Pedal to the Metal

Everyone is back from the holiday and the Sharp parking lot is full. I was able to spend some time this afternoon with Kathy during physical rehabilitation, which was pretty interesting. She is starting to be tested on her coordination and strength She has a long way to go but she is trying hard.

I found out she failed the swallow test this morning, so she is going to have to wait to have the tube removed. The feeding tube doesn’t come out for 3 days after you are cleared so it looks like another 5 to 6 days at least. FUSTRATING! If Kathy can get going physically, everything is going to come together, especially when she builds up enough strength to get in and out of bed.

She is stangely playing “mute" and it is almost impossible to get her to talk to you when you are in the room. If you have a moment and want to talk to Kathy, you are going to be more successful attempting to call the room and hope the nurse picks up the phone and hands it to Kathy. Weirdly enough she can stay engaged for some time on the phone. I asked the nurse why? Both said that they had patients in the past like Kathy and they turned out fine. They could not give me a medical answer but made me at least feel better.

Kathy’s daily rehabilitation schedule goes like this:

7:30-8:00 Respiratory therapy
9:00-9:30 Occupational therapy
11:15-12:15 Physical therapy
3:15-3:45 Speech therapy

They seem to run a loose ship, so times may not be exact. So if you are trying to visit or call, she could be anywhere. The best time to visit, based on my experience is around noon until 3:00 PM because Kathy is the most alert. Again, thanks for your prayers and support.