September 27 - One Month Down & The Road Ahead

Wow. It's been one month since the car accident that changed so much in our lives. It's surreal to think about how much AJ lost in that moment.  Yet, we have felt assured that he is on this journey for an eternal purpose and we feel grateful to be at his side.  We also recognize what he has gained since that day, including stabilized health, increased strength, and an expanded eternal perspective on life. And, miraculously, we have found joy and peace "which passeth all understanding".

To commemorate this one-month mark, I have included this picture of the car after it was taken to the junk yard.  AJ was sitting in the back seat of the passenger side. Notice that the impact seems to be over the back passenger tire/back window area and that the front doors on the car were not harmed! That was how AJ's friends in the front were able to open the doors and get out.  After the accident, AJ was trapped in the car and was removed by cutting the top off the car with the jaws-of-life. Crazy.

Since AJ has 4 weeks left in this hospital rehabilitation center, we started looking for an out-patient facility this week.  We toured a facility in a city near here called Sugar House. The OT and PT spinal cord expertise was impressive, as was their equipment.  This is the type of facility we want AJ to go to because of their understanding of how to help patients with spinal cord injuries keep themselves healthy and progressing.  There are a few places in Seattle that we will be contacting in hopes of getting treatment that is closer to home.

We got a "wake-up call" as we talked to the therapists about the length, costs and coverage for this treatment that will be ongoing, to some extent, for years. It became clear that AJ's future medical expenses will be heavy.  Because of this, we decided to open a fundraising account for him through HelpHOPELive.org (here is the link to AJ's campaign: https://m.helphopelive.org/campaign/5543).  They are a nonprofit organization, so all donations are tax deductible. They focus on helping organ transplant patients and spinal cord injury patients.  It's humbling to receive so much help, but we are so grateful for the efforts and sacrifices of so many family members and friends!

September 26 - Strength of Community

After spending some time in the rehabilitation unit, it's obvious that having a life-changing injury is not unique to AJ. As he has reached out to other patients in the unit, we have learned about the many traumatic injuries and illnesses that are being fought here every day.  The connections that are created by reaching out to each other has created a community in the rehab where love and support are felt.  (Definitely a hidden blessing for us!) Here are some of our rehab-friends' stories:

• McKensie - 17 year old pianist sustained a traumatic brain injury from being T-boned on a 4 wheeler at a family reunion.  She is relearning how to function - breathing, talking, self feeding, etc. She went home on the day of her High School Homecoming dance!
• Brian - 40 year old father of 4 who was struck with Guillain-Barre Syndrome after a battle with pneumonia. Although he is paralyzed from the neck down he is hopeful for a full recovery in the next year. His kids are way excited to have him home!
• David - 50 year old triathlete was hit by a van and dragged 80 yards while on a run. After losing his left leg from the knee down, he looks forward to regaining his voice, strength and independence again. He hopes to participate in another triathlon in time.

The similar thread these friends share is a hope and desire to improve, and family and friends who love them and support them.  As they have left the rehab and headed for home, we wish them well, miss them, and look forward to connecting with new people. We have always felt and been grateful for the strength of friends and family, but it's nice to know we can improve every place in which we find ourselves!

September 25 - New Wheels Rock!

Who knew a new set of wheels would be so exciting?  AJ got the chance to try out a non-power wheelchair today.  His PT warned him how difficult it would be and that he should not be disappointed if he couldn't do it.  Well, AJ surpassed the PT's expectations (again) by having a great run!  You might wonder how he can do that or why this would be difficult for him. Let me explain some things:
* AJ has not yet received movement in his hands.  In order to "grasp" the circular bar on the wheel, the PT wrapped tubing around it (to give it some high spots) and AJ wore a pair of finger-less gloves that have a non-slip grip on the palms. Putting these tools together AJ could propel and guide the wheelchair.
* AJ also doesn't have any trunk strength at this time, so the PTs were careful to spot him while he sat in the regular wheel chair.  AJ will continue working toward controlling his trunk with his shoulders and arms to maintain balance so he can use the chair safely.
* AJ was exhausted after propelling down 4 hallways. Without his triceps firing, this becomes extremely taxing on his biceps. As he continues to heal, his stamina and strength will continue to increase.

It was fun and exciting to watch how happy AJ was at the possibility of using a chair that will take more of his own strength and ability to control.  I'm so thankful that he continues to progress!

September 24 - New Machines

Now that AJ is able to sleep through the night and maintain his blood pressure (with medication), it seems like he is making steady progress in therapy. Today he tried a new weight exercise that builds his shoulder and arm strength. This will build his muscles so that he can lift his body weight in order to transfer from one surface to another.  He was able to press 25 lbs today.  Here's a short video...

John and I took a tour of the University Health Care Outpatient Facility in Sugar House this afternoon.  We found it was very informative and believe it will help us choose a treatment facility for AJ after his stay here at the hospital. The most impressive piece of equipment to me was an elliptical walker that supports a patient who does not have the ability to use their legs.  This helps the individual tolerate being in a standing position while also strengthening bones, joints, etc.  It is also an FES machine, so electrical stimulus contracts the patient's leg muscles causing them to glide in an elliptical pattern.  This helps the patient exercise their leg and foot muscles, keeping them healthy and ready for natural stimulus. With this information we will be able to start comparing facilities closer to home.  Amazing stuff!

September 23 - Reintegration?

Our exciting event for today was a field trip! It was with AJ's occupational therapists and it was not just for fun, but to help AJ "reintegrate into society".  We've gotten a good laugh out of the idea that AJ needs to be reintegrated into society, but I'm sure that's just because AJ has never had an attitude of embarrassment or shame regarding his condition.  He is friendly to everyone and seems confident. He has always had respect for people with disabilities and had great respect for his Grandpa Beecroft who was disabled for many years and in a wheelchair toward the end of his life.  It's such a blessing to have good examples in life, since you never know when you'll draw on their strength!  We ate at a nice restaurant called The Point.  It has a beautiful view of the Salt Lake valley and the food is very good. AJ did great a great job eating his Country Fried Steak and Mashed Potatoes, too! The goal is an outing every week, so if you have any suggestions on a great place to visit in SLC, let us know!

September 22 - No More Late Night Parties!

When AJ's rehabilitation first began, the nurses met with him to discuss his daily routine.  They talked about things like meal times and therapy session times.  Along with that, he was also given 3 choices for a specific time during the day when the nurse would assist him with necessary bodily functions.  His choices were 5 am, 9 am or 9 pm.  AJ has always been an early riser, so 5 am was the best logical choice.  So, AJ's day begins at 5 am, without the possibility of hitting the snooze button a time or two.  Unfortunately, last night we stayed up too late talking and getting ready for bed (went to bed around midnight).  Today was a little rough for AJ, in terms of energy and staying awake.  After his therapy classes today, he came back to his room and took a nap in his bed from 3 - 5 pm.  The nurse took me aside and told me I needed to do a better job of getting him to bed earlier.  I think she's right!  So today we set a goal of being in bed by 9:30 every night.  We know a good rest will help with the healing process.


In Occupational Therapy today, AJ did very well because 1) he beat the therapist in Yahtzee (AJ actually rolled a yahtzee!) and 2) he was able to increase the amount of weight that he can grip and lift with his fingers - increased to 11 oz. with the left hand and 9 oz. with the right.  The therapist also performed some stretching of his shoulder/arm muscles.


In Physical Therapy AJ continued to improve in his ability to hold himself in the tripod position.  He held it for 6 minutes!  We have been a bit lackadaisical in AJ's stretching and strengthening exercises every day.  We are going to start including them on the daily therapy schedule so that we don't forget to do them.  They are really important to AJ's ability to get the most out of the muscles that he can use at this time.


Family Home Evening was great tonight as we were visited by Aunt Debbie and Uncle Stewart (my sister and brother-in-law).  After visiting a little about AJ's progress, they shared a great message with us regarding following the prophets and remaining faithful to God's commandments.  Debbie also shared some favorite family history stories with us about early pioneers and left us with some great stories to read during stretching time.  They left us with one of our favorite scriptures from King Benjamin's address in Mosiah 2:41, "And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."


AJ didn't make his goal of a 9:30 bedtime, but 10:00 was way better than last night!

September 21 - Life is for Learning

This morning AJ decided to change things up a bit and requested a cold shower.  He is usually so warm, he figured a cold shower would feel great and remind him of his days in Nicaragua, where he didn't always have warm water available!  Well, the shower did feel great and refreshing, but unfortunately, his body does not regulate his temperature as well as it used to, due to his circulation system being a bit slower under the current circumstances.  So, when he was returned to his bed after the shower, he began shivering.  He tried to go back to sleep but the shivering was intolerable.  We got some warm blankets from the nurses and covered him, with those and a couple of others.  Eventually, after a couple of hours, he was feeling better as his body temperature rose back to normal.  After speaking with the doctors, we learned that body temperature regulation is a struggle for paraplegics and AJ will need to be careful to avoid extremes in external environmental conditions while on this journey to recovery.


Once we got him warm again, we got him out of bed and ready for church services in the hospital's chapel.  It was another wonderful experience to worship our Savior Jesus Christ and thank Him for the many, many blessings that are being sent our way.  We know that it is by His grace, made available through the infinite atonement, that AJ is still with us and getting better everyday.  How grateful we are!  We spent some time pondering and discussing some answers to the question, "What would God want me to learn from this experience?"  We need to spend some more time formulating our answers, but our goal is to make a written list that we can review often to see how we are doing at learning those things.  Undoubtedly, the list will include the following:

• Patience with ourselves and with others
• Gratitude for the blessing of life and its experiences
• Trusting that the Lord is in control and allow His will to be done
• Adversity really does make us a better person
• To make the best of every situation
• Serve others as best we can from where we are
• Keep a positive attitude and an eternal perspective
• Strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ, and recognize His help in carrying this burden

The afternoon was filled with many visitors bringing treats, great company, and well wishes, including best friends and Grandma and Grandpa Hunt!

September 20 - Celebrate the Small Successes

(Becca flew home Friday night for a few days to be with the rest of the family.  So, it's Dad's turn to take over the blogging responsibilities for a bit.  I have learned a lot from Becca's blogs - mostly, to be more brief and to the point. :-)  Thank you honey! I'll do my best.)

AJ's sleeping is improving every night.  The last 2 nights have been excellent - waking only for the nurses to do their thing.  This morning we celebrated one of the small successes.  AJ has been working with his OT's to be able to feed himself.  This morning he ate all of his pancake by himself!  For the last couple of bites, AJ asked me to make the following video to send to Mom so she could also witness the success.  It's amazing to me how much AJ is always thinking of others, even in his time of need.  This feat of feeding himself was a real work out for him.  The nurses came in shortly after he completed it, and his heart rate was up to 130!  Who would've thunk this would be such a good workout, especially for AJ?!?

Therapy time went well today.  In OT he played dominoes with the therapists, to work on the strength and dexterity of his fingers and grip.  In PT he had another small success to celebrate - he was able to maintain the tripod position for 5 minutes!!  We think his success today was due to a few key pointers  given by the weekend therapist.  She was not his regular weekday therapist, but she was very helpful in teaching AJ a little more about the position.  The key was that he needed to place his arms further back behind him.  He was very comfortable in the tripod position and said that he could have maintained it for even longer.


Something that has been developing over the past week or so is muscle spasms in his legs and abdomen.  These are happening more and more frequently and becoming more noticeable (larger spasms).  They usually occur when his upper body is moved (i.e. picked up to be dressed/undressed or to be moved into his wheelchair).  They do not cause him any discomfort.  When I asked the doctor about it, he just said that this is normal when the nerve connection between the brain and muscles is not at 100%.  In some patients, these spasms can become quite bothersome and painful, and require medication to control, but this is not AJ's case at this time.


The doctors reported that the x-rays taken on his left shoulder the other day were negative.  Meaning that they found no bone fractures or problems with the shoulder joint.  They assume that he may have sprained the shoulder in the car accident and that it will heal with time.  We are keeping a close eye on it.  The pain has not been increasing, nor does it seem to impede his rehabilitation therapy.  Mostly, it just hurts when we need to roll him on his left side or when he does his stretching.


After watching both the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars football teams win their football games, we went for a walk around the hospital.  First, we went outside and down the sidewalk on the same path that we would take to get to our hotel.  However, the nurses would not allow us to leave the hospital property, so I couldn't actually take him to the hotel, like I had hoped.  The fresh air and sunshine were very good for our souls!  Next, we went over to the ICU area, where AJ spent the first 3 days of this journey.  He was interested in seeing as much as we could there.  Unfortunately, he could only see the waiting room, where so many friends and family gathered over those first few days, and many prayers were offered.  We couldn't go back to the actual ICU room without a good reason to be back there.  Next, we went to a sky bridge walkway that connects  two buildings together.  The view of the valley from there was fabulous, but the sun was low in the West and shining right in our eyes.  Lastly, on the way back to AJ's room, we stopped and visited a man named Brian, with whom AJ has become friends while in rehab.  He is recovering from an illness that attacked his nerves, rendering him paralyzed but with the hope for full recovery within a year.  AJ was surprised to hear that his discharge date is coming up so soon - next Friday.  September 26th seemed like such a long time away when Brian first told him his discharge date a couple of weeks ago.  Time is passing quickly!

September 19 - Bring It On!

The doctor reported that there was no excess bone growing in AJ's shoulder, but they did find some bone beginning to form in his buttocks tissue!  They want to start him on a medication that will stop the bone from growing and resolve it. The only complication is that his neck is still healing so there is a concern about reducing the rate of bone healing there. Our doctor feels that the delay of healing in the neck is minimal compared to the damage and complications caused by allowing random bone growth in other tissue.  So, we are going ahead with the medication. We feel amazed and grateful to have the technology that can discover these problems so early and at the medication that can repair it!

Today AJ continued to work on tripod sitting and was introduced to the concept of balancing in an unsupported sitting position. This is done by moving the arms side to side or front to back and tilting the head in the same direction.  Always working hard at what is being asked, AJ put his whole efforts into this!  It was incredibly painful and exhausting.  It even became somewhat frustrating because he can't feel where his body is going until he's falling too far.  The PT felt good about his attempts and said that it will come with practice.

In our family, we really like the Disney movie, "The Emperor's New Groove". Sometimes when I watch AJ facing the challenges and difficulties of his day with such determination, this quote from that movie comes to my mind:

"Don't tell me.  We're about to go over a huge waterfall. 

Yep. 

Sharp rocks at the bottom? 

Most likely. 

Bring it on!"

(Picture of AJ with his brothers and mom at the beginning of this experience.)

September 18 With Ups there must be Downs

With the 'ups' there are also 'downs'!  AJ has definitely been improving overall, but he continues to push past the hard things by embracing the disappointments with a positive determination.

His blood pressure continues to be an issue as we try to find the perfect amount of medication to help regulate it.  On Thursday he couldn't participate in OT (which is always a bummer) because he felt too faint and weak.

In the afternoon his tripod sitting with the PT wasn't as strong as it has been which was disappointing to AJ. But he kept working hard at it! The therapist introduced AJ to a new tripod position where he sits with his arms in a front position instead of behind him.  AJ picked up the balance of the front position quickly! As he learns to maintain his balance in this position and switch from back to front, he will gain the ability to transfer from surface to surface.

The PT also showed AJ how to conduct a pressure release in his power chair by rocking side to side. Since AJ has not yet regained feeling or movement in the trunk of his body, he has to manually shift his weight in order to keep the blood flowing through the tissue he sits on.  Pressure sores can result from neglecting this process!  The PT showed AJ that if he tilts his head and reaches to the side with one arm far enough his rear will come up and the pressure will be released.  Then he can repeat the process on the other side.  To keep from falling, he must hook his opposite arm on the chair's arm rest to anchor him and then use that same arm to pull his body back up. This was an extremely difficult task to perform. The stretch and pulling was painful and exhausting. It also looked like it was hard for AJ not to feel nervous about falling over! After trying this a couple of times he was exhausted and needed to rest.  This is definitely something he will continue to work towards!

Visitors and notes still brighten our time here and strengthen our hope as friends give encouragement and connect with AJ and us during this difficult time.  Thank you so much for taking your time to send us messages, visit and keep up on his progress!

*The hospital prints off emails and delivers them to AJ in the mornings.  If this is something you'd be interested in, the web site to do this is: https://healthcare.utah.edu/hospital/email.php

September 17 - X-rays and Shock Therapy

Today was full of x-rays and shock-therapy (as I affectionately refer to it!).

The doctor ordered a bone scan for AJ to check for early signs of heterotopic ossification (HO) - a condition where the bone grows in random parts of the body, usually in soft tissue. This happens in 20% of spinal cord injury patients. AJ has been having a hard time raising his left arm above his shoulder, so the doctor wanted to keep a close eye on the possibility of HO. When caught early it can be resolved with medication. To make sure the problem wasn't a pulled ligament or that type of injury, the also included regular x-rays. I'd say about 4 hours of AJ's day was used to conduct bone scans and an x-rays! Although this used up some of his therapy time, but we're glad the problem is being researched.

AJ also started Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), aka shock therapy, this afternoon. FES applies electrical pulses to paralyzed muscles to restore or improve their function.  FES is commonly used for exercise, but also to assist with breathing, grasping, transferring, standing and walking.  AJ had FES on his arms and his legs today and will have it done on his wrists tomorrow. It is amazing to watch his muscles contract and relax. The synchronized electronic pulses cause his arms or legs to pedal an exercise machine. It's exciting because AJ can feel his muscle even though he can't control them --- yet! :)  The workout can even cause his muscles to be sore.  It was exciting to do this new activity!  We know it will help his muscles stay in better condition while his spinal cord heals.

(I wanted to upload a video, but couldn't figure out how to do it! Next time I hope. :) )

September 16 - Team Meeting

Today we had a meeting with AJ's "team", which consists of the resident doctor, attending doctor, social worker and physical therapists. They recapped his condition and then gave these reports:

* DR - At 3 weeks post injury, AJ is doing phenomenal
* DR - In the first month of healing it's difficult to tell what's happening
* DR - He is taking among the very lowest amounts of medications we have given for this injury
* DR - No problems with breathing infections, etc. has helped AJ progress faster than normal
* DR - This week AJ will start on Functional Electronic Stimulation
* OT is happy with AJ's progress (work on adaptation and muscle function)
* OT will take a few field trips (part of re-integration in his power chair)
* OT will start reviewing what will be needed for release to home environment
* PT said that AJ is a hard worker and that he inspires other while he is working in the rehab gym
* PT is working toward tripod sitting, transfers and rolling in bed
* Social Worker - Discharge date set as October 31
* Social Worker - Information on what medical insurance covers and does not cover
* DR - Expects outpatient rehab for at least 1 year

We need to start finding an outpatient facility closer to home that specializes in spinal cord rehabilitation.  Hopefully it will be closer than Seattle, but we'll go where we need to go!

September 15 - Let the Work-Outs Begin!

Doctor R reviewed AJ's blood work today and said that he can't remember when he has seen someone with AJ's injury maintain such a great red blood cell count.  I'm always up for good news, but I didn't know what exactly that implied, so here's some information I found on what red blood cells do and how they effect our bodies:

Red blood cells deliver oxygen to the tissues and return carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs.  The primary function of carrying oxygen is made possible by a chemically complex protein called hemoglobin. During circulation of blood through the lungs, hemoglobin becomes almost fully saturated with oxygen, making the blood bright red. As red cells perfuse the capillary beds of tissues and organs, oxygen is released from the hemoglobin into the tissues.

Because the main function of hemoglobin is the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, the concentration of this substance in a patient is a matter of concern. Almost all body functions depend on the oxygen transport capability of the blood. When the hemoglobin concentration is low, tissues, may not receive an adequate amount of oxygen and, over time, this presents problems. Inadequate oxygen supply to tissues results in poor healing of tissue and can cause complications such as an increased workload on the heart.  

So, it looks like we can be grateful that his body is healing his tissues as effectively as possible and that he is not having other complications, including an extra workload on his heart.

In OT, AJ continued to work on grasping objects by playing Scrabble with the therapist (btw, he won by 5 points, with some help from Aunt Mary :).  He keeps tying, but it's still really hard to successfully pick things up.  Here is an example of the hand splints that we wrote about on Sept 10:

Next, they had him work on strengthening his shoulders by using weights and resistance bands.  AJ would probably call himself a "light-weight" since his right wrist pounded out 6 ounces and his left one raised the bar to10 oz - haha!  The craziness of this injury continues! The effort to repeatedly lift these weight was incredible.  With this injury, AJ is going to have to redefine success (since he used to lift 50 lbs with his wrists). In the 1st picture he's being a jokester with his 6 & 10 oz, but in the next one...you can see the real effort. He's working hard!

We still appreciate and feel strengthened by the prayers and support being sent our way!
Thank You!

September 14 - Sabbath Day with Family & Friends

One of the perks of being at the University of Utah Hospital is that they have a chapel and they hold sacrament meeting! (They also hold meetings for other religions.) So, at 10:30 am we attended the hospital branch's sacrament meeting. We met the branch president and when I told him that AJ expects be here until the end of October and that he's a returned missionary who loves to serve, he said it would be great if he could give a talk! haha  Their speaking schedule is full until after General Conference, but I wouldn't be surprised if Bro. AJ Hunt is asked to give a talk after that.

In the hospital branch (I don't know the name of the branch) they only have 1 speaker on Sunday. Today the speaker gave a talk based on the 2008 General Conference talk by Elder Wirthlin called, "Come What May and Love It".  (https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/10/come-what-may-and-love-it?lang=eng) It was a great message teaching the principle that the way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we will be in life.

The evening was filled with visits from family and friends!  Some who came for the first time and others who have come multiple times.  We love them all!  After everyone left, the nurse was worried that the visits would have made AJ exhausted.  Although it took energy, it also filled and lifted him!  It was a great way to end the week!

AJ with Michael and Grant -- his best friends from his youth.  

This was the first time they've all been together in 3 years.  

It was a great reunion!

September 13 - Just a Good Day

Best night of sleep yet! The larger dose of the nerve medicine made all the difference.

Dr. Rosenbluth came in early and surprised us by deciding AJ should start electro-therapy next week. We'll let you know what it's like next week! It surprised the therapists because the doctor doesn't usually start this treatment in patients for another week.  AJ's excited to try it all!

At OT AJ practiced sitting up in a tri-pod position. It was SO HARD!  It took all of his energy and was very strenuous on his biceps; but he did it without support for a few seconds! Awesome!!!

When RJ was here last night he noticed that AJ's power chair was too narrow for his arms, which makes it really hard to drive.  RJ thought all night what he might do to help AJ and then surprised us by bringing some supplies over to extend the arm rest.  It works perfectly!!!  Now AJ can drive around and not have pain in his right shoulder from the lack of support.

September 12 - Guy Night

Some of the nerve pains came back while AJ was sleeping last night which caused a second rough night of sleep.  Dr. Rosenblum will increase his nerve medicine since he is at a very low dose right now.  We thought the nerve pain might be an indication of AJ's nerves healing, but the doctor told us that it does not indicate whether a patient will regain feeling and use in the body or not.

The blood pressure issue gave me a good scare this morning as I helped the CNA take AJ out of bed and into his chair. After we had him sitting up, he started to faint. His chair was not turned on, so we couldn't get him tilted back very quickly.  He went from talking to glassy-eyed, incoherent pretty fast. Luckily, after we tilted him back he started to be able to respond. We were so thankful he didn't pass out again!

The OT tech guy came to get AJ more set up on his computer and cell phone. I'm sure it felt so good when he could control his cell phone without help.  In no time he was checking Snap Chat, text messages and email! He's back on line, baby!

To finish the day right, AJ had a man-night with his cousin, RJ. They took a trip to the cafeteria (AJ's 1st time doing that was today) and bought a delicious pumpkin-chocolate-chip muffin/cookie then headed back to the room to watch a movie.  It's so nice to have family and friends who share their precious time with us. We feel SO blessed!

September 11 - Battling Exhaustion & a Cool Date Night!

The surgeon removed AJ's stitches first thing this morning. We were so happy to fing the surgery site looking great!!!  No infections and it's healing well.  (A mighty battle wound though!)

Unfortunately, AJ didn't sleep well last night so when it was time for OT, he could NOT stay awake.  They hoisted him from bed, put him in his chair, and after maybe 15 minutes of therapy, they decided to cancel all his morning therapy appointments.  AJ was put back into his bed where he slept for 3 hours.  When he woke up, he didn't remember ever getting out of bed!  It's strange for him to be so exhausted.  AJ has never needed a lot of sleep, but then again, major injury has an effect on a lot of previous habits.

AJ was awake enough to attend afternoon PT.  He practiced sitting in a tripod position (his body sitting don is one "leg" and each arm extended to the side and behind him are the other 2 'legs' of the tri-pod).  It drained his energy!  They told AJ that this is what they have been working toward all week and that this skill will allow him much more freedom to get around.

Alexis leaves tomorrow for BYU-I.  AJ wanted to do something special for her, so he planned a special date night Outback style!  One of our favorite nurses, Sharon, let us decorate the education room for their private dinner.  I got dinner at the closest Outback (in Sandy), and when I returned, AJ ordered the pre-planned meal while I served the food in courses (doing my best to remember how it's done at Outback).  Alexis was surprised and they had a great time.  It's great to see AJ create fun anytime, anywhere!

September 10 - Cool Tools!

This morning we had breakfast outside.  It was a beautiful, cool September morning and AJ did an awesome job feeding himself cereal with assistance.  We were feeling a little rebellious, so we took a walk beyond the wooden fenced patio and up a sidewalk.  Of course, we stayed where we could see the techs when they were ready to do AJ's chest x-rays.  :)  We are definitely rebels without a cause!

Even though AJ is still having trouble with upright tolerance, the occupational therapists (OT) continue to work with him as much as they can.  Today they created hand splints (also called short opponens) for him.  When AJ wears these, the strength in his wrists will help compensate for the lack of strength in his fingers, allowing him to lightly pinch objects.  After they were fitted on him, they had him practice picking up and placing wooden blocks and pegs.  Another OT talked to AJ about available technology that will assist him in gaining independence through his cell phone and laptop.  They gave AJ a headset and then introduced him to setting up his computer's voice-recognition so AJ can activate and control the computer with his voice!  This will be exciting to learn more about!  The technology OT said that AJ picked up so quickly that he was, "Better than anyone I've worked with." His intelligence has always been a gift for him!

AJ struggled with participating throughout therapy today because he is so tired!  They don't know why he is so exhausted, but they think his blood pressure issue could be a main reason.  He goes from being orthostatic (low blood pressure) to being dysreflexic (high blood pressure).  (Autonomic dysreflexia is a potentially dangerous clinical syndrome that develops in individuals with spinal cord injury, resulting in acute, uncontrolled hypertension.)  As they diagnose and develop a treatment plan for these conditions, Dr. Rosenbluth suggested that AJ have more stringent visiting hours so he can get more sleep.  We'll do our best, but he loves to have friends visit!  It picks his spirit up!

September 9 - Tall Has It's Challenges

As sleep has finally come to AJ at night time (thank heavens!), he is now experiencing a great amount of sleepiness during the day.  Go figure!  The doctor thinks some causes may include:
   -continuing low blood pressure (still using blood pressure medicine to help), 
   -not enough sleep at night (bed by 11:00 pm and up around 5:30 am), and/or
   -a rigorous therapy schedule (3-4 hours a day).
The only cause we can really control is the amount of sleep, so AJ is going to try to get to bed earlier.

AJ's 6'3" frame continues to give the occupational therapy equipment problems.  The focus on the standard size bed that was too small has now shifted to a standard man size power chair that was too narrow.  The chair was replaced with a new one that is wide enough and long enough for his hips and legs, but the arm rests and controls have a hard time lining up to his broad shoulders.  I've always told my kids they were cursed with my long monkey-arms!  The therapist has been trying to make adjustments to the chair in order to accommodate his needs and for the most part is having success.

During physical therapy today, AJ asked if he should try to resist the leg movements the therapist was manipulating even though he can't move his legs yet.  The therapist explained that AJ's injury is like a kinked hose.  He should keep sending messages through his nerves until the messages break through to the lower body.  It felt encouraging to hear that the efforts AJ is making now could someday "break through" to his lower body.

At times, the reality of what AJ has lost (at least for now!) slaps us in the face when we are least expecting it.  After therapy today, we were returning to our room when we heard someone playing the piano in the commons area.  As the notes to "100 Years" floated through the hall, the memories of AJ playing the piano brought tears to my eyes.  As I looked at AJ, and others who were with us, I could see their emotions had also come to the surface.  Although I know that the Lord has a plan for his life, I find that there are moments when we also feel sorrow. Yet, as we rely on our faith we are buoyed up and strengthened.  Then, even in the midst of loss, we feel gratitude for our many blessings, hope for our future, and joy at the peace we receive.

September 8 - Determined!

AJ was re-introduced to feeding himself today.  With assistance, he can lift his arm high enough to reach his mouth, and with a hand strap that secures the utensil he can move the food in. The movement is rough and it is crazy challenging for him to do, but he's attacking it with focus and humor!  After breakfast he pulled up in front of a mirror to brush his teeth.  The brushing was also a challenge and ended in an unexpected surprise when he saw himself for the first time from the waist up.  It was a shock to him because his body looks "skinny" -- the opposite of what he has been building in the gym this summer.  As I started tearing up with him, he quickly made the decision to use humor to heal.  Focusing on his shaved beard instead of his physical body he said, "I just didn't realize how much I'd miss my beard!"  We all started to laugh and then talk about how he didn't need to worry because his beard would grow back and how he looks great without it.  Yep -- he feels the pain, but is pretty determined not to stay down.  What a guy!

Dr. Rosenbluth completed the American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASI-A) standardize testing on AJ today.  The test determines the level of spinal cord injury and how complete or incomplete the injury is.  It runs on a scale from A to E, with A being completely severed (no sensitivity or movement) and E being completely intact (a healthy, uninjured spinal cord).  The doctor has ranked AJ as a ASIA B, which means he has sensitivity but no movement below the point of injury.  He reminded us that this is an early diagnosis and that there is still swelling and a lot of healing that will happen. He felt encouraged by AJ's ability to recognize the positioning of his toes and sees it as an indication that signals to and from the brain are getting past the point of injury.  Time is on our side! (We just have to learn patience.)

September 7 - Hello Sleep, Good-bye Beard!

(John returned home on Sunday to go back to work and take care of the family. Becca will continue writing this blog, but be patient.....I'm not the writer John is :))

Sleep has arrived!!!  AJ was finally able to fall asleep with the help of the nerve medicine and a non-addictive sleep agent called melatonin.   His night was filled with back-to-back dreams and frequent sleep talking.  Without being able to reach deep sleep (REM) for the past 4 nights, his brain seemed to be working overtime processing everything!  Although it was not the most restful sleep (he woke up thinking we were in a war zone), it was a welcome change from the difficult nights prior.  We have hopes that his sleep will only improve!

AJ has been looking forward to his girlfriend coming for a visit this week! Luckily for him, today was shower day! (They do showers every other day.)  At 6:00 am the nurse and CNA came in to get him ready for the shower. This time the attendants decided to use a shower chair, which is a plastic chair that is slightly reclined with a hole for drainage.  However, they did not realize AJ's need to transition to an upright position slowly (it might take 3-5 minutes) because of his blood pressure.  So, soon after they hoisted him from his bed into his chair, the signs of fainting started.  AJ alerted them, but it was too late.  He passed out in the chair and scared the heck out of the nurse and CNA!  They were able to get him out of the chair and back into bed without him sustaining any falls. That's when AJ remembers regaining consciousness. The fainting episode left AJ very tired for the rest of the day.

At 8:00 am AJ got a trim on his beard by his Uncle Dave and then had a successful shower.  He had just finished when John had to leave to catch a plane for home.  This was a very difficult moment for John and me.  It is wonderful to be together taking care of our son, but we know that taking care of a family also requires people to be apart from each other at times.  After I received a strengthening blessing from AJ, John headed out.

In the U of U Hospital there is a chapel where an LDS sacrament service is performed every Sunday. We were hoping that AJ could drive his chair to that area, but he was so tired that we stayed in the room and received the sacrament from a senior missionary couple.  It was awesome to have the opportunity to receive this ordinance and to think about the Savior and the blessings of his Atonement. As I helped AJ partake of the water, I felt very blessed to be his mother and to serve my child.  I wondered if that is how the Lord feels with each one of us as he helps in our trials?

By the early evening, Alexis had arrived.  AJ took a drive outside in his power chair and we had many visitors, all of which proved to brighten his Sabbath day.

As the day was coming to an end, AJ decided that it was time to shave his beard!  Alexis doesn't really remember him without it, so the moment of truth had arrived!  We learned that us girls are not very good at removing beards.  But after a half hour session, he was a shadow-shaven man!  And Alexis still thought he was as handsome as ever.

September 6 - More Upright Tolerance Issues

Friday night was another horrible sleeping night for AJ.  The medicine that Dr. Rosenbluth prescribed took care of the nerve burn, and that was a big relief.  But AJ still couldn't relax due to the increasingly intense phantom feelings.  Basically, those parts of his body that have not yet regained mobility - such as the legs, feet, hands and torso - give him fits with fake feelings.  Some of these fake feelings include his legs are floating or spread apart, his feet are stuck in holes, his hands are holding onto things, or are covered in mud, and his torso is exposed, or is floating.  These sensations played tricks on his mind all night and made it hard for him to relax.  When we spoke to the doctor about this issue, he said that he would prescribe a non-addictive sleeping medicine that will help him relax.  At 3 am this morning, AJ and Dad spent some bonding time searching Netflix for inspiring biographies and documentaries.  They settled on watching the story of Stephen Hawking, world renowned physicist.

OT today was not what it could have been.  Because of the high blood pressure issue yesterday, the nurse didn't want to give AJ the medicine that increases blood pressure.  So, we put his compression socks and abdominal binder on him, and he was transferred from his bed to the chair.  Once there, he sat up in the wheelchair to prepare for a drive.  However, immediately his blood pressure began to drop.  So, he couldn't go on a wheelchair drive during OT because of low upright tolerance (low blood pressure) even though he had the socks and binder on.  The advice of the occupational therapist is that he needs to be upright more.  Unfortunately, his physical therapist told him to stay at 30 degrees upright when he is in his bed, but this was bad information.  (30 degrees is good information when the spinal cord injury is lower in the back).  He needs to be upright as much as possible for as long as possible in order to allow his body to adjust to the correct blood pressure.  The nurse came and gave him the blood pressure medicine and he completed his OT session sitting in the chair.

For the PT session, the medicine had kicked in and he was able to drive the chair around the rehab unit twice - once using left turns, and one using right turns.  He did really well.

Today AJ's new bed finally arrived.  Since the first day in ICU, the nurses and doctors have been saying that AJ is way too tall for the bed he was in.  His feet would hang over the end of the bed.  Each time we asked if he could get a new bed, they said they would order one.  Well, today it finally arrived and it was a brand new bed with a much more comfortable mattress.  However, the mattress is the exact same size as the other one!  The new bed will still be worth it if it provides additional comfort and a restful night.

Our hometown newspaper, the Tri-City Herald, ran an article in today's newspaper. It was on the front page of Section C and titled "On the Hunt for a Full Recovery",  The author called us on the phone at the University Hospital after hearing about the story.  She spoke with AJ and us for a short time before we were interrupted by doctors.  Becca finished the interview with her over the phone. The link to the Tri-City Herald article is : http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2014/09/05/3138792/richland-man-on-the-hunt-for-full.html?sp=/99/177/&ihp=1

September 5 - A Trip Outside!

Today was another roller coaster ride on this journey, with AJ experiencing both very frustrating and very exhilarating experiences.  Throughout the night leading to this morning, AJ experienced painful sensations that kept him awake most of the night, then during rehabilitation therapy, his long-awaited trip outside finally arrived.

Unfortunately, the busy day in rehab yesterday did not translate into a great night of sleeping.  Although he was extremely tired, his body was experiencing sensations of nerve burn.  It has been interesting that most of AJ's pain does not come from the surgery to repair the vertebrae, but from the injuries sustained to his nervous system.  He only takes occasional Tylenol for pain, about twice a day, for the aching in his neck and shoulders.  But serious pain caused by the injured nerves tormented him on Thursday night.  Nerve burn is what we call the shocking sensations that inflict AJ's body as soon as it begins to fully relax.  He described it like the feeling of your hand or foot "waking up from being asleep" with the pins and needles sensation.  Except it was all over his body and occurred for many minutes.  This painful experience kept him from wanting to fully relax and fall asleep.  Therefore, it was a long, frustrating night where he so desperately wanted to get a deep sleep so that he could work hard in his therapy classes today.  He ended up not getting much sleep at all.

Early in the morning he was told that today would be the day he would get his first shower since the accident, 9 days ago.  He was excited to hear about this and looked forward to it.  When the time came, he was transferred from his bed to a gurney made of tubing and a mesh screen for him to lay on.  He was wheeled to a large shower room where he was washed while laying on the mesh gurney.  He said that it felt very refreshing and very good to be clean again.

A shower after 9 days may just have been the highlight for the day if it weren't for his therapy sessions.  Today he not only got to sit up on his power wheelchair, but he actually was able to take a ride outside!  This is something that he had been wanting to do for days!  The sun felt so good on his face and the breeze felt great in the shade.  During the first PT session, the therapist "drove" the chair from the side.  During the occupational therapy session, he rode the chair down to the gym for a tour and the therapist made him a part for his wheelchair that slides onto the steering joystick of the chair to allow him to be able to use his wrist and palm to steer the chair.  He then spent the afternoon PT session learning to drive his wheelchair.  He drove the chair back to his room and it was quite impressive!

The issue of upright tolerance continues to be a big issue.  AJ's chair can recline, which is a nice feature, because reclining is one thing that can be done to help increase blood pressure when AJ's blood pressure starts dropping from being upright.  Other things help with this issue such as wearing an abdominal binder and compression socks while upright.  AJ struggled a little bit with blood pressure regulation while on his wheelchair tour today.  Before his therapy sessions, he was given medicine to increase his blood pressure so that he would be fine on the wheelchair.  However, while on the tour, he was reclined too much, too long and he started getting a headache.  His blood pressure had risen too high and we had to incline his chair and remove the abdominal binder to find the right balance of blood pressure - not too high, not too low.  It's amazing how incredibly sensitive our bodies are and a miracle that they work as well as they do under normal circumstances!

Today we received another visit from Doctor Rosenbluth.  We talked to him about the nerve burning that AJ experienced overnight.  He said that he will prescribe some medicine which will dull the pain, without interfering with the healing process.  We were grateful to hear that!  He also performed some assessments on AJ, but mentioned that there will continue to be assessments into next week in order to determine the extent of AJ's recovery, from a medical perspective.  We were told that a meeting will be scheduled for next week with the doctors, AJ and us to discuss the results of their assessments and an estimate of expected recovery.  We realize that this estimate will be based solely on the evidence seen, but we know that "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1)  We have faith in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Priesthood power and believe that He will grant all of the miracles promised to the faithful, regardless of seen evidence or not.

September 4 - First Day in Rehabilitation

AJ had a much better rest last night.  He didn't go to sleep until 11:00 after his friends left and he was given some medicine to help him sleep.  He probably got about 5 hours of sleep, all together.  He was definitely ready to wake up and get going on his first day of rehabilitation!  His new room has a window on the ground floor and he enjoys opening the blinds to let the sun in and looking out at the patio.  He has a goal to go outside someday soon!

Today we met Dr. Jeffrey Rosenbluth, AJ's spinal cord rehabilitation doctor.  He was very personable and knowledgeable concerning the injury.  He expressed the need for an assessment to figure out exactly the extent of the spinal cord injury and the plan for recovering as many capabilities as possible.  He said that this assessment would take place tomorrow.  He also introduced us to our case worker, Amy.

The rehabilitation plan for AJ is to get 3 hours of therapy every day, between occupational therapy (doing personal things by himself - eating, grooming, getting dressed, etc.) and physical therapy (moving around - getting from point A to point B).  The doctors expect him to be in full-time, inpatient rehabilitation for approximately 8 weeks, at which time AJ will be as independent as possible, given his condition.  Follow-on outpatient rehabilitation will continue for as long as necessary.  Continued improvements in feeling and movement could continue for up to 2 years after the accident.  Today, the 3 hours were performed in four 45-minute sessions.  AJ was very excited to finally be doing something.  The occupational therapy sessions were mostly assessments to determine a baseline for what AJ can do right now, in order to develop a plan for independence.  The physical therapy sessions included helping AJ get dressed, lifting him out of bed using a large sling and overhead crane and placing him in a power wheelchair.  We are learning a lot about how a body regulates blood pressure.  AJ has suffered serious trauma and been in bed for 7 days.  During this time, his heart and muscles have not had to pump his blood as vigorously as when he was active.  They have been slacking, so to speak.  So a big part of these first days of rehabilitation is to help AJ's body regulate (increase) his blood pressure while being upright again, so that his brain has the blood and oxygen it needs to function.  Sometimes, this can take a while.  That is why today's PT sessions focused nearly totally on AJ being upright in the power wheelchair.  The therapists mentioned that it may seem to AJ that he didn't do anything today, but being upright for 30 minutes and allowing his body to regulate his blood pressure is a huge thing!  In the evening, after the therapy sessions were completed, AJ said, "I feel very weird today.  Probably because this is the most moving that I've done in a week."

Today AJ received a folder containing 10 pages of e-mails that have been sent to him via the hospital.  The messages contained in these e-mails touched AJ's heart and helped give him an idea of just how many people are praying for him and care for him.  This meant a lot to him.  Thank you to all who have sent him e-mails, cards, gifts, and messages.  All of these help to comfort him and give him strength.

We found out today that AJ has developed a urinary tract infection.  The doctor says that this is very common for someone who has been using a catheter for this long.  There is no cause for alarm, and a prescription of antibiotics for 10 days should take care of it.

AJ has been the king of respiratory therapy!  He certainly doesn't want to have to battle pneumonia while fighting this war against paralysis.  He has been extremely faithful at performing his breathing exercises and his lungs are healthy to show for it.  The respiratory therapists continue to tell AJ that his chest sounds the best of everyone on the floor.  His cough is getting stronger also.

AJ continues to have many strange feelings in his body such as parts of his body floating in the air, or a hand gripping on to something that isn't there, or the bed shaking when it isn't.  These are very frustrating for him, but generally do not cause a problem for him in the daytime.  But, at night, they are just like a bad nightmare for him, and keep him awake, or wake him up.  The doctor mentioned that these are very common, especially for those who have suffered "incomplete" neck injuries, meaning the type of spinal injury where there is some feeling or motor control below the level of the injury.  Unfortunately, he did not have a good explanation for why this happens or what exactly it means.  Sometimes it seems like AJ is fighting an invisible foe.

September 3 - Moving to the Rehabilitation Unit

AJ had a terrible night of rest, his latest in a string of rough nights.  First of all, he is experiencing a couple of strange sensations that wake him up shortly after he falls asleep.  The first is a feeling of pressure on his abdomen and chest as his body relaxes.  The second are phantom sensations such that he feels that his legs are up in the air or spread far apart, when in reality they are flat on the bed, lying straight out next to each other.  These sensations bother him greatly when he is trying to fall asleep throughout the night.  Additionally on Tuesday night, several times when he awoke from a short sleep, he awoke very disoriented and unable to figure out where he was.  Luckily, his mom was by his side most of the night to reassure him and comfort him!

Being out of the ICU, but not yet in the rehabilitation unit, brings its own challenges.  AJ has never been the kind of kid to just sit around and watch TV/movies or take long naps.  This is the kid who wanted to have a paper route at age 9, and wanted to practice piano for 2 - 3 hours a day!  Sitting in a hospital bed with nothing to do is beginning to take its toll.  AJ mentioned that he believed this to be the longest consecutive amount of time that he has ever been indoors.  We agree!  He began feeling very anxious, sort of claustrophobic even.  It didn't help that the hospital staff told us that he would be moved to rehab in the morning, but at 10:00 changed that time to 1:00-2:00 in the afternoon, but then at 3:00 changed that time to 7:00.  This just added to AJ's anxiety and feelings of boredom, restlessness, and a bit of hopelessness.  It was a big relief when we finally packed our belongings and followed the nurse pushing AJ in his bed down to the Rehabilitation Unit.  We arrived at 7:30 pm!

Today, as thoughts of the long recovery road came creeping into his mind, a couple of experiences really helped remind him of what a great young man he is.  The first was when the entire post-surgery team came to his room to say goodbye because he was being moved to rehab.  They came to tell him how great it has been to work with him and they lauded his great attitude in the ICU and Surgery Transport Unit.  This really helped him to feel better about himself and his situation.

Another helpful event that occurred today was an awesome visit from friends.  The visit began in the afternoon with his missionary companion from the MTC and followed by his good friends from his High School days and another fellow missionary.  This cheered him up greatly.  AJ's friend, who is a 4th Grade Teacher in Utah, asked her students to write letters to AJ.  She brought them and read them all to AJ and then asked him to record a video answering all of their questions, which included questions like, "What is your favorite color?" "What does AJ stand for?" and "What is your hospital room like?"  AJ recorded the 3-minute video in typical AJ fashion - with excitement and humor.  When the time came to move AJ to the rehabilitation unit, all of these friends followed him down the halls of the hospital and into his new room.  After settling in, the friends stuck around and watched the inspiring movie, "Remember the Titans" before heading home.

A day that began with emotions of discouragement and frustration ended with emotions of gratitude and hope!

Special Visitor from a Church Leader

On Friday afternoon, August 29th, Elder David Baxter, a member of the Quorum of the Seventy, came to visit AJ in the Intensive Care  Unit (ICU) and talked to him about having hope through the Atonement of the Savior, Jesus Christ.  It was a very spiritual visit in which Elder Baxter told AJ that the accident was not caused by, or even wanted to happen, by God.  The accident happened because we live in a fallen world of which trials and difficulties are a part.  However, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and obedience to His gospel principles, we are entitled to all the grace needed to overcome any negative effects from the event.  The Atonement is infinite, meaning that it has power to heal pain and suffering from any source, for any person, at any time.  The Atonement is not just to overcome sin, but to overcome all trials in this life.  The Atonement gives us hope to continue on, when so much seems bleak around us.  It was an awesome visit!  He gave AJ a copy of his book titled, "A Perfect Brightness of Hope".  And, at AJ's request, Elder Baxter gave him a blessing of peace and comfort.  It was incredibly spiritual and uplifting to AJ.

Tender Mercies and An Infinite Atonement

On Wednesday, August 27th, while traveling from Manteca, CA where he had been working for the summer, to Provo, UT to begin another year of school at BYU, AJ Hunt and two of his friends were in a single-car accident on Interstate 80 near Battle Mountain, NV (in between Elko and Winnemucca).  In the accident, AJ suffered serious injury to his neck, resulting in paralysis from his shoulders down.  This event has changed our world and provided our family with a challenging opportunity, especially AJ, who is now at the beginning of his road to recovery.  The purpose of this blog is to document for family and friends AJ's journey on the road to recovery.

We knew that AJ and his friends were traveling on Wednesday.  In fact, we spoke to him on the phone around 6:30 pm as they were on the road.  They were about 6 hours into their 12 hour drive.  At around 7:30 pm, we received a phone call from AJ's friend telling us that they had been in a terrible car accident and that AJ was seriously hurt.  The car went off the road at 75 mph and rolled over.  AJ was in the back seat and when the car rolled, the roof of the car was crushed down on top of AJ's head.  He immediately heard/felt a crack in his neck and knew this was not going to be good.  After the car came to a stop on its wheels, AJ watched his friends get out of the car.  When he tried to get out, he realized that he could not move his body below his neck.  He became increasingly frightened when he realized that it was more difficult to breath in this new paralytic state.  He struggled to call out to his friends to call 911.   Finally he was able to get their attention and they called 911 immediately.  Gratefully, there was cellular service available.

While waiting for the paramedics to arrive, a car full of off-duty fire-fighters, recently returning from training in a nearby town, happened to drive past the crash site.  Mercifully, they stopped and, being trained in emergency response, assisted the young men.  They gave AJ oxygen and talked him through the situation, helping to calm him.  They remained at the crash site until the ambulance arrived.  Additionally, AJ received a Priesthood blessing from his friend while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.  This also helped to calm AJ and assure him that all would be alright.

When the paramedics arrived and performed their triage, they called and spoke to Becca, AJ's mother, about the situation.  She requested that, if the care to be provided were equal, AJ be life-flighted to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City rather than the University of Nevada in Reno, due to the proximity of so much support in SLC.  AJ has family in Utah on both sides of his parents and many friends would be returning to college in Utah this weekend.  The paramedics agreed and AJ was life-flighted to the University of Utah Hospital.

Once at the hospital (he arrived at around 10:45), CAT scans and MRI's were performed before operating.  It was determined that cervical vertebrae C4 and C5 were dislocated, C3 and C6 sustained severe joint injuries, the spinal cord was heavily bruised and stretched, and the ligaments between the vertebrae were ripped and torn.  In addition, a blood clot had developed around the injured spinal cord.  The result of these injuries left AJ paralyzed from just below the clavicle bones down through the rest of his body.  About an hour after arriving, John's brother, Dave, AJ's best friend, Grant, and AJ's cousin's husband, RJ, were granted permission to see AJ quickly and administer a Priesthood blessing.  AJ was talking and alert with them.  After the blessing, AJ was then taken to "traction" where the doctors attempted to align his spine through a painful process of stretching the neck.  AJ could not be sedated for this process because he needed to provide feedback to the doctors.  After nearly 2 hours of traction did not completely repair the damage, AJ was taken into surgery around 3:30 or 4:00 am.  The surgery lasted a little more than 2 hours and repaired the bones by fusing vertebrae C3 through C6.  The surgeon said that the surgery was successful and the possibility of regaining feeling and movement in his body is good, as the swelling of the spinal cord reduces.  

Upon hearing of the crash on Wednesday night, we quickly packed our bags and called AJ's brothers to come home from mutual.  We packed the car and took off for Utah, driving all night to get to the UofU hospital.  We arrived at just about the same time that AJ got out of surgery.  We were able to see him at about 8:30 am and spent an hour or more with him consoling him, giving him our love, and telling him that we know he will be alright.  He asked John for a Father's Blessing, which was gladly given to him.  What a blessing that we were able to be there when he got out of surgery!  In fact, when we stand back and look at the ordeal, there are many tender mercies from the Lord:

• AJ was not killed.  He was kept alive to be able to complete his life's mission.

• The off-duty fire fighters happened upon the crash site shortly after it occurred and were able to administer relief to AJ in the way of oxygen and consoling words.

• His spinal cord was not severed.  If it were, he would be permanently paralyzed.  However, with only heavy bruising and stretching, it is expected that he will re-gain feeling and movement in many parts of his body.

• His brain was not damaged in any way.  He remained fully conscious throughout the crash and can remember everything of the night, except when he was put under anesthesia for the surgery.  He continues to be the same old AJ, but in a banged-up body.

• He has full use of his head, so he can see, hear, smell, talk and eat.

• He was able to be flown to Salt Lake City, where he has tons of friends and family to visit him and give him moral support and encouragement.  In the 6 days we've been here, he has been visited by numerous friends and family members.  Lots of fellow students and missionary buddies have come to Utah this weekend to start college. The amount of support has been so awesome and very uplifting for AJ!  

• Much love and support has also been felt from those not in Utah.  An Aunt and Uncle have provided for a month's stay at the UofU Guest House Hotel, which is just 5 minutes from the hospital.  It is so very convenient.  A couple of friends have offered air flight passes so we can fly home and back quicker.  So many family and friends from the Northwest are constantly sending their love and concern in texts, e-mails, Facebook posts, phone calls, cards and flowers.  It truly is amazing how many people care about AJ and our family!

AJ has worked hard to have a positive attitude and have faith in the Lord that the priesthood blessings he has received will come to pass.  His current situation is that he has normal feeling in and use of his head, shoulders and chest to about the nipple line.  He can move his shoulders fine.  He can flex his bicep muscles and therefore pick up his arms.  He can rotate his wrists.  He can feel sensations when touched on his hands and arms.  He can feel sensations when touched on some areas of his legs, and feet.  He cannot use much of his triceps.  He cannot move/grip his fingers.  He cannot cough with any real force, or breath very deeply using his lungs.  He cannot move his legs or feet.  Needless to say, he is need of constant help for the time being.  It has been a great blessing that we and his brothers could be down here in Salt Lake City with him at this time.  The doctors and nursing staff have been excellent with him.  AJ is trying to be so kind and appreciative to them.  He takes pride in remembering their names and talking to them about spiritual things, such as the purpose of life and the plan of Salvation.  He has made such a good impression on paramedics, flight staff, nurses, doctors and aides in the hospital.  He is uplifting visitors who come to see him with his positive attitude and faith in Christ.

AJ has now completed 6 days since the crash.  Everyday is a little bit better.  He was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for 2 and a half days.  While in the ICU, his body quickly stabilized from the trauma of the accident, the sensations in his arms and legs increased regularly, he passed his swallowing tests and began eating soft foods and drinking water, and he was able to sit completely upright for approximately 5-10 seconds before feeling overwhelmed with dizziness.  On Day 2, AJ was able to speak over the phone to his younger brother who is currently serving a church mission in Ecuador.  The conversation was comforting to both of them, to hear of each other's love and support in the work and trials that each is currently facing.  AJ also received a special visit from a Church leader on Day 2.  A separate post will be written about this event.

He was cleared to be released from the ICU on the morning of Day 3, August 30th, and was moved to the Surgical Specialty and Transport Unit.  Here, he has continued the slow healing process.  He is on very little pain medication.  He has been given exercises to do every day, as often as he can.  These are respiratory exercises, such as sucking and blowing into apparatuses that help him keep his lungs clear, and physical exercises such as moving his biceps, wrists and shoulders.  He his religiously working at completing all of his exercises every day.  He says the days would be really boring if he didn't have his exercises to look forward to. (He is going to love rehab!)

On Day 4, Sunday August 31st, the doctors changed the dressing on his incision for the first time and everything looked great with no sign of infection.  However, AJ began running a fever of 102 degrees.  This puzzled the doctors to an extent, and so they required that he take Tylenol while they ran blood and urine analyses.  Also on Sunday, he received the Sacrament in his room and appreciated the opportunity to take time to remember his covenants to the Lord.

On Day 5, in the afternoon, the physical therapist came and worked with AJ. She maneuvered the bed to change it into a chair.  For about 5 minutes, AJ sat up at about 75 degrees with his legs bent and feet on the floor.  Previously when he tried this, on Day 2, he lasted only about 10 seconds.  This time was an improvement as his body is getting stronger and better able to adjust to the changes in position.  After the 5 minutes, he began to feel light headed as his body couldn't keep up the blood pressure.  Also on Day 5, ultrasounds were performed to check for blood clots.  Many small clots were found in his left ankle, arms and neck.  Although none were large, or very serious, the doctors felt that this is the source of the high fever he'd been having.  They prescribed a dose of heparin (blood thinner) to dissolve the clots.  Later, they prescribed lovenox, which is a stronger anticoagulant.  

Day 6 was today, and was a pretty typical day in the healing process.  The incision was checked again for infection, and again appeared clear of any problems.  The fever began to break in the early afternoon and is gone tonight!  The highlight of the day was hearing that AJ will be transferred tomorrow to the rehabilitation unit here at the U of U.  That will be exciting!

Thanks again for all the love, support, prayers and positive thoughts!!
Click Here to See a Few Pictures from the Hospital