All,
The overall "flavor" of this blog represents Carson's support network who not only reflect their own faith and optimism, but Carson's as well----we don't want to detract from this and we love it. It will be these friends, his family, and faith that will serve to pull him through this life altering injury. Carson has had, and will continue to have, discouragement associated with this battle. It is just beginning. The trauma shock is wearing off and the realization of the challenges that lie ahead are becoming clearer. Carson CHOOSES to approach this in a positive, faith based manner and understands the role of adversity in order to improve and progress. The video clips so far, in our opinion as parents, represent Carson's gratitude that he is still alive and made it through two difficult surgeries. We share his joy. We also know that each day is going to be different than the previous one, for good and bad, and he may not appear so "chipper" as he would say.
From more of a "clinical" view, Carson's body is attempting to heal and he is quickly entering into a phase of recovery that often results in extreme discouragement and acute pain. As the spinal shock wears off and Carson's nerves attempt to "wake-up", the messages from the nerves are being confused due to the injury, creating an incredible amount of muscle spasticity and overall agitation. Carson stated today that it feels like "An electrical storm is going on in my back" and further described the general sensation as an "Intense, clutching feeling." The doctors are giving him help for the pain.
We would like to thank those of you who have taken time to write Carson letters. I read many of them to him yesterday and both of us were overwhelmed several times from the contents. These are so critical to his progress as he continues his journey.
Stephen and Camille Tueller
