Slow and Steady

Judi continues to improve at a slow and steady pace. My world on the other hand seems to constantly pick up speed. I just realized last night that I had missed a week on updating the blog. It just seems like I run out of hours before I run out of things on my "to do" list, so bear with me as I try to establish a new routine.

Judi continues to grow measurably stronger on almost a daily basis. PT/OT continues to focus on her core and she is visibly more comfortable and confident during these sessions. We have a standing frame coming in from Louisiana this week and we are looking forward to getting this therapy back in her routine. Having one here will allow her to spend as much time standing as she can tolerate while doing other things as well (TV, eye/hand coordination activities, etc.).

Speech - any minute!

Mentally, she is still coming back to us slowly. She obviously understands most of what goes on around her and we are able to get her laughing on a fairly frequent basis. This can be in response to sounds, comments and even spelled words. As I said before, hearing her laugh does all of us a lot of good. We have still been unable to establish a reliable yes/no response system with her. We are wondering if Judi needs some specific auditory feedback when she answers to help her become consistent. What I mean by this is the use of a switch that when she presses it responds audibly "yes" or "no." If anyone knows where I can get a system that does this, please let me know ASAP. If not, I am going to try and build one myself (ideas are welcome).

She is eating well and is helping a great deal in the routine daily tasks (getting dressed, brushing teeth, etc.). We did get a van and she has enjoyed getting out of the house. We planned to have a picnic this weekend, but the weather has not cooperated. She has enjoyed visits from many of you and she always seems to improve a little after spending time with her friends. Just drop me a line if you want to come by and we'll figure out a way to make it happen.

I did go back to work this week and it was one of the most difficult things I have had to do in a very long time. Both of us had some adjusting to do, but it is working out fine. She has a huge smile waiting for me when I walk in the door and I can't describe how much that touches me. She has bonded well with the lady that stays with her so we are considering it a "win-win" for now. I want to thank everyone for the continued prayers and well wishes. I know we wouldn't be this far along without you!

Steve