Nothing is Taboo

Today was game day, and we wore Mom out. Her morning was jam-packed with OT, PT, ST, more OT, more ST, and last PT. Over this 4 hour period, Mom completed an entire crossword puzzle, walked up stairs, did her hand eye coordination exercises, and then we all got to play TABOO! Oh, we had fun! How can you get someone to say the word Piano without using the words grande, ivory, keys, music or play.

Truly, mom made inspirational progress over the last two days. She is beginning to feel the beneficial effects of finding the right combination of medicine, a bleed that is shrinking and absorbing into her brain, and a real desire to get out of Herrick! Her dizziness is getting better each day. She has a target release date now (August 20) and has clear goals to achieve.

And that's where we need your help.

I think we are at the point where mom can use more visitors-both because she is up for the company, but also because her children need the help, too. Not more than one or two per day - because she still does get tired. BUT....The rule is that if you come, you have to play a game. Whatever game you choose is fine. If it involves cognitive thinking and fine motor skills, even better. They key here is to make Mom's brain work in lots of different ways. In this case it truly is a matter of practice makes perfect. We have a supply of cards, puzzles, and soduko on hand if you don't bring your own. The key here is to keep the brain active and relearning things that are not easy for mom to currently do (she won't be happy that I am giving away her secrets).

So if you want to visit with Mom, please contact angandalissa@gmail.com or kimbellg@gmail.com with your prefered day and time, and we'll schedule you as we can. We share a google calendar and can coordinate accordingly. Visits should not last longer than 45 minutes to an hour, but should ALWAYS include some brain teasing activity. Even if she says she doesn't want to. The best times to visit are at lunch time or after 2 pm. She always appreciates a relief from the food at Herrick, so meals are appreciated, though be aware that Mom is not eating much. (However effective this diet might be for Mom, I don't recommend it to anyone!)

I am so amazed at my Mom. Alissa and I watched her today in awe as she pushed herself, and we realized exactly where we got our sense of humor, as Mom cracked jokes through all her various therapies. And I can honestly say that this is when it really stinks to live in Texas, because I want nothing more right now than to watch the progress she makes each day, step by step, regaining the skills we all take for granted. And she will. The long term prognosis is very good. If you can survive this stroke, it really is the best stroke to have (no really, someone told us that today!).

Thanks to all for your continued postings and good thoughts. I know Mom feels loved and supported by all of you, and her children know that she has a strong support network and are grateful that we have been able to tap into it!

Gaylen