Cristl Update

The last time that I posted about Cristl, she was being transferred to a rehabilitation home. She only lasted for about two days in the rehab facility before developing a fever of 103.5. She was sent back to Howard County General Hospital and after four hours in the ER, her fever climbed to 104 degrees. She was eventually admitted back to the Special Care Unit (just next to the Intensive Care Unit), and it was there that she pushed past her 'persistent vegetative state' and into a 'minimally conscious state.' While fighting off an infection, she was able to begin moving her arms and gain some eye control. She also started eating small ice chips, turning her head from side to side and give actual kisses to friends and family.

This is progression well beyond where the doctors believed she would be able to get to and she's still coming back!

A few weeks ago, Cristl was admitted to Kernan Hospital in Baltimore. It is a very good brain injury rehabilitation hospital that Cristl was not originally eligible to get in to because of her low brain functioning. Because of the progress she had made, she was able to secure a spot in this facility. She is currently on the road to further recovery at Kernan.

She recently was able to swallow and can now be fed pureed food rather than be fed through a tube. She has begun to smile and say a few words. She doesn't talk often, but she has been able to recall things rather than just mimic speech. She has started to answer simple questions.

This is all immensely exciting and encouraging! Please continue your thoughts and prayers for Cristl :)