Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009
Thought we'd' better update the blog in case anyone is still checking it and because we haven't been able to keep up with phone calls or emails for some time now. We sold our house in College Station and are currently all under the same roof in Russ' apartment in Ft. Worth, which is a relief to us all. What an adventure!! We're scheduled to close on a house in Aledo next week and Syd is already adjusting to her new school. I got set up in physical and occupational therapy here and am still moving forward, but have a long road ahead. I had to resign my job which was a mix of sad and scary, but necessary. I certainly wish all my friends at Twin City Mission the very best as they continue with their good work. If you want to see what they're up to, you can go to http://www.twincitymission.org.
In the short term, the best way to reach me is by email (wynneclark@earthlink.net). If you send me an email, I’ll send you my new cell # (probably best not to post it on the internet and sorry, I'm still very slow to respond). Russ still has the same cell but they'll probably both change before long to something in the Fort Worth area code. Our mailing address for the next few weeks is
3252 Liberator, Apt. C, Fort Worth, TX 76127. (this is on base at Carswell Naval Air Station)
Hope 2009 is shaping up to be a good year for you and yours.
Love and peace,
Wynne
_________________________________________________________________
My apologies for not keeping up with the blog over the past few months. The pace of things has been frantic between selling our house, traveling back & forth to Fort Worth, working, moving and my own set of health problems. We're hoping things will settle down after we get into a more permanent living situation and we'll try to do better at keeping up. Thanks for your support and my apologies again -
Russ
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Saturday, December 13, 2008
New Message From Wynne
I haven't posted in a while - honestly, it's been a rough few weeks. I haven't felt great some days which has affected my sleep, slowing me down a bit more. We took Syd to Temple last week for her tummy scope - no ulcers or other serious problems found which is great news - she's now on a new med for irritable bowel syndrome and the Dr. thinks it might just fix the problem for good - fingers crossed. She was back in school the next day.
I am not cleared to drive yet - I took about 4 1/2 hours of tests w/ the neuropsychologist to test for driving and other functioning as well. I struggled w/ some parts but they tell me they can probably help rehab what is needed. This will be my last week of speech therapy and I'll keep focusing on fine motor skills for my left hand in occupational therapy. My speech has certainly improved since the stroke, but is still a bit slurred and slow, especially when I'm tired - and I still can't shake this Texas accent! Also I still have to work more on my facial muscles. We're having to make some big family decisions about work and living arrangements, etc. I can't currently take care of myself independently, much less Syd too, so we started the process to sell our house and look for a place in Ft. Worth so things will probably move pretty fast now. We'd like to start Syd in a new school in January. It is a lot to absorb, but I have faith in the process and will just have to let it unfold how it will. We'll certainly be glad to have our family all under one roof again! It's been a long couple of years! Anyway, that's the latest - Oh, I came across this quote by Harry Chapin and thought I'd share it....
"Be involved with the people with the live hearts, the live eyes, who are committed to something,"
So, peace and love to all my friends and loved ones with the live hearts and live eyes in this holiday season!
Wynne
I am not cleared to drive yet - I took about 4 1/2 hours of tests w/ the neuropsychologist to test for driving and other functioning as well. I struggled w/ some parts but they tell me they can probably help rehab what is needed. This will be my last week of speech therapy and I'll keep focusing on fine motor skills for my left hand in occupational therapy. My speech has certainly improved since the stroke, but is still a bit slurred and slow, especially when I'm tired - and I still can't shake this Texas accent! Also I still have to work more on my facial muscles. We're having to make some big family decisions about work and living arrangements, etc. I can't currently take care of myself independently, much less Syd too, so we started the process to sell our house and look for a place in Ft. Worth so things will probably move pretty fast now. We'd like to start Syd in a new school in January. It is a lot to absorb, but I have faith in the process and will just have to let it unfold how it will. We'll certainly be glad to have our family all under one roof again! It's been a long couple of years! Anyway, that's the latest - Oh, I came across this quote by Harry Chapin and thought I'd share it....
"Be involved with the people with the live hearts, the live eyes, who are committed to something,"
So, peace and love to all my friends and loved ones with the live hearts and live eyes in this holiday season!
Wynne
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Message From Wynne
Sunday, November 23, 2008 (OK - I type the full date because I'm showing off that I actually know what it is now!!!!)
I am worn out!! I spent much of today going back through some of the emails I've received from many of you these past weeks. I started trying to answer a few back - didn't get too far. Typing with one hand definitely slows me down. I just can't say enough how appreciative I am for all the kind thoughts, prayers and support - they really lifted my spirits, yet again - amazing what a simple, sincere word can do to help heal.
ok, so this is funny - I asked my eye dr about replacing my lost left contact lens and wondered if he knew any tricks to inserting and removing a lens with one hand . He said he had heard of dipping your fingertip in marshmallow cream first and it would allow you to grab the contact - then just rinse the lens after. Seriously! We finally settled on ordering a miniature plunger for the eye. I suppose I can give it to Syd for her dollhouse when I'm done!!
My eye test showed some loss of vision on the left peripheral field of my right eye and a lesser amount of loss on the left peripheral field of my left eye. He didn't recommend anything at this point but said sometimes the vision will return in about six months. So that is hopeful.
Russ' folks are coming up from San Antonio for a few days for Thanksgiving. Syd was very excited to place 4th place in oral reading during the University Interscholastic League competition (i.e., a scholastic competition covering the entire school district) on Saturday. She read a Shel Silverstein poem. Her friends’ Georgia and Kassidy also won medals (for storytelling and math). Mom & Ed went back to Oklahoma Friday to check on my grandma, go to various appt.s and to see OU win against tx tech. I don't know what we would've done without all their help. We were glad to see Russ (and even our crazy lab, Casey), again and happy they get to stay the week.
I wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving - I certainly have much to be thankful for.
Peace,
Wynne
I am worn out!! I spent much of today going back through some of the emails I've received from many of you these past weeks. I started trying to answer a few back - didn't get too far. Typing with one hand definitely slows me down. I just can't say enough how appreciative I am for all the kind thoughts, prayers and support - they really lifted my spirits, yet again - amazing what a simple, sincere word can do to help heal.
ok, so this is funny - I asked my eye dr about replacing my lost left contact lens and wondered if he knew any tricks to inserting and removing a lens with one hand . He said he had heard of dipping your fingertip in marshmallow cream first and it would allow you to grab the contact - then just rinse the lens after. Seriously! We finally settled on ordering a miniature plunger for the eye. I suppose I can give it to Syd for her dollhouse when I'm done!!
My eye test showed some loss of vision on the left peripheral field of my right eye and a lesser amount of loss on the left peripheral field of my left eye. He didn't recommend anything at this point but said sometimes the vision will return in about six months. So that is hopeful.
Russ' folks are coming up from San Antonio for a few days for Thanksgiving. Syd was very excited to place 4th place in oral reading during the University Interscholastic League competition (i.e., a scholastic competition covering the entire school district) on Saturday. She read a Shel Silverstein poem. Her friends’ Georgia and Kassidy also won medals (for storytelling and math). Mom & Ed went back to Oklahoma Friday to check on my grandma, go to various appt.s and to see OU win against tx tech. I don't know what we would've done without all their help. We were glad to see Russ (and even our crazy lab, Casey), again and happy they get to stay the week.
I wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving - I certainly have much to be thankful for.
Peace,
Wynne
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Message From Wynne 11/20/2008
If I'm learning nothing else, it is a bit of empathy for folks having to endure medical tests with so much poking and prodding. Despite my anxieties, I survived my heart test yesterday and the good news is my heart is apparently in very good shape. No more ideas about the cause of the stroke however. It does occur to me to ponder; if we can turn urine and sweat into drinking water, seems like we could improve a bit more on some of our medical tests, namely the MRI and the PET Scan for the heart. Yesterday I was in the waiting room and my name was called by a young tech wearing what looked like a bright red nuclear bomb vest, so immediately, I was calmed -not. She took me back into a small sterile office and kindly explained the test and I shared with her my anxiety that resulted from my previous hospital MRI experience where they strapped my head down with Velcro and put me into a tube head first - although I did manage to get through that finally with some significant medication and a roomful of people talking me through it (I think Russ rode the table in with me to get through it). It ruined me forever on tests in tubes. So of course, the PET scan involved a tube. So then " Dirk" came in to put in my IV and further calm me by telling me the test was no big deal, but he lied. They did put me in feet first which was better, but then injected what seemed like 5 gallons of cold liquid into my veins while they took pictures of my heart at rest and racing. I kept imagining that if Dirk were so inclined, he could just kill me right then and there. Made me think about how it must be to get lethal injection. I remember at one point looking up at the laser light that was used to line up the pictures but since they took away my glasses, I couldn't read the red warning that said, "Don't stare at the laser" :) I think it also said it was a Mach 5 laser, so maybe I also got an eye surgery out of the deal. When I was trying to think of calming thoughts, the only thing that would came to mind was when I lived in California and while at Santa Cruz, went up with a friend on top of a crane while he bungee jumped off - maybe I need to work on my visualization skills a bit. Anyway, I lived to tell about it and find the sick humor in it, so all's well that ends well I suppose! So, although I've not done a treadmill test to truly compare - if they gave me a choice - I'd pick that over the chemical test any day - I'm just saying... But please don't let me discourage you from getting the tests you need - if I can do it - you can too!
I'll see the Ophthalmologist tomorrow - we still suspect some left side vision loss, but even if there is, they apparently have prism lenses that can help with peripheral vision problems. Anyway, it's not my day to worry, so I'm not. Last week, Russ tried to help me put in and take out my contacts - that didn't go too well - I never realized that was such a two-handed function. He is squeamish about putting things in eyes anyway, so he got pretty freaked out and somewhere along the way I lost my left lens so I'll have to get another I suppose.
I'm missing the visits I had when I was in the hospital and rehab- they really cheered me up and kept me going at a very critical time. If you want to stop by, try calling my cell at 255-3599 and I will give you directions (and to ensure I’m not out at therapy or a Dr.’s appointment). My energy is up and down, so please bear with me on that, but I think I'm a bit more up for visits these days and a few friendly faces would be welcome.
I hope things are well in your world as we head into the Thanksgiving season.
Love, peace and good health,
Wynne
I'll see the Ophthalmologist tomorrow - we still suspect some left side vision loss, but even if there is, they apparently have prism lenses that can help with peripheral vision problems. Anyway, it's not my day to worry, so I'm not. Last week, Russ tried to help me put in and take out my contacts - that didn't go too well - I never realized that was such a two-handed function. He is squeamish about putting things in eyes anyway, so he got pretty freaked out and somewhere along the way I lost my left lens so I'll have to get another I suppose.
I'm missing the visits I had when I was in the hospital and rehab- they really cheered me up and kept me going at a very critical time. If you want to stop by, try calling my cell at 255-3599 and I will give you directions (and to ensure I’m not out at therapy or a Dr.’s appointment). My energy is up and down, so please bear with me on that, but I think I'm a bit more up for visits these days and a few friendly faces would be welcome.
I hope things are well in your world as we head into the Thanksgiving season.
Love, peace and good health,
Wynne
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Message From Wynne 11/18/2008
Thanks for tracking along with me - so sorry I haven't been able to respond to all the emails, cards, etc. It isn't for lack of appreciation - each of your words. I have been very surprised at how tired I get and how quickly I get that way. I overdid it Saturday trying to clean my laundry room and was out of commission on Sunday as a result. Therapy and dr visits seem to wear me out physically and mentally but I am continuing to see progress. I was able to tap my fingers very lightly last week - you have to look quick or you might miss it but it was encouraging. Not much movement in my thumb yet and very little sensation has returned in my face or forearm but I'm having to take no narcotics for pain - only the Lyrica for the nerve pain and tylenol for muscle pains so I'm glad for that. I'm not too excited (actually, am a bit anxious to be honest) about having a chemically induced stress test tomorrow to further check my heart. They don't really think that is the root of the problem but want to check it out nonetheless. My step dad has talked me into only worrying on Tuesdays, so I'll get it out of my system today. Today is, in fact, Tuesday...smile.
I asked my neurologist yesterday to show me my MRI so I could see what the heck was causing all this mess. Wow - it was pretty darn big - they had told me it was a massive stroke but I really wanted to see it for myself. They also tell me it is possible for other parts of the brain to take over functions that were lost so that is what I am visualizing - I just need to be very patient and very persistent with the process as it occurs.
Syd's team won their last 3 volleyball games last night so their season is now over but she had a great time. I've been eating very well - nothing like mom's cooking! Ed keeps me working on my left brain as we solve all the world's problems. They'll go home Friday to catch the next OU game on Saturday, but Russ will come back and will be here all next week - Syd and I will be glad to see him. Well, that's all for now.
Love and peace,
Wynne
I asked my neurologist yesterday to show me my MRI so I could see what the heck was causing all this mess. Wow - it was pretty darn big - they had told me it was a massive stroke but I really wanted to see it for myself. They also tell me it is possible for other parts of the brain to take over functions that were lost so that is what I am visualizing - I just need to be very patient and very persistent with the process as it occurs.
Syd's team won their last 3 volleyball games last night so their season is now over but she had a great time. I've been eating very well - nothing like mom's cooking! Ed keeps me working on my left brain as we solve all the world's problems. They'll go home Friday to catch the next OU game on Saturday, but Russ will come back and will be here all next week - Syd and I will be glad to see him. Well, that's all for now.
Love and peace,
Wynne
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Message From Wynne 11/13/2008
Just a quick post - Has been a busy few days - Mom & I (more
Mom than me) washed windows Sunday so we could see outside again. I'm getting around the house pretty good - just seem to run out of energy pretty quick and am realizing I need more sleep than I've been getting. Mom & Ed have been helping out a lot with Syd, meal prep, driving, and everything else. Don't know what we'd do without them! Russ goes back to work next week so he doesn't use up all his sick leave but they'll still be here to help. Took Syd to Dr. - finally got her some flu-mist - I'd been worried about that the whole time I was in the hospital so glad to get that done. We were also following up with the Gastroenterologist about the stomach problems she's had this past year or so. She'll have a scope done in Temple on Dec. 3 to check for problems but the doc thinks it is most likely Irritable Bowel Syndrome that he can pretty easily treat with medication. She didn't seem too worried about the procedure - the dr. has great rapport with her so I think she'll also be glad to know what the problem is. She has one more Volleyball game left but they're having a great season.
Some folks have been asking when a good time to visit would be - Syd has a volleyball practice Sat at 10 but Sat or Sun afternoon would probably be good. You might give Russ a call on his cell at 450-1689 to coordinate. I have therapy today and tomorrow and see my primary care dr today. Tomorrow is Twin City Mission's Coat and Blanket giveaway so I'll be thinking about them and wishing warmth to all who need it.
Dr. put me on a low-dose anti-depressant this week to help w/ the moodiness - it reminds me that there are many people suffering from depression on an on-going basis and they too - cannot just snap out of it - they also need medication to help the brain chemistry balance. Exercise, sleep and a good diet can help but the medication is a critical piece too. Anyway, I'm glad to have it and hope it helps.
They didn't recommend me for Physical Therapy since my leg strength and balance are good, but I’m continuing with Occupational and Speech Therapy. I'm having great progress with my left hand - I was able to grip and toss a small ball yesterday. Still need to work on my fingers and thumb, but I can see it progressing which is great.
Thanks again for you many expressions of love and support - they've really helped keep me going. Well, gotta go get ready for therapy which is rather slow business.
Love and peace,
Wynne
Mom than me) washed windows Sunday so we could see outside again. I'm getting around the house pretty good - just seem to run out of energy pretty quick and am realizing I need more sleep than I've been getting. Mom & Ed have been helping out a lot with Syd, meal prep, driving, and everything else. Don't know what we'd do without them! Russ goes back to work next week so he doesn't use up all his sick leave but they'll still be here to help. Took Syd to Dr. - finally got her some flu-mist - I'd been worried about that the whole time I was in the hospital so glad to get that done. We were also following up with the Gastroenterologist about the stomach problems she's had this past year or so. She'll have a scope done in Temple on Dec. 3 to check for problems but the doc thinks it is most likely Irritable Bowel Syndrome that he can pretty easily treat with medication. She didn't seem too worried about the procedure - the dr. has great rapport with her so I think she'll also be glad to know what the problem is. She has one more Volleyball game left but they're having a great season.
Some folks have been asking when a good time to visit would be - Syd has a volleyball practice Sat at 10 but Sat or Sun afternoon would probably be good. You might give Russ a call on his cell at 450-1689 to coordinate. I have therapy today and tomorrow and see my primary care dr today. Tomorrow is Twin City Mission's Coat and Blanket giveaway so I'll be thinking about them and wishing warmth to all who need it.
Dr. put me on a low-dose anti-depressant this week to help w/ the moodiness - it reminds me that there are many people suffering from depression on an on-going basis and they too - cannot just snap out of it - they also need medication to help the brain chemistry balance. Exercise, sleep and a good diet can help but the medication is a critical piece too. Anyway, I'm glad to have it and hope it helps.
They didn't recommend me for Physical Therapy since my leg strength and balance are good, but I’m continuing with Occupational and Speech Therapy. I'm having great progress with my left hand - I was able to grip and toss a small ball yesterday. Still need to work on my fingers and thumb, but I can see it progressing which is great.
Thanks again for you many expressions of love and support - they've really helped keep me going. Well, gotta go get ready for therapy which is rather slow business.
Love and peace,
Wynne
Friday, November 7, 2008
Message From Wynne - written 11/2/2008
Wynne asked me to post this message she wrote on Sunday 11/2/08 - R:
Well, three weeks ago today, I was in the ICU, full of tubes and hanging on for dear life - and, it is, indeed dear. Today, I was able to sit on my couch at home, drink a cup of coffee, and watch the latest political news and I am incredibly grateful for many things:
1. That my husband was home from Ft. Worth and recognized the signs of stroke when I was having one - he literally saved my life and by getting me medical care immediately, greatly improved my chances for recovery with fewer disabilities. Now I can walk, I can talk well enough to be understood - and I can take care of myself with a lot less help than I needed just a few days ago. And I have great hope that I'll be able to use my left arm and hand again. Along with tying my own shoes, driving and typing, I told my Occupational Therapist that one of my goals was to regain my ability to flip off someone if I really needed to. Would you call that an Activity of Daily Living? Maybe some days.... smile....
2. I'm so grateful that I have health insurance that covers many of the bills I am racking up - I just got my first statement from the hospital - $132,000 so far... I can only imagine how someone might feel to get a bill like that on top of a serious illness if they have no insurance.
3. I'm so fortunate that I got top notch medical and rehabcare - I cannot say enough about the quality of care I received from CNA's, the nurses, the therapists, the hospital and rehab staff, and the doctor's who treated me - they all knew their stuff and were so professional and kind - even Nurse Ratchett was, I’m sure, instrumental in helping me get better. :)
4. That I had so many people supporting me and my family with prayers, warm, positive thoughts, kind words on cards and emails, blog comments, flowers, balloons, gifts, visits, calls, food and many other very concrete and practical expressions of support and caring. What those all meant in my ability to develop and keep a positive outlook cannot be overstated. And my friends and mom and Ed who were here at such a difficult time, supporting Russ and me and helping to keep some semblance of a routine for Sydney.
To be loved and cheered on like that would heal anyone, I think. I told some of my Twin City Mission staff that it would be so great if we were able to provide a level of care like I’ve had to each and every person who came through our doors for help in any of our services, they just couldn't help but get better. (Not that you don't already - you guys are awesome!)It is really amazing what one person can do to help another. Simply making the effort to reach out to someone else makes you a richer person. And I think I'd have to say I know some of the truly richest people around. I believe that no effort with true and right intention is ever wasted - each of us has something unique and special to share in this world and we are so fortunate when we can get past our own self-imposed biases and limitations to truly see, one another.
5. I was so grateful for and touched by my fellow rehab patients. The first person I met was Mr. Lewis who had turned 84 the previous Monday and on my first morning in rehab, he came up and patted my arm and showed me how his left hand was working again after having a right-brain stroke like me. He told me not to give up that it would get better and he was starting to walk again last week when I left and he even went fishing. I didn't get to go along since I was in therapy, but I'll never forget his encouraging kindness and his positive outlook. It's kind of hard to get too lost in self-pity when you're surrounded by people with such grace, tenacity, dignity and courage. In addition to strokes, some people were recovering from brain injuries, car accidents, amputations or other painful surgeries. I think my new favorite mantra is starting to be, "Get over your bad self and get on with what is really important." Maybe a bit crass, but sometimes, it seems what we really need is a kick in the butt and a bit of bravery to move ahead. :)
And I suppose, because I have a need to try to find some bit of meaning as a result of this rather "out of the blue" event...I really hope you'll indulge me by doing two things:
1. go to http://www.strokeeducation.info/ and learn the warning signs of a stroke - this simple information could save your life or that of someone else Even children can have strokes
and
2. learn how to prevent a stroke by clicking on "Reducing Stroke" at the above site. Every 45 seconds someone suffers a stroke. Over 750,000 people in the United States experience a stroke every year. Stroke kills nearly 160,000 people each year. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in this country. Nearly 30% of those who suffer a stroke are under the age of 65. They affect men nearly as often as women and blacks almost twice more often than whites. Hispanics and Native Americans are also affected disproportionately. Stroke is the #1 cause of serious, long-term adult disability in the United States.
Among the most important things you can do are: 1. If you smoke, quit smoking, 2. know if you have high blood pressure and treat it aggressively . 3. If you are overweight, learn to eat right and exercise your way to a healthy weight. 4. Don't drink more than two drinks/day if you drink. 5. Reduce your bad cholesterol and 6. If you have Atrial Fibrillation, get it treated promptly. 7. If you have diabetes, treat it aggressively. As hard as any of these might seem to be to change, they've got to be easier than learning to walk or talk again if you're lucky enough to survive a stroke. Do it for you and for those who love you. I can't even think of someone I'd wish something like this on - certainly not anyone I know or care about. Please take care of yourself - your health is precious.
Well, I suppose that is enough typing practice and preaching for a day - I still need to do my exercises and ponder my significant attachments to french fries and heavy cream in my coffee. Stress also appears to be a factor in my particular stroke, so I'll also be trying to develop better routines for myself. They keep telling me that I need to be patient with the process, probably not my strong suit but I'm working on it.
Well, blah, blah, blah...enough about me - I hope you and yours are happy and healthy! If not, I hope you'll figure out how to get there.
Love to all
Wynne
Well, three weeks ago today, I was in the ICU, full of tubes and hanging on for dear life - and, it is, indeed dear. Today, I was able to sit on my couch at home, drink a cup of coffee, and watch the latest political news and I am incredibly grateful for many things:
1. That my husband was home from Ft. Worth and recognized the signs of stroke when I was having one - he literally saved my life and by getting me medical care immediately, greatly improved my chances for recovery with fewer disabilities. Now I can walk, I can talk well enough to be understood - and I can take care of myself with a lot less help than I needed just a few days ago. And I have great hope that I'll be able to use my left arm and hand again. Along with tying my own shoes, driving and typing, I told my Occupational Therapist that one of my goals was to regain my ability to flip off someone if I really needed to. Would you call that an Activity of Daily Living? Maybe some days.... smile....
2. I'm so grateful that I have health insurance that covers many of the bills I am racking up - I just got my first statement from the hospital - $132,000 so far... I can only imagine how someone might feel to get a bill like that on top of a serious illness if they have no insurance.
3. I'm so fortunate that I got top notch medical and rehabcare - I cannot say enough about the quality of care I received from CNA's, the nurses, the therapists, the hospital and rehab staff, and the doctor's who treated me - they all knew their stuff and were so professional and kind - even Nurse Ratchett was, I’m sure, instrumental in helping me get better. :)
4. That I had so many people supporting me and my family with prayers, warm, positive thoughts, kind words on cards and emails, blog comments, flowers, balloons, gifts, visits, calls, food and many other very concrete and practical expressions of support and caring. What those all meant in my ability to develop and keep a positive outlook cannot be overstated. And my friends and mom and Ed who were here at such a difficult time, supporting Russ and me and helping to keep some semblance of a routine for Sydney.
To be loved and cheered on like that would heal anyone, I think. I told some of my Twin City Mission staff that it would be so great if we were able to provide a level of care like I’ve had to each and every person who came through our doors for help in any of our services, they just couldn't help but get better. (Not that you don't already - you guys are awesome!)It is really amazing what one person can do to help another. Simply making the effort to reach out to someone else makes you a richer person. And I think I'd have to say I know some of the truly richest people around. I believe that no effort with true and right intention is ever wasted - each of us has something unique and special to share in this world and we are so fortunate when we can get past our own self-imposed biases and limitations to truly see, one another.
5. I was so grateful for and touched by my fellow rehab patients. The first person I met was Mr. Lewis who had turned 84 the previous Monday and on my first morning in rehab, he came up and patted my arm and showed me how his left hand was working again after having a right-brain stroke like me. He told me not to give up that it would get better and he was starting to walk again last week when I left and he even went fishing. I didn't get to go along since I was in therapy, but I'll never forget his encouraging kindness and his positive outlook. It's kind of hard to get too lost in self-pity when you're surrounded by people with such grace, tenacity, dignity and courage. In addition to strokes, some people were recovering from brain injuries, car accidents, amputations or other painful surgeries. I think my new favorite mantra is starting to be, "Get over your bad self and get on with what is really important." Maybe a bit crass, but sometimes, it seems what we really need is a kick in the butt and a bit of bravery to move ahead. :)
And I suppose, because I have a need to try to find some bit of meaning as a result of this rather "out of the blue" event...I really hope you'll indulge me by doing two things:
1. go to http://www.strokeeducation.info/ and learn the warning signs of a stroke - this simple information could save your life or that of someone else Even children can have strokes
and
2. learn how to prevent a stroke by clicking on "Reducing Stroke" at the above site. Every 45 seconds someone suffers a stroke. Over 750,000 people in the United States experience a stroke every year. Stroke kills nearly 160,000 people each year. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in this country. Nearly 30% of those who suffer a stroke are under the age of 65. They affect men nearly as often as women and blacks almost twice more often than whites. Hispanics and Native Americans are also affected disproportionately. Stroke is the #1 cause of serious, long-term adult disability in the United States.
Among the most important things you can do are: 1. If you smoke, quit smoking, 2. know if you have high blood pressure and treat it aggressively . 3. If you are overweight, learn to eat right and exercise your way to a healthy weight. 4. Don't drink more than two drinks/day if you drink. 5. Reduce your bad cholesterol and 6. If you have Atrial Fibrillation, get it treated promptly. 7. If you have diabetes, treat it aggressively. As hard as any of these might seem to be to change, they've got to be easier than learning to walk or talk again if you're lucky enough to survive a stroke. Do it for you and for those who love you. I can't even think of someone I'd wish something like this on - certainly not anyone I know or care about. Please take care of yourself - your health is precious.
Well, I suppose that is enough typing practice and preaching for a day - I still need to do my exercises and ponder my significant attachments to french fries and heavy cream in my coffee. Stress also appears to be a factor in my particular stroke, so I'll also be trying to develop better routines for myself. They keep telling me that I need to be patient with the process, probably not my strong suit but I'm working on it.
Well, blah, blah, blah...enough about me - I hope you and yours are happy and healthy! If not, I hope you'll figure out how to get there.
Love to all
Wynne
Message From Wynne
Wynne asked me to post the following - R:
Thursday, November 6, 2008
It has been a very full week – doctor’s appointments and outpatient therapy. No good answers from the Hematologist about causes of stroke from my blood– she’ll see me again after stroke effects settle down some, but no clear genetic factors or clotting issues currently. She was extraordinarily thorough and kind. She even sent me to the Cardiologist for the left-sided pain I’ve been experiencing to make sure it wasn’t my heart– no obvious heart issues but he did schedule me for a PET scan later to make sure. I also met w/ the Outpatient clinic Dr. – he was very knowledgeable and optimistic about stroke recovery and increased my Lyrica med to address the significant nerve pain I’ve been having on my left side. Apparently this is fairly common after a stroke as the brain tries to reestablish new connections. He also gave me a timely warning about the emotional variations that often accompany this type of stroke as some of the damage in my brain occurred in the area that also manages emotions. I have found my emotions to be all over the place this week – when I can’t do things I've always done like tie my shoes by myself – or when I look in the mirror and I don’t look quite the same anymore – So, I quit looking in the mirror and I bought myself a snazzy pair of shoes with Velcro. Everyone tells me to just be patient so I suppose I might give that a try - smile - but may need an antidepressant to help balance the chemicals in the brain if I keep feeling this way. I guess it will take some time to understand the degree and scope of the damage but they tell me other parts of the brain often take over lost functions.
I went to two of Syd's volleyball games this week, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I felt the first really significant movement I've seen yet in my left hand and fingers during one of her games so that was exciting. I find myself much more tired than usual so have been resting and reading a lot. Several people have recommended the book, " A Stroke of Insight" - a fascinating book about how the brain works and the author's own experience of having a stroke from her perspective as a neuro-anatomist. I also got referred to the person in town who can help with re-training and testing me for driving. I'll post a comment if I get cleared so you know the coast is clear - I sure as heck wouldn't want to ride with me right now...
And, of course, like most, I've been watching the elections - I'm personally thrilled with the outcome and hope our country is ready to move forward in a cooperative and productive way - there's a boatload of work to do, that's for sure so I hope we can get on with it! I haven't been able to reply to emails much yet - still getting this one-handed typing thing down - a new friend who also had a stroke said it's like having a speech impediment - that pretty much says it all. And my verbal speech is still not quite back to normal so I'm a bit self-conscious about that so I haven't been making or returning many calls yet - it's gotten some better since the stroke so maybe with a bit more time and therapy it will continue to get better. Thanks again to all of you for your love, many kindnesses, prayers and wishes for healing. Mom and Ed are coming back tomorrow night to help out next week so we're in pretty good shape for the shape we're in.
Peace,
Wynne
Thursday, November 6, 2008
It has been a very full week – doctor’s appointments and outpatient therapy. No good answers from the Hematologist about causes of stroke from my blood– she’ll see me again after stroke effects settle down some, but no clear genetic factors or clotting issues currently. She was extraordinarily thorough and kind. She even sent me to the Cardiologist for the left-sided pain I’ve been experiencing to make sure it wasn’t my heart– no obvious heart issues but he did schedule me for a PET scan later to make sure. I also met w/ the Outpatient clinic Dr. – he was very knowledgeable and optimistic about stroke recovery and increased my Lyrica med to address the significant nerve pain I’ve been having on my left side. Apparently this is fairly common after a stroke as the brain tries to reestablish new connections. He also gave me a timely warning about the emotional variations that often accompany this type of stroke as some of the damage in my brain occurred in the area that also manages emotions. I have found my emotions to be all over the place this week – when I can’t do things I've always done like tie my shoes by myself – or when I look in the mirror and I don’t look quite the same anymore – So, I quit looking in the mirror and I bought myself a snazzy pair of shoes with Velcro. Everyone tells me to just be patient so I suppose I might give that a try - smile - but may need an antidepressant to help balance the chemicals in the brain if I keep feeling this way. I guess it will take some time to understand the degree and scope of the damage but they tell me other parts of the brain often take over lost functions.
I went to two of Syd's volleyball games this week, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I felt the first really significant movement I've seen yet in my left hand and fingers during one of her games so that was exciting. I find myself much more tired than usual so have been resting and reading a lot. Several people have recommended the book, " A Stroke of Insight" - a fascinating book about how the brain works and the author's own experience of having a stroke from her perspective as a neuro-anatomist. I also got referred to the person in town who can help with re-training and testing me for driving. I'll post a comment if I get cleared so you know the coast is clear - I sure as heck wouldn't want to ride with me right now...
And, of course, like most, I've been watching the elections - I'm personally thrilled with the outcome and hope our country is ready to move forward in a cooperative and productive way - there's a boatload of work to do, that's for sure so I hope we can get on with it! I haven't been able to reply to emails much yet - still getting this one-handed typing thing down - a new friend who also had a stroke said it's like having a speech impediment - that pretty much says it all. And my verbal speech is still not quite back to normal so I'm a bit self-conscious about that so I haven't been making or returning many calls yet - it's gotten some better since the stroke so maybe with a bit more time and therapy it will continue to get better. Thanks again to all of you for your love, many kindnesses, prayers and wishes for healing. Mom and Ed are coming back tomorrow night to help out next week so we're in pretty good shape for the shape we're in.
Peace,
Wynne
Saturday, November 1, 2008
11/1/2008
Wynne is adjusting to being back home and is learning how to do things differently around here. She is now reading her own email, but asks that everyone be patient as she will be very slow to respond due to being able to type with only her right hand (for now). If you would like to write directly to Wynne, her email address is:
wynneclark@earthlink.net
We have a week full of Dr.'s appointments and therapy appointments coming up. I will continue to update the blog when there is new information to report, but will probably not make daily posts at this point. Thank you again to all of you who have offered so much support during this difficult time.
wynneclark@earthlink.net
We have a week full of Dr.'s appointments and therapy appointments coming up. I will continue to update the blog when there is new information to report, but will probably not make daily posts at this point. Thank you again to all of you who have offered so much support during this difficult time.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
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