Saturday, November 26, 2011

Another Busy Week

It is so good to talk to dad on the phone and hear all the updates. I can almost see the expressions on the staff's faces when they ask Matt to do something that they don't expect him to accomplish. And he does it!
The staff are so good with Matt. Communication between all parties is fantastic and they love how motivated Matt is with his exercises. The one staff member found out that prior to Matt's accident he was involved in hockey, basketball and baseball. They don't usually have to motivate a client if they have a sports background. The one staff member likes to push Matt even further by saying things like "Is that all you've got, Matt?" and Matt tries even harder. Sympathy only goes so far and then tough love is needed. Matt's ability to bridge is impressive. Bridging is laying on the floor with your feet on the floor and your knees bent. Then you must lift your butt off the floor and hold that position. Most patients are so flaccid with their muscles meaning they have very little muscle tone.
I am laughing right now because Jonmarie just came into the house crying. I thought she was hurt but she is crying because I told her to go outside to play and the snow isn't sticky enough to make a snowman! It is plus 4 and very little snow is on the ground. Crying is okay when you are hurt, but crying because it is boring outside is not! So she is back outside probably saying bad things about her mean mother! Tough love!
Dad told me a funny story about the one staff member that works with Matt at the Wellness Center. She is quite tall and maybe in her early 20's. Dad was thinking that she looked athletic and must have been in some sports. She answered that she had played with the University of Saskatchewan in volleyball. Dad brought up the fact that Jacki had played in the 90's and explained what her maiden name was and that she had a birthmark. Right away the girl knew who dad was talking about, because she seen Jacki's picture in the hallway at the PhysEd Building! One thing about having a birthmark is that everyone will always recognize you!
Yesterday they got Matt into a standing frame. Matt's arms are still holding onto something but they encourage him just to use his legs. He felt a bit weak and faint, but he persevered and felt better. They also did an assessment on what they could do for Matt over the long run. They would like to have Matt come back for a longer time, such as 4 months. Matt said after he is finished this round of therapy he would like to go back in March.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Matt.....you make me tired just reading about all the things they have you doing. Way to go.....we are so proud of you and what you are doing. How could the staff not love you...that is the easy part. Love to hear about your week. Thanks Shelley, it means so much to all of us. Have a wonderful week and can't wait to hear what you do this week. So proud of your dad for all that he is doing for you. It is great that we have such nice weather with all the driving he is doing. Take care and waiting to read the next report. Hugs from us all Love Auntie Sandy

Anonymous said...

Thanks for keeping us all informed, and it is sure great to see the big changes in Matt. I'am always reading the blog so was worried when no postings were here. Thanks again Bev Kataneksza{Cunningham}

Anonymous said...

hey still here with you glad to hear that all is going well with rehab. i am home for awhile running with the grands to hockey cause grammy misses ball all summer. im cooking the turkey this christmas cause i havent had to do that for 4 yrs. greg and i are off to yuma arizona for feb and march. take care and keep up the great work with your rehab
ella