First Day at Roger C. Peace Center

Hi from Kirstin.

Last night was Jonathan's first night in the physical therapy/rehab center (Roger C. Peace in Greenville). While it was a sleepless night with frustrating nurses coming and going, physical therapy today was great. They took a baseline assessment of Jonathan, and he is doing well. They are thrilled with his strength and have a lot to work with, it seems. He informs everyone at every turn that he wants to do all he can to get his legs back to normal. The physical therapists are happy to have someone so willing and eager, and are themselves willing to go as far as Jonathan can. Today, with the help of 3 physical therapists helping to brace him, he actually stood up on his own feet at the parallel bars and moved his feet forward. This is pretty motivating, and we're pulling for more of the same on his own!! (He has only been out of his bed in a wheelchair about 4 times, so this is a lot of activity for a guy with a crushed vertebra and legs that don't yet work like he wants them to!!) But before he does any walking on his own, there will be weeks and weeks of exercises to help him regain his motor skills. His right leg is still not coming along as well as the left, so while praying for JLD, please put a little extra emphasis on the right side, OK?

I am heading back to the hospital for the night, but wanted to share news of his fire and determination. Thanks for all the prayers, notes and good thoughts! It seems to be paying off so far.