Update - 2/27/07

Good news!!!

Matthew settled in at Rusk Rehabilitation Center in Columbia, MO on Monday, Feb. 26th. The current plan is that he stay there for four weeks and at the end of that time they will evaluate his progress and determine if he can stay longer. He's in the same room as before (except he's not by the window this time). The staff at Rusk was happy to see Matthew and he was all smiles to see them. He showed signs of recognizing them, especially Everett who was his nurse on the trip to Cole Camp for graduation last year.

Today (Tuesday) is a big day of evaluations and testing. I'm sure Matthew will be exhausted at the end of the day. Dr. Ruppright and others will be documenting his current status and chart out a plan for his therapy with the goal of Matthew leaving Rusk VERTICAL!!!! Let's pray that becomes a reality!!

Matthew would love to receive your cards and letters! Please send them to the following address:

Matthew Kurz
Room 234
Rusk Rehabilitation Center
315 Business Loop 70 W.
Columbia, MO 65203

And the funnier the card you send him, the better. It's pretty clear to those around Matthew that he can read his cards. He will follow along with his eyes and when it's a funny card he laughs at the appropriate time (without any clues from anyone). I think that's incredible! So, let's give Matthew lots of opportunities to laugh.

One more bit of good news, last week at therapy Matthew was asked to draw a snowman just like the one the therapist drew. And he was able to draw the snowman all on his own with his left hand. We pray the artist in Matthew is able to re-emurge!

Have a wonderful day in the Lord!

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother

Update - 2/12/07

Last week Matthew stood three times (pulling himself up) which was a major accomplishment because of ingrown toenail surgery on 2/5 on the other foot. Previously the pain would have been too much for him, but he stood despite the pain and discomfort. Please pray that the ingrown toenail heals well so progress can continue with his therapy.

Matthew continues to talk more and is cheerful. Last week he played tic-tac-toe with Mom for the first time.

As of last week, he's playing with activities on his computer but soon he will have formal training online as well as training with the therapist at rehab.

Matthew is eating very well. This is a great blessing considering in the past he didn't want to eat following surgery or when some part of his body was in pain. He is eating bigger portions at mealtime and he feeds himself. He doesn't like to be fed by someone else. So, right now he's eating with his fingers. Down the road he'll get training with how to use utensils.

It isn't confirmed yet, but things look good for Matthew to return to Rusk Rehab in Columbia, MO for the intensive therapy they can provide. We'll let you know as soon as the official word is given.

Hope you are safe and staying warm at this time of wintry weather across the country.

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother