I have been waiting to do this for a long time...sign off of this blog! It's not because I mind the writing, but it means that Ted is getting closer to recovery.
In a follow-up visit Thursday, the neurologist was "amazed" at his progress. He said, "Just think. Two months ago you were essentially a quadriplegic." Some people take years to recover. We asked if his health and condition prior to GBS has impacted his recovery and he said most definitely.
When he asked Ted about his strength, he said his arms/upper body was at about 70% and his legs at about 50%. Then he checked Ted's strength by having him flex and extend his arm against his hand, squeezing his fingers, pressing down while he lifted his legs, etc. The doctor was surprised at Ted's assessment of his own strength, but then remembered his fitness before GBS.
When his reflexes were assessed, they really weren't there and the doctor said he probably wouldn't get those back. Ted commented that he never had much response to reflex tests. When the doctor used the pin to prick his arms, legs, and feet, Ted definitely felt it! He continues to have constant tingling in his feet. The doctor is not planning on doing a nerve conduction study. He said that if there were some axonal damage, it might show up as residual weakness even though there was full range of motion. Time will tell.
He's been enjoying rehab! He has just been reduced from 3 days/week to 2 days/week. He splits the time between occupational therapy and physical therapy. I think his favorite part is getting in the therapy pool and exercising there. Baton Rouge Rehab is an amazing facility and Ted says they have some pretty cool "toys". For example, he uses something called a ZeroG overground gait and balance training system. (Here's a link to the brochure if you want to read more about it: http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2013/02/25/10466751/ZeroG_Brochure.pdf)
It is basically a robotic device that has an overhead trolley/track. Ted gets into a harness suspended from the track. He is able to practice walking, jogging, getting on a treadmill, etc. using this device.
In occupational therapy they are helping him get back to driving. Next week he will get out on the road with an instructor in a dual-controlled car, so watch out BR! Ted has tried getting on his bike for short spins around neighborhood.
This will (hopefully) be my last blog entry unless there is a drastic change. This has been a bizarre, scary experience and we have been so blessed during this recovery phase. We both want to thank all of you for keeping up with Ted's progress on this blog and most especially, for your thoughts, prayers, good wishes, and kind deeds.
If you want to contact us directly, please feel free to email either one of us:
TedHeroman@me.com
CateHeroman@mac.com
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| "Sir" in a "parade" with grandkids Samantha, Lucy Bea, and John Isaac! Great occupational therapy! |
We deeply appreciate your support!
Cate
Ted and Cate,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to sign off on the blog, with pictures of Ted fishing and playing with grandkids without even a walking cane in the picture. I know this has been a bizarre couple of months for you, but it sounds like you are well on the road to recovery.
Let's hope the last 30-50% of your strength returns in short order as well.
Chip and Jan