Update On Josiah: December 16th
Here is an update as of Thursday, December 16th at 8:00 PM:
Another great day of work by Josiah! I have been impressed by my sons work ethic here at the hospital. He has such a good attitude with his therapists and then with me in the evenings as we continue to work his body out. He pushes himself, even when he does not really want to. I am thankful that he has such a strong spirit!
Here are the highlights from the day:
• His walking continues to improve. The therapists even let go of all but the belt around his chest so that he takes control of his balance. He is doing so well! If you did not see the video from last nights’ post, take a look at it here.
• He devours his food! I never knew a kid could put so much food away! I order a little more on his tray for me, and he even takes that away from me! He had 2700 calories yesterday!
• Tonight, he got to go down to the cafeteria to eat a meal. He responded very well to all the stimulation. We are not sure as of yet how long he will be here, but if he continues to make such good progress, they are talking about him getting a pass to come home overnight for Christmas. That would be great!
• They had therapy dogs in the unit tonight. It was so cool to see the eyes of all the children light up as they interacted with these animals. There are some really sad stories of why people are up here, and to see their eyes light up and see smiles on their face is so nice!
• Josiah did get a little sleeping pill last night to help him rest well. And boy did he! I have not seen him so relaxed since his accident!
• Josiah is also amazed at the number of people that have emailed, called, sent letters and posted on facebook and my blog about him. He is so encouraged, and really emotional about the love that everyone has shown to him and to our family at this time. We do not take that for granted.
Here are some specific things you can remember in prayer for us:
• Pray for that left side. His strength is coming back quickly each day!
• Pray for the opportunity to encourage and love on people while we are up here. Josiah has been a source of joy for many families and the medical staff here on the unit. His spirit has brought a lot of laughter as he walks around the floor.
• Pray for the swelling on the right side of his face. As it goes down, we are praying to see the nerves come back to life.
• Pray for our family as we are apart. Jen and the kids have a bug going around, and that may keep her from coming to visit this weekend. A disappointment, yes, but we do not need Josiah sick in bed for two days!
• Pray that the right decision is made about him coming home for Christmas. It would be great, but it also makes me a bit nervous.
Psalm 116:1-7
“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me!” The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.”
Jennifer Jones
The awesome news about each step of progress that Josiah is making is appreciated. Sending prayers for all of you!!
Amber bixel
He is such a fighter…..tell him I said way to have confidence!!! Praying:)
abi
God is Good!
diana cole
Josiah,we have had you in our thoughts and prayers since the minute we heard about you, you know we love you and will do what ever we can to help you or your mom and dad, love you all. Caleb has been asking me everyday about you and checking to make sure you are getting better and prays for you too. We know you are strong and you are going to do great. LOVE YOU Aunti Di and Uncle Steve and Caleb
Kathy
Wow- I just started to cry thinking of how well Josiah is doing! I was just sharing with a friend today about God’s goodness in sparing his life and I am so grateful to see improvement. LOVE that they had therapy dogs because my dogs are therapy for me everyday!
Nonnie
Hi sweet boy,I am thrilled at how fast you are recovering. Nonnie has you in her prayers every day. Keep up the good work,you are a miracle Siah. God has such special plans for you in your life.You are my sunshine sweet boy. I love you so much.
http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/you-are-my-sunshine/2f90e9480877a42e98ee2f90e9480877a42e98ee-319798247524?q=You+Are+My+Sunshine+youtube&FORM=VIRE7
Jenny Ramsey
So glad things are going well for you both in Grand Rapids. Sounds like he is doing amazing! Keep up the good work Josiah!
You have a whole community praying for you. <3
Jason Petermann
We appreciate you all taking the time to comment here. It really encourages Josiah (and us) to hear from everyone and to know that you are praying!