It is heartening to be able to say that Darryl has continued to stabilise and just sitting here beside him now he is resting well with no temperature, a heart rate of 58 and breathing calmly. What a difference it makes to the spirit to see him more settled, even if he is still in a coma.
Again today I was reminded of the seriousness of the situation despite some more encouraging signs over the last day or so when his doctor said that we are now back to where we were 5 days ago (in that his body is not fighting infection and can focus on resolving the trauma to his brain). He stressed it is still a case of wait and see in terms of his conciousness and we just don’t know where that’s going to go.
As I mentioned earlier it is a minefield of disasters we are tiptoeing through here and the medical staff while working very hard to do all they can are great levellers with regard to the realities of the injury. I have become more used to that over the last two weeks and I am also finding it easier to ‘read’ Darryl in terms of his signs, or otherwise of conciousness.
My gut feeling, which lets face it ,was that he was going to end up here again so is reasonably reliable, is that he is in a better place in terms of his recovery and I am convinced he is aware of the goings on around him during his more wakeful times.
He responds (in my view) to the voice of his sister and brother in the sense that you can see him almost wanting to move and acknowledge them. Again Brenna put the greenstone dog whistle in his hand this afternoon and he held it tight and once again when asked, he stood his thumb to attention. He also gave his lovely nurse Azita who has been his nurse during the last two days, a couple of really good thumbs up this morning as well, something he won’t do for the doctors it appears. Knowing him, I wouldn’t mind betting his ‘mojo’ is waking up before his brain is!!
Regardless I am really feeling a bit of ‘wind beneath the wings’ in terms of the journey. I really hope it’s not because I’m getting use to this nightmare, I’m sure it’s not. The part of me dealing with that side of things is just numb now, the rest of me is focussed on hope and possibility. Well that’s what I’m telling myself anyway. I’d better shut up, they’ll have me admitted to the psych ward if I keep this up.
The medical staff has stressed how important it is now to let Darryl rest and not overstimulate him as it can become a major aggravator. So the visits are quieter in this sense but I remember from the last head injury that Darryl couldn’t handle any degree of stimulation with talk, touch or light, so I’d imagine now will be even worse.
On that note, thank you all for showing your support on the site rather than visiting. He knows you are all behind him and I’m sure your messages are making a difference. It is truly humbling to feel that support for him and we are indebted to you all for picking up an oar and helping him to row against the current of this river of fate he has been white water rafting in.
It is still a day at a time and we have a long way to go, but on my way out of the ward tonight I had a stark reminder of the horror of two weeks ago. As I walked out I looked down to the critical care ward doors and saw yet another family group being led into the meeting room. The tears and uncontrollable sobs of those people about to hear what I know would be devastating news immediately washed a wave of nausea and fear over me so intense I could almost reach out and grab it. I felt an overwhelming need to get out of there , as if to run away from the feelings and as I pushed at the elevator buttons furiously I realised what I was doing, took a deep breath and steadied myself. I got in the elevator quite calmly, but I didn’t dare turn around and look back.
Maybe Darryl has really turned a corner. I hope that is the case. One thing is for sure, I don’t want to look in the rear vision mirror anymore.
Thank you all again for being there for Darryl. His life is richer for all of you in it.
Mike.
Michael, Hey there cousin! It has been many many years since we last saw each other but I wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you endeavour to live through this dreadful trauma with Darryl. Having just caught up with Lenoard, his beautiful family and your Mum and Dad last September (Lens 70th,my Dad)and all the other family members, I was shocked to hear of your news last week. My eldest James is almost 17 yrs and like all your children, the primal need and desire to protect them at all costs is paramount and a parents worst nightmare when something of this maganetude strikes them down.
Your site has given me a snapshot into our family and from your comments today, I hope that the bends ahead are more gentle, full of improvement and promise and that you are all given the extra strength needed for long road ahead.
I’m zooming you all my love (plus some for Auntie and Uncle who I promise to see again soon!)
Love Chrissy Bear!xxxx Paul, James, Mia and Holly
Morning guys
great to hear Darryl has taken another step forward.
Pleased to hear you finally took a deep breath yourself Mike.
look forward to finding out how Darryl improves today
catch you all later
Sandra & D
Mike and family,
Thinking of Darryl, our son Logan played with him at Kamo Rugby quite a few years ago. Hang in there Mike, I know what you are going through, as my first husband had suffered head injury 29 years ago, and was in a comma for three months before he came to. I know the days are long sitting at his bedside, keep positive, our thoughts are with you all.
Karen and Mark Chisnall
Kamo
….Morning Dazzler….
I am really stoked for you Darryl, getting on top of the
infection.
That is really important, one day at a time ah
You are such an insiration
So very Proud of you
Take care and keep on keeping on
BE YOU
Love Tubbs Family
Mike you are just as inspirational as Darryl, keep up the good work!!!!!
I thought of you last night watching bro town and the flight of the concords came on singing bussiness time lol.
Keep fighting your getting there.
To Mike and Catherine,
We have been reading and listening to the progress of your son, Darryl. Although we don’t know him, it is exceptionally devaststing to hear of his head injuries. Firstly we want to wish you guys all the very best. Being a tower of strength like you both are, is a key part of Darryl’s recovery. Being in a similar situation with Garry in a coma, I can’t express how taking the kids into see him turned out to be a pivotal part in his own recovery. Our thoughts are with you all.
Glenys and Garry
Another day,moving forward!
Keep fighting my buddy!!
Thinking of you all!!!!
Kia Kaha!!!
Bill Thurston x x x x x x x
Dear Mike,
Was gut wrenching to hear of Darryl’s head injury two weeks ago – have been thinking of you and your family constantly, wondering how Darryl has been… so it is really awesome to read your blog Mike and hear that he is making encouraging progress – love the trachy missile
It sounds like Darryl’s grown up to be as strong as his old man so I reckon the signs are good for a full recovery!
My heart is with you Mike, Darryl, Brook and the rest of the family. Take care and may all the nurses Darryl gets be as good as Azita
To Mike and Catherine
Although I don’t know you, I understand and know what the last weeks have been like for you. when this happened to my brother I was messages and writing it down that helped us survive it. Everday sice I saw you on TV talking about Darryl I read your diary – enjoying his progress with everyone else. Hang in there,enjoy and touch as much as possible, that is what we miss now. Thinking of you all
Robyn
Hi Mike,
Alans and my thoughts are with you and your family. We know how time can stand still when you are at your childs bedside.
“Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful”
Alan O’Donnell & Megan Macfie, Hamilton
Im really glad to hear that things are starting to get better for you and your family Mike,
How fate can lead someone like your son and your family down a river this tretorous is something ill never understand.
i guess fate can be so twisted at times. so certain but yet so unpredictable, so beautiful but yet so cruel.
But if theres one thing ive learnt over my time on this planet its that what fate delivers us makes us who we are, whether we like it or not. and its how we choose to deal with our fate that can shape our future.
jeez, listen to me going off like bloody oprah
What im trying to say mate, is keep heading in the right direction. always. hold your head up high, point the bow north, put the spinnaker out, and guided by the winds of the past, and the currents of fate sail straight for the horizon and never look back.
will still keep the vibes comming,
all the best
Arohanui,
Kristy
hey darryl
Good to hear your getting better every day, even if they are only small steps.
stay strong, wont be long till you can use that whistle
xx
We have just finished celebrating Mother’s day here in Guelph, Ontario, Canada where you might be surprised to hear, focused greatly on Darryl struggle. Megan, Brooke, Ces, Shirley, Mike and the rest of the family should know that through the power of prayer and positive thinking, the most amazing miracles can and will happen!
You have never left our thoughts and as I can recall like yesterday, the first time I met Darryl, watching him surf in huricane like winds at 14 years old without fear in Noumea, New Caledonia with Ces and Shirley. Ruthann and I immediately fell in love with this brilliant young man with his quiet confidence and contagious smile.
It was so wonderful to see him again when he joined us for supper in Mangonui on New Years day last year. He has most certainly grown into a fine young man with a soft and tender nature.
Darryl….You said you would come to see us in Canada. I’m holding you to that mate!
With all our love, prayers and support…The Hall Family.
Do you still have your Guelph Storm hockey jersey??
Hi Mike Catherine Darryl and family,
Glad hear some positive news today, hope you are all holding up ok, we are thinking of you always.
Dennis and Rachelle
Hi Mike & Family,
Jarrah played rugby with Darryl two years ago at Eastern and I was the Manager when he had his original head injury.
Following Darryl’s progress and hoping for the best.
PS – still waiting for him to give the #7 jersey back
from Under 16’s.
hi, you might not remeber me but i am Alick wigley sister. My heart goes out to you and your family. the wigley family is thinking of you at this time. Hope Darryl get well soon Kia Kaha be strong
Hi Darryl very glad to hear some positive news. There are sooooo many people up North that care about you Darryl. I read this website each day and report to all at the pharmacy. God Bless You and your family. Janet Jim Jamie & Ethan.
Hello darryl & family.
Good to hear you are slowly making progress.
Keep it up daz ! Kia kaha
Hannah, Denise & Nick
xox
So glad to hear Darryl is not needing to battle infection and his energy can be concentrated on healing now.
Hope you are all able to get some quiet time alongside Darryl and recharge your batteries ready for the next part of the journey wherever it takes you all.
Keep well
Hey Darryl!
You’re doing really well
Keep it up!
Kia Kaha
xo
Hey Mike, Cathrine & Family.
Just wanted to let you know that our thoughts are with Darryl and you guys.
All the best.
Be real neat to see you wake, you are heading in the right direction
Hi Mike and Caroline
I am the principal of a local school in Whangarei and have been at 2 conferences where you have spoken Mike. You have totally inspired me and this whole deal you have been dealt seems so unfair when you spend so much of your time caring about other young people and what their parents go through because of totally different causes. I have been following Darryl’s progress with interest. I too have a son of similar age who plays rugby and has had several head injuries – but rugby is something they love. Darryl sounds like a real fighter and even though every day must be such a challenge for you all, every little bit of progress is something to celebrate. My thoughts are with you all.
Kind regards
Marilyn Dunn
Hi Mike, Catherine and family
Thinking of you all lots and hoping you are all doing okay.
Wayne and Thyrl
Hi Darryl
Since Friday it has rained every day. We are half way through shearing so will have another 5 days to go when the weather clears and we can get some dry sheep. We are getting ready for stock checks next week, you are missing out on all this stock work. Hope you will put your new whistle to work one day soon.
Jimmy might have trouble understanding the new sound to start with. Your garden is growing out of control despite Kathleens pruning efforts. The tomatoes are coming along nicely but need the warm weather and your magic touch.
Today has really been freezing for up here and I am sure
everybody will be sitting around their fires tonight.
Thinking of you every day
Max, Kathleen, Deane, Lewis, Latimer and Sandy
Hi there, glad to hear that the waters have calmed somewhat. It makes sense that the body and mind needs quiet time to heal.
Good to hear that you’re obeying the nurses Darryl, very wise move on your part, they are not to be messed with!
You’ve got some busy times ahead of you buddy…best you make the most of your rest!
Love to you all
Virg
hey u…
herd ur fighting like atrooper, some how we r realtated thru auntys, get better soon xx stacey
Hi Darryl
It was great read the post last night and hear that you are making progress, and are more relaxed Darryl. Long may it continue. Fantastic to read that the bugs arent growing in you – makes life a hell of a lot easy for you and you can concentrate 100% and focus on getting that head of yours better! Keep up the fight and remember dont let your guard down. I hope the next post is just as positive.
A big Gudday to you to Mike, Catherine, Brenna and Brook – Stay strong for Darryl and each other and look after yourselves to.
Cheers
Good Morning Mike and Catherine
It seems to be our regular routine to check the latest report as soon as we rise in the morning and then we read the fantastic messages last thing at night. Sometimes bringing a tear to my eye and sometimes I smirk away at Mikes quirky humour.
I can just see Brenna organising everyone and playing nurse to Darryl.
It’s a beautiful morning in Coopers Beach. I sense a great day ahead. Love to you all
Julz
HI AGAIN
DIS JO DEANES SON
SOUNDS LIKE YOU’VE GOT A NEW WHISTLE DARRYL COOL!!
GET BETTER QUICKLY THE FAR NORTH NEEDS YOU
Darryl,
My thoughts are with you
All the best for your recovery
Briar
Hi Mike – wow, what can I say? I am a complete stranger to both you and Darryl – you don’t know me from a bar of soap – but I feel your pain and I’ve hitched along for this journey with you. Your blog last night really brought tears to my eyes – as so many of the other entries have and I decied it was time to put pen to paper so to speak. The anguish, feeling of helplessness, sadness, anger and all those other emotions you may be experiencing can only be imagined by those of us not in your situation but Mike – hang in there – you are doing a fantastic job for Darryl and it’s clear he knows you are his number one supporter (along with baby sister of course). Keep talking to him Mike, keep playing his favourite music, keep those hugs up – I think he’s trying his best to come back but as you have said, when that will be is in the lap of the Gods at the moment. Be strong Mike – we’re all here with you.
Darryl or Dazza – I’m not sure what you like to be called – you don’t me but I just wanted to have a chat with you. You are doing so well – your determination is admirable and if I could, I would give you a big hug. Your Dad is just the best – his blogs are so heartfelt and at times humourous – I did enjoy the “trachy” report! Your little sister sounds adorable and I’m sure, like all of us, she can’t wait to see you open your eyes and give that winning smile your Dad says you’re known for. My fingers and toes are crossed for you – keep up the fight – we are all watching and waiting anxiously. Well done my friend – you’re making great progress so far. Please know you are in my thoughts. Kim from Auckland.
By far the most concise and up to date information I found on this topic. Sure glad that I navigated to your page by accident. I’ll be subscribing to your feed so that I can get the latest updates. Appreciate all the information here