FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 2011 6:50 AM, PDT
Room 310: Grand Central Station
Today marks one week since Andy moved to the Community Care facility. It's an active place for sure, that, while the primary focus is upon rest and rehabilitation for residents there, is a place full of life and activity. Andy's room, however, has taken the word activity to a new level though, and even the social services director, who's office is just around the corner from Andy's room, commented that the continuous stream of foot traffic and visitors to Andy's room has been a bit amazing.
Andy's wonderful niece, Gina, who has been an absolute gem through all of this, spent the late morning and early afternoon with Andy. The physical therapists had Andy standing early in the day, and while it's shakey, and supporting his own weight is a challenge, the encouraging feeing of just getting up out of the bed is worth every step, and I know it made Andy feel like he's finally getting somewhere in his rehabilitation. Speech therapy continued today as well, although he was pretty tired from the physical therapy earlier in the day, so the work will carry forward today.
It was a beautiful, sunny day here in Southern California, and Andy made his first trip outside to enjoy the flowers, trees, birds, and just the beauty of the outdoors. He certainly enjoyed it, and I know he'll be looking forward to enjoying the sunshine again today.
Some very good friends from Andy's SCCA racing days made the trip out from the Valley, and were good enough to bring a guestbook with them so visitors can sign-in. Our neighbors from Lake Mathews (Gavilan Springs) also made the trip into town to visit with Andy, which was very kind. Our home is out "in the sticks" as many of you call it, and while we tend to go about our day to day lives in a somewhat independent manner (caring for acreage requires lots of work), country folks also tend to rally around each other in time of need...Great folks for sure....At the rate Andy's having visitors, it won't take long to fill that visitor book up. ;.)
An evening visit from Tracy and grandson Evan was a welcome surprise for Andy. He truly loves our grandbabies.......One of Andy's wonderful visitors (thanks Mike!) brought a Hot Wheels Camaro for Andy, which was sitting on the table next to Andy's bed. Evan, being a car nut (imagine that), spied the car immediately, made a beeline for the Corvette and played with it during his visit. Andy enjoyed watching him play.......with a Chevy!!! :>)
We're enjoying the photos immensely, and will post the newest ones in a few days. Thanks again for your continued prayers and kindness. Your love and support is carrying us through.
There are two ways to live your life; One as though nothing is a miracle; and the other as if everything is a miracle. ~ Albert Einstein
Caring Bridge Photos:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/andysalvaggio/photos
Feel free to add comments....Andy is enjoying the memories!