By the end of the day, Paige's central port, which mounts on her left shoulder and taps into her subclavian vein near the heart, had been removed. The port is a supercharged IV with multiple tubes through which she was given liquids and most of her medicines. The description of the blood that would be shed if she managed to get her fast little fingers on it and rip it out kept us all way on edge.
Tonight Paige was agitated, so she selected a few songs from a peaceful playlist that Ryan had assembled on her iPod. She then stood and was held up in a sort of dance until her legs gave out. Tonight she will sleep without restraints, but she will be watched vigilantly.
The reports on her physical progress, together with her cheery photo and all of our shared memories, make it easy to think that the old happy Paige is making these great physical strides. Unfortunately, the traumatic brain injury is still very much with her, and Paige is struggling with the fear, pain and confusion that it brings. All indications are positive for her full recovery, but she needs time to get that happy face and spirit back with us.
Your support is bringing it back day by day.
Her Incredible Temperament
ReplyDeleteThere is a very brave girl known as Paige Host,
About whose temperament we always shall boast.
She is friendly and fun-loving, always sharing her smile,
Enjoys singing “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” all the while.
Even when subjected to a terrible accident
Paige remains positive and refuses to relent.
For she is strong-willed, determined and able to fight,
No matter the pain, she will make her injuries right.
Paige is fortunate to receive such great medical care
From talented professionals who’ll help end this nightmare.
But she is sometimes difficult with the Jamaican nurse,
Removing the dreaded feeding tube with an impolite curse.
With support from a wonderful family, who all love her dearly,
And the whole Kent community who hurt when she’s weary.
An outpouring of affection from friends far and wide,
Including the hockey and swim teams, plus Ryan at her side.
We are all thrilled by the steady progress that Paige is making,
Hopeful that she’ll be back in lane 4, swimming hard and overtaking.
Meanwhile, we pray for God’s blessing upon the entire family Host,
Especially sweet Paige, about whose temperament we always shall boast.
Dear Paige,
ReplyDeleteIt's great to hear you are doing better each day. I would make my family test any drink they gave me too. especially if it looked weird haha You are in my prayers. xoxox gwen
Oh, Paigee, keep up the great work! We are pulling for you in every way imaginable. Your spirit keeps shining through...we'd expect no different from one of our very favorite girls...ps. LOVE your BF! Lots of love from the Hubbards
ReplyDeleteHi Paige!
ReplyDeleteEveryday it seems like you are doing a little bit better, which is great! You are in my prayers :)
Hi lovebug,
ReplyDeleteI am truly amazed at the progress you are making, any other person would not be as strong as you are being throughout this whole process. I can't wait to sing, laugh, and dance with you!!! come back to me soon!!!! all my love
collzy
Sweet Paige,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking of you and praying for your continued strength as you progress. We're amazed by the strength you show each day. All our love-
THE FARNUMS (Peter, Linda and Whitney)
Dear Paigie (and fam),
ReplyDeleteAlthough it seems like torture now, your progress is truly miraculous. Just remember the "torturers" are actually healers. I know it's hard.
I pray for rest, peace, pain control, and more smiles.
We love you all,
Auntie Kim
Dear Paige,
ReplyDeleteI heard about the accident and want to let you know that I'm thinking of you and praying for your continued recovery. I haven't seen/talked to you in a long long time, :-( unfortunately, but you are one of my oldest friends and I was so upset when I heard the news. I have to admit I smiled when I read about your "American Idol audition" comment -- not only because the actual comment is humorous, but also because it is such a typical you comment. We have known each other for literally almost our entire lives, and I know for sure that you are strong enough to get through this difficult time. From as far back as I can remember, you've always been able to approach everything with a smile on your face, and a joke or even a funny, crazy face that has the rare power to make everyone around you (regardless of who they may be) laugh.
To the Hosts: I regret to say it has been a while (years, even) -- but, regardless, just want you to know I'm sending my best wishes to all of you. My parents send their best as well.
So, I wish you the best and am thinking of you; I look forward to reading and hearing about your continuing recovery. Hope to hear from you soon. Get better soon -- and, as you do, know that we're all here for you and care.
Much love,
Kylie
I love you Paige Polka Host!
ReplyDeleteWe miss you so much, but I'm so happy to hear of the progress you are making. Sarah better be keeping you company until I can come! You are always in my thoughts and I miss you and your sneeze. Please come back to us, it is rather quiet around here.
All my love to you and your family!
love, Hannah Doodle Davis
Paige,
ReplyDeleteThis blog is absolutely beautiful and so full of love; I wouldn't expect any less for such a beautiful girl full of so much life. I have been thinking about you a lot. I know you have what it takes to get through this, Paige.
In thinking about what I wanted to write to you, I decided I'd leave you a piece of the reading we always hear at camp amidst our candlelight.
"...Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should...."
Much love,
Patty Jenkins