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
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THAT IS SO GOOD TO HEAR.I WILL BE IN CALGARY SOON.SUN OR MON.I WILL STOP IN TO SEE YOU GUYS.KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
ReplyDeleteDAN AND CHERYL
Hi Sheila,
ReplyDeleteGord'simprovemen is miraculous.
I saw a rig yesterday that would suit you and Gord to a tee. It wasa minivan, with the passenger seat removd to make room for the wheelchair. Just inside the sliding door was a steel ramp that unfolded down to street level.
The wheel chair rolls in ans the ramp foldsup and the door closes. Really quite slick.
All the best to both of you,
Bryan
Hi Sheila Honey,and Mr. Peach:
ReplyDeleteI have been keeping up with the blogs and continue to send love. I am so amazed at the capacity and speed of Gord's recovery ... alot due to his determination I am sure!? Although I am sure 'speed' is a relative word as it has indeed been months for you with more to come. And I would acknowledge that 'illness' is NOT FUN, NOT FUN AT ALL... yet, sometimes it appears and in hindsight we are stronger for our endurance and right handling of it. You and Gord are really having quite an adventure with this whole healing issue, and as much as I would wish otherwise for you both, I know because of who you each are that you will surely see an incredible VICTORY and it will become just one of the many color-full stories of your rich lives.
But heh, about the wheel chair vehicle thing .. I am not sure of Gord's strength, but I once had a friend and he was a parapalegic (paralized from neck down). We would take him places ... from sitting in the wheelchair one guy would lift him by the knees (facing him)and other guy from behind, under the armpits .. and place him into whatever car we had taken to get him with. He sat fine in the regular car seat. Of course this necessitated the 2 guys at destination to unload him back into the wheelchair (which folded up fine into the backseat or trunk of car). Just thought I would pass this along as might work sometimes for you?
many hugs and a BIG HURRAH TO GORD for all his great come-back so far, he continues to be as awesome as ever! Love you guys.... Janus
Hey Sheila,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for taking care of Gord...I hope someone is looking after you!!
One car you might look into is the Ford Flex. Its large and the doors open wide with no rocker panel to work over. This way gords chair could be placed next to the seat litterally touching and with the strength Gord has on the left side he could probably transfer himself. See if you can take a test drive I think you'll be pleased.
Well, su and I are leaving Maui tomorrow we're making plans for a visit. See you soon!!
ken & Su
Sheila and Gord
ReplyDeleteIt is so encouraging to hear about Gord walking and going off on his in own in the wheelchair.
I know you are probaly getting lots of advice but I htought I would offera suggestion as well.
When we transported Leni's Dad we used a truck. It is higher than a car and easier to get out of. If his left side is strong he can step up into the truck. Just a thought and I am sure when the time comes you will have all sorts of help.
Take care
Sandy and Leni
BraVo Sheila + Gord, BraVo!!
ReplyDeleteAs that wonderful nurse at Foothills Hospital said, keep an eye on that right foot/ankle. Workup should include lower extremity doppler ultrasound (check for clot/DVT). Sure they know this, but always good to cover the basics.. Lots of love to you and prayers for continued heaLing.
With Aloha ~ Dr. Kathy.