Laughter...the Best Medicine 8/28/08

This week Curtis has continued to surprise us. Last Saturday while I was still in LA, Curt's friend, Travis, came by to visit him again. Lucky for us that Travis is quite an entertaining guy; he was telling us some funny stories. Curtis also thought these stories were funny, and he showed a really big, whole-mouth smile. Then, we heard Curtis start to chuckle! As Travis continued to talk, we heard Curtis laugh out loud, a real belly-laugh where his stomach and chest moved up and down with Curtis' laughter! It was the first time we heard Curtis laugh since the accident, and it was great! He continued to laugh the whole day long while Travis was around; he was really on a roll. It seemed that everything that Travis said or did just rubbed Curt funny, and he laughed and laughed! It was great for us, too, we were just so happy to laugh along with Curt. I could tell how good the laughter was for Curtis and he really seemed to enjoy it. I guess those Aggies know how to make each other laugh! Thanks, Travis!!

On Monday, Curtis' trach tube was removed. Now his tracheostomy can start to heal. I think Curtis was ready to have that out. We are glad for that progress. It must have been a positive step, too, for his speaking, and he has been quite chatty since then. He chatted alot with Mom and Elaine Monday night while they visited.

Then on Tuesday, Curtis, Mom and Elaine were waiting to see Curtis' doctor. Curtis said to them, "I want a hamburger and french fries"!!!! How cool is that?! Elaine asked him..."Oh really!? Are you wanting McDonald's, In N Out Burger, or something else"? and Curtis answered her, "In N Out Burger". The guy really wants to eat!

During his PT session on Tuesday, Curtis was taken again to the walking plank to practice his standing. Curtis stood in the walking plank and with the help of the therapist, started walking. He walked all the way to the end of the plank and then continued off the plank and walked to the center of the room! He ended up taking about 14 steps that day!

Now that Curtis is conversing, it is great to be able to talk to him on the phone! He can even speak back :)

We are still thrilled at his progress and so thankful for all your support. I think all the prayers and thoughts have made all the difference for Curt!

Renee