The Work Begins

Dad is still plugging away at therapy. In some ways it feels as if the work is just beginning because dad is finally able to follow instructions and respond to therapy. When I visited last night, he was in good spirits. He is really able to enjoy the company of visitors and his room mate now. He was telling me about his PT session and how hard it was - he didn't realize it was going to be so "tough to walk again". They had him up at the parallel bars with his wheelchair behind him because evidently he told them he could walk. He is finally realizing his abilities and "disabilities" that his stroke left him with. . . but he seemed more determined than ever to learn it all again. He asked me to go get him some cashews and a "orange slushy" at Sheetz last night - and he ate a piece of KFC chicken that I brought him and that was after eating a rib and some potatoes that mom had brought him so that tells you his appetite is back. He still only eats very small amounts of food, but he definitely has a "taste" for things that he's always liked again. Let's believe together that dad will have the strength and courage to really learn to walk and use his hand again - I feel like we are definitely headed in the right direction now - his blood pressure in stable, he has minor nausea issues, and his mind is definitely in the present now. Thanks for praying and supporting us - together we will help dad make it to the finish line!