Day 103, 104, 105, & 106
I was pretty rattled after Glenn's home visit, I will admit that I couldn't really talk about it too much without shedding tears, but I had a visit with some supportive family and friends, went for a facial, and have decided to come to terms with the reality of the next few months. I also went back to start training at the store, so that will give me something else to focus on during the week.
Glenn, however, did very well after coming home. He was emotional when he first got here, but the kids really talked him around, and the rabbit for some reason, raced around under the chair, so we were distracted by that. We shouldn't have to do too much renovating to get Glenn around the house, but I do have to get the deck built and a lift installed. Glenn has voted for the lift, and I guess he will be able to operate it himself, a ramp will take a fair bit of power to get up, although they are going to try to get a power chair for him. This will be to provide him with better quality until he can walk. I don't know, we'll never be able to find him if he can motor around with that much ease. We'll see what happens on Thursday.
We were invited to have lunch with the Ag Expert crew, and enjoyed talking to and meeting the people Glenn has spent so much time with. They miss him of course, and I encouraged them to come for a visit, as Glenn is very happy to see them. They are very supportive of us, and Jackie has agreed to join the FCC team on a huge bicycle (I think I heard 10 people per bike, but someone also said 30) ride. They are raising money for the Heart and Stroke foundation, so Jackie will probably be looking for pledges. I'm not sure how that works, more in a few days.
Today was Conference day, and the Dr. was very pleased with the improvement Glenn has shown. We were last in conference on the 8th of May, so he really noticed a difference, and the charts also show improvement on many levels. He stressed that the leg stiffness will probably last the next year, but that there is steady improvement. He was interested in the computer ability Glenn has and was also going to keep updated on the use of the software. I asked him about the swelling in Glenn's right hand, and he said that it is normal, because circulation is aided by the movement of muscles, and since Glenn's hand isn't moving that much, it is swollen. He said the best hand splint is another hand, so we will hold and manipulate his hand a bit more(with instruction, of course)
All in all it has been a fairly busy and stressful weekend. It was a huge hurdle to jump, but although we wobbled a bit, I think for the most part we are OK. Glenn needed the assurance of getting home, and the prospect of being able to come more is going to take him a long way. I think I needed the reality check of his limitations right now, and although I didn't like it, I know that he will get better, and a lot of this is necessary for his safety. He wants and needs his independence back, so we will work toward that goal.
I have rambled on a bit tonight, but there was a lot going on, and it was time to get it out. Thanks for caring, and reading this journal of mine, I do try to keep it fairly informative, so bear with me if it gets a bit mushy once in a while!
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Saturday, May 26, 2007
May 24 & 25
Day 101 & 102
The past few days have been full. On Thursday, I went to conference with the speech path team about computer programs to aid speech. Glenn was right in there, and impressed the ladies with his knowledge and ability to type. He was given some demo programs, and they asked him for feed back. He is to use them and critique them, they are excited that such a knowledgeable person will use these programs and be able to give them feedback. Our regular OT was also there and stressed to us that we be sure that the program actually be "fast enough" for Glenn, seeing how he knows so much and is now beginning to speak. They were very aware of that, and wanted feedback anyway, as this is a perfect opportunity for them to know what would be more helpful to people.
Yesterday was a hard, emotional and necessary day for Glenn and the rest of us. The therapists brought Glenn to the farm, and we brought him into the house. Needless to say, he was emotional, I couldn't talk to him for a little bit, and let the kids handle the process of lifting him up on to the deck and into the house. We toured the house, after sitting at the table for a while, and settled down. The therapists were measuring and observing what we will need to do to make the house accessible to Glenn at this time. Nothing that can't be done fairly easily, although we may have to move the computer out of the small bedroom. The bathroom door will have to be enlarged, and it would be better if we could do the bedroom door too, but we'll start with the front deck and access lift or ramp.
When it was time for them to go, Jackie's comment was that it was wrong for Dad to be leaving again. He did look sad, but knew he had to go. I think I can't say anything more about that.
We had a wiener roast for supper, as Jackie and I had cut back most of the jungle around the yard. It is good grass weather, and we'll be at it again in a few days, but it was OK to be doing that kind of job the rest of the afternoon. I'm going in to see Glenn this afternoon, so we'll see how he feels now that the visit is over, I'm sure he has ideas about what he heard.
'Til next time,
Louise
The past few days have been full. On Thursday, I went to conference with the speech path team about computer programs to aid speech. Glenn was right in there, and impressed the ladies with his knowledge and ability to type. He was given some demo programs, and they asked him for feed back. He is to use them and critique them, they are excited that such a knowledgeable person will use these programs and be able to give them feedback. Our regular OT was also there and stressed to us that we be sure that the program actually be "fast enough" for Glenn, seeing how he knows so much and is now beginning to speak. They were very aware of that, and wanted feedback anyway, as this is a perfect opportunity for them to know what would be more helpful to people.
Yesterday was a hard, emotional and necessary day for Glenn and the rest of us. The therapists brought Glenn to the farm, and we brought him into the house. Needless to say, he was emotional, I couldn't talk to him for a little bit, and let the kids handle the process of lifting him up on to the deck and into the house. We toured the house, after sitting at the table for a while, and settled down. The therapists were measuring and observing what we will need to do to make the house accessible to Glenn at this time. Nothing that can't be done fairly easily, although we may have to move the computer out of the small bedroom. The bathroom door will have to be enlarged, and it would be better if we could do the bedroom door too, but we'll start with the front deck and access lift or ramp.
When it was time for them to go, Jackie's comment was that it was wrong for Dad to be leaving again. He did look sad, but knew he had to go. I think I can't say anything more about that.
We had a wiener roast for supper, as Jackie and I had cut back most of the jungle around the yard. It is good grass weather, and we'll be at it again in a few days, but it was OK to be doing that kind of job the rest of the afternoon. I'm going in to see Glenn this afternoon, so we'll see how he feels now that the visit is over, I'm sure he has ideas about what he heard.
'Til next time,
Louise
Thursday, May 24, 2007
May 22 & 23
Day 99 & 100
Holy smoke, that one went by me. 100 days ago life changed for the Mitchell crew, and has affected a fair circle of people along the way. It has been difficult, scary, and not a little frustrating, but we are not sinking.
Glenn likes to talk in phrases, so word by word we figure out what he's saying. I still need the board, but when I know what he's trying to say, it is there, just a bit slurred. He responds verbally more readily too, so it is coming back to him.
We are going to have a home visit tomorrow. It will be very emotional for all of us, so we will try to keep it as low key as possible. This is an assessment of our house, to see how easily Glenn could maneuver etc. We also need the input as to access, so it will be very informative. I'll find out more today, but I think the scheduling has been done.
In OT on Wednesday, Glenn was working on rolling himself over, and was pretty close to getting there. That's the first time I've seen him do that on his own, so there is definitely improvement there. I've been asked by a few people if he can walk yet, and the short answer is no. In therapy with support from a few people, he takes steps, but his balance and strength is only good for sitting up on his own, and he needs help to do that. He is still pretty helpless in many ways, but when you think how far he has come, he's doing very well. I have to keep reminding myself that it all takes time. The earliest we can expect would be the 6 month mark, as the healing will take that long at least, and more likely will take the next few years. Yes years, but it will get better and is getting better. I think everyone wants to be reassured, and I do too, that we will have Glenn back soon, but it will take more time, so be patient, and keep up your support of us, we are in this for the long haul.
Thanks for your comments and it is always good to have visitors.
'Til next time,
Louise
Holy smoke, that one went by me. 100 days ago life changed for the Mitchell crew, and has affected a fair circle of people along the way. It has been difficult, scary, and not a little frustrating, but we are not sinking.
Glenn likes to talk in phrases, so word by word we figure out what he's saying. I still need the board, but when I know what he's trying to say, it is there, just a bit slurred. He responds verbally more readily too, so it is coming back to him.
We are going to have a home visit tomorrow. It will be very emotional for all of us, so we will try to keep it as low key as possible. This is an assessment of our house, to see how easily Glenn could maneuver etc. We also need the input as to access, so it will be very informative. I'll find out more today, but I think the scheduling has been done.
In OT on Wednesday, Glenn was working on rolling himself over, and was pretty close to getting there. That's the first time I've seen him do that on his own, so there is definitely improvement there. I've been asked by a few people if he can walk yet, and the short answer is no. In therapy with support from a few people, he takes steps, but his balance and strength is only good for sitting up on his own, and he needs help to do that. He is still pretty helpless in many ways, but when you think how far he has come, he's doing very well. I have to keep reminding myself that it all takes time. The earliest we can expect would be the 6 month mark, as the healing will take that long at least, and more likely will take the next few years. Yes years, but it will get better and is getting better. I think everyone wants to be reassured, and I do too, that we will have Glenn back soon, but it will take more time, so be patient, and keep up your support of us, we are in this for the long haul.
Thanks for your comments and it is always good to have visitors.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
May 20 & 21
Day 97 & 98
Progress, progress, Glenn progresses steadily. We practice his words everyday, and he tries more and more to say it before he resorts to the letter board. Jackie says it is like teaching a toddler, but faster! He had a good holiday weekend, a fair bit of company on Sunday, but not too many yesterday. That's OK, because he is gaining control of different things, and it is good not to be distracted too much. The nurses are really good with him, and when he can speak fully, it will be interesting to hear the conversations, because they are interesting already, and he's just starting to talk.
There's really not much more to say, my yard hasn't burned up, the weather has been wet, and a little cool, and we are carrying on, upward and onward.
'Til next time,
Louise
Progress, progress, Glenn progresses steadily. We practice his words everyday, and he tries more and more to say it before he resorts to the letter board. Jackie says it is like teaching a toddler, but faster! He had a good holiday weekend, a fair bit of company on Sunday, but not too many yesterday. That's OK, because he is gaining control of different things, and it is good not to be distracted too much. The nurses are really good with him, and when he can speak fully, it will be interesting to hear the conversations, because they are interesting already, and he's just starting to talk.
There's really not much more to say, my yard hasn't burned up, the weather has been wet, and a little cool, and we are carrying on, upward and onward.
'Til next time,
Louise
Sunday, May 20, 2007
May 18 & 19
Day 95 & 96
I stayed home on the 18th as I had the flu or something. I was definitely under the weather, which explained a few things that were going onThursday. It seems to have straightened out, but I sure didn't want to spread it around in Wascana. It's probably a good thing, because a fire that had been in the garbage hole was fanned by the wind on Friday and sure enough it was in flames again. The problem was the direction of the wind, so I watched it and threw a bunch on dirt on it to smother it somewhat. I don't think the rain will have put it out either, so we'll have to dump a tank of water on it if it continues to smolder.
Jackie, Dale and Colin all visited with Glenn that day and he told me that he had other company too, so he wasn't alone. He did miss me though, and was glad to see me again on Saturday. He had been having spasms again on Friday, so sure enough, he could move his right leg with more control. He has a list of words to practice too. He tries harder to say things before he resorts to the letter board, so we are getting used to how he is saying things. His tongue is more in control, although it still goes out the right side more than the centre. He can move it from side to side now, so that is coming along now too.
The botox is definitely affecting the tension in his arm. It can be straightened almost entirely, and while it still hurts to uncurl his fingers, when they are uncurled, they will rest on an object without trying to curl back up. His index finger is extended more often than not, and although he can't make them move yet, I feel more optimistic that will happen.
Nice weather for the long weekend, but my sister in up north sent pictures of her newly snow covered lawn, and said it was -8 overnight on Saturday, so it could be worse!
'Til next time,
Louise
I stayed home on the 18th as I had the flu or something. I was definitely under the weather, which explained a few things that were going onThursday. It seems to have straightened out, but I sure didn't want to spread it around in Wascana. It's probably a good thing, because a fire that had been in the garbage hole was fanned by the wind on Friday and sure enough it was in flames again. The problem was the direction of the wind, so I watched it and threw a bunch on dirt on it to smother it somewhat. I don't think the rain will have put it out either, so we'll have to dump a tank of water on it if it continues to smolder.
Jackie, Dale and Colin all visited with Glenn that day and he told me that he had other company too, so he wasn't alone. He did miss me though, and was glad to see me again on Saturday. He had been having spasms again on Friday, so sure enough, he could move his right leg with more control. He has a list of words to practice too. He tries harder to say things before he resorts to the letter board, so we are getting used to how he is saying things. His tongue is more in control, although it still goes out the right side more than the centre. He can move it from side to side now, so that is coming along now too.
The botox is definitely affecting the tension in his arm. It can be straightened almost entirely, and while it still hurts to uncurl his fingers, when they are uncurled, they will rest on an object without trying to curl back up. His index finger is extended more often than not, and although he can't make them move yet, I feel more optimistic that will happen.
Nice weather for the long weekend, but my sister in up north sent pictures of her newly snow covered lawn, and said it was -8 overnight on Saturday, so it could be worse!
'Til next time,
Louise
Thursday, May 17, 2007
May 15,16 & 17
Day 92, 93, & 94
Three months and counting. It was really hot here today. The tractors are rolling, and some are getting close to done. I took a trip around to see what is going on in the country side, and it looks to be more than half done. The rain sure made everything green and clean.
Glenn's right arm is straightening out more all the time, and it doesn't hurt as much to straighten his fingers on the right hand. I've seen those fingers quiver, and that hasn't happened in a while. His right leg is shaking and twitching more all the time too. The nurses and therapists stand him more, and he is getting more steady. He can sit up for quite a while without too much wobbling, and is more straight as he sits. He was quite hunched over, but now can hold himself quite upright. So much to do over, and it is so touching to see the progress. He doesn't measure the successes like I do, he is too busy. But I'm relishing each new retrieval, and continue to pray for more. He is working hard at speech, and although they decided to keep the feed tube for a bit longer, his swallow is improving, and the pathologist is pretty sure that he will recover his speech. Time is the answer.
We are considering access to our house. I was ready to call in the troops, but decided to gather as much information as possible before choosing a ramp over a lift. There are many factors, permits to be acquired, and designs to be considered. I will need more input from professionals, so that it will be done correctly. A lift could be resold, but a ramp would be pretty permanent. As time goes on, Glenn's needs will also change, so there should be no rush.
As you have probably noticed, I haven't been posting everyday, the urgency has eased somewhat, and we are into the slugging stage. Sheer determination is also the name of the game. Keeping up Glenn's spirits hasn't been hard, but it is still something I worry about. He was very quiet today, and I asked him why. He just shrugged, no reason, and I guess everyone has a quiet day once in a while. He perked up after his afternoon rest, so fatigue plays a pretty big role in all of this. I also pray that he rests well at night, because the brain heals itself while you sleep. I guess his brain is fine, but it is working overtime to get past the injury in his brain stem. I'm more hopeful of a good recovery all the time.
'Til next time,
Louise
Three months and counting. It was really hot here today. The tractors are rolling, and some are getting close to done. I took a trip around to see what is going on in the country side, and it looks to be more than half done. The rain sure made everything green and clean.
Glenn's right arm is straightening out more all the time, and it doesn't hurt as much to straighten his fingers on the right hand. I've seen those fingers quiver, and that hasn't happened in a while. His right leg is shaking and twitching more all the time too. The nurses and therapists stand him more, and he is getting more steady. He can sit up for quite a while without too much wobbling, and is more straight as he sits. He was quite hunched over, but now can hold himself quite upright. So much to do over, and it is so touching to see the progress. He doesn't measure the successes like I do, he is too busy. But I'm relishing each new retrieval, and continue to pray for more. He is working hard at speech, and although they decided to keep the feed tube for a bit longer, his swallow is improving, and the pathologist is pretty sure that he will recover his speech. Time is the answer.
We are considering access to our house. I was ready to call in the troops, but decided to gather as much information as possible before choosing a ramp over a lift. There are many factors, permits to be acquired, and designs to be considered. I will need more input from professionals, so that it will be done correctly. A lift could be resold, but a ramp would be pretty permanent. As time goes on, Glenn's needs will also change, so there should be no rush.
As you have probably noticed, I haven't been posting everyday, the urgency has eased somewhat, and we are into the slugging stage. Sheer determination is also the name of the game. Keeping up Glenn's spirits hasn't been hard, but it is still something I worry about. He was very quiet today, and I asked him why. He just shrugged, no reason, and I guess everyone has a quiet day once in a while. He perked up after his afternoon rest, so fatigue plays a pretty big role in all of this. I also pray that he rests well at night, because the brain heals itself while you sleep. I guess his brain is fine, but it is working overtime to get past the injury in his brain stem. I'm more hopeful of a good recovery all the time.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
May 12, 13 & 14
Day 89, 90 & 91
The botox seems to be helping to relax Glenn's arm. I missed the therapy session yesterday, we went shopping for groceries, so I won't really know anything until Wednesday afternoon. He seems to be in good spirits, and doesn't break up when people visit. He has always been a people person, so the company is good for him now. His speech continues to improve daily, although you really have to listen, and most times he has to spell out what he is saying, but he is trying, and it is getting better.
There's lots of activity in the fields, and the rain was welcomed by all. We received just short of an inch, so the grass needs cutting again. Thanks for reading and caring about us, we are doing well all things considered.
'Til next time,
Louise
The botox seems to be helping to relax Glenn's arm. I missed the therapy session yesterday, we went shopping for groceries, so I won't really know anything until Wednesday afternoon. He seems to be in good spirits, and doesn't break up when people visit. He has always been a people person, so the company is good for him now. His speech continues to improve daily, although you really have to listen, and most times he has to spell out what he is saying, but he is trying, and it is getting better.
There's lots of activity in the fields, and the rain was welcomed by all. We received just short of an inch, so the grass needs cutting again. Thanks for reading and caring about us, we are doing well all things considered.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, May 12, 2007
May 10 & 11
Day 87 & 88
May is here and I'm listening to a neighbour planting in the field south of my house. I'm definitely in a different world, someone asked me if our fields had been sewn and I have no idea! I guess I should go for a drive and see what is happening around here, but I'm sure everything is well in hand. When I think of it, I can't believe I'm that oblivious to seeding time. I would have thought that years of farming would have been hard to overcome. I guess it is. This has truly been life changing. I never really understood how deep that statement can run until now.
I'm a bit mushy this morning, I opened my email and had received a Mother's day message from a person in Ontario who has worked with Glenn. I want to thank him, my role in this is unconditional, but I didn't really think of it so explicitly. I would do nothing else.
OK, yesterday, May 11, Glenn received his botox injections. He assured me that it didn't hurt, and I could find no signs of the needles. He told me they put 4 into his biceps, and 2 into his forearm (sorry I can't remember the name of that specific muscle) . They concentrated on making his elbow more flexible, thinking that the rest will work out through therapy. Over the weekend we are to gently keep stretching his arm and the botox will do what it is supposed to do. This is a fairly new procedure, so no, Glenn will not be wrinkle free at the end of this, but he may have a beautiful arm!
I went to the art show last night with a friend, and really enjoyed it. It is so handy, and although I had seen one of the guilds shows before, there was lots of new work on display. A school friend of Jackie's was showing some work, and I was really impressed with it. She is more Impressionist, so it is nice to see among the other landscapes. There are also a few tables of pottery and jewelry for sale there, so there's really quite a nice variety of work. Glenn went through it once, but didn't seem to be interested in going again. I can't think why!
Glenn's speech improves daily, and the nurses are on board, getting him to try to say things as they work with him. They are pretty entertaining for the most part. They transfer him by making him stand and pivot, and lots of times they have him stand to care for him in the bathroom. The more he stands, the more he breaks through the tone in his right leg. His ankle is stiff, so they have put a bigger pedal on his wheel chair in an effort to flex it more. They didn't administer botox there, so I'm thinking the therapists are fairly confident that it will come on its own. We go for conference again on May 29th, so that will be interesting to see what progress will be made.
I'm thinking of an access ramp to the house, but it will take some planning and after the home assessment, I'll have a better idea what will be the best way to go. A lift was also suggested, as they are easily sold after the need for them is gone, but we were thinking of building a ramp for Glenn's mom to have access, so I'll admit I'm leaning that way. I'll keep you posted, and perhaps we can have a work day to construct it. I've been filling out forms, and gees I hate that job. Oh well, the wheels of beaurocracy must be greased, so I'll persevere there too.
Happy Mother's Day all!
'Til next time,
Louise
May is here and I'm listening to a neighbour planting in the field south of my house. I'm definitely in a different world, someone asked me if our fields had been sewn and I have no idea! I guess I should go for a drive and see what is happening around here, but I'm sure everything is well in hand. When I think of it, I can't believe I'm that oblivious to seeding time. I would have thought that years of farming would have been hard to overcome. I guess it is. This has truly been life changing. I never really understood how deep that statement can run until now.
I'm a bit mushy this morning, I opened my email and had received a Mother's day message from a person in Ontario who has worked with Glenn. I want to thank him, my role in this is unconditional, but I didn't really think of it so explicitly. I would do nothing else.
OK, yesterday, May 11, Glenn received his botox injections. He assured me that it didn't hurt, and I could find no signs of the needles. He told me they put 4 into his biceps, and 2 into his forearm (sorry I can't remember the name of that specific muscle) . They concentrated on making his elbow more flexible, thinking that the rest will work out through therapy. Over the weekend we are to gently keep stretching his arm and the botox will do what it is supposed to do. This is a fairly new procedure, so no, Glenn will not be wrinkle free at the end of this, but he may have a beautiful arm!
I went to the art show last night with a friend, and really enjoyed it. It is so handy, and although I had seen one of the guilds shows before, there was lots of new work on display. A school friend of Jackie's was showing some work, and I was really impressed with it. She is more Impressionist, so it is nice to see among the other landscapes. There are also a few tables of pottery and jewelry for sale there, so there's really quite a nice variety of work. Glenn went through it once, but didn't seem to be interested in going again. I can't think why!
Glenn's speech improves daily, and the nurses are on board, getting him to try to say things as they work with him. They are pretty entertaining for the most part. They transfer him by making him stand and pivot, and lots of times they have him stand to care for him in the bathroom. The more he stands, the more he breaks through the tone in his right leg. His ankle is stiff, so they have put a bigger pedal on his wheel chair in an effort to flex it more. They didn't administer botox there, so I'm thinking the therapists are fairly confident that it will come on its own. We go for conference again on May 29th, so that will be interesting to see what progress will be made.
I'm thinking of an access ramp to the house, but it will take some planning and after the home assessment, I'll have a better idea what will be the best way to go. A lift was also suggested, as they are easily sold after the need for them is gone, but we were thinking of building a ramp for Glenn's mom to have access, so I'll admit I'm leaning that way. I'll keep you posted, and perhaps we can have a work day to construct it. I've been filling out forms, and gees I hate that job. Oh well, the wheels of beaurocracy must be greased, so I'll persevere there too.
Happy Mother's Day all!
'Til next time,
Louise
Thursday, May 10, 2007
May 8 & 9
Day 85 & 86
Just a correction, the Art show at the Rehab centre is Thursday, Friday and Saturday. They were setting up last night, so I had a quick view. I'll try to take Glenn through today if he is in the mood for something different.
I was in the OT room with Glenn yesterday, and watched him sitting on his own for quite a while. Last week he was still in need of assistance, so Wow! when did that happen? They want to bring him home to do an assessment on the house, and how access will need to be done for him. The projected date is around the May long weekend, so I'm pretty excited about that.
We had a fair bit of company yesterday. Chris brought Glenn's mom up to visit, and some people from work came too. Sitting is becoming easier for longer periods for Glenn, and he spells like mad with his board. He is also trying to say more words all the time. I'm going to get better at that too, and hopefully his speech will come along as quickly as other things have done.
May is full of family birthdays, so best wishes this week to Darcy and Curtis, (both on the 9th). I missed Patricia last week, sorry about that, and of course Wendy and Darren (both on the 15th) are coming up. Glenn's mom also has a birthday on the 16th, so Hallmark, here I come!
By the way, Happy Mother's Day, I hope you have a nice outing or call from your families.
'Til next time
Louise
P. S. I'm not smirking! LIM
Just a correction, the Art show at the Rehab centre is Thursday, Friday and Saturday. They were setting up last night, so I had a quick view. I'll try to take Glenn through today if he is in the mood for something different.
I was in the OT room with Glenn yesterday, and watched him sitting on his own for quite a while. Last week he was still in need of assistance, so Wow! when did that happen? They want to bring him home to do an assessment on the house, and how access will need to be done for him. The projected date is around the May long weekend, so I'm pretty excited about that.
We had a fair bit of company yesterday. Chris brought Glenn's mom up to visit, and some people from work came too. Sitting is becoming easier for longer periods for Glenn, and he spells like mad with his board. He is also trying to say more words all the time. I'm going to get better at that too, and hopefully his speech will come along as quickly as other things have done.
May is full of family birthdays, so best wishes this week to Darcy and Curtis, (both on the 9th). I missed Patricia last week, sorry about that, and of course Wendy and Darren (both on the 15th) are coming up. Glenn's mom also has a birthday on the 16th, so Hallmark, here I come!
By the way, Happy Mother's Day, I hope you have a nice outing or call from your families.
'Til next time
Louise
P. S. I'm not smirking! LIM
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
May 6 & 7
Day 83 & 84
This year is going to be one for the records for highs and lows. The telephone is getting to be a bit scary to answer, and my family is reeling from news and events that are coming our way. Still, life is to be lived to the fullest, so we intend to go ahead with a celebration in July, and hopefully it will be extra happy for the Mitchells.
I say that because the OT was discussing bringing Glenn home to visit and assess the house and other facilities to see how we could manage. We'll get a ramp put up, that was in the plan to help Glenn's mom, so now it will become a bit more of a priority. It will take a bit of co-ordinating of Glenn's timetable to do this, so I don't expect it to happen this week or even next, but soon after that. We of course we're excited to think that he could "get away" for a while. It just gets you thinking that he will be coming home soon. I hope so and pray every day for the healing and recovery be steady.
Glenn himself just cried as we discussed this, he can't control that aspect of his emotional response yet, but remember that it is part of the injury, and usually he is OK, just not able to hold in responses. We went for Speech, and they are going to have him assessed for speech assisting software, which he worried about becoming habit forming. The pathologist assured him that he would always be working on speaking, this would be an aid until he could get along without it. She said he may never actually need it, but the system is jammed, so she wanted his name on the list now in an effort to cover all bases. Of course Glenn told her that Macs are already capable of some of the things she was talking about! He knows lots of stuff, and it amazes me to see him still able to bring it to light, so to speak.
He will probably have his Botox injections on Friday this week. They say it takes a few days for the effect to kick in, so by Monday he should have more flexibility in his arm. I hope that the messages will start to come through then, I know Glenn is afraid that his right side won't work anymore. A sign of recovery there will be cause for more jubilation. He does more for himself all the time, he shaves and brushes his teeth, I help to finish around the edges, and moves himself around the chair to relieve the pressure. We're down to one man transfer in the therapy rooms, although the nurses still do two. There are probably regulations for that. I took him outside for a walk around the park, and it was nice and peaceful. The wind didn't even bother us too bad, so that was a good break. I told him I had a tick earlier in the day, and he wanted to do a tick check! Ha, I told him not 'til we get home.
Today we go for a conference, so we will get an update on how he is doing, and what the therapists feel is needing work. It won't be as intimidating, as we have gone through one before, and we know the people a bit better this time around. Still, one does feel to be under a microscope!
That's all for now, there continues to be visible progress, and I should say now that he is enjoying visitors, so please come if you would like to. I haven't really sent out an open invitation in case we were overwhelmed, but I think we could handle a bit more now. He is on the third floor in Wascana, just ask for directions at the front desk. P.S. there is an Art and Craft Show and Sale being held in the lobby on Friday, Saturday and Sunday if you would like to have a bit of an outing too.
'Til next time
Louise
This year is going to be one for the records for highs and lows. The telephone is getting to be a bit scary to answer, and my family is reeling from news and events that are coming our way. Still, life is to be lived to the fullest, so we intend to go ahead with a celebration in July, and hopefully it will be extra happy for the Mitchells.
I say that because the OT was discussing bringing Glenn home to visit and assess the house and other facilities to see how we could manage. We'll get a ramp put up, that was in the plan to help Glenn's mom, so now it will become a bit more of a priority. It will take a bit of co-ordinating of Glenn's timetable to do this, so I don't expect it to happen this week or even next, but soon after that. We of course we're excited to think that he could "get away" for a while. It just gets you thinking that he will be coming home soon. I hope so and pray every day for the healing and recovery be steady.
Glenn himself just cried as we discussed this, he can't control that aspect of his emotional response yet, but remember that it is part of the injury, and usually he is OK, just not able to hold in responses. We went for Speech, and they are going to have him assessed for speech assisting software, which he worried about becoming habit forming. The pathologist assured him that he would always be working on speaking, this would be an aid until he could get along without it. She said he may never actually need it, but the system is jammed, so she wanted his name on the list now in an effort to cover all bases. Of course Glenn told her that Macs are already capable of some of the things she was talking about! He knows lots of stuff, and it amazes me to see him still able to bring it to light, so to speak.
He will probably have his Botox injections on Friday this week. They say it takes a few days for the effect to kick in, so by Monday he should have more flexibility in his arm. I hope that the messages will start to come through then, I know Glenn is afraid that his right side won't work anymore. A sign of recovery there will be cause for more jubilation. He does more for himself all the time, he shaves and brushes his teeth, I help to finish around the edges, and moves himself around the chair to relieve the pressure. We're down to one man transfer in the therapy rooms, although the nurses still do two. There are probably regulations for that. I took him outside for a walk around the park, and it was nice and peaceful. The wind didn't even bother us too bad, so that was a good break. I told him I had a tick earlier in the day, and he wanted to do a tick check! Ha, I told him not 'til we get home.
Today we go for a conference, so we will get an update on how he is doing, and what the therapists feel is needing work. It won't be as intimidating, as we have gone through one before, and we know the people a bit better this time around. Still, one does feel to be under a microscope!
That's all for now, there continues to be visible progress, and I should say now that he is enjoying visitors, so please come if you would like to. I haven't really sent out an open invitation in case we were overwhelmed, but I think we could handle a bit more now. He is on the third floor in Wascana, just ask for directions at the front desk. P.S. there is an Art and Craft Show and Sale being held in the lobby on Friday, Saturday and Sunday if you would like to have a bit of an outing too.
'Til next time
Louise
Sunday, May 6, 2007
May 4 & 5
Day 81 & 82
My surprise Friday night was a show at Applause dinner theatre. It was a Sask. grown show, and was really funny. The meal was good too, but the booths are hard to sit in for too many hours. Next time I'll try to get a table with a chair to sit on.
The past 2 days have been quiet , without too many visitors. It's been time for rest and reflection, and a few tears of course. I went to church this morning, (the 6th) and was telling people that I find being with Glenn through this journey is incredibly humbling for me. He plows through the obstacles and trials with a strength I can only marvel at. I don't know why he isn't crying all the time, but usually he is laughing with the nurses, and us as we visit and help him with day to day tasks. His bodily functions are coming back into his command, but he finds that having no control at this time is hard to bear. It will come, but I think it is very embarrassing at times. Again, I can only watch with a great deal of admiration for him as he deals with this situation.
Saturday was a beautiful day, and I took Glenn outside for a while. The park has turned green, so we strolled along the sidewalks, and watched the world go by for a while. That evening he was having cramps, and although he was sweating by the time they eased up, he didn't complain. He was much more comfortable after he laid down, so I hope he had a good sleep. There was nothing that could have been done except for some pain killers, and he didn't want that. I washed his arms and back for him, then got the nurses to settle him into bed. He looked as if the cramping had eased, so I left for home. I'll see now how he did through the night. We probably won't go out today, as it rained a fair bit, and is pretty cool, but he did get fresh air yesterday, so today he can just chill.
'Til next time,
Louise
My surprise Friday night was a show at Applause dinner theatre. It was a Sask. grown show, and was really funny. The meal was good too, but the booths are hard to sit in for too many hours. Next time I'll try to get a table with a chair to sit on.
The past 2 days have been quiet , without too many visitors. It's been time for rest and reflection, and a few tears of course. I went to church this morning, (the 6th) and was telling people that I find being with Glenn through this journey is incredibly humbling for me. He plows through the obstacles and trials with a strength I can only marvel at. I don't know why he isn't crying all the time, but usually he is laughing with the nurses, and us as we visit and help him with day to day tasks. His bodily functions are coming back into his command, but he finds that having no control at this time is hard to bear. It will come, but I think it is very embarrassing at times. Again, I can only watch with a great deal of admiration for him as he deals with this situation.
Saturday was a beautiful day, and I took Glenn outside for a while. The park has turned green, so we strolled along the sidewalks, and watched the world go by for a while. That evening he was having cramps, and although he was sweating by the time they eased up, he didn't complain. He was much more comfortable after he laid down, so I hope he had a good sleep. There was nothing that could have been done except for some pain killers, and he didn't want that. I washed his arms and back for him, then got the nurses to settle him into bed. He looked as if the cramping had eased, so I left for home. I'll see now how he did through the night. We probably won't go out today, as it rained a fair bit, and is pretty cool, but he did get fresh air yesterday, so today he can just chill.
'Til next time,
Louise
Friday, May 4, 2007
May 2 & 3
Day 79 & 80
"Oh the weather outside is frightful..." That says it all. I can't tell you how many times I checked my tires to see if I have flats, the wind has been terrible to drive in. We got a bit of rain to settle the dust for a while, but it didn't last too long.
I have my own PC back. Colin brought it back and hooked it up on Wednesday sometime. I can get my email, and the addresses are there, so I'm forwarding some things that have been on hold for a while. My mailbox should be cleaned out, too, so I'm back online.
Glenn has been in good humour the last few days. I guess they gave him some sleeping pills, but the key to recovery is sleep, so I can't complain. He isn't groggy or hungover, so they have the dosage figured pretty well. He does have quite a list of medicines. We were also told that the botox clinic will be held next week, so that will probably mean Glenn will get his injections then. His arm won't be limp, it will just loosen those big muscles enough to enable the therapists to straighten his arm and start extending his range of motion in it. Hopefully once the botox is gone, his arm will be moving properly on its own.
We haven't had too many visitors, as most people are on the land. We've enjoyed a bit of alone time, and I'm happy to say that his humour is totally intact. It's amazing to me. He can handle the computer better, so we have been writing notes to each other like a couple of kids. It makes the nurses nervous when we laugh about something they haven't heard or seen us do. That's OK, they don't need to know everything.
Jackie has been sick again with a nasty cold. She just can't seem to shake it, but spring air will help out. We are supposed to ship out the peas, but the weather and equipment is making us work out a few bugs. The weekend sounds better, so maybe I can get some boys with a little more know-how help get some vehicle moving around here. If not, Jackie and I will keep working on the tractors. The lawnmower is buried under the combine pickup, behind the big tractor. Man, guess who put it there? I keep telling myself that perseverance builds character... I'm getting to be quite a character!
My sisters seem a little touchy about my birthday wishes for them. I was just being a good sister and remembering their special days are coming up too! Really, I wish them both many happy returns of their respective days. Where have the years gone? Too many camping trips I guess.
Glenn has a full day of therapy today, and Dale and his girl have something planned for me this evening, so I guess I better get started on the day.
'Til next time,
Louise
"Oh the weather outside is frightful..." That says it all. I can't tell you how many times I checked my tires to see if I have flats, the wind has been terrible to drive in. We got a bit of rain to settle the dust for a while, but it didn't last too long.
I have my own PC back. Colin brought it back and hooked it up on Wednesday sometime. I can get my email, and the addresses are there, so I'm forwarding some things that have been on hold for a while. My mailbox should be cleaned out, too, so I'm back online.
Glenn has been in good humour the last few days. I guess they gave him some sleeping pills, but the key to recovery is sleep, so I can't complain. He isn't groggy or hungover, so they have the dosage figured pretty well. He does have quite a list of medicines. We were also told that the botox clinic will be held next week, so that will probably mean Glenn will get his injections then. His arm won't be limp, it will just loosen those big muscles enough to enable the therapists to straighten his arm and start extending his range of motion in it. Hopefully once the botox is gone, his arm will be moving properly on its own.
We haven't had too many visitors, as most people are on the land. We've enjoyed a bit of alone time, and I'm happy to say that his humour is totally intact. It's amazing to me. He can handle the computer better, so we have been writing notes to each other like a couple of kids. It makes the nurses nervous when we laugh about something they haven't heard or seen us do. That's OK, they don't need to know everything.
Jackie has been sick again with a nasty cold. She just can't seem to shake it, but spring air will help out. We are supposed to ship out the peas, but the weather and equipment is making us work out a few bugs. The weekend sounds better, so maybe I can get some boys with a little more know-how help get some vehicle moving around here. If not, Jackie and I will keep working on the tractors. The lawnmower is buried under the combine pickup, behind the big tractor. Man, guess who put it there? I keep telling myself that perseverance builds character... I'm getting to be quite a character!
My sisters seem a little touchy about my birthday wishes for them. I was just being a good sister and remembering their special days are coming up too! Really, I wish them both many happy returns of their respective days. Where have the years gone? Too many camping trips I guess.
Glenn has a full day of therapy today, and Dale and his girl have something planned for me this evening, so I guess I better get started on the day.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
May 1, 2007
Day 78
The trees around home really have turned green the past few days. It is such a positive sign of spring. I've got my bedroom window open and you can hear the frogs and ducks all night long. (Tells you that I don't sleep all through the night yet. I need to get more pysical I think!)
News about Glenn is still good. He is vocalising more all the time. Jackie checks out his ability to stick out his tongue pretty well daily, and he was able to push well past his front teeth today. He told us he had just come back from therapy, so that was why he could do so well. We encourage him to talk to eveyone who comes to visit, and he can ask for a new mouth cloth (he still drools a fair bit, although that improves daily also.) The training is tough going, but perseverence is the name of the game, and the nurses are trained to be that.
We waited for swallow assessment today, but it was conference day, so it didn't happen. It was really too bad, because it was so nice out I was going to take Glenn for a walk. Alas, we missed our chance, but perhaps tomorrow will be nice enough to go out. I think there was a bit of a mix up concerning what day it was today, so I'm not going to complain too much. One of the nurses was working with a fairly nasty toothache. It could have made for a short staffed day if she had called in sick. She took some Advil, and carried on. I admire the dedication. Most of the staff work 8 hour shifts, so it isn't quite as gruelling as 12.
People who haven't seen Glenn in a while are very impressed at how good he looks now. He has lost a fair bit of weight, but his face isn't too gaunt, and he has good colour to say he hasn't seen much of the great outdoors for 2 and a half months. His sense of humour continues to save him and us. He has another new room mate, and the old guy had gas. Everytime he passed some, Glenn started to giggle. Of course the fact that one was reminded of a horse helped somewhat. Anyway, he seems like a friendly person, so we'll just contain ourselves.
Jackie and I went to the doctor yesterday, so we fasted overnight to be able to do the lab tests this morning. We were both hungry, and Jackie almost didn't come with me, but I convinced her to come, otherwise she would have to fast some other day. They took our blood, and we did the cup thing, then devoured a couple of subs for lunch. We'll go back for complete physicals after the lab work is done. Jackie drove herself home to do some work around the yard, and I caught a ride home with Colin. Unfortunately, she came across a snake, so she didn't do all that she had planned, as she has her parents great loathing of the reptile kind. We will have to do something soon though, the grass is growing like crazy.
I have a sister who is going to be 55 on Friday, which I hasten to point out is much older that me. I hope you have a good day, Sis, and I plan on talking to you soon.
To all the farmer friends who read this blog, be careful out there, and think safety first. You are in one of the most dangerous professions, (as if you don't know that!) and things can happen so fast. Have a good and safe seeding season.
'Til next time
Louise
The trees around home really have turned green the past few days. It is such a positive sign of spring. I've got my bedroom window open and you can hear the frogs and ducks all night long. (Tells you that I don't sleep all through the night yet. I need to get more pysical I think!)
News about Glenn is still good. He is vocalising more all the time. Jackie checks out his ability to stick out his tongue pretty well daily, and he was able to push well past his front teeth today. He told us he had just come back from therapy, so that was why he could do so well. We encourage him to talk to eveyone who comes to visit, and he can ask for a new mouth cloth (he still drools a fair bit, although that improves daily also.) The training is tough going, but perseverence is the name of the game, and the nurses are trained to be that.
We waited for swallow assessment today, but it was conference day, so it didn't happen. It was really too bad, because it was so nice out I was going to take Glenn for a walk. Alas, we missed our chance, but perhaps tomorrow will be nice enough to go out. I think there was a bit of a mix up concerning what day it was today, so I'm not going to complain too much. One of the nurses was working with a fairly nasty toothache. It could have made for a short staffed day if she had called in sick. She took some Advil, and carried on. I admire the dedication. Most of the staff work 8 hour shifts, so it isn't quite as gruelling as 12.
People who haven't seen Glenn in a while are very impressed at how good he looks now. He has lost a fair bit of weight, but his face isn't too gaunt, and he has good colour to say he hasn't seen much of the great outdoors for 2 and a half months. His sense of humour continues to save him and us. He has another new room mate, and the old guy had gas. Everytime he passed some, Glenn started to giggle. Of course the fact that one was reminded of a horse helped somewhat. Anyway, he seems like a friendly person, so we'll just contain ourselves.
Jackie and I went to the doctor yesterday, so we fasted overnight to be able to do the lab tests this morning. We were both hungry, and Jackie almost didn't come with me, but I convinced her to come, otherwise she would have to fast some other day. They took our blood, and we did the cup thing, then devoured a couple of subs for lunch. We'll go back for complete physicals after the lab work is done. Jackie drove herself home to do some work around the yard, and I caught a ride home with Colin. Unfortunately, she came across a snake, so she didn't do all that she had planned, as she has her parents great loathing of the reptile kind. We will have to do something soon though, the grass is growing like crazy.
I have a sister who is going to be 55 on Friday, which I hasten to point out is much older that me. I hope you have a good day, Sis, and I plan on talking to you soon.
To all the farmer friends who read this blog, be careful out there, and think safety first. You are in one of the most dangerous professions, (as if you don't know that!) and things can happen so fast. Have a good and safe seeding season.
'Til next time
Louise
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