Psa. 127:1 "Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it…"

We apologize again for not updating more often. Robert’s computer broke this week and had to be shipped off for repair. We don’t know when it will be returned to us.

David had a rough week.

But first the good news:
The external baclofen pump really seemed to be very beneficial. All of David’s therapists agreed that he gained much relaxation of the muscle tone in his neck and right arm. His posture in his wheelchair looked really good; he was able to sit at 70+ degrees as opposed to the 60 before baclofen. His occupational therapist planned to cast his elbow, because he was able to straighten it farther than he has in a long time.

Late Monday, some on Tuesday, and all of Wednesday and Thursday, David was unable to keep anything in his stomach. All treatment (therapy, tube feeding, baclofen) was discontinued.  Many tests were run including an endoscopy on Friday during which they also replaced his old PEG tube.  So far, no real reason has been determined for his illness.  It may have been a stomach virus or a reaction to the baclofen.

Now he is no longer on the external pump, but is getting the baclofen through the PEG again. Before all of this stomach stuff, Dr. Toma was planning to do the baclofen pump implant. This has been our desire for a long time. Dr. Toma says that the decision to implant the baclofen pump will be up to us, though the surgery cannot be performed until David has regained his strength.

He is not able to eat his pureed diet until cleared by his speech therapist on Monday.

Also, Insurance has approved his stay only until Monday. Dr. Toma appealed and they will need more paperwork on Monday.

The room is progressing. We began painting Friday and hope to begin tilework on Tuesday. Still have trim, doors, electrical, plumbing fixtures, carpet…..

Please pray that the staff can eliminate the baclofen as the cause of David’s distress and can go ahead with the pump implant.

Isaiah 40:28-31 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth Does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.