Baby Steps

Today it is back to work! I got into my customary army green scrubs and headed in to what I knew was going to be a very difficult day. Stephi is usually here in her army greens too, and it is very hard to look around at all of the work she would normally be doing and know she wasn't here. I keep praying that someday she will be back. She works with an extraordinary group of people...well...let's be honest, they are the ones who were with her when she got sick and got her the help she needed so that we can all have a second chance Stephanie! They wanted to say Hi to her and they will probably kill me for posting their faces on this blog. Sorry guys :)

What's new today?? Where do I start? She is eating. She ate cereal and eggs for breakfast, and grilled cheese and tomato soup for lunch. She still continues to need her liquids thickened for fear that she may aspirate - but at least they are finding things for her that have a little flavor. She needs some help with eating at times but is able to do most of it herself.

She walks and walks and walks!! She gets up to the bathroom and walks the halls in the neuro ICU (yes - actually outside of her room) with the UW staff. She still needs help with the left side but I have heard that she is able to do most of it on her own. If I know her as well as I think I do - she is probably fully anticipating being able to walk right out of there soon :) and maybe we shouldn't put it past her??

Here's the update for all you OB people. She had a full ultrasound today. Baby is growing great. Fetal heart tones are perfect, and no one is anticipating any problems. Hmmmmm - is this baby maybe a tough girl like her mommy?? We still don't know the sex it is just a guess :)

I called earlier today to finish filling out some medical leave paperwork for Stephi and she was able to tell us her social security number, birthdate, and kids birthdates. I was so excited that she was able to rattle that off so well. This is the girl who was probably not going to walk, talk, or eat ever again. Stephi you are amazing! Your doctor deserves a huge hug! Well - I don't know if I should hug him, but Stephi did tell me the other day that he smells very good. LOL.

OK OK I'll tell the story....the other day he came in to check on her. It was around 8pm. After he left she said "Is that the doctor that saved my life". We said "yes". She asked us "Is he gone" We told her "yes". She said "he smells sooooo good" "like Aqua Velva". LOL. I don't even know if she's ever smelled Aqua Velva but Im sure Jay will be wearing it by next week:) Just kidding Jay! We will have to get some for Dr. Zabel too since he's one of the first people she wanted to talk about. That would be a good gift huh Dr Zabel - new undershorts and some Aqua Velva?? LOL.

Once she is well enough - I am so going to get punched for telling that story (I hope it is with her left hand) :)

I was in a little bit of shock to hear that so many people have been following this blog. Wow- I got to work this morning and I had several people tell me how closely they have been watching it and their family's are watching it, and friends are watching it. This blog has even been added to our hospital's computer system. I feel some pressure now to check my spelling a little closer before I publish these blogs, and I will forewarn you that I am not the greatest writer, but I will try to keep you updated.

Take care - good night and keep fighting Stephi!