Marcus's concussion is severe. Because his symptoms didn't go away after a couple weeks, he has what is called PCS - persistent concussion symptoms. Treatment for PCS is difficult and vague. So many doctors don't know what to do so they just tell you to wait it out. Marcus met with a really good chiropractor in UT who is the only person who has been able to do anything to relieve his headaches a little bit. After waiting six weeks for an appointment, we finally met with a neurologist in person here and she was a waste of time. It didn't help that she was dressed like a hooker (I'm not even kidding) and took notes in a notebook with a fluorescent pink pen. She didn't offer anything helpful and when I asked if she recommended doing any rehab, she said that would be a great idea. So glad I thought of it :) I've spent hours online searching for doctors and clinics and waiting on hold. We've got a couple more appointments for rehab set up at the end of June which is the earliest they could get him in. So frustrating!
We have been told his healing will be incremental, and it has been. It's hard to see improvements unless I look back to how he felt when he first got home. He isn't as sensitive to light anymore, although we still keep all the lights off most of the time. His headaches aren't as intense all the time and now he even has moments when they are completely gone. His stomach isn't bothering him anymore. Not sure if he had parasites or it was concussion symptoms, but we are happy about that step in the right direction too. We've gotten used to having Marcus home and he's gotten used to living a life of not doing a whole lot.
He works at the temple one day a week and goes out with the missionaries to teach when he can. He taught seminary, helps the Bishop, subs in Primary, and basically does whatever anyone asks him to do. He's getting paid to coach Landon's lacrosse team and really loves that, even though he pays for it with pounding headaches for hours afterwards. It's worth it to him and his mental health.
He's had so much support coming from our friends here and his friends and their families in Utah. I think the care packages have finally stopped and that's ok. It definitely was a boost for his morale when he was at his lowest. One of his good friends from Utah was called to serve here in the Seattle mission and was assigned to our area when Marcus returned. I didn't tell Marcus so he was shocked to open the door and see his high school friend standing there.
Elder Snell came over a few times and it was great for all of us. He even let me give him a hair cut :)
Recently I stumbled across a concussion doctor who created an online program for people suffering with PCS and so far, it feels like the only lifeline of hope we have to cling to. So we are holding on for dear life and hoping it's as successful as it has been for others. It's shocking to realize that concussions are still a medical mystery. Turns out sitting in a dark room with no stimulation is not a good way to recover. In fact, it slows the healing process. Exercise is the best remedy so Marcus is starting to go on daily walks and using a heart rate monitor so he knows how fast to go and when to quit.
The boys are still loving having Marcus home. Marcus got to meet Henry's new best friend and it took about two seconds for James to start admiring Marcus like everyone else does.
I love having Marcus around and so do his brothers. We are still soaking in every day with him, knowing his goal is to get back out on a mission as soon as he is able. We are so thankful for the prayers and support on his behalf.
Ah gee, Mel!! This is so hard to hear! It breaks my heart to think of someone being in constant pain and head aches none stop. We’ll keep praying for Marcus’ and that you can find something to ease his troubles♥️♥️
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