Uncertainty

Today Bob had all three therapies plus the occupational therapy group. He also spent some more time outside taking advantage of another warm day by the Charles.

During occupational therapy Bob moved his right arm on a special "skate board". Here is a video of it:

The range of motion Bob has is impressive. Considering that is the arm that is supposed to be paralyzed! Bob still can't move his wrist or hand and he must wear a brace that holds his right arm at the shoulder in order to prevent it from being dislocated. The physical therapist explained to me that Bob's right arm is sort of dead weight, Bob's muscles can't hold it in place. But the video shows that Bob is gaining some muscle control back. How much will he regain is anybody's guess.

One of the hardest parts about watching Bob recover is the feeling of not knowing what is going to happen next. My mom met Bob's case manager today and his team of therapists and doctor did not change their previous goals from the last assessment. His target discharge date is still April 5th. Today is about the half way point of Bob's stay at Spaulding and it is hard not to want more improvements than the ones outlined by Bob's team. We want him to come home walking and able to communicate better. We want him to be more independent. Bob deserves so much more than this.

It is difficult to make arrangements for the next phase of Bob's recovery because we don't know how much more he will improve in the coming weeks. The team has asked my mom to make a decision by the end of next week regarding where she would prefer Bob to be: at a skilled nursing facility or home. Despite feeling insecure about such a huge decision, my mom has taken proactive steps towards the future. She has visited skilled nursing facilities and met with companies that install stair lifts and ramps in their house. My mom has had extensive talks with Bob's therapists regarding his future. The one person I know she would love advice from is Bob. I really wish he could express to her what he wants, how he feels, and what he is thinking. Maybe someday.

Thanks for reading and keep the positive thoughts and prayers coming.