Michael Bartolo, Afghan War Hero was critically injured on September 6th 2013 in motorcycle accident.  He suffered multiple injuries and a traumatic brain injury which has left him in a minimally conscious state. He is unable to walk or talk and requires constant nursing care. 

Thursday, August 6, 2020

UPDATE - 8-6-20 - Hoping everyone is remaining safe, healthy, and are practicing social distancing. Once again, regretfully we do not have much to report as Michael's Rehab Hospital remains on Locked Down. We have not been able to be with Michael since 3/13/20.

My wife did have an opportunity to physically be with Michael yesterday 8/5/20 to go with him on his monthly visit to his neurologist in Bay Ridge by ambulance for his Baclofen pump refill. Just like last month, Initially Michael did not react to seeing her as she had her mask on. She attempted to get his attention to no avail. However when she quickly lowered her mask and called to him he reacted by turning his head towards her, and sadly began to appear to cry. While this was extremely distressing for her, she was also was very gratified that he reacted and feels that he still knew her. 

My wife said that Michael was also very vocal. We have found that He moans loudly when he is either stressed or unhappy. This is especially true when he arrives at the office and when he sees his Neurologist. She commented as well that she felt he has become more aware of his surroundings A positive step in the right direction. 

The facility does facetime us every few days, however while it is good to see him we are not sure if he understands as to why he is seeing us via the phone. We can only hope and pray that he is doing ok emotionally and physically. 

The facility is still preventing visitation. They are still very concerned with the spread of the virus as the majority of the residents are senior citizens who are the most vulnerable. They are currently offering scheduled window visits, we have opted not to schedule one. We believe it will be very difficult for Michael to comprehend and for us to gain his attention.  

They have announced protocol for Patio visits with Social distancing on 7-15-20. The protocol is the facility must be Covid Free for 28 Straight Days. 

Unfortunately we jsut heard TODAY someone tested positive so the clock starts AGAIN . We Now MUST Wait until 9-7-20 for the facility to be cleared. 

We believe that we are still months away from actually being able to physically be with Mike. We try to do everything we can for him and we try to stay positive and manage through this unbelievable situation. 

As always we so appreciate everyone's support 

No comments:

Post a Comment