We arrived safely and comfortably at the Halvar Jonson Center and are residing in the Ferintosh House in the Centennial Center for Mental Health and Brain Injury. The staff are lovely and kind. It is kind of set up on the pod idea again. Gord is sharing a room with a fellow named "Job". He is almost ready for home apparently so is pretty "with it".
I came this morning at 8am to help the Occupation Therapist, Anthony, with Gord's shower. He needed to see what Gord can actually do for himself so it was a stand back, and observe session. He did pretty well with his left hand and is getting proficient at his transfers from chair to pole and chair to bed.
Yesterday, the day of arrival Gord had a session with his Speech Therapist, Fiona, and she explored what he is understanding etc. He seems to understand and comprehend well but when asked to repeat a word or sentence he just can't get it. His numbers, alphabet, days of the week, months of the year, are all perfect. I am amazed that he just cannot repeat words. There must be a tiny part of his brain that is damaged that controls "repeating". Boggles my mind.
His doctor is Dr. Grey for the next 8 weeks. He is a Physiatrist and a very nice guy. We think along the same lines so I feel good about him caring for Gord. I think we are going to see some real progress in the next while. The computer is right outside Gord's room so I should be able to continue to write the blog.
He knows about the truck because he could see the fender flapping on the way up the highway. I followed the Handi Bus all the way. Good eyes, that guy!!!!He mentioned to me as I was leaving last night. He kind of mumbled that there is something wrong with the fliggleflaggle. (I knew he meant the truck so I told him).
All in all things are getting better and brighter. We are just going now for a routine ECG. Still no results on the MRI.....Deepak is trying to get someone to look at it and call me.
Love to all
Sheila
PS Note to Kevin: I will need help getting the battery hooked up on the Pontiac when you get back. Call me when you know your schedule. Thanks. Hope your trip is going well.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Thanks for the good wishes
Well, here I am on Sunday evening, the last night in Calgary. As I drove out of the parking lot at the Fanning Center I said my good byes and I sincerely hope that I do not have to park there again for a very long time. It is now time to turn in my parking pass for the deposit refund. Sure hope someone is on duty at 7am tomorrow morning.
We are apprehensive about our move but trying to look positively at the next step. Gord has been asking me questions (in his own unique way). He wants to know what his brain scan results were which we don't know yet, and if I have talked to many people about Halvor Jonson. He is also thinking that there is something "wrong" with him. That shows how intuitive he is at this particular time as yesterday, I almost lost my own life. It has taken me 24 hours to come to grips with the truth of the near death incident for me and I want to mention it now because it has great significance to our situation. I was driving down Hwy 2 yesterday morning on the way home from the lake and close to Olds, I hit a patch of ice and the truck just went sideways, then did a 360 and headed into the median and over toward the oncoming traffic. I saw a signpost that I was headed for and that's when I said " Not now, Gord needs me and I cannot die and please don't let me be injured enough to have to go to a hospital!!!!!". I turned the steering wheel and just missed hitting the post head on, it took the left side mirror off, dented the front panel, wrecked the bumper somehow, dented the rear panel, and popped the tailights out so they were hanging there but still connected. I pushed them back into place, checked out the damage, hopped back in the truck since no one would stop to see if I was allright, and drove out of the ditch back up onto the highway and went to the Fanning Center. I am a little stiff on my left side today but I am determined not to let Gord know about it until the time is right. I just want to get him settled into the Halvor Jonson and then I will deal with the police reports, insurance and repairs. I say "WHY NOW" does this happen. I truly am looking for the gift in this all but I am stretching to find the answer. If anyone has any insights, please let me know!
Bottom line is, Gord knows something is going on, and some day he will read the blog and really know how I protected him, and I am fine for now - mainly because I have to be and that says something about the human spirit. If we have to pull ourselves together , we can and we do. A life lesson.
I am really looking foward to returning to the lake and getting reconnected with our friends there. I think it will be good for Gord to finally get home to his comforts. I will just try to make him as comfortable as I can and I must say to all of you out there, he really values your friendships. He cries now every time someone leaves that is close to him and the emotions are so sincere. I believe that the people connections are more important than anything in the world. Thank you to all who have come to visit us at the Foothills and the Fanning and to those that send their messages via the email and blog. I only hope we can be there for all of you when you need us!
Love to all
Sheila
We are apprehensive about our move but trying to look positively at the next step. Gord has been asking me questions (in his own unique way). He wants to know what his brain scan results were which we don't know yet, and if I have talked to many people about Halvor Jonson. He is also thinking that there is something "wrong" with him. That shows how intuitive he is at this particular time as yesterday, I almost lost my own life. It has taken me 24 hours to come to grips with the truth of the near death incident for me and I want to mention it now because it has great significance to our situation. I was driving down Hwy 2 yesterday morning on the way home from the lake and close to Olds, I hit a patch of ice and the truck just went sideways, then did a 360 and headed into the median and over toward the oncoming traffic. I saw a signpost that I was headed for and that's when I said " Not now, Gord needs me and I cannot die and please don't let me be injured enough to have to go to a hospital!!!!!". I turned the steering wheel and just missed hitting the post head on, it took the left side mirror off, dented the front panel, wrecked the bumper somehow, dented the rear panel, and popped the tailights out so they were hanging there but still connected. I pushed them back into place, checked out the damage, hopped back in the truck since no one would stop to see if I was allright, and drove out of the ditch back up onto the highway and went to the Fanning Center. I am a little stiff on my left side today but I am determined not to let Gord know about it until the time is right. I just want to get him settled into the Halvor Jonson and then I will deal with the police reports, insurance and repairs. I say "WHY NOW" does this happen. I truly am looking for the gift in this all but I am stretching to find the answer. If anyone has any insights, please let me know!
Bottom line is, Gord knows something is going on, and some day he will read the blog and really know how I protected him, and I am fine for now - mainly because I have to be and that says something about the human spirit. If we have to pull ourselves together , we can and we do. A life lesson.
I am really looking foward to returning to the lake and getting reconnected with our friends there. I think it will be good for Gord to finally get home to his comforts. I will just try to make him as comfortable as I can and I must say to all of you out there, he really values your friendships. He cries now every time someone leaves that is close to him and the emotions are so sincere. I believe that the people connections are more important than anything in the world. Thank you to all who have come to visit us at the Foothills and the Fanning and to those that send their messages via the email and blog. I only hope we can be there for all of you when you need us!
Love to all
Sheila
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
7am Monday March 30th we depart for Halvar Jonson
It happening! We are finally one step closer to HOME!!!!! We are so excited. We got the word late this afternoon that our journey to Halvar Jonson in Ponoka begins at
7am on Monday March 30th. I called the inpatient number today and started asking a million questions one of which was about Gord being able to come home on weekends. I was told he would be assessed in the first 72 hours and definitely in the first week as to how able he is to be at home and how able I am to handle him at home. I will be putting on my very best show to be able to get him there. I just know his progress will be exceptional when he gets a taste of just being in his own space with his own things. Both of us need that so badly now. 3 months of hospitals is enough thank you very much for the experience!@!#$!@ (those are expletives and I don't know which symbols to use but it's late at night).
We got back from the Foothills hospital after the MRI tonight at about 9pm and we are exhausted. Gord still hates the MRI but stayed in pretty good spirits through the ordeal. I love the forms I had to sign on his behalf. They did an injection of ink or something and apparently one of the many side effects is coma or death. GREAT - just what I needed to know. On the lighter side the ambulance guys Mario and Mark were great! Results will be in a few days and we will probably be gone so I sure hope Deepak can let me know what they were!
I am still in shock about the news so forgive me for not phoning certain people personally but I just can't begin to make contact with everyone. There is so much I need to do to get ready to leave town.
I have to send out a huge thank you to Peter and Kathy for letting me live in their beautiful home for the duration of Gord's unexpected visit to Calgary.
I think that's all for now. I need to get up early in the morning and meet Gib who is taking me to the lake to pick up the truck that Kevin has so kindly connected the battery on, so I can drive it! I am so grateful for all the help I am receiving at this time of extreme stress in our lives.
Onward and upward. I can communicate for the next few days and after that, you may not hear from me for a while until I get communications set up from Halvar Jonson or home. Be patient. THAT is the big lesson of this whole journey.
Lots of love to you all.....
Sheila
PS We are now getting our mail at home: RR1 Site 1 Box 78, Bentley, Alberta T0C 0J0.
7am on Monday March 30th. I called the inpatient number today and started asking a million questions one of which was about Gord being able to come home on weekends. I was told he would be assessed in the first 72 hours and definitely in the first week as to how able he is to be at home and how able I am to handle him at home. I will be putting on my very best show to be able to get him there. I just know his progress will be exceptional when he gets a taste of just being in his own space with his own things. Both of us need that so badly now. 3 months of hospitals is enough thank you very much for the experience!@!#$!@ (those are expletives and I don't know which symbols to use but it's late at night).
We got back from the Foothills hospital after the MRI tonight at about 9pm and we are exhausted. Gord still hates the MRI but stayed in pretty good spirits through the ordeal. I love the forms I had to sign on his behalf. They did an injection of ink or something and apparently one of the many side effects is coma or death. GREAT - just what I needed to know. On the lighter side the ambulance guys Mario and Mark were great! Results will be in a few days and we will probably be gone so I sure hope Deepak can let me know what they were!
I am still in shock about the news so forgive me for not phoning certain people personally but I just can't begin to make contact with everyone. There is so much I need to do to get ready to leave town.
I have to send out a huge thank you to Peter and Kathy for letting me live in their beautiful home for the duration of Gord's unexpected visit to Calgary.
I think that's all for now. I need to get up early in the morning and meet Gib who is taking me to the lake to pick up the truck that Kevin has so kindly connected the battery on, so I can drive it! I am so grateful for all the help I am receiving at this time of extreme stress in our lives.
Onward and upward. I can communicate for the next few days and after that, you may not hear from me for a while until I get communications set up from Halvar Jonson or home. Be patient. THAT is the big lesson of this whole journey.
Lots of love to you all.....
Sheila
PS We are now getting our mail at home: RR1 Site 1 Box 78, Bentley, Alberta T0C 0J0.
Found the keys!
Interesting, isn't it, that sometimes things are right in front of us and we don't see them. In the case of the lost keys, Gord explained exactly where he had put them and I looked there the first time, and so did Kevin and we did not see them. Yesterday when I drove up the highway I kept willing the keys to be there - somewhere- anywhere - and that I would find them easily. I trudged through snow over 3 feet deep (wondering why I didn't find the boy's snowshoes and put them on!) and entered Gord's workshop, looked around a bit and then went to where Gord was sure he left them. The clue he gave was that they were in a plastic container. Sure enough on a shelf under his bench, there they were. Needless to say I was ecstatic! The truck will be in town this week and I will get the physiotherapist to have a look and see if it will work for getting Gord in and out. This is an exciting event.
Today is MRI at the Foothills day so we will wait with great anticipation to hear the results. I will let you know as soon as I know.
I am just leaving to see Gord and of course, it is snowing - again. I think I may take Gord on the sundeck and make a snowman today. May as well, like the saying - when you get lemons, make lemonade. We get snow so I will make snowmen....pretty corny....maybe it's time for me to check in to the "home".
On that note, the car is warmed up and hopefully the snow has melted a bit...off I go for yet another day of recovery miracles. I am currently excited about a book called "The Brain that Changes Itself". Very very interesting material.
Take care everyone,
Lots of love
Sheila
Today is MRI at the Foothills day so we will wait with great anticipation to hear the results. I will let you know as soon as I know.
I am just leaving to see Gord and of course, it is snowing - again. I think I may take Gord on the sundeck and make a snowman today. May as well, like the saying - when you get lemons, make lemonade. We get snow so I will make snowmen....pretty corny....maybe it's time for me to check in to the "home".
On that note, the car is warmed up and hopefully the snow has melted a bit...off I go for yet another day of recovery miracles. I am currently excited about a book called "The Brain that Changes Itself". Very very interesting material.
Take care everyone,
Lots of love
Sheila
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sunday morning - a foot of snow
Well it happened. Overnight it snowed about a foot and it is still snowing. I am rethinking my day. Gord just may have to spend the day with his pod mates....wonder what they will do?
It will be a lovely view from Gord's room with the snow on the trees. I will take a walk in a while and check out the roads to see if I should venture out. This is BAD news for traffic today and I am too far to walk to the Fanning Center unfortunately.
Just wanted all you folks in Maui to know that walking on sand sure beats walking in a foot of snow. Have a great day.
Love
Shivering Sheila
It will be a lovely view from Gord's room with the snow on the trees. I will take a walk in a while and check out the roads to see if I should venture out. This is BAD news for traffic today and I am too far to walk to the Fanning Center unfortunately.
Just wanted all you folks in Maui to know that walking on sand sure beats walking in a foot of snow. Have a great day.
Love
Shivering Sheila
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Saturday's Outing
We are once again in the midst of a dramatic climate change from a lovely warm sunny springlike condition to blustery snow and rain predicted for the next few days. So to take advantage of our nice weather, I arranged an early breakfast with Gord at the "home" and then a planned walk to the Co-op store on the next block. We ventured out with our parkas on, and the adventure began. We easily navigated the first half block of sidewalks but when we reached the corner where we got stuck in the mud before, lo and behold we got stuck again. I managed to get us out and onto the road, dodging cars to get to the other curb. Of course there is a gas station there and the whole sidewalk is sloped because it is actually a driveway. Well, I started out the trip with one wrist brace on, and after finally making it into the store, I came out with a wrist brace on my other wrist. I have figured out my problem with my wrists getting so sore. It's the wheelchair and the 240 pound guy in it on sloping sidewalks! I am trying so hard to keep the chair from running onto the road that I have been straining my wrist and arms, I guess. Luckily Stacy and Daniel called us while we were in the store and came over to walk home with us. Stacy ended up being our human winch by lifting Gord's feet up so we could get off and onto sidewalks. This city really needs to fix up access for wheelchair folks. Another project for Sheila I guess.....
Good day today. Brother Wayne and wife Judith came to visit and the tears were flowing. Beautiful to see - the emotion between brothers. Gord is really realizing the love and caring that is being given to him. We had a birthday celebration in his room for his cousin Joan and brother Wayne. Stacy and Daniel attended and so did Andrea and Declan. The two little boys were the entertainment for the afternoon. Very cute and I am exhausted! Vonnie popped in later this afternoon and had dinner with us in the cafeteria.
The hunt is still on for the car keys so if anyone is a psychic out there, please help us find them. We are looking for 2 sets of keys, one for a car and one for a truck up at the lake. Gord has told us where he thinks he put them but neither Kevin or I can find them. Any help would be appreciated. I know everything has to be somewhere but where?????? Another lesson....always make a list of where you put things when you go on holiday. You never know what may happen.
We are getting closer to moving to Halvar Jonson. One of our Pod mates was interviewed today and he was told that 3 spots are opening up very soon and they thought he could be there in 3 weeks. We are ready for a change.
Take care, everyone....
Much love to all
Sheila and Gord
Good day today. Brother Wayne and wife Judith came to visit and the tears were flowing. Beautiful to see - the emotion between brothers. Gord is really realizing the love and caring that is being given to him. We had a birthday celebration in his room for his cousin Joan and brother Wayne. Stacy and Daniel attended and so did Andrea and Declan. The two little boys were the entertainment for the afternoon. Very cute and I am exhausted! Vonnie popped in later this afternoon and had dinner with us in the cafeteria.
The hunt is still on for the car keys so if anyone is a psychic out there, please help us find them. We are looking for 2 sets of keys, one for a car and one for a truck up at the lake. Gord has told us where he thinks he put them but neither Kevin or I can find them. Any help would be appreciated. I know everything has to be somewhere but where?????? Another lesson....always make a list of where you put things when you go on holiday. You never know what may happen.
We are getting closer to moving to Halvar Jonson. One of our Pod mates was interviewed today and he was told that 3 spots are opening up very soon and they thought he could be there in 3 weeks. We are ready for a change.
Take care, everyone....
Much love to all
Sheila and Gord
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
A tear in my eye today
To my amazement this morning, when I arrived at the Fanning Center, I bounded up the stairs to the 2nd floor, rounded the corner and there was Gord with 2 physio assistants walking down the hall on one of those tripod one handed walkers. He had to have his right foot assisted (and the shoe had a slider on it) but he was totally upright bearing weight on both legs. I stood in awe and had a little cry. Just to see him upright and steady is awesome.
Each day seems to be getting more exhausting for me in Gord's recovery because he is getting up and down so much and just generally moving about. I realize once again, we are in a transition state from dependence to independence and I have to learn to let him go. Up until now he really needed the assistance but I shall back off more and let him figure out what he can do by himself and what he needs to ask the nurses to help him with. I have been by his side practically for every waking hour and I really need to get on with preparations for the next move.
We have not heard yet when we will move to Halvar Jonson Center yet, but apparently they have their big "meetings" on Wednesdays and that is when they do the decision making on who comes, who leaves, and whatever!!! We just may get a call tomorrow. I will let you know.
In any case we are certainly ready and willing to get on with more treatment. I am thinking very seriously that in the next week or two Gord will be strong enough and able enough to transfer into a vehicle. I just need to research what type of vehicle will work for wheelchair to car seat with enough room for his height.
Today was a GOOD day.....and we will pray for an even greater day tomorrow.
Thanks again for all your support and prayers.
Love
Sheila and Gord
Each day seems to be getting more exhausting for me in Gord's recovery because he is getting up and down so much and just generally moving about. I realize once again, we are in a transition state from dependence to independence and I have to learn to let him go. Up until now he really needed the assistance but I shall back off more and let him figure out what he can do by himself and what he needs to ask the nurses to help him with. I have been by his side practically for every waking hour and I really need to get on with preparations for the next move.
We have not heard yet when we will move to Halvar Jonson Center yet, but apparently they have their big "meetings" on Wednesdays and that is when they do the decision making on who comes, who leaves, and whatever!!! We just may get a call tomorrow. I will let you know.
In any case we are certainly ready and willing to get on with more treatment. I am thinking very seriously that in the next week or two Gord will be strong enough and able enough to transfer into a vehicle. I just need to research what type of vehicle will work for wheelchair to car seat with enough room for his height.
Today was a GOOD day.....and we will pray for an even greater day tomorrow.
Thanks again for all your support and prayers.
Love
Sheila and Gord
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The "Wanderer"
Gord has now joined the ranks of what I call "The Wanderers". These folks roam the hallways in their wheelchairs and even use the elevators. Imagine my surprise the other morning when I walked into the front lobby of the Fanning Center and there is Gord Bosch sitting waiting for "something" or "someone". He lit right up when he saw me and felt so proud that he had gotten there himself. The independence is fantastic. He wanders away from me now in the cafeteria and heads for the elevators when he gets bored or just wants to move about. I have to run to keep up with him.
This morning he started to learn how to dress himself and the nurses tell me he got an A+ for the effort. I am not sure how they do it, but it seemed to work.
All in all things are looking good. On Wednesday he is going for an xray on his right knee to see what the swelling is about. On the 25th or so he will have another MRI on his head to see how well the blood has dissapated and if they can see the site of the bleed.
Our weather is getting great so I am feeling more and more like getting Gord outside for some walking (in his wheelchair still) - tried it the other day but got stuck in the mud at the corner. We were trapped on our little block. I was trying to get over to the Co op store for some entertainment but maybe in a few more days the mud will be gone and our path clear.
Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone.....we have a little leprachaun in our family now named Declan!!!! AND he has red hair and is a feisty little Irishman! He visits Gord a lot and they have lots of fun together.
Love to all
Sheila
This morning he started to learn how to dress himself and the nurses tell me he got an A+ for the effort. I am not sure how they do it, but it seemed to work.
All in all things are looking good. On Wednesday he is going for an xray on his right knee to see what the swelling is about. On the 25th or so he will have another MRI on his head to see how well the blood has dissapated and if they can see the site of the bleed.
Our weather is getting great so I am feeling more and more like getting Gord outside for some walking (in his wheelchair still) - tried it the other day but got stuck in the mud at the corner. We were trapped on our little block. I was trying to get over to the Co op store for some entertainment but maybe in a few more days the mud will be gone and our path clear.
Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone.....we have a little leprachaun in our family now named Declan!!!! AND he has red hair and is a feisty little Irishman! He visits Gord a lot and they have lots of fun together.
Love to all
Sheila
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sunday morning
I am just preparing to depart for the Fanning Center to spend a quiet day with Gord. The days are getting easier to get through as Gord is gaining more independence in his wheelchair. I am a portable shoe store these days trying to find shoes that are comfortable for him to do his physiotherapy. With his right foot always being a little swollen, his regular tennis shoes just don't work. My quest has taken me to many shoe stores and now I guess I need to find out who outfits basketball players with BIG feet. I cannot believe I am looking for a wide size 14 now. Or perhaps an expensive size 13 not made in Taiwan. So you can see how my focus is starting to shift to getting all the things in place to make Gord feel more normal.
We love his new room and so do the visitors. We can actually sit around as though we are in a small living room and because it has a little hallway into it, we feel detached from the rest of the "Pod". The door almost shuts out one of our neighbours who has the most irritating hacking cough I have ever heard. And it is a constant noise...poor guy...I know he can't help it... but when I have frazzled nerves already he just adds to it.
All I have to report today is that things are moving along as well as can be expected. I am trying to encourage Gord to write with his left hand and that will be our homework today.
Have a lovely day everyone.....
Love
Sheila and Gord
We love his new room and so do the visitors. We can actually sit around as though we are in a small living room and because it has a little hallway into it, we feel detached from the rest of the "Pod". The door almost shuts out one of our neighbours who has the most irritating hacking cough I have ever heard. And it is a constant noise...poor guy...I know he can't help it... but when I have frazzled nerves already he just adds to it.
All I have to report today is that things are moving along as well as can be expected. I am trying to encourage Gord to write with his left hand and that will be our homework today.
Have a lovely day everyone.....
Love
Sheila and Gord
Thursday, March 12, 2009
We have moved to a new room
The big news today is that Gord has moved to Room 204 in the same Yellow Pod. It is a HUGE room with 2 windows, it's own bathroom, a large sitting area.... and a great view.....just could not get better!
I don't have much to say today except that all of Gord's sessions have been increased in time spent so that's a good sign that he is able to take in lots more rehabilitation. Just last night I was researching all about Aphasia and it was overwhelming to realize the extent of this affliction. It truly is going to be a long haul. I have not been willing to accept that fact until now. The move home will be gradual and certainly not in the very near future. I imagine we will go to Halvar Jonson eventually and spend some time there. It is good for me to learn how to help Gord as well.
Take care everyone
Much Love
Sheila
I don't have much to say today except that all of Gord's sessions have been increased in time spent so that's a good sign that he is able to take in lots more rehabilitation. Just last night I was researching all about Aphasia and it was overwhelming to realize the extent of this affliction. It truly is going to be a long haul. I have not been willing to accept that fact until now. The move home will be gradual and certainly not in the very near future. I imagine we will go to Halvar Jonson eventually and spend some time there. It is good for me to learn how to help Gord as well.
Take care everyone
Much Love
Sheila
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The third full moon since we left Maui
I looked at the most beautiful full moon tonight as I left the Fanning Center and realized this is the third one since we left Maui on Jan. 10th. It has been an amazing journey.
Thanks to everyone who welcomed Andrea and Declan in Maui with open arms. Su and Ken - you are amazing in your undying support for our family. We love you! And Sherry, thank you so much for your generosity in making sure Andrea and Declan had a car seat for their stay at the Kealia. You are wonderful and a good friend. We really appreciate the help you all have given since Gord's event and have made the ongoing already planned events be fulfilled with ease and grace.
I am happy to report Gord now has a new wheelchair and I warn anyone in the hallways to be aware and BEWARE.....especially on Gord's blind side. He may just wipe you out and not even know it. At first he was a little grumpy with his adapted chair but after he watched 2 of the female therapists take apart 2 wheelchairs with multiple tools and sweat, I think he finally appreciated the fact they were going to great lengths to fit a chair to his size. He now (after only an hour of practice) is wheeling himself off if I am busy on the computer or talking to someone in the Cafeteria. It is wonderful to see him be independent again....finally!!!!
I have spoken to many people in the past 2 days to get going on the arrangements for home coming and home care. It is unfolding in a very positive way and I am getting excited about the prospect of being able to live at home, spend our evenings by the fire with a good meal and just simply enjoy what we love. I am investigating Speech Therapy and Physiotherapy that we may be able to access from the lake. Keep your fingers crossed. This man really really wants to go home!!!! It is the motivator because every time I tell him he has to work hard on his speech and his right leg and arm he starts to grunt and groan and lift his leg and speak clearly. The right arm is the tough one but I am getting him believing he can lift it and move his fingers.
Thank you to the Maui Canoe Club for the update. I will take Gord down to the computer tomorrow and he can read the message. I predict he will have a tear in his eye.
I was musing on the way home tonight about how long it has taken for my back to get sore and very uncomfortable. Today I finally have a sore back. 2 months of you know what kind of abuse and it finally manifests. Any calls for offers of a massage will be answered immediately!!!!
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
Thanks to everyone who welcomed Andrea and Declan in Maui with open arms. Su and Ken - you are amazing in your undying support for our family. We love you! And Sherry, thank you so much for your generosity in making sure Andrea and Declan had a car seat for their stay at the Kealia. You are wonderful and a good friend. We really appreciate the help you all have given since Gord's event and have made the ongoing already planned events be fulfilled with ease and grace.
I am happy to report Gord now has a new wheelchair and I warn anyone in the hallways to be aware and BEWARE.....especially on Gord's blind side. He may just wipe you out and not even know it. At first he was a little grumpy with his adapted chair but after he watched 2 of the female therapists take apart 2 wheelchairs with multiple tools and sweat, I think he finally appreciated the fact they were going to great lengths to fit a chair to his size. He now (after only an hour of practice) is wheeling himself off if I am busy on the computer or talking to someone in the Cafeteria. It is wonderful to see him be independent again....finally!!!!
I have spoken to many people in the past 2 days to get going on the arrangements for home coming and home care. It is unfolding in a very positive way and I am getting excited about the prospect of being able to live at home, spend our evenings by the fire with a good meal and just simply enjoy what we love. I am investigating Speech Therapy and Physiotherapy that we may be able to access from the lake. Keep your fingers crossed. This man really really wants to go home!!!! It is the motivator because every time I tell him he has to work hard on his speech and his right leg and arm he starts to grunt and groan and lift his leg and speak clearly. The right arm is the tough one but I am getting him believing he can lift it and move his fingers.
Thank you to the Maui Canoe Club for the update. I will take Gord down to the computer tomorrow and he can read the message. I predict he will have a tear in his eye.
I was musing on the way home tonight about how long it has taken for my back to get sore and very uncomfortable. Today I finally have a sore back. 2 months of you know what kind of abuse and it finally manifests. Any calls for offers of a massage will be answered immediately!!!!
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Thank you for the support....
Well Tom and Carol, you brought tears to our eyes today when we read your comment. I took Gord downstairs to the computer to check out a lottery ticket that one of the "clents" at the Fanning Center had bought for Gord as a gift last night. While there, we checked the blog comments and as I read yours out loud, my voice started to do the "I can hardly speak I am so emotional thing" which Gord picked up on and the two of us sat there crying. Thank you so much for bringing everything into perspective. I believe you are my mentor to get me through this, Tom. Thank you so much. We are praying for you and your complete recovery - dear sweet man!!!!We love you.
I would like to go back now to the "client" (that's what the patients are called at the Fanning Center).
This fellow is so remarkable in that he survived a motorcycle accident some 24 years ago and basically can only move his head and one hand. He navigates his wheelchair so precisely it is unbelievable. He speaks very slowly and by about the 10th time he has repeated a phrase, I finally "get it". He repeats until I repeat what he has said and then we move on to the next item of business. It is exhausting and he usually wheels himself over to our table at dinner time when we have all sorts of family and friends around. He quizzes everyone on what they do and then proceeds to tell "his story". I will tell you his story in his words in the order they come out and I so admire him for his will to live. He is an author of 3 books, was a physical education teacher; black belt in Tai -something; ran the Boston Marathon in 6 hours; had a motorcycle accident at age 24, died, was revived; is now 46 years old and living at the Fanning Center for the past 4 years. He has 2 sons, one is a pilot and the other a dentist in the military. Yesterday he had an outing to the mall and that is where I suspect he bought the lottery ticket that he so generously presented to Gord. He said if Gord wins he wants me to have half. (We did not win - just in case you were wondering). But it is the thought that counts and this was a very powerful and generous gift he gave us from his heart. He kept gestering to his heart when he presented it.
Believe me, when you observe the people that are surrounding us, my heart goes out to them and I reach out to help them every chance I get. When I leave at night I am saying good night to so many of them and that I will see them tomorrow.....they smile....I leave and go home to a nice home that is comfortable. I know many of them will never go home again. It makes you think. It makes me sad. But it is reality.
Gord is doing remarkably well, he looks amazing (just had a great haircut by Vonnie up in the atrium on the 3rd floor) and is stronger and more "with it" every day. We are sorting through his discomforts and hopefully getting them handled.
I am still determined to try to get someone to tell me more about his right arm and what we can do to try to get it back. There is still no movement at all.
To help things along in the construction area, Peter brought Gord a Lego set and we are challenged now to build it. It is a fun and very creative activity that we all participate in. Thank you Peter!!!
Have a good day everyone,
We send our love to you all
Gord and Sheila
PS I am going to try to get Gord to type a few words to you on the next blog from the "home". Stay posted....
I would like to go back now to the "client" (that's what the patients are called at the Fanning Center).
This fellow is so remarkable in that he survived a motorcycle accident some 24 years ago and basically can only move his head and one hand. He navigates his wheelchair so precisely it is unbelievable. He speaks very slowly and by about the 10th time he has repeated a phrase, I finally "get it". He repeats until I repeat what he has said and then we move on to the next item of business. It is exhausting and he usually wheels himself over to our table at dinner time when we have all sorts of family and friends around. He quizzes everyone on what they do and then proceeds to tell "his story". I will tell you his story in his words in the order they come out and I so admire him for his will to live. He is an author of 3 books, was a physical education teacher; black belt in Tai -something; ran the Boston Marathon in 6 hours; had a motorcycle accident at age 24, died, was revived; is now 46 years old and living at the Fanning Center for the past 4 years. He has 2 sons, one is a pilot and the other a dentist in the military. Yesterday he had an outing to the mall and that is where I suspect he bought the lottery ticket that he so generously presented to Gord. He said if Gord wins he wants me to have half. (We did not win - just in case you were wondering). But it is the thought that counts and this was a very powerful and generous gift he gave us from his heart. He kept gestering to his heart when he presented it.
Believe me, when you observe the people that are surrounding us, my heart goes out to them and I reach out to help them every chance I get. When I leave at night I am saying good night to so many of them and that I will see them tomorrow.....they smile....I leave and go home to a nice home that is comfortable. I know many of them will never go home again. It makes you think. It makes me sad. But it is reality.
Gord is doing remarkably well, he looks amazing (just had a great haircut by Vonnie up in the atrium on the 3rd floor) and is stronger and more "with it" every day. We are sorting through his discomforts and hopefully getting them handled.
I am still determined to try to get someone to tell me more about his right arm and what we can do to try to get it back. There is still no movement at all.
To help things along in the construction area, Peter brought Gord a Lego set and we are challenged now to build it. It is a fun and very creative activity that we all participate in. Thank you Peter!!!
Have a good day everyone,
We send our love to you all
Gord and Sheila
PS I am going to try to get Gord to type a few words to you on the next blog from the "home". Stay posted....
Friday, March 6, 2009
Meeting Day
The much anticipated meeting is over. Did we learn anything....not much. Thankfully Deepak was there and asked some great questions and offered his assistance to the Dr. in charge of Gord regarding getting his next MRI. Apparently Halvor Jonson does not want to deal with it so they asked for it to be done prior to leaving Calgary. THAT was the good news in the meeting - the fact they are talking about Gord and making plans. It may be early April before we are transferred which will probably work out just fine. Of course, knowing my luck, just because it was mentioned today we will probably be there by middle of next week. I will keep you informed...I promise.
All the therapists had their reports and all are pleased with his rapid progress. We have a very long road ahead but it is still very positive. Let's all work on Gord's right arm....he needs it to hold the hammer, darn it! Visualize him building something....anything and using that arm. Thanks.
I also had Gord typing on the computer but he only got out a few words and it was time for bed. We will try again later. It was interesting to watch. I am pretty sure he will be typing away with one hand before we know it. I just never know what he can do until I expose him to the situation, or thing.
Well, must go back and see how he is doing.
Love to all
Sheila
PS To Bernice and Ted.....thank you so much for your cards and notes and good wishes. We send love and good wishes back to you!!!!
S.
All the therapists had their reports and all are pleased with his rapid progress. We have a very long road ahead but it is still very positive. Let's all work on Gord's right arm....he needs it to hold the hammer, darn it! Visualize him building something....anything and using that arm. Thanks.
I also had Gord typing on the computer but he only got out a few words and it was time for bed. We will try again later. It was interesting to watch. I am pretty sure he will be typing away with one hand before we know it. I just never know what he can do until I expose him to the situation, or thing.
Well, must go back and see how he is doing.
Love to all
Sheila
PS To Bernice and Ted.....thank you so much for your cards and notes and good wishes. We send love and good wishes back to you!!!!
S.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Day 60 - Thursday
I arrived this morning to hear yet another story from the nurses that Gord had somehow managed to get himself placed on the toilette ( French and more delicate for toilet) which now is his favorite place to be after so long in bed! We aren't sure how he got from the wheelchair to "the favorite place" but he did which of course freaks out the nurses because he could fall and crack his head or heaven's forbid, break a leg! I told Gord this morning that's all we need now is for him to break his good leg and then we are really hooped. I think he understands.
Tomorrow is the "Big" meeting and I will let you all know how it goes. I have been told it really is a non event as the people working with Gord for the past 2 weeks simply report what they have been doing with him. Deepak is coming to the meeting to listen and ask questions. I am happy to have a witness attending so if something bizarre and unforeseen emerges he can help me!
The wheelchair accessible vehicle search has abruptly ended. They don't rent them anymore due to lack of demand. To have a vehicle retrofitted is crazy expensive and I have decided that I will use the Handi Bus for the few times we leave this place and by the time we get to Halvor Jonson Center he will most likely be able to transfer from his chair to a car seat and back in the chair again. That is my hope, anyway. Gotta keep setting those goals.
Gord has been experiencing a lot of "pins and needles" feeling in his head which really puzzles him. It seems to affect his right arm as well and apparently is common in stroke patients. He is on a very small dose of some medication that should help calm the feeling. He gets very distressed when it happens. As I said before if it isn't one thing it's another.....but keeps the days interesting and me on my toes!
I have been wheeling him into the shower room and leaning him back far enough in his chair to be able to wash his hair. I'm surprised you can't hear him from here groaning with such delight at the feeling of nice warm water and shampoo cleansing his head. I remember back to baby days that washing the kids hair calmed them down when they were getting out of hand. Seems to do the same with adults. Just another TIP from Sheila, girls.
We had a beautiful day yesterday so I wheeled Gord out onto the garden deck on the 3rd floor and he basked in the sunshine for a little while. Today we are back to -15 and light snow so we won't venture out today. Kind of disappointing!
Well, that's all for now...thanks for tuning in.
Lots of love to all
Sheila and Gord
PS Thanks for the tips Arlene - I will start making calls when I know we are going to Halvor Jonson and getting prepared for the lake house.
So happy to hear you are feeling good....keep up the good work.
S
Tomorrow is the "Big" meeting and I will let you all know how it goes. I have been told it really is a non event as the people working with Gord for the past 2 weeks simply report what they have been doing with him. Deepak is coming to the meeting to listen and ask questions. I am happy to have a witness attending so if something bizarre and unforeseen emerges he can help me!
The wheelchair accessible vehicle search has abruptly ended. They don't rent them anymore due to lack of demand. To have a vehicle retrofitted is crazy expensive and I have decided that I will use the Handi Bus for the few times we leave this place and by the time we get to Halvor Jonson Center he will most likely be able to transfer from his chair to a car seat and back in the chair again. That is my hope, anyway. Gotta keep setting those goals.
Gord has been experiencing a lot of "pins and needles" feeling in his head which really puzzles him. It seems to affect his right arm as well and apparently is common in stroke patients. He is on a very small dose of some medication that should help calm the feeling. He gets very distressed when it happens. As I said before if it isn't one thing it's another.....but keeps the days interesting and me on my toes!
I have been wheeling him into the shower room and leaning him back far enough in his chair to be able to wash his hair. I'm surprised you can't hear him from here groaning with such delight at the feeling of nice warm water and shampoo cleansing his head. I remember back to baby days that washing the kids hair calmed them down when they were getting out of hand. Seems to do the same with adults. Just another TIP from Sheila, girls.
We had a beautiful day yesterday so I wheeled Gord out onto the garden deck on the 3rd floor and he basked in the sunshine for a little while. Today we are back to -15 and light snow so we won't venture out today. Kind of disappointing!
Well, that's all for now...thanks for tuning in.
Lots of love to all
Sheila and Gord
PS Thanks for the tips Arlene - I will start making calls when I know we are going to Halvor Jonson and getting prepared for the lake house.
So happy to hear you are feeling good....keep up the good work.
S
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Tuesday March 3 - Day 58
On this warm day in early March I am happy to report that Gord is still progressing -slowly but surely. We are having discussions about vehicles now and I am currently researching minivans with wheelchair capabilities. Hopefully, we won't even need that type of vehicle but best to be prepared in the event we do for a while. He and I would love to be able to leave the premises when we want to instead of having to book the Handibus etc. Of course that is our independent nature shining forth. If anyone has any ideas or leads - let us know.
I heard today (through a nurse) that Gord's chart shows he is approved for the Halver Jonson Center in Ponoka. Now it is just a waiting game for a bed. It will be a good change for us both, I think.
Happy news for us is that our neices Prue and Paige from Australia are going to come in early April to visit their Uncle Gord. By then I anticipate great changes in Gord and he will be so happy to see the girls. Gord's claim to fame is that he met Prue and Paige in person before I did on one of his many trips to Australia. They are my brother Alan's daughters. Alan passed away when the girls were young.
Just a little family trivia.
Time to go and search the hallways for Gord. Ron and Diane arrived just after Gord was settled into his wheelchair this afternoon and whisked him off for a walk. I have trekked all three floors and cannot find them so as I passed the computer room, I decided to stop in and write the blog.
Take care, everyone and have a great day....
Love
Sheila
I heard today (through a nurse) that Gord's chart shows he is approved for the Halver Jonson Center in Ponoka. Now it is just a waiting game for a bed. It will be a good change for us both, I think.
Happy news for us is that our neices Prue and Paige from Australia are going to come in early April to visit their Uncle Gord. By then I anticipate great changes in Gord and he will be so happy to see the girls. Gord's claim to fame is that he met Prue and Paige in person before I did on one of his many trips to Australia. They are my brother Alan's daughters. Alan passed away when the girls were young.
Just a little family trivia.
Time to go and search the hallways for Gord. Ron and Diane arrived just after Gord was settled into his wheelchair this afternoon and whisked him off for a walk. I have trekked all three floors and cannot find them so as I passed the computer room, I decided to stop in and write the blog.
Take care, everyone and have a great day....
Love
Sheila
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Day 56
I finally counted the days since Gord's incident and I cannot believe we have been in this bubble for 56 days. It really is amazing how life goes by without even realizing it until you take the time to actually look at a calendar. For me, it has been a day to day survival and now I am starting to look forward to one thing and one thing only and that is seeing Gord each day but the rest of it, the hospital, the smells, the lack of things to do day after day is really getting to me. The only bright light is the advent of Spring -which of course in Alberta does not really exist- ; a possible move to another facility and living at HOME!!!!
Gratefully, I have been taken care with such tenderness and love in Calgary by the Finches, the Zimmermans, Richard and Vonnie Bosch, my children, Andrea, Colby and Geoff. Stacy and Daniel have provided fun and laughter for Gord which is wonderful to see. Friends have stopped by with food, toys and books and it is always good to have a chat.
Now for Gord's progress which is what this blog is really about. Sorry I just took a moment for myself.
Today, Sunday, Gord is getting more and more independent. Trouble is, his wheelchair is not geared for that independence so he is getting frustrated. I need to get him into a chair he can wheel himself about and then they will have to watch out for Gord Bosch in the hallways! Yesterday, I discovered a lump on his knee right where the Dr. tests your reflexes with the rubber hammer.....it looks like an egg so I reported it, and we will see where that goes. Things take time around here and if it was life threatening, I doubt we would get help in time. There is such minimal staff and now our government is going to cut back more. Oh, I just want OUT of this as quickly as possible NEVER to return.
Message out to Tom and Red: We got your package and what a delightful, creative surprise. I use the signs on Gord's door and the nurses get a good laugh....thank you so much for making that effort to lighten up our lives. The 2010 goal to paddle is beautiful. Love the artwork - did you do it???
We have a new podmate in yellow and he is quite hilarious. Very chatty - at least he was a couple of days ago when he arrived but seems to be going down hill today. Heart attack with subsequent chest opening etc. He is here because he can't remember things like the alphabet so I asked if he could sing the alphabet song and he sang half of it (Gord looked at me like I was nuts!)Then he launched into doing the alphabet backwards. I couldn't believe. Anyway, miracles do happen and we are still watching Gord's unfold.
Have a great day everyone...
Love
Sheila and Gord
Gratefully, I have been taken care with such tenderness and love in Calgary by the Finches, the Zimmermans, Richard and Vonnie Bosch, my children, Andrea, Colby and Geoff. Stacy and Daniel have provided fun and laughter for Gord which is wonderful to see. Friends have stopped by with food, toys and books and it is always good to have a chat.
Now for Gord's progress which is what this blog is really about. Sorry I just took a moment for myself.
Today, Sunday, Gord is getting more and more independent. Trouble is, his wheelchair is not geared for that independence so he is getting frustrated. I need to get him into a chair he can wheel himself about and then they will have to watch out for Gord Bosch in the hallways! Yesterday, I discovered a lump on his knee right where the Dr. tests your reflexes with the rubber hammer.....it looks like an egg so I reported it, and we will see where that goes. Things take time around here and if it was life threatening, I doubt we would get help in time. There is such minimal staff and now our government is going to cut back more. Oh, I just want OUT of this as quickly as possible NEVER to return.
Message out to Tom and Red: We got your package and what a delightful, creative surprise. I use the signs on Gord's door and the nurses get a good laugh....thank you so much for making that effort to lighten up our lives. The 2010 goal to paddle is beautiful. Love the artwork - did you do it???
We have a new podmate in yellow and he is quite hilarious. Very chatty - at least he was a couple of days ago when he arrived but seems to be going down hill today. Heart attack with subsequent chest opening etc. He is here because he can't remember things like the alphabet so I asked if he could sing the alphabet song and he sang half of it (Gord looked at me like I was nuts!)Then he launched into doing the alphabet backwards. I couldn't believe. Anyway, miracles do happen and we are still watching Gord's unfold.
Have a great day everyone...
Love
Sheila and Gord
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