Update from Michael - 7-10-2008

HealthBridge Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital
393 S. Tustin Ave., Orange CA

Dear Friends,

There have been several developments in the last few days for which we praise God.

1. Melissa expressed voluntary smiles during visits starting last Sunday. She had big smiles when visitors came, and when they joked with her.

2. She was able to voluntarily lift her left arm up about half way, when you say “shake hands” she will do so. This showed great strength improvements on her left side.

3. She was able to follow commands when given. For example, Melissa lifted her leg up and down when asked to do so.

4. Her eyes are able to move from side to side and are no longer just fixated on the left side. This movement began after the latest shunt replacement which alleviated the brain pressure.

5. Melissa is more able to give signs of her discomfort. For example, on July 4, Melissa showed signs of a lot of stress. Of course, that was very concerning so a nurse came in and offered some anti-anxiety medication to calm her down. But that wasn't the problem. Then we noticed Melissa had been staring at the tubing leading to the trachea for about 1/2 hour. When we checked it, it was drying out. So, from this we can conclude that Melissa is showing great signs of consciences and awareness.

6. A major concern for her now is that an angiogram done on Monday, July 7, shows that the walls of her arteries are thinning. In fact, three out of the four major brain blood vessels are too thin. This could easily lead to a stroke. Doctors are trying to prevent any possible ruptures or clogs. Please specially pray for this.

7. On Wednesday evening, Melissa was discharged from Children’s Hospital and is back at HealthBridge again, where she will start her new rehab. program.

God continues to amaze us with His power and mercy for Melissa. Please continue to pray that Melissa's condition will stabilize so amazingly that she can go back home and rehabilitate in the comfort of her own home.

In Love,
Michael