Milt's Blog

Dave: Welcome to Milt’s Blog. Milt’s family will post updates on a regular basis on Milt’s health and recovery. We hope this will be a useful tool for everyone. (08/13/08)

Gene: We just returned late Wed nite from the Elders-Staff retreat and wondered how Milt was getting along. What is the latest word? (08/13/08)

Dave: Jill told me this afternoon that he was getting a little better each day. As I understand it he went from yesterday until today breathing on his own. Tonight they want home to rest and he will use the machine to breath. They also started feeding him intravenously through his stomach. He seems to recognize voices and will turn his head little towards the voice. The staff infection is almost all cleared up. They also have taken him off of the dialysis machine. (08/13/08)

Jerry: Really glad to see all of the improvement what an amazing recovery from where we were Saturday. Praise God! (08/13/08)

Marsha: We're praying for you Milt and family. Love you. Call when you can. (08/14/08)

Jill: TODAY IS THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2008 Most of you know by now that Milt was in a head on collision on Saturday, August 2, 2008. He was transported by abulance to Denver Health, where they x-rayed, scanned, and tested everything they could. The only things that were clear was a dislocated elbow, broken arm, cracked sternum and 4 broken ribs. They moved him to a regular room where they could continue to treat him and observe him for internal injuries. He was sitting up and talking, but due to the sternum, ribs, and pre-existing heart and lung problems, he was having difficulty breathing effectively. By Wednesday, August 6, the doctor had decided to move him to the ICU where he could get continuous care. By Wednesday evening, his breathing was so labored and erratic, they had to intubate him (put a tube down his throat), and place him on a ventilator. Over the next two days, his condition continued to worsen, and he also developed a staph infection. At one point, he had a fever of over 106, and was on about 10 different medications. Due to the staph, and all of the medications, his kidneys, heart and other organs began to take a hit. Friday night (August 8) he was placed on kidney dialysis. On Saturday, August 9, the doctors informed us that Milt was in heart failure, and there was not anything they could do to prevent it. The elders and close friends gathered around dad and our family, and just began to pray for a miracle. A little after 5pm, roughly around the same time the Saturday night service began, dad's nurse gave him a medication that could possibly help stablize his heart. Within minutes, his heart was beating in a normal rythym. By Sunday morning, we were told that dad's kidney's were functioning normally, and they were taking him off of the dialysis!! Every day, he his continuing to improve. For the past few days, they have been taking him off the ventilator for a few hours at a time. He is breathing well on his own, allthough they do leave him on the ventilator at times so he can rest. I know one thing you are all curious about is whether or not he is awake. The answer is no. He is not in a drug induced coma, but is on a medication to keep him sedated. They do allow him to "wake up" a little each day to see how well he tollerates it. He is tollerating more each day, but we are still a long way off for expecting him to be fully awake and understand we are there. Thank you all for your prayers and your thoughts. We truly believe that God is performing a miracle every day, and He is the most powerful physician there is! (08/14/08)

Gloria Robbins: Milt and family we want you to know we are thinking about you and we will be keeping you in our prayers. We pray that GOD will continue to heal you body and give you strength. If there is anything we can do to be of help let us know. (08/14/08)

marsha: HI JILL, Nice information,great job your doing. When Mom needs a break tell her to call me. Let me no if anyone needs anything,Love Yas (08/14/08)

George and Joy: Hi Milt and Family, We want you to know we are praying for you every day. It seems like God is doing miricles with you each day. We were so happy to see the Blog so we could let you know we are here. If we can help in any way please let us know. God Bless!! We know he is answering prayers. (08/14/08)

Debbie & Jay Bollhoefner: I was so delighted to see this Blog today. Milt and Penny you have been in our prayers and thoughts. Penny if you, Jill or anyone else in the family needs anything please call we're in the directory. We love you guys and we pray that God will continue to do what He does best. After all He is a "Big" God. And thank you to whom ever created this Blog its a real God send for us all. (08/14/08)

vic-lynn haigh: milt,penny and family, we love you guys, and you know the Lord is hearing all of our prayers.Milt you really are a fighter. and we want you to keep on fighting , we want you back playing laughing and praising the Lord on and off the stage. We miss you saying PraiseThe Lord (08/14/08)

Laura Jackson: Milt & family, you are all in our thoughts & prayers. We are glad you have been improving. We will continue to pray for you. Terry & Laura Jackson (08/14/08)

Teresa Johnson & Jason Phelps (and : We have been praying for you ever since we heard about this. Even the kids are all praying in their nightly prayers. Glad to hear things are doing a little bit better.. God will be with you, the family and Milt.. Tell everyone to keep their heads up and just pray.. God will do his love from there. If any of you need any help, please don't hesitate to ask. Have a great rest of the day. God Bless you all. (08/15/08)

PENNY HENSLEY: My kids and myself want to thank you all for all your prayers and concerns at this time. God is such a awesome God Milt is improving each day with all of the prays Thank you again so much, God we love you, Penny and kids (08/15/08)

Jerry: Milt looked very good last night. I sang to him a little and when I told him my singing was still awful he smiled at me. He held my hand for quite a while as I was talking to him. At this rate he should be in a regular room very soon. Keep getting better buddy, we love you! (08/15/08)

Patsy (Elaine Ballinger's Mom): I am so happy to hear you are doing better. Both my grandson & I have been keeping you in our daily prayers. May God continue to watch over you & that you have a full recovery. God Bless you. (08/15/08)

Leon: Hey Uncle Milt. Sure am glad that you are inproving. I am in TN with my mom but with all this electronic stuff I can find out how you are doing. I shall continue to pray with you. Leon (08/15/08)

Mary: Penny, You know that you all have all been in our thoughts & prayers from day one. GOD IS GOOD - ALL THE TIME! We, at St. Elizabeth's Church, as well as our family in NJ, PA & NC have kept Milt and family, his physicians & all the hospital staff in prayer. I put his name on the prayer list at The Divine Mercy Shrine - JESUS I TRUST IN YOU). I also sent out a prayer request to all in my mail box. We at St Elizabeth's continue to pray for all that have ever asked for prayer (I call it our mini communion of saints) Please keep us in prayer too. Enjoy the SONshine, Love & hugs to all. (08/15/08)

Jill: FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2008 Milt continues to improve.  He is more awake today, and he is responding to commands.  He is also starting to mouth words.  He is wanting to know things like what happened, and where he is.  He also wants to get up, which the doctors say they may try to today.  Praise God for all the healing He has done!!  Your prayers and support are so very appreciated and still needed.  (08/15/08)

Mark and Ann: Hey there Milt and Penny and family! You have all been in our prayers and we are SO excited to hear the great news!!! We all know that our Father is the GREAT one and WOW what a testimony you'll have when you get better Milt!!! Penny and Jill, you just give us a call when you need help keeping Milt down. It sounds like it'll be soon! We love you guys are here for you! Let us know when he's up for visitors and if you need ANYTHING!!!!!!!!! (08/15/08)

Dean L.: Milt, Pennie, and Family, It is so good to hear the daily improvement of Milt. God is so good! He hears and answers the prayers of the faithful. Mary Ann and I will continue to pray for God's blessings to be upon Milt and all the family. (08/15/08)

Coley: Hi poppy I'm thinking of you and saying a special prayer. You and I have a special bond like when I was a baby I would lay on your chest,then fall asleep at the beat of your heart. I miss you and I hope you get better I am thinking of you every minute of the day. I love you get better soon. (08/15/08)

Taylor: Hi poppy love you and miss you.I know it was hard for you the first couple nights.But God was looking after you.We all are praing for you. (08/15/08)

JOEY: LOVE AND MISS YOU (08/15/08)

NATHAN: HI POPPY HOW ARE YOU DOING I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU (08/15/08)

Kay Kohler: Here's a voice from the past Milt, but my prayers are joining all the rest i've just read. I know you will be back playing for the Lord and shouting PRAISE THE LORD soon. I will remember the family too Penny, Jill I know you are going through a very hard time but remember GOD IS ABLE. You are very special to me and GOD. Love you. Kay (08/15/08)

Joan Naegel: Hey Cousin, how are you doing? You are in my and Chuck's thoughts and prayers. Penny is keeping us well posted on your recuperation. Hang in there and keep the faith. This blog is a great idea and your church members and friends are to be commended. Love you, Joan, Chuck and Family (08/16/08)

Buzz: Jill, We appreciate knowing how your dad is improving. You are doing a great job of keeping us all informed. Please let you family know we are thinking about you and praying. We will continue to pray for complete healing. I know this has to be a hard time for all of you and if we can help ease that in any way please let us know. We love you guys. (08/16/08)

Mary: Penny, This thought just came to my mind. Your family is really being touched by miracles. Less than 5 months ago Linda (for those who may not know, Linda is the wife of Bill, Penny's brother) pulled through a very serious stroke, against all odds. Now it appears to be Milt's turn for a miracle. THE WILL OF GOD WILL NEVER TAKE YOU WHERE THE GRACE OF GOD WILL NOT PROTECT YOU. Love & Prayers to & for all. (08/16/08)

betty : dear penny tell milt he is in my prays, hurry and get well. love you betty, (08/16/08)

ken and diane: just to let you know you are in our prayers. get well soon. alked to Penny today. get better coz. (08/16/08)

larenda: hey poppy its larenda I love you and wish you well I cant wait to hear your jokes and voice again . GET WELL SOON xoxoxoxox love larenda (08/16/08)

larenda: hey poppy its larenda I love you and wish you well I cant wait to hear your jokes and voice again . GET WELL SOON xoxoxoxox love larenda (08/16/08)

Ashley: Hey poppy it Ashley and Quincy, We wish you well soon. You have always been a strong man and you will get threw this. You have alway taught me the power of prayer and GOD IS GREAT because of him you will countinue to get stronger and better every day. Quincy misses you, We all miss you we pray you get better soon and wish you the best. Love always Ashley and Quincy (08/16/08)

Shannon: Hey Poppy its your 2nd granddaughter Shannon. Words cant explain how everyone is feeling right now. We ALL miss you and Love you so much. You have always been the one to keep this family together and now its time to repay you. We have stuck to gether in this time of need and just pray for you and your health. Mom, Billy, Jay, and Jill have been by yourside at the hospital while the kids stayed at our house. We love you so much poppy and just can't wait for you to get better soon. Love always Shannon (08/17/08)

Ruth Jacobson: Just read the blog for the first time. Was not aware of Milt's journey thus far. Lifting you all up in prayer that God's mercy and grace will sustain you all through this physical and spiritual journey. Ruth Jacobson (08/17/08)

Kim Foushee: Hello Hensley family! I have been in touch with Kitty since the accident. I am very sorry you and your family have had to go thru this. You and your loved ones have been in my prayers since day one. Its been many years since I have seen you, Penny and Kitty and the rest of the extended family but you all have never been forgotten or far from my thoughts. Im sorry I couldnt be there to help out the family with sitting with the kids or what ever else needed to be done as I live in Florida. But you are a very strong man just like my father was and my love and faith will always be with you! God bless you and your family. I am praying for your full recovery!! (08/17/08)

Stan and Joanell Pegg: We love you, Milt, and know that God is working miracles! Our prayers for you and your family continue daily. Stan and I want you to get well soon! Penny and family - we live so close to you - if you need a ride or anything, please call us. We are in the directory. Love you! (08/17/08)

Dave : Sunday, 4:30 PM - I just talked to Jill and she gave me the following update. Milt continues to improve each day although it is a slow process. They took the ventilator off again today at 1:00 PM and may leave it off all night, it really depends on if his breathing becomes labored during the night. All of Milt’s vital signs are looking good. Milt asks lots of questions and is anxious to get up and move around. Talking is difficult for him because of the ventilator apparatus and he can only mouth his words. He asks why only two family members at time come to see him (he is still in ICU), why his hands are strapped down (he likes to pull the Trek out of his throat), etc. Jill tried to explain it all and his response was, “Too many rules.” That sounds like the Milt I know! Jill said he gets a little ornery sometimes and everyone thinks that’s a good sign. They may move Milt in a few days to a “step-down” room which is sort of a half way step to a regular hospital room. The step-down room is also used as a place to start physical therapy. Milt has a long road ahead of him but with our prayers, our support, and our God – he is now on the road to recovery!! (08/17/08)

Skinner Family: HI Milt and Family, We are so glade that you are getting better, Our preyer's are with you. God works in ways that are so great. (08/18/08)

penny h: he is doing better today. he knows what he needs to do to get out of their and go to step down. so hope that will be soon. Prays are still needed. thank you God penny (08/18/08)

Kitty: Dad is doing much better tonight. He has calmed down and is more aware of his surroundings and knows he needs to behave. (Yea right!! LOL) He did seem to have more questions tonight yet, he also remembered the accident and the first room he was in. He wanted to know what brought him to ICU. When Jill explained everything to him, he seemed to understand. My family can not express enough thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers. We definitely believe it is the Power of Prayer which has brought him to where he is right now. (08/18/08)

Jill Johnson: Hi all! Visited with Dad last night, and he continues to improve. He is sitting up and able to mouth words to us now. He is still on a little support from the ventilator at night, but they continue to wean him off during the day. The orthopedic surgeon is planning on doing surgery on his arm tomorrow, as his dislocated elbow is very unstable. However, we have been warned that they sometimes change their schedule at the last minute. Every day we are getting one step closer to the step down unit, which is still continuous care, but not as critical as ICU. Thank you all for your continued prayers and thoughts. (08/19/08)

Carol: Hey Milt and Penny, We are praying for complete healing for your elbow surgery so we can once again sing along with you and your guitar. Keep healing and knowing that God is with you, He will not forsake you! Just give Him the burdens and let Him carry the yoke - it works best that way. :>) God bless you and your family through this trying time. (08/19/08)

Gene: Visited with Milt Wednesday morning and had a good visit. He was alert and talking (or mouthing his words - the tube is still in) and said he was pretty much pain-free. He was sitting up in his bed and watching TV when I came in. The nurse said they would do surgery Friday to repair the broken elbow and were hoping to get him out of the surgical ICU soon. (08/21/08)

Dave & Marsha: Marsha and I stopped and visited with Milt at noon today. He was alert and mouthed words to us. The nurse came in and asked if she could prick his finger to take a blood sample again and Milt just rolled eyes and looked at us and smiled. They were getting ready to feed him some applesauce when we left and I understand he will have his elbow set tomorrow (Friday). (08/21/08)

Kitty: At our nightly visit with dad tonight he was a bit drowsy and didn't seem to want to chat much. They are doing surgery on his arm tomorrow morning at 8:15 and we think he is really worried about this. We keep assuring him that he will be alright and there are still so many people praying for him. As soon as surgery is done and one of us can get to a computer, we will post the update. We also realize there are SO many people who are concerned about dad and how he is doing. We were asked by the nursing staff tonight if we could mention to all his friends that because of the HIPPA laws they would prefer not to be asked about his condition directly, and would like everyone to just ask the family first. We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers and they are still very much needed. Again, we will post an update as soon as we can. Thanks again to everyone!! (08/21/08)

Jill Johnson: Hi All - Just got home from the hospital. Dad had surgery on his elbow today, to stablize it. The surgery went well, and although he is having some pain, the doctors feel the surgery was a success. He will be in a splint for a week, then they will put him in a brace so that he can move his arm. Each week, they will adjust it so that he will have a little more range of motion. The doctor says he may never be able to fully extend his arm, but he should be able to get back to playing guitar eventually! He is still on a low setting on the ventilator, and they will start weaning again in the morning. They are going to let him rest tonight. As soon as they can get him off the vent, he will move out of ICU and into Step Down. It is going to be a very long recovery for him, but each day he is building his strength. Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers. (08/22/08)

Kitty: Visited with dad tonight, he was pretty much sleeping on and off. He is still on the pain medication for his arm, which seems to be doing a little better for him. Today he was put on an all liquid diet which they will keep him on for a few days and then they will start to introduce solids little by little until they can remove the feeding tube from his nose. He is a bit happy that he can have his pop now. We brought him a chocolate milkshake tonight which he seemed to enjoy although he was soon asleep again, it is just nice to see him taking anything by mouth again, even if it is just small. Again, our family truly appreciates all the thoughts and prayers that have gone out for dad and our family. We will keep everyone posted as each new thing happens. (08/24/08)

Kitty: Forgot one important piece of information. They took dad off the ventilator this morning at 5 am and he was doing so good all day that they were going to leave him off until 11 pm before putting him back on for the night. Hopefully, it wont be long until he moves to Step Down. (08/24/08)

penny h: Milt was doing fine on Monday morning when Istopped in before work. had been off the vent the day before from 5 in the morning till ll at night and the same off the vent Monday morning at 5 when I left he was sleeping called the nurse around 2 or so and had to be put back on the vent he had pulled out the trek and strapped down once again. Last night when we were their he was sleeping they gave him some meds. He told the nurse that he did not remember why he pulled the trek out. So today will be another day. It may set him back a bit from going to step down, hope not. Thanks for all the prays he is getting and our family. We love you all. (08/26/08)

Terri Durward: Hello All, Just now able to get on here and check out the website. This is very nice. You all are still in our prayers here in Mississippi. Chapel Hill Church and Bro. West Church is all praying and we are keeping them posted on his recovery. We hope Milt gets better real soon. We do have a healing god, I know from experience with mothers stroke and dads open heart surgery. Milt will continue to be in our prayers. love ya all and hope to see yall soon. Bye (08/26/08)

Jill Johnson: Hi All - Well, I went to visit Dad this morning, and not only is he off the vent, it is out of his room!!! Praise the Lord! His nurse said he is ready to go to Step Down, and will be moved just as soon as a bed becomes available. Continued prayers are still needed and much appreciated. He still has a long recovery ahead of him, as Step Down will begin focusing more on physical and occupational therapies. But we are well on our way! (08/28/08)

Mary: GOD IS SOOOOOOO GOOD. AMEN! (08/29/08)

Kitty: Hi everyone- well, we visited with dad tonight and low and behold, he was not in ICU he has moved to Step Down. YEAH!!!!!!!! He seemed to be doing very well. He is just very anxious about being able to get up and go, I don't think he is comprehending how long he has actually been laying in bed. He just rolled his eyes at me when I told him his legs are still pretty weak. All in all, he has come a long way. Although there is much recovery to go, we thank God everyday for getting us here. Thanks so much to everyone for their thoughts and prayers which are still very much needed. (08/29/08)

Dave : I went to see Milt last night and they had moved him to a Step-Down room. It’s an area where there appears to be a nurse for about every three patients. Milt was watching television and flipping through the channels. I teased him about already picking up old habits. I asked if he was eating yet and he told me no – just liquids. He still has to “mouth” his words, there isn’t any voice, I assume because of the trake. Penny called this morning and said that he had ripped out his NG tube last night and they were going to try and leave it out. A specific prayer request would be for Milt to begin to work hard at getting up and moving. I asked him last night if he could raise his right arm (his elbow is in a cast) and while he tried a little he said it hurt to move it. I encouraged him to face the pain and work at moving and getting up. As I left he said “pray for me”. I assured him that there probably more people praying for him right now than any other person I knew. We then prayed for his willingness to physically work through the upcoming challenges. (08/30/08)

Dave: About 5:00 PM this evening the phone rang … it was Kitty. When I answered she said, “Just a sec Dave”. The next voice I heard was Milt’s - he was talking. It was gravely and groggy but it was Milt. I asked if it hurt to talk and he said yes, so I told him to just keep doing it anyway! It was good to hear his voice. (08/30/08)

Kitty: Ok, ya'll are not going to believe this. Tonight at our visit with dad, mom had a little accident of her own. She and Jill were visiting with dad and had been in the room for only about 15 minutes when Jill ran out to the waiting room and called for me. As I ran back there, thinking something happened to dad, I was amazed when I walked in and saw mom on the floor. Yup, there had been water on dads floor from his humidifier, and mom asked the nurse for some towels so that no one would fall yet after placing the towels and walking to the other side of the bed, she herself slipped. We spent until 12:30 going between dads room and mom in the ER. Unfortunately, it was not a fall without injury. Many of you know the surgery and issues mom had with her one arm several years ago. Well, it is now the other arm, she has a very bad fracture and will have surgery on it on Tuesday sometime. We will know more about it on Monday. So, as you are sending those prayers out for dad, can you add a few for mom and the family as we need them very much. Thanks again to everyone. (08/31/08)

Dave : Penny Update - Penny's shoulder surgery is scheduled for 8:00 AM Tuesday morning at Health One. She hope's she doesn't have to stay overnight but it all depends on how it goes. Monday afternoon she told me her shoulder was hurting a lot and it was a throbbing pain. She sleeps in a recliner with pillows all around her and the family helps her get up and down. She is concerned the hospital (where the accident happened) may not compensate her for lost wages while off work. Kitty is going to meet with the hospital administrators Tuesday to see how they are going to handle all of the issues. (09/01/08)

Coley: Poppy is getting better thank the Lord. He is talking almost perfectly now and is also in step down. Today the physical theropist moved him from the bed to the chair. then after four hours or so he wanted to go back to his bed so the nurses moved him back to him bed. (09/01/08)

Taylor: Poppy is getting better. I miss him and hopes he comes home soon (09/01/08)

Taylor: Poppy is getting better. i miss him a whole lot because I can't see him. (09/01/08)

Coley: I also got to see Poppy a few days ago for the first time in almost a month. It was a little emontional for me at first seeing him that was now I know why he didn't want me or any of the grandchildren seeing him in SICU. After I left I cried it was hard for me, but today was the fist time I didn't cry for the last few visits I saw him, also I helped him so much I feed him, gave him his toothbrush and toothpaste, and gave him pop ALL BY MYSELF!!! (09/01/08)

Mary: THANKS BE TO GOD for Milt's progress! Now --- What's the scoop on Penny? Was te surgery done? What's the outlook for her? (09/02/08)

Dave : Penny’s surgery went well. As I understand it they put a plate in her shoulder and then screwed her shoulder to the plate. I saw Penny at about 5:00 tonight and she was doing fine and quite talkative! Penny will spend the night at the hospital just about 200 feet from Milt’s room and then go home tomorrow. Later tonight she plans on getting a wheel chair and going over to Milt’s room to visit. She hopes to go back to work in a few weeks. Today they had Milt up and in a chair for about two hours. They hope to start walking therapy soon. (09/02/08)

Jill: Hello All! Today's entry will be quite long, as there is much to report. We'll start with mom - She was discharged this morning, and is doing very well, although she is totally and completely exhausted! She has been given a few mild therapy exercises to do, to keep her arm from becoming stiff. She will go back to the doctor for a follow up in about 2 weeks, and at that point he will probably prescribe more therapy. Not sure at this point when she will be able to return to work, so we are in the process of working with a personal injury attorney to see what compensation she may be entitled to. She is not looking for much, she just wants the comfort of knowing that she will be provided for in the event that returning to work should be a longer process than she has vacation time for. Please keep finances for mom and dad in your prayers, and that the hospital will be fair to them in determining how to compensate mom. Now onto to dad's progress - I only saw him for a bit today, as I had to get mom home so she could rest. Yesterday, the respiratory therapist was confident that if he could do well the rest of the day, and through last night, they would be able to take the trache out today. Unfortunately, dad has a tendency to panic, and he asked the therapist to take the cap out, and put the trache collar back on, to deliver oxygen through the trache. I asked the respiratory therapist if there truly was a difference between giving oxygen through the trache, as opposed to the nasal prongs. He told me that even with the trache collar, he was still breathing through his nose and mouth, and that no, there wasn't a big difference. So, we are struggling with trying to get dad to understand the difference between thinking he's having trouble breathing, and actually having trouble breathing. I have continually asked the nurses to ask the doctors to order vallium on a regular basis, but they will only give it to him as needed. I truly believe that if he were on it continuously, they would notice a huge difference in his behavior and anxiety. Instead, they wait until he is overly panicked, and give him Adivan, which makes him sleep for 4 and 5 hours at a time. As of this morning, he still had the trache in. I have spent the last hour or so on the phone with the hospital social worker. Apparently, although dad still needs a certain level of medical care, the doctors do not feel that his needs require him to remain in a full-fledged trauma center. He does however, need to be under a physicians care until he is well enough to begin full-time therapy. So, the social worker is in the process of referring dad to a long term acute care hospital. It is NOT a nursing home, but a skilled nursing facility. We have selected a facility in Aurora, because it is about 4 blocks from where Kitty lives. The social worker will submit the paperwork first thing in the morning, and he could be moved as early as Friday, but it may not happen for another week or more. It will depend on bed availability at the center. Please pray that the facility will be able to accept him and help him with his continued healing. I am absolutely amazed at all of the people who are praying for mom and dad, as well as the concern you have shown for our family. You have no idea how thankful we are for all of you!! (09/03/08)

Kitty: Well, tonights visit with dad was a good one. They did remove the trache this afternoon and he is feeling much better. He stated that as soon as they removed it, it made a huge difference in how he felt. He was very talkative tonight and can not wait to get into rehab. Now, it is going to be having to remind him that we are just waiting for a bed. Jill has been taking charge and doing all the talking to everyone for everything for the family and has been doing a great job for us. While praying for mom and dad, please pray also for her for the strength and patience needed for all this, she definitley has her hands full. (09/03/08)

Dave: I stopped and saw Milt Friday afternoon and he looked great! He was sitting up and talking with Dick Guiry and was in great spirits. It was great to see him making such wonderful improvement. He has been sitting up and standing some. Penny and Jill had just left minutes before I got there and Milt said she is also doing well. PTL! (09/06/08)

Gene Barron: Just saw Milt this morning. He is doing great and anxious to get out. He can't stand for over a few seconds, leg muscles have atrophied and won't bear his weight. Denver General doesn't have a therapy program so they only work with him once a day. They told him they want to send him to a rehab place but they haven't been able to find one that will take him. He is in too good a shape for some of them - and some of the others don't have a bed. He really needs to get out and get the therapy so he can regain strength in his legs. A rep from Life Care Center (Ltn) was there this morning and they are evaluating if they can take him. PRAY: THAT THEY WILL FIND A REHAB CENTER ASAP; THAT HIS MUSCLES WILL GET STRONGER QUICKLY; THAT HE WILL REGAIN MUSCLE TONE. Everything else is going very well. (09/10/08)

penny: life center in littleton is taking milt on sat they had to order him the right kind of bed for him . so lets pray the bed is their then. he is so looking forward on going their. sorry my typing is no good with one hand thanks for all prays and concerns (09/11/08)

Kathie Kube: Milt, we hope you continue to get better and better so that you can get home and keep Penny under control. Penny, your typing and spelling are horrible, and you shouldn't blame this on having just one arm. Love you. (09/12/08)

Vicky Otey: Penny called to say Milt is being moved today to the rehab in Littleton. Praise the Lord! (09/12/08)

Kitty: Dad was moved on Friday to Life Care Center in Littleton. He is doing much better now. He knows what he needs to do to come home and is is somewhat ready for the challenge. Although he knows it is not going to be easy, he knows it is important. Today when we were there, he was sitting in the wheelchair. He was just happy to actually be out of bed. Jill took him for a walk outside and he was grateful for the chance to get some fresh air. After all, it has been 6 weeks since he has been outside. We had a long discussion the other night about our faith and the fact that we truly beleive it is that which has gotten us all through. We thank everyone for their continued thoughts and prayers. And, yes mom, your spelling and such is awful anyway. Kathy is correct, don't blame it on the arm, we all know better!! (09/13/08)

Jill: Hi All - So grateful that some of you have been passing information along. Between Dad getting moved, taking care of Mom, my own four kids, as well as my job, I've been falling a bit behind in my blogging! I took mom to the doctor today for her follow-up appointment. She had her staples removed, and the physical therapist gave her some exercises to do at home, and they want to see her back in another month. We stopped and saw dad this afternoon. He is doing SO much better now that he is out of the hospital. I think he has done more, therapy-wise, in the past few days, than he did in the last three weeks he was in the hospital!! Right now they are very heavily focused on getting him walking again, and his arm is a side-issue. They work it a little, but he has to go back to visit the surgeon in a few weeks, so they are waiting to get orders from him before they do too much. And as far as getting him walking - he is well on his way! He can get out of bed and into a wheelchair with minimal assisstance from the nurses or therapists. Once he's in the wheelchair, he can wheel himself to the "Day Room" and the cafeteria, although it does take him a while. They have given him a cane, but they have also ordered a special walker for him that will allow him support for his arm. Right now, he is not using the cane, but even having him in a wheelchair is tremendous progress after spending 6 weeks in bed! They also have him get dressed every day, which he does most of by himself. Visitors are always appreciated, as he does get lonely when no one is there. We visit every day, but mom gets tired easily, and Kitty and I have jobs and our own families to take care of. Also, Kitty lives in Aurora, so by the time she gets off work and gets out here, she doesn't get too much time with dad. We also ask for continued prayers for mom and dad's finances. Mom is still not back to work, and Medicare only covers 100% of dad's costs for the first 20 days. After that, mom and dad will have a pretty hefty co-pay they will have to pay EACH DAY. We are still in the process of working to get a fair settlement from Denver Health for mom's arm, but these things take time. Thank you all so much for your continued prayers, and we know it is truly a miracle that dad continues to progress so well. (09/15/08)

Mary: Hi Penny & Family, So very happy that both patients are on the mend. About the finances .. contact your auto insurance agent. Usually the very first question a health care provider asks is .. was the injury due to an auto accident?? Auto PIP (personal injury protection) should be the first to pick up hospital expenses & possibly loss of income protection. CHECK IT OUT!!l LOVE & HUGS TO ALL. (09/16/08)

Mary: No more updates? What's happening ??????? (09/23/08)

Kitty: Sorry all for the lack of updates. I barely have enough time to turn my computer on let alone write anything. Anyway, things are doing well. Dad was transported to Denver Health today where mom and I met him for the check up on his arm and they gave us good news and some other news dad didn't want to hear. The arm has healed however, he has grown some bone in 3 spots that shouldn't be there. They suggested doing surgery again, not right now but shortly down the road to shave the bone away but, at this point dad said no, as there are other risks of putting him under again. They stated the only thing it will affect is his range in motion so it is totally up to him on what he wants his limitations to be. The doctor did say he should start trying to play the guitar as part of his therapy, as they removed his brace. He doesn't want us to bring his "good" guitar to him so if anyone might have an old one laying around he could strum on, that would be great. He is apprehensive about the brace being gone as he says nurses and such are more careful when it is braced and he is affraid they may be a bit rougher wih it now. He was expressing today that he really wants to push on being able to stand up himself and atleast take a few steps so he can get out of the wheelchair and into a van to go to church. He stated this is one of the things he misses the most of not being able to attend church as he hasn't missed this much since he has been attending. I keep reminding him this will all come in time, it is all a process and as long as he continues to progress, it will happen in no time. He could still use visitors as he gets pretty lonely, so in a nut shell thats where things are with dad. Mom decided that she had to go back to work part time on Monday, as financially she could not take any more time off. While at the hospital today her and I went to the advocates office to discuss their plans for a settlement with her. They are making progress as it is now in the hands of risk management so we should find out soon about her compensation. Continue to pray for the healing of both of them as well as their finances. I will try to make updates more regularly. (09/23/08)

Dave: I stopped for a few minutes tonight and visited with Milt. He was in a good mood and seems to be progressing well with physical therapy. Today he was in a wheel chair and is beginning to move up and down the hall ways. Milt misses all of his church friends and wanted me to let everyone know he loves to have visitors. He said he may be there for several months and I think is struggling a little with discouragement over the slowness of the healing process. Whenever you’re near the intersection of Broadway and Mineral please take ten minutes and stop and say hi. He is at the Life Care Center at 1500 W Mineral (about a mile west of Broadway). He said the best time is any afternoon or evening. (09/24/08)

Kitty: Wow, I knew it had been a little while since I had updated but I didn't think it had been that long. Anyway, dad is progressing well and seems to be a bit more chipper yet he still has his moments. They have started using a walker with him in therapy which is going well except by the time he is done, his arm is pretty sore however, he did walk 42 feet the first time using it so that is definite progress. They also were trying to work on getting him to get out of the wheelchair by himself he says the muscles in his calves are there but his thighs are a different story, they just are not strong enough yet. He did call me this afternoon and let me know that they measured his wheelchair to be 16 inches from the ground and they put a 2 inch pad or something on the wheelchair to raise it to 18 inches and with this he was able to get up himself. Yeah!!!! He has been working on the bike also and as strenuous as a lot of it is for him, he is pushing through as much as possible. He really wants to get home. We have been getting him into bed also without the assistance of any nurses too, he is able to dress and undress himself, and he was able to swing around and pull one leg up onto the bed by himself. We just keep encouraging all the progress he IS making and I think this really helps. I think he still gets kind of lonely at the end of the night when people have to go home but, he has also been really excited and talks non stop about the visitors he gets during the day. Thanks to all of you who find the time to stop by and visit with him during the day, you really don't know what a blessing that is and how happy that makes him. Once again, if you are ever in the area of Mineral and Broadway, please stop by, even if it is just for a few minutes, that few minutes does wonders for him.Mom is also doing much better. She is able to do much more by herself even though she often has pain. She still can't raise her arm to the fullest but, with time and work, I have faith she'll get there. Well, thats about it for now. Please continue to pray for the healing of both mom and dad as well as finances. We are still awaiting news on the settlement for mom so please pray that something comes through soon. Thanks again to everyone for the prayers and support, this sure has been a long road we've traveled and have come a long way and it IS going to continue to go up. God bless you all! (10/01/08)

Mary: Thanks for the update. Each bit of news is better that the last. You know our prayers are with all of you (including the staff members). Remember to Enjoy the SONshine (you KNOW that's not a typo!) Love to all. (10/02/08)

Kitty: Well, dad continues to progress, he is making much effort to do more things for himself. He is pretty much getting up out of the wheelchair himself with little or no support and he is getting into bed and pulling his llegs up on his own. You can tell it pains him when he pulls his one leg up but he does it. He is totally impressed with himself in therapy (as he should be) and so are we, he is making great improvement. He is still kind of struggling with his arm and not being able to move it in certain ways but, after his last check up, he knows without that other surgery to shave down the bone, his range in motion will be limited. After watching this and talking with him more, I think he is now considering having it done. He goes back to the doctors in about 5-6 weeks and maybe he'll have made up his mind by then. We can keep encourageing but, we can't make the decisions for him as he is well enough now to do that on his own. Please continue to pray for the healing of mom and dad and for dad to be able to come to the right decision for himself. Also, once again thanks to all the visitors and please keep it up, I believe this is also helping a great deal. God Bless!! (10/06/08)

Mary: Proof that prayer works and miracles really happen. Thanks be to God! xoxoxo to All. (10/07/08)

Dave : Stopped and visited with milt for a few minutes yesterday afternoon (Friday). Milt is pleased with his progress and looks good. For the first time since his accident, he walked up and then back down four steps in the morning physical therapy work session, and also walked about 35 feet with no help. I don’t know how much weight Milt has lost but it’s a lot. We had a good visit and he remembered the names of past friends and events better than I did! (10/11/08)

Kitty: I visited with dad last night, he was excited to show us something before he went to bed. (As we usually put him to bed and such when we are there). So when it was time for us to leave, he (by himself) stood up out of his wheelchair and walked around the bed, got undressed himself, and got into bed. He then asked, "how was that"? I told him that was awesome!! He is doing so great. He is walking much more by himself, and doing steps everyday. In my opinion, it wont be long before he is home, and that will be great. He is still very much enjoying the visitors he is getting and would like that to continue. Each day we see him, it seems he is getting more and more back to the dad/Milt we all know, and that is very exciting. I still haven't gotten a straight answer as to what he is going to do or have done about his arm but, we'll continue to pray about it. Anyway, will keep you updated as much as I can. Take care and God Bless everyone!! (10/12/08)

Kitty: By the way, it is a toal of 80lbs since dad has lost. That was about 4 days ago so by now I am sure it is a bit more. He is also truly excited about this and wants to continue on this path when he gets home. However, in different ways. Thats all I wanted to add. (10/12/08)

Kitty: Didn't spend too much time with dad tongiht as I am catching cold and had to go shower mom also. However, he seems in good spirits, continues to do well in therapy and they are really talking about him going home. They have not given a date yet but, they beleive he is pretty close. They want him to walk as much as possible as long as someone is there with him, just in case. He stated he wanted to be home by the end of October if not sooner. He is so looking forward to the change of scenary. Well thats about it for tonight, will keep you posted. (10/15/08)

Dave : I talked to Penny for a few minutes yesterday and she said that next Thursday (October 23) the physical therapist will go over to Milt’s house and see what special needs he might have in their house and that that maybe he will get to go home over the weekend of October 26. PTL. (10/17/08)

Mary: PRAISE BE JESUS CHRIST ,,, NOW AND FOREVER ! We will continue to praise & give Him thanks. (10/17/08)

Kitty: We visited with dad for awhile tonight. While we were there, we went for a walk with him from his room, around the nurses station, and back to his room. He only needed one break and did really well. His therapist also gave him a book of medical equipment and such that can be ordered to accomodate him at home. The place is local so I am going to go tomorrow and pick up the things he requested, then on Sunday my husband is going to go put everything together and have it all set up and ready for him. We are also going with mom to get him a new chair. I will pick him up Thursday afternoon and take him home with the therapists so they can make sure there is nothing else needed. With all that done, with any luck they will allow him to go home that weekend. He is ready to go yet a bit apprehensive. If there is anyone who can possible help with hanging out with him also when he gets home, that would be great. I think this is the part that bothers him the most, being alone all day. Our daughter was going to do stay with him for a few months and he was really looking forward to that however, our grandson is going in to Children's Hospital next month for more surgery to fix his legs so this has become impossible. If anyone can help with keeping him company, and can let mom know, that would be greatly appreciated. Our family can not give enough thanks for all the prayers and support we have all received during this whole time, we are very, very greatful. That is about it for tonight, thanks again and God Bless!! (10/17/08)

Kitty: Praise the Lord!! Dad will be coming home tomorrow from rehab. We picked him up today and took him to the house with his therapists so they could check things out and make sure things were ok for him. They gave there opinions on things and with the exception of a few more things we need to get, he is all set. He is still a little apprehensive about being at the house by himself, and he still needs to use his walker so if there is anyone who can visit with him during the days, that would be great. If there are specific days or times you can, please touch base and let mom know. Again, our family is truly greatful for all the support and prayers along the road we have traveled. We are now entering another stage in this journey and we are all excited. We ask that you continue to pray for his continued strength and healing. Will keep everyone updated as things progress at home. God Bless!! (10/23/08)

Kitty: Well, dad did get to come home today however, when my husband and I went to get him, they had checked his blood this morning and there was something wrong with his hemaglobin. They sent him to a doctor this afternoon at 3:30 and my husband called about 5:30 to say they had just gotten done. There is an issue with his kidneys I guess not producing somthing so they want him to go to the hospital on Monday for two pints of blood. Since I had to come back to work I am not sure of the whole scoop but, will update more later tonight when I find out all the details. Please continue to pray for his strength and healing and this new development. God Bless! (10/24/08)

Kitty: Latest update: Dad went to the hospital today to have the blood transfusion and did good. It was amazing how fast his blood pressure, temperature and color in his face came up after the first bag. Go figure, what an important liquid that is for living!! Anyway, he goes to his regular doctor on Friday, and back to the hemotologist on Friday 11/14. He is doing much better however, he is still unsure of himself. When he goes up the steps at home, he keeps saying "help me, help me, I can't do it" but, doesn't realize he is doing it and usually by himself. We just keep encouraging him and one of these days he will figure it out and get it. Anyway, for the time being, he is doing pretty good. Will update with new progress or news. God Bless!! (10/27/08)

Vicky Otey: Milt is home from rehab. His days are long and lonely. Please stop by for a visit. It will brighten his day! (10/29/08)

penny: Milt is doing much better as days go by. He has been back to his reg. dr. at the VA . and some of his meds have been changed and meds have been added to. He still loves to have people stop over the house since his days are long since I am back to work full time. The prays of all our friends have made his recovery possible. And to the God our Father this all came together. Let us give praise and thanks. (11/07/08)

PENNY: MILT IS DOING GOOD DOES NOT SEE THE DR. UNTIL DEC. HE IS SLEEPING MUCH BETTER NOW DUE TO A VERY NICE FAMILY FROM CHURCH THAT HAD A LIFT CHAIR AND IT RECLINES BACK SO HIS HEAD DOES NOT GO EVERY WHICH WAY DOING THE NIGHT, AND IT HELPS HIM TO GET UP MUCH EASIER.THANKS AGAIN FOR THE CHAIR. AND THANKS TO THE PEOPLE THAT FINE TIME TO VISIT HIM, IT IS A BLESSING. PRAISE GOD (11/20/08)