akirali

Today was difficult. It started with two nurses' aides "dropping" Katie as they were pivoting her from bed to chair. Kate fell to her knees, and I, of course, got hysterical. That set the tone for the day.

Initially Kate had trouble walking in p-t, but then therapists decided to have her walk between the parallel bars and that worked. Kate lifted up and put down both legs on each step.

Meal time was hard, too. Kate didn't eat much yesterday or today. Meal time is when Kate tries most to talk, and she is concentrating on that so hard that she is refusing to take bites.

Tonight she fell asleep while I was saying goodnight to her on the phone. Maybe she was just pooped out from the extra activity. Mom Angie

Kate's therapy schedules have increased: two each today of physical and speech therapy, and range of motion. Initially she was wobbly when walking this morning...seemed like she wanted to sit instead of stand...but then she "kicked" into second gear and did better. Her right leg is still weak, but getting stronger all the time. She comes just short of bringing it all the way forward when taking a step.

Kate ate better today, too. She may graduate tomorrow to the next level: they ordered macaroni and cheese for lunch. If she chews well, she may get off the pureed diet. It would be nice to get her some more variety.

Each day I tell Kate how much she has improved. We review the day and I tell her all the good things she did. She always shakes her head no. It is heartbreaking to think that SHE thinks she is not doing well. I do not want to give her much detail about how critical she was those first few days after the accident, but I want her to know how much she has improved. It is a fine line...

I asked God today to make it easier for her to speak. She tries so hard, and seems so frustrated when the words don't come. But she did manage a hearty "Yeah" and "Ok" in response to two questions today. It was wonderful to hear her voice. North Wind staffers are calling her tomorrow night. She'll love that. She holds the phone now and looks like she will start babbling any minute. She's so close.... Mom Angie