Suedes Car Club
Announcements => Event Announcements => Topic started by: Squarepants on November 16, 2008 5:11 am
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I just thought I would let youall know our Prez Robert is going into the hospital again . His parents set up a caring bridge site so everyone can check on how he is doing and leave messages for him . Here is the link to that site if any of you would like to leave him a message or find out more about what he is and has gone through in his life . I would consider it a personal favor if you would go there and sign his guest book and leave a message for him , Hes not going in till the 21st of nov but I know it would mean a great deal to him to read / hear all the well wishes from other hot rodders . This surgury is a big one and I know its got him a bit scared .
Thank you
Steve aka Squarepants
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/robertbrown3
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Done.
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and done.
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Thanks guys I / we appreciate it . I knew all my Hot rodding friends would come through .
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I am forwarding a big Thank you from Robert and his family . I just got off the phone with his mom and his Dad read all the messages to him that everyone posted . He cant believe so many people from all over the country and from so many different clubs are thinking of him . He got a big kick out of how many people from different states left him well wishes his Mother said it made him smile bigger then he had in quite a while . So Please keep the messages coming it means a great deal to him , keeps his mind off of what is to come .
Thank you everyone for caring so much about Robert even though you may have never met him . It means a great deal to all of us .
Mary and Bopper , Robert Brown
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glad to hear there are alot of repsonses. Hope it helps him get thru this.
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I thought I would post a few pictures of our Pres Robert . As you can see he is ALWAYS smiling He can make anyones day better . The blue car in the pics is his 65 Rambler or as he calls it his 65 Chick magnet . The blue 4dr chevelle in one of the pics is one of his old cars he has also had a 71 LTD 4 dr , he really likes 4 drs I asked him once whats with the 4drs? , he said more room more women . The pic (takena few yrs ago) of him on his scooter is from a bike show here in mn where he won his class several yrs in a row . The big guy with him (the sholders hes sitting on) in the pics is of course his father and his mo is sittig next to him in another .
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/frankensteinerball2008001-1.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/blacksmithloungepigroast014-1.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/blacksmithloungepigroast010-1.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/Robertsnewride4.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/robertsnewride3.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/robertschopper.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/robertandbopper.jpg)
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done!
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Ill be posting entries from Roberts Moms journal from his page so everyone can keep updated on how he is doing .
Also please keep the messages on his guest book coming its really great how many people from other clubs and just hot rodders from all over the country have signed it , Its really helping he cant believe so many people are thinking of him in his time of need . Keep it up guys and gals THANKS ALOT !!!!!
Theres been more Suedes that have signed his guest book then any other club !!! Right on guys , I owe you all at least 1 beer if not more , come see me at 50s this yr and ill pay youall back . What kind of beer do youall drink ?
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2008 06:14 PM, CST
Today has been another good day for Robert. He had a doctor appointment for his pre-op visit. He is such a character! His doctor informed him that he needed lab work done and Robert was not happy about that. As we entered the room to begin the blood work, he said to the lab tech, "I have two requests before you do this. First, please be very gentle with me and second, don't walk me through it." The lab tech stated that she could handle those requests. He held out his arm and never moved. This tells me our son is definitely maturing.
Each day he has been asking for a few more details about his surgery. How long is the surgery going to be? When will I wake-up? Who is going to sleep there with me? I want him to have his questions answered, but I don’t want it to consume every moment until Friday.
He absolutely loves all of the entries written in his journal-thanks to everyone. It will help us all get through the upcoming hospital stay.
Tonight his Auntie Janet came over to give him some sugar. She and Robert watched his new favorite tv show-"Two and a Half Men". I’m not sure which of them laughed more! The rest of the evening will be spent watching another favorite show-WWE Monday Night Raw.
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I thought I would post Roberts story for those who havnt gone to his caring bridge web site . So you can see why he means so much to me and our club and to everyone he has met .
Robert is a 13 year old young man, who was born premature at 27 weeks gestation. He has cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus and is legally blind. He has had many struggles in his life so far, but remains happy, kind hearted and helps keep life in perpsective for many.
When Robert was born, he weighted 2lbs. 10 oz. He had an uphill battle from day one. There was not much hope that he would survive. He was constantly surrounded by his five brothers and sisters, Michelle, Jason, Mitch, Scott and Stephanie as well as many other relatives providing him with love and encouragement.
Robert was hospitalized for the first four months of his life. His biggest obstacles were his premature lungs and because of that he was on a ventilator for a very long time At about 3 months old, he was diagnosed with meningitis. Finally when Robert stabilized we were able to bring our son home. That only lasted 3 days and during the next 3 years it continued-a fews days home and a few months back in the hospital. We would call Children's Hospital our home away from home for the next three years.
Little did we know, the real fight was about to begin for him. Robert continued to struggle with his breathing and shunt malfunctions or shunt infections. He endured many difficult surgeries including shunt surgeries, several eye surgeries and placement of a gastrostomy tube. We feel very fortunate to have had some of the most compassionate and caring medical professionals help him and us through each hospital stay.
Our friends have been a tremendous help to us. When Robert was five and ready to begin school, Dave and Judy and the Minnesota Pharaoh's car club put together a benefit on Robert's behalf to purchase an electric wheelchair for him. The benefit was such a success that we were also able to have a ramp built for our house. The Pharaohs named Robert their president and continue to be a big part of our family’s lives. It is always a highlight for him every time he attends a car show or a get together with the Pharaohs. A huge thank you to everyone in that car club.
Robert loves all modes of transportation. His usual ride is either his electric wheelchair or his manual wheelchair equipped with chrome spinners. He is a frequent passenger behind his dad on their Harley Davidson Road King. His dad has a special trailer that carries the wheelchair behind the motorcycle. Robert also is the proud owner of a 1966 Rambler Classic. If they are not traveling on the Harley you will see them crusing the avenue.
St. Paul Harley Davidson has a special place in their heart for Robert. Owner's Tom and Melanie always treat Robert like he is one of their own children and their compassion for him is wonderful. Robert always looks forward to visiting them at the store or at local car events.
Another large part of Robert's life has been spent being a spokesperson for the Flood Run with his buddy Brian Zepp from KQRS. The Flood Run is a charitable motorcycle run that raises funds for children with special needs. Robert, along with scores of motorcyclists, have raised and donated tens of thousands of dollars to Gillette Hospital and other kids in need. Through this journey he has made another set of near and dear friends. A couple of years ago, he designed an motorcycle with Ron from Extreme Custom Choppers for a raffle to raise even more money.
Robert attended Mississippi Creative Arts school in St. Paul for six years. He is now enrolled at Bridgeview school, also in St. Paul. He enjoys school and his teacher Deb and loves swimming in the "really warm pool" with Mike. He recently had the lead role as "Josh" in a play performed with his classmates. He has built some very good relationships and lasting friendships with staff and kids from both schools.
I can't forget to add that he is an avid WWE - Raw wrestling fan. We have not missed any of their shows at the Target Center. He puts plenty of time in on the PS2 playing Smackdown and when his is done with the TV him and his dad have live wrestling matches.
Last year in October, Robert had his 42nd surgery to help correct his legs. Unfortunately he ended up spending a lot more time than was expected for him in the hospital. His long recovery was helped by the all of our family and friends. We could not have made it through those tough days or the days ahead without you. Bopper and I are so grateful for your love and kindness.
Thank you,
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2008 06:42 PM, CST
Today was GREAT! School is really helping him keep his mind off Friday. This is Homecoming week at his school, Bridge view; today's event was rope wrestling and arm wrestling and Robert participated in both. He had American flags hanging from his chair, the children and staff were cheering, each child had wrestling names. When the ring announcer called Robert the Undertaker Brown and he drove off in his chair, I could hardly hold back the tears. He had his arms wailing in the air as proud as he could be and he won both of his matches. He really feels like a champ, there are some real dedicated staff, they work to make sure each child feels included, special and they really work on their self-confidence. Music was playing, kids were dancing and clapping their hands. My heart was filled with joy and pride watching each of those children really enjoying life. Thats what it is really about, they each have so many struggles in their lives, but they are so happy and full of love.
This afternoon we went to another one of Robert's favorite stops, none other then St. Paul Harley. He spent sometime trying to sweet talk Marge. Then his buddy Tom walked-up and the rest is history. Robert and Tom had their special time talking (with no one in listening distance). I believe it's called guy talk. He now has a picture of a diva on a Harley to decorate his hospital room. Melanie thank you for the prayer shawl. Both of you mean a lot to our family and Robert loves you very much.
It's been a big week for the whole family. The unknown and the anticipation is taking it's toll on all of us.
Mary
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I have had many requests for an address where cards / gifts can be sent for Robert . Heres the address
Gillette Children's hospital
C/O Robert Brown
200 University Ave. E.
St. Paul, MN 55106
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2008 07:04 PM, CST
Robert had a good day at school. Once we left school he had a major breakdown. He was able to cry and tell me just how scared he is. I think he has been doing the best he could to hold back his tears. He wanted to know if we could just skip this surgery. It's a very sad day in the Brown household. I think it is going to be a very long night for him. We will update after surgery tomorrow.
He did get his hair cut from his favorite barber Rich. Mary
Please Keep the well wishes coming , The coments left on his guest book mean even more at a time like this with his surgery being in the morning . I have been greatfull for everyone , the out pouring of support and well wishes is unbelieveable KEEP IT UP Thank you Steve
For those who missed the link to Roberts Caring Bridge web ite where you can leave him support and well wishes here it is again .
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/robertbrown3
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2008 10:46 AM, CST
Robert went into surgery at 7:00. So far so good.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2008 10:46 AM, CST
Robert went into surgery at 7:00. He had a hard morning, lots of tears, but he felt better once his aunties and his sisters were here. He learned a new trick, the more questions he asked the longer he put off going into the operating room. He was real brave and hard for us to leave him in the doctors care. When the doctor was ready to start and before Robert was put under, Robert wanted to make sure everything was okay and that he was going to take good care of him. The doctor said, Yes! Of course! And Robert, being the character he, is made the doctor shake on their agreement!
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2008 02:30 PM, CST
Robert is out of surgery a little earlier than scheduled. It went really well. He is now in intensive care for the next few days. He is on a breathing tube that allows his body to rest while he heals. He could be off the breathing tube as early as sat night or Sunday. We will be watching the next 72 hours closely since they will be the most critical. The doctors are doing a good job of keeping him as comfortable as possible. Way to go Robert! He is a fighter.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2008 07:13 PM, CST
Robert is doing well this evening. When the surgery meds were wearing off, Mary and Bopper were able to see his eyes and Robert squeezed their hands. Robert is back in a deep sleep to give him some good rest. He is getting wonderful care from all of the doctors and nurses that have been with him. One of the doctors remarked that Robert is a very strong and healthy young man. That certainly will help him during his recovery.
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2008 05:19 AM, CST
Hey everyone, Robert had good night. They are watching his blood loss closely, slowly it is stablizing. He is already starting to give them hell. They still have him in a induced coma. . He was trying to lift his arms this morning and of course turned his head as soon as he heard his dad.
Bopper and I have a real good feeling about his recovery. His history throughout his surgical procedures have been, if they say five days in the hospital, he says I can get out in three. Usually proving the doctors wrong. Thank you for your support, your letters are helpful and we look forward to reading them all to Robert. Mary
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Good news, thanks for the update!
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2008 12:38 PM, CST
Great news! At around noon, Robert was taken off of the ventilator and is breathing very well on his own. His is awake and so far is not in pain. He feels like he is having a "seizure" in his back, but that is a spasm since his ribs and muscles are in their proper positions now. Robert is such a pro at these visits that he requested "blow by" oxygen instead of oxygen through his nose and he immediately told the nurse when she was going to use a sponge for his mouth, "My mom brought my own toothbrush"(very proudly).
For those of you who know Robert you know that he is quite the comedian. Here are a few of his lines already-
Robert to Bopper-"I wish this was you and not me."
Aunt Sharon- "Robert, you look really good!" Robert- "Who are you? A doctor?!"
The doctor was kiding around-not knowing that Robert would take him so seriously. Doctor-right after removing the breathing tube- "Robert-next we'll have you home today (of course kidding ). Robert- "Are you saying I'm ready to go home?!"
Aunt Sharon brought him a new flat screen as a Birthday/Christmas/Get Well gift and Bopper told Robert that he can see it before they bring it home. Robert said to him- "How long before that takes place?"
Mitch-(Robert's brother) to Robert-"Hey-How are you feeling?" Robert- "I'm feeling like shit".
As you can tell, it won't be long before Robert is at 100%, will be asking for every nurse's number and have all the doctor's wishing he was here for comic relief all the time. Mary
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2008 09:07 PM, CST
All in all, it's been a pretty good day. He went from being a comedian to being real mad at everyone. I'm sure this is healthy for him, but we have never seen this side of his personality (it's kind of scary). His blood preasure and heart rate have been evaluated since early this afternoon, enough for the doctor to be concerned. The have tried several different medications, given him plasma, increased his fluid intake and nothing has made any change. They are continuing to do blood test. The last time they took blood, Robert asked "what do you want my soul too". The nurses and Bopper and I are keeping a close eye on him.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2008 05:53 AM, CST
His blood pressure stabilized during the night. His heart rate is still in the 130's, but is much better then yesterday. He did not sleep much and made sure his dad didn't sleep much either. I checked on them about 4:15 this morning and the nurse said they are both awake and have been most of the night. Robert would not take any pain medication throughout the night. The first thing he said to me this morning was "these are the most uncomfortable beds around".
The x-rays are amazing in the difference of the before and after pictures of his spine. He was curved at 74 degrees and after the surgery he is at 34 degrees. He will only be able to bend from the waist down. He is going to be thrilled to be 3 inches taller. He will be able to see over the hood of his car. That will mean everything to him.
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2008 04:25 PM, CST
Most of the day has been a sleepy one for Robert. Bopper had him sitting on the side of his bed with his feet dangling off the side. He did really well with this, on the other hand I could hardly watch. It looked like it hurt real bad. He had some valuim and has barely said two words since then. Everyone who has ever met Robert, knows that this is impossible for him, he talks non-stop to everyone especially if you know anything about cars or motorcycles. He has had some visitors, but he can barely open his eyes. I'm sure this has nothing to do with the fact that he felt the need to talk to his dad ALL night
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2008 08:22 AM, CST
Robert slept some what last night, he kept Janet on her toes. Checking to make sure was in the room with him and changing disk to their favorite show. This morning he is doing ok. His heart rate continued to creep up during the night and he is running a fever. His doctor was in first thing this morning, he had to changes his bandage because it was saturated with blood. It's possible that his drain tube clogged, so they pulled it. I am not sure where he gets the strength to go through the amount of pain he has when they move him, but he endures every time. Robert informed the doctor that he would like to go home. It's not likely that he is going to get moved out of ICU today and will need to stay in the hospital until Friday at the earliset. His blood is still not clotting and his temp and heart rate are not cooperating. He asked who his nurse was today and when told he said "oh the pretty blonde". He still has his sense of humor. Mary
click the link below to visit Robert browns Caring Bridge web site to learn more about this strong young man , click his guest book to leave him support and well wishes
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/robertbrown3
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2008 06:55 PM, CST
Robert has had a tough afternoon. His hemoglobin dropped a bit, so he is in the process of getting a blood transfusion. His heart rate is still elevated and he has been pretty drowsy. His temperature was at 102.7. Robert has been able to get some rest this afternoon.. We're still in the ICU but in a bigger, private room. At lunch time, Neil from the wheelchair department came in to modify Robert's wheelchair. Mom carefully lifted him out of bed in into his wheelchair but Robert was mad at his mother because he wanted his dad to lift him. It was a nice surprise when he was measured and we found out he gained 3".
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Thank you for the update. Keep it coming. Tell him we'd all like to gain 3". AROUND. :D Ok, maybe you can skip that part.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2008 09:07 AM, CST
Robert had a good night. His heart rate went down and his fever is under control. We plan to work on him getting-up and sitting in his wheelchair today. He is gaining his strength back and is defiantly moving in the right direction. He wants to go home NOW. Every medical professional who walks in the room, he double checks to see if Friday is still the magic day. If they say anything, like that is our goal, he comes back with "so what your telling me is I am not going home on Friday".
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2008 03:41 PM, CST
Well it's been a good afternoon, Robert is thrilled, they removed one more of his IV's only leaving two. They also removed the catheter . I gave him a nice sponge bath (which he absolutely hates), brushed his teeth and had him sit in his chair. he is trying to sweet talk all of the nurses into taking out the remainder of his IV's.
Auntie Janet brought him lunch and we all watched Baby's Mama movie. Robert said it was a chick flick.
There are updated photos. He looks great on his web page .
click the link below to visit Robert browns Caring Bridge web site to learn more about this strong young man , click his guest book to leave him support and well wishes .
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/robertbrown3
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I would like to personally thank everyone and every club that took the time to sign Roberts guest book . All your support and well wishes are over welming . It just goes to show Hot Rodders , motor heads , car guys and gals can come together and help a fellow brother out . This has meant a great deal to him and his family and also his Pharaoh family . We appreciate everyone . Please dont stop keep the messages of support and well wishes coming . A special Thanks goes ou the The Suedes car club , Thanks guys
click the link below to visit Robert browns Caring Bridge web site to learn more about this strong young man , click his guest book to leave him support and well wishes .
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/robertbrown3
Thank you very much
Steve Gullickson
Squarepants
The Pharaohs of Minnesota
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2008 08:59 PM, CST
Today has been full of up's and down's for Robert. He had a good morning, he was in his wheelchair and drove down for x-rays. He should have been pulled over for drunk driving. The doctor explained to us that due to Robert's vision impairment, he was going to have to re-learn how to hold his head and find his spot for his best vision.
They took his catheter out yesterday and unfortunately he has not been able to urinate on his own. They had to empty his bladder for him three times. He cried each time and begged for them to allow him to do it on his own, but after 8 hours they have to empty his bladder for him. The last time they put a catheter back in for another24 hours. He is also dealing with constipation and is building a lot of gas up in his stomach. This has to change for Robert because it has affected his shunts in the past. This is the last thing he needs. His doctors rule is you have to poop for Dr. Koop before you can go home. Robert is jumping out of his skin knowing that he may not be released on Friday. Dad is sleeping with him tonight, I know this will bring him some comfort. He is pretty mad at everyone right now, and is still pretty weak.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2008 09:42 AM, CST
Well our little Mr. Brown is not feeling very good today. He woke up with a significant amount of pain, a headache and vomiting. Dad asked him if he snuck out of the hospital and went clubbing with his brothers and sisters last night (hang over). Thats the joke for the day. They are doing blood and urine cultures to check for infections. Whenever Robert begins with headaches and vomiting, it is always a scare for us. Of course he had to put things in perspective for us. " Mom and dad, everyone has good days and bads days, this just happens to be a bad day for me".
Happy Thanksgiving
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2008 07:49 AM, CST
Robert is going home.
He wanted to be dressed when his doctor walked into his room, to prove he is ready to leave. When to doc walked in he said " you had Friday set in your mind and you met your goal". Way to go Robert.
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Alright that is good news!!!
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2008 09:01 PM, CST
We made it home and we are all beat. Robert spent some of the day in his wheelchair, directing dad on how to set-up his new TV. He says he doesn't have any pain, but when we move him, his face tells us differently. When I was giving him so pain medicine he asked me 'what are you a nurse now". He has it set in his mind that he needs to go see the Rambler, he wants to sit in the drivers seat to make sure he can see over the steering wheel. He was happy to see his dogs, Harley and Chopper. Our dining room is now a hospital room. The hospital bed is going to save him some pain and both of our backs.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008 08:28 AM, CST
Our little man is not feeling well today. I believe the pain is setting in. He is also having some pain in his leg, not sure what that is all about. We put him in his wheelchair this morning. He had lots of tears and the chills, he then asked his dad to put him back in bed. He let us know that his pain, was only going to get worst before it gets better. He also wanted to know if we thought he left the hospital too soon. That tells us he really doesn't feel well.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008 07:35 PM, CST
Robert slept most of the afternoon. He did eat a good dinner and sat on the couch with his dad for a short while. Of course they are watching wrestling now. Robert loves to watch wrestling and then he tries to put all the moves on his dad. He's having a hard time getting comfortable. We go from the wheelchair to the recliner to the bed and then we start all over again. He just asked his dad "what are we going to do tomorrow? He is already going stir crazy.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2008 10:10 AM, CST
Robert had a good night. He slept through the night and didn't wake us up to move him/ He had a sponge bath this morning and is dressed. We took off his bandages, WOW talk about an incision, it looks as good as it possibly could. He is one strong kid, not sure I could handle that type of pain. He not wanting to eat very much yet, but I am sure with time his appetite will come back to normal.
As Robert said "there are going to be good days and bad days". Oh and I can't forget "the healing begins at home".
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2008 01:41 PM, CST
Check out the new pictures. Robert is one very happy car guy. We had to take Robert to see his car in storage. He sat in the drivers seat to see if he could see over the hood. Not only could he see over the hood but his feet are able to reach the gas and brake. Oh we are in for trouble this Spring. We stopped to see Auntie Janet and Mike and Jeanine. He had a full morning, he is resting now and I am sure dreaming about the Rambler. No better medicine then spending a little time with your car.
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Heres some pics of Robert in his Rambler today :D if you wondering yes thats a Jesus on the dash , its kind of a good luck charm in our club we call it our Pharaoh Jesus if you look close it says Pharaohs down the back of his robe we even have them blessed :thumbup: supposed to keep us outa trouble .........
I would have to say this is the happiest I have seen Robert in a very long time
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/robertramblernew.jpg)
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/pharaohsmn/ramblerrobertnew.jpg)
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its hard to beleive he is already out of the hospital after a surgery like that and is sitting in his car. amazing.
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His attitude is amazing too.