Update - 6/22/08

A quick update to give you some incredibly good news. Matthew's stomach hole from the feeding tube as FINALLY completely healed shut (after 8 months!!!). Praise the Lord!

The leg braces that Matthew recently received (mentioned in the last update) are a great help to Matthew. He is walking so much better wearing the braces. With the braces on, he can now stand up out of his chair all by himself. He can also hold his balance using the cane and no additional assistance from therapists or family for a full minute. This is a great accomplishment.

To respond to the comment from the previous update, the fundraiser information is listed in full in the last paragraph of the update on 5/22/08. For more information, contact the lady listed in that paragraph.

Have a wonderful day!!!

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's Godmother

Update - June 16, 2008

Incredible news!!!! Matthew has been walking with the cane!!! We couldn't be more thrilled. He needs support at least on one side and it takes a great deal of effort, but Matthew can do it. During therapy he alternates between walking with a walker and with the cane. When asked if he's ready to start walking, Matthew will say, "Yes, but not multiple times." It's hard work!!

Tuesday Matthew will be getting leg braces. His knee is not stable because of previous injuries playing baseball. The leg braces will help to stabilize his knee as well as help with his balance when walking. Speaking of his legs, Matthew's strength in his right leg is increasing and he is now able to lift is right leg when sitting in his chair.

As Matthew's abilities increase with his right side, there is still concern that he hasn't gotten back full use of his right hand. He can move his thumb, but the rest of his fingers he doesn't use often. It has been suggested by therapists that it would be very helpful for Matthew to have a Wii game. Many of the Wii games require coordination and thinking as well as focusing on concentration. Studies have been done that those with strokes and head trauma injuries and they have increased strength and coordination using the Wii game. His family said they would restrain his left hand and help him to focus on using his right hand. His interest and drive to play the game would help him to concentrate on getting action out of his right hand. At this time, Matthew does not have a Wii game.

Matthew's memory is improving by leaps and bounds. Part of his therapy involves matching and coordinating items and being given instructions. Many times in the past he has gotten part of it accomplished, but then he forgets everything he's suppose to do. Recently he has been able to complete the task at hand without any trouble, almost as if it required no effort at all.

The fundraiser in Kansas City went really well. They are still raffling tickets for some items. Preparations for the big dinner fundraiser at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Sedalia are going well. If you will be in town on June 29th, we hope you can attend.

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's Godmother