In search of "a new normal"

Dear Family and Friends,

Thank you, each one, for your prayers and support for Sherri in these days of recovery. A month ago today, Sherri experienced an event that has changed her life in ways that she is still beginning to further understand. With enhanced understanding also come more areas requiring further change and therapy and energy and investigation and decisions. Many of you have worked through this type of process as you faced challenging experiences in the past: now Sherri is working her way through the gauntlet of physical, emotional, professional, recreational and spiritual issues. These matters are mentioned not for drama but because this is the current daily agenda for Sherri. So many have reached out to her in so many ways and this is tremendously encouraging for her. Keep it up. After all, we're in this for the long haul!

Speaking of the long haul, another chapter is about to begin. Sherri's team has set this Saturday as the target date for her to leave Spaulding and go to her apartment. This will be a huge 'step' as she returns just a little closer to a more normal life. But she'll be exploring "the new normal" as she navigates the stairs on her own, figures out how to carry a backpack or otherwise get something up the stairs while holding the railing in one hand and crutch in the other. Not to mention carrying out regular tasks inside her apartment as well as eventually catching and getting on the bus to get to work!!

How is she doing right now?

Sherri is now "walking" the full length of the hallway using her two crutches as walking aids. This style of walking is not what many are used to as in the case of a broken leg or sprained ankle where both crutches are planted at once and then you "hop" on one foot. Instead, she places each crutch just ahead of each foot as she walks to provide support and balance.

During her therapy in the mornings and afternoons, she stretches and bends her legs and then the therapists help her go even further. Sherri is courageous in these sessions and, all things considered, is pretty patient in the repetitions. That being said, she has asked several of the therapists if they have had their legs pushed and bent further than natural and is wondering if perhaps this should be part of their training!! This week she will be working on using just one crutch to walk and will leave Spaulding requiring the continued use of a crutch.

Yesterday, Sherri went up and down the stairs (20 steps) 3 times in the manner as previously described. She's beginning to build a little strength. It was a pretty good workout and afterwords she quickly enjoyed a 30 minute power nap.

The reduction of Sherri's meds have resulted in some restless sleep the last few nights and some pain that may have previously been 'covered' over by the meds. And of note, all of Sherri's staples are now gone with plenty of evidence left behind.

In the midst of these challenges, Sherri continues to be concerned how others are doing and is resolutely determined to keep moving forward. She continues to be energized by your calls and visits and contacts in every way. Keep it coming.

Wendy and I continue to ask you to remember up all these aspects of Sherri's recovery in your prayers. And we remain grateful for your love and support in the journey.

With love and thanksgiving,

Steve