6 Months

This Friday marks 6 months from Kathy's stroke. It's hard to believe it's been that long. As slow as things have seemed, we are grateful for steady, foward movement despite a couple ups and downs. Things seem to be moving a little faster now.

The big news is Kathy had her first visit home last Friday. With a little help from the home's van, she was able to spend about three hours at home. It was really nice for her to see the house and yard and to spend time with her dog. And since it's been unseasonably warm we spent some time outside. Our family friend Diane also visited while we were there.

And we have big plans for another three hour visit home on Thanksgiving. My aunt and uncle, Bob and Marcia, will be visiting over Thanksgiving. We are ordering a pre-made meal from a local restaurant. I've never made a whole turkey and wouldn't mind attempting it but the time constraints make that impossible. We have a lot to be thankful for this year.

The therapists have moved Kathy on to the next step in physical therapy, practicing the actual act of standing up. The therapists put her chair between the parallel bars and assist her to stand using her own arm strength to pull herself up. She needs the assistance but is able to pull herself up to standing up 3 or 4 times a session. And although it's very difficult for her it's getting a little easier. She had an evaluation session today with the person who oversees the therapy. They were very pleased with how she's doing.

Her left arm strength is increasing and her endurance is coming along. Progress in her right hand is still frustratingly slow but it seems like there is a little more movement. It's going to take some time to see how much recovery is possible after the amount of swelling and tissue damage she had from the clot in her arm. She was discharged from the vascular surgeon's service. So at least there's one less doctor to see!

Hopefully next time I'll able to report first steps! I'll keep my fingers crossed. And, as always, Mom appreciates your cards and letters.