Day 69, Saturday October 31

Day 69, Saturday October 31

Happy Halloween!! 

The first part of today was pretty typical. Annette coming for breakfast, therapy, lunch, etc. He still didn't feel very well today and his arms were pretty fuzzy and uncomfortable. 

They especially worked on transfers from his wheelchair into the new truck today with Annette's help. The first few times were really good, but when they tried again later they ran into some trouble. What they learned is that if Jeff puts his chin on Annette's shoulder during the transfer it wrenches his neck wrong. He has to put his forehead against her chest instead to prevent this. Trial and error...

Here is the new truck! We are all pretty impressed by it. The inside is also really nice. 

The power chair raises up to help with transfers of different heights, but the truck seat is still a few inches taller when the power chair is at its highest. 

Jeff and Annette figuring out how to program the radio to stations they like. 

Annette positioning the slide board for the transfer. 

Each step they have to be aware of how his legs are positioned so they don't get injured during the transfer. 

Counting to three and rocking back and forth to gain momentum for the move. 

After his neck was tweaked wrong they readjusted for attempt number two. 

He made it! We never knew how strong Annette was until now, way to go mom! They are now discussing what went wrong during the transfer and how they can fix it for the next time. 

You might wonder why they spend so much time working on transfers to and from the wheelchair. A lot of his therapy seems to be repetitive in this area. Whether it be a bed, a chair, the shower chair, or a vehicle, transferring is a huge risk for Jeff. The potential for injury is extremely high and practice makes perfect. One of the stipulations for Jeff going home is that he can perform safe transfers no matter what the circumstance. 

In the afternoon Jeff and Annette's family came. Brandi, Ryan, Cherie, their spouses, and their children. It was a lot of bodies in such a small place, but it was great to all be together again. 

Grandpa and Tylee. Her onesie says, "Don't scare me! I poop easily!" She had a fever of 102° F when this picture was taken, a nasty side effect of teething. 

Grandpa and Aliyah. This little lady bug is always quick to smile, even when she doesn't feel very good! 

Kaisy as Elsa, Talon as Leonardo, Sierra as Ana, Jaxon as a shadow, Aliyah as a lady bug, and Brandi as Olaf.

Tylee and Aliyah have both been sick with fevers and other non specific symptoms. It was wonderful to have grandpa be able to help give them a blessing today. Our family is so blessed to have worthy priesthood holders and we are so grateful for all the amazing men in our family! 

The rest of the evening was relaxed at the hospital. While the grandkids went trick or treating, grandma and grandpa watched a movie. And grandma took a selfie! 

At home, Brandon Page installed the sink and countertops in the bathroom today. It looks great and we want to thank him and recognize him and his team for their hard work! A picture will soon be posted. 

We look forward to the next holiday being at home with Jeff and Annette. Even though we got to see them today, we missed having them with us for the rest of the festivities. We hope you all had a safe and fun Halloween night!