Elias Nutting

At around Noon today, just four days after his surgery, Elias was released from the hospital. The kids and I were playing hooky and happened to be headed by the hospital when he was released. First Kelly and Jon had to take him for a walk to prove he was ready:

Then Jon signed the paperwork:

And then we escorted him downstairs in a wheelchair where he loaded into the family car:

and sped off into the sunrise:

Okay, so they definitely were not speeding. Kelly and Jon both shared some stories with us.

Kelly said that earlier in the morning that one of the doctors had come by and said to Jon, “Oh, no, he’s not getting out today. There is no way we could release him”. Kelly went in ready to take the day shift, but by then one of the other doctors, who had assisted Dr. Gupta on the surgery came by and said, “Of course he can get out today. Normally we would not let a patient out this early, but with the amount of support you guys have from friends and family, we know he will be just fine”. Kelly wanted to thank all of you that have been so supportive because you are the reason that Elias is back home today.

Kelly also mentioned that Elias had said right before the surgery, “I am not going to wear a halo and I will be out of the hospital in four days”. Looks like Elias is the kind of guy that likes to keep his word! It is truly and amazing recovery considering that the initial estimate is that he would be unconcious for four to five days at least.

Jon asked who he wanted to drive him home and he stated emphatically, “Dad!”. Not sure what that says about Kelly’s driving, but maybe he just wanted Mom in the back with him.

Elias was clearly still in a great deal of pain. Walking was very challenging for him, mainly because of the pain it caused (probably both in his leg and neck). He will have to walk regularly at home to keep his strength up and speed his healing.