nurse about getting a different valve. The nurse checked and ordered the correct valve for Terry so he could speak. She was a great nurse. She got a lot of stuff done. When they turned him to check on his wounds there was some pus coming from one of the incision on his hip. They decided to take him to surgery right away. Lynn did not have enough time to call anyone and let them know about the surgery. It was a fairly easy surgery and the doctor said it went really well. They suctioned out a lot of fluid and left a sponge in there to absorb more fluid. The fluid was liquefied fat and as Amanda said Terry was getting liposuction. During the surgery the doctor also checked all of his other incision sites. They all looked good. The doctor also took out some staples in Terry's arm and leg (they still need to leave some in to finish closing the wounds). The doctor told Lynn the would go back in on Friday or Saturday and remove the sponge. Terry came out of the surgery fairly easy. Terry has been have physical and occupational therapy pretty steadily but not today due to the surgery.

Day 20 - March 5, 2007 Monday

Today Terry had the nurse call Lynn at 5:45. He "whispered" (trach) to her that he wanted her there right away. He wanted to get out of the hospital ASAP and go home. He thought a lawyer would be able to help him do this. He wanted Michael (son) there because Michael knew a lawyer. Terry's lung surgery was scheduled for early in the day. They took him away for surgery at 9:30. It would last for 2-3 hours. The surgery was to drain excess fluid from his chest cavity, scrap some scar tissue off the lungs, and put in some drainage tubes. During the surgery they noticed he had some drainage around the incision in his tailbone. They ended up putting a drainage tube there too. Terry was pretty much out of it after the surgery for the rest of the day.

Day 19 - March 4, 2007 Sunday

Again another quiet day. Terry was resting off and on most of the day. Several visitors came and kept Lynn company.

Day 18 - March 3, 2007 Saturday

Terry had a fairly peaceful day today with lots of visitors.

Day 17 - March 2, 2007 Friday

A room finally opened up in PCU. They started moving Terry around 5 pm. He was sitting in a special chair, so they moved him in that. They had to make two trips to get all his stuff done there. Terry has been in minimal isolation for a few days now, so when his visitors come they have to put on a gown and gloves. He has some type of virus that isn't hurting him or healthy people but it is dangerous to someone with a low immune system. The move was very hard on Terry. As soon as everything was situated, he wanted to be put in his bed. He was shaking for about an hour. Lynn also heard from the doctor today that Terry would need to have the operation on to drain the fluid in his lung cavity. They were also going to scrap some of the scar tissue off of his lungs. They needed to do all this because his lungs were not expanding to their fullest capacity. The doctor was also going to put in some additional drainage tubes to help with draining the fluid after the surgery (he would end up with 3 drainage tubes). This surgery was scheduled for Monday. Terry still isn't thinking clearly but he is showing some signs of improvement.

Day 16 - March 1, 2007 Thursday

Terry had the nurse call Lynn because it was 8:30 and she wasn't there yet. She received some good news that he would be going to a progressive care room (PCU) today. It is very similar to the ICU but with less care. His breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure are still monitored. Lynn told him that Debbie Knox (channel 8) is still interested in his story. He told Lynn to go ahead and set-up a meeting with her. The doctors told Lynn that Terry will need to possibly have an operation to remove the blood and fluid that is in the chest cavity. He has some drainage tubes in but they can't get it all. He had a CAT scan today. Unfortunately there was a bed in PCU, so Terry did not get moved.

Day 15 - February 28, 2007 Wednesday

When Lynn got to the hospital today, Terry seemed very clear headed. They talked about business. They had two festivals coming up for cotton candy and who could possibly fill in for him. Terry was told about all of his injuries and what possibly lies ahead. Lynn told him about Chris' (niece Melissa's husband) research on prosthetics. He knew of a great one for Terry. Terry wanted to talk to him right away. Lynn and Terry spent the day talking about the business and the kids.

Day 14 - February 27, 2007 Tuesday

Terry is having a minor surgery today to clean some of the fluid from his lungs. They will send a scope down his vent tube and vacuum all the stuff out. They are doing this in hopes of taken the vent tube out again. Later on they decide to do a tracheotomy on him because of how raw and ulcerated his tongue was from the tube. The tracheotomy would help his tongue and throat heal and they could still use the ventilator if needed. After the procedure which was done in his ICU room, he slept for the rest of the evening.

Day 13 - February 26, 2007 Monday

Lynn is just amazed by all the caring everyone has shown to them:

1. People paying for the hotel room for Lynn (their church and her parents - Roma and Jim).
2. Their drive way has been plowed twice - once by Michael's friend and once by Ron the neighbor Arlyne went to school with.
3. Arlyne's work sent money and gift cards.
4. Bobby's work sent money.
5. Their church - New Life Christian Fellowship - kept bringing snacks, lotions, and other essentials.
6. People just keep asking what they can do to help.

Terry was very alert today. The ventilator was in but he wasn't fighting it and they didn't have to sedate him to get him to relax. Lynn kept telling him about the accident and all of his injuries, and that he needed to stay calm and focused. He did. Tonight was Lynn's first time to go home since the accident. Everything went well for her until it was time to go to bed. Then it was hard but she made it through by praying. Below are some points Lynn has made concerning how God has had a hand in this whole process:

1. The cold weather - slowed blood loss, tissue damage, etc.
2. The insurance policy that they thought about cancelling but didn't.
3. The many people there so quickly - Tim Settles had EMT training, Joe Settles retrieved blankets, Joe Hunt from the sheriff's department, Mike Rapp.
4. The IMMEDIATE prayer support and outpouring of care.
5. The people available to surround them (especially Lynn) with care.
6. The Bible verses that were there when Lynn needed them.

Day 12 - February 25, 2007 Sunday

Lynn and Eric woke up early because they had to be at the airport by 6:30 am. They stopped in to see Terry for a moment before Eric was off to California. Terry was still breathing fast and shallow. The nurse told Lynn that he should not have any visitors today. This was very difficult for everyone to accept but they did. The hospital staff ended up putting the ventilator back in. Terry immediately fell to sleep. Lynn did check on him several times during the day and each time he was sleeping peacefully.

Day 11 - February 24, 2007 Saturday

Eric (his oldest grandson) was suppose to go back to California today but couldn't due to bad weather in Chicago. He will try again tomorrow. Guy (one of Terry's good friends from the Dairy Queen days) flew into town today to see Terry. Today Terry is still talking and people are starting to be able to understand him more. He was asking for water, beer, and ice cream. He started to get real silly and his breathing became fast and shallow. The hospital staff said he wasn't allowed any visitors for a while. They sedated him to help him get some rest. He fought it for two hours before he finally got to sleep. Even then his breathing was too fast. They decided to not allow any visitors for the rest of the day.

Day 10 - February 23, 2007 Friday

Today was fairly normal (well as normal as it has been since the fourteenth). Again Terry was breathing on his own - the ventilator was turned off. When Lynn went into his room around noon, the ventilator was gone (yeah!). He was trying to talk right away. It was very difficult to understand. He also seemed to be more alert. Terry was able to recognize his visitors. Everyone wanted to see him but unfortunately he got very wound up. He wouldn't rest and seemed to be very excited. The hospital staff was finally able to get him calmed down.

Day 9 - February 22, 2007 - Thursday

Terry has been over-breathing his ventilator little by little. Today he was breathing on his own for 10 hours. Hopefully he will be able to be taken off the it soon. It is really tearing up his mouth and tongue. Lynn talked to a doctor on the phone and the doctor said that it could possibly come out Friday or Monday. When Terry had his back surgery, they made a brace (it sorta looks like a turtle shell) for him. Today was the first day he had the brace on and he was able to have his bed in a sitting position. His color was looking good and his swelling was starting to go down.

Day 8 - February 21, 2007 Wednesday

Terry and Lynn have received so many cards (some from people we don't even know) and calls from people. Lynn knows that there are people praying for Terry in South Africa, Australia, Switzerland, Germany, and France in addition to all over the states. They received cards (and monetary contributions) from Arlyne's (daughter) work, Bobby's (son) work , and Amanda's (daughter) work. They have received several cards from their old church - Mt Comfort United Methodist and Carmel Walmart - Vera sends a card almost everyday. Terry and Lynn have had several visitors from their church - New Life Christian Fellowship, extended family, and friends. The hospital has also been fielding calls from the media - telling them no comment. Terry hasn't moved much since his back surgery on Friday. We think it might have something to do with all of the trauma he has had and the fact that he isn't used to taking medicine (normally, he doesn't even take something for a headache). Many of the doctors and nurses are VERY impressed with Terry. They can't believe how strong he is. Terry's sister and her husband had to left to go home today.

Day 7 - February 20, 2007 Tuesday

Terry had his final surgery today. It didn't start until around 4 or 4:30. All of the family got there earlier because it was suppose to start earlier. In his ICU room prior to the surgery, the doctors gathered. One of them said that Terry was healing amazingly well. The surgery was scheduled for 4.5 to 5.5 hours. They put the plates and pins in his pelvis and arm. They also finished closing up his amputated leg. When the doctor came out after the surgery he said that everything had gone well. He said that they had to reattached the external fixator because it had become loose. He also checked Terry's previous surgery sites and said they looked good. Terry didn't make it back up to his ICU room until around 10:30 or so.

Day 6 - February 19, 2007 Monday

This is the first day Lynn doesn't have her whole entourage with her. All of the kids have finally gone back to work (they believe that Terry is out of the woods now). She was finally able to get a room at the hotel at the hospital (Methodist Tower) and had been staying there. Her mother - Roma - stayed with her for a few nights. Her friend - Karen - stayed with her one night. Now her grandson - Eric (the Marine) was staying with her. This is a pretty uneventful day. The rest of Terry's surgeries are still planned for tomorrow.

Day 5 - February 18, 2007 Sunday

Lynn called the church today and asked if they would sing "It is Well" for Terry during the service today. She called them again and asked that they pray on Phil. 4:6-8 as well for him. The all of the church is touched by Terry's condition and continue to pray for him often. Lynn also arranged for a healing service for him. Several members - Tom McKnight, Morey Waltes, Sherry Dwelle, and Ann Fox - from their church came to the hospital. They went back to Terry's room with Lynn. They anointed him with oil and prayed for him. She knew God was there as he has been from the very beginning. It was a very special moment. Again there were several visitors at the hospital. The young lady - Amanda Garrison - who Terry stopped to help along with her mother and grandparents came up to the hospital. She wanted to thank him and tell him how sorry she was. Lynn has many mother hens - reminding her about bills, making calls, and checking to see if she has eaten. She is holding up remarkably well through this whole ordeal.

Day 4 - February 17, 2007 Saturday

This day went pretty much the same as others. There were no surgeries but plenty of visitors. Terry's sister - Jeannine - and her husband - Craig - flew into town from North Carolina. Also Terry's oldest grandson - Eric - who was given a 10-day leave by the Marines arrived. Much of the family was at the hospital in "their" waiting room. The back surgery seemed to slow Terry's responses but Lynn was quite sure that he would come through just fine with time.

Day 3 - February 16, 2007 Friday

Terry was scheduled to have all of his surgeries today - to fix his back, pelvis, arm, and finish with his amputated leg. First they would operate on his back. He had one broken vertebrae. They took the two vertebrae above and the two below and fused them all together. They used titanium to fix his back. The surgeries were suppose to last about 5 1/2 to 6 hours. The family received an update at about 3 hours - everything was going good. Finally at 5 hours, the neurosurgeon came out to give us his update. He said they were only able to due the back surgery. Terry's blood pressure was getting low and the anesthesiologist didn't want to keep him under any longer. The doctor said it took an hour to move Terry from his hospital bed to the operating table. The doctor said that the only thing holding Terry together was his spinal cord. The doctor was extremely surprised to hear that Terry was able to wiggle his toes. The doctor told the family that he did not know whether Terry would be able to walk again - just moving him and doing the surgery could cause him to be paralyzed from about the waist down. The doctor was very pleased with the surgery. The rest of Terry's surgeries would wait until next week possibly Tuesday. Lynn and Esteina (daughter-in-law) talked about how Terry read his Bible every morning. Esteina said that maybe Lynn should read the Bible to him. So Lynn read Psalms 103 and parts of Romans 8 to him. Family and friends continue to visit. The family is spending the majority of their time at the hospital.

Day 2 - February 15, 2007 Thursday

The hospital staff continue to assess all of the damage that was done to Terry. They said he was still not out of the woods yet. They were pumping Terry full of fluids so he was very swollen and didn't even look like himself. His blood pressure continued to be a problem but his heart rate and breathing (by machine) were good. He was still unconscious but could squeeze a hand or wiggle his toes (this was an amazing fete considering his back was broken). The family had taken over the waiting room on the fourth floor (A4050). We considered it our room and when everyone showed up, any other people there usually left. Michael (Terry's youngest son) had brought one of Garrett's (grandson) night-nights (his blankie) to give to Paw-paw because Garrett said it would help Paw-paw get better. This was a very big gesture for the two year old as he has to have one every night to go to sleep. Please see attached picture of the night-night. Within the first two days, Terry had received over twelve units of blood, two units of plasma, and two units of platelets.

The Beginning - February 14, 2007

It started as a normal snowy day (6-8 inches) on February 14, 2006 but ended with a life changing accident. Terry, who always went out on snowy days to see if anyone needed help, was taking his grandson - Warren - to the grocery store. Warren was going to cook lasagna for his girlfriend for Valentine's Day. Terry also stopped by his daughter's house - Arlyne - to make sure she could get off her road and go to work. After getting Arlyne off to work and Warren back home to start cooking, Terry goes home. On his way home he sees a car in the median about 1 1/2 mile from his home. There is a young lady and her baby stuck. He parks his truck in the parking lot of a motel right there. Then he walks across the street. By that time the young lady's uncle had also arrived. They were discussing how they were going to get her out, when a car going westbound on 40 lost control. The young lady and her uncle saw the car. She jumped in the back seat with her child and the uncle jump out of the way. Terry did not see the car as he had his back to it. The car hit him with its rear quarter panel and threw him up in the air. He landed on the back windshield. The young lady's uncle had EMT experience and started working on Terry right away (this definitely had played a big part in saving Terry's life). Around 10:15 to 10:45 Lynn heard a siren going past the house. She prayed for God to be with the emergency whatever the need. She called Terry to warn him that there might be an accident he would have to go around. When the phone was answered it was someone else not Terry. At that same time, someone was knocking on the front door. The lady at the door said there had been an accident and Lynn needed to come with her. The lady told Lynn that Terry had a severe leg injury but that he was still alive. She tired to calm Lynn down (who was hyperventilating). She drove Lynn to the accident site. The rescue workers had put Terry in an ambulance to work on him. Mike Rapp was there at the accident scene and told Lynn that Terry had recognized him. Terry was Life Lined to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Lynn was taken to the hospital by Mike Rapp. Terry was kept in the emergency room to try and get him stabilized before performing any surgeries. All of Terry's family and friends (sons, daughters, nieces, nephews, in-laws, pastor, friends) were waiting and moving from room to room as they grew in numbers (the final total came to about 45 people). Finally the hospital staff came and told us that they were taking him to radiology to inject a dye into him to help with the blood loss. After that procedure, they moved him to ICU. At that point in time they told us about all of Terry's injuries - a broken pelvis, broken back, broken left arm, severed left leg, and a collapsed lung. He had lost a lot of fluid and blood. They did say that his heart was strong but that he was on a respirator for breathing. After a while they showed Lynn, Michael, and Grant his x-rays and cat scans. They said he would need a external fixator (metal rods to help stabilize the broken pelvis because there was a lot of internal bleeding coming from the broken pelvis. They would wanted to put it on that evening but they needed Terry to be more stabilized before the surgery. His blood pressure was very low. At one point in time we were told they would not be able to do the surgery but later that evening around 10:30 they said they were doing it. They only had about an hour to do the surgery. During the surgery, they also worked on his amputate leg - taking it above the knee and cleaning it up. After the surgery, Terry was taken back up to ICU. They would have to wait until he was more stable to operate on all his other injuries. New Life arranged for a room at University Place for two nights.