While Christmas break is upon us, that doesn’t mean Marcus is taking a break from working hard.  He continues to show up well during his therapies at Shirley Ryan. Over the last week and a half, some interesting and exciting changes have been added to the routine. 

Late last week, therapists introduced a stimulation device to Marcus’ right arm to stimulate the median nerve (MNS). They have used multiple stim devices to work different muscles over the last few months, but this particular one has had success in other studies at promoting patients to emerge from disordered consciousness more quickly than those who do not receive it. Currently, Marcus will wear the device for approximately six hours a day.  It is not a painful device and doesn’t interfere with his therapies, so we are excited to try another new method to encourage additional brain activity. 

The dysphagia therapists continue to work hard with Marcus on his swallowing and eating. As many things are, this process has been a trial and error. Not shockingly, Marcus is getting tired of a solely liquid and pureed diet, but before we can integrate more exciting foods, we need to continue to strengthen the muscles and instincts involved. Yesterday was an exciting break in the norm when Blaire, one of his therapists, brought in some Cheetos (these are a safe food as when they are wet, they will dissolve). Marcus was notably eager to eat a Cheeto and took multiple bites of it. He was also given the option of an Oreo McFlurry if he could clearly respond that that’s what he wanted. He did just that, and Blaire ran across the street and got him one. McFlurries and Cheetos all in one day–quite exciting!

Doctors are continuing to work on the right combination of medications to help keep Marcus awake and stimulated when he needs to be. We do think that they are getting closer to a winning “cocktail,” as he has been much more alert and active lately in and out of therapies.  We still battle to find the proper schedule and routine that allows him to be most productive during the day, but the therapists and doctors continue trying new things to do just that. 

We don’t know what the rest of the year holds, but we remain optimistic and grateful for Marcus’ continual improvement and health. Thank you for keeping Marcus in your prayers.  We continue to thank God for you all as well.