September 17th Update

Some good things have been happening recently that we are very excited about!

On September 7th Matthew had an appointment and evaluation at the Assistive Technology Evaluation Center in Columbia to see about possible resources that might be available, especially devices that help with communication. Matthew was tested with several different systems, and there were great results with a touch-screen computer. Puzzles were put on the screen to see what Matthew might be able to do. With some he had to drag the 'piece' to its correct location, and he had no trouble putting several of them together. Pictures can be put on the screen to do things such as turning lights or a radio on or off. Also, a keyboard screen can be used for messages, and Matthew did type out his name with assistance from Mom. As a result of the evaluation, Matthew qualified for his own touch-screen computer system, which should be ready in about eight weeks.

Matthew is vocalizing more and forming consonant sounds. One day at therapy, it sounded like he attempted to say "bye" to his mother. The family is noticing more cognitive abilities as Matthew is coming off some of his medications, so this is another great sign.

The therapy Matthew has been receiving at ResCare will now be supplemented by therapy at Bothwell Hospital in Sedalia--there are days the therapists aren't available at ResCare, and this will fill in the gaps. The whole family is excited that Matthew will have further therapy during the week.

In response to the question regarding sending funds for Matthew's needs,the address is still: Matthew Kurz Medical Fund, c/o Citizens-Farmers Bank
P.O. Box 219 Cole Camp, MO 65325

Many thanks for your continued prayers, support, and encouragement!

Joel Kurz (Matthew's Uncle), filling in for a swamped Rachel Asburry

Update - 9/5/06

Sorry for the long hiatus from a "Matthew Update"!

Matthew has been turning the light switch on and off when going in and out of a room (with his left hand). Seems like he is eager to do more and more for himself.

There is improvement all the time with his ability to hold a straw in his mouth. Matthew can't suck up the straw but we hope in time that will come. In the meantime, someone has to squeeze the water into his mouth. Matthew will hold the water in his mouth and swallow much of the time. In the past he would take the water into his mouth and then spit it out.

Matthew saw Dr. Ruprite (his primary doctor at Rusk in Columbia) and he was very happy with Matthew's improvement. Dr. Ruprite decided to decrease some of Matthew's medication because Matthew is doing so well.

The Kurz' are still discussing with doctors and rehab centers about treatment and assistance for correcting Matthew's left foot and how it is pointed inward.

Things have changed with the rehab center in Sedalia because of governmental regulations. There are restrictions on how much the rehab center can assist head-trauma patients. So, now his rehab has to be done "piece-meal" both at home and at the resource center. This involves lots of running around for Matthew's parents as well as now there is the need to do more of his intensive therapy at home. Matthew will need to have a therapy mat (the largest size) and other therapy tools to continue making progress. The size he needs runs about $500 or more. Your help would be greatly appreciated with this need (if you are willing and able).

Hope you all had a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend.

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother