Daniel's Presence is Strong!

I just read an article in the Los Angeles Times (February 4, 2010) about a biological test that showed brain activity in patients with brain injury. Patients imagined themselves playing tennis or walking in homes, and responded to yes or no questions as measured through brain activity.

I often wonder what Daniel would say if he could speak, or think aloud. I sometimes think aloud for him and I have deep discussions with him regarding this or that. My impression is that Daniel is conscious of his surroundings and is able to concentrate and focus his attention for longer periods! At times his attention seems to come and go however, and this may be due to energy levels or other factors/stimulus. But focus he can! With his eyes, his gaze and his changing expressions...

So the article made me think that although the outward, visible evidence of Daniels "awareness" is subtle, there is more to his brain activity than meets the eye. I am sure that Daniel "remembers" and is able to "imagine" many meaningful people and events in his life. Judging from the stories we hear of Daniel's reaction to his friends his presence is strong.

Please stay tuned for new authors coming your way soon. When we started the blog I was under the impression that we could only have a limited number authors. I've since found out (better late than never) that you could have many more writers posting to the blog. I've invited several others to help out and hopefully get the blog going again...."breathe new life into it" as they say.

Thanks for your support and understanding!

Tribute to Daniel at RCC Norco

A very special thank you to Daniel's friends, colleagues and especially the students at Riverside Community College for the wonderful fundraising efforts and tribute to Daniel and his family at the annual RCC Norco holiday gathering. We are very grateful for the gifts for Daniel's children and the donation to the Daniel Vega Family Fund.

It was nice to finally have met the good people with whom Daniel collaborated and with whom he cultivated loving and lasting relationships. We all enjoyed the stories and memories of Daniel that were shared. We are so proud of Daniel for the work he has done while at RCC Norco; and it was evident Norco is a place that nurtures the type of values that Daniel lives: community, service and social justice.

Daniel's spirit is strong and we are stronger thanks to your prayers and support.

I was with Daniel today for four hours. Daniel is not able to do much for himself by way of self-care. Though he doesn't speak, he is alert and communicative. As we speak to Daniel or hold his hand or massage his arms, he reciprocates with his attention and efforts at speech.

For those of you who have not visited Daniel, I encourage you to do so...he most certainly benefits from time spent with friends. He is in room 226 at the following address:

Village Square Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

1586 West San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos CA 92069

760/4712986

Please email me at vicmanvega@gmail.com if you need more information or if you would like to arrange a time when we could visit together.