Dump the wheelchair

Dad's physical therapist suggested that the wheelchair be stored in a closet somewhere. She argued that he is walking well enough that it really isn't a necessity. He isn't ready for a marathon any time soon, but he can certainly move around well enough to get from the couch to the car, etc. After spending the day with him yesterday, I can vouch for the improvement. Not only has his ability to walk gotten better, but his confidence in his ability to walk has increased as well.

He did take a momentary downturn this week. It looks like a minor infection went unnoticed until his blood pressure dropped during physical therapy. A trip to the doctor, antibiotics, and bed rest seem to have addressed any serious worries for now.

Overall, he's eating better, drinking normal liquids (albeit carefully) and as I said above, walking better. His communication skills haven't increased substantially, although he seems to be settling into a pattern of fewer words or smaller sentences. Not in a bad way, but it is easier for him to communicate what he's trying to say.

His occupational therapist has actually given him some homework. Mom will ask him to point to an object in the room, and he's supposed to follow directions. And this simple request probably highlights best where he is at this stage of recovery. He really has a tough time following that sort of instruction. They are working on it, and I'm sure time and a lot of hard effort will pay dividends.

We descended on Mom and Dad's house like a swarm of angry bees today. The mission was to move as much of the furnishings back into the house as is possible. Mom was able to get the carpet installed this week, so no more excuses. With everyone's help we were able to get an office setup again, as well as a few key pieces throughout the house. In this case, key really just means heavy. My muscles are relaying that message quite clearly this morning.

So, the POD is empty, the garage is full, and the house looks like people actually live there. Mom still has her hands full with picture hanging, general cleaning, filling the closets and decorating, but there shouldn't be a lot more heavy lifting. We have tentative plans to borrow a bed from my sister tonight. We'll see how things go between the forecasts rain and the aching backs.