Update from Virginia - Friday

Thank you for your continued prayers! Thomas is doing well in outpatient rehab at Shepherd Pathways. The therapy is similar to what he had at the Shepherd Center – physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, therapeutic recreation and much more.

During a routine exam a nurse (with a thick accent) asked him all the standard questions – "do you have a wheelchair" – no – "do you wear glasses?" – no – "do you have false teeth?" Thomas answered, "sometimes." When I looked at him with raised eyebrows he said to the nurse, "Did you just ask if I flossed my teeth?"

Thomas is mainly working on building strength and endurance. He lost 10 lbs. (of muscle) when he was hospitalized. Surprisingly his balance is excellent. His gross and small motor skills are only slightly impaired. He needs to build up strength in his voice too. It's nice to know that all of these deficits are temporary and, with time, will heal.

The main thing that Thomas HAS to do is not sustain another brain injury, so he has to be extremely careful when doing any physical activity.

This weekend the Lakeside Ultimate Frisbee team is going to the "Deep Freeze" tournament in Chattanooga. Even though Thomas can't play, he wants to honor his commitment to accompany the team to cheer them on. The comradery will energize him!

Thomas staying in good spirits thanks to the prayers and support of all of you. At last night's Boy Scout Court of Honor he was welcomed with a standing ovation! We are blessed to have the Scouting community (our troop and other units) encouraging us.

Our family has enjoyed many meals from our generous community! All of our friends are excellent cooks.

Keep praying and know that our gratitude to each one of you overflows!