Continuing to work with Carla for the last year, I have seen and noted progressive improvement with her.  Carla is much more alert and aware of her caregivers knowing each one that cares for her.  She grows seemingly attached and will try very hard to please and follow simple instruction.  Her range of motion is a rigorous schedule each day that has proven to be of great benefit.  She is no longer as rigid in areas of hand and arm extension.  If she does not want to complete a series of range she can easily dismiss you with and air of cleverness.  Eye contact is ongoing unless she is upset with you.  She has the ability to control her emotions completely and counts on the nurses and her dad for their TLC and support.  

Since caring for her, she is now taking some foods by mouth such as Jello, Puddings, Root Beer Floats, Yogurt, small bites of Arby's Roast Beef, French Fries and absolutely loves to suck on Lollipops.  Watch it!  She will bite them to get the full benefit of the taste.  She moans and yums her way through the process of eating these goodies.  Her primary source of nutrition remains given via G-tube.  Her diet is carefully processed by her Father, with all of the requirements needed to maintain proper nutrition of her skin, fluids, bowels, etc.

Thankfully her hours of care have been increased to provide Carla with more physical and emotional support.  The county added two hours to her evening care.  It allows for increased range of motion, feedings by mouth, emotional care, and more. Carla has potential for much more and will continue to thrive if love and care is met.  She looks for each nurse to arrive with a watchful eye and if you have a down day, leave it to Carla to brighten your day with a beautiful smile and a big "hi".  I look forward to continuing to care for Carla.  I know she will keep me on my toes.  I better close, she's calling to me now.



Sandy Collins, LPN