March 7, 2007

Today Rand had a grueling workout in OT and PT. This epistle chronicles about 45 minutes of his time on the treadmill in physical therapy. I've put similar photos online before, but this time, Rand is walking without holding on to anything. He is learning to stand straight and tall, to keep his head up, his chest out and to depend on himself for balance - no mean feat! Laura, the PT and Thuan, the CNA, are supporting him as necessary, but Rand is working so, so hard. I think you can see it in his face. By the time the session was over, Rand's right leg was quivering uncontrollably with fatigue.


Rand, Laura and Thuan (back of his head) on the treadmill. Notice that Rand is holding his hands, not balancing himself with the handrails.


After 10 minutes the fatigue is starting to show.


Rand responds to the admonition to "keep your head up - chest out!!
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Now, to stand straight and tall, head up, chest out and balance, balance, balance!

A precarious step off the treadmill with support from Thuan, Laura and the cane


Taking steps using his own sense of balance and support from Laura

I hope this gives you some idea of what Rand is going through to try to relearn to move under his own power, to regain confidence, balance and to take a few steps unassisted. The goal is not to have him walk down the street again, it is to have him walk a few feet to the table, the shower, the bathroom, the bed, a chair, etc. He's working so hard, six days a week and it is exhausting, but he's making progress. It brings tears to my eyes to watch him, but he never gives up, is always willing to go the extra distance. He's quite a guy.

Keep him close in your hearts and prayers.

Love,
Connie