Journal Entry 3/8 From Kristi

Real Life has finally begun!

“Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way...” Is. 43:19

It occurred to me yesterday, as I was watching Zac laughing and taking, that the work God will accomplish in Zac’s life has just begun. God’s just getting started. And HE is the one paving the way.

On Thursday, Zachary discharged from the hospital and moved across the street in the apartments with Rich and I to begin Outpatient Rehab at Craig Hospital.

A few things are noticeably different. First of all, it is wonderful to be sharing a home with Zachary again. We finally get to live life together. We are in Outpatient housing that fits him, everything is spaced out, suitable for his needs. I find myself making sure to keep things picked up off the floor to make a way for him across the room.

Chairs that normally look right being pushed in at the table got moved to sit against the wall... to make a way for him to approach the table.

Supplies have to be put within reach to make a way for him to access that he needs. The couch looked comfy... and we were excited to practice our slide board transfers. Sliding him down on the couch was easy. First time sitting on a couch since Nov. But then we laughed about how we had not considered the 8” uphill slide we would have to accomplish. Somehow, again, God made a way and I didn’t drop him on the floor.

Secondly, we have begun to enter back into the world. We put our PT sessions into practice and I helped Zac transfer into the front seat of our Honda via a slide board. First foot in. Now slide over on the board. Don’t bump your bum on the wheelchair wheel. Let me break the leg spasm in the second leg. Move it into the car. Shut the door before you fall out. Whew! We did it!

Driving around for the first time since injury was instantly humorous. Zac’s core is still weak, so sharp turns caused his upper torso to tip over a bit. After it happened once, I found myself jerking the wheel, (every so slightly, mind you) just for fun. “Physical Therapy sessions” I called them. But it’s great to travel around in the car!

Thursday evening we went to the mall... I wasn’t even sure what to expect. How would we even navigate? We entered the mall’s multi-level parking garage and only saw steps into the mall. Felt a little trapped. Then someone directed us to the elevator one more floor up... *sigh* deep breath Mama, there is a way for your son.

Zac wheeled into the mall without hesitation. Rolled along the smooth floors. Smiled and nodded at those passing by us. We had to walk fast to keep up with him. We ate dinner at Tokyo Joe’s. Moved a few chairs to make a way for him to fit at the table.

Saturday we packed our bags and drove down to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Sunday we visited Red Rocks Park. Sunday evening we dined with friends at the Olive Garden. Again, I felt apprehensive about how eating in public would work; after all, he can only move his wrists. But he threaded his fork through his fingers and ate like a perfect gentleman. I was incredibly proud of him.

*sigh*. So much to process, Lord. But You are good and You continue to make a way for us through it all.