Thursday, April 5, 2007

Brett Cole update as of Saturday 3/1

Dear friends and family:
Brett Cole update as of Saturday March 10th
What a difference a day makes!
Wednesday represented the 4 week mark since Brett's accident. It seems like months have passed. On Tuesday we visited a pain relief specialist and we were somewhat disappointed that he did not seem to offer any hope for relief for Brett's pain. The doctor prescribed a drug (Lyrica) that is typically given to seizure and diabetes patients. Within a day, we were pleasantly surprised when Brett slept through the night and reported that his pain level was decreasing. We were able to reduce his dosages of Valium and Brett became more alert and clear in his thinking.
On Wednesday when I came home from work I encouraged Brett to take a shower and move around some. Over the next several hours I was elated as Brett began to engage in his normal routine. We spent some time in the basement and actually worked on one of the motorcycles. During this time, he insisted on using the screwdriver and would not allow me to steady the screw. Brett got grease on his hand and we laughed about getting dirty right after a shower. (This is typical Brett.)
That night Brett decided to check his Email and Blog sites. He had well over 1000 emails from friends and acquaintances. He began using his left hand to type and respond to Instant messages. During this time we were able to leave Brett alone for the first time. Coleen and I remained downstairs but this was the first time he did not have one of us right by his side.
Thursday was another good day with Brett and Coleen going out to eat with Stacey. This was Brett's first public outing. He insisted on checking Stacey's engine and while closing the car hood, used his head to hold it up until he could place the hood latch in place. (Thank God Brett is strong willed!)
On Friday, Brett visited the police station to say thanks and pick up his riding boots and gloves. Coleen and Brett also visited 29 dreams (a motorcycle park near Leeds) where Brett has many friends and where Brett often hangs out. Brett shared with me that his friends seemed to be upset but he kept saying "hey, I am still here"!
Brett now remembers much of the day leading up to the crash. He recalls traveling by his friend's house that is less than a mile from the accident scene. He has now seen the accident photographs and is handling this fairly well. His anger and grief is focused on the damage to his motorcycle and not himself. He is very frustrated about the injustice of the fact that the other driver is still allowed to be on the road after driving with a suspended license, being on his side of the road and admitting to speeding. He seems determined to let this motivate him toward his law degree so he can make a difference.
Unfortunately, the phantom pains returned Friday night and disrupted his sleep again. We return to the pain relief doctor on Monday. It looks like we may be on an emotional roller coaster ride for awhile. Even on the good days, Brett says the pain can sometimes hit a level 5 to 7 but now the episodes don't last as long. We are thankful that God has provided some pain relief for Brett. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support regarding this matter.
I was able to work three full days and it was therapeutic for me. I enjoy my work and it was nice to be a little involved again. Coleen had some relief as a result of Brett being able to have some normal activities. We are still tired, stressed and healing and the love, support and prayers continue to uplift us.
Again we all want to express our gratitude for everything you have done for us. We are eternally grateful. Thanks for taking the time to read this and allow me to share with you.

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