April 26

Hi, everyone,

Things are a little better today. Denny's communication skills seem to be improving and his memory also seems a little better. Shannon, Ryan, Keira, Dave, and I were there at the same time this morning and he interacted with each of us. It was especially good to see him talk to and be interested in the little ones. He had a good lunch and stayed awake for three hours. As soon as he gets the morphine, though, it's back to sleep.

While everyone was there, Jim Richter stopped by so we all had a chance to ask questions about seizures, the medicine Den's being given, etc. Dr. Richter is so patient, kind, and calming. I am glad that Shannon and Dave were able to meet him; Chip had that opportunity when Jim came to our home to evaluate Denny's facial pain.
I always feel just a little bit more hopeful after talking with Jim.

Tomorrow Denny is scheduled to have an injection that will block the pain coming from the nerve in his face that was attacked by the shingles virus. Assuming that it works, he shouldn't need the morphine anymore. Then we can start the rehabilitation process again. I'm sure someone will be letting me know what those options will be.

Right now it's just one day at a time. Hopefully, tomorrow will be even better.

I hope you are having a relaxing Sunday. What a great day to read a book and/or take a nap. Take care.

Love,
Carla