week 17 at home

I have found that being able to accompany Mike to Mt. Vernon Rehab through the week is such a blessing.  Not just the opportunity to watch as he reaches for information trapped below the surface of his wounded brain or to witness the energy he projects toward recovering physically.  It comes from being a part of where he was.  

Speech Therapy sessions are private but Occupational and Physical Therapies are held in or near the larger gym for patients on the 5th floor.  The 5th floor is for those that have suffered stroke and brain injury.   The larger gym is where we watched as Michael learned to navigate a wheelchair and eventually attempt to walk without support.  As I sit here today, in this place of healing I am reminded of the journey Michael has traveled thus far.  I see a young woman in a wheelchair standing with the help of her therapist while other therapists squeal with joy for her.  I remember that feeling.

I am reminded of the days of not so long ago when Michael’s body was still very weak from injury and a month of lying motionless in a coma, that he could not support his weight, could not lift his arms, and needed assistance for most things we do without needing to think about it .  I remember a phone call from a nurse saying that they found Michael lying on the floor between his bed and the window.  They didn’t know how long he had been there – they checked in about once an hour.  To trust Michael’s version it was a failed attempt to try to walk to the bathroom.  He didn’t realize, didn’t remember that his legs didn’t work. 

Being here where he struggled to put peppers in a basket, where he couldn’t figure out how to spit mouthwash, where he needed to be fed because his arms couldn’t stretch to his mouth – I am blessed to be a witness.  Each day a reminder. We have been blessed beyond what we ever dared hoped for. I give thanks to God, I give thanks to you.

Without your love, your prayers and support, Michael would not be where he is today.  I stand strong by his side each day with the love and support of friends and family (Bobby, Nathan, Sylvette, Emily, David and Mary) I could not do this without you.  One Love.

LIVESTRONG Michael.

xxoo