ChloeWatts.com

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 – Last night in Emanuel

Jenny wanted Chloe to try doing the E-Sim test again today. The plan was for Chloe and I to both have the electrodes attached at the same time. That couldn’t be done so I took my turn first. It was just like a TENS unit. Chloe was really reluctant to try it but when I suggested she just use the control to pump up the intensity herself she conceded. By the time we were done she was up to 7.0 and leaving it there. She hated the fact that my statement about anxiety usually being much worse than reality was confirmed. The actual results weren’t there yet but it was a huge start toward her being able to swallow again.

Most of the PT/OT was used for discharge testing. There was a lot of substance also but measurements had to be taken for the charts. She is doing very well on all the charts.

We had our full staff meeting today and much of this went very well. Everyone is excited for Chloe to be able to get home. And Chloe is excited that she will soon be able to hold Firebolt, her bearded dragon, again… with precautions.

Five o’clock was set for the trach change and silver nitrate. Dr. Cuyler was on board for the trach and Nurse Ted for the S/N. Chloe wasn’t on board much but she had good meds to prep her, Jessica was here for distraction, Mama and Sandy were here for support and I was standing by for suctioning and gathering supplies for the doctor. When we were done, Chloe was smiling. It went perfectly! She is finally feeling better about something that will be a way of life for a while.

Movie night tonight is Planet 51 and we are all set up. Most of the trips to the cars are done and we have a plan for tomorrow. Many of the supplies were delivered to the house and tomorrow we will try and sort through the mess so we can get Chloe in the room.

Dana’s brother, Kevin, built Chloe’s wheelchair ramp yesterday. After considering pressure treated lumber and exterior plywood he decided on building the most temporary ramp ever. The goal is to have it last a month and then tear it apart because it’s in Chloe’s way. I like his way of thinking.

Dana was at Hollywood Video today and ran into a guy who, nine years ago, was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. He was so touched by Chloe’s story and vows to follow it. And he gave Dana so much hope for life after brain tumor. We thank you.

All evening we have had our goodbyes going on. I guess Chloe touched a lot of hearts here… go figure… We have some favorites but… don’t take it personally… we won’t be sorry not to be seeing you every day. To those who have been there for us thank you.

Be well.
Ron