More Words (month 5)

The fifth month has brought some progress, although very, very slowly. Because of holiday and sickness had 2 full weeks without therapy. But I got Shiela the PSW to work with him with the one arm cane. He is getting more stable physically, a bit less pain. But some new developments, he has started to sometimes toilet himself, will pull off his clothes and get into and out of bed himself, will make coffee, bring out the dishes, straighten up the kitchen. In general doing more. But there is still such a long way to go. The arm is still useless and out of joint. One of the milestones is that I no longer have to sleep downstairs here with him, which is huge for me. I can finally get a good nights sleep.

The biggest change over this period is that he he saying more words, speaking a lot more clearly, communication is getting a bit better. People who have not seen him for a few weeks are noticing the difference, and we have yet to have a speech therapist yet. One girl came in, had one evaluation and never saw anyone again. Still haven't paid for the wheelchair but that will be coming. Had to have it fixed again. Got to go out a few times but with the cooler weather, it was less frequent. Went to the Carp Fair with April and Jack and went to the Log Cabin Orchard for an outing with them as I didn't cook a turkey.  We went to Jay and Sherrys home in Osgoode for Thanksgiving dinner, the guys physically lifted him up the stairs. It was wonderful to get out. However his Mom took critically ill and there was a small crowd only

For me, this continues to be a huge struggle, always worried about the future, the decisions etc. I am trying to be more patient with him but I recognize, I cannot work with him on his recovery as he does not want to work with me, the big question for me remains, does he want to recover for himself? He seems very contented to live this life of disability.  

According to statistics, the first six months are the the crital months for recovery, the biggest chance for gains. I will focus on the physio and try and practice some tough love.

I live in hope going into this sixth month that we will see some significant improvements for both Mike and for myself.