Dad Stood on His Feet in Therapy Today!

Believe it or not....Dad actually stood up on his feet in physical therapy today! It was so good to see him sitting on the edge of the bed and actually standing for the first time since his assault almost a month ago.

He required the assistance of two therapists, but they said he did actually use his leg muscles to help when standing. He's been kicking his legs A LOT in bed, so it doesn't surprise me that he was able to use his legs in standing. The therapist said it really can make a huge difference in their progress once they start bearing weight through their legs because of all the other things that benefit from being in that position. So, it's great that they are able to start standing right away with Dad!

They showed me a special device they have that they can use with patients like Dad where they have a platform for his feet, support in front of his shins and a table to support his arms. Then, they put a support around his waist and the machine assists him to stand up. Over time, they gradually take away the supports so that he can learn to stand on his own again. They will evaluate him with it tomorrow. Very cool.

I really like his therapists. His P.T. is Bernadette (Bernie) and his P.T.A. is Donna. Bernie is young, enthusiastic, full of energy and I could tell that after she heard Dad's story, she is very motivated to help him in every way possible. Donna has over 32 years of experience with 11 years of experience specifically with patients with brain injuries like Dad at Edwin Shaw rehab. So, he's got some great people working with him that are willing to do whatever it takes to help get him better.

The last few days, Dad has been laying with his arms curled up most of the time. However, as he was sitting on the edge of the bed with the therapists, they worked on putting weight through his arms and he actually relaxed his arms. They said this is a very good sign.

Speech Therapy

Dad also had a speech therapy evaluation today. Since his assault, he has keep his teeth clenched together most of the time and the nurses haven't had much success with getting him to open his mouth.

However, today when the Speech Therapist was working with him, he opened his mouth to her command several times and we felt like we witnessed a small miracle!

Compassionate, Caring and Relational Staff

What we like best about the Manor Care staff is how compassionate, caring and relational they are. They really seem to care about their patients and have demonstrated such compassion to Dad already. Not only are they skilled in the therapy he needs, but they truly seem to care! That really makes all the difference.

Back to Findlay to Work

I am now back in Findlay and tomorrow my alarm will go off at 4:30am so that I can be at work seeing patients at 6am! I'll work Wednesday and Thursday and then drive back to Barberton Thursday night. Stacey will be coming for the weekend and bringing the girls so that will be a blessing. Pray for her as she'll be driving 9 hrs with two little ones.

Encouragement and Progress

Today was a day of encouragement and progress. I'm so glad I could be there for his first therapy sessions and that God allowed me to see the progress Dad is making. I give God all the glory for the healing taking place with Dad and thank all of you for your prayers. Keep them coming...