Tuesday

Its Wednesday morning as I type this.  Yesterday (Tuesday 10-12) was a very eventful day for all of us. Alex became more aware of his surroundings and agreed to stay here at the hospital.  He said that if they would heal him he would stay.  A nurse said  "why thank you Alex for agreeing to stay" Alex says "ya, I'll stay but only for 2 days - tops!".  Nurse says "OK, but I get to tell you when the 2 days start". When asked why hes here he says "because of lighting", Where are you "Vegas".  He said "Mom cant we just go to my hometown?"   UMC Hospital has been wonderful, the 24 hour constant care they are giving is amazing.  The nurses are tireless and caring, attending to Alexs every need and trying to accomadate his desire for water.  Still no water for the boy, he can have ice chips though.  He used his debate skills with the nurses saying that ice is frozen water so why cant he just have water.  His gauge reflex isnt back yet, so no water for a while.  His pneumonia is getting a little better, he had episodes of feeling like someone was sitting on his chest (usually he thought it was his brother Kiel sitting on him - lol).  So hes back on an oxygen mask.  He got his catheter out mid afternoon and was able to feel the sensation of needing to go to the bathroom  - thats a huge improvement.  Dane was out cruising the halls and stopped in to see Alex a few times.  Alex was able to be sat up in a chair and moved into the hall - Dane came out and they were able to talk - when Alex saw Dane walk towards him, he said "I want to walk on my two feet too".  Im sure that will come in a few days.  His burns are getting better - his face is almost healed.  As long as he continues to improve he will have skin graft surgery Thursday.
The most amazing thing that happened is that Dane got to leave the hospital.  Dane didn't want to leave Alex but he needs to get back and start on his physical therapy.  Dane stayed the night in Vegas and will come visit Alex in a few hours.  It was bitter sweet to see the two boys say goodbye - I'm so amazed at Dane and his progress and his pure compassion towards Alex and his recovery.  These boys are amazing!!  Speaking of Amazing - the Administration from Snow Canyon High School visited the boys today; Warren Brooks, Paul Hurt, Conley Gali & Jamie Kreyling (Officer Brown and Mr Hansen were not able to come).  They came bearing gifts from notes to Spirit clothes and signs.  The boys enjoyed visiting with each of  them.  As parents we felt so blessed to hug these men that saved our boys lives.  We have so many people to thank.  The Admin also presented each family with a check from Snow Canyon, Hurricane and Ceder City High Schools.  Last Friday, each of these schools had a "Miracle Minute" and collected funds to help the boys (parents) with their medical bills.  Leslie and I were shocked (and still are) when we looked at our checks and each saw $4,832.06 written in.  THANK YOU to each and everyone of you that contributed.  Times are tough out there and to see this kind of generosity is so humbling,  There is still so much good on earth and Im so blessed to be part of this kindness, generosity and pure selflessness.  Thank you southern Utah!