Update - 5/3/06

Matthew is doing quite well since his return to Rusk and he's recovered from surgery. He was re-admitted to Rusk on Monday and settled back into the therapy routine on Tuesday. His dad was with him on Tuesday and he enjoyed seeing Matthew's major accomplishment! The therapist was working on Matthew's legs, massaging muscles and bending joints. Matthew's left leg was able to bend at almost a 90 degree angle!!!!! This is a HUGE improvement from the stiff left leg that would hardly move before. Matthew sat in the wheelchair with that left leg bent and he was sitting almost like normal (and even without much complaining on Matthew's part). The pump with the medication for relaxing Matthew's muscles is doing what it's suppose to do! There's still some resistence with Matthew's muscles, but there is great improvement and we are so thankful.

The wound on Matthew's foot is healing well. They re-bandage it four times a day and it is looking much better.

Matthew hasn't been forming words of late, but Erich noticed that Matthew doesn't seem so "foggy". He is clear and directed in his responses (when given a command or request). Since he doesn't speak words, he responds with actions or "grunts".

Last night there was a Fine Arts Dinner at the Cole Camp High School. Matthew received the Top Art Award for Seniors entitled "The Leonardo da Vinci Award". Brenda and Andrew were there to receive the award for Matthew. Andrew received recognition for letting in speech. We're proud of both boys!

Please check back Thursday morning - there will be details regarding a new fundraiser.

Blessings to you!

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother