Thoughts of a stranger.

Against all odds

It's been some few days since Derek opened his eyes, he's been a little bit more alert now, he was already extubated which means he is breathing on his own. He still isn't able to talk or move by himself. But he has tried mumbling words and he can wiggle his toes, which is a great step taking into account the state he came in. Doctor Shane says it's possible that paralysis is really not an option anymore. They still need to wait some days to try to move him because his body hasn't healed yet from the thoracostomy and his ribs, also he had brain surgery a few days ago, so the best idea is for him to rest and lower his stress at a minimum.

-Hi ladies, how's everything going?- Doctor Shane said walking into the room along with Doctor Paul, his "star resident".

-Hi Doctor Shane, everything is going great right now.- Mom answered, her mood has changed over the days, she feels happier and she's also been more motivated. I hope this mood lasts, it's a big relief for me seeing her feel better.

-That's great, we're just going to do some exams if that's okay with you.- The neurosurgeon said and we all nodded.

-I also have some good news, his aortic transection looks like it's healing properly, his broken ribs are too. But we still need to wait some days to make him move, if we tried right now it would be too soon.

-Well I guess it's okay! As long as the healing is doing alright there's no need for us to rush.- I said and Doctor Shane agreed.

Doctor Paul got closer to Derek and he pinched him in his arm, Derek flinched in pain and gave him a disgusted look, it was a little bit funny not gonna lie.

-I'm sorry, I just need to see if you are responsive to pain.- Doctor Paul giggled.

He pinched Derek's legs and luckily he was equally responsive in both.

-Can you wiggle your toes for me please?

Derek stayed still, but after a few seconds he could wiggle his toes. I heard mom laugh, she was happy, she rarely laughs. Doctor Paul held Derek's hands in his and told him to squeeze his hands.

-He's squeezing, not too strong but I can feel it.

-That's a good sign, we still need to wait some more days. But I feel he's recovering perfectly.

-I'm so happy to hear that, Doctor Shane.- Mom said

-How are you feeling today, Johnson?- Doctor Shane asked Derek

-Mhmm, g- o, I no- Derek mumbled, I had no idea what he said but at least he can open his mouth and pronounce stuff.

-Can you say the word "good" for me please?

-Ooo

-You can do it Johnson, go ahead and try again. "Good"- Doctor Shane pronounced slowly

-Ooo- go

-What about the word "mom", can you say that?

-Om

-Try again

-Mom

My hand flew to my mouth when he said that, I felt my face heat and it probably turned red. I definitely gasped pretty loud.

-Oh my god!- Anna exclaimed.

-I'm so proud of you baby!- Mom said and kissed all over Derek's face. He giggled a little bit and I love to see it.

-We can try to make him eat and drink on his own, we could try with jelly, water, or even some soup.

-That sounds awesome!-Mom said