Katiedid

Dear Sherry, I'm so sorry you have to go through this pain--you can see from all the responses that you have a lot off support, and a lot of people are thinking of you. Look after yourself well, and treat yourself gently, as if you were helping someone else. Don't feel alone--you are not. Trina

Hi Ted, We haven't heard from you for a bit. Are you feeling better? How is Keith doing--any more movement in the thumb? Any more words? Keep us up to date! It's hugely motivating to hear about the different therapies and treatments that are available. Trina

Hi Sue, I'm watching your Blog to hear how things are going. Any more news today? How are you doing? Trina

Hi Sue, We are thinking of you both and hoping for the best outcome. I'm hoping Ray's hip will heal without an operation, and that you can get more information soon. Remember that you have a lot of friends praying for you. Trina

Hi Sue and Annie, We are going through some of the same challenges as you are. At this time of year, small changes in routine are somehow upsetting. James is very worried that I haven't prepared enough for Christmas--he keeps thinking of someone else he wants me to write to, and at the same time, we can't go out if we're not going to be home in time for his favorite tv show. So we are going to take it very quietly, and plod along until the silly season is done. Don't feel alone! I'm actually finding it a bit of a relief to scale back and plan very little. I'm sure things will be easier in the new year. Have a lovely Christmas, Trina

Lovely, Sue. It's easy to see why your children are proud of you and Ray, and why you are proud of them. Trina

That's a long way for an overnight trip. Interesting that the road vibration was good for your leg and foot. You might be on to something there! Happy birthday to your sister. I bet it was one of the best birthdays she's had. Trina

Zain, I'm so glad your boy is happy and wants to dance. Will he continue with therapy at home? Can you get exercises (physical and cognitive) that you can do with Farhaan at home? There is computer software to help the brain find pathways to carry out tasks that used to be carried out in the injured areas. We have also found it helpful to have a physical therapist come to the house once a week. An outsider can often get a more positive response than a close family member can, in our experience. Wishing strength to you and your family, Trina

What an amazing life you've had and have! I can't believe all the things you can do, from hunting to music to computers to doing house repairs. You are amazing! I'm sorry that you've been through so much, but impressed at how you've come through it and keep on going. You have a lot to teach us all. Hang in there. Trina

No way his improvement has stopped! You just have to get in there with a big smile and show him that you'll help him keep working at it. You have a lot of people here wishing you courage and energy. T

My goodness how I can relate. And Jean is brilliant: think about it--they won't talk to you on the phone, but if you say "Sure, let me get him for you" and then give the phone to your son, they would be quite prepared to discuss the whole issue with him. It doesn't make sense. Sue, you are so supportive of us all, I hope you know that there are many people here, survivors and caregivers, who understand what you're feeling and are going through a version of the same thing. It's tiring. But you're doing really well! Leggy geraniums are kinda nice, I always think. And tidy edges are overrated. . ..

It was an act of courage that you did something about feeling so low--good for you. It's when you're feeling down that it's hardest to act. Insist on the meds--it's your choice, not just the doctor's. T

Hi Kerry, I know how you feel. Exhausted and overwhelmed. Perhaps you can get some people outside the family to help you? Even if you are not a churchgoer, there are often churches in the area who can help you. For example, Interfaith Caregivers near us will arrange for someone to visit once a week. And other volunteers can help. Another stroke survivor who could drive visited my husband every Wednesday for more than 5 years. They would just sit together for an hour or too. Also, the local high school required kids to volunteer a certain number of hours a week. That can be a source of help. And the rehab center might have something your mom can do on a regular basis. My husband sits at the rehab center 2 mornings a week and puts papers into a shredding machine with his good hand. It's his job. . .. I arranged help through any organization I could, often finding help through word of mouth. There are also ways for you and your husband to get a better night's sleep. Baby monitors can be a help. My husband used a bell or a whistle when he needed me in the first weeks--at that time he couldn't make his way as far as the bedroom. Can your brother at least organise some of these things for you? Trina