Moving forward, never looking back - 10/19/11

Oct

Moving forward, never looking back - 10/19/11

October 19, 2011

It’s been a crazy week that has again felt like months. After a few days in the rehab unit, Bryan was transferred to the trauma rehab unit because of a fever caused by possible infections. His physical therapist was still able to come in and work with him. Bryan responded well and was exhausted by the end of each day. While in the rehab trauma unit, his team started to lower the third anti-seizure medication Dilantin. His EEG report showed no seizures and his fever was gone, so he was able to go back to the rehab unit last night. We are hoping that by lowering the Dilantin it will help his confusion and his slow to no responses.
It’s been a very humbling and emotional experience for us to see how dependent Bryan is, while also learning to help take care of him and participate in his rehabilitation. He continues to prove how strong and determined he is to get through this, and that is amazing!
Tyler and Tabitha got to experience taking their dad to a patio outside in the sun. They were beyond happy and to hear them talk about it with the excitement in their voices was truly heartwarming.
For a 3rd update in a row, our song is from Queensryche. We find it ironic that since their visit with Bryan, their songs have been the perfect fit to each update. We couldn’t find a video showing the lyrics, so we have included both because some of the words are so powerful and fitting.

I want to be a busy man
I want to see a change in the future
I'm gonna make the best of what I have
I want to write for a magazine
I'm gonna be the best they've ever seen
I know I'll win if I give it all I can

And I won't let go, gotta make the grade
No, I won't let it go
To be the best man, the best man that I can

Back street hoop star you've got it good
You were the wonder of the crumbling neighborhood
Now taking bids on the next six digit plan
Showed me that my will survived
when tragedy that came into my life
giving me hope and the new start
that I have

And I won't let go, gotta make the grade
No, I won't let it go
To be the best man, the best man that I can

Step by step I dream the plan
From my chair to walking man
This constant dream is on my mind
Chase the light I see ahead
Luminate the path I tread
I live to be the best I can

Now I'm moving forward
And I'm never looking back
Straight ahead, focused on the big attack
On a roll and I'm never slowing down
I won't be torn between
The man in the chair
And the man that's in my dream
I'm going to melt the two men into one

And I won't let go, gotta make the grade I set
No, I won't let it go
To be the best man, the best man that I can
The best man that I can
The best man that I can

Posted in: Update on Bryan's Condition

Comments

# Paulio

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 4:15 PM

Hi Stow Family, hey Bryan.

I'm sure this is indeed "very humbling and emotional" for you all. I mean, back in the spring, Bryan was in the prime of his life, and suddenly he was struck down and has been fighting for his life ever since. None of you asked for any of this and none of you deserved any of this. But it's here and it's real and you're dealing with it daily. All we can do is wish you strength and peace to keep going, day by day.

I'm very happy to hear that Tyler and Tabitha were able to spend some more time with their dad. That's outstanding news. May it continue!

Just reading this blog and the many amazing posts over the months made by others who have family members dealing with TBIs makes me realize just how precious life is and how we never know when it's going to take a drastic turn. Every time I think of Bryan and wish him well, I remind myself, "live your life well, for [as the saying goes] there but for the grace of God go I."

So thanks again for the update, Stow family. And keep up the hard work, Bryan!

# andrea

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 4:43 PM

Seems like every time I'm "hoping" for an update, you post one! I know Bryan's entering the next chapter of healing, & he's in the right place with the right doctors & care. We are all here for the duration... the prayers & support are all around you! But it's YOU, Stow Family, who have made all the difference in his progress... your strength, dedication, & determination are astounding... you are an inspiration to all of us! I can't wait til the day I can give all of you a great big hug... & that means you, too, Bryan! much love...xxxooo andrea~

# Deb

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 6:28 PM

The words to this song couldn't be any stronger! Hopefully being taken off the 3rd medication you'll see a big change like you saw with the drain.

Keeping you all in my prayers.

# Sharon

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:20 PM

I can't tell you how happy I am at this latest post.

I remember when you were told he may never wake up and he woke up.

I remember when you were told he'd not remember and he remembers.

I remember your saying Bryan is stuborn and thank God for Bryan being stuborn. This stuborn streak is an amazing think in that Bryan is fighting for his recovery. This stuborn streak of Bryan's is telling us forget about the word CAN'T a stuborn streak is saying I CAN DO'. Bryan has proved this over and over again.

I hope you an bring Bryan home for Thanksgiving, even if it's only for Thanksgiving dinner (Yep, it's hard to believe Thanksgiving is next month)

I continue to pray for Bryan every day.

Sharon mommy to three dgos

# Mona

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 8:57 PM

All of you, Bryan especially included, are amazing. Your spirit has indeed humbled and inspired me. As I type this, to the right of this box, I'm looking at comment made by "Nicole" a week ago. She said, "I know this is the reason Bryan's RECOVERY is so amazing. Its not a miracle.....its the love that has been win him and all of you." I couldn't agree more. You his family, Bryan himself, and perhaps in some tiny way all of us rooting so hard for him, is what is making the difference. Tracy Chapman once sang a song called "Heaven's Here on Earth." One of the lyrics is "I've seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people leading ordinary lives." I may have actually posted that once before. In any case, while there may be a higher power lending a hand, I hope there is, "we'll" take it!, its the heart of you Stow family that are the "angels." Many good wishes and admiration.

# laura ❤❤

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 9:11 PM

Dear Stow family,
You are all amazing. Bryan is the best man I know. He keep coming back and one day in the future this will all be in the pass. Until then just take it one day at a time, and know we are all praying for Bryan and the family.
I am so happy Bryan was able to spend time with his kids. I know that has to be one of the best medicine there is and for the kids to be able to be with their dad is touching. I hope he was able to talk to them and that he was not to tired from working out.
Until the next posting I will focus my prayers on Bryan not being so confuse and able to answer more questions.

Know we love you and are here for you.

# Shelly Taylor

Thursday, October 20, 2011 3:27 AM

Good Morning Stow Family ,
Positive praises, and progress indeed, So glad to hear the New Good News !
Still wearing bracelet proudly and keeping you all in my daily prayers. It is a blessing that Tabby, and Tyler are spending these precious healing moments with him. May I suggest Cal-Mag drink for him , please google Cal-mag, Calcium Magnesium is the CURE all from a holistic approach. Saint Johns Wort too. Thanks for the QR Songs, keep them coming , they are my favorite too.
Giant Hugs, and Butterfly kisses, enjoy that sunshine Bryan, maybe they can drive you out to the beach, put your toes in the sand ! Power of the Ocean, Get Bryan into Motion ! Wishing you another miracle this week and many more to come.
Love and Peace to you and yours,
Shelly Taylor
Capitola, Ca.

# Angie

Thursday, October 20, 2011 12:54 PM

Saw this update on the facebook page first and had to come here and read it for myself. Hope that the lowering of the Dilantin does help with his response and recovery!! So sweet to read of his time out on the patio with his babies!! I know that he loved that as much as they did!!! Praying every day for more good news and moire steps forward!!!

Love, hugs and prayers
Angie
Raleigh, NC

# Kerry Barnes

Thursday, October 20, 2011 1:17 PM

Stay strong Bryan. We are all praying for you.
-Kerry

# Kathleen

Thursday, October 20, 2011 1:53 PM

Hi Bryan,

WOW, what amazing progress you continue to make. Your detmination is unbeliable and very motivating. I can only imagine what it was like to spend some time on the patio with Tyler & Tabitha. How great that was for all. The fever and the time in the trauma unit was not fun, yet you were still doing your rehab and not stopping.

I know that this is tough, however hold on to the dream, hold on to the dream of the Man in the Chair and the Man Walking becoming one.

We continue to pray for you, your recovery and strength. I believe in you and know that you can overcome this.

Hang in there.

# Colette

Thursday, October 20, 2011 2:31 PM

Power of prayer is amazing! I know you will keep getting better.
Brian I look forward to visiting you soon with Mr. Ken Dent. The Queensryche song posted here so totally reminds me of you and our Wildfire times in the 80s.
You can do this man and you have an amazing support team and community to get you back on your feet. Love ya dude and can't wait to reunite and talk about the old long hair days. Love and blessings ~ Colette xoxo

# Tina Dahl

Friday, October 21, 2011 12:01 AM

Hi Stow Family-

Thanks so very much for these wonderful updates. I continue to wear my Stow bracelet every day, and think of Bryan and his family every day, and wish you all the love, support and strength possible. I cannot imagine how hard this whole process has been for all of you, and I am so thankful you are still sharing Bryan's journey with us. I am thrilled that Tabitha and Tyler are able to enjoy time with their dad and hearing that made me so happy! Please know so many of us are thinking positive thoughts for Bryan as he continues to progress. NEVER GIVE UP and GO GREAT HODGE! Love from Forest Ranch, CA

# Anna Davidson

Friday, October 21, 2011 12:47 PM

Stay STRONG Bryan and family. I know you can all get through this. And even though it's a horrible thing to have to get through, you'll be so much stronger because of it, and you've touched so many people around the world who recognize your strength, and realize their own strength (like me). Blessings and love, Anna Davidson

# laura

Monday, October 24, 2011 12:54 AM

Dear Bryan,
Just want to let you know that I am thinking of you and hope that this week will be wonderful in your healing.

It was a nice weekend, warm in the bay. I hope it is warm where you are and that maybe you were even able to get out and enjoy the sunshine.

We Believe!

# Karen

Monday, October 24, 2011 2:16 AM

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule/lives to update us on Bryan's condition. I hope you know how much these are appreciated by those of us who think and pray for Bryan and all of you, daily.
Hugs to you all,
Karen G.

# Bryan's Fan

Wednesday, October 26, 2011 6:38 PM

Thinking of you all and hope you are having a great day! ~ Hugs from Santa Cruz ~

# Elaine Chavarria

Wednesday, October 26, 2011 7:29 PM

Bryan you have come so far and it's not been easy and you still have a long way to go. Hang in there buddy - do not discourage you are on the right path and we all believe you will get there one day soon. Stay strong and stay focused we know you can do it! Never forgetting you!

Still HOPING, Still BELIEVING and Still PRAYING!

Never give up buddy - the World is watching you - you are truly an inspiration!

@TootsieChava
La Mirada, CA

# Lorise

Friday, October 28, 2011 12:09 AM

OH, I soo get inpatient waiting for updates. LOL
I want so bad for Bryan to get well.
Stray strong, and the progress will come.
prayers are coming your way, best wishes Bryan !

# becky tinlin

Friday, October 28, 2011 3:24 PM

I am like the last person, I get nrevous when there are no updates after a week. May God keep Bryan safe and prosper him back to health and happiness. Bless all of the family and friends who have been so strong in their care and love for Bryan.

# Tina

Friday, October 28, 2011 5:57 PM

Hello Stow Family,

Thank you so much for the updates. I can not imagine what you are going through. For some reason god chose this path for your family in this journey through life. My god bless you all. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

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Send Love 4 Bryan
Like you, I love baseball, and because of you, Opening Day will never be the same for me again. I think of you often, but that's as far as it gets. This time though, I was able to reach you. God bless you, your family, and those who care for you.

Update-4/30/12
Ann-wishing you a very happy Mother's Day. I am sure days like this are incredibly bittersweet, but how wonderful that you have all your strong and wonderful family around you to help with the tough times. I think of The Great Hodge and his family every day and continue to send you all love, support and strength. Of course we all saw Tyler throw out the first pitch and it was a beautiful site! I know one day we will see Bryan at a game, doing the same thing. Until that day, never give up hope!!!! Much love from Forest Ranch, CA

Update-4/30/12
This is a message for mama Stow,
On this day I want to wish you a very happy mother's day. You have been through so much the pass year. Yet every time I have seen you, on the news or read something you posted you have always remain clam, positive and loving. I am not sure how you do it. You are one hell of a women! Today I want you to know that You are love by many and you have shown others how to handing difficult situation that no one ever ask to handle. I know in my heart if Bry could he would on his own tell you Mom I love you. You have been such a wonderful mother and I hope today you will be able to take sometime away from everyone and everything to just realized how loving and caring you are. Ann have a bless day. Sending lots of love your way!!!!

Update-4/30/12
Dear Bryan and Family,
Please know that people still care. Even though it has been one very long year since this senseless life changing thing happened there are still poeple that genuinely care. Bryan is very lucky to have a dedicated family to help and love him through it all. Your whole family really is special. I am sure Bryan realizes this. Keep up the hard work. You ALL are an inspiration as to what family stands for!!!
Cathy

Update-4/30/12
Happy Early Mother's Day Anne

I just wanted to let you know that you're still in my thoughts and prayers.

I'm looking foreward to you're announcing that Bryan can make a home visit.

Sharon

Update-4/30/12
Happy Saturday, Stow Family. Today is my birthday. As I celebrate, I also have been thinking of you. I have wished extra special today for all great things to come your way. Peace and Love from LA. P.S. Happy almost Mother's Day to all the mom's in your family. :)

Update-4/30/12
As a fellow Paramedic, I wish you a speedy recovery, Bryan! May God continue to ease your pain, guide your mind and your body down the path of healing, and may He comfort your family during this rough time. Obviously, He has a new path for your life to take, and I'm sure He will make it known what that path is! Never give up hope and we're all praying for you here in Columbia, SC!

Update-4/30/12
Good Morning Bryan! Just wanted you to know that we're thinking about you and hoping you kick-butt in therapy this week!!
Love, Carleen in Vancouver, WA

Update-4/30/12
We were at opening day and we live in Scotts Valley where Tyler and Tabitha go to school. There was not a dry eye in the stadium on opening day. Tyler was amazing and we think about you all often. Wishing for continued recovery to Brian!!!

Update-4/30/12
I pray for Bryan every day!!

Update-4/30/12
Bryan and Family,
The Opening Day tribute was wonderful but the day that Bryan is there in person will be the best of all! No, we won't give up! Blessings to all of you! xoxo

Update-4/30/12
We're all still thinking of you Bryan. Saying prayers for U and your family often. I still have my candle with ur ribbon on the front and it says, get well Bryan. We look forward to the updates and we look forward in seeing improvements with U. We did see your son throw out the first pitch on Giants opening day. Even though I'm a Dodger fan, I was still able to see this most touching event. It was also nice to see U on the big screen with your Mother. Your FOREVER in our thoughts and prayers. Take care, Bryan Stow...

Update-4/30/12
Were your ears ringing Sat, May 5th? We were all thinking of you and looking at the picture we have on the wall with you holding your Giants quilt. Even if you weren't with us in person, you were with us in spirit. Hope you get the results of the tests back soon. All of us here are thinking of all of you there!
With love,
Claussen's Corner
Angels Camp

Send Love 4 Bryan
Quick note...think of Bryan and the Stow family many times during each day!

Continued prayers ALWAYS,

Jeannie

Update-4/30/12
Hello to the Stow Family and supporters,
I woke up this morning thinking about Bryan Stow, and how senseless and hurtful acts of violence have impacted you. I decided to search online for Bryan's health update and found this wonderful website. Thank you for letting us all know how Bryan is doing. I just want you to know that you have another supporter and I send my love and encouragement for your daily struggles and wins. :o)
I love seeing the videos and listening to the songs you post for Bryan. You've never given up and that is truly love in action. I will continue to look for fundraising events and other ways to support. I have donated through the website, and know that the money goes to a VERY worthy cause. God bless and know that everything will be alright. With love, Gretchen Vogel
(p.s. if you need help, I live in Cupertino and would be happy to lend a hand- just let me know how!)

Update-4/30/12
Dear Bryan and Family,

We are students in the On Track program, a program for adults with brain injuries. We are all learning how to cope with our brain injuries, just like you are doing today.

We have traveled the same rocky road that you are traveling, DON’T GIVE UP! You are not alone, have hope. We have watched each other improve in areas that we never thought possible; we are now reading, writing, talking and finding our way through this new life. Keep trying no matter how long it takes.

From our experience we have learned that the road to recovery is tough, but it is worth the fight. The brain is incredible! Believe in yourself.

“The brain is programmed to create and we are all but children of the universe” – Eric, On Track student.

Sincerely,

The On Track Program

Mt. Diablo Adult Education
Loma Vista
1266 San Carlos Ave.
Concord CA 94518

Birthday Boy!!
Happy Belated Birthday, dear Bryan.Birthday gives you a new touch to your life and makes you ready to face all the challenges and gives you a spirit with the happy celebration that all of your coming days should be worthy to be celebrated. Wish you an ambitious birthday!

Send Love 4 Bryan
Hey Bryan, I didn't mean to get this behind on checking in. Greetings from the Lone Star State, and in particular, good ole HOT West Texas. Our Spring certainly didn't last long, and here we are into Summer. Have already had hundred degree plus days here and no rain. But thankfully, the tornadoes have passed us by.

It was sooooooo cool to read about your son on opening day at your home park. Good for him. He's like his daddy no doubt.I know all of your family as well as you are most proud of that day. What a wonderful memory for all time.

My son, who is with AMR in Jackson, MS, is back on the ambulance after his arm injury. He really got tired of being confined to desk duty. Hopefully the arm is 100 per cent and he doesn't injure it again any time soon.

Keep up with your therapy and know we all support you and your efforts. God's still driving your ambulance and things are moving along according to his plan. Just keep the faith.

Gentle breezes on the wings of the Angels atop the West Texas winds and to God in heaven. Georgana

Update-4/30/12
Hi Stow Family,
I look forward to new updates on Bryan, no matter when you get the chance to post them. It doesn't take a website update to help me to remember Bryan's struggle, and to pray for him and all of you. Keep strong and carry on. Good job, Tyler!! Keep Bryan's story in the media to remind the public to pray, or to just be better human beings.
Love from Carleen in Vancouver WA

Update-4/30/12
I agree with everything Paulio said and couldn't have said it better myself. Thank you so much for continuing to keep us all updated. I think we all can agree that the entire Stow family feels like our family now. We all continue to pray for Bryan and send you all as much positive energy as is possible. Keep fighting Bryan! God bless the Stows!

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