An Update on Carson

It's been a while since I've written an update on Carson, but there's been a lot of good news lately so I thought I would share. Carson's been home for about a month and a half now. Prior to that, he spent a little over 2 months in the hospital, and then a little over 1 month in out-patient therapy (living in a hotel near the hospital with his family). Luckily, Carson was able to find an excellent physical therapist near home which allowed him (and his whole family) to go home finally.

He had a check-up with his neurologist a few weeks ago, and the Dr's exact words were that Carson 'must have good connections to God' which I think is really cool for a Dr. to say. This is the same neurologist that gave Carson a very grave prognosis early on in his battle with meningitis, a prognosis that would be/was a parent's worst nightmare to say the least. That really seemed to be the turning point in Carson's recovery though - it was as if he heard that Dr. and said 'no way buddy!'. The next day he amazed everyone and opened his eyes, and it's been nothing but up since then. Cognitively, Carson is the same bright, witty, and cheerful boy he was before any of this happened for which everyone that loves him is very thankful.

Physically, he continues to make wonderful progress. His physical therapy has gradually decreased from twice a day/every day, to now just once a day/three times per week. The stroke Carson suffered caused some nerve and muscle damage which altered his ability to walk. His physical therapy has been focused on regaining strength, balance, and mobility. He works so hard, and gets stronger every day. He's been walking on his own now for well over a month ('ditched' the walker early as he put it), but he tires easily and just has to move with a bit more caution than than the average 7 year old at this point. His body also continues to heal in other areas. It's amazing how what we view as the simple things our bodies do are really so complex and vital, and until they're not working right, it would never even occur to think about it. The hope is that everything will heal with time, and that's been the consistent message from the Doctors...with brain injuries, it takes time. Carson's outlook on everything is so positive though, nothing is holding him back at this point. In the last couple weeks, he returned to school part-time and is doing wonderfully. His teachers and friends are very happy to have him back!

And also very exciting, Carson became a big brother for the second time just last week! Luke Arlen Lagina was born on April 15th, perfect in every way. He's been a joyful addition to the Lagina family, a mild-tempered, sleepy little one so far, destressing his Mom in many ways. After such a stressful pregnancy for Sara, I think everyone is very grateful Luke is here so happy and healthy. Carson had a hand in naming his brother too. Before Carson got sick, he kept telling his Mom that they should name the baby Luke - after Luke Skywalker! When he got sick, the decision was made...I think it'll be fate that Luke likes Star Wars as much as his big brother does! =)

Here are a couple shots of Carson and his brothers Brent (4) and Luke (now one week and one day). We're hopefully going to see the whole Lagina family in the next couple weeks =)