Walker Rides Again

Well, the therapy crowd over at CNS has handed Patti more accolades and a promotion! She is now officially on the walker at the therapy center and at her apartment! Yes, we knew it was coming, but it's still nice to see it. She will still use a wheel chair to transfer from one facility to another and when she is out in public, but the day is clearly on the horizon when she will be wheel-less! This actually occured Monday of this week (I'm a little late, again).

Patti is also preparing to step down from 24 hour assistance at the apartment. She will always have someone available, if she needs help, by phone, but in the near future the overnight assistance will be removed. This will probably make for more peaceful nights as the TV in the den will finally get a rest. This is another significant step in the process of building confidence and independence.

Medical update: The medical director for CNS gave Patti a routine checkup on Monday and pronounced her in great shape! Interestingly, Dr. Johnson had made a point to listen to Patti's heart before the procedure to close the hole took place. She said as she listened to Patti's heart it was just a normal, quiet thump, thump. Before she was able to hear a whooshing sound from the hole. No noise is good noise! (pun intended)

So, here we are, three and a half months away from a major stroke, and Patti is walking well with assistance, speaking better every week, has significant restoration of movement in arm, leg and body, and working hard every day to progress and keeping a wonderful, cheerful and grateful attitude. God has truly been gracious to us! His hand of restoration and blessing is all over Patti and He has kept her, healed her, protected her and lifted her. I'm reminded of Psalm 3:3 which says:
But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head.
I've realized that when your head is down you are looking at your circumstances. You are looking at where you are with no perspective of a positive outcome. But when God lifts your head you are able to see the outcomes of His purpose in your life. You are able to see Him and look into the eyes of love that never leave you or forsake you. You are able to see the truth of His promises and allow Him to move you from where you are to where He wants you to be. In Luke 21:28 Jesus said:
But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
God has lifted our heads and shown us our redemption! And we are grateful to Him!

Forever in Him,

Mike