Update on my Wife

[Uncle Al]

Just got off a conference call with the Rehab center. We discussed my wife's progress.
With the 2nd stroke, which appears to have taken place in the left side of her brain,
she has much more limited control. She is able to feed herself using regular silverware,
not with the 'foam grip' on the handles. She needs to be reminded of what she's doing.
She is not able to tell when she has to go to the bathroom. She's still using a catheter.
I don't know if that will be a requirement at home as it's to early to tell. Her speech has
improved but she rarely initiates conversation. She will respond to what you're saying.
Her short term memory is almost gone. This poses major changes in what can be done
at home. So far, she has been working on using a transfer board to get from the bed to
the commode or wheel chair. She has been working on taking a few steps but her
equilibrium is off and she wants to lean back or to the left.

I get to see her on the 9th and receive instruction on how to properly help her.
I hope that will brighten her day

Uncle Al

[Fred in Skirts]

Al, So sorry to hear the news on your wife condition.
I am still sending prayers your way.
Keep us informed.

Fred

[crfriend]

Thanks for the update, Al, even if it does seem like bad news.

We're all pullin' for the two of ya, at least this ol' bloke.

[Faldaguy]

Al, it is easy to fall into despair on these things, but I can confirm from experience with two women very close to me that remarkable recovery and rehab can occur. It does take time, and every case is somewhat unique. I have watched both my MIL and my own mother make remarkable progress -- in fact, I'd go so far as to say that in my Mother's case, she is a better person now in that some aspects of personality have made her more agreeable and pleasant and most of her prior abilities have returned. She made a huge concerted effort to achieve these things, but it can be done. She is well into her 90's and I think it is about 7 years since her second stroke; the first several years before that -- and both required a lot of re-learning. My MIL was not quite as determined, also did well with help from the family and had many more years after that stroke that both she and we enjoyed. I know others who have also done well -- so, have hope, keep your chin up and her's too as much as you can assist in that. Don't be afraid to ask for some help and relief...it is a very very hard job to do alone, for you or her. Good luck, we will continue to hold you both in the light.

[Spirou003]

Oh, sad story! Hope for you that she will get her abilities back as soon as possible!

[STEVIE]

Hi Al
I won't pretend that I know what you are going through right now but you both have my sincerest best wishes.
Steve

[moonshadow]

Positive thoughts from our home Al. We're rooting for y'all.

[Freefrom]

My wife and I had a terrible shock some 5 years ago when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Difficult times they were Uncle Al. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.

[Shilo]

I can’t imagine how you feel or the stress you must be under. I can only offer my deepest sympathies and the hope she will recover. I often find myself wondering how you’re doing.
SINCERELY THINKING OF YOU!

[Pdxfashionpioneer]

Good luck and best wishes to both of you.

[Uncle Al]

To one and all, THANKS for the well wishes.

I'm headed to rehab, in about 30 minutes, for my training,
90% of the times we've talked on the phone, her voice is
getting stronger. She's still confused, especially from 4PM,
or so, to later in the evening. This is, sometimes, called
"Sun-Downers". Another sign of the Dementia / Alzheimer's
starting to affect her. Seen it before, with her mom.

Not what we were planning for in our later years.
So, with Lemons we make Lemonade

Uncle Al

[Uncle Al]

Just got home from Rehab & visiting my wife. She was glad to see me.
She has greatly improved She's able to feed herself - which is good.
She does start "Sun-Downers" around 3-4PM. She didn't want me to leave
but I told her I had to. It will take quite a bit of time to get her back to
anywhere near normal.
Things are looking up after all

Uncle Al

[Shilo]

Some good news at last. Hope the upward trend continues. Take care

[Fred in Skirts]

To one and all, THANKS for the well wishes.

I'm headed to rehab, in about 30 minutes, for my training, 90% of the times we've talked on the phone, her voice is getting stronger. She's still confused, especially from 4PM, or so, to later in the evening. This is, sometimes, called "Sun-Downers". Another sign of the Dementia / Alzheimer's starting to affect her. Seen it before, with her mom.

Not what we were planning for in our later years.
So, with Lemons we make Lemonade

Uncle Al

Hi Al,
I just wish there was something I could do to make things better for you and Deb. But alas there is nothing I am able to do except send up prayers for the both of you.

You also need to take as good of care of yourself so that you are able to take care of Deb. If you get sick then there is no one to take care of you both at the same time. Sure family will try but they also have to take care of them selves and their families.

Fred

[Faldaguy]

Great news Al, wishing you both the best. Keep us posted, and mind Fred, you gotta look after both of you.
Cheers