A New Week at Craig

The new week has brought much progress in Liz Ann’s world. She was able to get off oxygen Monday as her lungs are improving. The clots are under control so that she is able to spend increasing amounts of time in a wheelchair (up to 5-6 hours a day). Yesterday she got into a new chair which she can wheel herself around a bit in…a real big boost.

She has begun OT and PT and even some aerobic activity. She described the aerobic machine to me on Sunday as a “Nordic track for her arms.” She said it felt great to be on it. The weather has been sunny and beautiful so she gets outside each day. A volunteer went around and gave patients lemonade and homemade cookies on Sunday. Liz Ann was “cookied up” she said…and thought the gesture was sweet. Her appetite is returning and she’s been eating well.

Craig has been thoroughly investigating Liz Ann’s injuries. She’ll have a bunch more MRI’s of her back and knee this afternoon (now that the swelling has gone down). Next week she will have a conference with her doctor and staff to discuss a detailed diagnosis and plan.

She began the morning sharing a meditation with her brother John. They met with the staff psychologist who’s been there 30-35 years…Dr. Les (short for Dr. Lester Butt). He is very hip and super likeable. Glenn arrived today and will be with her through the weekend. Malcolm is returning to have lunch with Liz Ann today. He’s bringing Vijay to meet Liz Ann. Vijay is a climber who’s spinal injury is at the same vertebrae as Liz Ann. He will attempt El Cap next month (paralyzed from the chest down).

John and Liz Ann are making friends with other patients and their families…amazing stories…and a supportive community.
- Amber Jean