Monday, September 15, 2008

The Next Big Step--2 of them actually

We got transferred to TIRR today. Didn't get into a room until almost 6:00, and by that point I was so tired I couldn't see straight. We'll start tomorrow with evaluations by occupational, speech and physical therapists to see what they think he can do in terms of recovering use of the neglected side of his body. I have immense faith in the program and in Pete to work hard to get himself moving.

Of course, that's the secondary thing that happened today. The best part was him complaining of pain and tingling in his left arm. Yup, you read that right, the left arm was having pain and tingling. He said he noticed it when I was working his fingers, hand, arm and shoulder like the PT had told me to do. He also turned his head to me without me saying anything to him. While I was pulling his elbow in and out, he pulled it toward his body a bit. Later, when a nurse came in to draw blood, and decided to take out the IV line, she had to pull the taped dressing off his arm, taking off a good bit of hair with it. He was pulling on that arm, wincing and otherwise going crazy over it. I tried to explain to him what an accomplishment that is, he didn't seem to think so, but I think that's part of the neglect thing.

Because of his fall yesterday, I was very much unable to sit quietly during his OT session this afternoon. So, I went out into the waiting room for a good while to let them do their thing without me hovering and drawing in quick breaths of worry.

I was very emotional at this next phase in Pete's recovery. Three weeks have passed since I got "that" call from Monica that Pete was not himself and it seems like forever ago. How quickly and unexpectedly things change! I could tell Anna tonight that daddy's "boo boo head" was getting better.

9 comments:

Rozzie said...

Hooray for feeling in his left arm!! I'm glad Pete is on the road to recovery. Don't forget those exercises! Also, make sure no one pulls him up by his left arm, as shoulder subluxation is a common injury post CVA.

I'll be checking daily for updates, Pete is SOOO lucky to have a hot momma like you!

Linda said...

Happy Birthday to you!!! You did get wonderful presents.

The Nicks Family said...

What an amazing birthday present! I am in tears reading this. He has come such a long way and that is so awesome! Good luck tomorrow with all the evaluations! Love ya girl!

Ramona said...

I can't think of better presents! I'm so glad that things are coming around! He's doing an amazing job, so far! Keep it up Pete! We're all pulling for you!

Wheels and Lollipops said...

Now that's what I call a birthday present !

Anonymous said...

I'm in tears too! The very greatest gift he's able to give to you! I'm so excited he could feel the pain in his arm, that's an amazing step! You're the greatest wife in the whole world!!!!

Diana from Dallas said...

that is great news!!!

happy belated birthday.

Tricia said...

Yeah for pain and sensation!!! I am so happy to see him continuing to make progress! You have been so strong, you are my hero!!!

Marie said...

Ahh Kristy - I just read your entire blog, thank you for sharing all of this intimate time. I'm sure it is very therapeutic as well for you. You, Pete, Anna, and your families continue to be in my constant thoughts and prayers. I'm beyond happiness that Pete had his guardian angels watching over him and guided all of you to the right place to get him the treatment he needed. You are such a strong family, and I have no doubts that is why you are all doing so well!!!! Love you!