February 27, 2007 at 09:26 PM MST
Good Tuesday!
Today started off very well. Cam got to therapy, and was laying down on the padded work table, and his arms slipped. He fell to the table on his back (about 12 inches)and started the spasms again. He practiced sitting up using his elbows, and made a valiant effort, succeeding with a little help. He then had to go to the bowflex machine and finish off there. He did a little bit more in the afternoon, and then rested. When I left at 8:30, things were starting to loosen up a little bit. He wants so badly to be able to get those shoulders healed so he can work like he wants to. He said that this situation is an opportunity and a difficult challenge for him. Without the cramps, he considers this a wonderful challenge he gets to take on!
We will deal with whatever Heavenly Father gives us, and with gratitude. They still can't figure out why his neck didn't explode like the vertebrae did. It's a miracle, and I am so grateful he is still here with us! God answers prayers, and I will continue to send them heavenward. A lot of them are for you folks in gratitude for your love and faith. Thank you all so much. OH, thank you Gretchen for your sweet sacrifice, and to the friend of a friend of a friend for your contribution to our family. Angels aren't only in heaven, we have discovered!
Love,
Sharon

February 27, 2007 at 07:30 AM MST
I couldn't get to a computer last night. I did get to bed early, though!
Cameron had a fantastic day yesterday. Good exercises, weight training, and very few cramps. He rested when he needed to, and was up when he wasn't resting. He had some tests done on his bladder that took and hour and a half, and luckily he couldn't feel a thing, because according to Holly (who had it done to her) it is not very pleasant!
We visited again in the evening, and I was watching his feet twitch. When the spinal cord and surrounding areas become less inflamed, spasticity sets in, and nerve endings are fired in weird ways and times. He says sometimes he can feel that they are doing something, but there is still no sensation when lightly touched. He can feel pressure a little lower than when he first went in to the hospital.
Pressure sores (bedsores) are a real danger to those in a wheelchair. Christopher Reeve died of an infection caused by one. Close inspection and acute awareness is so necessary every day, several times a day. So far, with the precautions we have taken, things are great. However, yesterday he said something felt different on his bum. He actually felt a rash that had developed during the day! I think that's a good sign!
Today, if they have recharged the "stander", he will get to stand up again. The last time he did it, he got dizzy and nauseous, and they had to sit him down quickly.
When he does his weight training, he has a set amount of reps. No matter how tired he gets, he does 10-15 more, just for good measure. His therapists are really amazed at his tenacity and successes. Show him once, and then get out of the way! I love it.
Well, more tonight. Another great day of success is ahead of us.
Have a good one!
Love ya,
Sharon

February 25, 2007 at 10:56 PM MST
Sunday, the day of rest. More ways than one, too! Cam stayed in bed all day, trying his best to use relaxation techniques on the muscle cramps instead of drugs. He finally took some motrin at about 8. We had many friends and family come to the hospital tonight. We sang several songs, entertaining the nurses in the process. It's quite fun. Our friend Paul played the guitar for us.
Would ya'll please pray that Cam's back muscles will stop spasming so he can do the work that he needs to do? He is so frustrated because he wants to work harder than he is able to. His therapists say that his progress is miraculous thus far, and we know it could be so much better without the pain. Thank you!
You know, when someone has been praying for a way to succeed, and does everything possible they can do, the Lord picks up the slack when you're ready to give up. We were kind of not knowing how we were going to redo all the things we needed to, and Cam's mom rescued us for supplies, and my wonderful son and sons-in-law volunteered their time and labor. My ward is getting a crew together to do the bathroom remodeling and will labor with love. I feel, still, kind of in a cocoon of shock and numbness. When I express my gratitude to others, because there are no tears, I don't feel like the message is getting across. I feel like I am going to lose it one of these days with all the tender feelings I have that won't come out right now. Please, if that includes YOU, know that I am grateful, truly for everything we have been so unselfishly given by so many. Someday we will repay the love and kindness that we get so abundantly each day. I don't know how that will come to pass, but it will. Because we have been given much we, too, must give.
Love you all!
Sharon

Hi, Melissa here..I'm Cam and Sharon's daughter-in-law! As Holly said before, we are planing a great benefit dinner/concert and it should be a really great time! I'm in the works of getting some great entertainment. Possibly a local band/singing group! We are also planning on having some great auctions there, and looking for businesses who can donate anything to it! Please contact me at thesevyfamily@yahoo.com if you know anyone who can help! Thank you!

I also just wanted to jump in and thank everyone for all the help they have given to the Sevy's! It's just so awesome how people pull together and help out! Thank you!

February 25, 2007 at 09:54 AM MST
We are really greatful for everyone who has began to help us get this yard sale going. So many wonderful friends, and complete strangers have come forward to give all they can. We have been putting all our energy to making sure that cam has a wonderful, calming home to come home to (I think I may have permanent painting on my fingernails now LOL!)Keep your eyes open for new news concerning a benefit concert that is in the works as well (thank you Melissa so much for helping out with that!)Also a great family friend Jenny Walker has put together a web page at www.cameronsevy.com it is still in the works so be patient with that. Thanks to everyone who do everything from delivering dinners to offering rides. Everything helps!! Love to all, HollyAnn Cox

February 24, 2007 at 01:23 AM MST
YAYYYYYYYYYYY Christi! I will be so glad to see you again! You are awesome, my daughter.
Cameron had a very good day today! He worked hard this morning, and in therapy this afternoon he was learning to do a "wheelie" so he could go over bumps and curbs. He has great balance, and did it on the first try- a somewhat modified one, however! After he had mastered what they asked of him, we went over to a lonnnnnnnnnnnng slope on another floor, and he rolled down it. Andy (therapist) said that was Cam's Everest for the day. He had to go UP the hill. OH-OH!
I was taping the episode, and it really looked steep. Well, he did it in 39 seconds. The second time, leaning forward, he got up it in 29 seconds. He has to do it twice a week now.
We got to see the MRI films, and they were amazing! We saw the 2 neck fractures, the rib fractures, and the spinal fractures. The spine was totally messed up. No wonder he has spasms!
After his shower this afternoon (they are leaving a lot more up to me so I will know what to do when he gets home) Shane (therapist) came in and said there was a man who had a T-6 fracture like Cam and wanted to talk to him. We got him dressed (WOW! That's an adventure!), and all spiffed up. Steve and Ellen were so happy to talk to us about some of the challenges they have faced. It was really fascinating, and so much in common! We will definitely be speaking with them further! Steve's accident was an ATV.
So many people are pulling for us and helping in ways I couldn't even attempt. Dave, Tim, Larry, Steve Bishop, Mom Sevy, Ginger,Holly, Heather, Christi, Alan, Melissa, Katie and everybody else who has volunteered and helped, we thank you. I know that the words don't even come close to letting you know how we feel. I hope they can be taken with a small part of what they are meant to say. I appreciate all of you who are able and have gone to visit Cam in the hospital. Leaving messages is so wonderful from those who can't visit. For three weeks, the only time he was able to get on a computer was the one time he wrote. He has access now. so he will be able to see all the wonderful people who care about him. You will never know how full our hearts are. Thank you from the bottom, middle and top of mine!
Love,
Sharon

February 23, 2007 at 04:12 PM MST
Hi everyone!
Christi here. I just booked a flight into SLC on March 10th. I am coming without the children in hopes of getting as much done as possible on the house. I am excited to see Cam and Mom and folk, but this is a working trip. I know Holly and Melissa among others have been tirelessly getting the word out there for financial assistance on all the work that their home needs (Which is over 100 years old by the way!) We are looking for material donations, (Wood, paint, pergo ETC) and labor volunteers. It is so hard to ask for this assistance, but it is needed. If you know anyone with extra stuff from home projects, or such, send us a line. Cameron is working so hard to get home, and our goal is to have him come home to a beautiful, safe and sound place where he can continue to flourish and grow stronger. We again want to thank everyone who work behind the scenes to make life easier for The Sevy family. The notes,meals and donations. The prayers that are felt and accepted with a glad heart and tears of happiness.

We are also getting things together for a huge yard sale with all proceeds going toward the house project. This is our own “Home Makeover" Without the camera hoop la. If you have any " Junk" hanging out in your garage or basement that perhaps you thought would come back into style, but realize that 1980 ain't happening like they said, consider donating please!:<)
Again, we appreciate you spreading the word. Much love and admiration!
Christi

February 21, 2007 at 09:33 PM MST
Not much to report today. Cam really overdid it yesterday and his cramps did not abate. He stayed in bed all day and rested to get his energy back. It should be better tomorrow! I keep asking him to get an x-ray to see if he cracked his shoulder. Maybe I will just talk to the doctor instead!
We had the house looked at today to see what needed to be done to make it wheelchair accessible, and there were a few things, like changing the bedroom from one room to the other, tiling the bathroom and taking out the tub for a roll-in shower. Our doors are extra-wide, so that's a plus for the wheelchair. So much to do and so little time. The ramp has to be 16 feet long with turns, and from the front porch to the sidewalk is only about 10 feet. It will be aluminum, and the grandkids will have a ball. I can hear it now, rocks and marbles rolling down it, little feet running all over it! The kids had an idea to tear out the back wall of the house and put in French doors and a deck with a ramp going off the deck. We will build some high plant beds so Cam can have his beloved garden this season. I think he would go crazy if he didn't have that to tend. We will have to have a lot of cement, but it will be worth it to have a happy camper!
Cam's Mother will be going home on Monday. She has been such a blessing to us! She and Holly (thank you!) have been doing my spring cleaning for me, and what a load off! I can hardly believe what a difference it makes to my soul to have it taken care of. I hardly have time to think about things until I get home and see what I am too tired to do. Many meetings with many organizations, long times at the hospital. Don't get me wrong, I don't regret or resent anything I am
doing.I just want to know something- does anybody know the secrets for being in more than one place at a time, or adding hours to a 24- hour day? Just curious......
WEll, it is 9:38, and I am going to, I mean REALLY going to go to bed! I don't know how I will react to that much sleep, but I am going to, because someone has to do it!
Sweet dreams to all, and thanks for your love and support!
Sharon

February 20, 2007 at 09:45 PM MST
Today Cam sat himself up from a laying position. Before afternoon therapy, he decided that he would get himself out of bed and into his wheelchair. I had my video camera and started filming. I thought that maybe he should raise the bed a little so it would be easier, but he reminded me that our bed at home was flat. He struggled and his nurse Randy was right there in case Cam did what he referred to as a "face-plant". His strength and pain level just wouldn't let him use leverage to push his elbow off the mattress. (Randy kept asking if he wanted help, but the answer was no.) Cam then talked to his muscles and told them to work together. Dang, if he didn't just about float off that mattress into a sitting position! It was amazing, and I got it on tape! He needed the slider board today and slid over onto his chair and then said "How do I get this sucker out from under me?" Randy said "I'll do it". Cam said "No, how do I do it?" Lift up and pull it out, sez Randy. So Cam did! It took 24 minutes and 14 seconds before he was sitting up proudly in his wheelchair. He then smiled for the camera and said "TA DA!". He used his legs, held by his hands, to kick down the foot-holder thingies on the wheelchair. He gets impatient to do things RIGHT NOW, and I have to keep reminding him that it is only 2 weeks and 3 days since the accident. Most patients aren’t nearly as far along as he is. He was trying to get in another session after dinner. Unfortunately, he couldn’t do much of his occupational therapy. The muscle cramps were so bad, he couldn’t get control of the pain. A guy came in and showed him what he could do in his chair. He fell 30 feet of a scaffolding 3 years ago, breaking his back higher up than Cam. He can whip his chair into his bronco and get in the driver's seat in 4 minutes. Cam watched wide-eyed, THEN reminde himself it had only been 2 weeks. That's a step in the right direction!
He got back into bed at 3:00 or so and stayed there. After some pain pills and muscle relaxants not working, he got a blessing and kicked me out to go home and to bed. I decided to take him up on it!
Again, baby steps rule the ambition chart!
Goodnight to all and love and kisses!
Sharon
Thanks Johnny, Katie,Sara, Hayden, and four of our grandkids for brightening up Cam's day. Dick, thank you for the terrific book and cd. They will be enjoyed for decades!

February 19, 2007 at 10:51 PM MST We are going to be recording Cam's sessions in physical therapy, and get some shots to put on youtube so ya'll can see what's going on if you'd like. It may take awhile, as I have no idea how to do that........
Today he stood up, sat on the mat for awhile (about 2 feet off the floor) and turned himself over about 75% by himself. He transferred from his bed to his wheelchair by himself with no sliding board. He doesn't like it because it keeps slipping around. He did a great job of it! He does body lifts with his arm when he is in his chair, and is getting stronger everyday, so scooting himself is getting easier. He sat up on that mat without holding on to it. He bobbed and swayed, but held his balance for 2 minutes. He is amazing everyone! He did alot of wrist curls with weights today.
After bathroom duties tonight, he about got himself into bed (with a small amount of help from myself and a nurse). He didn't get his hands far enough behind him and started to tip backwards. It really scared him feeling so out of control. He didn't know that our hands were behind him in case that happened. Now I will remember to tell him so he won't be frightened again. He rolled onto his side, and I rubbed some ointment onto his incision site and his shoulders. He was very comfortable in that position, so I put the air compression thingers back on his legs, propped him where he needed propping and covered him up. He wears earplugs so he can sleep soundly, and something over his eyes to shield them from the light he would get when his nurse comes to turn him. We had prayer and he was almost asleep before I left the room.
My thanks today, besides to Heavenly Father goes to Mom Sevy, Holly, Meredith and a little to Jacob. They are taking over where I left off too long ago, and deserve their halos and wings by Wednesday at noon. I will personally put them on them myself! Thank you guys for doing such a wonderful job for me. You are awesome!
Love you all. Things are good, and small steps take us to great places!
Goodnight.
Sharon

February 18, 2007 at 10:49 PM MST
Hello on Sunday!
Christi and Liz, I am so glad you got to spend time with Paula. I can only imagine how hard it would be to know your time on earth will be short. My prayers are with her and her family.
Cam's day was not an easy one, because of those crazy muscles hurting him so. We didn't get to see him until about 3:30, and he was talking to his sister from Calgary. His niece met us in the parking lot (coincidence), and we all had a nice chat. My brother Larry and his wife Jill came for awhile with some yummy cookies, then our neighbors came and brightened his day! Our daughter Holly and hubby Tim and kids came, then as Meredith and Jake and I were leaving, my brother Scott came.
Cam again let us know that he feels Heavenly Father's hand in everything, and he was prepared for this before he came to earth. He feels lonely sometimes, but never alone. Even though this is a hard time, he is planning his future with head held high and hopes and faith soaring. Now if only the spasms would quit. Please petition the Lord for that favor. If not, he will learn whatever he has to to get through it!
I was going to write more, but I am so tired. I need to go to bed. When I am exhausted, I tend to look on the dark side of this. I only want to see the good, and be grateful, so if all y'all don't mind, I will write more tomorrow!
Love you all!
Sharon

February 17, 2007 at 10:41 PM MST
This site bugs me. A full page just blipped off the screen. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR.
Cam had a very good day. Not too many spasms he couldn't handle. He got all of his staples out, and that felt good. Just a little sting now and then.
His therapist came in and told him to get into his wheelchair. He said "I'm going to make you struggle for awhile". Cam has straps on his legs to make it easier for him to move them himself, and he was using them. Pulling them up to move them didn't look too easy, but he kept at it until one was off the bed and his left shoulder was in the mattress. He couldn't seem to find the strength to push himself up. Shane (therapist) said something and Cam said "Are you telling me I CAN'T do this?". Shane said "You're showing me by your actions that you can't.". Cam used all his muscles to push himself up into a sitting position, balanced, put the sliding board under himself, and with very little help, got into his chair. I was very impressed with all the effort!
Sit on your bed with pillows behind you, and move your legs with your hands to the edge of the bed. Put one over the edge, then push your left or right arm into the bed, after manually turning your body on its side, then push up enough sit up. Put a board under your bum, on a chair, then using only your arms, lift your sit-down up and then scootyourself over to a chair or couch (has to be the same height as the chair or couch). Not as easy to do. We sure don't have to think about how to do that stuff.
Still is optimistic about everything! It makes my heart sing to hear he is doing wonderfully!
Thank you all!
Sharon

update

February 16, 2007 at 10:40 PM MST
I may get to bed before midnight!
Cam had a good morning, and then his shoulder muscles refused to cooperate. They were spasming all day. He couldn't even lift a fork to his mouth for lunch. I massaged again and they were relieved a little, but they stayed tight all day. He wanted me to stretch them so he could work through the pain.
Today was a day for signing paperwork, listening, taking notes and getting assignments for more errands. It's kind of over-whelming to think about it all, so one step at a time, not all at once.
I still don't exactly know which vertebra is broken. First they told me T4-5, then T5, now the nurses say it is T6. I wonder if anyone really knows? I could always unstaple the incision and find out......Nah! The results are the same!
My daughter Katie, daughter of my heart Ashley and their 7 kids drove down from Colorado(up? over?) to visit Cameron, and then Ashley found out her grandfather died last night. Our prayers are with her and her family in this hard time.
Thank you all again for all of your love and prayers!
Sharon

February 16, 2007 at 12:15 AM MST
Wow. Sometimes our desires don't reach the body's responses. Cam was working hard today, but his muscles locked up on him and he was in alot of pain. When he stood up, I was able to massage his shoulders and the surrounding area to help alleviate the spasms. He got on a bowflex-type machine and did an extra set of 10 reps. We went back to his room and he was exhausted. When he started talking about taking something down to those children at the little red schoolhouse, he decided it was time for a nap. I had to go home for awhile, and when I returned, he was entertaining Mollie and Carolyn! My brother Larry showed up and read us some excerpts from a book we are looking forward to reading. Thank you Larry!
Jon and Barb, we want to thank you for coming down and blessing our lives for tooo short a time. Wish we lived closer! God bless you always, and have a safe trip home!
I guess I had better get to bed and get ready for another challenging, wonderful day.
Thank you all for being there and all your support, prayers, faith, friendship, love, food, money, visiting and every other positive uplifting thing you do for us!
We love you.
Cam and Sharon

Update

February 15, 2007 at 06:19 AM MST
More taking care of the site. Wasn't able to post yesterday.
Cam had a busy day. They started right in on therapy after breakfast with some lifts using his arms (what else? : 0). Then he went back to bed for a few hours and ate lunch. Before he got half of that down, they came and took him down to the exercise room and stood him up in a way-cool contraption. Getting into a wheelchair is a major accomplishment, and he will be learning how to do that himself, get himself dressed, shave,(which he did in the ICU), and lots of other things we take for granted everyday. We visited for awhile with friends in the family room when a gaggle of gorgeous beauties came out of the elevator to sing Cam some beautiful music. WOW! Yesterday was our anniversary as well as Valentine's day, and my sister-in-law Jill asked her niece Chelsea Robinson and friends from Mountain View High School Chamber Choir (I think. I'll correct it later if I'm wrong) to sing for him. He couldn't have been more thrilled! Thank you Jill, for your thoughtfulness, and thank you, Chelsea and friends for your soothing, beautiful, talented voices.
He had his first "real" shower, and it was a big shock to his system, although feeling good, causing him to shiver with cold and pain. Those muscle spasms in his back are a bear!
Brother Jon, his wife Barb, mother Alberta, Jacob and I went to a Thai dinner. Meredith had her own dinner-date. It was delightful, and we took the leftovers to Cam. He was VERY happy, and enjoyed a nice-sized bowl of pad thai and mussaman curry with rice. He will enjoy more today! Afterwards, Jon delighted us all with singing, jokes and much-needed, painful, lovely laughter. It was a wonderful day and evening, one we won't soon forget!
My cousin is in the room 3 doors down, caring for her husband who had a stroke in January. Small wonders. She and Larry are in my prayers for rapid healing. Love you guys!
I will encourage Cam to write again this afternoon if he is up to it. He has lost several pounds, and anyone knowing Cam knows he could ill afford it! Time will put more meat on those bones, if determination will not. That, and lots of good, home-cooked meals. The hospital food isn't that bad, except on Monday when he gets all of Saturday's leftovers. Yuck!
More later!
Love,
Sharon

From Cameron!

February 13, 2007 at 06:00 PM MST

Cam decided to write today's update. His head is held in place by a brace looking straight ahead. He is having trouble with his right eye, focusing and seeing out of a shadow. I think he did an awesome job considering he can only look at the keyboard if he looks hard down without moving his neck. You go, boy! Sharon


Hello, everyone. Cam, here, working a strange keyboard in the rehap ubit here in Provo, UT Finally got upright and able to report to you myself. Surely thank God and all of you for your prayers to Him for my speedy recovery. My progress has been remarkaple. To think that I am not going to be simply convalescing anymore, but working toward getting my limbs back is really exciting to me.
As I thought I might be able to write to you today I was overcome with gratitude for your so very apparent real love and concern for us. I'd like to confirm to you that your love, shown by so many means, has literally healed me of a destructive attitude I've not been otherwise able to overcome. Thank you! Thank you for loving us all so, and forshowing it sok and for healing me! I'm certain that without that healing of heart, all other physical healing would have had little effect on our future.
As it is, however, with this inner-core change, this 'tragic' event is instead actually a Magic Event. You have seen and will continue to see,I believe, miraculous resulsts in healings and recovery that would otherwise be impossible. I am looking forward to being the instrument by which these miracles are revealed. Te fact that I am still sitting here and about to take dinner sitting in a chair (albeit a whealchair) instead of a bed is wonderful to me.
Both Sharon and I have complete hope and faith that this trial is really nothing more than a "lauchpad" event and that because of the love, faith and prayers you have sent to and for us, we cannot fail. We will only succeed and so our efforts and hopes are high.
This train is bound for Glory, by the Grace and Preparations of God. What a ride it is going to be - hard, challenging,powerful and wonderful. This train is bound for Glory...Glad to be aboard!
Thanks and Love to you all.
Cameron Cv

Today

February 12, 2007 at 07:04 PM MST

Here's the letter I told you about:
"Dear Mr. Sevy,
My name is Julie Isaacson and I am a Radiology student here at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center. I wanted to thank you for the example of faith, hope and determination that you have been to me. I remember distinctly the first time I met you and I have not forgotten how inspired I felt that day. An x-ray tech and I came up to your room to do a portable chest x-ray and while we were setting up, you said "God answers prayers" I admit that I was a little surprised to hear that coming from someone in your situation and was curious about what prompted you to say that. You went on to explain that you had asked Heavenly Father to help you clear out your throat, and He heard and answered your prayer. I was in awe. You showed me what it really means to have faith that Heavenly Father does indeed hear and answer our prayers, and how to have hope despite tribulation. Your determination to be grateful for something so small and to find the positive in all situations testifies of your inner strength. Because you have a strong foundation built on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I know that you are going to be alright, and I sincerely thank you for your example."
Sincerely,
Julie Isaacson

What a beautiful letter that is! Do you have someone who did something for you that you haven't thanked them for? Do it. I guarantee it will lift them higher than you would ever think. Please don't take anything someone does for you for granted, no matter how small. They may not even know they have helped you. Praising someone doesn't take anything away from you. I used to think that if I praised, I would somehow be less. I learned that love multiplies, it doesn't divide. Try it, you'll like it!
Cam got his chest tube out, and he is so much more comfortable now. He's very tired. Every time he tries to take a nap, he gets poked or tested or turned or bathed (that's a good one!) or sat up, or laid down. A nurse's work is never done in the ICU. He will get more rest in rehab (HEHE)
Thank you all for checking this everyday. I let Cam know what you say in your messages. They are as much, if not more, for me as him. They tell me you care.
I love you guys so much!
Sharon

***

February 12, 2007 at 11:21 AM MST

I was at the hospital to check in for a little while. Jon was working on Cam's foot (left) and his leg moved! Not once but 5 times. The thigh muscle moved, and his leg turned out. We tried it on his right foot, and this thigh muscle bulged out. Jon jokingly told him to lift his leg so he could put his boot back on, and the thigh muscle moved again, though a little less. Jon saw it ripple and tighten as he tried. Don't tell me miracles don't happen.
Sharon

Good morning, a new update

February 11, 2007 at 11:16 PM MST
Good Sabbath to all! Spent the afternoon with Cam. When we got there, he was sitting up on the edge of his bed balancing himself for five minutes. Understand that when he first tried it, he said if they hadn't been there to hold him, he would have crumpled like a wet towel. He told his therapist that he never knew how many muscles it took to sit up. Cameron has been very healthy, active, and physical. That is probably what will make his recovery happen so quickly. He is very proactive with his care, much to the dismay of some, and the delight of others.
We take so many things for granted everyday, like clearing our throats, swallowing, breathing deeply, stretching our necks. Watching him struggle to do these things is so hard, but wonderful seeing him succeed in such a short time. He plays his recorder (flute) because it strengthens his lungs and chest muscles. By the time he is through the song, he is panting and puffing for oxygen. Then he plays another song. I marvel at his gumption. I think I would cry and feel sorry for myself. Hope I never have to find out, though!
They are going to take the chest tube out tomorrow and then he can lay comfortably on his right side without feeling like he is laying on a garden hose. He could go to rehab as soon as Wednesday. Then the real work begins. I think he is up for it. Still no pain medication, just energy work and meditation. Much more healthy!
Time for bed here. Cam can sleep every two hours, then they turn him like a pig on a spit, except from side-back-side instead of all the way over. It's been a good day!
Sharon

***

February 11, 2007 at 12:47 AM MST Just got back from the hospital. It's raining and pretty doggone warm for February.
Cam had a rough time early this morning because he had an episode of ICUD- intensive care dementia, basically a break from reality for a while. He woke up unable to breathe. He didn't know where he was or why. The ceiling had ants and monsters crawling all over it. There was a chart sort of hanging in the air in front of him. Luckily his brother Jon had seen it before and knew how to bring him out of it. When Cam told me about it he stated how terrified he'd been. EWWW! That's nothing I would like to have to go through. He's been having waking hallucinations while on the medication he has for pain. He decided that was enough for him. He's been off pain medication for almost 24 hours. His body is perfused with it. He learned some visualizations to use if he's having pain, and it has worked like a charm. He's also using visualization to fire the nerves while seeing himself swimming, running, etc... He was off oxygen for almost the entire day The mind is a powerful thing to behold (really, the results are. Gray matter isn't my favorite color....) He was off oxygen for almost the entire day, until he decided to go to sleep.
He's having a positive attitude (have I said that before?). A young gal that helped take his x-rays after he got in his bed in the ICU wrote him a full page letter telling him how he had inspired her with his faith. I will write it out later, because I left it in his room.
We thank you for all your prayers and your faith. You cannot imagine how much they mean to us. They ARE FELT! Thank you a million times!
Sharon

Update

February 10, 2007 at 09:14 AM MST
Hello!
Last night the ether swallowed up my update and then this site closed for maintenance. Wonder if there is a web bathroom that needs to be cleaned..........
Cam had a rough day yesterday until his Mom, Brother and sister-in-law came. Then he perked up even more than when his niece came. Cam loves to teach, and Paige was taught! It was really good to hear him with strength in his voice! He ate meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, gobs of veggies, salad, whole wheat roll and a cup of pineapple. He got 5-grain cereal for breakfast with whole wheat toast and honey. He got on the dietitian's case for trying to poison him (his words to me, not her)with red frozen sugar water, gloppy vanilla pudding, chemicalized and powdered chicken broth. So, she brought him the good stuff! Now we have to get his protein (albumin) level up.
This is truly a journey up stairs of hidden knowledge. I always loved a good game of hide-and-seek!
I will write later, and hope that it sticks this time! Have a good day, y'all.
Sharon

Okay, an introduction of sorts.
I will be using names here and there, and thought you might like to know who is who!

My name is Christi and I am Sharon's eldest daughter from a previous marriage. In 1993 Cameron and Mom were married, combining 8 children. You can imagine the chaos! My siblings Heather, Holly, Katie and Alan & Cam's 3 beautiful daughters, Elaina, Erica and Meredith.
Jake joined our family in 1994 completing the siblings to 9.

Together Cameron and Mom have a total of 21 grandchildren, the newest grandbaby; Angelica Rai was born to Elaina and her husband Ben on January 11th.

Being that of a mixed family, we have had our challenges and growing pains. But this I have always known. Cameron loves my Mom, and she loves him. I know that this event has already softened many hearts in our family dynamic, and I we are being gently pulled towards one another for comfort and strength.

I personally want to thank each and every one of you for your prayers, your thoughts, and for the love we feel at this time. We know we can't do this alone.

Christi

Updates from the begining:

February 08, 2007 at 06:47 AM MST

Cam still needs our prayers. He didn't sleep at all last night. They won't give him anything to help him because of his lungs. I will spend the day there boosting him up, and doing whatever!

***

February 07, 2007 at 09:29 AM MST Just talked with Cam's nurse before I go to the hospital. Cam still has a lot of pain in his chest from the tube, so they are going to put a line so he can get continuous medication. He slept well, is cheerful and was eating breakfast (whatever that may be...). When I get done with all my paperwork, phone calls, shower, dental appt. for Jake,pay some bills and whatever else pops up, I will go see him.
More later tonight!
Sharon
--------------------
NEED PRAYERS
Holly just called and said that Mom called and Cameron's lungs are filling with fluid. They are having a hard time reducing it. Please keep Cameron,Sharon, and the doctors in charge of Cameron's care in your prayers as they face this new challenge. Thanks.
Christi
----------------------
Whew that was quick..You all are seriously awesome! Sharon just called me, and said that he is doing much better. They are now washing his hair and he is in heaven after not having clean hair for 4 days! I'm pretty sure the moaning I heard on the phone was just the sheer delight of warm water and suds hitting his noggin. I was able to say hello to him, and although he couldn't say anything back, I could feel his strength. Thanks again for all you do, and for your encouraging words.
Christi

***

February 06, 2007 at 11:23 PM MST
I didn't get to the hospital until around three this morning, I fell asleep in the chair at the computer. I crashed on the couch at 1:30, and got up at 2:45. He was still under anesthesia, with a breathing tube and machine breathing for him every 4 seconds. His eyes were puffy (totally expected) and he looked unhappy. The nurse talked with me for a few minutes and I just stood there for loving him Cam,not the nurse. He started shaking and shivering, so I got the nurse, because Cam wasn't cold. Ty (nurse)called Cam's name while putting his finger in Cam's hand and asking him to squeeze as hard as he could. OW! Cam responded, and Ty had to ask him twice to let go of his fingers. He let Ty know he wanted some medication, and as soon as it kicked in, there was no more trembling. He opened his eyes, too. I get thrown out from 5-7 morning and night for evaluation time, so I left at 5 and went home to take a shower and zonk out. I had my alarm set for 7 because I wanted to talk to the surgeon at 7:30. I laid down for "only a minute more" and woke up at 9:45. My body said tough beans. I'm thinking 8 hrs of sleep in 3 days may not be enough. Jake, Mere and I went down again tonight to let him know I was staying home tonight to get some sleep. He said he was going to try to sleep, too.
In the ICU, after the 2nd day if you fall asleep in the patient's room, they will ask you to leave. I don't understand that. I don't use anymore oxygen asleep than awake.Hmmm.....
I had left for a short time, and when I got back, he said he had felt tapping along his leg, and there was nobody there! Just another one of a few weird things that have happened.
Basically, he had a good day. Lots of stuff in his throat this morning he was able to get rid of (sorry). Sang Happy Birthday to his daughter Erica (hi, Ricki) and sis-in-law Jill (hi, Jill!), along with another assortment of breathy songs. Because of the surgery, chest tube and who knows what else, he had a hard time of catching his breath today. He did get to drink to his heart's content (water, apple juice, Emergen-C, hot lemonade, beef broth, water and more water) and THEN got 3 bowls of jell-o. He was in heaven! Had mild physical therapy today twice and told them what exercises he wanted them to do :p , had some great visitors, and could finally rest. Looking forward to tomorrow's adventures.
The kids are being so wonderful in helping out at the house so I don't worry about a thing here. Thank you my wonderful big little people! My family means so much to me, I can't imagine what I would do with them. Family is everyone who is loved by someone, and that someone is me. All you who read this are included. Talk to you tomorrow after some really good sleep!
Sharon

***

February 05, 2007 at 10:33 PM MST
Cameron is in surgery right now, and at my last call is doing well. He was a little nervous to get anesthesia because his father had a bad reaction, thinking it may be hereditary. I am at home, but will go back to the hospital momentarily.
I am so thankful to my wonderful family. They are doing so much for us while we are "living" at the hospital. Don't worry about anything, they keep saying. It's hard to accept things from others when you are the one wanting to help. I guess humility is one attribute that I must learn how to deal with in the next year or so. Cam, too.
Saturday was a nightmare of terror that I will never forget. Sunday was so hard until about noon, then a blanket of peace enveloped us and is still here. I feel excitement and hope when I feel like I should be running around a rubber room screaming my head off and pulling my hair out.
HE'S OUT OF SURGERY! THE DOCTOR SAID THAT HIS MUSCLES WERE REALLY RIPPED UP AND THE VERTEBRAE WERE SEVERELY DAMAGED, BUT THE SCREWS WENT IN TIGHTLY (BECAUSE OF HIS HEALTHY LIFE-STYLE) AND HIS SPINE IS NOW STRONG. HE SAID "BETWEEN YOU AND ME, I DON'T SEE MUCH HOPE IN THIS BEING REVERSED, BUT I CERTAINLY WON'T TAKE HIS HOPE AWAY. I MAY BE WRONG, BUT I DON'T THINK SO. I KNOW YOU'D WANT TO KNOW HOW I FEEL." HMMMMM.
I WON'T BORE YOU WITH THE GORE, BUT HE HAD 3 UNITS OF BLOOD DURING SURGERY, ONE LAST NIGHT, AND 2 BEFORE SURGERY. TALK ABOUT BRINGING NEW BLOOD INTO THIS SITUATION! HE WILL BE GOING TO HIS ROOM IN ABOUT AN HOUR AND WHEN HE IS AWAKE, THEY WILL TAKE HIS BREATHING TUBE OUT. THEY WILL KEEP HIM PRETTY SEDATED SO HE DOESN'T AWAKEN IN TOO MUCH PAIN. HE WILL BE ON HIS BACK, AND A BRACE WILL BE MADE SOON. HIS VITALS STAYED GREAT THE WHOLE TIME, AND THERE WERE NO COMPLICATIONS.
I am so grateful for this blessing. I will be treating him with natural things that won't interfere with anything he is receiving now. All he wants after surgery is to be able to drink some apple juice. No liquid by mouth for 3 days would drive me whack-o(er).

***

February 05, 2007 at 06:59 AM MST
Good morning, all.
Last night was a little rough, but Cam was able to be propped up slightly for a few hours on his left side. It was very painful, but when the wave subsided, was comfortable. Everyone who visited (28 by the end of the day) so wonderfully filled his love bucket (Five Languages of Love) to overflowing. He feels your prayers and faith and said to thank you all. I am brought to tears at the out-pouring of love and good wishes. I am overwhelmed and lack the words to say how I feel. Thank you seems so inadequate, but right now, it is what I say to you.
I still haven't spoken to the surgeon since Saturday afternoon, but the word on the street is surgery today or tomorrow.
Grandma Sevy is flying in this week to help out and see Cam. I am excited to see her. Below is a post I put on the Quantum touch site. It is pretty cool!. I will write more later. Thank you again for your love and support.

Sharon

***

February 04, 2007 at 12:10 PM MST
I am starting this page so everyone can be updated often on Cameron's progress. I am hoping to ease Sharon/Mom's burden of lots of calls and mass e-mails. You can sign up here to receive e-mails whenever a new update has been posted here. You can also leave messages that both Cameron and Sharon can see and respond to. I know this site has been wonderful tool to a dear friend of mine who has stage IV Metastatic breast cancer.

We are so thankful for the fasting and prayers that have been offered on Cameron's behalf. I don't want to speculate on what the full medical diagnosis is, as I am not there to verify it and have received some conflicting information. Hopefully Mom can share that as soon as she can. I do know that Cameron severed his Spinal cord, and shattered several Vertebrae, I believe several Thoracic vertebrae, and fractured a couple cervical vertebrae. He is paralyzed right now from the mid chest down. He got a chest tube inserted early this morning and had a lot of blood drained from his chest cavity. He received a blood transfusion as well.

I just talked to my sister Holly who said that despite a tremendous amount of pain, that Cameron is in wonderful spirits. He is a man of faith and hope, and although this is life changing, he has a wonderful support system of people that love him dearly. I know this road will the most challenging he has ever traveled, but hand in hand with his eternal companion, those challenges will be conquered and met with determination, and strength.
If you want to email me some pictures, I can upload them to his photo album. Thanks again for all you do!
Christi

The accident

Cam and Jake had gone sledding and Jake went down the hill on his back, head-first. He yelled for his dad to try, so Cam did. He said that he felt he should look and make sure that he didn't hit the tree (the only one in a sledder's path), so he started to look and hit the tree head-on. He tried to protect himself in that split second and bruised his hand (very minor). The Lord was with him, because he got one small cut on his head is all. He told me that the week before he had had a talk with Heavenly Father telling that he wouldn't want to live as a quad because he couldn't do much. Then he said that sometimes Heavenly Father answers prayers in a weird way. *GRIN*
Today the kids skipped their first classes to visit, and Cam told Jake (excuse me for paraphrasing, but the meaning is real)
"I don't want you to blame yourself for telling me to go down the hill like you did. It was not your fault in any way. Sometimes, things just happen. Mom and I talked about this, and came up with the fact that there are things I can do now that I couldn't do before Saturday. I had a beautiful life, wonderful family and everything was perfect. I didn't have to grow, and I had very little to share. Now I can turn this into something that may help thousands of people with what I can share. Sometimes Heavenly Father answers prayers in a loud way, and sometimes like a rose, with the petals opening up slowly and gently. This is like a rose, Jake, and I give thanks I am here. Let's let this help us get closer as a family and praise God for whatever lesson He decides to allow me to have. Let go of your guilt and know that I love you very much." I had tears in my eyes with the sweetness of the Spirit in the room I feel blessed to have been there.

I'm about to be timed out, so I will say goodnight and say thank you all for your love, faith and prayers. Miracles happen, and I am living with one.
Sharon