March 30, 2007 at 10:55 PM MST Wow, Sorry about no update yesterday. What a day. I was exhausted by the end, and the thought of getting on the computer was more than I could deal with. Cam had a follow-up doctor appt. today. We got a lot of info, some he didn't want to hear, like he has to wear his brace for another 4 months. He hates that thing! However, if he doesn't start wearing it daily, the bone grafts won't take, and he may be facing another surgery. No, thanks, he says. We'll see. OH! Cam was sitting tonight, and he got an epiphany-look on his face. When I asked him what was wrong, he said that his legs felt like they were waking up! I asked him to try and move his foot, and he started saying UP,DOWN! UP, DOWN! The ankle muscles moved as he said it, when he said it. I asked him to move his big toe on the left foot, and nothing happened. However, when I told him to move the toes on his right foot, his little toe moved twice. It lasted for about 3 or 4 minutes, then was gone. To me, a miracle happened tonight! Now we wait for the next time, and it will be longer!
My sisters and I took Mom out to lunch at the Seville Retirement Center to break the news to her that she would be living there soon. We were very apprehensive, because she has told us throughout the years that we must promise never to put her in a "home". We took a tour, went through a fire-alarm going off, and she still thought it was a nice place. We surprised her, showing her the apartment she will be living in. She was thrilled, and more excited when she found she could bring her dog, too! That was her main worry, believe it or not! She said this was the best thing that has happened to her since having kids. We now feel at ease, for when Patti goes on her mission, mom would have been all alone, and that's not possible anymore. Mom said that she had thought about moving into a retirement place for awhile. She thinks we are great kids now. Cooooool! Cameron's Dad is in the same hospital that Cam was in. He's visiting from Canada, and woke up with chest pains this morning. We were going to visit tonight, but unforeseen things happened, and we weren't able to. When I called the room, no one answered. We will go tomorrow, and pray that all is well, and he can leave. Conference is tomorrow, and I can't wait to hear what will be said. It seems that this will be more meaningful to me with all the adversity that has presented itself over the last 2 months. We are getting into a routine of sorts, but Cam needs more to do. My sister Barb gave me an idea, and we'll see where that takes us! Anyone else coming up with ideas will be appropriately thanked! Well, the time on this page is misleading. It is an hour later than it says, and now more since I stopped for several minutes to take care of Cam. His back seized up on him while he was on his right side, and I had to quickly turn him over. I used Quantum touch quickly, and it relaxed in record time. YAY! Our friends Sherry and her daughter Sarah came over to do some work on Cam this afternoon. "Body-Talk" was the modality of the day. I love all the wonderful things that can be done for emotional release, and helping people. Thank you, Cluffs for your love and devotion to us in this time! Well, Meredith is out, and expected back any minute now, and I do need my beauty rest, but that doesn't seem to happen often enough. I did get a nap today, though. Nice. Love you guys! Thanks for loving us back. Sharon
March 28, 2007 at 09:19 PM MST Today has been very chilly; snow this morning and rain tonight. We have been utilizing the car heater and the radiator alot. Cam cannot regulate his body temperature when he is experiencing pain. Today was one of those days. He was in pain all day until he took a nap for an hour and a half. Then he woke up pain-free. It was great! It hasn't come back until just a while ago, and not anything like it was earlier! He is now watching Spartacus, which we got at the library. Christi, your video was beautiful, and your words before it amazing. I think that should go on youtube, and if I figure it out, I will put it there! You are an amazing young lady, and I thank you! Cam has decided that doing nothing makes him hurt, so we are planning on what to do to keep him busy during the long daylight hours. Tomorrow is therapy. It will be interesting to see how he does without pain killers. i made him miss his Monday therapy this week, because I thought it was on Tuesday. When in doubt, read the calendar.............. We found out about adult stem cell therapy, and now have Cam on a form of it. It doesn't have anything to do with injections, or newborn babies. That makes ME feel alot better. We are excited with the technology and looking forward to see how things work out. I again want to thank all of your for your prayers and love. I am so grateful to all of you. We would not be as far along the path of success without you. God bless you all! Love, Sharon -------------------------------------------------- March 27, 2007 at 01:22 PM MST Hello to all you kind and wonderful people who actually take time to read these updates on my condition. Thank you for your interest and care and love. We receive it gratefully daily. Thank you. Sharon reported yesterday that I am off pain pills. They were upsetting my stomach, making me taste weird tastes and I don't like taking drugs. So, since I've cut back on the strenuous exercise like hefting my whole body in one sweep from bed to chair or from wheelchair to next place of sitting which would regularly cause my back muscles to lock up and cause great pain - instead, I am using the sliding board and taking it slower and easier - I figure I can handle the lessened pain and learn to work my muscles in a relaxed manner so they don't lock up and cause so much pain. I can live with that. Sometimes it is hard because when the muscles are tight already from sleeping too long or some other reason, it takes real mind control and care to keep the muscles as relaxed as possible. And it will be done! That has to be my (our?) motto: It will be done! If it is good and worthy, uplifting and helpful, it will be done. I believe, as I'm sure you do, that we all have our challenges on this earth to make us better and stronger and to also give others opportunities to grow in loving compassion. You all are certainly doing your parts, I can't do any less. In addition, we get these trials so that when we are ultimately returned to perfect health and all else that is good, we will recognize much more deeply the goodness, even the goodness we enjoyed before the trial, and our eternal happiness will be made deeper, richer, perfect. THAT is the biggest reason for the trials. It is all a part of Heavenly Father's wonderful Plan of Happiness laid out before. The Plan of Happiness is the reason for it all. That was made clear to me in the ICU that first week and it took all the spiritual and emotional pain away. That was a blessing indeed! So, now all we need to do is handle the physical challenges and move on to greater opportunities to be of service. Thank you again for your service to me; I'll let you know that (hint, hint!) back massages do relieve the pain quite a bit and we do love visitors. It is better for you to call ahead, tho, because we are getting out and about more and we'd hate to just miss you. That's all for now. Catch you later. Cameron
March 26, 2007 at 10:50 PM MST Howdy! We had a great day today! Cam went off the drugs yesterday while battling the flu. He slept pretty well, except he has started snoring (ugh!)because he breathes through his mouth. Maybe that will end now that he's off the drugs. His mouth would get so dry! Anyway, today he woke up with a clear mind, and the pain level was down to 1! Now we know that he was on "Pain" pills, or pills to give him pain. OK, that's an over-simplification, but, golly, no pills, no pain? Kinda makes you think, or at least it made ME think. Our friends Carmen, Heinz and Glen came over to visit today, and brought pizza and good company. Carmen, thank you for massaging Cam's back today. Molly, thank you for yesterday! He was so relaxed. He has a new digital voice recorder (Wal-mart) so he can record anytime, and not have to carry around a bulky machine. I went over to Holly's house to help HER with her packing and cleaning. It was a nice switch! We got a lot done, too. Cam and his dad spent the day together. That was nice for them! Tomorrow, if it doesn't snow, we will paint the ramp so it will stay nice longer. I believe we chose our trials before we came here, and Cam believes that he chose this one, not only for his personal growth, but also for the growth of others. It has brought us so much closer together as husband and wife, and that is a wonderful thing to be thankful for. I am so thankful for my family, and my carepages family out there! Your support has uplifted us both, and helped to clarify so many things! We ask blessing upon all of you, with our love- Cam and Sharon
March 25, 2007 at 09:53 PM MST Wow, things can go from bad to worse in a short time. Cam was having a dream early this morning about a neighbor giving him a big hug from behind. It kept getting tighter and he told the neighbor to let go. Then he woke up and found that his chest and back had locked up. He could hardly breathe. We sat him up, and waited for muscles to relax. It happened in the hospital, too. That was wearing, and I turned off the alarm and slept, only at 8:40 got up. I woke Cam so we could get ready quickly (what’s that?), but he couldn’t move. He sat up for a few minutes, then had to lay back again. He was still upset from what had happened earlier, and was afraid of it happening again. He slept until about 1:30, got up with the family, and ate lunch. We had some yummy cod, rice, squash and some fruit salad. Thank you, Margaret for your love and unselfishness! Cam ate a fairly large bowl of the salad with yogurt, and started coughing (not because of the salad…). His stomach has been queasy for 3 days now, and coughing did him no good, as you may well be able to imagine. He slept for several more hours before getting up again. He thinks that the pain medication is doing him not much good in the health department, and went the whole day without it. He is going to do it again tomorrow, get the chemicals out of his system, and start healing more quickly. Cam’s dad is in our room reading the bible to him, Psalms to be exact. I am going to have to go to bed, so I need to say goodnight to him. He gave Cam a beautiful father’s blessing, for which I am very grateful! Anyone need a special little kitten to love and cuddle? How about six! Can’t blame me for trying! Howard and Jeanette came over, and Molly, for dinner and jabbering. It was so much fun! Howard, have a safe journey to work, and during the week at your job. Hope you keep your spirits up! We’ll watch out for Jeanette and the kids! Thanks again, all, for caring! Hope Cam is feeling better tomorrow. I gave him some bentonite clay, which will absorb the toxins in his stomach and intestines. It sure helped me last week to get the sick stomach gone! Thank you for your prayers. Love to you all, Sharon
March 24, 2007 at 10:33 PM MST Hi, All! Busy day today, good day today. We got a huge donation for the yard sale, and I went to storage to let the van and trailer. Andy and Natalie, I thank you with all my heart for your generosity. Justin, thanks for helping unload. You're a good friend! We figure April 14 will be a good day for a yard sale. At noonish, Cam's Dad took Cam, Meredith and me to lunch at Golden Corral. Boy, were we full afterwards! I got my bourbon street chicken, and everything else was icing on the cake. We laughed as we ate, which I am told helps digestion, and is just plain fun. People were very kind toward Cam while he was getting his food. Joy (Dad) had a very hard time seeing Cam for the first time this morning. However, Cam's spirit and attitude made it easier to take, and then things were ok. We are enjoying having him here! This afternoon, Jake got back from a scout camp-out on Antelope Island near Tooele. He played on the Bonneville Salt Flats, too. Good thing, scouting is! We went to a reception in SLC tonight. We were there near the end. When we were almost to the door, we saw some people walking around and there wasn't a sound in the room. We looked at each other with trepidation, and then realized that everyone was around the bride and groom as they were cutting the cake! The decorations were lovely, and the Bride was glowing with happiness and exhaustion! We stayed afterward to help take down decorations. We were on the 14th floor of the Wells Fargo building, and it gave us a marvelous view! On the way home, we had a great talk as Cam exercised his arms. It really helped him. We bought a “thera-cane” on ebay so he can work the tight muscles in his back. Before we left for the reception we took a little nap and he used it, waking up feeling great! Well, I need to go and get a prescription from Rite-Aid that I dropped off an hour ago. Then it’s good night for this lady! Church is at 9:00 in the morning. I’m off to see the wizard! Love to all, Sharon
March 23, 2007 at 08:43 PM MST Good evening! Busy day today. Cam spent some time on the computer looking some things up. I ran around and did some organizing for a bit. Had a little scare, though. He was doing his body lifts for exercise, and he lost his breath. He started hyperventilating a bit and asked for the big plant in the living room. He breathed in the fresh oxygen, and was able to breathe more slowly and get his breath. I've been watching him pretty closely today. Something just hasn't felt right. Our friends came over and we went to a Thai place for dinner. Same place as Valentine's day, only this time Cam was there with me this time. We had a very enjoyable time together! It was way too short, though. Cam's Dad arrived this afternoon, and we will enjoy his company tomorrow when he is awake- both "hes". Cam had a nasty upset stomach, and I am making him sleep laying in an inclined position, as comfortable as possible. He got some delightful ginger, peppermint and chamomile tea to help his stomach and allow sleep to come more easily. He's in bed almost asleep. Talking with my friend makes me more grateful for Cam. We both had less than ideal marriages the first time around, and were pretty miserable. I got remarried first, and kept trying to tell her there was a better situation waiting for her. Then she found David. He is so good to and for her. It is good to see her eyes light up, and to see him so happy! We get along so well because we are all grateful for the love and joy we share with the ones we love! Thanks for your love, too!
March 22, 2007 at 10:42 PM MST Today was a rough day. Cam didn't feel well and skipped rehab to lie down. When he got up, it was four and the pain was so bad he needed two pills to calm things down. Paul O'connor was there to just make Cam feel loved. Thanks, Paul! Constant pain is not easy to deal with, I know in a small way. The injury I received in a car accident 2 years ago is flaring up with all the massaging and bending and pushing the chair. It's not bad enough for pain pills, but it burns, and every time it does, my empathy barometer shoots way up there and I say a prayer of thanks that I don't have to deal with what Cam does. I was brushing my teeth tonight, and I looked over at Cam in his chair, and I got really angry and wanted to tell him to quit messing around and get out of it! It was a flash-in-the-pan type thought and left quickly, but it was so surreal! I had to blink twice before it disappeared. I did not like it at all. The days are slowly melting into one another getting up so often every night, but it's now part of our "NEW NORMAL". Ya do what ya gots ta do! Our friends are here from Arizona for a daughter's wedding. We are going to dinner tomorrow night and enjoy each other's company again. Then, the reception is Saturday night. Cam's dad is on his way, and his mom will be here next week. Graduations are in April, so the family will be here from Canada, along with a missionary homecoming. This month seems like a vacation! Thanks for reading this, all y'all (that's plural). Have a good day and we'll leave the light on for you! Love always, Sharon
------------------------------------------- March 21, 2007 at 08:10 PM MSTWow, you guys! I have myself an old-fashioned pity-party, and y'all just play along and bring me gifts to boot! Really, though, thank you so much. You lifted my whole day to new heights! You are so awesome! I guess being amazingly tired had a lot to do with it. The stages one has to go through can throw one for a loop. I just figured since I felt so at peace that I wouldn't have to go through the rest. Well, dang it, I discovered that I am just human enough to have to do it. So, I will acknowledge that (like I have any other choice : ) in the matter), and do what needs to be done. Cam and I have talked about some of the things we need to realize, and we will deal with them in love and acceptance. THEN we can move ahead fully. I went to a fragrance party today and made my own signature scent. I was a little late because felt I needed to help Cam with some morning activities. He kept telling me to go and have a good time; enjoy myself. Boy, the guilt I feel being able to just walk out the door and drive away. Some days, he can barely wheel himself into the next room. I didn't want to go because I really wanted to be needed. He told me he was very capable of getting himself dressed and fed and to GO! He got his pressure hose on (they're hard for me to get on him), dressed the rest of the way, shoes included, and got himself some food, into the recliner, and the computer rigged up on a board in his lap. He says I baby him too much. I guess I do, but it's so hard seeing him struggle in pain. He lifted himself up for a pressure release, and his legs spasmed straight out and he could hardly sit down. Don't know what I can do about things like that, though! Truly, Arnold S. will have little on him in the upper body department when he gets through with his strengthening! He's looking for something to do. He was so active before, that just sitting around is driving him crazy. Anybody have any ideas how he can keep his body moving without gigantic exercise equipment? It was raining today, and he needed to go home teaching. He has 2 pipe-like holes in the back of his wheelchair. I had a huge picnic umbrella that was just the right size to fit into one of them; blue and white striped, very classy indeed! He wheeled down the road, covered and dry. It was great! I just told him to watch out for any big winds! I have to go to bed earlier than midnight tonight. Tomorrow is therapy day, register the car day, grout the bathroom, clean the office/put everything in it, now take everything out of it day. Gotta get stuff to storage,too. Surely, there's no lack for me to do, just find something now for Cam to keep himself occupied. I know he doesn't need me near him 24/7. I still get nervous when he transfers from the wheelchair to another place of repose. I never know which muscles will refuse to cooperate to get him there. Thank you again for all the words of encouragement and pledges of love and prayers. You truly will not know in this life how much I needed to hear them and what they mean to me. Friends, those I know and those I haven't met yet, mean the world to me. Today has been a very good day! Love, Sharon
Here's a poem that popped into my head: "Sometime"
Sometime when you're feeling important, Sometime when your ego's in bloom, Sometime, when you take it for granted You're the best qualified in the room;
Sometime when you feel that your going Would leave an unfillable hole, Just follow this simple instruction And see how it humbles your soul.
Take a bucket and fill it with water, Put your hand in it up to your wrist. Pull it out, and the hole that's remaining Is a measure of how you'll be missed.
You can splash all you please when you enter, You may stir up the water galore, But stop, and you'll find in a minute That it looks quite the same as before.
The moral in this quaint example Is do just the best that you can. Be proud of yourself, but remember, There is no indispensable man.
Annon.
That's what I need to remember, I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN DO SOMETHING, AND MY WAY IS NOT THE ONLY WAY! Ok, now I can go to bed. Love you all! Sharon
I had a wonderful time in Utah. I think we accomplished a lot of things, getting the house ready was a big project that had been steadily in progress for several weeks before I got there. The generosity of the community, and of complete strangers was certainly faith boosting. There was a gentleman that showed up one evening and placed a 20 dollar bill in my hand. He was probably 90 years old, and had twinkling blue eyes. He said he had stopped by previously, and felt impressed to come again. I asked him what his name was, and his eyes wandered to the heavens and he said " He knows" I went into the house and gave Cam the 20 and told him what had just happened. Cam wanted to meet him, so I chased him down before he drove away. This kind of thing has happened countless times. People giving of their time, their talents. It just really makes me humble to see it. Cameron has been in good spirits, although I know he is in pain. He doesn't like to admit it, but he does hurt. His muscles have a mind of their own, and nearly toss him from his chair on occasion. He has many visitors a day, and even when exhaustion and pain take over, he welcomes all that care to stop by. His body is healing, and the process it takes to heal is the hardest part of all. He is stubborn, and goal driven though. I had a thought of how it must have been for his Mother to try and help him tie a shoe, and the attitude of " I can do it by myself!" But, Cam has also proven that being humble is an attribute. I know he is thankful for his wife, and all those that do help, even though I'm sure it is difficult for him to need/ask for that help. As I explained to my Mom, she is his helpmate....an equal partner, and that she has been. Again, thanks to everyone for there love and support. Christi
----------------------------------------------- March 20, 2007 at 09:07 PM MSTGood evening. I don't even know what to say today. I have been sick for a couple of days and am finally getting some energy back. It's been a tiring day, but I don't feel like I have done anything. Moved around some yard sale items, swept, did some laundry and washed dishes. Big whoop. I couldn't even get over to help Holly because I had to work tonight. I guess I am going through my anger stage of this adventure. Cam can't do what he wants to do (serve others and not be a lump, as he put it), and it is frustrating to both of us. He wants to do things by himself, which is admirable. It is, however very hard to watch and not jump in to help when he struggles. I want him to take the time out to heal, he wants to not waste time healing and start working again. I guess directed stubbornness is a good thing in some ways. He and a neighbor went for a walk/roll to the store for some fresh veggies and fruits. It was pleasant for them, as the weather was gorgeous. Does anybody read this anymore? It's my journal, I guess, or blog. Just curious. Seems like when the major problem is over, like being in the hospital, interest wanes. Things are really just starting for us, I guess. That's ok, though. I know everyone is so busy, just as we are. That's what living is for. Forgive me my ramblings, and thank you for your support. Love, Sharon
March 19, 2007 at 05:18 PM MST Good afternoon to everyone. Life goes on, doesn't it, with all the wonderful challenges and growing opportunities. Some of them are as simple as deciding whether to try to sit up from flat on my back or whether to manipulate my legs (by hand) over the edge of the mattress and sit up from a sideways position. I'll bet you never even gave a thought as t how to just sit up in bed, did you?
You can thank the good Lord above for such simple abilities.
I've been home from the hospital for about a week now and it has been wonderful; the house is shaping up nicely and the bathroom is in complete working order altho tile work and other things need to be finished. Because of the generosity of so many people, we will be able to obtain a special wheelchair which I will be able to use to wheel myself into the bathroom for use of the commode and the shower. This will free a lot of Sharon's time from having to be with me to insure the safety of my transfers from wheelchair to commode, to wheelochair, to shower bench and back. Thank you to you all.
March 17, 2007 at 09:40 PM MST Happy St. Patrick's day! Our computer has been down AGAIN this week, and was fixed today. Thank you, Larry and Dave! Cam had a good homecoming Tuesday, and the past five days have been good. He has transfers down well, and took a "walk" down to the store with a neighbor, Jeanette and her daughter Sarah. Good thing, because his back locked up, and he couldn't wheel anywhere! Thank you, Jeanette. I am looking at the words I just typed, and they look weird because I am so tired. We went to an Irish St. Paddy's party with real Irish folk and had a ball! I am the first ever Provo Irish Idol with my original Tie dance. No jealousy, please. And don't ask, either. But I will say that there were kids present so don't worry... My green hat and real fake beads will forever remind me of something I can't remember...... Cam is so grateful to all of you for your prayers and love, and so am I. When he is out in the sunshine, so many stop and talk to him. People are good and very friendly, and Christi (from Memphis)mentioned that her faith in others has been restored. In Tennessee, if someone asks to help another with their groceries there is an instant distrust and fear. That makes me sad. Even though things are really hard, blessings have been given to us right and left. We haven't been forsaken in any way. Someone loaned Cam a back massager, and it has helped so much! His muscles today were having a grand time, but they forgot to invite Cam along. They would fire, and his hand sloshed water out of his cup! He'd try to get out of his chair and about fly out! He'd try to get his legs out of the foot rest, and they would refuse to budge, or kick out. He just didn't know what to, or what to expect. Thanks for reading this, and sorry it's been so long. Have a good day tomorrow! Love, Sharon
March 12, 2007 at 10:49 PM MDT Christi here! Wow, it has been a while since there has been any update, so apologies! I haven't had access to a computer until now. It has been a very busy last few days. I got here on Saturday afternoon, and was able to help for the remainder of the day at the yard sale. The yard sale was a HUGE success. Thank you so much for all the donations! The outpouring of love and service has truly been felt here! The sale made about 4400 dollars and some change. WOW!! So exciting! Thank you for all the volunteers, and help we received Friday and Saturday. Cam was able to come to the sale the last 2 hours or so. He played some chords on the guitar, and gave an interview to channel 2 news. They aired a wonderful segment that evening about the sale! Tim Cox and Alan Davis were able to get most of the tile down in the bathroom, and they finally have a working toilet. We are still waiting on the sink and shower. Cameron comes home tomorrow, and we are so thrilled. We have been working non-stop today to make the transition as smooth as possible. Tim also was able to get a temporary ramp put up so he can get into the house. Cameron got a 24 hour pass from the hospital Saturday night to assess how he did overnight away from the hospital. I will let him tell you all about that when he is able. I know that he was tired, and was dealing with some pain issues that evening. I have pictures to post! Well, as soon as I can upload them that is! I have tried to find the link of the aired newscast, but was unable to find it. Well, Mom wants to speak..so here she is! Christi
Hello, Sharon here now. Wow! Talk about an amazing ride this past week. We drove all over creation picking up donatations from generous, kind people. Although very time consuming, it was so much fun! People dropped off things all during the day. It took about 7 trucks making two trips to get the 2 storage units empty and over to the parking lot. A BYU ward adopted us, and several students helped us set up, go through boxes, bags and anything else you can think of. The morning of the sale it was so cold. Friday, the clouds came rolling in, and we gathered in prayer and asked for dry weather and a successful day. Saturday was cloudy, windy and freezing, but we got coats out of the offering pile and kept warm.. One of the students said that I needed to get some plastic to cover the clothing when it rained. I told him it wouldn't be necessary, as I had prayed for warmth and blue sky, and it would show a lack of faith if we did something like that. He said, "but just in case...". I told him no. The sun came out, it got hot and I got a sunburn. At about 2, our good friend Ginger brought Cam to the sale as a surprise. He got out of her high, big car very nicely. We had a recliner donated, and he sat in that for awhile, basking in the sunshine, and being with family. He hasn't had a chance to see all the wonderful people helping him, he only sees the results! The news from channel 2 came and did an interview, and then we met at my house to get some video footage. At 9:00, they came to do a live shot, and stayed until 10:00 to do another one. Kathrine came inside afterwards to talk, and introduce us to her husband. It was a fun and tiring night. Going to church the next day was delightful, if not short, seeing as how we forgot to set our clocks ahead.... We didn't drive, we walked and wheeled! Beautiful day. Got Cam back by 8:00 (ok, it was 10, but who's counting?), and he got in bed by 11. Christi and I stayed up until around 2 am, and I slept in cuz Jake had an earache. Cam worked hard this morning, and entertained tonight. TOMORROW IS THE BIG DAY! EXCITING AND SCARY, BUT WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGE! Thank you all for sharing this first chapter in our new adventure. We will keep the updates coming, since this is basically my journal and blog. Goodnight, and lottsa love! Sharon
March 08, 2007 at 09:04 PM MST I suppose I must actually be thankful for drugs ... painkillers, especially. Without them I'd be virtually useless. Last night I didn't use any and couldn't sleep from virtually 2:30 am to 7:00 am because of nervous electrical jolts that zap me up the legs and jar me in the back and chest. It is really quite painful. Could I request something? Would you all please petition God in your prayers for relief RIGHT NOW in this respect and very rapid total healing of all these nervous jolts? I would really appreciate your prayers in my behalf on this issue. Again, I want to thank you all for all your faith and prayers in our/my behalf. We do feel the power of Heaven working with us because of your prayers. Thank you so much!
Fortunately my wonderful therapy trainers were easy on me this morning: I got a nice 3hr nap before lunch on a comfortable recliner chair (much easier to enter and exit than the bed). Sleep plus drugs gave me a second lease on therapy and the rest of the day.
Today I got into the pool, a 98degree (warm) therapy pool I entered by transferring to a chair hooked to a hoist. They lifted the chair, swung it over the pool and lowered me in. It took a short while to get my balance in the water but was soon swimming happily in the warmest pool water ever. It was heaven. I could breast-stroke, back stroke and fumble with the crawl, and hold my breath when needed. We worked to get my legs to respond to command...still working on it. It was marvelous to be in the water again, tho, and learn that I can move in the water with ease. I'll be able to swim across Osoyoos Lake with the family this summer! Yeah!
I've been wondering what I'll have to offer the world that may be slightly different and valuable. I've learned of several other wheelchair speakers I'll be learning from and I have several friends who will be helping me prepare. But what particular topic would be my main thrust? Anyone can talk about being motivated and positive. One need not be in a wheelchair to be a successful public speaker, that's sure.
My friends, I believe that I have been given an opportunity to help people better understand the purposes of pain, opposition and challenges by explaining the effectual result of God's Plan of Happiness. Understanding this eternal plan takes our focus from the pains of this world and places our focus on the eternal world. With a change of view, from the temporary to the eternal, our views of and responses to the temporary can be radically different and easier to live with. This is what has happened to me.
I have become keenly aware that the only reasons for the pain I've been suffering are to give me tools to use to be of some service to others, to give me experiences which will immensely deepen my appreciation of Heavenly life when I get back ther and thus my eternal happiness, and to give others an opportunity to experience and express empathy and compassion, both of which are powerful for the unifying of families and other love-based relationships, which are eternal in nature, of course. All this is the fulfillment of God's Plan of Happiness.
I believe I can learn to present this information in fun, funny, energetic, musical and motivating ways so people go home happy to hae been entertained and informed about something that is taught too seldom and misunderstood too often. This is my dream and desire: to travel the world singing and laughing and uplifting people with principles of eternal hope and happiness.
Well, that's it for this evening. Thank you again for all your faithful prayers and other kind helps we receive with gratitude each day. We love you and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
March 08, 2007 at 09:58 PM MST Please read Cameron's update from today below....I don't want to take away from his beautiful words and plea. I have right now another plea for help. We need help building the ramp up to the front door tomorrow, and possibly Saturday morning (While most of us are at the yard sale!) The wood could not be picked up until late today, and the clock is ticking quickly for Cam's arrival home. Tim said it won't take long to assemble, perhaps a couple hours or less depending on how many people could help. An even more pressing matter at this time is the absence of a toilet, and bathing facility in the house. The bathroom was ripped out, and a plumber has offered his services, and they were there for hours yesterday (Thank you so much!)As of today, it is still a mess. He is said to be returning tomorrow to finish it, but we are in need of help laying the tile down when all the plumbing work is done. The yard sale is becoming larger than life, with every room in their house filled with items to sell.( It is really going to be big folks…we are a little overwhelmed!) If you know of anyone who would like to volunteer this Saturday anywhere from very early (6ish) to 5 pm, please contact me @ 5christinamaria@gmail.com. We desperately need help manning food booths, unloading furniture, hauling goods and setting up. They could also use help tomorrow sorting through all the donated items in preparation for the big event. Thank you!!
March 08, 2007 at 12:49 AM MST I don't have much to post today. I didn't even get to see Cam until almost seven tonight, and then he checked his email, and I talked on the phone. I feel like a derelict wife, but today was busy for me! I won't bore you with all the details of my day, but know that either Cameron or I will write tomorrow! Oh, the bathroom is re-plumbed and the shower liner will be coming in the morning. Then we get to tile (anybody know how to do that?), put up the ramp, paint the kitchen, rip out the carpet on the back porch, widen a doorway, change some rooms around, go to Jacob's dance competition at BYU, take him to the hospital at 3 until 4, then pick Meredith up and take her to the hospital from 5 til 6, take more stuff for the yard sale to storage,get stuff from Salt Lake, get the flooring, find some very important papers (pray I find them please!),go to work and try to find our living room with all the boxes in it. Other than those things, and going to sign some papers, I will be lazy tomorrow. Actually, Holly and Tim are going to pick up the stuff in Salt Lake with Hal's trailer. Thanks to all three of you!
Now it's raining, so I need to go to bed. Good a reason as any.........
March 06, 2007 at 07:59 PM MST What an amazing series of events this past 24 hours. First the newspaper photographer came by and took some photos while the reporter interviewed Sharon and my daughter, Holly. Can you believe the story made front page?? Wow! Then channel 4 news came out and shot an interview and some action shots. I sure am grateful for the wonderful therapists here who have helped me strengthen and be prepared to make a good solid showing for a TV newscast. I am happy with the report, especially the announcement that I want to help others as much as I can by being a public motivational speaker.
Add to those amazing events, a great friend, Paul O'Connor and his sweet wife, Clarissa and daughter Julie, put on what I am told was a wonderfully imaginative, lively and fun event at his own home in our behalf, complete with Irish Snow Castle, Gaelic music, dancing and the whole shebang. In doing so, they raised some thousands of dollars to help us refit our home for wheelchair access and even pay for a custom-fit chair for me. Paul and family, my friends, how can we thank you?
We owe so much to so many for your loving support. I am considering how to express our thanks in more tangible ways. With God's help, we'll come up with something fun and appropriate.
In the meanwhile, I continue to make progress. Today I shaved about 14 seconds off my previous record pushing myself up a long ramp we lovingly call "Everest" It is getting easier!. Also, I pressed 100 lbs on the "Rickshaw" tricep press. It about lifted me out of my chair and my therapist, Shane, needed to hold me down but I was able to press it 8 tmes before my arms gave out. This is good because I need to press my 150lb body out of a chair and up onto our bed so lifting 60 lbs 20 times on the rickshaw won't do me as much good as pressing 100 lbs 5 times. Then Shane piled another 40 lbs on the rack and helped me push it down to straight-arm position. He let go and grabbed my waist as I quickly "rose to the occasion". Whooah! I would not be able to press 140 lbs but I was able to lower the weights in a controlled manner, not just letting them slam down. Boy, did that about wear me out. Fortunately they have a Lazy-Boy recliner I'm allowed to use to relax for a while (much easier than getting into a bed!)
Speaking of bed, it is getting about this time and I have some other duties to perform. Thank you all again for all your love and prayerful support. We see, feel and receive it with the deepest of gratitude. May God bless you all as you (and He) continues to bless us so greatly. Goodnight. Cameron Cv
Watch ABC channel 4 news tonight http://www.abc4.com/mostpopular/story.aspx?content_id=8e6fbd1d-6f50-4179-8a41-34596d5e7479 There will be a news story on Cameron at 4:30, another one( Time unsure) and 10 pm Thanks!
You can watch the video here: http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoId=60232
March 06, 2007 at 06:24 AM MST Check it out! Cameron is in the Daily Herald today! What a blessing!
http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/212142/
Article
Family of paralyzed Provo man seeks help
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NATHAN JOHNSON - Daily Herald Once a palsy stricken and injured actor on stage, Cameron Sevy, father of nine, won't just be acting the part any longer.
In a case of life changing course and then imitating art, Sevy, 52, became paralyzed from the chest down after a nearly fatal sledding accident Feb. 3.
Sevy had been out sledding with his youngest son, Jake, when he hit a tree, severing his spinal cord, shattering vertebrae, fracturing his neck and breaking several ribs.
The Sevy family, left reeling, quickly began raising funds to help pay for the medical and home retrofitting expenses that came with the paralyzation. Family members have been sending out pleas for help to neighbors and local news outlets, even placing notices on Web sites such as craigslist.org asking for any help that the community could offer.
The family has also created a Web site where people can learn about the accident and make donations to help support the family.
Sevy's Daughter, Holly Cox, said that the family had no insurance and that it was too early to estimate the costs of medical care. Costs will include surgeries, rehab and post rehabilitation care, and are expected to be extremely high.
"It's devastating to have this happen to your family," Cox said.
Additional costs include the retrofitting of a their home to service the paraplegic man. A contractor estimated the cost of retrofitting at over $22,000, but offered a $5,000 discount. Others have also offered professional services to help in the retrofit.
Cox said that they had the manpower to do the work, but they were short the funds to get it done.
Despite desperate financial straights, Sevy and family have kept a remarkably positive attitude.
"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," wrote Sevy in a note of gratitude using a special keyboard available to him in rehab.
Friends and family members refer to him as "remarkable" "amazing" and "an inspiration."
The family is holding a garage sale on Saturday to raise funds, and is planning a concert and a silent auction later on in the month. The family is looking for donations for these events, of both goods and services.
They have currently scheduled local singer Rebecca Lopez to perform, but are looking to add bigger names to that list.
Before the accident, Sevy worked as an actor and Realtor, appearing in the LDS film, "The Testaments" where he played a palsied man. He has also appeared in other films and plays. Family friend Jenny Walker said that Sevy has expressed interest in motivational speaking as a new career path following the accident.
In 1993, Sevy, then with three children of his own, married his wife Sharon, who came into the marriage with five children. Together they had Jacob. All told Sevy and his wife boast 21 grandchildren.
For more information, visit http://www.cameronsevy.com
Donations can be taken directly to the Sevy home at 524 E. 400 S. Provo, or you can contact Holly Cox at (801) 735-3850.
This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page A1.
March 06, 2007 at 12:14 PM MST Dear Everyone. I am so completely overcome with emotion that I honestly can not control at this moment. My sister Holly's phone has been ringing off the hook all day. Donations have been pouring in, and we are so incredibly touched by all the people that have contributed. Last night one of Cam's friends ( I don't know his name, I apologize. Mom will tell you later!) had a Family Home evening/fundraiser on behalf of Cameron. The donations were enough to cover the price of a top of the line wheelchair for Cameron! I don't have the words at this time to express the deep and loving feelings of gratitude and appreciation we are feeling at this time. Thank you. Christi
March 04, 2007 at 10:47 PM MST End of the day is here and I am so glad! Cam got out on a day pass today. We went to church, only a bit late. Wow, things take longer than I thought getting him ready. Now I know it will take a little (LOT) longer than normal, whatever normal is now! It was a lovely day. Cam wheeled home with Meredith because it was such a nice walk (ride). He was tired, so we laid him down on the couch to snooze. He usually puts earplugs in his ears and a shirt or cloth over his eyes, but he didn't want to miss being home. Even with 5 grandkids loving all over their beloved Papa, he slept. I don't think I could do that! We chatted, visited, he read stories to little ones, company came, we ate, more company came, then we had some company come. It was such fun! Shane, be sure to tell your family hi for us. It was so good seeing you again! Lance, thanks for coming, and a big hi to Melissa and kids. Ken and Sheri, thanks for coming and bringing Sarah and Christie (Y?) with you. It's so fun to visit with you guys. Anyway, by the time it was past time to get him back to the hospital, he was pretty pooped. He was laying on the couch, and he wanted to get up alone, so I really had to hold myself back from helping. It's such a struggle, and then it's like he magically floats up to the sitting position. I am positive that angels are lifting him. How grateful I am for that! Tomorrow is the beginning of another great growing day. Thank you for your prayers and love. They, too, are like angels, lifting us up when we are struggling. Please don't stop, they are needed every minute. Goodnight, all! Love always, Sharon
March 03, 2007 at 01:35 PM MST Good afternoon, everyone. Cam here. I think I may be lightening Sharon's load, which is very heavy, if I update you all on some of my happenings so she doesn't have to. Also, perhaps you would like to know a bit of how my days go here in the rehap unit. So, over the next couple of days, I'll try to give you some insights and reports on how my hours are spent. I'm going to be as delicate as possible and also real so you get a clear picture. Perhaps it will help motivate you all to be more careful than I was.
Wake up time is generally around 7:00am or 7:30am. I could wake up earlier if I didn't have to wake up twice in the night to "cath" myself in order to empty my bladder. That is if the bladder did not empty itself during the night, which really caused problems as you can imagine with wet clothes and all.
I can generally only turn on my side in the morning, but am getting to the point where I can tilt the bed up to a sitting position. Once there, I can begin getting ready for the nurse to help me get into the chair. Generally there are the super-tight TED hose to be put on my legs (I took them off myself once; it only took me 10 minutes!) and I get a blood-thinning agent called Lovenox shot into my tummy. Then foot protecting boots are put on and I transfer to the chair.
The transfer is tricky but with strengthing of the arms,it becomes less so. I have to scoot to where I can get one hand on the chair and one on the bed with my bottom angled toward the chair. Then, I lean forward and, pushing my head in the opposite direction I want my bottom to go, I lift and push. Whoop! The bottom slids over the crack between the bed and the chair and I land on the chair. Of course, there is a spotter for me to protect me from a faceplant on the floor or any other complication that might arise. Once in the chair, I lift my legs with my hands and place my feet in their positions. Ah, mobility.
I'll go shave, combe my fair locks (rapidly greying) and brush my teeth. Breakfast comes at 8:00 and they'll hold it if I'm late. Good breakfasts. The food is generally good here, altho somewhat bland -- missing the onions, garlic, herbs and spices we love to use at home. But that is understandable. I get a call every after noon from the kitchen to go over tomorrow's menue and I eat quite well - chicken alfredo, shrimp&noodles, lasagna, oven baked red potatos, fresh veggies, salads, and lovely desserts which I generally bypass, choosing the abundant fresh fruit.
After eating, morning and evening, I go to the throne-room to do my duty. After that, therapy.
Tomorrow I'll fill you in further. Getting tired and have some duties to perform before therapy in 1/2 hour.
Later all. Thnks again for all your love and support. Cameron Cv
March 02, 2007 at 05:03 PM MST Hello All! I'm back! Cameron Cv. I'm feeling a bit tired and it's only 4:45, but it has been an eventful day with several rounds of exercises to build strength in arms, shoulders, back and neck (since those are the only muscles I have any control over at this point). Yesterday I pressed 65lbs - a small weight for many - doing 3 sets of 20 repetitions. About burned out my triceps, so today I backed off and did just 40 lbs but 6 sets of 20 to keep up. My phys. Trainer had me working the wheelchair today doing wheelies, keeping balanced or doing a wheelie turn or moving forward 10 feet in a wheelie. Not easy but reasonably successful. Still, I'll practice only with someone behind me. I don't have a helmet and don't want to need one. Sharon has, as you know, been on top of everything, keeping a pace that astounds me. She is such an angel. I certainly appreciate all your prayers in her behalf! Friends, Let me tell you that my therapists are constantly saying they are very impressed by my rapid progress. Well, I AM doing my best, but I am totally covinced that I feel the powers of heaven strengthening me regularly, and that is because of all your faith, prayers and good intentions in my behalf. I am guided, healed, rested, made more able and strengthened because of your spiritual gifts of loving intent for my healing which you regularly send my way. I want you to know that your gifts are received and utilized with the utmost gratitude. THANK YOU! As I said before, this train is bound for Glory, not because of me but because of God and His powers that are so apparently evident. As we all watch this experience unfold (and I am 'watching' it, too, just from a different perspective) we are in awe at the goodness of God that makes such miracles out of a "tragedy" like this. Thanks again for your love, support and prayers. They are truly helping. Love to you all. Cameron Cv
March 01, 2007 at 09:54 PM MST Today was an excellent day! Cam started off with the rickshaw @ 65 lbs. Then he went on to the bowflex, adding an additional 10 pounds making it 30. Then he had to lift 5 lbs on a stick straight up, arms extended. He did 10 twice, then pumped it up to 20 the third time. He did a wheelie several times, stood up in the stander-upper for over 20 minutes without feeling dizzy, and they had to make him sit down! He wheeled up the ramp twice in his new chair they are loaning him. In the afternoon, he was outside going up and down something I didn't see because I wasn't there. Whatever it was, he got a stitch in his left shoulder, so he laid down and had a ramped-up tens unit on his back. Our wonderful Jill brought over some Thai food, and Cam and I are having a date tomorrow and are going to eat it all! Thank you Jill! Brad and Lisa, may God give you many choice blessings for your contribution to our home. Our friends Tony and Carrie own the My Comfort My Way Intelli-gel stores, and are donating a mattress for Cam's comfort. Thank you both! We are so blessed with your love and caring. Thank you, everyone for all you do for us! We are truly humbled. The Timpview High School drill team is going to help paint on Saturday. Thanks, girls! We also thank all of you who are donating items for the yard/rummage sale on the 10th. You are so awesome! Love you all! Cam comes home on the 13th, lucky #13........ Sharon
February 28, 2007 at 11:26 PM MST Wow! Cam just sails through the work when he's not in pain! He finally consented to take some motrin before his exercises, and it worked! He did rowing, rickshaw with 60 lbs., laid down and fell asleep while his therapists and I went over the bathroom setup to see if it would be possible to do without tearing the house down. They measured in the "practice" bathroom, and we think it will work out fine! If we need something else in a month or two, then we can take care of it. Nothing seemed to be working out for our changing everything. One contractor came and gave us a bid for $17,500. That was with the $ 2500 compassionate discount. That's a little out of my budget this week. Cam practiced his wheelies, and got so he could go over a bump without hitting the training bars in the back. He got a new chair to use that has no armrests, but it's really low, and he HAS to use the slider board at this point in time. The wheel gets in the way when he tries to get in and out of bed. He does ok til he gets tired, then needs help. He learned how to open an hydraulic door and get into a room, then out of it. He did it twice upon learning. Got into our truck, and out if it, too! Had some wonderful people over for visits! Jill, Paul, Bill, Holly and kids. I'm sure I am missing someone. Please forgive me! Jill, thank you for your generous donation. Jessica and Mike, thank you for your donations to our yard sale. We appreciate your loving kindness! Thank you all, again, for all your faith and prayers. Sharon
