April 2014

4/17/14 (Rachel Hanson)It's the small things that surprise me. The little things that come out of no where, normal things and expressions that David used to do that I haven't seen for almost 2 years now. Shoulder shrugs, bobbing his head in sync with music with a big grin on his face, his competitiveness in games... We are busier than ever. David's bachelor pad is on the market. Taxes. YMCA. Horse therapy. Speaking engagements. Physical therapy has commenced again. Care giver problems continue. One evening last week, even though there was a crisis going on involving a care giver, we had family over for dinner and then the men were playing Rook and being silly at the table. It felt normal for once in a long, long time and David was so relaxed and calm that night. It was wonderful despite the bad circumstances going on. I am really happy about David's new physical therapist. It is a man this time and for the first time (I think ever!) David was asking when he would get to go to PT again because he had fun. This PT seems motivated and energetic but compassionate, which is all of what David needs. He got him up in the parallel bars and had him working on standing/walking. Needless to say, David has a lot of work to do before he's actually walking, even in parallel bars, but he's up and he's working on it! We finally got the standing frame and have David standing in it almost every day. David's mom is working with David on singing and being able to translate that into modulating his voice better. He is able to hit about 5 notes. He is able to emphasize words and modulate slightly...definitely better than a few months ago. David wants to work again and I think it would really help him to have some project or job or something that would give him a sense of responsibility and achievement once again. I'm still working on researching that area. It seems that most of the programs in our area are more catered toward people that have been handicapped their whole lives (mostly mentally) and I'm not sure it's an exact fit for David but he seemed excited about any opportunity to have a job so we'll see. Funding may be an issue too...not sure though. We are so thankful for friends that have come by to visit us and for family that is so faithful in helping when we're in need.