Texting... A Good Thing (8.29.08)

I’m old, so my friends are old, too. At least we are from a teen’s perspective. (Sorry friends).

My ‘old’ friends and I don’t completely understand this whole instant messaging and texting world. We’ve all said to our kids and other young people, “why don’t you just call the person?” as their thumbs and fingers fly over keys the size of atoms.

The response… that blank look that silently screams, “Duh! You’re so old.”

And, then the ‘old’ parent gets the cell phone bill and, after picking oneself off the floor, not-so-silently screams back, “How in blue-blazes did you send 2,321 text messages last month?! Do you realize that’s 86 messages a day! What were you talking about?? No wonder you ‘didn’t have time’ to finish your science project or send a thank you to grandma!”

The response… that blank look that silently screams, “Duh! You’re so old.”

Well, last night sitting by Sam’s bed, I couldn’t have been more excited to see a teen texting! Sam’s thumbs and fingers were flying across the tiny keys and the buzzing of responses just kept coming. For a minute there, I thought Sam had put a quarter in a ‘magic fingers’ bed. (Sorry teens, only the ‘old’ people will get that reference and we’re not going to let you in on the secret!).

Here’s what this very ‘normal’ teen activity signaled to me:

1. Both of Sam’s hands were working and working in sync. You may recall in our early posts how Sam’s right arm and hand weren’t responding to commands. Then, the excitement we felt when he unscrewed a water bottle. NOW he is typing with both hands! TYPING!!

2. He was typing fast which told me that he was translating thoughts to intention to action. And he was doing so without hesitation! WOW. Just three weeks ago he was in a coma. Yesterday he was purposeful in his mental, behavioral and physical actions.

3. He’s able to reconnect personally with his friends. We know it’s been hard on Sam’s friends because they have not be able to talk on the phone, email or visit Sam. And, it’s been hard on Sam, I’m certain. Now they’re getting back in touch with one another. That’s got to be some very good ‘medicine’ for all of them.

I didn’t ask, but I’m pretty sure the text conversations went something like this:

Friend, “What’s up?”

Sam, “Nothing”

Friend, “Cool”

Sam, “What’s up?”

Friend, “Not much”

Sam, “BRB”

Friend, “K”

Sam, “Back”

Friend, “What r u doing?”

Sam, “Watching TV with one of my very cool aunts!”

Again, I don’t know if that was the conversation but if it was, what a symphony! I could watch his fingers flying & listen to those vibrations all day!

Truth be told, we stayed up a bit too late; I didn’t want to make Sam stop texting because it was time for bed. (Can you imagine him texting his friends, “my aunt says I have to go to bed now”? I just couldn’t do that to him.)

But, after a couple times of coming in Sam's room, the nurse got a little unhappy with me because he was still up. So we wrapped it up about 11:30pm. I think next time I’ll just smuggle in a little flashlight so the nurse doesn’t know what he’s doing under the covers after the lights are out!

-- Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

P.S. Stef, sorry about all those text messages on your cell phone bill.

Wednesday, what a busy and tiring day!

It's Wednesday night and Sam is quietly sleeping as I write.  He was up at 8:14 to get ready for his outing with the guys, two other teenagers that are here on the floor; oh and two counselors to chaperone.  Just the guys heading off to play arcade games and bowl a game or two.  I heard from his nurse that he had a great time but he also had a bit of sensory overload, plus he walked the whole morning, yes I wrote walked.  Isn't that exciting.  They got back about 1230 and after he ate lunch he was whisked off to physical, occupational, speech, and art therapies from 1:00 to 4:30.  I could barely keep him awake to eat his dinner.  He is doing well.  He did a collage in art that he put the phrase Discovery the Possibilities on it and I think he is doing just that.  I tell him daily he is my hero. I'm sure he doesn't understand just how much his spirit and the faith he has inside of him fought to stay alive, to wake up. and to keep going everyday.  He smiles and laughs at me and it makes me melt. 
 
Two of his leaders from church visited last night and sat with Sam.  He was excited to hear they were coming and enjoyed seeing familiar and loving faces.  Thank you guys for sharing God's word and your time with Sam.  I know the spiritual uplift was needed.
 
Keep us in your prayers as we are keeping you too.  Please pray for the other kids here, so many have illnesses that will linger for a very long time and I am reminded how precious the gift of Sam's healing and recovery are. 
 
God bless you all.
 
Stephanie

Sam-I-Am (Tuesday 8.26.08)

Who doesn’t love Dr. Seuss?  I remember reading Dr. Seuss to the kids when they were young.  Now, all of a sudden, Cameron and Amanda (my daughter) are college students, Sam’s a high school freshman, and nephew Alex is closing in fast.   Indeed, all the Nelson kids (from Stef’s side of the family) and all the extended families’ kids are growing so fast.  Yours too, I’m certain. 

 

Where does the time go?

 

Fast forward to Sunday night when I arrived at the hospital and I found Sam, our Sam.   The original, the one-and-only Sam Huntting.  There he was all snuggled up in his new baseball quilt with the center embroidery proclaiming:  “Sam I Am” (many thanks to Jackie Bennett for this beautiful gift!).    There he was, our very own Sam-I-Am. 

 

Now, how do I explain what I mean???  Hmmm… let me try.

 

In the past three-plus weeks, we’ve watched Sam go from crisis, to coma, to deep sleep, to waking up but very agitated, to confused and unbalanced, to now.  Since arriving at Emanuel he is talking more, doing more, laughing and smiling more.  But, Sunday night it was different.  It was as though he was ‘back’.  He was present.  He was and is.

 

Early on in this journey, Cameron, Amanda and I read Shel Silverstein’s poem, “A Light in the Attic” (from the book with the same name), to each other and to Sam.  And the family talked about how the poem seemed to fit.   While he laid motionless we could see that the light was on inside but it just couldn’t shine through yet. 

 

Now, his light is shining, glowing, bursting forth.  In his eyes and behind his eyes, you can see the original, the one-and-only Sam.  Sure, his journey is still long with doubtless ups-and-downs and frustrations to work through.   They’ll be times to make up for, emotions to feel, and time to heal. 

 

Yet, we’re prepared, even, for times when we don’t see Sam in the deepness of his eyes.  But, we know, without hesitation, that he will be more than okay; he will be Sam again.

 

How can we be so sure?  Well, there’s faith, family and friends.  There’s determination, devotion and discipline.  We know that Sam, our very own Sam-I-Am, will be back in full.   And, for further confirmation, there’s always Dr. Seuss in his last book about a boy and his struggles.   As we read in “Oh, the Places You’ll Go”…

 

"Will you succeed? Yes, you will indeed. (98 3/4% guaranteed.)"

 

Thanks for keeping on with us,

Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

 

Sunday Day Update

Sorry I'm a day late.  Yesterday seems like a blur.  Sundays are a day off from therapy so Sam got to sleep in and eat breakfast when he got up.  He took a bit of a nap and then we went down to the outdoor Children's Garden.  Sam's cousins visited him for the first time and the garden was a good place to go and not feel like we're in a hospital room.  Sam tired after half an hour or maybe it was the teenage girls giggling (no insult intended).  It was good to get him out of the room, walk a bit, and relax. 
 
Sam has a full day of therapies scheduled today and then a neuro appointment this afternoon with possibly a CT scan also.  This will indicate how his brain is doing and give the doctors a better idea of how long we will be "visiting" this fine establishment.  Sam has been having headaches towards the end of the days but then his head has been through a lot and is put through more with his therapies.  He is much steadier on his feet and is using his right arm quite a bit more especially when I remind him to use it. 
 
He laughs more usually at me but that's okay it is so good to see him smile. 
 
God bless everyone, keep us in your prayers, and have a great Monday.
 
Mom (Stephanie)    

Saturday is Pizza day!

If it isn't, then it should be. I heard a rumor that Sam wanted pepperoni pizza for dinner. It took a little longer than anticipated for me find HotLips Pizza over near the Concordia campus and make it to the hospital, Dinner was underway, but the half eaten hamburger was soon cast aside.

In other breaking news, yesterday Grammy and Papa took Sam to the children's garden. For now, long trips like that require a wheelchair. Sam can walk, but is still wobbly and tires easily. On the way back, Papa asked Sam if he wanted to drive the chair himself. That was definitely a hit! Apparently it is good to be in charge. Physical therapy has been good, (medicine balls are really medicine?) but getting to drive the chair is better. Rumor has it that they took the long way back, exploring every hall available, and in the description of the trip, I'm pretty sure I heard the word "zipping."

After dinner I read him some of the blog comments. Sam's attention span is still pretty short (I'm sure it has nothing to do with the uncle being boring) but he did seem interested in the comments reporting on what is going on in the world and with friends. I'm not sure I'd try a long recital of everything that has happened in the last three weeks, but a few short "news items" from friends might be good.

As always, prayers, sleep, time and whatever else it takes to heal a brain (sorry Sam, I think that means physical therapy) are what Sam really needs.

-- Patton

Clearing Skies, Thursday Morning Update (8.21.08)

The forecast for clearing skies and warmer temperatures couldn't be more appreciated. While each new day renews our faith and hope for a return of 'the old Sam', the unseasonably dark, rainy and cold days casts a slight pale over the small hospital room.

Sam's first day of therapy left him quite tired. When I asked last night, he said it was a good day; and staying true to his characteristic manner of being 'a man of few words', that's all I learned about the day. Both yesterday and today he has numerous sessions of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, activities of daily living, and more. Being a high school student, I don't know what kind of occupational therapy he receives but I know we'll learn more about all this as Stef and Cameron have the opportunity to blog. Their days are quite full as you can well imagine.

Sam slept well last night and woke about 7:15am relatively refreshed. We still get up a couple times at night but mercifully he's been able to go right back to sleep. He devoured his Grammy's special apple sauce this morning even before breakfast arrived. This morning's omelet and ham meal seemed to be hitting the spot. Cameron was by his brother's side and encouraging him on, being Sam's loyal cheerleader, as I left for work.

I'm not sure that our daily blogs will show as many momentous daily changes and improvements as the first two weeks did, but I hope you will continue this journey with Sam and his entire family. These next several weeks of rehab are critical to Sam's entire future. Your continued prayers, cheerleading, support, and posted comments keep us energized and 'connected' to the rest of the world.

With abundant gratitude, Dart (Karylinn)

Wednesday Morning (8.20.08)

Just a quick report on our first night at Emanuel…

Although Stephanie’s optimism is always greatly appreciated and admired, her posting of Tuesday about anticipating ‘falling to sleep early’ missed the mark by a mile. (Sorry Stef!). They had to change his bed from one he can get out of on his own, to a ‘tent-like’ bed that zips all the way around. This didn’t happen until quite late last night. Fortunately, Grammy & PaPa were still at their daily post and kept Sam entertained until the switch could happen.

This ‘tent bed’ is important because we no longer have 24/7 sitters as was provided at DCH, so this bed ensures that Sam cannot get out in the middle of the night. With room for only one of us to stay the night with him, Cameron or I need to be able to also get some sleep without worrying that Sam will wake and try to get out of bed on his own.

Anyway, it was late when Sam got to bed and then it took a long time to fall asleep. But, he slept soundly until the nurse woke us about 4am for a bathroom break and again at 6am for meds, blood draw, and another trip to the loo. Then we got to snuggle in a bit more until getting up about 9am. After breakfast, Sam and Stef were off to his first of several therapy appointments today.

Sam is enjoying the cards and well-wishes, so now is a GREAT time to drop him a note or card. The address is:

Sam Huntting

Legacy Emanuel Children’s Hospital

2801 N Gantenbein Ave, Room 3507
Portland, OR 97227-1623

More later from the Sam-Team!

Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

Arrival...

What a busy day. After waiting an extra hour we checked out of Doernbecher and Sam was put into his horse drawn carriage (actually an ambulance) along with is trusty servant in waiting (actually Cameron) and whisked off to Emanuel Children's Hospital. After in-processing, a tour of the PT area, meet and greets with various members of Sam's team, and a long awaited shower Sam is resting quietly and will probably fall asleep early.

He starts his daily routine tomorrow and actually started today if you count when his PT had/made him walk a quarter of the way back to his room after our tour. Pray for Sam's strength and Cameron and my patience. After diligently watching, holding Sam's hand, and taking care of him I see we will be backing off a bit so the doctors, nurses, and therapists (of which there are many, I think eight or nine) can take over Sam's recovery in ways I know I couldn't.

Cameron and I are off to see the Phantom of the Opera tonight. Everyone take care and God bless.

Sam had a great day today.  He and I ate breakfast sitting together, he in a rocking chair.  With help from the CMA and me to keep his balance he got out of bed, walked to the chair, and sat with me.  Today was exciting for many reasons, the MOST EXCITING AND IMPORTANT is Sam is being released to Legacy Emanuel Rehabilitation tomorrow, yes tomorrow at 1030 a.m.  Also Sam was evaluated by an Occupational Therapist this morning and we found out he is seeing double which is not unusual after a head injury.  He also showed Sam the front of a folder with writing on it and had Sam read it.  I wasn't sure if he would be able to read and hadn't tried it.  That was also exciting.  Oh, I almost forgot the staples were taken out of the incision in his head.  I can tell that his brain is less swollen and where the bone plate was removed.  The doctor told us not be concerned if the area took on a concave look to it and it does which is good and he looks wonderful.
 
All in all Sam has done as much healing as he can here at OSHU and Doernbecher and we are starting on to the next phase of this unplanned part of our lives.  He is glad to be leaving he hospital and will be able to wear his own clothes and be a pretty regimented schedule for the next four to six weeks.  
 
As always, keep us in your prayers and God bless you all.
 
Stephanie    

Monday morning - August 18th

Last night was eventually joyfully uneventful. But, before we could get to serenity, Sam really struggled to get settled in. When the days are long and Sam hasn’t had enough napping, the nights can be rather rough. Stephanie also clued in to the fact that having the TV on probably provides more stimulation than Sam needs at this time, even if he isn’t watching it. Just the noise and the flicker of lights in the background can be too much.

Sam took his evening meds and then was able to get comfortable. He slept the entire night and only woke when the nurse had to give him his medicine or take vitals. And, then he went right back to sleep. This morning the doctor said that his vitals have been solidly stable for a few days now, so they are going to quit taking those. One more move forward.

With the CNA in the room all night, Cameron and I were able to sleep on the two day-beds in Sam’s room. We only got up when Sam was awake so it made for a mostly restful night.

I’m sure Stephanie and/or Cameron will update this blog later, especially given that they’ll be seeing the doctor later today. I just wanted to give a quick report so that you all know that everything is going well.

Dart (Karylinn)

Temperature Conversion

If you don't want to do the math to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit in your head . . .

Degrees C	Degrees F
36.5	97.7
37.0	98.6
37.5	99.5
38.0	100.4
38.5	101.3
39.0	102.2
39.5	103.1
40.0	104
40.5	104.9

Sunday Afternoon Excitement

Hi all - The last 24 hours have been awesome.  Sam seems to be improving in leaps and bounds at least to me, his mom.  It's the small things that I notice and am so very happy about.  When he is asked where he is and he says the hospital whereas yesterday it was China or his grandfather's living room; watching him hold his water bottle with his left hand and open it with his right when yesterday (yes just yesterday) he could not hold onto objects let alone turn open the top of a water bottle with a straw in it. You can tell his thought process is getting increasingly better each day also.  This morning Sam asked his grandmother why he was in the hospital and she told him because he was in a car accident.  He answered back, "Yes, but give me another reason".  Her reply was so he could get stronger.  He didn't seem to think an accident was enough to have him here. 
 
I don't know why God's power amazes me but it does and I have been given the wondrous opportunity to see Him in action.  As I share these notes of progress I want to remind all that read this blog that Sam does not realize what he can't do, so when I see him progressing and improving I try not to make too much of it.  I silently praise God and feel His presence surrounding us and truly know we are not alone and we could not be doing this without God's gracious love.  
 
Sam still gets frustrated and agitated when he has trouble doing a task he knows he has done in the past and doesn't know why he can't do it now, and when you try to help him he pushes you away and tells you to stop, "I can do it".  The nights are harder for him as he is tired from the activities of the day.
 
His friends Stefani and Erika and Erika's mom Debbie left a little while ago and they had a good visit.  Sam is asleep now and looks like an angel but we all know he is a bit sassy, stubborn, and independent all qualities that have helped him progress so well.
 
Our family thanks all of you who have sent words of encouragement and love.  When Sam is feeling better we will be reading all the blogs and comments.  I know they will help him in the recovery process.
 
God bless, Stephanie
 
 

Saturday update from Friday night (8.16.08) - Now at Doernbechers

Late last night (Friday), a bed opened up at Doernbecher Children's Hospital (DCH) and we moved Sam over there about 10:30pm. He had been medicated shortly before the transfer so he slept through the process which was good. DCH is co-located with OHSU so it was a simple walk across the sky bridge to his new room.

Although we already miss the amazing staff at the ICU, DCH is much more comfortable for all involved. In addition to Sam's very nice bed, there are 2 daybeds, a rocking chair, two side chairs, and a large full-service bathroom for Sam and the family's use. They also provide 24/7 sitting service by CNAs (certified nursing assistants). There's a family lounge, playroom and great outdoor courtyard. They even have a family laundry room and a Starbucks! What more could we ask for?!

So, my first all-night shift at DCH was almost comfortable. Because of the CNA, I was able to catch a few hours of sleep between Sam's waking up. And, with Cameron 'off duty' for the weekend, it was nice to have the CNA there to help with Sam.

Sam goes from being very active and agitated, to being calm and serene, to sleeping. He gets very restless (who wouldn't after all those days in bed!) and struggles to get comfortable. He also wants to get up and move around. We walked across the bedroom numerous times last night. He's strong but not able to stand or walk on his own; he is not fully coordinated and it could take some time before that gets better.

He has to wear a soft helmet whenever he leaves his bed and he doesn't like that much. He was able to use the bed controls last night to raise and lower the head and the foot sections. And, he was able to operate the TV controls. He used all the controls several times!

Sam has great recall of things before the accident such as Michael Phelps the gold medal winning swimmer; going to South Africa on safari last month; the weekend activities prior to the accident; what school he goes to; and other things. His short-term, immediate memory is less solid. Of course, we'll know more about the longer-term impact of the brain injury after the doctors from Legacy Emanuel Hospital evaluate Sam more thoroughly.

For those who want to send cards, please wait until we know when he will be moved to Legacy Emanuel Hospital just in case the cards don't arrive before he leaves DCH. He will be at Emanuel 4 to 6 weeks - at least that's the prediction at this time. So, we'd love to fill his room with well wishes once he settles in. Check this blog as we will post when it's a good time to send cards, and ultimately for short visits.

It's a gorgeous day; please get some sun on your skin, let out a hearty laugh, and tell someone you love them. That's the best 'gift' you can give Sam and his entire family today.

Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

Quick Update Saturday 16

Hey everyone, sorry that it has been a while since our last update but alot has gone on recently. Sam, as of now, has been moved out of the ICU at OHSU and moved into the pediatric ward at Doernbecher's Children's Hospital. He will stay there for a couple of days until some doctors from Emmanuel Legacy come over to evaluate Sam for their pediatric rehabilitation program/ward over there. After he is evaluated he should be moved over to Emmanuel to start his rehabilitation. At that point me and my mom would move to the Ronald McDonald house over there.

Thank you everyone so much for the support and prayers that you have given my family and I. This is really a great example of how it has worked and this has definitely shown my family and I the power of prayer and of the christian faith and body.

By the way this is Cameron. I will be home this weekend for the weekend so if you have anything that you want me to give to Sam, I can. I know that you are all anxious to see him but as of now I have not talked to my mom about having people come and visit Sam. But I am pretty sure that we want to wait until we have a date that we are switching hospitals and/or he continues to make a steady recovery but as always I or any other member of this blog will let you know on what we are thinking that would be the best for Sam.

As always thank you so much

In God We Trust>>>Cameron Huntting
--
Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

Friday Afternoon

When I arrived this afternoon, Sam was having some sherbet (orange, I think) and decided that he wanted to feed himself. He was able to do so, and spilled just a little. Then he worked at getting comfortable. As we heard before, this can be quite a process, head to the top of the bed, head to the bottom, wants to stand up, wants to get in the chair, lay down again. Sam's nurse said that he has had several bursts of energy like this, each one followed by several hours of sleep.

As I understand the current plan, it is to get Sam out of ICU and transferred to Dornbecher's as soon as a bed is available. In a few days, another transfer to Emanuel. More info (or perhaps a correction) when available.

But for now, as of a few minutes ago, Sam, his night nurse and Stephanie are going for a walk to get a change of scenery. Sam's not actually walking. He's riding. But he seems very pleased to be getting out for a little while. Perhaps they'll go see the tram station which is in this building.

More prayers are always good, perhaps a little thanksgiving added in!

-- Patton

Move over sadness...

.... Make room for happiness, joy & gratitude!

It's Thursday morning and Cameron and I just finished our "shift" and turned it over to Stephanie.

It was a very good night. Sam is talking a bit, has a sense of humor, and, through it all, remembers his "please" and "thank yous"!

He was quite impressed that there are over 2,000 hits on this blog; he gave a big thumbs up when he learned that all his nurses have been very cute; and he remembers going to the flugtag with Uncle Patton, cousin Amanda and me the day before the accident.

He continues to have trouble coordinating and performing commands with his right arm and hand, but all other extremities seem to be working well. He struggles quite a bit to get comfortable in bed but also doesn't complain about it.

He has enjoyed the "lollipops" of sprite and says "I love you"!

We ask for your prayers of thanksgiving for the progress that Sam has made and your continued prayers that the road ahead improves with each new day.

Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

Wednesday Day Shift Update

Hi all. Today started out good, got a little down (because of my being emotional) and then got great. Sam passed all the tests that Wes his Respiratory Therapist put him through before getting a thumbs up to come off the respirator. Thank you God. His food tube and sedatives were shut down and when the Trauma team came through they did an evaluation and it was decided to extubate Sam. Thank you God and Trauma team. Out came the feeding tube and out came the respirator tube, and just like that Sam was breathing on his own and had two less tubes and was also taken off the IV sedatives for good. He is still getting the pain meds. He was quite a bit groggy from the meds but Sarah his nurse felt he should sit up for a little while. He was moved into a hospital chair and seemed to be okay with it but still his grogginess from all the sedatives kept us from getting a good grip on what he was feeling or needed.

Okay, here's where my downward spiral came. Seeing him sitting in this chair, head to one side, and not talking scared me and made me doubt any future steps forward. I quickly packed my bag, told Sarah I was going to my room, and went to sleep almost immediately upon getting to the room. I slept three hours sleep with no interruptions until Cameron got a cell phone call, mmm was that you Jeff?

The great was when I went back to Sam's room. Sam looked so peaceful, no tubes in his mouth, no air into his nose. I saw the Sam we all know and I felt peace also. I talked to Sarah and she said that while I was gone Sam had said his last name when asked and had said Cameron's name. It was so exciting. As Sam started to stir awake I held his hand and just looked at him. When he opened his eyes I said hi and he looked at me and waved hi. As the night progressed he said his head hurt, yes, no. Mind you it takes good listening skills as his throat is probably quite sore from the tubes but the words could be heard. When Cameron asked him questions Sam answered with a nod, a thumbs up, and even once held his fingers showing "a little bit". Also, Sam kept point to his mouth so Jenn (his night nurse) asked if he was thirsty. He was given what looks like a lollipop but it is a sponge on the end of a stick. He like it and Jenn as if he wanted some Sprite and he said yes, please. He sucked on the Sprite lollipop a few times. I told him I loved him and he said I love you back to me. My heart melted with joy and hope. He got a little restless and when I asked him why he was touching and rubbed his head, he said it hurts, so Jenn gave him some pain meds and he drifted off to sleep.

How could I have had doubted. I was reminded that we cannot let even the smallest amount of doubt enter our minds.

Sam will continue to make baby steps forward and will need my/our faith, love, and spirit to help him through the ups and downs of recovery. Cameron has been a wonderful big brother and tonight I was reminded of just how close he and Sam are. I was with Sam for about 30 minutes before Cameron got to the room and he was pretty restless. Cameron came in and Sam settled down and all was good. We three were together and it is wonderful.

I thank you all for your prayers. My favorite song is God is An Awesome God, now more than ever I believe the words and have seen how He works for us even in this time of unknowns and having to take one day at a time. Today's one day was awesome.

Stephanie

Wednesday Morning Update

Well last night was a very eventful night but not as much as two nights ago. I am sorry that this will be brief but you will still get the update that you all really want. So anyways last night was full of up and down with Sam and his nurse Jenn rarely got a moment to herself and it seemed that Sam really did want all of the attention that he could get. He came really close, a couple of times, to removing his own ventilator tube which could have turned out to be rather painful and these occurrences really did keep us more aware as we became more tired. As we have been saying the whole time his awareness and ability to fight the drugs is a really good sign but also might still be a little premature in relation to the readiness of his brain.

However, there is some good, well more GREAT news. Hopefully today, based on a couple of tests, Sam will be able to be removed from the ventilator. This will have him breathing on his own and remove, what I think, a large part of what is causing him stress at the moment, the ventilator tube. Just a little info, the tube that is helping him breath actually stretches from his teeth into his throat and stuff about 23 centimeters, now I don't quite know how many inches that is but it seems to be enough to annoy the heck out of the easy going person that Sam is.

While Sam being removed from the ventilator is great news, it does hinge on a couple of tests that will tell us how much CO2 is in his body. Now the less CO2 the better because what CO2 does is it dilates the veins in the brain which increases blood flow and also increases the amount of swelling that his brain does. The way that the CO2 levels stay low is based on how deep of breaths Sam takes and also how much CO2 he pushes out on the exhale, and these both are directly related. So, if all goes well and Sam is able to maintain his CO2 levels the doctors will probably see fit to take him off of the ventilator to breathe on his own.

Please pray this morning for God to strengthen Sam's lungs and will, so that he can be taken off of the ventilator.

And if this procedure were not to happen today it is possible that it would happen tomorrow, but why not have it happen today. Keep praying and your prayers and offers of support are really helping out my mom, Sam, and me. Thank you so so much and we will let you know tonight how today went.

In God We Trust>>>Cameron Huntting

--Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

Tuesday PM

Today has been more of the same. The nurses are working to ween Sam off of the meds that are keeping him down. The less medication, the more able he will be to breathe on his own. Right now he is regulating the rate of breathing, but the ventilator is providing extra air on each breath so that he gets enough. But as they reduce the meds, the more the vent tube bugs him and he tries to pull it out.

As I type this, Cameron and Jenn, Sam's terrific night nurse, have him sitting up in a chair with restraints loosened on his left hand. He squirms a bit, uses the left hand to push himself into a more comfortable position, scratches his chest a bit, then tugs at his neck brace -- "No Sam, you need that to protect your neck" -- hands down and then -- "Sam, let go of the tubes, you can't take that out . . .." Then repeat. Jenn says this is a part of recovery and is really good, just a little hard to watch. There is some hope of getting the vent tubes out tomorrow which may make him more comfortable.

For those who are wondering about what specifically you can pray for, you might try for Sam to stay calm, relaxed, and rest.

-- Patton

Tuesday morning brief update (Aug 12th)

This will be brief as both Cameron and I are really tired this morning.

Sam was quite active all night last night. His body is trying to wake up more fully but his brain needs more time to heal.

He continues to open his right eye and partially his left eye; he doesn't quite focus on anything or anyone yet but he seems to be looking out. He responded to several verbal instructions last night including raise your thumb (left side only; he hasn't been able to do it on his right side yet); give a peace sign; squeeze someone's hand; and shrug your shoulders. He also seemed to wiggle his left toes - at least I believe he did but am not sure the doctor would agree.

He is becoming increasingly curious about his situation which is evidenced by his reaching for tubes, neck brace and other things. When we tell him what the item is and that he can touch but not pull them, he is very good about it. He squirms quite a bit in an effort (it seems) to get comfortable.

As we continue our prayers, please remember to give thanks for progress that has been made. Sam is starting his 10th day in the hospital and he has come a long way. It's important to pause and remember that each day.

Dart/Karylinn

Sunday Night Monday Morning

Well tonight started off like anyother with the anticipation of being tired the while time and the distinct possability of nothing happening at all. Other than that we encountered the usuall ICP spikes with Sam's temp staying around where it should be.

Some excitement did take place when one of the many bags containing Sam's meds ran out and the machine it was attached to began to beep letting anyone within earshot know. It continued and as Tom had stepped out for a second the on duty RN came in and to tend to things. That seemed to be the end until the RN left and Tom came in and as he (Tom) and Dart were standing on either side of Sam's bed, Sam began to get quite restless and actually needed to be restrained and held down.

After moving quite a bit Sam opened his eyes and on command managed to wiggle his thumb again when prompted by Dart. And even squeezed anyone's hands with plenty of strength and I think he took a couple of nurses by surprise at how strong he actually is. At that point it seemed a good idea to Bolus Sam with more sedatives to calm him down because his ICPs spiked to about 28 but then made a quick drop to a little below 10 or so and everything kind of smoothed out from there. But it was really awesome for him to open his eyes and be able to listen to some one then perform the action required by them. But even though this is great the spike in his ICPs shows that his brain isn't ready for any significant kind of pressure required to operate while not sedated.

After just a bit we left the room because Sam required a bath, but from what I could tell it was only me that needed a bath 'cause Sam seems to be getting more than I ever have. It also seems that he is taking more baths than he ever did at home and he doesn't have to do anything, LUCKY! except the being in the hospital thing kind of sucks. After his bath we came back to his room and noticed the lights were all the way on and his ICP was staying at 5. Tom thinks it is due to Sam not being/wearing the Arctic Suite Cooling Unit and as long as his temp stays where it is (37.0) he won't have to wear it. This is a big deal because the Arctic Suite is like wearing a nearly ice cold wet suit that is constantly wet where it is making contact with you skin but not anywhere else on your body and it is also coated with some sticky stuff on the inside that makes it stick to your skin and causes quite a bit of discomfort. And that is one of the reasons Sam's ICP was so high while he was wearing it.

Here are some quickly formulated notes from last night:

2:15am- ICP staying between 5 and 7 Temp at 36.8, no body suit no cold blanket and everything looks good.
2:50am- Tom and 2 others moved Sam and he woke up and on command he opened his right eye and almost his left and wiggled his thumb too. Tom feels Sam is regulating his temperature more on his own. Sam has really been working at waking up most of the night.
4:50am- Sam stirred and opened his eyes, kicked off the PT boot on his left foot. Squirmed, opened right eye and mostly opened left eye. ICP got to 30. No shivering since removal of Arctic Suit.

So, as you can tell Sam is very determined to wake up whether he is being sedated or not. This is a good sign as the doctors think that Sam is over the hardest part of this but his brain still can't take the pressure right now. Yet, even though it can this is a good sign, and we know that this could be a dance of 2 steps forward and 1 step back we will eventually get to the end and that is okay cause we know that Sam is gonna pull through. We have also begun to tell him he is in the hospital, when he wakes up, but that there is family there with them because when he wakes up he seems a little unsure of where he is and maybe a little scared. That is the main reason that there is always a family member in the room with him just in case.

Well everyone that is this morning's update and I am tired and need to go to bed, but keep praying because it is helping and you can never pray to much for anything. So, do whatever it is you do to think of Sam, light candles, pray for him, think of him or anything it is all helping and will continue to help into the future.
Thank you and Good Night (maybe a little cliche but I am the one writing this section of the blog so get over it.)

In God We Trust>>>Cameron Huntting
--
Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

God bless you all and Sam update!

Hi to all our friends God bless you and thank you.  Your prayers and words of support and encouragement have meant so much to everyone holding down the fort here at OHSU.  God's presence and love you can be felt when entering Sam's room.  Many times I have gone into it with a heavy heart, I have started praying, and feel His presence and your prayers surrounding me.  Sam is a wonderful young man and son of God and I know he is being cradled in God's arms as he heals.  
 
A quick update:  Sam's ICPs have been between 8 and 11 tonight, even as low as 5 and 6.  They have only gone up when he has been moved or fussed with like having his teeth brushed or when the nurses wax put on his braces this afternoon (thank you Amanda).  A CT this morning showed that the swelling has gone down, the brain contusion is smaller, and the spaces that should be open or have fluid in them do.  His neurosurgeon told me this was a good CT and feels we are past the crisis.  Now we need to continue getting the swelling down, wean Sam off of the respirator and IV meds, out of ICU and into a ward, and further down the road rehab. 
 
Many of you that know me know that I'm quite the planner, probably from all those years in the military.   I like to have everything just right so the project runs smoothly, either a vacation and even Sam's potential rehab.  It has taken this tragedy for me to see that I truly have to take things one day at a time, that I cannot plan or predict the future, and that I have no control over so many things in life.  Yes, I admit I was even planning in my head his rehab and we don't even know what he will need, but I was already figuring out who, what, etc.  Only God knows what is in store for our precious son and as for me I will have to start each day with the simple joy and happiness I feel to see Sam alive and peaceful even with all tubes, IV lines, and machinery.  
 
Thank you all for your words of love, support, encouragement, and even wisdom.  Without God's love and your prayers, well life would be so empty and right now I am filled with love and peace.
 
Stephanie

Picture Change

The new picture in the Blog sidebar is the one that is printed out and hanging on the glass door of his ICU room. We thought it should be where it is too. But we like this one (Sam and the Elephant if you didn't look closely) So I though I'd post it here so's not to get lost.

If you have not been on today, don't forget the update below.











-- Patton

Sunday afternoon (8.10.08) update from Aunt Dart

We've been asked to post a quick update each morning as Cameron and I leave the hospital and Stephanie arrives. We hear that folks sign on in the morning to see how the night went. It's good to hear the feedback as to what folks want and need to know, so we'll do at least a quick morning update before going to bed.

Last night (Saturday night) and up to this point today have remained status quo for the most part. They were able to get Sam's temperature down to under 37 last night and keep it that way. Sadly, the way they do it is by having Sam in a body suit (think wet suit that goes from just above the knees to just below his chest) that circulates cold (water?) continuously. We all feel so bad for Sam because it's just so cold, but necessary. We've asked that they keep socks on his feet and that makes us feel a bit better.

His ICP (inter cranial pressure) hoovered in the mid-teens most of last night except when they were tending to him (coughing him, moving him, injecting potassium into his tube, etc) at which time it'd go up to the mid to high 20s. We learned today that a 'normal' range for any of us is 5 to 15; with the higher number occuring when any of us are particularly agitated, angry or upset. So, his range mostly falls in the 'normal' numbers. Having a context for the numbers is helpful

Sam's nurse last night, Adia, was amazing. Well, actually they've all been beyond amazing. They work around us (we have two chairs in this very large but very crowded room, one on either side of Sam) without complaint. When we get in their way, they apologize to us. We've been told by the staff that our family is wonderful to work with and very easy to deal with. That is often not the case, as we can all imagine.

Adia kept talking to Cameron and I all night giving us information and answering questions. We're a curious bunch and want to know about all the tubes, numbers, graphs, medicines, protocol, etc and they are very willing to teach us. She also wanted to know about Sam; most of the staff does.

We have a great picture of Sam from our recent trip to South Africa posted on his glass door along with a poster that tells about him. Staff stop and look at the picture. It all makes Sam a person they can know while also treating the patient.

Yesterday and today (Sat & Sunday), Stephanie's sister Sue and neice Jennifer, along with baby Jordan, have taken Steph away from the hospital for a couple hours to get a break. Yesterday it was for lunch and to go the the McHouse (as the family calls it - the Ronald McDonald house) to do laundry and hang out. Today they went and saw the movie Mama Mia. Stephanie says the brief outings help her feel refreshed when she gets back to the hospital.

The family is holding up well given the situation; we're tired, sad and worried but we feel your prayers, thoughts and positive thoughts coming our way. We have established a routine where everyone is able to do what they can and Sam continues to always have a family member bedside or just down the hall.

Look for another update either later tonight from Cameron (who's able to blog from the hospital) or Monday morning after we change shifts.

Dart (Karylinn)

Saturday 9th

This morning Sam's was improved with Temp as low as 37.0. They were able to get him out of his ice blankets and off of the paralytic drugs.

Later in the day, his temp was up again and it looked like his central line had the beginning of an infection. The central line is where all of his meds come together and are injected through one tube that is stitched into his chest. A quick count a few minutes ago looks like they have about 5 bags hanging and injecting various things. I'm sure that number changes from time to time. At any rate, a quick culture confirmed that the line needed to be moved / replaced; apparently quite the operation since every tube going in was replaced as well.

As of right now, he is getting some antibiotics and is back in his cooling suit. Temp was 38.2, and ICP about 20 though it has been hovering in the mid teens most of the day.

Here is my own personal, non medical, observation I had earlier today. I was trying not to scratch the itch where some of my scabs are coming off, noticing the color change in the airbag bruise on my forearm and stewing about why Sam was holding stable but not improving as fast as I would prefer. It occurred to me then that if my forearm was still bruised, and the brain is made of more fragile stuff, why would I expect him to heal any faster than me? I know that my arm is a poor comparison to Sam's brain, but it is a reminder that these things take time.

As with every day, your prayers, positive thoughts and meditations are gratefully received, appreciated and felt.

-- Patton

Where are you praying from? Please comment

Dear Friends and Family,

We have heard that prayers and thoughts of healing are coming from many parts of the globe. Please help us know who you are and where you praying from.

Post your comment with: Name, city, state and/or country.

Feel free to pass along this blog address to your loved ones so that the circle keeps growing.

Thanks, Sam's family

Thursday/Friday Morning Update

Well last night seemed to be the longest night, not because of any emergency type things but just because Dart and I were both rather tired and we stayed up all night again. It seems that we are the unofficial 'All Night Shift' for the vigils for Sam. Sam would often 'wake' up due to a little coughing and start taking breaths for himself, not being totally forced into his lungs, and then one of the nurses would come in and press the 'Auto Correct' button that gets Sam's breathing back on track with the machine. It just seemed like it was a bunch of that and his temperature and ICPs jumping around, he really seemed to keep the night nurses busy and in constant awareness.

Last night has become pretty much a blur in that all of the nights have seemed to blend together. I think that in Sam's case that might be good because he isn't being rushed off for emergency surgeries or anything like that. Early last night he had two ice blankets put on him, one under him to lay on and one over him like a regular blanket. He was given some more meds to lower both his ICPs and his temp to numbers that the nurses and the rest of the staff would like to see. The blankets were taken off of him at around 3am because his temp had fallen to about 37 degrees celsius, about 98.6 degrees fahrenheit.

It was just a night of constant moving on ours and nurses' parts just trying to keep Sam comfortable. Early this morning there was talk of Sam going in for another CT scan, although his nurse thought that it would be a waste because she didn't think that he had made enough progress in a few hours to warrant jostling him about to see the Sam results as the last test. When the doctors came on their rounds this morning right before shift change she told them what she thought and they were kind of reluctant to listen but ended up listening because they knew that she had been with him all night and she probably knew what she was talking about more than they did. This morning they did result to putting Sam in an actual drug induced coma, as he was just heavily sedated before, so that his ICPs and other vitals would stay down. In this coma Sam was also given a muscle and bone like, movement blocker to keep him from moving his limbs which will also keep his pulse down. I know it sucks but this is the best thing for Sam right now and since this is not about us but about him it is okay because it will help him get better.

We were also told that there is a possibility that Sam has pneumonia mainly due to the fact that he is intubated and on a ventilator, and it is also a common thing with head injury patients. So, from this we can take that pretty much everything that is happening/ going on with Sam is common with patients with such extensive head injuries as him. Although this is not what we want to hear it does kind of ease our dismay because it has been prepared for and expected by the nurses. All we can do on the sidelines is keep praying and be there for each other because that is what Sam would want from us. So, Just Keep Praying.

In God We Trust>>>Cameron Huntting
--
Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

Thursday P.M.

After this morning's turn of events, today has been calm. Sam's inter cranial pressure remains high, but not as extreme as overnight. He is also running a fever and is in cooling blankets and pads to bring that down. The doctors have instructed that we should not talk in the room or touch Sam. Though he is sedated he still needs his sleep cycles and they want to avoid stimulation to his brain. Sam is no longer in a "drug induced coma" he is just "heavily sedated."

Stephanie, Cameron and the rest of the family are holding up well and appreciate the support.

-- Patton

Thursday morning update 8.7.08 from Aunt Dart

Well, Cameron and I just finished the 'night shift' and hopefully Cam is fast asleep already. Since Steph & Cam are staying at the Ronald McDonald house right next to OHSU, they have been able to get quickly between Sam's bedside and their own beds and showers.

We had quite a scare last night when they had to do emergency surgery on Sam. But, we prayed and meditated while the doctors and nurses worked on Sam. By the time the 'day' and 'evening' family shifts went home around midnight, Sam was resting comfortably and the crisis was adverted.

We found that we had to remind ourselves that the doctors had said it would likely get worse before it got better. Cameron and I were just talking that maybe we inadvertantly made the shift in Sam's condition so much harder on ourselves because he had been doing so well and we kind of forgot the prediction of the doctors.

From 14 years work in disaster response and crisis counseling, I know all that intellectually... But, it's just so different when it's our own loved ones.

As far as how we're all getting along: It's working out that Stephanie is arriving in the morning before 6:30am as that is when the nurings and medical staff shift change happens and the doctors make their rounds. Grammy, Papa, Sue, Stacy, Brad, Patton & Amanda (and others in different configurations) come as soon as they can in the afternoon and evening and stay as late as they can. Stephanie heads for bed in the mid to late evening and that's when Cameron & I settle in for the quiet of the 'night shift'. Then, when Cameron collects his mom from the RM house in the morning, he and I head our separate ways to climb in our beds. And, then we do it again. It seems to be working out well as it allows everyone time with Sam, time to be together, and time to sleep.

Speaking of sleep, I'm signing off. I know more will be posted later today.
Thank you for your continued posts, prayers and positive energy!
Aunt Dart (Karylinn)

Sam's out of surgery

So, sam is out of surgery and doing well. They were able to get him into surgery really quickly. The procedure consisted of removing the left side of his skull to allow the brain to continue to swell without being impeded by the skull and also to decrease the pressure. Just about 10 minutes ago he was wheeled by us out of surgery to his room and stuff to get hooked back up. The Surgeon's Nurse in the OR came by and asked us if we believe in God and of course we immediately said yes and she said that it was back in God's hands again but that she thinks that he will make a good recovery and even though he is not out of the woods yet that they are confident that he will get better.

And about 3 minutes ago he was again wheeled by us again to be taken down for another cat scan but he anesthesist said that he did really well while in surgery and his vitals were really rock solid but although he isn't out of the woods, the doctor is sure that he is gonna do very well.

Keep praying cause it really is helping, and we were told that it may have to get worse before it gets better and we hope that this is as bad as it gets and he will just get better.

Pray pray pray

In God We Trust>>>Cameron Huntting
--
Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

Setback

Today started out a good day. After last nights news, we also learned that Sam was "overbreathing" his respirator. This means that the machine was set to give him 12 breaths a minute but he was taking more breaths than that. Today he was regulating his own breathing entirely and the respirator was just helping him take full breaths. There was talk of weening him off of it.

This afternoon, less than an hour before the time of this post, one of the nurses checked his eyes and discovered his right pupil dilated. This means movement / swelling in his left brain. Sam was taken for an immediate cat scan and as I write is going down for surgery. The initial report is that this incident has been caught very early. None the less, those who have been sending prayers, thank you and please continue. Those who have not yet, now is a good time to start.

Another post this evening when we know more.

-- Patton

Tuesday August 5 update

Hey all of you that are praying for Sam's speedy recovery, this is Cameron, Sam's brother, just in case you didn't know. I have never ever been really good at writing stuff online as interesting as some people cause I am more of a hard facts kind of guy. So, here is how today went while I was here.

This morning started as anyother had before and it was just gonna be another day of waiting around to wait for Sam's condition, although stable, to improve to another level that he can get closer to being on his own. Probably the most important thing that I had been constantly monitoring and the screen full of numbers was the ICP reading. The ICP is the Inner Cranial Pressure, which means how hard Sam's brain is pushing against his skull and the lower the number the better. And Sam's ICP had been staying very steadily around the 5 area and gone up to about the lower teens when he was being moved and when there really was anything going on with him. But this morning his ICP had been very low about 1-2 and even dipping down into the negative numbers, I even got the chance to be the comic relief and I said, "Maybe his brain is actually imploding instead of getting bigger!" Although this was not the case, his brain was staying a steady zero which is what the negative numbers mean. We asked the nurse what this would mean with the treatment and stuff and she said that we would have to wait and see.

Around that after noon Aunt Dart, Uncle Patton, and Amanda showed up to take me down to my house to get some clothes and stuff for Sam for when he wakes up. As we were getting near to the where the crash happened my mom called my Aunt's cell phone just to give an update, she told me that the Neuro-Surgeons had decided to take out the ICP monitor/bolt that had been drilled into his skull. THIS IS A HUGE!!1 Because it shows that the doctors and nurses think that Sam is able to still function and not be on the brain pressure monitor because enough of the swelling has gone down that there is less of a threat to his brain. Is this by far the best and biggest step that Sam's body has taken recently and is a really good sign.

So, that is the recent news that is he is doing well and that we and mainly I still request that you leave and comments/question on here or FB if you have branched to his prayer group there. It just makes it easier for the time being that I don't have my phone ringing off the hook from calls and texts. Thanks everyone so much and your prayers ARE working.

Thanks, God Bless

In God We Trust >>> Cameron Huntting
--
Cameron Huntting (chunttin@uoregon.edu)

History Does Not Reveal Its Alternatives

The title of this post is something my dad says frequently. It also is a good reminder for me. While this post is not strictly about Sam's condition, I've discussed it with much of the family and the thought is that it might be as helpful for everyone else. (Update on Sam coming from Cameron, I promise)

Ever since I was laying, staring at the E.R. ceiling, I have been "what-if-ing." What if I'd been able to get the car stopped, what if I didn't swerve as much, what if I had been able to get the wheels to "bite" and steer out of impact, what if I could have done better . . ..

Today I was able to see the car and visit the crash site. I will not post pictures of the car nor the scene, it won't help. But I can tell you that seeing it has created for me a whole new set of "whatifs." Not the "good" kind of whatifs, where I imagine how the accident could have been avoided, but the "bad" kind, where I see the very real danger we were in and how it could have been worse.

Please know this, somehow, inexplicably, the cable barrier broke rather than going over the top of the car, the car stayed straight and did not end up upside down and we did not get thrown back in to our own lane of traffic or the oncoming lane. All were very real possibilities and I think that Sam and I were not alone in the car on Sunday. Could it have been better? Maybe. Could it have been worse? Definitely. History does not reveal its alternatives.

-- Patton

Sam's update; Tuesday 8/5 at 1:20am

This is Aunt Dart just back from the hospital. Family and family friends know me as Dart; the rest of my universe knows me as Karylin and as Patton's wife.

I'm just back from the hospital and it's about 1am on Tuesday. Patton did a really good job of describing the accident and his recollection has been completely consistent over time. How much more he will remember and when, according to the medical experts, is unknown.

FAQs:

1. We all know Sam does not like any fuss to be made over him and he doesn't like to be the center of attention. We'll, too bad. He is the center of the universe in his OHSU room! We're told he won't remember any of these first days so hopefully he won't feel embarrassed by all this 'fuss'.

2. Yes, we have his phone and his iPod. For those of you who were likely trying to reach him by text and phone, the battery was dead by the time I got it in my possession at the hospital and I had no way to charge it. Cameron has it now and will recharge it. BUT, we cannot use cell phones in the ICU unit where Sam is, so please continue to look to this blog to communicate with Sam.

3. He still doesn't like to have his ears cleaned by anyone! I remember that from when he was a baby. It seems to make him grumpy.

4. Everyone at the hospital agrees that he's a handsome young man!

5. The nurses have asked that people try to not call the ICU unit to check on Sam as it takes them away from tending to him. We are working on a system to have one or two family members as the primary contact for information. For now, look to this blog.

6. Sam totally loved the Flugtag on Saturday and decided his favorite 'flying craft' was either the Big Wheels or Space Balls; both of which took awards. He and Uncle Patton decided the we'd enter the competition when it comes back around in 2012.

Sam's family, including Aunt Sue & Uncle Bill; Aunt Stacy and Uncle Brad; Grammy & Papa;cousin Amanda; Grandma Cody; Aunt Sheri; and cousin Jennifer (My apologies if I missed anyone) have held vigil throughout the last 36 some hours. We are a STRONG family and highly "self managed" - those of you who know any of us will know what that means. Bottom-line, we do what needs to be done to get through tough times.

Anyway, after everyone left for some rest late Sunday night (Sam's first night in the hospitale), I spent the night with Sam in his room. He was resting and comfortable.

He squeezed my hand on command - OUCH - I was immediately reminded just how strong he is. He opened his eyes when instructed, and moved his legs and feet. I talked to him on and off throughout the night and when I'd mention some special family event or a memory of something we'd done, like the Lion just feet front him looking straight in Sam's eyes in Africa last month, his eyes seemed to flicker under his eyelids.

He knows that we're there; he can hear us. He knows that he's being held up in prayer and that he's got the best medical team possible. He knows that you are all thinking, praying and being with him in your thoughts.

Stephanie and Cameron are with him now and will stay with him throughout the night, Monday night into Tuesday morning. They are both hanging in there and are also touched beyond words at the love and prayers they can feel surrounding them.

As Uncle Patton said, please post your comments as we told Sam we will be reading them to him. We'll try to print and post them in his room. Feel free to send cards to; but hold off on sending flowers until we know if he can even have them in ICU.

Please understand that we all have a long road ahead and there will be many opportunities for everyone to show their love and concern.

This post, I'm certain, is a bit disjointed. My apologies. I wanted to post something before I went to bed for a few hours but I'm quite tired and my thoughts are all over the map. Please know that we are optimistic and hopeful for a great outcome.

We will add more to the blog on Tuesday.

Thanking you all for your love & prayers,
Aunt Dart aka Karylinn

August 3, 2008

This first post has some background, and something of a description of the accident. Don't expect long winded posts from me or anyone else here. But I thought a little more narrative in this first post might "set the scene."

Sam's brother and mom were in China; Cameron having earned the opportunity to play with his high school band in the Olympic village and some other venues in Beijing. This left Sam footloose and fancy free. Naturally we Echols (cousin, aunt, uncle) decided to invite Sam to visit with us for the weekend. Saturday, we spent the afternoon at the Red Bull Flugtag on the Portland waterfront. Later in the evening, we attended as the Portland Beavers baseball team trounced the Albuquerque Isotopes.

Sunday, we all slept in, had waffles for breakfast, and it was time to take Sam back home. Since the weather was clearing and warming, he and I hopped into the Miata and headed down the road. It was a pretty uneventful trip as far as we got. Plenty of Uncle Patton throwing out ideas for Sam's Flugtag team.

Here's the part where the story gets fuzzy for me. This is not a definitive rendition, not all I remember and there is so much that happened that I do not remember.

About 4 miles outside of Woodburn, I was driving in the fast lane with traffic. It was not very heavy traffic, but not light either, and the far left was overtaking slower cars. From my right, a brown 4 door merged suddenly into my lane and I swerved to avoid a collision. Unfortunately, the hard shoulder had gravel and soon I was down the bank into the soft gravel. Though I attempted to steer back up to the road surface, I could not get the tires to grip and we hit the cable barrier in the median. The next thing I remember there were firefighters on the scene, airbags had blown and there was lots of blood.

Since I am posting, you can probably tell that I am ok. I have some staples in my scalp, rug burn from the airbag, have lost a fair amount of blood and I am predicted sore for awhile. Unfortunately, since I had my own issues, I am probably not the best person to ask, but here is what I know so far, to be updated by those who know better.

Sam's injuries are more serious. The left side of his forehead hit something, we're not sure what. He has a laceration near his left eye and that entire area is swollen and bruised. He also has a fracture to his scull. Most seriously, he has trauma to his brain which has caused it to swell and there is a risk of more swelling. At the moment, he is sedated into a coma, breathing with the help of a ventilator and restrained so that he will not pull out his tubes. There are monitors to measure the pressure inside his scull and if it gets too high, surgery may be needed to relieve the pressure. Basically, it is wait and see for now.

While that sounds perfectly awful, and it is, there is some good news. First, Sam is young, strong and healthy. Second, the doctors periodically reduce the level of his sedation to see how he is doing. He has been able to respond to some voice requests, wiggle fingers and toes and his movements are described as purposeful and coordinated. (While I was there he tried to scratch himself on the chest a couple of times, too bad about that pillow in the way.) Third, Sam's brain pressure is on the lower end of the troublesome scale. All of these things are in his favor.

Also in his favor, as of this posting, mom and bro have arrived from china and the rest of the family is rallying to stay at his side. For those of you who would like to come visit, please don't! While Sam would surely appreciate your support, he is in ICU and they just plain won't let you in. I'm sure that Sam would not want you to make the trip and not be able to see him. However your prayers and well wishes are all appreciated.

-- Patton