Sunday, October 30, 2022 7:36 PM

Hello!

 OK, I didn't tell a lie, I just was so excited that Larry took his first steps since the stroke, & that's what I focused on when Larry told me what he'd done in physio. The number was secondary. I thought it might be 10, as that would be about how many steps from one end to the other on the parallel bar platform. Larry said that the wheelchair was kept close behind, along the way, so he could plunk himself down, when he'd max out, which he did after 5 steps.

 The dynamic in Larry's room has changed considerably. There is never silence, except when he & I are quietly doing a crossword puzzle & another patient shouts the answer. Larry's brain is amazing. I'll look at a crossword clue with a furrowed brough & Larry will say "Well tell me, maybe I know it!" Yup, he knows it! That is so reassuring for him to be so sharp. I tell him how wonderful it is that his brain is functioning in such a great way. I'll have to leave the finished crossword page open for the O.T./Speech therapist to see, as some of the exercises he's given in therapy are far less challenging.

  Speaking of thinking well, Larry has started to give me instructions about his business. 'Yikes!' For one, there is enough stress medically, without that. I've spoken with his accountant & colleagues & have been reassured that there is nothing that needs his attention at this time. Whenever I relay the info back toLarry, that I've been given for him, he's fine & seems to put it to rest.

 Today, a lovely, sweet student nurse attended to Larry. He told me she made him throw up when she did his mouth care. Every time she came around, he called her the 'Pukenator'! She's a great sport, & I suggested to Larry that he remember that she is also the 'Pokenator', with several shots & finger pricks throughout the day.

 There are patients on the same floor as Larry, with Covid. The first thing I see as I enter the unit is a sign on a door that says something like, 'Only for staff serving Covid patients'. I met the very concerned daughter of a seriously ill parent who is a covid patient. I got news today that covid has hit our family again. I won't allow myself to think the unthinkable, re: Larry's vulnerability. I told him today that if I get the sniffles or a sore throat (let alone covid) that I can't come in to visit. He agreed! I've just popped a vitamin C with zinc tablet in my mouth.

 Last night my sister sent a text, asking me to call if I felt like it. Wow, from 10:0 until 1:30! We have never, ever, ever talked even half that long in one call. Cathartic is a word we like to use, & I guess that's what our time & conversation was. No stone left unturned, re: the last 4 months. It was good for both of us!

 Larry made a couple of phone calls today, one to his brother on the Island & another to his friend who came to visit him recently & is celebrating his 7th birthday. They were so surprised & delighted. It was a great boost for Larry. Short & sweet!

 I'm being super careful when driving in the deluge of rain over the past few days. Not fun at all! Hope you're being careful as well. Be sure to do your shoulder checks! God bless you. Take care! Thanks to those of you who supported & encouraged me about not posting every day. xoxo