Tuesday, August 30, 2011

SMILES ALL AROUND!

Dad's cochlear implant surgery this past Thursday went flawlessly. We are so thankful for all the prayers offered on his/our behalf. We've been through so many surgeries with dad that our trip to the hospital Thursday seemed like nothing more than a nice lunch out! (Well for mom and I. I'm sure dad has another opinion.) He was released to go home only two hours after the surgery. His biggest complaint now is the itching as the incision behind his ear heals. Praise God for that!


For now, Dad is deaf in his left ear. We can't really tell much of a difference because he only had 5% hearing left in it anyway pre-operation. He can still wear his digital hearing aids for the right hear which helps a tad. I think his last test revealed only 35% hearing in that ear.


Dad will be allowed time to heal, then phase two of the implant begins; attaching the outer device. We are all excited with the prospect of him being able to hear better and able to join in our conversations. He only hears roars in most social situations. This has caused him to withdraw quite a bit. If this left implant is successful, plans are in the works for the right hear to be done too.


We've been forewarned by the Dr. to be patient. It will take six months to a year for dad to start recognizing us by our new digital voices. Sounds of doors shutting, phones ringing will all be different to him now.


We have a wonderful God who is taking care of Dad, and us.


Enjoy the photos of his cute, new getup!








Pilot Jack!



Smiley Stickers were awarded for good behavior!




Thanks to some dear friends who brought over this delicious cake Saturday afternoon!



Saturday, August 20, 2011

Shane's First Karate Lesson

Well, we're back from our 2 month long vacay in W.V. where Shane enrolled in Karate lessons. My cousin opened his school in the small town of my birth. We've had many wonderful experiences this summer. I'd like to share them with you here on my blog in small doses. I took photos ad nauseam (Latin for "to the point of nausea")!




For starters, I'm posting the below photos for family members who have been begging for pictures of Shane in his "Gi". So now I proudly present to you my handsome son, Shane Rios!



First Night of Class. Instruction on proper way to tie the belt.




Stretching.






Instructor G. Justice




Sensei Justice welcomes his cousin John.


Some of the head gear Shane looked forward to using.



Below, some of Shane's drills a couple of weeks into lessons.




(before earning his gold belt.)