Ups and Downs

We're never quite sure what to expect when we step off the elevator onto the 6th floor. [Rehab] Everyone there is struggling with some sort of brain trauma. Michael is most definitely giving the whole staff a run for thier money-literally! His energy level seems to be endless these days, so he walks and walks and walks...the poor floor coordinator,who happens to love Michael, tells him shes going to lose tons of weight following him around. She says "Lord Michael, your going to give me a heart attack!" She is wonderful with him. He is usually friendly with the staff, handing out hugs and smiles, but a couple times a day he has what we call an episode. We are told that when the brain is healing, and the awareness of a person's situation increases, so too does the agitation and anger. When this happens, it takes at least 5 men to get him under control enough to administer his meds. I'm amazed because he only weighs 135 lbs. As his mom, it is very difficult to watch this so I just find a corner and have a good cry. I know he is getting better every day, and that sustains me. I usually show up around 11:00 so we can have lunch together. Mike comes at 4:00 and spends the whole evening with him. The hardest momentfor Mike is when he has to tell Michael he can't come home with him yet. Sometimes Michael tears up and it is heartbreaking! Today I sat in his bed with him after an episode and talked to him,explaining everything once again. He looked at me with tears in his eyes and so I held him while he cried. The frustration for him must be overwhelming. I love that boy so much...I wish I could trade places with him. I've even prayed for that but no answer yet. I ask the question often "Why Michael God, our sweet, gentle son? I don't believe I'll ever get a satisfactory answer to that question. I look forward to the day when he consistently knows that I'm mom. Thank-you to all of you for your emails, cards, help, and words of encouragement. We do so appreciate it. Hold your loved ones close and tell them how you feel. Rosi [Mom]