Good Bye Beth Israel, Hello Braintree Rehab

Hello there,

We have wonderful news to share with you today. Tomorrow, Wednesday, July 23rd, Barry is being transferred to the Braintree Rehabilitation Center. Since being off the ventilator five days ago, Barry has made great progress. We were originally told that he would need rehab to have to learn how to walk again, feed himself, dress himself, and fine tune his neurological functions.

He is now walking on his own without assistance, feeding himself, took a shower today without assistance, and as some of you that have heard from him can witness, he is quite able to dial his own cell phone. As much as I love my husband, and had hoped for the day to hear his voice again, I personally can’t wait for his cell phone to die!!!

Today, they also did testing to determine their next course of action on his damaged descending aorta. We were originally told that he may need further surgery to repair this. We were told today that it may be controlled for the time being with medication. The surgeon will be calling me in the a.m. to give me an update on this condition.

When Barry learned of the possibility of going to a rehab facility instead of home he was quite upset. After having his first session of occupational therapy he soon realized the extent of his injury and is now receptive and anxious to begin his road to recovery. First stop on his road to recovery "my wifely duties", second; playing his drums, and of course "The Wonder of it All".

He will be in the Braintree rehab for approximately one month receiving both physical therapy and occupational therapy to fine tune his neurological functions as well as his fine motor skills. His total recovery period should be approximately three months.

While visiting Barry at the hospital I have read to him the many cards, e-mails, and responses on the blog. He is in awe at the outpouring of support from all of you and sends his thanks to you all.

I would like to thank the nursing staff at the Beth Israel; Claire in the ER, Jillian, Jenna, Karen, Rodrigo, Jason, James, Caroline, Dawn, Donna in the CVICU, Ena, Tymone, Ellen, Amy, Anna, Micheline, Jim, on the 6th floor in the Farr Bldng, and those of you whose names I can’t recall. There were so many of you. I would like to send a special thanks to my buddy Frank, Margie, and Jackie who were especially there for me during my darkest moments.

To Doctor Sentil Nathan (sp?), Doctor Kabbazh, and the surgical team at Beth Israel, my heartfelt thanks. Barry is here today because of the miracles you performed. You truly saved Barry’s life.

To the Doctors and nursing staff in the Brockton ER, thank you for never giving up in your quest to diagnose Barry’s condition. He is here because of your expertise and quick response in a critical situation.

As one door closes, another door opens. I am looking forward to meeting the many new faces who will assist Barry in regaining his strength on his road to recovery.

Lisa