Whew... we're back

We have been back since Tuesday. It was so good to see my sweet Ella Bean even though when we got home we just crashed. We have just been laying low around the house since then. As you know, I've had a little trouble with my left hand, but it continues to get stronger. In spite of that, it is very good to be home. So this week we have been taking it easy. My only problem is the weakness in my hand, mostly, fine motor skills are gone, and I have very little strength. in my fingers, and I still wear out easily. But, you know, there is literally a hole in my head now, so those seem minor for some reason. On the other hand, the one that works, Th surg. seems to have completely taken care of the epilepsy. Thank God. No really, "Thanks".

I was blessed to be surrounded by family while I was up there. So to All of you thank you so much. I think they got to see a whole new side of me. I'm not quite as reserved & politically correct as I usually am while under sedation or after surg. in general. So perhaps instead of "thanks I should say "sorry".
I know I provided endless stories. maybe we'll get to some of those later.

On the way home, we stopped at a McDonald's and a little girl sat next to me. It was hard enough for her mother not to stare, I felt bad for her. I don't think she'll ever eat another chicken nugget again. Maybe I did her a favor.

So the next step is Occupational Therapy. The surgeon says I should be able to get my hand back to the point that I can play guitar again. I'd say that's pretty good. It may take some time, but We'll get there.

So, that's the big news, here's the small stuff.
The hours after my post about BRG, and hours before I left for Cleveland, BRG decided I wasn't a good fit for them. So I'm back in the market. If you'd lift that up as well, that would be great.

Thanks guys,
Tony

Surgery update

Tony is doing really well. The surgery was done by noon. I spoke to the surgeon and he said that he was able to remove all of the lesion. He was concerned because Tony had significant weakness in his arm and hand.
But .... I just saw Tony and he is already getting strength back!! His arm is strong and his hand is gaining strength. Tony told me that he hugged his doctor when he realized that he was going to be okay.
We are overwhelmed with God's goodness and are excited to see what Tony's life will be like without seizures.
Thanks for praying,
Amanda

Surgery

I just entrusted Tony into to the hands of a very nice man who was to take him to surgery. Tony is in good spirits, due in part to a good time with his brother last night and also because he is excited to get this over with, we both are.
He is scheduled in the OR at 7:15. We cannot express how much everyone's kindness and prayers have encouraged us. Thank you.
Please continue to pray. I will post more news as I know it.

Amanda

T-2

Figured it's been too long. So here I sit at the trusty old PC, enjoying some cookies and beer (ah ah, don't judge), and recapping life.

So I guess I've managed to stay employed for 6 weeks or so.(BRG inc.) Good for me. It's felt good to be a productive member of society again. I do miss the lazy mornings, free time with the kid, breakfast w/Mom, Facebook, constantly doing dishes... never-mind scratch that last one.

Anyway, I've enjoyed the change of pace, but it's also been rough. I started up with the seizures again. Maybe 2 nights a week, 2-4 a night. I've missed a bit of work because of it, but they have been very understanding. Which leads me back to the title.

T-2 an counting. Tomorrow is my last day of work, before we leave in two days for Cleveland. I hope for the last time. I'm looking FWD: to getting this over-with. Long-story-short, Travel Wed., Testing Thurs., Surgery Fri. morning. After that, 3-5 day stay at the luxurious Cleveland Clinic., and then home for a while.

This time around, Ella is going to ride with us on the way up. I bet she'll like the place. She'll have a good time at the hotel, and there's stuff to do in the hospital. Plus, family will be there. She'll have a good time. I'm not sure exactly when, but she'll head home with Doug and Linda.

BTW, I' starting a "How much further?" pool if anybody wants in.
$1 per 15min. time slot.
50% - 1st HMF
30% - 1st Melt down
20% - last HMF before she falls asleep

For whatever reason, this trip seems to have the least drama surrounding it. We just feel sort of calm about the whole thing. It's kinda good, it's kinda eerie. I was telling Amanda I don't really have any doubt about this trip, but I'm not optimistic either. Weird huh. This has been a year+ in the works, and now I'm just sorta, "whatever, we'll see."

Oy, look at me. I'm all Vechlempt. Pray amongst ya selves. I'll give you a topic. (travel, safety, surgery, calm, peace, recovery, success, Dr., family, hospital stay)

Tony