Meet Josh

In the very first days after Sam's injury, a young man from Portland named Josh Billups reached out to Bridget. He's a war veteran, who has seen his share of heartache, but something about Sam's story touched him. Probably because he's an NFL fan, albeit for the 49ers rather than the Packers ... but he and Sam have something in common.

Josh.

Josh is the president and coordinates all of the events for Niner Empire Portland, an official booster club of the San Francisco 49ers, and they are legion. This isn't a group that just gets together to watch football games once in awhile, they are a community-driven and fund-raising machine. They also are a fun-loving group, welcoming all fans and friends into the fold. And, they wanted to do something for Sam, with Josh leading the charge. Josh sent an email to Bridget with no expectations that he would even hear from her. However, when the media was looking for people to interview related to Sam's story, something about Josh's earnestness made Bridget think of him.

Bridget asked him if he wouldn't mind speaking to the media about what his Niner Empire Portland was doing for Sam, and Josh, although he's not one to seek out the limelight, did it for our family. We needed help to get Sam's story out, to find those responsible, and simply to encourage people to be kind to each other. With the media in tow, Josh went on a Green Bay Packers shopping spree for Sam courtesy of Niner Empire Portland.

When I was in Portland a few weeks ago, I got to meet Josh, as he brought gifts to the hospital. He's got a heart of gold. We spent an hour or so visiting, and I felt like we were good friends when we parted. I appreciate his sensitivity to me, and his sincere efforts to do good in this world. He's the real deal.

And ... Josh shared with me some great news from the NFL world, particularly in relation to the 49ers. The team, somehow, heard about Josh and his Niner Empire Portland and what they were doing for Sam and so many others. They wanted to reward Josh and his club for this, and for all of the charitable work they do, so they reached out to Josh. The 49ers decided to film Josh's club for an episode of their show, "The Faithful."

But there's more, for the first time ever,  Portland will host an NFL youth camp. The 49ers are bringing the 49ers Youth Football Play 60 Camp to Portland this summer, the weekend of June 11 from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Clackamas High School. It's a free camp to educate kids and parents on playing safely. When Josh shared this with me, he said, "I just wanted you to know that Sam's story is bringing some good to the community." This is exciting for Portland. It's a first for the NFL and for Portland. More information is coming soon but this is the finale of a "youth camp road show" from the 49ers. They are also trying to bring Sourdough Sam, some cheerleaders and even former players. I'm very proud of Josh and his efforts on behalf of the kids in Portland; Portland is one lucky city!

My Family
Sam, Bridget, Molly, Dan, and all the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends are so very grateful for what everyone has done. From baked goods to dinners to financial support, the gifts have been from the heart. Believe it or not, people are still contributing to the GoFundMe account. The media still reaches out, and I have a new friend named Annie at the University of California at Irvine (I answered some questions for her related to her research).  I plan on closing the GoFundMe account at the end of March, but will update friends, family and well-wishers occasionally from GoFundMe and the blog. When there is news to share, I will share it willingly through this blog. I am going going to, at this point, try to give Sam and Bridget some privacy and time to continue recovery. Know they are doing good, and Sam is very, very grateful.

Me
I coudn't be more grateful. I was in a state of despair when I started this blog, and the GoFundMe account. I was concerned for my son's health and his future. Those that have supported me, prayed for Sam, offered financial support have changed the course of my and Sam's life. You, my friends, have relieved a burden so great that it had literally brought me to my knees. It's more than I dreamed possible, and more than I deserve. I am forever grateful.

Watch for any updates from this blog. Thank you for reading this blog, and thinking of my sweet son.

Continued Healing (Update for March 14, 2016)

Sam, a year or so ago.

Sam's recovery continues. Sam had his surgery two weeks ago today, and he has felt well enough to go out occasionally, specifically when his grandparents and sister were there to visit. He tires more easily (of course), has headaches, dizziness, and other residual effects of this injury, but we are grateful for every day of healing.

His healing was helped thanks to his grandparents and sister being there. Everyone left Sam and Bridget on Tuesday, March 8, and they now have time alone again to rest and relax. Here is an up-to-date account of how Sam's been feeling the last few weeks.

Monday, Feb. 29 — Successful surgery (cranioplasty)
Tuesday, March 1 — Doing so well, he was released from the hospital into Bridget's care at home. The nurse gave Bridget and I "bandaging" lessons as Sam has to have his bandages changed every other day until the staples come out. Josh Billups from the Niner Club in Portland brought Sam a gift from the Club (I will have another blog on this later, some good news out of a tragedy).
Wednesday, March 2 — Rough day. Sam didn't feel well.
Thursday, March 3 — Sam was feeling much better. Sam, Bridget and I watched movies and relaxed.
Friday, March 4 — Grandparents arrived, and we were all happy! We walked up a few blocks from their apartment to have dinner out; it was good for Sam to get out and walk. He felt well enough, and was in a great mood.

Grandparents, Bridget, Sam and Molly.

Saturday, March 5 — Molly arrived! A big thanks to my new friend, Jennifer, for giving her a ride to Sam's apartment. She even brought food and snacks. Sam and Molly were so happy to see each other, it made me cry. My dad, stepmom, Bridget and I went shopping for a dining room table and bookshelf for their apartment so Sam and Molly hung out by themselves for awhile. They are very close, so it was good for them. We put the bookshelf together when we returned. Everybody was feeling good, Sam was doing great, so we all went to dinner.

Sam and Molly. 

Sunday, March 6 — Sam had a really busy day; the busiest day since his injury. We went out to breakfast, then took a ride to the beautiful Multhomah Falls (30 minutes outside of Portland) to take a short walk, then back to their apartment (where, with my dad directing, Bridget and I put together their new dining table and chairs). Then, out to dinner later. It was a really busy day, and Sam was very tired and had a headache. However, he was still in a great mood laughing and joking with his sister, and talking about their favorite Netflix and Amazon Prime "binge" shows. Sam, who's always been surrounded by women, has been sucked into watching American's Top Model with Bridget and Molly. Ask him anything about it.
Monday, March 7 — Sam, Molly and Bridget spent the day together. In the evening, we all went out to an early dinner and then back to Sam and Bridget's apartment. Molly spent the night with them while me and my dad and stepmom returned to our respective "hotels." It was the last evening I saw my children before I left early Tuesday morning to return to Little Rock. I cried over both of them, and Sam gave me a gift of words that I will treasure forever.
Tuesday, March 8 — Travel day for everyone. Worst scariest flight ever from Las Vegas into Little Rock through thunderstorms. I was glad to make it home and see Dan.
Wednesday, March 9 through Monday, March 14 — Sam rested and read some. He has numerous doctors' appointments coming up, including removal of the staples, and he is anxious to put those behind him.

Sam is getting better every day, but it is a process. Although he can get out and about, he tires easily. He has headaches and blurred vision. He is dizzy and is still limping occasionally. He also has unusual, vivid dreams at night. He has to be careful with his head, as anyone would be, until the staples come out this week. Having said all of that, I am thankful for continued prayers and healing. Prayers work.

One side note: I stayed in an AirBNB for the first time ever while I was in Portland. I picked it because it was less expensive than a hotel and close to where Sam and Bridget live. I discovered two things about myself, thanks to the AirBNB experience: 1) I am more high maintenance than I realized and 2) NetFlix is a great substitute for Cable TV.

Pros:

1. Quietest place ever (literally, no noise in the entire neighborhood after 8 p.m. ... not a siren, dog barking, children crying, NOTHING).
2. Clean.
3. Less expensive than a hotel.
4. Within walking distance of quaint shops and local restaurants.
5. Earth friendly. Renters are required to recycle, compost, and use specific detergents and soaps. 

Cons: 

1. No counter space in the bathroom for someone who wears makeup, uses a straightener or blow dryer, brushes their teeth, whatever. 
2. Older home, with few updates. Houses are within 6 feet of each other. I waved hello each morning to the people in the kitchen next door, or tried to hide from them, depending on how my hair was looking.
3. No TV, and I really like TV.
4. No AC, and I really like AC. 
5. Not one comfy place to sit. Not one. I don't like wooden chairs and futons for lounging.
6. There was a pre-school downstairs in the dungeon-like basement. It is a little scary/weird to have children singing through the vents to wake you up each morning. 
7. Earth friendly. Renters are required to recycle, compost, and use specific detergents and soaps. 

Thank you Mark.

I won't be blogging every day, but I will as there is news or information to report related to Sam's healing and recovery. Just know that your prayers and support are working, and I am grateful to you every day. And, a big thank you to my dear friend Mark for sending Sam (and me) a gift while I was in Portland. 

Thank you for reading this blog, and thinking of my sweet son. 

Successful Surgery (Update for March 1, 2016)

It's hard to imagine any day spent in a hospital being a good day, but that's what I am going to call yesterday. A good day and a new beginning. 

SURGERY

Sam’s 2.5 hour surgery to return his left bone flap to his skull was successful with no complications. The surgery, called a cranioplasty, is a follow up to a craniectomy, when part of the skull is removed to allow decompression (brain swelling to go down). I had previously said 14 screws were going to hold his skull in place (I’m sorry, I haven’t been thinking straight and misunderstood) but what they inserted into his skull were 6 titanium plates (very, very thin) with six pins. The incision was on top of the previous incision, and he has 55 or more staples again. Now, after the surgery, he has to wear the SCDs (sequential depression devices) on his legs to prevent blood clots. He also was a little nauseated, dizzy and suffering from blurred vision. He did get up and walk (ankle hurting again), and they changed his bandages (he didn't complain a bit although the nurse even said they were very sticky). His head was shaved again, and he now has a beard, so it's going to be a new look for him. I think I like it. 

With all that going on after his surgery, his attitude was amazing. He joked with the doctors prior to surgery (and made them laugh), and he was laughing and smiling afterwards. The relief he felt was overwhelming. He was so happy to have his skull whole again and to put this stage behind him. 

The helmet is history. I feel like Sam should put it in a case, remember it like a trophy. Proof that he beat a TBI and came out the other side stronger. 

BEFORE SURGERY

Best work family ever. 

Prior to surgery, he was nervous but visiting with the anesthesiologist and neurosurgeon calmed him down. They explained the entire process, and he felt more comfortable. His anesthesiologist, Dr. Rose, left a note under Sam’s pillow that we found later … telling him how much he enjoyed meeting him and his family, and that he wished him well. That was amazing. My co-workers sent me a picture early in the morning, all of them dressed in Sam's favorite color, and holding signs showing they were Sam Supporters. It made my cry; just so so sweet. Best work family ever.

DURING SURGERY

Bridget, Sam’s dad and I waited in the waiting room. I felt nauseated and hot, and I had a headache … I felt like I was having sympathy pains for Sam. 

The electronic surgery board. 

If you know me, you know I have very little patience, and I’m pretty sure I’m not alone because the hospital solved for this issue. Hospitals (I'm guessing it's plural) now have pagers (like when you are in a restaurant, and they give you a pager that goes off when your table is ready) that goes off when the surgery is over. The hospital pager is extra EXTRA loud. The hospital also has an electronic board. Each patient is assigned a number, and you can track the status of your loved one’s surgery on the board. Pre-op, procedure, post-op and more. It’s very efficient, and it eases your mind when you can almost see what is happening. Smart. 

AFTER SURGERY

After surgery, Dr. Grewe, his neurosurgeon, explained to us that everything went very well. He said that Sam needs 1.5 years to completely recover from this TBI. It takes time to heal from such a severe injury. He’s come so far, and we have faith that he will be completely healed in the months to come. 

He remained in recovery for almost 3 hours (that was frustrating) as they took their time to determine where he would go next. They decided to forego ICU and also a “regular room” for acute care. I was unable to see him while he was in recovery; Bridget stayed with him. When they were wheeling him down the hall to his room finally, I walked beside him. He was smiling and asked me, "What have you been doing this whole time?" I said, "Thinking about you." He's been in acute care before, and one of his sweet nurses from before, came by to say hi to him. He was in good spirits after surgery, and even talked on the phone briefly. When I left him last night, he was a little nauseated but very sleepy. He is on a clear liquid diet, and the salt tablets and fluid restrictions remain in place. 

ROUGH START YESTERDAY

Having said all that, we had a rough start yesterday. Bridget called me at 6 a.m. in a panic because the hospital had called and said they were expecting Sam for a 7:30 a.m. surgery. We had been told several times before, including on Friday, to be there by 10:30 a.m. for a 12:30 p.m. surgery. So, their mistake. They owned it and apologized for it. It all worked out, because we wanted to move on and get this surgery OVER. I’m always amazed when businesses (and a hospital is a business) know how to treat their customers. An apology goes a long way. 

PORTLAND

Our walk on Sunday.

I have a new friend in Portland. She’s the mother of one of Molly’s sorority sisters at Rhodes College in Memphis. They are from Portland, and she had reached out to me several times, and we finally got to meet last night and spent time visiting in the hospital lobby. She brought us a delicious homemade lasagna dinner, and flowers for Sam’s room. She’s even going to give Molly a ride on Saturday from the airport to me. I am so grateful. People are so good, and I’m so happy to have the opportunity to get to know Jennifer.

I’ve been staying at a little cottage, rented through AirBNB, about one mile from where Bridget and Sam rent their apartment. The house, the families, the TONS of people walking their dogs …  reminds me of Hillcrest (for those of my friends from Little Rock). I am probably not a good fit for Portland, although I love it, because my AirBNB host, told me to COMPOST garbage, and he just assumed I had some idea of how to do it. I’m just not organic enough for this place. 

Sam and me on Sunday.

All weekend, when walking to Sam and Bridget's apartment each day, I was bombarded with wind and rain. It took me much longer to walk than Sam thought it should. He kept asking me, “What are you doing?” Well, I was looking around, trying to take in the sights. There are so many people on the streets here, riding bikes, walking dogs, carrying yoga mats and driving little tiny cars. SUVs are not popular in Portland. Although it has been about 50 degrees, people are bundled up. They have beanies on, gloves, scarves, heavy coats. It’s all relative I guess. The walks have done me good, and I like the solitude. No one has spoken to me at all when I've been out. I’ve been trying to blend in, seem like a local. One trick to that, have a jacket with a hood. Don’t carry an umbrella or they will know you are not from here. A lesson from Bridget. 

On Sunday, I was supposed to be at their apartment by 8:30 a.m. but I decided to stop at Portland's version of a Mini-Mart (Plaid Pantry) and get Sam some creme soda. It’s a new obsession for him, and it’s interesting because my great grandmother used to buy me and my cousins cream soda when we were kids, and we LOVED it. I’ve never bought it, but Sam found it on his own. Sam and I took a long walk with Weezy, and hung out alone all day Sunday. We watched a movie. It was the best day I've had with him since his injury. He seemed like himself. I felt very happy. 

FINALLY

Now, Sam and Bridget can breathe again. They have been waiting and waiting for this surgery. It’s been unbelievably stressful for them to worry every second about being careful, never forgetting the helmet, thinking of every step, watching every motion. Both of them said they felt like a huge burden has been lifted. Sam will not likely need 24-hour supervision anymore. Sam said that even though he felt dizzy and nauseated and tired, it was still a great day yesterday. He was in a good mood. When I handed him some broth to drink last night, he said thank you, and then to Bridget and I, "I love you both." I told him, "I love you too, but the way I feel is bigger than those words." Parents out there, I know you get me. 

Time for the next stage in his recovery. Looking forward to complete healing. And, looking forward to a visit this coming weekend from Sam's grandparents and sister. He is excited about that. Your prayers and good thoughts are working, and he is better every day.  

Thank you for reading this blog, and thinking of my precious son.