Paul's Update - 09/14/06

Dear Friends:

Paul was up a lot on Wednesday. He did really good. We had a couple more "firsts". While Paul was sitting up he reached with his left hand and interlocked his fingers with the right hand. He has held his right arm with his left hand before but he hasn't interlocked his fingers before!! Also when Tabby wanted to wash under his right arm he raised it all the way up for her. Usually he only moves it out a little from his body and she has to lift it up. That arm seems to be getting stronger all the time! He still has trouble moving the fingers on his right hand but it is great that he can move that arm better. He tries to talk a lot. He looks at you and makes sound like he needs something. Then you start the 20 questions to find out what it is. It is very apparent that he WANTS to talk! Tabby tries to spend time working on facial exercises and sounds each day. Paul's neurologist called and left a message for Tabby to reduce the Dilantin to 400mg each day. This is 200mg less than what he was taking before. The doctor will closely monitor the level by doing blood testing every 10 days. The goal is to get his level to 18 (it was 30 last week).

Thursday Paul didn't want to get up much. He tires out easily and he was up a lot on Wednesday! Dad stayed overnight Wednesday night since they had reduced Paul's meds. It was mostly a movie day. This evening Dad, Tabby, Max & Paul made a trip to Home Depot. Dad took Paul for a stroll around the store and into the tool section. This is always something they both enjoy! Dad came across a Boss Drill that was on display for testing and a 2x4 that could be used to drive a screw into. After Dad tried it out he asked Paul if he wanted to try it ... and Paul nodded "yes". Dad put the drill in Paul's hand and he drove the screw into the 2x4 and then Dad put the drill into reverse and Paul removed the screw from the board. He really enjoyed it. Mmmm ... power tools ... just the thing for good therapy!! LOL Tabby wants to make a scratching post for the cat so she decided maybe Paul can help. We'll see!! Dad worked on exercising Paul's legs today. He let Dad move his legs up and down & stretch ankles. He put up a bit of a struggle but Dad encouraged him to try and he finally gave in. Friday the stair lift will be installed. As I said before ... this will finally enable Paul to go upstairs. He will be able to visit with guests somewhere other than in his bedroom. I'm sure he will enjoy that!

Have a great day!! (TGIF) Lynne & Carl