Winding up rehab, pressing on

Fri 02/15/08
On our monthly conference call with our team from Rehab Without Walls, each therapist gave her goal-based evaluation of Susan's progress toward independence. The physical therapist and social worker each discharged Susan, leaving the occupational and speech therapists two more weeks of visits before full discharge. Susan has advanced nicely within each discipline and is grateful to feel more like a "real person" again. It's a huge contrast from six months ago when she needed constant supervision to today, when she's able to be on her own at home doing tasks like laundry and beginning to cook again. Thanks to God.

Sun 02/17/08
Susan and I talked for a few minutes today after church about how she's not afraid to die. She said it will be so much better to be with the Lord than in this world and that she's really looking forward to it. Not that she thinks it will happen anytime soon, but she's not afraid about it. I can say we're in total agreement, each of us neither wanting to die nor wanting to linger when the time comes. (In fact, when it's my turn, I plan to get a running start, make a great leap, and fly to heaven.) I was reflecting this week on the precious peace that we know as we treasure the gift of life each day while not clutching some vain idea of permanence. Paul said it plainly, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This balanced perspective is itself a gift, for which I'm grateful.

Tue 02/19/08
We had a follow-up visit with Dr Syed, one of the partners at the Long Beach Memorial Radiation Oncology department. It's been four months since Susan completed her radiation treatments. He agrees with the UCLA neuro-oncology staff that Susan's improved symptoms are a welcome sign in spite of increased brain swelling in recent MRIs compared to October. Susan will have her next follow-up in May.

Thu 02/21/08
Susan had a follow-up exam with our chiropractor, Jim Augustine, who had done a biofeedback type of scan on her a couple of weeks ago. His system gets detailed information on all of the body’s organs and systems, similar to the “energy medicine” treatments she had several months ago but with better science. He’s providing her with bio-cranial adjustments and nutritional supplements, and will do future scans to track her progress. His treatments complement and do not interfere with her oncology stuff. We are thankful for his great care and commitment to her healing.