6/24/21 Update

Kevin told me that when he had too much time in the ICU to think, when he still couldn’t speak, it was hard not to replay the day his injury happened. He said he imagined a million things that could’ve made that day play out differently but eventually he decided, “there is only one direction and that is forward.”

Everything about Kevin’s care at Craig Hospital embodies that frontward thinking. Not only does he receive care to help stabilize and improve his physical health, but they have countless readiness programs including everything from navigating cooking to driving a car for his life ahead.

The specialized care here has allowed Mom and I to breathe more easily. Upon arrival, he was immediately positioned in bed in a way that is best for his injuries. His trach was switched to a smaller one so that his voice is fully back. He’s been fit for and given a wheelchair, a tube for controlling the TV with his breath and a stand and voice control feature for use of his phone.

His schedule is packed with occupational and physical therapy, mental health counseling and wound care. This first week he is still undergoing testing and X-Rays to best understand the nature of his injury and see why there is bleeding in his spine. The doctor did tell us that with injuries of this sort we won’t have a clear idea of what will be permanent until about a year out. Until then, all we can do is try to understand the nature of his injury and help him do the hard work required of physical therapy.

Talking about the shape of the future is not always easy. However, after the hour to hour fear of the ICU, it is a gift to be able to talk openly about the future at all. I am sure, with the support of all that love him, it will be a future where Kevin can build a life of meaning, possibility and happiness.  

Much love,

The Cavanaugh Family