Almost Human

I've showered for probably the first time in 2006. Got out into our den for the first extended period of time in 2006. And now fresh sheets on the bed (not even the first time this week for those!) and clean clothes (not that long either, don't worry), I'm feeling almost like a human being again.

It probably also helps that there is no port or tape or bandage attached to my arm anymore. The treatment wrapped up this morning. So the big question on most people's mind seems to be, is it working? For $8700 a day, I should be able to walk, run and turn on a Randy Johnson fastball, but I digress.

The changes are small, but I'd say that I've started the long haul back up to physical normalcy. (Never had mental normalcy to begin with, so that's a moot point. Or, like Joey would say, a moo point. "Moo point?" "Yeah, it's like cows, it doesn't mean anything.") I can move my toes on my left foot a little bit. Meron can feel the muscles in my right foot contracting like they are trying to move. My grip on the right hand has strengthened some. And according to Gabe, my legs have strengthened some since yesterday, which is what the neurologist said should be one of the first signs of recovery. I also read somewhere that once recovery starts, it's a steady progression. So there is good news, and it has nothing to do with me switching my insurance to Geico.

I have so many wonderful friends, from the poker guys to my church family, but I want to single out a couple of my high school friends that have come through this week. First off, my friend David and his wife Danyelle were kind enough to send me some crossword puzzle books to keep me entertained. That will really come in handy this week, I'm sure, because there's only so much TV you can watch.

But huge "shout-outs", as the kids say, to my physical therapist friend Gabe. Gabe has come over a number of times to help me to the bathroom and helped me into the shower this evening. He's been very willing to come over (though that might have something to do with him helping lay hardwood floors for his girlfriend this weekend!) and help me when I've needed it. I really appreciate all he, and everyone else, has done for me.

Now that I've gotten all the stuff out of my arm, I'll try to keep this updated a bit more regularly. But thanks to all for the thoughts and prayers!