Tuesday March 10

Hello special family and friends! Little Clay is worn out tonight. During our last visit this evening, he was sleeping. We did not want to wake him. The physical therapist (along with 2 extra therapists, 2 nurses, & mom) helped Clay stand again today for a minute. It was a loooong minute for all of us, especially Clay. The occupational therapist brought some neat toys in today for his therapy (foam dart gun & colorful rings to place over a rod). This worked his right hand. Clay did not want to be placed in the wagon today because any movement is painful for him. He did sit in his "special" chair today, but cries when he has to be moved to & from his bed.
Today we had some sadness. We have learned that all "burn" patients have an unquenchable thirst. This thirst lasts until they can quench it, however long that may be. We have thought about Jesus often today. He once said "I thirst". It is very obvious that Clay wants ice or water because his eyes look longingly on us. His lips open and close to indicate his thirst. The few pieces of ice that the nurses allow us to give him do not quench his thirst. It has been very hard to walk out at the end of each visitation with Clay longingly looking after us, crying, and opening his mouth for more. They say if he gets too much water, it could disturb his sodium/water ratio. This could cause seizures or it could settle in his lungs. Dad will be back in the morning for Clay's 5th surgery. The doctors will place grafts on a spot on the left arm and a few other spots. They will perform a debridement on his left hand & then wait some more to see how much the body will heal it. We will trust our Good Shepherd who is looking down on us. Thanks again from our hearts to yours.