Summer Weather at Last

Not sure what the weather has been like in Sask, but here it has been very wet. Happy to have a day where it didn't rain.
Just to recap that Matt did not make it to ball on Sunday, but visited with Nolan and Lindsay before they returned to Calgary.
Monday Matt had upper extremity stretches in the am and then made chili with another resident. Said it was really good but wouldn't give me the recipe! Then he got to spend an hour in the pool. Was really excited about that. Was able to stand without feeling faint or dizzy. The water pressure on his legs keeps his blood pressure from dropping. Matt had weights on his legs to help prevent them from floating out of position, so Matt tried to lift his right leg with the weights on . Did it twice but got really tired. Because it was Father's Day on Sunday, they had a vintage car show at the nursing home. Matt said there was about 15 vehicles there. They even had a 1934 Chrysler with the original motor in it.
Tuesday tried out the electrical stimulation on his left arm. Asked him if he felt an improvement and agreed he feels like there is something there. Just has to remind himself to move it during the day. Tends to forget about it. Was happy when he discovered he could pu t the brakes on his wheelchair. He bends over and can also put the brake on the left side as well with his right hand. He also found out he can push himself backwards in the wheelchair by using his right foot. However because of the permanent foot pedals on the chair he can't go forward. Matt had forgotten to mention that he is being treated for a urinary tract infection since last Thursday. That could explain why he has been feeling so poorly, but states he also has a sore throat in the am's. So when Matt tried the sit stand frame felt really awful and didn't do too well.
Wednesday Matt worked out on the arm bike for 20 mins. Practiced transferring from the chair to the bed. Only needed 2 people to help transfer and said that at times only one person was needed. Great work Matt!
Today Matt tried doing activities of daily living. Could almost get his shirt on by himself but had trouble getting it over his left elbow and shoulders. Tried standing today but his blood pressure kept going wacko. Went from 90/60 to 75/50 and felt really dizzy. Played badminton in the gym but instead of a birdie he uses a balloon. Can hit it almost every timeas long as it is hit right to him.
Prayers for Matt's continued recovery. God has not forgotten about you Matt, and we thank Him everyday for small miracles.

Happy Father's Day

Finally got through to dad to wish him a great Father's Day. And where was he? By Matt's side as usual. Not many dad's would be as dedicated. I believe alot of Matt's positive attitude is having family by his side. Thanks Dad! Proverbs 23:24-25 "The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him. May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!"Friday Matt was feeling good again. In the am, 3 therapists bombarded Matt while he was in bed and brainstormed with him on what he could and couldn't do, and ways to help him accomplish the things he wanted to do. So one thing they tried was for Matt to move himself in the bed. Unless someone turns Matt, he lays on his back and can't reposition himself. So between them, they helped Matt wiggle from one side of the bed to the other. It took him an hour, fully exhausted but he did it! Dad said it was like watching snow melt. You know it is melting, but sometimes it is just a drip. One thing I have learned is never say never with Matt. In the afternoon, did some weights and pulley exercises. And I just found out Matt has a new job! Parkridge has a concession selling chips, pops, the regular stuff. It is owned by a fellow quad and he really wanted Matt to come and give it a try. So Friday evening from 5-9 pm Matt was put to work. Dad was trying to help but the owner told him to leave Matt, he would figure out some way to do it. And sure enough, after a few attempts, Matt was able to do it. The owner is so impressed by Matt's overall progress and truly believes Matt will get better one day.
Saturday Matt had the most company since coming to Parkridge. He was also to go watch some ball and Gordie Howe park, Chad Ekren was playing, but the weather wasn't cooperating. So dad said maybe today they would go if they ever get Matt to wake up. It is 1200 and Matt is still semiconscious. Dad even tried waving mom's hot wings under his nose to no avail. I suppose it is a day of rest!