|
Local soldier recovering slowly
Published January 11, 2009
U.S. Army Spc. Brad Thomas’ recovery from injuries suffered in Iraq a year ago has been a roller-coaster ride, but in the last few weeks, it has had more ups than downs.
Thomas, 23, suffered severe head trauma from the explosion of a roadside improvised explosive device in January 2008 while serving in Iraq. A Jones Creek resident, Thomas initially was taken to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany before being sent to James A. Haley Hospital in Tampa, Fla., soon after the incident. He remains in a trauma unit there.
The recovery has been slow, but at least it’s recovery, said his father, Rocky Thomas.
“He’s semi-conscious and improving a little bit,” Rocky Thomas said. “He’s hanging tough.”
The family recently was able to get Brad Thomas some time in a hyperbaric chamber, which pressurizes oxygen so the skin and lungs can absorb more concentrated oxygen in a short period of time. He’s also undergone a spinal tap to relieve pressure from fluid on his brain.
The changes seem to be helping, Rocky Thomas said.
“He’s responding to small things we’re asking him to do,” he said. “He’s made a heck of a comeback since we saw him in Germany. We’re taking it a day at a time and are keeping things upbeat.”
Thomas was deployed to Iraq in December 2007. This year, family members spent a week in Florida for the holidays.
“It was probably one of the best Christmases we’ve ever had,” Rocky Thomas said of his family and, in particular, his wife, Veronica. “She deserves a medal of honor. You couldn’t ask for a better mom.”
The family togetherness was a gift in itself, Military Moms and Wives of Brazoria County founder Mary Moreno said. The group keeps tabs on all Brazoria County military men and women, and offers emotional and material support in the form of essential items sent to active duty personnel.
“Brad may not be home physically, but here’s here in spirit,” Moreno said. “He’s going to get better, and it’s going to take a lot of faith. His family has a lot of faith, and he has the love of the community. That alone is healing.”
Prayers and positive thoughts are welcome, Rocky Thomas said. Through the Web site caringbridge.org, anyone can send Brad Thomas a get-well wish.
On New Year’s Day, Capri Sealy of Jones Creek wrote, “You made tons of progress in 2008 but I know that God has great plans for you in 2009.”
On Dec. 30, Randi Northup of Rosharon said Brad is continuously in prayers here. Vanessa Silva of Freeport wished the Army specialist a happy new year.
“Keep on fighting and we'll see you home soon,” Silva wrote.
The posts mean a lot to the family, and visitors are encouraged any time, Rocky Thomas said.
“People have sent notes from around the world,” he said. “And as far as I’m concerned, Brazoria County has gone above and beyond the call in supporting the troops.”
He paused, drawing a quiet breath.
“This is the hardest thing we’ve ever had to go through,” he said. “It’s been a roller-coaster ride. This is a long road, but they told us it would be. Please just keep praying.”
John Lowman is a reporter for The Facts. Contact him at (979) 849-8581.
---
YOURWISH
To send Army Spc. Brad Thomas or his family a note, visit the Web site caringbridge.org.
In the box under the “Visit” section, type Soldier bradthomas as one word in the appropriate box
Share |
Save |
Mail |
Print
|
|
|
 |
|
FREE BAY BOAT WITH WATERFRONT PURCHASE Get
...
Click for all
Top Ads listing
|
