2012 02 28 Tuesday February 28

Post date: Feb 29, 2012 5:23:13 AM

I believe Martha was a bit stronger today. She might disagree; rehab is very tiring! However despite an unhappy start with breakfast (she had a very sick stomach) we hear she was able to eat all her dinner tonight. Tasha and Tim have been instrumental in helping her to eat at least a couple of meals per day. Tomorrow (Wednesday) they won't be able to be there so the staff will need to provide the encouragement and assistance.

Martha is still somewhat confused by a few things; you have to remind her she's in Conway, for example, but if someone she knows walks in, she usually has no trouble remembering their names, family connections, even (many times) recent events in their families. Sometimes the sequences are off, but the gist is there. She really enjoys seeing her friends, so I hope all of you who are able can schedule time to see her. Just be prepared for a long walk all the way back to her room. She will be in rehab for a couple of hours during the middle of the day, but it's hard to predict the times.

I think Martha has gotten behind on reading the many cards and letters this past week because she doesn't have much "free" time when she isn't exhausted from rehab. We may have to help her catch up next weekend! Thank you to everyone who has sent cards, gifts or came by to visit, and especially for your prayers.

Here on our side of town, Amanda is getting over another few days where the medication was not working as hoped. Fortunately things seem better today with some adjustments. Her research has told her the outcomes are best using more than one approach at a time, so she is trying several non-medical therapies, too. So far (after two sessions) she has been very impressed with the relief she has gotten from acupuncture. Many folks (including her doctor's staff) also recommend massage, but she hasn't scheduled one yet. We are hopeful about other approaches she is trying too. Sadly, even with all the assistance it will likely take weeks to months before she feels steady again. Our thanks to everyone who has prayed, as well as sent us cards, emails, calls, and meals! We really appreciate it.