Our New Normal

Our New Normal (10/10/18)

We continue to adjust to our new life.  I think we will never fully understand how drastically life has changed, but we are getting through each day with the best attitude we can.  We have more up days than down.

Brian's health remains good.  He has PT coming to the house three days a week for range of motion stretching and neck strengthening exercises. Nursing stops by to check in and draw bloodwork once a week.  In the new future, we will transition to an outpatient PT program that will help Brian continue his recovery.

We've had a great few weeks.  My brother came into town for Brian's birthday. We haven't seen him since we left Craig hospital. Brian had an awesome visit with a former co-worker and got caught up on all the scoop in the industry.  We hosted a game night at the house and hosted several family gatherings. Kenzie had homecoming and Brian was thrilled that she wasn't embarrassed to have friends come by for pictures. 

We have been test driving two vans and hope to finalize the purchase this week.  So far, we've taken trips to family members' home to see if Brian can enter using portable ramps, saw our niece's soccer game, made a trip to Ted Drewes, and picked up Maddie from school.  Freedom feels so good! 

We want to thank everyone again for your generosity throughout this journey. Here is an update of  how your donations (private, GoFundMe, fundraisers) have helped us cover some of the costs we are incurring: 

$33,000: Home renovations to accommodate Brian's power chair
$21,500: Backup generator, updated electrical panels and circuits for medical equipment
$20,000: Down payment for a used accessible van. Very limited options due to the dimensions of Brian's chair including the ventilator tray. 
$5,400: Motorized garage lift to enter the house
$1,500: Elevator feature on Brian's chair.  This allows him to communicate "eye-to-eye" with others.  If recovery progresses and he regains movement, it will also help him reach items in the cabinets.
$1,500: Voice activated technology with microphone
$500: Voice activated SMART home modifications
$500: Portable ramps
$400: Monthly prescriptions
$2000+/month (out-of-pocket cost) home health care (a few hours a day, Monday-Friday).
$$: All bills/medical supplies not covered by insurance

With that being said, we are excited to announce that we are in the planning stages for our First Annual Brian Heine Benefit Golf Tournament.  Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 26, 2019 at the Legends Country Club in Eureka, MO.  More details to come. Brian will be active in planning a day of fun for all!

Please pray or send your good vibes for Brian's continued improvement, strength, and mobility.  We prepare for today and remain hopeful for things to come! We are grateful to our supporters.