September 28, 2006 11:00pm

Hey everybody, it's George again. Dad still hasn't had a chance to get to a computer to post today's update so here's today progress report. Sam's feeding tube procedure was a success and they actually performed it in the ICU room instead of at Piedmont. He also had some physical therapy sessions where they do arm and leg stretches (some of which are resistant to strengthen his muscles). He is in great spirits and is asking for more physical therapy than what they have him scheduled for (determined and stubborn, what a great combination!). Our Aunt Trish (who is a paraplegic and has been through Shepherd and knows James Shepherd well) visited Sam for about an hour. She is a very active advocate of the Shepherd Center. She promotes Shepherd and paraplegics through commercials and also has T.V. show on GPTV. After her visit with Sam, she felt very good about the progress that he has made in such a short amount of time. Dr. Varner and his wife were also at the Shepherd Center today for his periodic check ups and plans on either he or his wife visiting Sam to talk about the amazing things that Shepherd is capable of doing for patients. Many of you may or may not know that Dr. Varner (who is from Columbus) was injured while riding a horse. Today the visiting hours were limited due to three new ICU patients arriving so Sam has some new roomates. Expect a post from Sam soon because he has been really wanting everyone to know how he is doing and how he feels. So all in all, another great day for Sam. Keep up the prayers and posts. Sam, I'll be there tomorrow and I can't wait to see you. I love you. George