Ross to 12/4/03

Thank you to everyone who has so generously

donated to the Dillon Family Fund. Rusty, Betsy, Ariel and Liz have asked me to extend their appreciation to each and every one of you. Gifts to the Dillon Family Fund are used by the Dillon family to help Ross.

Donations are now tax deductible.

If you're not in the Boston area but would like to be a part of the video and can send a taped message, Mel said they'll be happy to add it. Contact her first, though, so they'll know to expect your greeting.

Please note: This information comes from Ross's family. It is based on my understanding of what I'm told. I apologize if I have misinterpreted any of the facts given to me, and will try to keep everything as factual as possible. If you have any comments or questions, please write to me at kate@katedouglas.com.

December 4, 2003 9:45 PM--Just a brief note to let you know that Ross had a good day, slept a lot (They wore him out yesterday!) and had a good session on the tilt table. I'll be gone until Sunday, so will fill you in on how he's doing then.Yesterday marked 18 months since Ross was injured. He's come so far, yet still has a long way to go. In the meantime, please keep Ross and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers, and thank you so much for your support and good wishes.

December 3, 2003 8:15 PM--We all know how competative cyclists can be, but Ross's latest is proof that even a life-threatening injury can't dampen that spirit. One of the most difficult therapies Ross has is to lie on his stomach and hold his head up. His mom said he hates doing it. His best time was two minutes, thirty-five seconds, followed by a forty-five second lift. That was five days ago. His dad decided to put the timer where Ross could see it. Today, he held his head up for four minutes and eleven seconds, took a brief rest and then held it up for four minutes and thirteen seconds. He's dealing with goals now, and it's obvious he's focusing his energy on beating them, but Betsy said he is very defintely watching the timer. If there's any doubt about his cognitive abilities, that should lay them to rest.

He's doing well in all his various therapies, from focusing on "yes" and "no" cards on command to his time on the tilt table. His advances are coming at a greater rate, now, and it's really exciting for me to call Betsy for the evening report.

I want to thank all of you again for your very kind notes, especially those you've posted to the guestbook. Ross's parents read all of those to him, and they are much appreciated. Take care and be safe.

December 1, 2003 8:15 PM--Betsy said Ross did great today. He had an excellent physical therapy on the mat this morning. The therapist worked with him rolling from side to side. She would begin the movement by directing his head and arms, but he completed it. They did this for almost an hour. Betsy said he's able to move his head and arms in the direction he needs to go, but doesn't have the strength in his legs yet to move them as well.

Every night when I call, the news seems better and better, but he still has such a long way to go. Please remember Ross in your prayers. Your support means so much to the family, and we all know it's a huge part of Ross's recovery.

November 30, 2003 8:30 PM--Ross had a good day. When I called, he'd been resting, but Betsy said he is scanning really well now (as opposed to just tracking) which means he is following movements independently within his range.

Rusty had him curling his left arm up and they also had him on the tilt table for a really good session. He consistently follows instructions, and appears very much in tune with the world around him.

It's as if the things that were new to Ross just a short time ago are now expected actions and movements. He's come so far, and continues to do well. I want to thank all of you once more for your continuing support of Ross and his loved ones. It's been a long haul, but also a most exciting time to see him doing so well.

November 29, 2003 8:20 PM--Just talked to Betsy. Their guests have gone and the house is quiet again, but they had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ross had a quiet day today and rested a lot. His family went out and got their Christmas tree and they're getting ready to decorate it tonight. I imagine Ross will be really interested in the whole process.

Betsy said they decided to change is feeding tube tonight. Usually they have to be replaced every two weeks because stomach acids degrade them, but this one has been in place for a month. When Ross's nurse removed it, it was still in excellent condition, proof that the diet he's on now has reduced the excessive acids he was producing. There was not sign of degradation in the valve at all.

I'm going to be switching to a new page on December 1, as this one is really getting slow to load because of the size of the file. Hopefully all the links will work and you won't have a problem finding the new updates. I hope everyone has had a safe and fulfilling Thanksgiving. If you're traveling, please drive safely, and thank you, all of you, for your wonderful support of Ross and his loved ones.

"... I woke up thinking about Ross sitting in the living room with the men last night. Joe, his god father, was sitting with him and talking about things they had done together in the past. Ross was looking at him the whole time. Later, Joe started looking places up in the atlas, including Fiji, New Zealand and Australia and Ross looked at the maps intently. I firmly believe that Ross understands a lot and will tell us about all these months when he is again able to talk."

November 28, 2003 7:30 PM--Doug and I were in Boston all week with our son and daughter-in-law, but I did receive a couple of updates via email from Betsy, which I'm posting below:

Daily e-mails are good idea. I am already forgetting yesterday. It was an awesome day. Ross had two physical therapy sessions-in the morning he was rolled from side to side. Ross seemed to enjoy being in the other bedroom and on a double bed--we need to do it several times a week. The PT was very pleased with his response and the pelvic exercises Jeremiah and Lisa have been doing with him showed.

Then he had another physical therapy session in the evening-very good session on the tilt table and deep tissue work on his arms. Jeremy discovered fibrotic tissue in the underarm area that is restricting his ability to move his arm. There are exercises we can do for this and the enzymes will help a lot.

People should know how much their suggestions have helped us. So many of the effective things we are doing to help Ross have come from ideas that Ross's supporters have offered.

This was another good day. Ross yelled during the night--not pain, but we don't know what it was about. It was rather prolonged, a few seconds. Apparently, the first time was while he was asleep and the second time, he was awake. It woke the caregiver up.

This morning, we put him on his stomach for almost 25 minutes. There were five or six of us at different times. Rusty, Jeremiah, his wife, Ariel, our friend Patricia and I. He held his head up for 2 minutes, 35 seconds and the next longest time was 45 seconds. After we told him we were finished and to rest, he raised his head and with none of the usual support, held his head up for 35 seconds. We are keeping the timer where he can see the time, and it seems to make a difference to him.

He did well on the tilt table, and then did well in speech, even though he was tired. We put him back in bed at 2 PM to nap, he falls asleep around 3:45 and then we have to get him up by 4:15 for speech. He worked hard for 1 hour in speech, but seemed exhausted afterward. After, being fed, at 6 he perked up, had a bath in the tub, which he really likes, and then was awake until after ten.

Tomorrow we will put him on his stomach first thing in the morning, but will not get him up on the tilt table because of preparation for nearly 20 dinner guests. He is working so hard, that the rest will be good. Also, he will be in his chair a lot. Since he has eaten pudding two days this week, we will probably try pumpkin pie tomorrow.

I talked to Betsy tonight and asked her if Ross got to have his pumpkin pie, but she said he was so tired from all the activities of Thanksgiving day and the many guests (22 besides Ross) that they decided to wait for a better time for him to try it. Betsy said he is definitely recognizing people and he was very aware of Katie the minute she arrived for the celebration.

My husband and I celebrated the holiday in Boston with our daughter, son-in-law, grandson, son, new daughter-in-law and her family, as well as some very special friends. The one thing we all were aware of is how very much we have to be thankful for. Sometimes it's easy to forget to count our blessings--after this very special week with family and friends, and especially after reading Betsy's reports on Ross's amazing progress over the past few weeks, I am feeling very blessed indeed. Thank you, all of you, for your faith in Ross's recovery, and thank you, too, for your prayers and your steadfast support. Please, everyone, be safe this holiday season.

As Jeremiah and Eleanor were taking Ross to bathe, they called me to come look. He had raised his left arm and was holding on to the lift above his head where the sling attached. This was brand new and is definitely functional movement.

November 23, 2003 8:00 PM--I talked to both Ross's parents tonight. Rusty said he had a great session on the tilt table. We talked a bit about the logistics of dealing with someone with Ross's severe limitations. Just getting him up in the morning, bathed, dressed, fed...it's a monumental task, but something that therapy is working towards improving. At some point, we're all hoping Ross will once again do these things for himself.

Betsy said he's really "present." Definitely aware of what's going on around him and extremely alert. Today she turned on the video Miracle on 34th Street and Ross was really involved watching it. Betsy said there's more of a sense of him being in tune with what's going on around him every day.

She also mentioned going through notebooks of information she's collected since he was first injured, and has discovered that many of the tips and suggestions that once didn't really apply to Ross now may work for him, as his condition has improved. Thanks again, to all of you, for your support and good wishes, for your healing thoughts and prayers for Ross and his loved ones. Please call Rusty's update 707.799.8868 for information on Ross, as I won't be posting again until after Thanksgiving. Have a wonderful holiday.

November 22, 2003--Katie passed the Bar! It's so amazing to pass it on the first try, and she did it, in spite of all that's happened this year. She's an absolutely amazing young woman.

Betsy said Ross had a really good day and is doing well. He rested a lot today and they chose to keep his therapy light, though he did well on the tilt table. This coming week will have a different schedule because of the Thanksgiving holiday, so many of his therapists will not be keeping their regular hours.

The Dillon house will be full for Thanksgiving, though, with 22 expected for dinner. Betsy said they've done a big Thanksgiving for all the 30 years she and Rusty have been married, and this year will be no different.

Thank you for your prayers and kind thoughts for Ross and his family. Also, please contact Melanie Moore at melanieruthmoore@yahoo.com to be included in a taped video for Ross, especially if you are in the Boston area.

November 21, 2003 10:13 AM--Betsy called just as we were headed out--Ross smiled in his sleep. It's his first smile since he was hurt. She just thought you'd like to know!

November 20, 2003 8: 25 PM--I can't get over the sound of optimism in Betsy's voice when I call her! She said Ross is doing great. They're putting him on his stomach daily and giving him various exercises. Lifting his head is really difficult, but he was able to hold it up for two minutes and thirty-three seconds yesterday. Betsy's said it's like doing the toughest intervals in cycling--he's having to use muscles that have not been worked for a long time. They spend about fifteen to twenty minutes with Ross on his stomach--today he held his head up for two minutes, but Betsy said he was probably tired from yesterday's effort.

He's also scanning well, following things with his eyes. For instance, Rusty had Ross in the tilt table and was moving about in front of him. Ross followed him with his eyes. Then Rusty walked behind the tilt table and came out on the other side. Ross turned to watch him when he came around. It may not sound like much, but it's a totally new reaction and definitely exciting.

Betsy said one of Ross's old teachers is coming by to read to him about once a week. They are also playing Mozart for him, but only to his right ear with an earplug. It appears to be doing something positive, as Betsy said Ross's eyes are more focused and he's tracking better since they started the music.

I apologize for the intermittent updates. We are spending a lot of time remodeling a home we plan to retire to, and I don't have the Internet access there yet, which I need to update Ross's site. However, I've told Betsy that if anything happens that needs to be on the website, all she needs to do is call me and I can be at this house to take care of it. So, if there's no update, it means Ross is continuing to improve but he hasn't started telling his therapists to leave him alone! Thank you, everyone, for your continuing support for Ross and his loved one.

November 17, 2003 9:10 PM--Betsy said Ross had a really good day today and was doing very well. Had physical therapy in the morning with the therapist provided by insurance, and again in the evening with their other therapist. This morning the PT put him on his stomach and had him work with lifting his head. She's also working with him on rolling over on his own. He spent time up in his wheelchair and also had a speech therapy session. He's doing very well there. He spent time just sitting in the chair watching everything going on around him.

One new thing the therapist did with Ross was to have him clasp his hands together as an aid to sensory perception, sort of a "self to self" sensation. His right wrist is much relaxed which makes this sort of thing possible. You have to remember that, along with the brain injury, Ross is still dealing with recovery from terrible physical injuries, from a shattered elbow to horrible road rash that injured him bone deep. Those scars are still healing.

Betsy said they've reached a point where his improvement is a daily thing, and it's occuring on all levels. Not only are his scars beginning to heal but his mental abilities are growing stronger every day.

Thank you, everyone, for your care, your love and prayers for Ross's recovery. If you would like to be a part of a Christmas video tape that our son Jon and his wife Melanie are doing, please email Melanie at melanieruthmoore@yahoo.com Thanks again for your healing thoughts and prayers for Ross and his loved ones.

November 16, 2003 9:10 PM--Ross had a really good weekend, and had an exceptional session on the tilt table today. Betsy said he got his feet into position quickly and was up for an hour. When I called he was sitting in his chair looking very relaxed and comfortable. Katie was here this weekend and Ross always responds well when she's visiting. She'll hear on Friday how she's done on the California Bar.

Rusty and their friend Paul spent some time working with Ross with a blue ball that's about the size of a kickball. They moved it about, tossing it back and forth, and Ross was watching all the movements and tracking really well. As Betsy expained, because they can move the ball in so many directions at a higher rate of speed, it shows a more sophisticated ability to track.

Thank you all so much for your continuing support for Ross and his loved ones. Though it may seem terribly slow, he continues to improve. Your prayers are really an important part of his recovery.

November 14, 2003 9:45 PM--Betsy said today went pretty well. They got Ross in the hot tub, but it turned cold and windy while they were out there so it was a less than pleasant experience! Hopefully, next time the weather will cooperate more.

He had speech therapy and the therapist was really pleased with how well he's doing. They also got him on his stomach and he was able to raise his head, though he wasn't too happy about it.

November 13, 2003 8:15 PM--When I called Betsy tonight and asked how the day went, she said it "went great." Ross is doing more every day that can be considered "out of pattern," or new movements. Today he moved his legs, changing the position of his left leg very dramatically. In fact, Betsy said he'd bent his left leg at the knee with his foot pointed out to the side and then rested his right leg over the top of his left. She said she didn't think he'd have been able to untangle himself without help, but the movement was something totally new for him.

Betsy said she's been told the sense of smell is an important part of recovery, so today she got out her Christmas oils and scents. It may be a bit early, but it's officially the Christmas season at the Dillons'!

November 12, 2003 9:00 PM--Ross has had a really good couple of days. Betsy said that on Monday his foot kept moving and it was difficult to get him on the tilt table, but yesterday and today they put him on his stomach for awhile, which forces him to raise his head and mimic a lot of the movements a newborn would do. It's really difficult for him, but after ten minutes Tuesday and eleven minutes today, he was much more relaxed. He also had a really good session with the speech pathologist.

They're using enzyme therapy on Ross to promote healing, and Betsy said the effects are beginning to show. Scars that have remained ugly and painful are healing, especially one on his right flank that had actually prevented him from lying on that side--it's now beginning to fade and look a 100% better.

Yesterday when the physical therapist was there, Rusty dropped something on the floor. Ross turned and looked in the direction of the noise, then followed Rusty with his eyes as he picked up the object and walked away. The therapist had Rusty repeat the action, and Ross did the same thing over, which is a sign of real progress.

Ross's friends Melanie and Jon Moore are putting together a video of greetings from Ross's friends. If anyone in the Boston area would like to be on it, please email Mel at melanieruthmoore@yahoo.com . If you're not in the Boston area but would like to be a part of the video and can send a taped message, Mel said they'll be happy to add it. Contact her first, though, so they'll know to expect your greeting.

November 10, 2003 8:45 PM--Just talked to Betsy. She said Ross still has a lot of tone (rigidity) in his muscles so their attempts to get him up on the tilt table early in the day were not successful. However, they did get him on it later on and he did well. One significant improvement occurred today when the speech therapist was working with Ross and got him to extend his tongue beyond his teeth, something he's not been able to do before. He's showing a lot more movement with his tongue, which is a prelude to being able to eat and talk once again.

Small steps but consistent and positive. Thank you for your healing thoughts and your prayers for Ross and his loved ones. I will not be available to update tomorrow night, but you can call for Rusty's update at 707.799.8868.

November 9, 2003 8:40 PM--Talked to both Rusty and Betsy tonight. Ross had a visit today from a chiropractor/neurologist who was very knowledgeable about Ross's type of injury and able to offer some great suggestions on therapies that the family and therapists can use on Ross. Rusty said he was very impressed with the doctor, who was quite familiar with the use of electrical stimulation and also approved of the diet the Dillons are using for Ross. He did a very gentle adjustment on Ross's neck which immediately relaxed him--Ross had been tense and agitated for much of the day, but relaxed immediately after the very slight manipulation of his neck.

Since I've been away for a couple days, I asked Betsy how Ross has been doing since Friday. She said that his nurse, Lisa, noted yesterday that Ross was moving both arms and legs at the same time and seemed to be much more alert. Friday was a really busy day, and then they were without hot water all day on Saturday when the hot water heater decided it was time to die, so that didn't make things very easy.

I talk to Ross's folks almost every night. They are unfailingly optimistic and always positive. I can't help but think that their attitude and persistence in finding the best treatment for their son will ultimately bring about Ross's recovery, but they can't do it alone. As Betsy said, "Every Sunday I realize how much Jeremiah (their aide) does." This is a huge job.

It's not just the aides and therapists who come and go in Ross's life, it's also his amazing support group that refuses to give up on him, all of you who follow his progress, pray for him and offer your support to the family and to Ross in so many ways. Ross has come a long way since he was injured almost a year and a half ago, and he still has far to go. Thank you, all of you, for your most welcome stubborness for an exceptional young man.

On a personal note, I would like to ask for your healing thoughts and prayers for the wife of Dr. Ed Cooper, who recently broke her hip and is now recovering at home. Dr. Ed has been a constant source of support since Ross was first injured--he's the one who suggested the use of electrical stimulation as a healing tool for brain injury, something that has definitely helped much in Ross's recovery, and he's been there for all of us whenever we had a question or concern that needed an answer, an intergral part of "Team Ross" from almost the very beginning.

November 6, 2003 9:20 PM--Betsy said today went well, especially with the speech therapist, though Ross was pretty toney and the physical therapist elected not to put him on the tilt table. It's not unusual for Ross to have more tone in his muscles after a long day, and yesterday definitely qualified as long.

Betsy said he's very alert and had been sleeping really well at night. Slept through the night last night, not even waking when Betsy turned him at two a.m. and again at five. The nightly baths really seem to relax him and allow him to sleep better. Betsy said they're hoping to get him in the hot tub this weekend.

The speech therapist continues to work on yes/no questions with Ross, but Betsy said he still tends to get confused on some of them. However, he does better all the time.

Healing is such a long, slow process, but Ross continues to show positive gains. Your support is an important part of his healing--thank you so much for continuing to follow Ross's progress, and for keeping Ross and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.

November 5, 2003 10:00 PM--Kind of a long day for Ross and his folks...he had to go to Marin for an appointment with his doctor, a trip which ended up taking six hours. Betsy said they got the results from his lab tests and his sodium levels were low, so that needs to be adjusted. He is, however, looking great and is very attentive.

Betsy wanted me to ask if there are any Occupational Therapists who might be able to come and work with Ross at the house. She said he needs evaluation from someone qualified, and then they need to "go from there."

November 3, 2003 8:50 PM--Betsy said Ross is still running a low grade fever and slept quite a bit today, though he did have a very successful session on the tilt table. When I called they were getting him ready for his bath. Betsy said he sleeps much better after a bath at night, so the overhead track that helps them get him in and out of the tub is really making a difference in his comfort.

He's also doing really well cognitively. He's alert and more aware every day. It's hard to believe it's been a year and five months since Ross was injured. He's come a long way since those first horrible hours when his life hung in the balance. He's still got far to go, but his improvement remains consistent and positive. Thank you for your continuing support, for your healing prayers, and most of all for not losting hope throughout his long recovery.

November 2, 2003 9:00 PM--Just talked to Betsy and she said Ross was still running a low grade fever and had a bit of a cough, but he was doing well. He slept through the night and when she checked on him this morning he looked very peaceful. There's less tone in his muscles, and Betsy was telling me that when she has to move him, she can say, "Ross, on the count of three, you need to lift your shoulders..." or whatever command, and he can do it.

His right hand is looking better--he's been holding it clenched very tightly--but now they've got him gripping a rubber ball and it seems to help. She said that tonight Ross was watching her very intently, as if he were trying to figure something out. All in all, he's looking very good.

On another note and for the information of all of you who are cyclists, there is something very troubling going on that you might not be aware of. A number of disc jockeys on various radio stations have been encouraging motorists to hit bicyclists with objects thrown from their cars, or to hit them with open car doors. There is an article posted at http://www.rr.com/v5/2/news/frame/0,2331,,00.html?92~ap~1~9006_532754 if you'd like to take a look. There is a link on the page to the FCC in case you want to comment on this sort of irresponsible on-air discussion.

Thank you for your continuing support and healing thoughts and prayers for Ross and his family. And to all of you here in northern California, I hope you're enjoying the rain, the first we've had in a long, long time.

November 1, 2003 8:30 PM--Betsy said Rusty finished installing all the ceiling track so now they can get Ross into the hot tub as well as the bath. They're planning to try the hot tub tomorrow. Betsy said Ross slept really well last night following the bath, though she thought he was sad this evening. Katie had to leave after a two day visit, and he is always unhappy when she goes. She'll be starting her new job with a law firm in San Francisco on Monday.

Betsy said Ross was running a low grade fever today, so they're keeping an eye on him, but overall he had a really good day. Please keep Ross and his family in your thoughts and prayers, and remember Katie as she begins her new job. Thank you so much for your continued support.

October 31, 2003 8:00 PM--Figured I'd go ahead and do an update tonight, as I ended up staying home after all because of a bad head cold. I just talked to Betsy and Rusty was installing the track lift to get Ross into the hot tub. He already got a ceiling track installed in the bathroom so they can lift Ross out of his wheelchair and into the tub for a bath. Betsy said it's really cool and works by remote control. He's too heavy for them to lift in and out of things without an aide, so this is a perfect solution.

October 30, 2003 7:40 PM--Ross had an outing today with a trip to the hospital for some routine lab work. Betsy said they also weighed him and he's gained about eight pounds on the "real" food that Betsy's been preparing. His weight is up to 168.4 lbs., which is right where he should be. He only weighed 158 pounds when they first brought him home.

He slept well last night and was having a therapy session when I called tonight. Betsy said she thinks he still has pain but is doing well. They're not sure where he hurts, but she's assuming it's either a massive headache or muscle pains from the therapy. He's also been coughing a lot, but it's a productive cough, which is a good thing as he's always had trouble with allergies and congestion.

Thank you, everyone, for your prayers, your healing thoughts, your kind and thoughtful letters. It never ceases to amaze me that you've all stayed a part of this wonderful team for so long. "Thanks" seems a very weak word for something like this.

October 29, 2003 8:40 PM--Ross had a fairly good day today, though he was really tired. Betsy said he had a "grand mal" seizure last night that lasted about two minutes. She thinks it was caused by the strobe effect of the television: Ross was watching a rugby tournament with his dad and she said he was totally mesmerized by the TV. The color and light can create a sort of strobe like effect that can precipitate seizures, and that's what they think caused Ross's. He still managed to work hard with the therapist today and he continues to do well. Two steps forward, a small one back...it's a long and exhausting process, but still progress. Thank you all so much for your healing thoughts, for keeping Ross in your prayers, and also for your encouraging notes, both private and to the guestbook. They mean so much to all of us.

October 28, 2003 9:15 PM--Betsy said Ross had an excellent session with his speech therapist today. Lots of consistency in his responses, more mouth movement and an overall good day. He'd been up since four p.m. in his chair when I called around eight, the second "session" he'd had in his chair today.

Betsy said the most exciting thing was when she put a pen in his hand. She tried his right hand first, but because his elbow was broken when he was hit, there's a lot of calcification in the joint and it affects his mobility, so he was only able to make small marks on the paper. She put the pen in his left hand, and he made larger marks, but he also re-adjusted the pen in his grasp when it tended to slip. Betsy explained the movements as small motor and large motor control, but said it was very exciting to see him making voluntary adjustments and movement with his hand.

I haven't seen Ross for a few months now, but hope to visit soon. From the pictures, it's just amazing to see the changes in him. Your support and also your wonderful notes to his guestbook are so much appreciated. Thank you, everyone, for continuing to be there for Ross through this long and difficult recovery.

October 27, 2003--Betsy said Ross is doing well and had a particularly good session on the tilt table. He's got less tone in his muscles and she's really pleased with the enzyme therapy they're using. It is designed to reduce scar tissue and aid healing, and appears to be working. Today Betsy said she put a pen in his hand and he was able to make some marks, though it's still fairly awkward. She said that, at one point when he was holding the pen, there was a real flash of memory, but it didn't last. There's still a lot of healing left to take place.

Thank you, everyone, for your continuing support and healing thoughts and prayers. It's been a long haul, and there's a lot more ahead, but Ross is healing and showing slow but steady improvement.

October 26, 2003 9:00 PM--I talked to Betsy tonight and she said the last few days have gone well. They've had a lot of company: Ariel and her friend Ryan were there, Katie as well as her parents, friends of the Dillon's who came to visit...Betsy said their friends from the city hadn't seen Ross for about a month and were amazed at his progress. He's alert, looking around, watching his visitors...Betsy said he did really well on the tilt table tonight and overall continues to show improvement.

To all of you, a definite thank you for your healing thoughts, your prayers for Ross's recovery, and you constant attention to his long period of healing. You mean more than you can possibly imagine. Thank you.

October 23, 2003 8:30 PM--Today was a down day for Ross. His mom said he appeared to be in a lot of pain most of the day, but she isn't sure what's causing it. Could merely be his increasing awareness of his condition--Betsy said she really wasn't sure, only that he seemed to be very uncomfortable.

She wanted me to ask you to keep Ross in your thoughts and prayers as this is such a difficult time for him. It's really hard for him emotionally as he resurfaces and rediscovers himself...only he's not the man he remembers. I keep thinking how frightening this must be for him, to emerge into a partially aware state where all is changed, where time has passed and his body is no longer familiar.

Betsy didn't ask, but I will, that you also remember Ross's family and fiancee as they deal with his terrible injuries on a daily basis. It's been well over a year since he was injured, and though he's come a long way, there is still so much work ahead of him. Thank you, all of you, for being a part of his journey.

October 22, 2003 9:00 PM--Called to talk to Betsy and she said Ross is doing well. He had a massage, followed by a good nap, and then a really good session with his speech therapist. He's showing a consistently higher percentage of correct responses each day. Betsy said that tonight she was sitting in front of the computer and Ross was watching her play a card game when he began workng his mouth as if he were in therapy. All these movements are signs of increasing awareness. He's looking really good, especially since being off the formula and on a "real food" diet. As Betsy said, he looks lean and muscular.

He's had a couple of really emotional times--hard for his folks, but still a sign of increasing awareness. I asked how he'd been when our son Jon and his wife Melanie visited last week, and Betsy said Ross was quiet while they were there, but started crying later that night after they left. As difficult as it is for his family to witness this, it's all a sign of Ross's increasing recovery.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers for Ross. It's been such a long time since he was hurt, but he has come a long ways. He couldn't do this without your support.

October 20, 2003 9:15 PM--Tonight when I asked Betsy how the day went, her only reply was WONDERFUL, and yes, that was spoken all in caps and bold print! She said Ross had a terrific day. Had a very successful physical therapy session as well as his speech therapy, where he managed an 80% success rate on following commands. He's opening his mouth well, moving his tongue, turning his head...all things he's not been doing on command since the accident. Betsy said he also did really well on the tilt table, so it was definitely his day.

October 19, 2003 8:50 PM--I'm back after five days at a writer's convention and booksigning in Kansas City, so will post a brief update before I crash. I talked to Betsy tonight and she said Ross was doing well and the last few days have been good. He's been working hard on the Yes/No responses and is currently getting 50-60% of them correct. Unfortunately, the therapist arrives late in the afternoon when Ross is really tired, so Betsy says she thinks the results could be better if he could be tested when he's rested, but such is life. The Speech Pathologist is interested in accuracy, getting Ross to hold the location of either his eyes or his head as he responds to the placards. The object is to get him to answer and then hold it for at least a couple seconds. He's doing really well.

A big project at the Dillon household will be the installation of a ceiling track that will allow them to use a lift to move Ross outside to the hot tub. That should feel really good to him, especially when his muscles are tony. Betsy said, however, that he's not as tony today and is doing well, more alert and responsive every day. He appears to be paying attention, and though he is obviously sad on some days, Betsy said she still feels very hopeful about Ross's progress.

October 14, 2003 8:10 PM--This will be my last update until Sunday. Betsy said Ross had a really good day. She tried something new: putting a pen in his hand and directing him to make some circular motions and figure 8s...then she let Ross do it on his own, and he drew some straight lines across the page and some squiggly marks. As Betsy said, she wasn't sure what it meant, but it was exciting to see him doing something on his own.

They're still working to get his mouth to open wide enough so that he can take food by mouth, but he's not consistent enough for them to try it yet. However, he's doing really well and is definitely more aware and alert than he's been in the past.

Please check Rusty's phone message at 707.799.8868 for current updates after tonight. I'll be in Kansas City, Missouri, until late Sunday, but will continue the updates once I return.

October 13, 2003 9:30 PM--First of all, before I forget, I may not be updating tomorrow through next Saturday night, as I'm going to a writers' conference in Kansas City for five days.Rusty continues his nightly updates on the telephone, so you can call 707.799.8868 to stay in touch.

Betsy said Ross had a good day today, especially during his time on the tilt table. Friends Jon and Melanie Moore stopped by to visit while out for a brief trip from Boston, and Betsy said she felt that Ross was very emotional when they were there. It's really difficult for him because he can't communicate, but he's very aware of who his visitors are, and it's really important that his friends do come by to see him.

Betsy said that, overall, it was a good day. He's doing well on "real" food and she spends a lot of each day preparing meals for him. A friend who is into holostic eating has given Betsy a lot of good ideas for food combinations, and it appears to be working. Ross has put on some weight, but it's not fat so much as muscle. His therapists work him very hard and he's got leg muscles he didnt have just a few months ago.He's breathing better and swallowing better, and overall, looking really good.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers, for keeping Ross and his loved ones in your lives. He is constantly showing improvement, though he still has a long ways to go.

October 12, 2003 9:40 PM--Betsy said Ross had a good weekend. No really big changes, but he is definitely more alert, tracking better and more aware of his surroundings. His nurse Lisa hadn't been there for the past two weeks, so when she saw Ross she really noticed a difference. He was, as Lisa noted, "looking older and sadder." Increasing awareness will bring the sadness, as Ross realizes how badly he is hurt and how far he still has to go.

Betsy said the switch to real food had been a good one. She's also cut out his Clariton for allergies and is using the vaporizer instead. It appears to be working. Ross is constantly looking around and tracking, observing the activity in his room. Betsy said he really focuses on her when she comes into the room.

A big thing is that Ross has been doing "out of pattern" movements. There are certain things he does that are a result of his injury: the way he might hold his hands or his feet. However, he is beginning to show more variation, a number of moves that are out of the typical pattern of a brain injured patient. This is a good thing, and possibly a sign of healing and retraining.The way he holds his hands is changing--all small but important things.

October 9, 2003 9:25 PM--Betsy said Ross is doing pretty well tonight. They've switched him to Advil for pain, which appears to work better than the Tylenol, so long as they give it to him with food. He had a busy day with the speech therapist, working on "yes" and "no" answers to questions.

October 8, 2003 8:45 PM--I talked to Betsy just awhile ago and she said Ross was doing really well. His speech therapist has begun keeping a record of Ross's progress, and already he is showing great strides. They're doing a lot of new things which Betsy described as "more cognitive" work, requiring Ross to make choices, for instance, in where he looks or what he does.

His sinus problems are improving, possibly due to a change in his diet, and he's continuing to do well in all aspects of his recovery. Betsy said it's exciting to watch him and see the changes and improvements as each day goes by. Obviously, Ross still has a long way to go, but he has come even farther.

Thank you so much for your support, for your prayers and healing thoughts. It's been a long haul and will take longer still, but your constant support of Ross and his family is so very important to all of them. Thank you.

October 5, 2003 8:50 PM--I have to apologize for the missing updates, but I am currently having to be away from a computer for some nights of each week and am unable to update as regularly as I have been. If you want a nightly report and I have not posted, please call 707.799.8868 for Rusty's message.

Betsy said Ross is doing better, but she's certain he had a cold along with the bladder infection. There have been a lot of bugs going around, and he had too many other things going on for it just to have been the one thing. She's using the vaporizer again with him to help him breathe.

She said he's defintely uncomfortable and more toney, but they think it's because Ross is more aware of his situation. In the meantime, Betsy is fixing him "real food" meals which then have to be blended, but at least he's on a regular diet. Tonight was chicken, celery, cabbage, fresh saurkraut, ginger tea and chives, but since it's all blended together and fed to him through a tube into his stomach, there's not much to taste!

They're trying to get him back to working on the tilt table. Betsy said that, since they overdid it a couple weeks ago, they've backed off on it. Tonight, however, they had Ross back up on it. He appears to be more uncomfortable much of the time, but Betsy said she's convinced it's because he's more alert and aware of his circumstances.

October 2, 2003 8:50 PM--Ross is still running a slight fever, but definitely feeling much better. Betsy said he had a good day and worked well with the speech therapist, moving his head from side to side to look at objects he was directed to. When I called, he was sitting in his chair watching TV.

Betsy said they're giving him all regular food now, blended of course, to go through the tube into his stomach, but he's not getting the premixed formula. They were advised to feed Ross the same sort of things he'd have at regular meals, so Betsy is working at preparing nutritious meals out of things he would normally eat. So far, so good. Of course, he still can't take food by mouth, but that time will come.

Thank you, everyone, for your thoughts and healing prayers and especailly for your thoughtful notes to both Ross's guestbook and to me. I pass everything on to his parents, and they read all the messages to Ross. His support group is a constant surprise to me, that so many of you have stayed with him throughout this long recovery.

October 1, 2003 8:45 PM--I was away yesterday so didn't update, but when I called Betsy tonight she said Ross was really sick yesterday. Turned out to be another bladder infection--his fever was up to 103 degrees until they got him on antibiotics.

He's much better today, and noticeably better tonight as compared to this morning, but Betsy said they cancelled all his therapy appointments until tomorrow. She read the guestbook entries to him today--the notes are so special and mean a lot to everyone. One especially wonderful message was from Jenna Prewitt, a young woman who was seriously injured in a car accident shortly after Ross was hurt. Many of Jenna's injuries were similar to Ross's. I learned about Jenna through a mutual friend, and it was so exciting to read her message today and realize how far she has come. It gives us all hope for Ross's recovery, knowing how seriously Jenna was injured.

September 29, 2003 8:15 PM--Betsy was out so I got tonight's update from Katie. She said Ross had a really good day. Joanne, the physical therapist from Sonoma Valley was there. She worked at getting Ross on his stomach and resting on his elbows. Her goal was for him to raise his head, the way a baby does when placed on its stomach. Ross responded exactly the way she hoped, though Katie said he wasn't too happy about it! The PT also worked on his hips and lower back to help relieve the tension in his muscles. Jeremiah, the aide, was there this afternoon, but they're on their own tonight.

I asked Katie if Ross ever made any sounds in an attempt to communicate. She said he moans when he's in pain or displeased, and definitely uses the sound to get their attention, but so far he's not saying any words.

Thank you for your continuing support of Ross and his loved ones and caretakers. Your kind thoughts, wonderful notes and healing prayers are a huge part of his recovery.

September 28, 2003 8:45 PM--Betsy said today Ross was very quiet but alert, though he didn't like the tilt table yesterday at all. When he was up on it, Betsy was away for awhile, Rusty was busy with some other things and Lisa, his nurse, was trying to get some stuff done so he was by himself part of the time. Betsy said he appeared to be very nervous because he was alone, so they'll try not to do that in the future.

Tonight he was up in his chair and doing well. I asked Betsy if they had tried giving Ross food by mouth yet, and she said the speech pathologist didn't think he was ready. The goal is pumpkin pie by Thanksgiving.

When I asked Betsy for her gut feeling about Ross, she said he is doing well, he's not as tense, is more alert and definitely capable of more expression. He's still having trouble with allergies, but with the air quality as poor as it's been lately, he's not alone.

Katie was there tonight and Betsy said Ross was doing well. There was a wonderful note in his guestbook today from Roger, a TBI survivor who has gone way beyond surviving. He wrote: Ross :missed you at the Liberty ride but did meet your dad. I sent you a message a year or so ago and told you that I was a TBI victim too and even though the doc's said I wouldn't walk or talk, I now do both and cycle about 2000 miles a year. Keep fighting because I'm getting better 13 years post accident. Roger

Betsy said she read his note to Ross. Messages like Roger's are so important because they remind us just how much hope there is. Thank you, everyone, for your thoughts and prayers, for your healing energy that continues to help Ross through this long recovery.

September 25, 2003 8:50 PM--Today went well, though Ross protested being on the tilt table, so they didn't spend much time there. Betsy thinks they may have pushed him too hard the other day, which is why he doesn't want any part of it now. She said they'll back off and start back slowly. Hopefully a fresh start will work for him.

Ross's lower back seems stiff and it affects the way he is able to sit in his wheelchair. Betsy said they're looking into a drug called Serrapeptase for Ross.It's a natural anti-inflammatory.

He did really well with his speech pathologist. Did range of motion with a tongue depressor against his tongue, and Ross had to push against it. He's doing so much better now at following instructions.

I will be updating again on Sunday, as I have to be away until then. In the meantime, thank you so much for your healing thoughts and prayers for Ross's recovery. You are an amazing support group for a very special young man. You can keep up with Ross by going to Rusty's phone updates at 707.799.8868.

September 24, 2003 7:50 PM--Betsy said Ross is very tense tonight and has been for most of the day. She's convinced it's due to his increasing awareness of his condition. He's very alert and worked well with the speech pathologist, but there's been a a pensive quality to him that isn't usually as obvious. Betsy said he's not as sad as she's seen him, but there is obviously something going on that makes him more solemn than usual.

Ross's doctor has him on a new drug that will help manage the seretonin levels in his brain by preventing receptor sites from manipulating the chemical in his body. One of the side effects is sleepiness, so Betsy said they're watching him carefully. She feels that he's aware enough to really be bothered by the fact he can't make the independent movements he wants, but he's gaining more every day.

Thank you for your healing thoughts, your prayers and continuing support of Ross and his loved ones during this long recovery. Thank you, too, for your encouraging notes and messages, both privately and in the guestbook. Your comments mean a lot to all of us.

September 22, 2003 8:00 PM--I do love good news! Tonight Betsy told me that the speech pathologist brought "yes" and "no" cards today and asked Ross a whole series of questions. They were fairly simple and straightforward: Is your name Ross? Are you male? Is the fire cold? Ross was able to answer ALL of them correctly. No one expected 100% correct answers, so it's definitely an indication of how well he is doing. As Betsy said, she believes he's known the answers all along, but his body is finally healing enough to allow him to give the correct responses.

September 21, 2003 9:40 PM--Betsy said Ross had a good day. No therapists or aides there today, just Ross and his mom and dad. Betsy said they gave him a bath in the tub using their lift to get him in and out and he took a long nap afterward. As hot as it was today, I imagine the bath felt wonderful!

He also spent about two hours up on the tilt table. The big difference, now, is that when Betsy is trying to position his foot and asks him to move it, he does. Rusty said the same thing--it used to be really hard to get his legs lined up perfectly, but now a mere touch to Ross's thigh and the request that he move his leg is all it takes for him to move into position. So much progress but in such subtle increments...sometimes it's so easy to forget to celebrate the small victories.

Ross has reached a point where he can move his head and shoulders on command. He's alert and seems really intersted in people and things going on around him. Definitely a lot of improvement from just a few months ago.

September 20, 2003 9:30 PM--Ross had a good day, though Betsy said he was very emotional and seemed really sad for much of it. She said they've been told to expect that, as Ross becomes more aware of his circumstances and surroundings, but I doubt it makes it any easier for his parents to handle.

Betsy tried some simple math with him tonight, holding up two plums in each hand and asking him how many there were--three, four or five. She asked him to nod his head for answers, and he was correct twice when she tried it. Solving even minor math problems is a sign of cognitive activity and it's something Ross couldn't do just a few days ago.

Improvement is happening all the time. It's not quick, but so far it has been consistent. Thank you, everyone, for your prayers and good thoughts for Ross. You are a very important part of his recovery.

September 18, 2003 9:00 PM--I apologize for not updating but have just gotten a new computer which, hopefully, will work a bit longer than the last one! Betsy said Ross is doing really well. He's sleeping through the night and when I called was up on the tilt table, his feet flat on the ground and totally focused on the therapist.

Katie was back from a trip and he was definitely aware of her presence. Betsy said when Ross is awake he is really aware and alert to his surroundings. He's also trying new things: different movements with his mouth, arms and legs.

One of the best things for Betsy is the fact donations to the Hope Fund have allowed them to hire an aide for a few nights a week so that she can sleep. Ross's care, at this point, is very demanding, and sleep has been a rare commodity for the past few months.

Thanks to all of you who continue to donate to Ross's care. Thank you, too, for those of you who keep him in your thoughts and prayers as you go about your days. Your care and concern is an important part of his recovery.

September 14, 2003 8:30 PM--Ross is much better today, though Betsy said they won't know what was going on until they get the blood test results. One therapist suggested the high urine output might be a result of diabetes insipidus, which Ross had about at year ago at Marin General. Today, however, his vitals are good and all functions normal. He's very alert and was up on the tilt table for over an hour. He also held his head up on his own for about twenty seconds without any support. Another "new" thing is that on two occasions when Rusty pointed at something, Ross looked in the direction he pointed.

My computer is going in for some work either Monday or Tuesday, so I may not be updating for a couple of nights. This thing has been giving me fits for months, now, and appears to be getting worse. I'm afraid of losing information, so need to get it fixed.

September 13, 2003 7:50 PM--I just called Betsy, expecting more good news, but tonight they're very worried about Ross. If anyone reading this list is familiar with the various chemical balances in the body and has some suggestions, we'd sure appreciate your expertise. Though Ross is alert and calm and doing well, he is also urinating at an alarming rate, something which is often a sign of low sodium levels. His pulse rate is elevated, and Betsy and Rusty are somewhat alarmed. The doctor has said they can do some tests on Monday, but Ross's health can be so fragile, I know they're concerned about the situation now.

There have been no significant changes in his diet or medications, but his output has quadrupled from the normal rate. Please email Betsy at TrntyRest@aol.com if you have an suggestions.

Exciting update. Ross was active through the night but slept through it. The activity was a lot of yawning and loads of stretching ( bringing both knees up and then straightening them out.) I stopped trying to position him just so, because he would stretch and change position constantly. This is big step!!

September 11, 2003 8:35 PM--When I called Betsy tonight they had just finished Ross's session on the tilt table. She said he did really well. Jeremy did full range of motion exercises with his left arm and hand, and all it great. The splint for Ross's more constricted right hand arrived yesterday.

He slept better last night and is doing really well tonight, though Betsy said it was obvious he was uncomfortable much of the day. Jeremy said that's all part of "Stage4" and the "fight or flight" response Ross has with increasing awareness.

September 10, 2003 9:00 PM--Betsy said today went pretty well. She's cut out the Benedryl and Ross slept better last night. He was awake at three, but she thinks he want back to sleep shortly thereafter.

Bersy is giving him more "real" food, though it's still through the tube into his stomach. Today he had chicken, brown rice, chicken broth, and later on a combination of fresh fruits, goat's milk yogurt, romaine lettuce, ginger root and some parsley. (I told Betsy it sounded gross, but she said she tasted it and it was pretty good...sort of a high-tech smoothie!)

Ross continues to improve. His cough is better and when he is awake he is alert and attentive. Betsy said she is doing some research into the use of melatonin to see if that will help him sleep better at night.

September 9, 2003 8:20 PM--Ross was awake from one a.m. until nine this morning, then slept most of the day. Betsy said they have been keeping a record of his sleep patterns and realized the sleepless nights began with the addition of Benedryl for his allergies, so she's cutting that out.

Betsy said they're looking for more volitional movement, but that Ross is definitely more active. The speech therapist said they need to establish one consistent movement in order to develop communication--a raised finger, blinks of his eyes, etc. Ross is moving his legs more as well as his arms and shoulders, all movements that they hope will translate, eventually, into being able to turn himself over in bed.

He has always turned his head to the right, but Betsy was telling me tonight that the physical therapist was wondering if that might be more a pain response--Ross has had so many surgeries and so much done around his neck that the muscles might be tight due to pain rather than neurological impairment. Betsy said they've been giving him neck massages and he seems to respond really well to them.

Every time I write an update, I find myself looking for something that you, as Ross's friends, will find interesting and positive. Lately it's been really fun to write the updates because I hear the excitement in Betsy's voice each night when I talk to her. The improvements are all so subtle, but still they're steps in the right direction.

September 8, 2003 8:45 PM--Tonight Betsy said Ross is doing really well. He's still waking up in the night and staying awake, but Betsy said she realized a lot of his sleepiness during therapy was because she was feeding him just before the therapist arrived! Nothing quite like a nap on a full stomach...

He's eating a lot of "real" food now--run through a blender so he can get it through the feeding tube into his stomach, but at least he's getting the combinations of foods he would normally be eating, along with the formula mixture.

He's doing really well following commands, opening and closing his mouth or his eyes as requested. Betsy said she's really pleased with his progress. He continues to show improvement, slow though it may be, but each step forward is one he was never expected to make. It's really quite amazing to realize how far he has come.

Thank you so much for your prayers and healing thoughts. Thank you, too, for your kind notes of support. They mean so much to Ross's family, and I know they read all of the messages to him.

September 7, 2003 8:10 PM--Today is Ross's birthday, his second since his accident. At the age of 27, he has made amazing progress, but still remains in a world just beyond the rest of us. He is alert, responsive, aware to a certain point of what is going on around him, but still isn't quite a part of the immediate reality we all take for granted.

Betsy said he's been waking up at night around one a.m. and staying awake until about six, which means he's sleepy during the day when the therapists are there to work with him. Still, Betsy said that when Ross's sister Ariel came home this weekend, he watched her wherever she went, tracking her every move around his room.

Just one year ago, Ross was dealing with what the doctors thought was hydrocephalus, but which turned out to be pneumocephalus, or air in the ventricles of his brain. Now, he is healing and showing regular progress, something a lot of doctors said wouldn't happen.

Thank you so much for your healing prayers, your kind thoughts, and for sticking with Ross throughout this long and difficult recovery. Remember always that he is improving, he is getting better, and with prayer, a lot of hard work and a certain amount of luck, he's going to come through this.

September 5, 2003 8:50 PM--Ross had a really good day. Betsy said he was awake for about three hours during the night, but they all slept in to compensate and it appears to have worked. They got Ross up on the tilt table this morning and he was very alert and moving his head around, watching what was going on.

Betsy spent part of the day dealing with the splint company. Ross requires splints on his hands to control the contracture, but the company tacks on an extra $30 charge when Betsy orders them because she is not a health care worker. The splints cost $80 to begin with, so the fee is a pretty big deal.

She had the therapist check Ross today and they decided that his left hand is doing so well that he doesn't need a splint on it anymore. However, Betsy ordered the one for his right hand.

The physical therapist commented tonght that Ross is making "out of pattern movements" during therapy, which is a good sign. All in all, he is doing really well, something Betsy said she can't help but notice.

Please remember Ross and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. I will not be writing an update tomorrow, so please call 707.799.8868 for Saturday's information. There will be an update on Sunday, September 7, which is Ross' s 27th birthday.

September 4, 2003 9:25 PM--Betsy said Ross seemed really tired today. He's had speech therapy and time on the tilt table--lots of work for him. He seems more contracted than usual and more tired, but Betsy said she thinks he's really sad, as if he's more aware of his circumstances. I can't imagine how frustrating it must be for Ross if he's actually becoming aware of his injuries.

His mom said she likes to remind herself there are going to be ups and downs, but she is convinced Ross definitely understands his situation. Sometimes he looks scared, and that's really hard to take.

September 3, 2003 8:45 PM--Today marks a year and three months since Ross was injured. When I talked to Betsy tonight, she said the last few days have been good but exhausting. Ross is doing well and showing improvement on a daily basis. Today he was taken to Kentfield for an evaluation. Betsy said he was very tired by the time everyone had seen him. It would be so much better if he could be tested and examined at home under better circumstances, but that just isn't going to happen. By the time he's ready for the long trip into Kentfield, the morning is half gone and Ross is already tired.

Even so, it was a good visit and everyone who saw Ross was impressed with his improvement and the relaxed muscles. He's doing well in physical thereapy and especially well in speech therapy, where his swallowing is improving to the point where they are hoping to try giving him bits of food by mouth within a month or so.

Betsy said Ross will be able to continue to see Dr. Doherty at Kentfield in an outpatient capacity. Betsy was really pleased to learn that, as she said she likes the doctor's "style." Dr. Doherty discusses things with Ross's folks, gives them the pros and cons and helps them make their own decisions regarding his therapy and care, something they haven't always experienced.

Ross continues to show improvement. He is doing very well with his "trunk stability" exercises, which include sitting on the edge of the bed and holding his head up. He's following instructions much better than before, is alert and tracking well. All in all, he is steadily gaining on his injuries.

I apologize for the length of time between updates, but I will continue to post to this site as often as I possibly can. Ross is doing really well and I fully believe that much of his recovery is due to the powerful cadre of friends he has praying for him, sending him their strength in thoughts and action, and believing he will one day walk away from his injuries.

August 28, 2003 9:20 PM--Ross slept part of the day but the dental hygenist still managed to do her exam and said his teeth looked pretty good. It's been difficult for Betsy to brush them because he wasn't able to open his mouth very wide, but that has definitely improved. Ross's speech therapist was absolutely delighted with his progress. He's opening his mouth better than ever before, all signs of recovery.

He did really well with his physical therapy. Betsy said she noticed a big difference when he was lying on his stomach and she was working with his left leg. He was more relaxed than he's been, and she was able to move it normally.

Betsy said she's beginning to give him "real" food to see how well he'll tolerate it instead of formula. So far, all is well. The goal is to have him eat real food by mouth by Thanksgiving. (His favorite is pumpkin pie!)

Ross' s recovery has not been easy. It takes a tremendous amount of devotion from his family and the constant expertise of professionals. It also takes a lot of prayer and good healing thoughts from a lot of people. Thank you so much for your continuing support. I will not be updating again until Wednesday, Sept. 3. Please call 707.799.8868 for updates until then.

August 27, 2003--After a couple of days of being wide awake, Ross had a sleepy day today. However, he did wake up for his speech therapist and did really well. Spent some quality time on the tilt table--Betsy said he's still plagued by a lot of drainage which makes him uncomfortable, but she also noted that his eyes were equally dilated and, while not focusing perfectly, looked a lot better. That's definitely a day-to-day situation.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers. Ross continues to improve, though it's obvsiously much slower than we all hoped. The fact you've stuck by him all this time means a lot to all of us.

August 25, 2003--Ross slept through the night, even when Jeremiah, his aide, turned him, and didn't wake up until seven. Today was a full day with a trip to see the physiatrist and then his case manager, but he was awake for all of it, including the visits from both his speech therapist and physical therapist after he returned home.

He's still having a lot of trouble with sinus drainage, though Betsy said today she almost felt as if he was trying to work with the congestion to make sounds. When she asked him to open his mouth so she could suction him out, he immediately turned in her direction and did as she requested. The speech therapist noted that Ross is swallowing better than ever and is also able to open his mouth really wide, on command.

Betsy noted that when Ross was still at Herrick and the acupuncturist was coming in on a regular basis, he told her that one side of Ross's face appeared to be paralyzed. Now, Betsy said, there is no sign of facial paralysis at all. She thinks the median nerve stimulation is making a big difference.

August 24, 2003 8:50 PM--Betsy said tonight that Ross is doing well though he's still having problems with sinusitis. I asked if that could be a result of the surgery he had to repair damage to his sinuses and the frontal lobe of his brain, and she said that was exactly what she and Katie were talking about. Ross has had so many invasive procedures done, it could probably be just about any of them...he has had allergies for years, but nothing like what he's been dealing with recently.

In spite of the problems, Betsy said things are really going well. Stuff she said they used to pray for is now routine: Ross holding his head up, his relaxed muscles, more normal movements, the ability to understand and even to cooperate when he's able. So many things we all take for granted, but which are big steps in Ross's recovery.

Betsy said that there are often times when Ross is doing his range of motion exercises or is up on the tilt table that he'll suddenly look very distressed and begin moaning or even crying. She's convinced it's at those times the frustration of his physical disabilities is really hitting him.

Please continue to keep Ross in your thoughts and prayers. I apologize for the intermittent updates, but my current work schedule interfers with regular contact with Betsy. I'll continue to update as often as I am able--at least a few times each week.

August 22, 2003 9:00 PM--Ross had a quiet day today, though his nurse, Lisa was on duty and managed to put him through a lot of range of motion. Betsy also said she is starting Ross on real food, running stuff through a special blender so it can be given to him through his feeding tube. Her goal is to have him on four meals of regular food a day.

One really funny/sick thing happened today: Ross's sister Ariel took a call for Ross that turned out to be from a telemarketer. They asked for Ross and Ariel said, "He can't come to the phone now. He's in a coma."

There will not be an update tomorrow night, so please check with the number at the top of this page. Thank you so much for your prayers and healing thoughts for Ross. He's definitely improving, and it's so exciting to share that with all of you.

August 21, 2003 8:35 PM--When I called tonight, Ross was up on the tilt table and Betsy was working with him, so she called me back a few minutes later. She said he was doing just fantastic. The therapist explained that it's like the memory of being in an upright position is coming back to him. He's much more relaxed and able to raise his head on command even after being up on the table for a long time.

I've added a photo of Ross on the table, with his speech therapist, David, and Jeremy Nelson, his physical therapist working with him. According to Betsy, Jeremy has commented a number of times on how much more relaxed Ross is, even when up on the table. Another first occurred today when Jeremy was giving Ross a massage that's very precise to certain muscle groups. He had Ross lying on his stomach and was working on his legs. Normally Ross keeps his right arm tucked under him, as it's the one that is often drawn up close to his body. Today, however, it was obvious he wanted it out to the side. Jeremy was able to stretch his arm out a lot more than usual, but it appeared to make Ross more comfortable.

He's still not consistent with his "yes" and "no" responses to questions, but his parents continue to work with him. Betsy said it's a very exciting time, to see him making so much progress all of a sudden. Please remember Ross in your thoughts and prayers. This has been a long, tough recovery, but it's very definitely that: a recovery. He is showing improvement every day. Thank you so much for sticking with him.

August 20, 2003 8:50 PM--Again Ross had a wide awake night and a sleepy day, though Betsy said that when they did get him up for therapy, he was definitely involved and alert. She thinks his congestion from allergies is keeping him awake at night. Betsy stays with Ross a lot of nights out of concern because of his trouble coughing and clearing his lungs, and said she wonders if he just feels more comforable sleeping during the day with so many people around him. It's got to be terribly frightening for him to have trouble clearing his throat when the drainage gets bad.

He continues to do well with his therapists, even when he's sleepy. Today Rusty worked with him on raising his left index finger to designate "yes," and felt that he did really well. A lot of the time he lifted his entire hand, but he was obviously trying to follow the instructions.

Small steps. Lots of them. All forward. Betsy said they're exploring all avenues of communication. Hopefully, Ross will find one he can work with, something that will help him break out of this "locked in" prison that holds him.

August 18, 2003 11:10 PM--Sorry for the late update. I've gotten behind on my work and really had to catch up tonight! I talked to Betsy earlier and she said that even though Ross was sleepy today, he had a great day. They got him up in his chair for speech therapy and he was definitely responsive. He's opening his mouth really well and the speech therapist is quite positive about his progress. Ross also had a good session on the tilt table. The physical therapist said tonight that he is beginning to see natural patterns re-emerging. Ross is more comfortable now when he's in an upright position. He looks around the room, balances more comfortably and appears to be very relaxed. The therapist also noted that Ross's vision appears to have improved quite a bit. He is focusing close up and far away and tracking really well.

Betsy sounded really excited about his progress when I talked to her tonight. What she used to describe as "subtle" changes appear much more pronounced. This is a GOOD thing!

Thank you so much for your prayers and healing thoughts. Please check with Rusty's phone update tomorrow, <707.799.8868> as I will be away on Tuesday night and unable to post. I'll be back with a new update on Wednesday.

August 17, 2003 7:50 PM--Betsy said the last couple of days have been quiet. Lisa, Ross's favorite nurse, was there yesterday and the day went well. He's doing better evert dat and is very alert, though he was tired today. When I called, Betsy said he was watching his favorite movie, "The Usual Suspects," with Katie. When he watches this one, he really stays alert and pays attention.

August 15, 2003 9:00 PM--Betsy said Ross was "really cooking" today. Of course, Katie was there, so he was terribly alert and aware, following her with his eyes wherever she moved about the room. Betsy had spent much of the night in Ross's room, concerned about his cough, and he was awake much of the night, but he really came awake when Katie arrived.

He's tracking well and showing daily improvement, moving far beyond where he was while in rehab. There was an interesting but bittersweet moment last night. Betsy said Ross was on the tilt table. They'd brought out a full length mirror so he could see himself while the therapists worked with him. Betsy said that, as they were lowering the table to take him off, Ross turned and looked at her with an expression of absolute grief on his face, and began to cry.

As difficult as this is for his family, it's also a sign of healing. Stage 4 is a period of growing awareness. Therapists have told Ross's parents to expect him to show his frustration and sadness more and more as his awareness grows. Knowing it's a sign of healing is the only thing, though, that makes this bearable for Ross's family and loved ones. They have to keep reminding themselves that the fact he's getting upset is a sign he's getting better.

There will not be an update tomorrow night, but I'll be back on Sunday. You can, however, call 707.799.8868 for Rusty's evening update. Thank you, everyone, for your prayers and healing thoughts. You are very much a part of Ross's recovery.

August 14, 2003 8:30 PM--Ross was on the tilt table when I called tonight, and Betsy said he was doing really well. He continues to improve, slowly but surely, every day. He's still troubled by allergies and congestion, which is a worry to his parents, of course, because of the risk of pneumonia, but overall his health is excellent and he isdefinitely more alert and aware of his surroundings. The physical therapist mentioned today that Ross appears to be focusing better with both eyes, another sign of recovery. As Betsy said, all the signs are gradual but very significant, and he's looking really good.

August 13, 2003 9:00 PM--Betsy said today went okay. Ross was tired and seemed kind of down, but when the speech pathologist was there he worked really well for an hour. Betsy and the physical therapist thinks he may be depressed, whether from growing awareness of his situation or a combination of medications that can cause depression. They're going to look into changing his medications.

August 12, 2003 9:10 PM--Ross was really sleepy today, but Betsy said he was still a bit toney. The good news is that he slept for a full night last night, from 9:30 PM until 9:00 this morning, not even waking up when she turned him. The tone might be from all the therapy and exercise.

Nurse Lisa was there today and was able to install a new feeding tube for Ross called a Mic-key. It's a much more effective system than the Foley catheter they've been using and it should be easier to prevent blockages in this one.

Ross's lab results came in and his sodium levels are normal so they don't have to be so stingy with water. His sodium levels were low last time they had blood work done.

For those of you who might have tried the link to the wedding page and gotten nowhere fast, I just got it fixed today. I hadn't tested the link and didn't realize it wasn't working, but if you want to see pictures of Ross and his family as well as Rusty performing the ceremony for our son and daughter in law (who are currently somewhere crossing Siberia by train!) you can go to www.katedouglas.com/wedding and the link should work fine.

Please keep Ross and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you, all of you who follow his progress. It means so much to all of us to know how much you care.

August 11. 2003 9:10 PM--Betsy said Ross did really well today, though he was very tired after his outing yesterday. It made her think about a book she'd read about a man who described coming out of a coma and how everything was so vivid it was almost painful--colors, sensations, things his body could absorb but not temper. One of Ross's therapists said that at the stage Ross is in, he's going to be the same way with emotions. It's like his body is able to experience intense "fright or flight" emotions without a way to mediate or regulate them.

Ross did really well again today with the speech therapist, opening his mouth wider, swallowing better and responding really well. Betsy said the therapist is wonderful and goes to great pains to connect with Ross. Both Betsy and Rusty have commented on the amazing team of people they have working with Ross now--some of them volunteers, but all of them focused on his recovery.

They got him up in the tilt table today, at a higher angle and for a longer period of time. He's able to place his feet completely flat to the floor after a few minutes on the table, stretching out his tendons and muscles well beyond what the therapists at Kentfield expected. Betsy said they were talking surgery, but it's obvious Ross won't need it.

It's an amazing journey, watching Ross's long and slow recovery from such a terrible accident. Betsy told me again tonight, they are so grateful Ross is doing so well, and so appreciative of the many people who are gracious enough to give their time and energy toward his recovery.

August 10, 2003 8:45 PM--Ross spent a couple hours at the Sonoma County Developmental Center today where Dr. Scott Wylie had arranged for an informational booth for the Dillon's and for Ross at the Liberty Ride. Betsy said Ross was able to stay for about two hours before they had to take him home. She asked him if he was ready to go, and he nodded that he was. When they got him home, he fell asleep as soon as they got him into bed.

Tonight when I called, Ross was on the tilt table and Rusty was working with him on communicating "yes" and "no." At one point, he raised the table to a more upright degree and Ross immediately let him know he didn't like that a bit, by shaking his head side to side.

Betsy also said that she was working with Ross using an exercise ball where she puts his legs up over the ball. It lifts his butt up off the bed and when she rocks the ball back and forth, it gives a lateral twist to his legs and back. Today when she was doing it, Ross was turning his head in the direction the ball was turning, working with it. They refer to his therapy as training and exercise and the really tough therapy as intervals...he definitely seems to respond to the cycling analogies.

August 9, 2003 9:00 PM--Talked to Rusty and he said he's been busy cleaning out a storage space to clear room in the garage for Ross's therapy equipment. Ross spent an hour on the tilt table today and did really well. Betsy got on the phone and said they also got Ross on his stomach again, and that went well. It allows them to work his back and a whole new set of muscles. He continues with electrical stimulation, range of motion and other therapies on a daily basis. Betsy said they're also beginning to supplement his feedings with "real" food. They've finally gotten the Mic-key feeding tube, but haven't had a qualified person available to put it in. This will allow feedings abdominally without the constant risk of the tube plugging up. What he has now is essentially just a catheter and Betsy said it's awful.

A friend of theirs brought by an album she'd made for Ross, with pictures in it from the time he was just a baby. Betsy said Ross was really interested in it, especially a photo of the friend's wedding taken when Ross was about eight years old. She said he really concentrated on that one for a long time.

On a personal note, today my husband and I watched the video of our son and new daughter-in-law, Melanie's, wedding of July 26. www.katedouglas.com/wedding Rusty performed an absolutely beautiful ceremony and we are so grateful to him for giving us this wonderful gift. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been for Rusty, Betsy and Katie to s