March 3rd

It is always easiest to remember what just happened. That is certainly the case looking at this last week. Today Ashley seemed to really coordinate with eating and swallowing. If you think about all the mechanics involved it helps you to appreciate what Ashley has to think through and then hope all the signals get through. Gee, I thought remembering all the steps (and properly executing) for a good golf swing was difficult.

Ashley have been taken off of a three different medicines since being home and has had the dosage reduced on another. She has not had any problems with digestion and she seems more alert. We will be pursuing treatment for stiffness in Ashley’s neck and right arm, but with Ashley’s reduced episodes involving spasms we are on hold with the procedure for an internal pump to provide that medication.

Ashley had several visitors this weekend and enjoyed the company. Her mother and I even managed to slip out to dinner on Saturday night for our 25th anniversary. We went to a restaurant that Ashley chose and we both agreed it was an excellent suggestion.

We expect Ashley’s standing frame to arrive at our home this week. A standing frame is a device that Ashley sits in and then via a pneumatic pump raises her to a supported standing position. Currently when we transfer Ashley from one spot to another we usual support her in a standing position for a few minutes. Now she will be able to put weight on her legs and feet for a half hour a couple times a day. It helps her circulation and also helps her build muscle tone.

Had it not been for the rain today it would have been a great morning for Ashley to get out for a walk (nearly 50 degrees), but now a cold front is coming back. Spring will soon be here and you can count on Ashley wanting to get out in it!