It's the last day of the year, 2007. I hope you will click on the play button below to view our New Years greeting to you.
I've been silent on the blog since September. I'm sure I'm not alone in waiting for this year to be over.
My wish is that God blesses you all with health, happiness, peace, joy and love in 2008. Be safe tonight in your celebrations!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Monday, September 3, 2007
Monday Sept 3, 2007
Well here it is, Sept 3rd. Much has happened in the past few weeks, although I've remained pretty silent on the blog. Thank you to all friends who have offered support to our family and donations to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of my dad who passed away 18 years ago. Even though Mom died from breast cancer, she had left a written request for donations to help the research of Alzheimer's Disease.
Happy birthday to my brother Randy who turned the big 5-0 yesterday! Sorry we all were not able to join you in person to help celebrate this big occasion. You in Kentucky, me in Washington and the rest of the gang in California. But like I said, next time we're all five together again, we'll raise a glass in honor.
The weather up here in WA has been amazing. Michael and I took advantage of the sunshine, clear blue sky and very little clouds yesterday and drove up to Paradise, a lookout point in Mt. Rainier National Park. It is just a little over an hour drive from the house.
click photo for larger image
Nisqually Glacier (see January 17, 2008 blog)
this photo taken at the exact location as the January 17, 2008 blog
Mom would have appreciated the twisty road up to Paradise, the view, the fresh air and the smell of the fir trees.
Today, it is gray outside. Not cold, but the feel of Fall is upon us. What a beautiful way to end the Summer.
Happy birthday to my brother Randy who turned the big 5-0 yesterday! Sorry we all were not able to join you in person to help celebrate this big occasion. You in Kentucky, me in Washington and the rest of the gang in California. But like I said, next time we're all five together again, we'll raise a glass in honor.
The weather up here in WA has been amazing. Michael and I took advantage of the sunshine, clear blue sky and very little clouds yesterday and drove up to Paradise, a lookout point in Mt. Rainier National Park. It is just a little over an hour drive from the house.
click photo for larger image
Nisqually Glacier (see January 17, 2008 blog)
this photo taken at the exact location as the January 17, 2008 blog
Mom would have appreciated the twisty road up to Paradise, the view, the fresh air and the smell of the fir trees.
Today, it is gray outside. Not cold, but the feel of Fall is upon us. What a beautiful way to end the Summer.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Monday, August 20, 2007
click on photo for larger image
This was taken on Mom's birthday 7/8/07 at church, the day after the wedding.
Elta Murdock 1934-2007
Well I'm home from my not-so-quick-trip. For those who have not heard, my Mom passed away when I was down in CA on August 11, 2007. The funeral was on Saturday August 18, 2007.
Michael and I know God had His hands in the timing of it all. Especially the plan for me to return to CA that week of all weeks. It could have been any week, but I booked my flight about a week or so out, and it was just a random date that I booked in conjunction with an orthodontist appointment. I had told Mom that I was coming back to CA to replace my retainer, and I'd be there for just a day. I had been without my retainer for a month, and I didn't want to wait any longer to replace it. I'm glad I didn't wait.
I was supposed to return home on Thursday 8/9. Mom said to me in the hospital, "you changed your fight?" I said, "not exactly, I just didn't go home. I didn't know when I was going home." I knew I couldn't leave her. I had a sense the timing was not right.
I'm not going to get mushy or go into detail, maybe in another blog entry. But thank you to all our friends and family for attending the gravesite and/or memorial service. She truly would have enjoyed everyone together again reminicing about the good ole' days, telling stories, looking at photos albums and watching old home 8mm movies.
This was taken on Mom's birthday 7/8/07 at church, the day after the wedding.
Elta Murdock 1934-2007
Well I'm home from my not-so-quick-trip. For those who have not heard, my Mom passed away when I was down in CA on August 11, 2007. The funeral was on Saturday August 18, 2007.
Michael and I know God had His hands in the timing of it all. Especially the plan for me to return to CA that week of all weeks. It could have been any week, but I booked my flight about a week or so out, and it was just a random date that I booked in conjunction with an orthodontist appointment. I had told Mom that I was coming back to CA to replace my retainer, and I'd be there for just a day. I had been without my retainer for a month, and I didn't want to wait any longer to replace it. I'm glad I didn't wait.
I was supposed to return home on Thursday 8/9. Mom said to me in the hospital, "you changed your fight?" I said, "not exactly, I just didn't go home. I didn't know when I was going home." I knew I couldn't leave her. I had a sense the timing was not right.
I'm not going to get mushy or go into detail, maybe in another blog entry. But thank you to all our friends and family for attending the gravesite and/or memorial service. She truly would have enjoyed everyone together again reminicing about the good ole' days, telling stories, looking at photos albums and watching old home 8mm movies.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Tuesday Aug 7, 2007
Married one month now. Wow, times flies!
I am going to venture on a new journey in therapy. I'm going to travel to CA by myself for the first time. I fly down there tomorrow with the intention of returning on Thursday evening. Longer if need be. My Mom was admitted to the hospital this afternoon due to complications for various reasons, primarily side effects from chemo. That sounds like a good umbrella that encompasses all the problems. Low blood pressure, high blood sugar count, possible pneumonia (as determined on an irregular chest x-ray). She may be in the hospital for a least a couple of days.
I am going to venture on a new journey in therapy. I'm going to travel to CA by myself for the first time. I fly down there tomorrow with the intention of returning on Thursday evening. Longer if need be. My Mom was admitted to the hospital this afternoon due to complications for various reasons, primarily side effects from chemo. That sounds like a good umbrella that encompasses all the problems. Low blood pressure, high blood sugar count, possible pneumonia (as determined on an irregular chest x-ray). She may be in the hospital for a least a couple of days.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
July 25th - married 18 days
I just received this picture from Denys. I'm waiting for our official wedding pictures and will post more soon.
Click picture for larger view
Meanwhile.......Wow! 18 days already? We've been home a week and a half now. Routine has settled in. Michael returned to work immediately upon arrival back to WA. This left me to manage the house and chores, including unpacking, laundry and resting.
So much happened during the past few weeks, traveling, wedding, honeymoon, more traveling etc... which took the focus off my disability and limitations. But then at the same time, it highlighted them.
It wasn't until we were in Cozumel, and Michael touched my left arm I noticed things had changed. It was the first time I was able to pinpoint where he touched me. Since the signals from my brain were mixed up after my stroke, actually they weren't getting through, he could touch my knee for example and either I couldn't feel it or depending on how hard he touched me, I might have thought he touched my shin. But for the first time, I was able to close my eyes and tell where he touched me. I still can't feel the "touch" but I can tell the sensation and location a little better. So I am healing slowly but surely.
I've also noticed myself using my left hand more. I'm getting more fine motor skills back. Funny, I can't feel my hand but I can use it more and more little by little. I have more strength and control than I did. For example, I can hold my hairdryer in my left hand while I use a brush in my right hand. I can remember when Denys was here in March I tried to blow-dry my hair. I was just amazed then that I was able to stand up doing it back then, one-handed. Back then, I had to use my right hand to hold the hairdryer, turn it off, put it down, then brush my hair, and then repeat the process until my hair was dry.
I've also been pushing myself to drive again. Small steps. I've driven into town 4 miles away and back. I'm pushing myself to get back into society by myself again. I went to get my nails done by myself the other day, stopped by the grocery store for a few things, and then pumped my own gas in my truck. I haven't done that for almost 5 months! Awe, the taste of freedom!
I've also kept busy with all of this medical insurance mumbo-jumbo. Now that it's been a few months, the statements have either been paid by my insurance or things not paid need to be cleaned up. So it seems like I am on the phone with either my insurance company or one or two hospitals, or ambulance company etc...trying to clean things up. It is a full time job! It doesn't pay well, but if it keeps me from paying this $100K+ tab, then ok.
Click picture for larger view
Meanwhile.......Wow! 18 days already? We've been home a week and a half now. Routine has settled in. Michael returned to work immediately upon arrival back to WA. This left me to manage the house and chores, including unpacking, laundry and resting.
So much happened during the past few weeks, traveling, wedding, honeymoon, more traveling etc... which took the focus off my disability and limitations. But then at the same time, it highlighted them.
It wasn't until we were in Cozumel, and Michael touched my left arm I noticed things had changed. It was the first time I was able to pinpoint where he touched me. Since the signals from my brain were mixed up after my stroke, actually they weren't getting through, he could touch my knee for example and either I couldn't feel it or depending on how hard he touched me, I might have thought he touched my shin. But for the first time, I was able to close my eyes and tell where he touched me. I still can't feel the "touch" but I can tell the sensation and location a little better. So I am healing slowly but surely.
I've also noticed myself using my left hand more. I'm getting more fine motor skills back. Funny, I can't feel my hand but I can use it more and more little by little. I have more strength and control than I did. For example, I can hold my hairdryer in my left hand while I use a brush in my right hand. I can remember when Denys was here in March I tried to blow-dry my hair. I was just amazed then that I was able to stand up doing it back then, one-handed. Back then, I had to use my right hand to hold the hairdryer, turn it off, put it down, then brush my hair, and then repeat the process until my hair was dry.
I've also been pushing myself to drive again. Small steps. I've driven into town 4 miles away and back. I'm pushing myself to get back into society by myself again. I went to get my nails done by myself the other day, stopped by the grocery store for a few things, and then pumped my own gas in my truck. I haven't done that for almost 5 months! Awe, the taste of freedom!
I've also kept busy with all of this medical insurance mumbo-jumbo. Now that it's been a few months, the statements have either been paid by my insurance or things not paid need to be cleaned up. So it seems like I am on the phone with either my insurance company or one or two hospitals, or ambulance company etc...trying to clean things up. It is a full time job! It doesn't pay well, but if it keeps me from paying this $100K+ tab, then ok.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Anonymous Said...
Beautiful pics, very sorry I couldn't attend. What a stunning bride!!!!! But I have a question????? What happened to Michael's hair? It used to be a beautiful shade of gray! LOL Lots of love to both of you from Nor Cal!!!!! Kevin & Mike!
Monday, July 16, 2007
We're back from our honeymoon!!!!
We finally made it home last night after a very long, tiring, full of a lot of fun and exciting wedding in California and honeymoon in Cozumel, Mexico.
For those of you who didn't know this our honeymoon destination was a surprise for me. I was told we were going to Antarctica and that was it.
We left Ontario Airport in CA at 12:55am on Monday morning and had a connecting flight in Houston, TX. At this point I still had no idea where we were going. We were at the gate in Houston waiting to board our flight to Cozumel and had dozed off. The lady at the counter came on the speaker to make an announcement. "For those of you traveling to Cozumel, please have your passports checked prior to boarding." I woke up Michael and said, "honey, is that where we're going?" So that is how I found out. But he had kept it from me up until then. We had a blast even due to my limitations. All I was able to do physically was hang out in the pool (only because it was shallow enough so I could walk the pool, not "swim"), and we went on a dolphin encounter where we got to be in the water with them, pet them and kiss them. We stood on a platform in the water up to our chest. I wasn't able to do the other advanced encounter with the dolphins that would have included being able to hold onto their fins while they pull you around or they carry you through the water on your feet. We decided to work on therapy more for next year in case we returned for our anniversary. I just wasn't ready for that this trip.
We landed back into Ontario, CA at 7:30pm on Saturday night, rented a car, drove to my Mom's to load the rental car with gifts and my two cats, say goodbye to Mom and we drove home to Graham, WA. 1,130 miles one way.
I'm tired and a little sore and my left foot is swollen (not sure why). But we had both decided a couple of months ago (especially after my stroke) that life was too short not to live it and too long not to be happy. So even though I'm not 100%, it was all worth it.
Thank you to everyone for all your help with the bridal showers, preparations for the wedding including but not limited to the set up, decorations, food, flowers, photographs, music and tear down. There was so much effort and love in so many different ways that was put it by our family and friends and we just can't say thank you enough. Planning a wedding is stressful enough, but having a stroke 4 months prior to the wedding has been difficult for both of us physically, emotionally and financially. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for making it a day for both of us to enjoy and remember.
Love, Mrs. Karen Dionne <-- looks cute ;-) and Michael
For those of you who didn't know this our honeymoon destination was a surprise for me. I was told we were going to Antarctica and that was it.
We left Ontario Airport in CA at 12:55am on Monday morning and had a connecting flight in Houston, TX. At this point I still had no idea where we were going. We were at the gate in Houston waiting to board our flight to Cozumel and had dozed off. The lady at the counter came on the speaker to make an announcement. "For those of you traveling to Cozumel, please have your passports checked prior to boarding." I woke up Michael and said, "honey, is that where we're going?" So that is how I found out. But he had kept it from me up until then. We had a blast even due to my limitations. All I was able to do physically was hang out in the pool (only because it was shallow enough so I could walk the pool, not "swim"), and we went on a dolphin encounter where we got to be in the water with them, pet them and kiss them. We stood on a platform in the water up to our chest. I wasn't able to do the other advanced encounter with the dolphins that would have included being able to hold onto their fins while they pull you around or they carry you through the water on your feet. We decided to work on therapy more for next year in case we returned for our anniversary. I just wasn't ready for that this trip.
We landed back into Ontario, CA at 7:30pm on Saturday night, rented a car, drove to my Mom's to load the rental car with gifts and my two cats, say goodbye to Mom and we drove home to Graham, WA. 1,130 miles one way.
I'm tired and a little sore and my left foot is swollen (not sure why). But we had both decided a couple of months ago (especially after my stroke) that life was too short not to live it and too long not to be happy. So even though I'm not 100%, it was all worth it.
Thank you to everyone for all your help with the bridal showers, preparations for the wedding including but not limited to the set up, decorations, food, flowers, photographs, music and tear down. There was so much effort and love in so many different ways that was put it by our family and friends and we just can't say thank you enough. Planning a wedding is stressful enough, but having a stroke 4 months prior to the wedding has been difficult for both of us physically, emotionally and financially. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for making it a day for both of us to enjoy and remember.
Love, Mrs. Karen Dionne <-- looks cute ;-) and Michael
Photos from our honeymoon
Click pictures for larger view
Taken on the balcony of our suite in Cozumel, Mexico
Taken at Chankanaab ~ where we swam with the dolphins
Sunset dinner overlooking the ocean
Taken on the balcony of our suite in Cozumel, Mexico
Taken at Chankanaab ~ where we swam with the dolphins
Sunset dinner overlooking the ocean
Photos from the wedding
Click pictures for larger view
The bridal party ~
Josette, Danielle, Karen, Denys, Emily and Alanna
The groomsmen ~
David, Karen, Curtis, Gary
The happy couple ~
Michael and Karen
Michael and a few of the girls ~
Denys, Alanna and Josette
Siblings with Mom
Cindy, Randy, Karen, Lori, Curtis and Mom
Left to right
Gary, Randy, David, Curtis, Karen, Michael, Denys, Danielle, Emily, Josette and Alanna in the front
The bridal party ~
Josette, Danielle, Karen, Denys, Emily and Alanna
The groomsmen ~
David, Karen, Curtis, Gary
The happy couple ~
Michael and Karen
Michael and a few of the girls ~
Denys, Alanna and Josette
Siblings with Mom
Cindy, Randy, Karen, Lori, Curtis and Mom
Left to right
Gary, Randy, David, Curtis, Karen, Michael, Denys, Danielle, Emily, Josette and Alanna in the front
Monday, July 9, 2007
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dionne
Click for a bigger picture.
After Michael and Karen get back from "Antarctica", they will post another update.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
July 3, 2007 - 3 1/2 days and counting
Michael and I are here in CA finalizing details for our wedding. We've been here since last Wed night.
Thank you Sylvia, Mary and Corliss for throwing me a shower. And thank you to all who attended. It was great to see everyone again.
And thank you to Denys, Lori and Cindy for the personal shower. And thank you Heather for letting us use your house! I had a great time seeing friends I've known for almost 20 years.
Here are a couple of pictures taken at the personal bridal shower thrown by Denys at Heather's house.
Click on pictures for larger view.
Lori, Karen, Mom and Cindy
Denys, Alanna and Karen
And thank you Curtis and Brad for not killing Michael with too much alcohol.
Happy 4th of July to everyone. We will post pictures soon!
Karen (Skippy) and Michael
Thank you Sylvia, Mary and Corliss for throwing me a shower. And thank you to all who attended. It was great to see everyone again.
And thank you to Denys, Lori and Cindy for the personal shower. And thank you Heather for letting us use your house! I had a great time seeing friends I've known for almost 20 years.
Here are a couple of pictures taken at the personal bridal shower thrown by Denys at Heather's house.
Click on pictures for larger view.
Lori, Karen, Mom and Cindy
Denys, Alanna and Karen
And thank you Curtis and Brad for not killing Michael with too much alcohol.
Happy 4th of July to everyone. We will post pictures soon!
Karen (Skippy) and Michael
Monday, June 25, 2007
Mon 6/25 - 11 days before the wedding and counting...
The wedding is right around the corner. Michael and I are wrapping up details, finalizing plans, packing and getting very excited. Planning this wedding has been a nice distraction since March 2nd.
The past two weeks have been very encouraging with some visable signs of recovery. I don't know if I will ever regain full use of my left arm and leg, but I have to keep trying everyday.
Thank you in advance to all our friends and family who are helping us on our special day. We look forward to seeing you all again very soon.
The past two weeks have been very encouraging with some visable signs of recovery. I don't know if I will ever regain full use of my left arm and leg, but I have to keep trying everyday.
Thank you in advance to all our friends and family who are helping us on our special day. We look forward to seeing you all again very soon.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Wed 6/20 - 17 days before the wedding
This week has been full of little successes that add up to huge accomplishments for me. I love the thrill of finally being able to do something that I wasn't able to do the day before!
I have been walking around the house today barefoot. I'm sure my sister Lori, or my my friend Cheryl, or my Mom or my brother Curtis or Michael who all saw me the first week I was in the hospital and tried to walk after my stroke with the therapists would be the first people to tell you how huge this is! My sister Cindy saw me almost 3 weeks ago at home and she would tell you that I could not do this then. It took 3 1/2 months to show signs of healing but my foot is finally not pronating inward. I'm watching it carefully though.
I even took a shower today standing up in the master bathroom with glass shower doors. Prior to that has been in the guest bathroom sitting on a shower chair because I was unable to stand up. It's also a challenge because I have to wash my hair with only one hand.
Then I was able to hold the hair dryer in my left hand today for the first time and run a brush through my hair using my right hand at the same time. I was giggling and had to share this with Michael right away.
These little thrills for me make me anxious to see what I'll be able to do tomorrow.
I have been walking around the house today barefoot. I'm sure my sister Lori, or my my friend Cheryl, or my Mom or my brother Curtis or Michael who all saw me the first week I was in the hospital and tried to walk after my stroke with the therapists would be the first people to tell you how huge this is! My sister Cindy saw me almost 3 weeks ago at home and she would tell you that I could not do this then. It took 3 1/2 months to show signs of healing but my foot is finally not pronating inward. I'm watching it carefully though.
I even took a shower today standing up in the master bathroom with glass shower doors. Prior to that has been in the guest bathroom sitting on a shower chair because I was unable to stand up. It's also a challenge because I have to wash my hair with only one hand.
Then I was able to hold the hair dryer in my left hand today for the first time and run a brush through my hair using my right hand at the same time. I was giggling and had to share this with Michael right away.
These little thrills for me make me anxious to see what I'll be able to do tomorrow.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Monday 6/18
What a busy day full of new things for me! I have good days and better days. Today was one of those better days. I actually walked around my bedroom today with just socks on. Sounds stupid and what's the big deal? But if anyone has seen me try to walk barefoot or with shoes that are not very supportive (Cindy), you'd realize this was huge. My left foot has a tendancy to pronate or turn in due to the stroke. If I was to step the wrong way, I could snap my ankle very easily. I guess like all things, it may get better with time. So I've given it 3 1/2 months, and sure enough, with a careful and watchful eye, I walked barefoot for the first time since March 1st. I even tried on a pair of flip flops and walked around, but only for a little bit.
I also had a burst of energy this morning and tried ironing a few things. I don't do a lot of ironing, but I wanted to see if I could do it. So I did it sucessfully. It was challenging just like everything, since I'm primarily doing this with only the use of my right hand.
I did 4 loads of laundry. Folding was easier today too. It didn't take as long to fold as I've been able to control my left hand and arm muscles a little better.
They said with my recovery, that I would see a gradual uphill progession for the first 3 months or so. Then it would level off for a few months. And then I would see more of a recovery happening again. That cycle could repeat itself for years. But the biggest signs of recovery would be in the beginning.
My muscles still burn especially at night. I'm sure I'll feel the effects of all my work it tonight.
I also had a burst of energy this morning and tried ironing a few things. I don't do a lot of ironing, but I wanted to see if I could do it. So I did it sucessfully. It was challenging just like everything, since I'm primarily doing this with only the use of my right hand.
I did 4 loads of laundry. Folding was easier today too. It didn't take as long to fold as I've been able to control my left hand and arm muscles a little better.
They said with my recovery, that I would see a gradual uphill progession for the first 3 months or so. Then it would level off for a few months. And then I would see more of a recovery happening again. That cycle could repeat itself for years. But the biggest signs of recovery would be in the beginning.
My muscles still burn especially at night. I'm sure I'll feel the effects of all my work it tonight.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Sat 6/16 - Graduation Day
Graduation day for some....congratulations Krysti and Chris!
Michael and I just got home from our second graduation party for the day. The first one was for our niece Krysti and the second was for our neighbor's son Chris. I slept most of the car ride home from the first one. We then stopped by the neighbor's house for the second one. We got home about 10pm after a long day of traveling, and celebrating at graduation parties.
We are exactly 3 weeks away from the wedding. The official "I need more sleep countdown" has begun. I'm going to stock up on rest now more than ever while I can in preparation for the nights where my mind won't shut off.
I've been planning, making lists, taking notes, planning and more planning. I'm almost done. I have a few more details to iron out. We'll see if that big monster "I didn't think of that!!" creeps up!
Meanwhile, I'm going to bed as it is time...
Michael and I just got home from our second graduation party for the day. The first one was for our niece Krysti and the second was for our neighbor's son Chris. I slept most of the car ride home from the first one. We then stopped by the neighbor's house for the second one. We got home about 10pm after a long day of traveling, and celebrating at graduation parties.
We are exactly 3 weeks away from the wedding. The official "I need more sleep countdown" has begun. I'm going to stock up on rest now more than ever while I can in preparation for the nights where my mind won't shut off.
I've been planning, making lists, taking notes, planning and more planning. I'm almost done. I have a few more details to iron out. We'll see if that big monster "I didn't think of that!!" creeps up!
Meanwhile, I'm going to bed as it is time...
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
ponytail? 6/12
How'd I do that? It's been since March 1st, the day before my stroke that I was able to put my hair in a ponytail. I know, sounds stupid, but huge to me!
It may not be pretty, but it is functional during the day while I'm home with the cat. He doesn't seem to mind.
Curtis was happy for me. He thinks he's off the hook now.
I felt really good today. I even made cupcakes! Too bad Michael's been sick (bad cold) and can't enjoy them.
All of this is done with primarily using only one hand. I don't have enough control of my left hand yet to hold the bowl while I stir with my right hand, or the spatula while I use the hand mixer for the batter. Or to frost them.
To put my hair in a ponytail, I gather all my hair in my right hand with the hairband on my right wrist. I can hook my left index finger on the band and pull it off my wrist and over my hair. Then I have to grab the ponytail with my left hand, all the while using the mirror which gives a reflection that is confusing for my brain to process. My right hand grabs the bands, twists it, then wraps around the ponytail making it tighter. I repeat the process.
My therapist tried to teach me this while I was still an in-patient at the hospital back in March. That was way too advanced for me at the time. I wasn't even close. Now it's June and I'm just now getting around to being able to do it.
Something else to keep practicing.
It may not be pretty, but it is functional during the day while I'm home with the cat. He doesn't seem to mind.
Curtis was happy for me. He thinks he's off the hook now.
I felt really good today. I even made cupcakes! Too bad Michael's been sick (bad cold) and can't enjoy them.
All of this is done with primarily using only one hand. I don't have enough control of my left hand yet to hold the bowl while I stir with my right hand, or the spatula while I use the hand mixer for the batter. Or to frost them.
To put my hair in a ponytail, I gather all my hair in my right hand with the hairband on my right wrist. I can hook my left index finger on the band and pull it off my wrist and over my hair. Then I have to grab the ponytail with my left hand, all the while using the mirror which gives a reflection that is confusing for my brain to process. My right hand grabs the bands, twists it, then wraps around the ponytail making it tighter. I repeat the process.
My therapist tried to teach me this while I was still an in-patient at the hospital back in March. That was way too advanced for me at the time. I wasn't even close. Now it's June and I'm just now getting around to being able to do it.
Something else to keep practicing.
Monday, June 11, 2007
A few pictures taken during Cindy's visit to Seattle
Karen and Michael on the car ferry from Bremerton to Seattle 6/2/07
Karen and Cindy on the car ferry from Bremerton to Seattle 6/2/07
Cindy and Karen with downtown Seattle in background 6/2/07
Karen and Cindy on the car ferry from Bremerton to Seattle 6/2/07
Cindy and Karen with downtown Seattle in background 6/2/07
Monday 6/11
I'm recovering from two back-to-back weekends of being busy, busy, busy. Curtis delivered all my stuff over Memorial Weekend and converted the living room into a "room-of-doom".
Cindy was here the week after Curtis and we went on a 10-hour shopping spree. We got a lot of wedding details finalized. Mother Nature topped off our shopping spree weekend with fabulous weather. Michael, Cindy and I drove to Bremerton and rode the ferry over to downtown Seattle. Cindy and I had never done anything like that before. It was a very clear and warm day. We got to stand on the top deck of the ferry and enjoy the view from the top as we came across Puget Sound.
It took me a few days to recover from all the excitement but I wouldn't have changed any minute of it.
This past weekend we had lunch with some friends Keith, Trina and Jim after meeting them in another friend's driveway. Thanks guys, it was fun and memorable!! Seriously, how could we forget? We followed that up with a birthday dinner that same evening for Rex with Stacey, Tricha.
This upcoming Saturday we have two graduation parties to attend back-to-back. One is for Michael's niece Krysti and the other is for our neighbor Chris. It usually takes 1-2 days for me to fully recover from a full weekend. The fatigue sets in and it's hard for me to shake. I'm hoping this is just a stage that I'm experiencing from the stroke. Fatigue has been pretty strong the past few weeks. But then again, I've been busy!
I'm now back to focusing full-time on wedding details. I need to get plenty of rest while I can!
Next weekend is all clear on the calendar before it gets very full again for a solid month!
Cindy was here the week after Curtis and we went on a 10-hour shopping spree. We got a lot of wedding details finalized. Mother Nature topped off our shopping spree weekend with fabulous weather. Michael, Cindy and I drove to Bremerton and rode the ferry over to downtown Seattle. Cindy and I had never done anything like that before. It was a very clear and warm day. We got to stand on the top deck of the ferry and enjoy the view from the top as we came across Puget Sound.
It took me a few days to recover from all the excitement but I wouldn't have changed any minute of it.
This past weekend we had lunch with some friends Keith, Trina and Jim after meeting them in another friend's driveway. Thanks guys, it was fun and memorable!! Seriously, how could we forget? We followed that up with a birthday dinner that same evening for Rex with Stacey, Tricha.
This upcoming Saturday we have two graduation parties to attend back-to-back. One is for Michael's niece Krysti and the other is for our neighbor Chris. It usually takes 1-2 days for me to fully recover from a full weekend. The fatigue sets in and it's hard for me to shake. I'm hoping this is just a stage that I'm experiencing from the stroke. Fatigue has been pretty strong the past few weeks. But then again, I've been busy!
I'm now back to focusing full-time on wedding details. I need to get plenty of rest while I can!
Next weekend is all clear on the calendar before it gets very full again for a solid month!
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Home alone
Karen's sister Cindy came up last night to visit with Skippy for the weekend.
I find myself home alone for the first time in 3 months and it feels strange not to have my best friend here with me.
She is out with her sister doing whatever sisters do. I am only told it is "Girl Stuff". Not really sure what that means. But she's out and about and in a mall so I know it's a good day for her.
Karen is doing so much better, with huge changes in just the last couple of weeks alone. Her control of her left hand increases every day. Her walking is getting more and more even and steady.
I am so proud of the attitude she has kept through this entire experience. I am not sure I could have stayed so positive. She always has a smile on her face and a good word to say.
She doesn't always tell you all just how hard she is working to get back to as close to normal as possible and how hard she works just living her daily life here in Washington. With the arrival of her belongings, thanks to the efforts of her Mom, Cindy, Lori, Curtis, and Scott packing everything she owns into a trailer borrowed from David, she has even more to keep her busy. Karen has not once complained about anything having to do with her situation or the need to unpack everything here.
As I stated before I am very proud of her and all of you should be also. She is a perfect example of keeping a great attitude when everything around you offers an excuse not to.
I am very much looking forward to becoming her husband and spending the rest of my life with her, also becoming part of a family who values so much what family is. That includes her extended family and all her friends who have shown me what the words family and friends means. I have never seen such outpouring of love and support and I wanted to take this chance to say thank you to everyone in California and our friends and neighbors here in Washington. You have all made a big difference in how we have been able to deal with this experience.
Thanks again, Michael
I find myself home alone for the first time in 3 months and it feels strange not to have my best friend here with me.
She is out with her sister doing whatever sisters do. I am only told it is "Girl Stuff". Not really sure what that means. But she's out and about and in a mall so I know it's a good day for her.
Karen is doing so much better, with huge changes in just the last couple of weeks alone. Her control of her left hand increases every day. Her walking is getting more and more even and steady.
I am so proud of the attitude she has kept through this entire experience. I am not sure I could have stayed so positive. She always has a smile on her face and a good word to say.
She doesn't always tell you all just how hard she is working to get back to as close to normal as possible and how hard she works just living her daily life here in Washington. With the arrival of her belongings, thanks to the efforts of her Mom, Cindy, Lori, Curtis, and Scott packing everything she owns into a trailer borrowed from David, she has even more to keep her busy. Karen has not once complained about anything having to do with her situation or the need to unpack everything here.
As I stated before I am very proud of her and all of you should be also. She is a perfect example of keeping a great attitude when everything around you offers an excuse not to.
I am very much looking forward to becoming her husband and spending the rest of my life with her, also becoming part of a family who values so much what family is. That includes her extended family and all her friends who have shown me what the words family and friends means. I have never seen such outpouring of love and support and I wanted to take this chance to say thank you to everyone in California and our friends and neighbors here in Washington. You have all made a big difference in how we have been able to deal with this experience.
Thanks again, Michael
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Time heals all wounds they say...
What a difference 3 months makes. My stroke was 3/2/07. It's now 5/30/07, almost 3 full months. I'm getting around better as I use my cane on occasion. There are times my muscles feel like they don't want to cooperate.
But two days ago, I was talking to Michael. I realized as I was talking that my left hand was being very animated as if I was trying to talk with my hand too. That was the first automated thing I have done since the stroke. EVERYTHING I had done up to the point was a concentrated move on my part. I had to look at my hand and think about what I wanted it to do.
I even said something to him later and pointed with my left finger "over there". Which meant making a fist and extending my index finger, extending my arm and pointing without thinking about it. We both looked at each other as we realized what I had just done without thinking about it. Amazing!
The pain has been subsiding. It is still there mostly in the evening, but it has not been as intense. My muscles still burn though. I heard someone describe their arm as being full of lead. A very heavy feeling. That's what I feel too which makes me very fatigued.
The weather here has been amazing. Today in the upper 80's. The cats outside with black fur and long orange fur don't really like it though. I do!
But two days ago, I was talking to Michael. I realized as I was talking that my left hand was being very animated as if I was trying to talk with my hand too. That was the first automated thing I have done since the stroke. EVERYTHING I had done up to the point was a concentrated move on my part. I had to look at my hand and think about what I wanted it to do.
I even said something to him later and pointed with my left finger "over there". Which meant making a fist and extending my index finger, extending my arm and pointing without thinking about it. We both looked at each other as we realized what I had just done without thinking about it. Amazing!
The pain has been subsiding. It is still there mostly in the evening, but it has not been as intense. My muscles still burn though. I heard someone describe their arm as being full of lead. A very heavy feeling. That's what I feel too which makes me very fatigued.
The weather here has been amazing. Today in the upper 80's. The cats outside with black fur and long orange fur don't really like it though. I do!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Doctor appointment update 5/23
I expressed to my doctor the pain and burning in my muscles. His response, "yeah". He didn't seem too surprised. I also mentioned the twitching in my left foot at night. Again his response, "yeah".
Seems all of my side effects are not out of the norm during recovery.
He took the cap of a writing pen to the palm of my right hand and drew a number. It felt like the number 8. He then did the same to my left palm. I about came out of my chair. I'm hypersensitive to certain things, and apparently a writing utensil on the palm of my hand is one of them.
Nothing we discussed seemed to surprise him. He was glad that I jumped when he touched my palm. That meant that some sort of communication was going on and that I felt "something". If I felt nothing, he would have been more concerned.
He did have me close my eyes and would touch my leg or my arm and ask me where I touched him. I would guess but would be wrong because I still do not have that sensory back.
No prescriptions or words of advice on things to come from the doctor. Just good to see you. See you again soon.
Seems all of my side effects are not out of the norm during recovery.
He took the cap of a writing pen to the palm of my right hand and drew a number. It felt like the number 8. He then did the same to my left palm. I about came out of my chair. I'm hypersensitive to certain things, and apparently a writing utensil on the palm of my hand is one of them.
Nothing we discussed seemed to surprise him. He was glad that I jumped when he touched my palm. That meant that some sort of communication was going on and that I felt "something". If I felt nothing, he would have been more concerned.
He did have me close my eyes and would touch my leg or my arm and ask me where I touched him. I would guess but would be wrong because I still do not have that sensory back.
No prescriptions or words of advice on things to come from the doctor. Just good to see you. See you again soon.
Wed, May 23, 2007
I have my second follow up doctor appointment this afternoon. This is with my rehab doctor, not the neurologist. I met with him last month for a check up. This is to monitor my progress and to see where I am in the grand scheme of rehab.
I have been without out-patient rehab for one month now. It will be interesting to hear his comments.
I have been without out-patient rehab for one month now. It will be interesting to hear his comments.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Tuesday May 22, 2007
I wish I had more to report but I guess I have just settled into a daily routine that doesn't have many new things to report.
EXCEPT I do have to say that my orthodontist is pretty darn cool. I got to see her this weekend, to me it was like a "house call". She was up here in Seattle this weekend for an orthodontist convention. We had agreed to meet while she was in town so she could check my teeth. I spoke to her a few times while I was in the rehab hospital. She would call to check on me every now and then even after I had been discharged.
She said things looked great (teeth very clean. in fact, she said cleaner than most her patients who have the full use of both their hands). It's been very challenging to floss my teeth with the use of mainly one hand. But if I can do it, then everyone should be flossing their teeth, no excuses!
She changed the wires on both top and bottom, and gave me more rubber bands. I'm still on track for getting them off next month before the wedding.
So my teeth are pretty sensitive, but right now what is one more thing?
We agreed to have them taken off before the wedding, teeth whitened, fitted for a permanent retainer top and bottom all on the same day.
I'm very excited about it among other things. So I plan on being in her office for full day. Hope I don't hurt too much when it's all over. But I am looking forward to it.
EXCEPT I do have to say that my orthodontist is pretty darn cool. I got to see her this weekend, to me it was like a "house call". She was up here in Seattle this weekend for an orthodontist convention. We had agreed to meet while she was in town so she could check my teeth. I spoke to her a few times while I was in the rehab hospital. She would call to check on me every now and then even after I had been discharged.
She said things looked great (teeth very clean. in fact, she said cleaner than most her patients who have the full use of both their hands). It's been very challenging to floss my teeth with the use of mainly one hand. But if I can do it, then everyone should be flossing their teeth, no excuses!
She changed the wires on both top and bottom, and gave me more rubber bands. I'm still on track for getting them off next month before the wedding.
So my teeth are pretty sensitive, but right now what is one more thing?
We agreed to have them taken off before the wedding, teeth whitened, fitted for a permanent retainer top and bottom all on the same day.
I'm very excited about it among other things. So I plan on being in her office for full day. Hope I don't hurt too much when it's all over. But I am looking forward to it.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Tuesday May 15th, 2007
It's been 15 days since my last out-patient therapy. I miss it and I miss going. I miss the physical challenges from my therapists and I miss the affirmation that I was progressing. So I am in the process of filing an appeal to my insurance company.
Meanwhile, I've been keeping busy. Although now I've been feeling pain and a burning sensation in my muscles only on the left side. I did a little research and found that pain after a stroke occurs in less than 10% of strokes. And burning a feeling in muscles is part of it. Apparently the signals being sent between my brain and muscles never take a break, and therefore they burn. Now what does that mean??!! Who knows?
I have a follow up appointment with my doctor from the rehab hospital next week.
I better get back to my list of chores I started ( I write them down to keep from getting distracted....very easily these days, very tired....very easily these days, and forgetting them...very easily these days). Better get back to "work".
Meanwhile, I've been keeping busy. Although now I've been feeling pain and a burning sensation in my muscles only on the left side. I did a little research and found that pain after a stroke occurs in less than 10% of strokes. And burning a feeling in muscles is part of it. Apparently the signals being sent between my brain and muscles never take a break, and therefore they burn. Now what does that mean??!! Who knows?
I have a follow up appointment with my doctor from the rehab hospital next week.
I better get back to my list of chores I started ( I write them down to keep from getting distracted....very easily these days, very tired....very easily these days, and forgetting them...very easily these days). Better get back to "work".
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
May 9th
Sorry that it has taken so long for a new update. April 30th was my last official out-patient rehab at Good Sam Hospital. It has been an on-going battle with my insurance company which at the very least is very frustrating. It has been a full-time job trying to keep my personal affairs in order. So between making a spreadsheet to track all my medical bills that have been rolling in, and dealing with doctors, and dealing with my insurance company all the while trying to plan a wedding, I've been busy. No excuses...I'm doing ok.
The countdown clock shows 59 days and counting!!
2007 has felt very much like a nightmare. Time sort of stood still yet kept going at the same time. March 2nd felt like yesterday, yet the countdown clock says otherwise.
In addition to wedding planning, I've been trying to keep myself busy with doing my own at-home therapy. My main focus now is my left arm, hand and fingers. I've learned to control it better IF I'm looking at it. At least it comes to me more easily than it did. So there is progress.
Michael took me to get my nails done last week, after about a month. What a strange sensation it was. My right hand has nerve damage in my palm and pinkie due to an unfortunate "bottle" accident a few years back. It is the same type of nerve damage feeling in my left hand when they are filling on my fingers. I still can't feel my left hand, but get sensations that are not to pleasant. Guess that means something is happening.
I did a little research about regaining feeling after a stroke. There is no guarantee that it will return although there is no guarantee that it won't. Meanwhile, I'm fatigued (normal), I'm sore in my muscles (normal), and the muscles on the left side have a burning sensation (not sure if normal or not)
Who knew recovering from a stroke was this physical? Well I sure didn't. I have the metronome going and that so far has been the best thing I've found to help me with walking to a consistent rhythm.
My left ankle is sore when I walk. We bought an arch support for my left foot which helped, but that does not take away the pain.
The dryer is beeping at me. Guess it is time to get back up and finish a few things.
The countdown clock shows 59 days and counting!!
2007 has felt very much like a nightmare. Time sort of stood still yet kept going at the same time. March 2nd felt like yesterday, yet the countdown clock says otherwise.
In addition to wedding planning, I've been trying to keep myself busy with doing my own at-home therapy. My main focus now is my left arm, hand and fingers. I've learned to control it better IF I'm looking at it. At least it comes to me more easily than it did. So there is progress.
Michael took me to get my nails done last week, after about a month. What a strange sensation it was. My right hand has nerve damage in my palm and pinkie due to an unfortunate "bottle" accident a few years back. It is the same type of nerve damage feeling in my left hand when they are filling on my fingers. I still can't feel my left hand, but get sensations that are not to pleasant. Guess that means something is happening.
I did a little research about regaining feeling after a stroke. There is no guarantee that it will return although there is no guarantee that it won't. Meanwhile, I'm fatigued (normal), I'm sore in my muscles (normal), and the muscles on the left side have a burning sensation (not sure if normal or not)
Who knew recovering from a stroke was this physical? Well I sure didn't. I have the metronome going and that so far has been the best thing I've found to help me with walking to a consistent rhythm.
My left ankle is sore when I walk. We bought an arch support for my left foot which helped, but that does not take away the pain.
The dryer is beeping at me. Guess it is time to get back up and finish a few things.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Friday April 27, 2007
I was explaining a strange analogy to Michael today. I feel like the right side of my body has been sewn together with the left side of someone else's body. I have to learn how to walk with someone's leg, and use their arm and hand. I can touch my left arm with my right hand, but since I can't feel it, it's like I might as well be touching someone else's arm. sooooo weird.
I tried an experiment today. I turned on a metronome to help me walk. It worked out great. It kept the beat for me and helped to keep my steps consistent. sounds funny, but it worked.
I tried an experiment today. I turned on a metronome to help me walk. It worked out great. It kept the beat for me and helped to keep my steps consistent. sounds funny, but it worked.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Wednesday April 25, 2007
I had my PT and OT today.
I was challenged to balance on my knees on a mat today while propping my hands on an exercise ball. My therapists had me do some stretching exercises too. I was amazed because I tend to "favor" my left side. Since I still can't feel it, I don't like to lay on my left side, or bear weight on it as much as I should. I've learned since the beginning of rehab therapy to stand and walk obviously using my left leg. But now I'm challenged to do more like bearing all my weight on my left arm, or left hand, or left knee etc...
Although I'm doing better everyday, I'm still challenged with perfecting everyday tasks. I can't say that I've perfected any one thing yet. But I still try new things everyday to challenge myself.
My therapists said today that it takes doing something at least 1,000 times before it will become "more natural". Whew! I've got a long way to go.
My left foot has been experiencing a pain. Odd since I can't feel it. My doctor and therapists said that it is not uncommon to feel pain. Although they say that if I feel pain, the pain in actuality is worse than what I can feel. So they take that I report pain very seriously.
I bought an orthotic to support the arch in my foot. It seems to have done the trick.
Meanwhile I am still working hard everyday, doing and folding laundry, dishes, making the bed and even flossing my teeth. At least I floss as many teeth as I can. I try to do more everyday. My laundry folding is getting better, although it makes me so tired. Michael says he can actually tell now the article of clothing that I folded. Before it looked like a controlled wad of clothing. hey, at least the clothes are clean!
I was challenged to balance on my knees on a mat today while propping my hands on an exercise ball. My therapists had me do some stretching exercises too. I was amazed because I tend to "favor" my left side. Since I still can't feel it, I don't like to lay on my left side, or bear weight on it as much as I should. I've learned since the beginning of rehab therapy to stand and walk obviously using my left leg. But now I'm challenged to do more like bearing all my weight on my left arm, or left hand, or left knee etc...
Although I'm doing better everyday, I'm still challenged with perfecting everyday tasks. I can't say that I've perfected any one thing yet. But I still try new things everyday to challenge myself.
My therapists said today that it takes doing something at least 1,000 times before it will become "more natural". Whew! I've got a long way to go.
My left foot has been experiencing a pain. Odd since I can't feel it. My doctor and therapists said that it is not uncommon to feel pain. Although they say that if I feel pain, the pain in actuality is worse than what I can feel. So they take that I report pain very seriously.
I bought an orthotic to support the arch in my foot. It seems to have done the trick.
Meanwhile I am still working hard everyday, doing and folding laundry, dishes, making the bed and even flossing my teeth. At least I floss as many teeth as I can. I try to do more everyday. My laundry folding is getting better, although it makes me so tired. Michael says he can actually tell now the article of clothing that I folded. Before it looked like a controlled wad of clothing. hey, at least the clothes are clean!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Friday April 20th
I had a follow up appointment today with my doctor from Good Sam, the rehab hospital where I was for a month.
We discussed the results from the angiogram done on Wed with the neurologist from Harborview (the first hospital where I was the first 10 days). .
Basically he said to consider it was good that the results were mxed as good/bad. Good they didn't find anything and bad that they didn't find anything.
We discussed that only 10% of strokes are hemmorhagic. And that the cause of most of those are due to hypertension. Sometimes, the cause is unknown, such as mine.
Since I don't have any of the other high risk factors such as diabetes or high cholesterol, I don't do drugs or take drugs etc... they don't know what to attribute the cause of the stroke to.
Meanwhile, he said to keep all stroke risk factors under control to minimize my risks of having another stroke. At this point, hypertension would be considered by me my greatest risk. Although i have been watching my blood pressure and it has been normal. Now to keep it that way.
He also explained that the most dangerous timeframe for someone to have another stroke is the first 30 days. That explains why he kept me in the hospital for a month. Even though I survived the first 30 days, I'm not off the hook for having another one. He said anyone could have another stroke but keeping risk factors under control would reduce my chances.
But he did feel that it was a malformed blood vessel that was in simple terms a ticking timebomb. It could have bled at anytime. The angiogram they did on Wed was to focus on the other blood vessels and look for any others that are potentially malformed. Since they couldn't finf any, that is what they considered good/bad. The doctor and I agreed to look at that as good.
Without giving a certain diagnosis, he felt that with things under control, I would have a less than 1% chance of another one.
That being said, he said just like the neurologist, go home, focus on rehab, keep risks under control and have a good life.
On a sidenote, his brother suffered from a hemmoraghic stroke last month. He bled twice more and passed away last week.
I'd say I am doing quite well. I am focusing on walking without a cane soon. I can do this, but I want to focus on "form" and good "gait". So time is ticking....I'll be ready by July....because I'm determined to.
We discussed the results from the angiogram done on Wed with the neurologist from Harborview (the first hospital where I was the first 10 days). .
Basically he said to consider it was good that the results were mxed as good/bad. Good they didn't find anything and bad that they didn't find anything.
We discussed that only 10% of strokes are hemmorhagic. And that the cause of most of those are due to hypertension. Sometimes, the cause is unknown, such as mine.
Since I don't have any of the other high risk factors such as diabetes or high cholesterol, I don't do drugs or take drugs etc... they don't know what to attribute the cause of the stroke to.
Meanwhile, he said to keep all stroke risk factors under control to minimize my risks of having another stroke. At this point, hypertension would be considered by me my greatest risk. Although i have been watching my blood pressure and it has been normal. Now to keep it that way.
He also explained that the most dangerous timeframe for someone to have another stroke is the first 30 days. That explains why he kept me in the hospital for a month. Even though I survived the first 30 days, I'm not off the hook for having another one. He said anyone could have another stroke but keeping risk factors under control would reduce my chances.
But he did feel that it was a malformed blood vessel that was in simple terms a ticking timebomb. It could have bled at anytime. The angiogram they did on Wed was to focus on the other blood vessels and look for any others that are potentially malformed. Since they couldn't finf any, that is what they considered good/bad. The doctor and I agreed to look at that as good.
Without giving a certain diagnosis, he felt that with things under control, I would have a less than 1% chance of another one.
That being said, he said just like the neurologist, go home, focus on rehab, keep risks under control and have a good life.
On a sidenote, his brother suffered from a hemmoraghic stroke last month. He bled twice more and passed away last week.
I'd say I am doing quite well. I am focusing on walking without a cane soon. I can do this, but I want to focus on "form" and good "gait". So time is ticking....I'll be ready by July....because I'm determined to.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Intracerebral hemorrhage Definition
A little background: There are two types of strokes:
1) 80-90% are ischemic or blood clots or
2) 10% are ICH or intracerbral hemorrhagic strokes.
I had an ICH or intracerebral hemmorhagic stroke (otherwise known as bleeding inside my brain) specifically around my thalamus.
Intracerebral hemorrhage Definition:
An intracerebral hemorrhage is bleeding in the brain caused by the rupture of a blood vessel within the head.
Intracerebral hemorrhage, or ICH, accounts for 10 to 15 percent of all strokes . It most frequently results from high blood pressure as found in people with hypertension. ICH has a mortality rate of 44 percent after 30 days, higher than ischemic stroke. The symptoms of intracerebral haemorrhage include a headache, nausea and vomiting, alertness changes, deficiencies in verbal skills, balance, swallowing, coordination, and focusing the eyes.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Internal bleeding can occur in any part of the brain. Blood may accumulate in the brain tissues itself, or in the space between the brain and the membranes covering it. The bleeding may be isolated to part of one hemisphere (lobar intracerebral hemorrhage) or it may occur in other brain structures, such as the thalamus, basal ganglia, pons, or cerebellum (deep intracerebral hemorrhage).
An intracerebral hemorrhage can be caused by a traumatic brain injury or abnormalities of the blood vessels (aneurysm or angioma). When it is not caused by one of these conditions, it is most commonly associated with high blood pressure (hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage).
In some cases, no cause can be found.
Current day, Thursday April 19, 2007...
Well, I got a call from my neurologist this morning. The results of my angiogram yesterday were still inconclusive. Which means good and bad.
Good news
It was good as no abnormalities of the blood vessels were found (no AVM's) that needed to be treated, therefore, no intervention surgically is needed at this time.
I will have a follow up MRI once my braces come off.
Bad news
They still don't know what caused it to happen to begin with, just as stated above where no causes can be found.
Since I don't have high blood pressure or hypertension, I remain a rare medical mystery. She said in most cases of the 10% with hemmorhagic strokes, it points to hypertension, and I don't have that. My blood pressure has been pretty darn "normal" throughout this entire ordeal even in the most stressful of times.
If I had a choice of something "rare" happening to me, why couldn't it have been winning the lottery instead!!???
My doctors orders
Focus on rehabilitation, do my excercises and stretches at home, keep my stress and blood pressure under control and watch it carefully, no aspirin, and have a good life. A few other restrictions in there such as no flying or SCUBA diving...those may affect the pressure in my head and blood vessels where you need to "pop" your ears or "equalize" in scuba terms. So that is what I will do.
I take everyday one day at a time and try to live life to the fullest. I also celebrate every small success in my recovery. No matter how long it takes I will contine to work hard on me and get better. It could take a year or longer. Only God knows. My Grandma said "perfect practice makes perfect" so I try not to let myself get away with cheating on my home excercises too much.
My neurologist said that I still have an increased chance of having another stroke. Statistically, those who have had a stroke are at a higher risk than those who have not. But she could not give me a risk factor such as 1% or 5%, or 20% or 50% etc...since they don't know what caused it to begin with.
Back to planning a wedding. Hopefully with little to no stress. Is that possible? It has to be.
1) 80-90% are ischemic or blood clots or
2) 10% are ICH or intracerbral hemorrhagic strokes.
I had an ICH or intracerebral hemmorhagic stroke (otherwise known as bleeding inside my brain) specifically around my thalamus.
Intracerebral hemorrhage Definition:
An intracerebral hemorrhage is bleeding in the brain caused by the rupture of a blood vessel within the head.
Intracerebral hemorrhage, or ICH, accounts for 10 to 15 percent of all strokes . It most frequently results from high blood pressure as found in people with hypertension. ICH has a mortality rate of 44 percent after 30 days, higher than ischemic stroke. The symptoms of intracerebral haemorrhage include a headache, nausea and vomiting, alertness changes, deficiencies in verbal skills, balance, swallowing, coordination, and focusing the eyes.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Internal bleeding can occur in any part of the brain. Blood may accumulate in the brain tissues itself, or in the space between the brain and the membranes covering it. The bleeding may be isolated to part of one hemisphere (lobar intracerebral hemorrhage) or it may occur in other brain structures, such as the thalamus, basal ganglia, pons, or cerebellum (deep intracerebral hemorrhage).
An intracerebral hemorrhage can be caused by a traumatic brain injury or abnormalities of the blood vessels (aneurysm or angioma). When it is not caused by one of these conditions, it is most commonly associated with high blood pressure (hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage).
In some cases, no cause can be found.
Current day, Thursday April 19, 2007...
Well, I got a call from my neurologist this morning. The results of my angiogram yesterday were still inconclusive. Which means good and bad.
Good news
It was good as no abnormalities of the blood vessels were found (no AVM's) that needed to be treated, therefore, no intervention surgically is needed at this time
I will have a follow up MRI once my braces come off.
Bad news
They still don't know what caused it to happen to begin with, just as stated above where no causes can be found.
Since I don't have high blood pressure or hypertension, I remain a rare medical mystery. She said in most cases of the 10% with hemmorhagic strokes, it points to hypertension, and I don't have that. My blood pressure has been pretty darn "normal" throughout this entire ordeal even in the most stressful of times.
If I had a choice of something "rare" happening to me, why couldn't it have been winning the lottery instead!!???
My doctors orders
Focus on rehabilitation, do my excercises and stretches at home, keep my stress and blood pressure under control and watch it carefully, no aspirin, and have a good life. A few other restrictions in there such as no flying or SCUBA diving...those may affect the pressure in my head and blood vessels where you need to "pop" your ears or "equalize" in scuba terms. So that is what I will do.
I take everyday one day at a time and try to live life to the fullest. I also celebrate every small success in my recovery. No matter how long it takes I will contine to work hard on me and get better. It could take a year or longer. Only God knows. My Grandma said "perfect practice makes perfect" so I try not to let myself get away with cheating on my home excercises too much.
My neurologist said that I still have an increased chance of having another stroke. Statistically, those who have had a stroke are at a higher risk than those who have not. But she could not give me a risk factor such as 1% or 5%, or 20% or 50% etc...since they don't know what caused it to begin with.
Back to planning a wedding. Hopefully with little to no stress. Is that possible? It has to be.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Terri said...
Karen, Hello from nurse Terri (ICUH/Harborview). Sounds like you continue to kick butt on the rehab. I am sorry that you have to come back for yet another round of medical tests, but if it is helpful to your recovery and your future health, then it will be well worth it. Sorry that I won't be around to pick on (I mean CARE) for you!! I will be working all week the PACU at Providence here in Everett. Keep up the GREAT work, lots of love and well wishes, Terri.
Friday the 13th...oooooooooo
I figured i better post an update so everyone wasn't worrying about me. I'm OK, I miss my black cat Sneakers on this Friday the 13th. i miss Saki, my Siamese too.
I did go to OT and PT this week. Both therapists were impressed with my progress in the week, but I still have a long way to go. in OT, she had me sit in a chair and had me close my eyes. She took my right arm and put it in a certain position, such as straight up in the air above my head. Without looking, she asked that I match the same position with my left arm. I was able to do this, or at least come close. She would then move my right arm to a different position such as bending my elbow. then asked me to match the movement without looking on my left side. I was able to do that or at least come close. This continued on for a few different movements.
Michael was there with me and suggested to the therapist to try putting my left arm into a position and match it with my right arm. That i could NOT do.
Without being able to see my left arm, hand or fingers, I have no way of determining if I am doing the movement. I would swear that my arm would be up in the air as of to stretch or reach for the sky....and it would be on the table.
My eyes are my only communication between my brain sending signals and the left side of my body to respond somewhat correctly. I can pick something up with my left hand, but without being able to feel it, I have no way of knowing I have it in my hand, unless I'm looking at it.
I can't explain why I would be better at moving my left arm if my right arm did the movement first. But there are alot of things about recovering from a stroke that are just too difficult to explain for me, or too difficult to understand for someone not recovering from a stroke.
Sometimes I don't have a strong enough grip on something and it will fall to the floor. I have to pick it up again and tell myself by sending a message to my left hand to hold onto it tighter. So I'm amazed when I can carry something across the room without dropping it a few times because I have to think about walking at the same time, think about carrying something with a tight enough grip not to drop it. That my friends is called multitasking!
My vision is coming back little by little...at least it is much better than it was. My eyes are no longer competing with each other on which one will focus as i look across the room.
That helped my balance and my ability to walk with a little more confidence.
So I have a few more weeks of therapy ahead of me. But still a long, long road to recovery.
Strange, for the past two weeks or so I will feel and itch on the left side of my body. For example, my left shoulder just had an itch. Instinctively, I went to scratch it. Funny, the itch goes away but I felt nothing when I scratched it.
My therapist suggested that I try to use my left hand for everything one day....or at least as much as I could with little assistance from my right hand. It already takes me forever to do things with my right hand.....this should be interesting. Better go find something to do....why not, I have a few hours to kill!
I did go to OT and PT this week. Both therapists were impressed with my progress in the week, but I still have a long way to go. in OT, she had me sit in a chair and had me close my eyes. She took my right arm and put it in a certain position, such as straight up in the air above my head. Without looking, she asked that I match the same position with my left arm. I was able to do this, or at least come close. She would then move my right arm to a different position such as bending my elbow. then asked me to match the movement without looking on my left side. I was able to do that or at least come close. This continued on for a few different movements.
Michael was there with me and suggested to the therapist to try putting my left arm into a position and match it with my right arm. That i could NOT do.
Without being able to see my left arm, hand or fingers, I have no way of determining if I am doing the movement. I would swear that my arm would be up in the air as of to stretch or reach for the sky....and it would be on the table.
My eyes are my only communication between my brain sending signals and the left side of my body to respond somewhat correctly. I can pick something up with my left hand, but without being able to feel it, I have no way of knowing I have it in my hand, unless I'm looking at it.
I can't explain why I would be better at moving my left arm if my right arm did the movement first. But there are alot of things about recovering from a stroke that are just too difficult to explain for me, or too difficult to understand for someone not recovering from a stroke.
Sometimes I don't have a strong enough grip on something and it will fall to the floor. I have to pick it up again and tell myself by sending a message to my left hand to hold onto it tighter. So I'm amazed when I can carry something across the room without dropping it a few times because I have to think about walking at the same time, think about carrying something with a tight enough grip not to drop it. That my friends is called multitasking!
My vision is coming back little by little...at least it is much better than it was. My eyes are no longer competing with each other on which one will focus as i look across the room.
That helped my balance and my ability to walk with a little more confidence.
So I have a few more weeks of therapy ahead of me. But still a long, long road to recovery.
Strange, for the past two weeks or so I will feel and itch on the left side of my body. For example, my left shoulder just had an itch. Instinctively, I went to scratch it. Funny, the itch goes away but I felt nothing when I scratched it.
My therapist suggested that I try to use my left hand for everything one day....or at least as much as I could with little assistance from my right hand. It already takes me forever to do things with my right hand.....this should be interesting. Better go find something to do....why not, I have a few hours to kill!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
4/11 Wed medical update
I forgot to mention, that the CT scan showed that the swelling of my brain has gone down and the blood from the hemorrhage absorbed. I have an angiogram scheduled next week with the neurologist back at Harborview in Seattle. It will be an all day procedure where they will inject a dye and track it through my blood vessels in my brain. They are going to focus on the blood vessels particularly in the area of the hemorrhage. They will look for any malformed blood vessels that are potentially dangerous foe future ruptures. This procedure is not something that I am looking forward to. It will be an all day event including the 6-hour recovery period. So, that is scheduled for next Wednesday.
4/11 Wed from Skippy
sorry for the delay in posts. for those of you really close to me, i know you understand why and thank you.
I've been catching up on much needed rest and feel really good. yesterday i was able to tie the drawstring on my pants using both hands. slowly but surely, right. everyday I've got to try something new just to prove to myself that i can do it.
mechanically, i feel like I'm learning to control my left arm a little bit more everyday but still so much more healing and re-learning is needed.
I'm more aware of my left shoulder and how it droops, so I'm trying to concentrate on raising that especially when i walk. there are so many other things that i need to focus on when i walk, but i will add this step and see how it goes.
I've been catching up on much needed rest and feel really good. yesterday i was able to tie the drawstring on my pants using both hands. slowly but surely, right. everyday I've got to try something new just to prove to myself that i can do it.
mechanically, i feel like I'm learning to control my left arm a little bit more everyday but still so much more healing and re-learning is needed.
I'm more aware of my left shoulder and how it droops, so I'm trying to concentrate on raising that especially when i walk. there are so many other things that i need to focus on when i walk, but i will add this step and see how it goes.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Friday, April 6, 2007
Thursday, April 5, 2007
day 6 1/2 update Thursday night
Well, I didn't get to finish flossing my teeth today. I find that I get distracted very easily. Between phone calls, emails, walking from room to room to do simple tasks, my day is full. Once I make it to the kitchen I find something to do such as put the dishes in the dishwasher, or take them out next time I'm in there. Or I will walk down the hallway to the bedroom and get distracted by the laundry room. If I'm not putting clothes in the washer, they are in the dryer. That is not the time consuming part. It is the gathering of the clothes to take to the laundry room, or heaven forbid I have to take them out and fold them. That is easily an hour distraction. Boy if the phone rings somewhere in there, I hope the phone is nearby. Because then I have to hunt that down! Which is a walk in itself. So, like I said, I never made it back to the dental floss. But I will get there.
Skippy - 6th day out - Thurs 4/5/07
Well we are nearing the one week mark. This morning I tried to floss my teeth. For those of you who know me well, I used to brush and floss my teeth all the time (pre-stroke), especially now with braces. So slowly but surely i was able to floss some of my teeth. I will attempt to floss them all today. Where's Alanna when I need her?? Not only is this a time consuming process, especially with braces pre-stroke, but to be able to hold the floss with my left fingers with enough grip is amazing! I still have to think about every bit of movement that I do with the left side of my body. I have to think about lifting my left arm to my mouth (each tooth because right now it is too tiring to hold my left arm up there), then think about opening my hand and fingers, then pinch my fingers on a small piece of dental floss that I can't feel, then try to hold onto it while I floss using my right hand. Then repeat the process on the next tooth.
By the end of each day i am very tired. Physically and mentally, everything I do requires so much time, patience and thought.
Looks like it is going to be a beautiful day here today. The sun is shining this morning, but all the heat is down in SoCal from what I understand. For all those who have asked what they can send me...send some heat up here!
By the end of each day i am very tired. Physically and mentally, everything I do requires so much time, patience and thought.
Looks like it is going to be a beautiful day here today. The sun is shining this morning, but all the heat is down in SoCal from what I understand. For all those who have asked what they can send me...send some heat up here!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
from Kenny, Skippy's beta fish in CA
Kenny writes...
There has been some discussion around the office about me coming to visit you...some people (who shall remain nameless in order to protect the innocent), suggested that I would be chauffeured to a place called Santa Monica, and then walked to the end of the Pier. Someone would give me a Yahoo map to your place...and then they would assist me on my way by throwing me into the cold Pacific Ocean.
Fortunately calmer heads prevailed and it the jury decided that I may not be up to the physical challenge, it's a really long swim and I'm such a little guy. Tough and feisty
but vulnerable just the same.
Waiting for you to come visit me.
Kenny
There has been some discussion around the office about me coming to visit you...some people (who shall remain nameless in order to protect the innocent), suggested that I would be chauffeured to a place called Santa Monica, and then walked to the end of the Pier. Someone would give me a Yahoo map to your place...and then they would assist me on my way by throwing me into the cold Pacific Ocean.
Fortunately calmer heads prevailed and it the jury decided that I may not be up to the physical challenge, it's a really long swim and I'm such a little guy. Tough and feisty
but vulnerable just the same.
Waiting for you to come visit me.
Kenny
Wed 4/4 update
Well my update today is not as adventurous as RJ's. Michael and I are praying for the best as we have walked down the dangerous path called Stroke Ave. (that sounds bad in more ways than one)
We had a very full day today complete with a visit to his Tacoma office in the morning prior to my neurologist appointment at noon back at Harborview Hospital in Seattle. I had another CT scan done. Sounds as if another MRI and angiogram are in my near future. The CT was done to determine the amount of blood still remains in my brain from the hemmorage. Originally, it was said it could take up to 3 months for all the blood to be absorbed back into my system. Once the blood is gone, (the CT scans would determine this) the MRI and angiogram would be able to remove the ? and provide answers as to why this happened. There was too much blood last month so my MRI and angiogram were inconclusive.
We did get to visit my nurse Julie from ICU holding today. She was impressed at my progress so far.
So now I wait for the results from the CT scann to determine the next step. I take it one day at a time now while this whole healing process runs its course.
Skippy
We had a very full day today complete with a visit to his Tacoma office in the morning prior to my neurologist appointment at noon back at Harborview Hospital in Seattle. I had another CT scan done. Sounds as if another MRI and angiogram are in my near future. The CT was done to determine the amount of blood still remains in my brain from the hemmorage. Originally, it was said it could take up to 3 months for all the blood to be absorbed back into my system. Once the blood is gone, (the CT scans would determine this) the MRI and angiogram would be able to remove the ? and provide answers as to why this happened. There was too much blood last month so my MRI and angiogram were inconclusive.
We did get to visit my nurse Julie from ICU holding today. She was impressed at my progress so far.
So now I wait for the results from the CT scann to determine the next step. I take it one day at a time now while this whole healing process runs its course.
Skippy
Monday, April 2, 2007
3rd day out - Monday update
well i found things to do today such as go through my clothes and hang things on a hanger that needed hanging. that was a first for me today. so a bit of organizing to help me get "settled". sounds strange but i really didnt know what clothes i had. a month ago i was packed for a business trip/tradeshow, not a month in the hospital. so i got to teach myself how to clip pants onto a hanger for pants, and hang shirts etc... its been a busy afterrnoon. in case you were wondering, i have plenty of sweat pants, t-shirts, socks, and sweatshirts now that i use for my rehab workouts. thanks to michael, his friend dawn and denys. good thing i had packed my tennis shoes a month ago. who knew? now for a well deserved rest....skippy
The IT Guy said...
Congratulations, Karen. I am very happy to see that you are regaining use of your arm. :):):):):) To get to bored today and try not to overdue everything with your regained abilities. Slow and easy. ;) I have moved into your luxurious cubicle this week and next during our wonderful orthodox passover program. hahahaha/ I will take care of your desk and carpet as best as possible. I have your Items boxed up for safe keeping. Well, back to the grind. Have fun today and the next and the next.
3rd day out - Monday
3rd day out and it's Monday. i'm here flying solo for the first time. it's about 8am, and i have all day to keep myself busy. time to get used to this schedule for a while. skippy
Sunday, April 1, 2007
T.G.I.A.
Well, the month of April has finally arrived, the dreaded month of March is OVER!!
Friday saw mom go through her surgery in a shorter amount of time than ever before. Curtis, Sharyl, and Cindy were doing hospital duty at Kaiser, since I was getting RJ home and settled, at the same time that Michael was getting Karen home and settled. Three hospital stays in this month - can you even believe it - and all three home the exact same day. Hooray for our side!
PS - Happy Birthday Dad
Friday saw mom go through her surgery in a shorter amount of time than ever before. Curtis, Sharyl, and Cindy were doing hospital duty at Kaiser, since I was getting RJ home and settled, at the same time that Michael was getting Karen home and settled. Three hospital stays in this month - can you even believe it - and all three home the exact same day. Hooray for our side!
PS - Happy Birthday Dad
2nd day out - Sunday
this morning, i was able to hold my brush in my left hand and raise my arm high enough to use the brush while blow-drying my hair. i was so excited! everyday i use my left arm, hand, fingers more and more.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
1st day out of hospital- Saturday
yeah! first day out of the hospital. i actaully got to sleep in until 8:30am. no nurse coming in to wake me up and take my vital signs, or sleeping with one ear open listening for the next opportunity to hit the nurses button to check on my roommate that was too hot and getting a fever, or that she was not getting enough oxygen from her oxygen tubes or listening to her scream when they rolled her on her side to prevent bedsores because she had a broken hip. the month of march is finally coming to an end, and what an experience.
today at home, i was able to open the zip lock bag of lazy-man cheese. i was able to hold onto the bag with my left fingers while i unzipped to bag with my right hand. that was amazing, finally practical application at home. even michael said that he couldn't imagine what it feels like to be going through my journey as he has to patiently sit back and watch me struggle.
as of two days ago, on my left hand i am now able to touch my pinky and thumb together, ring finger and thumb, middle finger and thumb, and index finger and thumb. last week, i was not able to do this seemingly simple task.
we got a great gift in the mail yesterday. a "taste" of california. curtis sent via UPS some carne asada. so michael is going to BBQ tonight. he just brought in the first bite for me to taste.
off to dinner now...yummy!
today at home, i was able to open the zip lock bag of lazy-man cheese. i was able to hold onto the bag with my left fingers while i unzipped to bag with my right hand. that was amazing, finally practical application at home. even michael said that he couldn't imagine what it feels like to be going through my journey as he has to patiently sit back and watch me struggle.
as of two days ago, on my left hand i am now able to touch my pinky and thumb together, ring finger and thumb, middle finger and thumb, and index finger and thumb. last week, i was not able to do this seemingly simple task.
we got a great gift in the mail yesterday. a "taste" of california. curtis sent via UPS some carne asada. so michael is going to BBQ tonight. he just brought in the first bite for me to taste.
off to dinner now...yummy!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Graduation Day!!
good morning, yep graduation day! the nurses hummed the graduation hymn while i walked down the hallway this morning on my way to breakfast. i askws them to do the wedding march too so i could practice. :)
the rehab hospital has provided me some tools such as a cane and an ankle brace for when i leave.
but any other tools such as a cutting board for cooking for example vary per person. so they provided me a catalog with these items if i wanted to pursue shopping for myself. yipee the world of online shopping here i come~!!
its almost 10am now. i have my final OT at 11am. michael should be here by noon or so. then i will be on my way home.
yes typing is getting better and easier. no, not using my left hand yet. still a little early, but with my strong will and determination, it will happen some day. it is too difficult right now on a notebok laptop which is smaller than a regular laptop.
thank you again to everyone for your continued prayers, cards, emails, visitors, care packages and support. honestly, every bit of it helped me keep my spirits up and gave me the strength for the next day.
as i look around the room at my attempt to packing my things, i have obviously been here long enough. i've got 2 stuffed bags of clothes, cards galore, 4 balloons, numerous vases from all the flowers, boxes from all the carepackages, 3 pairs of shoes (such a girl), 1 laptop, 1 cell phone and charger, 2 firemen calendars, 1 big hersheys kiss that was a gift from one of my OT therapists today, and countless teddy bears. that does not begin to describe what has already been taken to the house as of last weekend for my overnight trip! as one nurse Maggie described my room, "it looks like a guy's dorm room in here, what a mess!" well, that is because i had a guy here everynight who loves me very much and has been the best support ever, and that i am very lucky, fortunate and blessed to be marrying in july, but didn't want to try his housekeeping skills in my room. l0oks like my occupational therapy will be tested at home with laundry, dishes and cleaning!
thank you again, love and blessings to all,
Karen aka Skippy
the rehab hospital has provided me some tools such as a cane and an ankle brace for when i leave.
but any other tools such as a cutting board for cooking for example vary per person. so they provided me a catalog with these items if i wanted to pursue shopping for myself. yipee the world of online shopping here i come~!!
its almost 10am now. i have my final OT at 11am. michael should be here by noon or so. then i will be on my way home.
yes typing is getting better and easier. no, not using my left hand yet. still a little early, but with my strong will and determination, it will happen some day. it is too difficult right now on a notebok laptop which is smaller than a regular laptop.
thank you again to everyone for your continued prayers, cards, emails, visitors, care packages and support. honestly, every bit of it helped me keep my spirits up and gave me the strength for the next day.
as i look around the room at my attempt to packing my things, i have obviously been here long enough. i've got 2 stuffed bags of clothes, cards galore, 4 balloons, numerous vases from all the flowers, boxes from all the carepackages, 3 pairs of shoes (such a girl), 1 laptop, 1 cell phone and charger, 2 firemen calendars, 1 big hersheys kiss that was a gift from one of my OT therapists today, and countless teddy bears. that does not begin to describe what has already been taken to the house as of last weekend for my overnight trip! as one nurse Maggie described my room, "it looks like a guy's dorm room in here, what a mess!" well, that is because i had a guy here everynight who loves me very much and has been the best support ever, and that i am very lucky, fortunate and blessed to be marrying in july, but didn't want to try his housekeeping skills in my room. l0oks like my occupational therapy will be tested at home with laundry, dishes and cleaning!
thank you again, love and blessings to all,
Karen aka Skippy
Thursday, March 29, 2007
And now it's Moms turn ~
Hi everyone. I went for the pre op today and they said I need to be in the hospital at 7:30 tomorrow morning (March 30.) The actual surgery will be at about 10:30. I expect to be home that night and then we'll just see how things go from there. Thanks to everyone for all of your prayers and support. Elta
just one more night
after a month in the hospital, i'm ready to go home!!
having been stripped of the ability of using the left side of my body, i've learned enough here to feel independent enough to go home. i can do a basic function like walk with a cane, which has been a gradual process starting on march 2nd from being completely paralyzed and laying in bed depending on everyone for everything. i cherish the ability to brush my teeth at the sink STANDING!
i had to learn how to stand while not balancing on my right foot, but using both legs.
i'm gainging more mobility in my left arm and hand and fingers. i can relax my hand enough to where my fingers will open. if you know anything about stroke victims, there are certain signs that are common such as a clinched hand and arm. or as i call it a gorilla claw, because that is truly what it looks like. the muscles in my left hand were contracted so tightly that someone had to try to pry open my clinched hand. my brain wasnt able to relax enough to send the signal to my hand to open. everyday is AMAZING. i learn how to do more and more.
now that i can open my left hand, i can hold the toothpaste tube for example. closing my hand with light control was a challenge. but with no major toothpaste splatterings on the wall i consider learning that task a success. i can hold the tube and using my right hand take the cap off and put it back on.
on a side note, i started this update earlier this morning and had to save to draft around 11am. well, its now 9:15pm, that's how busy my days can get and i'm just now getting back to this. sorry for the delay today.
i had a great week of occupational therapy, where we focus on fine motor skill function. i did get to make a grilled cheese sandwhich today in the kitchen...its not about what i made, but had to learn how to plan out all thr steps to making something. like how do i walk with a cane and carry food, or a plate etc...so i got to practice on a cuttingboard that was designed for stroke victims that have limited abilities with one hand. for example, the cuttingboard has a raised L-shape corner to hold a slice of bread, making it easy to spread mayo or butter on the bread.
it appears i will start with outpatient therapy next week, schedule TBD.
i may have more time on my hands, but then again maybe not. i will do my best to try to do things around the house such as laundry, and basic cleaning, it just takes me much longer to do simple tasks. so i will continue to post updates.
thank you again to everyone for your continued thoughts and prayers. i pray that i do not have any more strokes in the future. i feel that i am doing very well and continue to feel stronger everyday.
skippy
having been stripped of the ability of using the left side of my body, i've learned enough here to feel independent enough to go home. i can do a basic function like walk with a cane, which has been a gradual process starting on march 2nd from being completely paralyzed and laying in bed depending on everyone for everything. i cherish the ability to brush my teeth at the sink STANDING!
i had to learn how to stand while not balancing on my right foot, but using both legs.
i'm gainging more mobility in my left arm and hand and fingers. i can relax my hand enough to where my fingers will open. if you know anything about stroke victims, there are certain signs that are common such as a clinched hand and arm. or as i call it a gorilla claw, because that is truly what it looks like. the muscles in my left hand were contracted so tightly that someone had to try to pry open my clinched hand. my brain wasnt able to relax enough to send the signal to my hand to open. everyday is AMAZING. i learn how to do more and more.
now that i can open my left hand, i can hold the toothpaste tube for example. closing my hand with light control was a challenge. but with no major toothpaste splatterings on the wall i consider learning that task a success. i can hold the tube and using my right hand take the cap off and put it back on.
on a side note, i started this update earlier this morning and had to save to draft around 11am. well, its now 9:15pm, that's how busy my days can get and i'm just now getting back to this. sorry for the delay today.
i had a great week of occupational therapy, where we focus on fine motor skill function. i did get to make a grilled cheese sandwhich today in the kitchen...its not about what i made, but had to learn how to plan out all thr steps to making something. like how do i walk with a cane and carry food, or a plate etc...so i got to practice on a cuttingboard that was designed for stroke victims that have limited abilities with one hand. for example, the cuttingboard has a raised L-shape corner to hold a slice of bread, making it easy to spread mayo or butter on the bread.
it appears i will start with outpatient therapy next week, schedule TBD.
i may have more time on my hands, but then again maybe not. i will do my best to try to do things around the house such as laundry, and basic cleaning, it just takes me much longer to do simple tasks. so i will continue to post updates.
thank you again to everyone for your continued thoughts and prayers. i pray that i do not have any more strokes in the future. i feel that i am doing very well and continue to feel stronger everyday.
skippy
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
continuation....
as i was mentioning...i am learning to use my fingers on my left hand. i tried to open clothes pins, but have been unsuccessful. guess i wasnt meant to do laundry that way.
tomorrow, i get to venture into learning how to be more of a domestic godess. they have a kitchen here and a laundry room. so i will have to learn how to cook something in the kitchen. the goal is not only to cook, but do so safely without killing myself or burning down the house. where was this class years ago?? off to class...to be continued...
tomorrow, i get to venture into learning how to be more of a domestic godess. they have a kitchen here and a laundry room. so i will have to learn how to cook something in the kitchen. the goal is not only to cook, but do so safely without killing myself or burning down the house. where was this class years ago?? off to class...to be continued...
wednesday, hump day
i'm 1/2 way thru my final week! friday is the finish line for me.
on monday, i did get a vist from two therapy dogs, and i understand i received one more fireman calendar michael is bringing that to me tonight as it was mailed to the house. not too shabby! i still have room on my wall, and my roommate enjoys them too, not to mention all the nurses!
sounds like the next step is a follow up appointment next week with my neurologist in seattle. i understand another angiogram and MRI are in my near future in hopes to eliminate the question mark and provide answers as to why this happened. at this point, all the doctors can do is shrug their shoulders and say they dont know. i dont fall unto any risk category of potential stroke....my spring chicken age, no drugs, no family history especially at this age, no high cholesterol.
meanwhile, i'm still not cleared to fly/travel to air on the side of caution.
i guess there is some good news to report....over the past few days, i'm getting more and more sensation back. the left side of my face feels like anesthesia is wearing off and i feel sore muscles on my left side. i take that all as a good sign, although certainly notplesurable sensations. i can feel a definite line drawn down the center of my body from the left side to the right. the left side of my lip feels funny, my left nostril, the area around my left eye.....all that numb coming out of anesthesia feeling.
i'm gaining more and more mobility and use of my left arm, hand and fingers. big improvement even from last week.
i've been working on developing the muscles to use my left fingers.
on monday, i did get a vist from two therapy dogs, and i understand i received one more fireman calendar michael is bringing that to me tonight as it was mailed to the house. not too shabby! i still have room on my wall, and my roommate enjoys them too, not to mention all the nurses!
sounds like the next step is a follow up appointment next week with my neurologist in seattle. i understand another angiogram and MRI are in my near future in hopes to eliminate the question mark and provide answers as to why this happened. at this point, all the doctors can do is shrug their shoulders and say they dont know. i dont fall unto any risk category of potential stroke....my spring chicken age, no drugs, no family history especially at this age, no high cholesterol.
meanwhile, i'm still not cleared to fly/travel to air on the side of caution.
i guess there is some good news to report....over the past few days, i'm getting more and more sensation back. the left side of my face feels like anesthesia is wearing off and i feel sore muscles on my left side. i take that all as a good sign, although certainly notplesurable sensations. i can feel a definite line drawn down the center of my body from the left side to the right. the left side of my lip feels funny, my left nostril, the area around my left eye.....all that numb coming out of anesthesia feeling.
i'm gaining more and more mobility and use of my left arm, hand and fingers. big improvement even from last week.
i've been working on developing the muscles to use my left fingers.
Monday, March 26, 2007
look comfortable?
surprisingly i was comfy!! sine i still cant feel the left side of my body, i lay on my right side. this weekend was full of naps and we loved it. it was a rainy day and we just finished our grilled cheese sandwiches. so nap time in front of the fireplace was the next step.
its now monday and im back here in rehab. i have just a few moments befor my next therapy sessions. i've met with my doctor this morning and expressed how much my vision is still affecting me. he basically said that my body is still trying to obsorb the blood and the swelling in my brain is still healing. all i can do at tjis point is wait it out and time will tell. meanwhile, i have to use my eyes and see thru a "fog" until it gets better.
its now monday and im back here in rehab. i have just a few moments befor my next therapy sessions. i've met with my doctor this morning and expressed how much my vision is still affecting me. he basically said that my body is still trying to obsorb the blood and the swelling in my brain is still healing. all i can do at tjis point is wait it out and time will tell. meanwhile, i have to use my eyes and see thru a "fog" until it gets better.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
PT Comments
From reading the Friday post, it sure sounds to me like Karen had her "Karate Kid" workout - now stand on this post while Mr. Miyagi teaches you balance. And seeing the picture below shows how tiring that can be.... or, maybe it was the wine.
Wax on, wax off; brush up, brush down; sand right, sand left...
Wax on, wax off; brush up, brush down; sand right, sand left...
Friday, March 23, 2007
friday night update
its skippy... it is friday night and i'm that much closer to being discharged. at least in my mind and desire. the dr. wants me to stay here until next friday. so the countdown begins!! i had a VERY tiring day today. it was very strenuous on my muscles that i couldn't feel until today. i had to practice using my shoulder muscles on my left side in OT today. later that afternoon, i had to lay on my back and basically benchpress a dowel 1-2 inches in diameter. it weighed a ton but for most probably only a pound or two. but it was to exercise straightening my left arm and use strength to hold it up. i then had to rotate the dowel back and forth above my head and lower it behind my head and then back up. i'm tired again just thinking about it. then i was moved over to PT. i had to practice doing leg squats, and from a squat, lift my right leg up onto a block about 6 inches high, then back down controlling my balance all the while. then i had to do some clean the floor excercise. while on my left leg, they put a towel under my right foot. i had to balance on my left foot, while stretching my right foot out using the towel along the floor. not easy!! aft returning to my room, i got a visit from an eye doctor. i have been expressing concern to my primary dr. that my vision has been affected. i explained my vision as having my eyes just dilated and nothing is really in focus. poor eye sight is a common complaint after a stroke. it does affect me during therapy as vision plays a part with equlibrium
Karen's New Number
Karen has moved rooms. She is now in room #23. The phone number is (253) 697-1023. Her new roommate is Dixie. She is feisty!
Words from Denys =)
Hi Everyone! This is Denys :) For those who don't know me, I am Karen's Old Roommate and Maid of Honor. I got to spend the whole day with Karen and see how great she is doing with her therapy. SHE IS AWESOME! I am so proud of how far she has come in 3 weeks. She was able to walk down the hallway without using a cane. They had her doing alot of work with her upper arms today. She was able to raise her arms above her head. It was great! I was very excited to see her work so hard. She actually was able to give Michael the finger before she left...with her left hand. NICE! It is raining here today, and supposed to rain the rest of the weekend. Karen gets a hall pass for Saturday and Sunday. We are going to get our nails done...that will be fun! Oh the nurse is coming soon with ice cream! Is this Club Med???? By the way my favorite fireman is May for sure!
new room
hi all, i'm in a new room here at good sam hospital. i'm in room 23 now. more details soon...gotta go back for more therapy in a few minutes.
friday march 23, 2007
yeah!! i know what today is, thanks to denys for my fireman calendar on my wall!! see, i told everyone that would help! just think if i had a seeing eye golden retriever and/or therapy dog!! the miracles i could perform.
denys arrived safely last night. michael smoozed the nurses into unlocking the doors after hours so they both could stop by for a late night after-hours visit.
it is now 7:45am. they are on their way back to the hospital this morning and denys will spend the day with me.
i've been awake since 6am, i've been able to safely get into my wheelchair, go to the aethroom by myself unassisted, check email, got dressed and now waiting for those darn kids (family joke).
more to come... skippy
denys arrived safely last night. michael smoozed the nurses into unlocking the doors after hours so they both could stop by for a late night after-hours visit.
it is now 7:45am. they are on their way back to the hospital this morning and denys will spend the day with me.
i've been awake since 6am, i've been able to safely get into my wheelchair, go to the aethroom by myself unassisted, check email, got dressed and now waiting for those darn kids (family joke).
more to come... skippy
Thursday, March 22, 2007
another grat day
skippy here... another great day with more progress. day 2 of being off my medication so it appears the fog is lifting. i did lots of walking today. i was challenged again since it appears i tackle what they give me each session. so today, i was able to balance on a piece of wood with another piece of wood attached to the bottom. sue this had a name, but i dont know. the goal was to practice weight shifting fro my right to left leg. tough to do w/o feeling on my left side. but it was about trusting that i have a left leg, and strength and balance. then i walked over to the mock stairs and walked up and down those....then over to a balance beam. that is when i said you've got to be kidding. i didnt have to walk the beam, but i did have to practice walking over the beam. this tested my vision, my ability to think about what to do when i got to the board and balance to step over it back and forth. i stepped over it leading with my left foot followed by my right. then backwards over the beam leading with my left followed by my right.
amazing!! SIMPLISTIc sounding, but very challenging.
now when i walk, i try to focus on relaxing my left side to lose what i call the "gorilla claw" look. as i walk, i have to bear my weight on my left leg, and make sure that i'm on my left leg for a few seconds before taking my next step. this weight bear forces me to relax all the way down to my fingers. strange but it works. lots to think about while walking!! so hope to have more pics and/or video soon.
as for feeling....i still cant feel touch on my left side, but sensation and awareness is coming back slowly. my face feels like i ad novocaine that is wearing off. the best feeling is in the morning when i wake up. i can feel the muscles stretch all the way thru my body, even the left side. finally, a sensation that brings a good feeling.
hope that update helps.
denys is on her way up here although not sure if i will c her tonight. she arrives after visiting hours and the hospital doors get locked to the rehab area. so i may spend the whole day here with her in the hospitalon friday. oh goodie, either the club med dining room,for lunch or cafe. either one, yuck!! sorry denys
skippy
amazing!! SIMPLISTIc sounding, but very challenging.
now when i walk, i try to focus on relaxing my left side to lose what i call the "gorilla claw" look. as i walk, i have to bear my weight on my left leg, and make sure that i'm on my left leg for a few seconds before taking my next step. this weight bear forces me to relax all the way down to my fingers. strange but it works. lots to think about while walking!! so hope to have more pics and/or video soon.
as for feeling....i still cant feel touch on my left side, but sensation and awareness is coming back slowly. my face feels like i ad novocaine that is wearing off. the best feeling is in the morning when i wake up. i can feel the muscles stretch all the way thru my body, even the left side. finally, a sensation that brings a good feeling.
hope that update helps.
denys is on her way up here although not sure if i will c her tonight. she arrives after visiting hours and the hospital doors get locked to the rehab area. so i may spend the whole day here with her in the hospitalon friday. oh goodie, either the club med dining room,for lunch or cafe. either one, yuck!! sorry denys
skippy
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
The most unsick patient in Puyallup...
Alright everyone, after a long talk with Karen this afternoon (I'm not calling her Skippy), here is the latest. She really had a good day today as she has previously posted in her brief update. It is difficult for her to type with only one hand, so she wanted me to convey the details of what transpired today to make it so great. Every couple of days her doctor comes in to check on her. Today when he came in to check on her progress she is making with her physical therapists, his first instruction was for her to stand up from her wheelchair. Her initial reaction was that this was an impossible task to ask of her, but setting her mind to it (well, half of it), much to her own amazement, she was able to do it! He then told her to walk across the room all by herself. She asked for her cane, but that request was immediately denied to which she replied "Wha...whaaaat?!?" She was initially reluctant and told the doctor that he better make sure he would catch her if she had a mis-step. He was there to steady her as she walked across the room all by herself! Her first autonomous bipedal forward locomotion in nearly three weeks! He then had her walking down the hall and back again, again, all by herself. She was very proud of herself and her accomplishments, and the doctor seemed very impressed as well - so much so that he said that she may get out of the hospital by as early as next week. This would upgrade her status from "inpatient" physical therapy to "outpatient" physical therapy.
From there it was onto her physical therapy session. One of her exercises put forth by her therapist was to discover what to do if she did indeed fall. Her therapist had her lay on the floor (all by herself) and then crawl across the floor to get back into her wheelchair (all by herself) just to learn how to do it. This may seem like a simple task to most with an able body, but with only one side to work with, a lot of things are involved. The therapist taught her about leg placement for both legs to gain the best leverage points, as well as how to keep track of her left arm to keep it out of harms way as well. Not to the surprise of anyone except Karen, she was able to do it. Like she said in her post earlier, she said "Wow!" a whole bunch of times today. All of the nurses, therapists, and doctors wish that all of their patients had the same strength, will, and determiniation to get better as Karen has.
Karen also reports that she is still suffering some vision loss in the lower quadrant of her left eye, which makes it difficult to see and read. She really absolutely LOVES and appreciates all of the emails that everyone is sending, and just because she has not responded yet, she will certainly try to respond to all of them. She says it is difficult for her to type one handed, especially with the small keyboard on the laptop, so answering every one of them is difficult. Please keep sending them as it helps lift her spirits.
This weekend she is really looking forward to a visit from her good friend Denys from California, and spending her first night away from a place where people in white check on you constantly and getting to sleep in a bed that does not have buttons on the side, bend in the middle, or plug into a wall (well, as far as I know)
karen_getting_better@yahoo.com
Will post more as I hear it...
Curtis
From there it was onto her physical therapy session. One of her exercises put forth by her therapist was to discover what to do if she did indeed fall. Her therapist had her lay on the floor (all by herself) and then crawl across the floor to get back into her wheelchair (all by herself) just to learn how to do it. This may seem like a simple task to most with an able body, but with only one side to work with, a lot of things are involved. The therapist taught her about leg placement for both legs to gain the best leverage points, as well as how to keep track of her left arm to keep it out of harms way as well. Not to the surprise of anyone except Karen, she was able to do it. Like she said in her post earlier, she said "Wow!" a whole bunch of times today. All of the nurses, therapists, and doctors wish that all of their patients had the same strength, will, and determiniation to get better as Karen has.
Karen also reports that she is still suffering some vision loss in the lower quadrant of her left eye, which makes it difficult to see and read. She really absolutely LOVES and appreciates all of the emails that everyone is sending, and just because she has not responded yet, she will certainly try to respond to all of them. She says it is difficult for her to type one handed, especially with the small keyboard on the laptop, so answering every one of them is difficult. Please keep sending them as it helps lift her spirits.
This weekend she is really looking forward to a visit from her good friend Denys from California, and spending her first night away from a place where people in white check on you constantly and getting to sleep in a bed that does not have buttons on the side, bend in the middle, or plug into a wall (well, as far as I know)
karen_getting_better@yahoo.com
Will post more as I hear it...
Curtis
what a great day!
i had a productive day of therapy!!! i wascable to walk today WITHOUT a cane!!! yipee!!! i said wow about 100 times!! i'm like a little kid experiencing everything for the first time with the ability of speech to tell u how cool this is. thank u everyone for your continued thoughts and prayers. they really work!! skippy
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
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