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October 31, 2008
I know I have neglected my updates since we have been home for 21 days, but I hope this finds everyone well.
I sat down this morning and realized we have come along way in 77 days (24 days in ICU in a coma, 24 days in a long care facility and 8 days in a rehab hospital and now home for 21 days), from the doctor’s telling us he could die to them saying he would have severe disabilities. Well, here we are today – ON OUR WAY TO 110% RECOVERY!!! We all knew Josh was amazing (not a proud mom writing this), but had no idea he would add “Miracle” to his resume. Yes, that is correct; as I sit here today I know he will return to riding that motorcycle – HIS LOVE OF ALL LOVES. His moto is: “Think about what you want to bring about”.
None of this will come without a price, the stress and hard work is somewhat unbearable at times. John and I have decided that Joshua’s recovery will not be left up to just therapists (they do not know him like his parents and friends), which 70% of our day is about rehabilitation. That leaves about 30% for work (need to make money) and sleep. Our day is figured down to 30 minute increments in order to create structure and routine for Josh. The biggest and most important part of the day is allowing 3-4 hours for rest and naps. Last weekend some saw John get on my bad side pushing the fun button too far. When Josh gets tired the firing of the brain lags or does not fire and you will see him speak inappropriately or be a smart butt. I am thankful he does not get angry or physical, but the words can sometimes hurt too. The biggest issue is to get him to initiate the routine on his own. Each day is getting easier and the outcome is paying off, but I would be lying if I said it was a piece of cake.
I know some have seen us at the races over the last couple of weeks – being there has proven to be really good therapy as Josh pushes to get back to achieving that goal of riding. I don’t know if the therapy is good for me since any crash sends me in a freak out mode, but I am sure I will start to relax as time goes by. As long as it is a positive atmosphere, expect to see us there, but know we are not going to push this recovery too soon and he will only return when he is 110% ready. At the end of the day this is completely Joshua’s decision. I know some of the riders enjoy seeing him because it gives them hope of recovery, on the other side I know it is hard to see a fellow rider down, with some concerned if he will ever be the same. Others remark on how amazing it is to see him after such a short time since the accident. To breakdown all of this to help everyone understand: The injury is still in the early stages and will be a long road – to give a little more of precise explanation – 21 days ago when we left the hospital they rated Josh at about 55%, now we are up to 85% - AMAZING progress for the magnitude of brain injury Joshua sustained. Basically everything is there (the left side is Ok, just slower) it is a matter of firing of the brain which happens with proper nutrition, rest and fluids.
He has not lost the ability to joke and drive his mother crazy. Last weekend he kept calling John by a family friends name and was getting angry that he would not answer – I kept replying and telling him, “Joshy that is your dad”. I freaked out and thought he was hallucinating, especially when he called the wife of the family friend and informed her that her husband was with us. Just as I was about to go off the deep end and lose it, Josh slipped up and I realized he was kidding with me. That’s OK I got the little punk back when I informed him they have shock treatments for brain injury patients that hallucinate. As all you know this is 100% normal Josh Morros behavior, I just wish I was not at the blunt of the majority of his amusement, so having him hang out with friends regularly can not come too soon…hehe!
The journey is successful due to BELIEVING and everyone’s PRAYER, LOVE and SUPPORT for Joshua and our family. AND YES the NUTRITION you here me talk so much about. As we sat by his side everyday waiting and watching for the life to return, I realized the LORD had bigger plans for Joshua. This gave all of us the strength, determination and fight to endure this journey. We have no words to express our gratitude and appreciation. As each of you prayed, which we felt all around us, we continue that prayer everyday for each and every one of you. We are thankful from the bottom of our hearts.
I know we are at the beginning and I promise to keep everyone up-to-date with his recovery. See you at the races and be ready to read about Josh Morros in upcoming articles of Cycle News.
God Bless,
The Morros Family
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