www.todddube.com - April 8 ~ 14

APRIL 8 ~ 14

Monday, April 8, 2002

Todd was picked up at 8:00 today to begin his first day of the day program. The Shepherd Center provides transportation to and from the facility. The day program is held Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:00. Mom spent most of the day with him to gain an understanding of this new routine. They had lunch together at the center. Memere, Eileen and Marilyn left for home today. It was great visiting with them. Todd was asked to establish a set of goals that he would like to work toward accomplishing before he returns home. He will work on operating the hand control of his wheel chair without the assistance of the sling. He will also work toward feeding himself and doing some personal care activities such as brushing his teeth. This is very ambitious, but Todd wants to make these happen.

Tuesday, April 9, 2002

Todd went to the center by himself today, which gave mom a chance to get a little more settled. She met him for lunch and was introduced to the new doctor that will monitor Todd's progress as part of the day program. Todd got to lie prone again today, which is something that he enjoys. They stimulated his upper back to work on his latissimus dorsi (Lats) muscles. It really feels great; makes him feel like he has his arms again. Todd worked his arms with the skateboards and did really well. He also had a surprise for Mom when he got home. He was able to write his name with the use of a mobile sling using his left hand. Mom cooked dinner for the two of them. Tomorrow they find out when they can leave the center and return home. They will be practicing mobility at the airport next week so they can be prepared for the ride home.

Wednesday, April 10, 2002

Todd found out today that his last day of therapy will be Friday, May 3. Todd had physical therapy and mainly did stretching exercises. He got to lie prone again today; he likes this because he gets to sleep on his stomach. Mom came for lunch at the center, after which Todd had occupational therapy with Noel. He wrote more today. He had group exercise where he and Jeff practiced bouncing a ball. Todd had therapeutic recreation during which they discussed the upcoming trip to the airport next Wednesday.

Thursday, April 11, 2002

Marc arrived from home today around lunchtime. He will be staying through next Thursday. Todd finished painting his ceramic fish today. He started the project painting with his mouth and finished using his hands. Todd had occupational therapy during which they stimulated his upper back, his exterior rotators. Physical therapy with Martha today included stretching. Marc, mom and Todd went to dinner at TGI Friday. Marc bought a VCR and they rented some movies.

Friday, April 12, 2002

Todd and mom had family training at the apartment. The afternoon was spent at an outing at the new apartment complex. The patients had their chance to get even with the therapists. The activities included writing on their therapist's arms, throwing pies at the therapists and shooting water balloons with slingshots. Todd and the other patients had a great time.

Saturday, April 13, 2002

Tom, Matt, Eric and Mike stopped by for a few hours to visit on their way back from Florida. Todd and mom rented some movies. Mom went to church. Todd was able to sit up in a real chair for about a half hour. He said it felt fine.

Sunday, April 14, 2002

It was a day of rest as usual. Todd slept most of the day. Marc, Lisa and Todd went to Longhorns again.

Good Week !