Date: Sun, 25 Jun 2006 23:18:24 -0500

Subject: Good night

 

Hi guys!

 

We were allowed to take Stu down stairs this afternoon in a wheel chair. They really fixed the front of the hospital nice. There are quite a few areas to go visit, go visit & eat or just go to be comfortable. Big chairs too! It even has a Tim Hortons and a place called the Oasis which serves Starbucks. Daniel picked him up a bold coffee from Starbucks and he quite enjoyed it!

 

We had another good visit with Stu tonight! He was so happy to tell us when we got there, that he could feel tingling and twitching in his foot this afternoon while we were away. He made me run my finger under his foot to show Daniel, Marli & I. It actually did a big twitch

 

He is in better spirits, he is joking around with us! He even pulled out his good leg from under the blankets and tried to pretend kick Marli. what a teaser.

 

Well, I'm off to bed!

Take Care

 

Love you All and thanks again for your continuos best wishes and prayers!

 

Kath

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Date: Tue, 27 Jun 2006 22:52:17 -0500

Subject: Tuesday

 

Hi there!

 

Very busy day at the hospital. Stu saw the therapist twice & another Dr....

He dressed himself AND moved his pointing finger on the right side!

He is on a waiting list to get into rehab, until he gets a room he'll be staying put.

It could be either 3 places. StB, Deer Lodge or Riverview. I hope it'll be STB or Riverview. Deer Lodge is a little Futher to go, but if has to be, it has to be. He was told he won't be going home for another 4-8 weeks.

 

We are ALL tired!

 

Good Night ALL

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Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2006 23:10:43 -0500

Subject: Wednesday night

 

 

Well, another day has come and gone. They worked Stu hard in physio. But he stood up and was doing his workout before he noticed the nurse had moved away. He got a litlle shakey when he realized it! But he managed ok.

 

One step at a time!

 

It's getting closer for family visits (I think) but we're slowly introducing calls for now.

 

I'm going to bed now. Talk to you later.

 

Thanks again for being there for us.

 

Kathleen, Stu & Daniel (and Marli)

 

 

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Subject: Thursday June 29, 2006

 

Hi guys!

 

Just an update!

 

Stu is being moved tomorrow morning to the Riverview Health Centre on Morley.

 

In his physio today he was able to walk 20 meters. He was exhausted he said when his session was done, but pleased with himself.

 

I saw both his index finger and thumb move also today.

 

We also told him about Daniel's accident. He told me that I could've told him. He took it quite well!

 

You know there is a black cloud following Dan. Today, Daniel was told what he would get from Autopac, but they were making the cheque out to him and the credit union. The credit union hadn't lifted the lean on his car when he paid the loan off 2 weeks ago. Daniel called the bank and was given the run around that Cheryl was busy in meetings and should be able to straighten it out in a day or so. Stu, you know how he is, told me to give him the cell. He called from his bed-the bank and asked to speak to Cheryl and was told she was in meeting and could they take a message. He said "NO! I'm in the hospital and I need to talk to her or her boss". well, the papers were done up and we got a call to say they were ready for Daniel to pick up. Dan went to go get them. Upon walking up to the credit union doors from the parking lot, he passed this kid in a hoody with the hoody up and wearing glasses. He thought it was kind of "Weird", considering it was 30F(plus??) and humid. When he got to the doors, he was told he couldn't come in as they were just robbed!

 

What next... shouldn't be anything... that is "#3"

Marli got the job... She starts tomorrow!

 

Well, Take care ALL! I'm off to bed!

 

Kath

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Date: Fri, 30 Jun 2006 23:08:16 -0500

Subject: Move to Riverview

 

Well, the move has happened. It was tough on Stu. Seems like he was starting all over in a new environment. His blood pressure even was high when he arrived. There are New people to get use to, new routines... Everybody was nice and greeted him, they all came to his room and introduced themselves! He was upset though that he won't be getting any therapy until Tuesday.

 

This place is like a hotel room. He is all by himself, only 1 per room. Dan got him tv with a remote for 1 month, he is allowed telephone from MTS or even a cell. He is even allowed to have his pets come visit! We do have some pictures pin to the wall in the meantime thanks to Judy. Might try bringing Squeak tomorrow. I don't think Buddy would handle the trip well, ever since the shopping bag incident where the handle was stuck around his neck and scared the living daily out of him.

 

I have to head off to bed, I want to go there early in am.

 

Take care ALL and have a Happy Canada Day tomorrow if we don't see you!!

 

Kath

 

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Date: Tue, 04 Jul 2006 06:22:30 -0500

Subject: re: July 3rd

 

Good Morning (I went to bed before sending my update last night)

 

Yesterday was a busy day for Stu. He was happy his blood pressure was 125 over 70.

He had some visitors yesterday. His friend Gunter popped in and had a nice visit. Gunter also had the experience of a few strokes, so was able to talk to Stu about it! Its a little different from just reading it in the book. (The Stroke Foundation gave us a book). Mom & Dad also had a short visit today. They came into the city to pick up Ma Tante Suzanne at the airport. Hi Ma Tante. What do you think of Mom & Dad's new place! Nice eh!

 

Stu will be seeing the physio therapist today. He is SO looking forward to starting his therapy again. He hasn't had any therapy at this new place yet and that really was disappointing him. He wants to get his arm & leg going! I have some running around to do today, so I won't be going in until after lunch. I'm hoping they see him this morning!

 

Daniel has a Dr's appointment this morning too. I sure hope they help him with his knees as they are sore. (amongst other body parts). His therapy doesn't star until later this week, I think the 9th.(not sure). I don't have a calendar in front of me.

 

Well, talk to you later!

Have yourselves a nice day

 

Kath

 

 

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Date: Tue, 04 Jul 2006 22:01:34 -0500

Subject: July 04, 2006

 

Hi There!

 

Stu had his 1st day of therapy today and they worked him hard. He had xrays again too.

He was very tired and with that came emotions. He is working hard keeping them at bay.

 

We didn't go to the garden area tonight as they were having a Canada Day celebration in the eating area downstairs. It was ok, but after an hour of country music he had enough. We went back upstairs and he moved from his wheelchair to bed and the 3 of us left for the evening.

 

Melissa, his old boss finally dropped off his record of employment. We can now fill in EI forms and see if he is eligible for something. She also dropped off a bag of goodies and magazines and a card of well wishes! (The goodies were sent home. Daniel will take care of them .

 

Hope your all enjoying this nice weather we are having.

Good night

 

Kath

 

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Date: Thu, 06 Jul 2006 19:08:11 -0500

Subject: July 6

 

Well, sent home for the day by Stu to get supper and some rest. He was tired too.

If we can plan our visits, I think it would be ok for you to come on down and visit. He does have therapy during the week twice during the day, but evenings and weekends are free.

 

The speech therapist is already finished with him. She is sure his speech will come all back.

 

Attached is a picture of Stu right after the dietitian checked out his bag of BAKED Toritios. Looking good and happy he was able to have a treat.

 

Did you guys hear it is going to be 45C next week? I sure hope all your air conditioners are in working condition. We'll surely need them.

 

Well, heading downstairs for a bit to eat then early bed. I have an appointment early tomorrow.

 

Good night

 

Kath

 

 

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Date: Fri, 07 Jul 2006 23:20:50 -0500

Subject: July 7th

 

Well its been 2 weeks and we have had some progress!

 

Stu had some tingling in his arm last night and this morning he could move his fingers a little! He's getting around like crazy in his wheel chair! But not ready to do wheelchair basketball He said he's not interested He's also down to only 1 person helping him and if he does good over the weekend, that may be changed to independent unless he feels he needs help for something!

 

Daniel called the Dr's and he doesn't need to get a cast! As far as he knows, he's back to work Tuesday and rumors has it he may have a promotion to sous-chef... only rumors though. Keep your fingers crossed and yes Mom, I'll buy you more candles

Now he only has his MIR tomorrow and physio on Monday.

 

It's down hill from here. Only a car to buy; a house to sell; and the Lotto to Win!

Can you all see the Rainbow?!!

 

Well, talk to you tomorrow.

 

Love you all

 

Kathleen

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Date: Wed, 12 Jul 2006 22:12:30 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 12

 

Well more good news, Stu was able to pick up 6 wooden blocks today and put them in the therapist's hand. In my visit today, I was told I missed an entertaining evening. The glasses were a hit! and Sheila, the daughter of one of the patients took pictures. I told Stu to ask if she could email them to me if they were digital. She had told me she was making a copy of one of them for us. I hope I'll be able to share with you!

 

Stu was also told today that he has a tentative release date of August 17th??!! Lots of work to do on this end too then

 

Did you hear the close call for Judy & Bruce's cabin? Lester Beach hit the news. It was a close call for the forest fire. If it wasn't for the water bomber, it would've been even closer.

 

Going to bed now and sleeping in tomorrow. Good night

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Date: Fri, 14 Jul 2006 08:55:57 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 13

 

Attached is a picture of Stu & Sherman (Star Patients). They are wearing the glasses I mentioned on my July 11th update. They have been such a great hit! Sherman's daughter had copies made and Judy visited David & Grace to have it scanned. Thanks. Sheila will be sending the rest by email in a couple days. The hospital staff have noticed an uplifted moral on the ward. There are a lot of smiles on everyone, not only the patients.

 

Stu is looking stronger every day. They really work him out! He was walking with & without the leg brace today! There still is no voluntary movement in the leg. He can pick it up a smidgeon when sitting in wheelchair. He has real good balance when standing.

 

Judy & I took a ride today to cruise Grant & Taylor area to get numbers of apartments that may be possible. We are looking for elevator and cats allowed. Not asking for much I think!

 

Well, it looks like its going to be a working weekend. Painting & all... Yikes.. It feels like I'm going in circles, thank goodness for family. Just tell me what to do and I'll do it! Pat & Kevin are going with Daniel to home depot to get the flooring, wood and paint etc... Saturday morning. Daniel still has his friend Dan's truck.

 

I dropped of the last of the forms @ EI this morning. We will be calling our insurance company re mortgage and line of credit next Friday. there is a 30 day waiting period.

 

Well, good night all.

 

Kath

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Date: Tue, 18 Jul 2006 23:03:52 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 18

 

Before I start, Paula.. please wish Aiki Happy Birthday... we thought of it a couple of times and then there the thought was gone. Sorry Aiki, hope you had a great day!

 

I forgot to mention yesterday that they changed Stu to now be independent. He no longer needs help to transfer from the bed to wheelchair or chair... He was happy about that. They had Stu doing steps today up one side & down the other. One side, he said was gentle steps and the other side was steep. They also have him self medicating himself. they gave him a week of pills in bubble packs.

 

The guys really like the umbrella hats Stu gave them at breakfast. Robert liked his so much, he still had it on at lunch. or maybe he put it back on for lunch Either way, it made them happy.

 

Well I'm tired. Good night

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Date: Mon, 24 Jul 2006 23:22:29 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 24

 

Guess what! only 5 months until Christmas!

Daniel and Marli get their keys for their apartment tomorrow morning.

 

Well, Stu has made more progress today. he was able to walk with a 4end-cane today in therapy. They want him now to walk to the common room with someone for breakfasts. He also is doing this with no brace on his leg.

 

We had a meeting this afternoon. They advised us, that it has been approved that Stu will be staying at the hospital until he can go to the apartment September 1st or so. They first of all will go with him and meet me there to check the place out and see what will be required to make his home safe for him! He was so relieved to find this out. More time for him to improve in therapy.

 

There was a going away party tonight for one of the patients "Linda" who has been there for 4 years. She is leaving tomorrow morning. What a big step this will be for her! Stu took quite a few pictures with permission of the party! Judy, I will have to burn them on a disc as there are too many to send you for Sherman's calendar. Talk to you tomorrow after work!

 

Well, time to get some sleep... I want to be wide eyed for work!

Tim.. I will bring your glasses to work with me! Call me.

 

Good night everyone!

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Date: Thu, 27 Jul 2006 19:44:25 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 27

 

Well, I went for a short visit with Stu after work. He had a tear in his eye (tear of JOY). He lifted his arm to show me he could bend his wrist!!!!

We're back in THAT room tonight, and Pat is in the kitchen putting more paint. Dave is in the powder room, making it beautiful! Had to stop for 1 minute, I don't want the shredder to start acting up!

 

Daniel moved out his big stuff today, bed, couch,tv... no turning back now.

 

Well, have a great evening... talk to you tomorrow

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Date: Sun, 30 Jul 2006 22:12:52 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 30

 

Good news of the day is that Stu was able to bend is right foot and move his toes! It's a beginning!!!

More good news... the main floor of the house is 99% done! It looks BEAUTIFUL!!!!

 

I'm going to Stu's tomorrow for breakfast again and going to watch his therapy. both the morning and the afternoon sessions.

 

Stu is making arrangements with Riverview to have an afternoon pass on Saturday. Hopefully he will be able to handle a few steps @ home so he can check it out and maybe get some closure of selling the house. I was thinking if possible of maybe having a bar-b-que if its nice! I know its the long weekend and that many of you will be away, but if you're in town, feel free to stop by.

 

Ma Tante Suzanne, I hope you have a good trip back home and it was sure nice to see you. even though I wish it could have been more! Love you. Please say hi to Ma Tante Rolande for us!

 

Well, my pillow is calling me

 

Good night all

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Date: Mon, 31 Jul 2006 22:41:40 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: July 31

 

Today I was at the hospital to go to both therapy sessions. I was able to see how long Stu could stand up with no support. It is amazing. He also did the stairs and walk with a 4 prong cane. I am so proud of him. That wasn't all he did, there was way more!

We passed it by Malcolm about Stu coming out this Saturday for an afternoon pass and there is no problem. Let's hope the weather cooperates. Not too hot or rainy.

 

Well, time to start heading to bed.

Take care

Kathleen

 

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Date: Fri, 11 Aug 2006 21:52:26 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: August 11

 

First of all, Stu asked me to say Hi!!! to everybody!

 

He is fighting a terrible cold, but it is not slowing him down. He is going down to do therapy even when he's not scheduled. His time was cut 1/2 because the student they had helping is now finished there and has moved on to the Health Science Centre in another department. So that means that he is putting in the time himself! (that's determination).

 

Stu is starting to get anxious about the move. Me too! The cats are too I think.. they are eating continuously... they know something is coming down the chimney. They'll be able to hibernate for a month after the move!

 

Well, the carpet cleaner is coming tomorrow for the rec. room.

 

Heading off to bed now

Good night

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Date: Mon, 14 Aug 2006 19:21:02 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: August 14

 

Happy Birthday Nicholas!

 

Well. GOOD News... Stu called me today after his afternoon therapy, quite emotional... he was able to get out of his chair without using his hands and then walking through the parallel bars without touching the sides for 6 lengths.. he was pumped!

 

More good news the FOR SALE sign went up today and he will start showing on Friday and is having open house Sunday.

 

I'm sending this early as we're busy downstairs cleaning and decorating for then.

 

Love you all.

 

Kathleen & crew

 

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Subject: August 24

Date: Thu, 24 Aug 2006 11:37:46 -0500

 

Well, I've been slacking again...I hope I have the email address correct this time!

Numerous people went through house on Sunday's open house, but no offers as of yet today.

 

I picked up the apartment keys last night... so things are starting to fall into place!

 

Stu did quite a distance of walking yesterday without a cane but with the therapist following behind. If he continues to do so well, the apron strings will be cut and he will be set free

 

Stu also found out yesterday that he won't have a job when he is ready to go back to work...

 

Well, I have to go eat before my lunch is done! Take care

 

Love Kathleen

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Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2006 21:45:51 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: September 2

 

Well, today was another successful day! Stu came out of the hospital to spend time with me as I tried to organize the mayhem (as he would say it!) Judy came over and she just keeps on going and going-- just like Mom... We can now sit around the dining room table... The dining room was completely full of boxes. Now they are mostly in the right rooms or close to it! Now all that needs to be done is one box at a time-empty and put away

 

I'm looking forward to Stu coming home on Wednesday... It will be so nice to have him home! The cats have settle in quite well! They loved having him home for the day too!

 

Well, I'm going to have my first bath here and then off to bed. I'm sleeping in tomorrow and then heading for the hospital for the day!

 

Take care all! and once again Thanks to you all for all your support!

 

Love

 

Kathleen

 

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Date: Sun, 03 Sep 2006 22:26:37 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: September 3

 

Got to sleep in kinda today! and did no unpacking... I went over to the hospital and took Stu out for a ride to Patti's and then back to the apartment for a quick visit with the babe's. Squeak has already found a hiding place that Buddy can't bug her. On the top shelf in the master bedroom closet on the spare blankets. However, Buddy sure doesn't let us out of his sight when we're home! He follows us from room to room.

 

We then went back to Riverview and had supper, then watched the football game... the Bombers lost... Gunter's team won.

 

Counting the hours until Stu comes home.

Well, off to bed now... take care!

 

LOVE YOU ALL

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Date: Tue, 05 Sep 2006 18:45:23 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: September 5

 

Well I'm home! Only have to go back tomorrow morning to be discharged (paper work) and get my prescriptions. The cats just won't leave us alone.

 

Ian and Carolyn will be in Saturday. Chris's division got suddenly called and leaves for Iraq Thursday. Please say an extra prayer for him and his division. Thanks.

 

Thanks for being there for all of us

 

Stu, Kathleen, Daniel & Marli

 

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Date: Wed, 06 Sep 2006 21:31:09 -0500

To: "Stu's Updates":;

Subject: September 6

 

Hi everyone!

 

Stu had a good sleepover! He had his first shower at home with the chair and that worked out good. We then went to Riverview for breakfast and is now officially discharged from their care. We get to keep him ... yeahhhh

We did a small grocery shop and more shopping tomorrow in store for us to get the apartment set up.

Glenda came for a visit as it was her day off!

 

Long day... heading to bed

 

Good Night

 

Kath & Stu

 

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ONE YEAR STROKE FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: June 23

 

Well, its another year just about gone! This year, I would like to invite you for cake and coffee after supper Saturday. Not sure if Stu wants to go out for his birthday meal! He will be 57 & a whole year stroke free... a time to celebrate!

 

I know everyone has a busy schedule, but if you can come that will be great! If not, that's ok too!

 

Love Kathleen

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June 19, 2007

Well it's been a tough year, I would of never made it without Kathleen, when we got married 31 years ago

( seems like it was just yesterday) the "in sickness and in health" meant something.

I want to thank my family ( mine and my inlaws), you guys are the greatest, we wouldn't of made it through this past year without you.

 

Love,

 

Stu

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Incase you were wondering,

 

I only put up the emails that had news so if you're wondering why the dates jumped all over that's why.

 

Stu