Shakin, Down, but not Out!

yamafitter · Aug 28, 2013

A further update from Ian's wife Cindy.....

Ian’s making progress. The wrist cast, shoulder sling and leg splint are all off now. Ian says it’s liberating to be out of the shackles, but he was in quite a bit of pain for the first few days, as the joints hadn’t moved in so long. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are now more extensive, and more painful.
The wrist is apparently healing well, as is the right knee. He’s not allowed to put weight on the knee yet, nor on the wrist, so he’s still wheelchair-bound.
The bad news: The surgeon said the right shoulder is not healing properly, and will likely require further surgery. Maybe in a few weeks, once it is finished healing from the first procedure. He mentioned some fairly drastic possibilities (replacement or fusion), but we are remaining hopeful that they are a last resort and that we can try other approaches first.
Despite the progress, the news about the shoulder and Ian being away from home so long is dragging all of our spirits down. The doctors have offered no suggestion of an end date, or any plan for getting out of the hospital. We’re in week eight now.
Since the cast is gone, Ian’s able to use his phone, and is responding to some emails, if anyone wants to contact him. All his therapy sessions have been moved to the mornings, so his afternoons and evenings are free for visitors.
Many thanks again to those who have dropped by. It lifts his spirits considerably.Cindy

yamafitter · Sep 11, 2013

Good news from Ian....

I'm home.Some of you may know this, but I thought I'd update those who were not aware.
I was given weight bearing status by the surgeon at St Mike's for my leg and arms (still need to get a special brace for my leg) last Thu.
On Fri the physical therapist tested me and said she'd sign off that I could go home and use outpatient services for recovery.
The occupational therapist also tested me and said she'd sign off, but I would have to have the house modified for my safety first.
So most of the modifications were completed on Tue, and the doctor from St John's signed off this morning allowing me to leave the rehab hospital.
I say thank you to all for your well wishes and hope that you continue to keep in touch with us.
I am able to move about in a wheelchair (I can only use my left leg for moving so it tires easily and I can't go very far, or up hill, so I'm limited without an escort).
I can also walk about the house using a cane, although right now I tire easily and can only go about 50 ft before I need to sit down and rest.
But I'M HOME!!!!!
Best wishes, Ian & Cindy(without whom I'd be who knows where?)

wnyfjr · Sep 11, 2013

MOST EXCELLENT update! Thanks for passing this along, Bill! Laura asks me every now and again how Ian is progressing, and it's nice to have a positive update like this.

Ian, keep after it and keep doing what the bosses tell you (these include the docs and especially Cindy!).