We’re looking back today, on where Brady was, and how far he’s come, because today marks TWO MONTHS post injury!
First, education. Because I love information, I’ve eaten up all of these new concepts. Spinal cord injuries are often referred to as SCIs. And an “injury” isn’t just an accident or a broken bone. In Brady’s case, the injury wasn’t the tumour. The injury was the surgery.
So the date of Brady’s injury is February 10th. He is two months post injury.
Now the level, or the ‘”height of injury.” This is labelling the highest post of his spine that was affected by his injury. There are four sections of the spine. The upper back is the cervical spine (C), ribs are thoracic (T), lower is lumbar (L), and the very lowest is sacral (S). From the section of spine, then, its counted by vertebrae. Brady’s tumour affected his T7-T11 vertebrae, but the surgery began at T6.
The height of Brady’s injury is T6.
Lastly, SCIs are either complete or incomplete. Believe it or not, complete is worse. “Complete” means the spinal cord was fully severed at the height of injury. Brady is fortunate to have an incomplete injury, meaning that he still has nerve function between his brain and the part of his body below the injury.
All of this being said, in the medical world, Brady’s SCI is a T6 incomplete.
Boom. Educated.
I am VERY excited to share with you today, at two months post injury, that Brady has a confident discharge date! We’ve carried this date as our goal the entire time, always being reminded that it is a moving target. We’ve not wanted to hold our breath or count it down, but as the discharge plans move forward and its finally written on his schedule, we feel hopeful enough to share it with you all!!
Lord willing, Brady will be coming home on Wednesday. April 14th. FOUR MORE DAYS.
Consider where he was two months ago. And where he is now.
Things have CHANGED!
Find me a man who works harder than this man.
I am deeply proud of my husband for taking on this GIGANTIC challenge of recovering from major spinal surgery, relearning his mobility from being flat on his back and numb, surviving a pulmonary embolism, and gracefully accepting a truly vulnerable, humbling experience. As if I didn’t love you as much as a person can love another before, it has only grown over these months.
I am ready. It is time to bring my man home. Lord protect us, as this fight is not over. This is long game, and we deeply appreciate our people who see that and continue to encourage us. Times are tricky, but God knew we’d be here, and He has not forgotten us.
I love you Lord
and I lift my voice
to worship You
Oh my soul rejoice!
Oh my darling daughter, these are quite the times. I too am so very proud of Brady. He has pushed forward with such a positive attitude and perseverance, not complaining but accepting each situation with grace. Bless your heart Brady!
Also, I’d just like to add Hailey, that you are my HERO. You have also walked through each day over the last two months with a heart of cheerfulness and acceptance. Travelling to the hospital everyday, watching your husband struggle. Then coming home to your family and loving them and trying to be cheerful and involved when all you you want to do probably, is just disappear and rest. I’m very proud of you also.
You guys are an excellent team and I will be so happy to see you both together again.
May God protect you and keep you. May His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you, and give you peace.
I love Brady and you and your gang, very much!
This is such a beautiful encouragement, mom! Thank you for your deep love for our family, and the insane amount of care you’ve offered us. It is SUCH a joy to have you here. You always leave me feeling loved and considered and like I’m not failing hard at everything. What a gift you’ve given. I love you!!!