Update - 10/7/06

Matthew is doing a wonderful job pulling himself to a sitting position. His abdomen muscles are getting stronger all the time. He is also getting better at holding himself up and he also manages to correct his posture if he starts to lean to one side. He can hold his own body weight up to four minutes when sitting.

Matthew is also sleeping better through the night. Recently he's up to eight nights in a row that he has slept through the night. This is great for Matthew's healing and recovery (as well as Mom and Dad's needed rest).

More good news - Matthew can recognize numbers consistently. He can point to the numbers when directed to and knows which is which. I don't have the official terminology and explanation for this, but it's my understanding that there is a part of the brain that recognizes numbers and a part of the brain that recognizes letters. So far, Matthew's ability to recognize letters is sporatic and inconsistent.

Therapists are getting Matthew to use his left hand more and more to write and draw with a pencil. He used to get frustrated and throw the pencil. Now he will hold onto it longer and scribble all over the paper.

Here's a few miscellaneous bits of information that show progress: Matthew's depth perception has improved; his teasing nature shows forth once in a while toward the people caring for him; and Matthew can lift his left leg off the bed on command (he can't lift his right leg on command, but when he's relaxed and not thinking about it, he will lift his right leg). Next week in therapy, Matthew will go from the tilt table to the standing frame.

I'd like to ask for your prayers for a specific concern. Caring and transporting Matthew to and from therapy and all the lifting that has to be done is causing great physical strain on Brenda's body (since she is his primary care person during the day). The Kurzs are applying for state help to get daytime help caring for Matthew to assist her. We pray that they are able to get someone who understands head trauma and is a very caring person to work with Matthew.

Hope you are enjoying the beauty of God's world this fall.

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother