Day 120 to 126, Dec. 21-27

Day 120 to 126, Dec. 21-27

Merry Christmas everyone! We hope you all had a fun and safe holiday! 

Monday was an emotional challenge. Jeff had to go to the hospital for a follow up x-ray on his neck and then to an appointment with the Neuro surgeon at IMC. It was over an hour wait just to see him for about ten minutes! 

Of course Jeff fell asleep in the waiting room, there wasn't even a TV. Although his nap was only about five minutes long he woke up with horrible nerve pain, especially in the transition zone. 

The good news is that the surgeon feels the technique used to fix Jeff's neck was the preferable option and everything looks really good. The surgeon in Denver did a great job! Jeff has two rods and eight screws in his neck. 

The not so good news is a confirmation that Jeff isn't expected to improve as far as sensation or movement goes. Of course we've suspected as much because there hasn't been any improvements yet, but it was heart breaking for us all to have it confirmed. The surgeon says the goal is stasis and to prevent things from getting worse. 

You can imagine how devastating this news is for us, though we know miracles can still happen. We are really working on accepting God's will and pushing forward in faith. 

Tuesday was Jeff's birthday! He says, "It was just another day." His OT from TOSH went to their house again so it was nice they didn't have to go through the hassle of transportation. They made another finger brace to go on the left side this time. 

Wednesday was Cherie's birthday! We are so grateful to her for all she has sacrificed for our family. We know it's not easy for her or her little family. We love you Cherie! 

Jeff went to Neuroworx with Annette and Brandi. It was REALLY cold outside with biting wind so the transfers in and out of the truck seemed to take forever. One of the tie downs for Jeff's wheelchair broke and they only had three. Thankfully it's not too far from home and the three held without a problem. 

Zach later tore the broken tie down apart and reconstructed it so it would work properly. We are so thankful to have such skill in our family and are grateful for his time and help! 

Thursday, Christmas Eve! We have a tradition of cookie decorating, pizza, and presents every year. This year was no exception and so much fun to spend time with family! 

Before we did anything Brandi and her family opened a very special present. We are so excited for them! You'll have to read next week's blog to find out... Are they having a girl or a boy?? 

Dinner was awesome, the favorite being the vegetarian pizza. Jeff even used his knife to cut the second piece himself. 

A huge shout out to Brent for making the leg lifts for the kitchen table. They are perfect and Jeff can fit now. Thank you so much! 

Then it was cookie time. Annette's cookies have always been a favorite dessert after Christmas dinner! 

After the cookies were decorated we opened presents. Grandkids are waiting so patiently! 

Jeff got a new church shirt with a tie from Brandi's family, a paraffin wax warmer for Jeff's hands from Ryan's family, and a heated blanket from Cherie's family. 

Christmas morning on Friday brought on an awful cold for Jeff. He has a difficult time coughing because he can't get enough power behind them. Annette has to push on his chest to help each cough be more effective. 

They had a late breakfast of waffles, bacon, and hash browns with Ryan's family. The waffle maker Jeff and Annette got from Jay and Peggy works great! 

After some relaxation Annette and Julee changed out Jeff's suprapubic catheter to one without latex. The latex ones only last so long before they make his bladder angry and cause blisters on his skin. Until now we never knew he had a sensitivity to latex. 

Then it was time to go to Clifton and Joyce Green's house for Christmas dinner with Annette's family. We are so thankful for their loving service and enjoyed the time we got to spend with them! 

Dinner was amazing with turkey, funeral potatoes, yams, and salads. Later we enjoyed pie and sugar cookies for dessert. Thank you to everyone who pitched in! 

Christmas this year is bitter sweet. We are so grateful for the birth of our loving Savior and the opportunity we have to celebrate it. We have been so blessed to live in a country that allows us to practice our religion freely. We are grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives that helps us keep our trials in perspective. 

Our dad has suffered a great loss with being paralyzed, but he knows the eternal blessings of remaining faithful will make it all worth it. It's not always easy to see things so clearly and we appreciate everyone who comes to visit and helps give him distractions and reminders of why he's still here on the earth. 

This season has been especially trying for him. The slopes that used to call to him are now a sad thought in the back of his mind. He can't even stand the thought of being outside in the cold now with how badly his body responds to it. 

His entire existence is dependant on others. His interests are few and limited at this time. We look forward to finding new ways to get him back to his active lifestyle and back to his busy self. We'll need help with this though and pray that we'll be guided and directed to find activities he can enjoy and where he can spend time with old friends again. 

Saturday was a day to relax after all the craziness of the holiday celebrations. A day to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas with fewer distractions. 

On Sunday Jeff and Annette went to church. Starting next week their ward's services will begin at 9am. This used to be Jeff's favorite time to attend church, but now there's a little anxiety. It will be a challenge to get him up and ready, and Annette to get ready, and arrive on time. Practice and patience will get them there. 

After church Ryan's family joined Jeff, Annette, and Cherie's family for spaghetti dinner. Brandi's family stayed home sick. Jeff was struggling to get warm and the  only thing that helped was his new heated blanket. 

He can't use the blanket without supervision because he isn't able to tell how warm it is. If it were to get too hot he could become overheated or even burned without knowing it. 

Jeff spent some time in his standing chair after dinner. 

Jeff then got his hands dipped in his new paraffin wax warmer. Julee massaged his fingers after to help loosen them up more before Annette put them in the braces that straighten his fingers out. The heat really helped! Unfortunately the wax is scented a strong floral and the mitts that came with it are pink! Jeff didn't complain once though. 

We hope you all had a blessed Christmas! Thank you to everyone who provided our mom and dad with warm wishes, visits, treats, love, and friendship this past week. You all make more of a difference than you could possibly know! It is such a blessing to know that our mom and dad are in your thoughts and prayers and it brings us so much comfort. 

Day 113 to 119, Dec. 14-20

Day 113 to 119, Dec. 14-20

This week was an improvement from last week's fiasco. There were more positive moments, a tender mercy from our loving Father. 

On Monday Jeff went to Neuroworx. Julee was there to help load and unload. While she and Annette were getting Jeff out of the truck a woman backed into Julee's Explorer. 

Jeff saw the danger and said, "She's not going to stop, she's going to back into your car." At that point Annette and Julee paused to look up and sure enough, crunch! Thankfully the damage was to the front passenger side and little Tylee, in the back seat, slept through the whole thing. 

Annette and Julee went to the mall while Jeff worked with his therapist. They got back in time to see him in a standing chair. He looked very pale, was sweating, and had a very bad headache. The point was to see how long he could tolerate standing. It was so difficult to watch! 

Tuesday meant a trip to TOSH for occupational therapy. They made a new brace for Jeff's finger so he can use his phone and type on the computer at the same time if he wants. He can also put a stylus in it, though he prefers his finger. 

On Wednesday they missed therapy thanks to more bowel issues. They've had a heck of a time getting things regulated since being home. Jeff said, "Reality set in and it wasn't good!"

Thursday was better and Jeff made it to Neuroworx. He had a different therapist and liked doing new things. 

Friday was a crazy day. A workforce services auditor came for employee taxes. Thankfully Jeff is great at keeping records. New insulation was then added to the attic to help keep the house warmer. And Jeff's OT from TOSH came to do therapy at their house. They worked on making adjustments to Jeff's prosthetics.

On top of all of that the lift in the garage wasn't working so they couldn't get the standing chair inside for Jeff to use. 

Saturday was dominated by the Page family Christmas breakfast. We are so grateful to Jay and Peggy for hosting it every year and making it so special for all of us. The food was amazing as always! Thank you to everyone who pitched in, we are so thankful! 

After breakfast and visiting it was time to open presents. When all the grandkids and great grandkids were done opening their gifts (chosen by themselves, but paid for by Jay and Peggy), it was time for Jeff and Annette to open theirs.  All of Jeff's brothers and sisters got the same goody bag.

Tylee reached over and Jeff was able to hold her for a minute until she started moving too much. 

On Sunday Jeff and Annette went to church. Afterwards Jeff received a blessing from the bishopric and then he gave Annette a blessing. 

This is what Blake had to say about the meeting:

"Hey guys I just thought I would share with you a moment I would consider one of the best experiences I got to not only be a part of but see today. Your dad had asked the bishopric to give him a blessing cause of the problems he has been having with his bowels, which the bishopric happily did. The blessing was very spiritual and special for your dad by the end his emotions were gone. But after the bishop told your dad that he should give your mom a blessing in which your dad said he wouldn't be able to cause he was crying. The bishop told him they had all night and to take whatever time he needed. Your dad regrouped and was able to give your mom the sweetest blessing. I just wanted share that with you. Your dad is an amazing priesthood holder and we all were in tears when he was done. The smile he gave after was an expression to me how happy he was to be able to do it. They truly love eachother."

There is no doubt that our mom and dad love each other. It's what gets them through the hard days. We are so grateful their marriage has grown stronger through this trial. They have truly been blessed, even with every difficult moment they've had to live through the past few months. 

At this time we ask each of you to please pray for our mom and dad. It's been so difficult for them these past weeks. Self worth can be difficult to find when you depend on others for every aspect of your life. Finding purpose is important to dispel these bad thoughts. 

Please pray with us that our dad will continue to grow stronger to gain more of the independence he wants so badly. Also that he will recognize his purpose and know his self worth. 

Our Father has a plan for him and for our family. We've already learned so much from our dad and are grateful that he can see the blessings despite the struggles. Every day has frustration, but also reminders of how loved we are and that our Father is aware of us. 

Days 106 to 112, Dec 7-13

Days 106 to 112, Dec 7-13

This week was difficult and challenging in so many ways. Discouragement is too easy to find at times. It's difficult not to question how much more a person can take. When you feel like you've hit rock bottom and soon discover that several feet of the concrete beneath you has crumbled away and proves otherwise... It makes you wonder. 

Inspirational quotes can be offered by well meaning individuals, yet still cause a little bitterness. It can be difficult to appreciate their thoughts when you are still suffering at the end of the day. A quote that has been floating around comes to mind:

The promise of blessings to come can feel empty when every day is such a struggle. But when you stop and really think about the offered words, there's truth. And truth brings the clarity that allows you to step away from the battle of each day and remember what we've come here to do. 

This week Jeff said, "Sometimes I think it would have been better if I had just died in the crash. But then I wouldn't be here to learn what I'm supposed to learn." 

He teaches us so much just by those words alone! 

Our trials are to help us learn and grow. Why some people seem to have bigger trials than others is a question that could drive you crazy. It's immaterial if you really think about it. Only the Lord knows what we need to learn in this life to be exalted in the next. And that's where faith is required to help carry you through. 

It can be easy to lose sight of our purpose here. In those moments of truth and clarity hold on tight to the faith that got you this far. 

Monday was Jeff's first real session of occupational therapy at TOSH. Other than a hiccup with Annette, Julee, and the wheelchair rack, the morning went well. After arriving at TOSH Jeff got a neck/headache for the first time in almost a month. He didn't feel well at all. 

Despite that, they were able to accomplish a lot with Jeff's new therapist, Kasey. With a really cool type of plastic they were able to create a stylus holder that slides onto Jeff's finger. It has a tab that Jeff can use to pull it on and off with his teeth. OT is all about finding independence. 

That night their good friends Brent and Janet came. They brought Chinese food for dinner and ate with them. Janet helped Annette put some Christmas gifts together. It was great for Jeff and Annette to spend time with them! 

Tuesday started with the blues and Jeff wasn't really himself. It's difficult to always stay positive as he struggles to come to terms with everything that's happened. His limitations make him feel like a burden and his slow progress does nothing to bolster his self confidence. 

After a stop to his shop to fix the wheelchair rack from yesterday's mishap he had his first real physical therapy session at Neuroworx. Annette and Julee were there to cheer him on. 

The therapist pushed him to his limit and then some. He was shaking and in pain by the end of the session. This might sound like a bad thing, but it did a lot to lift his spirits as he was able to accomplish each task they gave him. He seemed more himself on the way home. 

On Wednesday Jeff, Annette, and Roxanne went to a funeral in Alpine. It was bitter sweet to see that side of the family again under those circumstances. Our love and prayers go out for Uncle Leroy and his family as they cope with their loss! 

On Thursday Jeff and Annette had an appointment at the dermatologist before therapy and Brandi went with them. Everything looked good and they were off. After a quick lunch on the go they made it to Neuroworx for more PT. 

Annette and Brandi dropped him off and then made a run to Kohl's where they found him new church pants, church sweaters, and workout pants. Nothing he used to wear fits how he needs now. 

On Friday Jeff's occupational therapist from TOSH actually went to his house for therapy. This allows them to work in Jeff's home environment and work on real life scenarios and concerns. Annette went to work and Cherie stayed with Jeff during the day. 

Jeff didn't feel well all day and has been struggling the past two weeks with his bowels. It's difficult finding the exact recipe needed to keep things moving properly when you are no longer able to use the routine you followed for the past 50+ years. 

Unfortunately the problem led to an ER visit. We are so grateful to Roxanne for being there to help! The good news is an x-ray confirmed that there was no bowel obstruction. The not so good news involved a day of GoLYTELY. Anyone who has prepped for a colonoscopy knows how awful this process is! 

Saturday was spent doing the wonderful colon cleanse that we hope will be the start to a more regular system from now on. Poor Jeff learned that his insides have significantly slowed down based on the differences between this time and the last time when he really did go in for a colonoscopy. 

The medicine wasn't giving the expected results at all. He would drink it until he was too full and then had to wait as more room was slowly made. It was frustrating and greatly prolonged the process. 

Jeff and Annette missed their ward Christmas party because of all the excitement. We are so grateful to their ward for thinking of them and bringing dinner! 

And we are grateful to Annette's friends for inviting her out for an afternoon of fun. It was a much needed distraction and she really enjoyed it! 

On Sunday Jeff and Annette went to church for the first time since being home. Jeff only complained of how sleepy he was and that he almost fell asleep in every meeting. Other than that they really enjoyed their time at church. We are so grateful for such a loving and supportive ward family! 

It was a rush to get home and start spaghetti before the rest of the family arrived. We are hoping as things become more habit and less of a struggle that it won't be so time consuming to get in and out of the truck. 

Right now every day is a battle. It's difficult for us, as Jeff's family, to see him struggling so much. It's hard to see how worn down Annette gets with being his main caregiver. All in all they are both exceeding expectations, even if they can't see it. 

We are grateful for their faith and strength to get up each morning resolved to accomplish the goals they have set. Before leaving IMC one of the therapists told Jeff that no matter how he might be feeling he had to get out of bed every day.   

With Annette's help he not only gets out of bed each day, but also showers on the designated days, goes to all of his appointments, and continues to do the book work for his shop. 

It's not easy. Nothing is easy anymore. But that doesn't stop them from doing it. 

We are grateful for all of the love and support everyone has given to Jeff and Annette as they continue on this journey. It makes all the difference in the world! We ask for your continued prayers for their health and strength that they may press forward in this trial and also see the progress they are making each day. 

Days 99 to 105

Days 99 to 105

This week has been pretty good. It's still stressful trying to adjust to all the changes, but a sense of normalcy is beginning to appear. The challenges Jeff and Annette face are still overwhelming at times, but they are holding up well and keeping the faith.

Jeff's physical restrictions are his biggest complaint. He wants so badly to do things himself, but is very limited by his condition. Thankfully he is able to communicate his needs to others. This takes the word patience to an entirely different level for him. Every time he feels frustrated it's tempered by his gratitude that whoever is helping him is there, willing, and able to carry out his instructions.

Annette has found strength, literally, in her new role as Jeff's caretaker. Physically demanding to the extreme at times, she resorts to creative solutions to get the job done. We are so grateful her health has held up and allowed her to do everything she has been called to do. 

For each day of the week we will give a brief update of important events. Please let us know if we miss something that should be added. We would love to recognize everyone who helps us through this journey and this blog allows us to do that. 

Day 99, Monday Nov.  30

Jeff, Annette, and Brandi went to Neuroworx for the first time today. It was a day of orientation where they learned how things usually work and they were able to ask questions. Next week the real work will begin. Jeff will eventually be going to Neuroworx three times a week for physical therapy and we can't wait to see the progress that he makes! 

Day 100, Tuesday Dec. 1

Today was pretty busy and included a field trip to Heber to buy used tires and wheels for Jeff's truck. On the way back they stopped in Lindon to buy a used standing wheelchair. This allows Jeff to passively put weight on his muscles and joints which helps to keep them healthy and happy. 

His goal is to use the chair to stand for at least two hours each day, but it will take time to build up to that. Right now he still struggles to maintain his blood pressure when standing. He can only stand for short periods of time and then needs to sit so his body behaves. Passing out is a definite possibility with how low it drops. 

Day 101, Wednesday Dec. 2 

Today was dominated by orientation at TOSH where Jeff will be having his occupational therapy every week. Again, we are excited to see what they have in store for him and what progress he makes. 

Day 102, Thursday Dec.  3

Jeff spent today at home. Terren and Randy came and modified the lift in the garage so it works better for Jeff. His power chair didn't fit very well before and now it's not quite so tight. In other words, his toes don't get squished anymore when he goes in and out of the house. 

Annette was finally able to take the truck back to American Fork to the Ken Garf Ford so they could do the warranty inspection. That means five years of not having to worry if something goes wrong with the truck. 

Annette was very stressed about getting the truck back from American Fork and driving in the dark tonight. Thankfully the Lord took a hand and everything fell into place. 

Ryan was in the area for work and was riding with his boss when Annette called. It worked out well for Ryan to drive Jeff's truck home so his boss could go straight home instead of having to go out of his way to drop Ryan off at their work building. This was a tender mercy to say the least! 

Day 103, Friday Dec. 4

Annette had to work today so Jeff stayed home with Cherie and Aliyah. It has been such a blessing to have them there! 

A lot happened today. First we want to recognize Kameron for installing the radon removal system downstairs. This has been a problem for a while that we are grateful to be done with. 

David Ewell modified the pivot point on the wheelchair rack so it makes it more sturdy. 

Randy and his electrician, Don, wired the radon removal system and also the hot water heater. Then they ran a dedicated line to the plug for the wheelchair lift in the garage. This will prevent it from popping the breaker every time it's used. Randy also installed a shower curtain in Jeff's new bathroom. 

In the evening Julee came and helped Annette change Jeff's suprapubic catheter. His body was reacting badly to the latex catheter they placed in the hospital and it was causing blisters on the skin and agitation in his bladder. 

Day 104, Saturday Dec. 5

Jeff went outside today to play in his manual wheelchair. It was finally warm enough for him to enjoy some sun without getting too cold. He made it down the street and back twice before he tired out too much. 

He also spent time in his standing wheelchair which he enjoyed. With such significant drops in his blood pressure his time standing is limited for safety reasons. 

Jeff was able to explain to Blake how to winterize the water feature in the back yard and the sprinkler system. Blake also changed the air filters for the heater and humidifier with Jeff's guidance. 

He said, "It was really frustrating I couldn't do it myself, but I am so glad Blake was there to do it." 

Day 105, Sunday Dec. 6

Today was spent relaxing, organizing, and preparing for the family to come for spaghetti dinner. After dinner we watched the LDS Christmas devotional on television as best we could with all the little kids running around and excited to be there together. 

This past week has been difficult, there's no way to sugar coat it. It's a storm of struggle, emotion, learning, and gratitude. Each day has proven to find new difficulty and new strength. We are leaning on the many tender mercies of our Father in heaven to make it through each day. Many of which are provided by the works of our family and friends! 

We are so grateful to everyone who has brought Jeff and Annette dinner (and goodies!) this past week. When simple, every day tasks take ten times longer to do than usual, time seems to run out very quickly. Having a meal waiting for when they are finally ready to eat is such a blessing! 

Jeff says, "I am so grateful for all the help we get and everything everyone has done."