May 22, 2010

Great news: Two days ago, I attended the second care-plan meeting for Tommy at Atlantic Shores rehab. The social worker told me that Tommy has been meeting the goals that were set for his therapy, and that if he continues to progress as expected, he will be discharged on Memorial Day. Just in time for us to enjoy summer. My brother, Marshall, is coming for the weekend, and Patti and Irv will come by to welcome Tommy back home. I picture us all sitting on the back deck, with Penny and Sandy running around looking for handouts. We'll watch the jet-skiers dodge the go-fast boats out on the creek--always exciting viewing, especially on sunny holiday weekends--and we'll take turns lobbing tennis balls for the dogs with the Chuck-it that Diana and Larry gave us (truly the best dog toy ever invented).
Tommy has been working hard in therapy and now is almost able to walk the same distance (with a walker and an assist) that he was able to walk prior to the gall-bladder surgery. He can lift almost all of his own weight during transfers. He has gained back some 12 or 15 pounds--he now weighs 154 lb.--helped along by the high protein "Magic Cups" he wolfs down and the daily power drink that I've been bringing him (low-fat yogurt, ground almonds, fresh fruit and a dash of vanilla). Speaking of wolves, he is now joking with the caregiving aides (some of whom are floored, because they had gotten the idea over the first few weeks that he was unable to talk). The other day he told one of them to "climb in bed with me" as she was helping him lie down. He's baaack.