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)