Monday, September 5, 2011

Happy Labor Day! Hope everyone enjoyed their holiday weekend. Ken's aunts from New Jersey and California came to see him today with his dad, uncle and sister. He had a good time seeing them. He continues to do well in therapy but we know the recovery process will not happen overnight. He was in a good mood all weekend. We went to the hospital church service on Sunday. At the end of the service they went around and had people share their joys and expectations. It was really interesting to hear the stories of the other people. There is one man who is paralyzed waist down and he was the caretaker for his wife who uses a wheelchair due to arthritis. He is very concerned about her and how they will function but he is joyful about the small successes he is having. I can't imagine if both of us were unable to care for each other. There is so much hope here and I know we are at the right place. Today while Ken was using the bathroom he was able to stand independently and he scooted his right leg over when transferring to the chair. I can't say whether the right leg moved on its own or whether hens figuring out how to compensate and use the strong part of his body to do what he needs to do. Either way it is a really good sign. He is very aware of the right side and spends some time looking at the right arm and leg. Hopefully his brain reconnects to them soon. I am preparing for my brother's wedding cruise next week. I am a little worried about being gone for a week but Ken assures me he wil be fine. I started letting the nurses and techs do more for him this weekend. Mostly so I could get used to the idea. Ken has no problem with them helping him. The break will probably be good for both of us. I will finally get to a beach! I have been trying all summer and haven't made it yet. Today is officially one month since the stroke. We have been through a lot in 31 days - strokes, earthquakes, hurricanes...wow. This can only happen once in a lifetime. Many good things are coming I am sure! Good night!