The first football game and the excitement that goes along with it brings back fond memories of great times at NV. As proud as we were of Nick before, I am even more proud of the way he is pushing himself to get back to his former self. I don't know if everyone understands through my postings, just how far he has come in his recovery. It is clear to me that he not only understands everything that is going on around him, but also that he has a long struggle ahead. It seems at times that he gets very discouraged that he cannot do the things that he once could, but he is definitely on the road to making great advances.

Wednesday, Nick's therpist helped him walk with support to his wheelchair. They then went outside and he took 12 steps on the carport. This is a huge accomplishment. I have no doubt that he WILL walk again on his own. He has begun to mouth words and I believe that with training he will be able to make the sounds needed to verbalize.

My tasks when taking care of him have become a little less taxing since he is now able to help with his movement. He can move his legs and partially turn his body and lift his hips off of the bed. As I have said, these are all things that he could not do when he left the hospital. His eyes are now completely open and he winks and smiles often. He blows kisses at me and puckers when I go to kiss him. Last night I gave him a duck call and he made a few very faint calls. (just the blowing with his mouth is something new) Because he had the trach for so long, it took him a while to breathe well through his nose and mouth. The task of brushing his teeth is also much better. The therapists told us that there are many nerves in the mouth, throat and face that control all sorts of things like the tongue, lips and cheeks. Those areas usually take a long time to come back to normal. We are concentrating on swallowing now because as soon as he can get a strong swallow, he can begin to eat soft foods.

We are looking forward to the day when his feeding tube can be removed. Nick has put back on a lot of the weight he lost after the accident and seems to be hungry more often than before. Wouldn't it be great if he could have just a little sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving!!!

Our whole family is totally overwhelmed by the love and support all of you have given to us. We will probably never be able to repay you for your kindness. Rest assured that God is watching! Your efforts are appreciated! This accident has affected us profoundly. It has shaken our family, but made it stronger. I am speaking for myself when I say, "my admiration for all of you has grown and it has made me a more caring person.

Thank you to Cindy, Samantha and Emily Soileau and Lil'manda for the delicious food on Monday and to Calvin, Donna and Derek Touchet for Wednesday's meal. We enjoyed it tremendously!!!

My love and prayers are with you all,

Sondra