Follow Up Visit Numero Uno!

Here is my second go at this post...I tried writing last night and it got erased somehow and then I got angry and was not motivated to write it all again...

This past Thursday was Chase's first follow up appointment with Dr. Redd.  Being in an orthopedic doctor/surgeon's office, it was only natural that Chase met a fellow cripple and they swapped their stories of motorcycle accidents. This other kid, much younger than Chase (probably in his teenage years, which would have explained his cocky attitude about his accident) seemed to be in a little better shape. His only injury pertained to his ankle. While I was listening to them talk, I couldn't help but realize how this boy wasn't humbled by his experience. Even after hearing how Chase was hit by another driver on his bullet bike, this boy talked about how keen he was on buying his older brothers bullet bike, while his mother and grandmother sat there telling him 'Oh, no you're not'. I am thankful I have married someone who can see how delicate this life is! Even though Chase did take the chance of owning and riding a bullet bike, he knows a sign when he sees one and he knows that they aren't safe for us. 

Once we were called back, the nurses changed Chase's bandages and we got to see his real battle wounds! His left arm that has two metal plates in it has about 20-25 staples on either side of his arm. His right arm that was broken near his wrist has two rods sticking out! Talk about nasty. I will spare everyone the extra details. Dr. Redd told us approximate healing times for his arms (6-8 weeks) and for his leg (up to 6 months) for a full recovery. Chase was suppose to get a hard cast put on his right arm but it was still too swollen. And just when Chase thought our visit was all in vain, the Heavens opened and angels sang and Dr. Redd wrote him a refill for his prescription of hydrocodone, his pain meds :) Since leaving the hospital, his dosage was cut in half and the time between dosages was lengthened. He was more than grateful when Dr. Redd told Chase he could take two pills when needed. After this we made another appointment for the following Thursday, Chase and the other cripple said good luck to each other and we were on our way back home. 

The Leg

Rods in the right arm

Staples on the inside of his arm

On Friday, thanks to our brother-in-law Paul Winward, Chase and I had a consultation with a personal injury attorney. Our purpose of the visit was simply to establish a relationship and to talk and figure out exactly the road we would need to take if it comes to the point we would need an attorney. Our meeting was quick but informative.

The past few days here at home have been much better! When we first came home from the hospital it was pretty uncomfortable for Chase. The pain was more evident and finding a comfortable position to sit or sleep was difficult. I am very happy to say that is not the case anymore! We are trying to find ways to stay entertained. I bought scrabble from walmart the other night and we have played a couple games, but if anyone would like to give suggestions as to wholesome ways for Chase and I pass the time when we are at home I would appreciate it. I am beginning to see that there are only so many things I can do around the apartment to stay entertained. And while laundry seems to always be an option, sometimes, I just don't wanna do it! haha. 

I would like to document some of the songs that Chase has made up since we have been married. This one is specific to now. Without the use of his arms, Chase can't really shave his face and even though I did it once for him after we got home (without drawing blood!) it was scary and I don't really want to do it again! So here it is to the tune of the spiderman theme song:

Kiss the scruff, kiss the scruff

Danielle loves to kiss the scruff

A hairy face

My name is Chase

Kiss the scruff, kiss the scruff

Oh man! Chase makes me laugh! I love him!!!! There's some newly-wed gooshieness for you : )