It has now been over a month since Big T, my sister-in-law’s mother, had her brain aneurysm. This morning, my brother brought me up to speed on her recovery.
Big T continues to do more than anyone thought possible, going beyond where the medical staff have felt she would be able to, pushing past limitations and expectations. She is doing really well on her right side with good range of motion. Her left side remains a challenge, and while she still needs lots of rehab, there is definite progress, with her now being able to resist against someone during her physical exercises. Her healing journey may be slow, but it’s definite.
Communicating verbally is still not easy for Big T. Her voice is a bit rough (possibly due to the tubes down her throat) and she can speak more easily in the morning, but the hoarseness makes it hard to understand her at times. When speaking wears her out, she communicates through writing and in that way, is connecting with her family and showing her humor remains intact. She recently wrote, “Get me out of here!”
Rehab will be a long process but Big T looks really strong and has come so far in such a short time. Her family remains thrilled by her physical progress and the sharpness of her mind. And of course, like Big T, they can’t wait until she can leave the hospital.
©Maria K. Benning, M.Ed., FPRH
