Tuesday March 25th and Wednesday the 26th

Talked wtih Debbie and I guess between the Physical therapy and the Occupational therapy, there was just no time left in the first day of rehab. They had Lea Ann up from 1130am until that evening around 4pm. We did find out after she entered PT that the stroke affected the left side as well. Once again, complete recovery is likely. She still has not moved her right hand, but continues to have sensation in it, which is a good sign. She did, however, help lift the right leg during her exercises! The physical therapists are asking that the family refrain from assisting Lea Ann in her activities as much as possible. Debbie said that has been the hardest thing for her (as a mother) to do yet. But this will help Lea Ann gain her strength faster instead of relying on others from the beginning. She was able to hold a glass to drink and fed herself with some difficulty since the coordination of the left side is still a bit lacking. Debbie and Jake were instructed on certain exercises from the physical therapist that they'll have to do with Lea Ann twice a day in addition to her scheduled PT and OT. So continue to pray for strength for the caregivers as well!

Debbie emailed on Wednesday evening and said Jake had returned to work for the first time today (Bradley University is just a few minutes from the hospital.) Lea Ann was so busy with her therapy. Said it started at 7am this time and "not a free moment" all day. Some of the things Lea Ann tackled today were sitting up, assisting herself to her wheelchair, taking a couple steps with help, and rolling over in bed well now. Just like Debbie says, "So many things we take for granted..." She also gave herself a bath today. Debbie says her mood is really good, but she is totally exhausted. She's such a fighter! They plan to get her up at 7am on Thursday for her first shower. I bet Lea Ann can't wait for that!

Lea Ann needs all the encouragement she can get and we continue to encourage cards be sent to her at the above address. Keep those prayers coming as well!

"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase; just take the first step." ~Martin Luther King, Jr. <