The testing shall conclude....

I got a very nice treat yesterday - I got to talk to our girl on the phone! When I called, her RA told her she had a phone call, but Jamie didn't want to come to the phone (this was at almost 9:00 p.m.).  I told the RA to tell her it was Ryan and me, which she did, and Jamie took the phone. :) She sounded tired, and told me that she had been napping and that I had kind of woken her up.  Oops. She did cheer up through the conversation, and we were able to talk about her day and how everything went.  One thing that really struck me was that she said she was really happy to be home.  I was confused, and worried that she was confused about where she was.  To me, "home" for Jamie is San Carlos.  She went on to say that it is exhausting being at the clinic all day, because all they do is test her to see what she can and can't do.  It hit me that she was referring to her apartment in Bakersfield as home.  That was a bit trippy.  I love that she feels like her apartment is her home - that she isn't in a hospital and feels comfortable being there. 

We have gotten a mailing address, and one of Jamie's chores is to check the mail each day.  I know she would love some mail! If you would like to send her something, please address it to: 

Jamie Morris
2500 Gosford Road, #111

Bakersfield, CA  93309

 

We have learned throughout the evaluation process over the last two weeks that Jamie does have some sensation issues on the left side.  She can't really feel hot/cold in the left leg, and there is diminished sensation overall in the left leg.  We think this contributes some to her unsteady gait.  Speaking of said unsteady gait, Jamie has been cleared to walk without the walker while in her own apartment and the clinic.  However, she will still need it out in public and on outings.  

 

CNS is incredible about providing outings and activities for the residents.  Jamie has already been mini-golfing, gone to an arcade, and is scheduled to go to a street fair tonight.  There is an event virtually every night, and Jamie has been interested in signing up and participating.  The first week and half, J's emotions were pretty up and down, and she had a few rough days.  The last couple of days have been much better - she is smiling and having a better time at the clinic while doing her testing, and is just more upbeat about it all.  Kathy wrote down a few of Jamie's one-liners over the past few days, and they are a good insight into how Jamie is doing.  

Words from Jamie

 

I try not to think so much, but sometimes my head, whoa, thinks a lot.

 

I wish my friends were here. The friends I left behind are still going to be my friends. It was kind-of hard to leave but it feels worth it.

Things I'm thankful for:  being alive, breathing, taking classes.

What I'm learning:  I've learned how strong I am. I have to remind myself, "You can do this. It's hard, but it's worth it."

When I have a hard day Legolas gets the brunt of it. Poor guy. But I'm nice to him when I don't have clinic.

My hand is kind-of demented these days. But it looks better - not so blue.  

I'm too stubborn to give up.

and the best one of all...

 

It's hard to remember that it's not my plan. I have to remember God has a plan for me. I don't need to worry because He'll figure out the future for me.

 

 

Our girl has come such a long way! So proud of you Jamie! 

 

Once her evaluations are done (Friday) her entire team will meet and construct a future plan of therapies and treatment.  We are so impressed with out thorough and detailed CNS - they seem to have it all covered.  We hope to get the report and info on Jamie's plan early next week.  Please be praying to guide the therapists and doctors to come up with a plan that is great for Jamie - one that she can handle and that encourages her to continue working hard at getting better.  

love, Us.